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Jang EY, Lee BH, Yun J, Yang CH, Yoon SS. Effects of the Synthetic Cathinone α-Pyrrolidinobutiothiophenone (α-PBT) on Discriminative Stimulus Effects and Intracranial Self-Stimulation Thresholds in Male Rats. ACS Chem Neurosci 2024; 15:2420-2431. [PMID: 38838000 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.4c00143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Recently, the abuse of synthetic cathinones is increasing among young people. α-Pyrrolidinobutiothiophenone (α-PBT), a synthetic cathinone, is a designer drug that is freely traded online with no legal restrictions. Moreover, there is currently no scientific basis for legal regulation. Here, we examined the addictive properties of α-PBT using a drug discrimination (DD) task. We also investigated the role of α-PBT in brain stimulation reward (BSR) using an intracranial self-stimulation (ICSS) paradigm in rats. Initially, the rats were trained to discriminate between cocaine and saline. After the discrimination training criteria were met, we determined the dose-effect curves of cocaine and conducted generalization tests with α-PBT and α-pyrrolidinopentiothiophenone (α-PVT) using a cumulative dosing protocol. In a separate set of studies, we examined the dopaminergic mechanisms underlying the function of α-PBT as an interoceptive stimulus (17.8 mg/kg) by intraperitoneally injecting either the dopamine (DA) D1 antagonist SCH23390 (0.06 and 0.12 mg/kg) or the D2 antagonist eticlopride (0.05 and 0.1 mg/kg) 15 min before DD testing. Brain reward function was measured using an ICSS procedure to examine the effects of α-PBT on ICSS threshold under the frequency-rate procedure. Our results showed that α-PBT functioned as a discriminative cue similar to cocaine in rats. More importantly, SCH23390 abolished the effects of α-PBT as an interoceptive stimulus in a dose-dependent manner in rats trained to press a lever to receive cocaine. Similarly, eticlopride dose-dependently attenuated the effect of α-PBT used as a discriminative cue. Additionally, cumulative α-PBT administration dose-dependently lowered ICSS thresholds compared with those in saline-treated rats. Furthermore, α-PBT-induced potentiation of BSR was abolished by pretreatment with both SCH23390 and eticlopride. Taken together, our results suggest that α-PBT can function as a cocaine-like discriminative cue via the activation of D1 and D2 receptors. α-PBT also appears to influence BSR by reducing the brain reward threshold via changes in D1 and D2 receptors. The present study suggests that α-PBT could have addictive properties through DA D1 and D2 receptors and thus poses a threat to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun Young Jang
- Department of Advanced Toxicology Research, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Bong Hyo Lee
- Department of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Acupoint, College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, 136 Sincheondong-ro, Suseong-gu, Daegu 42158, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaesuk Yun
- College of Pharmacy and Medical Research Center, Chungbuk National University, Osongsaengmyeong 1-ro, Osong-eup, Heungdeok-gu, Cheongju, Chungbuk 28160, Republic of Korea
| | - Chae Ha Yang
- Department of Physiology, College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, 136 Sincheondong-ro, Suseong-gu, Daegu 42158, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong Shoon Yoon
- Department of Physiology, College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, 136 Sincheondong-ro, Suseong-gu, Daegu 42158, Republic of Korea
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Kim OH, Jeon KO, Kim G, Jang CG, Yoon SS, Jang EY. The neuropharmacological properties of α-pyrrolidinobutiothiophenone, a new synthetic cathinone, in rodents; role of the dopaminergic system. Br J Pharmacol 2024. [PMID: 38772548 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE α-Pyrrolidinobutiothiophenone (α-PBT) is a chemical derivative of cathinone, a structural analogue of amphetamine. Until now, there have been a few previous neurochemical or neurobehavioural studies on the abuse potential of α-PBT. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH We examined the abuse potential of α-PBT by measuring psychomotor, rewarding, and reinforcing properties and methamphetamine-like discriminative stimulus effects in rodents using locomotor activity, conditioned place preference, self-administration, and drug discrimination studies. To clarify the underlying neuropharmacological mechanisms, we measured dopamine levels and neuronal activation in the dorsal striatum. In addition, we investigated the role of the dopamine D1 receptor or D2 receptors in α-PBT-induced hyperlocomotor activity, conditioned place preference, and the methamphetamine-like discriminative stimulus effect of α-PBT in rodents. KEY RESULTS α-PBT promoted hyperlocomotor activity in mice. α-PBT induced drug-paired place preference in mice and supported self-administration in rats. In a drug discrimination experiment, α-PBT fully substituted for the discriminative stimulus effects of methamphetamine in rats. Furthermore, α-PBT increased dopamine levels and c-Fos expression in the dorsal striatum of mice, which was associated with these behaviours. Finally, pretreatment with the D1 receptor antagonist SCH23390 or the D2 receptors antagonist eticlopride significantly attenuated acute or repeated α-PBT-induced hyperlocomotor activity, place preference, and the methamphetamine-like discriminative stimulus effects in rodents. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS These findings suggest that α-PBT has abuse potential at the highest dose tested via enhanced dopaminergic transmission in the dorsal striatum of rodents. The results provide scientific evidence for the legal restrictions of the recreational use of α-PBT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oc-Hee Kim
- Department of Advanced Toxicology Research, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Oh Jeon
- Department of Advanced Toxicology Research, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Biology, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Gihyeon Kim
- Department of Physiology, College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Choon-Gon Jang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong Shoon Yoon
- Department of Physiology, College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Young Jang
- Department of Advanced Toxicology Research, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
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Jeon KO, Kim OH, Seo SY, Yun J, Jang CG, Lim RN, Kim TW, Yang CH, Yoon SS, Jang EY. The psychomotor, reinforcing, and discriminative stimulus effects of synthetic cathinone mexedrone in male mice and rats. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 969:176466. [PMID: 38431243 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
The chronic use of the novel synthetic cathinone mexedrone, like other psychoactive drugs, can be considered addictive, with a high potential for abuse and the ability to cause psychological dependence in certain users. However, little is known about the neurobehavioral effects of mexedrone in association with its potential for abuse. We investigated the abuse potential for mexedrone abuse through multiple behavioral tests. In addition, serotonin transporter (SERT) levels were measured in the synaptosome of the dorsal striatum, and serotonin (5-HT) levels were measured in the dorsal striatum of acute mexedreone (50 mg/kg)-treated mice. To clarify the neuropharmacological mechanisms underlying the locomotor response of mexedrone, the 5-HT2A receptor antagonist M100907 (0.5 or 1.0 mg/kg) was administered prior to the acute injection of mexedrone in the locomotor activity experiment in mice. Mexedrone (10-50 mg/kg) produced a significant place preference in mice and mexedrone (0.1-0.5 mg/kg/infusion) maintained self-administration behavior in rats in a dose-dependent manner. In the drug discrimination experiment, mexedrone (5.6-32 mg/kg) was fully substituted for the discriminative stimulus effects of cocaine in rats. Mexedrone increased locomotor activity, and these effects were reversed by pretreatment with M100907. Acute mexedrone significantly increased c-Fos expression in the dorsal striatum and decreased SERT levels in the synaptosome of the dorsal striatum of mice, resulting in an elevation of 5-HT levels. Taken together, our results provide the possibility that mexedrone has abuse potential, which might be mediated, at least in part, by the activation of the serotonergic system in the dorsal striatum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyung Oh Jeon
- Department of Advanced Toxicology Research, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon, 34114, Republic of Korea; Department of Microbiology and Molecular Biology, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Oc-Hee Kim
- Department of Advanced Toxicology Research, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon, 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Su Yeon Seo
- Korean Medicine (KM) Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, 34054, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaesuk Yun
- College of Pharmacy, Chungbuk National University, 194-31 Osongsaengmyeong 1-ro, Osong-eup, Heungdeok-gu, Cheongju-si, Chungcheongbuk-do, 28160, Republic of Korea
| | - Choon-Gon Jang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Ri-Na Lim
- Department of Advanced Toxicology Research, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon, 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Wan Kim
- Department of Advanced Toxicology Research, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon, 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Chae Ha Yang
- Department of Physiology, College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, 136 Sincheondong-ro, Suseong-gu, Daegu, 42158, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong Shoon Yoon
- Department of Physiology, College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, 136 Sincheondong-ro, Suseong-gu, Daegu, 42158, Republic of Korea.
| | - Eun Young Jang
- Department of Advanced Toxicology Research, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon, 34114, Republic of Korea.
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Chen S, Zhou W, Lai M. Synthetic Cathinones: Epidemiology, Toxicity, Potential for Abuse, and Current Public Health Perspective. Brain Sci 2024; 14:334. [PMID: 38671986 PMCID: PMC11048581 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14040334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cathinones, derived from cathinone found in the plant Catha edulis, represent the second largest and most frequently seized group of new psychoactive substances. They are considered as β-keto analogs of amphetamine, sharing pharmacological effects with amphetamine and cocaine. This review describes the neurotoxic properties of synthetic cathinones, encompassing their capacity to induce neuroinflammation, dysregulate neurotransmitter systems, and alter monoamine transporters and receptors. Additionally, it discusses the rewarding and abuse potential of synthetic cathinones drawing from findings obtained through various preclinical animal models, contextualized with other classical psychostimulants. The review also offers an overview of current abuse trends of synthetic cathinones on the illicit drug market, specifying the aspects covered, and underscores the risks they pose to public health. Finally, the review discusses public health initiatives and efforts to reduce the hazards of synthetic cathinones, including harm reduction methods, education, and current clinical management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Chen
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Addiction Research, The Affiliated Kangning Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo 315201, China; (S.C.); (W.Z.)
- Department of Psychiatry, Ningbo Kangning Hospital, Ningbo 315201, China
| | - Wenhua Zhou
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Addiction Research, The Affiliated Kangning Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo 315201, China; (S.C.); (W.Z.)
- Department of Psychiatry, Ningbo Kangning Hospital, Ningbo 315201, China
| | - Miaojun Lai
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Addiction Research, The Affiliated Kangning Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo 315201, China; (S.C.); (W.Z.)
- Department of Psychiatry, Ningbo Kangning Hospital, Ningbo 315201, China
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Daziani G, Lo Faro AF, Montana V, Goteri G, Pesaresi M, Bambagiotti G, Montanari E, Giorgetti R, Montana A. Synthetic Cathinones and Neurotoxicity Risks: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076230. [PMID: 37047201 PMCID: PMC10093970 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
According to the EU Early Warning System (EWS), synthetic cathinones (SCs) are the second largest new psychoactive substances (NPS) class, with 162 synthetic cathinones monitored by the EU EWS. They have a similar structure to cathinone, principally found in Catha Edulis; they have a phenethylamine related structure but also exhibit amphetamine-like stimulant effects. Illegal laboratories regularly develop new substances and place them on the market. For this reason, during the last decade this class of substances has presented a great challenge for public health and forensic toxicologists. Acting on different systems and with various mechanisms of action, the spectrum of side effects caused by the intake of these drugs of abuse is very broad. To date, most studies have focused on the substances’ cardiac effects, and very few on their associated neurotoxicity. Specifically, synthetic cathinones appear to be involved in different neurological events, including increased alertness, mild agitation, severe psychosis, hyperthermia and death. A systematic literature search in PubMed and Scopus databases according to PRISMA guidelines was performed. A total of 515 studies published from 2005 to 2022 (350 articles from PubMed and 165 from Scopus) were initially screened for eligibility. The papers excluded, according to the criteria described in the Method Section (n = 401) and after full text analyses (n = 82), were 483 in total. The remaining 76 were included in the present review, as they met fully the inclusion criteria. The present work provides a comprehensive review on neurotoxic mechanisms of synthetic cathinones highlighting intoxication cases and fatalities in humans, as well as the toxic effects on animals (in particular rats, mice and zebrafish larvae). The reviewed studies showed brain-related adverse effects, including encephalopathy, coma and convulsions, and sympathomimetic and hallucinogenic toxidromes, together with the risk of developing excited/agitated delirium syndrome and serotonin syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Daziani
- Department of Excellence Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Marche Polytechnic University, 60121 Ancona, Italy; (G.D.); (A.F.L.F.); (G.G.); (M.P.); (G.B.); (E.M.); (R.G.)
| | - Alfredo Fabrizio Lo Faro
- Department of Excellence Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Marche Polytechnic University, 60121 Ancona, Italy; (G.D.); (A.F.L.F.); (G.G.); (M.P.); (G.B.); (E.M.); (R.G.)
| | - Vincenzo Montana
- Dipartimento di Anestesia, Rianimazione e Emergenza-Urgenza, Fondazione IRCCS (Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico) Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy;
| | - Gaia Goteri
- Department of Excellence Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Marche Polytechnic University, 60121 Ancona, Italy; (G.D.); (A.F.L.F.); (G.G.); (M.P.); (G.B.); (E.M.); (R.G.)
| | - Mauro Pesaresi
- Department of Excellence Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Marche Polytechnic University, 60121 Ancona, Italy; (G.D.); (A.F.L.F.); (G.G.); (M.P.); (G.B.); (E.M.); (R.G.)
| | - Giulia Bambagiotti
- Department of Excellence Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Marche Polytechnic University, 60121 Ancona, Italy; (G.D.); (A.F.L.F.); (G.G.); (M.P.); (G.B.); (E.M.); (R.G.)
| | - Eva Montanari
- Department of Excellence Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Marche Polytechnic University, 60121 Ancona, Italy; (G.D.); (A.F.L.F.); (G.G.); (M.P.); (G.B.); (E.M.); (R.G.)
| | - Raffaele Giorgetti
- Department of Excellence Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Marche Polytechnic University, 60121 Ancona, Italy; (G.D.); (A.F.L.F.); (G.G.); (M.P.); (G.B.); (E.M.); (R.G.)
| | - Angelo Montana
- Department of Excellence Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Marche Polytechnic University, 60121 Ancona, Italy; (G.D.); (A.F.L.F.); (G.G.); (M.P.); (G.B.); (E.M.); (R.G.)
- Correspondence:
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Kim OH, Jeon KO, Jang EY. Alpha-pyrrolidinopentiothiophenone (α-PVT) activates the TLR-NF-κB-MAPK signaling pathway and proinflammatory cytokine production and induces behavioral sensitization in mice. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2022; 221:173484. [PMID: 36272636 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2022.173484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic cathinones are chemical derivatives of cathinone, a structural analog to amphetamine. It has been shown that synthetic cathinones have abuse potentials similar to psychomotor stimulants such as amphetamine and induce neuroinflammation. Among the novel synthetic cathinones, α-pyrrolidinopentiothiophenone (α-PVT) has been known to produce rewarding and reinforcing effects in rodent models. However, it has not yet been determined whether α-PVT induces neuroinflammation in vivo. In the present study, mice were exposed to repeated saline or α-PVT (20 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) for 7 days to test changes in locomotor activity and neuroinflammation-related factors in the striatum of mice. Repeated administration of α-PVT significantly induced locomotor sensitization. In addition, repeated α-PVT administration significantly increased the number of microglial cells, accompanied by marked increases in TLR1, TLR4, TLR6, and TLR7 mRNA levels in the striatum of mice. Furthermore, acute or repeated α-PVT administration increased the levels of phosphorylated NF-κB, ERK, p38, and JNK MAPK activation and repeated α-PVT, but not acute, increased the levels of TNF-α and IL-6 mRNA in the striatum of mice. Finally, systemic administration of TAK-242 (5 mg/kg, i.p.) or MPLA (50 μg/kg, i.p.), each an inhibitor or activator of TLR4, did not change α-PVT-induced behavioral sensitization in mice. These results suggest that the activation of TLR4 by repeated α-PVT administration may lead to neuroinflammation via TLR-mediated NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways and the production of TNF-α and IL-6 in the striatum of mice, at least without the regulation of behavioral sensitization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oc-Hee Kim
- Department of Advanced Toxicology Research, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Oh Jeon
- Department of Advanced Toxicology Research, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea; Department of Microbiology and Molecular Biology, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Young Jang
- Department of Advanced Toxicology Research, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea.
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Lee W, Lee JW, Kim JM, Hong YK, Kim MS, Choi SO, Kang MS. The abuse potential of prolintane in rodents: Behavioral pharmacology approaches. Neuropharmacology 2021; 205:108917. [PMID: 34896117 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2021] [Revised: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Prolintane (1-Phenyl-2-pyrrolidinylpentane), a synthetic central nervous system (CNS) stimulant, is structurally similar to amphetamine but pharmacologically acts as a dopamine reuptake inhibitor like cocaine. While several case studies reported adverse effects and recreational use of prolintane, the abuse potential of the drug has not been systemically examined yet. In the present study, we evaluated the behavioral effects of prolintane regarding its abuse liability in rodents using locomotor activity, conditioned place preference (CPP), self-administration (SA), and drug discrimination paradigms, as well as in-vivo microdialysis experiment. First, acute prolintane (10 and 20 mg/kg, intraperitoneal injection) increased locomotor activity (distance traveled, cm) in mice but to a lesser degree than methamphetamine (as a positive control). We also found that a single and solitary injection of prolintane (20 mg/kg, IP) significantly increased extracellular dopamine in the striatum. The following result suggests that its stimulatory effects might be associated with the mesolimbic dopaminergic pathway. Further, prolintane produced a significant drug-paired place preference at doses of both 10 and 20 mg/kg. In the SA experiment, the mice that self-administered prolintane intravenously (4 mg/kg/inf) showed a higher infusion and active lever responses but not inactive lever responses. Additionally, cumulative doses of prolintane partially elicited cocaine-appropriate lever responses (38.57% at doses up to 10 mg/kg) in rats. These results implied that prolintane has not only rewarding and reinforcing effects but also interoceptive stimulus properties, which are similar to cocaine at a moderate level. Taken together, this study was the first to show, to our knowledge, that prolintane has a certain level of abuse potential and should be considered carefully as a valuable basis for legal restrictions on use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wonjong Lee
- Pharmacological Research Division, Toxicological Evaluation and Research Department, National Institute of Food and Drug Safety Evaluation, Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, 187 Osong Saengmyeong 2-ro, Heungdeok-gu, Chungju, 28159, South Korea
| | - Jung Won Lee
- Scientific Officer Division of in Vitro Diagnostic Devices National Institute of Food and Drug Safety Evaluation, Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, 187 Osong Saengmyeong 2-ro, Heungdeok-gu, Chungju, 28159, South Korea
| | - Jin Mook Kim
- Pharmacological Research Division, Toxicological Evaluation and Research Department, National Institute of Food and Drug Safety Evaluation, Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, 187 Osong Saengmyeong 2-ro, Heungdeok-gu, Chungju, 28159, South Korea
| | - Young-Ki Hong
- Pharmacological Research Division, Toxicological Evaluation and Research Department, National Institute of Food and Drug Safety Evaluation, Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, 187 Osong Saengmyeong 2-ro, Heungdeok-gu, Chungju, 28159, South Korea
| | - Mi-Seon Kim
- Pharmacological Research Division, Toxicological Evaluation and Research Department, National Institute of Food and Drug Safety Evaluation, Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, 187 Osong Saengmyeong 2-ro, Heungdeok-gu, Chungju, 28159, South Korea
| | - Sun Ok Choi
- Pharmacological Research Division, Toxicological Evaluation and Research Department, National Institute of Food and Drug Safety Evaluation, Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, 187 Osong Saengmyeong 2-ro, Heungdeok-gu, Chungju, 28159, South Korea
| | - Mi Sun Kang
- Pharmacological Research Division, Toxicological Evaluation and Research Department, National Institute of Food and Drug Safety Evaluation, Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, 187 Osong Saengmyeong 2-ro, Heungdeok-gu, Chungju, 28159, South Korea.
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Paul LD, Welter-Luedeke J, Penzel S, Zangl A, Graw M. Alpha-Pyrrolidinopentiothiophenone (α-PVT): A forensic case study including plasma concentrations. Forensic Sci Int 2021; 321:110721. [PMID: 33640778 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2021.110721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Alpha-Pyrrolidinopentiothiophenone (α-PVT) belongs to the drug class of pyrrolidinophenones, a subgroup of synthetic cathinones, which are among the most prevalent new psychoactive substances. The study describes a series of 44 authentic forensic cases with analytical confirmed intake of α-PVT. Plasma concentrations, determined by a validated LC-MS/MS method, ranged from ca. 0.9 to 306 µg/L (median 35.6; mean 66.6 µg/L). Comprehensive toxicological analysis proved excessive co-consumption in almost all cases, including other pyrovalerones and classic stimulants as well as central depressant drugs such as opiates/opioids, benzodiazepines, pregabalin and/or ethanol. Subjects were aged between 26 and 54 years (median 35 years, mean 36 years) and appeared to be mainly experienced intravenous drug consumers. A high incidence of aberrant behavior in terms of aggressive, combative behavior and psychotic changes could be observed, as also reflected in accused offences, which frequently presented violent crimes. In consideration of several confounding factors, the study suggests a relationship between frequency of such impairment and plasma concentrations of α-PVT, but individual cases without signs of behavioral changes and high plasma concentrations also occurred, which might be explained by developed tolerance and/or individual vulnerably for the psychotic effects of pyrovalerones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liane D Paul
- Department of Forensic Toxicology, Institute of Legal Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Nussbaumstraße 26, 80336 Munich, Germany.
| | - Jessica Welter-Luedeke
- Department of Forensic Toxicology, Institute of Legal Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Nussbaumstraße 26, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Saskia Penzel
- Department of Forensic Toxicology, Institute of Legal Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Nussbaumstraße 26, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Anna Zangl
- Department of Forensic Toxicology, Institute of Legal Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Nussbaumstraße 26, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Matthias Graw
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Nussbaumstraße 26, 80336 Munich, Germany
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Wojcieszak J, Kuczyńska K, Zawilska JB. Behavioral Effects of 4-CMC and 4-MeO-PVP in DBA/2J Mice After Acute and Intermittent Administration and Following Withdrawal from Intermittent 14-Day Treatment. Neurotox Res 2021; 39:575-587. [PMID: 33428180 PMCID: PMC8096775 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-021-00329-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic cathinones appeared on the market in the 2000s as new psychoactive substances and gained significant prevalence among drug abusers. Cathinones produce psychostimulant and empathogenic effects by enhancing dopaminergic, noradrenergic, and serotoninergic neurotransmission in the brain, and those which potently and selectively enhance dopaminergic transmission are considered to have higher abuse potential. The present study examines the behavioral effects related to psychostimulant properties, abuse potential, and addiction in DBA/2J mice of two cathinones with different profile of action on monoamine system, 4-chloromethcathinone (4-CMC), and 4-methoxy-pyrrolidinopentiophenone (4-MeO-PVP). 4-CMC and 4-MeO-PVP increase spontaneous locomotor activity after acute treatment and produce behavioral sensitization after 7-day intermittent treatment, which is a common feature of drugs of abuse. 4-MeO-PVP, but not 4-CMC, produces conditioned place preference after 4 days, indicating its rewarding properties. Finally, the ability of 4-CMC and 4-MeO-PVP to induce withdrawal symptoms after discontinuation from 14-day treatment was assessed using a battery of tests for behavioral markers of depression in mice: a tail suspension test, a forced swim test, measuring despair, and a sucrose preference test, measuring anhedonia. None of the three tests revealed increased depressive symptoms. Moreover, neither spontaneous locomotor activity nor motor performance on a rotarod was impaired after 14-day treatment with the tested compounds. These results indicate that 14-day treatment of mice with 4-CMC or 4-MeO-PVP does not induce significant withdrawal symptoms after cessation, nor significant impairment of dopaminergic circuitry resulting in motor impairment. The current study shows that 4-CMC and 4-MeO-PVP produce abuse-related behavioral changes in mice, which are more pronounced after more dopamine-selective 4-MeO-PVP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Wojcieszak
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Medical University of Lodz, 90-151, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Katarzyna Kuczyńska
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Medical University of Lodz, 90-151, Lodz, Poland
| | - Jolanta B Zawilska
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Medical University of Lodz, 90-151, Lodz, Poland
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10
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Custodio RJP, Sayson LV, Botanas CJ, Abiero A, You KY, Kim M, Lee HJ, Yoo SY, Lee KW, Lee YS, Seo J, Ryu IS, Kim HJ, Cheong JH. 25B-NBOMe, a novel N-2-methoxybenzyl-phenethylamine (NBOMe) derivative, may induce rewarding and reinforcing effects via a dopaminergic mechanism: Evidence of abuse potential. Addict Biol 2020; 25:e12850. [PMID: 31749223 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Revised: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
An increasing number of N-2-methoxybenzyl-phenethylamine (NBOMe) derivatives are being misused worldwide, including the potent hallucinogen 2-(4-bromo-2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-N-(2-methoxybenzyl)ethanamine (25B-NBOMe). However, the number of studies characterizing the abuse potential and psychopharmacological properties of 25B-NBOMe is limited; thus, we examined its rewarding and reinforcing effects using conditioned place preference (CPP) and self-administration (SA) tests. Pretreatment with SCH23390 (SCH), Haloperidol (HAL), and ketanserin (KS), antagonists of dopamine D1 (DRD1 ), dopamine D2 (DRD2 ), and serotonin 2A (5-HT2A receptor) receptors, respectively, was utilized during a CPP test to investigate the involvement of the dopaminergic and serotonergic systems in 25B-NBOMe-mediated effects. We also examined the effects of 25B-NBOMe on the expression of dopamine-related proteins in the nucleus accumbens (NAcc) and ventral tegmental area (VTA). Then, we measured the dopamine level, phosphorylated CREB (p-CREB), deltaFosB (ΔFosB), and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the NAcc. In addition, we explored the involvement of 5-HT2A receptors in the 25B-NBOMe-induced head twitch response (HTR). We also examined the effects of 25B-NBOMe on brain wave activity using electroencephalography. 25B-NBOMe elicited CPP and SA. SCH and HAL blocked 25B-NBOMe-induced CPP, whereas KS did not. Moreover, 25B-NBOMe altered the DRD1 , DRD2 , and dopamine transporter expression and increased dopamine levels. It also induced changes in p-CREB, ΔFosB, and BDNF expression. 25B-NBOMe induced HTR and increased 5-HT2A receptor mRNA levels, effects inhibited by KS. Furthermore, 25B-NBOMe altered delta and gamma wave activity, which was normalized by SCH and HAL. These findings show that 25B-NBOMe may induce rewarding and reinforcing effects via a dopaminergic mechanism, suggesting its abuse potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raly James Perez Custodio
- Uimyung Research Institute for Neuroscience, College of Pharmacy Sahmyook University Seoul Republic of Korea
| | - Leandro Val Sayson
- Uimyung Research Institute for Neuroscience, College of Pharmacy Sahmyook University Seoul Republic of Korea
| | - Chrislean Jun Botanas
- Uimyung Research Institute for Neuroscience, College of Pharmacy Sahmyook University Seoul Republic of Korea
| | - Arvie Abiero
- Uimyung Research Institute for Neuroscience, College of Pharmacy Sahmyook University Seoul Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Yi You
- Uimyung Research Institute for Neuroscience, College of Pharmacy Sahmyook University Seoul Republic of Korea
| | - Mikyung Kim
- Uimyung Research Institute for Neuroscience, College of Pharmacy Sahmyook University Seoul Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Jun Lee
- Uimyung Research Institute for Neuroscience, College of Pharmacy Sahmyook University Seoul Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Yeun Yoo
- Medicinal Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy and Department of Life and Nanopharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy Kyung Hee University Seoul Republic of Korea
| | - Kun Won Lee
- Medicinal Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy and Department of Life and Nanopharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy Kyung Hee University Seoul Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Sup Lee
- Medicinal Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy and Department of Life and Nanopharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy Kyung Hee University Seoul Republic of Korea
| | - Joung‐Wook Seo
- Center for Safety Pharmacology Korea Institute of Toxicology Daejeon Republic of Korea
| | - In Soo Ryu
- Center for Safety Pharmacology Korea Institute of Toxicology Daejeon Republic of Korea
| | - Hee Jin Kim
- Uimyung Research Institute for Neuroscience, College of Pharmacy Sahmyook University Seoul Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Hoon Cheong
- Uimyung Research Institute for Neuroscience, College of Pharmacy Sahmyook University Seoul Republic of Korea
- School of Pharmacy Chonbuk National University Jeonju‐si Republic of Korea
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11
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Ryu IS, Yoon SS, Choi MJ, Lee YE, Kim JS, Kim WH, Cheong JH, Kim HJ, Jang C, Lee YS, Steffensen SC, Ka M, Woo DH, Jang EY, Seo J. The potent psychomotor, rewarding and reinforcing properties of 3-fluoromethamphetamine in rodents. Addict Biol 2020; 25:e12846. [PMID: 31797481 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12846] [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: 05/12/2019] [Revised: 09/11/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
3-fluoromethamphetamine (3-FMA), a derivative of methamphetamine (METH), produces behavioral impairment and deficits in dopaminergic transmission in the striatum of mice. The abuse potential of 3-FMA has not been fully characterized. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of 3-FMA on locomotor activity as well as its rewarding and reinforcing properties in the conditioned place preference (CPP) and self-administration procedures. Intravenous (i.v.) administration of 3-FMA (0.5 and 1.0 mg/kg) significantly increased locomotor activity in a dose-dependent manner in rats. In the CPP procedure, intraperitoneal administration of 3-FMA (10 and 30 mg/kg) produced a significant alteration in place preference in mice. In the self-administration paradigms, 3-FMA showed drug-taking behavior at the dose of 0.1 mg/kg/infusion (i.v.) during 2 hr sessions under fixed ratio schedules and high breakpoints at the dose of 0.3 and 1.0 mg/kg/infusion (i.v.) during 6 hr sessions under progressive ratio schedule of reinforcement in rats. A priming injection of 3-FMA (0.4 mg/kg, i.v.), METH (0.2 mg/kg, i.v.), or cocaine (2.0 mg/kg, i.v.) reinstated 3-FMA-seeking behavior after an extinction period in 3-FMA-trained rats during 2 hr session. Taken together, these findings demonstrate robust psychomotor, rewarding and reinforcing properties of 3-FMA, which may underlie its potential for compulsive use in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- In Soo Ryu
- Research Center for Convergence Toxicology Korea Institute of Toxicology Daejeon South Korea
| | - Seong Shoon Yoon
- Research Center for Convergence Toxicology Korea Institute of Toxicology Daejeon South Korea
| | - Mee Jung Choi
- Research Center for Convergence Toxicology Korea Institute of Toxicology Daejeon South Korea
| | - Young Eun Lee
- Research Center for Convergence Toxicology Korea Institute of Toxicology Daejeon South Korea
| | - Ji Sun Kim
- Research Center for Convergence Toxicology Korea Institute of Toxicology Daejeon South Korea
| | - Woo Hyun Kim
- Research Center for Convergence Toxicology Korea Institute of Toxicology Daejeon South Korea
| | - Jae Hoon Cheong
- Uimyung Research Institute for Neuroscience, School of Pharmacy Sahmyook University Seoul South Korea
| | - Hee Jin Kim
- Uimyung Research Institute for Neuroscience, School of Pharmacy Sahmyook University Seoul South Korea
| | - Choon‐Gon Jang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy Sungkyunkwan University Suwon South Korea
| | - Yong Sup Lee
- Department of Life and Nanopharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy Kyung Hee University Seoul South Korea
| | - Scott C. Steffensen
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience Brigham Young University Provo UT USA
| | - Minhan Ka
- Research Center for Convergence Toxicology Korea Institute of Toxicology Daejeon South Korea
| | - Dong Ho Woo
- Research Center for Convergence Toxicology Korea Institute of Toxicology Daejeon South Korea
| | - Eun Young Jang
- Research Center for Convergence Toxicology Korea Institute of Toxicology Daejeon South Korea
| | - Joung‐Wook Seo
- Research Center for Convergence Toxicology Korea Institute of Toxicology Daejeon South Korea
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12
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Gatch MB, Forster MJ. Methylenedioxymethamphetamine-like discriminative stimulus effects of pyrrolidinyl cathinones in rats. J Psychopharmacol 2020; 34:778-785. [PMID: 32536334 DOI: 10.1177/0269881120914213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Synthetic cathinone derivatives are used as alternatives both for stimulant drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamine and for club drugs such as 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), but little is known about their MDMA-like subjective effects. METHODS In order to determine their similarity to MDMA, the discriminative stimulus effects of 10 pyrrolidinyl cathinones (α-pyrrolidinopropiophenone, 4'-methyl-α-pyrrolidinopropiophenone (4'-MePPP), α-pyrrolidinobutiophenone, 3',4'-methylenedioxy-α-pyrrolidinobutyrophenone (MD-PBP), α-pyrrolidinovalerophenone, 3,4-methylenedioxy-pyrovalerone (MDPV), α-pyrrolidinopentiothiophenone, napthylpyrovalerone (naphyrone), α-pyrrolidinohexiophenone, and 4'-methyl-α-pyrrolidinohexiophenone (4'-MePHP)) were assessed in Sprague-Dawley rats trained to discriminate 1.5 mg/kg racemic ±-MDMA from vehicle. RESULTS Compounds with no substitutions on the phenyl ring and the thiophene produced 44-67% MDMA-appropriate responding. In contrast, the substituted pyrrolidinyl cathinones produced a range of MDMA-appropriate responding dependent upon the length of the alpha side chain. 4'-MePPP, with a single carbon on the alpha position, produced 99.8% MDMA-appropriate responding, MD-PBP (two carbons) produced 83%, naphyrone (three carbons) produced 71%, MDPV (three carbons) produced, 66%, and 4'-MePHP (four carbons) produced 47%. CONCLUSIONS Many cathinone compounds have discriminative stimulus effects similar to those of MDMA. However, the pyrrolidine substitution appears to reduce serotonergic effects, with a commensurate decrease in MDMA-like effects. Substitutions on the phenyl ring appear to be able to restore MDMA-like responding, but only in compounds with short alpha side chains. These findings agree with earlier findings of increasing dopaminergic effects and stronger reinforcing effects with increasing side chain. Assessment of more compounds is necessary to establish the replicability/robustness of this phenomenon. These findings may be of use in predicting which compounds will have MDMA/club drug-like effects versus psychostimulant-like effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael B Gatch
- Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, USA
| | - Michael J Forster
- Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, USA
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Riley AL, Nelson KH, To P, López-Arnau R, Xu P, Wang D, Wang Y, Shen HW, Kuhn DM, Angoa-Perez M, Anneken JH, Muskiewicz D, Hall FS. Abuse potential and toxicity of the synthetic cathinones (i.e., “Bath salts”). Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 110:150-173. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2018.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Revised: 06/14/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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14
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Schifano F, Napoletano F, Arillotta D, Zangani C, Gilgar L, Guirguis A, Corkery JM, Vento A. The clinical challenges of synthetic cathinones. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2020; 86:410-419. [PMID: 31674690 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.14132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Revised: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Within the new psychoactive substances (NPS) scenario, several hundred different molecules, mostly including synthetic cannabinoids and cathinones, have been identified so far. The aims of the paper were to: (i) identify the number of synthetic cathinones mentioned in a range of psychonaut, NPS-related, online sources; and (ii) describe the associated acute/long term clinical scenario and the related treatment/management plan. METHODS After about 18 months of operation and exclusion of false positives/duplicates, some 4204 unique NPS molecules were included in the NPSfinder® crawling/navigating software database. Most popular NPS included: 1265 psychedelic phenethylamines (30.1%; confidence interval [CI] 95%: 28.7-31.5%); 1253 synthetic cannabinoids (29.8%; CI 95%: 28.4-31.2%); 429 synthetic opioids (10.2%; CI 95%: 9.3-10.2%); and 171 synthetic cathinones (4.1%; CI 95% 3.5-4.7%). Conversely, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction databases respectively included 169 and 140 cathinones. Overall, the 3 databases reported some 222 synthetic cathinones, and 41 were uniquely identified by the NPSfinder®. RESULTS In terms of clinical scenarios, synthetic cathinone ingestion is initially associated with stimulant effects; however, psychopathological disturbances, violence, suicidal behaviour, hyperthermia, coma and death have also been described. CONCLUSION The proportion of cathinones commented on by psychonaut fora appeared to be relatively small, and similar to those reported by both the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction. This may be associated with a recent significant decline in both cathinone-related consumption and acute medical presentation. Due to their complex behavioural and medical toxicity issues, healthcare professionals should be, however, be educated to recognise the signs and symptoms of NPS, including synthetic cathinone, ingestion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizio Schifano
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - Flavia Napoletano
- East London Foundation Trust (ELFT), Homerton University Hospital, London, UK
| | - Davide Arillotta
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - Caroline Zangani
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK.,Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Liam Gilgar
- Gabalfa Clinic, Cardiff and Vale NHS Health Board, Cardiff, UK
| | - Amira Guirguis
- Swansea University Medical School; Institute of Life Sciences; Swansea, UK
| | - John Martin Corkery
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - Alessandro Vento
- Addictions' Observatory (ODDPSS), Rome, Italy.,Guglielmo Marconi University, Rome, Italy.,Department of Mental Health, ASL Roma 2, Rome, Italy
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15
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Kim S, Jang WJ, Yu H, Ryu IS, Jeong CH, Lee S. Integrated Non-targeted and Targeted Metabolomics Uncovers Dynamic Metabolic Effects during Short-Term Abstinence in Methamphetamine Self-Administering Rats. J Proteome Res 2019; 18:3913-3925. [PMID: 31525931 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.9b00363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Persistent neurochemical disturbances by repeating drug reward and withdrawal lead to addiction. Particularly, drug withdrawal, usually starting within hours of the last dose, is considered as a critical step in the transition to addiction and a treatment clue. The aim of this study was to uncover metabolic effects associated with methamphetamine (MA) short-term abstinence using both non-targeted and targeted metabolomics. Metabolic alterations were investigated in rat plasma collected immediately after 16 days of MA self-administration and after 12 and 24 h of abstinence. Principal component analysis revealed that the highest level of separation occurred between the 24 h and saline (control) groups based on the significantly changed ion features, 257/320/333 and 331/409/388, in the SA/12 h/24 h groups in positive and negative modes of UPLC-QTOF-ESI-MS, respectively. Targeted metabolomics revealed dynamic changes in the biosynthesis/metabolism of amino acids, including the phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan biosynthesis and the valine, leucine, and isoleucine biosynthesis. Integrating non-targeted and targeted metabolomics data uncovered rapid and distinct changes in the metabolic pathways involved in energy metabolism, the nervous system, and membrane lipid metabolism. These findings provide essential knowledge of the dynamic metabolic effects associated with short-term MA abstinence and may help identify early warning signs of MA dependence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suji Kim
- College of Pharmacy , Keimyung University , 1095 Dalgubeoldaero , Dalseo-gu, Daegu 42601 , Republic of Korea
| | - Won-Jun Jang
- College of Pharmacy , Keimyung University , 1095 Dalgubeoldaero , Dalseo-gu, Daegu 42601 , Republic of Korea
| | - Hyerim Yu
- New Drug Development Center , 123 Osongsaengmyeongro, Osong-eup , Heungdeok-gu, Cheongju , Chungcheongbuk-do 28160 , Republic of Korea
| | - In Soo Ryu
- Substance Abuse Pharmacology Group , Korea Institute of Toxicology , 141 Gajeong-ro , Yuseong-gu, Daegeon , 34114 , Republic of Korea
| | - Chul-Ho Jeong
- College of Pharmacy , Keimyung University , 1095 Dalgubeoldaero , Dalseo-gu, Daegu 42601 , Republic of Korea
| | - Sooyeun Lee
- College of Pharmacy , Keimyung University , 1095 Dalgubeoldaero , Dalseo-gu, Daegu 42601 , Republic of Korea
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16
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Yoon HS, Ku MJ, Cai WT, Kim JH. A novel synthetic cathinone, α-pyrrolidinopentiothiophenone (PVT), produces locomotor sensitization in rat: Implications for GSK3β connections in the nucleus accumbens core. Neurochem Int 2019; 124:25-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2018.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2018] [Revised: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 12/13/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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17
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Simmons SJ, Leyrer-Jackson JM, Oliver CF, Hicks C, Muschamp JW, Rawls SM, Olive MF. DARK Classics in Chemical Neuroscience: Cathinone-Derived Psychostimulants. ACS Chem Neurosci 2018; 9:2379-2394. [PMID: 29714473 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.8b00147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Cathinone is a plant alkaloid found in khat leaves of perennial shrubs grown in East Africa. Similar to cocaine, cathinone elicits psychostimulant effects which are in part attributed to its amphetamine-like structure. Around 2010, home laboratories began altering the parent structure of cathinone to synthesize derivatives with mechanisms of action, potencies, and pharmacokinetics permitting high abuse potential and toxicity. These "synthetic cathinones" include 4-methylmethcathinone (mephedrone), 3,4-methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV), and the empathogenic agent 3,4-methylenedioxymethcathinone (methylone) which collectively gained international popularity following aggressive online marketing as well as availability in various retail outlets. Case reports made clear the health risks associated with these agents and, in 2012, the Drug Enforcement Agency of the United States placed a series of synthetic cathinones on Schedule I under emergency order. Mechanistically, cathinone and synthetic derivatives work by augmenting monoamine transmission through release facilitation and/or presynaptic transport inhibition. Animal studies confirm the rewarding and reinforcing properties of synthetic cathinones by utilizing self-administration, place conditioning, and intracranial self-stimulation assays and additionally show persistent neuropathological features which demonstrate a clear need to better understand this class of drugs. This Review will thus detail (i) historical context of cathinone use and the rise of "dark" synthetic derivatives, (ii) structural features and mechanisms of synthetic cathinones, (iii) behavioral effects observed clinically and in animals under controlled laboratory conditions, and (iv) neurotransmitters and circuits that may be targeted to manage synthetic cathinone abuse in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven J. Simmons
- Center for Substance Abuse Research (CSAR), Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19140, United States
| | | | - Chicora F. Oliver
- Center for Substance Abuse Research (CSAR), Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19140, United States
| | - Callum Hicks
- Center for Substance Abuse Research (CSAR), Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19140, United States
| | - John W. Muschamp
- Center for Substance Abuse Research (CSAR), Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19140, United States
| | - Scott M. Rawls
- Center for Substance Abuse Research (CSAR), Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19140, United States
| | - M. Foster Olive
- Department of Psychology, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85281, United States
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18
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Silva B, Pereira JA, Cravo S, Araújo AM, Fernandes C, Pinto MMM, de Pinho PG, Remião F. Multi-milligram resolution and determination of absolute configuration of pentedrone and methylone enantiomers. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2018; 1100-1101:158-164. [PMID: 30336346 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2018.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2018] [Revised: 10/01/2018] [Accepted: 10/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The enantioresolution of pentedrone and methylone was carried out at a multi-milligram scale by liquid chromatography on a Chiralpak AS® stationary phase. The excellent enantioresolution using this column allowed to collect highly pure enantiomeric fractions, achieving enantiomeric ratios higher than 98%. An overall recovery of 72% was achieved for pentedrone enantiomers and 80% for methylone. Furthermore, the absolute configuration of the enantiomers of both cathinones was determined for the first time by electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectroscopy, with the aid of theoretical calculations, as (+)‑(S) and (-)‑(R)-pentedrone, and (-)‑(S) and (+)‑(R)‑methylone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bárbara Silva
- UCIBIO-REQUIMTE, Laboratório de Toxicologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; Laboratório de Química Orgânica e Farmacêutica, Departamento de Ciências Químicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - José A Pereira
- ICBAS, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas de Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental (CIIMAR), Universidade do Porto, Avenida General Norton de Matos, 4450-208 Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - Sara Cravo
- Laboratório de Química Orgânica e Farmacêutica, Departamento de Ciências Químicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental (CIIMAR), Universidade do Porto, Avenida General Norton de Matos, 4450-208 Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - Ana Margarida Araújo
- UCIBIO-REQUIMTE, Laboratório de Toxicologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Carla Fernandes
- Laboratório de Química Orgânica e Farmacêutica, Departamento de Ciências Químicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental (CIIMAR), Universidade do Porto, Avenida General Norton de Matos, 4450-208 Matosinhos, Portugal.
| | - Madalena M M Pinto
- Laboratório de Química Orgânica e Farmacêutica, Departamento de Ciências Químicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental (CIIMAR), Universidade do Porto, Avenida General Norton de Matos, 4450-208 Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - Paula Guedes de Pinho
- UCIBIO-REQUIMTE, Laboratório de Toxicologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Fernando Remião
- UCIBIO-REQUIMTE, Laboratório de Toxicologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
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Karila L, Benyamina A. The Effects and Risks Associated with Synthetic Cathinones Use in Humans. CURRENT TOPICS IN NEUROTOXICITY 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-78707-7_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
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20
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Corkery JM, Guirguis A, Papanti DG, Orsolini L, Schifano F. Synthetic Cathinones—Prevalence and Motivations for Use. CURRENT TOPICS IN NEUROTOXICITY 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-78707-7_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
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21
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Simmons SJ, Kim E, Gentile TA, Murad A, Muschamp JW, Rawls SM. Behavioral Profiles and Underlying Transmitters/Circuits of Cathinone-Derived Psychostimulant Drugs of Abuse. CURRENT TOPICS IN NEUROTOXICITY 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-78707-7_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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22
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MDPV and α-PVP use in humans: The twisted sisters. Neuropharmacology 2017; 134:65-72. [PMID: 29030166 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2017] [Revised: 10/01/2017] [Accepted: 10/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The new psychoactive substances phenomenon continues to represent a considerable public health challenge. Synthetic cathinones are β-keto amphetamine analogues, also known as legal highs, research chemicals, bath salts. These drugs have surfaced as a popular alternative to other illicit drugs of abuse, such as cocaine, MDMA, and methamphetamine, due to their potent psychostimulant and empathogenic effects. Pyrovalerone cathinones (a-pyrrolidinophenones) form a distinct group of designer cathinones, such as MDPV. After being listed as an illegal product, "second generation" compounds such as α-PVP, sharing a very similar chemical structure with MDPV, were developed. Clinical effects of these compounds are individual, dose- and route of administration-dependent. Both of them have been involved in an increased number of, not only acute intoxications but also fatalities over the past few years, raising concerns in the medical field. In this paper, we will review the available data regarding the use and effects of MDPV and α-PVP in humans in order to highlight their impact on public health. Health actors and general population need to be clearly informed of potential risks and consequences of these 2 novel psychoactive substances spread and use. The literature search conducted led to the identification of potentially 83 relevant articles. All articles were screened from their abstracts to determine their relevance in the framework of the current review. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Designer Drugs and Legal Highs.'
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Beck O, Bäckberg M, Signell P, Helander A. Intoxications in the STRIDA project involving a panorama of psychostimulant pyrovalerone derivatives, MDPV copycats. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2017; 56:256-263. [DOI: 10.1080/15563650.2017.1370097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Olof Beck
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Karolinska University Laboratory, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Patrick Signell
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Karolinska University Laboratory, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anders Helander
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Karolinska University Laboratory, Stockholm, Sweden
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24
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Locomotor activity and discriminative stimulus effects of a novel series of synthetic cathinone analogs in mice and rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2017; 234:1237-1245. [PMID: 28210779 PMCID: PMC5364041 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-017-4562-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2016] [Accepted: 02/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Recent years have seen an increase in the recreational use of novel, synthetic psychoactive substances. There are little or no data on the abuse liability of many of the newer compounds. OBJECTIVES The current study investigated the discriminative stimulus and locomotor effects of a series of synthetic analogs of cathinone: α-pyrrolidinopropiophenone (α-PPP), α-pyrrolidinohexiophenone (α-PHP), α-pyrrolidinopentiothiophenone (α-PVT), 3,4-methylenedioxybutiophenone (MDPBP), and ethylone. METHODS Locomotor activity was assessed in an open-field assay using Swiss-Webster mice. Discriminative stimulus effects were assessed in Sprague-Dawley rats trained to discriminate either cocaine or methamphetamine from vehicle. RESULTS Each of the compounds produced an inverted-U dose-effect on locomotor activity. Maximal effects were similar among the test compounds, but potencies varied with relative potencies of MDPBP > α-PPP = α-PHP > ethylone > α-PVT. Each of the test compounds substituted fully for the discriminative stimulus effects of methamphetamine. α-PPP, α-PHP, and ethylone fully substituted for cocaine. α-PVT produced a maximum of 50% cocaine-appropriate responding, and MDPBP produced an inverted-U-shaped dose-effect curve with maximum effects of 67%. CONCLUSIONS These data provide initial evidence that these structurally similar, emerging novel psychoactive substances demonstrate potential for abuse and may be utilized for their stimulant-like effects, given their ability to stimulate locomotor activity and their substitution for the discriminative stimulus effects of the classical psychostimulants cocaine and/or methamphetamine.
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Weinstein AM, Rosca P, Fattore L, London ED. Synthetic Cathinone and Cannabinoid Designer Drugs Pose a Major Risk for Public Health. Front Psychiatry 2017; 8:156. [PMID: 28878698 PMCID: PMC5572353 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2017.00156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2017] [Accepted: 08/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
As part of an increasing worldwide use of designer drugs, recent use of compounds containing cathinones and synthetic cannabinoids is especially prevalent. Here, we reviewed current literature on the prevalence, epidemiology, bio-behavioral effects, and detection of these compounds. Gender differences and clinical effects will also be examined. Chronic use of synthetic cathinone compounds can have major effects on the central nervous system and can induce acute psychosis, hypomania, paranoid ideation, and delusions, similar to the effects of other better-known amphetamine-type stimulants. Synthetic cannabinoid products have effects that are somewhat similar to those of natural cannabis but more potent and long-lasting than THC. Some of these compounds are potent and dangerous, having been linked to psychosis, mania, and suicidal ideation. Novel compounds are developed rapidly and new screening techniques are needed to detect them as well as a rigorous regulation and legislation reinforcement to prevent their distribution and use. Given the rapid increase in the use of synthetic cathinones and cannabinoid designer drugs, their potential for dependence and abuse, and harmful medical and psychiatric effects, there is a need for research and education in the areas of prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aviv M Weinstein
- Department of Behavioral Science, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Paola Rosca
- Department for the Treatment of Substance Abuse, Ministry of Health, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Liana Fattore
- Institute of Neuroscience-Cagliari, National Research Council of Italy, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Edythe D London
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Brain Research Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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