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Bajaj S, Jain S, Vyas P, Bawa S, Vohora D. The role of endocannabinoid pathway in the neuropathology of Alzheimer's disease: Can the inhibitors of MAGL and FAAH prove to be potential therapeutic targets against the cognitive impairment associated with Alzheimer's disease? Brain Res Bull 2021; 174:305-322. [PMID: 34217798 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2021.06.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive decline of cognitive function in combination with neuronal death. Current approved treatment target single dysregulated pathway instead of multiple mechanism, resulting in lack of efficacy in slowing down disease progression. The proclivity of endocannabinoid system to exert neuroprotective action and mitigate symptoms of neurodegeneration condition has received substantial interest. Growing evidence suggest the endocannabinoids (eCB) system, viz. anadamide (AEA) and arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG), as potential therapeutic targets with the ability to modify Alzheimer's pathology by targeting the inflammatory, neurodegenerative and cognitive aspects of the disease. In order to modulate endocannabinoid system, number of agents have been reported amongst which are inhibitors of the monoacylglycerol (MAGL) and fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), the enzymes that hydrolyses 2-AG and AEA respectively. However, little is known regarding the exact mechanistic signalling and their effects on pathophysiology and cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer's disease. Both MAGL and FAAH inhibitors possess fascinating properties that may offer a multi-faceted approach for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease such as potential to protect neurons from deleterious effect of amyloid-β, reducing phosphorylation of tau, reducing amyloid-β induced oxidative stress, stimulating neurotrophin to support brain intrinsic repair mechanism etc. Based on empirical evidence, MAGL and FAAH inhibitors might have potential for therapeutic efficacy against cognitive impairment associated with Alzheimer's disease. The aim of this review is to summarize the experimental studies demonstrating the polyvalent properties of MAGL or FAAH inhibitor compounds for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, and also effect of these on learning and types of memories, which together encourage to study these compounds over other therapeutics targets. Further research in this direction would enhance the molecular mechanisms and development of applicable interventions for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, which nevertheless stay as the primary unmet need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivanshu Bajaj
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
| | - Shreshta Jain
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
| | - Preeti Vyas
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
| | - Sandhya Bawa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
| | - Divya Vohora
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India.
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Weinstein G, Sznitman SR. The implications of late-life cannabis use on brain health: A mapping review and implications for future research. Ageing Res Rev 2020; 59:101041. [PMID: 32109605 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2020.101041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2019] [Revised: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
While medical and recreational cannabis use is becoming more frequent among older adults, the neurocognitive consequences of cannabis use in this age group are unclear. The aim of this literature review was to synthesize and evaluate the current knowledge on the association of cannabis use during older-adulthood with cognitive function and brain aging. We reviewed the literature from old animal models and human studies, focusing on the link between use of cannabis in middle- and old-age and cognition. The report highlights the gap in knowledge on cannabis use in late-life and cognitive health, and discusses the limited findings in the context of substantial changes in attitudes and policies. Furthermore, we outline possible theoretical mechanisms and propose recommendations for future research. The limited evidence on this important topic suggests that use in older ages may not be linked with poorer cognitive performance, thus detrimental effects of early-life cannabis use may not translate to use in older ages. Rather, use in old ages may be associated with improved brain health, in accordance with the known neuroprotective properties of several cannabinoids. Yet, firm conclusions cannot be drawn from the current evidence-base due to lack of research with strong methodological designs.
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Alarcon TA, Areal LB, Herlinger AL, Paiva KK, Cicilini MA, Martins-Silva C, Pires RGW. The cannabinoid agonist WIN-2 affects acquisition but not consolidation of a spatial information in training and retraining processes: Relation with transcriptional regulation of the endocannabinoid system? Behav Brain Res 2020; 377:112231. [PMID: 31526770 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2019.112231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Revised: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system is capable of modulating multiple physiological brain functions including learning and memory. Moreover, there is evidence that the processes of acquisition and consolidation have distinct biological basis. We used the cannabinoid agonist WIN 55,212-2 (WIN-2) to investigate whether chronic CB1 activation affects acquisition and consolidation differently by evaluating gene expression in the hippocampus (HIP) and prefrontal cortex (PFC). Swiss mice were treated with WIN-2 (2 mg/kg) and submitted to the Morris water maze to evaluate different aspects of memory. We observed short-term memory impairment in acquisition of the spatial task while consolidation remained unchanged. In the PFC, animals that received WIN-2 prior to the task exhibited increased expression of the 2-AG synthesis enzyme diacylglycerol lipase and decreased levels of the degradation enzyme monoacylglycerol lipase, while mice that were treated after the task for the evaluation of consolidation exhibited the opposite profile. With respect to genes related to AEA metabolism, no correlation between the molecular and behavioral data could be established. In this sense, the cognitive impairment in the acquisition promoted by WIN-2 treatment may be related to a possible increase in the concentration of 2-AG in the PFC. Overall, this study confirms the relevance of the endocannabinoid system in the modulation of cognitive processes. A better understanding of the mechanisms underlying endocannabinoids roles in cognition could provide guidance for the development of treatments to reduce the cognitive deficits caused by drug abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- T A Alarcon
- Laboratory of Molecular and Behavioral Neurobiology, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitoria-ES, Brazil; Graduate Program in Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitoria-ES, Brazil
| | - L B Areal
- Laboratory of Molecular and Behavioral Neurobiology, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitoria-ES, Brazil; Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte-MG, Brazil
| | - A L Herlinger
- Laboratory of Molecular and Behavioral Neurobiology, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitoria-ES, Brazil; Department of Genetics, Institute of Biology, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro-RJ, Brazil
| | - K K Paiva
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitoria-ES, Brazil
| | - M A Cicilini
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitoria-ES, Brazil
| | - C Martins-Silva
- Laboratory of Molecular and Behavioral Neurobiology, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitoria-ES, Brazil; Graduate Program in Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitoria-ES, Brazil; Department of Physiological Sciences, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitoria-ES, Brazil
| | - R G W Pires
- Laboratory of Molecular and Behavioral Neurobiology, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitoria-ES, Brazil; Graduate Program in Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitoria-ES, Brazil; Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte-MG, Brazil; Department of Physiological Sciences, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitoria-ES, Brazil.
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Szodorai E, Bampali K, Romanov RA, Kasper S, Hökfelt T, Ernst M, Lubec G, Harkany T. Diversity matters: combinatorial information coding by GABA A receptor subunits during spatial learning and its allosteric modulation. Cell Signal 2018; 50:142-159. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2018.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2018] [Revised: 07/08/2018] [Accepted: 07/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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Demin KA, Meshalkina DA, Kysil EV, Antonova KA, Volgin AD, Yakovlev OA, Alekseeva PA, Firuleva MM, Lakstygal AM, de Abreu MS, Barcellos LJG, Bao W, Friend AJ, Amstislavskaya TG, Rosemberg DB, Musienko PE, Song C, Kalueff AV. Zebrafish models relevant to studying central opioid and endocannabinoid systems. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2018; 86:301-312. [PMID: 29604314 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2018.03.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2018] [Revised: 03/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid and opioid systems are two interplaying neurotransmitter systems that modulate drug abuse, anxiety, pain, cognition, neurogenesis and immune activity. Although they are involved in such critical functions, our understanding of endocannabinoid and opioid physiology remains limited, necessitating further studies, novel models and new model organisms in this field. Zebrafish (Danio rerio) is rapidly emerging as one of the most effective translational models in neuroscience and biological psychiatry. Due to their high physiological and genetic homology to humans, zebrafish may be effectively used to study the endocannabinoid and opioid systems. Here, we discuss current models used to target the endocannabinoid and opioid systems in zebrafish, and their potential use in future translational research and high-throughput drug screening. Emphasizing the high degree of conservation of the endocannabinoid and opioid systems in zebrafish and mammals, we suggest zebrafish as an excellent model organism to study these systems and to search for the new drugs and therapies targeting their evolutionarily conserved mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin A Demin
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia; Institute of Experimental Medicine, Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg, Russia; Laboratory of Preclinical Bioscreening, Russian Research Center for Radiology and Surgical Technologies, Ministry of Health, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Darya A Meshalkina
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia; Institute of Experimental Medicine, Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg, Russia; Laboratory of Preclinical Bioscreening, Russian Research Center for Radiology and Surgical Technologies, Ministry of Health, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Elana V Kysil
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Kristina A Antonova
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Andrey D Volgin
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia; Medical Military Academy, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Oleg A Yakovlev
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia; Medical Military Academy, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Polina A Alekseeva
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Maria M Firuleva
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Anton M Lakstygal
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Murilo S de Abreu
- Bioscience Institute, University of Passo Fundo (UPF), Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil; Graduate Program in Pharmacology, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Brazil
| | - Leonardo J G Barcellos
- Graduate Program in Pharmacology, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Brazil; Graduate Programs in Environmental Sciences, and Bio-Experimentation, University of Passo Fundo (UPF), Passo Fundo, Brazil; The International Zebrafish Neuroscience Research Consortium (ZNRC), Slidell, LA, USA
| | - Wandong Bao
- School of Pharmacy, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ashton J Friend
- The International Zebrafish Neuroscience Research Consortium (ZNRC), Slidell, LA, USA; Tulane University School of Science and Engineering, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Tamara G Amstislavskaya
- The International Zebrafish Neuroscience Research Consortium (ZNRC), Slidell, LA, USA; Laboratory of Translational Biopsychiatry, Research Institute of Physiology and Basic Medicine, Novosibirsk, Russia; Neuroscience Department, Novosibirsk State University, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Denis B Rosemberg
- The International Zebrafish Neuroscience Research Consortium (ZNRC), Slidell, LA, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Brazil
| | - Pavel E Musienko
- Laboratory of Neuroprosthetics, Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia; Laboratory of Motor Physiology, Pavlov Institute of Physiology RAS, St. Petersburg, Russia; Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Experimental Neurorehabilitation, St. Petersburg State Research Institute of Phthysiopulmonology, Ministry of Health, St. Petersburg, Russia; Russian Research Center of Radiology and Surgical Technologies, Ministry of Health, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Cai Song
- Research Institute for Marine Drugs and Nutrition, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China; Marine Medicine Research and Development Center, Shenzhen Institute of Guangdong Ocean University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Allan V Kalueff
- School of Pharmacy, Southwest University, Chongqing, China; Laboratory of Translational Biopsychiatry, Research Institute of Physiology and Basic Medicine, Novosibirsk, Russia; Neuroscience Department, Novosibirsk State University, Novosibirsk, Russia; ZENEREI Research Center, Slidell, LA, USA; Russian Research Center of Radiology and Surgical Technologies, Ministry of Health, St. Petersburg, Russia; Ural Federal University, Ekaterinburg, Russia; Aquatic Laboratory, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg, Russia.
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Jafari-Sabet M, Karimi AM. Cross state-dependency of learning between arachidonylcyclopropylamide (ACPA) and muscimol in the mouse dorsal hippocampus. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2017; 163:66-73. [PMID: 29032058 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2017.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2017] [Revised: 10/09/2017] [Accepted: 10/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to examine cross state-dependent learning between ACPA (a selective cannabinoid CB1 receptor agonist) and muscimol (a selective GABAA receptor agonist) in the step-down inhibitory avoidance learning task. The dorsal hippocampal CA1 regions of adult male NMRI mice were bilaterally cannulated, and all drugs were microinjected into the intended sites of injection. Post-training and/or pre-test administration of ACPA (1 and 2ng/mouse) dose-dependently induced amnesia. Pre-test microinjection of the same doses of ACPA reversed the post-training ACPA-induced amnesia. This event has been named ACPA state-dependent learning (SDL). Post-training and/or pre-test microinjection of muscimol (0.05 and 0.1μg/mouse) dose-dependently induced amnesia. Pre-test administration of the same doses of muscimol reversed the post-training muscimol-induced amnesia, suggesting muscimol SDL. The amnesia induced by post-training administration of ACPA was reversed by pre-test administration of muscimol (0.05 and 0.1μg/mouse). Furthermore, the pre-test microinjection of muscimol (0.025 and 0.05μg/mouse) with an ineffective dose of ACPA (0.5ng/mouse) significantly restored memory retrieval and induced ACPA SDL. In another series of experiments, the amnesia induced by post-training administration of muscimol was reversed by pre-test administration of ACPA (1 and 2ng/mouse). Moreover, pre-test microinjection of ACPA (0.5 and 1ng/mouse) with an ineffective dose of muscimol (0.025μg/mouse) significantly restored memory retrieval and induced muscimol SDL. It is important to note that pre-test intra-CA1 injection of a selective GABAA receptor antagonist, bicuculline (0.125 and 0.25μg/mouse), 5min before the administration of muscimol (0.1μg/mouse) or ACPA (2ng/mouse) dose-dependently inhibited muscimol- and ACPA-induced SDL, respectively. Pre-test intra-CA1 administration of bicuculline (0.0625, 0.125 and 0.25μg/mouse) by itself did not affect memory retention. In conclusion, the data strongly revealed a cross SDL among ACPA and muscimol in the dorsal hippocampal CA1 regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majid Jafari-Sabet
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Amir-Mohammad Karimi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Llorente-Ovejero A, Manuel I, Giralt MT, Rodríguez-Puertas R. Increase in cortical endocannabinoid signaling in a rat model of basal forebrain cholinergic dysfunction. Neuroscience 2017; 362:206-218. [PMID: 28827178 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2017.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2017] [Revised: 07/20/2017] [Accepted: 08/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The basal forebrain cholinergic pathways progressively degenerate during the progression of Alzheimer's disease, leading to an irreversible impairment of memory and thinking skills. The stereotaxic lesion with 192IgG-saporin in the rat brain has been used to eliminate basal forebrain cholinergic neurons and is aimed at emulating the cognitive damage described in this disease in order to explore its effects on behavior and on neurotransmission. Learning and memory processes that are controlled by cholinergic neurotransmission are also modulated by the endocannabinoid (eCB) system. The objective of the present study is to evaluate the eCB signaling in relation to the memory impairment induced in adult rats following a specific cholinergic lesion of the basal forebrain. Therefore, CB1 receptor-mediated signaling was analyzed using receptor and functional autoradiography, and cellular distribution by immunofluorescence. The passive avoidance test and histochemical data revealed a relationship between impaired behavioral responses and a loss of approximately 75% of cholinergic neurons in the nucleus basalis magnocellularis (NBM), accompanied by cortical cholinergic denervation. The decrease in CB1 receptor density observed in the hippocampus, together with hyperactivity of eCB signaling in the NBM and cortex, suggest an interaction between the eCB and cholinergic systems. Moreover, following basal forebrain cholinergic denervation, the presynaptic GABAergic immunoreactivity was reduced in cortical areas. In conclusion, CB1 receptors present in presynaptic GABAergic terminals in the hippocampus are down regulated, but not those in cortical glutamatergic synapses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Llorente-Ovejero
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing. University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), B° Sarriena s/n, 48940 Leioa, Spain
| | - Iván Manuel
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing. University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), B° Sarriena s/n, 48940 Leioa, Spain
| | - Maria Teresa Giralt
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing. University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), B° Sarriena s/n, 48940 Leioa, Spain
| | - Rafael Rodríguez-Puertas
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing. University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), B° Sarriena s/n, 48940 Leioa, Spain.
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A chronic low dose of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) restores cognitive function in old mice. Nat Med 2017; 23:782-787. [DOI: 10.1038/nm.4311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2015] [Accepted: 02/07/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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Bennett MR, Arnold J, Hatton SN, Lagopoulos J. Regulation of fear extinction by long-term depression: The roles of endocannabinoids and brain derived neurotrophic factor. Behav Brain Res 2016; 319:148-164. [PMID: 27867101 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2016.11.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2016] [Revised: 11/10/2016] [Accepted: 11/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The extinction of a conditioned fear response is of great interest in the search for a means of ameliorating adverse neurobiological changes resulting from stress. The discovery that endocannibinoid (EC) levels are inversely related to the extent of such stress, and that the amygdala is a primary site mediating stress, suggests that ECs in this brain region might play a major role in extinction. Supporting this are the observations that the basolateral complex of the amygdala shows an increase in ECs only during extinction and that early clinical trials indicate that cannabinoid-like agents, when taken orally by patients suffering from post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), reduce insomnia and nightmares. In order to optimize the potential of these agents to ameliorate symptoms of PTSD four important questions need to be answered: first, what is the identity of the cells that release ECs in the amygdala during extinction; second, what are their sites of action; third, what roles do the ECs play in the alleviation of long- depression (LTD), a process central to extinction; and finally, to what extent does brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) facilitate the release of ECs? A review of the relevant literature is presented in an attempt to answer these questions. It is suggested that the principal cell involved in EC synthesis and release during extinction is the so-called excitatory extinction neuron in the basal nucleus of the amygdala. Furthermore that the main site of action of the ECs is the adjacent calcitonin gene-related peptide inhibitory interneurons, whose normal role of blocking the excitatory neurons is greatly diminished. The molecular pathways leading (during extinction trials) to the synthesis and release of ECs from synaptic spines of extinction neurons, that is potentiated by BDNF, are also delineated in this review. Finally, consideration is given to how the autocrine action of BDNF, linked to the release of ECs, can lead to the sustained release of these, so maintaining extinction over long times.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxwell R Bennett
- The Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, 94 Mallett Street, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.
| | - Jonathon Arnold
- The Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, 94 Mallett Street, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Sean N Hatton
- The Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, 94 Mallett Street, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Jim Lagopoulos
- The Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, 94 Mallett Street, Camperdown, NSW, Australia; The Sunshine Coast Mind and Neuroscience, Thompson Institute, The University of the Sunshine Coast, QLD, Australia
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Kangarlu-Haghighi K, Oryan S, Nasehi M, Zarrindast MR. The effect of BLA GABA(A) receptors in anxiolytic-like effect and aversive memory deficit induced by ACPA. EXCLI JOURNAL 2015; 14:613-26. [PMID: 26648818 PMCID: PMC4669909 DOI: 10.17179/excli2015-201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2015] [Accepted: 03/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
The roles of GABAergic receptors of the Basolateral amygdala (BLA) in the cannabinoid CB1 receptor agonist (arachydonilcyclopropylamide; ACPA)-induced anxiolytic-like effect and aversive memory deficit in adult male mice were examined in elevated plus-maze task. Results showed that pre-test intra-peritoneal injection of ACPA induced anxiolytic-like effect (at dose of 0.05 mg/kg) and aversive memory deficit (at doses of 0.025 and 0.05 mg/kg). The results revealed that Pre-test intra-BLA infusion of muscimol (GABAA receptor agonist; at doses of 0.1 and 0.2 µg/mouse) or bicuculline (GABAA receptor antagonist; at all doses) impaired and did not alter aversive memory, respectively. All previous GABA agents did not have any effects on anxiety-like behaviors. Interestingly, pretreatment with a sub-threshold dose of muscimol (0.025 µg/mouse) and bicuculline (0.025 µg/mouse) did not alter anxiolytic-like behaviors induced by ACPA, while both drugs restored ACPA-induced amnesia. Moreover, muscimol or bicuculline increased and decreased ACPA-induced locomotor activity, respectively. Finally the data may indicate that BLA GABAA receptors have critical and different roles in anxiolytic-like effect, aversive memory deficit and locomotor activity induced by ACPA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shahrbanoo Oryan
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Nasehi
- Cognitive and Neuroscience Research Center (CNRC), Medical Genomics Research Center and School of Advanced Sciences in Medicine, Islamic Azad University, Tehran Medical Sciences Branch, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Reza Zarrindast
- Cognitive and Neuroscience Research Center (CNRC), Medical Genomics Research Center and School of Advanced Sciences in Medicine, Islamic Azad University, Tehran Medical Sciences Branch, Tehran, Iran ; Department of Pharmacology School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran ; Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran ; School of Cognitive Sciences, Institute for Research in Fundamental Sciences (IPM), Tehran, Iran
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Hasanein P, Sharifi M. GABAA receptors in the central amygdala are involved in memory retention deficits induced by cannabinoids in rats. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2015; 138:26-31. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2015.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2015] [Revised: 09/07/2015] [Accepted: 09/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Ren Y, Wang J, Xu PB, Xu YJ, Miao CH. Systemic or intra-amygdala infusion of an endocannabinoid CB1 receptor antagonist AM251 blocked propofol-induced anterograde amnesia. Neurosci Lett 2014; 584:287-91. [PMID: 25445359 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2014.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2014] [Revised: 10/13/2014] [Accepted: 11/04/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Propofol is well-known for its anterograde amnesic actions. However, a recent experiment showed that propofol can also produce retrograde memory enhancement effects via an interaction with the endocannabinoid CB1 system. Therefore, the authors hypothesized that the regulating effect of propofol on the endocannabinoid CB1 system might also decrease the anterograde amnesic effect of propofol under some conditions, which might be a risk factor for intraoperative awareness. Since, the basolateral amygdala (BLA) has been confirmed to mediate propofol-induced anterograde amnesia and the BLA contains a high concentration of CB1 receptors, the authors investigated whether and how the endocannabinoid system, particularly the CB1 receptor within BLA, influences propofol-induced anterograde amnesia. Male Sprague-Dawley rats trained with inhibitory avoidance (IA) were systematically pre-trained using a memory-impairing dose of propofol (25 mg/kg). Before propofol administration, rats received an intraperitoneal injection of a CB1 receptor antagonist AM251 (1 mg/kg or 2 mg/kg) or a bilateral intra-BLA injection of AM251 (0.6 ng or 6 ng per 0.5 μl). Twenty-four hours after IA training, the IA retention latency was tested. It was found that systemic or intra-BLA injection of a non-regulating dose of AM251 (2 mg/kg or 6 ng per 0.5 μl, respectively) blocked the memory-impairing effect of propofol. These results indicate that the anterograde amnesic effect of propofol is mediated, in part, by activation of the CB1 cannabinoid receptors in the BLA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Ren
- Department of Anesthesiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - J Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - P B Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Y J Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - C H Miao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China.
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Basavarajappa BS, Nagre NN, Xie S, Subbanna S. Elevation of endogenous anandamide impairs LTP, learning, and memory through CB1 receptor signaling in mice. Hippocampus 2014; 24:808-18. [PMID: 24648181 DOI: 10.1002/hipo.22272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
In rodents, many exogenous and endogenous cannabinoids, such as anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonyl glycerol (2-AG), have been shown to play an important role in certain hippocampal memory processes. However, the mechanisms by which endogenous AEA regulate this processes are not well understood. Here the effects of AEA on long-term potentiation (LTP), hippocampal-dependent learning and memory tasks, pERK1/2, pCaMKIV, and pCREB signaling events in both cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1R) wild-type (WT) and knockout (KO) mice were assessed following administration of URB597, an inhibitor of the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). Acute administration of URB597 enhanced AEA levels without affecting the levels of 2-AG or CB1R in the hippocampus and neocortex as compared to vehicle. In hippocampal slices, URB597 impaired LTP in CB1R WT but not in KO littermates. URB597 impaired object recognition, spontaneous alternation and spatial memory in the Y-maze test in CB1R WT mice but not in KO mice. Furthermore, URB597 enhanced ERK phosphorylation in WT without affecting total ERK levels in WT or KO mice. URB597 impaired CaMKIV and CREB phosphorylation in WT but not in KO mice. CB1R KO mice have a lower pCaMKIV/CaMKIV ratio and higher pCREB/CREB ratio as compared to WT littermates. Our results indicate that pharmacologically elevated AEA impair LTP, learning and memory and inhibit CaMKIV and CREB phosphorylation, via the activation of CB1Rs. Collectively, these findings also suggest that pharmacological elevation of AEA beyond normal concentrations is also detrimental for the underlying physiological responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Balapal S Basavarajappa
- Division of Analytical Psychopharmacology, Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, New York; New York State Psychiatric Institute, College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York; Department of Psychiatry, College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York
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The endocannabinoid system: an emotional buffer in the modulation of memory function. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2013; 112:30-43. [PMID: 24382324 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2013.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2013] [Revised: 12/16/2013] [Accepted: 12/20/2013] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Extensive evidence indicates that endocannabinoids modulate cognitive processes in animal models and human subjects. However, the results of endocannabinoid system manipulations on cognition have been contradictory. As for anxiety behavior, a duality has indeed emerged with regard to cannabinoid effects on memory for emotional experiences. Here we summarize findings describing cannabinoid effects on memory acquisition, consolidation, retrieval and extinction. Additionally, we review findings showing how the endocannabinoid system modulates memory function differentially, depending on the level of stress and arousal associated with the experimental context. Based on the evidence reviewed here, we propose that the endocannabinoid system is an emotional buffer that moderates the effects of environmental context and stress on cognitive processes.
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Sousa VC, Ribeiro JA, Sebastião AM. Caffeine and Adenosine Receptor Modulation of Cannabinoid Influence Upon Cognitive Function. JOURNAL OF CAFFEINE RESEARCH 2013. [DOI: 10.1089/jcr.2013.0010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Vasco C. Sousa
- Laboratory of Translational Neuropharmacology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Joaquim A. Ribeiro
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pharmacology and Neurosciences, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
- Unit of Neurosciences, Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ana M. Sebastião
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pharmacology and Neurosciences, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
- Unit of Neurosciences, Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
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Puighermanal E, Busquets-Garcia A, Maldonado R, Ozaita A. Cellular and intracellular mechanisms involved in the cognitive impairment of cannabinoids. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2013; 367:3254-63. [PMID: 23108544 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2011.0384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Exogenous cannabinoids, such as delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), as well as the modulation of endogenous cannabinoids, affect cognitive function through the activation of cannabinoid receptors. Indeed, these compounds modulate a number of signalling pathways critically implicated in the deleterious effect of cannabinoids on learning and memory. Thus, the involvement of the mammalian target of rapamycin pathway and extracellular signal-regulated kinases, together with their consequent regulation of cellular processes such as protein translation, play a critical role in the amnesic-like effects of cannabinoids. In this study, we summarize the cellular and molecular mechanisms reported in the modulation of cognitive function by the endocannabinoid system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Puighermanal
- Departament de Ciències Experimentals i de la Salut, Facultat de Ciències de la Salut i de la Vida, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
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Terminal field and firing selectivity of cholecystokinin-expressing interneurons in the hippocampal CA3 area. J Neurosci 2012; 31:18073-93. [PMID: 22159120 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.3573-11.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hippocampal oscillations reflect coordinated neuronal activity on many timescales. Distinct types of GABAergic interneuron participate in the coordination of pyramidal cells over different oscillatory cycle phases. In the CA3 area, which generates sharp waves and gamma oscillations, the contribution of identified GABAergic neurons remains to be defined. We have examined the firing of a family of cholecystokinin-expressing interneurons during network oscillations in urethane-anesthetized rats and compared them with firing of CA3 pyramidal cells. The position of the terminals of individual visualized interneurons was highly diverse, selective, and often spatially coaligned with either the entorhinal or the associational inputs to area CA3. The spike timing in relation to theta and gamma oscillations and sharp waves was correlated with the innervated pyramidal cell domain. Basket and dendritic-layer-innervating interneurons receive entorhinal and associational inputs and preferentially fire on the ascending theta phase, when pyramidal cell assemblies emerge. Perforant-path-associated cells, driven by recurrent collaterals of pyramidal cells fire on theta troughs, when established pyramidal cell assemblies are most active. In the CA3 area, slow and fast gamma oscillations occurred on opposite theta oscillation phases. Perforant-path-associated and some COUP-TFII-positive interneurons are strongly coupled to both fast and slow gamma oscillations, but basket and dendritic-layer-innervating cells are weakly coupled to fast gamma oscillations only. During sharp waves, different interneuron types are activated, inhibited, or remain unaffected. We suggest that specialization in pyramidal cell domain and glutamatergic input-specific operations, reflected in the position of GABAergic terminals, is the evolutionary drive underlying the diversity of cholecystokinin-expressing interneurons.
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Alterations of endocannabinoid signaling, synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory in monoacylglycerol lipase knock-out mice. J Neurosci 2011; 31:13420-30. [PMID: 21940435 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2075-11.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocannabinoid (eCB) signaling is tightly regulated by eCB biosynthetic and degradative enzymes. The eCB 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) is hydrolyzed primarily by monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL). Here, we investigated whether eCB signaling, synaptic function, and learning behavior were altered in MAGL knock-out mice. We report that MAGL⁻/⁻ mice exhibited prolonged depolarization-induced suppression of inhibition (DSI) in hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons, providing genetic evidence that the inactivation of 2-AG by MAGL determines the time course of the eCB-mediated retrograde synaptic depression. CB₁ receptor antagonists enhanced basal IPSCs in CA1 pyramidal neurons in MAGL⁻/⁻ mice, while the magnitude of DSI or CB₁ receptor agonist-induced depression of IPSCs was decreased in MAGL⁻/⁻ mice. These results suggest that 2-AG elevations in MAGL⁻/⁻ mice cause tonic activation and partial desensitization of CB₁ receptors. Genetic deletion of MAGL selectively enhanced theta burst stimulation (TBS)-induced long-term potentiation (LTP) in the CA1 region of hippocampal slices but had no significant effect on LTP induced by high-frequency stimulation or long-term depression induced by low-frequency stimulation. The enhancement of TBS-LTP in MAGL⁻/⁻ mice appears to be mediated by 2-AG-induced suppression of GABA(A) receptor-mediated inhibition. MAGL⁻/⁻ mice exhibited enhanced learning as shown by improved performance in novel object recognition and Morris water maze. These results indicate that genetic deletion of MAGL causes profound changes in eCB signaling, long-term synaptic plasticity, and learning behavior.
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Zanettini C, Panlilio LV, Alicki M, Goldberg SR, Haller J, Yasar S. Effects of endocannabinoid system modulation on cognitive and emotional behavior. Front Behav Neurosci 2011; 5:57. [PMID: 21949506 PMCID: PMC3171696 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2011.00057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 143] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2011] [Accepted: 08/21/2011] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabis has long been known to produce cognitive and emotional effects. Research has shown that cannabinoid drugs produce these effects by driving the brain’s endogenous cannabinoid system and that this system plays a modulatory role in many cognitive and emotional processes. This review focuses on the effects of endocannabinoid system modulation in animal models of cognition (learning and memory) and emotion (anxiety and depression). We review studies in which natural or synthetic cannabinoid agonists were administered to directly stimulate cannabinoid receptors or, conversely, where cannabinoid antagonists were administered to inhibit the activity of cannabinoid receptors. In addition, studies are reviewed that involved genetic disruption of cannabinoid receptors or genetic or pharmacological manipulation of the endocannabinoid-degrading enzyme, fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). Endocannabinoids affect the function of many neurotransmitter systems, some of which play opposing roles. The diversity of cannabinoid roles and the complexity of task-dependent activation of neuronal circuits may lead to the effects of endocannabinoid system modulation being strongly dependent on environmental conditions. Recent findings are reviewed that raise the possibility that endocannabinoid signaling may change the impact of environmental influences on emotional and cognitive behavior rather than selectively affecting any specific behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Zanettini
- Department of Health and Human Services, Preclinical Pharmacology Section, Behavioral Neurosciences Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health Baltimore, MD, USA
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Wesley MJ, Hanlon CA, Porrino LJ. Poor decision-making by chronic marijuana users is associated with decreased functional responsiveness to negative consequences. Psychiatry Res 2011; 191:51-9. [PMID: 21145211 PMCID: PMC3125637 DOI: 10.1016/j.pscychresns.2010.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2010] [Revised: 10/07/2010] [Accepted: 10/08/2010] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Chronic marijuana users (MJ Users) perform poorly on the Iowa Gambling Task (IGT), a complex decision-making task in which monetary wins and losses guide strategy development. This functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) study sought to determine if the poor performance of MJ Users was related to differences in brain activity while evaluating wins and losses during the strategy development phase of the IGT. MJ Users (16) and Controls (16) performed a modified IGT in an MRI scanner. Performance was tracked and functional activity in response to early wins and losses was examined. While the MJ Users continued to perform poorly at the end of the task, there was no difference in group performance during the initial strategy development phase. During this phase, before the emergence of behavioral differences, Controls exhibited significantly greater activity in response to losses in the anterior cingulate cortex, medial frontal cortex, precuneus, superior parietal lobe, occipital lobe and cerebellum as compared to MJ Users. Furthermore, in Controls, but not MJ Users, the functional response to losses in the anterior cingulate cortex, ventral medial prefrontal cortex and rostral prefrontal cortex positively correlated with performance over time. These data suggest MJ Users are less sensitive to negative feedback during strategy development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. Wesley
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157 (U.S.A.)
| | - Colleen A. Hanlon
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157 (U.S.A.)
| | - Linda J. Porrino
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157 (U.S.A.)
- Center for the Neurobiological Investigation of Drug Abuse, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157 (U.S.A.)
- Address correspondence to: Linda J. Porrino, Ph.D., Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, NC 27157-1083, Tel: 336 716 8575, FAX: 336 716 8501,
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Sousa VC, Assaife-Lopes N, Ribeiro JA, Pratt JA, Brett RR, Sebastião AM. Regulation of hippocampal cannabinoid CB1 receptor actions by adenosine A1 receptors and chronic caffeine administration: implications for the effects of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol on spatial memory. Neuropsychopharmacology 2011; 36:472-87. [PMID: 20927050 PMCID: PMC3055664 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2010.179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The cannabinoid CB(1) receptor-mediated modulation of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) release from inhibitory interneurons is important for the integrity of hippocampal-dependent spatial memory. Although adenosine A(1) receptors have a central role in fine-tuning excitatory transmission in the hippocampus, A(1) receptors localized in GABAergic cells do not directly influence GABA release. CB(1) and A(1) receptors are the main targets for the effects of two of the most heavily consumed psychoactive substances worldwide: Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC, a CB(1) receptor agonist) and caffeine (an adenosine receptor antagonist). We first tested the hypothesis that an A(1)-CB(1) interaction influences GABA and glutamate release in the hippocampus. We found that A(1) receptor activation attenuated the CB(1)-mediated inhibition of GABA and glutamate release and this interaction was manifested at the level of G-protein activation. Using in vivo and in vitro approaches, we then investigated the functional implications of the adenosine-cannabinoid interplay that may arise following chronic caffeine consumption. Chronic administration of caffeine in mice (intraperitoneally, 3 mg/kg/day, for 15 days, >12 h before trials) led to an A(1)-mediated enhancement of the CB(1)-dependent acute disruptive effects of THC on a short-term spatial memory task, despite inducing a reduction in cortical and hippocampal CB(1) receptor number and an attenuation of CB(1) coupling with G protein. A(1) receptor levels were increased following chronic caffeine administration. This study shows that A(1) receptors exert a negative modulatory effect on CB(1)-mediated inhibition of GABA and glutamate release, and provides the first evidence of chronic caffeine-induced alterations on the cannabinoid system in the cortex and hippocampus, with functional implications in spatial memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasco C Sousa
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pharmacology and Neurosciences, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal,Unit of Neurosciences, Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Natália Assaife-Lopes
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pharmacology and Neurosciences, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal,Unit of Neurosciences, Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Joaquim A Ribeiro
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pharmacology and Neurosciences, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal,Unit of Neurosciences, Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Judith A Pratt
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
| | - Ros R Brett
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
| | - Ana M Sebastião
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pharmacology and Neurosciences, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal,Unit of Neurosciences, Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal,Fac. Medicina, Inst. Farmacol. e Neurociências and Unit of Neurosciences, Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Lisbon, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, Lisbon 1649-028, Portugal. Tel: +35 121 798 5183, Fax: +35 121 799 9454, E-mail:
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22
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Acheson SK, Moore NLT, Kuhn CM, Wilson WA, Swartzwelder HS. The synthetic cannabinoid WIN 55212-2 differentially modulates thigmotaxis but not spatial learning in adolescent and adult animals. Neurosci Lett 2010; 487:411-4. [PMID: 21055447 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2010.10.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2010] [Revised: 09/15/2010] [Accepted: 10/27/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Unlike Δ(9)-THC, the synthetic compound WIN 55212-2 (WIN) is a full agonist of endogenous cannabinoid receptors. Previous work has shown Δ(9)-THC to affect adolescent and adult animals differently on numerous behavioral measures of spatial memory, anxiety, and locomotor activity. However, far less is known about the developmental and neurobehavioral effects of WIN. To address this, we assessed the effect of WIN (1mg/kg) on spatial learning in adolescent and adult rats using the Morris water maze. While all animals demonstrated decreased swim distance across days, WIN affected adolescents and adults differently. It improved performance in adolescents and resulted in a nearly significant performance decrement in adults. However, these effects were significantly related to thigmotaxis, which declined across days in the water maze testing protocol. WIN reduced thigmotaxis on days 1 and 2 (but not days 3-5) only in adolescents. The effect of age, treatment, and the age×treatment interaction was eliminated after controlling for thigmotaxis. These results indicate that WIN affects thigmotaxis rather than spatial reference memory. More importantly, these findings indicate a dissociation between the developmental effects of THC and the synthetic CB1 receptor agonist, WIN 55212-2. We suggest that the role of thigmotaxis be carefully evaluated in future neurodevelopmental studies of spatial learning, especially those investigating the endocannabinoid system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shawn K Acheson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, United States.
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Barkus E, Murray RM. Substance use in adolescence and psychosis: clarifying the relationship. Annu Rev Clin Psychol 2010; 6:365-89. [PMID: 20192802 DOI: 10.1146/annurev.clinpsy.121208.131220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Adolescence is a time of exploration of the self, and this exploration may involve the use of alcohol and drugs. Sadly, for some, adolescence also marks the first signs of a psychosis. The temporal proximity between the onset of substance use and of psychosis has been the cause of much debate. Here we review the association of alcohol, cannabis, stimulants, and other drugs with psychosis, and we conclude that the use of cannabis and the amphetamines significantly contributes to the risk of psychosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Barkus
- Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, De Crespigny Park, SE58A4 London, United Kingdom.
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Abstract
OBJETIVO: Evidências de que o uso de cannabis prejudica funções cognitivas em humanos têm-se acumulado nas décadas recentes. O propósito desta revisão é o de atualizar o conhecimento nesta área com novos achados a partir da literatura mais recente. MÉTODO: As buscas na literatura foram realizadas utilizando-se o banco de dados Web of Science até fevereiro de 2010. Foram buscados os termos "cannabi*" ou "marijuana" e "cogniti*" ou "memory" ou "attention" ou "executive function", e os estudos em humanos foram revisados preferencialmente em relação aos estudos em animais. DISCUSSÃO: O uso de cannabis prejudica a memória, a atenção, o controle inibitório, as funções executivas e a tomada de decisões, tanto durante como após o período de intoxicação aguda, persistindo por horas, dias, semanas ou mais após o último uso. Os estudos de desafio farmacológico em humanos estão elucidando a natureza e os substratos neurais das alterações cognitivas associadas a vários canabinoides. O uso pesado ou de longo prazo de cannabis parece resultar em anormalidades cognitivas mais duradouras e possivelmente em alterações cerebrais estruturais. Efeitos cognitivos adversos maiores estão associados ao uso de cannabis quando este começa no início da adolescência. CONCLUSÃO: O sistema canabinoide endógeno está envolvido nos mecanismos de regulação neural que modulam os processos subjacentes a uma gama de funções cognitivas que estão prejudicadas pela cannabis. Os déficits em usuários humanos muito provavelmente refletem, portanto, neuroadaptações e o funcionamento alterado do sistema canabinoide endógeno.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Solowij
- University of Wollongong, Austrália; Schizophrenia Research Institute, Austrália
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Wise LE, Thorpe AJ, Lichtman AH. Hippocampal CB(1) receptors mediate the memory impairing effects of Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol. Neuropsychopharmacology 2009; 34:2072-80. [PMID: 19322169 PMCID: PMC2822461 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2009.31] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
It is firmly established that the hippocampus, a brain region implicated in spatial learning, episodic memory, and consolidation, contains a high concentration of CB(1) receptors. Moreover, systemic and intrahippocampal administration of cannabinoid agonists have been shown to impair hippocampal-dependent memory tasks. However, the degree to which CB(1) receptors in the hippocampus play a specific functional role in the memory disruptive effects of marijuana or its primary psychoactive constituent Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta(9)-THC) is unknown. This study was designed to determine whether hippocampal CB(1) receptors play a functional role in the memory disruptive effects of systemically administered cannabinoids, using the radial arm maze, a well characterized rodent model of working memory. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were implanted with bilateral cannulae aimed at the CA1 region of the dorsal hippocampus. The CB(1) receptor antagonist, rimonabant, was delivered into the hippocampus before to a systemic injection of either Delta(9)-THC or the potent cannabinoid analog, CP-55,940. Strikingly, intrahippocampal administration of rimonabant completely attenuated the memory disruptive effects of both cannabinoids in the radial arm maze task, but did not affect other pharmacological properties of cannabinoids, as assessed in the tetrad assay (that is, hypomotility, analgesia, catalepsy, and hypothermia). Infusions of rimonabant just dorsal or ventral to the hippocampus did not prevent Delta(9)-THC-induced memory impairment, indicating that its effects on mnemonic function were regionally selective. These findings provide compelling evidence in support of the view that hippocampal CB(1) receptors play a necessary role in the memory disruptive effects of marijuana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura E Wise
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
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Substitution profile of Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol, triazolam, hydromorphone, and methylphenidate in humans discriminating Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2009; 203:241-50. [PMID: 19018520 PMCID: PMC2712322 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-008-1393-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2008] [Accepted: 10/23/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Preclinical evidence suggests that non-cannabinoid neurotransmitter systems are involved in the behavioral and physiological effects of cannabinoids, but relatively little research has been conducted in humans. OBJECTIVES The aims of this study were to assess whether oral Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta(9)-THC) would function as a discriminative stimulus in humans and to examine the substitution profile of drugs acting at opioid, GABA, and dopamine systems. METHODS Healthy subjects who reported moderate cannabis use were enrolled. Subjects learned to identify when they received oral 25 mg Delta(9)-THC or placebo under double-blind conditions. Once subjects acquired the discrimination (i.e., > or =80% drug-appropriate responding for four consecutive sessions), multiple doses of Delta(9)-THC, the GABA(A) positive modulator triazolam, the micro-opioid agonist hydromorphone and the dopamine reuptake inhibitor methylphenidate were tested to determine if they shared discriminative-stimulus effects with the training dose of Delta(9)-THC. RESULTS Eight subjects (N = 8) accurately discriminated Delta(9)-THC and completed the study. The training dose of Delta(9)-THC functioned as a discriminative stimulus and produced prototypical subject-rated drug effects. All of the drugs tested produced significant effects on the self-report questionnaires, but only Delta(9)-THC substituted for the training dose. CONCLUSION These results suggest that the discriminative-stimulus effects of Delta(9)-THC in humans are not directly mediated through central neurotransmitter systems acted upon by the drugs tested in this study.
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Chronic treatment with Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol impairs spatial memory and reduces zif268 expression in the mouse forebrain. Behav Pharmacol 2009; 20:45-55. [PMID: 19179850 DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0b013e3283242f6a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Few studies have investigated the effects of chronic cannabinoid exposure on memory performance and whether tolerance occurs to cannabinoid-induced memory impairment. Here, we studied the effects of repeated exposure to Delta-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC: 1 mg/kg) on spatial memory and zif268 expression in mice. One group of animals was not pretreated with THC, whereas another group was injected with 13 daily injections of THC before memory testing in the Morris water maze. Both groups were administered with THC throughout the memory-testing phase of the experiment. THC decreased spatial memory and reversal learning, even in animals that received the THC pretreatment and were tolerant to the locomotor suppressant effects of the drug. Zif268 immunoreactivity was reduced in the CA3 of the hippocampus and in the prefrontal cortex only in non-pretreated animals, indicating that although tolerance to the effects of THC on neuronal activity was evident, cannabinoid-induced memory impairment in these animals persisted even after 24 days of exposure. This study shows that after extended administration of THC, its spatial memory-impairing effects are resistant to tolerance.
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Varvel SA, Martin BR, Lichtman AH. Lack of behavioral sensitization after repeated exposure to THC in mice and comparison to methamphetamine. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2007; 193:511-9. [PMID: 17497137 PMCID: PMC2637562 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-007-0811-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2007] [Accepted: 04/19/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Recent evidence has provided support for the incentive-sensitization model of addiction, where repeated stimulation of neural reward circuits leads to a long-lasting sensitization of mesolimbic dopaminergic activity. This phenomenon has been demonstrated with many drugs of abuse, most often by measuring progressively increased activating effects of drugs on locomotor activity, thought to reflect an underlying neural sensitization. Whether cannabinoids, and in particular Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), produce similar effects in this model is somewhat controversial, with mixed evidence in the literature. OBJECTIVES These experiments were conducted to determine whether behavioral sensitization could be established in mice after repeated exposure to THC. Sensitization to repeated methamphetamine treatment was used as a positive control. METHODS The effects of acute and repeated intermittent (every 3-4 days) treatment with THC or methamphetamine on locomotor activity were determined in Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) mice. Additional experiments with THC employed a dosing regimen that increased the number of injections, controlled for behavioral tolerance, examined different aspects of behavior, and used a different species (Sprague-Dawley rats). RESULTS Both methamphetamine and THC acutely increased activity. A robust dose-dependent sensitization was observed after intermittent treatment with methamphetamine but not with THC. Additionally, no evidence for behavioral sensitization to the effects of THC was found with any of the various protocols. CONCLUSION These data suggest that repeated THC treatment is less likely to produce behavioral sensitization than are other drugs of abuse. It appears that this phenomenon may only occur under very particular conditions, which raises doubts about its relevance to chronic cannabis users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen A Varvel
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, P.O. Box 980613, Richmond, VA 23298-0613, USA.
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Hoffman AF, Oz M, Yang R, Lichtman AH, Lupica CR. Opposing actions of chronic Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabinoid antagonists on hippocampal long-term potentiation. Learn Mem 2007; 14:63-74. [PMID: 17202425 PMCID: PMC1828281 DOI: 10.1101/lm.439007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Memory deficits produced by marijuana arise partly via interaction of the psychoactive component, Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta(9)-THC), with cannabinoid receptors in the hippocampus. Although cannabinoids acutely reduce glutamate release and block hippocampal long-term potentiation (LTP), a potential substrate for learning and memory, the consequences of prolonged exposure to Delta(9)-THC for hippocampal function are poorly understood. Rats were injected with Delta(9)-THC (10 mg/kg, i.p., q.d.) for 1, 3, or 7 d, and electrophysiological recordings were performed in hippocampal slices 1d after the final injection. At this time, Delta(9)-THC was undetectable in hippocampus using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Hippocampal LTP generated using high-frequency (HFS) or theta burst stimulation was not observed in brain slices from the 7-d Delta(9)-THC-treated animals. Delta(9)-THC also blocked HFS-LTP after 3 d, but not 1 d of treatment. The complete blockade of LTP persisted for 3 d after the last Delta(9)-THC injection, and full reversal of the LTP deficit was not observed up to 14 d following Delta(9)-THC withdrawal. The cannabinoid antagonist AM251 (2 mg/kg), administered before each Delta(9)-THC injection prevented the blockade of LTP, and 7-d treatment with AM251 alone significantly increased the level of LTP. Chronic Delta(9)-THC also produced tolerance to the inhibition of synaptic GABA, but not glutamate release by the agonist WIN55,212-2. These data define consequences of repeated Delta(9)-THC exposure for synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus that may help explain memory impairments in humans following chronic marijuana use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander F. Hoffman
- United States Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Cellular Neurobiology Branch, Electrophysiology Research Unit, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA
| | - Murat Oz
- United States Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Cellular Neurobiology Branch, Electrophysiology Research Unit, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA
| | - Ruiqin Yang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 23298-0613, USA
| | - Aron H. Lichtman
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 23298-0613, USA
| | - Carl R. Lupica
- United States Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Cellular Neurobiology Branch, Electrophysiology Research Unit, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA
- Corresponding author.E-mail ; fax (410) 550-1621
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Varvel SA, Anum EA, Lichtman AH. Disruption of CB(1) receptor signaling impairs extinction of spatial memory in mice. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2005; 179:863-72. [PMID: 15619104 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-004-2121-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2004] [Accepted: 11/07/2004] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE A growing body of in vitro and in vivo evidence indicates that a central endocannabinoid system, consisting of CB(1) receptors and endogenous cannabinoids, modulates specific aspects of mnemonic processes. Previous research has demonstrated that either permanent or drug-induced disruption of CB(1) receptor signaling interferes with the extinction of a conditioned fear response. OBJECTIVES In the present study, we evaluated whether the endocannabinoid system also plays a role in extinguishing learned escape behavior in a Morris water maze task. METHODS CB(1) (-/-) mice and mice repeatedly treated with 3 mg/kg of the CB(1) receptor antagonist SR 141716 (Rimonabant) were trained to locate a hidden platform in the Morris water maze. Following acquisition, the platform was removed and subjects were assigned to either a massed (i.e., five consecutive sessions consisting of four 2-min trials/session) or a spaced (a single, 1-min trial every 2-4 weeks) extinction protocol. RESULTS Strikingly, both 3 mg/kg SR 141716-treated mice and CB(1) (-/-) mice continued to return to the target location across all five trials in the spaced extinction procedure, while the control mice underwent extinction by the third or fourth trial. In contrast, both the 3-mg/kg SR 141716-treated and CB(1) (-/-) mice exhibited extinction in the massed extinction trial procedure. CONCLUSIONS These findings indicate that disruption of CB(1) receptor signaling impairs extinction processes in the Morris water maze, thus lending further support to the hypothesis that the endocannabinoid system plays an integral role in the suppression of non-reinforced learned behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- S A Varvel
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, P.O. Box 980613, Richmond, VA 23298-0613, USA
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