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Chronic Inhibition of FAAH Reduces Depressive-Like Behavior and Improves Dentate Gyrus Proliferation after Chronic Unpredictable Stress Exposure. Behav Neurol 2021; 2021:6651492. [PMID: 33833828 PMCID: PMC8016565 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6651492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Symptoms of depressive disorders such as anhedonia and despair can be a product of an aberrant adaptation to stress conditions. Chronic unpredictable stress model (CUS) can generate an increase in the activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA) and induce a reduction of neurotrophin signaling and the proliferation of neural progenitors in the adult dentate gyrus, together with increased oxidative stress. Levels of the endocannabinoid anandamide (AEA) seem to affect these depression-by-stress-related features and could be modulated by fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). We aimed to evaluate the effects of FAAH inhibitor, URB597, on depressive-like behavior and neural proliferation of mice subjected to a model of CUS. URB597 was administered intraperitoneally at a dose of 0.2 mg/kg for 14 days after CUS. Depressive-like behaviors, anhedonia, and despair were evaluated in the splash and forced swimming tests, respectively. Alterations at the HPA axis level were analyzed using the relative weight of adrenal glands and serum corticosterone levels. Oxidative stress and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) were also evaluated. Fluorescence immunohistochemistry tests were performed for the immunoreactivity of BrdU and Sox2 colabeling for comparison of neural precursors. The administration of URB597 was able to reverse the depressive-like behavior generated in mice after the model. Likewise, other physiological responses associated with CUS were reduced in the treated group, among them, increase in the relative weight of the adrenal glands, increased oxidative stress, and decreased BDNF and number of neural precursors. Most of these auspicious responses to enzyme inhibitor administration were blocked by employing a cannabinoid receptor antagonist. In conclusion, the chronic inhibition of FAAH generated an antidepressant effect, promoting neural progenitor proliferation and BDNF expression, while reducing adrenal gland weight and oxidative stress in mice under the CUS model.
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Alteba S, Portugalov A, Hillard CJ, Akirav I. Inhibition of Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase (FAAH) During Adolescence and Exposure to Early Life Stress may Exacerbate Depression-like Behaviors in Male and Female Rats. Neuroscience 2021; 455:89-106. [PMID: 33359656 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2020.12.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Revised: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Early-life stress (ELS) is associated with later onset of depression. Early cannabis use may be a risk factor that interacts with environmental factors to increase the risk of psychopathologies. We aimed to examine the long-term effects of ELS on depression- and anxiety-like behavior, and examine whether chronic fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibition during mid-adolescence could ameliorate or exacerbate ELS effects on behavior. Male and female rats were exposed to ELS during post-natal days (P) 7-14, injected with the FAAH inhibitor URB597 (0.4 mg/kg, i.p.) or vehicle for 2 weeks during mid-adolescence (P30-45) or late-adolescence (P45-60). Rats were tested in adulthood for behavior and alterations in CB1 receptors (CB1r) and glucocorticoid receptors (GRs) in the brains' stress circuit. ELS produced decreased social preference, impaired social recognition, increased learned helplessness and anxiety-like behavior. Administering URB597 during mid-adolescence did not prevent the deleterious long-term effects of ELS on behavior in males and females. When URB597 was administered during late-adolescence, it ameliorated ELS-induced depression- and anxiety-like behavior. Moreover, in males, ELS and URB597 decreased CB1r levels in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and CA1 and GRs in the PFC and basolateral amygdala (BLA). In females, ELS and URB decreased CB1r in the BLA and GRs in the CA1 and BLA. The findings suggest that mid-adolescence, as opposed to late-adolescence, may not be a potential developmental period for chronic treatment with FAAH inhibitors and that sex-dependent alterations in CB1r and GRs expression in the BLA-PFC-CA1 circuit may contribute to the depressive behavioral phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirley Alteba
- School of Psychological Sciences, Department of Psychology, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel; The Integrated Brain and Behavior Research Center (IBBR), University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel
| | - Anna Portugalov
- School of Psychological Sciences, Department of Psychology, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel; The Integrated Brain and Behavior Research Center (IBBR), University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel
| | - Cecilia J Hillard
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Neuroscience Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee 53226, USA
| | - Irit Akirav
- School of Psychological Sciences, Department of Psychology, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel; The Integrated Brain and Behavior Research Center (IBBR), University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel.
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Portugalov A, Akirav I. Do Adolescent Exposure to Cannabinoids and Early Adverse Experience Interact to Increase the Risk of Psychiatric Disorders: Evidence from Rodent Models. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22020730. [PMID: 33450928 PMCID: PMC7828431 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2020] [Revised: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
There have been growing concerns about the protracted effects of cannabis use in adolescents on emotion and cognition outcomes, motivated by evidence of growing cannabis use in adolescents, evidence linking cannabis use to various psychiatric disorders, and the increasingly perceived notion that cannabis is harmless. At the same time, studies suggest that cannabinoids may have therapeutic potential against the impacts of stress on the brain and behavior, and that young people sometimes use cannabinoids to alleviate feelings of depression and anxiety (i.e., “self-medication”). Exposure to early adverse life events may predispose individuals to developing psychopathology in adulthood, leading researchers to study the causality between early life factors and cognitive and emotional outcomes in rodent models and to probe the underlying mechanisms. In this review, we aim to better understand the long-term effects of cannabinoids administered in sensitive developmental periods (mainly adolescence) in rodent models of early life stress. We suggest that the effects of cannabinoids on emotional and cognitive function may vary between different sensitive developmental periods. This could potentially affect decisions regarding the use of cannabinoids in clinical settings during the early stages of development and could raise questions regarding educating the public as to potential risks associated with cannabis use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Portugalov
- Department of Psychology, School of Psychological Sciences, University of Haifa, 3498838 Haifa, Israel;
- The Integrated Brain and Behavior Research Center (IBBR), University of Haifa, 3498838 Haifa, Israel
| | - Irit Akirav
- Department of Psychology, School of Psychological Sciences, University of Haifa, 3498838 Haifa, Israel;
- The Integrated Brain and Behavior Research Center (IBBR), University of Haifa, 3498838 Haifa, Israel
- Correspondence:
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Effects of systemic endocannabinoid manipulation on social and exploratory behavior in prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster). Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2021; 238:293-304. [PMID: 33130926 PMCID: PMC7796938 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-020-05683-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Anandamide is an endocannabinoid that contributes to certain aspects of social behavior, like play and reward, by binding to cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1). Most interesting is the recent discovery that anandamide may be mobilized by oxytocin receptor activation under certain contexts, particularly in the nucleus accumbens. OBJECTIVES Given the established role of oxytocin and the nucleus accumbens in the neurobiology of pair-bonding, we investigated whether systemic administration of brain-permeable modulators of the endocannabinoid system could alter preferential partner contact in both male and female prairie voles. METHODS Specifically, we tested whether intraperitoneal administration of the neutral CB1 antagonist AM4113 (4.0-16.0 mg/kg) or the anandamide hydrolysis inhibitor URB597 (5.0-20.0 mg/kg) could prevent or facilitate partner preference formation, respectively. To further investigate the specificity of effects on partner preference, we repeated our URB597 dosing regimen on an additional group of females and tested their anxiety-related behavior in both an elevated-plus maze and a light/dark test. RESULTS AM4113 administration had no effect on partner preference. But while URB597 also had no effect on partner preference, low-dose females did increase absolute preferential contact with either the partner or the stranger; individual females spent significant contact time with either the partner or the stranger. None of our outcome measures in either anxiety test showed significant effects of treatment. CONCLUSIONS Our results reveal that experimentally increasing anandamide levels in female prairie voles can increase social contact with both a familiar and novel male via unknown mechanisms that are likely separate from anxiety reduction.
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Hou L, Rong J, Haider A, Ogasawara D, Varlow C, Schafroth MA, Mu L, Gan J, Xu H, Fowler CJ, Zhang MR, Vasdev N, Ametamey S, Cravatt BF, Wang L, Liang SH. Positron Emission Tomography Imaging of the Endocannabinoid System: Opportunities and Challenges in Radiotracer Development. J Med Chem 2020; 64:123-149. [PMID: 33379862 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is involved in a wide range of biological functions and comprises cannabinoid receptors and enzymes responsible for endocannabinoid synthesis and degradation. Over the past 2 decades, significant advances toward developing drugs and positron emission tomography (PET) tracers targeting different components of the ECS have been made. Herein, we summarized the recent development of PET tracers for imaging cannabinoid receptors 1 (CB1R) and 2 (CB2R) as well as the key enzymes monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) and fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), particularly focusing on PET neuroimaging applications. State-of-the-art PET tracers for the ECS will be reviewed including their chemical design, pharmacological properties, radiolabeling, as well as preclinical and human PET imaging. In addition, this review addresses the current challenges for ECS PET biomarker development and highlights the important role of PET ligands to study disease pathophysiology as well as to facilitate drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Hou
- Center of Cyclotron and PET Radiopharmaceuticals, Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET/CT-MRI Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, 613 West Huangpu Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Jian Rong
- Division of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, and Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, United States
| | - Ahmed Haider
- Division of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, and Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, United States
| | - Daisuke Ogasawara
- The Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology and Department of Chemical Physiology, The Scripps Research Institute, SR107, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Cassis Varlow
- Azrieli Centre for Neuro-Radiochemistry, Brain Health Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, and Department of Psychiatry/Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, 250 College Street, Toronto, M5T 1R8 ON, Canada
| | - Michael A Schafroth
- The Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology and Department of Chemical Physiology, The Scripps Research Institute, SR107, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Linjing Mu
- Center for Radiopharmaceutical Sciences of ETH, PSI, and USZ, and Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 4, CH-8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jiefeng Gan
- Center of Cyclotron and PET Radiopharmaceuticals, Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET/CT-MRI Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, 613 West Huangpu Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Hao Xu
- Center of Cyclotron and PET Radiopharmaceuticals, Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET/CT-MRI Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, 613 West Huangpu Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Christopher J Fowler
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Umeå University, SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Ming-Rong Zhang
- Department of Radiopharmaceuticals Development, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology, 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Neil Vasdev
- Division of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, and Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, United States.,Azrieli Centre for Neuro-Radiochemistry, Brain Health Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, and Department of Psychiatry/Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, 250 College Street, Toronto, M5T 1R8 ON, Canada
| | - Simon Ametamey
- Center for Radiopharmaceutical Sciences of ETH, PSI, and USZ, and Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 4, CH-8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Benjamin F Cravatt
- The Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology and Department of Chemical Physiology, The Scripps Research Institute, SR107, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Lu Wang
- Center of Cyclotron and PET Radiopharmaceuticals, Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET/CT-MRI Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, 613 West Huangpu Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou 510630, China.,Division of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, and Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, United States
| | - Steven H Liang
- Division of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, and Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, United States
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Sholler DJ, Huestis MA, Amendolara B, Vandrey R, Cooper ZD. Therapeutic potential and safety considerations for the clinical use of synthetic cannabinoids. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2020; 199:173059. [PMID: 33086126 PMCID: PMC7725960 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2020.173059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Revised: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The phytocannabinoid Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) was isolated and synthesized in the 1960s. Since then, two synthetic cannabinoids (SCBs) targeting the cannabinoid 1 (CB1R) and 2 (CB2R) receptors were approved for medical use based on clinical safety and efficacy data: dronabinol (synthetic THC) and nabilone (synthetic THC analog). To probe the function of the endocannabinoid system further, hundreds of investigational compounds were developed; in particular, agonists with (1) greater CB1/2R affinity relative to THC and (2) full CB1/2R agonist activity. This pharmacological profile may pose greater risks for misuse and adverse effects relative to THC, and these SCBs proliferated in retail markets as legal alternatives to cannabis (e.g., novel psychoactive substances [NPS], "Spice," "K2"). These SCBs were largely outlawed in the U.S., but blanket policies that placed all SCB chemicals into restrictive control categories impeded research progress into novel mechanisms for SCB therapeutic development. There is a concerted effort to develop new, therapeutically useful SCBs that target novel pharmacological mechanisms. This review highlights the potential therapeutic efficacy and safety considerations for unique SCBs, including CB1R partial and full agonists, peripherally-restricted CB1R agonists, selective CB2R agonists, selective CB1R antagonists/inverse agonists, CB1R allosteric modulators, endocannabinoid-degrading enzyme inhibitors, and cannabidiol. We propose promising directions for SCB research that may optimize therapeutic efficacy and diminish potential for adverse events, for example, peripherally-restricted CB1R antagonists/inverse agonists and biased CB1/2R agonists. Together, these strategies could lead to the discovery of new, therapeutically useful SCBs with reduced negative public health impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis J Sholler
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Marilyn A Huestis
- Institute of Emerging Health Professions, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Benjamin Amendolara
- UCLA Cannabis Research Initiative, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ryan Vandrey
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ziva D Cooper
- UCLA Cannabis Research Initiative, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Bartoll A, Toledano-Zaragoza A, Casas J, Guzmán M, Schuchman EH, Ledesma MD. Inhibition of fatty acid amide hydrolase prevents pathology in neurovisceral acid sphingomyelinase deficiency by rescuing defective endocannabinoid signaling. EMBO Mol Med 2020; 12:e11776. [PMID: 33016621 PMCID: PMC7645369 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.201911776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Acid sphingomyelinase deficiency (ASMD) leads to cellular accumulation of sphingomyelin (SM), neurodegeneration, and early death. Here, we describe the downregulation of the endocannabinoid (eCB) system in neurons of ASM knockout (ASM‐KO) mice and a ASMD patient. High SM reduced expression of the eCB receptor CB1 in neuronal processes and induced its accumulation in lysosomes. Activation of CB1 receptor signaling, through inhibition of the eCB‐degrading enzyme fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), reduced SM levels in ASM‐KO neurons. Oral treatment of ASM‐KO mice with a FAAH inhibitor prevented SM buildup; alleviated inflammation, neurodegeneration, and behavioral alterations; and extended lifespan. This treatment showed benefits even after a single administration at advanced disease stages. We also found CB1 receptor downregulation in neurons of a mouse model and a patient of another sphingolipid storage disorder, Niemann–Pick disease type C (NPC). We showed the efficacy of FAAH inhibition to reduce SM and cholesterol levels in NPC patient‐derived cells and in the brain of a NPC mouse model. Our findings reveal a pathophysiological crosstalk between neuronal SM and the eCB system and offer a new treatment for ASMD and other sphingolipidoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrián Bartoll
- Centro Biologia Molecular Severo Ochoa (CSIC-UAM), Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Manuel Guzmán
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN), Complutense University, Madrid, Spain
| | - Edward H Schuchman
- Department of Genetics & Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York NY, USA
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Cannabinoids affect the mouse visual acuity via the cannabinoid receptor type 2. Sci Rep 2020; 10:15819. [PMID: 32978469 PMCID: PMC7519129 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-72553-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, there have been increasing indications that the endocannabinoid (eCB) system is involved in vision. Multiple research teams studied the cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2R) expression and function in the mouse retina. Here, we examined the consequence of CB2R modulation on visual acuity using genetic and pharmacologic tools. We found that Cnr2 knockout mice show an enhanced visual acuity, CB2R activation decreased visual acuity while CB2R blockade with the inverse agonist AM630 increased it. The inhibition of 2-arachidonylglycerol (2-AG) synthesis and degradation also greatly increased and decreased visual acuity, respectively. No differences were seen when the cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1R) was deleted, blocked or activated implying that CB2R exclusively mediates cannabinoid modulation of the visual acuity. We also investigated the role of cannabinoids in retinal function using electroretinography (ERG). We found that modulating 2-AG levels affected many ERG components, such as the a-wave and oscillatory potentials (OPs), suggesting an impact on cones and amacrine cells. Taken together, these results reveal that CB2R modulates visual acuity and that eCBs such as 2-AG can modulate both visual acuity and retinal sensitivity. Finally, these findings establish that CB2R is present in visual areas and regulates vision-related functions.
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The fatty-acid amide hydrolase inhibitor URB597 inhibits MICA/B shedding. Sci Rep 2020; 10:15556. [PMID: 32968163 PMCID: PMC7512021 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-72688-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
MICA/B proteins are expressed on the surface of various types of stressed cells, including cancer cells. Cytotoxic lymphocytes expressing natural killer group 2D (NKG2D) receptor recognize MICA/B and eliminate the cells. However, cancer cells evade such immune recognition by inducing proteolytic shedding of MICA/B proteins. Therefore, preventing the shedding of MICA/B proteins could enhance antitumor immunity. Here, by screening a protease inhibitor library, we found that the fatty-acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitor, URB597, suppresses the shedding of MICA/B. URB597 significantly reduced the soluble MICA level in culture medium and increased the MICA level on the surface of cancer cells. The effect was indirect, being mediated by increased expression of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 3 (TIMP3). Knockdown of TIMP3 expression reversed the effect of URB597, confirming that TIMP3 is required for the MICA shedding inhibition by URB597. In contrast, FAAH overexpression reduced TIMP3 expression and the cell-surface MICA level and increased the soluble MICA level. These results suggest that inhibition of FAAH could prevent human cancer cell evasion of immune-mediated clearance.
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van Egmond N, Straub VM, van der Stelt M. Targeting Endocannabinoid Signaling: FAAH and MAG Lipase Inhibitors. Annu Rev Pharmacol Toxicol 2020; 61:441-463. [PMID: 32867595 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pharmtox-030220-112741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Inspired by the medicinal properties of the plant Cannabis sativa and its principal component (-)-trans-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), researchers have developed a variety of compounds to modulate the endocannabinoid system in the human brain. Inhibitors of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL), which are the enzymes responsible for the inactivation of the endogenous cannabinoids anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol, respectively, may exert therapeutic effects without inducing the adverse side effects associated with direct cannabinoid CB1 receptor stimulation by THC. Here we review the FAAH and MAGL inhibitors that have reached clinical trials, discuss potential caveats, and provide an outlook on where the field is headed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noëlle van Egmond
- Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden University, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands;
| | - Verena M Straub
- Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden University, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands;
| | - Mario van der Stelt
- Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden University, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands;
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Radaic A, Martins-de-Souza D. The state of the art of nanopsychiatry for schizophrenia diagnostics and treatment. NANOMEDICINE-NANOTECHNOLOGY BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2020; 28:102222. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2020.102222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Revised: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Safety, Tolerability, Pharmacokinetics, and Pharmacodynamics of ASP3652, a Reversible Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase Inhibitor, in Healthy, Nonelderly, Japanese Men and Elderly, Japanese Men and Women: A Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled, Single and Multiple Oral Dose, Phase I Study. Clin Ther 2020; 42:906-923. [PMID: 32456804 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2020.03.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Revised: 03/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to evaluate the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of ASP3652, a peripherally acting inhibitor of peripheral fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) after 30-, 100-, 300-, 600-, and 900-mg single and 100- and 300-mg BID multiple oral dose in Japanese patients. METHODS This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, single and multiple oral dose Phase I study in healthy, nonelderly men and elderly men and women. The study consisted of 2 parts: in the single oral dose part, 40 healthy, nonelderly men were randomized to receive placebo or ASP3652; in the multiple oral dose part, 48 enrolled nonelderly men and elderly men and women were randomized to receive placebo or ASP3652. In both parts, the investigator judged whether the individuals were healthy based on the results of physical examinations and screening. The safety profile was assessed by examining adverse events, defined as any untoward medical occurrence in an individual administered the study drug and that did not necessarily have a causal relationship with the study treatment; clinical laboratory evaluations; vital signs; the Profile of Mood States scale; and standard 12-lead ECGs and 12-lead ECGs for QT assessment. Pharmacokinetic parameters were estimated using unchanged ASP3652 concentrations in plasma and urine. Pharmacodynamic parameters were estimated using FAAH activity and plasma anandamide, oleoylethanolamide, and palmitoylethanolamide concentrations. Safety and tolerability profiles were compared with the placebo group. FINDINGS ASP3652 was rapidly absorbed to reach Cmax in a single dose and near steady-state at approximately 3 days after the start of multiple dosing. The Cmax and AUC of ASP3652 were slightly higher than dose proportional after a single dose of ASP3652 at 30-900 mg. There was no apparent accumulation based on Cmax and AUC0-12 after multiple doses. Although no differences were found in Cmax or AUC0-12 by age in men, Cmax and AUC0-12 were slightly higher in elderly women than elderly men. FAAH activity was inhibited in a dose-dependent manner, and plasma levels of anandamide, oleoylethanolamide, and palmitoylethanolamide increased in all dose groups after single and multiple doses of ASP3652. The incidence of adverse events after multiple doses, which ranged from 44.4% to 66.7%, was similar across all treatment groups, including the placebo group. IMPLICATIONS Single and multiple doses of ASP3652 were well tolerated and increased endogenous cannabinoids.
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Reid HMO, Lysenko-Martin MR, Snowden TM, Thomas JD, Christie BR. A Systematic Review of the Effects of Perinatal Alcohol Exposure and Perinatal Marijuana Exposure on Adult Neurogenesis in the Dentate Gyrus. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2020; 44:1164-1174. [PMID: 32246781 DOI: 10.1111/acer.14332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Marijuana and alcohol are both substances that, when used during pregnancy, may have profound effects on the developing fetus. There is evidence to suggest that both drugs have the capacity to affect working memory, one function of the hippocampal formation; however, there is a paucity of data on how perinatal exposure to alcohol or cannabis impacts the process of adult neurogenesis. METHODS This systematic review examines immunohistochemical data from adult rat and mouse models that assess perinatal alcohol or perinatal marijuana exposure. A comprehensive list of search terms was designed and used to search 3 separate databases. All results were imported to Mendeley and screened by 2 authors. Consensus was reached on a set of final papers that met the inclusion criteria, and their results were summarized. RESULTS Twelve papers were identified as relevant, 10 of which pertained to the effects of perinatal alcohol on the adult hippocampus, and 2 pertained to the effects of perinatal marijuana on the adult hippocampus. Cellular proliferation in the dentate gyrus was not affected in adult rats and mice exposed to alcohol perinatally. In general, perinatal alcohol exposure did not have a significant and reliable effect on the maturation and survival of adult born granule neurons in the dentate gyrus. In contrast, interneuron numbers appear to be reduced in the dentate gyrus of adult rats and mice exposed perinatally to alcohol. Perinatal marijuana exposure was also found to reduce inhibitory interneuron numbers in the dentate gyrus. CONCLUSIONS Perinatal alcohol exposure and perinatal marijuana exposure both act on inhibitory interneurons in the hippocampal formation of adult rats. These findings suggest simultaneous perinatal alcohol and marijuana exposure (SAM) may have a dramatic impact on inhibitory processes in the dentate gyrus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah M O Reid
- From the, Division of Medical Sciences, (HMOR, MRL, TMS, BRC), University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Melanie R Lysenko-Martin
- From the, Division of Medical Sciences, (HMOR, MRL, TMS, BRC), University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Taylor M Snowden
- From the, Division of Medical Sciences, (HMOR, MRL, TMS, BRC), University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jennifer D Thomas
- Center for Behavioral Teratology, (JDT), San Diego State University, San Diego, California
| | - Brian R Christie
- From the, Division of Medical Sciences, (HMOR, MRL, TMS, BRC), University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.,Island Medical Program and Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, (BRC), University of British Columbia, Victoria, British Columbia
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Abohalaka R, Bozkurt TE, Nemutlu E, Onder SC, Sahin-Erdemli I. The effects of fatty acid amide hydrolase and monoacylglycerol lipase inhibitor treatments on lipopolysaccharide-induced airway inflammation in mice. Pulm Pharmacol Ther 2020; 62:101920. [PMID: 32416152 DOI: 10.1016/j.pupt.2020.101920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system significantly contributes to the airway inflammation. Fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) are two main enzymes responsible for the metabolism of the endocannabinoids anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachydonoyl glycerol (2-AG), respectively. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the effects of local and systemic FAAH and MAGL inhibitor treatments in experimental airway inflammation and tracheal hyperreactivity in mice. Airway inflammation was induced by intranasal (i.n.) lipopolysaccharide (LPS) application (60 μl; 0,1 mg/ml in PBS) to mice and the control group received PBS. Systemic (intraperitoneal (i.p.)) or local (i.n.) FAAH inhibitor URB597 and MAGL inhibitor JZL184 treatments were administered 1h before LPS/PBS application. Fourty 8 h after LPS/PBS application, tracheas were removed to assess airway reactivity, and the lungs and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluids were isolated for histopathological evaluation, cytokine and endocannabinoid measurements. LPS application lead to an increase in 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) contractions in isolated tracheal rings while carbachol contractions remained unchanged. The increased 5-HT contractions were prevented by both systemic and local URB597 and JZL184 treatments. Systemic treatment with URB597 and JZL184, and local treatment with JZL184 reduced peribronchial and paranchymal inflammation in the LPS group while i.n. application of URB597 worsened the inflammation in the lungs. Systemic URB597 treatment increased lung AEA level whereas it had no effect on 2-AG level. However, JZL184 treatment increased 2-AG level by either systemic or local application, and also elevated AEA level. Inflammation-induced increase in neutrophil numbers was only prevented by systemic URB597 treatment. However, both URB597 and JZL184 treatments abolished the increased TNF-α level either they are administered systemically or locally. These results indicate that FAAH and MAGL inhibition may have a protective effect in airway inflammation and airway hyperreactivity, and therefore their therapeutic potential for airway diseases should be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reshed Abohalaka
- Hacettepe University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Turgut Emrah Bozkurt
- Hacettepe University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Emirhan Nemutlu
- Hacettepe University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Analytical Chemistry, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Sevgen Celik Onder
- Hacettepe University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pathology, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Inci Sahin-Erdemli
- Hacettepe University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology, Ankara, Turkey
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65
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Fotio Y, Palese F, Guaman Tipan P, Ahmed F, Piomelli D. Inhibition of fatty acid amide hydrolase in the CNS prevents and reverses morphine tolerance in male and female mice. Br J Pharmacol 2020; 177:3024-3035. [PMID: 32077093 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Revised: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) is an intracellular serine amidase that terminates the signalling of various lipid messengers involved in pain regulation, including anandamide and palmitoylethanolamide. Here, we investigated the effects of pharmacological or genetic FAAH removal on tolerance to the anti-nociceptive effects of morphine. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH We induced tolerance in male and female mice by administering twice-daily morphine for 7 days while monitoring nociceptive thresholds by the tail immersion test. The globally active FAAH inhibitor URB597 (1 and 3 mg·kg-1 , i.p.) or the peripherally restricted FAAH inhibitor URB937 (3 mg·kg-1 , i.p.) were administered daily 30 min prior to morphine, alone or in combination with the cannabinoid CB1 receptor antagonist AM251 (3 mg·kg-1 , i.p.), the CB2 receptor antagonist AM630 (3 mg·kg-1 , i.p.), or the PPAR-α antagonist GW6471 (4 mg·kg-1 , i.p.). Spinal levels of FAAH-regulated lipids were quantified by LC/MS-MS. Gene transcription was assessed by RT-qPCR. KEY RESULTS URB597 prevented and reversed morphine tolerance in both male and female mice. This effect was mimicked by genetic FAAH deletion, but not by URB937. Treatment with AM630 suppressed, whereas treatment with AM251 or GW6471, attenuated the effects of URB597. Anandamide mobilization was enhanced in the spinal cord of morphine-tolerant mice. mRNA levels of the anandamide-producing enzyme N-acyl-phosphatidylethanolamine PLD (NAPE-PLD) and the palmitoylethanolamide receptor PPAR-α, but not those for CB2 , CB1 receptors or FAAH, were elevated in spinal cord CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS: FAAH-regulated lipid signalling in the CNS modulated opiate tolerance, suggesting FAAH as a potential target for opiate-sparing medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yannick Fotio
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Francesca Palese
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Pablo Guaman Tipan
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Faizy Ahmed
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California.,Center for the Study of Cannabis, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California.,Department of Biological Chemistry, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California.,Center for the Study of Cannabis, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California
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66
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Chronic Cannabidiol Administration Fails to Diminish Blood Pressure in Rats with Primary and Secondary Hypertension Despite Its Effects on Cardiac and Plasma Endocannabinoid System, Oxidative Stress and Lipid Metabolism. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21041295. [PMID: 32075117 PMCID: PMC7072941 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21041295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated the influence of cannabidiol (CBD) on blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR) in spontaneously (SHR) and deoxycorticosterone (DOCA-salt) hypertensive rats. Hypertension was connected with increases in cardiac and plasma markers of lipid peroxidation in both models, whereas cardiac endocannabinoid levels decreased in SHR and increased in DOCA-salt. CBD (10 mg/kg once a day for 2 weeks) did not modify BP and HR in hypertension but counteracted pro-oxidant effects. Moreover, it decreased cardiac or plasma levels of anandamide, 2-arachidonoylglycerol and oleoyl ethanolamide in DOCA-salt and inhibited the activity of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) in both models. In the respective normotensive control rats, CBD increased lipid peroxidation, free fatty acid levels and FAAH activity. In conclusion, chronic CBD administration does not possess antihypertensive activity in a model of primary and secondary (DOCA-salt) hypertension, despite its antioxidant effect. The latter may be direct rather than based on the endocannabinoid system. The unexpected CBD-related increase in lipid peroxidation in normotensive controls may lead to untoward effects; thus, caution should be kept if CBD is used therapeutically.
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Haller J, Krecsak L, Zámbori J. Double-blind placebo controlled trial of the anxiolytic effects of a standardized Echinacea extract. Phytother Res 2019; 34:660-668. [PMID: 31876052 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.6558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 11/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Earlier studies suggested that specific Echinacea preparations might decrease anxiety. To further study the issue, we performed a double blind, placebo controlled trial with a standardized Echinacea angustifolia root extract. Participants were volunteers scoring above 45 points on the state or on the trait subscale of the State Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). They were treated with 40 mg Echinacea or with placebo tablets twice daily for 7 days followed by a 3 week-long washout period. Participants were also administered the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). In the Echinacea group, state anxiety scores decreased by approximately 11 points by the end of the treatment period, whereas the decrease was around 3-points in the placebo group (p< 0.01). The effect maintained over the washout period. The difference from placebo was significant from the 7th day of treatment throughout. Changes were less robust with trait anxiety scores, but the preparation performed better than placebo in patients with high baseline anxiety. Neither BDI nor PSS scores were affected by the treatments. Adverse effects were rare and mild, and all were observed in the placebo group. These findings suggest that particular Echinacea preparations have significant beneficial effects on anxiety in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- József Haller
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary.,University of Public Service, Budapest, Hungary
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68
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Greco R, Demartini C, Zanaboni AM, Tumelero E, Reggiani A, Misto A, Piomelli D, Tassorelli C. FAAH inhibition as a preventive treatment for migraine: A pre-clinical study. Neurobiol Dis 2019; 134:104624. [PMID: 31629892 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2019.104624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Revised: 09/02/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fatty-acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) is an intracellular serine hydrolase that catalyzes the cleavage of endogenous fatty-acid amides, including the endocannabinoid anandamide (AEA). We previously reported that the peripherally restricted FAAH inhibitor URB937, which selectively increases AEA levels outside the central nervous system, reduces hyperalgesia and c-Fos expression in the trigeminal nucleus caudalis (TNC) and the locus coeruleus in an animal model of migraine based on nitroglycerin (NTG) administration. AIM To further investigate the relevance of FAAH inhibition in the NTG animal model of migraine by testing the effects of the globally active FAAH inhibitor URB597. METHODS Our experimental approach involved mapping neuronal c-Fos protein expression, measurement of AEA levels in brain areas and in trigeminal ganglia, evaluation of pain-related behavior and quantification of molecular mediators in rats that received URB597 (2 mg/kg i.p.) either before or after NTG administration (10 mg/kg, i.p.). RESULTS Pre-treatment with URB597 significantly reduced c-Fos immunoreactivity in the TNC and inhibited NTG-induced hyperalgesia in the orofacial formalin test. This behavioral response was associated with a decrease in neuronal nitric oxide synthase, calcitonin gene-related peptide and cytokine gene expression levels in central and peripheral structures. Administration of URB597 after NTG had no such effect. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that global FAAH inhibition may offer a therapeutic approach to the prevention, but not the abortive treatment, of migraine attacks. Further studies are needed to elucidate the exact cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the protective effects of FAAH inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosaria Greco
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology of Integrative Autonomic Systems, Headache Science Centre, IRCCS Mondino Foundation Pavia, Italy.
| | - Chiara Demartini
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology of Integrative Autonomic Systems, Headache Science Centre, IRCCS Mondino Foundation Pavia, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Zanaboni
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology of Integrative Autonomic Systems, Headache Science Centre, IRCCS Mondino Foundation Pavia, Italy; Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Italy
| | - Elena Tumelero
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology of Integrative Autonomic Systems, Headache Science Centre, IRCCS Mondino Foundation Pavia, Italy
| | - Angelo Reggiani
- Dept. of Drug Discovery and Development, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | - Alessandra Misto
- Dept. of Drug Discovery and Development, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Cristina Tassorelli
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology of Integrative Autonomic Systems, Headache Science Centre, IRCCS Mondino Foundation Pavia, Italy; Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Italy
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69
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Vozella V, Ahmed F, Choobchian P, Merrill CB, Zibardi C, Tarzia G, Mor M, Duranti A, Tontini A, Rivara S, Piomelli D. Pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and safety studies on URB937, a peripherally restricted fatty acid amide hydrolase inhibitor, in rats. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 71:1762-1773. [PMID: 31579946 DOI: 10.1111/jphp.13166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES URB937, a peripheral fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitor, exerts profound analgesic effects in animal models. We examined, in rats, (1) the pharmacokinetic profile of oral URB937; (2) the compound's ability to elevate levels of the representative FAAH substrate, oleoylethanolamide (OEA); and (3) the compound's tolerability after oral administration. METHODS We developed a liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS-MS) method to measure URB937 and used a pre-existing LC/MS-MS assay to quantify OEA. FAAH activity was measured using a radioactive substrate. The tolerability of single or repeated (once daily for 2 weeks) oral administration of supramaximal doses of URB937 (100, 300, 1000 mg/kg) was assessed by monitoring food intake, water intake and body weight, followed by post-mortem evaluation of organ structure. KEY FINDINGS URB937 was orally available in male rats (F = 36%), but remained undetectable in brain when administered at doses that maximally inhibit FAAH activity and elevate OEA in plasma and liver. Acute and subchronic treatment with high doses of URB937 was well-tolerated and resulted in FAAH inhibition in brain. CONCLUSIONS Pain remains a major unmet medical need. The favourable pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of URB937, along with its tolerability, encourage further development studies on this compound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Vozella
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Faizy Ahmed
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Paoula Choobchian
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Collin B Merrill
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Cristina Zibardi
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Giorgio Tarzia
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", Urbino, Italy
| | - Marco Mor
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Andrea Duranti
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", Urbino, Italy
| | - Andrea Tontini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", Urbino, Italy
| | - Silvia Rivara
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA.,Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA.,Center for the Study of Cannabis, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
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70
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Abstract
Substance use disorder (SUD) is a major public health crisis worldwide, and effective treatment options are limited. During the past 2 decades, researchers have investigated the impact of a variety of pharmacological approaches to treat SUD, one of which is the use of medical cannabis or cannabinoids. Significant progress was made with the discovery of rimonabant, a selective CB1 receptor (CB1R) antagonist (also an inverse agonist), as a promising therapeutic for SUDs and obesity. However, serious adverse effects such as depression and suicidality led to the withdrawal of rimonabant (and almost all other CB1R antagonists/inverse agonists) from clinical trials worldwide in 2008. Since then, much research interest has shifted to other cannabinoid-based strategies, such as peripheral CB1R antagonists/inverse agonists, neutral CB1R antagonists, allosteric CB1R modulators, CB2R agonists, fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitors, monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) inhibitors, fatty acid binding protein (FABP) inhibitors, or nonaddictive phytocannabinoids with CB1R or CB2R-binding profiles, as new therapeutics for SUDs. In this article, we first review recent progress in research regarding the endocannabinoid systems, cannabis reward versus aversion, and the underlying receptor mechanisms. We then review recent progress in cannabinoid-based medication development for the treatment of SUDs. As evidence continues to accumulate, neutral CB1R antagonists (such as AM4113), CB2R agonists (JWH133, Xie2-64), and nonselective phytocannabinoids (cannabidiol, β-caryophyllene, ∆9-tetrahydrocannabivarin) have shown great therapeutic potential for SUDs, as shown in experimental animals. Several cannabinoid-based medications (e.g., dronabinol, nabilone, PF-04457845) that entered clinical trials have shown promising results in reducing withdrawal symptoms in cannabis and opioid users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Galaj
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medication Discoveries Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Zheng-Xiong Xi
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medication Discoveries Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA.
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71
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Giacovazzo G, Bisogno T, Piscitelli F, Verde R, Oddi S, Maccarrone M, Coccurello R. Different Routes to Inhibit Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase: Do All Roads Lead to the Same Place? Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20184503. [PMID: 31514437 PMCID: PMC6771131 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20184503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Revised: 09/06/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
There is robust evidence indicating that enhancing the endocannabinoid (eCB) tone has therapeutic potential in several brain disorders. The inhibition of eCBs degradation by fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) blockade, is the best-known option to increase N-acyl-ethanolamines-(NAEs)-mediated signaling. Here, we investigated the hypothesis that intranasal delivery is an effective route for different FAAH inhibitors, such as URB597 and PF-04457845. URB597 and PF-04457845 were subchronically administered in C57BL/6 male mice every other day for 20 days for overall 10 drug treatment, and compared for their ability to inhibit FAAH activity by the way of three different routes of administration: intranasal (i.n.), intraperitoneal (i.p.) and oral (p.o.). Lastly, we compared the efficacy of the three routes in terms of URB597-induced increase of NAEs levels in liver and in different brain areas. Results: We show that PF-04457845 potently inhibits FAAH regardless the route selected, and that URB597 was less effective in the brain after p.o. administration while reached similar effects by i.n. and i.p. routes. Intranasal URB597 delivery always increased NAEs levels in brain areas, whereas a parallel increase was not observed in the liver. By showing the efficacy of intranasal FAAH inhibition, we provide evidence that nose-to-brain delivery is a suitable alternative to enhance brain eCB tone for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders and improve patients’ compliance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Giacovazzo
- Fondazione Santa Lucia IRCCS, Preclinical Neuroscience, Via del Fosso di Fiorano 64, 00143 Rome, Italy
| | - Tiziana Bisogno
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Translational Pharmacology, CNR, Via Fosso del Cavaliere 100, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Fabiana Piscitelli
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, CNR, Via C. Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Roberta Verde
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, CNR, Via C. Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Sergio Oddi
- Fondazione Santa Lucia IRCCS, Preclinical Neuroscience, Via del Fosso di Fiorano 64, 00143 Rome, Italy
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Mauro Maccarrone
- Fondazione Santa Lucia IRCCS, Preclinical Neuroscience, Via del Fosso di Fiorano 64, 00143 Rome, Italy.
- Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Via Alvaro del Portillo 21, 00128 Rome, Italy.
| | - Roberto Coccurello
- Fondazione Santa Lucia IRCCS, Preclinical Neuroscience, Via del Fosso di Fiorano 64, 00143 Rome, Italy.
- Institute for Complex Systems (ISC), C.N.R., Via dei Taurini 19, 00185 Rome, Italy.
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72
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Abstract
Substance and alcohol use disorders impose large health and economic burdens on individuals, families, communities, and society. Neither prevention nor treatment efforts are effective in all individuals. Results are often modest. Advances in neuroscience and addiction research have helped to describe the neurobiological changes that occur when a person transitions from recreational substance use to a substance use disorder or addiction. Understanding both the drivers and consequences of substance use in vulnerable populations, including those whose brains are still maturing, has revealed behavioral and biological characteristics that can increase risks of addiction. These findings are particularly timely, as law- and policymakers are tasked to reverse the ongoing opioid epidemic, as more states legalize marijuana, as new products including electronic cigarettes and newly designed abused substances enter the legal and illegal markets, and as "deaths of despair" from alcohol and drug misuse continue.
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Affiliation(s)
- George R. Uhl
- New Mexico VA Healthcare SystemAlbuquerqueNew Mexico
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73
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Contarini G, Ferretti V, Papaleo F. Acute Administration of URB597 Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase Inhibitor Prevents Attentional Impairments by Distractors in Adolescent Mice. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:787. [PMID: 31379568 PMCID: PMC6658611 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The maturation of attentional control during adolescence might influence later functional outcome or predisposition to psychiatric disorders. During adolescence, the cannabinoid system is particularly sensitive to pharmacological challenges, with potential impact on cognitive functions. Here, we used a recently validated five-choice serial reaction time task protocol to test adolescent C57BL/6J mice. We showed that the pharmacological inhibition (by URB597) of the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), the major enzyme implicated in anandamide degradation, prevented cognitive disruptions induced by distracting cues in adolescent mice. In particular, these protective effects were indicated by increased accuracy and correct responses and decreased premature responses selectively in the distractor trials. Notably, at the relatively low dose used, we detected no effects in other cognitive, motor, or incentive measures nor long-lasting or rebound effects of FAAH inhibition in cognitive functions. Overall, these data provide initial evidence of selective procognitive effects of FAAH inhibition in measures of attentional control in adolescent mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella Contarini
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Genetics of Cognition Laboratory, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | - Valentina Ferretti
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Genetics of Cognition Laboratory, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | - Francesco Papaleo
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Genetics of Cognition Laboratory, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
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Ebrahimi-Ghiri M, Shahini F, Khakpai F, Zarrindast MR. Antinociceptive and antidepressive efficacies of the combined ineffective doses of S-ketamine and URB597. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 2019; 392:1393-1400. [PMID: 31250026 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-019-01676-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Clinical studies have demonstrated that the NMDA receptor antagonist ketamine produces rapid antidepressant responses. There are safety concerns and adverse effects that limit the utilization of ketamine in psychiatry. Some studies have suggested combination therapy for optimal ketamine use. In this study, we evaluated the potential for combination therapy of ineffective doses of ketamine and fatty acid amide hydrolase inhibitor URB597 for the treatment of depression and pain in male NMRI mice. Intraperitoneal administration of ketamine (10 mg/kg) at the time intervals of 115, 145, and 160 min and ketamine (5 mg/kg) at the time interval of 160 min after administration increased the tail-flick latency, indicating an antinociceptive effect. The same doses of ketamine decreased immobility time in the forced swim test (FST), showing an antidepressant-like effect. Moreover, URB597 at the doses of 0.5 and 1 mg/kg induced an antinociceptive effect, while it at the dose of 1 mg/kg produced an antidepressant-like response. Furthermore, co-administration of the ineffective doses of ketamine (2.5 mg/kg) and URB597 (0.1 mg/kg) caused antinociceptive and antidepressant-like effects, while each one of them alone did not alter the performance of mice in the FST and tail-flick tests. It should be noted that none of the treatments alter animal locomotor activity compared to the control group. Therefore, the combined administration of ineffective doses of ketamine and URB597 might be an effective strategy in the therapy of depression and pain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Faezeh Shahini
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Khakpai
- Cognitive and Neuroscience Research Center (CNRC), Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Reza Zarrindast
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Institute for Cognitive Science Studies (ICSS), Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Neuroendocrinology, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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75
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Tanaka M, Yagyu K, Sackett S, Zhang Y. Anti-Inflammatory Effects by Pharmacological Inhibition or Knockdown of Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase in BV2 Microglial Cells. Cells 2019; 8:cells8050491. [PMID: 31121907 PMCID: PMC6562696 DOI: 10.3390/cells8050491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2019] [Revised: 05/17/2019] [Accepted: 05/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) has been recognized as a therapeutic target for several neurological diseases because its inhibition can exert neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects by boosting the endogenous levels of N-acylethanolamines. However, previous studies have shown inconsistent results by pharmacological inhibition and genetic deletion of FAAH in response to inflammation. In this study we used two inhibitors, PF3845 and URB597, together with siRNA knockdown to characterize further the effects of FAAH inhibition in BV2 microglial cells. Treatment with PF3845 suppressed lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production, and down-regulated cyclooxygenase-2 and microsomal PGE synthase. PF3845 reduced the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines but had no effect on the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines. The anti-inflammatory effects of URB597 were not as potent as those of PF3845. Knockdown of FAAH also suppressed PGE2 production and pro-inflammatory gene expression. Interestingly, FAAH knockdown enhanced expression of anti-inflammatory molecules in both the absence and presence of LPS treatment. The anti-inflammatory effects of FAAH inhibition and knockdown were not affected by the cannabinoid receptor antagonists or the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) antagonists. Although inhibition and knockdown of FAAH have potent anti-inflammatory effects and possibly lead to the dynamic change of microglial gene regulation, the underlying mechanisms remain to be elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikiei Tanaka
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, 4301 Jones Bridge Rd, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA.
| | - Kazuya Yagyu
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, 4301 Jones Bridge Rd, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA.
- Department of Chemistry and Biomolecular Science, Faculty of Engineering, Gifu University, Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan.
| | - Scott Sackett
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, 4301 Jones Bridge Rd, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA.
| | - Yumin Zhang
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, 4301 Jones Bridge Rd, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA.
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76
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Silva-Peña D, Rivera P, Alén F, Vargas A, Rubio L, García-Marchena N, Pavón FJ, Serrano A, Rodríguez de Fonseca F, Suárez J. Oleoylethanolamide Modulates BDNF-ERK Signaling and Neurogenesis in the Hippocampi of Rats Exposed to Δ 9-THC and Ethanol Binge Drinking During Adolescence. Front Mol Neurosci 2019; 12:96. [PMID: 31068789 PMCID: PMC6491684 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2019.00096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Oleoylethanolamide is an endogenous NAE that modulates ethanol-seeking behavior and ethanol-induced neuroinflammation. In the present study we further analyze the role of OEA in hippocampal neurogenesis, BDNF-ERK signaling, and spatial memory that are affected by alcohol. Additionally, we addressed the effects of OEA on the association of alcohol and cannabis, a frequent combination in human alcohol addicts, and whose long-term effects are far from being understood. To this end, OEA (10 mg/kg/day, i.p.) was pharmacologically administered for 5 days/week in a preclinical model of adolescent rats with binge-like consumption (1 day/week) of ethanol (3 g/kg, i.g.) combined or not with acute administrations of Δ9-THC (5 mg/kg, i.p.) for 5 weeks. OEA restored ethanol/THC-related decreases in both short-term spatial memory (spontaneous alternation by Y-maze) and circulating levels of BDNF, reduced cell proliferation (Mki67 and IdU+ cells) and maturation (Dcx, Calb1), and improved cell survival (Casp3 and BrdU+ cells) in the dorsal hippocampus. Interestingly, OEA alone or combined with THC also decreased the mRNA levels of neurotrophic factors (Bdnf, Ntf3) and the NT3 receptor TrkC, but increased the BDNF receptor TrkB in the hippocampus of ethanol-exposed rats. These effects were likely associated with a OEA-specific phosphorylation of AKT and ERK1, key signaling regulators of cell proliferation and survival. These results suggest a regulatory role of OEA in short-term spatial memory and hippocampal neurogenesis through BDNF/AKT/ERK1 signaling in response to acute THC in an alcoholic context during adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Silva-Peña
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga, U.G.C. de Salud Mental, Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Patricia Rivera
- Department of Endocrinology, Fundación Investigación Biomédica del Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús, Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco Alén
- Departamento de Psicobiología, Universidad Complutense Madrid, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Spain
| | - Antonio Vargas
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga, U.G.C. de Salud Mental, Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Leticia Rubio
- Departamento de Anatomía y Medicina Legal, Universidad de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Nuria García-Marchena
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga, U.G.C. de Salud Mental, Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Francisco Javier Pavón
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga, U.G.C. de Salud Mental, Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Antonia Serrano
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga, U.G.C. de Salud Mental, Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Fernando Rodríguez de Fonseca
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga, U.G.C. de Salud Mental, Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, Málaga, Spain.,Departamento de Psicobiología, Universidad Complutense Madrid, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Spain
| | - Juan Suárez
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga, U.G.C. de Salud Mental, Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
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77
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Scherma M, Masia P, Satta V, Fratta W, Fadda P, Tanda G. Brain activity of anandamide: a rewarding bliss? Acta Pharmacol Sin 2019; 40:309-323. [PMID: 30050084 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-018-0075-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2018] [Accepted: 05/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Anandamide is a lipid mediator that acts as an endogenous ligand of CB1 receptors. These receptors are also the primary molecular target responsible for the pharmacological effects of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, the psychoactive ingredient in Cannabis sativa. Several studies demonstrate that anandamide exerts an overall modulatory effect on the brain reward circuitry. Several reports suggest its involvement in the addiction-producing actions of other abused drugs, and it can also act as a behavioral reinforcer in animal models of drug abuse. Importantly, all these effects of anandamide appear to be potentiated by pharmacological inhibition of its metabolic degradation. Enhanced brain levels of anandamide after treatment with inhibitors of fatty acid amide hydrolase, the main enzyme responsible for its degradation, seem to affect the rewarding and reinforcing actions of many drugs of abuse. In this review, we will provide an overview from a preclinical perspective of the current state of knowledge regarding the behavioral pharmacology of anandamide, with a particular emphasis on its motivational/reinforcing properties. We will also discuss how modulation of anandamide levels through inhibition of enzymatic metabolic pathways could provide a basis for developing new pharmaco-therapeutic tools for the treatment of substance use disorders.
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78
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Rivera P, Silva-Peña D, Blanco E, Vargas A, Arrabal S, Serrano A, Pavón FJ, Bindila L, Lutz B, Rodríguez de Fonseca F, Suárez J. Oleoylethanolamide restores alcohol-induced inhibition of neuronal proliferation and microglial activity in striatum. Neuropharmacology 2019; 146:184-197. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.11.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2018] [Revised: 11/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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79
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Yu Z, Jin W, Cui Y, Ao M, Liu H, Xu H, Yu L. Protective effects of macamides from Lepidium meyenii Walp. against corticosterone-induced neurotoxicity in PC12 cells. RSC Adv 2019; 9:23096-23108. [PMID: 35514490 PMCID: PMC9067313 DOI: 10.1039/c9ra03268a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2019] [Accepted: 07/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Maca has attracted considerable attention owing to its neuroprotective effects in vitro and vivo. Macamides, a series of nonpolar and long-chain fatty acid N-benzylamides, are considered unique constituents in maca. This study investigated the protective effects of ethanol extracts of maca (EEM) and macamides on corticosterone-induced (CORT) neurotoxicity in rat pheochromocytoma (PC12) cells. CORT reduced cell viability and increased LDH release, intracellular ROS levels, and MMP decline rate, and induced mitochondrial apoptosis. However, pretreatment with EEM and macamides ameliorated CORT-induced neurotoxicity. EEM increased the cell viability and reduced the LDH release. M 18:1, M 18:2, and M 18:3 increased cell viability and reduced LDH release and intracellular ROS generation. M 18:2 and M 18:3 inhibited MMP reduction and reduced the Bax/Bcl-2 ratios. M 18:1 reduced the intracellular ROS without affecting other factors. Moreover, M 18:3 prevented CORT-induced mitochondrial apoptosis, restrained the expression levels of pro-apoptotic proteins, namely, Bax, cytochrome C, cleaved-caspase-3, and cleaved-PARP, and increased the expression levels of Bcl-2. In addition, M 18:3 increased Akt phosphorylation and the ability of M 18:3 to protect against CORT-induced cytotoxicity was remarkably reduced by LY294002, a PI3K phosphorylation inhibitor. M 18:3 also elevated the phosphorylation of CREB and activated the BDNF protein levels in CORT-induced PC12 cells. In conclusion, macamides, especially M 18:3, exert protective effects on CORT-induced PC12 cells. The cellular mechanism of M 18:3 against CORT-induced cytotoxicity may involve inhibition of mitochondrial apoptosis, and activation of Akt and CREB phosphorylation. Overall, macamides may potentially treat neuronal damage induced by CORT. Neuroprotection of macamides is probably associated with inhibition of the mitochondrial apoptotic and the activation of the phosphorylation of Akt and CREB.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Zejun Yu
- Institute of Resource Biology and Biotechnology
- Department of Biotechnology
- College of Life Science and Technology
- Huazhong University of Science and Technology
- Wuhan
| | - Wenwen Jin
- Institute of Resource Biology and Biotechnology
- Department of Biotechnology
- College of Life Science and Technology
- Huazhong University of Science and Technology
- Wuhan
| | - Yajie Cui
- Institute of Resource Biology and Biotechnology
- Department of Biotechnology
- College of Life Science and Technology
- Huazhong University of Science and Technology
- Wuhan
| | - Mingzhang Ao
- Institute of Resource Biology and Biotechnology
- Department of Biotechnology
- College of Life Science and Technology
- Huazhong University of Science and Technology
- Wuhan
| | - Hao Liu
- Institute of Resource Biology and Biotechnology
- Department of Biotechnology
- College of Life Science and Technology
- Huazhong University of Science and Technology
- Wuhan
| | - Hang Xu
- Institute of Resource Biology and Biotechnology
- Department of Biotechnology
- College of Life Science and Technology
- Huazhong University of Science and Technology
- Wuhan
| | - Longjiang Yu
- Institute of Resource Biology and Biotechnology
- Department of Biotechnology
- College of Life Science and Technology
- Huazhong University of Science and Technology
- Wuhan
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80
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Lafreniere J, Kelly M. Potential for endocannabinoid system modulation in ocular pain and inflammation: filling the gaps in current pharmacological options. Neuronal Signal 2018; 2:NS20170144. [PMID: 32714590 PMCID: PMC7373237 DOI: 10.1042/ns20170144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2018] [Revised: 10/18/2018] [Accepted: 10/19/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Challenges in the management of ocular pain are an underappreciated topic. Currently available therapeutics lack both efficacy and clear guidelines for their use, with many also possessing unacceptable side effects. Promising novel agents would offer analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and possibly neuroprotective actions; have favorable ocular safety profiles; and show potential in managing neuropathic pain. Growing evidence supports a link between the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and a range of physiological and disease processes, notably those involving inflammation and pain. Both preclinical and clinical data suggest analgesic and anti-inflammatory actions of cannabinoids and ECS-modifying drugs in chronic pain conditions, including those of neuropathic origin. This review will examine existing evidence for the anatomical and physiological basis of ocular pain, specifically, ocular surface disease and the development of chronic ocular pain. The mechanism of action, efficacy, and limitations of currently available treatments will be discussed, and current knowledge related to ECS-modulation of ocular pain and inflammatory disease will be summarized. A perspective will be provided on the future directions of ECS research in terms of developing cannabinoid therapeutics for ocular pain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Melanie E.M. Kelly
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management and Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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81
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Kiss LE, Beliaev A, Ferreira HS, Rosa CP, Bonifácio MJ, Loureiro AI, Pires NM, Palma PN, Soares-da-Silva P. Discovery of a Potent, Long-Acting, and CNS-Active Inhibitor (BIA 10-2474) of Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase. ChemMedChem 2018; 13:2177-2188. [PMID: 30113139 PMCID: PMC6582431 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.201800393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Revised: 07/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) can be targeted for the treatment of pain associated with various medical conditions. Herein we report the design and synthesis of a novel series of heterocyclic-N-carboxamide FAAH inhibitors that have a good alignment of potency, metabolic stability and selectivity for FAAH over monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) and carboxylesterases (CEs). Lead optimization efforts carried out with benzotriazolyl- and imidazolyl-N-carboxamide series led to the discovery of clinical candidate 8 l (3-(1-(cyclohexyl(methyl)carbamoyl)-1H-imidazol-4-yl)pyridine 1-oxide; BIA 10-2474) as a potent and long-acting inhibitor of FAAH. However, during a Phase I clinical trial with compound 8 l, unexpected and unpredictable serious neurological adverse events occurred, affecting five healthy volunteers, including the death of one subject.
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Affiliation(s)
- László E Kiss
- Laboratory of Chemistry, Department of Research and Development, BIAL-Portela & Cª., S.A., À Avenida da Siderurgia Nacional, 4745-457, Coronado (S. Romão and S. Mamede), Portugal
| | - Alexandre Beliaev
- Laboratory of Chemistry, Department of Research and Development, BIAL-Portela & Cª., S.A., À Avenida da Siderurgia Nacional, 4745-457, Coronado (S. Romão and S. Mamede), Portugal
| | - Humberto S Ferreira
- Laboratory of Chemistry, Department of Research and Development, BIAL-Portela & Cª., S.A., À Avenida da Siderurgia Nacional, 4745-457, Coronado (S. Romão and S. Mamede), Portugal
| | - Carla P Rosa
- Laboratory of Chemistry, Department of Research and Development, BIAL-Portela & Cª., S.A., À Avenida da Siderurgia Nacional, 4745-457, Coronado (S. Romão and S. Mamede), Portugal
| | - Maria João Bonifácio
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Research and Development, BIAL-Portela & Cª., S.A., À Avenida da Siderurgia Nacional, 4745-457, Coronado (S. Romão and S. Mamede), Portugal
| | - Ana I Loureiro
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Research and Development, BIAL-Portela & Cª., S.A., À Avenida da Siderurgia Nacional, 4745-457, Coronado (S. Romão and S. Mamede), Portugal
| | - Nuno M Pires
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Research and Development, BIAL-Portela & Cª., S.A., À Avenida da Siderurgia Nacional, 4745-457, Coronado (S. Romão and S. Mamede), Portugal
| | - P Nuno Palma
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Research and Development, BIAL-Portela & Cª., S.A., À Avenida da Siderurgia Nacional, 4745-457, Coronado (S. Romão and S. Mamede), Portugal
| | - Patrício Soares-da-Silva
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Research and Development, BIAL-Portela & Cª., S.A., À Avenida da Siderurgia Nacional, 4745-457, Coronado (S. Romão and S. Mamede), Portugal.,MedInUp-Center for Drug Discovery and Innovative Medicines, University of Porto, Praça Gomes Teixeira, 4099-002, Porto, Portugal
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82
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Hypertension and chronic inhibition of endocannabinoid degradation modify the endocannabinoid system and redox balance in rat heart and plasma. Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat 2018; 138:54-63. [PMID: 30201316 DOI: 10.1016/j.prostaglandins.2018.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2018] [Revised: 07/25/2018] [Accepted: 09/05/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The interaction between the endocannabinoid and ROS signaling systems has been demonstrated in different organs. Inhibitors of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), the key enzyme responsible for degradation of the endocannabinoid anandamide, are postulated to possess anti-hypertensive potential. Here, we compared the effects of hypertension and chronic FAAH inhibition by URB597 on the endocannabinoid system and redox balance in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and hypertensive deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA)-salt rats. Enhanced oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation were found in both hypertension models. Hypertension affected cardiac and plasma endocannabinoid systems in a model-dependent manner: anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol levels decreased in SHR and increased in DOCA-salt. Cardiac CB1 receptor expression increased in both models while higher CB2 receptor expression was only in DOCA-salt. URB597 increased endocannabinoid levels in both models but produced the partial reduction of oxidative stress in DOCA-salt but not in SHR. Notably, URB597 decreased antioxidant defense and increased lipid peroxidation products in normotension. Therefore, the therapeutic potential of FAAH inhibitors should be interpreted cautiously.
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83
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Sbarski B, Akirav I. Chronic exposure to cannabinoids before an emotional trauma may have negative effects on emotional function. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2018; 28:955-969. [PMID: 30026011 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2018.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2018] [Revised: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Chronic direct activation of cannabinoid CB1 receptors (CB1r) may lead to downregulation of CB1r which may in turn result in a depression-like phenotype in certain individuals. We examined the effects of chronic cannabinoid receptor activation before exposure to an emotional traumatic event on CB1r expression in the basolateral amygdala (BLA) and CA1 and on protracted anxiety- and depression-like behaviors. We used exposure to severe shock and situational reminders (SRs) in an inhibitory apparatus as a model for emotional trauma. Chronic treatment with the CB1/2 receptor agonist WIN55,212-2 (1.2 mg/kg, i.p.) before shock exposure had differential effects on depression- and anxiety-like behavioral measures depending on withdrawal periods. In the 24 hrs withdrawal condition, WIN55,212-2 enhanced fear retrieval and impaired extinction, increased anhedonia and despair, but had a therapeutic effect in the startle test. In the 10 days withdrawal condition, WIN55,212-2 enhanced fear retrieval and impaired extinction without preventing the shock/SR-induced negative effects on anhedonia or startle response, but had a therapeutic effect in the despair test. Chronic treatment with WIN55,212-2 was found to down regulate CB1r protein levels in the BLA in the 10 days withdrawal condition, and to upregulate CB1r protein levels in the 24 hrs condition. In the CA1, rats chronically injected with vehicle or WIN55,212-2 demonstrated downregulation of CB1r protein levels. Chronic exposure to cannabinoids prior to an emotional trauma may have deleterious effects on emotional function suggesting that direct CB1/2 receptor activation may not be an optimal way to manipulate the endocannabinoid system in stressful individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenda Sbarski
- Department of Psychology, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel
| | - Irit Akirav
- Department of Psychology, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel.
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84
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Cavener VS, Gaulden A, Pennipede D, Jagasia P, Uddin J, Marnett LJ, Patel S. Inhibition of Diacylglycerol Lipase Impairs Fear Extinction in Mice. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:479. [PMID: 30108473 PMCID: PMC6080414 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Elucidating the underlying molecular mechanisms regulating fear and extinction learning may offer insights that can lead to novel treatments for debilitating anxiety and trauma-related disorders including posttraumatic stress disorder. The endocannabinoid (eCB) system is a retrograde inhibitory signaling pathway involved in regulating central responses to stress. The eCB 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) has recently been proposed to serve as a homeostatic signal mitigating adverse effects of stress exposure, however, less well understood is 2-AG’s role in fear learning and fear extinction. In this study, we have sought to explore 2-AG’s role in fear conditioning and fear extinction by disrupting 2-AG synthesis utilizing the DAGL inhibitor (DO34) and DAGLα knock-out mice (DAGLα−/−). We found that DAGLα−/− mice, and male and female C57B6/J mice treated with DO34, exhibited impairment in extinction learning in an auditory cue fear-conditioning paradigm. DO34 did not increase unconditioned freezing. Interestingly, inhibition of fatty-acid amide hydrolase was not able to restore normal fear extinction in DO34-treated mice suggesting increased Anandamide cannot compensate for deficient 2-AG signaling in the regulation of fear extinction. Moreover, augmentation of CB1R signaling with tetrahydrocannabinol also failed to restore normal fear extinction in DO34-treated mice. Overall, these data support the hypothesis that DAGLα plays an important role in fear extinction learning. Although genetic and pharmacological disruption of DAGL activity causes widespread lipidomic remodeling, these data combined with previous studies putatively suggest that deficient 2-AG signaling could be a susceptibility endophenotype for the development of trauma-related psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria S Cavener
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States.,Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Andrew Gaulden
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Dante Pennipede
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Puja Jagasia
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Jashim Uddin
- Departments of Biochemistry, Chemistry, and Pharmacology, A.B. Hancock Jr. Memorial Laboratory for Cancer Research, Vanderbilt Institute of Chemical Biology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Lawrence J Marnett
- Departments of Biochemistry, Chemistry, and Pharmacology, A.B. Hancock Jr. Memorial Laboratory for Cancer Research, Vanderbilt Institute of Chemical Biology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Sachin Patel
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States.,Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
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85
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Enhanced endocannabinoid tone as a potential target of pharmacotherapy. Life Sci 2018; 204:20-45. [PMID: 29729263 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2018.04.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2018] [Revised: 04/19/2018] [Accepted: 04/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system is up-regulated in numerous pathophysiological states such as inflammatory, neurodegenerative, gastrointestinal, metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, pain, and cancer. It has been suggested that this phenomenon primarily serves an autoprotective role in inhibiting disease progression and/or diminishing signs and symptoms. Accordingly, enhancement of endogenous endocannabinoid tone by inhibition of endocannabinoid degradation represents a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of many diseases. Importantly, this allows for the avoidance of unwanted psychotropic side effects that accompany exogenously administered cannabinoids. The effects of endocannabinoid metabolic pathway modulation are complex, as endocannabinoids can exert their actions directly or via numerous metabolites. The two main strategies for blocking endocannabinoid degradation are inhibition of endocannabinoid-degrading enzymes and inhibition of endocannabinoid cellular uptake. To date, the most investigated compounds are inhibitors of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), an enzyme that degrades the endocannabinoid anandamide. However, application of FAAH inhibitors (and consequently other endocannabinoid degradation inhibitors) in medicine became questionable due to a lack of therapeutic efficacy in clinical trials and serious adverse effects evoked by one specific compound. In this paper, we discuss multiple pathways of endocannabinoid metabolism, changes in endocannabinoid levels across numerous human diseases and corresponding experimental models, pharmacological strategies for enhancing endocannabinoid tone and potential therapeutic applications including multi-target drugs with additional targets outside of the endocannabinoid system (cyclooxygenase-2, cholinesterase, TRPV1, and PGF2α-EA receptors), and currently used medicines or medicinal herbs that additionally enhance endocannabinoid levels. Ultimately, further clinical and preclinical studies are warranted to develop medicines for enhancing endocannabinoid tone.
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86
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Fidelman S, Mizrachi Zer-Aviv T, Lange R, Hillard CJ, Akirav I. Chronic treatment with URB597 ameliorates post-stress symptoms in a rat model of PTSD. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2018. [PMID: 29519609 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2018.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Activating the endocannabinoid system has become a major focus in the search for novel therapeutics for anxiety and deficits in fear extinction, two defining features of PTSD. We examined whether chronic treatment with the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitor URB597 (0.2, 0.3, 0.4 mg/kg, i.p.) or the CB1/2 receptor agonist WIN55,212-2 (0.25, 0.5 mg/kg, i.p.) injected for 3 weeks to rats exposed to the shock and reminders model of PTSD would attenuate post-stress symptoms and affect basolateral amygdala (BLA) and CA1 CB1 receptors. Exposure to shock and reminders enhanced acoustic startle response and impaired extinction. Rats exposed to shock and reminders and chronically treated with URB597 demonstrated normalized startle response and intact extinction kinetics. WIN55,212-2 only affected the startle response. The therapeutic effects of URB597 and WIN55,212-2 were found to be CB1 receptor dependent, as these effects were blocked when a low dose of the CB1 receptor antagonist AM251 (0.3 mg/kg, i.p. for 3 weeks) was co-administered. Moreover, URB597, but not WIN55,212-2, normalized the shock/reminders-induced upregulation in CB1 receptor levels in the BLA and CA1. One hour after the shock, N-arachidonoylethanolamine (AEA) was increased in the BLA and decreased in the CA1. Circulating 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) concentrations were decreased in shocked rats, with no significant effect in the BLA or CA1. FAAH activity was increased in the CA1 of shocked rats. Chronic cannabinoid treatment with URB597 can ameliorate PTSD-like symptoms suggesting FAAH inhibitors as a potentially effective therapeutic strategy for the treatment of disorders associated with inefficient fear coping.
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MESH Headings
- Amidohydrolases/antagonists & inhibitors
- Amidohydrolases/metabolism
- Animals
- Arachidonic Acids/blood
- Basolateral Nuclear Complex/metabolism
- Benzamides/administration & dosage
- Benzamides/pharmacology
- Benzoxazines/administration & dosage
- Benzoxazines/pharmacology
- CA1 Region, Hippocampal/metabolism
- Cannabinoid Receptor Antagonists/pharmacology
- Carbamates/administration & dosage
- Carbamates/pharmacology
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Electric Stimulation
- Endocannabinoids/blood
- Endocannabinoids/metabolism
- Extinction, Psychological/drug effects
- Glycerides/blood
- Male
- Morpholines/administration & dosage
- Morpholines/pharmacology
- Naphthalenes/administration & dosage
- Naphthalenes/pharmacology
- Piperidines/pharmacology
- Polyunsaturated Alkamides
- Pyrazoles/pharmacology
- Rats
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/metabolism
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/physiology
- Reflex, Startle/drug effects
- Reflex, Startle/physiology
- Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic/drug therapy
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon Fidelman
- Department of Psychology, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel
| | | | - Rachel Lange
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Neuroscience Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee 53226, USA
| | - Cecilia J Hillard
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Neuroscience Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee 53226, USA
| | - Irit Akirav
- Department of Psychology, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel.
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87
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Enhancing Endocannabinoid Neurotransmission Augments The Efficacy of Extinction Training and Ameliorates Traumatic Stress-Induced Behavioral Alterations in Rats. Neuropsychopharmacology 2018; 43:1284-1296. [PMID: 29265107 PMCID: PMC5916373 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2017.305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2017] [Revised: 12/09/2017] [Accepted: 12/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to a traumatic event may result in the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Endocannabinoids are crucial modulators of the stress response, interfere with excessive retrieval and facilitate the extinction of traumatic memories. Exposure therapy, combined with pharmacotherapy, represents a promising tool for PTSD treatment. We investigated whether pharmacological manipulations of the endocannabinoid system during extinction learning ameliorates the behavioral changes induced by trauma exposure. Rats were exposed to inescapable footshocks paired with social isolation, a risk factor for PTSD. One week after trauma, rats were subjected to three spaced extinction sessions, mimicking human exposure therapy. The anandamide hydrolysis inhibitor URB597, the 2-arachidonoylglycerol hydrolysis inhibitor JZL184 or the cannabinoid agonist WIN55,212-2 were administered before or after the extinction sessions. Rats were tested for extinction retention 16 or 36 days after trauma and 24-h later for social interaction. Extinction training alone reduced fear of the trauma-associated context but did not restore normal social interaction. Traumatized animals not exposed to extinction sessions exhibited reductions in hippocampal anandamide content with respect to home-cage controls. Noteworthy, all drugs exerted beneficial effects, but URB597 (0.1 mg/kg) induced the best improvements by enhancing extinction consolidation and restoring normal social behavior in traumatized rats through indirect activation of CB1 receptors. The ameliorating effects remained stable long after treatment and trauma exposure. Our findings suggest that drugs potentiating endocannabinoid neurotransmission may represent promising tools when combined to exposure-based psychotherapies in the treatment of PTSD.
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88
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Dato FM, Maaßen A, Goldfuß B, Pietsch M. Characterization of fatty acid amide hydrolase activity by a fluorescence-based assay. Anal Biochem 2018; 546:50-57. [PMID: 29408178 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2018.01.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2017] [Revised: 01/26/2018] [Accepted: 01/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) is involved in many human diseases, particularly cancer, pain and inflammation as well as neurological, metabolic and cardiovascular disorders. Therefore, FAAH is an attractive target for the development of low-molecular-weight inhibitors as therapeutics, which requires robust assays that can be used for high-throughput screening (HTS) of compound libraries. Here, we report the development of a fluorometric assay based on FAAH's ability to effectively hydrolyze medium-chain fatty acid amides, introducing N-decanoyl-substituted 5-amino-2-methoxypyridine (D-MAP) as new amide substrate. D-MAP is cleaved by FAAH with an 8-fold larger specificity constant than the previously reported octanoyl-analog Oc-MAP (Vmax/Km of 1.09 and 0.134 mL min-1 mg-1, respectively), with both MAP derivatives possessing superior substrate properties and much increased aqueous solubility compared to the respective p-nitroaniline compounds D-pNA and Oc-pNA. The new assay with D-MAP as substrate is highly sensitive using a lower enzyme concentration (1 μg mL-1) than literature-reported fluorimetric FAAH assays. In addition, D-MAP was validated in comparison to the substrate Oc-MAP for the characterization of FAAH inhibitors by means of the reference compounds URB597 and TC-F2 and was shown to be highly suitable for HTS in both kinetic and endpoint assays (Z' factors of 0.81 and 0.78, respectively).
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian M Dato
- Institute II of Pharmacology, Center of Pharmacology, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, Gleueler Str. 24, D-50931 Cologne, Germany; Institute of Organic Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, University of Cologne, Greinstr. 4, D-50939 Cologne, Germany
| | - Andreas Maaßen
- Institute II of Pharmacology, Center of Pharmacology, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, Gleueler Str. 24, D-50931 Cologne, Germany; Institute of Organic Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, University of Cologne, Greinstr. 4, D-50939 Cologne, Germany
| | - Bernd Goldfuß
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, University of Cologne, Greinstr. 4, D-50939 Cologne, Germany
| | - Markus Pietsch
- Institute II of Pharmacology, Center of Pharmacology, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, Gleueler Str. 24, D-50931 Cologne, Germany.
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89
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Greco R, Demartini C, Zanaboni AM, Piomelli D, Tassorelli C. Endocannabinoid System and Migraine Pain: An Update. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:172. [PMID: 29615860 PMCID: PMC5867306 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Accepted: 03/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The trigeminovascular system (TS) activation and the vasoactive release from trigeminal endings, in proximity of the meningeal vessels, are considered two of the main effector mechanisms of migraine attacks. Several other structures and mediators are involved, however, both upstream and alongside the TS. Among these, the endocannabinoid system (ES) has recently attracted considerable attention. Experimental and clinical data suggest indeed a link between dysregulation of this signaling complex and migraine headache. Clinical observations, in particular, show that the levels of anandamide (AEA)—one of the two primary endocannabinoid lipids—are reduced in cerebrospinal fluid and plasma of patients with chronic migraine (CM), and that this reduction is associated with pain facilitation in the spinal cord. AEA is produced on demand during inflammatory conditions and exerts most of its effects by acting on cannabinoid (CB) receptors. AEA is rapidly degraded by fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) enzyme and its levels can be modulated in the peripheral and central nervous system (CNS) by FAAH inhibitors. Inhibition of AEA degradation via FAAH is a promising therapeutic target for migraine pain, since it is presumably associated to an increased availability of the endocannabinoid, specifically at the site where its formation is stimulated (e.g., trigeminal ganglion and/or meninges), thus prolonging its action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosaria Greco
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology of Integrative Autonomic Systems, Headache Science Centre, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Chiara Demartini
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology of Integrative Autonomic Systems, Headache Science Centre, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Anna M Zanaboni
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology of Integrative Autonomic Systems, Headache Science Centre, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Cristina Tassorelli
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology of Integrative Autonomic Systems, Headache Science Centre, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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90
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Morsch M, Protti DA, Cheng D, Braet F, Chung RS, Reddel SW, Phillips WD. Cannabinoid-induced increase of quantal size and enhanced neuromuscular transmission. Sci Rep 2018; 8:4685. [PMID: 29549349 PMCID: PMC5856814 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-22888-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2017] [Accepted: 03/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids exert dynamic control over many physiological processes including memory formation, cognition and pain perception. In the central nervous system endocannabinoids mediate negative feedback of quantal transmitter release following postsynaptic depolarization. The influence of cannabinoids in the peripheral nervous system is less clear and might have broad implications for the therapeutic application of cannabinoids. We report a novel cannabinoid effect upon the mouse neuromuscular synapse: acutely increasing synaptic vesicle volume and raising the quantal amplitudes. In a mouse model of myasthenia gravis the cannabinoid receptor agonist WIN 55,212 reversed fatiguing failure of neuromuscular transmission, suggesting future therapeutic potential. Our data suggest an endogenous pathway by which cannabinoids might help to regulate transmitter release at the neuromuscular junction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Morsch
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia. .,Discipline of Physiology and Bosch Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia.
| | - Dario A Protti
- Discipline of Physiology and Bosch Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Delfine Cheng
- School of Medical Sciences (Discipline of Anatomy and Histology), The Bosch Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Filip Braet
- School of Medical Sciences (Discipline of Anatomy and Histology), The Bosch Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia.,Australian Centre for Microscopy & Microanalysis (ACMM), The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Roger S Chung
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Stephen W Reddel
- Departments of Molecular Medicine & Neurology, Concord Clinical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - William D Phillips
- Discipline of Physiology and Bosch Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia.
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91
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The selective reversible FAAH inhibitor, SSR411298, restores the development of maladaptive behaviors to acute and chronic stress in rodents. Sci Rep 2018; 8:2416. [PMID: 29403000 PMCID: PMC5799259 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-20895-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2017] [Accepted: 01/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Enhancing endogenous cannabinoid (eCB) signaling has been considered as a potential strategy for the treatment of stress-related conditions. Fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) represents the primary degradation enzyme of the eCB anandamide (AEA), oleoylethanolamide (OEA) and palmitoylethanolamide (PEA). This study describes a potent reversible FAAH inhibitor, SSR411298. The drug acts as a selective inhibitor of FAAH, which potently increases hippocampal levels of AEA, OEA and PEA in mice. Despite elevating eCB levels, SSR411298 did not mimic the interoceptive state or produce the behavioral side-effects (memory deficit and motor impairment) evoked by direct-acting cannabinoids. When SSR411298 was tested in models of anxiety, it only exerted clear anxiolytic-like effects under highly aversive conditions following exposure to a traumatic event, such as in the mouse defense test battery and social defeat procedure. Results from experiments in models of depression showed that SSR411298 produced robust antidepressant-like activity in the rat forced-swimming test and in the mouse chronic mild stress model, restoring notably the development of inadequate coping responses to chronic stress. This preclinical profile positions SSR411298 as a promising drug candidate to treat diseases such as post-traumatic stress disorder, which involves the development of maladaptive behaviors.
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92
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Gugnani KS, Vu N, Rondón-Ortiz AN, Böhlke M, Maher TJ, Pino-Figueroa AJ. Neuroprotective activity of macamides on manganese-induced mitochondrial disruption in U-87 MG glioblastoma cells. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2017; 340:67-76. [PMID: 29288688 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2017.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2017] [Revised: 12/09/2017] [Accepted: 12/23/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Macamides are a distinct class of secondary metabolites, benzylamides of long chain fatty acids, which were isolated from the Peruvian plant Lepidium meyenii (Maca). As structural analogues of the endocannabinoid anandamide (AEA), they have demonstrated neuroprotective effects in vitro and in vivo. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the neuroprotective activity of the macamides: N-(3-methoxybenzyl)oleamide (MAC 18:1), N-(3-methoxybenzyl)linoleamide (MAC 18:2) and N-(3-methoxybenzyl)linolenamide (MAC 18:3) in a neurotoxic environment caused by exposure of U-87 MG glioblastoma cells to manganese chloride (MnCl2). The neuroprotective effects of these macamides were reversed by the CB1 antagonist AM251. The mechanism by which manganese (Mn) induces cell damage was investigated by studying its effects on mitochondria. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) increase intracellular calcium and enhance the opening of mitochondrial permeability transition pores (MPTP), which leads to decreased mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), to disruption of mitochondria and to neuron death in neurodegenerative disorders. In this study, MnCl2 at 50μM was responsible for mitochondrial disruption, which was attenuated by all three of the macamides tested. Human peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) has been proposed to be a cannabinoid target, and PPARγ has also been demonstrated to mediate some of the longer-term vascular effects of the plant cannabinoid, ∆9-tetrahydrocannabinol. PPARγ activation was observed in response to exposures of cells to MAC 18:2 and MAC 18:3. These findings suggest that macamides achieve their neuroprotective effects by binding to CB1 receptors to protect against Mn-induced toxicity in U-87 MG glioblastoma cells. Additionally these macamides, in a manner similar to the analogous endocannabinoid AEA, interact with other targets such as PPARγ to regulate metabolism and energy homeostasis, cell differentiation and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuljeet S Gugnani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MCPHS University, 179 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nguyen Vu
- School of Pharmacy, MCPHS University, 179 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Mark Böhlke
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MCPHS University, 179 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Timothy J Maher
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MCPHS University, 179 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, USA
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93
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Sustkova-Fiserova M, Charalambous C, Havlickova T, Lapka M, Jerabek P, Puskina N, Syslova K. Alterations in Rat Accumbens Endocannabinoid and GABA Content during Fentanyl Treatment: The Role of Ghrelin. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:E2486. [PMID: 29165386 PMCID: PMC5713452 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18112486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2017] [Revised: 11/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The opioid-induced rise of extracellular dopamine, endocannabinoid anandamide and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) concentrations triggered by opioids in the nucleus accumbens shell (NACSh) most likely participate in opioid reward. We have previously demonstrated that systemic administration of ghrelin antagonist (JMV2959) significantly decreased morphine-induced dopamine and anandamide (N-arachidonoylethanolamine, AEA) increase in the NACSh. Fentanyl is considered as a µ-receptor-selective agonist. The aim of this study was to test whether JMV2959, a growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R1A) antagonist, can influence the fentanyl-induced effects on anandamide, 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and GABA in the NACSh and specify the involvement of GHS-R1A located in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and nucleus accumbens (NAC). Using in vivo microdialysis in rats, we have found that pre-treatment with JMV2959 reversed dose dependently fentanyl-induced anandamide increases in the NACSh, resulting in a significant AEA decrease and intensified fentanyl-induced decreases in accumbens 2-AG levels, with both JMV2959 effects more expressed when administered into the NACSh in comparison to the VTA. JMV2959 pre-treatment significantly decreased the fentanyl-evoked accumbens GABA efflux and reduced concurrently monitored fentanyl-induced behavioural stimulation. Our current data encourage further investigation to assess if substances affecting GABA or endocannabinoid concentrations and action, such as GHS-R1A antagonists, can be used to prevent opioid-seeking behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Sustkova-Fiserova
- Department of Pharmacology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Ruska 87, 100 34 Prague 10, Czech Republic; (C.C.); (T.H.); (M.L.); (P.J.)
| | - Chrysostomos Charalambous
- Department of Pharmacology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Ruska 87, 100 34 Prague 10, Czech Republic; (C.C.); (T.H.); (M.L.); (P.J.)
| | - Tereza Havlickova
- Department of Pharmacology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Ruska 87, 100 34 Prague 10, Czech Republic; (C.C.); (T.H.); (M.L.); (P.J.)
| | - Marek Lapka
- Department of Pharmacology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Ruska 87, 100 34 Prague 10, Czech Republic; (C.C.); (T.H.); (M.L.); (P.J.)
| | - Pavel Jerabek
- Department of Pharmacology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Ruska 87, 100 34 Prague 10, Czech Republic; (C.C.); (T.H.); (M.L.); (P.J.)
| | - Nina Puskina
- Department of Addictology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Apolinarska 4, 128 00 Prague 2, Czech Republic;
| | - Kamila Syslova
- Laboratory of Medicinal Diagnostics, Department of Organic Technology ICT, Technicka 5, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic;
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94
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Tong J, Mizrahi R, Houle S, Kish SJ, Boileau I, Nobrega J, Rusjan PM, Wilson AA. Inhibition of fatty acid amide hydrolase by BIA 10-2474 in rat brain. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2017; 37:3635-3639. [PMID: 27650910 PMCID: PMC5669339 DOI: 10.1177/0271678x16668890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
In a recent clinical trial, the drug BIA 10-2474, a putative fatty acid amide hydrolase(FAAH) inhibitor, was responsible for severe adverse events (SAEs), including one death. To date, there has been little reliable information divulged about the potency of BIA 10-2474 at FAAH in the central nervous system. We synthesised BIA 10-2474 and determined its ability to inhibit FAAH ex vivo in rat brain using a FAAH selective radiotracer. BIA 10-2474 proved to be a potent FAAH inhibitor with IC50s of 50-70 µg/kg (i.p.) in various brain regions. This information may be useful for determining the cause of the SAEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junchao Tong
- Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Romina Mizrahi
- Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sylvain Houle
- Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Stephen J Kish
- Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Isabelle Boileau
- Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jose Nobrega
- Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Pablo M Rusjan
- Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Alan A Wilson
- Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
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95
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Genaro K, Fabris D, Arantes ALF, Zuardi AW, Crippa JAS, Prado WA. Cannabidiol Is a Potential Therapeutic for the Affective-Motivational Dimension of Incision Pain in Rats. Front Pharmacol 2017; 8:391. [PMID: 28680401 PMCID: PMC5478794 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2017.00391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2017] [Accepted: 06/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Pain involves different brain regions and is critically determined by emotional processing. Among other areas, the rostral anterior cingulate cortex (rACC) is implicated in the processing of affective pain. Drugs that interfere with the endocannabinoid system are alternatives for the management of clinical pain. Cannabidiol (CBD), a phytocannabinoid found in Cannabis sativa, has been utilized in preclinical and clinical studies for the treatment of pain. Herein, we evaluate the effects of CBD, injected either systemically or locally into the rACC, on mechanical allodynia in a postoperative pain model and on the negative reinforcement produced by relief of spontaneous incision pain. Additionally, we explored whether CBD underlies the reward of pain relief after systemic or rACC injection. Methods and Results: Male Wistar rats were submitted to a model of incision pain. All rats had mechanical allodynia, which was less intense after intraperitoneal CBD (3 and 10 mg/kg). Conditioned place preference (CPP) paradigm was used to assess negative reinforcement. Intraperitoneal CBD (1 and 3 mg/kg) inverted the CPP produced by peripheral nerve block even at doses that do not change mechanical allodynia. CBD (10 to 40 nmol/0.25 μL) injected into the rACC reduced mechanical allodynia in a dose-dependent manner. CBD (5 nmol/0.25 μL) did not change mechanical allodynia, but reduced peripheral nerve block-induced CPP, and the higher doses inverted the CPP. Additionally, CBD injected systemically or into the rACC at doses that did not change the incision pain evoked by mechanical stimulation significantly produced CPP by itself. Therefore, a non-rewarding dose of CBD in sham-incised rats becomes rewarding in incised rats, presumably because of pain relief or reduction of pain aversiveness. Conclusion: The study provides evidence that CBD influences different dimensions of the response of rats to a surgical incision, and the results establish the rACC as a brain area from which CBD evokes antinociceptive effects in a manner similar to the systemic administration of CBD. In addition, the study gives further support to the notion that the sensorial and affective dimensions of pain may be differentially modulated by CBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karina Genaro
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil.,Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Phylosophy, Science and Language Studies of Ribeirão Preto, University of São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil
| | - Débora Fabris
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil.,Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Phylosophy, Science and Language Studies of Ribeirão Preto, University of São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana L F Arantes
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil.,Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Phylosophy, Science and Language Studies of Ribeirão Preto, University of São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil
| | - Antônio W Zuardi
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil.,National Institute of Science and Technology for Translational Medicine, Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Cientifico e TecnologicoBrasília, Brazil
| | - José A S Crippa
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil.,National Institute of Science and Technology for Translational Medicine, Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Cientifico e TecnologicoBrasília, Brazil
| | - Wiliam A Prado
- Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Phylosophy, Science and Language Studies of Ribeirão Preto, University of São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil.,Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil
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96
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Pędzińska-Betiuk A, Weresa J, Toczek M, Baranowska-Kuczko M, Kasacka I, Harasim-Symbor E, Malinowska B. Chronic inhibition of fatty acid amide hydrolase by URB597 produces differential effects on cardiac performance in normotensive and hypertensive rats. Br J Pharmacol 2017; 174:2114-2129. [PMID: 28437860 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2017] [Revised: 03/27/2017] [Accepted: 04/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitors are postulated to possess anti-hypertensive potential, because their acute injection decreases BP in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), partly through normalization of cardiac contractile function. Here, we examined whether the potential hypotensive effect of chronic FAAH inhibition by URB597 in hypertensive rats correlated with changes in cardiac performance. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Experiments were performed using perfused hearts and left atria isolated from 8- to 10-week-old SHR, age-matched deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA)-salt rats and normotensive controls chronically treated with URB597 (1 mg·kg-1 ) or vehicle. KEY RESULTS URB597 decreased BP only in the DOCA-salt rats, along with a reduction of ventricular hypertrophy and diastolic stiffness, determined in hypertension. We also observed normalization of the negative inotropic atrial response to the cannabinoid receptor agonist CP55940. In the SHR model, URB597 normalized (atria) and enhanced (hearts) the positive ino- and chronotropic effects of the β-adrenoceptor agonist isoprenaline respectively. Ventricular CB1 and CB2 receptor expression was decreased only in the DOCA-salt model, whereas FAAH expression was reduced in both models. URB597 caused translocation of CB1 receptor immunoreactivity to the intercalated discs in the hearts of SHR. URB597 increased cardiac diastolic stiffness and modified the ino- and lusitropic effects of isoprenaline in normotensive rats. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Hypotensive effect of chronic FAAH inhibition depend on the model of hypertension and partly correlate with improved cardiac performance. In normotensive rats, chronic FAAH inhibition produced several side-effects. Thus, the therapeutic potential of these agents should be interpreted cautiously.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Pędzińska-Betiuk
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Jolanta Weresa
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Marek Toczek
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Marta Baranowska-Kuczko
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Irena Kasacka
- Department of Histology and Cytophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Ewa Harasim-Symbor
- Department of Physiology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Barbara Malinowska
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, Bialystok, Poland
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97
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Esposito E, Drechsler M, Mariani P, Carducci F, Servadio M, Melancia F, Ratano P, Campolongo P, Trezza V, Cortesi R, Nastruzzi C. Lipid nanoparticles for administration of poorly water soluble neuroactive drugs. Biomed Microdevices 2017; 19:44. [DOI: 10.1007/s10544-017-0188-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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98
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Wang DP, Liu KJ, Kasper G, Lin Q, Hai J. Inhibition of SENP3 by URB597 ameliorates neurovascular unit dysfunction in rats with chronic cerebral hypoperfusion. Biomed Pharmacother 2017; 91:872-879. [PMID: 28501776 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.05.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2017] [Revised: 04/20/2017] [Accepted: 05/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Disruption of the neurovascular unit (NVU), induced by chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH), has been broadly found in various neurological disorders. SUMO-specific protease 3 (SENP3) is expressed in neurons, astrocytes, and microglia, and regulates a variety of cell events. However, whether SENP3 is involved in neurovascular injury under the condition of CCH is still elusive. To address this issue, we investigated the effect of the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitor URB597 on NVU and the role of SENP3 in this process, as well as the underling mechanisms. The expression of SENP3 was detected by immunochemistry. The function and structure of the NVU was assessed by Western blot analysis and transmission electron microscopy. CCH caused the upregulation of SENP3, the disruption of cell and non-cell components at the protein level within the NVU, and ultrastructural deterioration. The NVU impairment as well as overexpression of SENP3 were reversed by treatment with URB597. These results reveal a novel neuroprotective role in URB597, which implicates URB597 in the amelioration of CCH-induced NVU impairment by inhibiting SENP3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da-Peng Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tong Ji Hospital, Tong Ji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200065, China; Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Ke-Jia Liu
- Department of Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Education Ministry for Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis, Institutes of Medical Sciences, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Graham Kasper
- McGill Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Qi Lin
- Department of Pharmacy, Institutes of Medical Sciences, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Jian Hai
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tong Ji Hospital, Tong Ji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200065, China.
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99
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Karwad MA, Couch DG, Theophilidou E, Sarmad S, Barrett DA, Larvin M, Wright KL, Lund JN, O'Sullivan SE. The role of CB 1 in intestinal permeability and inflammation. FASEB J 2017; 31:3267-3277. [PMID: 28404744 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201601346r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2016] [Accepted: 03/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system has previously been shown to play a role in the permeability and inflammatory response of the human gut. The goal of our study was to determine the effects of endogenous anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG) on the permeability and inflammatory response of intestinal epithelium under normal, inflammatory, and hypoxic conditions. Human intestinal mucosa was modeled using Caco-2 cells. Human tissue was collected from planned colorectal resections. Accumulation of AEA and 2-AG was achieved by inhibiting their metabolizing enzymes URB597 (a fatty acid amide hydrolase inhibitor) and JZL184 (a monoacylglycerol lipase inhibitor). Inflammation and ischemia were simulated with TNF-α and IFN-γ and oxygen deprivation. Permeability changes were measured by transepithelial electrical resistance. The role of the CB1 receptor was explored using CB1-knockdown (CB1Kd) intestinal epithelial cells. Endocannabinoid levels were measured using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Cytokine secretion was measured using multiplex and ELISA. URB597 and JZL184 caused a concentration-dependent increase in permeability via CB1 (P < 0.0001) and decreased cytokine production. Basolateral application of JZL184 decreased permeability via CB1 (P < 0.0001). URB597 and JZL184 increased the enhanced (worsened) permeability caused by inflammation and hypoxia (P < 0.0001 and P < 0.05). CB1Kd cells showed reduced permeability response to inflammation (P < 0.01) but not hypoxia. 2-AG levels were increased in response to inflammation and hypoxia in Caco-2 cells. In human mucosal tissue, inflammation increased the secretion of granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor, IL-12, -13, and -15, which was prevented with ex vivo treatment with URB597 and JZL184, and was inhibited by a CB1 antagonist. The results of this study show that endogenous AEA and 2-AG production and CB1 activation play a key modulatory roles in normal intestinal mucosa permeability and in inflammatory and hypoxic conditions.-Karwad, M. A., Couch, D. G., Theophilidou, E., Sarmad, S., Barrett, D. A., Larvin, M., Wright, K. L., Lund, J. N., O'Sullivan, S. E. The role of CB1 in intestinal permeability and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa A Karwad
- School of Medicine, Royal Derby Hospital, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel G Couch
- School of Medicine, Royal Derby Hospital, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Elena Theophilidou
- School of Medicine, Royal Derby Hospital, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Sarir Sarmad
- Centre for Analytical Bioscience, School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - David A Barrett
- Centre for Analytical Bioscience, School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Larvin
- Graduate Entry Medical School, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland; University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Karen L Wright
- Division of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan N Lund
- School of Medicine, Royal Derby Hospital, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Saoirse E O'Sullivan
- School of Medicine, Royal Derby Hospital, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom;
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100
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Weiss SRB, Howlett KD, Baler RD. Building smart cannabis policy from the science up. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2017; 42:39-49. [PMID: 28189459 PMCID: PMC5404989 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2017.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2016] [Revised: 12/21/2016] [Accepted: 01/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Social attitudes and cultural norms around the issue of substance abuse are shifting rapidly around the world, leading to complex and unpredictable consequences. On the positive side, efforts to more intensely disseminate the scientific evidence for the many connections between chronic substance use and the emergence of measurable and discrete brain dysfunctions, has ushered in an evolving climate of acceptance and a new era of improved access to more effective interventions, at least in the United States. On the negative side, there has been a steady erosion in the public perception of the harms associated with the use of popular drugs, especially cannabis. This worrisome trend has sprouted at the convergence of several forces that have combined, more or less fortuitously, to effectively change long-standing policies away from prohibition and toward decriminalization or legalization. These forces include the outsized popularity of the cannabis plant among recreational users, the unflagging campaign by corporate lobbyists and patient advocates to mainstream its medicinal use, and the honest realization in some quarters of the deleterious impact of the drug war and its draconian cannabis laws, in particular, on society's most vulnerable populations. Updating drug policies is a desirable goal, and significant changes may indeed be warranted. However, there is a real concern when policy changes are hurriedly implemented without the required input from the medical, scientific, or policy research communities. Regardless of how well intentioned, such initiatives are bound to magnify the potential for unintended adverse consequences in the form of far ranging health and social costs. To minimize this risk, science must be front and center in this important policy debate. Here, we review the state of the science on cannabis and cannabinoid health effects, both adverse and therapeutic. We focus on the prevalence of use in different populations, the mechanisms by which cannabis exerts its effects (i.e., via the endocannabinoid system), and the double-edged potential of this system to inspire new medications, on one hand, and to cause short and long term harmful effects on the other. By providing knowledge of cannabis' broad ranging effects, we hope to enable better decision making regarding cannabis legislation and policy implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan R B Weiss
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, United States.
| | - Katia D Howlett
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, United States
| | - Ruben D Baler
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, United States
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