1
|
Barbetti M, Mancabelli L, Vacondio F, Longhi G, Ferlenghi F, Viglioli M, Turroni F, Carnevali L, Mor M, Ventura M, Sgoifo A, Rivara S. Social stress-induced depressive-like symptoms and changes in gut microbial and lipidomic profiles are prevented by pharmacological inhibition of FAAH activity in male rats. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2024; 131:110963. [PMID: 38354897 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2024.110963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Pharmacological inhibition of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) activity has antidepressant-like effects in preclinical models of stress. In this study, we investigated whether the antidepressant-like effects of FAAH inhibition are associated with corresponding changes in gut microbial and lipidomic profiles, which are emerging as critical components in the pathophysiology of depression. Adult male Wistar rats experienced five weeks of repeated social defeat or control procedure and were treated with the FAAH inhibitor URB694 (0.3 mg/kg/day, i.p.) or vehicle starting from the third week. Repeated social defeat induced the emergence of depressive-like behavioral (sucrose preference reduction and passive coping behaviors in the forced swim test) and neuroendocrine (increased corticosterone levels) changes, which were prevented by URB694 treatment. Repeated social defeat also provoked a significant variation in gut microbiota (changes in the relative abundance of 14 bacterial taxa) and lipidic (e.g., glycerophospholipids) composition. These stress-induced changes were prevented by URB694 treatment. These findings indicate that inhibition of FAAH activity with URB694 blocks the co-occurrence of depressive-like behavioral and neuroendocrine changes and alterations in gut microbial and lipid composition in rats exposed to repeated social defeat. In conclusion, these results suggest that the gut microbiota-lipid crosstalk may represent a novel biological target for FAAH inhibitors to enhance stress resilience.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margherita Barbetti
- Stress Physiology Lab, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences, and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Leonardo Mancabelli
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy; Interdepartmental Research Centre "Microbiome Research Hub", University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | | | - Giulia Longhi
- Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences, and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | | | | | - Francesca Turroni
- Interdepartmental Research Centre "Microbiome Research Hub", University of Parma, Parma, Italy; Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences, and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Luca Carnevali
- Stress Physiology Lab, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences, and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parma, Italy; Interdepartmental Research Centre "Microbiome Research Hub", University of Parma, Parma, Italy.
| | - Marco Mor
- Interdepartmental Research Centre "Microbiome Research Hub", University of Parma, Parma, Italy; Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Marco Ventura
- Interdepartmental Research Centre "Microbiome Research Hub", University of Parma, Parma, Italy; Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences, and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Andrea Sgoifo
- Stress Physiology Lab, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences, and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parma, Italy; Interdepartmental Research Centre "Microbiome Research Hub", University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Silvia Rivara
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kwee CMB, Leen NA, Van der Kamp RC, Van Lissa CJ, Cath DC, Groenink L, Baas JMP. Anxiolytic effects of endocannabinoid enhancing compounds: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2023; 72:79-94. [PMID: 37094409 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2023.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system is a promising candidate for anxiolytic therapy, but translation to the clinic has been lagging. We meta-analyzed the evidence for anxiety-reduction by compounds that facilitate endocannabinoid signaling in humans and animals. To identify areas of specific potential, effects of moderators were assessed. Literature was searched in Pubmed and Embase up to May 2021. A placebo/vehicle-control group was required and in human studies, randomization. We excluded studies that co-administered other substances. Risk of bias was assessed with SYRCLE's RoB tool and Cochrane RoB 2.0. We conducted three-level random effects meta-analyses and explored sources of heterogeneity using Bayesian regularized meta-regression (BRMA). The systematic review yielded 134 studies. We analyzed 120 studies (114 animal, 6 human) that investigated cannabidiol (CBD, 61), URB597 (39), PF-3845 (6) and AM404 (14). Pooled effects on conditioned and unconditioned anxiety in animals (with the exception of URB597 on unconditioned anxiety) and on experimentally induced anxiety in humans favored the investigational drugs over placebo/vehicle. Publication year was negatively associated with effects of CBD on unconditioned anxiety. Compared to approach avoidance tests, tests of repetitive-compulsive behavior were associated with larger effects of CBD and URB597, and the social interaction test with smaller effects of URB597. Larger effects of CBD on unconditioned anxiety were observed when anxiety pre-existed. Studies reported few side effects at therapeutic doses. The evidence quality was low with indications of publication bias. More clinical trials are needed to translate the overall positive results to clinical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caroline M B Kwee
- Department of Experimental Psychology and Helmholtz Institute, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Altrecht Academic Anxiety Center, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Nadia A Leen
- Department of Experimental Psychology and Helmholtz Institute, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Brain Research & Innovation Center, Ministry of Defence, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Department of Psychiatry, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Rian C Van der Kamp
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, VUmc medical faculty, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Caspar J Van Lissa
- Department of Methodology and Statistics, Tilburg University, Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | - Danielle C Cath
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands; GGZ Drenthe, Department of specialist trainings, Assen, the Netherlands
| | - Lucianne Groenink
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmacology, UIPS, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Johanna M P Baas
- Department of Experimental Psychology and Helmholtz Institute, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Genovese T, Duranti A, Monaco F, Siracusa R, Fusco R, Impellizzeri D, D’Amico R, Cordaro M, Cuzzocrea S, Di Paola R. Inhibition of Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase (FAAH) Regulates NF-kb Pathways Reducing Bleomycin-Induced Chronic Lung Inflammation and Pulmonary Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10125. [PMID: 37373275 PMCID: PMC10298572 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241210125] [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] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The deadly interstitial lung condition known as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) worsens over time and for no apparent reason. The traditional therapy approaches for IPF, which include corticosteroids and immunomodulatory drugs, are often ineffective and can have noticeable side effects. The endocannabinoids are hydrolyzed by a membrane protein called fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). Increasing endogenous levels of endocannabinoid by pharmacologically inhibiting FAAH results in numerous analgesic advantages in a variety of experimental models for pre-clinical pain and inflammation. In our study, we mimicked IPF by administering intratracheal bleomycin, and we administered oral URB878 at a dose of 5 mg/kg. The histological changes, cell infiltration, pro-inflammatory cytokine production, inflammation, and nitrosative stress caused by bleomycin were all reduced by URB878. Our data clearly demonstrate for the first time that the inhibition of FAAH activity was able to counteract not only the histological alteration bleomycin-induced but also the cascade of related inflammatory events.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Genovese
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy (R.S.); (D.I.)
| | - Andrea Duranti
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Piazza del Rinascimento, 6, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Francesco Monaco
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Rosalba Siracusa
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy (R.S.); (D.I.)
| | - Roberta Fusco
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy (R.S.); (D.I.)
| | - Daniela Impellizzeri
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy (R.S.); (D.I.)
| | - Ramona D’Amico
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy (R.S.); (D.I.)
| | - Marika Cordaro
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Salvatore Cuzzocrea
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy (R.S.); (D.I.)
| | - Rosanna Di Paola
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy;
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Understanding and Targeting the Endocannabinoid System with Activity‐Based Protein Profiling. Isr J Chem 2023. [DOI: 10.1002/ijch.202200115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
|
5
|
Regioselective Pd-catalyzed decarboxylative C-6 acylation of 7-O-carbamate coumarins and their anti-inflammatory evaluation. Tetrahedron 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tet.2023.133295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
|
6
|
Papa A, Pasquini S, Galvani F, Cammarota M, Contri C, Carullo G, Gemma S, Ramunno A, Lamponi S, Gorelli B, Saponara S, Varani K, Mor M, Campiani G, Boscia F, Vincenzi F, Lodola A, Butini S. Development of potent and selective FAAH inhibitors with improved drug-like properties as potential tools to treat neuroinflammatory conditions. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 246:114952. [PMID: 36462439 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The neuroprotective performance against neuroinflammation of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) can be remarkably improved by indirect stimulation mediated by the pharmacological inhibition of the key ECS catabolic enzyme fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). Based on our previous works and aiming to discover new selective FAAH inhibitors , we herein reported a new series of carbamate-based FAAH inhibitors (4a-t) which showed improved drug disposition properties compared to the previously reported analogues 2a-b. The introduction of ionizable functions allowed us to obtain new FAAH inhibitors of nanomolar potency characterized by good water solubility and chemical stability at physiological pH. Interesting structure-activity relationships (SARs), deeply analyzed by molecular docking and molecular dynamic (MD) simulations, were obtained. All the newly developed inhibitors showed an excellent selectivity profile evaluated against monoacylglycerol lipase and cannabinoid receptors. The reversible mechanism of action was determined by a rapid dilution assay. Absence of toxicity was confirmed in mouse fibroblasts NIH3T3 (for compounds 4e, 4g, 4n-o, and 4s) and in human astrocytes cell line 1321N1 (for compounds 4e, 4n, and 4s). The absence of undesired cardiac effects was also confirmed for compound 4n. Selected analogues (compounds 4e, 4g, 4n, and 4s) were able to reduce oxidative stress in 1321N1 astrocytes and exhibited notable neuroprotective effects when tested in an ex vivo model of neuroinflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Papa
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie, Chimica e Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Silvia Pasquini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chimiche, Farmaceutiche e Agrarie, Università degli Studi di Ferrara, Via Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Francesca Galvani
- Dipartimento di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124, Parma, Italy
| | - Mariarosaria Cammarota
- Divisione di Farmacologia, Dipartimento di Neuroscienze e Scienze Riproduttive ed Odontostomatologiche, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Napoli, Italy
| | - Chiara Contri
- Dipartimento di Medicina Traslazionale, Università degli Studi di Ferrara, Via Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Gabriele Carullo
- Dipartiment di Scienze della Vita, Università degli Studi di Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Sandra Gemma
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie, Chimica e Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Anna Ramunno
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Salerno, Viale Giovanni Paolo II 132, 84084, Fisciano (SA), Italy
| | - Stefania Lamponi
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie, Chimica e Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Beatrice Gorelli
- Dipartiment di Scienze della Vita, Università degli Studi di Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Simona Saponara
- Dipartiment di Scienze della Vita, Università degli Studi di Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Katia Varani
- Dipartimento di Medicina Traslazionale, Università degli Studi di Ferrara, Via Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Marco Mor
- Dipartimento di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124, Parma, Italy; Microbiome Research Hub, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 11/A, I-43124, Parma, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Campiani
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie, Chimica e Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Francesca Boscia
- Divisione di Farmacologia, Dipartimento di Neuroscienze e Scienze Riproduttive ed Odontostomatologiche, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Napoli, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Vincenzi
- Dipartimento di Medicina Traslazionale, Università degli Studi di Ferrara, Via Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessio Lodola
- Dipartimento di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124, Parma, Italy
| | - Stefania Butini
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie, Chimica e Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Cammarota M, Ferlenghi F, Vacondio F, Vincenzi F, Varani K, Bedini A, Rivara S, Mor M, Boscia F. Combined targeting of fatty acid amide hydrolase and melatonin receptors promotes neuroprotection and stimulates inflammation resolution in rats. Br J Pharmacol 2022; 180:1316-1338. [PMID: 36526591 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Devising novel strategies to therapeutically favour inflammation resolution and provide neuroprotection is an unmet clinical need. Enhancing endocannabinoid tone by inhibiting the catabolic enzyme fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), or stimulating melatonin receptors has therapeutic potential to treat neuropathological states in which neuroinflammation plays a central role. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH A rodent hippocampal explant model of inflammatory injury was used to assess the effects of UCM1341, a dual-acting compound with FAAH inhibitory action and agonist activity at melatonin receptors, against neuroinflammatory damage. FAAH activity was measured by a radiometric assay, and N-acylethanolamine levels were assessed by HPLC-MS/MS methods. FAAH distribution, evolution of inflammation and the contribution of UCM1341 to the expression of proteins controlling macrophage behaviour were investigated by biochemical and confocal analyses. KEY RESULTS UCM1341 exhibited greater neuroprotection against neuroinflammatory degeneration, compared with the reference compounds URB597 (FAAH inhibitor) and melatonin. During neuroinflammation, UCM1341 augmented the levels of anandamide and N-oleoylethanolamine, but not N-palmitoylethanolamine, up-regulated PPAR-α levels, attenuated demyelination and prevented the release of TNF-α. UCM1341 modulated inflammatory responses by contributing to microglia/macrophage polarization, stimulating formation of lipid-laden macrophages and regulating expression of proteins controlling cholesterol metabolism and efflux. The neuroprotective effects of UCM1341 were prevented by PPARα, TRPV1 and melatonin receptor antagonists. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS UCM1341, by enhancing endocannabinoid and melatoninergic signalling, benefits neuroprotection and stimulates inflammation resolution pathways. Our findings provide an encouraging prospect of therapeutically targeting endocannabinoid and melatoninergic systems in inflammatory demyelinating states in the CNS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariarosaria Cammarota
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | | | | | - Fabrizio Vincenzi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Katia Varani
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Annalida Bedini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino 'Carlo Bo', Urbino, Italy
| | - Silvia Rivara
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Marco Mor
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Francesca Boscia
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase (FAAH) Inhibition Plays a Key Role in Counteracting Acute Lung Injury. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052781. [PMID: 35269926 PMCID: PMC8910911 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute lung injury (ALI) is a group of lung illnesses characterized by severe inflammation, with no treatment. The fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) enzyme is an integral membrane protein responsible for the hydrolysis of the main endocannabinoids, such as anandamide (AEA). In pre-clinical pain and inflammation models, increasing the endogenous levels of AEA and other bioactive fatty acid amides (FAAs) via genetic deletion or the pharmacological inhibition of FAAH produces many analgesic benefits in several different experimental models. To date, nobody has investigated the role of FAAH inhibition on an ALI mouse model. Mice were subjected to a carrageenan injection and treated orally 1 h after with the FAAH inhibitor URB878 dissolved in a vehicle consisting of 10% PEG-400, 10% Tween-80 and 80% saline at different doses: The inhibition of FAAH activity was able to counteract not only the CAR-induced histological alteration, but also the cascade of related inflammatory events. URB878 clears the way for further studies based on FAAH inhibition in acute lung pathologies.
Collapse
|
9
|
Bajaj S, Jain S, Vyas P, Bawa S, Vohora D. The role of endocannabinoid pathway in the neuropathology of Alzheimer's disease: Can the inhibitors of MAGL and FAAH prove to be potential therapeutic targets against the cognitive impairment associated with Alzheimer's disease? Brain Res Bull 2021; 174:305-322. [PMID: 34217798 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2021.06.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive decline of cognitive function in combination with neuronal death. Current approved treatment target single dysregulated pathway instead of multiple mechanism, resulting in lack of efficacy in slowing down disease progression. The proclivity of endocannabinoid system to exert neuroprotective action and mitigate symptoms of neurodegeneration condition has received substantial interest. Growing evidence suggest the endocannabinoids (eCB) system, viz. anadamide (AEA) and arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG), as potential therapeutic targets with the ability to modify Alzheimer's pathology by targeting the inflammatory, neurodegenerative and cognitive aspects of the disease. In order to modulate endocannabinoid system, number of agents have been reported amongst which are inhibitors of the monoacylglycerol (MAGL) and fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), the enzymes that hydrolyses 2-AG and AEA respectively. However, little is known regarding the exact mechanistic signalling and their effects on pathophysiology and cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer's disease. Both MAGL and FAAH inhibitors possess fascinating properties that may offer a multi-faceted approach for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease such as potential to protect neurons from deleterious effect of amyloid-β, reducing phosphorylation of tau, reducing amyloid-β induced oxidative stress, stimulating neurotrophin to support brain intrinsic repair mechanism etc. Based on empirical evidence, MAGL and FAAH inhibitors might have potential for therapeutic efficacy against cognitive impairment associated with Alzheimer's disease. The aim of this review is to summarize the experimental studies demonstrating the polyvalent properties of MAGL or FAAH inhibitor compounds for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, and also effect of these on learning and types of memories, which together encourage to study these compounds over other therapeutics targets. Further research in this direction would enhance the molecular mechanisms and development of applicable interventions for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, which nevertheless stay as the primary unmet need.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shivanshu Bajaj
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
| | - Shreshta Jain
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
| | - Preeti Vyas
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
| | - Sandhya Bawa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
| | - Divya Vohora
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Rudolph S, Dahlhaus H, Hanekamp W, Albers C, Barth M, Michels G, Friedrich D, Lehr M. Aryl N-[ω-(6-Fluoroindol-1-yl)alkyl]carbamates as Inhibitors of Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase, Monoacylglycerol Lipase, and Butyrylcholinesterase: Structure-Activity Relationships and Hydrolytic Stability. ACS OMEGA 2021; 6:13466-13483. [PMID: 34056494 PMCID: PMC8158844 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c01699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
A series of aryl N-[ω-(6-fluoroindol-1-yl)alkyl]carbamates with alkyl spacers of varying lengths between the indole and the carbamate group and with differently substituted aryl moieties at the carbamate oxygen were synthesized and tested for inhibition of the pharmacologically interesting serine hydrolases fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL), butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE), and acetylcholinesterase (AChE). Furthermore, the chemical stability in an aqueous solution and the metabolic stability toward esterases in porcine liver homogenate and porcine blood plasma were determined. While most of the synthesized derivatives were potent inhibitors of FAAH, a considerable inhibition of MAGL and BuChE was elicited only by compounds with a high carbamate reactivity, as evidenced by a significant hydrolysis of these compounds in an aqueous solution. However, the high inhibitory potency of some compounds toward MAGL and BuChE, especially that of the ortho-carboxyphenyl derivative 37, could not be explained by chemical reactivity alone. Several of the carbamates studied possessed varying degrees of stability toward esterases from liver and blood plasma. In some cases, marked inactivation by the pseudo-esterase activity of plasma albumin was observed. Mass spectrometric studies showed that such carbamates formed covalent bonds with albumin at several sites.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Rudolph
- Institute
of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, University of Münster, Corrensstrasse 48, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Helmut Dahlhaus
- Institute
of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, University of Münster, Corrensstrasse 48, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Walburga Hanekamp
- Institute
of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, University of Münster, Corrensstrasse 48, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Christian Albers
- Bruker
Daltonik GmbH, Fahrenheitstrasse
4, 28359 Bremen, Germany
| | - Maximilian Barth
- Institute
of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, University of Münster, Corrensstrasse 48, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Giulia Michels
- Institute
of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, University of Münster, Corrensstrasse 48, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Denise Friedrich
- Institute
of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, University of Münster, Corrensstrasse 48, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Matthias Lehr
- Institute
of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, University of Münster, Corrensstrasse 48, 48149 Münster, Germany
- . Tel: +49251 83 33331. Fax: +49251 83 32144
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Hou L, Rong J, Haider A, Ogasawara D, Varlow C, Schafroth MA, Mu L, Gan J, Xu H, Fowler CJ, Zhang MR, Vasdev N, Ametamey S, Cravatt BF, Wang L, Liang SH. Positron Emission Tomography Imaging of the Endocannabinoid System: Opportunities and Challenges in Radiotracer Development. J Med Chem 2020; 64:123-149. [PMID: 33379862 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is involved in a wide range of biological functions and comprises cannabinoid receptors and enzymes responsible for endocannabinoid synthesis and degradation. Over the past 2 decades, significant advances toward developing drugs and positron emission tomography (PET) tracers targeting different components of the ECS have been made. Herein, we summarized the recent development of PET tracers for imaging cannabinoid receptors 1 (CB1R) and 2 (CB2R) as well as the key enzymes monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) and fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), particularly focusing on PET neuroimaging applications. State-of-the-art PET tracers for the ECS will be reviewed including their chemical design, pharmacological properties, radiolabeling, as well as preclinical and human PET imaging. In addition, this review addresses the current challenges for ECS PET biomarker development and highlights the important role of PET ligands to study disease pathophysiology as well as to facilitate drug discovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lu Hou
- Center of Cyclotron and PET Radiopharmaceuticals, Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET/CT-MRI Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, 613 West Huangpu Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Jian Rong
- Division of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, and Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, United States
| | - Ahmed Haider
- Division of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, and Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, United States
| | - Daisuke Ogasawara
- The Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology and Department of Chemical Physiology, The Scripps Research Institute, SR107, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Cassis Varlow
- Azrieli Centre for Neuro-Radiochemistry, Brain Health Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, and Department of Psychiatry/Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, 250 College Street, Toronto, M5T 1R8 ON, Canada
| | - Michael A Schafroth
- The Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology and Department of Chemical Physiology, The Scripps Research Institute, SR107, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Linjing Mu
- Center for Radiopharmaceutical Sciences of ETH, PSI, and USZ, and Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 4, CH-8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jiefeng Gan
- Center of Cyclotron and PET Radiopharmaceuticals, Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET/CT-MRI Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, 613 West Huangpu Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Hao Xu
- Center of Cyclotron and PET Radiopharmaceuticals, Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET/CT-MRI Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, 613 West Huangpu Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Christopher J Fowler
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Umeå University, SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Ming-Rong Zhang
- Department of Radiopharmaceuticals Development, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology, 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Neil Vasdev
- Division of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, and Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, United States.,Azrieli Centre for Neuro-Radiochemistry, Brain Health Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, and Department of Psychiatry/Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, 250 College Street, Toronto, M5T 1R8 ON, Canada
| | - Simon Ametamey
- Center for Radiopharmaceutical Sciences of ETH, PSI, and USZ, and Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 4, CH-8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Benjamin F Cravatt
- The Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology and Department of Chemical Physiology, The Scripps Research Institute, SR107, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Lu Wang
- Center of Cyclotron and PET Radiopharmaceuticals, Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET/CT-MRI Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, 613 West Huangpu Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou 510630, China.,Division of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, and Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, United States
| | - Steven H Liang
- Division of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, and Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, United States
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Asahara H, Hiraishi M, Nishiwaki N. One-pot and metal-free synthesis of 3-arylated-4-nitrophenols via polyfunctionalized cyclohexanones from β-nitrostyrenes. Beilstein J Org Chem 2020; 16:1830-1836. [PMID: 32765798 PMCID: PMC7385393 DOI: 10.3762/bjoc.16.150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
β-Nitrostyrenes underwent a Diels-Alder reaction with Danishefsky's diene to afford cyclohexenes together with the corresponding hydrolyzed products, 3-arylated-5-methoxy-4-nitrocyclohexanones. When the reaction was conducted in the presence of water, the cyclohexenes were efficiently hydrolyzed into cyclohexanones. Subsequent aromatization by heating the cyclohexanone with a catalytic amount of iodine in dimethyl sulfoxide gave 3-arylated-4-nitrophenols. The reaction of nitrostyrenes with Danishefsky's diene could be conducted in one pot to directly afford the corresponding nitrophenols. Moreover, a heteroaryl group, e.g., a thienyl group could be introduced into the nitrophenol framework.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haruyasu Asahara
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kochi University of Technology, Tosayamada, Kami, Kochi 782-8502, Japan
- Research Center for Molecular Design, Kochi University of Technology, Tosayamada, Kami, Kochi 782-8502, Japan
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Yamadaoka 1-6, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Minami Hiraishi
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kochi University of Technology, Tosayamada, Kami, Kochi 782-8502, Japan
| | - Nagatoshi Nishiwaki
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kochi University of Technology, Tosayamada, Kami, Kochi 782-8502, Japan
- Research Center for Molecular Design, Kochi University of Technology, Tosayamada, Kami, Kochi 782-8502, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Yamasaki T, Ohya T, Mori W, Zhang Y, Wakizaka H, Nengaki N, Fujinaga M, Kikuchi T, Zhang MR. Development of an In Vivo Method to Estimate Effective Drug Doses and Quantify Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase in Rodent Brain using Positron Emission Tomography Tracer [ 11C]DFMC. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2020; 373:353-360. [PMID: 32241809 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.119.263772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) is a key enzyme in the endocannabinoid system. N-(3,4-Dimethylisoxazol-5-yl)piperazine-4-[4-(2-fluoro-4-[11C]methylphenyl)thiazol-2-yl]-1-carboxamide ([11C]DFMC) was developed as an irreversible-type positron emission tomography (PET) tracer for FAAH. Here, we attempted to noninvasively estimate rate constant k3 (rate of transfer to the specifically-bound compartment) as a direct index for FAAH in the rat brain. First, the two-tissue compartment model analysis including three parameters [K1-k3, two-tissue compartment model for the irreversible-type radiotracer (2TCMi)] in PET study with [11C]DFMC was conducted, which provided 0.21 ± 0.04 ml·cm-3·min-1 of the net uptake value (Ki), an indirect index for FAAH, in the FAAH-richest region (the cingulate cortex). Subsequently, to noninvasively estimate Ki value, the reference model analysis (Patlak graphical analysis reference model) was tried using a time-activity curve of the spinal cord. In that result, the noninvasive Ki value (KREF) was concisely estimated with high correlation (r > 0.95) to Ki values based on 2TCMi. Using estimated KREF value, we tried to obtain calculated-k3 based on previously defined equations. The calculated k3 was successfully estimated with high correlation (r = 0.95) to direct k3 in 2TCMi. Finally, the dose relationship study using calculated k3 demonstrated that in vivo ED50 value of [3-(3-carbamoylphenyl)phenyl] N-cyclohexylcarbamate, a major inhibitor of FAAH, was 66.4 µg/kg in rat brain. In conclusion, we proposed the calculated k3 as an alternative index corresponding to regional FAAH concentrations and suggested that PET with [11C]DFMC enables occupancy study for new pharmaceuticals targeting FAAH. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: In the present study, we proposed calculated k3 as an alternative index corresponding with fatty acid amide hydrolase concentration. By using calculated k3, in vivo ED50 of [3-(3-carbamoylphenyl)phenyl] N-cyclohexylcarbamate was successfully estimated to be 66.4 µg/kg for rats. Thus, we demonstrated the pharmacological utility of positron emission tomography with N-(3,4-dimethylisoxazol-5-yl)piperazine-4-[4-(2-fluoro-4-[11C]methylphenyl)thiazol-2-yl]-1-carboxamide.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tomoteru Yamasaki
- Department of Advanced Nuclear Medicine Sciences, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, Quantum Medical Science Directorate, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology, Chiba, Japan (T.Y., T.O., W.M., Y.Z., H.W., N.N., M.F., T.K., M.-R.Z.) and SHI Accelerator Service Co. Ltd, Tokyo, Japan (N.N.)
| | - Tomoyuki Ohya
- Department of Advanced Nuclear Medicine Sciences, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, Quantum Medical Science Directorate, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology, Chiba, Japan (T.Y., T.O., W.M., Y.Z., H.W., N.N., M.F., T.K., M.-R.Z.) and SHI Accelerator Service Co. Ltd, Tokyo, Japan (N.N.)
| | - Wakana Mori
- Department of Advanced Nuclear Medicine Sciences, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, Quantum Medical Science Directorate, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology, Chiba, Japan (T.Y., T.O., W.M., Y.Z., H.W., N.N., M.F., T.K., M.-R.Z.) and SHI Accelerator Service Co. Ltd, Tokyo, Japan (N.N.)
| | - Yiding Zhang
- Department of Advanced Nuclear Medicine Sciences, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, Quantum Medical Science Directorate, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology, Chiba, Japan (T.Y., T.O., W.M., Y.Z., H.W., N.N., M.F., T.K., M.-R.Z.) and SHI Accelerator Service Co. Ltd, Tokyo, Japan (N.N.)
| | - Hidekatsu Wakizaka
- Department of Advanced Nuclear Medicine Sciences, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, Quantum Medical Science Directorate, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology, Chiba, Japan (T.Y., T.O., W.M., Y.Z., H.W., N.N., M.F., T.K., M.-R.Z.) and SHI Accelerator Service Co. Ltd, Tokyo, Japan (N.N.)
| | - Nobuki Nengaki
- Department of Advanced Nuclear Medicine Sciences, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, Quantum Medical Science Directorate, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology, Chiba, Japan (T.Y., T.O., W.M., Y.Z., H.W., N.N., M.F., T.K., M.-R.Z.) and SHI Accelerator Service Co. Ltd, Tokyo, Japan (N.N.)
| | - Masayuki Fujinaga
- Department of Advanced Nuclear Medicine Sciences, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, Quantum Medical Science Directorate, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology, Chiba, Japan (T.Y., T.O., W.M., Y.Z., H.W., N.N., M.F., T.K., M.-R.Z.) and SHI Accelerator Service Co. Ltd, Tokyo, Japan (N.N.)
| | - Tatsuya Kikuchi
- Department of Advanced Nuclear Medicine Sciences, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, Quantum Medical Science Directorate, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology, Chiba, Japan (T.Y., T.O., W.M., Y.Z., H.W., N.N., M.F., T.K., M.-R.Z.) and SHI Accelerator Service Co. Ltd, Tokyo, Japan (N.N.)
| | - Ming-Rong Zhang
- Department of Advanced Nuclear Medicine Sciences, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, Quantum Medical Science Directorate, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology, Chiba, Japan (T.Y., T.O., W.M., Y.Z., H.W., N.N., M.F., T.K., M.-R.Z.) and SHI Accelerator Service Co. Ltd, Tokyo, Japan (N.N.)
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Carnevali L, Statello R, Vacondio F, Ferlenghi F, Spadoni G, Rivara S, Mor M, Sgoifo A. Antidepressant-like effects of pharmacological inhibition of FAAH activity in socially isolated female rats. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2020; 32:77-87. [PMID: 31948828 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2019.12.119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Pharmacological inhibition of the enzyme fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), which terminates signaling of the endocannabinoid N-arachidonoylethanolamine (or anandamide, AEA), exerts favourable effects in rodent models of stress-related depression. Yet although depression seems to be more common among women than men and in spite of some evidence of sex differences in treatment efficacy, preclinical development of FAAH inhibitors for the pharmacotherapy of stress-related depression has been predominantly conducted in male animals. Here, adult female rats were exposed to six weeks of social isolation and, starting from the second week, treated with the FAAH inhibitor URB694 (0.3 mg/kg/day, i.p.) or vehicle. Compared to pair-housed females, socially isolated female rats treated with vehicle developed behavioral (mild anhedonia, passive stress coping) and physiological (reduced body weight gain, elevated plasma corticosterone levels) alterations. Moreover, prolonged social isolation provoked a reduction in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and AEA levels within the hippocampus. Together, these changes are indicative of an increased risk of developing a depressive-like state. Conversely, pharmacological inhibition of FAAH activity with URB694 restored both AEA and BDNF levels within the hippocampus of socially isolated rats and prevented the development of behavioral and physiological alterations. These results suggest a potential interplay between AEA-mediated signaling and hippocampal BDNF in the pathogenesis of depression-relevant behaviors and physiological alterations and antidepressant action of FAAH inhibition in socially isolated female rats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luca Carnevali
- Stress Physiology Lab, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 11/A, 43124 Parma, Italy.
| | - Rosario Statello
- Stress Physiology Lab, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 11/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | | | | | - Gilberto Spadoni
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", Urbino, Italy
| | - Silvia Rivara
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Marco Mor
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Andrea Sgoifo
- Stress Physiology Lab, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 11/A, 43124 Parma, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Cramer S, Johnson J, Ngo T, El‐Alfy AT, Stec J. Modulation of the Endocannabinoid System via Inhibition of Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase (FAAH) by Novel Urea and Carbamate Derivatives. ChemistrySelect 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/slct.201903375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Cramer
- Chicago State UniversityCollege of PharmacyDepartment of Pharmaceutical Sciences 9501 S. King Drive, Chicago Illinois 60628 United States
| | - Jacklyn Johnson
- Chicago State UniversityCollege of PharmacyDepartment of Pharmaceutical Sciences 9501 S. King Drive, Chicago Illinois 60628 United States
| | - Thanh Ngo
- Chicago State UniversityCollege of PharmacyDepartment of Pharmaceutical Sciences 9501 S. King Drive, Chicago Illinois 60628 United States
| | - Abir T. El‐Alfy
- Chicago State UniversityCollege of PharmacyDepartment of Pharmaceutical Sciences 9501 S. King Drive, Chicago Illinois 60628 United States
- Medical College of Wisconsin School of PharmacyDepartment of Biopharmaceutical Sciences 8701 Watertown Plank Rd, Milwaukee Wisconsin 53226 United States
| | - Jozef Stec
- Chicago State UniversityCollege of PharmacyDepartment of Pharmaceutical Sciences 9501 S. King Drive, Chicago Illinois 60628 United States
- Marshall B. Ketchum UniversityCollege of PharmacyDepartment of Pharmaceutical Sciences 2575 Yorba Linda Blvd., Fullerton California 82831 United States
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Abstract
Hydrolytic enzymes are a large class of biological catalysts that play a vital role in a plethora of critical biochemical processes required to maintain human health. However, the expression and/or activity of these important enzymes can change in many different diseases and therefore represent exciting targets for the development of positron emission tomography (PET) and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) radiotracers. This review focuses on recently reported radiolabeled substrates, reversible inhibitors, and irreversible inhibitors investigated as PET and SPECT tracers for imaging hydrolytic enzymes. By learning from the most successful examples of tracer development for hydrolytic enzymes, it appears that an early focus on careful enzyme kinetics and cell-based studies are key factors for identifying potentially useful new molecular imaging agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brian P Rempel
- 1 Department of Science, Augustana Faculty, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Eric W Price
- 2 Department of Chemistry, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Christopher P Phenix
- 2 Department of Chemistry, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada.,3 Biomarker Discovery, Thunder Bay Regional Health Research Institute, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Chicca A, Arena C, Bertini S, Gado F, Ciaglia E, Abate M, Digiacomo M, Lapillo M, Poli G, Bifulco M, Macchia M, Tuccinardi T, Gertsch J, Manera C. Polypharmacological profile of 1,2-dihydro-2-oxo-pyridine-3-carboxamides in the endocannabinoid system. Eur J Med Chem 2018; 154:155-171. [PMID: 29793210 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2018.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2018] [Revised: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 05/12/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) represents one of the major neuromodulatory systems involved in different physiological and pathological processes. Multi-target compounds exert their activities by acting via multiple mechanisms of action and represent a promising pharmacological modulation of the ECS. In this work we report 4-substituted and 4,5-disubstituted 1,2-dihydro-2-oxo-pyridine-3-carboxamide derivatives with a broad spectrum of affinity and functional activity towards both cannabinoid receptors and additional effects on the main components of the ECS. In particular compound B3 showed high affinity for CB1R (Ki = 23.1 nM, partial agonist) and CB2R (Ki = 6.9 nM, inverse agonist) and also significant inhibitory activity (IC50 = 70 nM) on FAAH with moderate inhibition of ABHD12 (IC50 = 2.5 μΜ). Compounds B4, B5 and B6 that act as full agonists at CB1R and as partial agonists (B5 and B6) or antagonist (B4) at CB2R, exhibited an additional multi-target property by inhibiting anandamide uptake with sub-micromolar IC50 values (0.28-0.62 μΜ). The best derivatives showed cytotoxic activity on U937 lymphoblastoid cells. Finally, molecular docking analysis carried out on the three-dimensional structures of CB1R and CB2R and of FAAH allowed to rationalize the structure-activity relationships of this series of compounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Chicca
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bühlstrasse 28, CH-3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Chiara Arena
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Simone Bertini
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesca Gado
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Elena Ciaglia
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, 84081, Baronissi, Salerno, Italy
| | - Mario Abate
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, 84081, Baronissi, Salerno, Italy
| | - Maria Digiacomo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Giulio Poli
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53019, Siena, Italy
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Marco Macchia
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Tiziano Tuccinardi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126, Pisa, Italy; Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA
| | - Jürg Gertsch
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bühlstrasse 28, CH-3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Schifani C, Hafizi S, Da Silva T, Watts JJ, Khan MS, Mizrahi R. Using molecular imaging to understand early schizophrenia-related psychosis neurochemistry: a review of human studies. Int Rev Psychiatry 2017; 29:555-566. [PMID: 29219634 PMCID: PMC8011813 DOI: 10.1080/09540261.2017.1396205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a chronic psychiatric disorder generally preceded by a so-called prodromal phase, which is characterized by attenuated psychotic symptoms. Advances in clinical research have enabled prospective identification of those individuals who are at clinical high risk (CHR) for psychosis, with the power to predict psychosis onset within the near future. Changes in several brain neurochemical systems and molecular mechanisms are implicated in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia and the psychosis spectrum, including the dopaminergic, γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-ergic, glutamatergic, endocannabinoid, and immunologic (i.e. glial activation) system and other promising future directions such as synaptic density, which are possible to quantify in vivo using positron emission tomography (PET). This paper aims to review in vivo PET studies in the mentioned systems in the early course of psychosis (i.e. CHR and first-episode psychosis (FEP)). The results of reviewed studies are promising; however, the current understanding of the underlying pathology of psychosis is still limited. Importantly, promising efforts involve the development of novel PET radiotracers targeting systems with growing interest in schizophrenia, like the nociceptive system and synaptic density.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christin Schifani
- Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sina Hafizi
- Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Tania Da Silva
- Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jeremy Joseph Watts
- Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - M. Saad Khan
- Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Romina Mizrahi
- Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Effects of alprazolam and cannabinoid-related compounds in an animal model of panic attack. Behav Brain Res 2017; 317:508-514. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2016.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2016] [Revised: 10/06/2016] [Accepted: 10/09/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
|
20
|
Tuo W, Leleu-Chavain N, Spencer J, Sansook S, Millet R, Chavatte P. Therapeutic Potential of Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase, Monoacylglycerol Lipase, and N-Acylethanolamine Acid Amidase Inhibitors. J Med Chem 2016; 60:4-46. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.6b00538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Tuo
- Université de Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U995,
LIRIC, Lille Inflammation Research International Center, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Natascha Leleu-Chavain
- Université de Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U995,
LIRIC, Lille Inflammation Research International Center, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - John Spencer
- Department of Chemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton BN1 9QJ, U.K
| | - Supojjanee Sansook
- Department of Chemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton BN1 9QJ, U.K
| | - Régis Millet
- Université de Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U995,
LIRIC, Lille Inflammation Research International Center, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Philippe Chavatte
- Université de Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U995,
LIRIC, Lille Inflammation Research International Center, F-59000 Lille, France
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Schindler CW, Scherma M, Redhi GH, Vadivel SK, Makriyannis A, Goldberg SR, Justinova Z. Self-administration of the anandamide transport inhibitor AM404 by squirrel monkeys. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2016; 233:1867-77. [PMID: 26803499 PMCID: PMC4846479 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-016-4211-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2015] [Accepted: 01/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE N-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-arachidonamide (AM404) is an anandamide transport inhibitor shown to reduce rewarding and relapse-inducing effects of nicotine in several animal models of tobacco dependence. However, the reinforcing/rewarding effects of AM404 are not clear. OBJECTIVES We investigated whether AM404 maintains self-administration behavior or reinstates extinguished drug seeking in squirrel monkeys. METHODS AND RESULTS In monkeys with a history of anandamide or cocaine self-administration, we substituted injections of AM404 (1-100 μg/kg/injection). Using a 10-response, fixed-ratio schedule, self-administration behavior was maintained by AM404. Dose-response curves had inverted U shapes, with peak response rates occurring at a dose of 10 μg/kg/injection. In anandamide-experienced monkeys, we also demonstrated self-administration of another anandamide transport inhibitor VDM11. In addition to supporting self-administration, priming injections of AM404 (0.03-0.3 mg/kg) reinstated drug-seeking behavior previously reinforced by cannabinoids (∆(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or anandamide) or cocaine. Both AM404 self-administration behavior and reinstatement of drug seeking by AM404 were reduced by treatment with the cannabinoid CB1 receptor antagonist/inverse agonist rimonabant (0.3 mg/kg). Moreover, the reinforcing effects of AM404 were potentiated by the treatment with the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitor URB597 (0.3 mg/kg) suggesting a major role of anandamide in these effects. Finally, AM404 (0.3 mg/kg) potentiated the reinforcing effects of anandamide but not those of cocaine. CONCLUSIONS In non-human primates, AM404 effectively reinforced self-administration behavior and induced reinstatement of drug-seeking behavior in abstinent monkeys. These effects appeared to be mediated by cannabinoid CB1 receptors. Therefore, compounds that promote actions of endocannabinoids throughout the brain by inhibiting their membrane transport may have a potential for abuse.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charles W. Schindler
- Preclinical Pharmacology Section, Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Baltimore, Maryland, USA,Corresponding author: Preclinical Pharmacology Section, National Institute on Drug Abuse, NIH, Biomedical Research Center, 251 Bayview Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21224;
| | - Maria Scherma
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Godfrey H. Redhi
- Preclinical Pharmacology Section, Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Subramanian K. Vadivel
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Alexandros Makriyannis
- Center for Drug Discovery, Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Steven R. Goldberg
- Preclinical Pharmacology Section, Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Zuzana Justinova
- Preclinical Pharmacology Section, Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Panlilio LV, Thorndike EB, Nikas SP, Alapafuja SO, Bandiera T, Cravatt BF, Makriyannis A, Piomelli D, Goldberg SR, Justinova Z. Effects of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitors on working memory in rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2016; 233:1879-88. [PMID: 26558620 PMCID: PMC4846548 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-015-4140-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2015] [Accepted: 10/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Manipulations of the endocannabinoid system could potentially produce therapeutic effects with minimal risk of adverse cannabis-like side effects. Inhibitors of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) increase endogenous levels of the cannabinoid-receptor agonist, anandamide, and show promise for treating a wide range of disorders. However, their effects on learning and memory have not been fully characterized. OBJECTIVES We determined the effects of five structurally different FAAH inhibitors in an animal model of working memory known to be sensitive to impairment by delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). METHODS A delayed nonmatching-to-position procedure was used in rats. Illuminated nosepoke holes were used to provide sample cues (left versus right) and record responses (correct versus incorrect) after delays ranging from 0 to 28 s. Various test drugs were given acutely up to two times per week before daily sessions. RESULTS One FAAH inhibitor, AM3506 (3 mg/kg), decreased accuracy in the memory task. Four other FAAH inhibitors (URB597, URB694, PF-04457845, and ARN14633) and a monoacylglycerol lipase inhibitor (JZL184, which blocks the degradation of the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol) had no effect. Testing of AM3506 in combination with antagonists for receptors known to be affected by anandamide and other fatty acid amides indicated that the impairment induced by AM3506 was mediated by cannabinoid CB1 receptors, and not by alpha-type peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR-alpha) or vanilloid transient receptor potential cation channels (TRPV1). CONCLUSIONS FAAH inhibitors differ with respect to their potential for memory impairment, abuse liability, and probably other cannabis-like effects, and they should be evaluated individually for specific therapeutic and adverse effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leigh V. Panlilio
- Preclinical Pharmacology Section, Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Eric B. Thorndike
- Preclinical Pharmacology Section, Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Spyros P. Nikas
- Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Tiziano Bandiera
- Drug Discovery and Development, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
| | - Benjamin F. Cravatt
- The Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California, USA; Department of Chemical Physiology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
| | - Alexandros Makriyannis
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Drug Discovery and Development, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy; Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Steven R. Goldberg
- Preclinical Pharmacology Section, Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Zuzana Justinova
- Preclinical Pharmacology Section, Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Wei D, Dinh D, Lee D, Li D, Anguren A, Moreno-Sanz G, Gall CM, Piomelli D. Enhancement of Anandamide-Mediated Endocannabinoid Signaling Corrects Autism-Related Social Impairment. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2016; 1:81-89. [PMID: 28861483 PMCID: PMC5549436 DOI: 10.1089/can.2015.0008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: We recently uncovered a signaling mechanism by which the endocannabinoid anandamide mediates the action of oxytocin, a neuropeptide that is crucial for social behavior, to control social reward. Oxytocin signaling has been implicated in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and social reward is a key aspect of social functioning that is thought to be disrupted in ASD. Therefore, as a proof of principle for the core component of ASD—social impairment—we tested an endocannabinoid-enhancing compound on two widely studied mouse models of ASD, the BTBR and fmr1−/− (model of Fragile X Syndrome). Methods: We used the established three-chambered social approach test. We specifically increased the activity of anandamide by administering the compound URB597, a selective inhibitor of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), the hydrolytic enzyme for anandamide. Results: Remarkably, we found that FAAH blockade completely reversed the social impairment in both mouse models. CB1 receptor blockade prevented the prosocial action of FAAH inhibition in BTBR mice. These results were likely independent of effects on anxiety, as FAAH inhibition did not alter the performance of BTBR mice in the elevated plus maze. Conclusions: The results suggest that increasing anandamide activity at CB1 receptors improves ASD-related social impairment and identify FAAH as a novel therapeutic target for ASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Don Wei
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Drake Dinh
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - DaYeon Lee
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Dandan Li
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California.,Department of Ophthalmology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Allison Anguren
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Guillermo Moreno-Sanz
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Christine M Gall
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California.,Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California.,Unit of Drug Discovery and Development, Italian Institute of Technology, Genova, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Carnevali L, Vacondio F, Rossi S, Macchi E, Spadoni G, Bedini A, Neumann ID, Rivara S, Mor M, Sgoifo A. Cardioprotective effects of fatty acid amide hydrolase inhibitor URB694, in a rodent model of trait anxiety. Sci Rep 2015; 5:18218. [PMID: 26656183 PMCID: PMC4677398 DOI: 10.1038/srep18218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2015] [Accepted: 11/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In humans, chronic anxiety represents an independent risk factor for cardiac arrhythmias and sudden death. Here we evaluate in male Wistar rats bred for high (HAB) and low (LAB) anxiety-related behavior, as well as non-selected (NAB) animals, the relationship between trait anxiety and cardiac electrical instability and investigate whether pharmacological augmentation of endocannabinoid anandamide-mediated signaling exerts anxiolytic-like and cardioprotective effects. HAB rats displayed (i) a higher incidence of ventricular tachyarrhythmias induced by isoproterenol, and (ii) a larger spatial dispersion of ventricular refractoriness assessed by means of an epicardial mapping protocol. In HAB rats, acute pharmacological inhibition of the anandamide-degrading enzyme, fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), with URB694 (0.3 mg/kg), (i) decreased anxiety-like behavior in the elevated plus maze, (ii) increased anandamide levels in the heart, (iii) reduced isoproterenol-induced occurrence of ventricular tachyarrhythmias, and (iv) corrected alterations of ventricular refractoriness. The anti-arrhythmic effect of URB694 was prevented by pharmacological blockade of the cannabinoid type 1 (CB1), but not of the CB2, receptor. These findings suggest that URB694 exerts anxiolytic-like and cardioprotective effects in HAB rats, the latter via anandamide-mediated activation of CB1 receptors. Thus, pharmacological inhibition of FAAH might be a viable pharmacological strategy for the treatment of anxiety-related cardiac dysfunction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Stefano Rossi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Parma, Italy
| | - Emilio Macchi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Parma, Italy
| | - Gilberto Spadoni
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", Italy
| | - Annalida Bedini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", Italy
| | - Inga D Neumann
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, University of Regensburg, Germany
| | | | - Marco Mor
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Parma, Italy
| | - Andrea Sgoifo
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Parma, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Boileau I, Rusjan PM, Williams B, Mansouri E, Mizrahi R, De Luca V, Johnson DS, Wilson AA, Houle S, Kish SJ, Tong J. Blocking of fatty acid amide hydrolase activity with PF-04457845 in human brain: a positron emission tomography study with the novel radioligand [(11)C]CURB. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2015; 35:1827-35. [PMID: 26082009 PMCID: PMC4635238 DOI: 10.1038/jcbfm.2015.133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2015] [Revised: 04/20/2015] [Accepted: 05/15/2015] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Positron emission tomography with [(11)C]CURB was recently developed to quantify fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), the enzyme responsible for hydrolyzing the endocannabinoid anandamide. This study investigated the test-retest reliability of [(11)C]CURB as well as its in vivo specificity and the validity of the kinetic model by using the highly specific FAAH inhibitor, PF-04457845. Five healthy volunteers completed test-retest [(11)C]CURB scans 1 to 2 months apart and six subjects completed baseline and blocking scans on the same day after PF-04457845 (p.o.) administration (1, 4, or 20 mg; n=2 each). The composite parameter λk3 (an index of FAAH activity, λ=K1/k2) was estimated using an irreversible two-tissue compartment model with plasma input function. There were no clinically observable responses to oral PF-04457845 or [(11)C]CURB injection. Oral administration of PF-04457845 reduced [(11)C]CURB binding to a homogeneous level at all three doses, with λk3 values decreased by ⩾91%. Excellent reproducibility and good reliability (test-retest variability=9%; intraclass correlation coefficient=0.79) were observed across all regions of interest investigated. Our findings suggest that λk3/[(11)C]CURB is a reliable, highly sensitive, and selective tool to measure FAAH activity in human brain in vivo. Moreover, PF-04457845 is a highly potent FAAH inhibitor (>95% inhibition at 1 mg) in living human brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Boileau
- Addiction Imaging Research Group, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Human Brain Lab, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Pablo M Rusjan
- Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Belinda Williams
- Addiction Imaging Research Group, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Human Brain Lab, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Esmaeil Mansouri
- Addiction Imaging Research Group, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Human Brain Lab, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Romina Mizrahi
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Vincenzo De Luca
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Douglas S Johnson
- Pfizer Worldwide Research and Development, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Alan A Wilson
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sylvain Houle
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Stephen J Kish
- Human Brain Lab, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Junchao Tong
- Human Brain Lab, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Carnevali L, Vacondio F, Rossi S, Callegari S, Macchi E, Spadoni G, Bedini A, Rivara S, Mor M, Sgoifo A. Antidepressant-like activity and cardioprotective effects of fatty acid amide hydrolase inhibitor URB694 in socially stressed Wistar Kyoto rats. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2015; 25:2157-69. [PMID: 26391492 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2015.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2015] [Revised: 06/15/2015] [Accepted: 07/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
In humans, depression is often triggered by prolonged exposure to psychosocial stressors and is often associated with cardiovascular comorbidity. Mounting evidence suggests a role for endocannabinoid signaling in the regulation of both emotional behavior and cardiovascular function. Here, we examined cardiac activity in a rodent model of social stress-induced depression and investigated whether pharmacological inhibition of the enzyme fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), which terminates signaling of the endocannabinoid anandamide, exerts antidepressant-like and cardioprotective effects. Male Wistar Kyoto rats were exposed to five weeks of repeated social stress or control procedure. Starting from the third week, they received daily administration of the selective FAAH inhibitor URB694 (0.1 mg/kg, i.p.) or vehicle. Cardiac electrical activity was recorded by radiotelemetry. Repeated social stress triggered biological and behavioral changes that mirror symptoms of human depression, such as (i) reductions in body weight gain and sucrose solution preference, (ii) hyperactivity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical axis, and (iii) increased immobility in the forced swim test. Moreover, stressed rats showed (i) alterations in heart rate daily rhythm and cardiac autonomic neural regulation, (ii) a larger incidence of spontaneous arrhythmias, and (iii) signs of cardiac hypertrophy. Daily treatment with URB694 (i) increased central and peripheral anandamide levels, (ii) corrected stress-induced alterations of biological and behavioral parameters, and (iii) protected the heart against the adverse effects of social stress. Repeated social stress in Wistar Kyoto rats reproduces aspects of human depression/cardiovascular comorbidity. Pharmacological enhancement of anandamide signaling might be a promising strategy for the treatment of these comorbid conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Stefano Rossi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Parma, Italy
| | | | - Emilio Macchi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Parma, Italy
| | - Gilberto Spadoni
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", Italy
| | - Annalida Bedini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", Italy
| | | | - Marco Mor
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Parma, Italy
| | - Andrea Sgoifo
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Parma, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Lodola A, Castelli R, Mor M, Rivara S. Fatty acid amide hydrolase inhibitors: a patent review (2009-2014). Expert Opin Ther Pat 2015; 25:1247-66. [PMID: 26413912 DOI: 10.1517/13543776.2015.1067683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) is a key enzyme responsible for the degradation of the endocannabinoid anandamide. FAAH inactivation is emerging as a strategy to treat several CNS and peripheral diseases, including inflammation and pain. The search for effective FAAH inhibitors has thus become a key focus in present drug discovery. AREAS COVERED Patents and patent applications published from 2009 to 2014 in which novel chemical classes are claimed to inhibit FAAH. EXPERT OPINION FAAH is a promising target for treating many disease conditions including pain, inflammation and mood disorders. In the last few years, remarkable efforts have been made to develop new FAAH inhibitors (either reversible and irreversible) characterized by excellent potency and selectivity, to complete the arsenal of tools for modulating FAAH activity. The failure of PF-04457845 in a Phase II study on osteoarthritis pain has not flattened the interest in FAAH inhibitors. New clinical trials on 'classical' FAAH inhibitors are now ongoing, and new strategies based on compounds with peculiar in vivo distribution (e.g., peripheral) or with multiple pharmacological activities (e.g., FAAH and COX) are under investigation and could boost the therapeutic potential of this class in the next future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Lodola
- a 1 Università degli Studi di Parma, Dipartimento di Farmacia , Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, Parma, Italy
| | - Riccardo Castelli
- b 2 Università degli Studi di Parma, Dipartimento di Farmacia , Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, Parma, Italy
| | - Marco Mor
- c 3 Università degli Studi di Parma, Dipartimento di Farmacia , Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, Parma, Italy +39 0521 905059 ; +39 0521 905006 ;
| | - Silvia Rivara
- a 1 Università degli Studi di Parma, Dipartimento di Farmacia , Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, Parma, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Justinova Z, Panlilio LV, Moreno-Sanz G, Redhi GH, Auber A, Secci ME, Mascia P, Bandiera T, Armirotti A, Bertorelli R, Chefer SI, Barnes C, Yasar S, Piomelli D, Goldberg SR. Effects of Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase (FAAH) Inhibitors in Non-Human Primate Models of Nicotine Reward and Relapse. Neuropsychopharmacology 2015; 40:2185-97. [PMID: 25754762 PMCID: PMC4613608 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2015.62] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2014] [Revised: 02/20/2015] [Accepted: 02/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Inhibition of the enzyme fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) counteracts reward-related effects of nicotine in rats, but it has not been tested for this purpose in non-human primates. Therefore, we studied the effects of the first- and second-generation O-arylcarbamate-based FAAH inhibitors, URB597 (cyclohexyl carbamic acid 3'-carbamoyl-3-yl ester) and URB694 (6-hydroxy-[1,1'-biphenyl]-3-yl-cyclohexylcarbamate), in squirrel monkeys. Both FAAH inhibitors: (1) blocked FAAH activity in brain and liver, increasing levels of endogenous ligands for cannabinoid and α-type peroxisome proliferator-activated (PPAR-α) receptors; (2) shifted nicotine self-administration dose-response functions in a manner consistent with reduced nicotine reward; (3) blocked reinstatement of nicotine seeking induced by reexposure to either nicotine priming or nicotine-associated cues; and (4) had no effect on cocaine or food self-administration. The effects of FAAH inhibition on nicotine self-administration and nicotine priming-induced reinstatement were reversed by the PPAR-α antagonist, MK886. Unlike URB597, which was not self-administered by monkeys in an earlier study, URB694 was self-administered at a moderate rate. URB694 self-administration was blocked by pretreatment with an antagonist for either PPAR-α (MK886) or cannabinoid CB1 receptors (rimonabant). In additional experiments in rats, URB694 was devoid of THC-like or nicotine-like interoceptive effects under drug-discrimination procedures, and neither of the FAAH inhibitors induced dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens shell--consistent with their lack of robust reinforcing effects in monkeys. Overall, both URB597 and URB694 show promise for the initialization and maintenance of smoking cessation because of their ability to block the rewarding effects of nicotine and prevent nicotine priming-induced and cue-induced reinstatement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zuzana Justinova
- Preclinical Pharmacology Section, Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, NIH, DHHS, Baltimore, MD, USA,Preclinical Pharmacology Section, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, NIH, DHHS, 251 Bayview Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA, Tel: +1 443 740 2522, Fax: +1 443 740 2733, E-mail:
| | - Leigh V Panlilio
- Preclinical Pharmacology Section, Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, NIH, DHHS, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Guillermo Moreno-Sanz
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Godfrey H Redhi
- Preclinical Pharmacology Section, Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, NIH, DHHS, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Alessia Auber
- Preclinical Pharmacology Section, Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, NIH, DHHS, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Maria E Secci
- Preclinical Pharmacology Section, Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, NIH, DHHS, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Paola Mascia
- Preclinical Pharmacology Section, Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, NIH, DHHS, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Tiziano Bandiera
- Drug Discovery and Development, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
| | - Andrea Armirotti
- Drug Discovery and Development, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
| | - Rosalia Bertorelli
- Drug Discovery and Development, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
| | - Svetlana I Chefer
- Division of Clinical Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, NIH, DHHS, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Chanel Barnes
- Preclinical Pharmacology Section, Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, NIH, DHHS, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sevil Yasar
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA,Drug Discovery and Development, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
| | - Steven R Goldberg
- Preclinical Pharmacology Section, Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, NIH, DHHS, Baltimore, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Vacondio F, Bassi M, Silva C, Castelli R, Carmi C, Scalvini L, Lodola A, Vivo V, Flammini L, Barocelli E, Mor M, Rivara S. Amino Acid Derivatives as Palmitoylethanolamide Prodrugs: Synthesis, In Vitro Metabolism and In Vivo Plasma Profile in Rats. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0128699. [PMID: 26053855 PMCID: PMC4460047 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0128699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2015] [Accepted: 04/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) has antinflammatory and antinociceptive properties widely exploited in veterinary and human medicine, despite its poor pharmacokinetics. Looking for prodrugs that could progressively release PEA to maintain effective plasma concentrations, we prepared carbonates, esters and carbamates at the hydroxyl group of PEA. Chemical stability (pH 7.4) and stability in rat plasma and liver homogenate were evaluated by in vitro assays. Carbonates and carbamates resulted too labile and too resistant in plasma, respectively. Ester derivatives, prepared by conjugating PEA with various amino acids, allowed to modulate the kinetics of PEA release in plasma and stability in liver homogenate. L-Val-PEA, with suitable PEA release in plasma, and D-Val-PEA, with high resistance to hepatic degradation, were orally administered to rats and plasma levels of prodrugs and PEA were measured at different time points. Both prodrugs showed significant release of PEA, but provided lower plasma concentrations than those obtained with equimolar doses of PEA. Amino-acid esters of PEA are a promising class to develop prodrugs, even if they need further chemical optimization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Federica Vacondio
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Michele Bassi
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Claudia Silva
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Riccardo Castelli
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Caterina Carmi
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Laura Scalvini
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Alessio Lodola
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Valentina Vivo
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Lisa Flammini
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | | | - Marco Mor
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Silvia Rivara
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parma, Italy
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Ogawa S, Kunugi H. Inhibitors of Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase and Monoacylglycerol Lipase: New Targets for Future Antidepressants. Curr Neuropharmacol 2015; 13:760-75. [PMID: 26630956 PMCID: PMC4759315 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x13666150612225212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2015] [Revised: 03/16/2015] [Accepted: 03/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabis and analogs of Δ<sup>9</sup>-tetrahydrocannabinol have been used for therapeutic purposes, but their therapeutic use remains limited because of various adverse effects. Endogenous cannabinoids have been discovered, and dysregulation of endocannabinoid signaling is implicated in the pathophysiology of major depressive disorder (MDD). Recently, endocannabinoid hydrolytic enzymes such as fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) have become new therapeutic targets in the treatment of MDD. Several FAAH or MAGL inhibitors are reported to have no cannabimimetic side effects and, therefore, are new potential therapeutic options for patients with MDD who are resistant to first-line antidepressants (selective serotonin and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors). In this review, we focus on the possible relationships between MDD and the endocannabinoid system as well as the inhibitors' therapeutic potential. MAGL inhibitors may reduce inflammatory responses through activation of cannabinoid receptor type 2. In the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, repeated FAAH inhibitor administration may be beneficial for reducing circulating glucocorticoid levels. Both FAAH and MAGL inhibitors may contribute to dopaminergic system regulation. Recently, several new inhibitors have been developed with strong potency and selectivity. FAAH inhibitor, MAGL inhibitor, or dual blocker use would be promising new treatments for MDD. Further pre-clinical studies and clinical trials using these inhibitors are warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Hiroshi Kunugi
- Department of Mental Disorder Research, National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Kodaira, Tokyo, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Colombano G, Albani C, Ottonello G, Ribeiro A, Scarpelli R, Tarozzo G, Daglian J, Jung KM, Piomelli D, Bandiera T. O-(triazolyl)methyl carbamates as a novel and potent class of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitors. ChemMedChem 2014; 10:380-95. [PMID: 25338703 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.201402374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Inhibition of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) activity is under investigation as a valuable strategy for the treatment of several disorders, including pain and drug addiction. A number of potent FAAH inhibitors belonging to different chemical classes have been disclosed to date; O-aryl carbamates are one of the most representative families. In the search for novel FAAH inhibitors, a series of O-(1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)methyl carbamate derivatives were designed and synthesized exploiting a copper- catalyzed [3+2] cycloaddition reaction between azides and alkynes (click chemistry). Exploration of the structure-activity relationships within this new class of compounds identified potent inhibitors of both rat and human FAAH with IC50 values in the single-digit nanomolar range. In addition, these derivatives showed improved stability in rat plasma and kinetic solubility in buffer with respect to the lead compound. Based on the results of the study, the novel analogues identified can be considered to be promising starting point for the development of new FAAH inhibitors with improved drug-like properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giampiero Colombano
- Drug Discovery & Development, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, 16163 Genova (Italy); The Institute of Cancer Research, 15 Cotswold Rd, Sutton, Surrey SM2 5NG (UK). ,
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Moreno-Sanz G, Barrera B, Armirotti A, Bertozzi SM, Scarpelli R, Bandiera T, Prieto JG, Duranti A, Tarzia G, Merino G, Piomelli D. Structural determinants of peripheral O-arylcarbamate FAAH inhibitors render them dual substrates for Abcb1 and Abcg2 and restrict their access to the brain. Pharmacol Res 2014; 87:87-93. [PMID: 24993496 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2014.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2014] [Revised: 06/04/2014] [Accepted: 06/06/2014] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is the main entry route for chemicals into the mammalian central nervous system (CNS). Two transmembrane transporters of the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) family - breast cancer resistance protein (ABCG2 in humans, Abcg2 in rodents) and P-glycoprotein (ABCB1 in humans, Abcb1 in rodents) - play a key role in mediating this process. Pharmacological and genetic evidence suggests that Abcg2 prevents CNS access to a group of highly potent and selective O-arylcarbamate fatty-acid amidohydrolase (FAAH) inhibitors, which include the compound URB937 (cyclohexylcarbamic acid 3'-carbamoyl-6-hydroxybiphenyl-3-yl ester). To define structure-activity relationships of the interaction of these molecules with Abcg2, in the present study we tested various peripherally restricted and non-restricted O-arylcarbamate FAAH inhibitors for their ability to serve as transport substrates in monolayer cultures of Madin-Darby Canine Kidney-II (MDCKII) cells over-expressing Abcg2. Surprisingly, we found that the majority of compounds tested - even those able to enter the CNS in vivo - were substrates for Abcg2 in vitro. Additional experiments in MDCKII cells overexpressing ABCB1 revealed that only those compounds that were dual substrates for ABCB1 and Abcg2 in vitro were also peripherally restricted in vivo. The extent of such restriction seems to depend upon other physicochemical features of the compounds, in particular the polar surface area. Consistent with these in vitro results, we found that URB937 readily enters the brain in dual knockout mice lacking both Abcg2 and Abcb1, whereas it is either partially or completely excluded from the brain of mice lacking either transporter alone. The results suggest that Abcg2 and Abcb1 act together to restrict the access of URB937 to the CNS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guillermo Moreno-Sanz
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine 92697-4621, USA
| | - Borja Barrera
- INDEGSAL, Campus Vegazana s/n, University of Leon, 24071 Leon, Spain; Department of Biomedical Sciences - Physiology, Veterinary Faculty, Campus Vegazana s/n, University of Leon, 24071 Leon, Spain
| | - Andrea Armirotti
- Drug Discovery and Development, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Morego 30, I-16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Sine M Bertozzi
- Drug Discovery and Development, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Morego 30, I-16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Rita Scarpelli
- Drug Discovery and Development, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Morego 30, I-16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Tiziano Bandiera
- Drug Discovery and Development, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Morego 30, I-16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Julio G Prieto
- Department of Biomedical Sciences - Physiology, Veterinary Faculty, Campus Vegazana s/n, University of Leon, 24071 Leon, Spain
| | - Andrea Duranti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomolecolari, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", Piazza del Rinascimento 6, I-61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Giorgio Tarzia
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomolecolari, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", Piazza del Rinascimento 6, I-61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Gracia Merino
- INDEGSAL, Campus Vegazana s/n, University of Leon, 24071 Leon, Spain; Department of Biomedical Sciences - Physiology, Veterinary Faculty, Campus Vegazana s/n, University of Leon, 24071 Leon, Spain
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine 92697-4621, USA; Drug Discovery and Development, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Morego 30, I-16163 Genova, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Duncan KK, Otrubova K, Boger DL. α-Ketoheterocycle inhibitors of fatty acid amide hydrolase: exploration of conformational constraints in the acyl side chain. Bioorg Med Chem 2014; 22:2763-70. [PMID: 24690529 PMCID: PMC4029506 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2014.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2014] [Accepted: 03/08/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
A series of α-ketooxazoles containing heteroatoms embedded within conformational constraints in the C2 acyl side chain of 2 (OL-135) were synthesized and evaluated as inhibitors of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). The studies reveal that the installation of a heteroatom (O) in the conformational constraint is achievable, although the potency of these novel derivatives is reduced slightly relative to 2 and the analogous 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene series. Interestingly, both enantiomers (R and S) of the candidate inhibitors bearing a chiral center adjacent to the electrophilic carbonyl were found to effectively inhibit FAAH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katharine K Duncan
- Department of Chemistry and The Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, United States
| | - Katerina Otrubova
- Department of Chemistry and The Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, United States
| | - Dale L Boger
- Department of Chemistry and The Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Otrubova K, Cravatt BF, Boger DL. Design, synthesis, and characterization of α-ketoheterocycles that additionally target the cytosolic port Cys269 of fatty acid amide hydrolase. J Med Chem 2014; 57:1079-89. [PMID: 24456116 PMCID: PMC3940414 DOI: 10.1021/jm401820q] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
![]()
A series
of α-ketooxazoles incorporating electrophiles at
the C5 position of the pyridyl ring of 2 (OL-135) and
related compounds were prepared and examined as inhibitors of fatty
acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) that additionally target the cytosolic
port Cys269. From this series, a subset of the candidate inhibitors
exhibited time-dependent FAAH inhibition and noncompetitive irreversible
inactivation of the enzyme, consistent with the targeted Cys269 covalent
alkylation or addition, and maintained or enhanced the intrinsic selectivity
for FAAH versus other serine hydrolases. A preliminary in vivo assessment
demonstrates that these inhibitors raise endogenous brain levels of
anandamide and other FAAH substrates upon intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration
to mice, with peak levels achieved within 1.5–3 h, and that
the elevations of the signaling lipids were maintained >6 h, indicating
that the inhibitors effectively reach and remain active in the brain,
inhibiting FAAH for a sustained period.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Otrubova
- Department of Chemistry, ‡Chemical Physiology, and §The Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology, The Scripps Research Institute , 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Moreno-Sanz G, Duranti A, Melzig L, Fiorelli C, Ruda GF, Colombano G, Mestichelli P, Sanchini S, Tontini A, Mor M, Bandiera T, Scarpelli R, Tarzia G, Piomelli D. Synthesis and structure-activity relationship studies of O-biphenyl-3-yl carbamates as peripherally restricted fatty acid amide hydrolase inhibitors. J Med Chem 2013; 56:5917-30. [PMID: 23822179 DOI: 10.1021/jm4007017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The peripherally restricted fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitor URB937 (3, cyclohexylcarbamic acid 3'-carbamoyl-6-hydroxybiphenyl-3-yl ester) is extruded from the brain and spinal cord by the Abcg2 efflux transporter. Despite its inability to enter the central nervous system (CNS), 3 exerts profound antinociceptive effects in mice and rats, which result from the inhibition of FAAH in peripheral tissues and the consequent enhancement of anandamide signaling at CB1 cannabinoid receptors localized on sensory nerve endings. In the present study, we examined the structure-activity relationships (SAR) for the biphenyl region of compound 3, focusing on the carbamoyl and hydroxyl groups in the distal and proximal phenyl rings. Our SAR studies generated a new series of peripherally restricted FAAH inhibitors and identified compound 35 (cyclohexylcarbamic acid 3'-carbamoyl-5-hydroxybiphenyl-3-yl ester) as the most potent brain-impermeant FAAH inhibitor disclosed to date.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guillermo Moreno-Sanz
- Drug Discovery and Development, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia , via Morego 30, I-16163 Genova, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Hicks JW, Parkes J, Sadovski O, Tong J, Houle S, Vasdev N, Wilson AA. Synthesis and preclinical evaluation of [11C-carbonyl]PF-04457845 for neuroimaging of fatty acid amide hydrolase. Nucl Med Biol 2013; 40:740-6. [PMID: 23731552 DOI: 10.1016/j.nucmedbio.2013.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2013] [Revised: 04/09/2013] [Accepted: 04/17/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) has a significant role in regulating endocannabinoid signaling in the central nervous system. As such, FAAH inhibitors are being actively sought for pain, addiction, and other indications. This has led to the recent pursuit of positron emission tomography (PET) radiotracers targeting FAAH. We report herein the preparation and preclinical evaluation of [(11)C-carbonyl]PF-04457845, an isotopologue of the potent irreversible FAAH inhibitor. METHODS PF-04457845 was radiolabeled at the carbonyl position via automated [(11)C]CO(2)-fixation. Ex vivo brain biodistribution of [(11)C-carbonyl]PF-04457845 was carried out in conscious rats. Specificity was determined by pre-administration of PF-04457845 or URB597 prior to [(11)C-carbonyl]PF-04457845. In a separate experiment, rats injected with the title radiotracer had whole brains excised, homogenized and extracted to examine irreversible binding to brain parenchyma. RESULTS The title compound was prepared in 5 ± 1% (n = 4) isolated radiochemical yield based on starting [(11)C]CO(2) (decay uncorrected) within 25 min from end-of-bombardment in >98% radiochemical purity and a specific activity of 73.5 ± 8.2 GBq/μmol at end-of-synthesis. Uptake of [(11)C-carbonyl]PF-04457845 into the rat brain was high (range of 1.2-4.4 SUV), heterogeneous, and in accordance with reported FAAH distribution. Saturable binding was demonstrated by a dose-dependent reduction in brain radioactivity uptake following pre-treatment with PF-04457845. Pre-treatment with the prototypical FAAH inhibitor, URB597, reduced the brain radiotracer uptake in all regions by 71-81%, demonstrating specificity for FAAH. The binding of [(11)C-carbonyl]PF-04457845 to FAAH at 40 min post injection was irreversible as 98% of the radioactivity in the brain could not be extracted. CONCLUSIONS [(11)C-carbonyl]PF-04457845 was rapidly synthesized via an automated radiosynthesis. Ex vivo biodistribution studies in conscious rodents demonstrate that [11C PF-04457845 is a promising candidate radiotracer for imaging FAAH in the brain with PET. These results coupled with the known pharmacology and toxicology of PF-04457845 should facilitate clinical translation of this radiotracer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Justin W Hicks
- Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Starowicz K, Przewlocka B. Modulation of neuropathic-pain-related behaviour by the spinal endocannabinoid/endovanilloid system. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2013; 367:3286-99. [PMID: 23108547 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2011.0392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic pain refers to chronic pain that results from injury to the nervous system. The mechanisms involved in neuropathic pain are complex and involve both peripheral and central phenomena. Although numerous pharmacological agents are available for the treatment of neuropathic pain, definitive drug therapy has remained elusive. Recent drug discovery efforts have identified an original neurobiological approach to the pathophysiology of neuropathic pain. The development of innovative pharmacological strategies has led to the identification of new promising pharmacological targets, including glutamate antagonists, microglia inhibitors and, interestingly, endogenous ligands of cannabinoids and the transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 (TRPV1). Endocannabinoids (ECs), endovanilloids and the enzymes that regulate their metabolism represent promising pharmacological targets for the development of a successful pain treatment. This review is an update of the relationship between cannabinoid receptors (CB1) and TRPV1 channels and their possible implications for neuropathic pain. The data are focused on endogenous spinal mechanisms of pain control by anandamide, and the current and emerging pharmacotherapeutic approaches that benefit from the pharmacological modulation of spinal EC and/or endovanilloid systems under chronic pain conditions will be discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Starowicz
- Department of Pain Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Smetna 12, 31-343 Krakow, Poland.
| | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Muldoon PP, Lichtman AH, Parsons LH, Damaj MI. The role of fatty acid amide hydrolase inhibition in nicotine reward and dependence. Life Sci 2013; 92:458-62. [PMID: 22705310 PMCID: PMC3477273 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2012.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2012] [Revised: 05/03/2012] [Accepted: 05/16/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The endogenous cannabinoid anandamide (AEA) exerts the majority of its effects at CB1 and CB2 receptors and is degraded by fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). FAAH KO mice and animals treated with FAAH inhibitors are impaired in their ability to hydrolyze AEA and other non-cannabinoid lipid signaling molecules, such as oleoylethanolamide (OEA) and palmitoylethanolamide (PEA). AEA and these other substrates activate non-cannabinoid receptor systems, including TRPV1 and PPAR-α receptors. In this mini review, we describe the functional consequences of FAAH inhibition on nicotine reward and dependence as well as the underlying endocannabinoid and non-cannabinoid receptor systems mediating these effects. Interestingly, FAAH inhibition seems to mediate nicotine dependence differently in mice and rats. Indeed, pharmacological and genetic FAAH disruption in mice enhances nicotine reward and withdrawal. However, in rats, pharmacological blockade of FAAH significantly inhibits nicotine reward and has no effect in nicotine withdrawal. Studies suggest that non-cannabinoid mechanisms may play a role in these species differences.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pretal P Muldoon
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Virginia Campus, Virginia Commonwealth University, 1217 E Marshall St, Richmond, VA 23298, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Abstract
The endocannabinoid signaling system regulates diverse physiologic processes and has attracted considerable attention as a potential pharmaceutical target for treating diseases, such as pain, anxiety/depression, and metabolic disorders. The principal ligands of the endocannabinoid system are the lipid transmitters N-arachidonoylethanolamine (anandamide) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), which activate the two major cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2. Anandamide and 2-AG signaling pathways in the nervous system are terminated by enzymatic hydrolysis mediated primarily by the serine hydrolases fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL), respectively. In this review, we will discuss the development of FAAH and MAGL inhibitors and their pharmacological application to investigate the function of anandamide and 2-AG signaling pathways in preclinical models of neurobehavioral processes, such as pain, anxiety, and addiction. We will place emphasis on how these studies are beginning to discern the different roles played by anandamide and 2-AG in the nervous system and the resulting implications for advancing endocannabinoid hydrolase inhibitors as next-generation therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline L Blankman
- Institute for Chemical Biology and Department of Chemical Physiology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Alterations in endocannabinoid tone following chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy: effects of endocannabinoid deactivation inhibitors targeting fatty-acid amide hydrolase and monoacylglycerol lipase in comparison to reference analgesics following cisplatin treatment. Pharmacol Res 2012; 67:94-109. [PMID: 23127915 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2012.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2012] [Revised: 10/24/2012] [Accepted: 10/24/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Cisplatin, a platinum-derived chemotherapeutic agent, produces mechanical and coldallodynia reminiscent of chemotherapy-induced neuropathy in humans. The endocannabinoid system represents a novel target for analgesic drug development. The endocannabinoid signaling system consists of endocannabinoids (e.g. anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG)), cannabinoid receptors (e.g. CB(1) and CB(2)) and the enzymes controlling endocannabinoid synthesis and degradation. AEA is hydrolyzed by fatty-acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) whereas 2-AG is hydrolyzed primarily by monoacylglycerol lipase (MGL). We compared effects of brain permeant (URB597) and impermeant (URB937) inhibitors of FAAH with an irreversible inhibitor of MGL (JZL184) on cisplatin-evoked behavioral hypersensitivities. Endocannabinoid modulators were compared with agents used clinically to treat neuropathy (i.e. the opioid analgesic morphine, the anticonvulsant gabapentin and the tricyclic antidepressant amitriptyline). Cisplatin produced robust mechanical and cold allodynia but did not alter responsiveness to heat. After neuropathy was fully established, groups received acute intraperitoneal (i.p.) injections of vehicle, amitriptyline (30 mg/kg), gabapentin (100 mg/kg), morphine (6 mg/kg), URB597 (0.1 or 1 mg/kg), URB937 (0.1 or 1 mg/kg) or JZL184 (1, 3 or 8 mg/kg). Pharmacological specificity was assessed by coadministering each endocannabinoid modulator with either a CB(1) (AM251 3 mg/kg), CB(2) (AM630 3 mg/kg), TRPV1 (AMG9810 3 mg/kg) or TRPA1 (HC030031 8 mg/kg) antagonist. Effects of cisplatin on endocannabinoid levels and transcription of receptors (CB(1), CB(2), TRPV1, TRPA1) and enzymes (FAAH, MGL) linked to the endocannabinoid system were also assessed. URB597, URB937, JZL184 and morphine reversed cisplatin-evoked mechanical and cold allodynia to pre-cisplatin levels. By contrast, gabapentin only partially reversed the observed allodynia while amitriptyline, administered acutely, was ineffective. CB(1) or CB(2) antagonists completely blocked the anti-allodynic effects of both FAAH (URB597, URB937) and MGL (JZL184) inhibitors to mechanical and cold stimulation. By contrast, the TRPV1 antagonist AMG9810 blocked the anti-allodynic efficacy of both FAAH inhibitors, but not the MGL inhibitor. By contrast, the TRPA1 antagonist HC30031 did not attenuate anti-allodynic efficacy of any endocannabinoid modulator. When the levels of endocannabinoids were examined, cisplatin increased both anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) levels in the lumbar spinal cord and decreased 2-AG levels (but not AEA) in dorsal hind paw skin. RT-PCR showed that mRNA for FAAH, but not other markers, was upregulated by cisplatin treatment in lumbar spinal cord. The present studies demonstrate that cisplatin alters endocannabinoid tone and that inhibition of endocannabinoid hydrolysis alleviates chemotherapy-induced mechanical and cold allodynia. The anti-allodynic effects of FAAH and MGL inhibitors are mediated by CB(1) and CB(2) cannabinoid receptors, whereas TRPV1, but not TRPA1, -dependent mechanisms contribute to the anti-allodynic efficacy of FAAH (but not MGL) inhibitors. Strikingly, endocannabinoid modulators potently suppressed cisplatin-evoked allodynia with a rapid onset and showed efficacy that equaled or exceeded that of major classes of anti-neuropathic pain medications used clinically. Thus, inhibition of endocannabinoid hydrolysis, via FAAH or MGL inhibitors, represents an efficacious pharmacological approach for suppressing chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain.
Collapse
|
41
|
Favia AD, Habrant D, Scarpelli R, Migliore M, Albani C, Bertozzi SM, Dionisi M, Tarozzo G, Piomelli D, Cavalli A, De Vivo M. Identification and characterization of carprofen as a multitarget fatty acid amide hydrolase/cyclooxygenase inhibitor. J Med Chem 2012; 55:8807-26. [PMID: 23043222 DOI: 10.1021/jm3011146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Pain and inflammation are major therapeutic areas for drug discovery. Current drugs for these pathologies have limited efficacy, however, and often cause a number of unwanted side effects. In the present study, we identify the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug carprofen as a multitarget-directed ligand that simultaneously inhibits cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1), COX-2, and fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). Additionally, we synthesized and tested several derivatives of carprofen, sharing this multitarget activity. This may result in improved analgesic efficacy and reduced side effects (Naidu et al. J. Pharmacol. Exp. Ther.2009, 329, 48-56; Fowler, C. J.; et al. J. Enzyme Inhib. Med. Chem.2012, in press; Sasso et al. Pharmacol. Res.2012, 65, 553). The new compounds are among the most potent multitarget FAAH/COX inhibitors reported so far in the literature and thus may represent promising starting points for the discovery of new analgesic and anti-inflammatory drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angelo D Favia
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, 16163 Genova, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Li Y, Yang L, Chen L, Zhu C, Huang R, Zheng X, Qiu Y, Fu J. Design and synthesis of potent N-acylethanolamine-hydrolyzing acid amidase (NAAA) inhibitor as anti-inflammatory compounds. PLoS One 2012; 7:e43023. [PMID: 22916199 PMCID: PMC3423427 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0043023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2012] [Accepted: 07/16/2012] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
N-acylethanolamine-hydrolyzing acid amidase (NAAA) is a lysosomal enzyme involved in biological deactivation of N-palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), which exerts anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects through the activation of nuclear receptor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha (PPAR-α). To develop selective and potent NAAA inhibitors, we designed and synthesized a series of derivatives of 1-pentadecanyl-carbonyl pyrrolidine (compound 1), a general amidase inhibitor. Structure activity relationship (SAR) studies have identified a compound 16, 1-(2-Biphenyl-4-yl)ethyl-carbonyl pyrrolidine, which has shown the highest inhibition on NAAA activity (IC50 = 2.12±0.41 µM) and is characterized as a reversible and competitive NAAA inhibitor. Computational docking analysis and mutagenesis study revealed that compound 16 interacted with Asparagine 209 (Asn209) residue flanking the catalytic pocket of NAAA so as to block the substrate entrance. In vitro pharmacological studies demonstrated that compound 16 dose-dependently reduced mRNA expression levels of iNOS and IL-6, along with an increase of intracellular PEA levels, in mouse macrophages with lipopolysaccharides (LPS) induced inflammation. Our study discovered a novel NAAA inhibitor, compound 16, that could serve as a potential anti-inflammatory agent.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuhang Li
- Department of Medical Sciences, Medical College, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- Department of Chemistry and The Key Laboratory for Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Longhe Yang
- Department of Medical Sciences, Medical College, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- Department of Chemistry and The Key Laboratory for Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Ling Chen
- Department of Medical Sciences, Medical College, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Chenggang Zhu
- Department of Medical Sciences, Medical College, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Rui Huang
- Department of Medical Sciences, Medical College, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Xiao Zheng
- Department of Chemistry and The Key Laboratory for Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Yan Qiu
- Department of Medical Sciences, Medical College, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- * E-mail: (JF); (YQ)
| | - Jin Fu
- Department of Medical Sciences, Medical College, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- Drug Discovery and Development, Italian Institute of Technology, Genoa, Italy
- * E-mail: (JF); (YQ)
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Duranti A, Tontini A, Antonietti F, Vacondio F, Fioni A, Silva C, Lodola A, Rivara S, Solorzano C, Piomelli D, Tarzia G, Mor M. N-(2-Oxo-3-oxetanyl)carbamic Acid Esters as N-Acylethanolamine Acid Amidase Inhibitors: Synthesis and Structure–Activity and Structure–Property Relationships. J Med Chem 2012; 55:4824-36. [DOI: 10.1021/jm300349j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Duranti
- Dipartimento
di Scienze Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Urbino “Carlo Bo”, Piazza del Rinascimento
6, I-61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Andrea Tontini
- Dipartimento
di Scienze Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Urbino “Carlo Bo”, Piazza del Rinascimento
6, I-61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Francesca Antonietti
- Dipartimento
di Scienze Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Urbino “Carlo Bo”, Piazza del Rinascimento
6, I-61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Federica Vacondio
- Dipartimento Farmaceutico, Università degli Studi di Parma, Viale G. P.
Usberti 27/A, I-43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Alessandro Fioni
- Dipartimento Farmaceutico, Università degli Studi di Parma, Viale G. P.
Usberti 27/A, I-43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Claudia Silva
- Dipartimento Farmaceutico, Università degli Studi di Parma, Viale G. P.
Usberti 27/A, I-43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Alessio Lodola
- Dipartimento Farmaceutico, Università degli Studi di Parma, Viale G. P.
Usberti 27/A, I-43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Silvia Rivara
- Dipartimento Farmaceutico, Università degli Studi di Parma, Viale G. P.
Usberti 27/A, I-43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Carlos Solorzano
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, Irvine, 360 MSRII, California
92697-4625, United States
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, Irvine, 360 MSRII, California
92697-4625, United States
- Department of Drug Discovery
and Development, Italian Institute of Technology, via Morego 30, I-16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Giorgio Tarzia
- Dipartimento
di Scienze Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Urbino “Carlo Bo”, Piazza del Rinascimento
6, I-61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Marco Mor
- Dipartimento Farmaceutico, Università degli Studi di Parma, Viale G. P.
Usberti 27/A, I-43124 Parma, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Tambaro S, Bortolato M. Cannabinoid-related agents in the treatment of anxiety disorders: current knowledge and future perspectives. RECENT PATENTS ON CNS DRUG DISCOVERY 2012; 7:25-40. [PMID: 22280339 PMCID: PMC3691841 DOI: 10.2174/157488912798842269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2011] [Revised: 07/29/2011] [Accepted: 08/29/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Rich evidence has shown that cannabis products exert a broad gamut of effects on emotional regulation. The main psychoactive ingredient of hemp, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and its synthetic cannabinoid analogs have been reported to either attenuate or exacerbate anxiety and fear-related behaviors in humans and experimental animals. The heterogeneity of cannabis-induced psychological outcomes reflects a complex network of molecular interactions between the key neurobiological substrates of anxiety and fear and the endogenous cannabinoid system, mainly consisting of the arachidonic acid derivatives anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and two receptors, respectively termed CB1 and CB2. The high degree of interindividual variability in the responses to cannabis is contributed by a wide spectrum of factors, including genetic and environmental determinants, as well as differences in the relative concentrations of THC and other alkaloids (such as cannabidiol) within the plant itself. The present article reviews the currently available knowledge on the herbal, synthetic and endogenous cannabinoids with respect to the modulation of anxiety responses, and highlights the challenges that should be overcome to harness the therapeutic potential of some of these compounds, all the while limiting the side effects associated with cannabis consumption. In addition the article presents some promising patents on cannabinoid-related agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simone Tambaro
- Dept. of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences School of Pharmacy University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
45
|
Howlett AC, Reggio PH, Childers SR, Hampson RE, Ulloa NM, Deutsch DG. Endocannabinoid tone versus constitutive activity of cannabinoid receptors. Br J Pharmacol 2012; 163:1329-43. [PMID: 21545414 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01364.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
This review evaluates the cellular mechanisms of constitutive activity of the cannabinoid (CB) receptors, its reversal by inverse agonists, and discusses the pitfalls and problems in the interpretation of the research data. The notion is presented that endogenously produced anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) serve as autocrine or paracrine stimulators of the CB receptors, giving the appearance of constitutive activity. It is proposed that one cannot interpret inverse agonist studies without inference to the receptors' environment vis-à-vis the endocannabinoid agonists which themselves are highly lipophilic compounds with a preference for membranes. The endocannabinoid tone is governed by a combination of synthetic pathways and inactivation involving transport and degradation. The synthesis and degradation of 2-AG is well characterized, and 2-AG has been strongly implicated in retrograde signalling in neurons. Data implicating endocannabinoids in paracrine regulation have been described. Endocannabinoid ligands can traverse the cell's interior and potentially be stored on fatty acid-binding proteins (FABPs). Molecular modelling predicts that the endocannabinoids derived from membrane phospholipids can laterally diffuse to enter the CB receptor from the lipid bilayer. Considering that endocannabinoid signalling to CB receptors is a much more likely scenario than is receptor activation in the absence of agonist ligands, researchers are advised to refrain from assuming constitutive activity except for experimental models known to be devoid of endocannabinoid ligands.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Allyn C Howlett
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
The increasing role of QM/MM in drug discovery. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2012; 87:337-62. [PMID: 22607760 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-398312-1.00011-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Since its first appearance in 1976, the quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics (QM/MM) approach has mostly been used to study the chemical reactions of enzymes, which are frequently the target of drug discovery programs. In principle, a detailed understanding of the enzymatic mechanism should help researchers to design a potent enzyme inhibitor or new drug. However, QM/MM has not yet had a widespread impact on structure-based drug design. This is mostly due to its high computational cost. We expect this to change with the recent and extraordinary increases in computational power, and with the availability of more efficient algorithms for QM/MM calculations. Here, we report on some representative examples of QM/MM studies, including our own research, of pharmaceutically relevant enzymes, such as ribonuclease H and fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). We aim to show how QM/MM has traditionally been used to study enzymatic catalysis. In this regard, we discuss its potential to become a routinely used drug design tool. To support this, we also discuss selected computational studies where QM/MM insights have been helpful in improving the potency of covalent inhibitors of FAAH.
Collapse
|
47
|
Estiarte MA, Johnson RJ, Kaub CJ, Gowlugari S, O'Mahony DJR, Nguyen MT, Emerling DE, Kelly MG, Kincaid J, Vincent F, Duncton MAJ. 2-Amino-5-arylbenzoxazole derivatives as potent inhibitors of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). MEDCHEMCOMM 2012. [DOI: 10.1039/c2md00307d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
|
48
|
Otrubova K, Ezzili C, Boger DL. The discovery and development of inhibitors of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2011; 21:4674-85. [PMID: 21764305 PMCID: PMC3146581 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2011.06.096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2011] [Revised: 06/18/2011] [Accepted: 06/20/2011] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
A summary of the discovery and advancement of inhibitors of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) is presented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Otrubova
- Department of Chemistry and The Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey, Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Vacondio F, Silva C, Lodola A, Carmi C, Rivara S, Duranti A, Tontini A, Sanchini S, Clapper JR, Piomelli D, Tarzia G, Mor M. Biphenyl-3-yl alkylcarbamates as fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitors: steric effects of N-alkyl chain on rat plasma and liver stability. Eur J Med Chem 2011; 46:4466-73. [PMID: 21820769 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2011.07.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2011] [Revised: 07/12/2011] [Accepted: 07/12/2011] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Secondary alkylcarbamic acid biphenyl-3-yl esters are a class of Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitors, which include the reference compounds URB597 and URB694. Given the intrinsic reactivity of the carbamate group, the in vivo potency of these molecules in rats is strongly affected by their hydrolysis in plasma or hepatic metabolism. In the present study, in vitro chemical and metabolic stability assays (rat plasma and rat liver S(9) fraction) were used to investigate the structure-property relationships (SPRs) for a focused series of title compounds, where lipophilicity and steric hindrance of the carbamate N-substituent had been modulated. The resulting degradation rates indicate that a secondary or tertiary alkyl group at the carbamate nitrogen atom increases hydrolytic stability towards rat plasma esterases. The calculated solvent accessible surface area (SASA) of the carbamate fragment was employed to describe the differences observed in rate constants of hydrolysis in rat plasma (log k(plasma)), suggesting that stability in plasma increases if the substituent exerts a shielding effect on the carbamate carbonyl. Stability in rat liver S(9) fraction is increased when a tertiary carbon is bound to the carbamate nitrogen atom, while other steric effects showed complex relationships with degradation rates. The SPRs here described may be applied at the pharmacokinetic optimization of other classes of carbamate FAAH inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Federica Vacondio
- Dipartimento Farmaceutico, Università degli Studi di Parma, Viale GP Usberti 27/A, I-43124 Parma, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Wilson AA, Garcia A, Parkes J, Houle S, Tong J, Vasdev N. [11C]CURB: Evaluation of a novel radiotracer for imaging fatty acid amide hydrolase by positron emission tomography. Nucl Med Biol 2011; 38:247-53. [PMID: 21315280 DOI: 10.1016/j.nucmedbio.2010.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2010] [Revised: 08/05/2010] [Accepted: 08/08/2010] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) is the enzyme responsible for metabolising the endogenous cannabinoid, anandamide, and thus represents an important target for molecular imaging. To date, no radiotracer has been shown to be useful for imaging of FAAH using either positron emission tomography (PET) or single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). We here determine the suitability of a novel carbon-11-labeled inhibitor of FAAH via ex vivo biodistribution studies in rat brain in conjunction with pharmacological challenges. METHODS A potent irreversible inhibitor of FAAH, URB694, radiolabeled with carbon-11 in the carbonyl position ([(11)C]CURB), was administered to male rats via tail-vein injection. Rats were sacrificed at various time points postinjection, and tissue samples were dissected, counted and weighed. Specific binding to FAAH was investigated by pretreatment of animals with URB694 or URB597. For metabolism and mechanism of binding studies, whole brains were excised post-radiotracer injection, homogenised and extracted exhaustively with 80% aq. acetonitrile to determine the time course and fraction of radioactivity that was irreversibly bound to brain parenchyma. RESULTS Upon intravenous injection into rats, [(11)C]CURB showed high brain uptake [standard uptake value (SUV) of 1.6-2.4 at 5 min] with little washout over time, which is characteristic of irreversible binding. Highest uptake of radioactivity was seen in the cortex, intermediate in the cerebellum and lowest in the hypothalamus, reflecting the reported distribution of FAAH. Brain uptake of radioactivity was decreased in a dose-dependent manner by pretreatment with increasing amounts of URB694, demonstrating that binding was saturable. Pretreatment with the well-characterised FAAH inhibitor, URB597, reduced binding in all brain regions by 70-80%. Homogenised brain extraction experiments demonstrated unequivocally that [(11)C]CURB was irreversibly bound to FAAH. CONCLUSIONS The title radiotracer demonstrates favourable properties such as good brain uptake, regional heterogeneity and specificity of binding based on ex vivo biodistribution studies in conscious rat brain. [(11)C]CURB represents a highly promising radiotracer for the imaging of FAAH using PET.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alan A Wilson
- PET Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|