CD38 and its role in oxytocin secretion and social behavior

• Published in: Hormones and behavior Vol. 61; no. 3; pp. 351 - 358
• Main Authors: Higashida, Haruhiro, Yokoyama, Shigeru, Kikuchi, Mitsuru, Munesue, Toshio
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Elsevier Inc 01.03.2012; Elsevier BV
• Subjects: ADP-ribosyl Cyclase - genetics; ADP-ribosyl Cyclase - metabolism; ADP-ribosyl Cyclase 1 - genetics; ADP-ribosyl Cyclase 1 - physiology; Animal behavior; Animals; Autism; Autistic Disorder - genetics; Autistic Disorder - physiopathology; CD38; Cyclic ADP-Ribose - pharmacology; Exons - genetics; Genes; Hormones; Humans; Introns - genetics; Mice; Mice, Knockout; Oxytocin; Oxytocin - genetics; Oxytocin - metabolism; Oxytocin - secretion; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide; Rodents; Secretion; SNP; Social Behavior; Autism; CD38; Social behavior; Oxytocin; SNP; Secretion
• ISSN: 0018-506X; 1095-6867
• DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2011.12.011

Here, we review the functional roles of cyclic ADP-ribose and CD38, a transmembrane protein with ADP-ribosyl cyclase activity, in mouse social behavior via the regulation of oxytocin (OXT) release, an essential component of social cognition. Herein we describe data detailing the molecular mechanism of CD38-dependent OXT secretion in CD38 knockout mice. We also review studies that used OXT, OXT receptor (OXTR), or CD38 knockout mice. Additionally, we compare the behavioral impairments that occur in these knockout mice in relation to the OXT system and CD38. This review also examines autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which is characterized by social and communication impairments, in relation to defects in the OXT system. Two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the human CD38 gene are possible risk factors for ASD via inhibition of OXT function. Further analysis of CD38 in relation to the OXT system may provide a better understanding of the neuroendocrinological roles of OXT and CD38 in the hypothalamus and of the pathophysiology of ASD. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled Oxytocin, Vasopressin, and Social Behavior. ► CD38 plays a role in oxytocin release in mice. ► CD38 null mice shows deficiency in social behavior. ► Two of single nucleotide polymorphisms of CD38 associated with autism spectrum disorders.