scholarly journals The Dynamic Modulation of GABAA Receptor Trafficking and Its Role in Regulating the Plasticity of Inhibitory Synapses

2011 ◽  
Vol 91 (3) ◽  
pp. 1009-1022 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mansi Vithlani ◽  
Miho Terunuma ◽  
Stephen J. Moss
Keyword(s):  
Neuronal Excitability ◽  
Tonic Inhibition ◽  
Inhibitory Synapses ◽  
General Anesthetics ◽  
Selective Stabilization ◽  
Neuronal Plasma Membrane ◽  
Sites Of Action ◽  
And Behavior ◽  
The Impact ◽  
The Brain

Inhibition in the adult mammalian central nervous system (CNS) is mediated by γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA). The fast inhibitory actions of GABA are mediated by GABA type A receptors (GABAARs); they mediate both phasic and tonic inhibition in the brain and are the principle sites of action for anticonvulsant, anxiolytic, and sedative-hypnotic agents that include benzodiazepines, barbiturates, neurosteroids, and some general anesthetics. GABAARs are heteropentameric ligand-gated ion channels that are found concentrated at inhibitory postsynaptic sites where they mediate phasic inhibition and at extrasynaptic sites where they mediate tonic inhibition. The efficacy of inhibition and thus neuronal excitability is critically dependent on the accumulation of specific GABAAR subtypes at inhibitory synapses. Here we evaluate how neurons control the number of GABAARs on the neuronal plasma membrane together with their selective stabilization at synaptic sites. We then go on to examine the impact that these processes have on the strength of synaptic inhibition and behavior.

scholarly journals Crosstalk between Existential Phenomenological Psychotherapy and Neurological Sciences in Mood and Anxiety Disorders

Biomedicines ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (4) ◽  
pp. 340
Author(s):  
Lehel Balogh ◽  
Masaru Tanaka ◽  
Nóra Török ◽  
László Vécsei ◽  
Shigeru Taguchi
Keyword(s):  
Anxiety Disorders ◽  
Biological Treatment ◽  
Sense Of Self ◽  
Phenomenological Approach ◽  
Neurological Damage ◽  
Mood And Anxiety Disorders ◽  
New Interpretation ◽  
And Behavior ◽  
The Impact ◽  
The Brain

Psychotherapy is a comprehensive biological treatment modifying complex underlying cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and regulatory responses in the brain, leading patients with mental illness to a new interpretation of the sense of self and others. Psychotherapy is an art of science integrated with psychology and/or philosophy. Neurological sciences study the neurological basis of cognition, memory, and behavior as well as the impact of neurological damage and disease on these functions, and their treatment. Both psychotherapy and neurological sciences deal with the brain; nevertheless, they continue to stay polarized. Existential phenomenological psychotherapy (EPP) has been in the forefront of meaning-centered counseling for almost a century. The phenomenological approach in psychotherapy originated in the works of Martin Heidegger, Ludwig Binswanger, Medard Boss, and Viktor Frankl, and it has been committed to accounting for the existential possibilities and limitations of one’s life. EPP provides philosophically rich interpretations and empowers counseling techniques to assist mentally suffering individuals by finding meaning and purpose to life. The approach has proven to be effective in treating mood and anxiety disorders. This narrative review article demonstrates the development of EPP, the therapeutic methodology, evidence-based accounts of its curative techniques, current understanding of mood and anxiety disorders in neurological sciences, and a possible converging path to translate and integrate meaning-centered psychotherapy and neuroscience, concluding that the EPP may potentially play a synergistic role with the currently prevailing medication-based approaches for the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders.

scholarly journals THE IMPACT OF ADVERTISEMENT ON CONSUMER’S PERCEPTION

2017 ◽  
Vol 5 ◽  
pp. 187-191
Author(s):  
Martin Hudák ◽  
Radovan MadleĹˆĂˇk ◽  
Veronika Brezániová
Keyword(s):  
Brain Activity ◽  
Brain Computer Interface ◽  
Consumer Perception ◽  
Computer Interface ◽  
Market Situation ◽  
And Behavior ◽  
The Impact ◽  
The Brain ◽  
Tracking Technology ◽  
Wireless Eeg

Marketing can be described as a tool for companies to influence the consumer’s perception to the desired direction. The current market situation is characterized by dynamism, growing consumer power, and intense competition. The consumer perception and behavior are changing and therefore need to be constantly monitored and measured. The aim of this article is to scan and measure consumer’s perception while watching a video advertisement. During this experiment, an eye-tracking technology was used, which allows capturing a consumer’s gaze. The central part of the research is to measure the brain activity of a consumer based on the EEG (Electroencephalography). EMOTIV Epoc+ is a 14-channel wireless EEG, designed for contextualized research and advanced brain computer interface applications. An advertising campaign from four different mobile operators was used for this purpose. In the conclusion of this article, consumer’s perception of different advertising campaigns are compared and evaluated.

scholarly journals Interplay between Metabolism, Nutrition and Epigenetics in Shaping Brain DNA Methylation, Neural Function and Behavior

Genes ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 11 (7) ◽  
pp. 742 ◽  
Author(s):  
Tommaso Pizzorusso ◽  
Paola Tognini
Keyword(s):  
Dna Methylation ◽  
Cytosine Methylation ◽  
Maternal Nutrition ◽  
Adult Brain ◽  
Neural Function ◽  
Control Mechanisms ◽  
Dna Hydroxymethylation ◽  
And Behavior ◽  
The Impact ◽  
The Brain

Gene expression in the brain is dramatically regulated by a variety of stimuli. While the role of neural activity has been extensively studied, less is known about the effects of metabolism and nutrition on transcriptional control mechanisms in the brain. Extracellular signals are integrated at the chromatin level through dynamic modifications of epigenetic marks, which in turn fine-tune gene transcription. In the last twenty years, it has become clear that epigenetics plays a crucial role in modulating central nervous system functions and finally behavior. Here, we will focus on the effect of metabolic signals in shaping brain DNA methylation, both during development and adulthood. We will provide an overview of maternal nutrition effects on brain methylation and behavior in offspring. In addition, the impact of different diet challenges on cytosine methylation dynamics in the adult brain will be discussed. Finally, the possible role played by the metabolic status in modulating DNA hydroxymethylation, which is particularly abundant in neural tissue, will be considered.

scholarly journals Impact of inhibitory constraint of interneurons on neuronal excitability

2013 ◽  
Vol 110 (11) ◽  
pp. 2520-2535 ◽  
Author(s):  
Vallent Lee ◽  
Jamie Maguire
Keyword(s):  
Neuronal Excitability ◽  
Pyramidal Neurons ◽  
Molecular Layer ◽  
Critical Role ◽  
Tonic Inhibition ◽  
Stratum Radiatum ◽  
Gabaergic Inhibition ◽  
Seizure Susceptibility ◽  
Ca1 Pyramidal Neurons ◽  
The Impact

Tonic inhibition is thought to dampen the excitability of principal neurons; however, little is known about the role of tonic GABAergic inhibition in interneurons and the impact on principal neuron excitability. In many brain regions, tonic GABAergic inhibition is mediated by extrasynaptic, δ-subunit-containing GABAA receptors (GABAARs). In the present study we demonstrate the importance of GABAAR δ-subunit-mediated tonic inhibition in interneurons. Selective elimination of the GABAAR δ-subunit from interneurons was achieved by crossing a novel floxed Gabrd mouse model with GAD65-Cre mice ( Gabrd/Gad mice). Deficits in GABAAR δ-subunit expression in GAD65-positive neurons result in a decrease in tonic GABAergic inhibition and increased excitability of both molecular layer (ML) and stratum radiatum (SR) interneurons. Disinhibition of interneurons results in robust alterations in the neuronal excitability of principal neurons and decreased seizure susceptibility. Gabrd/Gad mice have enhanced tonic and phasic GABAergic inhibition in both CA1 pyramidal neurons and dentate gyrus granule cells (DGGCs). Consistent with alterations in hippocampal excitability, CA1 pyramidal neurons and DGGCs from Gabrd/Gad mice exhibit a shift in the input-output relationship toward decreased excitability compared with those from Cre−/− littermates. Furthermore, seizure susceptibility, in response to 20 mg/kg kainic acid, is significantly decreased in Gabrd/Gad mice compared with Cre−/− controls. These data demonstrate a critical role for GABAAR δ-subunit-mediated tonic GABAergic inhibition of interneurons on principal neuronal excitability and seizure susceptibility.

scholarly journals Crosstalk between Existential Phenomenological Psychotherapy and Neurological Science in Mood and Anxiety Disorders

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lehel Balogh ◽  
Masaru Tanaka ◽  
Nóra Török ◽  
László Vécsei ◽  
Shigeru Taguchi
Keyword(s):  
Anxiety Disorders ◽  
Biological Treatment ◽  
Science Studies ◽  
Sense Of Self ◽  
Phenomenological Approach ◽  
Mood And Anxiety Disorders ◽  
New Interpretation ◽  
And Behavior ◽  
The Impact ◽  
The Brain

Psychotherapy is a comprehensive biological treatment modifying complex underlying cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and regulatory responses in the brain, leading patients with mental illness to a new interpretation of the sense of self and others. Psychotherapy is an art of science integrated with psychology and/or philosophy. Neurological science studies the neurological basis of cognition, memory, and behavior as well as the impact of neurological damage and disease on the functions, and their treatment. Both psychotherapy and neurological science deal with the brain; nevertheless, they continue to stay polarized far. Existential phenomenological psychotherapy (EPP) has been in the forefront of meaning-centered counseling for almost a century. The phenomenological approach in psychotherapy originated in the works of Martin Heidegger, Ludwig Binswanger, Medard Boss and Viktor Frankl, and it has been committed to account for the existential possibilities and limitations of one’s life. EPP provides philosophically rich interpretations and empowers counseling techniques to assist mentally suffering individuals by finding meaning and purpose of life. The approach has proven to be effective in treating mood and anxiety disorders. This narrative review article demonstrates the development of EPP, the therapeutic methodology, evidence-based accounts of its curative techniques, current understanding of mood and anxiety disorders in neurological science, and a possible converging path to translate and integrate meaning-centered psychotherapy and neurological science, concluding that the existential phenomenological psychotherapy potently plays a synergistic role with the currently prevailing medication-based approaches for the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders.

scholarly journals Effects of acute prolactin manipulation on sexual drive and function in males

2003 ◽  
Vol 179 (3) ◽  
pp. 357-365 ◽  
Author(s):  
TH Kruger ◽  
P Haake ◽  
J Haverkamp ◽  
M Kramer ◽  
MS Exton ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Plasma Levels ◽  
Refractory Period ◽  
Sexual Disorders ◽  
Plasma Prolactin ◽  
Sexual Drive ◽  
Acute Changes ◽  
Sites Of Action ◽  
And Function ◽  
And Behavior ◽  
The Impact

The neuroendocrine response to sexual activity in humans is characterized by a pronounced orgasm-dependent increase of plasma levels of prolactin. In contrast to the well-known inhibitory effects of chronic hyperprolactinemia on sexual drive and function, the impact of acute prolactin alterations on human sexual physiology is unknown. Therefore, this study was designed to investigate the effects of acute manipulation of plasma prolactin on sexual behavior.Ten healthy males participated in a single-blind, placebo-controlled, balanced cross-over design. Prolactin levels were pharmacologically increased to high levels (protirelin, 50 micro g i.v.) or reduced to low physiological concentrations (cabergoline, 0.5 mg p.o.). Sexual arousal and orgasm were then induced by an erotic film and masturbation. In addition to continuous neuroendocrine and cardiovascular recordings, the quality and intensity of the acute sexual drive, arousal, orgasm and refractory period were assessed by extensive psychometric measures.Administration of cabergoline decreased prolactin levels and significantly enhanced all parameters of sexual drive (P<0.05), function (P<0.01) and positive perception of the refractory period (P<0.01). Administration of protirelin increased prolactin concentrations and produced small, but not significant reductions of sexual parameters. The sexual effects observed from cabergoline were completely abrogated by coadministration of protirelin. Although different pharmacological sites of action of prolactin-altering drugs have to be considered, these data demonstrate that acute changes in prolactin plasma levels may be one factor modulating sexual drive and function. Therefore, besides a neuroendocrine reproductive reflex, a post-orgasmic prolactin increase may represent one factor modulating central nervous system centers controlling sexual drive and behavior. These findings may offer a new pharmacological approach for the treatment of sexual disorders.

scholarly journals Ketone Bodies in the Brain Beyond Fuel Metabolism: From Excitability to Gene Expression and Cell Signaling

2021 ◽  
Vol 14 ◽  
Author(s):  
Darío García-Rodríguez ◽  
Alfredo Giménez-Cassina
Keyword(s):  
Gene Expression ◽  
Neuronal Excitability ◽  
Ketone Bodies ◽  
Biological Effects ◽  
Epileptic Seizures ◽  
Ketogenic Diets ◽  
Infantile Seizures ◽  
Neuronal Physiology ◽  
The Impact ◽  
The Brain

Ketone bodies are metabolites that replace glucose as the main fuel of the brain in situations of glucose scarcity, including prolonged fasting, extenuating exercise, or pathological conditions such as diabetes. Beyond their role as an alternative fuel for the brain, the impact of ketone bodies on neuronal physiology has been highlighted by the use of the so-called “ketogenic diets,” which were proposed about a century ago to treat infantile seizures. These diets mimic fasting by reducing drastically the intake of carbohydrates and proteins and replacing them with fat, thus promoting ketogenesis. The fact that ketogenic diets have such a profound effect on epileptic seizures points to complex biological effects of ketone bodies in addition to their role as a source of ATP. In this review, we specifically focus on the ability of ketone bodies to regulate neuronal excitability and their effects on gene expression to respond to oxidative stress. Finally, we also discuss their capacity as signaling molecules in brain cells.

scholarly journals Gut Microbiota and Their Neuroinflammatory Implications in Alzheimer’s Disease

Nutrients ◽  
2018 ◽  
Vol 10 (11) ◽  
pp. 1765 ◽  
Author(s):  
Vo Giau ◽  
Si Wu ◽  
Angelo Jamerlan ◽  
Seong An ◽  
SangYun Kim ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Alzheimer’S Disease ◽  
Alzheimer's Disease ◽  
Gut Microbiota ◽  
Bidirectional Communication ◽  
The Central Nervous System ◽  
Brain And Behavior ◽  
Underlying Mechanisms ◽  
And Behavior ◽  
The Impact ◽  
The Brain

The bidirectional communication between the central nervous system (CNS) and the gut microbiota plays a pivotal role in human health. Increasing numbers of studies suggest that the gut microbiota can influence the brain and behavior of patients. Various metabolites secreted by the gut microbiota can affect the cognitive ability of patients diagnosed with neurodegenerative diseases. Nearly one in every ten Korean senior citizens suffers from Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the most common form of dementia. This review highlights the impact of metabolites from the gut microbiota on communication pathways between the brain and gut, as well as the neuroinflammatory roles they may have in AD patients. The objectives of this review are as follows: (1) to examine the role of the intestinal microbiota in homeostatic communication between the gut microbiota and the brain, termed the microbiota–gut–brain (MGB) axis; (2) to determine the underlying mechanisms of signal dysfunction; and (3) to assess the impact of signal dysfunction induced by the microbiota on AD. This review will aid in understanding the microbiota of elderly people and the neuroinflammatory roles they may have in AD.

scholarly journals The Importance of Psychoneuroimmunology for Social Workers

2018 ◽  
Vol 100 (1) ◽  
pp. 17-33
Author(s):  
Jill L. Littrell
Keyword(s):  
Immune System ◽  
Major Depression ◽  
Social Workers ◽  
Food Access ◽  
Psychotic Disorders ◽  
Stress Disorder ◽  
Food Preparation ◽  
And Behavior ◽  
The Impact ◽  
The Brain

A wealth of information regarding how the immune system can influence the brain and result in changes in mood and behavior has accumulated. Inflammation is a causal factor in some cases of major depression and psychotic disorders and predicts whether trauma will result in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Fortunately, studies in the area of psychoneuroimmunology have also suggested ways to decrease inflammation. Knowledge of this information is vital for social workers so that the impact of their interventions can be maximized. Moreover, for macropractice social workers, the information underscores the importance of access to nutritional food, access to safe places for exercise, and the time for food preparation and exercise, which should be considered as social justice issues.

Abstract P151: Adam17 in the Paraventricular Nucleus Contributes to Activation of Pre-Autonomic Neurons and Maintenance of Baseline Blood Pressure

Hypertension ◽  
2016 ◽  
Vol 68 (suppl_1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Snigdha Mukerjee ◽  
Andrea Zsombok ◽  
Eric Lazartigues
Keyword(s):  
Blood Pressure ◽  
Paraventricular Nucleus ◽  
Pseudorabies Virus ◽  
Neuronal Excitability ◽  
Baseline Blood Pressure ◽  
Neurogenic Hypertension ◽  
Transgenic Mouse Line ◽  
Mas Receptor ◽  
The Impact ◽  
The Brain

We previously reported that over-activation of the classical arm ( i.e. ACE/Ang-II/AT1 receptor) of the brain renin-angiotensin system (RAS) up-regulates ADAM17, a disintegrin and metalloprotease. ADAM17 cleaves angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) from the cell surface, leading to a compromised compensatory RAS axis ( i.e. ACE2/Ang-(1-7)/Mas receptor) and neurogenic hypertension. We hypothesized that ADAM17 within the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN) intrinsically regulate neuronal activity, thus contributing to sustained sympathetic drive and the development of neurogenic hypertension. To test this hypothesis, a new transgenic mouse line, named SAT, was generated to selectively knockdown ADAM17 in pre-autonomic Sim1 neurons within the PVN, using cre-loxP technology. Mean arterial pressure recorded in conscious mice (telemetry) showed a significant reduction at baseline (ΔMAP: -8 ±2 mmHg, N=3, P <0.05) and an increased vagal tone (Heart rate: 231 ±19 vs. 160 ±11 bpm, N=10, P<0.05) in SAT vs. control (NT) litter-mates. To address the impact of ADAM17 deletion on neuronal excitability, c-Fos immunohistochemistry was performed. SAT mice exhibited a significant reduction of c-Fos expression in the PVN compared to NT (14 ±2 vs. 124 ±8 neurons, N=3, P <0.001). Retrograde labeling (pseudorabies virus-eGFP) confirmed that a sub-population of these neurons projected to the kidney. In addition, mRNA expression of the GABAa receptor was higher in the hypothalamus of SAT compared to NT mice (1.3 ±0.1 vs. 1.0 ±0.1, N=7, P <0.05). ADAM17 knockdown from the PVN had a positive effect on the compensatory RAS, as evidenced by a rise in hypothalamic ACE2 activity compared to NT mice (82.3 ±4.2 vs. 69.7 ±3.3, N=7, P <0.05). Interestingly, this was also extended downstream of the PVN, with an increase in ACE2 activity (96.7 ± 3.8 vs. 82.0 ± 3.4, N=7, P <0.05), as well as Mas receptor gene expression (0.28 ±0.03 vs. 0.17 ± 0.01, N=6, P <0.01) in the brainstem of SAT compared to NT mice. Altogether, our data highlight a new role for ADAM17 in neuronal excitability and the maintenance of baseline blood pressure. Potential mechanisms opposing ADAM17-mediated neuronal excitability of PVN neurons include GABAergic pathways and the compensatory axis of the brain RAS.

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