Evaluation of the specificity of antibodies raised against cannabinoid receptor type 2 in the mouse retina

Flipping the GPCR Switch: Structure-Based Development of Selective Cannabinoid Receptor 2 Inverse Agonists

We report a blueprint for the rational design of G protein coupled receptor (GPCR) ligands with a tailored functional response. The present study discloses the structure-based design of cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2R) selective inverse agonists (S)-1 and (R)-1, which were derived from privileged agonist HU-308 by introduction of a phenyl group at the gem-dimethylheptyl side chain. Epimer (R)-1 exhibits high affinity for CB2R with Kd = 39.1 nM and serves as a platform for the synthesis of a wide variety of probes. Notably, for the first time these fluorescent probes retain their inverse agonist functionality, high affinity, and selectivity for CB2R independent of linker and fluorophore substitution. Ligands (S)-1, (R)-1, and their derivatives act as inverse agonists in CB2R-mediated cAMP as well as G protein recruitment assays and do not trigger β-arrestin-receptor association. Furthermore, no receptor activation was detected in live cell ERK1/2 phosphorylation and Ca2+-release assays. Confocal fluorescence imaging experiments with (R)-7 (Alexa488) and (R)-9 (Alexa647) probes employing BV-2 microglial cells visualized CB2R expressed at endogenous levels. Finally, molecular dynamics simulations corroborate the initial docking data in which inverse agonists restrict movement of toggle switch Trp2586.48 and thereby stabilize CB2R in its inactive state.

Discovery of a Photoaffinity Probe that Captures the Active Conformation of the Cannabinoid CB2 Receptor

The cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2R) is a G protein-coupled receptor with therapeutic potential for the treatment of inflammatory disorders. Fluorescent probes are desirable to study its receptor localization, expression and occupancy. Previously, we have reported a photoaffinity probe LEI-121 that stabilized the inactive conformation of the CB2R. Here, we report the structure-based design of a novel bifunctional probe that captures the active conformation of the CB2R upon irradiation with light. An alkyne handle was incorporated to visualize the receptor using click-chemistry with fluorophore-azides. These probes may hold promise to study different receptor conformations in relation to their cellular localization and function.

Goods and Bads of the Endocannabinoid System as a Therapeutic Target: Lessons Learned after 30 Years

The cannabis derivative marijuana is the most widely used recreational drug in the Western world and is consumed by an estimated 83 million individuals (∼3% of the world population). In recent years, there has been a marked transformation in society regarding the risk perception of cannabis, driven by its legalization and medical use in many states in the United States and worldwide. Compelling research evidence and the Food and Drug Administration cannabis-derived cannabidiol approval for severe childhood epilepsy have confirmed the large therapeutic potential of cannabidiol itself, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and other plant-derived cannabinoids (phytocannabinoids). Of note, our body has a complex endocannabinoid system (ECS)-made of receptors, metabolic enzymes, and transporters-that is also regulated by phytocannabinoids. The first endocannabinoid to be discovered 30 years ago was anandamide (N-arachidonoyl-ethanolamine); since then, distinct elements of the ECS have been the target of drug design programs aimed at curing (or at least slowing down) a number of human diseases, both in the central nervous system and at the periphery. Here a critical review of our knowledge of the goods and bads of the ECS as a therapeutic target is presented to define the benefits of ECS-active phytocannabinoids and ECS-oriented synthetic drugs for human health. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: The endocannabinoid system plays important roles virtually everywhere in our body and is either involved in mediating key processes of central and peripheral diseases or represents a therapeutic target for treatment. Therefore, understanding the structure, function, and pharmacology of the components of this complex system, and in particular of key receptors (like cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2) and metabolic enzymes (like fatty acid amide hydrolase and monoacylglycerol lipase), will advance our understanding of endocannabinoid signaling and activity at molecular, cellular, and system levels, providing new opportunities to treat patients.

Rational Design, Synthesis, and Evaluation of Fluorescent CB2 Receptor Ligands for Live-Cell Imaging: A Comprehensive Review

The cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 are class A G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) that are activated via endogenous lipids called endocannabinoids. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a critical role in the regulation of several physiological states and a wide range of diseases. In recent years, drug discovery approaches targeting the cannabinoid type 2 receptor (CB2R) have gained prominence. Particular attention has been given to selective agonists targeting the CB2 receptors to circumvent the neuropsychotropic side effects associated with CB1 receptors. The pharmacological modulation of CB2R holds therapeutic promise for various diseases, such as inflammatory disorders and immunological conditions, as well as pain management and cancer treatment. Recently, the utilization of fluorescent probes has emerged as a valuable technique for investigating the interactions between ligands and proteins at an exceptional level of spatial and temporal precision. In this review, we aim to examine the progress made in the development of fluorescent probes targeting CB2 receptors and highlight their significance in facilitating the successful clinical translation of CB2R-based therapies.

Update on the controversial identity of cells expressing cnr2 gene in the nervous system

The function of cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2R), mainly expressed by leukocytes, has long been limited to its peripheral immunomodulatory role. However, the use of CB2R-specific ligands and the availability of CB2R-Knock Out mice revealed that it could play a functional role in the CNS not only under physiological but also under pathological conditions. A direct effect on the nervous system emerged when CB2R mRNA was detected in neural tissues. However, accurate mapping of CB2R protein expression in the nervous system is still lacking, partly because of the lack of specificity of antibodies available. This review examines the regions and cells of the nervous system where CB2R protein is most likely present by cross-referencing mRNA and protein data published to date. Of the many antibodies developed to target CB2R, only a few have partially passed specificity tests and detected CB2R in the CNS. Efforts must be continued to support the development of more specific and better validated antibodies in each of the species in which CB2R protein is sought or needs to be quantified.

CB1R, CB2R and TRPV1 expression and modulation in in vivo, animal glaucoma models: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex biological regulatory system. Its expression and functionality have been widely investigated in ocular tissues. Recent data have reported its modulation to be valid in determining an ocular hypotensive and a neuroprotective effect in preclinical animal models of glaucoma.

AIM

This study aimed to explore the available literature on cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB₁R), cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB₂R), and transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) expression in the trabecular meshwork (TM), ciliary body (CB), and retina as well as their ocular hypotensive and neuroprotective effects in preclinical, in vivo, animal glaucoma models.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study adhered to both PRISMA and SYRCLE guidelines. Sixty-nine full-length articles were included in the final analysis.

RESULTS

Preclinical studies indicated a widespread distribution of CB₁R, CB₂R, and TRPV1 in the TM, CB, and retina, although receptor-, age-, and species-dependent differences were observed. CB₁R and CB₂R modulation have been shown to exert ocular hypotensive effects in preclinical models via the regulation of inflow and outflow pathways. Retinal cell neuroprotection has been achieved in several experimental models, mediated by agonists and antagonists of CB₁R, CB₂R, and TRPV1.

DISCUSSION

Despite the growing body of preclinical data regarding the expression and modulation of ECS in ocular tissues, the mechanisms responsible for the hypotensive and neuroprotective efficacy exerted by this system remain largely elusive. Research on this topic is advocated to further substantiate the hypothesis that the ECS is a new potential therapeutic target in the context of glaucoma.

Detection of cannabinoid receptor type 2 in native cells and zebrafish with a highly potent, cell-permeable fluorescent probe

Despite its essential role in the (patho)physiology of several diseases, CB₂R tissue expression profiles and signaling mechanisms are not yet fully understood. We report the development of a highly potent, fluorescent CB₂R agonist probe employing structure-based reverse design. It commences with a highly potent, preclinically validated ligand, which is conjugated to a silicon-rhodamine fluorophore, enabling cell permeability. The probe is the first to preserve interspecies affinity and selectivity for both mouse and human CB₂R. Extensive cross-validation (FACS, TR-FRET and confocal microscopy) set the stage for CB₂R detection in endogenously expressing living cells along with zebrafish larvae. Together, these findings will benefit clinical translatability of CB₂R based drugs.

Detection and visualization of the cannabinoid receptor type 2 by a cell-permeable high affinity fluorescent probe platform enables tracing receptor trafficking in live cells and in zebrafish.

The Vertical and Horizontal Pathways in the Monkey Retina Are Modulated by Typical and Atypical Cannabinoid Receptors

The endocannabinoid (eCB) system has been found in all visual parts of the central ner-vous system and plays a role in the processing of visual information in many species, including monkeys and humans. Using anatomical methods, cannabinoid receptors are present in the monkey retina, particularly in the vertical glutamatergic pathway, and also in the horizontal GABAergic pathway. Modulating the eCB system regulates normal retinal function as demonstrated by electrophysiological recordings. The characterization of the expression patterns of all types of cannabinoid receptors in the retina is progressing, and further research is needed to elucidate their exact role in processing visual information. Typical cannabinoid receptors include G-protein coupled receptor CB1R and CB2R, and atypical cannabinoid receptors include the G-protein coupled receptor 55 (GPR55) and the ion channel transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1). This review focuses on the expression and localization studies carried out in monkeys, but some data on other animal species and humans will also be reported. Furthermore, the role of the endogenous cannabinoid receptors in retinal function will also be presented using intraocular injections of known modulators (agonists and antagonists) on electroretinographic patterns in monkeys. The effects of the natural bioactive lipid lysophosphatidylglucoside and synthetic FAAH inhibitor URB597 on retinal function, will also be described. Finally, the potential of typical and atypical cannabinoid receptor acti-vity regulation in retinal diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and retinitis pigmentosa will be briefly explored.

Cnr2 Is Important for Ribbon Synapse Maturation and Function in Hair Cells and Photoreceptors

The role of the cannabinoid receptor 2 (CNR2) is still poorly described in sensory epithelia. We found strong cnr2 expression in hair cells (HCs) of the inner ear and the lateral line (LL), a superficial sensory structure in fish. Next, we demonstrated that sensory synapses in HCs were severely perturbed in larvae lacking cnr2. Appearance and distribution of presynaptic ribbons and calcium channels (Ca_v1.3) were profoundly altered in mutant animals. Clustering of membrane-associated guanylate kinase (MAGUK) in post-synaptic densities (PSDs) was also heavily affected, suggesting a role for cnr2 for maintaining the sensory synapse. Furthermore, vesicular trafficking in HCs was strongly perturbed suggesting a retrograde action of the endocannabinoid system (ECs) via cnr2 that was modulating HC mechanotransduction. We found similar perturbations in retinal ribbon synapses. Finally, we showed that larval swimming behaviors after sound and light stimulations were significantly different in mutant animals. Thus, we propose that cnr2 is critical for the processing of sensory information in the developing larva.

The Effects of Repeated Morphine Treatment on the Endogenous Cannabinoid System in the Ventral Tegmental Area

The therapeutic utility of opioids is diminished by their ability to induce rewarding behaviors that may lead to opioid use disorder. Recently, the endogenous cannabinoid system has emerged as a hot topic in the study of opioid reward but relatively little is known about how repeated opioid exposure may affect the endogenous cannabinoid system in the mesolimbic reward circuitry. In the present study, we investigated how sustained morphine may modulate the endogenous cannabinoid system in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) of Sprague Dawley rats, a critical region in the mesolimbic reward circuitry. Studies here using proteomic analysis and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) found that the VTA expresses 32 different proteins or genes related to the endogenous cannabinoid system; three of these proteins or genes (PLCγ2, ABHD6, and CB2R) were significantly affected after repeated morphine exposure (CB2R was only detected by qRT-PCR but not proteomics). We also identified that repeated morphine treatment does not alter either anandamide (AEA) or 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) levels in the VTA compared to saline treatment; however, there may be diminished levels of anandamide (AEA) production in the VTA 4 h after a single morphine injection in both chronic saline and morphine pretreated cohorts. Treating the animals with an inhibitor of 2-AG degradation significantly decreased repeated opioid rewarding behavior. Taken together, our studies reveal a potential influence of sustained opioids on the endocannabinoid system in the VTA, suggesting that the endogenous cannabinoid system may participate in the opioid-induced reward.

Cannabinoid Receptors: An Update on Cell Signaling, Pathophysiological Roles and Therapeutic Opportunities in Neurological, Cardiovascular, and Inflammatory Diseases

The identification of the human cannabinoid receptors and their roles in health and disease, has been one of the most significant biochemical and pharmacological advancements to have occurred in the past few decades. In spite of the major strides made in furthering endocannabinoid research, therapeutic exploitation of the endocannabinoid system has often been a challenging task. An impaired endocannabinoid tone often manifests as changes in expression and/or functions of type 1 and/or type 2 cannabinoid receptors. It becomes important to understand how alterations in cannabinoid receptor cellular signaling can lead to disruptions in major physiological and biological functions, as they are often associated with the pathogenesis of several neurological, cardiovascular, metabolic, and inflammatory diseases. This review focusses mostly on the pathophysiological roles of type 1 and type 2 cannabinoid receptors, and it attempts to integrate both cellular and physiological functions of the cannabinoid receptors. Apart from an updated review of pre-clinical and clinical studies, the adequacy/inadequacy of cannabinoid-based therapeutics in various pathological conditions is also highlighted. Finally, alternative strategies to modulate endocannabinoid tone, and future directions are also emphasized.

Development of High-Specificity Fluorescent Probes to Enable Cannabinoid Type 2 Receptor Studies in Living Cells

Pharmacological modulation of cannabinoid type 2 receptor (CB₂R) holds promise for the treatment of numerous conditions, including inflammatory diseases, autoimmune disorders, pain, and cancer. Despite the significance of this receptor, researchers lack reliable tools to address questions concerning the expression and complex mechanism of CB₂R signaling, especially in cell-type and tissue-dependent contexts. Herein, we report for the first time a versatile ligand platform for the modular design of a collection of highly specific CB₂R fluorescent probes, used successfully across applications, species, and cell types. These include flow cytometry of endogenously expressing cells, real-time confocal microscopy of mouse splenocytes and human macrophages, as well as FRET-based kinetic and equilibrium binding assays. High CB₂R specificity was demonstrated by competition experiments in living cells expressing CB₂R at native levels. The probes were effectively applied to FACS analysis of microglial cells derived from a mouse model relevant to Alzheimer's disease.

Cannabinoids affect the mouse visual acuity via the cannabinoid receptor type 2

Recently, there have been increasing indications that the endocannabinoid (eCB) system is involved in vision. Multiple research teams studied the cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2R) expression and function in the mouse retina. Here, we examined the consequence of CB2R modulation on visual acuity using genetic and pharmacologic tools. We found that Cnr2 knockout mice show an enhanced visual acuity, CB2R activation decreased visual acuity while CB2R blockade with the inverse agonist AM630 increased it. The inhibition of 2-arachidonylglycerol (2-AG) synthesis and degradation also greatly increased and decreased visual acuity, respectively. No differences were seen when the cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1R) was deleted, blocked or activated implying that CB2R exclusively mediates cannabinoid modulation of the visual acuity. We also investigated the role of cannabinoids in retinal function using electroretinography (ERG). We found that modulating 2-AG levels affected many ERG components, such as the a-wave and oscillatory potentials (OPs), suggesting an impact on cones and amacrine cells. Taken together, these results reveal that CB2R modulates visual acuity and that eCBs such as 2-AG can modulate both visual acuity and retinal sensitivity. Finally, these findings establish that CB2R is present in visual areas and regulates vision-related functions.

Cannabinoids and the eye

Cannabis ranks among the most commonly used psychotropic drugs worldwide. In the context of the global movement toward more widespread legalisation, there is a growing need toward developing a better understanding of the physiological and pathological effects. We provide an overview of the current evidence on the effects of cannabinoids on the eye. Of the identified cannabinoids, Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol is recognized to be the primary psychotropic compound, and cannabidiol is the predominant nonpsychoactive ingredient. Despite demonstrating ocular hypotensive and neuroprotective activity, the use of cannabinoids as a treatment for glaucoma is limited by a large number of potential systemic and ophthalmic side effects. Anterior segment effects of cannabinoids are complex, with preliminary evidence showing decreased corneal endothelial density in chronic cannabinoid users. Experiments in rodents, however, have shown potential promise for the treatment of ocular surface injury via antinociceptive and antiinflammatory effects. Electroretinography studies demonstrating adverse effects on photoreceptor, bipolar, and ganglion cell function suggest links between cannabis and neuroretinal dysfunction. Neuro-ophthalmic associations include ocular motility deficits and decrements in smooth pursuit and saccadic eye movements, although potential therapeutic effects for congenital and acquired nystagmus have been observed.

Targeting the endocannabinoid system: a predictive, preventive, and personalized medicine-directed approach to the management of brain pathologies

Cannabis-inspired medical products are garnering increasing attention from the scientific community, general public, and health policy makers. A plethora of scientific literature demonstrates intricate engagement of the endocannabinoid system with human immunology, psychology, developmental processes, neuronal plasticity, signal transduction, and metabolic regulation. Despite the therapeutic potential, the adverse psychoactive effects and historical stigma, cannabinoids have limited widespread clinical application. Therefore, it is plausible to weigh carefully the beneficial effects of cannabinoids against the potential adverse impacts for every individual. This is where the concept of "personalized medicine" as a promising approach for disease prediction and prevention may take into the account. The goal of this review is to provide an outline of the endocannabinoid system, including endocannabinoid metabolizing pathways, and will progress to a more in-depth discussion of the therapeutic interventions by endocannabinoids in various neurological disorders.

Cannabinoids in the descending pain modulatory circuit: Role in inflammation

The legalization of cannabis in some states has intensified interest in the potential for cannabis and its constituents to lead to novel therapeutics for pain. Our understanding of the cellular mechanisms underlying cannabinoid actions in the brain have lagged behind opioids; however, the current opioid epidemic has also increased attention on the use of cannabinoids as alternatives to opioids for pain, especially chronic pain that requires long-term use. Endogenous cannabinoids are lipid signaling molecules that have complex roles in modulating neuronal function throughout the brain. In this review, we discuss cannabinoid functions in the descending pain modulatory pathway, a brain circuit that integrates cognitive and emotional processing of pain to modulate incoming sensory inputs. In addition, we highlight areas where further studies are necessary to understand cannabinoid regulation of descending pain modulation.

Modest and nonessential roles of the endocannabinoid system in immature hematopoiesis of mice

Endocannabinoids are lipid mediators that signal via several seven-transmembrane domain G protein-coupled receptors. The endocannabinoid receptor CB2 is expressed on blood cells, including stem cells, and mediates the effects of cannabinoids on the immune system. The role of the endocannabinoid system in immature hematopoiesis is largely elusive. Both direct effects of endocannabinoids on stem cells and indirect effects through endocannabinoid-responsive niche cells like macrophages have been reported. Using two different CB2-deficient mouse models, we studied the role of the endocannabinoid system in immature hematopoiesis. Moreover, we utilized both models to assess the specificity of putative CB2 agonists. As heterodimerization of CB2 and CXCR4, which is highly expressed on hematopoietic stem cells, has already been described, we also assessed potential consequences of CB2 loss for CXCR4/CXCL12 signaling. Overall, no differential effects were observed with any of the compounds tested; the compounds barely induced signaling by themselves, whereas they attenuated CXCL12-induced signals in both CB2-competent and CB2-deficient cells. In vivo experiments were therefore by necessity restricted to loss-of-function studies in knockout (CB2-/-) mice: Except for mild lymphocytosis and slightly elevated circulating progenitor cells, homeostatic hematopoiesis in CB2-/- mice appears to be entirely normal. Mobilization in response to pharmacological stimuli, Plerixafor or G-CSF, was equally potent in wild-type and CB2-/- mice. CB2-/- bone marrow cells reconstituted hematopoiesis in lethally irradiated recipients with engraftment kinetics indistinguishable from those of wild-type grafts. In summary, we found the endocannabinoid system to be largely dispensable for normal murine hematopoiesis.

Systematic Affinity Purification Coupled to Mass Spectrometry Identified p62 as Part of the Cannabinoid Receptor CB2 Interactome

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) consists particularly of cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2 (CB1 and CB2), their endogenous ligands, and enzymes that synthesize and degrade their ligands. It acts in a variety of organs and disease states ranging from cancer progression over neuropathic pain to neurodegeneration. Protein components engaged in the signaling, trafficking, and homeostasis machinery of the G-protein coupled CB2, are however largely unknown. It is therefore important to identify further interaction partners to better understand CB2 receptor functions in physiology and pathophysiology. For this purpose, we used an affinity purification and mass spectrometry-based proteomics approach of Strep-HA-CB2 receptor in HEK293 cells. After subtraction of background interactions and protein frequency library assessment we could identify 83 proteins that were classified by the identification of minimally 2 unique peptides as highly probable interactors. A functional protein association network analysis obtained an interaction network with a significant enrichment of proteins functionally involved in protein metabolic process, in endoplasmic reticulum, response to stress but also in lipid metabolism and membrane organization. The network especially contains proteins involved in biosynthesis and trafficking like calnexin, Sec61A, tubulin chains TUBA1C and TUBB2B, TMED2, and TMED10. Six proteins that were only expressed in stable CB2 expressing cells were DHC24, DHRS7, GGT7, HECD3, KIAA2013, and PLS1. To exemplify the validity of our approach, we chose a candidate having a relatively low number of edges in the network to increase the likelihood of a direct protein interaction with CB2 and focused on the scaffold/phagosomal protein p62/SQSTM1. Indeed, we independently confirmed the interaction by co-immunoprecipitation and immunocytochemical colocalization studies. 3D reconstruction of confocal images furthermore showed CB2 localization in close proximity to p62 positive vesicles at the cell membrane. In summary, we provide a comprehensive repository of the CB2 interactome in HEK293 cells identified by a systematic unbiased approach, which can be used in future experiments to decipher the signaling and trafficking complex of this cannabinoid receptor. Future studies will have to analyze the exact mechanism of the p62-CB2 interaction as well as its putative role in disease pathophysiology.

Cannabinoid CB2R receptors are upregulated with corneal injury and regulate the course of corneal wound healing

CB2R receptors have demonstrated beneficial effects in wound healing in several models. We therefore investigated a potential role of CB2R receptors in corneal wound healing. We examined the functional contribution of CB2R receptors to the course of wound closure in an in vivo murine model. We additionally examined corneal expression of CB2R receptors in mouse and the consequences of their activation on cellular signaling, migration and proliferation in cultured bovine corneal epithelial cells (CECs). Using a novel mouse model, we provide evidence that corneal injury increases CB2R receptor expression in cornea. The CB2R agonist JWH133 induces chemorepulsion in cultured bovine CECs but does not alter CEC proliferation. The signaling profile of CB2R activation is activating MAPK and increasing cAMP accumulation, the latter perhaps due to G_s-coupling. Lipidomic analysis in bovine cornea shows a rise in acylethanolamines including the endocannabinoid anandamide 1 h after injury. In vivo, CB2R deletion and pharmacological block result in a delayed course of wound closure. In summary, we find evidence that CB2R receptor promoter activity is increased by corneal injury and that these receptors are required for the normal course of wound closure, possibly via chemorepulsion.

Cannabinoid receptor expression in estrogen-dependent and estrogen-independent endometrial cancer

The lack of good diagnostic/prognostic biomarkers and the often late presentation of endometrial cancer (EC) hinders the amelioration of the morbidity and mortality rates associated with this primarily estrogen-driven disease, a disease that is becoming more prevalent in the population. Previous studies on the expression of the classical cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2, suggest these could provide good diagnostic/prognostic biomarkers for EC but those observations have been contradictory. In this study, we sought to resolve the inconsistency of CB1 and CB2 expression levels in different EC studies. To that end, we used qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry (IHC) for CB1 and CB2 in endometrial biopsies from women with or without EC and found that transcript levels for both CB1 and CB2 were significantly decreased by 90 and 80%, respectively in EC. These observations were supported by histomorphometric studies where CB1 and CB2 staining intensity was decreased in all types of EC. These data suggest that the loss of both types of CB receptors is potentially involved in the development of or progression of EC and that CB1 and CB2 receptor expression could serve as useful histological markers and therapeutic targets in the treatment of or prevention of EC.

Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) conjugated to ATTO594: a novel fluorescent probe for the N/OFQ (NOP) receptor

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) receptor (NOP) is a member of the opioid receptor family and is involved in a number of physiological responses, pain and immune regulation as examples. In this study, we conjugated a red fluorophore-ATTO594 to the peptide ligand N/OFQ (N/OFQATTO594 ) for the NOP receptor and explored NOP receptor function at high (in recombinant systems) and low (on immune cells) expression.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

We assessed N/OFQATTO594 receptor binding, selectivity and functional activity in recombinant (CHO) cell lines. Live cell N/OFQATTO594 binding was measured in (i) HEK cells expressing NOP and NOPGFP receptors, (ii) CHO cells expressing the hNOPGαqi5 chimera (to force coupling to measurable Ca2+ responses) and (iii) freshly isolated human polymorphonuclear cells (PMN).

KEY RESULTS

N/OFQATTO594 bound to NOP receptor with nM affinity and high selectivity. N/OFQATTO594 activated NOP receptor by reducing cAMP formation and increasing Ca2+ levels in CHOhNOPGαqi5 cells. N/OFQATTO594 was also able to visualize NOP receptors at low expression levels on PMN cells. In NOP-GFP-tagged receptors, N/OFQATTO594 was used in a FRET protocol where GFP emission activated ATTO, visualizing ligand-receptor interaction. When the NOPGFP receptor is activated by N/OFQATTO594 , movement of ligand and receptor from the cell surface to the cytosol can be measured.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

In the absence of validated NOP receptor antibodies and issues surrounding the use of radiolabels (especially in low expression systems), these data indicate the utility of N/OFQATTO594 to study a wide range of N/OFQ-driven cellular responses.

Potential for endocannabinoid system modulation in ocular pain and inflammation: filling the gaps in current pharmacological options

Challenges in the management of ocular pain are an underappreciated topic. Currently available therapeutics lack both efficacy and clear guidelines for their use, with many also possessing unacceptable side effects. Promising novel agents would offer analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and possibly neuroprotective actions; have favorable ocular safety profiles; and show potential in managing neuropathic pain. Growing evidence supports a link between the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and a range of physiological and disease processes, notably those involving inflammation and pain. Both preclinical and clinical data suggest analgesic and anti-inflammatory actions of cannabinoids and ECS-modifying drugs in chronic pain conditions, including those of neuropathic origin. This review will examine existing evidence for the anatomical and physiological basis of ocular pain, specifically, ocular surface disease and the development of chronic ocular pain. The mechanism of action, efficacy, and limitations of currently available treatments will be discussed, and current knowledge related to ECS-modulation of ocular pain and inflammatory disease will be summarized. A perspective will be provided on the future directions of ECS research in terms of developing cannabinoid therapeutics for ocular pain.

Cellular localization and regulation of receptors and enzymes of the endocannabinoid system in intestinal and systemic inflammation

Surveys suggest that Cannabis provides benefit for people with inflammatory bowel disease. However, mechanisms underlying beneficial effects are not clear. We performed in situ hybridization RNAscope^® combined with immunohistochemistry to show cell-specific distribution and regulation of cannabinoid receptor 1 and 2 (CB₁, CB₂), G protein-coupled receptor 55 (GPR55), and monoacylglycerol lipase (MGL) mRNA in immune cells using murine models of intestinal and systemic inflammation. In healthy animals, the presence in enteric ganglia is high for CB₁ mRNA, but low for CB₂ and GPR55 mRNAs. MGL mRNA is predominant throughout the intestinal wall including myenteric neurons, epithelium, circular and longitudinal muscular layers, and the lamina propria. Within the immune system, B220⁺ cells exhibit high gene expression for CB₂ while the expression of CB₂ in F4/80⁺ and CD3⁺ cells is less prominent. In contrast, GPR55 mRNA is highly present in F4/80⁺ and CD3⁺ cells. qRT-PCR of total colonic segments shows that the expression of GPR55 and MGL genes drops during intestinal inflammation. Also at cellular levels, GPR55 and MGL gene expression is reduced in F4/80⁺, but not CD3⁺ cells. As to systemic inflammation, reduced gene expression of MGL is observed in ileum by qRT-PCR, while at cellular levels, altered gene expression is also seen for CB₁ and GPR55 in CD3⁺ but not F4/80⁺ cells. In summary, our study reveals changes in gene expression of members of the endocannabinoid system in situ attesting particularly GPR55 and MGL a distinct cellular role in the regulation of the immune response to intestinal and systemic inflammation.

Revisiting cannabinoid receptor 2 expression and function in murine retina

The cannabinoid receptor CB2 plays a significant role in the regulation of immune function whereas neuronal expression remains a subject of contention. Multiple studies have described CB2 in retina and a recent study showed that CB2 deletion altered retinal visual processing. We revisited CB2 expression using immunohistochemistry and a recently developed CB2-eGFP reporter mouse. We examined the consequence of acute vs. prolonged CB2 deactivation on the electroretinogram (ERG) responses. We also examined lipidomics in CB2 knockout mice and potential changes in microglia using Scholl analysis. Consistent with a published report, in CB2 receptor knockout mice see an increased ERG scotopic a-wave, as well as stronger responses in dark adapted cone-driven ON bipolar cells and, to a lesser extent cone-driven ON bipolar cells early in light adaptation. Significantly, however, acute block with CB2 antagonist, AM630, did not mimic the results observed in the CB2 knockout mice whereas chronic (7 days) block did. Immunohistochemical studies show no CB2 in retina under non-pathological conditions, even with published antibodies. Retinal CB2-eGFP reporter signal is minimal under baseline conditions but upregulated by intraocular injection of either LPS or carrageenan. CB2 knockout mice see modest declines in a broad spectrum of cannabinoid-related lipids. The numbers and morphology of microglia were unaltered. In summary minimal CB2 expression is seen in healthy retina. CB2 appears to be upregulated under pathological conditions. Previously reported functional consequences of CB2 deletion are an adaptive response to prolonged blockade of these receptors. CB2 therefore impacts retinal signaling but perhaps in an indirect, potentially extra-ocular fashion.

Cannabinoid type 2 receptors mediate a cell type-specific self-inhibition in cortical neurons

Endogenous cannabinoids are diffusible lipid ligands of the main cannabinoid receptors type 1 and 2 (CB₁R and CB₂R). In the central nervous system endocannabinoids are produced in an activity-dependent manner and have been identified as retrograde modulators of synaptic transmission. Additionally, some neurons display a cell-autonomous slow self-inhibition (SSI) mediated by endocannabinoids. In these neurons, repetitive action potential firing triggers the production of endocannabinoids, which induce a long-lasting hyperpolarization of the membrane potential, rendering the cells less excitable. Different endocannabinoid receptors and effector mechanisms have been described underlying SSI in different cell types and brain areas. Here, we investigate SSI in neurons of layer 2/3 in the somatosensory cortex. High-frequency bursts of action potentials induced SSI in pyramidal cells (PC) and regular spiking non-pyramidal cells (RSNPC), but not in fast-spiking interneurons (FS). In RSNPCs the hyperpolarization was accompanied by a change in input resistance due to the activation of G protein-coupled inward-rectifying K⁺ (GIRK) channels. A CB₂R-specific agonist induced the long-lasting hyperpolarization, whereas preincubation with a CB₂R-specific inverse agonist suppressed SSI. Additionally, using cannabinoid receptor knockout mice, we found that SSI was still intact in CB₁R-deficient but abolished in CB₂R-deficient mice. Taken together, we describe an additional SSI mechanism in which the activity-induced release of endocannabinoids activates GIRK channels via CB₂Rs. These findings expand our knowledge about cell type-specific differential neuronal cannabinoid receptor signaling and suggest CB₂R-selective compounds as potential therapeutic approaches.

No answer to the lack of specificity: mouse monoclonal antibody targeting the angiotensin II type 1 receptor AT1 fails to recognize its target

Numerous antibodies targeting G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) have been described as non-specific among the polyclonal antibodies against angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT₁). We have tested the newly developed AT₁ receptor mouse monoclonal antibody for its specificity. Human embryonic kidney (HEK293) cells, which do not endogenously express AT₁ receptor, were transfected in order to overexpress a fluorescently labeled enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP)-tagged human AT₁ receptor. Western blot and immunofluorescence assays were performed to test the specificity of the Santa Cruz monoclonal antibody sc-57036. These results were compared to the ones obtained with the polyclonal sc-1173 anti-AT₁ receptor antibodies that have already been described as non-specific. While the positive controls using GFP antibodies detected the EGFP-tagged AT₁ receptor, both polyclonal and monoclonal anti-AT₁ receptor antibodies failed to specifically recognize the corresponding band by Western blot, as similar bands were revealed in either transfected or non-transfected cells. It also failed to detect AT₁ receptor in immunofluorescence experiments. The lack of target recognition of the monoclonal AT₁ receptor antibody in our experimental conditions suggests that this antibody could give misleading results such as misidentification of the protein. To our knowledge, no specific antibodies targeting AT₁ receptors have been developed so far and the field is thus in need of new technical developments.

Selective Photoaffinity Probe That Enables Assessment of Cannabinoid CB2 Receptor Expression and Ligand Engagement in Human Cells

Chemical tools and methods that report on G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) expression levels and receptor occupancy by small molecules are highly desirable. We report the development of LEI121 as a photoreactive probe to study the type 2 cannabinoid receptor (CB₂R), a promising GPCR to treat tissue injury and inflammatory diseases. LEI121 is the first CB₂R-selective bifunctional probe that covalently captures CB₂R upon photoactivation. An incorporated alkyne serves as ligation handle for the introduction of reporter groups. LEI121 enables target engagement studies and visualization of endogenously expressed CB₂R in HL-60 as well as primary human immune cells using flow cytometry. Our findings show that strategically functionalized probes allow monitoring of endogenous GPCR expression and engagement in human cells using tandem photoclick chemistry and hold promise as biomarkers in translational drug discovery.

Chemical Tools for Studying Lipid-Binding Class A G Protein-Coupled Receptors

Cannabinoid, free fatty acid, lysophosphatidic acid, sphingosine 1-phosphate, prostanoid, leukotriene, bile acid, and platelet-activating factor receptor families are class A G protein-coupled receptors with endogenous lipid ligands. Pharmacological tools are crucial for studying these receptors and addressing the many unanswered questions surrounding expression of these receptors in normal and diseased tissues. An inherent challenge for developing tools for these lipid receptors is balancing the often lipophilic requirements of the receptor-binding pharmacophore with favorable physicochemical properties to optimize highly specific binding. In this study, we review the radioligands, fluorescent ligands, covalent ligands, and antibodies that have been used to study these lipid-binding receptors. For each tool type, the characteristics and design rationale along with in vitro and in vivo applications are detailed.

Distinct roles of neuronal and microglial CB2 cannabinoid receptors in the mouse hippocampus

The effects of cannabinoids are primarily mediated by type-1 cannabinoid receptors in the brain and type-2 cannabinoid receptors (CB2Rs) in the peripheral immune system. However, recent evidence demonstrates that CB2Rs are also expressed in the brain and implicated in neuropsychiatric effects. Diverse types of cells in various regions in the brain express CB2Rs but the cellular loci of CB2Rs that induce specific behavioral effects have not been determined. To manipulate CB2R expression in specific types of cells in the dorsal hippocampus of adult mice, we used Cre-dependent overexpression and CRISPR-Cas9 genome-editing techniques in combination with adeno-associated viruses and transgenic mice. Elevation and disruption of CB2R expression in microglia in the CA1 area increased and decreased, respectively, contextual fear memory. In CA1 pyramidal neurons, disruption of CB2R expression enhanced spatial working memory, whereas their overexpression reduced anxiety levels assessed asan increase in the exploration time in the central area of open field. Interneuronal CB2Rs were not involved in the modulation of cognitive or emotional behaviors tested in this study. The targeted manipulation of CB2R expression in pyramidal neurons and microglia suggests that CB2Rs in different types of cells in the mature hippocampus play distinct roles in the regulation of memory and anxiety.

Cannabinoid Receptor 1 Gene by Cannabis Use Interaction on CB1 Receptor Density

Background: Because delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, binds to cannabinoid 1 (CB1) receptors, levels of CB1 protein could serve as a potential biomarker for response to THC. To date, available techniques to characterize CB1 expression and function in vivo are limited. In this study, we developed an assay to quantify CB1 in lymphocytes to determine how it relates to cannabis use in 58 daily cannabis users compared with 47 nonusers. Furthermore, we tested whether CB1 levels are associated with mutations in a single nucleotide polymorphism known to regulate CB1 functioning (i.e., rs2023239).

Methods: Total protein concentration was analyzed through the Pierce BCA Protein assay kit. CB1 protein was quantified through CNR1 enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit from MyBioSource. CB1 concentration and total protein concentration were quantified and used to calculate a ratio of CB1 to total protein.

Results: Inherent levels of peripheral lymphocyte CB1 were sufficient for quantification through ELISA without protein amplification. We found a group×genotype interaction such that users with the G allele had greater CB1 concentration than users with the A/A genotype, and a trend-level difference between genotypes in nonusers.

Conclusions: This study demonstrates a minimally invasive technique of CB1 quantification that holds promise for the use of CB1 protein concentration, along with rs2023239 genotype, as a potential biomarker for susceptibility to cannabis use. These results suggest a gene (rs2023239 G)×environment (cannabis use) effect on CB1 density.

Evaluating Commercially Available Antibodies for Rat α7 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors

Alpha7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (α7 nAChRs) are important drug targets in neurological disorders and inflammation, making their detection and localization by validated antibodies highly desirable. However, tests in knockout animals raised questions about specificity of antibodies to mouse α7 nAChRs. To date, methods for validating antibodies for rat or human α7 nAChR have not been reported. We developed a gel-shift assay for western blots using GH4C1 cells expressing either native rat receptors or α7 nAChR-green fluorescent protein (GFP) chimeras to evaluate seven commercially available α7 nAChR antibodies. Blots with anti-GFP antibody detected GFP or α7 nAChR-GFP expressed in GH4C1 cells, and ¹²⁵I-α-bungarotoxin binding and RNA analysis demonstrated α7 nAChR expression. Validated samples were used to evaluate α7 nAChR antibodies by western blot and immunofluorescence studies. These methods confirmed that two of seven α7 nAChR antibodies identify gel-shifts for α7 nAChR/nAChR-GFP but only one antibody demonstrated low background and significant immunofluorescence differences between wild-type and α7 nAChR expressing GH4C1 cells. However, that polyclonal antibody displayed lot-to-lot variability. Our findings suggest that careful validation methods are required for all α7 nAChR receptor species and antibody lots and that the gel-shift assay may allow for relatively rapid antibody screening.

Brain cannabinoid receptor 2: expression, function and modulation

Cannabis sativa (marijuana) is a fibrous flowering plant that produces an abundant variety of molecules, some with psychoactive effects. At least 4% of the world's adult population uses cannabis annually, making it one of the most frequently used illicit drugs in the world. The psychoactive effects of cannabis are mediated primarily through cannabinoid receptor (CBR) subtypes. The prevailing view is that CB1Rs are mainly expressed in the central neurons, whereas CB₂Rs are predominantly expressed in peripheral immune cells. However, this traditional view has been challenged by emerging strong evidence that shows CB₂Rs are moderately expressed and function in specific brain areas. New evidence has demonstrated that brain CB₂Rs modulate animal drug-seeking behaviors, suggesting that these receptors may exist in brain regions that regulate drug addiction. Recently, we further confirmed that functional CB₂Rs are expressed in mouse ventral tegmental area (VTA) dopamine (DA) neurons and that the activation of VTA CB₂Rs reduces neuronal excitability and cocaine-seeking behavior. In addition, CB₂R-mediated modulation of hippocampal CA3 neuronal excitability and network synchronization has been reported. Here, we briefly summarize recent lines of evidence showing how CB₂Rs modulate function and pathophysiology in the CNS.

Vascular Dysfunction in a Transgenic Model of Alzheimer's Disease: Effects of CB1R and CB2R Cannabinoid Agonists

There is evidence of altered vascular function, including cerebrovascular, in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and transgenic models of the disease. Indeed vasoconstrictor responses are increased, while vasodilation is reduced in both conditions. β-Amyloid (Aβ) appears to be responsible, at least in part, of alterations in vascular function. Cannabinoids, neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory agents, induce vasodilation both in vivo and in vitro. We have demonstrated a beneficial effect of cannabinoids in models of AD by preventing glial activation. In this work we have studied the effects of these compounds on vessel density in amyloid precursor protein (APP) transgenic mice, line 2576, and on altered vascular responses in aortae isolated ring. First we showed increased collagen IV positive vessels in AD brain compared to control subjects, with a similar increase in TgAPP mice, which was normalized by prolonged oral treatment with the CB1/CB2 mixed agonist WIN 55,212-2 (WIN) and the CB2 selective agonist JWH-133 (JWH). In Tg APP mice the vasoconstriction induced by phenylephrine and the thromboxane agonist U46619 was significantly increased, and no change in the vasodilation to acetylcholine (ACh) was observed. Tg APP displayed decreased vasodilation to both cannabinoid agonists, which were able to prevent decreased ACh relaxation in the presence of Aβ. In summary, we have confirmed and extended the existence of altered vascular responses in Tg APP mice. Moreover, our results suggest that treatment with cannabinoids may ameliorate the vascular responses in AD-type pathology.

Strategies for immunohistochemical protein localization using antibodies: What did we learn from neurotransmitter transporters in glial cells and neurons

Immunocytochemistry and Western blotting are still major methods for protein localization, but they rely on the specificity of the antibodies. Validation of antibody specificity remains challenging mostly because ideal negative controls are often unavailable. Further, immunochemical labeling patterns are also influenced by a number of other factors such as postmortem changes, fixation procedures and blocking agents as well as the general assay conditions (e.g., buffers, temperature, etc.). Western blotting similarly depends on tissue collection and sample preparation as well as the electrophoretic separation, transfer to blotting membranes and the immunochemical probing of immobilized molecules. Publication of inaccurate information on protein distribution has downstream consequences for other researchers because the interpretation of physiological and pharmacological observations depends on information on where ion channels, receptors, enzymes or transporters are located. Despite numerous reports, some of which are strongly worded, erroneous localization data are being published. Here we describe the extent of the problem and illustrate the nature of the pitfalls with examples from studies of neurotransmitter transporters. We explain the importance of supplementing immunochemical observations with other measurements (e.g., mRNA levels and distribution, protein activity, mass spectrometry, electrophysiological recordings, etc.) and why quantitative considerations are integral parts of the quality control. Further, we propose a practical strategy for researchers who plan to embark on a localization study. We also share our thoughts about guidelines for quality control. GLIA 2016;64:2045-2064.

A Comparative Analysis of the Endocannabinoid System in the Retina of Mice, Tree Shrews, and Monkeys

The endocannabinoid (eCB) system is widely expressed in various parts of the central nervous system, including the retina. The localization of the key eCB receptors, particularly CB1R and CB2R, has been recently reported in rodent and primate retinas with striking interspecies differences. Little is known about the distribution of the enzymes involved in the synthesis and degradation of these eCBs. We therefore examined the expression and localization of the main components of the eCB system in the retina of mice, tree shrews, and monkeys. We found that CB1R and FAAH distributions are well-preserved among these species. However, expression of NAPE-PLD is circumscribed to the photoreceptor layer only in monkeys. In contrast, CB2R expression is variable across these species; in mice, CB2R is found in retinal neurons but not in glial cells; in tree shrews, CB2R is expressed in Müller cell processes of the outer retina and in retinal neurons of the inner retina; in monkeys, CB2R is restricted to Müller cells. Finally, the expression patterns of MAGL and DAGLα are differently expressed across species. Overall, these results provide evidence that the eCB system is differently expressed in the retina of these mammals and suggest a distinctive role of eCBs in visual processing.

Cannabinoid receptor signaling induces proliferation but not neurogenesis in the mouse olfactory epithelium

The olfactory epithelium actively generates neurons through adulthood, and this neurogenesis is tightly regulated by multiple factors that are not fully defined. Here, we examined the role of cannabinoids in the regulation of neurogenesis in the mouse olfactory epithelium. In vivo proliferation and cell lineage studies were performed in mice (C57BL/6 and cannabinoid type 1 and 2 receptor deficient strains) treated with cannabinoids directly (WIN 55,212–2 or 2-arachidonylglycerol ether) or indirectly via inhibition of cannabinoid hydrolytic enzymes. Cannabinoids increased proliferation in neonatal and adult mice, and had no effect on proliferation in cannabinoid type 1 and 2 receptor deficient adult mice. Pretreatment with the cannabinoid type1 receptor antagonist AM251 decreased cannabinoid-induced proliferation in adult mice. Despite a cannabinoid-induced increase in proliferation, there was no change in newly generated neurons or non-neuronal cells 16 d post-treatment. However, cannabinoid administration increased apoptotic cell death at 72 hours post-treatment and by 16 d the level of apoptosis dropped to control levels. Thus, cannabinoids induce proliferation, but do not induce neurogenesis nor non-neuronal cell generation. Cannabinoid receptor signaling may regulate the balance of progenitor cell survival and proliferation in adult mouse olfactory epithelium.

Expression and Function of the Endocannabinoid System in the Retina and the Visual Brain

Endocannabinoids are important retrograde modulators of synaptic transmission throughout the nervous system. Cannabinoid receptors are seven transmembrane G-protein coupled receptors favoring G_i/o protein. They are known to play an important role in various processes, including metabolic regulation, craving, pain, anxiety, and immune function. In the last decade, there has been a growing interest for endocannabinoids in the retina and their role in visual processing. The purpose of this review is to characterize the expression and physiological functions of the endocannabinoid system in the visual system, from the retina to the primary visual cortex, with a main interest regarding the retina, which is the best-described area in this system so far. It will show that the endocannabinoid system is widely present in the retina, mostly in the through pathway where it can modulate neurotransmitter release and ion channel activity, although some evidence also indicates possible mechanisms via amacrine, horizontal, and Müller cells. The presence of multiple endocannabinoid ligands, synthesizing and catabolizing enzymes, and receptors highlights various pharmacological targets for novel therapeutic application to retinal diseases.

CB2 Cannabinoid Receptor Knockout in Mice Impairs Contextual Long-Term Memory and Enhances Spatial Working Memory

Neurocognitive effects of cannabinoids have been extensively studied with a focus on CB1 cannabinoid receptors because CB1 receptors have been considered the major cannabinoid receptor in the nervous system. However, recent discoveries of CB2 cannabinoid receptors in the brain demand accurate determination of whether and how CB2 receptors are involved in the cognitive effects of cannabinoids. CB2 cannabinoid receptors are primarily involved in immune functions, but also implicated in psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and depression. Here, we examined the effects of CB2 receptor knockout in mice on memory to determine the roles of CB2 receptors in modulating cognitive function. Behavioral assays revealed that hippocampus-dependent, long-term contextual fear memory was impaired whereas hippocampus-independent, cued fear memory was normal in CB2 receptor knockout mice. These mice also displayed enhanced spatial working memory when tested in a Y-maze. Motor activity and anxiety of CB2 receptor knockout mice were intact when assessed in an open field arena and an elevated zero maze. In contrast to the knockout of CB2 receptors, acute blockade of CB2 receptors by AM603 in C57BL/6J mice had no effect on memory, motor activity, or anxiety. Our results suggest that CB2 cannabinoid receptors play diverse roles in regulating memory depending on memory types and/or brain areas.

Commercially available antibodies directed against α-adrenergic receptor subtypes and other G protein-coupled receptors with acceptable selectivity in flow cytometry experiments

Several previous reports suggested that many commercially available antibodies directed against G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) lack sufficient selectivity. Accordingly, it has been proposed that receptor antibodies should be validated by at least one of several criteria, such as testing tissues or cells after knockout or silencing of the corresponding gene. Here, we tested whether 12 commercially available antibodies directed against α-adrenergic receptor (AR) subtypes (α1A/B/D, α2A/B/C), atypical chemokine receptor 3 (ACKR3), and vasopressin receptor 1A (AVPR1A) suffice these criteria. We detected in flow cytometry experiments with human vascular smooth muscle cells that the fluorescence signals from each of these antibodies were reduced by 46 ± 10 %-91 ± 2 % in cells treated with commercially available small interfering RNA (siRNA) specific for each receptor, as compared with cells that were incubated with non-targeting siRNA. The tested antibodies included anti-ACKR3 (R&D Systems, mab42273), for which specificity has previously been demonstrated. Staining with this antibody resulted in 72 ± 5 % reduction of the fluorescence signal after ACKR3 siRNA treatment. Furthermore, staining with anti-α1A-AR (Santa Cruz, sc1477) and anti-ACKR3 (Abcam, ab38089), which have previously been reported to be non-specific, resulted in 70 ± 19 % and 80 ± 4 % loss of the fluorescence signal after α1A-AR and ACKR3 siRNA treatment, respectively. Our findings demonstrate that the tested antibodies show reasonable selectivity for their receptor target under our experimental conditions. Furthermore, our observations suggest that the selectivity of GPCR antibodies depends on the method for which the antibody is employed, the species from which cells/tissues are obtained, and on the type of specimens (cell, tissue/cell homogenate, or section) tested.

Neuronal expression of CB2 cannabinoid receptor mRNAs in the mouse hippocampus

In the brain, CB1 cannabinoid receptors primarily mediate the effects of cannabinoids, but CB2 cannabinoid receptors (CB2Rs) have recently been discovered in the nervous system and also implicated in neuromodulatory roles. To understand the mechanisms of CB2R functions in the brain, it is essential to localize CB2Rs, but the types of cells expressing CB2Rs have been controversial. Unequivocal localization of CB2Rs in the brain has been impeded in part by the low expression levels of CB2Rs and poor specificity of detection methods. Here, we used an ultrasensitive and specific in situ hybridization method called the RNAscope to determine the spatial pattern of CB2R mRNA expression in the mouse hippocampus. CB2R mRNAs were mostly expressed in a subset of excitatory and inhibitory neurons in the CA1, CA3 and dentate gyrus areas, but rarely in microglia. CB2R knock-out mice were used as a negative control. Using the quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, we also found that the temporal pattern of CB2R mRNA expression was stable during postnatal development. Consistent with previous reports, the immunological detection of CB2Rs was not reliable, implying extremely low levels of the protein expression and/or insufficient specificity of the current anti-CB2R antibodies. Our findings of the expression patterns of CB2R mRNAs may help determine the cell types involved in, and hence the mechanisms of, the CB2R-mediated neuromodulation.

Cannabinoid receptor 2 expression modulates Gβ(1)γ(2) protein interaction with the activator of G protein signalling 2/dynein light chain protein Tctex-1

The activator of G protein signalling AGS2 (Tctex-1) forms protein complexes with Gβγ, and controls cell proliferation by regulating cell cycle progression. A direct interaction of Tctex-1 with various G protein-coupled receptors has been reported. Since the carboxyl terminal portion of CB2 carries a putative Tctex-1 binding motif, we investigated the potential interplay of CB2 and Tctex-1 in the absence and presence of Gβγ. The supposed interaction of cannabinoid receptor CB2 with Tctex-1 and the influence of CB2 on the formation of Tctex-1-Gβγ-complexes were studied by co- and/or immunoprecipitation experiments in transiently transfected HEK293 cells. The analysis on Tctex-1 protein was performed in the absence and presence of the ligands JWH 133, 2-AG, and AM 630, the protein biosynthesis inhibitor cycloheximide or the protein degradation blockers MG132, NH4Cl/leupeptin or bafilomycin. Our results show that CB2 neither directly nor indirectly via Gβγ interacts with Tctex-1, but competes with Tctex-1 in binding to Gβγ. The Tctex-1-Gβγ protein interaction was disrupted by CB2 receptor expression resulting in a release of Tctex-1 from the complex, and its degradation by the proteasome and partly by lysosomes. The decrease in Tctex-1 protein levels is induced by CB2 expression "dose-dependently" and is independent of stimulation by agonist or blocking by an inverse agonist treatment. The results suggest that CB2 receptor expression independent of its activation by agonists is sufficient to competitively disrupt Gβγ-Tctex-1 complexes, and to initiate Tctex-1 degradation. These findings implicate that CB2 receptor expression modifies the stability of intracellular protein complexes by a non-canonical pathway.

Cannabinoid CB2 Receptors in a Mouse Model of Aβ Amyloidosis: Immunohistochemical Analysis and Suitability as a PET Biomarker of Neuroinflammation

In Alzheimer's disease (AD), one of the early responses to Aβ amyloidosis is recruitment of microglia to areas of new plaque. Microglial receptors such as cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) might be a suitable target for development of PET radiotracers that could serve as imaging biomarkers of Aβ-induced neuroinflammation. Mouse models of amyloidosis (J20APPswe/ind and APPswe/PS1ΔE9) were used to investigate the cellular distribution of CB2 receptors. Specificity of CB2 antibody (H60) was confirmed using J20APPswe/ind mice lacking CB2 receptors. APPswe/PS1ΔE9 mice were used in small animal PET with a CB2-targeting radiotracer, [11C]A836339. These studies revealed increased binding of [11C]A836339 in amyloid-bearing mice. Specificity of the PET signal was confirmed in a blockade study with a specific CB2 antagonist, AM630. Confocal microscopy revealed that CB2-receptor immunoreactivity was associated with astroglial (GFAP) and, predominantly, microglial (CD68) markers. CB2 receptors were observed, in particular, in microglial processes forming engulfment synapses with Aβ plaques. In contrast to glial cells, neuron (NeuN)-derived CB2 signal was equal between amyloid-bearing and control mice. The pattern of neuronal CB2 staining in amyloid-bearing mice was similar to that in human cases of AD. The data collected in this study indicate that Aβ amyloidosis without concomitant tau pathology is sufficient to activate CB2 receptors that are suitable as an imaging biomarker of neuroinflammation. The main source of enhanced CB2 PET binding in amyloid-bearing mice is increased CB2 immunoreactivity in activated microglia. The presence of CB2 immunoreactivity in neurons does not likely contribute to the enhanced CB2 PET signal in amyloid-bearing mice due to a lack of significant neuronal loss in this model. However, significant loss of neurons as seen at late stages of AD might decrease the CB2 PET signal due to loss of neuronally-derived CB2. Thus this study in mouse models of AD indicates that a CB2-specific radiotracer can be used as a biomarker of neuroinflammation in the early preclinical stages of AD, when no significant neuronal loss has yet developed.

An endocannabinoid system is present in the mouse olfactory epithelium but does not modulate olfaction

Endocannabinoids modulate a diverse array of functions including progenitor cell proliferation in the central nervous system, and odorant detection and food intake in the mammalian central olfactory system and larval Xenopus laevis peripheral olfactory system. However, the presence and role of endocannabinoids in the peripheral olfactory epithelium have not been examined in mammals. We found the presence of cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) and cannabinoid type 2 (CB2) receptor protein and mRNA in the olfactory epithelium. Using either immunohistochemistry or calcium imaging we localized CB1 receptors on neurons, glia-like sustentacular cells, microvillous cells and progenitor-like basal cells. To examine the role of endocannabinoids, CB1- and CB2- receptor-deficient (CB1(-/-)/CB2(-/-)) mice were used. The endocannabinoid 2-arachidonylglycerol (2-AG) was present at high levels in both C57BL/6 wildtype and CB1(-/-)/CB2(-/-) mice. 2-AG synthetic and degradative enzymes are expressed in wildtype mice. A small but significant decrease in basal cell and olfactory sensory neuron numbers was observed in CB1(-/-)/CB2(-/-) mice compared to wildtype mice. The decrease in olfactory sensory neurons did not translate to impairment in olfactory-mediated behaviors assessed by the buried food test and habituation/dishabituation test. Collectively, these data indicate the presence of an endocannabinoid system in the mouse olfactory epithelium. However, unlike in tadpoles, endocannabinoids do not modulate olfaction. Further investigation on the role of endocannabinoids in progenitor cell function in the olfactory epithelium is warranted.

Selectivity of pharmacological tools: implications for use in cell physiology. A review in the theme: Cell signaling: proteins, pathways and mechanisms

Pharmacological inhibitors are frequently used to identify the receptors, receptor subtypes, and associated signaling pathways involved in physiological cell responses. Based on the effects of such inhibitors conclusions are drawn about the involvement of their assumed target or lack thereof. While such inhibitors can be useful tools for a better physiological understanding, their uncritical use can lead to incorrect conclusions. This article reviews the concept of inhibitor selectivity and its implication for cell physiology. Specifically, we discuss the implications of using inhibitor vs. activator approaches, issues of direct vs. indirect pathway modulation, implications of inverse agonism and biased signaling, and those of orthosteric vs. allosteric, competitive vs. noncompetitive, and reversible vs. irreversible inhibition. Additional problems can result from inconsistent estimates of inhibitor potency and differences in potency between cell-free systems and intact cells. These concepts are illustrated by several examples of inhibitors displaying affinity for related but distinct targets or even unrelated targets. Of note, many of the issues being addressed are also applicable to genetic inhibition strategies. The main practical conclusion following from these concepts is that investigators should be critical in the choice of inhibitor, its concentrations, and its mode of application. When this advice is adhered to, small-molecule pharmacological inhibitors can be important experimental tools in the hand of physiologists.

Development of positive control tissue for in situ hybridisation using Alvetex scaffolds

BACKGROUND

In situ hybridisation (ISH) is a robust method to determine the presence of mRNA for specific genes within a tissue. Ideally, positive and negative control tissues are used to determine probe specificity. However, this is not always possible, particularly for human genes where no knock-out controls exist.

NEW METHOD

Here we report a novel method of growing positive control cells in a scaffold (Alvetex) to create 3D tissues suitable for sectioning with a cryostat. Sectioning slices through cells, similar to the effect on tissue and therefore provides improved penetration of the in situ riboprobes.

COMPARISON TO EXISTING METHOD

ISH conducted on cells has been problematic due to the difficulty of efficient probe penetration, due to a semi-intact cell membrane, and cell preparations failing to withstand high stringency washes. Our new method circumvents this issue by enabling the positive control cells to be sectioned like a tissue.

RESULTS

HEK cells transfected with the genes of interest (in this case CB1 and NeuN) grown in Alvetex and cryosectioned were utilised to validate riboprobes and establish stringency conditions. These conditions were then transferred directly to human brain sections.

CONCLUSION

This method can be adapted to generate positive controls for ISH for any gene of interest. It provides a valuable option in human neuroscience where access to precious brain tissue is limited or where expression of a target gene is unknown.