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Interindividual variability and lateralization of μ-opioid receptors in the human brain
Tatu Kantonen1, Tomi Karjalainen2, Janne Isojärvi3
1Turku PET Centre, University of Turku, Finland; Clinical Neurosciences, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Finland.
Abstract:
Alterations in the brain's μ-opioid receptor (MOR) system have been associated with several neuropsychiatric disorders. Central MOR availability also varies considerably in healthy individuals. Multiple epidemiological factors have been proposed to influence the MOR system, but due to small sample sizes the magnitude of their influence remains inconclusive. We compiled [11C]carfentanil positron emission tomography scans from 204 individuals with no neurologic or psychiatric disorders, and estimated the effects of sex, age, body mass index (BMI) and smoking on [11C]carfentanil binding potential using between-subject regression analysis. We also examined hemispheric differences in MOR availability. Older age was associated with increase in MOR availability in frontotemporal areas but decrease in amygdala, thalamus, and nucleus accumbens. The age-dependent increase was stronger in males. MOR availability was globally lowered in smokers but independent of BMI. Finally, MOR availability was higher in the right versus the left hemisphere. The presently observed variation in MOR availability may explain why some individuals are prone to develop MOR-linked pathological states, such as chronic pain or psychiatric disorders. Lateralized MOR system may reflect hemispheric work specialization in central emotion and pain processes.
Insights
Brain μ-opioid receptor (MOR) availability varies with age, sex, and smoking. Older age and male sex increase MOR availability in some areas, while smoking lowers it globally, impacting neuropsychiatric disorder risk.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Neuroimaging
- Receptor Binding
Background:
- Alterations in the brain's μ-opioid receptor (MOR) system are linked to neuropsychiatric disorders.
- Central MOR availability shows significant variation in healthy individuals.
- Previous studies on factors influencing MOR system have been limited by small sample sizes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the influence of sex, age, body mass index (BMI), and smoking on central MOR availability in healthy adults.
- To examine hemispheric differences in MOR availability.
Main Methods:
- Utilized [11C]carfentanil positron emission tomography (PET) scans from 204 healthy individuals.
- Employed between-subject regression analysis to assess the effects of epidemiological factors on MOR binding potential.
- Analyzed regional and hemispheric differences in MOR availability.
Main Results:
- Older age was associated with increased MOR availability in frontotemporal areas but decreased availability in the amygdala, thalamus, and nucleus accumbens.
- The age-dependent increase in MOR availability was more pronounced in males.
- Smokers exhibited globally lower MOR availability, independent of BMI.
- MOR availability was higher in the right hemisphere compared to the left.
Conclusions:
- Observed variations in MOR availability may predispose individuals to MOR-linked conditions like chronic pain and psychiatric disorders.
- Lateralized MOR system suggests hemispheric specialization in central emotion and pain processing.
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