Behavioral assessment of acute inhibition of system xc - in rats

Rationale

Gaps in our understanding of glutamatergic signaling may be key obstacles in accurately modeling complex CNS diseases. System x_c ^- is an example of a poorly understood component of glutamate homeostasis that has the potential to contribute to CNS diseases.

Objectives

This study aims to determine whether system x_c ^- contributes to behaviors used to model features of CNS disease states.

Methods

In situ hybridization was used to map mRNA expression of xCT throughout the brain. Microdialysis in the prefrontal cortex was used to sample extracellular glutamate levels; HPLC was used to measure extracellular glutamate and tissue glutathione concentrations. Acute administration of sulfasalazine (8–16 mg/kg, IP) was used to decrease system x_c ^- activity. Behavior was measured using attentional set shifting, elevated plus maze, open-field maze, Porsolt swim test, and social interaction paradigm.

Results

The expression of xCT mRNA was detected throughout the brain, with high expression in several structures including the basolateral amygdala and prefrontal cortex. Doses of sulfasalazine that produced a reduction in extracellular glutamate levels were identified and subsequently used in the behavioral experiments. Sulfasalazine impaired performance in attentional set shifting and reduced the amount of time spent in an open arm of an elevated plus maze and the center of an open-field maze without altering behavior in a Porsolt swim test, total distance moved in an open-field maze, or social interaction.

Conclusions

The widespread distribution of system x_c ^- and involvement in a growing list of behaviors suggests that this form of nonvesicular glutamate release is a key component of excitatory signaling.     

The interaction of escitalopram and R-citalopram at the human serotonin transporter investigated in the mouse

Rationale

Escitalopram appears to be a superior antidepressant to racemic citalopram. It has been hypothesized that binding of R-citalopram to the serotonin transporter (SERT) antagonizes escitalopram binding to and inhibition of the SERT, thereby curtailing the elevation of extracellular 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT_Ext), and hence antidepressant efficacy. Further, it has been suggested that a putative allosteric binding site is important for binding of escitalopram to the primary, orthosteric, site, and for R-citalopram’s inhibition hereof.

Objectives

Primary: Investigate at the human (h)SERT, at clinical relevant doses, whether R-citalopram antagonizes escitalopram-induced 5-HT_Ext elevation. Secondary: Investigate whether abolishing the putative allosteric site affects escitalopram-induced 5-HT_Ext elevation and/or modulates the effect of R-citalopram.

Methods

Recombinant generation of hSERT transgenic mice; in vivo microdialysis; SERT binding; pharmacokinetics; 5-HT sensitive behaviors (tail suspension, marble burying).

Results

We generated mice expressing either the wild-type human SERT (hSERT^WT) or hSERT carrying amino acid substitutions (A505V, L506F, I507L, S574T and I575T) collectively abolishing the putative allosteric site (hSERT^{ALI/VFL+SI/TT}). One mg/kg escitalopram yielded clinical relevant plasma levels and brain levels consistent with therapeutic SERT occupancy. The hSERT mice showed normal basal 5-HT_Ext levels. Escitalopram-induced 5-HT_Ext elevation was not decreased by R-citalopram co-treatment and was unaffected by loss of the allosteric site_. The behavioral effects of the clinically relevant escitalopram dose were small and tended to be enhanced by R-citalopram co-administration.

Conclusions

We find no evidence that R-citalopram directly antagonizes escitalopram or that the putative allosteric site is important for hSERT inhibition by escitalopram.     

Effects of the neuroactive steroid allopregnanolone on intracranial self-stimulation in C57BL/6J Mice

Rationale

The neuroactive steroid (3α,5α)-3-hydroxy-pregnan-20-one (3α,5α-THP, allopregnanolone) has effects on reward-related behaviors in mice and rats that suggest that it may activate brain reward circuits. Intracranial self-stimulation (ICSS) is an operant behavioral technique that detects changes in the sensitivity of brain reward circuitry following drug administration.

Objective

To examine the effects of the neuroactive steroid allopregnanolone on ICSS and to compare these effects to those of cocaine.

Methods

Male C57BL/6J mice implanted with stimulating electrodes implanted into the medial forebrain bundle responded for reinforcement by electrical stimulation (brain stimulation reward (BSR)). Mice received cocaine (n?=?11, 3.0–30.0 mg/kg, intraperitoneal (i.p.)) or the neuroactive steroid allopregnanolone (n?=?11, 3.0–17.0 mg/kg, i.p.). BSR thresholds (θ ₀) and maximum (MAX) operant response rates after drug treatments were compared to those after vehicle injections.

Results

Cocaine and allopregnanolone dose dependently lowered BSR thresholds relative to vehicle injections. Cocaine was maximally effective (80 % reduction) in the second 15 min following the 30 mg/kg dose, while allopregnanolone was maximally effective (30 % reduction) 15–45 min after the 17 mg/kg dose. Neither drug had significant effects on MAX response rates.

Conclusions

The effects of allopregnanolone on BSR thresholds are consistent with the previously reported effects of benzodiazepines and alcohol, suggesting that positive modulation of GABA_A receptors can facilitate reward-related behaviors in C57BL/6J mice.     

In vivo visualization of donepezil binding in the brain of patients with Alzheimer's disease

Aims

The aims of this study were to visualize in vivo binding of donepezil to acetylcholinesterase (AChE) in the brain and to establish a method for measuring the amount of binding of orally administered donepezil.

Methods

[5-¹¹C-methoxy]-donepezil ([¹¹C]-donepezil) was radiolabelled as a positron emission tomography (PET) tracer. The biodistribution of [¹¹C]-donepezil was measured by PET in 10 AD patients and six elderly normal subjects. Two AD patients underwent additional PET measurements after oral administration of donepezil for 6 months.

Results

[¹¹C]-donepezil-PET images demonstrated high densities of tracer distribution in AChE-rich brain regions such as the striatum, thalamus, and cerebellum. Compared with elderly normal subjects, patients with mild AD exhibited about 18–20% reduction of donepezil binding in the neocortex and hippocampus, while patients with moderate AD exhibited about 24–30% reduction of donepezil binding throughout the brain. Orally administered donepezil (5 mg day⁻¹) induced 61.6–63.3% reduction of donepezil binding in AD brains. The distribution volume of [¹¹C]-donepezil in the hippocampus was significantly correlated with MMSE scores in AD patients.

Conclusions

[¹¹C]-donepezil-PET enables quantitative measurement of donepezil binding in the brain. AD patients exhibited reduction of donepezil binding in the brain, even in the early stage of disease. Longitudinal evaluation by this technique enables determination of AChE binding occupancy of orally administered donepezil.

What is already known about this subject

• Deficit in central cholinergic neurotransmission is a consistent change associated with Alzheimer''s disease (AD).
• Donepezil hydrochloride exhibits selective inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and is widely used for the treatment of AD.
• The biodistribution of donepezil in the brain after administration is not precisely understood in vivo.
• There is no method to measure the amount of binding of orally administered donepezil to AChE.

What this study adds

• This study clearly visualizes the distribution of donepezil in human brain using [¹¹C]-donepezil and positron emission tomography.
• This study demonstrates prominent reduction of the donepezil binding site in the AD brain.
• This study provides methodology to measure the AChE binding occupancy of orally administered donepezil and provides a new surrogate marker for evaluation and prediction of response to donepezil treatment.

     

Pregnenolone sulfate as a modulator of synaptic plasticity

Rationale

The neurosteroid pregnenolone sulfate (PregS) acts as a cognitive enhancer and modulator of neurotransmission, yet aligning its pharmacological and physiological effects with reliable measurements of endogenous local concentrations and pharmacological and therapeutic targets has remained elusive for over 20 years.

Objectives

New basic and clinical research concerning neurosteroid modulation of the central nervous system (CNS) function has emerged over the past 5 years, including important data involving pregnenolone and various neurosteroid precursors of PregS that point to a need for a critical status update.

Results

Highly specific actions of PregS affecting excitatory N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR)-mediated synaptic transmission and the pharmacological effects of PregS on various receptors and ion channels are discussed. The discovery of a high potency (nanomolar) signal transduction pathway for PregS-induced NMDAR trafficking to the cell surface via a Ca²⁺- and G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR)-dependent mechanism and a potent (EC₅₀?~?2 pM) direct enhancement of intracellular Ca²⁺ levels is discussed in terms of its agonist effects on long-term potentiation (LTP) and memory. Lastly, preclinical and clinical studies assessing the promnestic effects of PregS and pregnenolone toward cognitive dysfunction in schizophrenia, and altered serum levels in epilepsy and alcohol dependence, are reviewed.

Conclusions

PregS is present in human and rodent brain at physiologically relevant concentrations and meets most of the criteria for an endogenous neurotransmitter/neuromodulator. PregS likely plays a significant role in modulation of glutamatergic excitatory synaptic transmission underlying learning and memory, yet the molecular target(s) for its action awaits identification.     

RO4938581, a novel cognitive enhancer acting at GABAA α5 subunit-containing receptors

Rationale

GABA_A α5 subunit-containing receptors are primarily expressed in the hippocampus and their role in learning and memory has been demonstrated recently by both genetic and pharmacological approaches.

Objectives

The objective of the study is to evaluate the cognitive effects of a novel GABA_A α5 receptor inverse agonist, RO4938581 in rats and monkeys.

Materials and methods

The in vitro profile was determined using radioligand binding and electrophysiological assays for the GABA_A α1, α2, α3, and α5 receptors. Long-term potentiation (LTP) was performed in mouse hippocampal slices. Cognitive effects were assessed in rats in the delayed match to position (DMTP) task and the Morris water maze. In monkeys, the object retrieval task was used. Pro-convulsant and anxiogenic potentials were evaluated in mice and rats. In vivo receptor occupancy was determined using [³H]-RO0154513.

Results

RO4938581 is a potent inverse agonist at the GABA_A α5 receptor, with both binding and functional selectivity, enhancing hippocampal LTP. RO4938581 reversed scopolamine-induced working memory impairment in the DMTP task (0.3–1 mg/kg p.o.) and diazepam-induced spatial learning impairment (1–10 mg/kg p.o.). RO4938581 improved executive function in monkeys (3-10 mg/kg p.o.). Importantly, RO4938581 showed no anxiogenic and pro-convulsive potential. RO4938581 dose-dependently bound to GABA_A α5 receptors and approximately 30% receptor occupancy was sufficient to produce enhanced cognition in the rat.

Conclusions

The data further support the potential of GABA_A α5 receptors as a target for cognition-enhancing drugs. The dual binding and functional selectivity offers an ideal profile for cognition-enhancing effects without the unwanted side effects associated with activity at other GABA_A receptor subtypes.     

Allopregnanolone modulation of HPA axis function in the adult rat

Rationale

GABAergic neuronal circuits regulate neuroendocrine stress response, and the most potent positive endogenous modulator of GABA_A receptor function is allopregnanolone. This neurosteroid acts in a nongenomic manner to selectively increase the inhibitory signal meditated by GABA_A receptors; in addition, it also induces long-lasting changes in the expression of specific GABA_A receptor subunits in various brain regions, with consequent changes in receptor function.

Objective

The objective of this review is to summarize our findings on emotional state and stress responsiveness in three animal models in which basal brain concentrations of allopregnanolone differ. It is postulated that individual differences in allopregnanolone levels can influence general resilience.

Results

The results showed that there is an apparent correlation between endogenous levels of brain allopregnanolone and basal and stress-stimulated HPA axis activity.

Conclusion

The relationship between endogenous brain levels of allopregnanolone and HPA axis activity and function sustains the therapeutic potential of this neurosteroid for the treatment of stress-associated disorders.     

Development of EGFR-Targeted Nanoemulsion for Imaging and Novel Platinum Therapy of Ovarian Cancer

Purpose

Platinum-based chemotherapy is the treatment of choice for malignant epithelial ovarian cancers, but generalized toxicity and platinum resistance limits its use. Theranostic nanoemulsion with a novel platinum prodrug, myrisplatin, and the pro-apoptotic agent, C₆-ceramide, were designed to overcome these limitations.

Methods

The nanoemulsions, including ones with an EGFR binding peptide and gadolinium, were made using generally regarded as safe grade excipients and a high shear microfluidization process. Efficacy was evaluated in ovarian cancer cells, SKOV3, A2780 and A2780_CP.

Results

The nanoemulsion with particle size <150 nm were stable in plasma and parenteral fluids for 24 h. Ovarian cancer cells in vitro efficiently took up the non-targeted and EGFR-targeted nanoemulsions; improved cytotoxicity was observed for the these nanoemulsions with the latter showing a 50-fold drop in the IC₅₀ in SKOV3 cells as compared to cisplatin alone. The addition of gadolinium did not affect cell viability in vitro, but showed relaxation times comparable to Magnevist^®.

Conclusion

The myrisplatin/C₆-ceramide nanoemulsion synergistically enhanced in vitro cytotoxicity. An EGFR binding peptide addition further increased in vitro cytotoxicity in EGFR positive cancer cells. The diagnostic version showed MR imaging similar to the clinically relevant Magnevist® and may be suitable as a theranostic for ovarian cancer.     

Infrared Spectroscopic Imaging Tracks Lateral Distribution in Human Stratum Corneum

Purpose

To demonstrate the efficacy of infrared (IR) spectroscopic imaging for evaluation of lateral diffusion in stratum corneum (SC) and for elucidation of intermolecular interactions between exogenous agents and SC constituents.

Methods

In separate experiments, acyl chain perdeuterated oleic acid (OA-d) and deuterated dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO-d) were applied to the surface of isolated human SC. The lateral distribution of permeant concentrations was monitored using the time-dependence of IR images. Diffusion coefficients (D) were estimated from Fick’s second law. Interactions between the exogenous agents and the SC were tracked from changes in CD₂ and Amide I stretching frequencies.

Results

Networked glyphs served as the major pathway for lateral distribution of OA-d. In glyph-poor regions, D values from 0.3–1?×?10^?8 cm²/s bracketed the OA-d data and apparently decreased with time. Although diffusion of DMSO-d is relatively fast compared to our experimental measurement time, the results suggest values of ~10^?7 cm²/s. OA-d spectral changes suggest penetration into the ordered lipids of the SC; DMSO-d penetration results in perturbation of SC keratin structure.

Conclusions

IR imaging provides concentration profiles, diffusion coefficients, and unique molecular level information about structural changes in the endogenous SC constituents and exogenous agents upon their mutual interaction. Transport along glyphs is the dominant mode of distribution for OA-d.     

Varenicline effects on drinking,craving and neural reward processing among non-treatment-seeking alcohol-dependent individuals

Rationale

The α4β2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor partial agonist varenicline has been reported to reduce drinking among both heavy-drinking smokers and primary alcoholics, and this effect may be related to varenicline-mediated reduction of alcohol craving. Among smokers, varenicline has been reported to modulate cigarette cue-elicited brain activation in several reward-related areas.

Objectives

This pilot study tested varenicline’s effects on drinking, alcohol craving, and alcohol cue-elicited activation of reward-related brain areas among non-treatment-seeking alcohol-dependent individuals.

Methods

Thirty-five such individuals (mean age?=?30, 57 % male, 76 % heavy drinking days in the past month, 15 smokers) were randomized to either varenicline (titrated to 2 mg) or placebo for 14 days, and were administered an alcohol cue reactivity fMRI task on day 14. A priori regions of interest (ROIs) were bilateral and medial orbitofrontal cortex (OFC), right ventral striatum (VS), and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC).

Results

Despite good medication adherence, varenicline did not reduce heavy drinking days or other drinking parameters. It did, however, increase self-reported control over alcohol-related thoughts and reduced cue-elicited activation bilaterally in the OFC, but not in other brain areas.

Conclusions

These data indicate that varenicline reduces alcohol craving and some of the neural substrates of alcohol cue reactivity. However, varenicline effects on drinking mediated by cue-elicited brain activation and craving might be best observed among treatment-seekers motivated to reduce their alcohol consumption.     

A 22-week, multicenter, randomized, double-blind controlled trial of Crocus sativus in the treatment of mild-to-moderate Alzheimer’s disease

Rationale

There is increasing evidence to suggest the possible efficacy of Crocus sativus (saffron) in the management of Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

Objective

The purpose of the present investigation was to assess the efficacy of C. sativus in the treatment of patients with mild-to-moderate AD.

Methods

Fifty-four Persian-speaking adults 55 years of age or older who were living in the community were eligible to participate in a 22-week, double-blind study of parallel groups of patients with AD. The main efficacy measures were the change in the Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale—cognitive subscale and Clinical Dementia Rating Scale—Sums of Boxes scores compared with baseline. Adverse events (AEs) were systematically recorded. Participants were randomly assigned to receive a capsule saffron 30 mg/day (15 mg twice per day) or donepezil 10 mg/day (5 mg twice per day).

Results

Saffron at this dose was found to be effective similar to donepezil in the treatment of mild-to-moderate AD after 22 weeks. The frequency of AEs was similar between saffron extract and donepezil groups with the exception of vomiting, which occurred significantly more frequently in the donepezil group.

Conclusion

This phase II study provides preliminary evidence of a possible therapeutic effect of saffron extract in the treatment of patients with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer’s disease. This trial is registered with the Iranian Clinical Trials Registry (IRCT138711051556N1).     

11-trifluoromethyl-phenyldiazirinyl neurosteroid analogues: potent general anesthetics and photolabeling reagents for GABAA receptors

Rationale

While neurosteroids are well-described positive allosteric modulators of gamma-aminobutyric acid type A (GABA_A) receptors, the binding sites that mediate these actions have not been definitively identified.

Objectives

This study was conducted to synthesize neurosteroid analogue photolabeling reagents that closely mimic the biological effects of endogenous neurosteroids and have photochemical properties that will facilitate their use as tools for identifying the binding sites for neurosteroids on GABA_A receptors.

Results

Two neurosteroid analogues containing a trifluromethyl-phenyldiazirine group linked to the steroid C11 position were synthesized. These reagents, CW12 and CW14, are analogues of allopregnanolone (5α-reduced steroid) and pregnanolone (5β-reduced steroid), respectively. Both reagents were shown to have favorable photochemical properties with efficient insertion into the C–H bonds of cyclohexane. They also effectively replicated the actions of allopregnanolone and pregnanolone on GABA_A receptor functions: they potentiated GABA-induced currents in Xenopus laevis oocytes transfected with α₁β₂γ_2L subunits, modulated [³⁵S]t-butylbicyclophosphorothionate binding in rat brain membranes, and were effective anesthetics in Xenopus tadpoles. Studies using [³H]CW12 and [³H]CW14 showed that these reagents covalently label GABA_A receptors in both rat brain membranes and in a transformed human embryonal kidney (TSA) cells expressing either α₁ and β₂ subunits or β₃ subunits of the GABA_A receptor. Photolabeling of rat brain GABA_A receptors was shown to be both concentration-dependent and stereospecific.

Conclusions

CW12 and CW14 have the appropriate photochemical and pharmacological properties for use as photolabeling reagents to identify specific neurosteroid-binding sites on GABA_A receptors.     

Role of CA2+/calmodulin on ethanol neurobehavioral effects

Rationale

The cAMP-dependent protein kinase A (PKA) signaling transduction pathway has been shown to play an important role in the modulation of several ethanol-induced behaviors. Different studies have demonstrated intracellular calcium (Ca²⁺)-dependent activation of the PKA cascade after ethanol administration. Thus, the cAMP cascade mediator Ca²⁺-dependent calmodulin (CaM) has been strongly implicated in the central effects of ethanol.

Objectives

In this study, we assessed the role of the CaM inhibitor W7 on ethanol-induced stimulation, ethanol intake, and ethanol-induced activation of PKA.

Methods

Swiss mice were pretreated with W7 (0–10 mg/kg) 30 min before ethanol (0–3.75 g/kg) administration. Immediately, animals were placed during 20 min in an open-field chamber. Ethanol (10 %, v/v) intake in 2 h was assessed using a limited access paradigm. Experiments with caffeine (0–15 mg/kg), cocaine (0–4 mg/kg), and saccharine (0.1 %, w/v) were designed to compare their results to those obtained with ethanol. Western blot was assayed 45 min after ethanol administration.

Results

Results showed that pretreatment with W7, reduced selectively in a dose-dependent fashion ethanol-induced locomotor stimulation and ethanol intake. The ethanol-induced activation of PKA was also prevented by W7 administration.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate that CaM inhibition resulted in a selective reduction of ethanol-stimulating effects and ethanol intake. The PKA activation induced by ethanol was blocked after the CaM blockade with W7. These results provide further evidence of the key role of cellular Ca²⁺-dependent pathways on the central effects of ethanol.     

Characterization and Evaluation of Multi-Component Crystals of Hydrochlorothiazide

Purpose

The present work aims at improving the physicochemical properties of hydrochlorothiazide, a poorly water soluble antihypertensive drug by preparing its multi-component crystals with nicotinic acid (HCT-NA) and 2-picolinic acid (HCT-PIC).

Methods

The crystals prepared by solution crystallization were investigated by thermoanalytical techniques. The crystal structures of HCT-NA (1) and HCT-PIC (2) were determined by the single crystal X-ray diffraction and were assessed for their aqueous solubility, antihypertensive activity and acute toxicity in rats.

Results

Both 1 and 2 crystallized in the orthorhombic space group P2₁2₁2₁ and formation of salts were confirmed. The solubility profiles of 1 and 2 in basic media showed a maximum release of 2.5 mg/ml and 1.9 mg/ml, respectively, in comparison to the drug (0.82 mg/ml). The in-vivo antihypertensive activity of 1 in deoxycorticosterone acetate salt induced hypertensive rats showed 1.5 fold improvement. No increase in the signs of toxicity were revealed in rats during the acute toxicity studies even at doses of 2,000 mg/kg by body weight in comparison to the free drug. Histopathological findings supported the safety of these multi-component crystals.

Conclusions

The new solid phases exhibit potential to be explored for the oral drug delivery of HCT with improved solubility and therapeutic outcome.     

Beta-2 adrenergic receptors mediate stress-evoked reinstatement of cocaine-induced conditioned place preference and increases in CRF mRNA in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis in mice

Rationale

Understanding the mechanisms responsible for stress-induced relapse is important for guiding treatment strategies aimed at minimizing the contribution of stress to addiction. Evidence suggests that these mechanisms involve interactions between noradrenergic systems and the neuropeptide corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF).

Objectives

The interaction between β-adrenergic receptors (ARs) and CRF as it relates to the reinstatement of cocaine-conditioned reward in response to a stressor was examined in mice. We hypothesized that β₂-ARs are required for stress-induced activation of CRF pathways responsible for reinstatement.

Methods

Stress-induced relapse was examined based on the re-establishment of cocaine-induced conditioned place preference (CPP; 4?×?15 mg/kg cocaine, i.p.) after extinction using forced swim (6 min at 22 °C) or an injection of the β₂-AR agonist, clenbuterol (4 mg/kg, i.p.). The CRF-R1 antagonist antalarmin (10 mg/kg, i.p.) or the β₂-AR antagonist ICI-118,551 (1 mg/kg, i.p.) were given 30 min prior to reinstating stimuli. Quantitative PCR was conducted in dissected bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) and amygdala, putative sources of CRF that contribute to reinstatement, to examine the effects of ICI-118,551 on swim-induced increases in CRF messenger RNA (mRNA) in mice with a cocaine history.

Results

Pretreatment with ICI-118,551 or antalarmin blocked swim-induced reinstatement of CPP. Reinstatement by clenbuterol was also blocked by antalarmin. ICI-118,551 pretreatment prevented swim-induced increases in CRF mRNA in the BNST. Effects in the amygdala were not observed.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that, during stress, norepinephrine, via β₂-ARs, either directly or indirectly activates CRF-releasing neurons in the BNST that interface with motivational neurocircuitry to induce reinstatement of cocaine-conditioned reward.     

Reduction of circulating and selective limbic brain levels of (3α,5α)-3-hydroxy-pregnan-20-one (3α,5α-THP) following forced swim stress in C57BL/6J mice

Rationale

Stress activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, and GABAergic neuroactive steroids contribute to homeostatic regulation of this circuitry. Acute forced swim stress (FSS) increases plasma, cortical, and hypothalamic (3α,5α)-3-hydroxy-pregnan-20-one (3α,5α-THP) levels in rats. However, there have not been systemic investigations of acute stress on changes in plasma and brain levels of 3α,5α-THP in mouse models.

Objectives

The present experiments aimed to assess circulating and local brain levels of 3α,5α-THP following acute FSS in C57BL/6J mice.

Methods

Mice were exposed to FSS (10 min), and 50 min later, blood and brains were collected. Circulating pregnenolone and 3α,5α-THP levels were assessed in serum. Free-floating brain sections (40 μm, four to five sections/region) were immunostained and analyzed in cortical and limbic brain structures.

Results

FSS decreased circulating 3α,5α-THP (?41.6?±?10.4 %) and reduced 3α,5α-THP immunolabeling in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (?15.2?±?5.7 %), lateral amygdala (LA, ?31.1?±?13.4 %), and nucleus accumbens (NAcc) shell (?31.9?±?14.6). Within the LA, vesicular glutamate transporter 1 (VGLUT1) and vesicular GABA transporter were localized in 3α,5α-THP-positively stained cells, while in the NAcc shell, only VGLUT1 was localized in 3α,5α-THP-positively stained cells, suggesting that both glutamatergic and GABAergic cells within the LA are 3α,5α-THP-positive, while in the NAcc shell, 3α,5α-THP only localizes to glutamatergic cells.

Conclusions

The decrease in circulating and brain levels of 3α,5α-THP may be due to alterations in the biosynthesis/metabolism or changes in the regulation of the HPA axis following FSS. Changes in GABAergic neuroactive steroids in response to stress likely mediate functional adaptations in neuronal activity. This may provide a potential targeted therapeutic avenue to address maladaptive stress responsivity.     

Prefrontal dopamine D1 receptors and working memory in schizotypal personality disorder: a PET study with [11C]NNC112

Rationale

Schizotypal personality disorder (SPD) is associated with working memory (WM) impairments that are similar to those observed in schizophrenia. Imaging studies have suggested that schizophrenia is associated with alterations in dopamine D1 receptor availability in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) that may be related to the WM impairments that characterize this disorder.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to characterize prefrontal D1 receptor availability and its relation to WM performance in SPD.

Methods

We used positron emission tomography (PET) and the radiotracer [¹¹C]NNC112 with 18 unmedicated SPD and 21 healthy control participants; as an index of D1 receptor availability, binding potential (BP) measures (BP_F, BP_ND, and BP_P) were calculated for prefrontal and striatal subregions. To assess WM, SPD participants completed the 2-back and Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (PASAT).

Results

There were no significant group differences in PFC BP. BP_F and BP_P in the medial PFC were significantly negatively related to PASAT performance (r _s ?=??0.551, p?=?.022 and r _s ?=??0.488, p?=?.047, respectively), but BP was not related to 2-back performance.

Conclusions

In contrast to what has been found in schizophrenia, SPD was not associated with significant alterations in prefrontal D1 receptor availability. Similar to previous schizophrenia findings, however, higher prefrontal D1 receptor availability was associated with poorer WM performance (as measured by the PASAT) in SPD. These findings suggest that schizophrenia and SPD may share a common pathophysiological feature related to prefrontal dopamine functioning that contributes to WM dysfunction, but that in SPD, alterations in D1 may occur only in a subset of individuals and/or to an extent that is minor relative to what occurs in schizophrenia.     

Efficacy and safety of canagliflozin in subjects with type 2 diabetes: systematic review and meta-analysis

Purpose

To assess the efficacy and safety of the novel sodium glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor—canagliflozin for type 2 diabetes (T2DM).

Methods

A search of Medline (1946–January 2014), Embase (1950–January 2014), and The Cochrane Library for randomized controlled trials of canagliflozin compared to placebo or active comparator in T2DM was performed. Clinical Trials website and unpublished U.S. Food and Drug Administration data were also searched.

Results

Ten trials including 6,701 patients were analyzed. Compared with placebo, canagliflozin produced absolute reductions in glycated hemoglobin A_1c levels when used as monotherapy (weighted mean difference (WMD) ?1.08 %, 95 % confidence interval (CI) [?1.25 to ?0.90], p?p?HbA1c by ?0.21 % (WMD, 95 %CI [?0.33 to ?0.08], p?=?0.001). Canagliflozin led to greater body weight loss (vs. placebo, WMD ?2.81 kg, 95 %CI [?3.26 to ?2.37]; vs. active comparators, WMD ?3.49 kg, 95 %CI [?4.86 to ?2.12]). Hypoglycemia with canagliflozin was similar to placebo or sitagliptin, and was lower than glimepiride (risk ratio (RR) 0.15, 95 %CI [0.10 to 0.22]). Genital tract infections were more common with canagliflozin (vs. placebo, RR 3.76, 95 %CI [2.23 to 6.35]; vs. active comparators, RR 4.95, 95 %CI [3.25 to 7.52]). Similar incidences of urinary tract infections were noted with canagliflozin compared with control groups.

Conclusion

Canagliflozin led to improvements in reducing glycated hemoglobin A_1c levels and body weight with low risk of hypoglycemia in patients with T2DM. Common adverse effects including genital tract infections and osmotic diuresis-related AEs were identified and reviewed. Risks of cardiovascular events are even less certain, and more data on long-term effects are needed.     

Phosphorylation of hypothalamic AMPK on serine485/491 related to sustained weight loss by alpha-lipoic acid in mice treated with olanzapine

Rationale

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) was shown to suppress atypical antipsychotic drug (AAPD)-induced weight gain. However, its mode of action has remained unidentified.

Objective

We aimed to identify mechanisms underlying anti-obesity effects of ALA in mice treated with olanzapine.

Methods

We compared body weight and food intake among vehicle-, olanzapine-, and olanzapine plus ALA-treated mice, and measured hypothalamic AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activity by detecting levels of Thr¹⁷² and Ser^485/491 phosphorylation, which indicate activation and inhibition of AMPK, respectively.

Results

Body weights were increased by olanzapine in parallel with increased levels of Thr¹⁷² phosphorylation of hypothalamic AMPK. Initially increased rate of weight gain was diminished as Thr¹⁷² phosphorylation levels were decreased to control levels after 10 days of olanzapine treatment. ALA successfully not only prevented olanzapine-induced weight gain but also induced additional weight loss even relative to control levels throughout the treatment period. During the initial stage, ALA’s action was indicated by both suppression of olanzapine-induced Thr¹⁷² phosphorylation and an increase in Ser^485/491 phosphorylation levels. However, in the later stage when no more increases in Thr¹⁷² phosphorylation and weight gain by olanzapine were observed, ALA’s action was only indicated by increased levels of Ser^485/491 phosphorylation.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that anti-obesity effects of ALA may be related to modulation of both Ser^485/491 phosphorylation and Thr¹⁷² phosphorylation of hypothalamic AMPK, while olanzapine-induced weight gain may be only associated with increase in Thr¹⁷² phosphorylation. This might be an important mechanistic clue for the future development of anti-obesity drugs beyond control of AAPD-induced weight gain.     

Synthesis and biological activity of novel Schiff bases derived from metronidazole

A number of novel Schiff bases (5a–i) and (7a–d) derived from metronidazole were synthesized. Reaction of 2-(2-methyl-5-nitro-imidazol-1-yl)-ethyl ester toluene-4-sulfonate with 4-hydroxybenzaldehyde and with 3-hydroxybenzaldehyde in the presence of a base afforded 4-(2-(2-methyl-5-nitro-1H-imidazol-1-yl)ethoxy)benzaldehyde (5) and 3-(2-(2-methyl-5-nitro-1H-imidazol-1-yl)ethoxy)benzaldehyde (7), respectively. The reaction of aldehydes 5 and 7 with a number of primary aromatic amines produced Schiff bases 5a–i and 7a–d, respectively. Structures of these compounds were confirmed through different spectroscopic methods such as ¹H-NMR, ¹³C-NMR, mass spectrometry, and also by elemental analyses. The prepared compounds were evaluated in vitro for their antigiardial, anti-trichomonal, antibacterial, and antifungal activities. Compounds 5e, 5g, 5i, 7a, 7b, 7c, and 7d exhibited remarkable antigiardial activity and were found to be more active than metronidazole with IC₅₀ of 7.2, 3.3, 1.5, 5.8, 4.5, 2.9, and 3.8 µg/mL, respectively. Compounds 5a and 5c also exhibited antigiradial activity with similar IC₅₀ values compared to the reference drug metronidazole with IC₅₀ of 7.2 µg/mL. The other compounds 5b, 5d, 5f, and 5 h also showed antigiardial activity but with higher IC₅₀ compared to the reference drug. Compounds were also tested for their anti-trichomonal activity, they, however, exhibited higher IC₅₀ compared to the reference drug metronidazole (7.4 µg/mL), except for compound 5a which exhibited anti-trichomonal activity with an IC₅₀ of 6.3 µg/mL. On the bases of preliminary screening, the newly synthesized compounds exhibited moderate to potent antimicrobial activities. Compound 5e inhibited the growth of Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Bacillus cereus and compound 5c inhibited Candida Pathogenic fungus at 50 μg/mL compared with the positive control (Nystatin) which inhibits Candida at 25 μg/mL.