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DeVuono MV, Nashed MG, Sarikahya MH, Kocsis A, Lee K, Vanin SR, Hudson R, Lonnee EP, Rushlow WJ, Hardy DB, Laviolette SR. Prenatal tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol exposure produce sex-specific pathophysiological phenotypes in the adolescent prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. Neurobiol Dis 2024; 199:106588. [PMID: 38960101 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2024.106588] [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: 06/05/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Clinical and preclinical evidence has demonstrated an increased risk for neuropsychiatric disorders following prenatal cannabinoid exposure. However, given the phytochemical complexity of cannabis, there is a need to understand how specific components of cannabis may contribute to these neurodevelopmental risks later in life. To investigate this, a rat model of prenatal cannabinoid exposure was utilized to examine the impacts of specific cannabis constituents (Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol [THC]; cannabidiol [CBD]) alone and in combination on future neuropsychiatric liability in male and female offspring. Prenatal THC and CBD exposure were associated with low birth weight. At adolescence, offspring displayed sex-specific behavioural changes in anxiety, temporal order and social cognition, and sensorimotor gating. These phenotypes were associated with sex and treatment-specific neuronal and gene transcriptional alterations in the prefrontal cortex, and ventral hippocampus, regions where the endocannabinoid system is implicated in affective and cognitive development. Electrophysiology and RT-qPCR analysis in these regions implicated dysregulation of the endocannabinoid system and balance of excitatory and inhibitory signalling in the developmental consequences of prenatal cannabinoids. These findings reveal critical insights into how specific cannabinoids can differentially impact the developing fetal brains of males and females to enhance subsequent neuropsychiatric risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marieka V DeVuono
- Addiction Research Group, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada; Dept of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada.
| | - Mina G Nashed
- Addiction Research Group, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada; Dept of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Mohammed H Sarikahya
- Addiction Research Group, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada; Dept of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Andrea Kocsis
- Dept of Physiology & Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; Dept of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Kendrick Lee
- Dept of Physiology & Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; Dept of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Sebastian R Vanin
- Dept of Physiology & Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; Dept of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Roger Hudson
- Addiction Research Group, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada; Dept of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Eryn P Lonnee
- Addiction Research Group, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada; Dept of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Walter J Rushlow
- Addiction Research Group, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada; Dept of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; Dept of Psychiatry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Daniel B Hardy
- Dept of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; Dept of Physiology & Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; Dept of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; Division of Maternal, Fetal and Newborn Health, Children's Health Research Institute (CHRI), Lawson Health Research Institute, St. Joseph's Health Care, London, ON N6C 2R5, Canada
| | - Steven R Laviolette
- Addiction Research Group, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada; Dept of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; Dept of Psychiatry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; Division of Maternal, Fetal and Newborn Health, Children's Health Research Institute (CHRI), Lawson Health Research Institute, St. Joseph's Health Care, London, ON N6C 2R5, Canada
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Lee K, Vanin S, Nashed M, Sarikahya MH, Laviolette SR, Natale DRC, Hardy DB. Cannabidiol Exposure During Gestation Leads to Adverse Cardiac Outcomes Early in Postnatal Life in Male Rat Offspring. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2024; 9:781-796. [PMID: 38358335 DOI: 10.1089/can.2023.0213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Studies indicate that ∼7% of pregnant individuals in North America consume cannabis in pregnancy. Pre-clinical studies have established that maternal exposure to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC; major psychoactive component in cannabis) leads to fetal growth restriction and impaired cardiac function in offspring. However, the effects of maternal exposure to cannabidiol (CBD; major non-euphoric constituent) on cardiac outcomes in offspring remain unknown. Therefore, our objective is to investigate the functional and underlying molecular impacts in the hearts of offspring exposed to CBD in pregnancy. Methods: Pregnant Wistar rats were exposed to either 3 or 30 mg/kg CBD or vehicle control i.p. daily from gestational day 6 to term. Echocardiography was used to assess cardiac function in male and female offspring at postnatal day (PND) 21. Furthermore, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), immunoblotting, and bulk RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) were performed on PND21 offspring hearts. Results: Despite no differences in the heart-to-body weight ratio, both doses of CBD led to reduced cardiac function exclusively in male offspring at 3 weeks of age. Underlying this, significant alterations in the expression of the endocannabinoid system (ECS; e.g., decreased cannabinoid receptor 2) were observed. In addition, bulk RNA-seq data demonstrated transcriptional pathways significantly enriched in mitochondrial function/metabolism as well as development. Conclusion: Collectively, we demonstrated for the first time that gestational exposure to CBD, a constituent perceived as safe, leads to early sex-specific postnatal cardiac deficits and alterations in the cardiac ECS in offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kendrick Lee
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sebastian Vanin
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mina Nashed
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mohammed Halit Sarikahya
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Steven R Laviolette
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - David R C Natale
- Departments of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences and Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Daniel B Hardy
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Children's Health Research Institute, Lawson Health Research Institute, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
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Allen S, Natale BV, Ejeckam AO, Lee K, Hardy DB, Natale DR. Cannabidiol Exposure During Rat Pregnancy Leads to Labyrinth-Specific Vascular Defects in the Placenta and Reduced Fetal Growth. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2024; 9:766-780. [PMID: 38364116 PMCID: PMC11304342 DOI: 10.1089/can.2023.0166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Cannabis use is increasing among pregnant people, and cannabidiol (CBD), a constituent of cannabis, is often perceived as "natural" and "safe" as it is non-intoxicating. In utero, cannabis exposure is associated with negative health outcomes, including fetal growth restriction (FGR). The placenta supplies oxygen and nutrients to the fetus, and alterations in placental development can lead to FGR. While there has been some investigation into the effects of Δ9-THC, there has been limited investigation into the impacts of in utero gestational CBD exposure on the placenta. Methods: This study used histological and transcriptomic analysis of embryonic day (E)19.5 rat placentas from vehicle and CBD (3 mg/kg intraperitoneal injection) exposed pregnancies (E6.5-18.5). Results: The study revealed that pups from CBD-exposed pregnancies were 10% smaller, with the placentae displaying a decreased fetal blood space perimeter-to-area ratio. The transcriptomic analysis supported compromised angiogenesis and blood vessel formation with downregulated biological processes, including tube morphogenesis, angiogenesis, blood vessel morphogenesis, blood vessel development and vasculature development. Further, the CBD-exposed placentas displayed changed expression of glucose transporters (decreased GLUT1 and GR expression and increased GLUT3 expression). Transcriptomic analysis further revealed upregulated biological processes associated with metabolism. Finally, histological and transcriptomic analysis revealed altered cell populations within the placenta, specifically to syncytiotrophoblast layer II and endothelial cells. Conclusion: Together these results suggest that the structural changes in CDB-exposed placentae, including the altered expression of nutrient transporters and the changes to the placental fetal vasculature, may underlie the reduced fetal growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Allen
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Bryony V. Natale
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alexis O. Ejeckam
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kendrick Lee
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Daniel B. Hardy
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- The Children's Health Research Institute, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - David R.C. Natale
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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Midthun KM. Umbilical Cord Tissue: From Antemortem Monitoring to Postmortem Possibilities. Am J Forensic Med Pathol 2024; 45:67-71. [PMID: 38064344 DOI: 10.1097/paf.0000000000000896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Umbilical cord tissue (UCT) traditionally has been used as an antemortem matrix for identifying and monitoring fetal exposure to drugs suspected to have been used during pregnancy. The specimen offers several advantages as a testable tissue, including accessibility and ease of collection, ample sample volume, a long window of detection, and ability to detect for a wide range of drugs. Despite these advantages, little to no research exists on the use of UCT as a postmortem forensic toxicology specimen. This article aims to provide insights into UCT toxicological testing and infer potential applications for postmortem use, such as investigations into stillbirths and infant abandonment. Umbilical cord tissue offers several benefits as a postmortem toxicological specimen. Importantly, it can be collected with or without an autopsy being performed and may help explain factors that contribute to the underdevelopment and death of the neonate. With the limited sample volumes present in infant investigations, toxicological analysis of UCT could become a valuable tool for neonatal medicolegal death investigations.
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Dochez-Arnault J, Desdoits-Lethimonier C, Matias I, Evrard B, Lagarrigue M, Toupin M, Lardenois A, Chalmel F, Mazaud-Guittot S, Dejucq-Rainsford N, Gely-Pernot A. Expression of the endocannabinoid system and response to cannabinoid components by the human fetal testis. BMC Med 2023; 21:219. [PMID: 37430350 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-023-02916-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis consumption by pregnant women continues to increase worldwide, raising concerns about adverse effects on fetal growth and deleterious impacts on the newborn, in connection with evidence of placental transfer of cannabis compound. Cannabis action is mediated by the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which expression is well established in the brain but unknown in the developing testis. The fetal testis, whose endocrine function orchestrates the masculinization of many distant organs, is particularly sensitive to disruption by xenobiotics. In this context, we aimed to determine whether cannabis exposure has the potential to directly impact the human fetal testis. METHODS We determined the expression of components of the ECS in the human fetal testis from 6 to 17 developmental weeks and assessed the direct effects of phytocannabinoids Δ9-trans-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) on the testis morphology and cell functions ex vivo. RESULTS We demonstrate the presence in the human fetal testis of two key endocannabinoids, 2-arachidonylglycerol (2-AG) and to a lower level anandamide (AEA), as well as a range of enzymes and receptors for the ECS. Ex vivo exposure of first trimester testes to CBD, THC, or CBD/THC [ratio 1:1] at 10-7 to 10-5 M altered testosterone secretion by Leydig cells, AMH secretion by Sertoli cells, and impacted testicular cell proliferation and viability as early as 72 h post-exposure. Transcriptomic analysis on 72 h-exposed fetal testis explants revealed 187 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), including genes involved in steroid synthesis and toxic substance response. Depending on the molecules and testis age, highly deleterious effects of phytocannabinoid exposure were observed on testis tissue after 14 days, including Sertoli and germ cell death. CONCLUSIONS Our study is the first to evidence the presence of the ECS in the human fetal testis and to highlight the potential adverse effect of cannabis consumption by pregnant women onto the development of the male gonad.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Dochez-Arnault
- Univ Rennes, Inserm (Institut National de La Santé Et de La Recherche Médicale), EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement Et Travail) - UMR_S 1085 (Institut de Recherche en Santé, environnement et travail), 9 Avenue du Professeur Léon Bernard, 35000, Rennes, CEDEX, France
| | - C Desdoits-Lethimonier
- Univ Rennes, Inserm (Institut National de La Santé Et de La Recherche Médicale), EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement Et Travail) - UMR_S 1085 (Institut de Recherche en Santé, environnement et travail), 9 Avenue du Professeur Léon Bernard, 35000, Rennes, CEDEX, France
| | - I Matias
- Neurocentre Magendie - Inserm, U1215, Bordeaux, France
| | - B Evrard
- Univ Rennes, Inserm (Institut National de La Santé Et de La Recherche Médicale), EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement Et Travail) - UMR_S 1085 (Institut de Recherche en Santé, environnement et travail), 9 Avenue du Professeur Léon Bernard, 35000, Rennes, CEDEX, France
| | - M Lagarrigue
- Univ Rennes, Inserm (Institut National de La Santé Et de La Recherche Médicale), EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement Et Travail) - UMR_S 1085 (Institut de Recherche en Santé, environnement et travail), 9 Avenue du Professeur Léon Bernard, 35000, Rennes, CEDEX, France
| | | | - A Lardenois
- Univ Rennes, Inserm (Institut National de La Santé Et de La Recherche Médicale), EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement Et Travail) - UMR_S 1085 (Institut de Recherche en Santé, environnement et travail), 9 Avenue du Professeur Léon Bernard, 35000, Rennes, CEDEX, France
| | - F Chalmel
- Univ Rennes, Inserm (Institut National de La Santé Et de La Recherche Médicale), EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement Et Travail) - UMR_S 1085 (Institut de Recherche en Santé, environnement et travail), 9 Avenue du Professeur Léon Bernard, 35000, Rennes, CEDEX, France
| | - S Mazaud-Guittot
- Univ Rennes, Inserm (Institut National de La Santé Et de La Recherche Médicale), EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement Et Travail) - UMR_S 1085 (Institut de Recherche en Santé, environnement et travail), 9 Avenue du Professeur Léon Bernard, 35000, Rennes, CEDEX, France
| | - N Dejucq-Rainsford
- Univ Rennes, Inserm (Institut National de La Santé Et de La Recherche Médicale), EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement Et Travail) - UMR_S 1085 (Institut de Recherche en Santé, environnement et travail), 9 Avenue du Professeur Léon Bernard, 35000, Rennes, CEDEX, France
| | - A Gely-Pernot
- Univ Rennes, Inserm (Institut National de La Santé Et de La Recherche Médicale), EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement Et Travail) - UMR_S 1085 (Institut de Recherche en Santé, environnement et travail), 9 Avenue du Professeur Léon Bernard, 35000, Rennes, CEDEX, France.
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Emerging Roles of Endocannabinoids as Key Lipid Mediators for a Successful Pregnancy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065220. [PMID: 36982295 PMCID: PMC10048990 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, Cannabis use/misuse for treating pregnancy-related symptoms and other chronic conditions has increased among pregnant women, favored by decriminalization and/or legalization of its recreational uses in addition to its easy accessibility. However, there is evidence that prenatal Cannabis exposure might have adverse consequences on pregnancy progression and a deleterious impact on proper neurodevelopmental trajectories in the offspring. Maternal Cannabis use could interfere with the complex and finely controlled role performed by the endocannabinoid system in reproductive physiology, impairing multiple gestational processes from blastocyst implantation to parturition, with long-lasting intergenerational effects. In this review, we discuss current clinical and preclinical evidence regarding the role of endocannabinoids in development, function, and immunity of the maternal–fetal interface, focusing on the impact of Cannabis constituents on each of these gestational processes. We also discuss the intrinsic limitations of the available studies and the future perspectives in this challenging research field.
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Antunes M, Barroso M, Gallardo E. Analysis of Cannabinoids in Biological Specimens: An Update. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2312. [PMID: 36767678 PMCID: PMC9915035 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Cannabinoids are still the most consumed drugs of abuse worldwide. Despite being considered less harmful to human health, particularly if compared with opiates or cocaine, cannabis consumption has important medico-legal and public health consequences. For this reason, the development and optimization of sensitive analytical methods that allow the determination of these compounds in different biological specimens is important, involving relevant efforts from laboratories. This paper will discuss cannabis consumption; toxicokinetics, the most detected compounds in biological samples; and characteristics of the latter. In addition, a comprehensive review of extraction methods and analytical tools available for cannabinoid detection in selected biological specimens will be reviewed. Important issues such as pitfalls and cut-off values will be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mónica Antunes
- CICS-UBI—Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Avenida Infante D. Henrique, 6201-506 Covilha, Portugal
- Serviço de Química e Toxicologia Forenses, Instituto Nacional de Medicina Legal e Ciências Forenses, Delegação do Sul, Rua Manuel Bento de Sousa 3, 1169-201 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Mário Barroso
- Serviço de Química e Toxicologia Forenses, Instituto Nacional de Medicina Legal e Ciências Forenses, Delegação do Sul, Rua Manuel Bento de Sousa 3, 1169-201 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Eugenia Gallardo
- CICS-UBI—Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Avenida Infante D. Henrique, 6201-506 Covilha, Portugal
- Laboratório de Fármaco-Toxicologia, UBIMedical, Universidade da Beira Interior, EM506, 6200-284 Covilha, Portugal
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Ramlawi S, Murphy MSQ, Dingwall-Harvey ALJ, Rennicks White R, Gaudet LM, McGee A, DeGrace A, Cantin C, El-Chaâr D, Walker MC, Corsi DJ. Cannabis Use in Pregnancy and Downstream effects on maternal and infant health (CUPiD): a protocol for a birth cohort pilot study. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e066196. [PMID: 36549747 PMCID: PMC9791409 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-066196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cannabis use in pregnancy and post partum is increasing. Accessibility to cannabis has expanded due to the legalisation of cannabis in Canada. Therefore, there is a critical need to monitor the impact of cannabis on pregnancy outcomes and infant neurodevelopment. This pilot study will assess the feasibility of modern recruitment and data collection strategies adapted to the current cannabis environment and inform the design of a multicentre prospective birth cohort. METHODS AND ANALYSIS We will establish a pregnancy and birth cohort of 50 cannabis users and 50 non-users recruited before delivery. We will follow the participants at regular visits from recruitment to 12 weeks post partum. Participants will provide demographic and socioeconomic data, report their cannabis use patterns, and provide biological samples. Biological samples include maternal and infant urine and blood, breastmilk/chestmilk, cord blood, cord tissue, placenta and meconium. All samples will be processed and stored at -80°C until analysis by immunoassay or liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry to determine the presence of cannabis metabolites. In addition, partners will be invited to provide additional socioeconomic and substance use data. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethics was obtained from Ottawa Health Science Network Research Ethics Board through Clinical Trials Ontario (3791). Our findings will be published in peer-reviewed journals, presented at scientific conferences and shared broadly with patients, healthcare decision-makers, and project partners online and through social media. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT05309226.Cite Now.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serine Ramlawi
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Malia S Q Murphy
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Ruth Rennicks White
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Laura M Gaudet
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kingston Health Sciences Centre, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Amy McGee
- Division of Midwifery, Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Amanda DeGrace
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christina Cantin
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
- Champlain Maternal Newborn Regional Program, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Darine El-Chaâr
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mark C Walker
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Daniel J Corsi
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Monfort A, Ferreira E, Leclair G, Lodygensky GA. Pharmacokinetics of Cannabis and Its Derivatives in Animals and Humans During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:919630. [PMID: 35903331 PMCID: PMC9315316 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.919630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabis is one of the most widely used illicit drugs during pregnancy and lactation. With the recent legalization of cannabis in many countries, health professionals are increasingly exposed to pregnant and breastfeeding women who are consuming cannabis on a regular basis as a solution for depression, anxiety, nausea, and pain. Cannabis consumption during pregnancy can induce negative birth outcomes such as reduced birth weight and increased risk of prematurity and admission to the neonatal intensive care unit. Yet, limited information is available regarding the pharmacokinetics of cannabis in the fetus and newborn exposed during pregnancy and lactation. Indeed, the official recommendations regarding the use of cannabis during these two critical development periods lack robust pharmacokinetics data and make it difficult for health professionals to guide their patients. Many clinical studies are currently evaluating the effects of cannabis on the brain development and base their groups mostly on questionnaires. These studies should be associated with pharmacokinetics studies to assess correlations between the infant brain development and the exposure to cannabis during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Our project aims to review the available data on the pharmacokinetics of cannabinoids in adults, neonates, and animals. If the available literature is abundant in adult humans and animals, there is still a lack of published data on the exposure of pregnant and lactating women and neonates. However, some of the published information causes concerns on the exposure and the potential effects of cannabis on fetuses and neonates. The safety of cannabis use for non-medical purpose during pregnancy and breastfeeding needs to be further characterized with proper pharmacokinetic studies in humans feasible in regions where cannabis has been legalized. Given the available data, significant transfer occurs to the fetus and the breastfed newborn with a theoretical risk of accumulation of products known to be biologically active.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anaëlle Monfort
- Platform of Biopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Ema Ferreira
- CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Grégoire Leclair
- Platform of Biopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Gregory Anton Lodygensky
- CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- *Correspondence: Gregory Anton Lodygensky,
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Lee K, Hardy DB. Metabolic Consequences of Gestational Cannabinoid Exposure. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:9528. [PMID: 34502436 PMCID: PMC8430813 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Up to 20% of pregnant women ages 18-24 consume cannabis during pregnancy. Moreover, clinical studies indicate that cannabis consumption during pregnancy leads to fetal growth restriction (FGR), which is associated with an increased risk of obesity, type II diabetes (T2D), and cardiovascular disease in the offspring. This is of great concern considering that the concentration of Δ9- tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), a major psychoactive component of cannabis, has doubled over the last decade and can readily cross the placenta and enter fetal circulation, with the potential to negatively impact fetal development via the endocannabinoid (eCB) system. Cannabis exposure in utero could also lead to FGR via placental insufficiency. In this review, we aim to examine current pre-clinical and clinical findings on the direct effects of exposure to cannabis and its constituents on fetal development as well as indirect effects, namely placental insufficiency, on postnatal metabolic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kendrick Lee
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, 1151 Richmond Street, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada;
- The Children’s Health Research Institute, The Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Daniel B. Hardy
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, 1151 Richmond Street, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada;
- The Children’s Health Research Institute, The Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond Street, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
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11
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Pandelides Z, Aluru N, Thornton C, Watts HE, Willett KL. Transcriptomic Changes and the Roles of Cannabinoid Receptors and PPARγ in Developmental Toxicities Following Exposure to Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol and Cannabidiol. Toxicol Sci 2021; 182:44-59. [PMID: 33892503 PMCID: PMC8285010 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfab046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Human consumption of cannabinoid-containing products during early life or pregnancy is rising. However, information about the molecular mechanisms involved in early life stage Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) toxicities is critically lacking. Here, larval zebrafish (Danio rerio) were used to measure THC- and CBD-mediated changes on transcriptome and the roles of cannabinoid receptors (Cnr) 1 and 2 and peroxisome proliferator activator receptor γ (PPARγ) in developmental toxicities. Transcriptomic profiling of 96-h postfertilization (hpf) cnr+/+ embryos exposed (6 - 96 hpf) to 4 μM THC or 0.5 μM CBD showed differential expression of 904 and 1095 genes for THC and CBD, respectively, with 360 in common. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways enriched in the THC and CBD datasets included those related to drug, retinol, and steroid metabolism and PPAR signaling. The THC exposure caused increased mortality and deformities (pericardial and yolk sac edemas, reduction in length) in cnr1-/- and cnr2-/- fish compared with cnr+/+ suggesting Cnr receptors are involved in protective pathways. Conversely, the cnr1-/- larvae were more resistant to CBD-induced malformations, mortality, and behavioral alteration implicating Cnr1 in CBD-mediated toxicity. Behavior (decreased distance travelled) was the most sensitive endpoint to THC and CBD exposure. Coexposure to the PPARγ inhibitor GW9662 and CBD in cnr+/+ and cnr2-/- strains caused more adverse outcomes compared with CBD alone, but not in the cnr1-/- fish, suggesting that PPARγ plays a role in CBD metabolism downstream of Cnr1. Collectively, PPARγ, Cnr1, and Cnr2 play important roles in the developmental toxicity of cannabinoids with Cnr1 being the most critical.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zacharias Pandelides
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, Mississippi 38677, USA
| | - Neelakanteswar Aluru
- Biology Department, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and Woods Hole Center for Oceans and Human Health, Woods Hole, Massachusetts 02543, USA
| | - Cammi Thornton
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, Mississippi 38677, USA
| | - Haley E Watts
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, Mississippi 38677, USA
| | - Kristine L Willett
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, Mississippi 38677, USA
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12
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Concheiro M, Gutierrez FM, Ocampo A, Lendoiro E, González-Colmenero E, Concheiro-Guisán A, Peñas-Silva P, Macías-Cortiña M, Cruz-Landeira A, López-Rivadulla M, de-Castro-Ríos A. Assessment of biological matrices for the detection of in utero cannabis exposure. Drug Test Anal 2021; 13:1371-1382. [PMID: 33750017 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis consumption has been increasing worldwide among pregnant women. Due to the negative effects of prenatal cannabis exposure, it is necessary to develop an objective, sensitive, and specific method to determine cannabinoids use during pregnancy. In this study, we compared four different biological samples, maternal hair, meconium, umbilical cord, and placenta, for the detection of in utero cannabis exposure. The biological samples were collected from 627 mother-newborn dyads. All hair and meconium samples were analyzed, and umbilical cord and placenta if hair and/or meconium were positive for cannabinoids. Meconium and hair showed to complement each other, with an agreement between hair and meconium results of 96.7% but only 34.3% if just positive results were considered. Umbilical cord and placenta results showed a better agreement with meconium (91.3% and 92.6%, respectively) than with hair (39.1% and 34.6%, respectively). The predominant metabolites in meconium were 11-nor-carboxy-THC (THCCOOH) and 8,11-dihydroxy-THC (diOHTHC), and in umbilical cord and placenta was THCCOOH-glucuronide. Cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabinol (CBN) were detected in meconium but not in any umbilical cord or placenta. For the first time, prenatal marijuana exposure was analyzed and compared in paired hair, meconium, umbilical cord, and placental samples. Hair and meconium positivity rate was similar, but a more sensitive and specific analytical method for the hair may resolve discrepancies between the matrices. Umbilical cord and placenta may be considered suitable alternative matrices to meconium through the determination of THCCOOH-glucuronide as a biomarker of cannabis exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Concheiro
- John Jay College of Criminal Justice, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Alejandro Ocampo
- John Jay College of Criminal Justice, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Elena Lendoiro
- Sección de Toxicología, Instituto de Ciencias Forenses, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | | | - Ana Concheiro-Guisán
- Sección de Neonatología, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Vigo, Vigo, Spain
| | - Patricia Peñas-Silva
- Sección de Ginecología y Obstetricia, Hospital Clínico Universitario de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Manuel Macías-Cortiña
- Sección de Ginecología y Obstetricia, Hospital Clínico Universitario de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Angelines Cruz-Landeira
- Sección de Toxicología, Instituto de Ciencias Forenses, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Manuel López-Rivadulla
- Sección de Toxicología, Instituto de Ciencias Forenses, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Ana de-Castro-Ríos
- Sección de Toxicología, Instituto de Ciencias Forenses, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
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13
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Brighenti V, Protti M, Anceschi L, Zanardi C, Mercolini L, Pellati F. Emerging challenges in the extraction, analysis and bioanalysis of cannabidiol and related compounds. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2020; 192:113633. [PMID: 33039911 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2020.113633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a bioactive terpenophenolic compound isolated from Cannabis sativa L. It is known to possess several properties of pharmaceutical interest, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, neuroprotective and anti-convulsant, being it active as a multi-target compound. From a therapeutic point of view, CBD is most commonly used for seizure disorder in children. CBD is present in both medical and fiber-type C. sativa plants, but, unlike Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), it is a non-psychoactive compound. Non-psychoactive or fiber-type C. sativa (also known as hemp) differs from the medical one, since it contains only low levels of THC and high levels of CBD and related non-psychoactive cannabinoids. In addition to medical Cannabis, which is used for many different therapeutic purposes, a great expansion of the market of hemp plant material and related products has been observed in recent years, due to its usage in many fields, including food, cosmetics and electronic cigarettes liquids (commonly known as e-liquids). In this view, this work is focused on recent advances on sample preparation strategies and analytical methods for the chemical analysis of CBD and related compounds in both C. sativa plant material, its derived products and biological samples. Since sample preparation is considered to be a crucial step in the development of reliable analytical methods for the determination of natural compounds in complex matrices, different extraction methods are discussed. As regards the analysis of CBD and related compounds, the application of both separation and non-separation methods is discussed in detail. The advantages, disadvantages and applicability of the different methodologies currently available are evaluated. The scientific interest in the development of portable devices for the reliable analysis of CBD in vegetable and biological samples is also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Brighenti
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 103, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Michele Protti
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Via Belmeloro 6, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Lisa Anceschi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 103, 41125 Modena, Italy; Doctorate School in Clinical and Experimental Medicine (CEM), University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 103/287, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Chiara Zanardi
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 103, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Laura Mercolini
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Via Belmeloro 6, 40126 Bologna, Italy.
| | - Federica Pellati
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 103, 41125 Modena, Italy.
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14
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Chan WS, Wong GF, Hung CW, Wong YN, Fung KM, Lee WK, Dao KL, Leung CW, Lo KM, Lee WM, Cheung BKK. Interpol review of toxicology 2016-2019. Forensic Sci Int Synerg 2020; 2:563-607. [PMID: 33385147 PMCID: PMC7770452 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2020.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
This review paper covers the forensic-relevant literature in toxicology from 2016 to 2019 as a part of the 19th Interpol International Forensic Science Managers Symposium. The review papers are also available at the Interpol website at: https://www.interpol.int/content/download/14458/file/Interpol%20Review%20.Papers%202019.pdf.
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15
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Alves P, Amaral C, Teixeira N, Correia-da-Silva G. Cannabis sativa: Much more beyond Δ 9-tetrahydrocannabinol. Pharmacol Res 2020; 157:104822. [PMID: 32335286 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.104822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis is the most used illicit drug worldwide and its medicinal use is under discussion, being regulated in several countries. However, the psychotropic effects of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive compound of Cannabis sativa, are of concern. Thus, the interest in the isolated constituents without psychotropic activity, such as cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabidivarin (CBDV) is growing. CBD and CBDV are lipophilic molecules with poor oral bioavailability and are mainly metabolized by cytochrome P450 (CYP450) enzymes. The pharmacodynamics of CBD is the best explored, being able to interact with diverse molecular targets, like cannabinoid receptors, G protein-coupled receptor-55, transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 channel and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ. Considering the therapeutic potential, several clinical trials are underway to study the efficacy of CBD and CBDV in different pathologies, such as neurodegenerative diseases, epilepsy, autism spectrum disorders and pain conditions. The anti-cancer properties of CBD have also been demonstrated by several pre-clinical studies in different types of tumour cells. Although less studied, CBDV, a structural analogue of CBD, is receiving attention in the last years. CBDV exhibits anticonvulsant properties and, currently, clinical trials are underway for the treatment of autism spectrum disorders. Despite the benefits of these phytocannabinoids, it is important to highlight their potential interference with relevant physiologic mechanisms. In fact, CBD interactions with CYP450 enzymes and with drug efflux transporters may have serious consequences when co-administered with other drugs. This review summarizes the therapeutic advances of CBD and CBDV and explores some aspects of their pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and possible interactions. Moreover, it also highlights the therapeutic potential of CBD and CBDV in several medical conditions and clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia Alves
- UCIBIO.REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy of University of Porto, Portugal
| | - Cristina Amaral
- UCIBIO.REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy of University of Porto, Portugal
| | - Natércia Teixeira
- UCIBIO.REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy of University of Porto, Portugal
| | - Georgina Correia-da-Silva
- UCIBIO.REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy of University of Porto, Portugal.
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16
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Carlier J, Huestis MA, Zaami S, Pichini S, Busardò FP. Monitoring Perinatal Exposure to Cannabis and Synthetic Cannabinoids. Ther Drug Monit 2020; 42:194-204. [PMID: 32195988 DOI: 10.1097/ftd.0000000000000667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Drug use during pregnancy is a critical global challenge, capable of severe impacts on neonatal development. However, the consumption of cannabis and synthetic cannabinoids is on the rise in pregnant women. Obstetric complications with increased risks of miscarriage, fetal growth restriction, and brain development impairment have been associated with perinatal cannabis exposure, but data on synthetic cannabinoid use during pregnancy are limited. METHODS We reviewed studies that investigated the risks associated with cannabis and synthetic cannabinoid use and those that reported the concentrations of cannabinoids and synthetic cannabinoids in maternal (breast milk) and neonatal (placenta, umbilical cord, meconium, and hair) matrices during human pregnancy. A MEDLINE and EMBASE literature search to identify all relevant articles published in English from January 1998 to April 2019 was performed. RESULTS Cannabis use during pregnancy is associated with increased risks of adverse obstetrical outcomes, although neurobehavioral effects are still unclear. Analyses of cannabinoids in meconium are well documented, but further research on other unconventional matrices is needed. Adverse effects due to perinatal synthetic cannabinoid exposure are still unknown, and analytical data are scarce. CONCLUSIONS Awareness of the hazards of drug use during pregnancy should be improved to encourage health care providers to urge pregnant women to abstain from cannabis and, if cannabis-dependent, seek treatment. Moreover, substances used throughout pregnancy should be monitored as a deterrent to cannabis use, and potential cannabis-dependent women should be identified, so as to limit cannabis-fetal exposure during gestation, and provided appropriate treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy Carlier
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic, and Orthopedic Sciences, Università La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Marilyn A Huestis
- Lambert Center for the Study of Medicinal Cannabis and Hemp, Institute of Emerging Health Professions, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Simona Zaami
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic, and Orthopedic Sciences, Università La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Pichini
- National Centre on Addiction and Doping, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome; and
| | - Francesco P Busardò
- Section of Legal Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
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17
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Nashed MG, Hardy DB, Laviolette SR. Prenatal Cannabinoid Exposure: Emerging Evidence of Physiological and Neuropsychiatric Abnormalities. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:624275. [PMID: 33519564 PMCID: PMC7841012 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.624275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical reports of cannabis use prevalence during pregnancy vary widely from 3% to upwards of 35% in North America; this disparity likely owing to underestimates from self-reporting in many cases. The rise in cannabis use is mirrored by increasing global legalization and the overall perceptions of safety, even during pregnancy. These trends are further compounded by a lack of evidence-based policy and guidelines for prenatal cannabis use, which has led to inconsistent messaging by healthcare providers and medically licensed cannabis dispensaries regarding prenatal cannabis use for treatment of symptoms, such as nausea. Additionally, the use of cannabis to self-medicate depression and anxiety during pregnancy is a growing medical concern. This review aims to summarize recent findings of clinical and preclinical data on neonatal outcomes, as well as long-term physiological and neurodevelopmental outcomes of prenatal cannabis exposure. Although many of the outcomes under investigation have produced mixed results, we consider these data in light of the unique challenges facing cannabis research. In particular, the limited longitudinal clinical studies available have not previously accounted for the exponential increase in (-)-Δ9- tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC; the psychoactive compound in cannabis) concentrations found in cannabis over the past two decades. Polydrug use and the long-term effects of individual cannabis constituents [Δ9-THC vs. cannabidiol (CBD)] are also understudied, along with sex-dependent outcomes. Despite these limitations, prenatal cannabis exposure has been linked to low birth weight, and emerging evidence suggests that prenatal exposure to Δ9-THC, which crosses the placenta and impacts placental development, may have wide-ranging physiological and neurodevelopmental consequences. The long-term effects of these changes require more rigorous investigation, though early reports suggest Δ9-THC increases the risk of cognitive impairment and neuropsychiatric disease, including psychosis, depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders. In light of the current trends in the perception and use of cannabis during pregnancy, we emphasize the social and medical imperative for more rigorous investigation of the long-term effects of prenatal cannabis exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mina G Nashed
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Daniel B Hardy
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Steven R Laviolette
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
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18
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Price HR, Chehroudi C, Knight SJ, Smith AD, Lai D, Kim H, Wright TE, Coughtrie MW, Collier AC. Umbilical cord as an analytical matrix - A technical note. Placenta 2019; 90:42-44. [PMID: 32056550 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2019.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Revised: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The umbilical cord (UC) connects the fetal blood supply to the placenta, so is exposed to all systemic endo- and xenobiotics. We have extensive experience using UC as an analytical matrix for detecting and/or quantitating drugs, chemicals and endogenous compounds. This technical note describes advantages (large amount available, ease of collection, small sample needed for use, rapid availability) and challenges (clinical relationships, processing difficulties, matrix effects on analytes and detection technologies) of UC as an analytical matrix in ELISA and LC/MS platforms, and provides guidance for successfully working with this tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley R Price
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of British Columbia, 2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Camron Chehroudi
- Centre for Blood Research, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada; Faculty of Dentistry, 2199 Wesbrook Mall, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Stuart J Knight
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of British Columbia, 2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Alexander D Smith
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of British Columbia, 2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Dickson Lai
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of British Columbia, 2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Hugh Kim
- Centre for Blood Research, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada; Faculty of Dentistry, 2199 Wesbrook Mall, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Tricia E Wright
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA
| | - Michael Wh Coughtrie
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of British Columbia, 2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Abby C Collier
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of British Columbia, 2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada.
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19
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Foster BC, Abramovici H, Harris CS. Cannabis and Cannabinoids: Kinetics and Interactions. Am J Med 2019; 132:1266-1270. [PMID: 31152723 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2019.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2019] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis sativa and related products are widely used, but their potential to cause significant clinical interactions remains unclear, particularly for cannabinoid-enriched or otherwise concentrated products. The pharmacokinetics of most cannabis products is not known. Where information is known, there is wide variation. Extrapolation of limited clinical data is complicated by the complexity and variability of cannabis products as well as their delivery through various routes of administration. In vitro evidence shows that the major cannabinoids are substrates for numerous metabolic enzymes, including the cytochrome P450 metabolizing enzymes. Whereas many consumers consider cannabis products to be safe relative to alternative prescription or narcotic drugs, clinical reports of cannabis-related drug interactions and adverse events are increasing in frequency. Patients using these products, whether for medical or nonmedical purposes, together with conventional therapeutic agents may be at increased risk of adverse events, including therapeutic failure, and require enhanced monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Cory S Harris
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ont, Canada.
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20
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Dysregulation of inflammatory cytokines and inhibition of VEGFA in the human umbilical cord are associated with negative pregnancy outcomes. Placenta 2019; 87:16-22. [PMID: 31525711 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2019.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Revised: 08/17/2019] [Accepted: 09/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cytokines and vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF) are involved in all aspects of pregnancy: from placentation, through fetal development, parturition and neonatal well-being. Umbilical cord inflammatory cytokines and/or VEGF have not been well studied with respect to dysregulation associated with disorders of pregnancy or maternal/neonatal outcomes. METHODS Here we have used multiplex ELISA to screen umbilical cord lysates (comprising cord blood, endothelia and Wharton's jelly, n = 380), for levels of IFN-γ, IL1-β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, TNF-α and VEGFs A, C and D and associations with 46 ICD9/10 codes encompassing obstetric, maternal and neonatal variables. RESULTS No significant differences were observed for IFNγ, VEGFC or VEGFD with any clinical outcomes. The cytokines IL1-β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and TNF-α showed varying levels of induction and suppression with primarily fetal-placental and neonatal complications. The largest number of significant differences between umbilical cytokines and clinical outcomes were observed for chorioamnionitis (IL1-β, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α), and meconium passage during birth (IL1-β, IL-6, IL-8) where significant pro-inflammatory responses occurred and sex differences in IL-8 expression were noted. In contrast, gonococcal infection showed suppressed immune response significantly lowering IL1-β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10 and TNF-α. For 12/46 negative pregnancy outcomes, strong suppression of VEGFA occurred. DISCUSSION Angiogenic and inflammatory changes in the umbilical cord could be detrimental by increasing vascular permeability in the umbilical artery or vein and/or altering vascular tone, either of which would alter blood flow affecting delivery and removal of compounds. Further elucidation of inflammatory responses in the umbilical cord may provide mechanistic understanding of adverse pregnancy outcomes.
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21
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Brown AK, Xia Z, Bulloch P, Idowu I, Francisco O, Stetefeld J, Stout J, Zimmer J, Marvin C, Letcher RJ, Tomy G. Validated quantitative cannabis profiling for Canadian regulatory compliance - Cannabinoids, aflatoxins, and terpenes. Anal Chim Acta 2019; 1088:79-88. [PMID: 31623719 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2019.08.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2019] [Revised: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
In response to the Canadian federal government's Cannabis Tracking and Licensing System compliance standards, a quantitative method was created for cannabis analysis, and validated using Eurachem V.2 (2014) guidelines. Cannabinol, cannabidiol, cannabigerol, cannabichromene, cannabidiolic acid, cannabigerolic acid, Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, and Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinolic acid A were all analysed by scheduled multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) via LC-MS/MS and isotope dilution. In addition, aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, and G2 were also analysed by scheduled MRM via LC-MS/MS and matrix matched calibration curves in order to achieve the reporting limits (≤2 μg kg-1) set out by the European Pharmacopoeia. The LODs/LOQs were 0.50/1.7, 2.0/6.7, 0.59/2.0, and 0.53/1.8 μg kg-1, for B1, B2, G1, and G2 respectively. Thirty one terpenes were analysed by selected reaction monitoring via GC-MS/MS and isotope dilution using β-myrcene-d6 as a surrogate. All quantitative analyses can be accomplished using less than 1 g of material, with minimal solvent and consumable use, on low resolution instruments in less than 30 min of instrument time. Of important note is this method's power of selectivity, working ranges, and lack of need for extraction consumables such as SPE or QuEChERS, thereby minimising analytical costs and time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alistair K Brown
- University of Manitoba, Department of Chemistry, Winnipeg, MB, R3T 2N2, Canada
| | - Zhe Xia
- University of Manitoba, Department of Chemistry, Winnipeg, MB, R3T 2N2, Canada
| | - Patrique Bulloch
- University of Manitoba, Department of Chemistry, Winnipeg, MB, R3T 2N2, Canada
| | - Ifeoluwa Idowu
- University of Manitoba, Department of Chemistry, Winnipeg, MB, R3T 2N2, Canada
| | - Olga Francisco
- University of Manitoba, Department of Chemistry, Winnipeg, MB, R3T 2N2, Canada
| | - Jorg Stetefeld
- University of Manitoba, Department of Chemistry, Winnipeg, MB, R3T 2N2, Canada
| | - Jake Stout
- University of Manitoba, Department of Biological Sciences, Winnipeg, MB, R3T 2N2, Canada
| | - Jeff Zimmer
- Saskatchewan Research Council, 143-111 Research Drive, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 3R2, Canada
| | - Chris Marvin
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, National Water Research Institute, Burlington, ON L7S 1A1, Canada
| | - Robert J Letcher
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, Ecotoxicology and Wildlife Health Division, National Wildlife Research Centre, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON K1A 0H3, Canada
| | - Gregg Tomy
- University of Manitoba, Department of Chemistry, Winnipeg, MB, R3T 2N2, Canada.
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Gonçalves J, Rosado T, Soares S, Simão AY, Caramelo D, Luís Â, Fernández N, Barroso M, Gallardo E, Duarte AP. Cannabis and Its Secondary Metabolites: Their Use as Therapeutic Drugs, Toxicological Aspects, and Analytical Determination. MEDICINES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2019; 6:E31. [PMID: 30813390 PMCID: PMC6473697 DOI: 10.3390/medicines6010031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Revised: 02/16/2019] [Accepted: 02/18/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Although the medicinal properties of Cannabis species have been known for centuries, the interest on its main active secondary metabolites as therapeutic alternatives for several pathologies has grown in recent years. This potential use has been a revolution worldwide concerning public health, production, use and sale of cannabis, and has led inclusively to legislation changes in some countries. The scientific advances and concerns of the scientific community have allowed a better understanding of cannabis derivatives as pharmacological options in several conditions, such as appetite stimulation, pain treatment, skin pathologies, anticonvulsant therapy, neurodegenerative diseases, and infectious diseases. However, there is some controversy regarding the legal and ethical implications of their use and routes of administration, also concerning the adverse health consequences and deaths attributed to marijuana consumption, and these represent some of the complexities associated with the use of these compounds as therapeutic drugs. This review comprehends the main secondary metabolites of Cannabis, approaching their therapeutic potential and applications, as well as their potential risks, in order to differentiate the consumption as recreational drugs. There will be also a focus on the analytical methodologies for their analysis, in order to aid health professionals and toxicologists in cases where these compounds are present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Gonçalves
- Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde da Universidade da Beira Interior (CICS-UBI), 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal.
| | - Tiago Rosado
- Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde da Universidade da Beira Interior (CICS-UBI), 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal.
| | - Sofia Soares
- Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde da Universidade da Beira Interior (CICS-UBI), 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal.
| | - Ana Y Simão
- Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde da Universidade da Beira Interior (CICS-UBI), 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal.
| | - Débora Caramelo
- Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde da Universidade da Beira Interior (CICS-UBI), 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal.
| | - Ângelo Luís
- Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde da Universidade da Beira Interior (CICS-UBI), 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal.
| | - Nicolás Fernández
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Cátedra de Toxicología y Química Legal, Laboratorio de Asesoramiento Toxicológico Analítico (CENATOXA). Junín 956 7mo piso. Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires (CABA), Buenos Aires C1113AAD, Argentina.
| | - Mário Barroso
- Serviço de Química e Toxicologia Forenses, Instituto de Medicina Legal e Ciências Forenses - Delegação do Sul, 1169-201 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Eugenia Gallardo
- Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde da Universidade da Beira Interior (CICS-UBI), 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal.
| | - Ana Paula Duarte
- Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde da Universidade da Beira Interior (CICS-UBI), 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal.
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Knight SJ, Smith AD, Wright TE, Collier AC. Detection of opioids in umbilical cord lysates: an antibody-based rapid screening approach. Toxicol Mech Methods 2019; 29:35-42. [PMID: 30064290 DOI: 10.1080/15376516.2018.1506850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
In pregnancy, opioids may be used medically and also misused. We hypothesized that the umbilical cord (UC) could be a good screening tool for determining opioid exposure and improving medical care. One hundred and one UC, each with 50 associated ICD9/ICD10 codes were used. Using predictive pharmacokinetic analysis we determined that opioids could be detected since last ingestion prior to birth. The UC were lysed and screened using ELISA detecting multiple opioids and their metabolites. Statistical comparisons to obstetric and neonatal outcomes were performed. Although the commercial ELISA was less sensitive in UC than blood or urine, there was perfect method selectivity as compared to a subset of cords designated positive or negative by clinical diagnostics, so our results are accurate and reliable. Absolute quantitation was not possible because the antibody cross reacts with multiple compounds, but 'low' or 'high' levels of exposure were assigned. Prevalence of opioids was 11%, which reduced to 7% when cesarean-section births were eliminated. For non-cesarean-section infants adjusted for preterm birth, advanced maternal age and smoking (independent risk factors), opioids were significantly associated with intra-uterine growth restriction (p = 0.017) and admission to neonatal intensive care (p = 0.002). UC can be collected noninvasively and rapidly providing a reliable tools for semi-quantitative opioid screening using ELISA. Moreover, as UC are usually discarded collection presents few technical or safety concerns for staff or patients. Further development of this methodology may provide a rapid, noninvasive clinical screening tool to identify NAS and/or opioid use in late pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stuart J Knight
- a Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences , University of British Columbia , Vancouver ( BC ), Canada
| | - Alexander D Smith
- a Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences , University of British Columbia , Vancouver ( BC ), Canada
| | - Tricia E Wright
- b Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, and Psychiatry; John A Burns School of Medicine , University of Hawaii , Honolulu ( HI ), USA
| | - Abby C Collier
- a Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences , University of British Columbia , Vancouver ( BC ), Canada
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Toxicological analyses of placenta and umbilical cord to document the death of a newborn: a case report. TOXICOLOGIE ANALYTIQUE ET CLINIQUE 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxac.2018.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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25
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Price HR, Collier AC, Wright TE. Screening Pregnant Women and Their Neonates for Illicit Drug Use: Consideration of the Integrated Technical, Medical, Ethical, Legal, and Social Issues. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:961. [PMID: 30210343 PMCID: PMC6120972 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Accepted: 08/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
North America is currently suffering from one of the worst epidemics of illicit drug use in recent history: the opioid crisis. Pregnant women are not immune to the ravages of substance misuse which affects themselves, their pregnancies, and the wider community. The prevalence of drug misuse in pregnancy is not well quantified due to the lack of good validated tests, cooperation between clinicians and scientists developing tests, and consensus as to who should be tested and how results should be used. A wide range of tissues can be tested for drug use, including maternal blood, urine, and hair; neonatal meconium, urine, and hair; and placenta and umbilical cord tissues. Testing methods range from simple spectrophotometry and clinical chemistry to sophisticated analytical HPLC or mass spectrometry techniques. The drive for ever greater accuracy and sensitivity must be balanced with the necessities of medical practice requiring minimally invasive sampling, rapid turnaround, and techniques that can be realistically utilized in a clinical laboratory. Better screening tests have great potential to improve neonatal and maternal medical outcomes by enhancing the speed and accuracy of diagnosis. They also have great promise for public health monitoring, policy development, and resource allocation. However, women can and have been arrested for positive drug screens with even preliminary results used to remove children from custody, before rigorous confirmatory testing is completed. Balancing the scientific, medical, public health, legal, and ethical aspects of screening tests for drugs in pregnancy is critical for helping to address this crisis at all levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley R Price
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Abby C Collier
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Tricia E Wright
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, United States.,Department of Psychiatry, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, United States
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26
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Detection of in utero ethanol exposure via ethyl glucuronide and ethyl sulfate analysis in umbilical cord and placenta. Forensic Toxicol 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s11419-018-0439-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Abstract
Drug use during pregnancy constitutes a major preventable worldwide public health issue. Birth defects, growth retardation and neurodevelopmental disorders are associated with tobacco, alcohol or drugs of abuse exposure during pregnancy. Besides these adverse health effects, drug use during pregnancy also raises legal and social concerns. Identification and quantification of drug markers in maternal and newborn biological samples offers objective evidence of exposure and complements maternal questionnaires. We reviewed the most recent analytical methods for quantifying drugs of abuse, tobacco, alcohol and psychotropic drugs in maternal, newborn and maternal-fetal unit biological samples by gas and liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. In addition, manuscripts comparing the usefulness of different biological samples to detect drug exposure during pregnancy were reviewed.
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