Chronic ultraviolet irradiation induces memory deficits via dysregulation of the dopamine pathway

Abstract

The effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation on brain function have previously been investigated; however, the specific neurotransmitter-mediated mechanisms responsible for UV radiation-induced neurobehavioral changes remain elusive. In this study, we aimed to explore the mechanisms underlying UV radiation-induced neurobehavioral changes. In a mouse model, we observed that UV irradiation of the skin induces deficits in hippocampal memory, synaptic plasticity, and adult neurogenesis, as well as increased dopamine levels in the skin, adrenal glands, and brain. Chronic UV exposure altered the expression of genes involved in dopaminergic neuron differentiation. Furthermore, chronic peripheral dopamine treatments resulted in memory deficits. Systemic administration of a dopamine D1/D5 receptor antagonist reversed changes in memory, synaptic plasticity, adult neurogenesis, and gene expression in UV-irradiated mice. Our findings provide converging evidence that chronic UV exposure alters dopamine levels in the central nervous system and peripheral organs, including the skin, which may underlie the observed neurobehavioral shifts, such as hippocampal memory deficits and impaired neurogenesis. This study underscores the importance of protection from UV exposure and introduces the potential of pharmacological approaches targeting dopamine receptors to counteract the adverse neurological impacts of UV exposure. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation, which is a harmful type of light from the sun, can cause skin inflammation and other health problems. This study looked at how UV radiation affects the brain, specifically focusing on dopamine, a chemical in the brain that helps control movement and emotional responses. The researchers did experiments on mice, exposing them to UV radiation and observing changes in their behavior and brain function. They found that UV radiation increased dopamine levels in the skin, adrenal glands, and brain. This increase was linked to memory loss and changes in behavior. The researchers concluded that UV radiation can affect brain function and behavior by changing dopamine levels. This study shows the importance of protecting against UV radiation and suggests that targeting dopamine receptors could help reduce the negative brain effects of UV exposure. This summary was initially drafted using artificial intelligence, then revised and fact-checked by the author.