CNS neuroscience & therapeutics
-
Connexin 43 (Cx43) has been reported to be involved in neuropathic pain, but whether it contributes to morphine antinociceptive tolerance remains unknown. The present study investigated the role of spinal Cx43 in the development of morphine tolerance and its mechanisms in rats. ⋯ The spinal astrocytic Cx43 contributes to the development of morphine antinociceptive tolerance by activating astrocytes and NMDA receptors, and inhibiting GLT-1 expression. We also demonstrate that the role of interaction between the spinal astrocytic Cx43 and neuronal NMDA receptors is important in morphine tolerant rats.
-
To evaluate the health-related quality of life (HRQL) and its correlates in children and adolescents with narcolepsy. ⋯ Narcoleptic children and adolescents were at high risk for poor HRQL. Depressive symptoms had a major impact on HRQL. We recommend a more thorough assessment and management of psychological health in this population.
-
Disturbance of the balance between mitochondrial fission and fusion has been implicated in cerebral ischemia and several neurodegenerative diseases, whereas the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. In the present study, we attempted to investigate the role of dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1), a key mitochondrial fission protein, in the pathogenesis of cerebral ischemia. ⋯ Down-regulation or inhibition of Drp1 may reduce cerebral ischemic damage through maintaining normal mitochondrial morphology and function, and decreasing Bax insertion and oligomerization in mitochondria.
-
The angiotensin (Ang) converting enzyme 2 (ACE2)/Ang-(1-7)/Mas receptor pathway is an important component of the renin-angiotensin system and has been suggested to exert beneficial effects in ischemic stroke. ⋯ Angiotensin converting enzyme 2/Ang-(1-7)/Mas axis protects brain from ischemic injury via the Nox/ROS signaling pathway, with a greater effect in older animals.
-
The predominant expression of aquaporin-4 (AQP4) in the brain implies that this water channel may be involved in a range of brain disorders. This study was designed to investigate the role of AQP4 in the pathogenesis of depression, and related possible biological mechanism. ⋯ The present findings suggest AQP4 involves the pathogenesis of depression by modulating astrocytic function and adult neurogenesis, highlighting a novel profile of AQP4 as a potential target for the treatment for depression.