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Kohansal F, Mobed A, Ansari R, Hasanzadeh M, Ahmadalipour A, Shadjou N. An innovative electrochemical immuno-platform towards ultra-sensitive monitoring of 2-arachidonoyl glycerol in samples from rats with sleep deprivation: bioanalysis of endogenous cannabinoids using biosensor technology. RSC Adv 2022; 12:14154-14166. [PMID: 35558840 PMCID: PMC9092357 DOI: 10.1039/d2ra00380e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex of neurotransmitters in the central nervous system and plays a key role in regulating cognitive and physiological processes. 2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) is one of the imperative endocannabinoids that play key roles in the central nervous system. It acts as a signaling lipid and activates the cannabinoid CB1 receptor. In addition, 2-AG is involved in a variety of physiological functions such as energy balance, emotion, pain sensation, cognition, and neuroinflammation. So, rapid and specific diagnosis of 2-AG is of great importance in medical neuroscience. The development of new methods in this area has been one of the most important research areas in recent years. Herein, an innovative immunosensor is developed for quantification of 2-AG. For this means, gold nanostars (GNS) were synthesized and conjugated with a specific biotinylated antibody against 2-AG. The resultant bioconjugate, a bioreceptor with GNS, was immobilized on the surface of a gold electrode and used for the detection of the antigen based on the immunocomplex formation followed by analysis using different electrochemical techniques. For the first time, 2-AG protein was measured with an excellent linear range of 0.48–1 ng mL−1 and lower limit of quantification of 0.48 ng L−1 by the electroanalysis method. The engineered immunosensor showed high sensitivity and specificity in the presence of interfering antigens, proving its utility in neurological disorder detection. This immunosensor is the first sandwich type immunoassay for the detection of 2-AG in real samples and the first innovation of designing a novel sandwich type immunosensor for this analyte. Also, excellent analytical results are other advantages of this biosensor for the detection of 2-AG in human plasma samples and serum samples of rats under sleep deprivation. So, this is the first report of an immunosensor of 2-AG using a sandwich type immunosensor. A novel electrochemical immunosensor based gold nanoparticles for the sensitive recognition of 2-AG was introduced.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Fereshteh Kohansal
- Pharmaceutical Analysis Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Tabriz 51664 Iran
| | - Ahmad Mobed
- Aging Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Iran.,Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Tabriz Iran
| | - Rana Ansari
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Iran
| | - Mohammad Hasanzadeh
- Pharmaceutical Analysis Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Tabriz 51664 Iran .,Nutrition Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Tabriz Iran
| | - Ali Ahmadalipour
- Research Center of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Iran
| | - Nasrin Shadjou
- Department of Nanochemistry, Nanotechnology Research Center, Faculty of Science and Chemistry, Urmia University Urmia Iran
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Ney L, Stone C, Nichols D, Felmingham K, Bruno R, Matthews A. Endocannabinoid reactivity to acute stress: Investigation of the relationship between salivary and plasma levels. Biol Psychol 2021; 159:108022. [PMID: 33460783 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2021.108022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The endogenous cannabinoid (eCB) system has been shown in animal models to regulate the initiation and termination of central nervous responses to stress. In human studies, the role of peripherally measured eCBs is much less clear and the effect in salivary eCBs has not been studied. In this study, we use a novel method to quantify cortisol and eCBs arachidonoyl ethanolamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG) in human saliva, as well as in plasma samples. Forty-five females and 32 males completed a mixed physiological/psychosocial stress-induction study where saliva, and blood samples in males, were collected at baseline, immediately following, 30-minutes following, and 45-minutes following stress induction. Cortisol significantly increased after stress, but there were sex differences in the cortisol response to stress, with females having higher cortisol after stress compared to males. There was a significant increase in salivary levels of 2-AG immediately following stress induction, but no effect of AEA. Salivary AEA was higher in males compared to females. Surprisingly, there was no effect of stress on plasma AEA or 2-AG levels in the male cohort, though small effect sizes for 2-AG were observed, which is consistent with most other human literature. This study is the first to show that the eCB system is active in human saliva and is responsive to acute stress, possibly as part of the sympathetic nervous system response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke Ney
- School of Psychology, University of Tasmania, Australia.
| | - Caleb Stone
- School of Psychology, University of Tasmania, Australia
| | - David Nichols
- Organic Mass Spectrometry, University of Tasmania, Australia
| | - Kim Felmingham
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Australia
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Behringer V, Krumbholz A, Stevens JMG, Keiler AM, Zierau O, Hohmann G. Exploring the Utility of Hair Endocannabinoids for Monitoring Homeostasis in Bonobos. Physiol Biochem Zool 2021; 94:83-98. [PMID: 33434116 DOI: 10.1086/712658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
AbstractQuantifying physiological challenges has gained increasing importance in evolutionary biology, behavioral physiology, and conservation. One matrix that is particularly useful for obtaining long-term records of physiological changes in mammals is hair. Potential markers are components of the endocannabinoid (EC) system, which regulates homeostasis of the brain as well as the endocrine and immune systems. Here, we present results from the first study to measure ECs (anandamide [AEA], 2-archidonyl glycerol [2-AG]) and EC-like compounds (N-palmitoylethanolamine [PEA], N-oleoylethanolamine [OEA], N-stearoylethanolamine [SEA]) in the hair of a nonhuman primate. We found that AEA, SEA, PEA, and OEA can be reliably measured in hair samples. When comparing the measurements of hair from different body parts, we found that variations of some analytes suggest that hair location is likely to affect results. For changes in health status, measurements of ECs and EC-like compounds reflected differences at both intra- and interindividual levels. We concluded that the EC system potentially provides novel tools to assess well-being, health status, and metabolic stress-not only in the hair of humans but also in that of domestic and wild animals. Measuring changes in ECs and EC-like compounds may improve the long-term monitoring of health status in captive and wild primates and may serve as a useful measure in animal welfare programs.
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Bobrich M, Schwarz R, Ramer R, Borchert P, Hinz B. A simple LC-MS/MS method for the simultaneous quantification of endocannabinoids in biological samples. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2020; 1161:122371. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2020.122371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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Röhrig W, Achenbach S, Deutsch B, Pischetsrieder M. Quantification of 24 circulating endocannabinoids, endocannabinoid-related compounds, and their phospholipid precursors in human plasma by UHPLC-MS/MS. J Lipid Res 2019; 60:1475-1488. [PMID: 31235475 PMCID: PMC6672038 DOI: 10.1194/jlr.d094680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2019] [Revised: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocannabinoids and endocannabinoid-related compounds (ERCs) are involved in many physiological processes. They are released on demand from phosphoinositide and N-acylphosphatidyl ethanolamine (NAPE) precursors and comprise 2-monoacylglycerols (2-MGs) and FA ethanolamides (FEAs). Despite the abundance of advanced quantitative methods, however, their determined concentrations in blood plasma are inconsistent because 2-MGs and FEAs undergo artifactual de novo formation, chemical isomerization, and degradation during sample collection and storage. For a comprehensive survey of these compounds in blood and plasma, we have developed and validated an ultra-HPLC-MS/MS method to quantify 24 endocannabinoids, ERCs, and their phospholipid precursors. Immediate acidification of EDTA-blood to pH 5.8 blocked artifactual FEA formation for at least 4 h on ice. The 2-MGs were stabilized after plasma harvest with 0.5 M potassium thiocyanate at pH 4.7. FEA and MG plasma concentrations in six healthy volunteers ranged between 0.04-3.48 and 0.63-6.18 ng/ml, respectively. Interestingly, only 1-5% of circulating FEAs were present in their free form, while the majority was bound to NAPEs. Similarly, 97% of 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) was bound to a potential phosphoinositide pool. The herein-described stabilization and extraction methods may now be used to reliably and comprehensively quantify endocannabinoids, ERCs, and their phospholipid precursors in clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waldemar Röhrig
- Food Chemistry, Department of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Emil Fischer Center, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Susanne Achenbach
- Department of Transfusion Medicine and Hemostaseology Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Birgit Deutsch
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Monika Pischetsrieder
- Food Chemistry, Department of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Emil Fischer Center, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
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Dong X, Li L, Ye Y, Zhang D, Zheng L, Jiang Y, Shen M. Surrogate analyte-based quantification of main endocannabinoids in whole blood using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Biomed Chromatogr 2018; 33:e4439. [PMID: 30444951 DOI: 10.1002/bmc.4439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2018] [Revised: 11/03/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Endocannabinoids (eCBs) are endogenous ligands of the endocannabinoid system that are known to regulate several physiological and behavioral processes. Previous studies have developed methods for the detection of main eCBs including arachidonylethanolamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), mostly in serum or plasma. Whole blood is a superior biomaterial for eCBs analysis owing to the nature of the shortened isolation procedure and decreased risk of 2-AG isomerization during preparation. In this study, a surrogate analyte-based liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry assay was developed for the measurement of AEA, 2-AG and its isomer 1-arachidonoylglycerol (1-AG) using a maximum of 100 μL whole blood. Chromatographic separation was achieved using a reverse-phase column and a gradient elution. Detection was performed in selected reaction monitoring mode with an electrospray ionization source. The limits of detection of three eCBs were 0.05-0.1 ng/mL. Good linearity was observed over the concentration range. Intra- and inter-assay accuracy and precision were ≤10.9 and ≤8.7% at four quality control levels. The response factor and parallelism experiment illustrated that the surrogate analytes were suitable for accurate quantification of the main eCBs in whole blood. This surrogate analyte approach was successfully applied to authentic blood samples obtained from alcohol negative drivers and those under the influence of alcohol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoru Dong
- Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China.,Department of Forensic Toxicology, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Liliang Li
- Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Yonghong Ye
- Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Dingang Zhang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Lixing Zheng
- Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Yan Jiang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Min Shen
- Department of Forensic Toxicology, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
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7
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Luque-Córdoba D, Calderón-Santiago M, Luque de Castro MD, Priego-Capote F. Study of sample preparation for determination of endocannabinoids and analogous compounds in human serum by LC-MS/MS in MRM mode. Talanta 2018; 185:602-610. [PMID: 29759247 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2018.04.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2018] [Revised: 04/04/2018] [Accepted: 04/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Endocannabinoids are lipids with a key role in physiological processes such as the immune response or the metabolism. This involvement explains their association to pathologies such as cancer, obesity or multiple sclerosis. The determination of endocannabinoids constitutes a challenge for clinical laboratories due to the variety of biological matrices and the wide range of concentrations at which they can be found. This research deals with the comparison of three sample preparation strategies (viz., on-line SPE, off-line SPE for interferents removal, and protein precipitation) for subsequent LC-MS/MS analysis of 14 endocannabinoids and analogous compounds in serum. As a result, the on-line coupling between SPE and LC-MS/MS is proposed as the best approach for this determination. The proposed method allows full automation of the overall process, shortening of the analysis time, and avoidance of errors associated with sample preparation steps. The improvement in sensitivity and selectivity thus achieved allows obtaining quantification limits at the pg mL-1 level, which makes possible the application of the method for clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Luque-Córdoba
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Annex Marie Curie Building, Campus of Rabanales, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain; Agrifood Campus of International Excellence ceiA3, Campus of Rabanales, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain; Maimónides Institute of Biomedical Research (IMIBIC), Reina Sofía University Hospital, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain; CIBER Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERfes), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Spain
| | - M Calderón-Santiago
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Annex Marie Curie Building, Campus of Rabanales, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain; Agrifood Campus of International Excellence ceiA3, Campus of Rabanales, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain; Maimónides Institute of Biomedical Research (IMIBIC), Reina Sofía University Hospital, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain; CIBER Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERfes), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Spain.
| | - M D Luque de Castro
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Annex Marie Curie Building, Campus of Rabanales, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain; Agrifood Campus of International Excellence ceiA3, Campus of Rabanales, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain; Maimónides Institute of Biomedical Research (IMIBIC), Reina Sofía University Hospital, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain; CIBER Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERfes), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Spain
| | - F Priego-Capote
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Annex Marie Curie Building, Campus of Rabanales, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain; Agrifood Campus of International Excellence ceiA3, Campus of Rabanales, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain; Maimónides Institute of Biomedical Research (IMIBIC), Reina Sofía University Hospital, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain; CIBER Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERfes), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Spain.
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8
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Circulating Endocannabinoids: From Whence Do They Come and Where are They Going? Neuropsychopharmacology 2018; 43:155-172. [PMID: 28653665 PMCID: PMC5719092 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2017.130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 264] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Revised: 05/29/2017] [Accepted: 06/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The goal of this review is to summarize studies in which concentrations of circulating endocannabinoids in humans have been examined in relationship to physiological measurements and pathological status. The roles of endocannabinoids in the regulation of energy intake and storage have been well studied and the data obtained consistently support the hypothesis that endocannabinoid signaling is associated with increased consumption and storage of energy. Physical exercise mobilizes endocannabinoids, which could contribute to refilling of energy stores and also to the analgesic and mood-elevating effects of exercise. Circulating concentrations of 2-arachidonoylglycerol are very significantly circadian and dysregulated when sleep is disrupted. Other conditions under which circulating endocannabinoids are altered include inflammation and pain. A second important role for endocannabinoid signaling is to restore homeostasis following stress. Circulating endocannabinoids are stress-responsive and there is evidence that their concentrations are altered in disorders associated with excessive stress, including post-traumatic stress disorder. Although determination of circulating endocannabinoids can provide important information about the state of endocannabinoid signaling and thus allow for hypotheses to be defined and tested, the large number of physiological factors that contribute to their circulating concentrations makes it difficult to use them in isolation as a biomarker for a specific disorder.
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Abstract
Clinical studies suggest that diets rich in ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) provide beneficial anti-inflammatory effects, in part through their conversion to bioactive metabolites. Here we report on the endogenous production of a previously unknown class of ω-3 PUFA-derived lipid metabolites that originate from the crosstalk between endocannabinoid and cytochrome P450 (CYP) epoxygenase metabolic pathways. The ω-3 endocannabinoid epoxides are derived from docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) to form epoxyeicosatetraenoic acid-ethanolamide (EEQ-EA) and epoxydocosapentaenoic acid-ethanolamide (EDP-EA), respectively. Both EEQ-EAs and EDP-EAs are endogenously present in rat brain and peripheral organs as determined via targeted lipidomics methods. These metabolites were directly produced by direct epoxygenation of the ω-3 endocannabinoids, docosahexanoyl ethanolamide (DHEA) and eicosapentaenoyl ethanolamide (EPEA) by activated BV-2 microglial cells, and by human CYP2J2. Neuroinflammation studies revealed that the terminal epoxides 17,18-EEQ-EA and 19,20-EDP-EA dose-dependently abated proinflammatory IL-6 cytokines while increasing anti-inflammatory IL-10 cytokines, in part through cannabinoid receptor-2 activation. Furthermore the ω-3 endocannabinoid epoxides 17,18-EEQ-EA and 19,20-EDP-EA exerted antiangiogenic effects in human microvascular endothelial cells (HMVEC) and vasodilatory actions on bovine coronary arteries and reciprocally regulated platelet aggregation in washed human platelets. Taken together, the ω-3 endocannabinoid epoxides' physiological effects are mediated through both endocannabinoid and epoxyeicosanoid signaling pathways. In summary, the ω-3 endocannabinoid epoxides are found at concentrations comparable to those of other endocannabinoids and are expected to play critical roles during inflammation in vivo; thus their identification may aid in the development of therapeutics for neuroinflammatory and cerebrovascular diseases.
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Mwanza C, Chen Z, Zhang Q, Chen S, Wang W, Deng H. Simultaneous HPLC-APCI-MS/MS quantification of endogenous cannabinoids and glucocorticoids in hair. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2016; 1028:1-10. [PMID: 27318292 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2016.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2016] [Revised: 05/30/2016] [Accepted: 06/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Hair matrix could retrospectively record association of endogenous cannabinoids (e.g. 2-arachidonoyl glycerol, 2-AG and N-arachidonoyl-ethanolamine, AEA) and glucocorticoids (e.g. cortisol and cortisone) in a myriad of physiological functions. However, depending on the extraction conditions, the spontaneous isomerization of 2-AG to 1-arachidonoylglycerol (1-AG) and the possible rearrangement of O-arachidonoyl ethanolamine (OAEA) to AEA in various sample matrices could be major obstacles encountered in the detection of both 2-AG and AEA. This study aimed to develop a novel method for simultaneous quantification of 2-AG, AEA, cortisol and cortisone in hair. Methanol was used as the incubation solution and an acidic mixture of deionized water and methanol were utilized as mobile phase in order to avert possible rearrangements of both OAEA and 2-AG. The analyses were performed on a high-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometer with atmosphere pressure chemical ionization in positive mode. The method showed good linearity in the range of 3.0-250pg/mg for AEA, 15.0-1250pg/mg for 2-AG and 1-250pg/mg for cortisol and cortisone. Limit of detection was 1.5pg/mg for AEA, 6.0pg/mg for 2-AG and 0.5pg/mg for cortisol and cortisone. For all four analytes, intra and inter-day coefficients of variation were less than 20% and recovery above 90%. Population analyses in 473 hair samples established that 2-AG was significantly correlated with AEA. 2-AG was significantly and positively correlated with cortisol and cortisone. There was a significant positive correlation of AEA with cortisol, but not with cortisone. Obese participants showed a significantly higher concentration of cortisone and 2-AG. Males showed significantly higher 2-AG and cortisone levels but significantly lower AEA levels than females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Mwanza
- Key Laboratory of Child Development and Learning Science (Southeast University), Ministry of Education, and Institute of Child Development and Education, Research Center for Learning Science, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China; Department of Chemistry, School of Natural Sciences, The University of Zambia, Lusaka 10100, Zambia
| | - Zheng Chen
- Key Laboratory of Child Development and Learning Science (Southeast University), Ministry of Education, and Institute of Child Development and Education, Research Center for Learning Science, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Quan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Child Development and Learning Science (Southeast University), Ministry of Education, and Institute of Child Development and Education, Research Center for Learning Science, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Shenghuo Chen
- Key Laboratory of Child Development and Learning Science (Southeast University), Ministry of Education, and Institute of Child Development and Education, Research Center for Learning Science, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Weiwen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Huihua Deng
- Key Laboratory of Child Development and Learning Science (Southeast University), Ministry of Education, and Institute of Child Development and Education, Research Center for Learning Science, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China; Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing 100101, China.
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Quantitative analysis of drugs in biological matrices by HPLC hyphenated to fluorescence detection. Bioanalysis 2016; 7:743-62. [PMID: 25871590 DOI: 10.4155/bio.15.20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
An overview of the state-of-the art in HPLC coupled with fluorescence detection is presented. Over the last 20 years, the increasing number of methodological papers on this topic (4082 between 1994 and 2004 and 7725 between 2004 and 2014) is testament to its utility in bioanalytical applications. Compared with conventional UV absorbance detection used in HPLC, fluorescence detection can greatly enhance the sensitivity leading to limits of detection similar to those obtained with mass spectrometry, offering researchers a sensitive, robust and relatively inexpensive instrumental method. This work will focus on the analysis of pharmaceutical compounds in different biological matrices, either naturally fluorescent or derivatized with a fluorescent agent, and some of them chiral. Therapeutic applications, sample preparation and derivatization, sensitivity for each example are described.
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Qi M, Morena M, Vecchiarelli HA, Hill MN, Schriemer DC. A robust capillary liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry method for quantitation of neuromodulatory endocannabinoids. RAPID COMMUNICATIONS IN MASS SPECTROMETRY : RCM 2015; 29:1889-1897. [PMID: 26411510 DOI: 10.1002/rcm.7277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2015] [Revised: 07/02/2015] [Accepted: 07/12/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Methods for quantifying anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG) are needed to support programs investigating molecular mechanisms of the central nervous system. Existing methods, while useful, are not well adapted to efficiently process large numbers of very small tissue samples. A unique challenge involves the disparity in endogenous levels of AEA (pmol/g tissue) and 2-AG (nmol/g tissue). METHODS A simplified one-step solvent extraction procedure was developed for recovering endocannabinoids from rat brain tissues, and combined with capillary liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS). Various multiple reaction monitoring (MRM)-based methods were evaluated for limit of detection (LOD) and robustness. RESULTS The optimized simultaneous quantitation method achieves an LOQ of 50 amol for AEA and 25 fmol for 2-AG, both with a linearity over 3 orders of magnitude, and elution times under 3 min. Accuracy, expressed as relative error (RE), is less than 12% for AEA and less than 6% for 2-AG. Precision, expressed as relative standard deviation (RSD), is less than 6% for AEA and less than 3% for 2-AG. Sample handling routines are sufficiently robust to support the automated analysis of thousands of samples from a range of tissue types. CONCLUSIONS The microscale method is a sensitive, economical and robust alternative to the larger scale LC/MS methods currently implemented for quantitation of AEA and 2-AG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Qi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, T2N 4N1
| | - Maria Morena
- Department of Cell Biology & Anatomy and Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, T2N 4N1
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, T2N 4N1
| | - Haley A Vecchiarelli
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, T2N 4N1
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, T2N 4N1
| | - Matthew N Hill
- Department of Cell Biology & Anatomy and Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, T2N 4N1
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, T2N 4N1
| | - David C Schriemer
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, T2N 4N1
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Garst C, Fulmer M, Thewke D, Brown S. Optimized extraction of 2-arachidonyl glycerol and anandamide from aortic tissue and plasma for quantification by LC-MS/MS. EUR J LIPID SCI TECH 2015; 118:814-820. [PMID: 27274705 DOI: 10.1002/ejlt.201500115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a disease characterized by plaque formation due to an accumulation of fat, cholesterol, and immune cells in the walls of arteries. If a plaque ruptures, an occlusive thrombosis may form that causes either a heart attack or stroke. Macrophages express CB-2 receptors, and are one type of immune cell that plays a role in plaque destabilization and rupture. Endocannabinoids anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonyl glycerol (2-AG) have been found to have activity on CB-1 and CB-2 receptors throughout the body and immune system. In this study, we investigated several sample preparation options for the LC-MS quantification of AEA and 2-AG from plasma and aortic tissue. The extractions considered included liquid-liquid (LLE), solid-phase (SPE), and supported liquid (SLE). Some extraction protocols yielded high analyte recovery and prevention of 1-AG/2-AG isomerization. Our results indicate that a liquid-liquid extraction using toluene yields the highest recovery for both analytes, coupled with low ionization suppression in the mass spectrometer. This extraction and corresponding LC-MS/MS assay provides a simple, high throughput mechanism for the quantification of 2-AG and AEA in matrices relevant to the study of endocannabinoids' role in atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Garst
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bill Gatton College of Pharmacy, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - Makenzie Fulmer
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Center for Inflammation, Infectious Disease and Immunity, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - Doug Thewke
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Center for Inflammation, Infectious Disease and Immunity, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - Stacy Brown
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bill Gatton College of Pharmacy, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
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Hauer D, Schelling G, Gola H, Campolongo P, Morath J, Roozendaal B, Hamuni G, Karabatsiakis A, Atsak P, Vogeser M, Kolassa IT. Plasma concentrations of endocannabinoids and related primary fatty acid amides in patients with post-traumatic stress disorder. PLoS One 2013; 8:e62741. [PMID: 23667516 PMCID: PMC3647054 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0062741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2012] [Accepted: 03/25/2013] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Endocannabinoids (ECs) and related N-acyl-ethanolamides (NAEs) play important roles in stress response regulation, anxiety and traumatic memories. In view of the evidence that circulating EC levels are elevated under acute mild stressful conditions in humans, we hypothesized that individuals with traumatic stress exposure and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), an anxiety disorder characterized by the inappropriate persistence and uncontrolled retrieval of traumatic memories, show measurable alterations in plasma EC and NAE concentrations. Methods We determined plasma concentrations of the ECs anandamide (ANA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and the NAEs palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), oleoylethanolamide (OEA), stearoylethanolamine (SEA), and N-oleoyldopamine (OLDA) by HPLC-MS-MS in patients with PTSD (n = 10), trauma-exposed individuals without evidence of PTSD (n = 9) and in healthy control subjects (n = 29). PTSD was diagnosed according to DSM-IV criteria by administering the Clinician Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS), which also assesses traumatic events. Results Individuals with PTSD showed significantly higher plasma concentrations of ANA (0.48±0.11 vs. 0.36±0.14 ng/ml, p = 0.01), 2-AG (8.93±3.20 vs. 6.26±2.10 ng/ml, p<0.01), OEA (5.90±2.10 vs. 3.88±1.85 ng/ml, p<0.01), SEA (2.70±3.37 vs. 0.83±0.47, ng/ml, p<0.05) and significantly lower plasma levels of OLDA (0.12±0.05 vs. 0.45±0.59 ng/ml, p<0.05) than healthy controls. Moreover, PTSD patients had higher 2-AG plasma levels (8.93±3.20 vs. 6.01±1.32 ng/ml, p = 0.03) and also higher plasma concentrations of PEA (4.06±1.87 vs. 2.63±1.34 ng/ml, p<0.05) than trauma-exposed individuals without evidence of PTSD. CAPS scores in trauma-exposed individuals with and without PTSD (n = 19) correlated positively with PEA (r = 0.55, p = 0.02) and negatively with OLDA plasma levels (r = −0.68, p<0.01). CAPS subscores for intrusions (r = −0.65, p<0.01), avoidance (r = −0.60, p<0.01) and hyperarousal (r = −0.66, p<0.01) were all negatively related to OLDA plasma concentrations. Conclusions PTSD appears to be associated with changes in plasma EC/NAE concentrations. This may have pathophysiological and diagnostic consequences but will need to be reproduced in larger cohorts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Hauer
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Gustav Schelling
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Hannah Gola
- Department of Clinical and Neuropsychology, Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Patrizia Campolongo
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Julia Morath
- Department of Clinical and Neuropsychology, Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Benno Roozendaal
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre and Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Gilava Hamuni
- Department of Clinical and Neuropsychology, Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Alexander Karabatsiakis
- Department of Clinical and Biological Psychology, Institute of Psychology and Education, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Piray Atsak
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre and Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Michael Vogeser
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Iris-Tatjana Kolassa
- Department of Clinical and Neuropsychology, Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
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15
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Liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry analysis of free and esterified fatty acid N-acyl ethanolamines in plasma and blood cells. Anal Biochem 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2012.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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16
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Lin L, Yang H, Jones PJH. Quantitative analysis of multiple fatty acid ethanolamides using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 2012; 87:189-95. [PMID: 23141804 DOI: 10.1016/j.plefa.2012.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2012] [Revised: 09/10/2012] [Accepted: 09/11/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Fatty acid ethanolamides (FAE) represent a group of lipid signaling molecules associated with many physiological and pharmacological actions; however, low FAE tissue levels pose challenges in terms of analytical characterization. The objective was to develop a competent ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) method for analysis of multiple FAE in animal and human tissue samples. Analytes were extracted using lipid-phase and solid-phase extraction procedures. Chromatographic separation was achieved using a gradient elution in 8 min. FAE were quantified by MS/MS in positive electrospray ionization mode. Linearity was shown in lower and higher FAE concentration ranges, with a limit of quantification (LOQ) ≤0.2 ng/ml for FAE including alpha-linolenoylethanolamide (ALEA), arachidonoylethanolamide (AEA), docosahexaenoylethanolamide (DHEA), linoleoylethanolamide (LEA), oleoylethanolamide (OEA) and palmitoylethanolamide (PEA). Accuracy was shown to be between 92.4% and 108.8%, and precision was <10% for all FAE species. In sum, this sensitive and reproducible method can be used to simultaneously determine multiple FAE at low concentrations in order to facilitate further study of the role of FAE on physiological state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Lin
- Richardson Centre for Functional Foods and Nutraceuticals, Department of Human Nutritional Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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17
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Feuerecker M, Hauer D, Toth R, Demetz F, Hölzl J, Thiel M, Kaufmann I, Schelling G, Choukèr A. Effects of exercise stress on the endocannabinoid system in humans under field conditions. Eur J Appl Physiol 2011; 112:2777-81. [PMID: 22101870 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-011-2237-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2011] [Accepted: 11/02/2011] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The effects of physical exercise stress on the endocannabinoid system in humans are almost unexplored. In this prospective study, we investigated in a crossover design and under field conditions at different altitudes the effects of physical exercise on the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in 12 trained healthy volunteers. For determination of alterations on the ECS three different protocols were analyzed: Protocol A (physical exercise at lower altitude) involved strenuous hiking below 2,100 m, whereas Protocol B (physical exercise by active ascent to high altitude) involved hiking up to 3,196 m, an accommodation at the cottage and a descent the next day. Protocol C (passive ascent) included a helicopter ascent to 3,196 m, an overnight stay at this altitude and a flight back to the base camp the following day. The cumulative hiked altitude in Protocol A and B was comparable (~1,650 m). The blood EC concentrations of anandamide increased significantly in Protocol A/B from baseline (T0) 0.12 ± 0.01/0.16 ± 0.02 (mean ± SEM) to 0.27 ± 0.02/0.42 ± 0.02 after exercise (T1) (p < 0.05). Anandamide levels in Protocol C remained stable at 0.20 ± 0.02. We conclude that the ECS is activated upon strenuous exercise whereas the combination with hypoxic stress further increases its activity. The reduced partial pressure of oxygen at high altitude alone did not affect this system. In summary, physical exercise activates the endocannabinoid system, whereas the combination with high altitude enhances this activation. This discloses new perspectives to adaptation mechanisms to physical exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Feuerecker
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Klinikum Großhadern, University of Munich, Marchioninistrasse 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
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Hillard CJ, Weinlander KM, Stuhr KL. Contributions of endocannabinoid signaling to psychiatric disorders in humans: genetic and biochemical evidence. Neuroscience 2011; 204:207-29. [PMID: 22123166 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2011.11.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2011] [Revised: 11/05/2011] [Accepted: 11/08/2011] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid signaling system is a widespread, neuromodulatory system in brain and is also widely utilized in the periphery to modulate metabolic functions and the immune system. Preclinical data demonstrate that endocannabinoid signaling is an important stress buffer and modulates emotional and cognitive functions. These data suggest the hypothesis that endocannabinoid signaling could be dysfunctional in a number of mental disorders. Genetic polymorphisms in the human genes for two important proteins of the endocannabinoid signaling system, the CB1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1R) and fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), have been explored in the context of normal and pathological conditions. In the case of the gene for FAAH, the mechanistic relationships among the common genetic polymorphism, the expression of the FAAH protein, and its likely impact on endocannabinoid signaling are understood. However, multiple polymorphisms in the gene for the CB1R occur and are associated with human phenotypic differences without an understanding of the functional relationships among the gene, mRNA, protein, and protein function. The endocannabinoid ligands are found in the circulation, and several studies have identified changes in their concentrations under various conditions. These data are reviewed for the purpose of generating hypotheses and to encourage further studies in this very interesting and important area.
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Affiliation(s)
- C J Hillard
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA.
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Zoerner AA, Gutzki FM, Batkai S, May M, Rakers C, Engeli S, Jordan J, Tsikas D. Quantification of endocannabinoids in biological systems by chromatography and mass spectrometry: A comprehensive review from an analytical and biological perspective. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Cell Biol Lipids 2011; 1811:706-23. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbalip.2011.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2011] [Revised: 08/11/2011] [Accepted: 08/12/2011] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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20
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Weis F, Beiras-Fernandez A, Hauer D, Hornuss C, Sodian R, Kreth S, Briegel J, Schelling G. Effect of anaesthesia and cardiopulmonary bypass on blood endocannabinoid concentrations during cardiac surgery. Br J Anaesth 2010; 105:139-44. [PMID: 20525978 DOI: 10.1093/bja/aeq117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is an endogenous signalling system which includes the endocannabinoids anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and specific G-protein-coupled endocannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2). Recent studies have described important roles of the peripheral ECS in human atherosclerosis, cardiometabolic disorders, heart failure, and systemic inflammation. We sought to study changes in plasma endocannabinoid concentrations during cardiac surgery (CS) under general anaesthesia with isoflurane/sufentanil, and during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). METHODS We studied 30 patients undergoing CS with CPB. All patients received midazolam and sufentanil for induction and isoflurane and sufentanil for maintenance of general anaesthesia. Blood samples were drawn before and after induction of general anaesthesia, after the beginning of surgery, during and after weaning from CPB, and after admission to intensive care unit (ICU) after surgery. Endocannabinoid measurements were performed by HPLC-tandem mass spectrometry. RESULTS Induction of general anaesthesia led to a significant decline in plasma AEA concentrations [from mean (sd) 0.39 (0.03) to 0.27 (0.03) ng ml(-1), P<0.01]. CPB induced a pronounced increase in 2-AG concentrations [from 112.5 (163.5) to 321.0 (120.4) ng ml(-1), P<0.01], whereas AEA concentrations remained persistently low until admission to the ICU. 2-AG concentrations returned to preoperative values after surgery. CONCLUSIONS General anaesthesia with isoflurane significantly reduces plasma AEA concentrations. This could be a consequence of stress reduction after loss of consciousness. The significant increase in 2-AG after initiation of CPB may be part of an inflammatory response. These findings suggest that anaesthesia and surgery have differential effects on the ECS which could have substantial clinical consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Weis
- Klinikum Grosshadern, Department of Anesthesiology, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany.
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21
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Substantially altered expression pattern of cannabinoid receptor 2 and activated endocannabinoid system in patients with severe heart failure. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2010; 48:1187-93. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2009.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2009] [Revised: 10/27/2009] [Accepted: 10/27/2009] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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22
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Jian W, Edom R, Weng N, Zannikos P, Zhang Z, Wang H. Validation and application of an LC-MS/MS method for quantitation of three fatty acid ethanolamides as biomarkers for fatty acid hydrolase inhibition in human plasma. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2010; 878:1687-99. [PMID: 20462810 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2010.04.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2010] [Revised: 04/14/2010] [Accepted: 04/15/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Endogenous ethanolamides (fatty acid amides), including arachidonyl ethanolamide (anandamide, AEA), oleoyl ethanolamide (OEA), and palmitoyl ethanolamide (PEA), are substrates of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). FAAH may play an important role for pain, anxiety/depression, and metabolic disorders. Ethanolamides are considered to be potential pharmacodynamic biomarkers to determine target engagement for FAAH inhibition by novel pharmaceutical agents. A highly selective, sensitive, and high-throughput liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method was developed and validated for simultaneous quantitation of AEA, OEA, and PEA in human plasma. The method employed D(4)-AEA, D(4)-OEA, and (13)C(2)-PEA as "surrogate analytes" to establish the concentration-mass response relationship, i.e. a regression equation. The concentrations of AEA, OEA, and PEA were calculated based on the regression equations derived from the surrogate analytes. This approach made it possible to prepare calibration standard and quality control (QC) samples in plasma devoid of interferences from the endogenous analytes. The analytical methodology required 150 microL of human plasma that was processed via liquid-liquid extraction (LLE) using a 96-well plate format. Chromatographic separation was achieved with a reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) column using gradient elution, and the run time was 3 min. The method was fully validated and it demonstrated acceptable accuracy, precision, linearity, and specificity. The lower limit of quantitation (LLOQ) was 0.1/0.5/0.5 ng/mL for AEA/OEA/PEA, which was sensitive enough to capture the basal plasma levels in healthy subjects. Bench-top stability in plasma, freeze-thaw stability in plasma, frozen long-term stability in plasma, autosampler stability, and stock solution stability all met acceptance criteria (%Bias within +/-12.0%). Characterization of stability in purchased/aged blood indicated that ethanolamides are subject to degradation mediated by intracellular membrane-bound FAAH, which has been shown to be inhibited by phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride (PMSF). In the presence of PMSF, ethanolamide levels increased slightly over time, suggesting that blood cells release ethanolamides into plasma. Whole blood stability conducted in fresh blood immediately following collection revealed that there was significant elevation of ethanolamide concentrations (approximately 1.3-2.0-fold on ice and approximately 1.5-3.0-fold at room temperature by 2h), indicating that de novo synthesis and release from blood cells were the predominant factors affecting ethanolamide concentrations ex vivo. Accordingly, conditions that ensured rapid separation of plasma from blood cells and consistency in the blood harvesting procedures were established and implemented for clinical studies to minimize the ex vivo elevation of plasma ethanolamide concentrations. The variability (intra-subject and inter-subject) of plasma ethanolamide levels was evaluated in healthy subjects during a Phase 0 study (no drug administration) that simulated the design of single-ascending dose and multiple-ascending dose clinical trials in terms of sample collection time points, population, food, and activity. The data indicated there was relatively large inter- and intra-subject variation in plasma ethanolamide concentrations. In addition, apparent variations due to time of day and/or food effects were also revealed. Understanding the variability of ethanolamide levels in humans is very important for study design and data interpretation when changes in ethanolamide levels are used as target engagement biomarkers in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenying Jian
- Bioanalysis/DMPK, Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Research and Development, Raritan, NJ 08869, United States.
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23
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Simultaneous quantitative analysis of N-acylethanolamides in clinical samples. Anal Biochem 2009; 395:68-76. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2009.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2009] [Revised: 08/04/2009] [Accepted: 08/04/2009] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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24
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Chen L, Zhang J, Li F, Qiu Y, Wang L, Li YH, Shi J, Pan HL, Li M. Endogenous Anandamide and Cannabinoid Receptor-2 Contribute to Electroacupuncture Analgesia in Rats. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2009; 10:732-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2008.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2008] [Revised: 12/15/2008] [Accepted: 12/19/2008] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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Kingsley PJ, Marnett LJ. Analysis of endocannabinoids, their congeners and COX-2 metabolites. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2009; 877:2746-54. [PMID: 19505857 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2009.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2009] [Revised: 05/13/2009] [Accepted: 05/14/2009] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Since the discovery of the endocannabinoids anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) in the early 1990s, the endocannabinoid system has been implicated in a wide array of physiological processes, such as control of food intake and energy balance, fertility and obesity. As the importance of this system becomes apparent, there is a tremendous need for robust, sensitive and efficient analytical methodology for the examination of the endocannabinoids, their congeners and putative metabolites. This review will summarize quantitative analytical methodology as reported in the literature from 1992 to present for the analysis of endocannabinoids and related compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip J Kingsley
- A.B. Hancock, Jr. Memorial Laboratory for Cancer Research, Department of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt Institute of Chemical Biology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232, United States
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Endocannabinoids anandamide and its cannabinoid receptors in liver fibrosis after murine schistosomiasis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 29:182-6. [DOI: 10.1007/s11596-009-0209-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2008] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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Zoerner AA, Gutzki FM, Suchy MT, Beckmann B, Engeli S, Jordan J, Tsikas D. Targeted stable-isotope dilution GC-MS/MS analysis of the endocannabinoid anandamide and other fatty acid ethanol amides in human plasma. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2009; 877:2909-23. [PMID: 19414283 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2009.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2009] [Revised: 04/03/2009] [Accepted: 04/06/2009] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Anandamide (arachidonoyl ethanol amide, AEA) is an endocannabinoid, acting on CB1 and CB2 receptors. Elevated plasma AEA concentrations in humans have been associated amongst others with obesity, psychological disorders and miscarriage. The occurrence in human plasma of ethanol amides of other unsaturated and saturated fatty acids, including oleic acid and palmitic acid, has also been reported. Most data available on anandamide and other fatty acid ethanol amides (FAEA) until now have been generated by using the LC-MS/MS methodology. Here, we describe a stable-isotope dilution GC-MS/MS method for the quantitative determination of AEA, oleic acid ethanol amide (OEA) and palmitic acid ethanol amide (PEA) in human plasma using their stable-isotope labeled analogs as internal standards. Other FAEA were found in plasma and their concentration was estimated. The present method involves a single solvent extraction of FAEA and their internal standards from plasma (50-1000 microl) with toluene, derivatization to the pentafluorobenzamide pentafluoropropionyl derivatives (FAEA-PFBz-PFP), and simultaneous quantification by selected reaction monitoring of the carboxylate anions produced by collision-induced dissociation of the parent ions [M-PFBz](-). The present method was fully validated for anandamide. Thus, accuracy and imprecision of the method were within the range of 100+/-20% and less than 20%, respectively, in the range investigated (0-4 nM). Mean overall recovery was 90+/-3%. The LOQ and LOD values of the method were determined to be 0.25 nM of added AEA in plasma samples and 400 amol of injected AEA-PFBz-PFP derivative, respectively. In plasma of 16 healthy individuals AEA concentration was measured to be 1.35+/-0.32 nM. This finding is concordant to literature AEA plasma concentrations as measured by LC-MS/MS. The plasma concentrations of OEA, PEA and other FAEA are higher than that of AEA. This GC-MS/MS method is straightforward, accurate, precise, highly specific for FAEA and useful in basic and clinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander A Zoerner
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, 30623 Hannover, Germany
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Balvers MGJ, Verhoeckx KCM, Witkamp RF. Development and validation of a quantitative method for the determination of 12 endocannabinoids and related compounds in human plasma using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2009; 877:1583-90. [PMID: 19395322 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2009.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2008] [Revised: 03/23/2009] [Accepted: 04/01/2009] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
A sensitive and specific LC-MS/MS method for the quantification of the endocannabinoids and related structures anandamide, 2-arachidonoyl glycerol, 2-arachidonyl glycerol ether, O-arachidonoyl ethanolamide, dihomo-gamma-linolenoyl ethanolamide, docosatetraenoyl ethanolamide, N-arachidonoyl dopamine, N-arachidonyl glycine, N-oleoyl dopamine, oleoyl ethanolamide, palmitoyl ethanolamide, and stearoyl ethanolamide in human plasma was developed and validated. Compounds were extracted using acetonitrile followed by solid-phase extraction. Separation was performed on a Xterra C8 column using gradient elution coupled to a triple-quadrupole MS. LLOQ levels ranged from 0.02 to 1.75 microg/mL, LODs ranged from 0.0002 to 0.1266 ng/mL, and accuracies were >80% (except stearoyl ethanolamide at lowest spike level) at all spike levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michiel G J Balvers
- TNO Quality of Life, Departments of Analytical Research and Biosciences, AJ Zeist, The Netherlands.
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Marczylo TH, Lam PMW, Nallendran V, Taylor AH, Konje JC. A solid-phase method for the extraction and measurement of anandamide from multiple human biomatrices. Anal Biochem 2008; 384:106-13. [PMID: 18823934 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2008.08.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2008] [Revised: 08/22/2008] [Accepted: 08/25/2008] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
N-Arachidonoylethanolamine (AEA, anandamide) was the first endocannabinoid to be identified and has since become associated with the mediation of several physiological functions and disease states. AEA has been isolated from numerous tissues and biofluids, in the low nanomolar range, using lipid extraction techniques with organic solvents. These techniques require the drying down of relatively large volumes of solvents, making them unsuitable for high-throughput analysis. Here we describe a solid-phase extraction (SPE) method for the investigation of AEA concentrations in human plasma, serum, milk, urine, amniotic fluid, peritoneal fluid, saliva, follicular fluid, and fluid from an ovarian cyst. AEA was detected in serum and plasma from blood isolated from 20 adult women (means+/-standard deviations: 0.68+/-0.29 and 0.64+/-0.28 nM, respectively), from pregnant women at term (1.37+/-0.42 nM), and from umbilical vein (1.26+/-0.33 nM) and umbilical artery (1.14+/-0.35nM), in milk (0.12+/-0.05 nM) and from amniotic (0.03+/-0.02 nM), peritoneal (0.93+/-0.27 nM), follicular (1.17+/-0.51 nM), and ovarian cyst (0.32+/-0.01 nM) fluids. AEA was undetectable in saliva and urine. The 60% AEA extraction efficiency achieved with SPE from plasma was superior to the 19% efficiency achieved using the existing organic solvent extraction method. Limits of quantification and detection for AEA were also improved dramatically using SPE (8 and 4 fmol/ml) compared with organic extraction (25 and 18.75 fmol/ml plasma). These improvements allow the use of smaller plasma samples with SPE. Intra- and interday variability were comparable, and the mean AEA concentration of pooled plasma samples (1.18 nM, n=15) was identical with the two techniques. Similarly, when 56 plasma samples from laboring and nonlaboring women were analyzed using both techniques, no extraction method-dependent differences were observed. Consequently, we provide evidence for a robust SPE technique for the extraction of AEA from biomatrices to replace the existing liquid extraction methods, with the SPE technique being superior in terms of speed, extraction efficiency, and sample size required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy H Marczylo
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester, Leicestershire LE27LX, UK
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Ultra performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry method for the measurement of anandamide in human plasma. Anal Biochem 2008; 380:195-201. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2008.05.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2008] [Revised: 05/08/2008] [Accepted: 05/20/2008] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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