Neural correlates of reward learning and cognitive control in depression: A research domain criteria (RDoC) approach
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Authors
Lamontagne, Steven
Date
Type
thesis
Language
eng
Keyword
anhedonia , reward , stress , depression , cognitive control , RDoC
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Abstract
The current thesis employed the Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) framework to understand how environmental, biological, and psychological factors differentially impact reward learning and cognitive control. Across three manuscripts, we interpreted findings that spanned several RDoC units of analysis from cellular and molecular processes to self-reported behaviour. In Chapter 2, we found that dopamine (DA) D2-like receptor modulation rescues reward learning deficits provoked by chronic stress in rats. This effect was most pronounced in high stress reactive rats (indexed by adrenal hypertrophy) showing D2 receptor upregulation. Finally, the restorative effects of DA modulation were regionally specific to nucleus accumbens (not medial prefrontal cortex) D2-like activation. In Chapter 3, we found that prior COVID-19 infection produced long-term deficits in reward processing and executive functioning, particularly in the 1-to-4-month period following diagnosis. Among these survivors, task-based (but not self-reported) cognitive control was particularly impaired, with other cognitive abilities (orienting and alerting) remaining intact. Unlike prior studies to date, we carefully screened participants for lifetime history of mood or cognitive dysregulation that predated the pandemic, suggesting COVID-19 infection is associated with first-time psychiatric impairment. In Chapter 4, we found that biogenetic messaging about depression (i.e., receiving a sham positive genetic test for depression) did not alter behavioural or neurophysiological correlates of cognitive control. Although genetic feedback altered perceptions about the etiology of depression (i.e., the belief that it has a biological origin), it did not change expectancies or beliefs about the prognosis or treatment for depression. This study was the first to evaluate neural consequences of biogenetic messaging, challenging emerging theories that it alters decision-making processes and patient motivation. Collectively, each chapter offers novel insights into factors that impair reward learning and cognitive control, shedding light on mechanisms that might warrant novel treatment approaches to alleviate these deficits. We close by advocating a cross-species, neuroscience-based approach to research, promoting efforts toward symptom-based treatments for depression.
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Queen's University's Thesis/Dissertation Non-Exclusive License for Deposit to QSpace and Library and Archives Canada
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Copying and Preserving Your Thesis
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ProQuest PhD and Master's Theses International Dissemination Agreement
Intellectual Property Guidelines at Queen's University
Copying and Preserving Your Thesis
This publication is made available by the authority of the copyright owner solely for the purpose of private study and research and may not be copied or reproduced except as permitted by the copyright laws without written authority from the copyright owner.