Die Zhang, Riya Thomas, Thanh Thai Lam, Ines Veselinovic, David R Grosshans
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Cognitive impairment is a common and challenging side effect of cranial radiation therapy for brain tumors, though its precise mechanisms remain unclear. The mesocortical dopaminergic pathway, known to play a key role in cognitive function, is implicated in several neuropsychiatric disorders, yet its involvement in radiation-induced cognitive dysfunction is unexplored. Here, with using in vivo multi-electrode array recordings of both anesthetized and free-moving rats to monitor the firing activities of dopamine neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and local field potentials in both the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and VTA, as well as the immunofluorescence assays and western blotting, we report that cranial irradiation transiently altered VTA dopamine neuron firing patterns without affecting overall firing rates and led to sustained reductions in both "awake" and total dopamine neuron density. Additionally, radiation exposure impaired D2 receptor function and disrupted connectivity between the PFC and VTA. These multifaceted disruptions in the mesocortical dopamine signaling may underlie the development of radiation-induced cognitive dysfunction. These findings pave the way for novel research to prevent or reverse radiation-induced injury, ultimately improving the quality of life for brain tumor survivors.
期刊介绍:
"Acta Neuropathologica Communications (ANC)" is a peer-reviewed journal that specializes in the rapid publication of research articles focused on the mechanisms underlying neurological diseases. The journal emphasizes the use of molecular, cellular, and morphological techniques applied to experimental or human tissues to investigate the pathogenesis of neurological disorders.
ANC is committed to a fast-track publication process, aiming to publish accepted manuscripts within two months of submission. This expedited timeline is designed to ensure that the latest findings in neuroscience and pathology are disseminated quickly to the scientific community, fostering rapid advancements in the field of neurology and neuroscience. The journal's focus on cutting-edge research and its swift publication schedule make it a valuable resource for researchers, clinicians, and other professionals interested in the study and treatment of neurological conditions.