Neuroscience
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We examined DA activity in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and nucleus accumbens core (NAcc) in two Different Rat Models of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats (SHR) Versus Lphn3 Knockout Rats. We examined baseline stimulation-evoked phasic DA release, half-life, and DA autoreceptor (DAR) functioning in the mPFC and NAcc, as well as the response to nomifensine (10 mg/kg, IP), a DA transporter (DAT) blocker, on these measures in the NAcc. Both rat models were hypodopaminergic, with notable regional and mechanistic differences. ⋯ Lphn3 KOs displayed increased DA half-life in the mPFC compared with Lphn3 WT rats, an indication of decreased DAT reuptake, with no differences in the NAcc. DAT blockade by nomifensine had a similar effect on DA release in the NAcc of SHRs and WKYs, but increased DA release in the NAcc of Lphn3 KOs to a greater extent than in WTs. These results suggest that the efficacy of pharmacotherapies used to treat externalizing disorders such as ADHD and/or SUD, likely differ between SHRs and Lphn3 KO rats.
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Review Meta Analysis
Potential similarities in gut microbiota composition between autism spectrum disorder and neurotypical siblings: Insights from a comprehensive meta-analysis.
Previous studies have explored the differences in gut microbiota (GM) between individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and neurotypical controls. However, factors such as diet, lifestyle, and environmental exposure influence GM, leading to significant variability, even among neurotypical individuals. Comparing the GM of ASD individuals with neurotypical siblings, who share similar genes and living conditions, may offer better insights into the GM mechanisms associated with ASD. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the GM composition in ASD by comparing it to that of neurotypical siblings, potentially identifying microbiota that influence ASD. ⋯ GM composition in ASD individuals closely resembles that of neurotypical siblings, with only a few unstable differences. This suggests that other crucial bacteria or certain interacting environmental factors play a role. Further studies are needed to gather stronger evidence to uncover the differences in GM and their mechanisms in ASD people.
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Neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs) have been prevalent for more than a decade, and the number of individuals affected per year has increased exponentially. Among these NDDs, Alzheimer's disease, which causes extreme cognitive impairment, and Parkinson's disease, characterized by impairments in motor activity, are the most prevalent. While few treatments are available for clinical practice, they have minimal effects on reversing the neurodegeneration associated with these debilitating diseases. ⋯ The potential CRMs discussed in this review are quercetin, chrysin, astragalin, apigenin, curcumin, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, and NAD+ precursors. This review aims to provide an overview of these CRMs' effectiveness in preventing neurodegenerative disorders associated with aging. Moreover, we highlight the clinical relevance of these compounds by discussing in detail the results of clinical trials on them.
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Uremic pruritus (UP) significantly compromises the quality of life in patients with end-stage renal disease undergoing peritoneal dialysis. Although the precise pathophysiological mechanisms of UP remain elusive, the thalamus, which is integral to processing sensory information, is potentially implicated in its development. This study aimed to investigate alterations in the structure and resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) of thalamic subregions in patients with UP. ⋯ The decreased volume of thalamic subregions and rsFC were closely associated with UP severity. It was found that the volume of R_Stha directly influences the severity of pruritus in UP patients, but this effect does not manifest through rsFC between R_Stha and left supplementary motor area or left paracentral lobule. Patients with UP exhibited changes in structural and functional connectivity within specific thalamic subregions, providing neuroimaging insights into the neural mechanisms of UP.
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This review explores the mechanisms and treatment strategies of ischemic stroke, a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Ischemic stroke results from the obstruction of blood flow to the brain, leading to significant neurological impairment. The paper categorizes ischemic stroke into subtypes based on etiology, including cardioembolism and large artery atherosclerosis, and discusses the challenges of current therapeutic approaches. ⋯ The review highlights the promise of acupuncture, which offers neuroprotective benefits by promoting cerebral ischemic tolerance and neural regeneration. Integrating acupuncture with conventional treatments may enhance patient outcomes. Emphasis is placed on understanding the pathophysiology to develop targeted therapies that mitigate neuronal damage and enhance recovery.