101
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Maccarrone M, Dainese E, Oddi S. Intracellular trafficking of anandamide: new concepts for signaling. Trends Biochem Sci 2010; 35:601-8. [PMID: 20570522 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2010.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2010] [Revised: 05/05/2010] [Accepted: 05/12/2010] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Endocannabinoids are key mediators of many aspects of human health and disease. The biological activity of anandamide, a prominent member of this group, depends on the metabolic control exerted by biosynthetic, catabolic and oxidative pathways working together. Cellular uptake and intracellular trafficking of anandamide are crucial steps in the process. Whereas the identity of anandamide transmembrane carriers remains undetermined, recent insights have been gained related to its intracellular stores (adiposomes) and intracellular binding proteins, particularly fatty acid binding proteins, albumin and heat shock protein 70. On this basis, we propose a reconsideration of the dogma that endocannabinoids are exclusively synthesized and released 'on demand', and suggest that their metabolic control is complemented by intracellular trafficking and storage in specific reservoirs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Maccarrone
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Teramo, Piazza Aldo Moro 45, 64100 Teramo, Italy.
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102
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Shimizu T, Lu L, Yokotani K. Possible inhibitory roles of endogenous 2-arachidonoylglycerol during corticotropin-releasing factor-induced activation of central sympatho-adrenomedullary outflow in anesthetized rats. Eur J Pharmacol 2010; 641:54-60. [PMID: 20519139 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2010.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2009] [Revised: 04/09/2010] [Accepted: 05/11/2010] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
We previously reported that intracerebroventricularly (i.c.v.) administered corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) (0.5-3.0 nmol/animal) dose-dependently elevates plasma noradrenaline and adrenaline through brain phospholipase C-, diacylglycerol lipase- and prostanoids-mediated mechanisms in rats. Diacylglycerol produced by phospholipase C from phospholipids can be hydrolyzed by diacylglycerol lipase into 2-arachidonoylglycerol, which may be further hydrolyzed by monoacylglycerol lipase into arachidonic acid, a precursor of prostanoids. Recently, 2-arachidonoylglycerol has been recognized as a major brain endocannabinoid, which can modulate synaptic transmission through presynaptic cannabinoid CB(1) receptors. Released 2-arachidonoylglycerol is rapidly deactivated by uptake into cells and enzymatic hydrolysis. In the present study, therefore, we examined (1) the involvement of brain 2-arachidonoylglycerol, (2) the regulatory role of 2-arachidonoylglycerol as a brain endocannabinoid, and (3) the effect of exogenous cannabinoid receptor agonist, on the CRF-induced elevation of plasma noradrenaline and adrenaline using anesthetized rats. The elevation of both catecholamines induced by a submaximal dose of CRF (1.5 nmol/animal, i.c.v.) was reduced by i.c.v. administered MAFP (monoacylglycerol lipase inhibitor) (0.7 and 1.4 micromol/animal), AM 404 (endocannabinoid uptake-inhibitor) (80 and 250 nmol/animal) and ACEA (cannabinoid CB(1) receptor agonist) (0.7 and 1.4 micromol/animal), while AM 251 (cannabinoid CB(1) receptor antagonist) (90 and 180 nmol/animal, i.c.v.) potentiated the response induced by a small dose of CRF (0.5 nmol/animal, i.c.v.). These results suggest a possibility that 2-arachidonoylglycerol is endogenously generated in the brain during CRF-induced activation of central sympatho-adrenomedullary outflow, thereby inhibiting the peptide-induced response by activation of brain cannabinoid CB(1) receptors in anesthetized rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro Shimizu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Kochi University, Nankoku, Kochi, Japan.
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103
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Oddi S, Fezza F, Catanzaro G, De Simone C, Pucci M, Piomelli D, Finazzi-Agrò A, Maccarrone M. Pitfalls and solutions in assaying anandamide transport in cells. J Lipid Res 2010; 51:2435-44. [PMID: 20447929 DOI: 10.1194/jlr.d004176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonspecific binding of anandamide to plastic exhibits many features that could be mistaken as biological processes, thereby representing an important source of conflicting data on the uptake and release of this lipophilic substance. Herein, we propose an improved method to assay anandamide transport, by using glass slides (i.e., coverslips) as physical support to grow cells. Although the results obtained using plastic do not differ significantly from those obtained using glass, the new procedure has the advantage of being faster, simpler, and more accurate. In fact, the lack of aspecific adsorption of anandamide to the glass surface yields a lower background and a higher precision and accuracy in determining transport kinetics, especially for the export process. Remarkably, the kinetic parameters of anandamide uptake obtained with the old and the new procedures may be similar or different depending on the cell type, thus demonstrating the complexity of the interference of plastic on the transport process. In addition, the novel procedure is particularly suitable for visualization and measurement of anandamide transport in intact cells by using a biotinylated derivative in confocal fluorescence microscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Oddi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
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104
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Levels of endocannabinoids and palmitoylethanolamide and their pharmacological manipulation in chronic granulomatous inflammation in rats. Pharmacol Res 2010; 61:321-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2009.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2009] [Revised: 11/10/2009] [Accepted: 11/11/2009] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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105
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Bari M, Rapino C, Mozetic P, Maccarrone M. The endocannabinoid system in gp120-mediated insults and HIV-associated dementia. Exp Neurol 2010; 224:74-84. [PMID: 20353779 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2010.03.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Endocannabinoids (eCBs) include a group of lipid mediators that act as endogenous agonists at cannabinoid (CB(1), CB(2)) and vanilloid (TRPV1) receptors. In the last two decades a number of eCBs-metabolizing enzymes have been discovered that, together with eCBs and congeners, target receptors and proteins responsible for their transport and intracellular trafficking form the so-called "endocannabinoid system" (ECS). Within the central nervous system ECS elements participate in neuroprotection against neuroinflammatory/neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and multiple sclerosis. More recently, a role for eCBs has been documented also in human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) envelope glycoprotein gp120-mediated insults, and in HIV-associated dementia (HAD). The modulation of ECS in the latter disease conditions is the subject of this review, that will also address the molecular mechanisms underlying the neuroprotective effects of eCBs. In particular, the interactions between neurons and glia during neuroinflammation, and the alterations of ECS in these cells upon gp120 insults and HAD will be discussed, along with the potential therapeutic exploitation of ECS-oriented drugs for the treatment of HAD and related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Bari
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
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106
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Abstract
There is now a large volume of data indicating that compounds activating cannabinoid CB(1) receptors, either directly or indirectly by preventing the breakdown of endogenous cannabinoids, can protect against neuronal damage produced by a variety of neuronal "insults". Given that such neurodegenerative stimuli result in increased endocannabinoid levels and that animals with genetic deletions of CB(1) receptors are more susceptible to the deleterious effects of such stimuli, a case can be made for an endogenous neuroprotective role of endocannabinoids. However, this is an oversimplification of the current literature, since (a) compounds released together with the endocannabinoids can contribute to the neuroprotective effect; (b) other proteins, such as TASK-1 and PPARalpha, are involved; (c) the CB(1) receptor antagonist/inverse agonist rimonabant has also been reported to have neuroprotective properties in a number of animal models of neurodegenerative disorders. Furthermore, the CB(2) receptor located on peripheral immune cells and activated microglia are potential targets for novel therapies. In terms of the clinical usefulness of targeting the endocannabinoid system for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders, data are emerging, but important factors to be considered are windows of opportunity (for acute situations such as trauma and ischemia) and the functionality of the target receptors (for chronic neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease).
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107
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Fernández-Ruiz J, García C, Sagredo O, Gómez-Ruiz M, de Lago E. The endocannabinoid system as a target for the treatment of neuronal damage. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2010; 14:387-404. [DOI: 10.1517/14728221003709792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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108
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CoMFA and CoMSIA analyses on 1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrrolo[3,4-b]indole and benzimidazole derivatives as selective CB2 receptor agonists. J Mol Model 2010; 16:1481-98. [DOI: 10.1007/s00894-010-0664-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2009] [Accepted: 01/13/2010] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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109
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Gattinoni S, De Simone C, Dallavalle S, Fezza F, Nannei R, Amadio D, Minetti P, Quattrociocchi G, Caprioli A, Borsini F, Cabri W, Penco S, Merlini L, Maccarrone M. Enol Carbamates as Inhibitors of Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase (FAAH) Endowed with High Selectivity for FAAH over the Other Targets of the Endocannabinoid System. ChemMedChem 2010; 5:357-60. [DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.200900472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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110
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The link between inflammation, synaptic transmission and neurodegeneration in multiple sclerosis. Cell Death Differ 2009; 17:1083-91. [DOI: 10.1038/cdd.2009.179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
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111
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CoMFA and CoMSIA analyses on 4-oxo-1,4-dihydroquinoline and 4-oxo-1,4-dihydro-1,5-, -1,6- and -1,8-naphthyridine derivatives as selective CB2 receptor agonists. J Mol Model 2009; 16:677-91. [DOI: 10.1007/s00894-009-0580-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2009] [Accepted: 07/24/2009] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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112
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Kubajewska I, Constantinescu CS. Cannabinoids and experimental models of multiple sclerosis. Immunobiology 2009; 215:647-57. [PMID: 19765854 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2009.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2009] [Revised: 08/12/2009] [Accepted: 08/14/2009] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The inflammatory response is a hallmark in the development of autoimmune-mediated neurodegenerative diseases of the central nervous system (CNS). Research on these pathological phenomena is being extensively undertaken and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) serves as a valuable animal model. Studies from this model have generated interesting insights into biological effects of cannabinoids and may, at least to a certain extent, reflect the cannabinoid-mediated protective mechanisms also in human diseases with similar characteristics, such as multiple sclerosis (MS). Cannabinoids are involved in regulation of the immune system. These effects comprise modulation of inflammatory reaction through components of the innate and adaptive immune responses. Cannabinoids also confer neuroprotection and assist neuroregeneration, thus maintaining a balance within the delicate CNS microenvironment and restoring function following pathological condition, commonly driven by neuroinflammation. Continued studies of cannabinoid actions in EAE pathogenesis should be beneficial for the better understanding of the mechanisms governing such a vast array of physiological effects and in development of new therapeutic strategies for the treatment of human neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilona Kubajewska
- Division of Clinical Neurology, University of Nottingham, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham NG72UH, UK
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113
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Pasquariello N, Catanzaro G, Marzano V, Amadio D, Barcaroli D, Oddi S, Federici G, Urbani A, Finazzi Agrò A, Maccarrone M. Characterization of the endocannabinoid system in human neuronal cells and proteomic analysis of anandamide-induced apoptosis. J Biol Chem 2009; 284:29413-26. [PMID: 19690173 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m109.044412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Anandamide (AEA) is an endogenous agonist of type 1 cannabinoid receptors (CB1R) that, along with metabolic enzymes of AEA and congeners, compose the "endocannabinoid system." Here we report the biochemical, morphological, and functional characterization of the endocannabinoid system in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells that are an experimental model for neuronal cell damage and death, as well as for major human neurodegenerative disorders. We also show that AEA dose-dependently induced apoptosis of SH-SY5Y cells. Through proteomic analysis, we further demonstrate that AEA-induced apoptosis was paralleled by an approximately 3 to approximately 5-fold up-regulation or down-regulation of five genes; IgG heavy chain-binding protein, stress-induced phosphoprotein-1, and triose-phosphate isomerase-1, which were up-regulated, are known to act as anti-apoptotic agents; actin-related protein 2/3 complex subunit 5 and peptidylprolyl isomerase-like protein 3 isoform PPIL3b were down-regulated, and the first is required for actin network formation whereas the second is still function-orphan. Interestingly, only the effect of AEA on BiP was reversed by the CB1R antagonist SR141716, in SH-SY5Y cells as well as in human neuroblastoma LAN-5 cells (that express a functional CB1R) but not in SK-NBE cells (which do not express CB1R). Silencing or overexpression of BiP increased or reduced, respectively, AEA-induced apoptosis of SH-SY5Y cells. In addition, the expression of BiP and of the BiP-related apoptotic markers p53 and PUMA was increased by AEA through a CB1R-dependent pathway that engages p38 and p42/44 mitogen-activated protein kinases. Consistently, this effect of AEA was minimized by SR141716. In conclusion, we identified BiP as a key protein in neuronal apoptosis induced by AEA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicoletta Pasquariello
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Università degli Studi di Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
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114
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Bíró T, Tóth BI, Haskó G, Paus R, Pacher P. The endocannabinoid system of the skin in health and disease: novel perspectives and therapeutic opportunities. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2009; 30:411-20. [PMID: 19608284 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2009.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 170] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2009] [Revised: 05/06/2009] [Accepted: 05/07/2009] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The newly discovered endocannabinoid system (ECS; comprising the endogenous lipid mediators endocannabinoids present in virtually all tissues, their G-protein-coupled cannabinoid receptors, biosynthetic pathways and metabolizing enzymes) has been implicated in multiple regulatory functions both in health and disease. Recent studies have intriguingly suggested the existence of a functional ECS in the skin and implicated it in various biological processes (e.g. proliferation, growth, differentiation, apoptosis and cytokine, mediator or hormone production of various cell types of the skin and appendages, such as the hair follicle and sebaceous gland). It seems that the main physiological function of the cutaneous ECS is to constitutively control the proper and well-balanced proliferation, differentiation and survival, as well as immune competence and/or tolerance, of skin cells. The disruption of this delicate balance might facilitate the development of multiple pathological conditions and diseases of the skin (e.g. acne, seborrhea, allergic dermatitis, itch and pain, psoriasis, hair growth disorders, systemic sclerosis and cancer).
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamás Bíró
- Department of Physiology, University of Debrecen, Research Center for Molecular Medicine, Debrecen 4032, Hungary.
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115
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Rossi S, Furlan R, De Chiara V, Musella A, Lo Giudice T, Mataluni G, Cavasinni F, Cantarella C, Bernardi G, Muzio L, Martorana A, Martino G, Centonze D. Exercise attenuates the clinical, synaptic and dendritic abnormalities of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. Neurobiol Dis 2009; 36:51-9. [PMID: 19591937 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2009.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2009] [Revised: 06/25/2009] [Accepted: 06/28/2009] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Voluntary exercise is beneficial in models of primarily neurodegenerative disorders. Whether exercise also affects inflammatory neurodegeneration is unknown. In the present study, we evaluated the clinical, synaptic and neuropathological effects of voluntary wheel running in mice with myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG)-induced experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a model of multiple sclerosis. Exercising EAE mice exhibited less severe neurological deficits compared to control EAE animals. The sensitivity of striatal GABA synapses to the stimulation of cannabinoid CB1 receptors was dramatically downregulated following EAE induction, and was rescued by exercise in EAE mice with access to a running wheel. Finally, we found that exercise was able to contrast dendritic spine loss induced by EAE in striatal neurons, although the degree of inflammatory response was similar in the two experimental groups. Our work suggests that life style and experiences can impact the clinical course of inflammatory neurodegenerative diseases by affecting their synaptic bases.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antigens, CD/metabolism
- Corpus Striatum/pathology
- Dendrites/pathology
- Dendrites/physiology
- Dendrites/ultrastructure
- Disease Models, Animal
- Dronabinol/analogs & derivatives
- Dronabinol/pharmacology
- Encephalomyelitis, Autoimmune, Experimental/chemically induced
- Encephalomyelitis, Autoimmune, Experimental/complications
- Encephalomyelitis, Autoimmune, Experimental/pathology
- Encephalomyelitis, Autoimmune, Experimental/rehabilitation
- Female
- Glutamic Acid/metabolism
- Glutamic Acid/pharmacology
- Glycoproteins
- In Vitro Techniques
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Movement Disorders/etiology
- Myelin-Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein
- Neurons/pathology
- Neurons/physiology
- Neuroprotective Agents/pharmacology
- Patch-Clamp Techniques/methods
- Peptide Fragments
- Physical Conditioning, Animal
- Silver Staining/methods
- Statistics, Nonparametric
- Synapses/physiology
- Synapses/ultrastructure
- Synaptic Potentials/drug effects
- Synaptic Potentials/physiology
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Rossi
- Clinica Neurologica, Dipartimento di Neuroscienze, Università Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
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116
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Abstract
AIM The aim of this experiment was to investigate the association between cannabis use and destructive periodontal disease among adolescents. MATERIAL AND METHODS Data from a population screening examination carried out among Chilean high school students from the Province of Santiago were used to determine whether there was an association between the use of cannabis and signs of periodontal diseases as defined by (1) the presence of necrotizing ulcerative gingival (NUG) lesions or (2) the presence of clinical attachment loss (CAL) > or =3 mm. The cannabis exposures variables considered were "Ever use of cannabis" (yes/no) and "Regular use of cannabis" (yes/no). The associations were investigated using multiple logistic regression analyses adjusted for age, gender, paternal income, paternal education, frequency of tooth-brushing and time since last dental visit. RESULTS Multiple logistic regression analyses showed that "Ever use of cannabis" was significantly negatively associated with the presence of NUG lesions (OR=0.47 [0.2;0.9]) among non-smokers only. No significant associations were observed between the presence of CAL > or =3 mm and cannabis use in either of the smoking groups. CONCLUSIONS There was no evidence to suggest that the use of cannabis is positively associated with periodontal diseases in this adolescent population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo López
- Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Aarhus, Denmark.
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117
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Hwang J, Adamson C, Butler D, Janero DR, Makriyannis A, Bahr BA. Enhancement of endocannabinoid signaling by fatty acid amide hydrolase inhibition: a neuroprotective therapeutic modality. Life Sci 2009; 86:615-23. [PMID: 19527737 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2009.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2009] [Revised: 05/28/2009] [Accepted: 06/03/2009] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
AIMS This review posits that fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibition has therapeutic potential against neuropathological states including traumatic brain injury; Alzheimer's, Huntington's, and Parkinson's diseases; and stroke. MAIN METHODS This proposition is supported by data from numerous in vitro and in vivo experiments establishing metabolic and pharmacological contexts for the neuroprotective role of the endogenous cannabinoid ("endocannabinoid") system and selective FAAH inhibitors. KEY FINDINGS The systems biology of endocannabinoid signaling involves two main cannabinoid receptors, the principal endocannabinoid lipid mediators N-arachidonoylethanolamine ("anandamide") (AEA) and 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG), related metabolites, and the proteins involved in endocannabinoid biosynthesis, biotransformation, and transit. The endocannabinoid system is capable of activating distinct signaling pathways on-demand in response to pathogenic events or stimuli, thereby enhancing cell survival and promoting tissue repair. Accumulating data suggest that endocannabinoid system modulation at discrete targets is a promising pharmacotherapeutic strategy for treating various medical conditions. In particular, neuronal injury activates cannabinoid signaling in the central nervous system as an intrinsic neuroprotective response. Indirect potentiation of this salutary response through pharmacological inhibition of FAAH, an endocannabinoid-deactivating enzyme, and consequent activation of signaling pathways downstream from cannabinoid receptors have been shown to promote neuronal maintenance and function. SIGNIFICANCE This therapeutic modality has the potential to offer site- and event-specific neuroprotection under conditions where endocannabinoids are being produced as part of a physiological protective mechanism. In contrast, direct application of cannabinoid receptor agonists to the central nervous system may activate CB receptors indiscriminately and invite unwanted psychotrophic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeannie Hwang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Neurosciences Program, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut, USA
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118
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Price DA, Martinez AA, Seillier A, Koek W, Acosta Y, Fernandez E, Strong R, Lutz B, Marsicano G, Roberts JL, Giuffrida A. WIN55,212-2, a cannabinoid receptor agonist, protects against nigrostriatal cell loss in the 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine mouse model of Parkinson's disease. Eur J Neurosci 2009; 29:2177-86. [PMID: 19490092 DOI: 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2009.06764.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 174] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by the progressive loss of nigrostriatal dopamine neurons leading to motor disturbances and cognitive impairment. Current pharmacotherapies relieve PD symptoms temporarily but fail to prevent or slow down the disease progression. In this study, we investigated the molecular mechanisms by which the non-selective cannabinoid receptor agonist WIN55,212-2 (WIN) protects mouse nigrostriatal neurons from 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced neurotoxicity and neuroinflammation. Stereological analyses showed that chronic treatment with WIN (4 mg/kg, intraperitoneal), initiated 24 h after MPTP administration, protected against MPTP-induced loss of tyrosine hydroxylase-positive neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta independently of CB1 cannabinoid receptor activation. The neuroprotective effect of WIN was accompanied by increased dopamine and 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid levels in the substantia nigra pars compacta and dorsal striatum of MPTP-treated mice. At 3 days post-MPTP, we found significant microglial activation and up-regulation of CB2 cannabinoid receptors in the ventral midbrain. Treatment with WIN or the CB2 receptor agonist JWH015 (4 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) reduced MPTP-induced microglial activation, whereas genetic ablation of CB2 receptors exacerbated MPTP systemic toxicity. Furthermore, chronic WIN reversed MPTP-associated motor deficits, as revealed by the analysis of forepaw step width and percentage of faults using the inverted grid test. In conclusion, our data indicate that agonism at CB2 cannabinoid receptors protects against MPTP-induced nigrostriatal degeneration by inhibiting microglial activation/infiltration and suggest that CB2 receptors represent a new therapeutic target to slow the degenerative process occurring in PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A Price
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
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119
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Selective CB2 receptor agonism protects central neurons from remote axotomy-induced apoptosis through the PI3K/Akt pathway. J Neurosci 2009; 29:4564-70. [PMID: 19357281 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0786-09.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 160] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Endocannabinoids are neuroprotective in vivo and in vitro, but the mechanisms by which they act are largely unknown. The present study addressed the role of cannabinoid receptors during remote cell death of central neurons in a model that is based on cerebellar lesions. A lesion in one cerebellar hemisphere induced remote cell death and type 2 cannabinoid receptor (CB2R) expression in contralateral precerebellar neurons. Of the selective agonists and antagonists that modulated cannabinoid receptor activity, we found that the CB2R agonist JWH-015 reduced neuronal loss and cytochrome-c release, leading to neurological recovery; these effects were reversed by the selective CB2R antagonist SR144528. Analysis of CB2R-triggered signal transduction demonstrated that in axotomized neurons, CB2R regulated Akt and JNK phosphorylation through a PI3K-dependent pathway, whereas other major signaling routes that are dependent on CB2R, such as ERK1/2 and p38, were not involved. This result was corroborated by the observation that the selective PI3K inhibitor LY294002 blocked the CB2R stimulation effects on neuronal survival as well as Akt and JNK phosphorylation levels. Together, these data demonstrate that axonal damage induces CB2R expression in central neurons and that stimulation of this receptor has a neuroprotective effect that is achieved through PI3K/Akt signaling.
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120
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Iuvone T, Esposito G, De Filippis D, Scuderi C, Steardo L. Cannabidiol: a promising drug for neurodegenerative disorders? CNS Neurosci Ther 2009; 15:65-75. [PMID: 19228180 DOI: 10.1111/j.1755-5949.2008.00065.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 148] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases represent, nowadays, one of the main causes of death in the industrialized country. They are characterized by a loss of neurons in particular regions of the nervous system. It is believed that this nerve cell loss underlies the subsequent decline in cognitive and motor function that patients experience in these diseases. A range of mutant genes and environmental toxins have been implicated in the cause of neurodegenerative disorders but the mechanism remains largely unknown. At present, inflammation, a common denominator among the diverse list of neurodegenerative diseases, has been implicated as a critical mechanism that is responsible for the progressive nature of neurodegeneration. Since, at present, there are few therapies for the wide range of neurodegenerative diseases, scientists are still in search of new therapeutic approaches to the problem. An early contribution of neuroprotective and antiinflammatory strategies for these disorders seems particularly desirable because isolated treatments cannot be effective. In this contest, marijuana derivatives have attracted special interest, although these compounds have always raised several practical and ethical problems for their potential abuse. Nevertheless, among Cannabis compounds, cannabidiol (CBD), which lacks any unwanted psychotropic effect, may represent a very promising agent with the highest prospect for therapeutic use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Iuvone
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, Naples, Italy.
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121
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Endocannabinoids and immune regulation. Pharmacol Res 2009; 60:85-92. [PMID: 19428268 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2009.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2009] [Revised: 03/24/2009] [Accepted: 03/31/2009] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoid pharmacology has made important advances in recent years after the discovery of the cannabinoid receptors. These discoveries have added to our understanding of exogenous and endogenous cannabinoid signaling along with exploring the various pathways of their biosynthesis, molecular structure, inactivation, and anatomical distribution of their receptors throughout the body. The endocannabinoid system is involved in immunoregulation and neuroprotection. In this article, we have reviewed the possible mechanisms of the regulation of the immune response by endocannabinoids which include modulation of immune response in different cell types, effect on cytokine network, induction of apoptosis in immune cells and downregulation of innate and adaptive immune response. Studies from our laboratory have suggested that administration of endocannabinoids or use of inhibitors of enzymes that breakdown the endocannabinoids, leads to immunosuppression and recovery from immune-mediated injury to organs such as the liver. Thus, manipulation of endocannabinoids in vivo may constitute a novel treatment modality against inflammatory disorders.
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122
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Fernández-Ruiz J. The endocannabinoid system as a target for the treatment of motor dysfunction. Br J Pharmacol 2009; 156:1029-40. [PMID: 19220290 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2008.00088.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
There is evidence that cannabinoid-based medicines that are selective for different targets in the cannabinoid signalling system (e.g. receptors, inactivation mechanism, enzymes) might be beneficial in basal ganglia disorders, namely Parkinson's disease (PD) and Huntington's disease (HD). These benefits not only include the alleviation of specific motor symptoms [e.g. choreic movements with cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB(1))/transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 agonists in HD; bradykinesia with CB(1) antagonists and tremor with CB(1) agonists in PD], but also the delay of disease progression due to the neuroprotective properties demonstrated for cannabinoids (e.g. CB(1) agonists reduce excitotoxicity; CB(2) agonists limit the toxicity of reactive microglia; and antioxidant cannabinoids attenuate oxidative damage). In addition, extensive biochemical, anatomical, physiological and pharmacological studies have demonstrated that: (i) the different elements of the cannabinoid system are abundant in basal ganglia structures and they are affected by these disorders; (ii) the cannabinoid system plays a prominent role in basal ganglia function by modulating the neurotransmitters that operate in the basal ganglia circuits, both in healthy and pathological conditions; and (iii) the activation and/or inhibition of the cannabinoid system is associated with important motor responses that are maintained and even enhanced in conditions of malfunctioning and/or degeneration. In this article we will review the available data regarding the relationship between the cannabinoid system and basal ganglia activity, both in healthy and pathological conditions and will also try to identify future lines of research expected to increase current knowledge about the potential therapeutic benefits of targeting this system in PD, HD and other basal ganglia disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Fernández-Ruiz
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
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123
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Burstein SH, Zurier RB. Cannabinoids, endocannabinoids, and related analogs in inflammation. AAPS JOURNAL 2009; 11:109-19. [PMID: 19199042 DOI: 10.1208/s12248-009-9084-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2008] [Accepted: 12/08/2008] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This review covers reports published in the last 5 years on the anti-inflammatory activities of all classes of cannabinoids, including phytocannabinoids such as tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol, synthetic analogs such as ajulemic acid and nabilone, the endogenous cannabinoids anandamide and related compounds, namely, the elmiric acids, and finally, noncannabinoid components of Cannabis that show anti-inflammatory action. It is intended to be an update on the topic of the involvement of cannabinoids in the process of inflammation. A possible mechanism for these actions is suggested involving increased production of eicosanoids that promote the resolution of inflammation. This differentiates these cannabinoids from cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors that suppress the synthesis of eicosanoids that promote the induction of the inflammatory process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumner H Burstein
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Pharmacology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 364 Plantation St., Worcester, Massachusetts 01605, USA.
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124
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Maccarrone M, De Chiara V, Gasperi V, Viscomi MT, Rossi S, Oddi S, Molinari M, Musella A, Finazzi-Agrò A, Centonze D. Lipid rafts regulate 2-arachidonoylglycerol metabolism and physiological activity in the striatum. J Neurochem 2009; 109:371-81. [PMID: 19187444 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2009.05948.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Several G protein-associated receptors and synaptic proteins function within lipid rafts, which are subdomains of the plasma membranes that contain high concentrations of cholesterol. In this study we addressed the possible role of lipid rafts in the control of endocannabinoid system in striatal slices. Disruption of lipid rafts following cholesterol depletion with methyl-beta-cyclodestrin (MCD) failed to affect synthesis and degradation of anandamide, while it caused a marked increase in the synthesis and concentration of 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), as well as in the binding activity of cannabinoid CB1 receptors. Surprisingly, endogenous 2-AG-mediated control of GABA transmission was not potentiated by MCD treatment and, in contrast, neither basal nor 3,5-Dihydroxyphenylglycine-stimulated 2-AG altered GABA synapses in cholesterol-depleted slices. Synaptic response to the cannabinoid CB1 receptor agonist HU210 was however intact in MCD-treated slices, indicating that reduced sensitivity of cannabinoid CB1 receptors does not explain why endogenous 2-AG is ineffective in inhibiting striatal GABA transmission after cholesterol depletion. Confocal microscopy analysis suggested that disruption of raft integrity by MCD might uncouple metabotropic glutamate 5-CB1 receptor interaction by altering the correct localization of both receptors in striatal neuron elements. In conclusion, our data indicate that disruption of raft integrity causes a complex alteration of the endocannabinoid signalling in the striatum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Maccarrone
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Università degli Studi di Teramo, Italy.
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125
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Melamede R. Parasitic brain infection, endocannabinoids, and schizophrenia. Med Hypotheses 2009; 72:220-2. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2008.08.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2008] [Revised: 08/04/2008] [Accepted: 08/15/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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126
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Nickl K, Gardner EE, Geiger S, Heilmann J, Seifert R. Differential coupling of the human cannabinoid receptors hCB1R and hCB2R to the G-protein G(alpha)i2beta1gamma2. Neurosci Lett 2008; 447:68-72. [PMID: 18845226 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2008.09.078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2008] [Revised: 09/20/2008] [Accepted: 09/27/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Human cannabinoid receptors 1 (hCB(1)R) and 2 (hCB(2)R) are expressed in the CNS and couple to G(i)/G(o)-proteins. The aim of this study was to compare coupling of hCB(1)R and hCB(2)R to G(alpha)(i2)beta(1)gamma(2) in Sf9 insect cells. High-affinity agonist binding at hCB(1)R, but not at hCB(2)R, was resistant to guanine nucleotides. hCB(1)R activated G(alpha)(i2)beta(1)gamma(2) much more rapidly than hCB(2)R in the [(35)S]guanosine 5'-[gamma-thio]triphosphate ([(35)S]GTPgammaS) binding assay. Moreover, hCB(1)R exhibited a higher constitutive activity than hCB(2)R as assessed by the relative inhibitory effects of inverse agonists on [(35)S]GTPgammaS binding and steady-state high-affinity GTPase activity compared to the stimulatory effects of the hCB(1/2)R agonist CP 55,940 [(-)-cis-3-[2-hydroxy-4-(1,1-dimethylheptyl)phenyl]-trans-4-(3-hydroxypropyl)cyclohexanol]. G(alpha)(i2)beta(1)gamma(2) coupled to hCB(2)R exhibited higher GDP- and GTPgammaS-affinities than G(alpha)(i2)beta(1)gamma(2) coupled to hCB(1)R. NaCl effectively reduced constitutive activity of hCB(1)R but not of hCB(2)R. Collectively, hCB(1)R and hCB(2)R couple differentially to G(alpha)(i2)beta(1)gamma(2). Moreover, hCB(1)R exhibits higher constitutive activity than hCB(2)R. These differences point to distinct functions of hCB(1)R and hCB(2)R in the CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin Nickl
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
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127
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Lange JHM, Kruse CG. Cannabinoid CB1 receptor antagonists in therapeutic and structural perspectives. CHEM REC 2008; 8:156-68. [PMID: 18563799 DOI: 10.1002/tcr.20147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The observed antiobesity effect of rimonabant (1) in a pharmacological rodent model 10 years ago has led to a surge in the search for novel cannabinoid CB1 antagonists as a new therapeutic target for the treatment of obesity. Rimonabant showed clinical efficacy in the treatment of obesity and also improved cardiovascular and metabolic risk factors. Cannabinoid CB1 receptor antagonists have also good prospects in other therapeutic areas, including smoking and alcohol addiction as well as cognitive impairment. Solvay's research achievements in this fast-moving field are reported in relation with the current state of the art. Several medicinal chemistry strategies have been pursued. The application of the concept of conformational constraint led to the discovery of more rigid analogs of the prototypic CB1 receptor antagonist rimonabant. Replacement of the central heterocyclic pyrazole ring in rimonabant yielded imidazoles, triazoles, and thiazoles as selective CB1 receptor antagonists. Dedicated medium-throughput screening efforts delivered one 3,4-diarylpyrazoline hit. Its poor pharmacokinetic properties were successfully optimized which led to the discovery of orally active and highly CB1/CB2 receptor selective analogs in this series. Regioisomeric 1,5-diarylpyrazolines, 1,2-diarylimidazolines, and water-soluble imidazoles have been designed as novel CB1 receptor antagonist structure classes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jos H M Lange
- Solvay Pharmaceuticals, Research Laboratories, C. J. van Houtenlaan 36, 1381 CP Weesp, The Netherlands.
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128
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Pagé D, Balaux E, Boisvert L, Liu Z, Milburn C, Tremblay M, Wei Z, Woo S, Luo X, Cheng YX, Yang H, Srivastava S, Zhou F, Brown W, Tomaszewski M, Walpole C, Hodzic L, St-Onge S, Godbout C, Salois D, Payza K. Novel benzimidazole derivatives as selective CB2 agonists. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2008; 18:3695-700. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2008.05.073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2008] [Revised: 05/16/2008] [Accepted: 05/16/2008] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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129
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Bromberg KD, Ma'ayan A, Neves SR, Iyengar R. Design logic of a cannabinoid receptor signaling network that triggers neurite outgrowth. Science 2008; 320:903-9. [PMID: 18487186 PMCID: PMC2776723 DOI: 10.1126/science.1152662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1R) regulates neuronal differentiation. To understand the logic underlying decision-making in the signaling network controlling CB1R-induced neurite outgrowth, we profiled the activation of several hundred transcription factors after cell stimulation. We assembled an in silico signaling network by connecting CB1R to 23 activated transcription factors. Statistical analyses of this network predicted a role for the breast cancer 1 protein BRCA1 in neuronal differentiation and a new pathway from CB1R through phosphoinositol 3-kinase to the transcription factor paired box 6 (PAX6). Both predictions were experimentally confirmed. Results of transcription factor activation experiments that used pharmacological inhibitors of kinases revealed a network organization of partial OR gates regulating kinases stacked above AND gates that control transcription factors, which together allow for distributed decision-making in CB1R-induced neurite outgrowth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth D. Bromberg
- Department of Pharmacology and Systems Therapeutics, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Avi Ma'ayan
- Department of Pharmacology and Systems Therapeutics, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Susana R. Neves
- Department of Pharmacology and Systems Therapeutics, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Ravi Iyengar
- Department of Pharmacology and Systems Therapeutics, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY 10029, USA
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130
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Bromberg KD, Iyengar R, He JC. Regulation of neurite outgrowth by G(i/o) signaling pathways. FRONT BIOSCI-LANDMRK 2008; 13:4544-57. [PMID: 18508528 DOI: 10.2741/3022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Neurogenesis is a long and winding journey. A neural progenitor cell migrates long distances, differentiates by forming a single axon and multiple dendrites, undergoes maturation, and ultimately survives. The initial formation of neurites during neuronal differentiation, commonly referred to as "neurite outgrowth," can be induced by a large repertoire of signals that stimulate an array of receptors and downstream signaling pathways. The G(i/o) family of heterotrimeric G-proteins are abundantly expressed in the brain and enriched at neuronal growth cones. Recent evidence has uncovered several G(i/o)-coupled receptors that induce neurite outgrowth and has begun to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms. Emerging data suggests that signals from several G(i/o)-coupled receptors converge at the transcription factor STAT3 to regulate neurite outgrowth and at Rac1 and Cdc42 to regulate cytoskeletal reorganization. Physiologically, signaling through G(i/o)-coupled cannabinoid receptors is critical for pro percentral nervous system development. As the mechanisms by which G(i/o)-coupled receptors regulate neurite outgrowth are clarified, it is becoming evident that modulating signals from G(i/o) and their receptors has great potential for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth D Bromberg
- Department of Pharmacology and Systems Therapeutics, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY 10029, USA.
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131
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Abstract
The hepatic wound-healing response is a complex process involving many different cell types and factors. It leads to the formation of excessive matrix and a fibrotic scar, which ultimately disrupts proper functioning of the liver and establishes cirrhosis. Activated hepatic myofibroblasts, which are derived from cells such as hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), play a key role in this process. Upon chronic liver injury, there is an upregulation in the local neuroendocrine system and it has recently been demonstrated that activated HSCs express specific receptors and respond to different components of this system. Neuroendocrine factors and their receptors participate in a complex network that modulates liver inflammation and wound healing, and controls the development and progression of liver fibrosis. The first part of this review provides an overview of the molecular mechanisms governing hepatic wound healing. In the second section, we explore important components of the hepatic neuroendocrine system and their recently highlighted roles in HSC biology and hepatic fibrogenesis. We discuss the therapeutic interventions that are being developed for use in antifibrotic therapy.
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132
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Activation of the endocannabinoid system by organophosphorus nerve agents. Nat Chem Biol 2008; 4:373-8. [PMID: 18438404 DOI: 10.1038/nchembio.86] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2008] [Accepted: 03/28/2008] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive ingredient of marijuana, has useful medicinal properties but also undesirable side effects. The brain receptor for THC, CB(1), is also activated by the endogenous cannabinoids anandamide and 2-arachidonylglycerol (2-AG). Augmentation of endocannabinoid signaling by blockade of their metabolism may offer a more selective pharmacological approach compared with CB(1) agonists. Consistent with this premise, inhibitors of the anandamide-degrading enzyme fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) produce analgesic and anxiolytic effects without cognitive defects. In contrast, we show that dual blockade of the endocannabinoid-degrading enzymes monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) and FAAH by selected organophosphorus agents leads to greater than ten-fold elevations in brain levels of both 2-AG and anandamide and to robust CB(1)-dependent behavioral effects that mirror those observed with CB(1) agonists. Arachidonic acid levels are decreased by the organophosphorus agents in amounts equivalent to elevations in 2-AG, which indicates that endocannabinoid and eicosanoid signaling pathways may be coordinately regulated in the brain.
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133
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Fezza F, De Simone C, Amadio D, Maccarrone M. Fatty acid amide hydrolase: a gate-keeper of the endocannabinoid system. Subcell Biochem 2008; 49:101-132. [PMID: 18751909 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4020-8831-5_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
The family of endocannabinoids contains several polyunsaturated fatty acid amides such as anandamide (AEA), but also esters such as 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG). These compounds are the main endogenous agonists of cannabinoid receptors, able to mimic several pharmacological effects of Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta9-THC), the active principle of Cannabis sativa preparations like hashish and marijuana. The activity of AEA at its receptors is limited by cellular uptake, through a putative membrane transporter, followed by intracellular degradation by fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). Growing evidence demonstrates that FAAH is the critical regulator of the endogenous levels of AEA, suggesting that it may serve as an attractive therapeutic target for the treatment of human disorders. In particular, FAAH inhibitors may be next generation therapeutics of potential value for the treatment of pathologies of the central nervous system, and of peripheral tissues. Investigations into the structure and function of FAAH, its biological and therapeutic implications, as well as a description of different families of FAAH inhibitors, are the topic of this chapter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filomena Fezza
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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134
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Cortical expression of brain derived neurotrophic factor and type-1 cannabinoid receptor after striatal excitotoxic lesions. Neuroscience 2007; 152:734-40. [PMID: 18313855 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2007.11.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2007] [Revised: 10/23/2007] [Accepted: 11/28/2007] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
An involvement of one particular neurotrophin, namely, the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), has been demonstrated in the pathophysiology Huntington's disease. Type-1 cannabinoid (CB1) receptor has been postulated to upregulate BDNF gene transcription. To better understand the relationship between CB1 and BDNF levels in a situation where the striatum is degenerating, we studied, by dual label immunofluorescence, the distribution of CB1 and BDNF in cortical neurons projecting to the striatum in our rat quinolinic acid model of striatal excitotoxicity. We completed our study with quantitative analyses of BDNF protein levels and CB1 binding activity in the cortex. We show that, 2 weeks post lesion, cortical neurons contain more BDNF compared with controls and to earlier time points. Such BDNF up-regulation coincides with a higher binding activity and an increased protein expression of CB1. We suggest that after excitotoxic lesions, CB1 might, at least transiently, upregulate BDNF in the attempt to rescue striatal neurons from degeneration.
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135
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Zani A, Braida D, Capurro V, Sala M. Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and AM 404 protect against cerebral ischaemia in gerbils through a mechanism involving cannabinoid and opioid receptors. Br J Pharmacol 2007; 152:1301-11. [PMID: 17965746 PMCID: PMC2189998 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjp.0707514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2007] [Revised: 09/07/2007] [Accepted: 09/18/2007] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE It has been suggested that the endocannabinoid system elicits neuroprotection against excitotoxic brain damage. In the present study the therapeutic potential of AM 404 on ischaemia-induced neuronal injury was investigated in vivo and compared with that of the classical cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) agonist, delta 9-tetraydrocannabinol (THC), using a model of transient global cerebral ischaemia in the gerbil. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH The effects of AM 404 (0.015-2 mg kg(-1)) and THC (0.05-2 mg kg(-1)), given 5 min after ischaemia, were measured from 1 h to 7 days in terms of electroencephalographic (EEG) total spectral power, spontaneous motor activity, memory function, rectal temperature and hippocampal CA1 neuronal count. KEY RESULTS Over the dose range tested, AM 404 (2 mg kg(-1)) and THC (1 mg kg(-1)) completely reversed the ischaemia-induced behavioural, EEG and histological damage. Only THC (1 and 2 mg kg(-1)) induced a decrease of body temperature. Pretreatment with the selective CB1 receptor antagonist, AM 251 (1 mg kg(-1)) and the opioid antagonist, naloxone (2 mg kg(-1)) reversed the protective effect induced by both AM 404 and THC while the TRPV1 vanilloid antagonist, capsazepine (0.01 mg kg(-1)), was ineffective. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Our findings demonstrate that AM 404 and THC reduce neuronal damage caused by bilateral carotid occlusion in gerbils and that this protection is mediated through an interaction with CB1 and opioid receptors. Endocannabinoids might form the basis for the development of new neuroprotective drugs useful for the treatment of stroke and other neurodegenerative pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Zani
- Department of Pharmacology, Chemotherapy and Medical Toxicology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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136
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Pagé D, Yang H, Brown W, Walpole C, Fleurent M, Fyfe M, Gaudreault F, St-Onge S. New 1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrrolo[3,4-b]indole derivatives as selective CB2 receptor agonists. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2007; 17:6183-7. [PMID: 17884494 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2007.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2007] [Revised: 09/04/2007] [Accepted: 09/05/2007] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The preparation and evaluation of a novel class of CB2 agonists based on a 1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrrolo[3,4-b]indole moiety are reported. They showed binding affinities up to 4.2 nM toward CB2 with sub-nanomolar EC(50) values. They also showed moderate to good (>350-fold) selectivity over the CB1 receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Pagé
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, AstraZeneca R&D Montreal, St-Laurent, Quebec, Canada.
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137
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Alexander SPH, Kendall DA. The complications of promiscuity: endocannabinoid action and metabolism. Br J Pharmacol 2007; 152:602-23. [PMID: 17876303 PMCID: PMC2190010 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjp.0707456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2007] [Revised: 08/15/2007] [Accepted: 08/16/2007] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
In this review, we present our understanding of the action and metabolism of endocannabinoids and related endogenous molecules. It is clear that the interactions between the multiple endocannabinoid-like molecules (ECLs) are highly complex, both at the level of signal transduction and metabolism. Thus, ECLs are a group of ligands active at 7-transmembrane and nuclear receptors, as well as transmitter-gated and ion channels. ECLs and their metabolites can converge on common endpoints (either metabolic or signalling) through contradictory or reinforcing pathways. We highlight the complexity of the endocannabinoid system, based on the promiscuous nature of ECLs and their metabolites, as well as the synthetic modulators of the endocannabinoid system.
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Affiliation(s)
- S P H Alexander
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Institute of Neuroscience, University of Nottingham Medical School, Nottingham NG7 7LP, UK.
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138
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Bisogno T, Di Marzo V. Short- and long-term plasticity of the endocannabinoid system in neuropsychiatric and neurological disorders. Pharmacol Res 2007; 56:428-42. [PMID: 17933549 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2007.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2007] [Accepted: 09/05/2007] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The activity of the endocannabinoid system, in terms of the levels of the endocannabinoids and of cannabinoid receptors, or of the functional coupling of the latter to a biological response, undergoes to remodelling during pathological conditions. In the CNS, these changes, depending also on the nature of the disorder, can be transient or long-lasting, occur only in those tissues involved in the pathological condition and usually aim at restoring the physiological homeostasis by reducing excitotoxicity, inflammation and neuronal death. However, during chronic disorders, prolonged activation of the endocannabinoid system might also contribute to the symptoms of the pathology. Whilst acute changes of the tissue levels of the endocannabinoids reflect the "on demand" nature of their biosynthesis and release, and hence are effected mostly through regulation of the biosynthetic enzymes, chronic changes seem to be mostly due to longer-lasting alterations in the expression of anabolic and catabolic enzymes. The possibility of obtaining therapeutic advantage from endocannabinoid plasticity in neuropsychiatric and neurological disorders is discussed in this review article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Bisogno
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Campi Flegrei 34, Pozzuoli, Naples, Italy
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139
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Cisneros JA, Vandevoorde S, Ortega-Gutiérrez S, Paris C, Fowler CJ, López-Rodríguez ML. Structure-activity relationship of a series of inhibitors of monoacylglycerol hydrolysis--comparison with effects upon fatty acid amide hydrolase. J Med Chem 2007; 50:5012-23. [PMID: 17764163 DOI: 10.1021/jm070642y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
A series of 32 heterocyclic analogues based on the structure of 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) were synthesized and tested for their ability to inhibit monoacylglycerol lipase and fatty acid amide hydrolase activities. The designed compounds feature a hydrophobic moiety and different heterocyclic subunits that mimic the glycerol fragment. This series has allowed us to carry out the first systematic structure-activity relationship study on inhibition of 2-AG hydrolysis. The most promising compounds were oxiran-2-ylmethyl (5Z,8Z,11Z,14Z)-icosa-5,8,11,14-tetraenoate (1) and tetrahydro-2H-pyran-2-ylmethyl (5Z,8Z,11Z,14Z)-icosa-5,8,11,14-tetraenoate (5). They inhibited cytosolic 2-oleoylglycerol (2-OG) hydrolysis completely (IC50 values of 4.5 and 5.6 muM, respectively). They also blocked, albeit less potently, 2-OG hydrolysis in membrane fractions (IC50 values of 19 and 26 muM, respectively) and anandamide hydrolysis (IC50 values of 12 and 51 muM, respectively). These compounds will be useful in delineating the importance of the cytosolic hydrolytic activity in the regulation of 2-AG levels and, hence, its potential as a target for drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Antonio Cisneros
- Departamento de Química OrgAnica I, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Complutense, E-28040 Madrid, Spain
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140
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Abstract
Lipid metabolism is of particular interest due to its high concentration in CNS. The importance of lipids in cell signaling and tissue physiology is demonstrated by many CNS disorders and injuries that involve deregulated metabolism. The long suffering lipid field is gaining reputation and respect as evidenced through the Center of Biomedical Research Excellence in Lipidomics and Pathobiology (COBRE), Lipid MAPS (Metabolites And Pathways Strategy) Consortium sponsored by NIH, European initiatives for decoding the lipids through genomic approaches, and Genomics of Lipid-associated Disorder (GOLD) project initiated by Austrian government. This review attempts to provide an overview of the lipid imbalances associated with neurological disorders (Alzheimer's, Parkinson's; Niemann-Pick; Multiple sclerosis, Huntington, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, schizophrenia, bipolar disorders and epilepsy) and CNS injury (Stroke, traumatic brain injury; and spinal cord injury) and a few provocative thoughts. Lipidomic analyses along with RNA silencing will provide new insights into the role of lipid intermediates in cell signaling and hopefully open new avenues for prevention or treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rao Muralikrishna Adibhatla
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
- Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
- Neuroscience Training Program, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
- Veterans Administration Hospital, Madison, WI
| | - J. F. Hatcher
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
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141
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Bisogno T, Martire A, Petrosino S, Popoli P, Di Marzo V. Symptom-related changes of endocannabinoid and palmitoylethanolamide levels in brain areas of R6/2 mice, a transgenic model of Huntington's disease. Neurochem Int 2007; 52:307-13. [PMID: 17664017 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2007.06.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2007] [Revised: 06/18/2007] [Accepted: 06/28/2007] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have shown an impairment of the endocannabinoid system in experimental models of Huntington's disease. In transgenic R6/2 mice, created by inserting exon 1 of the human IT15 mutant gene into the mouse, and exhibiting 150 CAG repeats as well as signs of HD, a progressive decline of CB(1) receptor expression and an abnormal sensitivity to CB(1) receptor stimulation have been reported. Here, by using isotope-dilution liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, we investigated whether the levels of three endogenous neuroprotective substances, the endocannabinoids anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), and palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), are altered in different brain areas of transgenic R6/2 versus wild-type (WT) mice at two different disease phases, i.e. in pre-symptomatic (4.5 weeks) or overtly symptomatic (10 weeks) R6/2 mice versus age-matched WT mice (n=4/group). Except for a approximately 25% decrease in 2-AG levels in the cortex, no significant changes in endocannabinoid and PEA levels were observed in pre-symptomatic R6/2 versus WT mice. By contrast, in symptomatic R6/2 mice the levels of all three compounds were significantly (approximately 30-60%) decreased in the striatum, whereas little changes were observed in the hippocampus, and a approximately 28% decrease of 2-AG levels, accompanied by a approximately 50% increase of AEA levels, was found in the cortex. These findings show that endocannabinoid levels change in a disease phase- and region-specific way in the brain of R6/2 mice and indicate that an impaired endocannabinoid system is a hallmark of symptomatic HD, thus suggesting that drugs inhibiting endocannabinoid degradation might be used to treat this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Bisogno
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Naples, Italy
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