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De Simone U, Pignatti P, Villani L, Russo LA, Sargenti A, Bonetti S, Buscaglia E, Coccini T. Human Astrocyte Spheroids as Suitable In Vitro Screening Model to Evaluate Synthetic Cannabinoid MAM2201-Induced Effects on CNS. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021421. [PMID: 36674936 PMCID: PMC9861655 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
There is growing concern about the consumption of synthetic cannabinoids (SCs), one of the largest groups of new psychoactive substances, its consequence on human health (general population and workers), and the continuous placing of new SCs on the market. Although drug-induced alterations in neuronal function remain an essential component for theories of drug addiction, accumulating evidence indicates the important role of activated astrocytes, whose essential and pleiotropic role in brain physiology and pathology is well recognized. The study aims to clarify the mechanisms of neurotoxicity induced by one of the most potent SCs, named MAM-2201 (a naphthoyl-indole derivative), by applying a novel three-dimensional (3D) cell culture model, mimicking the physiological and biochemical properties of brain tissues better than traditional two-dimensional in vitro systems. Specifically, human astrocyte spheroids, generated from the D384 astrocyte cell line, were treated with different MAM-2201 concentrations (1-30 µM) and exposure times (24-48 h). MAM-2201 affected, in a concentration- and time-dependent manner, the cell growth and viability, size and morphological structure, E-cadherin and extracellular matrix, CB1-receptors, glial fibrillary acidic protein, and caspase-3/7 activity. The findings demonstrate MAM-2201-induced cytotoxicity to astrocyte spheroids, and support the use of this human 3D cell-based model as species-specific in vitro tool suitable for the evaluation of neurotoxicity induced by other SCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uliana De Simone
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Toxicology, and Pavia Poison Centre-National Toxicology Information Centre, Toxicology Unit, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Patrizia Pignatti
- Allergy and Immunology Unit, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Laura Villani
- Pathology Unit, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | | | | | - Simone Bonetti
- CNR-ISMN, Institute for Nanostructured Materials, 40129 Bologna, Italy
| | - Eleonora Buscaglia
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Toxicology, and Pavia Poison Centre-National Toxicology Information Centre, Toxicology Unit, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Teresa Coccini
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Toxicology, and Pavia Poison Centre-National Toxicology Information Centre, Toxicology Unit, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0382-592416
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Abdelmoneim WM, Ghandour NM, Fawzy M, Mohammed MK, Ramadan AG, Abdellah NZ. Clinical pattern of synthetic cannabinoids users in Upper Egypt: cross-sectional study. MIDDLE EAST CURRENT PSYCHIATRY 2022. [PMCID: PMC8964025 DOI: 10.1186/s43045-022-00188-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There is an expanding use of new psychoactive substances containing synthetic cannabinoids in the last years. This study was conducted to identify the epidemiologic data of acute and chronic toxicity by synthetic cannabinoids in Upper Egypt patients. Results All cases included in the presenting study were fifty males. Most users of synthetic cannabinoids were in the adolescence and middle age group (15–< 35) representing 68%. Curiosity was the most common motivator for using synthetic cannabinoids. Alteration of perception was reported in 68% of subjects after synthetic cannabinoids use. Additionally, dizziness, loss of consciousness, convulsion, and panic attacks were also reported. Cardiovascular adverse effects experienced by users were palpitations (76%) and chest pain (12%). Half of included subjects (50%) reported financial problems and about one-third (32%) got involved in domestic violence. Abnormal routine laboratory findings that were found in included cases were in the form of 12% anemia, 10% leukocytosis, and 6% leucopenia. Also, liver and kidney functions were elevated in 8% and 4% of the cases, respectively. While 22% and 4% of cases were positive for hepatitis C and HIV respectively. Conclusions This study can be concluded that adolescence are the most common users of SCs; neuro-psychiatric and cardiovascular side effects were the most experienced by subjects. Violence in many forms, especially domestic violence, was associated with synthetic cannabinoids abuse. Trial registration Registered in clinical trial under name syntheticcannabinoidsAssiut and ID NCT03866941 and URL.
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3
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Coccini T, De Simone U, Lonati D, Scaravaggi G, Marti M, Locatelli CA. MAM-2201, One of the Most Potent-Naphthoyl Indole Derivative-Synthetic Cannabinoids, Exerts Toxic Effects on Human Cell-Based Models of Neurons and Astrocytes. Neurotox Res 2021; 39:1251-1273. [PMID: 33945101 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-021-00369-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Considering the consequences on human health, in general population and workplace, associated with the use of new psychoactive substances and their continuous placing on the market, novel in vitro models for neurotoxicology research, applying human-derived CNS cells, may provide a means to understand the mechanistic basis of molecular and cellular alterations in brain. Cytotoxic effects of MAM-2201, a potent-naphthoyl indole derivative-synthetic cannabinoid, have been evaluated applying a panel of human cell-based models of neurons and astrocytes, testing different concentrations (1-30 µM) and exposure times (3-24-48 h). MAM-2201 induced toxicity in primary neuron-like cells (hNLCs), obtained from transdifferentiation of mesenchymal stem cells derived from human umbilical cord. Effects occurred in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. The lowest concentration affecting cell viability, metabolic function, apoptosis, morphology, and neuronal markers (MAP-2, NSE) was 5 μM, and even 1 μM induced apoptosis. Effects appeared early (3 h) and persisted after 24 and 48 h. Similar behavior was evidenced for human D384-astrocytes treated with MAM-2201. Differently, human SH-SY5Y-neurons, both differentiated and undifferentiated, were not sensitive to MAM-2201. On D384, the different altered endpoints were reversed, attenuated, or not antagonized by AM251 indicating that CB1 receptors may partially mediate MAM-2201-induced cytotoxicity. While in hNLCs, all toxic effects caused by MAM-2201 were apparently unrelated to CB-receptors since they were not evidenced by immunofluorescence. The present in vitro findings demonstrate the cytotoxicity of MAM-2201 on human primary neurons (hNLCs) and astrocytes cell line (D384), and support the use of these cellular models as species-specific in vitro tools suitable to clarify the neurotoxicity mechanisms of synthetic cannabinoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Coccini
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Toxicology, and Poison Control Centre and National Toxicology Information Centre, Toxicology Unit, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Via Maugeri 10, 27100, Pavia, Italy.
| | - U De Simone
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Toxicology, and Poison Control Centre and National Toxicology Information Centre, Toxicology Unit, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Via Maugeri 10, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - D Lonati
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Toxicology, and Poison Control Centre and National Toxicology Information Centre, Toxicology Unit, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Via Maugeri 10, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - G Scaravaggi
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Toxicology, and Poison Control Centre and National Toxicology Information Centre, Toxicology Unit, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Via Maugeri 10, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - M Marti
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Collaborative Center for the Italian National Early Warning System, Department of Anti-Drug Policies, Presidency of the Council of Ministers, Rome, Italy
| | - C A Locatelli
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Toxicology, and Poison Control Centre and National Toxicology Information Centre, Toxicology Unit, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Via Maugeri 10, 27100, Pavia, Italy
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4
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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.
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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
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Kolla NJ, Mishra A. The Endocannabinoid System, Aggression, and the Violence of Synthetic Cannabinoid Use, Borderline Personality Disorder, Antisocial Personality Disorder, and Other Psychiatric Disorders. Front Behav Neurosci 2018; 12:41. [PMID: 29636670 PMCID: PMC5880947 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2018.00041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2017] [Accepted: 02/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Endogenous and exogenous cannabinoids bind to central cannabinoid receptors to control a multitude of behavioral functions, including aggression. The first main objective of this review is to dissect components of the endocannabinoid system, including cannabinoid 1 and cannabinoid 2 receptors; the endogenous cannabinoids anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol; and the indirect cannabinoid modulators fatty acid amide hydrolase and monoacylglycerol lipase; that have shown abnormalities in basic research studies investigating mechanisms of aggression. While most human research has concluded that the active ingredient of marijuana, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, tends to dampen rather than provoke aggression in acute doses, recent evidence supports a relationship between the ingestion of synthetic cannabinoids and emergence of violent or aggressive behavior. Thus, another objective is to evaluate the emerging clinical data. This paper also discusses the relationship between prenatal and perinatal exposure to cannabis as well as use of cannabis in adolescence on aggressive outcomes. A final objective of the paper is to discuss endocannabinoid abnormalities in psychotic and affective disorders, as well as clinically aggressive populations, such as borderline personality disorder and antisocial personality disorder. With regard to the former condition, decreased anandamide metabolites have been reported in the cerebrospinal fluid, while some preliminary evidence suggests that fatty acid amide hydrolase genetic polymorphisms are linked to antisocial personality disorder and impulsive-antisocial psychopathic traits. To summarize, this paper will draw upon basic and clinical research to explain how the endocannabinoid system may contribute to the genesis of aggressive behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan J Kolla
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care, Waypoint Research Institute, Penetanguishene, ON, Canada
| | - Achal Mishra
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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6
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Malyshevskaya O, Aritake K, Kaushik MK, Uchiyama N, Cherasse Y, Kikura-Hanajiri R, Urade Y. Natural (∆ 9-THC) and synthetic (JWH-018) cannabinoids induce seizures by acting through the cannabinoid CB 1 receptor. Sci Rep 2017; 7:10516. [PMID: 28874764 PMCID: PMC5585372 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-10447-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2017] [Accepted: 08/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural cannabinoids and their synthetic substitutes are the most widely used recreational drugs. Numerous clinical cases describe acute toxic symptoms and neurological consequences following inhalation of the mixture of synthetic cannabinoids known as "Spice." Here we report that an intraperitoneal administration of the natural cannabinoid Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (10 mg/kg), one of the main constituent of marijuana, or the synthetic cannabinoid JWH-018 (2.5 mg/kg) triggered electrographic seizures in mice, recorded by electroencephalography and videography. Administration of JWH-018 (1.5, 2.5 and 5 mg/kg) increased seizure spikes dose-dependently. Pretreatment of mice with AM-251 (5 mg/kg), a cannabinoid receptor 1-selective antagonist, completely prevented cannabinoid-induced seizures. These data imply that abuse of cannabinoids can be dangerous and represents an emerging public health threat. Additionally, our data strongly suggest that AM-251 could be used as a crucial prophylactic therapy for cannabinoid-induced seizures or similar life-threatening conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Malyshevskaya
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tennodai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, 305-8575, Japan.
| | - Kosuke Aritake
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tennodai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, 305-8575, Japan
| | - Mahesh K Kaushik
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tennodai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, 305-8575, Japan
| | - Nahoko Uchiyama
- Division of Pharmacognosy, Phytochemistry, and Narcotics, National Institute of Health Sciences, 1-18-1 Kamiyoga, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, 158-8501, Japan
| | - Yoan Cherasse
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tennodai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, 305-8575, Japan
| | - Ruri Kikura-Hanajiri
- Division of Pharmacognosy, Phytochemistry, and Narcotics, National Institute of Health Sciences, 1-18-1 Kamiyoga, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, 158-8501, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Urade
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tennodai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, 305-8575, Japan
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7
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Canazza I, Ossato A, Trapella C, Fantinati A, De Luca MA, Margiani G, Vincenzi F, Rimondo C, Di Rosa F, Gregori A, Varani K, Borea PA, Serpelloni G, Marti M. Effect of the novel synthetic cannabinoids AKB48 and 5F-AKB48 on "tetrad", sensorimotor, neurological and neurochemical responses in mice. In vitro and in vivo pharmacological studies. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2016; 233:3685-3709. [PMID: 27527584 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-016-4402-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2016] [Accepted: 08/01/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE AKB48 and its fluorinate derivate 5F-AKB48 are two novel synthetic cannabinoids belonging to a structural class with an indazole core structure. They are marketed as incense, herbal preparations or chemical supply for their psychoactive Cannabis-like effects. OBJECTIVES The present study was aimed at investigating the in vitro and in vivo pharmacological activity of AKB48 and 5F-AKB48 in male CD-1 mice and comparing their in vivo effects with those caused by the administration of Δ9-THC and JWH-018. RESULTS In vitro competition binding experiments performed on mouse and human CB1 and CB2 receptors revealed a nanomolar affinity and potency of the AKB48 and 5F-AKB48. In vivo studies showed that AKB48 and 5F-AKB48, induced hypothermia, increased pain threshold to both noxious mechanical and thermal stimuli, caused catalepsy, reduced motor activity, impaired sensorimotor responses (visual, acoustic and tactile), caused seizures, myoclonia, hyperreflexia and promoted aggressiveness in mice. Moreover, microdialysis study in freely moving mice showed that systemic administration of AKB48 and 5F-AKB48 stimulated dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens. Behavioural, neurological and neurochemical effects were fully prevented by the selective CB1 receptor antagonist/inverse agonist AM 251. CONCLUSIONS For the first time, the present study demonstrates the overall pharmacological effects induced by the administration of AKB48 and 5F-AKB48 in mice and suggests that the fluorination can increase the power and/or effectiveness of SCBs. Furthermore, this study outlines the potential detrimental effects of SCBs on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Canazza
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology (SVeB), University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Andrea Ossato
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology (SVeB), University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Claudio Trapella
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Anna Fantinati
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Giulia Margiani
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Vincenzi
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Claudia Rimondo
- Department of Diagnostic and Public Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Fabiana Di Rosa
- Department of Scientific Investigation (RIS), Carabinieri, 00191, Rome, Italy
| | - Adolfo Gregori
- Department of Scientific Investigation (RIS), Carabinieri, 00191, Rome, Italy
| | - Katia Varani
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Pier Andrea Borea
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giovanni Serpelloni
- U.R.I.To.N., Forensic Toxicology Unit, Department of Health Science, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Matteo Marti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology (SVeB), University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121, Ferrara, Italy. .,Center for Neuroscience and Istituto Nazionale di Neuroscienze, ᅟ, Italy.
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8
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Grim TW, Morales AJ, Gonek MM, Wiley JL, Thomas BF, Endres GW, Sim-Selley LJ, Selley DE, Negus SS, Lichtman AH. Stratification of Cannabinoid 1 Receptor (CB1R) Agonist Efficacy: Manipulation of CB1R Density through Use of Transgenic Mice Reveals Congruence between In Vivo and In Vitro Assays. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2016; 359:329-339. [PMID: 27535976 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.116.233163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2016] [Accepted: 07/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) are an emerging class of abused drugs that differ from each other and the phytocannabinoid ∆9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in their safety and cannabinoid-1 receptor (CB1R) pharmacology. As efficacy represents a critical parameter to understanding drug action, the present study investigated this metric by assessing in vivo and in vitro actions of THC, two well-characterized SCs (WIN55,212-2 and CP55,940), and three abused SCs (JWH-073, CP47,497, and A-834,735-D) in CB1 (+/+), (+/-), and (-/-) mice. All drugs produced maximal cannabimimetic in vivo effects (catalepsy, hypothermia, antinociception) in CB1 (+/+) mice, but these actions were essentially eliminated in CB1 (-/-) mice, indicating a CB1R mechanism of action. CB1R efficacy was inferred by comparing potencies between CB1 (+/+) and (+/-) mice [+/+ ED50 /+/- ED50], the latter of which has a 50% reduction of CB1Rs (i.e., decreased receptor reserve). Notably, CB1 (+/-) mice displayed profound rightward and downward shifts in the antinociception and hypothermia dose-response curves of low-efficacy compared with high-efficacy cannabinoids. In vitro efficacy, quantified using agonist-stimulated [35S]GTPγS binding in spinal cord tissue, significantly correlated with the relative efficacies of antinociception (r = 0.87) and hypothermia (r = 0.94) in CB1 (+/-) mice relative to CB1 (+/+) mice. Conversely, drug potencies for cataleptic effects did not differ between these genotypes and did not correlate with the in vitro efficacy measure. These results suggest that evaluation of antinociception and hypothermia in CB1 transgenic mice offers a useful in vivo approach to determine CB1R selectivity and efficacy of emerging SCs, which shows strong congruence with in vitro efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- T W Grim
- Virginia Commonwealth University-Pharmacology and Toxicology, Richmond, Virginia (T.W.G., A.J.M., M.M.G., L.J.S.-S., D.E.S., S.S.N., A.H.L.); RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (J.L.W., B.F.T.); Cayman Chemical, Ann Arbor, Michigan (G.W.E.)
| | - A J Morales
- Virginia Commonwealth University-Pharmacology and Toxicology, Richmond, Virginia (T.W.G., A.J.M., M.M.G., L.J.S.-S., D.E.S., S.S.N., A.H.L.); RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (J.L.W., B.F.T.); Cayman Chemical, Ann Arbor, Michigan (G.W.E.)
| | - M M Gonek
- Virginia Commonwealth University-Pharmacology and Toxicology, Richmond, Virginia (T.W.G., A.J.M., M.M.G., L.J.S.-S., D.E.S., S.S.N., A.H.L.); RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (J.L.W., B.F.T.); Cayman Chemical, Ann Arbor, Michigan (G.W.E.)
| | - J L Wiley
- Virginia Commonwealth University-Pharmacology and Toxicology, Richmond, Virginia (T.W.G., A.J.M., M.M.G., L.J.S.-S., D.E.S., S.S.N., A.H.L.); RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (J.L.W., B.F.T.); Cayman Chemical, Ann Arbor, Michigan (G.W.E.)
| | - B F Thomas
- Virginia Commonwealth University-Pharmacology and Toxicology, Richmond, Virginia (T.W.G., A.J.M., M.M.G., L.J.S.-S., D.E.S., S.S.N., A.H.L.); RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (J.L.W., B.F.T.); Cayman Chemical, Ann Arbor, Michigan (G.W.E.)
| | - G W Endres
- Virginia Commonwealth University-Pharmacology and Toxicology, Richmond, Virginia (T.W.G., A.J.M., M.M.G., L.J.S.-S., D.E.S., S.S.N., A.H.L.); RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (J.L.W., B.F.T.); Cayman Chemical, Ann Arbor, Michigan (G.W.E.)
| | - L J Sim-Selley
- Virginia Commonwealth University-Pharmacology and Toxicology, Richmond, Virginia (T.W.G., A.J.M., M.M.G., L.J.S.-S., D.E.S., S.S.N., A.H.L.); RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (J.L.W., B.F.T.); Cayman Chemical, Ann Arbor, Michigan (G.W.E.)
| | - D E Selley
- Virginia Commonwealth University-Pharmacology and Toxicology, Richmond, Virginia (T.W.G., A.J.M., M.M.G., L.J.S.-S., D.E.S., S.S.N., A.H.L.); RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (J.L.W., B.F.T.); Cayman Chemical, Ann Arbor, Michigan (G.W.E.)
| | - S S Negus
- Virginia Commonwealth University-Pharmacology and Toxicology, Richmond, Virginia (T.W.G., A.J.M., M.M.G., L.J.S.-S., D.E.S., S.S.N., A.H.L.); RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (J.L.W., B.F.T.); Cayman Chemical, Ann Arbor, Michigan (G.W.E.)
| | - A H Lichtman
- Virginia Commonwealth University-Pharmacology and Toxicology, Richmond, Virginia (T.W.G., A.J.M., M.M.G., L.J.S.-S., D.E.S., S.S.N., A.H.L.); RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (J.L.W., B.F.T.); Cayman Chemical, Ann Arbor, Michigan (G.W.E.)
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9
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Ossato A, Canazza I, Trapella C, Vincenzi F, De Luca MA, Rimondo C, Varani K, Borea PA, Serpelloni G, Marti M. Effect of JWH-250, JWH-073 and their interaction on "tetrad", sensorimotor, neurological and neurochemical responses in mice. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2016; 67:31-50. [PMID: 26780169 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2016.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2015] [Revised: 01/12/2016] [Accepted: 01/13/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
JWH-250 and JWH-073 are two synthetic cannabinoid agonists with nanomolar affinity at CB1 and CB2 receptors. They are illegally marketed within "herbal blend" for theirs psychoactive effects greater than those produced by Cannabis. Recently, we analyzed an "herbal" preparation containing a mixture of both JWH-250 and JWH-073. The present study was aimed at investigating the in vitro and in vivo pharmacological activity of JWH-250 and JWH-073 in male CD-1 mice. In vitro competition binding experiments performed on mouse and human CB1 and CB2 receptors revealed a nanomolar affinity and potency of the JWH-250 and JWH-073. In vivo studies showed that JWH-250 and JWH-073, administered separately, induced a marked hypothermia, increased pain threshold to both noxious mechanical and thermal stimuli, caused catalepsy, reduced motor activity, impaired sensorimotor responses (visual, acoustic and tactile), caused seizures, myoclonia, hyperreflexia and promote aggressiveness in mice. Moreover, microdialysis study in freely moving mice showed that systemic administration of JWH-250 and JWH-073 stimulated dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens in a dose-dependent manner. Behavioral, neurological and neurochemical effects were fully prevented by the selective CB1 receptor antagonist/inverse agonist AM 251. Co-administration of ineffective doses of JWH-250 and JWH-073 impaired visual sensorimotor responses, improved mechanical pain threshold and stimulated mesolimbic DA transmission in mice, living unchanged all other behavioral and physiological parameters. For the first time the present study demonstrates the overall pharmacological effects induced by the administration of JWH-250 and JWH-073 in mice and it reveals their potentially synergistic action suggesting that co-administration of different synthetic cannabinoids may potentiate the detrimental effects of individual compounds increasing their dangerousness and abuse potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Ossato
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology (SVeB), University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Isabella Canazza
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology (SVeB), University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Claudio Trapella
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | | | | | - Claudia Rimondo
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of Verona, Italy
| | - Katia Varani
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Giovanni Serpelloni
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Medicine and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Italy
| | - Matteo Marti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology (SVeB), University of Ferrara, Italy; Center for Neuroscience and Istituto Nazionale di Neuroscienze, Italy.
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10
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Fattore L. Synthetic Cannabinoids-Further Evidence Supporting the Relationship Between Cannabinoids and Psychosis. Biol Psychiatry 2016; 79:539-48. [PMID: 26970364 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2016.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2015] [Revised: 02/01/2016] [Accepted: 02/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Consumption of synthetic mind-altering compounds, also known as "new psychoactive substances," is increasing globally at an alarming rate. Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) are among the most commonly used new psychoactive substances. They are usually purchased as marijuana-like drugs, marketed as herbal blends and perceived as risk-free by inexperienced users. Yet, contrary to Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol, SCs may lead to severe health consequences, including anxiety, tachycardia, hallucinations, violent behavior, and psychosis. This review focuses on the latest (2010-2015) evidence of psychotic symptoms induced by ingestion of products containing SCs. Reports suggesting that SCs may either exacerbate previously stable psychotic symptoms (in vulnerable individuals) or trigger new-onset psychosis (in individuals with no previous history of psychosis) are reviewed. Pharmacology and toxicology of these compounds are discussed, with particular reference to their psychoactive effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liana Fattore
- CNR Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council (Italy), and Centre of Excellence "Neurobiology of Dependence," Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, Monserrato, Cagliari, Sardinia, Italy.
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11
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De Luca MA, Bimpisidis Z, Melis M, Marti M, Caboni P, Valentini V, Margiani G, Pintori N, Polis I, Marsicano G, Parsons LH, Di Chiara G. Stimulation of in vivo dopamine transmission and intravenous self-administration in rats and mice by JWH-018, a Spice cannabinoid. Neuropharmacology 2015; 99:705-14. [PMID: 26327678 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2015.08.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2015] [Revised: 08/23/2015] [Accepted: 08/24/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The synthetic cannabinoid 1-pentyl-3-(1-naphthoyl)-indole (JWH-018) has been detected in about 140 samples of a smokable herbal mixture termed "Spice". JWH-018 is a CB1 and CB2 agonist with a higher affinity than Δ9-THC. In order to investigate the neurobiological substrates of JWH-018 actions, we studied by microdialysis in freely moving rats the effect of JWH-018 on extracellular dopamine (DA) levels in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) shell and core and in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). JWH-018, at the dose of 0.25 mg/kg i.p., increased DA release in the NAc shell but not in the NAc core and mPFC. Lower (0.125 mg/kg) and higher doses (0.50 mg/kg) were ineffective. These effects were blocked by CB1 receptor antagonists (SR-141716A and AM 251) and were absent in mice lacking the CB1 receptor. Ex vivo whole cell patch clamp recordings from rat ventral tegmental area (VTA) DA neurons showed that JWH-018 decreases GABAA-mediated post-synaptic currents in a dose-dependent fashion suggesting that the stimulation of DA release observed in vivo might result from disinhibition of DA neurons. In addition, on the "tetrad" paradigm for screening cannabinoid-like effects (i.e., hypothermia, analgesia, catalepsy, hypomotility), JWH-018, at doses of 1 and 3 mg/kg i.p., produced CB1 receptor-dependent behavioural effects in rats. Finally, under appropriate experimental conditions, rats (20 μg/kg/inf i.v., FR3; nose-poking) and mice (30 μg/kg/inf i.v., FR1; lever-pressing) self-administer intravenously JWH-018. In conclusion, JWH-018 shares with the active ingredient of Marijuana, Δ9-THC, CB1-dependent reinforcing and DA stimulant actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A De Luca
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Italy; INN, National Institute of Neuroscience, Italy.
| | - Z Bimpisidis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - M Melis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - M Marti
- INN, National Institute of Neuroscience, Italy; Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - P Caboni
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - V Valentini
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Italy; INN, National Institute of Neuroscience, Italy; Centre of Excellence "Neurobiology of Addiction", Italy
| | - G Margiani
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - N Pintori
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - I Polis
- The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - G Marsicano
- Neurocentre Magendie, University of Bordeaux, France
| | - L H Parsons
- The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - G Di Chiara
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Italy; INN, National Institute of Neuroscience, Italy; CNR Institute of Neuroscience, Cagliari Section, Italy; Centre of Excellence "Neurobiology of Addiction", Italy
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12
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Abstract
The abuse of synthetic psychoactive substances known as "designer drugs," or "new psychoactive substances" (NPS), is increasing at an alarming rate. NPS are purchased as alternatives to traditional illicit drugs of abuse and are manufactured to circumvent laws regulating the sale and use of controlled substances. Synthetic cathinones (i.e., "bath salts") and synthetic cannabinoids (i.e., "spice") are two types of NPS that have received substantial media attention. Although low recreational doses of bath salts or spice compounds can produce desirable effects, high doses or chronic exposure often leads to dangerous medical consequences, including psychosis, violent behaviors, tachycardia, hyperthermia, and even death. Despite the popularity of NPS, there is a paucity of scientific data about these drugs. Here we provide a brief up-to-date review describing the mechanisms of action and neurobiological effects of synthetic cathinones and cannabinoids.
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13
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The CB2-preferring agonist JWH015 also potently and efficaciously activates CB1 in autaptic hippocampal neurons. Pharmacol Res 2012; 66:437-42. [PMID: 22921769 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2012.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2012] [Revised: 08/07/2012] [Accepted: 08/07/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The G protein coupled receptors CB(1) and CB(2) are targets for the psychoactive constituents of cannabis, chief among them Δ(9)-THC. They are also key components of the multifunctional endogenous cannabinoid signaling system. CB(1) and CB(2) receptors modulate a wide variety of physiological systems including analgesia, memory, mood, reward, appetite and immunity. Identification and characterization of selective CB(1) and CB(2) receptor agonists and antagonists will facilitate understanding the precise physiological and pathophysiological roles of cannabinoid receptors in these systems. This is particularly necessary in the case of CB(2) because these receptors are sparsely expressed and problematic to detect using traditional immunocytochemical approaches. 1-Propyl-2-methyl-3-(1-naphthoyl)indole (JWH015) is an aminoalkylindole that has been employed as a "CB(2)-selective" agonist in more than 40 published papers. However, we have found that JWH015 potently and efficaciously activates CB(1) receptors in neurons. Using murine autaptic hippocampal neurons, which express CB(1), but not CB(2) receptors, we find that JWH015 inhibits excitatory postsynaptic currents with an EC50 of 216nM. JWH015 inhibition is absent in neurons from CB(1)(-/-) cultures and is reversed by the CB(1) antagonist, SR141716 [200nM]. Furthermore, JWH015 partially occludes CB(1)-mediated DSE (∼35% remaining), an action reversed by the CB(2) antagonist, AM630 [1 and 3μM], suggesting that high concentrations of AM630 also antagonize CB(1) receptors. We conclude that while JWH015 is a CB(2)-preferring agonist, it also activates CB(1) receptors at experimentally encountered concentrations. Thus, CB(1) agonism of JWH015 needs to be considered in the design and interpretation of experiments that use JWH015 to probe CB(2)-signaling.
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14
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Wood JT, Smith DM, Janero DR, Zvonok AM, Makriyannis A. Therapeutic modulation of cannabinoid lipid signaling: metabolic profiling of a novel antinociceptive cannabinoid-2 receptor agonist. Life Sci 2012; 92:482-91. [PMID: 22749867 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2012.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2012] [Revised: 06/06/2012] [Accepted: 06/15/2012] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
AIMS AM-1241, a novel, racemic cannabinoid-2 receptor (CB2) ligand, is the primary experimental agonist used to characterize the role of CB2-mediated lipid signaling in health and disease, including substance abuse disorders. In vivo pharmacological effects have been used as indirect proxies for AM-1241 biotransformation processes that could modulate CB2 activity. We report the initial pre-clinical characterization of AM-1241 biotransformation and in vivo distribution. MAIN METHODS AM-1241 metabolism was characterized in a variety of predictive in vitro systems (Caco-2 cells; mouse, rat and human microsomes) and in the mouse in vivo. Liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry techniques were used to quantify AM-1241 tissue distribution and metabolic conversion. KEY FINDINGS AM-1241 bound extensively to plasma protein/albumin. A pharmacological AM-1241 dose (25mg/kg, i.v.) was administered to mice for direct determination of its plasma half-life (37 min), following which AM-1241 was quantified in brain, spleen, liver, and kidney. After p.o. administration, AM-1241 was detected in plasma, spleen, and kidney; its oral bioavailability was ~21%. From Caco-2 permeability studies and microsomal-based hepatic clearance estimates, in vivo AM-1241 absorption was moderate. Hepatic microsomal metabolism of AM-1241 in vitro generated hydroxylation and demethylation metabolites. Species-dependent differences were discovered in AM-1241's predicted hepatic clearance. Our data demonstrate that AM-1241 has the following characteristics: a) short plasma half-life; b) limited oral bioavailability; c) extensive plasma/albumin binding; d) metabolic substrate for hepatic hydroxylation and demethylation; e) moderate hepatic clearance. SIGNIFICANCE These results should help inform the design, optimization, and pre-clinical profiling of CB2 ligands as pharmacological tools and medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jodianne T Wood
- Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA.
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15
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Järbe TUC, Deng H, Vadivel SK, Makriyannis A. Cannabinergic aminoalkylindoles, including AM678=JWH018 found in 'Spice', examined using drug (Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol) discrimination for rats. Behav Pharmacol 2011; 22:498-507. [PMID: 21836461 DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0b013e328349fbd5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
We examined four different cannabinergic aminoalkylindole ligands, including one drug (AM678=JWH018) found in herbal 'Spice' concoctions, for their ability to substitute for Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and the ability of the cannabinoid receptor 1-selective antagonist/inverse agonist rimonabant to block the substitution, 30 and 90 min after intraperitoneal injection. Rats trained to discriminate the effects of vehicle from those produced by 3 mg/kg of THC were used. The order of potency was: AM5983≥AM678>AM2233>WIN55212-2 at both test intervals. AM5983 and AM678 appeared eight times more potent than THC, followed by AM2233 (about twice as potent as THC), and WIN55212-2 approximately THC at the 30-min test interval. The aminoalkylindoles showed reduced potency (i.e. an increased ED50 value) at the longer injection-to-test interval of 90 min compared with testing at 30 min. The rightward shifts by coadministration of rimonabant were approximately 8-fold to 12-fold for AM5983 and AM678, compared with an approximately 3-fold rightward shift for the WIN55212-2 curve. AM2233 (1.8 mg/kg) substitution was also blocked by 1 mg/kg of rimonabant. In conclusion, AM5983 and AM678=JWH018 are potent cannabimimetics derived from an aminoalkylindole template. WIN55212-2 seemed to interact differently with rimonabant, compared with either AM5983 or AM678, indicating potential differences in the mechanism(s) of action among cannabinergic aminoalkylindoles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Torbjörn U C Järbe
- Department of Psychology, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
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16
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Bortolato M, Frau R, Bini V, Luesu W, Loriga R, Collu M, Gessa GL, Ennas MG, Castelli MP. Methamphetamine neurotoxicity increases brain expression and alters behavioral functions of CB₁ cannabinoid receptors. J Psychiatr Res 2010; 44:944-55. [PMID: 20378129 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2010.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2009] [Revised: 02/14/2010] [Accepted: 03/02/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis is the most common secondary illicit substance in methamphetamine (METH) users, yet the outcomes of the concurrent consumption of both substances remain elusive. Capitalizing on recent findings on the implication of CB₁ cannabinoid receptors in the behavioral effects of METH, we hypothesized that METH-induced neurotoxicity may alter the brain expression of CB₁, thereby affecting its role in behavioral functions. To test this possibility, we subjected rats to a well-characterized model of METH neurotoxicity (4 mg/kg, subcutaneous × 4 injections, 2 h apart), and analyzed their CB₁ receptor brain expression three weeks later. METH exposure resulted in significant enhancements of CB₁ receptor expression across several brain regions, including prefrontal cortex, caudate-putamen, basolateral amygdala, CA1 hippocampal region and perirhinal cortex. In parallel, a different group of METH-exposed rats was used to explore the responsiveness to the potent cannabinoid agonist WIN 55,212-2 (WIN) (0.5-1 mg/kg, intraperitoneal), within several paradigms for the assessment of emotional and cognitive functions, such as open field, object exploration and recognition, and startle reflex. WIN induced anxiolytic-like effects in METH-exposed rats and anxiogenic-like effects in saline-treated controls. Furthermore, METH-exposed animals exhibited a significantly lower impact of WIN on the attenuation of exploratory behaviors and short-term (90 min) recognition memory. Conversely, METH neurotoxicity did not significantly affect WIN-induced reductions in locomotor activity, exploration time and acoustic startle. These results suggest that METH neurotoxicity may alter the vulnerability to select behavioral effects of cannabis, by inducing distinct regional variations in the expression of CB₁ receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Bortolato
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles (CA), USA.
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17
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Measurement of the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of neuroactive compounds. Neurobiol Dis 2010; 37:38-47. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2009.09.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2009] [Revised: 09/29/2009] [Accepted: 09/30/2009] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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Pei Y, Mercier RW, Anday JK, Thakur GA, Zvonok AM, Hurst D, Reggio PH, Janero DR, Makriyannis A. Ligand-binding architecture of human CB2 cannabinoid receptor: evidence for receptor subtype-specific binding motif and modeling GPCR activation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 15:1207-19. [PMID: 19022181 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2008.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2008] [Revised: 09/17/2008] [Accepted: 10/02/2008] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The extensive physiological influence of transmission through the CB2 cannabinoid receptor makes this G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) a promising therapeutic target for treating neuropathic pain, inflammation, and immune disorders. However, there is little direct structural information pertaining to either GPCR or CB2-receptor ligand recognition and activation. The present work helps characterize experimentally the ligand-binding interactions of the human CB2 (hCB2) receptor. This study illustrates how our overall experimental approach, "ligand-assisted protein structure" (LAPS), affords direct determination of the requirements for ligand binding to the hCB2 receptor and discrimination among the binding motifs for ligands that activate therapeutically relevant GPCRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Pei
- School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
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19
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Donohue SR, Halldin C, Schou M, Hong J, Phebus L, Chernet E, Hitchcock SA, Gardinier KM, Ruley KM, Krushinski JH, Schaus J, Pike VW. Radiolabeling of a high potency cannabinoid subtype-1 receptor ligand,N-(4-fluoro-benzyl)-4-(3-(piperidin-1-yl)-indole-1-sulfonyl)benzamide (PipISB), with carbon-11 or fluorine-18. J Labelled Comp Radiopharm 2008. [DOI: 10.1002/jlcr.1491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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20
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Vemuri VK, Janero DR, Makriyannis A. Pharmacotherapeutic targeting of the endocannabinoid signaling system: drugs for obesity and the metabolic syndrome. Physiol Behav 2007; 93:671-86. [PMID: 18155257 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2007.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2007] [Accepted: 11/02/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Endogenous signaling lipids ("endocannabinoids") functionally related to Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol, the psychoactive ingredient of marijuana (Cannabis), are important biomediators and metabolic regulators critical to mammalian (patho)physiology. The growing family of endocannabinoids, along with endocannabinoid biosynthetic and inactivating enzymes, transporters, and at least two membrane-bound, G-protein coupled receptors, comprise collectively the mammalian endocannabinoid signaling system. The ubiquitous and diverse regulatory actions of the endocannabinoid system in health and disease have supported the regulatory approval of natural products and synthetic agents as drugs that alter endocannabinoid-system activity. More recent data support the concept that the endocananbinoid system may be modulated for therapeutic gain at discrete pharmacological targets with safety and efficacy. Potential medications based on the endocannabinoid system have thus become a central focus of contemporary translational research for varied indications with important unmet medical needs. One such indication, obesity, is a global pandemic whose etiology has a pathogenic component of endocannabinoid-system hyperactivity and for which current pharmacological treatment is severely limited. Application of high-affinity, selective CB1 cannabinoid receptor ligands to attenuate endocannabinoid signaling represents a state-of-the-art approach for improving obesity pharmacotherapy. To this intent, several selective CB1 receptor antagonists with varied chemical structures are currently in advanced preclinical or clinical trials, and one (rimonabant) has been approved as a weight-management drug in some markets. Emerging preclinical data suggest that CB1 receptor neutral antagonists may represent breakthrough medications superior to antagonists/inverse agonists such as rimonabant for therapeutic attenuation of CB1 receptor transmission. Since obesity is a predisposing condition for the cluster of cardiovascular and metabolic derangements collectively known as the metabolic syndrome, effective endocannabinoid-modulatory anti-obesity therapeutics would also help redress other major health problems including type-2 diabetes, atherothrombosis, inflammation, and immune disorders. Pressing worldwide healthcare needs and increasing appreciation of endocannabinoid biology make the rational design and refinement of targeted CB1 receptor modulators a promising route to future medications with significant therapeutic impact against overweight, obesity, obesity-related cardiometabolic dysregulation, and, more generally, maladies having a reward-supported appetitive component.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Kiran Vemuri
- Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115-5000, United States
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Ranganathan M, D'Souza DC. The acute effects of cannabinoids on memory in humans: a review. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2006; 188:425-44. [PMID: 17019571 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-006-0508-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 321] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2006] [Accepted: 06/28/2006] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Cannabis is one of the most frequently used substances. Cannabis and its constituent cannabinoids are known to impair several aspects of cognitive function, with the most robust effects on short-term episodic and working memory in humans. A large body of the work in this area occurred in the 1970s before the discovery of cannabinoid receptors. Recent advances in the knowledge of cannabinoid receptors' function have rekindled interest in examining effects of exogenous cannabinoids on memory and in understanding the mechanism of these effects. OBJECTIVE The literature about the acute effects of cannabinoids on memory tasks in humans is reviewed. The limitations of the human literature including issues of dose, route of administration, small sample sizes, sample selection, effects of other drug use, tolerance and dependence to cannabinoids, and the timing and sensitivity of psychological tests are discussed. Finally, the human literature is discussed against the backdrop of preclinical findings. RESULTS Acute administration of Delta-9-THC transiently impairs immediate and delayed free recall of information presented after, but not before, drug administration in a dose- and delay-dependent manner. In particular, cannabinoids increase intrusion errors. These effects are more robust with the inhaled and intravenous route and correspond to peak drug levels. CONCLUSIONS This profile of effects suggests that cannabinoids impair all stages of memory including encoding, consolidation, and retrieval. Several mechanisms, including effects on long-term potentiation and long-term depression and the inhibition of neurotransmitter (GABA, glutamate, acetyl choline, dopamine) release, have been implicated in the amnestic effects of cannabinoids. Future research in humans is necessary to characterize the neuroanatomical and neurochemical basis of the memory impairing effects of cannabinoids, to dissect out their effects on the various stages of memory and to bridge the expanding gap between the humans and preclinical literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohini Ranganathan
- Schizophrenia Biological Research Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West-Haven, CT 06516, USA
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