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Vitale RM, Iannotti FA, Schiano Moriello A, Tunisi L, Piscitelli F, Savopoulos R, Cristino L, De Petrocellis L, Amodeo P, Gray R, Di Marzo V. Identification and Characterization of Cannabidiol as an OX1R Antagonist by Computational and In Vitro Functional Validation. Biomolecules 2021; 11:1134. [PMID: 34439801 PMCID: PMC8394412 DOI: 10.3390/biom11081134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The potential, multifaceted therapeutic profile of cannabidiol (CBD), a major constituent derived from the Cannabis sativa plant, covers a wide range of neurological and psychiatric disorders, ranging from anxiety to pediatric epilepsy and drug addiction. However, the molecular targets responsible for these effects have been only partially identified. In this view, the involvement of the orexin system, the key regulator in arousal and the sleep/wake cycle, and in motivation and reward processes, including drug addiction, prompted us to explore, using computational and experimental approaches, the possibility that CBD could act as a ligand of orexin receptors, orexin 1 receptor of type 1 (OX1R) and type 2 (OX2R). Ligand-binding assays showed that CBD is a selective ligand of OX1R in the low micromolar range (Ki 1.58 ± 0.2 μM) while in vitro functional assays, carried out by intracellular calcium imaging and mobilization assays, showed that CBD acts as an antagonist at this receptor. Finally, the putative binding mode of CBD has been inferred by molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations and its selectivity toward the OX1R subtype rationalized at the molecular level. This study provides the first evidence that CBD acts as an OX1R antagonist, supporting its potential use in addictive disorders and/or body weight regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Maria Vitale
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council (ICB-CNR), Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy; (F.A.I.); (F.P.); (L.C.); (L.D.); (P.A.)
| | - Fabio Arturo Iannotti
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council (ICB-CNR), Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy; (F.A.I.); (F.P.); (L.C.); (L.D.); (P.A.)
- Endocannabinoid Research Group (ERG), Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council (ICB-CNR), Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy; (A.S.M.); (L.T.)
| | - Aniello Schiano Moriello
- Endocannabinoid Research Group (ERG), Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council (ICB-CNR), Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy; (A.S.M.); (L.T.)
- Epitech Group SpA, Saccolongo, 35100 Padova, Italy
| | - Lea Tunisi
- Endocannabinoid Research Group (ERG), Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council (ICB-CNR), Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy; (A.S.M.); (L.T.)
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Fabiana Piscitelli
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council (ICB-CNR), Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy; (F.A.I.); (F.P.); (L.C.); (L.D.); (P.A.)
- Endocannabinoid Research Group (ERG), Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council (ICB-CNR), Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy; (A.S.M.); (L.T.)
| | - Ranjev Savopoulos
- GW Research Ltd., Sovereign House, Vision Park, Histon, Cambridge CB24 9BZ, UK; (R.S.); (R.G.)
| | - Luigia Cristino
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council (ICB-CNR), Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy; (F.A.I.); (F.P.); (L.C.); (L.D.); (P.A.)
- Endocannabinoid Research Group (ERG), Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council (ICB-CNR), Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy; (A.S.M.); (L.T.)
| | - Luciano De Petrocellis
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council (ICB-CNR), Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy; (F.A.I.); (F.P.); (L.C.); (L.D.); (P.A.)
- Endocannabinoid Research Group (ERG), Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council (ICB-CNR), Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy; (A.S.M.); (L.T.)
| | - Pietro Amodeo
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council (ICB-CNR), Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy; (F.A.I.); (F.P.); (L.C.); (L.D.); (P.A.)
| | - Roy Gray
- GW Research Ltd., Sovereign House, Vision Park, Histon, Cambridge CB24 9BZ, UK; (R.S.); (R.G.)
| | - Vincenzo Di Marzo
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council (ICB-CNR), Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy; (F.A.I.); (F.P.); (L.C.); (L.D.); (P.A.)
- Endocannabinoid Research Group (ERG), Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council (ICB-CNR), Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy; (A.S.M.); (L.T.)
- Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health (CERC-MEND), Université Laval, Quebec City, QC G1V 4G5, Canada
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102
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Hashiesh HM, Sharma C, Goyal SN, Jha NK, Ojha S. Pharmacological Properties, Therapeutic Potential and Molecular Mechanisms of JWH133, a CB2 Receptor-Selective Agonist. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:702675. [PMID: 34393784 PMCID: PMC8363263 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.702675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system has attracted attention as a pharmacological target for several pathological conditions. Cannabinoid (CB2)-selective agonists have been the focus of pharmacological studies because modulation of the CB2 receptor (CB2R) can be useful in the treatment of pain, inflammation, arthritis, addiction, and cancer among other possible therapeutic applications while circumventing CNS-related adverse effects. Increasing number of evidences from different independent preclinical studies have suggested new perspectives on the involvement of CB2R signaling in inflammation, infection and immunity, thus play important role in cancer, cardiovascular, renal, hepatic and metabolic diseases. JWH133 is a synthetic agonist with high CB2R selectivity and showed to exert CB2R mediated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, gastroprotective, nephroprotective, and immunomodulatory activities. Cumulative evidences suggest that JWH133 protects against hepatic injury, renal injury, cardiotoxicity, fibrosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and cancer as well as against oxidative damage and inflammation, inhibits fibrosis and apoptosis, and acts as an immunosuppressant. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the polypharmacological properties and therapeutic potential of JWH133. This review also presents molecular mechanism and signaling pathways of JWH133 under various pathological conditions except neurological diseases. Based on the available data, this review proposes the possibilities of developing JWH133 as a promising therapeutic agent; however, further safety and toxicity studies in preclinical studies and clinical trials in humans are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hebaallah Mamdouh Hashiesh
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Charu Sharma
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Sameer N Goyal
- Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal's Institute of Pharmacy, Dhule, India
| | - Niraj Kumar Jha
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Engineering and Technology (SET), Sharda University, Greater Noida, India
| | - Shreesh Ojha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates.,Zayed Bin Sultan Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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103
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Pandelides Z, Aluru N, Thornton C, Watts HE, Willett KL. Transcriptomic Changes and the Roles of Cannabinoid Receptors and PPARγ in Developmental Toxicities Following Exposure to Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol and Cannabidiol. Toxicol Sci 2021; 182:44-59. [PMID: 33892503 PMCID: PMC8285010 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfab046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Human consumption of cannabinoid-containing products during early life or pregnancy is rising. However, information about the molecular mechanisms involved in early life stage Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) toxicities is critically lacking. Here, larval zebrafish (Danio rerio) were used to measure THC- and CBD-mediated changes on transcriptome and the roles of cannabinoid receptors (Cnr) 1 and 2 and peroxisome proliferator activator receptor γ (PPARγ) in developmental toxicities. Transcriptomic profiling of 96-h postfertilization (hpf) cnr+/+ embryos exposed (6 - 96 hpf) to 4 μM THC or 0.5 μM CBD showed differential expression of 904 and 1095 genes for THC and CBD, respectively, with 360 in common. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways enriched in the THC and CBD datasets included those related to drug, retinol, and steroid metabolism and PPAR signaling. The THC exposure caused increased mortality and deformities (pericardial and yolk sac edemas, reduction in length) in cnr1-/- and cnr2-/- fish compared with cnr+/+ suggesting Cnr receptors are involved in protective pathways. Conversely, the cnr1-/- larvae were more resistant to CBD-induced malformations, mortality, and behavioral alteration implicating Cnr1 in CBD-mediated toxicity. Behavior (decreased distance travelled) was the most sensitive endpoint to THC and CBD exposure. Coexposure to the PPARγ inhibitor GW9662 and CBD in cnr+/+ and cnr2-/- strains caused more adverse outcomes compared with CBD alone, but not in the cnr1-/- fish, suggesting that PPARγ plays a role in CBD metabolism downstream of Cnr1. Collectively, PPARγ, Cnr1, and Cnr2 play important roles in the developmental toxicity of cannabinoids with Cnr1 being the most critical.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zacharias Pandelides
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, Mississippi 38677, USA
| | - Neelakanteswar Aluru
- Biology Department, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and Woods Hole Center for Oceans and Human Health, Woods Hole, Massachusetts 02543, USA
| | - Cammi Thornton
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, Mississippi 38677, USA
| | - Haley E Watts
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, Mississippi 38677, USA
| | - Kristine L Willett
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, Mississippi 38677, USA
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104
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Silva-Cardoso GK, Lazarini-Lopes W, Hallak JE, Crippa JA, Zuardi AW, Garcia-Cairasco N, Leite-Panissi CRA. Cannabidiol effectively reverses mechanical and thermal allodynia, hyperalgesia, and anxious behaviors in a neuropathic pain model: Possible role of CB1 and TRPV1 receptors. Neuropharmacology 2021; 197:108712. [PMID: 34274349 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The incidence of chronic pain is high in the general population and it is closely related to anxiety disorders, which promote negative effects on the quality of life. The cannabinoid system has essential participation in the pain sensitivity circuit. In this perspective, cannabidiol (CBD) is considered a promising strategy for treating neuropathic pain. Our study aimed to evaluate the effects of sub-chronic systemic treatment with CBD (0.3, 3, 10, or 30 mg/kg, i.p.) in male in rats submitted to chronic constriction injury of the sciatic nerve (CCI) or not (SHAM) and assessed in nociceptive tests (von Frey, acetone, and hot plate, three days CBD's treatment) and in the open field test (OFT, two days CBD's treatment). We performed a screening immunoreactivity of CB1 and TRPV1 receptors in cortical and limbic regions tissues, which were collected after 1.5 h of behavioral tests on the 24th experimental day. This study presents a dose-response curve to understand better the effects of low doses (3 mg/kg) on CBD's antiallodynic and anxiolytic effects. Also, low doses of CBD were able to (1) reverse mechanical and thermal allodynia (cold) and hyperalgesia, (2) reverse anxious behaviors (reduction of the % of grooming and freezing time, and increase of the % of center time in the OFT) induced by chronic pain. The peripheral neuropathy promoted the increase in the expression of CB1 and TRPV1 receptors in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), anterior insular cortex (AIC), basolateral amygdala (BLA), dorsal hippocampus (DH), and ventral hippocampus (VH). CBD potentiated this effect in the ACC, AIC, BLA, DH, and VH regions. These results provide substantial evidence of the role of the ACC-AIC-BLA corticolimbic circuit, and BLA-VH for pain regulation. These results can be clinically relevant since they contribute to the evidence of CBD's beneficial effects on treating chronic pain and associated comorbidities such as anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gleice K Silva-Cardoso
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Philosophy, Science and Letters of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil; National Institute for Translational Medicine (INCT-TM; CNPq), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Willian Lazarini-Lopes
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Brazil; National Institute for Translational Medicine (INCT-TM; CNPq), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jaime E Hallak
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Brazil; National Institute for Translational Medicine (INCT-TM; CNPq), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - José A Crippa
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Brazil; National Institute for Translational Medicine (INCT-TM; CNPq), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Antonio W Zuardi
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Brazil; National Institute for Translational Medicine (INCT-TM; CNPq), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Norberto Garcia-Cairasco
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Physiology, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Christie R A Leite-Panissi
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Philosophy, Science and Letters of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil; National Institute for Translational Medicine (INCT-TM; CNPq), São Paulo, Brazil.
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105
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Martin EL, Doncheck EM, Reichel CM, McRae-Clark AL. Consideration of sex as a biological variable in the translation of pharmacotherapy for stress-associated drug seeking. Neurobiol Stress 2021; 15:100364. [PMID: 34345636 PMCID: PMC8319013 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2021.100364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Stress is a frequent precipitant of relapse to drug use. Pharmacotherapies targeting a diverse array of neural systems have been assayed for efficacy in attenuating stress-induced drug-seeking in both rodents and in humans, but none have shown enough evidence of utility to warrant routine use in the clinic. We posit that a critical barrier in effective translation is inattention to sex as a biological variable at all phases of the research process. In this review, we detail the neurobiological systems implicated in stress-induced relapse to cocaine, opioids, methamphetamine, and cannabis, as well as the pharmacotherapies that have been used to target these systems in rodent models, the human laboratory, and in clinical trials. In each of these areas we additionally describe the potential influences of biological sex on outcomes, and how inattention to fundamental sex differences can lead to biases during drug development that contribute to the limited success of large clinical trials. Based on these observations, we determine that of the pharmacotherapies discussed only α2-adrenergic receptor agonists and oxytocin have a body of research with sufficient consideration of biological sex to warrant further clinical evaluation. Pharmacotherapies that target β-adrenergic receptors, other neuroactive peptides, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, neuroactive steroids, and the endogenous opioid and cannabinoid systems require further assessment in females at the preclinical and human laboratory levels before progression to clinical trials can be recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin L Martin
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Elizabeth M Doncheck
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Carmela M Reichel
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Aimee L McRae-Clark
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
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106
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Holloman BL, Nagarkatti M, Nagarkatti P. Epigenetic Regulation of Cannabinoid-Mediated Attenuation of Inflammation and Its Impact on the Use of Cannabinoids to Treat Autoimmune Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22147302. [PMID: 34298921 PMCID: PMC8307988 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic inflammation is considered to be a silent killer because it is the underlying cause of a wide range of clinical disorders, from cardiovascular to neurological diseases, and from cancer to obesity. In addition, there are over 80 different types of debilitating autoimmune diseases for which there are no cure. Currently, the drugs that are available to suppress chronic inflammation are either ineffective or overtly suppress the inflammation, thereby causing increased susceptibility to infections and cancer. Thus, the development of a new class of drugs that can suppress chronic inflammation is imperative. Cannabinoids are a group of compounds produced in the body (endocannabinoids) or found in cannabis (phytocannabinoids) that act through cannabinoid receptors and various other receptors expressed widely in the brain and immune system. In the last decade, cannabinoids have been well established experimentally to mediate anti-inflammatory properties. Research has shown that they suppress inflammation through multiple pathways, including apoptosis and inducing immunosuppressive T regulatory cells (Tregs) and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs). Interestingly, cannabinoids also mediate epigenetic alterations in genes that regulate inflammation. In the current review, we highlight how the epigenetic modulations caused by cannabinoids lead to the suppression of inflammation and help identify novel pathways that can be used to target autoimmune diseases.
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107
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Schlag AK, Hindocha C, Zafar R, Nutt DJ, Curran HV. Cannabis based medicines and cannabis dependence: A critical review of issues and evidence. J Psychopharmacol 2021; 35:773-785. [PMID: 33593117 PMCID: PMC8278552 DOI: 10.1177/0269881120986393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis has been legalised for medical use in an ever-increasing number of countries. A growing body of scientific evidence supports the use of medical cannabis for a range of therapeutic indications. In parallel with these developments, concerns have been expressed by many prescribers that increased use will lead to patients developing cannabis use disorder. Cannabis use disorder has been widely studied in recreational users, and these findings have often been projected onto patients using medical cannabis. However, studies exploring medical cannabis dependence are scarce and the appropriate methodology to measure this construct is uncertain. This article provides a narrative review of the current research to discern if, how and to what extent, concerns about problems of dependence in recreational cannabis users apply to prescribed medical users. We focus on the main issues related to medical cannabis and dependence, including the importance of dose, potency, cannabinoid content, pharmacokinetics and route of administration, frequency of use, as well as set and setting. Medical and recreational cannabis use differs in significant ways, highlighting the challenges of extrapolating findings from the recreational cannabis literature. There are many questions about the potential for medical cannabis use to lead to dependence. It is therefore imperative to address these questions in order to be able to minimise harms of medical cannabis use. We draw out seven recommendations for increasing the safety of medical cannabis prescribing. We hope that the present review contributes to answering some of the key questions surrounding medical cannabis dependence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne K Schlag
- Drug Science, St Peter’s House, London, UK
- Neuropsychopharmacology Unit, Centre for Psychiatry, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Chandni Hindocha
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, University College London, London, UK
- University College Hospital National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
| | - Rayyan Zafar
- Drug Science, St Peter’s House, London, UK
- Neuropsychopharmacology Unit, Centre for Psychiatry, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - David J Nutt
- Drug Science, St Peter’s House, London, UK
- Neuropsychopharmacology Unit, Centre for Psychiatry, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - H Valerie Curran
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, University College London, London, UK
- University College Hospital National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
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108
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Calpe-López C, Gasparyan A, Navarrete F, Manzanares J, Miñarro J, Aguilar MA. Cannabidiol prevents priming- and stress-induced reinstatement of the conditioned place preference induced by cocaine in mice. J Psychopharmacol 2021; 35:864-874. [PMID: 33427014 DOI: 10.1177/0269881120965952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cocaine dependence is an important problem without any effective pharmacological treatment. Some preclinical studies have suggested that cannabidiol (CBD), a component of the Cannabis sativa plant, could be useful for the treatment of cocaine use disorders. AIMS This work aims to evaluate the ability of CBD to reduce priming- and stress-induced reinstatement of the conditioned place preference (CPP) induced by cocaine. METHODS Young adult CD-1 male mice were allocated to 10 groups (n = 12/group), conditioned with cocaine (10 mg/kg) and exposed to extinction of CPP (two sessions per week). When extinction was achieved, each group received the corresponding treatment before the reinstatement test. In experiment 1, six groups were used: vehicle+saline (Veh+Sal), 5 mg/kg cocaine alone (Veh+Coc) or with CBD 30 or 60 mg/kg (CBD30+Coc, CBD60+Coc) and CBD alone (CBD30+Sal, CBD60+Sal). In experiment 2, four groups were used: exploration (Veh+Expl), social defeat (Veh+SD) and social defeat with CBD (CBD30+SD and CBD60+SD). Furthermore, the relative gene expression of the dopamine transporter (DAT) in the ventral tegmental area was measured. RESULTS All mice acquired cocaine CPP and extinguished it after three or four weeks. Only the groups treated with cocaine priming (Veh+Coc) or exposed to social defeat (Veh+SD) showed reinstatement of CPP. Interestingly, CBD itself did not induce reinstatement and blocked the reinstating effects of cocaine priming and social defeat. Furthermore, cocaine priming increased DAT gene expression in the ventral tegmental area and CBD completely reversed this effect. CONCLUSION These results suggest that CBD could reduce reinstatement to cocaine seeking after a period of abstinence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Calpe-López
- Unit of Research 'Neurobehavioural mechanisms and endophenotypes of addictive behaviour', Departamento de Psicobiología, Facultad de Psicología, Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain
| | - Ani Gasparyan
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Alicante, Spain.,Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco Navarrete
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Alicante, Spain.,Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jorge Manzanares
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Alicante, Spain.,Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jose Miñarro
- Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain.,Unidad de Investigación Psicobiología de las Drogodependencias, Departamento de Psicobiología, Facultad de Psicología, Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain
| | - Maria A Aguilar
- Unit of Research 'Neurobehavioural mechanisms and endophenotypes of addictive behaviour', Departamento de Psicobiología, Facultad de Psicología, Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain.,Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
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109
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Cochrane-Snyman KC, Cruz C, Morales J, Coles M. The Effects of Cannabidiol Oil on Noninvasive Measures of Muscle Damage in Men. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2021; 53:1460-1472. [PMID: 33481484 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000002606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to investigate the effect of CBD oil on perceived muscle soreness, inflammation, and strength performance after eccentric exercise (ECC) of the elbow flexors. METHODS Thirteen untrained men (mean ± SD age, 21.85 ± 2.73 yr) performed 6 sets of 10 maximal ECC isokinetic muscle actions of the elbow flexors as part of a double-blind crossover design. Noninvasive (perceived soreness, arm circumference, hanging joint angle (JA), and peak torque (PT)) measures were taken before and after ECC, and 24, 48, and 72 h after ECC. All subjects completed both the supplement (CBD: 150 mg POST, 24 h, 48 h) and placebo (PLC: POST, 24 h, 48 h) condition separated by 2 wk. Four separate two-way repeated-measures ANOVA (condition [CBD vs PLC] × time [PRE vs POST vs 24 h vs 48 h vs 72 h]) were used to analyze perceived soreness, arm circumference, JA, and PT. One-way repeated-measures ANOVA were used to decompose significant interactions and main effects. RESULTS There was no condition-time interaction or main effect of condition (P > 0.05) for perceived soreness, arm circumference, JA, or PT. There were main effects for time for perceived soreness (P = 0.000, ηp2 = 0.71) and JA (P = 0.006, ηp2 = 0.35). CONCLUSIONS The current dose of 150 mg CBD oil at POST, 24 h, and 48 h had no effect on noninvasive markers of muscle damage in the upper extremity. At the current dose and schedule, CBD oil may not be beneficial for untrained men as a recovery aid after exercise-induced muscle damage.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Candelaria Cruz
- Department of Kinesiology, California State University, Fresno, Fresno, CA
| | - Jacobo Morales
- Department of Kinesiology, California State University, Fresno, Fresno, CA
| | - Michael Coles
- Department of Kinesiology, California State University, Fresno, Fresno, CA
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110
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Finn DP, Haroutounian S, Hohmann AG, Krane E, Soliman N, Rice ASC. Cannabinoids, the endocannabinoid system, and pain: a review of preclinical studies. Pain 2021; 162:S5-S25. [PMID: 33729211 PMCID: PMC8819673 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT This narrative review represents an output from the International Association for the Study of Pain's global task force on the use of cannabis, cannabinoids, and cannabis-based medicines for pain management, informed by our companion systematic review and meta-analysis of preclinical studies in this area. Our aims in this review are (1) to describe the value of studying cannabinoids and endogenous cannabinoid (endocannabinoid) system modulators in preclinical/animal models of pain; (2) to discuss both pain-related efficacy and additional pain-relevant effects (adverse and beneficial) of cannabinoids and endocannabinoid system modulators as they pertain to animal models of pathological or injury-related persistent pain; and (3) to identify important directions for future research. In service of these goals, this review (1) provides an overview of the endocannabinoid system and the pharmacology of cannabinoids and endocannabinoid system modulators, with specific relevance to animal models of pathological or injury-related persistent pain; (2) describes pharmacokinetics of cannabinoids in rodents and humans; and (3) highlights differences and discrepancies between preclinical and clinical studies in this area. Preclinical (rodent) models have advanced our understanding of the underlying sites and mechanisms of action of cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system in suppressing nociceptive signaling and behaviors. We conclude that substantial evidence from animal models supports the contention that cannabinoids and endocannabinoid system modulators hold considerable promise for analgesic drug development, although the challenge of translating this knowledge into clinically useful medicines is not to be underestimated.
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Affiliation(s)
- David P Finn
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Galway Neuroscience Centre and Centre for Pain Research, Human Biology Building, National University of Ireland Galway, University Road, Galway, Ireland
| | - Simon Haroutounian
- Department of Anesthesiology and Washington University Pain Center, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Andrea G Hohmann
- Psychological and Brain Sciences, Program in Neuroscience, and Gill Center for Biomolecular Science, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Elliot Krane
- Departments of Anesthesiology, Perioperative, and Pain Medicine, & Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Nadia Soliman
- Pain Research, Department of Surgery & Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, UK
| | - Andrew SC Rice
- Pain Research, Department of Surgery & Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, UK
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Gasparyan A, Navarrete F, Manzanares J. Cannabidiol and Sertraline Regulate Behavioral and Brain Gene Expression Alterations in an Animal Model of PTSD. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:694510. [PMID: 34262461 PMCID: PMC8273267 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.694510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This study evaluated the effects of cannabidiol (CBD) and/or sertraline (STR) on behavioral and gene expression alterations induced by a new chronic animal model of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). C57BL/6J male mice were repeatedly exposed to physical and psychogenic alternate stressful stimuli. Fear-related memory and anxiety-like behaviors were evaluated. The effects of the administration of CBD (20 mg/kg, i.p.) and/or STR (10 mg/kg, p.o.) were analyzed on behavioral and gene expression changes induced by the model of PTSD. Gene expression alterations of targets related with stress regulation, endocannabinoid and serotonergic systems were analyzed by real-time PCR. The results revealed an increased and long-lasting fear-related memory and anxiety-like behaviors in mice exposed to the animal model of PTSD. Treatment with CBD improved these behaviors in PTSD animals, effects that were significantly potentiated when combined with STR. Gene expression analyses revealed a long-term increase of corticotropin releasing factor (Crf) that was significantly normalized with the combination CBD plus STR. Cannabinoid receptors (Cnr1 and Cnr2) were up regulated in PTSD mice whereas the serotonin transporter (Slc6a4) was reduced. Interestingly, CBD and STR alone or combined induced a significant and marked increase of Slc6a4 gene expression. These results point out the cooperative action of the combination CBD plus STR to enhance fear extinction and reduce anxiety-like behaviors, normalizing gene expression alterations in this animal model of PTSD and suggesting that the combination of CBD with STR deserves to be further explored for the treatment of patients with PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ani Gasparyan
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Alicante, Spain.,Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco Navarrete
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Alicante, Spain.,Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jorge Manzanares
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Alicante, Spain.,Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
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Shared Biological Pathways between Antipsychotics and Omega-3 Fatty Acids: A Key Feature for Schizophrenia Preventive Treatment? Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22136881. [PMID: 34206945 PMCID: PMC8269187 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22136881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia typically emerges during adolescence, with progression from an ultra-high risk state (UHR) to the first episode of psychosis (FEP) followed by a chronic phase. The detailed pathophysiology of schizophrenia and the factors leading to progression across these stages remain relatively unknown. The current treatment relies on antipsychotics, which are effective for FEP and chronic schizophrenia but ineffective for UHR patients. Antipsychotics modulate dopaminergic and glutamatergic neurotransmission, inflammation, oxidative stress, and membrane lipids pathways. Many of these biological pathways intercommunicate and play a role in schizophrenia pathophysiology. In this context, research of preventive treatment in early stages has explored the antipsychotic effects of omega-3 supplementation in UHR and FEP patients. This review summarizes the action of omega-3 in various biological systems involved in schizophrenia. Similar to antipsychotics, omega-3 supplementation reduces inflammation and oxidative stress, improves myelination, modifies the properties of cell membranes, and influences dopamine and glutamate pathways. Omega-3 supplementation also modulates one-carbon metabolism, the endocannabinoid system, and appears to present neuroprotective properties. Omega-3 has little side effects compared to antipsychotics and may be safely prescribed for UHR patients and as an add-on for FEP patients. This could to lead to more efficacious individualised treatments, thus contributing to precision medicine in psychiatry.
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113
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Potential and Limits of Cannabinoids in Alzheimer's Disease Therapy. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10060542. [PMID: 34204237 PMCID: PMC8234911 DOI: 10.3390/biology10060542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary This review was aimed at exploring the potentiality of drugging the endocannabinoid system as a therapeutic option for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Recent discoveries have demonstrated how the modulation of cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) and receptor 2 (CB2) can exert neuroprotective effects without the recreational and pharmacological properties of Cannabis sativa. Thus, this review explores the potential of cannabinoids in AD, also highlighting their limitations in perspective to point out the need for further research on cannabinoids in AD therapy. Abstract Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a detrimental brain disorder characterized by a gradual cognitive decline and neuronal deterioration. To date, the treatments available are effective only in the early stage of the disease. The AD etiology has not been completely revealed, and investigating new pathological mechanisms is essential for developing effective and safe drugs. The recreational and pharmacological properties of marijuana are known for centuries, but only recently the scientific community started to investigate the potential use of cannabinoids in AD therapy—sometimes with contradictory outcomes. Since the endocannabinoid system (ECS) is highly expressed in the hippocampus and cortex, cannabis use/abuse has often been associated with memory and learning dysfunction in vulnerable individuals. However, the latest findings in AD rodent models have shown promising effects of cannabinoids in reducing amyloid plaque deposition and stimulating hippocampal neurogenesis. Beneficial effects on several dementia-related symptoms have also been reported in clinical trials after cannabinoid treatments. Accordingly, future studies should address identifying the correct therapeutic dosage and timing of treatment from the perspective of using cannabinoids in AD therapy. The present paper aims to summarize the potential and limitations of cannabinoids as therapeutics for AD, focusing on recent pre-clinical and clinical evidence.
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Cannabinoids-based Medicine Pharmacology, Drug Interactions, and Perioperative Management of Surgical Patients. Adv Anesth 2021; 38:167-188. [PMID: 34106833 DOI: 10.1016/j.aan.2020.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Petrie GN, Nastase AS, Aukema RJ, Hill MN. Endocannabinoids, cannabinoids and the regulation of anxiety. Neuropharmacology 2021; 195:108626. [PMID: 34116110 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis has been used for hundreds of years, with its ability to dampen feelings of anxiety often reported as a primary reason for use. Only recently has the specific role cannabinoids play in anxiety been thoroughly investigated. Here we discuss the body of evidence describing how endocannabinoids and exogenous cannabinoids are capable of regulating the generation and termination of anxiety states. Disruption of the endogenous cannabinoid (eCB) system following genetic manipulation, pharmacological intervention or stress exposure reliably leads to the generation of an anxiety state. On the other hand, upregulation of eCB signaling is capable of alleviating anxiety-like behaviors in multiple paradigms. When considering exogenous cannabinoid administration, cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) agonists have a biphasic, dose-dependent effect on anxiety such that low doses are anxiolytic while high doses are anxiogenic, a phenomenon that is evident in both rodent models and humans. Translational studies investigating a loss of function mutation in the gene for fatty acid amide hydrolase, the enzyme responsible for metabolizing AEA, have also shown that AEA signaling regulates anxiety in humans. Taken together, evidence reviewed here has outlined a convincing argument for cannabinoids being powerful regulators of both the manifestation and amelioration of anxiety symptoms, and highlights the therapeutic potential of targeting the eCB system for the development of novel classes of anxiolytics. This article is part of the special issue on 'Cannabinoids'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gavin N Petrie
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute and the Mathison Centre for Mental Health Education and Research, Departments of Cell Biology and Anatomy & Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Andrei S Nastase
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute and the Mathison Centre for Mental Health Education and Research, Departments of Cell Biology and Anatomy & Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Robert J Aukema
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute and the Mathison Centre for Mental Health Education and Research, Departments of Cell Biology and Anatomy & Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Matthew N Hill
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute and the Mathison Centre for Mental Health Education and Research, Departments of Cell Biology and Anatomy & Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada.
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Ferrisi R, Ceni C, Bertini S, Macchia M, Manera C, Gado F. Medicinal Chemistry approach, pharmacology and neuroprotective benefits of CB 2R modulators in neurodegenerative diseases. Pharmacol Res 2021; 170:105607. [PMID: 34089867 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
In the last decades, cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2R) has continued to receive attention as a key therapeutic target in neuroprotection. Indeed, several findings highlight the neuroprotective effects of CB2R through suppression of both neuronal excitability and reactive microglia. Additionally, CB2R seems to be a more promising target than cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1R) thanks to the lack of central side effects, its lower expression levels in the central nervous system (CNS), and its inducibility, since its expression enhances quickly in the brain following pathological conditions. This review aims to provide a thorough overview of the main natural and synthetic selective CB2R modulators, their chemical classification and their potential therapeutic usefulness in neuroprotection, a crucial aspect for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Ferrisi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Costanza Ceni
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Simone Bertini
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Marco Macchia
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | | | - Francesca Gado
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
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Ghovanloo MR, Ruben PC. Cannabidiol and Sodium Channel Pharmacology: General Overview, Mechanism, and Clinical Implications. Neuroscientist 2021; 28:318-334. [PMID: 34027742 PMCID: PMC9344566 DOI: 10.1177/10738584211017009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Voltage-gated sodium (Nav) channels initiate action potentials in excitable tissues. Altering these channels' function can lead to many pathophysiological conditions. Nav channels are composed of several functional and structural domains that could be targeted pharmacologically as potential therapeutic means against various neurological conditions. Mutations in Nav channels have been suggested to underlie various clinical syndromes in different tissues and in association with conditions ranging from epileptic to muscular problems. Treating those mutations that increase the excitability of Nav channels requires inhibitors that could effectively reduce channel firing. The main non-psychotropic constituent of the cannabis plant, cannabidiol (CBD), has recently gained interest as a viable compound to treat some of the conditions that are associated with Nav malfunctions. In this review, we discuss an overview of Nav channels followed by an in-depth description of the interactions of CBD and Nav channels. We conclude with some clinical implications of CBD use against Nav hyperexcitability based on a series of preclinical studies published to date, with a focus on Nav/CBD interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad-Reza Ghovanloo
- Department of Biomedical Physiology & Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.,Center for Neuroscience & Regeneration Research, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Peter C Ruben
- Department of Biomedical Physiology & Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
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118
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Navarrete F, García-Gutiérrez MS, Gasparyan A, Austrich-Olivares A, Manzanares J. Role of Cannabidiol in the Therapeutic Intervention for Substance Use Disorders. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:626010. [PMID: 34093179 PMCID: PMC8173061 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.626010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug treatments available for the management of substance use disorders (SUD) present multiple limitations in efficacy, lack of approved treatments or alarming relapse rates. These facts hamper the clinical outcome and the quality of life of the patients supporting the importance to develop new pharmacological agents. Lately, several reports suggest that cannabidiol (CBD) presents beneficial effects relevant for the management of neurological disorders such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's, or Alzheimer's diseases. Furthermore, there is a large body of evidence pointing out that CBD improves cognition, neurogenesis and presents anxiolytic, antidepressant, antipsychotic, and neuroprotective effects suggesting potential usefulness for the treatment of neuropsychiatric diseases and SUD. Here we review preclinical and clinical reports regarding the effects of CBD on the regulation of the reinforcing, motivational and withdrawal-related effects of different drugs of abuse such as alcohol, opioids (morphine, heroin), cannabinoids, nicotine, and psychostimulants (cocaine, amphetamine). Furthermore, a special section of the review is focused on the neurobiological mechanisms that might be underlying the 'anti-addictive' action of CBD through the regulation of dopaminergic, opioidergic, serotonergic, and endocannabinoid systems as well as hippocampal neurogenesis. The multimodal pharmacological profile described for CBD and the specific regulation of addictive behavior-related targets explains, at least in part, its therapeutic effects on the regulation of the reinforcing and motivational properties of different drugs of abuse. Moreover, the remarkable safety profile of CBD, its lack of reinforcing properties and the existence of approved medications containing this compound (Sativex®, Epidiolex®) increased the number of studies suggesting the potential of CBD as a therapeutic intervention for SUD. The rising number of publications with substantial results on the valuable therapeutic innovation of CBD for treating SUD, the undeniable need of new therapeutic agents to improve the clinical outcome of patients with SUD, and the upcoming clinical trials involving CBD endorse the relevance of this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Navarrete
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, San Juan de Alicante, Spain
- Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Salud García-Gutiérrez
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, San Juan de Alicante, Spain
- Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ani Gasparyan
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, San Juan de Alicante, Spain
- Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Jorge Manzanares
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, San Juan de Alicante, Spain
- Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
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Lim KJH, Lim YP, Hartono YD, Go MK, Fan H, Yew WS. Biosynthesis of Nature-Inspired Unnatural Cannabinoids. Molecules 2021; 26:2914. [PMID: 34068935 PMCID: PMC8156804 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26102914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural products make up a large proportion of medicine available today. Cannabinoids from the plant Cannabis sativa is one unique class of meroterpenoids that have shown a wide range of bioactivities and recently seen significant developments in their status as therapeutic agents for various indications. Their complex chemical structures make it difficult to chemically synthesize them in efficient yields. Synthetic biology has presented a solution to this through metabolic engineering in heterologous hosts. Through genetic manipulation, rare phytocannabinoids that are produced in low yields in the plant can now be synthesized in larger quantities for therapeutic and commercial use. Additionally, an exciting avenue of exploring new chemical spaces is made available as novel derivatized compounds can be produced and investigated for their bioactivities. In this review, we summarized the biosynthetic pathways of phytocannabinoids and synthetic biology efforts in producing them in heterologous hosts. Detailed mechanistic insights are discussed in each part of the pathway in order to explore strategies for creating novel cannabinoids. Lastly, we discussed studies conducted on biological targets such as CB1, CB2 and orphan receptors along with their affinities to these cannabinoid ligands with a view to inform upstream diversification efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin J. H. Lim
- Synthetic Biology for Clinical and Technological Innovation, National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Drive, Singapore 117456, Singapore; (K.J.H.L.); (Y.P.L.); (Y.D.H.); (M.K.G.); (H.F.)
- Synthetic Biology Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 14 Medical Drive, Singapore 117599, Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 8 Medical Drive, Singapore 117597, Singapore
- Bioinformatics Institute, A*STAR, 30 Biopolis Street, Matrix #07-01, Singapore 138671, Singapore
| | - Yan Ping Lim
- Synthetic Biology for Clinical and Technological Innovation, National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Drive, Singapore 117456, Singapore; (K.J.H.L.); (Y.P.L.); (Y.D.H.); (M.K.G.); (H.F.)
- Synthetic Biology Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 14 Medical Drive, Singapore 117599, Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 8 Medical Drive, Singapore 117597, Singapore
| | - Yossa D. Hartono
- Synthetic Biology for Clinical and Technological Innovation, National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Drive, Singapore 117456, Singapore; (K.J.H.L.); (Y.P.L.); (Y.D.H.); (M.K.G.); (H.F.)
- Synthetic Biology Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 14 Medical Drive, Singapore 117599, Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 8 Medical Drive, Singapore 117597, Singapore
- Bioinformatics Institute, A*STAR, 30 Biopolis Street, Matrix #07-01, Singapore 138671, Singapore
| | - Maybelle K. Go
- Synthetic Biology for Clinical and Technological Innovation, National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Drive, Singapore 117456, Singapore; (K.J.H.L.); (Y.P.L.); (Y.D.H.); (M.K.G.); (H.F.)
- Synthetic Biology Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 14 Medical Drive, Singapore 117599, Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 8 Medical Drive, Singapore 117597, Singapore
| | - Hao Fan
- Synthetic Biology for Clinical and Technological Innovation, National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Drive, Singapore 117456, Singapore; (K.J.H.L.); (Y.P.L.); (Y.D.H.); (M.K.G.); (H.F.)
- Synthetic Biology Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 14 Medical Drive, Singapore 117599, Singapore
- Bioinformatics Institute, A*STAR, 30 Biopolis Street, Matrix #07-01, Singapore 138671, Singapore
| | - Wen Shan Yew
- Synthetic Biology for Clinical and Technological Innovation, National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Drive, Singapore 117456, Singapore; (K.J.H.L.); (Y.P.L.); (Y.D.H.); (M.K.G.); (H.F.)
- Synthetic Biology Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 14 Medical Drive, Singapore 117599, Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 8 Medical Drive, Singapore 117597, Singapore
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Vitale RM, Iannotti FA, Amodeo P. The (Poly)Pharmacology of Cannabidiol in Neurological and Neuropsychiatric Disorders: Molecular Mechanisms and Targets. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:4876. [PMID: 34062987 PMCID: PMC8124847 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD), the major nonpsychoactive Cannabis constituent, has been proposed for the treatment of a wide panel of neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders, including anxiety, schizophrenia, epilepsy and drug addiction due to the ability of its versatile scaffold to interact with diverse molecular targets that are not restricted to the endocannabinoid system. Albeit the molecular mechanisms responsible for the therapeutic effects of CBD have yet to be fully elucidated, many efforts have been devoted in the last decades to shed light on its complex pharmacological profile. In particular, an ever-increasing number of molecular targets linked to those disorders have been identified for this phytocannabinoid, along with the modulatory effects of CBD on their cascade signaling. In this view, here we will try to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the molecular basis underlying the therapeutic effects of CBD involved in the treatment of neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Maria Vitale
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council (ICB-CNR), Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, NA, Italy; (F.A.I.); (P.A.)
| | - Fabio Arturo Iannotti
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council (ICB-CNR), Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, NA, Italy; (F.A.I.); (P.A.)
- Endocannabinoid Research Group (ERG), Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council (ICB-CNR), Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, NA, Italy
| | - Pietro Amodeo
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council (ICB-CNR), Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, NA, Italy; (F.A.I.); (P.A.)
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Cannabinoids pharmacological effects are beyond the palliative effects: CB2 cannabinoid receptor agonist induced cytotoxicity and apoptosis in human colorectal cancer cells (HT-29). Mol Cell Biochem 2021; 476:3285-3301. [PMID: 33886060 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-021-04158-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is between the top three occurring cancers worldwide. The anticancer effects of Cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) agonist (GW833972A) in the presence and absence of its inverse agonist (SR144528) on Human colorectal adenocarcinoma cells (HT-29) was investigated. Following cell viability assays on HT-29 and HFF cells, the molecular mechanism(s) of cytotoxicity and apoptotic pathways of cell death were analyzed. The anticancer effects of CB2 agonist were measured with tumor cell migration and colony-forming assays. Real-time PCR and Western blotting techniques were used to examine any alterations in the expression of apoptotic genes. A concentration and time-dependent cytotoxicity of CB2 agonist with IC50 value of 24.92 ± 6.99 μM was obtained. The rate of lipid peroxidation was elevated, while the TNF-α concentration was declined, significantly (p < 0.05). CB2 agonist (50 μM) reduced the colony-forming capability by 83% and tumor cell migration by 50%. Apoptotic effects of CB2 agonist were revealed with the increase of apoptotic cells in Acridine orange/Ethidium bromide staining, clear DNA fragmentation, pro-apoptotic genes and proteins upregulation (Caspase-3 and p53), and significant downregulation of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2. All assessments demonstrated that CB2 agonist-induced effects were reversed by CB2 inverse agonist. These data suggest that CB2 agonists at micro-molar concentrations might be considered in the CRC treatment, and their effectiveness attributes to the apoptosis induction via upregulation of caspase-3 and p53 and downregulation of Bcl-2.
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Ghovanloo MR, Choudhury K, Bandaru TS, Fouda MA, Rayani K, Rusinova R, Phaterpekar T, Nelkenbrecher K, Watkins AR, Poburko D, Thewalt J, Andersen OS, Delemotte L, Goodchild SJ, Ruben PC. Cannabidiol inhibits the skeletal muscle Nav1.4 by blocking its pore and by altering membrane elasticity. J Gen Physiol 2021; 153:211970. [PMID: 33836525 PMCID: PMC8042605 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.202012701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) is the primary nonpsychotropic phytocannabinoid found in Cannabis sativa, which has been proposed to be therapeutic against many conditions, including muscle spasms. Among its putative targets are voltage-gated sodium channels (Navs), which have been implicated in many conditions. We investigated the effects of CBD on Nav1.4, the skeletal muscle Nav subtype. We explored direct effects, involving physical block of the Nav pore, as well as indirect effects, involving modulation of membrane elasticity that contributes to Nav inhibition. MD simulations revealed CBD's localization inside the membrane and effects on bilayer properties. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) confirmed these results, showing CBD localizing below membrane headgroups. To determine the functional implications of these findings, we used a gramicidin-based fluorescence assay to show that CBD alters membrane elasticity or thickness, which could alter Nav function through bilayer-mediated regulation. Site-directed mutagenesis in the vicinity of the Nav1.4 pore revealed that removing the local anesthetic binding site with F1586A reduces the block of INa by CBD. Altering the fenestrations in the bilayer-spanning domain with Nav1.4-WWWW blocked CBD access from the membrane into the Nav1.4 pore (as judged by MD). The stabilization of inactivation, however, persisted in WWWW, which we ascribe to CBD-induced changes in membrane elasticity. To investigate the potential therapeutic value of CBD against Nav1.4 channelopathies, we used a pathogenic Nav1.4 variant, P1158S, which causes myotonia and periodic paralysis. CBD reduces excitability in both wild-type and the P1158S variant. Our in vitro and in silico results suggest that CBD may have therapeutic value against Nav1.4 hyperexcitability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad-Reza Ghovanloo
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada.,Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Xenon Pharmaceuticals, Burnaby, BC, Canada.,Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Physics, Royal Institute of Technology, Solna, Sweden
| | - Koushik Choudhury
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Physics, Royal Institute of Technology, Solna, Sweden
| | - Tagore S Bandaru
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Physics, Royal Institute of Technology, Solna, Sweden
| | - Mohamed A Fouda
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Kaveh Rayani
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Radda Rusinova
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Tejas Phaterpekar
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry/Physics, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Karen Nelkenbrecher
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Xenon Pharmaceuticals, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Abeline R Watkins
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Damon Poburko
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Jenifer Thewalt
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry/Physics, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Olaf S Andersen
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Lucie Delemotte
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Physics, Royal Institute of Technology, Solna, Sweden
| | - Samuel J Goodchild
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Xenon Pharmaceuticals, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Peter C Ruben
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
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Evidence for the Endocannabinoid System as a Therapeutic Target in the Treatment of Cannabis Use Disorder. CURRENT ADDICTION REPORTS 2021; 7:545-552. [PMID: 33816054 DOI: 10.1007/s40429-020-00342-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of Review Cannabis use disorder (CUD) is highly prevalent. Psychotherapy alone is not adequately effective, with few individuals achieving abstinence. Pharmacotherapeutic supplementation may improve efficacy, and the endocannabinoid system presents a target specifically dysregulated by heavy cannabis use. This review compiles current literature evaluating endocannabinoid modulation as a treatment strategy for CUD, with implications for future research. Recent Findings Cannabinoid receptor agonists have been found to reduce cannabis withdrawal symptoms without a notable effect on relapse, and antagonists can produce severe psychiatric symptoms. Fatty acid amide hydrolase inhibitors and cannabidiol demonstrate the most promising efficacy in treating CUD thus far, but research with these compounds is still preliminary. Summary Components of the endocannabinoid system may serve as unique treatment targets with differential efficacy for the treatment of cannabis use disorder as a whole. Further research is needed exploring novel methods for targeting endocannabinoid dysfunction in CUD.
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Wang F, Li M, Lin C, Jin S, Li H, Lu Y, Wang H, Wang H, Wang X. Cannabidiol-dihydroartemisinin conjugates for ameliorating neuroinflammation with reduced cytotoxicity. Bioorg Med Chem 2021; 39:116131. [PMID: 33852975 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2021.116131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) and dihydroartemisinin (DHA) can alleviate neuroinflammatory responses. However, they show cytotoxicity, which severely limits their therapeutic windows. Therefore, there is a great need to develop neuroprotective agents with improved safety. Drug-drug conjugate is an emerging approach for enhancing therapeutic index. Herein, the development, synthesis, and the pharmacological characterization of CBD-DHA conjugates were performed. Meanwhile, the combination of CBD and DHA as separate entities was also quantitatively analyzed for direct comparison with CBD-DHA conjugates. In this study, BV-2 microglial cell line was used to mimic primary microglia and the effects of CBD, DHA, the combination of CBD and DHA, as well as CBD-DHA conjugates on LPS-activated signaling molecules and pro-inflammatory factors were assessed. The interaction of CBD and DHA in inhibiting LPS-induced nitric oxide (NO) production was found to be additive. In contrast, DHA was found to synergize with CBD in inhibiting BV-2 cellular viability which implies that the combination of CBD and DHA amplifies their cytotoxicity. CBD-DHA conjugate C3D eliminated the cytotoxicity associated with single CBD/DHA use without significantly compromising the anti-neuroinflammation activity. C3D was more potent than C2D and C4D in inhibiting LPS-induced NO and mRNAs of iNOS and IL-1β, which implies that the linker length is critical for CBD-DHA conjugates' anti-inflammatory activities. Further signaling characterizations showed that C3D inhibited LPS-induced NF-κB but not MAPKs activation in BV-2 cells, therefore blocking LPS-induced neuroinflammation. This work provides a good example that conjugated drug-drug approach may improve the therapeutic index by increasing the maximum tolerated concentration/dose compared to traditional combination strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanfan Wang
- State Key Laboratory for the Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources, Collaborative Innovation Center for Guangxi Ethnic Medicine, School of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin 541004, China
| | - Ming Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Diagnostic and Traceability Technologies for Food Poisoning, Beijing Center for Disease Prevention and Control, Beijing 100013, China
| | - Cong Lin
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin 130022, China
| | - Sha Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Polymer Physics and Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130022, China
| | - Hongyuan Li
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin 130022, China
| | - Yuyuan Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Polymer Physics and Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130022, China
| | - Hengshan Wang
- State Key Laboratory for the Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources, Collaborative Innovation Center for Guangxi Ethnic Medicine, School of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin 541004, China.
| | - Hongshuang Wang
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin 130022, China.
| | - Xiaohui Wang
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin 130022, China; Department of Applied Chemistry and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China.
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125
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Vasodilatory effects of cannabidiol in human pulmonary and rat small mesenteric arteries: modification by hypertension and the potential pharmacological opportunities. J Hypertens 2021; 38:896-911. [PMID: 31800399 PMCID: PMC7170434 DOI: 10.1097/hjh.0000000000002333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Objective: Cannabidiol (CBD) has been suggested as a potential antihypertensive drug. The aim of our study was to investigate its vasodilatory effect in isolated human pulmonary arteries (hPAs) and rat small mesenteric arteries (sMAs). Methods: Vascular effects of CBD were examined in hPAs obtained from patients during resection of lung carcinoma and sMAs isolated from spontaneously hypertensive (SHR); 11-deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA-salt) hypertensive rats or their appropriate normotensive controls using organ bath and wire myography, respectively. Results: CBD induced almost full concentration-dependent vasorelaxation in hPAs and rat sMAs. In hPAs, it was insensitive to antagonists of CB1 (AM251) and CB2 (AM630) receptors but it was reduced by endothelium denudation, cyclooxygenase inhibitors (indomethacin and nimesulide), antagonists of prostanoid EP4 (L161982), IP (Cay10441), vanilloid TRPV1 (capsazepine) receptors and was less potent under KCl-induced tone and calcium-activated potassium channel (KCa) inhibitors (iberiotoxin, UCL1684 and TRAM-34) and in hypertensive, overweight and hypercholesteremic patients. The time-dependent effect of CBD was sensitive to the PPARγ receptor antagonist GW9662. In rats, the CBD potency was enhanced in DOCA-salt and attenuated in SHR. The CBD-induced relaxation was inhibited in SHR and DOCA-salt by AM251 and only in DOCA-salt by AM630 and endothelium denudation. Conclusion: The CBD-induced relaxation in hPAs that was reduced in hypertensive, obese and hypercholesteremic patients was endothelium-dependent and mediated via KCa and IP, EP4, TRPV1 receptors. The CBD effect in rats was CB1-sensitive and dependent on the hypertension model. Thus, modification of CBD-mediated responses in disease should be considered when CBD is used for therapeutic purposes.
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126
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Steardo L, Carbone EA, Menculini G, Moretti P, Steardo L, Tortorella A. Endocannabinoid System as Therapeutic Target of PTSD: A Systematic Review. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11030214. [PMID: 33803374 PMCID: PMC8000573 DOI: 10.3390/life11030214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 02/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a complex disorder involving dysregulation of stress-related hormones and neurotransmitter systems. Research focused on the endocannabinoid system (eCBS) for anxiety and stress regulation, cognitive and emotional responses modulation and aversive memories extinction, leading to the hypothesis that it could represent a possible alternative treatment target for PTSD. In this systematic review, we summarize evidence about the efficacy and safety of medicinal cannabidiol (CBD), Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), and nabilone in PTSD treatment. The PRISMA statement guidelines were followed. A systematic literature search was conducted in MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science by two independent researchers, who also performed data extraction and quality assessment. Among the initial 495 papers, 234 were screened for eligibility and 10 were included. Studies suggested that different medicinal cannabinoids at distinct doses and formulations could represent promising treatment strategies for the improvement of overall PTSD symptomatology as well as specific symptom domains (e.g., sleep disorders, arousal disturbances, suicidal thoughts), also influencing quality of life, pain and social impact. Although there is a robust rationale for treatment with drugs that target the eCBS and the results are promising, further studies are needed to investigate the safety and efficacy profile of their prolonged use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Steardo
- Psychiatric Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Viale Tommaso Campanella, 115, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Elvira Anna Carbone
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Viale Tommaso Campanella, 115, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Giulia Menculini
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Perugia, Piazzale Lucio Severi, 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (G.M.); (P.M.); (A.T.)
| | - Patrizia Moretti
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Perugia, Piazzale Lucio Severi, 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (G.M.); (P.M.); (A.T.)
| | - Luca Steardo
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro, 5, 00185 Rome, Italy;
- Department of Psychiatry, Giustino Fortunato University, 12, 82100 Benevento, Italy
| | - Alfonso Tortorella
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Perugia, Piazzale Lucio Severi, 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (G.M.); (P.M.); (A.T.)
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127
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Mielnik CA, Lam VM, Ross RA. CB 1 allosteric modulators and their therapeutic potential in CNS disorders. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 106:110163. [PMID: 33152384 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.110163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
CB1 is the most abundant GPCR found in the mammalian brain. It has garnered considerable attention as a potential therapeutic drug target. CB1 is involved in a wide range of physiological and psychiatric processes and has the potential to be targeted in a wide range of disease states. However, most of the selective and non-selective synthetic CB1 agonists and antagonists/inverse agonists developed to date are primarily used as research tools. No novel synthetic cannabinoids are currently in the clinic for use in psychiatric illness; synthetic analogues of the phytocannabinoid THC are on the market to treat nausea and vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy, along with off-label use for pain. Novel strategies are being explored to target CB1, but with emphasis on the elimination or mitigation of the potential psychiatric adverse effects that are observed by central agonism/antagonism of CB1. New pharmacological options are being pursued that may avoid these adverse effects while preserving the potential therapeutic benefits of CB1 modulation. Allosteric modulation of CB1 is one such approach. In this review, we will summarize and critically analyze both the in vitro characterization and in vivo validation of CB1 allosteric modulators developed to date, with a focus on CNS therapeutic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catharine A Mielnik
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Vincent M Lam
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Ruth A Ross
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada.
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128
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Martin LJ, Banister SD, Bowen MT. Understanding the complex pharmacology of cannabidiol: Mounting evidence suggests a common binding site with cholesterol. Pharmacol Res 2021; 166:105508. [PMID: 33610721 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Cannabidiol is claimed to bind to a large number of protein targets based on in vitro assays. This suggests opportunities for a wide range of therapeutic applications. On the other hand, the existence of phytochemical 'nuisance compounds' suggests some measure of caution - these compounds are capable of altering membrane biophysical properties and changing protein function without directly contacting a binding site. Like cannabidiol, cholesterol alters membrane properties, but it also binds directly to membrane proteins through abundant cholesterol recognition sites. We present the evidence that cannabidiol and cholesterol may bind to the same site on some proteins. As a starting point for further research, we also used blind docking to show that cannabidiol binds to a cholesterol binding site on the CB1 receptor. Elucidation of the mechanism(s) of action of cannabidiol will assist the prioritisation of in vitro hits across targets, improve the success rate of medicinal chemistry campaigns, and ultimately benefit patient populations by focusing resources on programs with the most translational potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lewis J Martin
- The University of Sydney, Brain and Mind Centre, The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Sydney, NSW, Australia; The University of Sydney, Brain and Mind Centre, Sydney, NSW, Australia; The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Psychology, NSW, Australia
| | - Samuel D Banister
- The University of Sydney, Brain and Mind Centre, The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Sydney, NSW, Australia; The University of Sydney, Brain and Mind Centre, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Michael T Bowen
- The University of Sydney, Brain and Mind Centre, The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Sydney, NSW, Australia; The University of Sydney, Brain and Mind Centre, Sydney, NSW, Australia; The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Psychology, NSW, Australia.
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129
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Anooshe M, Nouri K, Karimi-Haghighi S, Mousavi Z, Haghparast A. Cannabidiol efficiently suppressed the acquisition and expression of methamphetamine-induced conditioned place preference in the rat. Behav Brain Res 2021; 404:113158. [PMID: 33571569 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2021.113158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Methamphetamine (MET) is one of the most prevalently abused psychostimulants in the world with drastic repercussions. Several studies emphasized the inhibitory effect of Cannabidiol (CBD) on the reward properties of psychostimulants. The current investigation utilized conditioned place preference (CPP) to assay CBD's impact on MET's reward characteristic, including acquisition and expression phases of MET-induced CPP. Like our prior researches, animals received MET (1 mg/kg; sc) in a five-day schedule to induce CPP. The rats were given intracerebroventricular (ICV) microinjection of CBD (2, 10, and 50 μg/5 μL DMSO) during the 5-day conditioning phase in the CPP paradigm to highlight the CBD's impact on the development (acquisition) of MET-induced place preference. Furthermore, animals were treated with CBD (2, 10 and 50 μg/5 μL) in the lateral ventricle on the post-conditioning day to elucidate the effect of ICV injection of CBD on the expression of MET-induced CPP. It was revealed that CBD (10 and 50 μg/5 μL) microinjection profoundly inhibited both phases of MET-induced CPP without any side effect on the locomotion in animals were treated by MET injection over conditioning phase. Also, CBD's inhibitory impact was more potent in the acquisition phase than the expression phase of MET-induced CPP. Ultimately, the current research reported that CBD could be a beneficial compound to treat drug abuse however more investigations are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Anooshe
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kiana Nouri
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Zahra Mousavi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbas Haghparast
- Neuroscience Research Center, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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130
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Breijyeh Z, Jubeh B, Bufo SA, Karaman R, Scrano L. Cannabis: A Toxin-Producing Plant with Potential Therapeutic Uses. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:117. [PMID: 33562446 PMCID: PMC7915118 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13020117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
For thousands of years, Cannabis sativa has been utilized as a medicine and for recreational and spiritual purposes. Phytocannabinoids are a family of compounds that are found in the cannabis plant, which is known for its psychotogenic and euphoric effects; the main psychotropic constituent of cannabis is Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC). The pharmacological effects of cannabinoids are a result of interactions between those compounds and cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2, located in many parts of the human body. Cannabis is used as a therapeutic agent for treating pain and emesis. Some cannabinoids are clinically applied for treating chronic pain, particularly cancer and multiple sclerosis-associated pain, for appetite stimulation and anti-emesis in HIV/AIDS and cancer patients, and for spasticity treatment in multiple sclerosis and epilepsy patients. Medical cannabis varies from recreational cannabis in the chemical content of THC and cannabidiol (CBD), modes of administration, and safety. Despite the therapeutic effects of cannabis, exposure to high concentrations of THC, the main compound that is responsible for most of the intoxicating effects experienced by users, could lead to psychological events and adverse effects that affect almost all body systems, such as neurological (dizziness, drowsiness, seizures, coma, and others), ophthalmological (mydriasis and conjunctival hyperemia), cardiovascular (tachycardia and arterial hypertension), and gastrointestinal (nausea, vomiting, and thirst), mainly associated with recreational use. Cannabis toxicity in children is more concerning and can cause serious adverse effects such as acute neurological symptoms (stupor), lethargy, seizures, and even coma. More countries are legalizing the commercial production and sale of cannabis for medicinal use, and some for recreational use as well. Liberalization of cannabis laws has led to increased incidence of toxicity, hyperemesis syndrome, lung disease cardiovascular disease, reduced fertility, tolerance, and dependence with chronic prolonged use. This review focuses on the potential therapeutic effects of cannabis and cannabinoids, as well as the acute and chronic toxic effects of cannabis use on various body systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Breijyeh
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem Abu Dis P144, Palestine; (Z.B.); (B.J.)
| | - Buthaina Jubeh
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem Abu Dis P144, Palestine; (Z.B.); (B.J.)
| | - Sabino A. Bufo
- Department of Sciences, University of Basilicata, 85100 Potenza, Italy
- Department of Geography, Environmental Management & Energy Studies, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg 2092, South Africa
| | - Rafik Karaman
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem Abu Dis P144, Palestine; (Z.B.); (B.J.)
- Department of Sciences, University of Basilicata, 85100 Potenza, Italy
| | - Laura Scrano
- Department of European Cultures (DICEM), University of Basilicata, 75100 Matera, Italy;
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131
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Saldaña-Shumaker SL, Grenning AJ, Cunningham CW. Modern approaches to the development of synthetic cannabinoid receptor probes. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2021; 203:173119. [PMID: 33508249 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2021.173119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system, which spans the central and peripheral nervous systems and regulates many biologic processes, is an important target for probe discovery and medications development. Whereas the earliest endocannabinoid receptor probes were derivatives of the non-selective phytocannabinoids isolated from Cannabis species, modern drug discovery techniques have expanded the definitions of what constitutes a CB1R or CB2R cannabinoid receptor ligand. This review highlights recent advances in synthetic cannabinoid receptor chemistry and pharmacology. We provide examples of new CB1R- and CB2R-selective probes, and discuss rational approaches to the design of peripherally-restricted agents. We also describe structural classes of positive- and negative allosteric modulators (PAMs and NAMs) of CB1R and CB2R. Finally, we introduce new opportunities for cannabinoid receptor probe development that have emerged in recent years, including biased agonists that may lead to medications lacking adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Savanah L Saldaña-Shumaker
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Concordia University Wisconsin, 12800 N. Lake Shore Drive, Mequon, WI 53097, USA
| | - Alexander J Grenning
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florida, PO Box 117200, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Christopher W Cunningham
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Concordia University Wisconsin, 12800 N. Lake Shore Drive, Mequon, WI 53097, USA.
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Aderibigbe AO, Pandey P, Doerksen RJ. Negative allosteric modulators of cannabinoid receptor 1: Ternary complexes including CB1, orthosteric CP55940 and allosteric ORG27569. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2021; 40:5729-5747. [PMID: 33480332 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2021.1873187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
In October 2019, the first X-ray crystal structure of a ternary cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) complex (PDB ID: 6KQI) was published, including the well-known orthosteric agonist, CP55940, and the well-studied negative allosteric modulator, ORG27569. Prior to the release of 6KQI, we applied binding pocket analysis and molecular docking to carefully prepared computational models of the ternary CB1 complex, in order to predict the binding site for ORG27569 with the CP55940-bound CB1 receptor. We carefully studied the binding pose of agonist ligands in the CB1 orthosteric pocket, including CP55940. Our computational studies identified the most favorable binding site for ORG27569, in the CP55940-CB1 complex, to be at the intracellular end of the receptor. However, in the 6KQI structure, ORG27569 was found at an extrahelical, intramembrane site on the complex, a site that partially overlaps with the site predicted in our calculations to be second-best. We performed molecular dynamics simulations of the CP55940-bound CB1 complex with ORG27569 at different binding sites. Our analysis of the simulations indicated that ORG27569 bound favorably and stably in each simulation, but, as in the earlier calculations, bound best at the intracellular site, which is different than that found in the crystal structure. These results suggest that the intracellular site might serve as an alternative binding site in CB1. Our studies show that the computational techniques we used are valuable in identifying ligand-binding pockets in proteins, and could be useful for the study of the interaction mode of other allosteric modulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- AyoOluwa O Aderibigbe
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, Division of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS, USA
| | - Pankaj Pandey
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, Division of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS, USA.,National Center for Natural Products Research, University of Mississippi, University, Mississippi, USA
| | - Robert J Doerksen
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, Division of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS, USA.,Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS, USA
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Szkudlarek HJ, Rodríguez-Ruiz M, Hudson R, De Felice M, Jung T, Rushlow WJ, Laviolette SR. THC and CBD produce divergent effects on perception and panic behaviours via distinct cortical molecular pathways. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 104:110029. [PMID: 32623021 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.110029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Revised: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Clinical and pre-clinical evidence demonstrates divergent psychotropic effects of THC vs. CBD. While THC can induce perceptual distortions and anxiogenic effects, CBD displays antipsychotic and anxiolytic properties. A key brain region responsible for regulation of cognition and affect, the medial prefrontal cortex (PFC), is strongly modulated by cannabinoids, suggesting that these dissociable THC/CBD-dependent effects may involve functional and molecular interplay within the PFC. The primary aim of this study was to investigate potential interactions and molecular substrates involved in PFC-mediated effects of THC and CBD on differential cognitive and affective behavioural processing. Male Sprague Dawley rats received intra-PFC microinfusions of THC, CBD or their combination, and tested in the latent inhibition paradigm, spontaneous oddity discrimination test, elevated T-maze and open field. To identify local, drug-induced molecular modulation in the PFC, PFC samples were collected and processed with Western Blotting. Intra-PFC THC induced strong panic-like responses that were counteracted with CBD. In contrast, CBD did not affect panic-like behaviours but blocked formation of associative fear memories and impaired latent inhibition and oddity discrimination performance. Interestingly, these CBD effects were dependent upon 5-HT1A receptor transmission but not influenced by THC co-administration. Moreover, THC induced robust phosphorylation of ERK1/2 that was prevented by CBD, while CBD decreased phosphorylation of p70S6K, independently of THC. These results suggest that intra-PFC infusion of THC promotes panic-like behaviour associated with increased ERK1/2 phosphorylation. In contrast, CBD impairs perceptive functions and latent inhibition via activation of 5-HT1A receptors and reduced phosphorylation of p70S6K.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna J Szkudlarek
- Addiction Research Group, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada; Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada.
| | - Mar Rodríguez-Ruiz
- Addiction Research Group, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada; Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Roger Hudson
- Addiction Research Group, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada; Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Marta De Felice
- Addiction Research Group, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada; Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Tony Jung
- Addiction Research Group, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada; Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Walter J Rushlow
- Addiction Research Group, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada; Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada; Department of Psychiatry. Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Steven R Laviolette
- Addiction Research Group, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada; Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada; Department of Psychiatry. Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada.
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134
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Kwan Cheung KA, Mitchell MD, Heussler HS. Cannabidiol and Neurodevelopmental Disorders in Children. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:643442. [PMID: 34093265 PMCID: PMC8175856 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.643442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders (such as autism spectrum disorder) have broad health implications for children, with no definitive cure for the vast majority of them. However, recently medicinal cannabis has been successfully trialled as a treatment to manage many of the patients' symptoms and improve quality of life. The cannabinoid cannabidiol, in particular, has been reported to be safe and well-tolerated with a plethora of anticonvulsant, anxiolytic and anti-inflammatory properties. Lately, the current consensus is that the endocannabinoid system is a crucial factor in neural development and health; research has found evidence that there are a multitude of signalling pathways involving neurotransmitters and the endocannabinoid system by which cannabinoids could potentially exert their therapeutic effects. A better understanding of the cannabinoids' mechanisms of action should lead to improved treatments for neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith A Kwan Cheung
- Centre for Children's Health Research, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Murray D Mitchell
- Centre for Children's Health Research, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Helen S Heussler
- Centre for Clinical Trials in Rare Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Child Development Program, Children's Health Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Centre for Children's Health Research, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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135
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Hamilton AJ, Payne AD, Mocerino M, Gunosewoyo H. Imaging Cannabinoid Receptors: A Brief Collection of Covalent and Fluorescent Probes for CB1 and CB2 Receptors. Aust J Chem 2021. [DOI: 10.1071/ch21007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
There has been an expanding public interest towards the notion that modulation of the sophisticated endocannabinoid system can lead to various therapeutic benefits that are yet to be fully explored. In recent years, the drug discovery paradigm in this field has been largely based on the development of selective CB2 receptor agonists, avoiding the unwanted CB1 receptor-mediated psychoactive side effects. Mechanistically, target engagement studies are crucial for confirming the ligand–receptor interaction and the subsequent biological cascades that lead to the observed therapeutic effects. Concurrently, imaging techniques for visualisation of cannabinoid receptors are increasingly reported in the literature. Small molecule imaging tools ranging from phytocannabinoids such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) to the endocannabinoids as well as the purely synthetic cannabimimetics, have been explored to date with varying degrees of success. This Review will cover currently known photoactivatable, electrophilic, and fluorescent ligands for both the CB1 and CB2 receptors. Structural insights from techniques such as ligand-assisted protein structure (LAPS) and the discovery of novel allosteric modulators are significant additions for better understanding of the endocannabinoid system. There has also been a plethora of fluorescent conjugates that have been assessed for their binding to cannabinoid receptors as well as their potential for cellular imaging. More recently, bifunctional probes containing either fluorophores or electrophilic tags are becoming more prevalent in the literature. Collectively, these molecular tools are invaluable in demonstrating target engagement within the human endocannabinoid system.
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136
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Britch SC, Babalonis S, Walsh SL. Cannabidiol: pharmacology and therapeutic targets. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2021; 238:9-28. [PMID: 33221931 PMCID: PMC7796924 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-020-05712-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Cannabidiol (CBD) products lacking regulatory approval are being used to self-treat a myriad of conditions and for their unsubstantiated health benefits. The scientific evidence supporting these claims largely arises not from controlled clinical trials, but from the recognition that CBD has numerous biological targets. Yet, CBD is commonly consumed and often in over-the-counter products that are unapproved and of unknown composition. Epidiolex® is the only product that has undergone rigorous pharmacokinetic assessment and testing in clinical trials; it was approved as a non-scheduled drug by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of intractable childhood-onset seizures. However, studies investigating CBD for other medical conditions are limited in number and often lack the scientific rigor, controls, or sample sizes required to draw clinically meaningful conclusions. Although Epidiolex® is safe for human consumption, recent changes in regulation of commercially available CBD products have resulted in limited quality control and products marketed with unknown CBD bioavailability. Even scientifically rigorous studies have used different sources of CBD and different suspension vehicles for administration, making it difficult to compare results among studies and resolve mixed outcomes. OBJECTIVES This paper reviews the molecular targets, pharmacokinetics, and safety and abuse liability of CBD; additionally, the extant evidence on its potential therapeutic effects for neurological disorders, pain, inflammation, conditions related to immune function, psychiatric disorders, and substance use are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stevie C Britch
- Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, University of Kentucky, 845 Angliana Ave, Lexington, KY, 40508, USA.
- Department of Behavioral Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40508, USA.
| | - Shanna Babalonis
- Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, University of Kentucky, 845 Angliana Ave, Lexington, KY, 40508, USA
- Department of Behavioral Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40508, USA
| | - Sharon L Walsh
- Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, University of Kentucky, 845 Angliana Ave, Lexington, KY, 40508, USA
- Department of Behavioral Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40508, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40508, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40508, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40508, USA
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137
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Joshi N, Onaivi ES. Psychiatric Disorders and Cannabinoid Receptors. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1264:131-153. [PMID: 33332008 PMCID: PMC10810008 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-57369-0_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
With the increasing global use of medical and adult recreational use of cannabis and cannabinoids, this chapter provides overview of evidence from animal and human studies on psychiatric disorders and cannabinoid receptors. We review and present evaluation of the relationship between changes in the ECS and psychiatric disorders. Evidence suggests the existence of a relationship between changes in components of the ECS, and some of the symptoms present in psychiatric disorders. Both CB1Rs and CB2Rs are components of the endocannabinoid system with different cellular and tissue localization patterns that are differentially expressed in the CNS and PNS and are emerging targets for the treatment of number psychiatric disorders. As cannabis preparations are widely used for recreation globally, it is predictable that cannabis use disorders (CUDs) will increase and there is currently no available treatment for CUDs. Although major advances have been reported from cannabinoid and ECS research, there are gaps in scientific knowledge on long-term consequences of cannabis use. Adolescent and cannabis use during pregnancy presents further challenges, and more research will uncover the signaling pathways that couple the gut microbiota with the host ECS. Development of cannabis and cannabinoid nanomedicine for nanotherapy will certainly overcome some of the shortcomings and challenges in medicinal and recreational use of cannabis and cannabinoids. Thus, nanotechnology will allow targeted delivery of cannabinoid formulations with the potential to elevate their use to scientifically validated nanotherapeutic applications as the field of cannabis nanoscience matures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neal Joshi
- Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, NJ, USA
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138
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Morales P, Jagerovic N. Synthetic and Natural Derivatives of Cannabidiol. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1297:11-25. [PMID: 33537934 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-61663-2_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The non-psychoactive component of Cannabis Sativa, cannabidiol (CBD), has centered the attention of a large body of research in the last years. Recent clinical trials have led to the FDA approval of CBD for the treatment of children with drug-resistant epilepsy. Even though it is not yet in clinical phases, its use in sleep-wake pathological alterations has been widely demonstrated.Despite the outstanding current knowledge on CBD therapeutic effects in numerous in vitro and in vivo disease models, diverse questions still arise from its molecular pharmacology. CBD has been shown to modulate a wide variety of targets including the cannabinoid receptors, orphan GPCRs such as GPR55 and GPR18, serotonin, adenosine, and opioid receptors as well as ligand-gated ion channels among others. Its pharmacology is rather puzzling and needs to be further explored in the disease context.Also, the metabolism and interactions of this phytocannabinoid with other commercialized drugs need to be further considered to elucidate its clinical potential for the treatment of specific pathologies.Besides CBD, natural and synthetic derivatives of this chemotype have also been reported exhibiting diverse functional profiles and providing a deeper understanding of the potential of this scaffold.In this chapter, we analyze the knowledge gained so far on CBD and its analogs specially focusing on its molecular targets and metabolic implications. Phytogenic and synthetic CBD derivatives may provide novel approaches to improve the therapeutic prospects offered by this promising chemotype.
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139
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Galaj E, Xi ZX. Possible Receptor Mechanisms Underlying Cannabidiol Effects on Addictive-like Behaviors in Experimental Animals. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 22:ijms22010134. [PMID: 33374481 PMCID: PMC7795330 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Substance use disorder (SUD) is a serious public health problem worldwide for which available treatments show limited effectiveness. Since the legalization of cannabis and the approval of cannabidiol (CBD) by the US Food and Drug Administration, therapeutic potential of CBD for the treatment of SUDs and other diseases has been widely explored. In this mini-review article, we first review the history and evidence supporting CBD as a potential pharmacotherapeutic. We then focus on recent progress in preclinical research regarding the pharmacological efficacy of CBD and the underlying receptor mechanisms on addictive-like behavior. Growing evidence indicates that CBD has therapeutic potential in reducing drug reward, as assessed in intravenous drug self-administration, conditioned place preference and intracranial brain-stimulation reward paradigms. In addition, CBD is effective in reducing relapse in experimental animals. Both in vivo and in vitro receptor mechanism studies indicate that CBD may act as a negative allosteric modulator of type 1 cannabinoid (CB1) receptor and an agonist of type 2 cannabinoid (CB2), transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1), and serotonin 5-HT1A receptors. Through these multiple-receptor mechanisms, CBD is believed to modulate brain dopamine in response to drugs of abuse, leading to attenuation of drug-taking and drug-seeking behavior. While these findings suggest that CBD is a promising therapeutic candidate, further investigation is required to verify its safety, pharmacological efficacy and the underlying receptor mechanisms in both experimental animals and humans.
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140
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Chen S, Wang Y, Wang X, He M, Zhang L, Dong Z. PKA-Dependent Membrane Surface Recruitment of CI-AMPARs Is Crucial for BCP-Mediated Protection Against Post-acute Ischemic Stroke Cognitive Impairment. Front Neurol 2020; 11:566067. [PMID: 33391143 PMCID: PMC7772322 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.566067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Post-acute ischemic stroke cognitive impairment frequently occurs and seriously affects patients daily activities. Recruitment of GluA2-containing Ca2+-impermeable AMPA receptors (CI-AMPARs) to hippocampal synaptic membrane surfaces was shown to trigger synaptic plasticity. Currently, the effect of CI-AMPAR trafficking on acute ischemic stroke remains poorly understood. β-Caryophyllene (BCP) has been shown to ameliorate cognitive impairment. However, the mechanism has not been characterized. In this study, a 60-min temporary middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model was established to simulate the pathology of acute ischemic stroke. BCP reduced neurologic deficits, cerebral infarct volume, and pathological damage in MCAO mice and caused CI-AMPARs to translocate to synaptic membranes in the hippocampus; surface expression of CI-AMPARs was also decreased in MCAO mice. Furthermore, this study also showed that BCP treatment significantly activated the cAMP/PKA pathway, which is consistent with the synaptic membrane expression of CI-AMPARs. To better understand the underlying mechanisms, the PKA inhibitor H-89 was used to study the role of BCP in MCAO mice. Interestingly, H-89 treatment significantly disrupted the BCP-mediated facilitation of CI-AMPAR translocation to the synaptic membrane surface and substantially attenuated BCP-induced protection against acute ischemic stroke. Additionally, inhibition the cAMP/PKA pathway not only reduced BCP-induced inhibition of AMPAR-mediated excitatory postsynaptic currents in the hippocampal CA1 region but also decreased the effect of BCP-mediated protection against post-acute ischemic stroke cognitive impairment. Taken together, these data indicate that PKA-dependent synaptic membrane surface recruitment of CI-AMPARs is crucial for the neuroprotective effect of BCP against acute ischemic stroke and protection against post-acute ischemic stroke cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sha Chen
- Key Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Laboratory Sciences, Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Yuchun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xuhui Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Research Institute of Surgery Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Meng He
- Laboratory Sciences, Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medical Research in Cognitive Development and Learning and Memory Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhi Dong
- Key Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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141
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Patricio F, Morales-Andrade AA, Patricio-Martínez A, Limón ID. Cannabidiol as a Therapeutic Target: Evidence of its Neuroprotective and Neuromodulatory Function in Parkinson's Disease. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:595635. [PMID: 33384602 PMCID: PMC7770114 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.595635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The phytocannabinoids of Cannabis sativa L. have, since ancient times, been proposed as a pharmacological alternative for treating various central nervous system (CNS) disorders. Interestingly, cannabinoid receptors (CBRs) are highly expressed in the basal ganglia (BG) circuit of both animals and humans. The BG are subcortical structures that regulate the initiation, execution, and orientation of movement. CBRs regulate dopaminergic transmission in the nigro-striatal pathway and, thus, the BG circuit also. The functioning of the BG is affected in pathologies related to movement disorders, especially those occurring in Parkinson’s disease (PD), which produces motor and non-motor symptoms that involving GABAergic, glutamatergic, and dopaminergic neural networks. To date, the most effective medication for PD is levodopa (l-DOPA); however, long-term levodopa treatment causes a type of long-term dyskinesias, l-DOPA-induced dyskinesias (LIDs). With neuromodulation offering a novel treatment strategy for PD patients, research has focused on the endocannabinoid system (ECS), as it participates in the physiological neuromodulation of the BG in order to control movement. CBRs have been shown to inhibit neurotransmitter release, while endocannabinoids (eCBs) play a key role in the synaptic regulation of the BG. In the past decade, cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychotropic phytocannabinoid, has been shown to have compensatory effects both on the ECS and as a neuromodulator and neuroprotector in models such as 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA), 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP), and reserpine, as well as other PD models. Although the CBD-induced neuroprotection observed in animal models of PD has been attributed to the activation of the CB1 receptor, recent research conducted at a molecular level has proposed that CBD is capable of activating other receptors, such as CB2 and the TRPV-1 receptor, both of which are expressed in the dopaminergic neurons of the nigro-striatal pathway. These findings open new lines of scientific inquiry into the effects of CBD at the level of neural communication. Cannabidiol activates the PPARγ, GPR55, GPR3, GPR6, GPR12, and GPR18 receptors, causing a variety of biochemical, molecular, and behavioral effects due to the broad range of receptors it activates in the CNS. Given the low number of pharmacological treatment alternatives for PD currently available, the search for molecules with the therapeutic potential to improve neuronal communication is crucial. Therefore, the investigation of CBD and the mechanisms involved in its function is required in order to ascertain whether receptor activation could be a treatment alternative for both PD and LID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe Patricio
- Laboratorio De Neurofarmacología, Facultad De Ciencias Químicas, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Puebla, Mexico
| | - Alan Axel Morales-Andrade
- Laboratorio De Neurofarmacología, Facultad De Ciencias Químicas, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Puebla, Mexico
| | - Aleidy Patricio-Martínez
- Laboratorio De Neurofarmacología, Facultad De Ciencias Químicas, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Puebla, Mexico.,Facultad De Ciencias Biológicas, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Puebla, Mexico
| | - Ilhuicamina Daniel Limón
- Laboratorio De Neurofarmacología, Facultad De Ciencias Químicas, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Puebla, Mexico
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142
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Wang Y, Yu Z, Xiao W, Lu S, Zhang J. Allosteric binding sites at the receptor-lipid bilayer interface: novel targets for GPCR drug discovery. Drug Discov Today 2020; 26:690-703. [PMID: 33301977 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2020.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
As a superfamily of membrane receptors, G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) have significant roles in human physiological processes, including cell proliferation, metabolism, and neuromodulation. GPCRs are vital targets of therapeutic drugs, and their allosteric regulation represents a novel direction for drug discovery. Given the numerous breakthroughs in structural biology, diverse allosteric sites on GPCRs have been identified within the extracellular and intracellular loops, and the seven core transmembrane helices. However, a unique type of allosteric site has also been discovered at the interface of the receptor-lipid bilayer, similar to the β2-adrenergic receptor. Here, we review recent identifications of these allosteric sites and the detailed modulator-target interactions within the interface for each modulator to highlight the role of lipids in GPCR allosteric drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Zhengtian Yu
- Nutshell Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Wen Xiao
- Nutshell Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Shaoyong Lu
- Department of Pathophysiology, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China; Medicinal Chemistry and Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China; State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200127, China.
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China; Medicinal Chemistry and Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China; State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200127, China.
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143
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Mlost J, Bryk M, Starowicz K. Cannabidiol for Pain Treatment: Focus on Pharmacology and Mechanism of Action. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21228870. [PMID: 33238607 PMCID: PMC7700528 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis has a long history of medical use. Although there are many cannabinoids present in cannabis, Δ9tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are the two components found in the highest concentrations. CBD itself does not produce typical behavioral cannabimimetic effects and was thought not to be responsible for psychotropic effects of cannabis. Numerous anecdotal findings testify to the therapeutic effects of CBD, which in some cases were further supported by research findings. However, data regarding CBD’s mechanism of action and therapeutic potential are abundant and omnifarious. Therefore, we review the basic research regarding molecular mechanism of CBD’s action with particular focus on its analgesic potential. Moreover, this article describes the detailed analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of CBD in various models, including neuropathic pain, inflammatory pain, osteoarthritis and others. The dose and route of the administration-dependent effect of CBD, on the reduction in pain, hyperalgesia or allodynia, as well as the production of pro and anti-inflammatory cytokines, were described depending on the disease model. The clinical applications of CBD-containing drugs are also mentioned. The data presented herein unravel what is known about CBD’s pharmacodynamics and analgesic effects to provide the reader with current state-of-art knowledge regarding CBD’s action and future perspectives for research.
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144
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Zagzoog A, Mohamed KA, Kim HJJ, Kim ED, Frank CS, Black T, Jadhav PD, Holbrook LA, Laprairie RB. In vitro and in vivo pharmacological activity of minor cannabinoids isolated from Cannabis sativa. Sci Rep 2020; 10:20405. [PMID: 33230154 PMCID: PMC7684313 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-77175-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The Cannabis sativa plant contains more than 120 cannabinoids. With the exceptions of ∆9-tetrahydrocannabinol (∆9-THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), comparatively little is known about the pharmacology of the less-abundant plant-derived (phyto) cannabinoids. The best-studied transducers of cannabinoid-dependent effects are type 1 and type 2 cannabinoid receptors (CB1R, CB2R). Partial agonism of CB1R by ∆9-THC is known to bring about the 'high' associated with Cannabis use, as well as the pain-, appetite-, and anxiety-modulating effects that are potentially therapeutic. CB2R activation by certain cannabinoids has been associated with anti-inflammatory activities. We assessed the activity of 8 phytocannabinoids at human CB1R, and CB2R in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells stably expressing these receptors and in C57BL/6 mice in an attempt to better understand their pharmacodynamics. Specifically, ∆9-THC, ∆9-tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (∆9-THCa), ∆9-tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), CBD, cannabidiolic acid (CBDa), cannabidivarin (CBDV), cannabigerol (CBG), and cannabichromene (CBC) were evaluated. Compounds were assessed for their affinity to receptors, ability to inhibit cAMP accumulation, βarrestin2 recruitment, receptor selectivity, and ligand bias in cell culture; and cataleptic, hypothermic, anti-nociceptive, hypolocomotive, and anxiolytic effects in mice. Our data reveal partial agonist activity for many phytocannabinoids tested at CB1R and/or CB2R, as well as in vivo responses often associated with activation of CB1R. These data build on the growing body of literature showing cannabinoid receptor-dependent pharmacology for these less-abundant phytocannabinoids and are critical in understanding the complex and interactive pharmacology of Cannabis-derived molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayat Zagzoog
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 3B36, Health Sciences Building, 107 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada
| | - Kawthar A Mohamed
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 3B36, Health Sciences Building, 107 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada
| | - Hye Ji J Kim
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 3B36, Health Sciences Building, 107 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada
| | - Eunhyun D Kim
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 3B36, Health Sciences Building, 107 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada
| | - Connor S Frank
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 3B36, Health Sciences Building, 107 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada
| | - Tallan Black
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 3B36, Health Sciences Building, 107 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada
| | | | | | - Robert B Laprairie
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 3B36, Health Sciences Building, 107 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada. .,Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.
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145
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Nagarkatti P, Miranda K, Nagarkatti M. Use of Cannabinoids to Treat Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome and Cytokine Storm Associated with Coronavirus Disease-2019. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:589438. [PMID: 33240092 PMCID: PMC7677512 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.589438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a highly infectious respiratory disease caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. A significant proportion of COVID-19 patients develop Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) resulting from hyperactivation of the immune system and cytokine storm, which leads to respiratory and multi-organ failure, and death. Currently, there are no effective treatments against hyperimmune syndrome and ARDS. We propose that because immune cells express cannabinoid receptors and their agonists are known to exhibit potent anti-inflammatory activity, targeting cannabinoid receptors, and endocannabinoids deserve intense investigation as a novel approach to treat systemic inflammation, cytokine storm, and ARDS in patients with COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prakash Nagarkatti
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, United States.,University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Kathryn Miranda
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Mitzi Nagarkatti
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, United States
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146
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Svensson CK. CBD for the treatment of pain: What is the evidence? J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2020; 60:e80-e83. [DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2020.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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147
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Feng Z, Liang T, Wang S, Chen M, Hou T, Zhao J, Chen H, Zhou Y, Xie XQ. Binding Characterization of GPCRs-Modulator by Molecular Complex Characterizing System (MCCS). ACS Chem Neurosci 2020; 11:3333-3345. [PMID: 32941011 PMCID: PMC10063373 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.0c00457] [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] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Increasing attention has been devoted to allosteric modulators as the preferred therapeutic agents for their colossal advantages such as higher selectivity, fewer side effects, and lower toxicity since they bind at allosteric sites that are topographically distinct from the classic orthosteric sites. However, the allosteric binding pockets are not conserved and there are no cogent methods to comprehensively characterize the features of allosteric sites with the binding of modulators. To overcome this limitation, our lab has developed a novel algorithm that can quantitatively characterize the receptor-ligand binding feature named Molecular Complex Characterizing System (MCCS). To illustrate the methodology and application of MCCS, we take G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) as an example. First, we summarized and analyzed the reported allosteric binding pockets of class A GPCRs using MCCS. Sequentially, a systematic study was conducted between cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) and its allosteric modulators, where we used MCCS to analyze the residue energy contribution and the interaction pattern. Finally, we validated the predicted allosteric binding site in CB2 via MCCS in combination with molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. Our results demonstrate that the MCCS program is advantageous in recapitulating the allosteric regulation pattern of class A GPCRs of the reported pockets as well as in predicting potential allosteric binding pockets. This MCCS program can serve as a valuable tool for the discovery of small-molecule allosteric modulators for class A GPCRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiwei Feng
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, School of Pharmacy; National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States
| | - Tianjian Liang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, School of Pharmacy; National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States
| | - Siyi Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, School of Pharmacy; National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States
| | - Maozi Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, School of Pharmacy; National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States
| | - Tianling Hou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, School of Pharmacy; National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States
| | - Jack Zhao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, School of Pharmacy; National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States
| | - Hui Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, School of Pharmacy; National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States
| | - Yuehan Zhou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, School of Pharmacy; National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States
| | - Xiang-Qun Xie
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, School of Pharmacy; National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research; Drug Discovery Institute; Departments of Computational Biology and Structural Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States
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148
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Biological Activity of Cannabis sativa L. Extracts Critically Depends on Solvent Polarity and Decarboxylation. SEPARATIONS 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/separations7040056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Minor cannabinoid and non-cannabinoid molecules have been proposed to significantly contribute to the pharmacological profile of cannabis extracts. Phytoplant Research has developed highly productive cannabis cultivars with defined chemotypes, as well as proprietary methods for the extraction and purification of cannabinoids. Here, we investigate the effect of solvent selection and decarboxylation on the composition and pharmacological activity of cannabis extracts. A library of forty cannabis extracts was generated from ten different cannabis cultivars registered by Phytoplant Research at the EU Community Plant Variety Office. Plant material was extracted using two different solvents, ethanol and hexane, and crude extracts were subsequently decarboxylated or not. Cannabinoid content in the resulting extracts was quantified, and biological activity was screened in vitro at three molecular targets involved in hypoxia and inflammation (NF-κB, HIF-1α and STAT3). Changes in transcriptional activation were strongly associated to solvent selection and decarboxylation. Two decarboxylated extracts prepared with hexane were the most potent at inhibiting NF-κB transcription, while HIF-1α activation was preferentially inhibited by ethanolic extracts, and decarboxylated extracts were generally more potent at inhibiting STAT3 induction. Our results indicate that solvent selection and proper decarboxylation represent key aspects of the standardized production of cannabis extracts with reproducible pharmacological activity.
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149
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Luján MÁ, Cheer JF, Melis M. Choosing the right drug: status and future of endocannabinoid research for the prevention of drug-seeking reinstatement. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2020; 56:29-38. [PMID: 33068883 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2020.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Prolonged exposure to drugs of abuse leads to severe alterations in mesocorticolimbic dopamine circuitry deeply implicated in substance use disorders. Despite considerable efforts, few medications to reduce relapse rates are currently available. To solve this issue, researchers are uncovering therapeutic opportunities offered by the endocannabinoid system. The cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1R), and its endogenous ligands, participate in orchestration of cue-triggered and stress-triggered responses leading to obtain natural and drug rewards. Here, we review the evidence supporting the use of CB1R neutral antagonists, allosteric modulators, indirect agonists, as well as multi-target compounds, as improved alternatives compared to classical CB1R antagonists. The promising therapeutic value of other substrates participating in endocannabinoid signaling, like peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors, is also covered. Overall, a wide body of pre-clinical evidence avails novel pharmacological strategies interacting with the endocannabinoid system as clinically amenable candidates able to counteract drug-induced dopamine maladaptations contributing to increased risk of relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Á Luján
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Joseph F Cheer
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Miriam Melis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, Monserrato, Italy.
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150
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Suraev AS, Marshall NS, Vandrey R, McCartney D, Benson MJ, McGregor IS, Grunstein RR, Hoyos CM. Cannabinoid therapies in the management of sleep disorders: A systematic review of preclinical and clinical studies. Sleep Med Rev 2020; 53:101339. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smrv.2020.101339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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