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Maes M, Zhou B, Rachayon M, Jirakran K, Sughondhabirom A, Sodsai P, Almulla AF. T cell activation and lowered T regulatory cell numbers are key processes in severe major depressive disorder: Effects of recurrence of illness and adverse childhood experiences. J Affect Disord 2024; 362:62-74. [PMID: 38945402 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.06.097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Major depressive disorder (MDD) is characterized by increased T helper (Th)1 polarization, T cell activation (e.g., CD71+ and CD40L+), and cannabinoid receptor type 2 bearing CD20+ B cells; and lower T regulatory (Treg) numbers. AIMS To delineate the effects of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and recurrence of illness (ROI) on activated T and CB2-bearing B populations, and Tregs, including FoxP3 + CD152+, FoxP3 + GARP+, and FoxP3 + CB1+ cells. METHODS We measured ROI, ACEs, the number of activated T cells, Tregs, and CD20 + CB2+ B cells, in 30 MDD patients and 20 healthy controls. RESULTS A larger part of the variance in the depression phenome (40.8 %) was explained by increased CD20 + CB2+ and activated T cells, and lowered Tregs. ROI and lifetime suicidal behaviors were significantly and positively associated with CD20 + CB2+, CD3 + CD71+, CD3 + CD40L+, CD4 + CD71+, CD4 + CD40L+, and CD4HLADR+ numbers. ROI was significantly correlated with CD8 + CD40L+ numbers. The sum of ACEs was significantly associated with CD20 + CB2+, CD3 + CD40L+, CD4 + 40 L+ numbers, T cell activation (positively) and Treg (inversely) indices. One replicable latent vector could be extracted from activated T cells, lifetime and current suicidal behaviors, number of depressive episodes, and severity of depression, and 48.8 % of its variance was explained by ACEs. CONCLUSIONS ACE-induced activation of T effector and cytotoxic cells and B cells with autoimmune potential, coupled with lowered Treg numbers are a key component of depression. The findings indicate that increasing ROI, the phenome of depression and suicidal behaviors, are caused by autoimmune processes, which are the consequence of ACEs and increasing sensitization of immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Maes
- Sichuan Provincial Center for Mental Health, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China; Key Laboratory of Psychosomatic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu 610072, China; Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, the Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand; Cognitive Fitness and Technology Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand; Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria; Research Institute, Medical University Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria; Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea.
| | - Bo Zhou
- Sichuan Provincial Center for Mental Health, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China; Key Laboratory of Psychosomatic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu 610072, China
| | - Muanpetch Rachayon
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, the Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Ketsupar Jirakran
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, the Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand; Maximizing Thai Children's Developmental Potential Research Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Atapol Sughondhabirom
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, the Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pimpayao Sodsai
- Center of Excellence in Immunology and Immune-Mediated Diseases, Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Abbas F Almulla
- Sichuan Provincial Center for Mental Health, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China; Key Laboratory of Psychosomatic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu 610072, China; Medical Laboratory Technology Department, College of Medical Technology, The Islamic University, Najaf, Iraq.
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Kosar M, Mach L, Carreira EM, Nazaré M, Pacher P, Grether U. Patent review of cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB 2R) modulators (2016-present). Expert Opin Ther Pat 2024; 34:665-700. [PMID: 38886185 DOI: 10.1080/13543776.2024.2368745] [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: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2R), predominantly expressed in immune tissues, is believed to play a crucial role within the body's protective mechanisms. Its modulation holds immense therapeutic promise for addressing a wide spectrum of dysbiotic conditions, including cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, liver, kidney, neurodegenerative, psychiatric, bone, skin, and autoimmune diseases, as well as lung disorders, cancer, and pain management. AREAS COVERED This review is an account of patents from 2016 up to 2023 which describes novel CB2R ligands, therapeutic applications, synthesis, as well as formulations of CB2R modulators. EXPERT OPINION The patents cover a vast, structurally diverse chemical space. The focus of CB2R ligand development has shifted from unselective dual-cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1R) and 2 agonists toward agonists with high selectivity over CB1R, particularly for indications associated with inflammation and tissue injury. Currently, there are at least eight CB2R agonists and one antagonist in active clinical development. A better understanding of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and in particular of CB2R pharmacology is required to unlock the receptor's full therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miroslav Kosar
- Laboratorium für Organische Chemie, Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Leonard Mach
- Medicinal Chemistry, Leibniz-Forschungsinstitut für Molekulare Pharmakologie (FMP) Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Erick M Carreira
- Laboratorium für Organische Chemie, Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Marc Nazaré
- Medicinal Chemistry, Leibniz-Forschungsinstitut für Molekulare Pharmakologie (FMP) Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Pal Pacher
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Uwe Grether
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
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Duan J, Chen J, Lin Y, Lin SL, Wu J. Endocannabinoid Receptor 2 Function is Associated with Tumor-Associated Macrophage Accumulation and Increases in T Cell Number to Initiate a Potent Antitumor Response in a Syngeneic Murine Model of Glioblastoma. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2024. [PMID: 38888628 DOI: 10.1089/can.2024.0063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Glioblastoma patients have a highly immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and systemic immunosuppression that comprise a major barrier to immune checkpoint therapy. Based on the production of endocannabinoids by glioblastomas, we explored involvement of endocannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2R), encoded by the CNR2 gene, which is predominantly expressed by immune cells, in glioblastoma-related immunosuppression. Materials & Methods: Bioinformatics of human glioblastoma databases was used to correlate enzymes involved in the synthesis and degradation of endocannabinoids, as well as CB2Rs, with patient overall survival. Intrastriatal administration of luciferase-expressing, murine GL261 glioblastoma cells was used to establish in in vivo glioblastoma model for characterization of tumor growth and intratumoral immune cell infiltration, as well as provide immune cells for in vitro co-culture experiments. Involvement of CB2Rs was determined by treatment with CB2R agonist (GW405833) or CB2R antagonist (AM630). ELISA, FACS, and immunocytochemistry were used to determine perforin, granzyme B, and surface marker levels. Results: Bioinformatics of human glioblastoma databases showed high expression of CB2R and elevated endocannabinoid production correlated with poorer prognosis, and involved immune-associated pathways. AM630treatment of GL261 glioblastoma-bearing mice induced a potent antitumor response, with survival plateauing at 50% on Day 40, when all control mice (median survival 28 days) and mice treated with GW405833 (median survival 21 days) had died. Luciferase tumor imaging revealed accelerated tumor growth by GW405833 treatment, but stable or regressing tumors in AM630-treated mice. Notably, in spleens, AM630 treatment caused an 83% decrease in monocytes/macrophages, and 1.8- and 1.6-fold increases in CD8+ and CD4+ cells, respectively. Within tumors, there was a corresponding decrease in tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and increase in CD8+ T cells. In vitro, lymphocytes from AM630-treated mice showed greater cytotoxic function (increased percentage of perforin- and granzyme B-positive CD8+ T cells). Discussion: These results suggest that inhibition of CB2R enhances both immunosuppressive TAM infiltration and systemic T-cell suppression through CB2R activation, and that inhibition of CB2Rs can potently counter both the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, as well as systemic immunosuppression in glioblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Duan
- Brain Function and Disease Laboratory, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Jieling Chen
- Brain Function and Disease Laboratory, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Yilin Lin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Stanley L Lin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
- Division of Immunology, International Institute of Infection and Immunity, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Jie Wu
- Brain Function and Disease Laboratory, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
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McCormick ET, Draganski A, Chalmers S, Zahn J, Garcia S, Nussbaum D, Friedman A, Putterman C, Friedman J. Nano-encapsulated anandamide reduces inflammatory cytokines in vitro and lesion severity in a murine model of cutaneous lupus erythematosus. Exp Dermatol 2023; 32:2072-2083. [PMID: 37726950 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) is a heterogeneous autoimmune skin disease which occurs independently and in conjunction with systemic lupus erythematosus. Drug development for CLE is severely lacking. Anandamide (AEA) is a primary endocannabinoid which exhibits immunomodulatory effects through mixed cannabinoid receptor agonism. We evaluated AEA as topical treatment for CLE and assessed benefits of nanoparticle encapsulation (AEA-NP) on cutaneous drug penetration, delivery and biological activity. Compared to untreated controls, AEA-NP decreased IL-6 and MCP-1 in UVB-stimulated keratinocytes (p < 0.05) in vitro. In BALB/c mice, AEA-NP displayed improved cutaneous penetration, extended release and persistence of AEA in the follicular unit extending to the base after 24 h. Utilizing the MRL-lpr lupus murine model, twice weekly treatment of lesions with topical AEA-NP for 10 weeks led to decreased clinical and histologic lesion scores compared to unencapsulated AEA and untreated controls (p < 0.05). Prophylactic application of AEA-NP to commonly involved areas on MRL-lpr mice similarly resulted in decreased clinical and histologic scores when compared to controls (p < 0.05), and reduced C3 and IBA-1 in lesional tissue (p < 0.05). The demonstrated clinical and immunomodulatory effects of treatment with AEA support its potential as therapy for CLE. This work also suggests that encapsulation of AEA improves penetration and treatment efficacy. Future studies will be conducted to assess full therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika T McCormick
- George Washington University Department of Dermatology, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Samantha Chalmers
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, Bronx, USA
| | - Joseph Zahn
- George Washington University Department of Dermatology, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Sayra Garcia
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, Bronx, USA
| | - Dillon Nussbaum
- George Washington University Department of Dermatology, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Adam Friedman
- George Washington University Department of Dermatology, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Chaim Putterman
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, Bronx, USA
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine of Bar-Ilan University, Zefat, Israel
- Research Institute, Galilee Medical Center, Nahariya, Israel
| | - Joel Friedman
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, Bronx, USA
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Maes M, Rachayon M, Jirakran K, Sughondhabirom A, Almulla AF, Sodsai P. Role of T and B lymphocyte cannabinoid type 1 and 2 receptors in major depression and suicidal behaviours. Acta Neuropsychiatr 2023:1-12. [PMID: 37681553 DOI: 10.1017/neu.2023.35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Early flow cytometry studies revealed T cell activation in major depressive disorder (MDD). MDD is characterised by activation of the immune-inflammatory response system (IRS) and the compensatory immunoregulatory system (CIRS), including deficits in T regulatory (Treg) cells. This study examines the number of cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) and type 2 (CB2) receptor-bearing T/B lymphocytes in MDD, and the effects of in vitro cannabidiol (CBD) administration on CB1/CB2-bearing immunocytes. Using flow cytometry, we determined the percentage of CD20+CB2+, CD3+CB2+, CD4+CB2+, CD8+CB2+ and FoxP3+CB1+ cells in 19 healthy controls and 29 MDD patients in 5 conditions: baseline, stimulation with anti-CD3/CD28 with or without 0.1 µg/mL, 1.0 µg/mL, or 10.0 µg/mL CBD. CB2+ was significantly higher in CD20+ than CD3+ and CD4+ and CD 8+ cells. Stimulation with anti-CD3/CD8 increases the number of CB2-bearing CD3+, CD4+ and CD8+ cells, as well as CB1-bearing FoxP3+ cells. There was an inverse association between the number of reduced CD4+ CB2+ and IRS profiles, including M1 macrophage, T helper-(Th)-1 and Th-17 phenotypes. MDD is characterised by lowered basal FoxP3+ CB1+% and higher CD20+ CB2+%. 33.2% of the variance in the depression phenome (including severity of depression, anxiety and current suicidal behaviours) is explained by CD20+ CB2+ % (positively) and CD3+ CB2+% (inversely). All five immune cell populations were significantly increased by 10 µg/mL of CBD administration. Reductions in FoxP3+ CB1+% and CD3+ /CD4+ CB2+% contribute to deficits in immune homoeostasis in MDD, while increased CD20+CB2+% may contribute to the pathophysiology of MDD by activating T-independent humoral immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Maes
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, The Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
- Sichuan Provincial Center for Mental Health, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China,Chengdu610072, China
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- Research Institute, Medical University Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Muanpetch Rachayon
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, The Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Ketsupar Jirakran
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, The Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Maximizing Thai Children's Developmental Potential Research Unit, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Atapol Sughondhabirom
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, The Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Abbas F Almulla
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, The Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
- Medical Laboratory Technology Department, College of Medical Technology, The Islamic University, Najaf, Iraq
| | - Pimpayao Sodsai
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Center of Excellence in Immunology and Immune-Mediated Diseases, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
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Liu W, Zhang T, Wang J, Zhao G, Hou Y. Protective Effect of Akkermansia muciniphila on the Preeclampsia-Like Mouse Model. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:2623-2633. [PMID: 36920671 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01206-y] [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: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is known as a metabolism-related complication of pregnancy related to gut dysbiosis including the decreased abundance of Akkermansia muciniphila (A. muciniphila). However, the modulatory role of A. muciniphila as a supplement for PE remains ambiguous. This study investigated the effect of A. muciniphila administration on PE-like mice and its underlying mechanisms. A total of twenty-four C57BL/6 mice were randomly assigned into three groups. PE-like symptoms were induced by continuous injection of L-NAME intraperitoneally from gestational day (GD) 11 to GD18 combined with oral administration of pasteurized A. muciniphila during GD14-18 or not. Mice were sacrificed at GD19 to collect for further evaluation. Decreased A. muciniphila was observed in a successfully established PE-like model than normotensive pregnant control (NP), inversely correlated to increased systolic blood pressure blood and 24-h proteinuria. After supplementing with A. muciniphila, mice showed significantly minimized blood pressure and protein expression in urine, increased number of pups and weight of both embryos and placentas. In addition, colonies of bacteria, inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6), and metabolic products of lipids including TC, FC, and TG were alleviated by A. muciniphila in the placentas. Among proteins linked with bowel barrier functions, diminished 2-AG and growing ZO-1 and occludin were attributable to A. muciniphila. Also, enhanced Treg/Th17 ratios were found in the intestines of mice treated with A. muciniphila. A. muciniphila facilitated alleviating PE-like symptoms and was beneficial as a novel probiotic therapeutic agent for PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 157, Xiwu Road, Xincheng District, Xi'an, 710004, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Tingting Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 157, Xiwu Road, Xincheng District, Xi'an, 710004, Shaanxi, China
| | - Juanni Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 157, Xiwu Road, Xincheng District, Xi'an, 710004, Shaanxi, China
| | - Gang Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 157, Xiwu Road, Xincheng District, Xi'an, 710004, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yuemin Hou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 157, Xiwu Road, Xincheng District, Xi'an, 710004, Shaanxi, China
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Maccarrone M, Di Marzo V, Gertsch J, Grether U, Howlett AC, Hua T, Makriyannis A, Piomelli D, Ueda N, van der Stelt M. Goods and Bads of the Endocannabinoid System as a Therapeutic Target: Lessons Learned after 30 Years. Pharmacol Rev 2023; 75:885-958. [PMID: 37164640 PMCID: PMC10441647 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.122.000600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The cannabis derivative marijuana is the most widely used recreational drug in the Western world and is consumed by an estimated 83 million individuals (∼3% of the world population). In recent years, there has been a marked transformation in society regarding the risk perception of cannabis, driven by its legalization and medical use in many states in the United States and worldwide. Compelling research evidence and the Food and Drug Administration cannabis-derived cannabidiol approval for severe childhood epilepsy have confirmed the large therapeutic potential of cannabidiol itself, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and other plant-derived cannabinoids (phytocannabinoids). Of note, our body has a complex endocannabinoid system (ECS)-made of receptors, metabolic enzymes, and transporters-that is also regulated by phytocannabinoids. The first endocannabinoid to be discovered 30 years ago was anandamide (N-arachidonoyl-ethanolamine); since then, distinct elements of the ECS have been the target of drug design programs aimed at curing (or at least slowing down) a number of human diseases, both in the central nervous system and at the periphery. Here a critical review of our knowledge of the goods and bads of the ECS as a therapeutic target is presented to define the benefits of ECS-active phytocannabinoids and ECS-oriented synthetic drugs for human health. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: The endocannabinoid system plays important roles virtually everywhere in our body and is either involved in mediating key processes of central and peripheral diseases or represents a therapeutic target for treatment. Therefore, understanding the structure, function, and pharmacology of the components of this complex system, and in particular of key receptors (like cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2) and metabolic enzymes (like fatty acid amide hydrolase and monoacylglycerol lipase), will advance our understanding of endocannabinoid signaling and activity at molecular, cellular, and system levels, providing new opportunities to treat patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Maccarrone
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy (M.M.); European Center for Brain Research, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy (M.M.); Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, University of Laval, Quebec, Canada (V.D.); Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (J.G.); Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (U.G.); Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina (A.C.H.); iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China (T.H.); Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (A.M.); Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California (D.P.); Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa, Japan (N.U.); Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands (M.S.)
| | - Vincenzo Di Marzo
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy (M.M.); European Center for Brain Research, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy (M.M.); Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, University of Laval, Quebec, Canada (V.D.); Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (J.G.); Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (U.G.); Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina (A.C.H.); iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China (T.H.); Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (A.M.); Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California (D.P.); Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa, Japan (N.U.); Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands (M.S.)
| | - Jürg Gertsch
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy (M.M.); European Center for Brain Research, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy (M.M.); Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, University of Laval, Quebec, Canada (V.D.); Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (J.G.); Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (U.G.); Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina (A.C.H.); iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China (T.H.); Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (A.M.); Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California (D.P.); Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa, Japan (N.U.); Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands (M.S.)
| | - Uwe Grether
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy (M.M.); European Center for Brain Research, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy (M.M.); Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, University of Laval, Quebec, Canada (V.D.); Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (J.G.); Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (U.G.); Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina (A.C.H.); iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China (T.H.); Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (A.M.); Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California (D.P.); Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa, Japan (N.U.); Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands (M.S.)
| | - Allyn C Howlett
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy (M.M.); European Center for Brain Research, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy (M.M.); Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, University of Laval, Quebec, Canada (V.D.); Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (J.G.); Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (U.G.); Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina (A.C.H.); iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China (T.H.); Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (A.M.); Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California (D.P.); Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa, Japan (N.U.); Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands (M.S.)
| | - Tian Hua
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy (M.M.); European Center for Brain Research, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy (M.M.); Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, University of Laval, Quebec, Canada (V.D.); Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (J.G.); Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (U.G.); Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina (A.C.H.); iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China (T.H.); Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (A.M.); Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California (D.P.); Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa, Japan (N.U.); Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands (M.S.)
| | - Alexandros Makriyannis
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy (M.M.); European Center for Brain Research, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy (M.M.); Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, University of Laval, Quebec, Canada (V.D.); Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (J.G.); Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (U.G.); Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina (A.C.H.); iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China (T.H.); Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (A.M.); Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California (D.P.); Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa, Japan (N.U.); Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands (M.S.)
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy (M.M.); European Center for Brain Research, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy (M.M.); Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, University of Laval, Quebec, Canada (V.D.); Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (J.G.); Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (U.G.); Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina (A.C.H.); iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China (T.H.); Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (A.M.); Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California (D.P.); Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa, Japan (N.U.); Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands (M.S.)
| | - Natsuo Ueda
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy (M.M.); European Center for Brain Research, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy (M.M.); Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, University of Laval, Quebec, Canada (V.D.); Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (J.G.); Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (U.G.); Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina (A.C.H.); iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China (T.H.); Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (A.M.); Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California (D.P.); Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa, Japan (N.U.); Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands (M.S.)
| | - Mario van der Stelt
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy (M.M.); European Center for Brain Research, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy (M.M.); Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, University of Laval, Quebec, Canada (V.D.); Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (J.G.); Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (U.G.); Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina (A.C.H.); iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China (T.H.); Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (A.M.); Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California (D.P.); Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa, Japan (N.U.); Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands (M.S.)
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8
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Iden JA, Raphael-Mizrahi B, Awida Z, Naim A, Zyc D, Liron T, Kasher M, Livshits G, Vered M, Gabet Y. The Anti-Tumorigenic Role of Cannabinoid Receptor 2 in Colon Cancer: A Study in Mice and Humans. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24044060. [PMID: 36835468 PMCID: PMC9961974 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24044060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system, particularly cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2 in mice and CNR2 in humans), has controversial pathophysiological implications in colon cancer. Here, we investigate the role of CB2 in potentiating the immune response in colon cancer in mice and determine the influence of CNR2 variants in humans. Comparing wild-type (WT) mice to CB2 knockout (CB2-/-) mice, we performed a spontaneous cancer study in aging mice and subsequently used the AOM/DSS model of colitis-associated colorectal cancer and a model for hereditary colon cancer (ApcMin/+). Additionally, we analyzed genomic data in a large human population to determine the relationship between CNR2 variants and colon cancer incidence. Aging CB2-/- mice exhibited a higher incidence of spontaneous precancerous lesions in the colon compared to WT controls. The AOM/DSS-treated CB2-/- and ApcMin/+CB2-/- mice experienced aggravated tumorigenesis and enhanced splenic populations of immunosuppressive myeloid-derived suppressor cells along with abated anti-tumor CD8+ T cells. Importantly, corroborative genomic data reveal a significant association between non-synonymous variants of CNR2 and the incidence of colon cancer in humans. Taken together, the results suggest that endogenous CB2 activation suppresses colon tumorigenesis by shifting the balance towards anti-tumor immune cells in mice and thus portray the prognostic value of CNR2 variants for colon cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Ana Iden
- Department of Anatomy and Anthropology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Bitya Raphael-Mizrahi
- Department of Anatomy and Anthropology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Zamzam Awida
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Aaron Naim
- Department of Anatomy and Anthropology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Dan Zyc
- Department of Anatomy and Anthropology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Tamar Liron
- Department of Anatomy and Anthropology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Melody Kasher
- Department of Anatomy and Anthropology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
- Department of Morphological Studies, Adelson School of Medicine, Ariel University, Ariel 40700, Israel
| | - Gregory Livshits
- Department of Anatomy and Anthropology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
- Department of Morphological Studies, Adelson School of Medicine, Ariel University, Ariel 40700, Israel
| | - Marilena Vered
- Department of Oral Pathology, Oral Medicine and Maxillofacial Imaging, The Goldschleger School of Dental Medicine, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
- Institute of Pathology, The Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Ramat Gan 52621, Israel
| | - Yankel Gabet
- Department of Anatomy and Anthropology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
- Correspondence:
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9
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Cuddihey H, MacNaughton WK, Sharkey KA. Role of the Endocannabinoid System in the Regulation of Intestinal Homeostasis. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 14:947-963. [PMID: 35750314 PMCID: PMC9500439 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2022.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The maintenance of intestinal homeostasis is fundamentally important to health. Intestinal barrier function and immune regulation are key determinants of intestinal homeostasis and are therefore tightly regulated by a variety of signaling mechanisms. The endocannabinoid system is a lipid mediator signaling system widely expressed in the gastrointestinal tract. Accumulating evidence suggests the endocannabinoid system is a critical nexus involved in the physiological processes that underlie the control of intestinal homeostasis. In this review we will illustrate how the endocannabinoid system is involved in regulation of intestinal permeability, fluid secretion, and immune regulation. We will also demonstrate a reciprocal regulation between the endocannabinoid system and the gut microbiome. The role of the endocannabinoid system is complex and multifaceted, responding to both internal and external factors while also serving as an effector system for the maintenance of intestinal homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hailey Cuddihey
- Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Wallace K. MacNaughton
- Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Inflammation Research Network, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Keith A. Sharkey
- Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Correspondence Address correspondence to: Keith Sharkey, PhD, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada.
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10
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Morris G, Walder K, Berk M, Carvalho AF, Marx W, Bortolasci CC, Yung AR, Puri BK, Maes M. Intertwined associations between oxidative and nitrosative stress and endocannabinoid system pathways: Relevance for neuropsychiatric disorders. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2022; 114:110481. [PMID: 34826557 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2021.110481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) appears to regulate metabolic, cardiovascular, immune, gastrointestinal, lung, and reproductive system functions, as well as the central nervous system. There is also evidence that neuropsychiatric disorders are associated with ECS abnormalities as well as oxidative and nitrosative stress pathways. The goal of this mechanistic review is to investigate the mechanisms underlying the ECS's regulation of redox signalling, as well as the mechanisms by which activated oxidative and nitrosative stress pathways may impair ECS-mediated signalling. Cannabinoid receptor (CB)1 activation and upregulation of brain CB2 receptors reduce oxidative stress in the brain, resulting in less tissue damage and less neuroinflammation. Chronically high levels of oxidative stress may impair CB1 and CB2 receptor activity. CB1 activation in peripheral cells increases nitrosative stress and inducible nitric oxide (iNOS) activity, reducing mitochondrial activity. Upregulation of CB2 in the peripheral and central nervous systems may reduce iNOS, nitrosative stress, and neuroinflammation. Nitrosative stress may have an impact on CB1 and CB2-mediated signalling. Peripheral immune activation, which frequently occurs in response to nitro-oxidative stress, may result in increased expression of CB2 receptors on T and B lymphocytes, dendritic cells, and macrophages, reducing the production of inflammatory products and limiting the duration and intensity of the immune and oxidative stress response. In conclusion, high levels of oxidative and nitrosative stress may compromise or even abolish ECS-mediated redox pathway regulation. Future research in neuropsychiatric disorders like mood disorders and deficit schizophrenia should explore abnormalities in these intertwined signalling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerwyn Morris
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - Ken Walder
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia.
| | - Michael Berk
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia; Orygen, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Andre F Carvalho
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - Wolf Marx
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia.
| | - Chiara C Bortolasci
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia.
| | - Alison R Yung
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia; Orygen, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; School of Health Science, University of Manchester, UK.
| | - Basant K Puri
- University of Winchester, UK, and C.A.R., Cambridge, UK.
| | - Michael Maes
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia; Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand; Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
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11
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Jayarajan S, Meissler JJ, Adler MW, Eisenstein TK. A Cannabinoid 2-Selective Agonist Inhibits Allogeneic Skin Graft Rejection In Vivo. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:804950. [PMID: 35185546 PMCID: PMC8850832 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.804950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous work from our laboratory showed that a CB2 selective agonist, O-1966, blocked the proliferative response of C57BL/6 mouse spleen cells exposed to spleen cells of C3HeB/FeJ mice in vitro in the mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR). The MLR is widely accepted as an in vitro correlate of in vivo grant rejection. Mechanisms of the immunosuppression induced by the cannabinoid were explored, and it was shown that O-1966 in this in vitro assay induced CD25+Foxp3+ Treg cells and IL-10, as well as down-regulated mRNA for CD40 and the nuclear form of the transcription factors NF-κB and NFAT in T-cells. The current studies tested the efficacy of O-1966 in prolonging skin grafts in vivo. Full thickness flank skin patches (1-cm2) from C3HeB/FeJ mice were grafted by suturing onto the back of C57BL/6 mice. O-1966 or vehicle was injected intraperitoneally into treated or control groups of animals beginning 1 h pre-op, and then every other day until 14 days post-op. Graft survival was scored based on necrosis and rejection. Treatment with 5 mg/kg of O-1966 prolonged mean graft survival time from 9 to 11 days. Spleens harvested from O-1966 treated mice were significantly smaller than those of vehicle control animals based on weight. Flow cytometry analysis of CD4+ spleen cells showed that O-1966 treated animals had almost a 3-fold increase in CD25+Foxp3+ Treg cells compared to controls. When dissociated spleen cells were placed in culture ex vivo and stimulated with C3HeB/FeJ cells in an MLR, the cells from the O-1966 treated mice were significantly suppressed in their proliferative response to the allogeneic cells. These results support CB2 selective agonists as a new class of compounds to prolong graft survival in transplant patients.
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12
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Pryimak N, Zaiachuk M, Kovalchuk O, Kovalchuk I. The Potential Use of Cannabis in Tissue Fibrosis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:715380. [PMID: 34708034 PMCID: PMC8542845 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.715380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is a condition characterized by thickening or/and scarring of various tissues. Fibrosis may develop in almost all tissues and organs, and it may be one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality. It provokes excessive scarring that excels the usual wound healing response to trauma in numerous organs. Currently, very little can be done to prevent tissue fibrosis, and it is almost impossible to reverse it. Anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive drugs are among the few treatments that may be efficient in preventing fibrosis. Numerous publications suggest that cannabinoids and extracts of Cannabis sativa have potent anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrogenic properties. In this review, we describe the types and mechanisms of fibrosis in various tissues and discuss various strategies for prevention and dealing with tissue fibrosis. We further introduce cannabinoids and their potential for the prevention and treatment of fibrosis, and therefore for extending healthy lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Olga Kovalchuk
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB, Canada
| | - Igor Kovalchuk
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB, Canada
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13
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Cherkasova V, Kovalchuk O, Kovalchuk I. Cannabinoids and Endocannabinoid System Changes in Intestinal Inflammation and Colorectal Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:4353. [PMID: 34503163 PMCID: PMC8430689 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13174353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the multiple preventive measures and treatment options, colorectal cancer holds a significant place in the world's disease and mortality rates. The development of novel therapy is in critical need, and based on recent experimental data, cannabinoids could become excellent candidates. This review covered known experimental studies regarding the effects of cannabinoids on intestinal inflammation and colorectal cancer. In our opinion, because colorectal cancer is a heterogeneous disease with different genomic landscapes, the choice of cannabinoids for tumor prevention and treatment depends on the type of the disease, its etiology, driver mutations, and the expression levels of cannabinoid receptors. In this review, we describe the molecular changes of the endocannabinoid system in the pathologies of the large intestine, focusing on inflammation and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Olga Kovalchuk
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB T1K 7X8, Canada;
| | - Igor Kovalchuk
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB T1K 7X8, Canada;
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14
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Gruber T, Robatel S, Kremenovic M, Bäriswyl L, Gertsch J, Schenk M. Cannabinoid Receptor Type-2 in B Cells Is Associated with Tumor Immunity in Melanoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13081934. [PMID: 33923757 PMCID: PMC8073134 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13081934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In this study we investigated the role of cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2R) on immune cells in melanoma and found significantly improved overall survival in patients with high intra-tumoral CB2R gene expression. In human melanoma, CB2R is predominantly expressed in B cells, as shown using a previously published single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) dataset and by performing RNAscope. In a murine melanoma model, tumor growth was enhanced in CB2R-deficient mice. In-depth analysis of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes using scRNA-seq showed less differentiated B cells in CB2R-deficient tumors, favoring the induction of regulatory T cells (Treg) and an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Taken together, these data indicate a central role of CB2R on B cells in regulating tumor immunity. These results contribute to the understanding of the role of CB2R in tumor immunity and facilitate the development of new CB2R-targeted anti-cancer drugs. Abstract Agents targeting the endocannabinoid system (ECS) have gained attention as potential cancer treatments. Given recent evidence that cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2R) regulates lymphocyte development and inflammation, we performed studies on CB2R in the immune response against melanoma. Analysis of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data revealed a strong positive correlation between CB2R expression and survival, as well as B cell infiltration in human melanoma. In a murine melanoma model, CB2R expression reduced the growth of melanoma as well as the B cell frequencies in the tumor microenvironment (TME), compared to CB2R-deficient mice. In depth analysis of tumor-infiltrating B cells using single-cell RNA sequencing suggested a less differentiated phenotype in tumors from Cb2r−/− mice. Thus, in this study, we demonstrate for the first time a protective, B cell-mediated role of CB2R in melanoma. This gained insight might assist in the development of novel, CB2R-targeted cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Gruber
- Institute of Pathology, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland; (T.G.); (S.R.); (M.K.); (L.B.)
- Graduate School GCB, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Steve Robatel
- Institute of Pathology, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland; (T.G.); (S.R.); (M.K.); (L.B.)
- Graduate School GCB, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Mirela Kremenovic
- Institute of Pathology, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland; (T.G.); (S.R.); (M.K.); (L.B.)
- Graduate School GCB, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Lukas Bäriswyl
- Institute of Pathology, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland; (T.G.); (S.R.); (M.K.); (L.B.)
| | - Jürg Gertsch
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland;
| | - Mirjam Schenk
- Institute of Pathology, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland; (T.G.); (S.R.); (M.K.); (L.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +41-31-632-88-02
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15
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Yuan CY, Zhou V, Sauber G, Stollenwerk T, Komorowski R, López A, Tolón RM, Romero J, Hillard CJ, Drobyski WR. Signaling through the type 2 cannabinoid receptor regulates the severity of acute and chronic graft-versus-host disease. Blood 2021; 137:1241-1255. [PMID: 33027805 PMCID: PMC7933769 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2020004871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) pathophysiology is a complex interplay between cells that comprise the adaptive and innate arms of the immune system. Effective prophylactic strategies are therefore contingent upon approaches that address contributions from both immune cell compartments. In the current study, we examined the role of the type 2 cannabinoid receptor (CB2R), which is expressed on nearly all immune cells, and demonstrated that absence of the CB2R on donor CD4+ or CD8+ T cells or administration of a selective CB2R pharmacological antagonist exacerbated acute GVHD lethality. This was accompanied primarily by the expansion of proinflammatory CD8+ T cells, indicating that constitutive CB2R expression on T cells preferentially regulated CD8+ T-cell alloreactivity. Using a novel CB2ReGFP reporter mouse, we observed significant loss of CB2R expression on T cells, but not macrophages, during acute GVHD, indicative of differential alterations in receptor expression under inflammatory conditions. Therapeutic targeting of the CB2R with the agonists Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and JWH-133 revealed that only THC mitigated lethal T cell-mediated acute GVHD. Conversely, only JWH-133 was effective in a sclerodermatous chronic GVHD model where macrophages contributed to disease biology. In vitro, both THC and JWH-133 induced arrestin recruitment and extracellular regulated kinase phosphorylation via CB2R, but THC had no effect on CB2R-mediated inhibition of adenylyl cyclase. This study shows that the CB2R plays a critical role in the regulation of GVHD and suggests that effective therapeutic targeting is dependent upon agonist signaling characteristics and receptor selectivity in conjunction with the composition of pathogenic immune effector cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Richard Komorowski
- Department of Pathology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI; and
| | - Alicia López
- Faculty of Experimental Sciences, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rosa María Tolón
- Faculty of Experimental Sciences, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Julian Romero
- Faculty of Experimental Sciences, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Madrid, Spain
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16
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Sharma DS, Paddibhatla I, Raghuwanshi S, Malleswarapu M, Sangeeth A, Kovuru N, Dahariya S, Gautam DK, Pallepati A, Gutti RK. Endocannabinoid system: Role in blood cell development, neuroimmune interactions and associated disorders. J Neuroimmunol 2021; 353:577501. [PMID: 33571815 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2021.577501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex physiological network involved in creating homeostasis and maintaining human health. Studies of the last 40 years have shown that endocannabinoids (ECs), a group of bioactive lipids, together with their set of receptors, function as one of the most important physiologic systems in human body. ECs and cannabinoid receptors (CBRs) are found throughout the body: in the brain tissues, immune cells, and in the peripheral organs and tissues as well. In recent years, ECs have emerged as key modulators of affect, neurotransmitter release, immune function, and several other physiological functions. This modulatory homoeostatic system operates in the regulation of brain activity and states of physical health and disease. In several research studies and patents the ECS has been recognised with neuro-protective properties thus it might be a target in neurodegenerative diseases. Most immune cells express these bioactive lipids and their receptors, recent data also highlight the immunomodulatory effects of endocannabinoids. Interplay of immune and nervous system has been recognized in past, recent studies suggest that ECS function as a bridge between neuronal and immune system. In several ongoing clinical trial studies, the ECS has also been placed in the anti-cancer drugs spotlight. This review summarizes the literature of cannabinoid ligands and their biosynthesis, cannabinoid receptors and their distribution, and the signaling pathways initiated by the binding of cannabinoid ligands to cannabinoid receptors. Further, this review highlights the functional role of cannabinoids and ECS in blood cell development, neuroimmune interactions and associated disorders. Moreover, we highlight the current state of knowledge of cannabinoid ligands as the mediators of neuroimmune interactions, which can be therapeutically effective for neuro-immune disorders and several diseases associated with neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Durga Shankar Sharma
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad 500046, Telangana, India
| | - Indira Paddibhatla
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad 500046, Telangana, India
| | - Sanjeev Raghuwanshi
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad 500046, Telangana, India
| | - Mahesh Malleswarapu
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad 500046, Telangana, India
| | - Anjali Sangeeth
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad 500046, Telangana, India
| | - Narasaiah Kovuru
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad 500046, Telangana, India
| | - Swati Dahariya
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad 500046, Telangana, India
| | - Dushyant Kumar Gautam
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad 500046, Telangana, India
| | - Aditya Pallepati
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad 500046, Telangana, India
| | - Ravi Kumar Gutti
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad 500046, Telangana, India.
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17
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Haspula D, Clark MA. Cannabinoid Receptors: An Update on Cell Signaling, Pathophysiological Roles and Therapeutic Opportunities in Neurological, Cardiovascular, and Inflammatory Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E7693. [PMID: 33080916 PMCID: PMC7590033 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21207693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Revised: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The identification of the human cannabinoid receptors and their roles in health and disease, has been one of the most significant biochemical and pharmacological advancements to have occurred in the past few decades. In spite of the major strides made in furthering endocannabinoid research, therapeutic exploitation of the endocannabinoid system has often been a challenging task. An impaired endocannabinoid tone often manifests as changes in expression and/or functions of type 1 and/or type 2 cannabinoid receptors. It becomes important to understand how alterations in cannabinoid receptor cellular signaling can lead to disruptions in major physiological and biological functions, as they are often associated with the pathogenesis of several neurological, cardiovascular, metabolic, and inflammatory diseases. This review focusses mostly on the pathophysiological roles of type 1 and type 2 cannabinoid receptors, and it attempts to integrate both cellular and physiological functions of the cannabinoid receptors. Apart from an updated review of pre-clinical and clinical studies, the adequacy/inadequacy of cannabinoid-based therapeutics in various pathological conditions is also highlighted. Finally, alternative strategies to modulate endocannabinoid tone, and future directions are also emphasized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhanush Haspula
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA;
| | - Michelle A. Clark
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314, USA
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18
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Localization of cannabinoid and cannabinoid related receptors in the cat gastrointestinal tract. Histochem Cell Biol 2020; 153:339-356. [PMID: 32095931 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-020-01854-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
A growing body of literature indicates that activation of cannabinoid receptors may exert beneficial effects on gastrointestinal inflammation and visceral hypersensitivity. The present study aimed to immunohistochemically investigate the distribution of the canonical cannabinoid receptors CB1 (CB1R) and CB2 (CB2R) and the putative cannabinoid receptors G protein-coupled receptor 55 (GPR55), nuclear peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα), transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1), and serotonin receptor 5-HT1a 5-HT1aR) in tissue samples of the gastrointestinal tract of the cat. CB1R-immunoreactivity (CB1R-IR) was observed in gastric epithelial cells, intestinal enteroendocrine cells (EECs) and goblet cells, lamina propria mast cells (MCs), and enteric neurons. CB2R-IR was expressed by EECs, enterocytes, and macrophages. GPR55-IR was expressed by EECs, macrophages, immunocytes, and MP neurons. PPARα-IR was expressed by immunocytes, smooth muscle cells, and enteroglial cells. TRPA1-IR was expressed by enteric neurons and intestinal goblet cells. 5-HT1a receptor-IR was expressed by gastrointestinal epithelial cells and gastric smooth muscle cells. Cannabinoid receptors showed a wide distribution in the feline gastrointestinal tract layers. Although not yet confirmed/supported by functional evidences, the present research might represent an anatomical substrate potentially useful to support, in feline species, the therapeutic use of cannabinoids during gastrointestinal inflammatory diseases.
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19
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Innocenzi E, De Domenico E, Ciccarone F, Zampieri M, Rossi G, Cicconi R, Bernardini R, Mattei M, Grimaldi P. Paternal activation of CB 2 cannabinoid receptor impairs placental and embryonic growth via an epigenetic mechanism. Sci Rep 2019; 9:17034. [PMID: 31745152 PMCID: PMC6863860 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-53579-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2) is the peripheral receptor for cannabinoids, involved in the homeostatic control of several physiological functions. Male mitotic germ cells express a high level of CB2, whose activation promotes their differentiation in both in vitro and in vivo experiments, controlling the correct progression of spermatogenesis. However, it remains elusive if CB2 activation in spermatogonia could affect reproductive success in terms of fertility and healthy pregnancy outcomes. In this study, we explored the effects of male CB2 activation on sperm number and quality and its influence on next generation health. We show that exposure of male mice to JWH-133, a selective CB2 agonist, decreased sperm count, impaired placental development and reduced offspring growth. These defects were associated with altered DNA methylation/hydroxymethylation levels at imprinted genes in sperm and conserved in placenta. Our findings reveal that paternal selective activation of CB2 alters the sperm epigenome and compromises offspring growth. This study demonstrates, for the first time, a new role of CB2 signaling in male gametes in causing epigenetic alterations that can be transmitted to the next generation by sperm, highlighting potential risks induced by recreational cannabinoid exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Innocenzi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Emanuela De Domenico
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Fabio Ciccarone
- IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Roma Open University, Rome, Italy
| | - Michele Zampieri
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriele Rossi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Rosella Cicconi
- Interdepartmental Service Centre-Station for Animal Technology (STA), University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Bernardini
- Interdepartmental Service Centre-Station for Animal Technology (STA), University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Mattei
- Interdepartmental Service Centre-Station for Animal Technology (STA), University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy.,Department of Biology, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Grimaldi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy.
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20
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Danner E, Hoffmann F, Lee SY, Cordes F, Orban S, Dauber K, Chudziak D, Spohn G, Wiercinska E, Tast B, Karpova D, Bonig H. Modest and nonessential roles of the endocannabinoid system in immature hematopoiesis of mice. Exp Hematol 2019; 78:35-45. [PMID: 31562901 DOI: 10.1016/j.exphem.2019.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Revised: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 09/14/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Endocannabinoids are lipid mediators that signal via several seven-transmembrane domain G protein-coupled receptors. The endocannabinoid receptor CB2 is expressed on blood cells, including stem cells, and mediates the effects of cannabinoids on the immune system. The role of the endocannabinoid system in immature hematopoiesis is largely elusive. Both direct effects of endocannabinoids on stem cells and indirect effects through endocannabinoid-responsive niche cells like macrophages have been reported. Using two different CB2-deficient mouse models, we studied the role of the endocannabinoid system in immature hematopoiesis. Moreover, we utilized both models to assess the specificity of putative CB2 agonists. As heterodimerization of CB2 and CXCR4, which is highly expressed on hematopoietic stem cells, has already been described, we also assessed potential consequences of CB2 loss for CXCR4/CXCL12 signaling. Overall, no differential effects were observed with any of the compounds tested; the compounds barely induced signaling by themselves, whereas they attenuated CXCL12-induced signals in both CB2-competent and CB2-deficient cells. In vivo experiments were therefore by necessity restricted to loss-of-function studies in knockout (CB2-/-) mice: Except for mild lymphocytosis and slightly elevated circulating progenitor cells, homeostatic hematopoiesis in CB2-/- mice appears to be entirely normal. Mobilization in response to pharmacological stimuli, Plerixafor or G-CSF, was equally potent in wild-type and CB2-/- mice. CB2-/- bone marrow cells reconstituted hematopoiesis in lethally irradiated recipients with engraftment kinetics indistinguishable from those of wild-type grafts. In summary, we found the endocannabinoid system to be largely dispensable for normal murine hematopoiesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Danner
- German Red Cross Blood Donor Service Baden-Wuerttemberg-Hessen, Frankfurt, Germany; Goethe University Frankfurt, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Frauke Hoffmann
- German Red Cross Blood Donor Service Baden-Wuerttemberg-Hessen, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Seo-Youn Lee
- German Red Cross Blood Donor Service Baden-Wuerttemberg-Hessen, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Fabian Cordes
- German Red Cross Blood Donor Service Baden-Wuerttemberg-Hessen, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Sabine Orban
- German Red Cross Blood Donor Service Baden-Wuerttemberg-Hessen, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Katrin Dauber
- German Red Cross Blood Donor Service Baden-Wuerttemberg-Hessen, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Doreen Chudziak
- German Red Cross Blood Donor Service Baden-Wuerttemberg-Hessen, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Gabriele Spohn
- German Red Cross Blood Donor Service Baden-Wuerttemberg-Hessen, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Eliza Wiercinska
- German Red Cross Blood Donor Service Baden-Wuerttemberg-Hessen, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Benjamin Tast
- German Red Cross Blood Donor Service Baden-Wuerttemberg-Hessen, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Darja Karpova
- German Red Cross Blood Donor Service Baden-Wuerttemberg-Hessen, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Halvard Bonig
- German Red Cross Blood Donor Service Baden-Wuerttemberg-Hessen, Frankfurt, Germany; Goethe University Medical School, Institute for Transfusion Medicine and Immunohematology, Frankfurt, Germany.
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21
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Gentili M, Ronchetti S, Ricci E, Di Paola R, Gugliandolo E, Cuzzocrea S, Bereshchenko O, Migliorati G, Riccardi C. Selective CB2 inverse agonist JTE907 drives T cell differentiation towards a Treg cell phenotype and ameliorates inflammation in a mouse model of inflammatory bowel disease. Pharmacol Res 2018; 141:21-31. [PMID: 30552973 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2018.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2018] [Revised: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cannabinoids are known to possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, but the mechanisms involved are not fully understood. CB2 is the cannabinoid receptor that is expressed primarily on hematopoietic cells and mediates the immunoregulatory functions of cannabinoids. In order to study the effect of JTE907, a selective/inverse agonist of CB2 with anti-inflammatory properties, on the differentiation of T cell subtypes, we used an in vitro system of Th lineage-specific differentiation of naïve CD4+ T lymphocytes isolated from the mouse spleen. The results indicate that JTE907 was able to induce the differentiation of Th0 cells into the Treg cell phenotype, which was characterized by the expression of FoxP3, TGF-β and IL-10. P38 phosphorylation and STAT5A activation were found to mediate the signaling pathway triggered by JTE907 via the CB2 receptor in Th0 lymphocytes. In mice with DNBS-induced colitis, JTE907 treatment was able to induce an increase in the number of CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ cells in the lamina propria after 24 h of disease onset and reduce disease severity after 48 h. Further, longer JTE907 treatment resulted in less severe colitis even when administered orally, resulting in less body weight loss, reduction of the disease score, prevention of NF-κB activation, and reduction of the expression of adhesion molecules. Collectively, the results of this study indicate that specific signals delivered through the CB2 receptor can drive the immune response towards the Treg cell phenotype. Thus, ligands such as JTE907 may have use as potential therapeutic agents in autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Gentili
- Department of Medicine, Section of Pharmacology, University of Perugia, Italy
| | - Simona Ronchetti
- Department of Medicine, Section of Pharmacology, University of Perugia, Italy.
| | - Erika Ricci
- Department of Medicine, Section of Pharmacology, University of Perugia, Italy
| | - Rosanna Di Paola
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Italy
| | - Enrico Gugliandolo
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Italy
| | - Salvatore Cuzzocrea
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Italy
| | - Oxana Bereshchenko
- Department of Medicine, Section of Pharmacology, University of Perugia, Italy
| | | | - Carlo Riccardi
- Department of Medicine, Section of Pharmacology, University of Perugia, Italy
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22
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Oyagawa CRM, de la Harpe SM, Saroz Y, Glass M, Vernall AJ, Grimsey NL. Cannabinoid Receptor 2 Signalling Bias Elicited by 2,4,6-Trisubstituted 1,3,5-Triazines. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:1202. [PMID: 30524271 PMCID: PMC6256112 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.01202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Accepted: 10/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) is predominantly distributed in immune tissues and cells and is a promising therapeutic target for modulating inflammation. In this study we designed and synthesised a series of 2,4,6-trisubstituted 1,3,5-triazines with piperazinylalkyl or 1,2-diethoxyethane (PEG2) chains as CB2 agonists, all of which were predicted to be considerably more polar than typical cannabinoid ligands. In this series, we found that triazines containing an adamantanyl group were conducive to CB2 binding whereas those with a cyclopentyl group were not. Although the covalent attachment of a PEG2 linker to the adamantyl triazines resulted in a decrease in binding affinity, some of the ligands produced very interesting hCB2 signalling profiles. Six compounds with notable hCB2 orthosteric binding were functionally characterised in three pathways; internalisation, cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and ERK phosphorylation (pERK). These were predominantly confirmed to be hCB2 agonists, and upon comparison to a reference ligand (CP 55,940), four compounds exhibited signalling bias. Triazines 14 (UOSD017) and 15 were biased towards internalisation over cAMP and pERK, and 7 was biased away from pERK activation relative to cAMP and internalisation. Intriguingly, the triazine with an amino-PEG2-piperazinyl linker (13 [UOSD008]) was identified to be a mixed agonist/inverse agonist, exhibiting apparent neutral antagonism in the internalisation pathway, transient inverse agonism in the cAMP pathway and weak partial agonism in the pERK pathway. Both the cAMP and pERK signalling were pertussis toxin (PTX) sensitive, implying that 13 is acting as both a weak agonist and inverse agonist at CB2 via Gαi/o. Compound 10 (UOSD015) acted as a balanced high intrinsic efficacy agonist with the potential to produce greater hCB2-mediated efficacy than reference ligand CP 55,940. As 10 includes a Boc-protected PEG2 moiety it is also a promising candidate for further modification, for example with a secondary reporter or fluorophore. The highest affinity compound in this set of relatively polar hCB2 ligands was compound 16, which acted as a slightly partial balanced agonist in comparison with CP 55,940. The ligands characterised here may therefore exhibit unique functional properties in vivo and have the potential to be valuable in the future development of CB2-directed therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin R. M. Oyagawa
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Centre for Brain Research, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | | | - Yurii Saroz
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Centre for Brain Research, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Centre for Brain Research, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | | | - Natasha Lillia Grimsey
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Centre for Brain Research, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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23
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Zhou L, Zhou S, Yang P, Tian Y, Feng Z, Xie XQ, Liu Y. Targeted inhibition of the type 2 cannabinoid receptor is a novel approach to reduce renal fibrosis. Kidney Int 2018; 94:756-772. [PMID: 30093080 PMCID: PMC6151282 DOI: 10.1016/j.kint.2018.05.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2017] [Revised: 05/03/2018] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2) is a G protein-coupled seven transmembrane receptor that transmits endogenous cannabinoid signaling. The role of CB2 in the pathogenesis of kidney injury and fibrosis remains poorly understood. Here we demonstrate that CB2 was induced, predominantly in kidney tubular epithelium, in various models of kidney disease induced by unilateral ureteral obstruction, adriamycin or ischemia/reperfusion injury. In vitro, forced expression of CB2 or treatment with a CB2 agonist was sufficient to trigger matrix gene expression, whereas knockdown of CB2 by siRNA abolished transforming growth factor-β1-induced signaling and fibrogenic responses in kidney tubular cells. CB2 also mediated fibroblasts and macrophage activation in vitro. Mice with genetic ablation of CB2 were protected against kidney injury after ureteral obstruction, validating a pathogenic role of CB2 in renal fibrosis in vivo. By using in silico screening and medicinal chemistry modifications, we discovered a novel compound, XL-001, that bound to CB2 with high affinity and selectivity and acted as an inverse agonist. Incubation with XL-001 inhibited in a dose-dependent fashion the fibrogenic response induced by CB2 overexpression, CB2 agonist or transforming growth factor-β1. In vivo, intraperitoneal injections of XL-001 ameliorated kidney injury, fibrosis and inflammation in both the obstruction and ischemia/reperfusion models. Delayed administration of XL-001 was also effective in ameliorating kidney fibrosis and inflammation. Thus, CB2 is a pathogenic mediator in kidney fibrosis and targeted inhibition with the novel inverse agonist XL-001 may provide a strategy in the fight against fibrotic kidney diseases.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Disease Models, Animal
- Drug Discovery
- Epithelium
- Extracellular Matrix/genetics
- Fibroblasts
- Fibrosis
- Gene Expression
- Gene Silencing
- Inflammation/etiology
- Inflammation/prevention & control
- Kidney Tubules/metabolism
- Kidney Tubules/pathology
- Macrophages
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/genetics
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/metabolism
- Renal Insufficiency, Chronic/etiology
- Renal Insufficiency, Chronic/genetics
- Renal Insufficiency, Chronic/prevention & control
- Reperfusion Injury/complications
- Signal Transduction
- Sulfonamides/chemistry
- Sulfonamides/pharmacology
- Transforming Growth Factor beta1/metabolism
- Ureteral Obstruction/complications
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Disease, Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Shan Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Disease, Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Peng Yang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Drug Discovery Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Department of Computational Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Department of Structural Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Yuan Tian
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Zhiwei Feng
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Drug Discovery Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Department of Computational Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Department of Structural Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Xiang-Qun Xie
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Drug Discovery Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Department of Computational Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Department of Structural Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.
| | - Youhua Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Disease, Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China; Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.
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24
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Cellular localization and regulation of receptors and enzymes of the endocannabinoid system in intestinal and systemic inflammation. Histochem Cell Biol 2018; 151:5-20. [PMID: 30196316 PMCID: PMC6328631 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-018-1719-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Surveys suggest that Cannabis provides benefit for people with inflammatory bowel disease. However, mechanisms underlying beneficial effects are not clear. We performed in situ hybridization RNAscope® combined with immunohistochemistry to show cell-specific distribution and regulation of cannabinoid receptor 1 and 2 (CB1, CB2), G protein-coupled receptor 55 (GPR55), and monoacylglycerol lipase (MGL) mRNA in immune cells using murine models of intestinal and systemic inflammation. In healthy animals, the presence in enteric ganglia is high for CB1 mRNA, but low for CB2 and GPR55 mRNAs. MGL mRNA is predominant throughout the intestinal wall including myenteric neurons, epithelium, circular and longitudinal muscular layers, and the lamina propria. Within the immune system, B220+ cells exhibit high gene expression for CB2 while the expression of CB2 in F4/80+ and CD3+ cells is less prominent. In contrast, GPR55 mRNA is highly present in F4/80+ and CD3+ cells. qRT-PCR of total colonic segments shows that the expression of GPR55 and MGL genes drops during intestinal inflammation. Also at cellular levels, GPR55 and MGL gene expression is reduced in F4/80+, but not CD3+ cells. As to systemic inflammation, reduced gene expression of MGL is observed in ileum by qRT-PCR, while at cellular levels, altered gene expression is also seen for CB1 and GPR55 in CD3+ but not F4/80+ cells. In summary, our study reveals changes in gene expression of members of the endocannabinoid system in situ attesting particularly GPR55 and MGL a distinct cellular role in the regulation of the immune response to intestinal and systemic inflammation.
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25
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The endocannabinoid system of the skin. A potential approach for the treatment of skin disorders. Biochem Pharmacol 2018; 157:122-133. [PMID: 30138623 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2018.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The skin is the largest organ of the body and has a complex and very active structure that contributes to homeostasis and provides the first line defense against injury and infection. In the past few years it has become evident that the endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a relevant role in healthy and diseased skin. Specifically, we review how the dysregulation of ECS has been associated to dermatological disorders such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, scleroderma and skin cancer. Therefore, the druggability of the ECS could open new research avenues for the treatment of the pathologies mentioned. Numerous studies have reported that phytocannabinoids and their biological analogues modulate a complex network pharmacology involved in the modulation of ECS, focusing on classical cannabinoid receptors, transient receptor potential channels (TRPs), and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs). The combined targeting of several end-points seems critical to provide better chances of therapeutically success, in sharp contrast to the one-disease-one-target dogma that permeates current drug discovery campaigns.
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26
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Hwang IY, Boularan C, Harrison K, Kehrl JH. Gα i Signaling Promotes Marginal Zone B Cell Development by Enabling Transitional B Cell ADAM10 Expression. Front Immunol 2018; 9:687. [PMID: 29696016 PMCID: PMC5904254 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.00687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2017] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The follicular (FO) versus marginal zone (MZ) B cell fate decision in the spleen depends upon BCR, BAFF, and Notch2 signaling. Whether or how Gi signaling affects this fate decision is unknown. Here, we show that direct contact with Notch ligand expressing stromal cells (OP9-Delta-like 1) cannot promote normal MZ B cell development when progenitor B cells lack Gαi proteins, or if Gi signaling is disabled. Consistent with faulty ADAM10-dependent Notch2 processing, Gαi-deficient transitional B cells had low ADAM10 membrane expression levels and reduced Notch2 target gene expression. Immunoblotting Gαi-deficient B cell lysates revealed a reduction in mature, processed ADAM10. Suggesting that Gαi signaling promotes ADAM10 membrane expression, stimulating normal transitional B cells with CXCL12 raised it, while inhibiting Gαi nucleotide exchange blocked its upregulation. Surprisingly, inhibiting Gαi nucleotide exchange in transitional B cells also impaired the upregulation of ADAM10 that occurs following antigen receptor crosslinking. These results indicate that Gαi signaling supports ADAM10 maturation and activity in transitional B cells, and ultimately Notch2 signaling to promote MZ B cell development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Il-Young Hwang
- B-Cell Molecular Immunology Section, Laboratory of Immunoregulation, National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Cedric Boularan
- B-Cell Molecular Immunology Section, Laboratory of Immunoregulation, National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States.,InvivoGen, Toulouse, France
| | - Kathleen Harrison
- B-Cell Molecular Immunology Section, Laboratory of Immunoregulation, National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - John H Kehrl
- B-Cell Molecular Immunology Section, Laboratory of Immunoregulation, National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
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Elbaz M, Ahirwar D, Ravi J, Nasser MW, Ganju RK. Novel role of cannabinoid receptor 2 in inhibiting EGF/EGFR and IGF-I/IGF-IR pathways in breast cancer. Oncotarget 2018; 8:29668-29678. [PMID: 27213582 PMCID: PMC5444694 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.9408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2016] [Accepted: 04/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women. Cannabinoid receptor 2 (CNR2 or CB2) is an integral part of the endocannabinoid system. Although CNR2 is highly expressed in the breast cancer tissues as well as breast cancer cell lines, its functional role in breast tumorigenesis is not well understood. We observed that estrogen receptor-α negative (ERα-) breast cancer cells highly express epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) as well as insulin-like growth factor-I receptor (IGF-IR). We also observed IGF-IR upregulation in ERα+ breast cancer cells. In addition, we found that higher CNR2 expression correlates with better recurrence free survival in ERα- and ERα+ breast cancer patients. Therefore, we analyzed the role of CNR2 specific agonist (JWH-015) on EGF and/or IGF-I-induced tumorigenic events in ERα- and ERα+ breast cancers. Our studies showed that CNR2 activation inhibited EGF and IGF-I-induced migration and invasion of ERα+ and ERα- breast cancer cells. At the molecular level, JWH-015 inhibited EGFR and IGF-IR activation and their downstream targets STAT3, AKT, ERK, NF-kB and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). In vivo studies showed that JWH-015 significantly reduced breast cancer growth in ERα+ and ERα- breast cancer mouse models. Furthermore, we found that the tumors derived from JWH-015-treated mice showed reduced activation of EGFR and IGF-IR and their downstream targets. In conclusion, we show that CNR2 activation suppresses breast cancer through novel mechanisms by inhibiting EGF/EGFR and IGF-I/IGF-IR signaling axes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad Elbaz
- Department of Pathology and The Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA.,Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacy School, Helwan University, Helwan, Egypt
| | - Dinesh Ahirwar
- Department of Pathology and The Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Janani Ravi
- Department of Pathology and The Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Mohd W Nasser
- Department of Pathology and The Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Ramesh K Ganju
- Department of Pathology and The Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
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Braun M, Khan ZT, Khan MB, Kumar M, Ward A, Achyut BR, Arbab AS, Hess DC, Hoda MN, Baban B, Dhandapani KM, Vaibhav K. Selective activation of cannabinoid receptor-2 reduces neuroinflammation after traumatic brain injury via alternative macrophage polarization. Brain Behav Immun 2018; 68:224-237. [PMID: 29079445 PMCID: PMC5767553 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2017.10.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2017] [Revised: 10/14/2017] [Accepted: 10/23/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammation is an important mediator of secondary neurological injury after traumatic brain injury (TBI). Endocannabinoids, endogenously produced arachidonate based lipids, have recently emerged as powerful anti-inflammatory compounds, yet the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying these effects are poorly defined. Endocannabinoids are physiological ligands for two known cannabinoid receptors, CB1R and CB2R. In the present study, we hypothesized that selective activation of CB2R attenuates neuroinflammation and reduces neurovascular injury after TBI. Using a murine controlled cortical impact (CCI) model of TBI, we observed a dramatic upregulation of CB2R within infiltrating myeloid cells beginning at 72 h. Administration of the selective CB2R agonist, GP1a (1-5 mg/kg), attenuated pro-inflammatory M1 macrophage polarization, increased anti-inflammatory M2 polarization, reduced edema development, enhanced cerebral blood flow, and improved neurobehavioral outcomes after TBI. In contrast, the CB2R antagonist, AM630, worsened outcomes. Taken together, our findings support the development of selective CB2R agonists as a therapeutic strategy to improve TBI outcomes while avoiding the psychoactive effects of CB1R activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly Braun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University
| | - Zenab T. Khan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University,Center for Nursing Research, Augusta University
| | - Mohammad B. Khan
- Department of Neurology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University
| | - Manish Kumar
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Monterontondo, Italy
| | - Ayobami Ward
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University
| | | | | | - David C. Hess
- Department of Neurology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University
| | - Md. Nasrul Hoda
- Department of Neurology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University,Department of Medical Laboratory, Imaging, and Radiological Sciences, College of Allied Health Sciences, Augusta University
| | - Babak Baban
- Department of Neurology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University,Department of Oral Biology, Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University,Department of Surgery, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University
| | | | - Kumar Vaibhav
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, United States; Department of Medical Laboratory, Imaging, and Radiological Sciences, College of Allied Health Sciences, Augusta University, United States.
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Fulmer ML, Thewke DP. The Endocannabinoid System and Heart Disease: The Role of Cannabinoid Receptor Type 2. Cardiovasc Hematol Disord Drug Targets 2018; 18:34-51. [PMID: 29412125 PMCID: PMC6020134 DOI: 10.2174/1871529x18666180206161457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2017] [Revised: 01/01/2018] [Accepted: 01/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Decades of research has provided evidence for the role of the endocannabinoid system in human health and disease. This versatile system, consisting of two receptors (CB1 and CB2), their endogenous ligands (endocannabinoids), and metabolic enzymes has been implicated in a wide variety of disease states, ranging from neurological disorders to cancer. CB2 has gained much interest for its beneficial immunomodulatory role that can be obtained without eliciting psychotropic effects through CB1. Recent studies have shed light on a protective role of CB2 in cardiovascular disease, an ailment which currently takes more lives each year in Western countries than any other disease or injury. By use of CB2 knockout mice and CB2-selective ligands, knowledge of how CB2 signaling affects atherosclerosis and ischemia has been acquired, providing a major stepping stone between basic science and translational clinical research. Here, we summarize the current understanding of the endocannabinoid system in human pathologies and provide a review of the results from preclinical studies examining its function in cardiovascular disease, with a particular emphasis on possible CB2-targeted therapeutic interventions to alleviate atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makenzie L. Fulmer
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Center for Inflammation, Infectious Disease and Immunity, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - Douglas P. Thewke
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Center for Inflammation, Infectious Disease and Immunity, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
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Boligan KF, von Gunten S. Innate lymphoid cells in asthma: cannabinoids on the balance. Allergy 2017; 72:839-841. [PMID: 28226397 DOI: 10.1111/all.13145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- K. F. Boligan
- Institute of Pharmacology; University of Bern; Bern Switzerland
| | - S. von Gunten
- Institute of Pharmacology; University of Bern; Bern Switzerland
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31
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Kho DT, Glass M, Graham ES. Is the Cannabinoid CB 2 Receptor a Major Regulator of the Neuroinflammatory Axis of the Neurovascular Unit in Humans? CANNABINOID PHARMACOLOGY 2017; 80:367-396. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.apha.2017.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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Turcotte C, Blanchet MR, Laviolette M, Flamand N. The CB 2 receptor and its role as a regulator of inflammation. Cell Mol Life Sci 2016; 73:4449-4470. [PMID: 27402121 PMCID: PMC5075023 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-016-2300-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 344] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2016] [Revised: 06/20/2016] [Accepted: 06/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The CB2 receptor is the peripheral receptor for cannabinoids. It is mainly expressed in immune tissues, highlighting the possibility that the endocannabinoid system has an immunomodulatory role. In this respect, the CB2 receptor was shown to modulate immune cell functions, both in cellulo and in animal models of inflammatory diseases. In this regard, numerous studies have reported that mice lacking the CB2 receptor have an exacerbated inflammatory phenotype. This suggests that therapeutic strategies aiming at modulating CB2 signaling could be promising for the treatment of various inflammatory conditions. Herein, we review the pharmacology of the CB2 receptor, its expression pattern, and the signaling pathways induced by its activation. We next examine the regulation of immune cell functions by the CB2 receptor and the evidence obtained from primary human cells, immortalized cell lines, and animal models of inflammation. Finally, we discuss the possible therapies targeting the CB2 receptor and the questions that remain to be addressed to determine whether this receptor could be a potential target to treat inflammatory disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Turcotte
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de cardiologie et de pneumologie de Québec, Département de médecine, Faculté de médecine, Université Laval, Quebec, QC, G1V 4G5, Canada
| | - Marie-Renée Blanchet
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de cardiologie et de pneumologie de Québec, Département de médecine, Faculté de médecine, Université Laval, Quebec, QC, G1V 4G5, Canada
| | - Michel Laviolette
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de cardiologie et de pneumologie de Québec, Département de médecine, Faculté de médecine, Université Laval, Quebec, QC, G1V 4G5, Canada
| | - Nicolas Flamand
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de cardiologie et de pneumologie de Québec, Département de médecine, Faculté de médecine, Université Laval, Quebec, QC, G1V 4G5, Canada.
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Schmöle AC, Lundt R, Gennequin B, Schrage H, Beins E, Krämer A, Zimmer T, Limmer A, Zimmer A, Otte DM. Expression Analysis of CB2-GFP BAC Transgenic Mice. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0138986. [PMID: 26406232 PMCID: PMC4583291 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0138986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2015] [Accepted: 09/08/2015] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a retrograde messenger system, consisting of lipid signaling molecules that bind to at least two G-protein-coupled receptors, Cannabinoid receptor 1 and 2 (CB1 and 2). As CB2 is primarily expressed on immune cells such as B cells, T cells, macrophages, dendritic cells, and microglia, it is of great interest how CB2 contributes to immune cell development and function in health and disease. Here, understanding the mechanisms of CB2 involvement in immune-cell function as well as the trafficking and regulation of CB2 expressing cells are crucial issues. Up to now, CB2 antibodies produce unclear results, especially those targeting the murine protein. Therefore, we have generated BAC transgenic GFP reporter mice (CB2-GFPTg) to trace CB2 expression in vitro and in situ. Those mice express GFP under the CB2 promoter and display GFP expression paralleling CB2 expression on the transcript level in spleen, thymus and brain tissue. Furthermore, by using fluorescence techniques we show that the major sources for GFP-CB2 expression are B cells in spleen and blood and microglia in the brain. This novel CB2-GFP transgenic reporter mouse line represents a powerful resource to study CB2 expression in different cell types. Furthermore, it could be used for analyzing CB2-mediated mobilization and trafficking of immune cells as well as studying the fate of recruited immune cells in models of acute and chronic inflammation.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- B-Lymphocytes/metabolism
- Brain/metabolism
- Chromosomes, Artificial, Bacterial/genetics
- Green Fluorescent Proteins/blood
- Green Fluorescent Proteins/genetics
- Green Fluorescent Proteins/metabolism
- Mice
- Mice, Transgenic
- Promoter Regions, Genetic
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/blood
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/genetics
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/metabolism
- Spleen/metabolism
- Thymus Gland/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Caroline Schmöle
- Institute of Molecular Psychiatry, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- * E-mail: (ACS); (DMO)
| | - Ramona Lundt
- Institute of Molecular Psychiatry, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Hanna Schrage
- Institute of Molecular Psychiatry, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Eva Beins
- Institute of Molecular Psychiatry, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Alexandra Krämer
- Institute of Molecular Psychiatry, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Till Zimmer
- Institute of Molecular Psychiatry, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Andreas Limmer
- Clinic for Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Andreas Zimmer
- Institute of Molecular Psychiatry, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - David-Marian Otte
- Institute of Molecular Psychiatry, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- * E-mail: (ACS); (DMO)
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Gasperi V, Evangelista D, Savini I, Del Principe D, Avigliano L, Maccarrone M, Catani MV. Downstream effects of endocannabinoid on blood cells: implications for health and disease. Cell Mol Life Sci 2015; 72:3235-52. [PMID: 25957591 PMCID: PMC11113859 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-015-1924-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2014] [Revised: 04/22/2015] [Accepted: 05/05/2015] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Endocannabinoids (eCBs), among which N-arachidonoylethanolamine (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) are the most biologically active members, are polyunsaturated lipids able to bind cannabinoid, vanilloid and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors. Depending on the target engaged, these bioactive mediators can regulate different signalling pathways, at both central and peripheral levels. The biological action of eCBs is tightly controlled by a plethora of metabolic enzymes which, together with the molecular targets of these substances, form the so-called "endocannabinoid system". The ability of eCBs to control manifold peripheral functions has received a great deal of attention, especially in the light of their widespread distribution in the body. In particular, eCBs are important regulators in blood, where they modulate haematopoiesis, platelet aggregation and apoptosis, as well as chemokine release and migration of immunocompetent cells. Here, we shall review the current knowledge on the pathophysiological roles of eCBs in blood. We shall also discuss the involvement of eCBs in those disorders affecting the haematological system, including cancer and inflammation. Knowledge gained to date underlines a fundamental role of the eCB system in blood, thus suggesting that it may represent a therapeutic promise for a broad range of diseases involving impaired hematopoietic cell functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Gasperi
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Evangelista
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Isabella Savini
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Luciana Avigliano
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Mauro Maccarrone
- Center of Integrated Research, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- European Center for Brain Research (CERC)/Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Valeria Catani
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
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Effects of Cannabinoids on T-cell Function and Resistance to Infection. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2015; 10:204-16. [PMID: 25876735 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-015-9603-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2015] [Accepted: 03/13/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
This review examines the effects of cannabinoids on immune function, with a focus on effects on T-cells, as well as on resistance to infection. The paper considers the immune modulating capacity of marijuana, of ∆(9)-THC extracted from the marijuana plant, and synthetic cannabinoids. Of particular interest are synthetic compounds that are CB2 receptor (CB2R) selective agonists. As the CB2R is principally expressed on cells of the immune system, agonists that target this receptor, and not CB1 (which is mainly expressed on neurons), have the possibility of altering immune function without psychoactive effects. The overall conclusion of the studies discussed in this review is that cannabinoids that bind to the CB2 receptor, including ∆(9)-THC and CB2 selective agonists are immunosuppressive. The studies provide objective evidence for potentially beneficial effects of marijuana and ∆(9)-THC on the immune system in conditions where it is desirable to dampen immune responses. Evidence is also reviewed supporting the conclusion that these same compounds can sensitize to some infections through their immunosuppressive activities, but not to others. An emerging area of investigation that is reviewed is evidence to support the conclusion that CB2 selective agonists are a new class of immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory compounds that may have exceptional beneficial effects in a variety of conditions, such as autoimmune diseases and graft rejection, where it is desirable to dampen the immune response without psychoactive effects.
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Chiurchiù V, Battistini L, Maccarrone M. Endocannabinoid signalling in innate and adaptive immunity. Immunology 2015; 144:352-364. [PMID: 25585882 DOI: 10.1111/imm.12441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2014] [Revised: 12/23/2014] [Accepted: 01/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The immune system can be modulated and regulated not only by foreign antigens but also by other humoral factors and metabolic products, which are able to affect several quantitative and qualitative aspects of immunity. Among these, endocannabinoids are a group of bioactive lipids that might serve as secondary modulators, which when mobilized coincident with or shortly after first-line immune modulators, increase or decrease many immune functions. Most immune cells express these bioactive lipids, together with their set of receptors and of enzymes regulating their synthesis and degradation. In this review, a synopsis of the manifold immunomodulatory effects of endocannabinoids and their signalling in the different cell populations of innate and adaptive immunity is appointed, with a particular distinction between mice and human immune system compartments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerio Chiurchiù
- European Centre for Brain Research (CERC), I.R.C.C.S. Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Battistini
- European Centre for Brain Research (CERC), I.R.C.C.S. Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Mauro Maccarrone
- European Centre for Brain Research (CERC), I.R.C.C.S. Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy.,Centre of Integrated Research, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Suárez-Pinilla P, López-Gil J, Crespo-Facorro B. Immune system: a possible nexus between cannabinoids and psychosis. Brain Behav Immun 2014; 40:269-82. [PMID: 24509089 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2014.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2013] [Revised: 01/29/2014] [Accepted: 01/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endocannabinoid system is involved in the regulation of the brain-immune axis. Cannabis consumption is related with the development, course, and severity of psychosis. The epidemiological evidence for increased occurrence of immunological alterations in patients with psychosis has not been sufficiently addressed. The aim of this review is to establish whether there is any scientific evidence of the influence of cannabinoids on aspects of immunity that affect susceptibility to psychotic disorder induction. METHODS A comprehensive search of PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE and ISI Web of Knowledge was performed using combinations of key terms distributed into three blocks: "immune", "cannabinoid", and "endocannabinoid receptor". Studies were considered to be eligible for the review if they were original articles, they reported a quantitative or qualitative relation between cannabinoid ligands, their receptors, and immune system, and they were carried out in vitro or in mammals, included humans. All the information was systematically extracted and evaluated. RESULTS We identified 122 articles from 446 references. Overall, endocannabinoids enhanced immune response, whereas exogenous cannabinoids had immunosuppressant effects. A general change in the immune response from Th1 to Th2 was also demonstrated for cannabinoid action. Endogenous and synthetic cannabinoids also modulated microglia function and neurotransmitter secretion. CONCLUSION The actions of cannabinoids through the immune system are quite regular and predictable in the peripheral but remain fuzzy in the central nervous system. Despite this uncertainty, it may be hypothesized that exposure to exocannabinoids, in particular during adolescence might prompt immunological dysfunctions that potentially cause a latent vulnerability to psychosis. Further investigations are warranted to clarify the relationship between the immunological effects of cannabis and psychosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Suárez-Pinilla
- University Hospital Marqués de Valdecilla, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain; CIBERSAM, Biomedical Research Network on Mental Health Area, Madrid, Spain; IDIVAL, Valdecilla Biomedical Research Institute, Santander, Spain.
| | - José López-Gil
- University Hospital Marqués de Valdecilla, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain
| | - Benedicto Crespo-Facorro
- University Hospital Marqués de Valdecilla, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain; CIBERSAM, Biomedical Research Network on Mental Health Area, Madrid, Spain; IDIVAL, Valdecilla Biomedical Research Institute, Santander, Spain
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Simkins T, Crawford RB, Goudreau JL, Lookingland KJ, Kaplan BLF. Enhanced Humoral Immunity in Mice Lacking CB1 and CB2 Receptors (Cnr1 −/− /Cnr2 −/− Mice) is not Due to Increased Splenic Noradrenergic Neuronal Activity. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2014; 9:544-57. [DOI: 10.1007/s11481-014-9549-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2014] [Accepted: 05/12/2014] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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Malfitano AM, Basu S, Maresz K, Bifulco M, Dittel BN. What we know and do not know about the cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2). Semin Immunol 2014; 26:369-79. [PMID: 24877594 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2014.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2014] [Accepted: 04/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
It has been well appreciated that the endocannabinoid system can regulate immune responses via the cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2), which is primarily expressed by cells of the hematopoietic system. The endocannabinoid system is composed of receptors, ligands and enzymes controlling the synthesis and degradation of endocannabinoids. Along with endocannabinoids, both plant-derived and synthetic cannabinoids have been shown to bind to and signal through CB2 via G proteins leading to both inhibitory and stimulatory signals depending on the biological process. Because no cannabinoid ligand has been identified that only binds to CB2, the generation of mice deficient in CB2 has greatly expanded our knowledge of how CB2 contributes to immune cell development and function in health and disease. In regards to humans, genetic studies have associated CB2 with a variety of human diseases. Here, we review the endocannabinoid system with an emphasis on CB2 and its role in the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maria Malfitano
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Salerno Facoltà di Medicina, Baronissi Campus, Baronissi 84081, (SA), Italy; Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università di Salerno, Fisciano 84084, (SA), Italy
| | - Sreemanti Basu
- Blood Research Institute, BloodCenter of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Katarzyna Maresz
- Blood Research Institute, BloodCenter of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Salerno Facoltà di Medicina, Baronissi Campus, Baronissi 84081, (SA), Italy; Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università di Salerno, Fisciano 84084, (SA), Italy
| | - Bonnie N Dittel
- Blood Research Institute, BloodCenter of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA.
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Liu MW, Su MX, Wang YH, Wei W, Qin LF, Liu X, Tian ML, Qian CY. Effect of melilotus extract on lung injury by upregulating the expression of cannabinoid CB2 receptors in septic rats. Altern Ther Health Med 2014; 14:94. [PMID: 24612782 PMCID: PMC3995869 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6882-14-94] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2013] [Accepted: 02/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Background M. Suaveolens Ledeb has long been used in China to treat inflammatory infectious diseases. Melilotus is extracted from Melilotus Suaveolens Ledeb and its therapeutic potential is associated with its anti-inflammatory activity. However, the precise mechanisms underlying its effects are unknown. This study was conducted to evaluate the protective effects of melilotus extract in a rat cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced animal model of acute lung injury (ALI). Methods A sepsis model was induced by CLP-like lung inflammation. Two hours prior to CLP administration, the treatment group was administered melilotus extract via oral injection. RT-PCR and Western blotting were used to test the expression of cannabinoid receptor (CB)2, NF-κβ and IκB from single peripheral blood mononuclear cells and lung tissues respectively. Enzyme linked immune sorbent assay was used to detect serum levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10, and IL-12. The numbers of neutrophils, lymphocytes, macrophages and total cells in the bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid were counted. For histologic analysis, hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stains were evaluated. Results After inducing ALI by CLP for 24 hours, melilotus extract up-regulated peripheral blood mononuclear cell CB2 expression, blocked the activity of NF-κβ65, and the number of neutrophils, lymphocytes and total cells were significantly lower in the melilotus extract group than the control group. In addition, TNF-α and IL-6 levels were significantly decreased in the melilotus extract group. Histological results demonstrated the attenuation effect of melilotus extract on CLP-induced lung inflammation. CB2 was negatively correlated to NF-κβ mRNA and proteins, respectively (r = -0.377, P < 0.05; r = -0.441, P < 0.05). Conclusion The results of this study indicated melilotus extract significantly reduced CLP-induced lung inflammation by up-regulating CB2 expression. The remarkable protective effects of melilotus extract suggest its therapeutic potential in CLP induced-acute lung injury treatment.
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Nicolaou A, Mauro C, Urquhart P, Marelli-Berg F. Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid-derived lipid mediators and T cell function. Front Immunol 2014; 5:75. [PMID: 24611066 PMCID: PMC3933826 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2014.00075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2013] [Accepted: 02/11/2014] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Fatty acids are involved in T cell biology both as nutrients important for energy production as well as signaling molecules. In particular, polyunsaturated fatty acids are known to exhibit a range of immunomodulatory properties that progress through T cell mediated events, although the molecular mechanisms of these actions have not yet been fully elucidated. Some of these immune activities are linked to polyunsaturated fatty acid-induced alteration of the composition of cellular membranes and the consequent changes in signaling pathways linked to membrane raft-associated proteins. However, significant aspects of the polyunsaturated fatty acid bioactivities are mediated through their transformation to specific lipid mediators, products of cyclooxygenase, lipoxygenase, or cytochrome P450 enzymatic reactions. Resulting bioactive metabolites including prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and endocannabinoids are produced by and/or act upon T leukocytes through cell surface receptors and have been shown to alter T cell activation and differentiation, proliferation, cytokine production, motility, and homing events. Detailed appreciation of the mode of action of these lipids presents opportunities for the design and development of therapeutic strategies aimed at regulating T cell function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Nicolaou
- Manchester Pharmacy School, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, The University of Manchester , Manchester , UK
| | - Claudio Mauro
- Centre for Biochemical Pharmacology, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London , London , UK
| | - Paula Urquhart
- Manchester Pharmacy School, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, The University of Manchester , Manchester , UK
| | - Federica Marelli-Berg
- Centre for Biochemical Pharmacology, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London , London , UK
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Evaluation of selective cannabinoid CB(1) and CB(2) receptor agonists in a mouse model of lipopolysaccharide-induced interstitial cystitis. Eur J Pharmacol 2014; 729:67-74. [PMID: 24561047 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2014.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2013] [Revised: 02/13/2014] [Accepted: 02/14/2014] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Interstitial cystitis is a debilitating bladder inflammation disorder. To date, the understanding of the causes of interstitial cystitis remains largely fragmentary and there is no effective treatment available. Recent experimental results have shown a functional role of the endocannabinoid system in urinary bladder. In this study, we evaluated the anti-inflammatory effect of selective cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptor agonists in a mouse model of interstitial cystitis. Bladder inflammation was induced in mice by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and whole bladders were removed 24h later. LPS induced a significant increase of the contractile amplitude in spontaneous activity and a hypersensitivity to exogenous acetylcholine-induced contraction of whole-isolated bladder. Next, we evaluated the anti-inflammatory activity of cannabinoidergic compounds by pretreating mice with CB1 or CB2 selective agonist compounds, respectively ACEA and JWH015. Interestingly, JWH015, but not ACEA, antagonized LPS-induced bladder inflammation. Additionally, anti-inflammatory activity was studied by evaluation, leukocytes mucosa infiltration, myeloperoxidase activity, and mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory interleukin (IL-1α and IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors. JWH015 significantly decreased leukocytes infiltration in both submucosa and mucosa, as well as the myeloperoxydase activity, in LPS treated mice. JWH015 reduced mRNA expression of IL-1α, IL-1β, and TNF-α. LPS treatment increased expression of bladder CB2 but not CB1 mRNA. Taken together, these findings strongly suggest that modulation of the cannabinoid CB2 receptors might be a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of bladder diseases and conditions characterized by inflammation, such as interstitial cystitis.
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Abstract
With the advent of legalization of marijuana for medicinal and recreational purposes, and the increase use of marijuana, healthcare providers will be increasingly confronted with marijuana users as patients in clinical environments. While there is vast literature regarding the societal and mental health harms associated with marijuana use, there is a paucity of reviews of the potential consequences of marijuana use on physical health or medical conditions. We examine the recent literature on the physical harms associated with illicit and legal marijuana administration. We surveyed the peer-reviewed medical literature from 1998 to 2013 of studies assessing the association of marijuana use and physical diseases. We conclude that healthcare providers should be cognizant that the existing literature suggests that marijuana use can cause physical harm. However, evidence is needed, and further research should be considered, to prove causal associations of marijuana with many physical health conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam J Gordon
- Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion (CHERP), VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, 151-C, University Drive C, Pittsburgh, PA, 15240-1001, USA,
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Han S, Thatte J, Buzard DJ, Jones RM. Therapeutic Utility of Cannabinoid Receptor Type 2 (CB2) Selective Agonists. J Med Chem 2013; 56:8224-56. [DOI: 10.1021/jm4005626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sangdon Han
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6166 Nancy Ridge Drive, San
Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Jayant Thatte
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6166 Nancy Ridge Drive, San
Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Daniel J. Buzard
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6166 Nancy Ridge Drive, San
Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Robert M. Jones
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6166 Nancy Ridge Drive, San
Diego, California 92121, United States
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Basu S, Ray A, Dittel BN. Cannabinoid Receptor 2 (CB2) Plays a Role in the Generation of Germinal Center and Memory B Cells, but Not in the Production of Antigen-Specific IgG and IgM, in Response to T-dependent Antigens. PLoS One 2013; 8:e67587. [PMID: 23826323 PMCID: PMC3695093 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0067587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2013] [Accepted: 05/20/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) has been reported to modulate B cell functions including migration, proliferation and isotype class switching. Since these processes are required for the generation of the germinal center (GC) and antigen-specific plasma and memory cells following immunization with a T-dependent antigen, CB2 has the capacity to alter the quality and magnitude of T-dependent immune responses. To address this question, we immunized WT and CB2−/− mice with the T-dependent antigen 4-hydroxy-3-nitrophenylacetyl (NP)-chicken-gamma-globulin (CGG) and measured GC B cell formation and the generation of antigen-specific B cells and serum immunoglobulin (Ig). While there was a significant reduction in the number of splenic GC B cells in CB2−/− mice early in the response there was no detectable difference in the number of NP-specific IgM and IgG1 plasma cells. There was also no difference in NP-specific IgM and class switched IgG1 in the serum. In addition, we found no defect in the homing of plasma cells to the bone marrow (BM) and affinity maturation, although memory B cell cells in the spleen were reduced in CB2−/− mice. CB2-deficient mice also generated similar levels of antigen-specific IgM and IgG in the serum as WT following immunization with sheep red blood cells (sRBC). This study demonstrates that although CB2 plays a role in promoting GC and memory B cell formation/maintenance in the spleen, it is dispensable on all immune cell types required for the generation of antigen-specific IgM and IgG in T-dependent immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sreemanti Basu
- Blood Research Institute, BloodCenter of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Avijit Ray
- Blood Research Institute, BloodCenter of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Bonnie N. Dittel
- Blood Research Institute, BloodCenter of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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46
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Rom S, Persidsky Y. Cannabinoid receptor 2: potential role in immunomodulation and neuroinflammation. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2013; 8:608-20. [PMID: 23471521 PMCID: PMC3663904 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-013-9445-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 167] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2012] [Accepted: 02/18/2013] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
An accumulating body of evidence suggests that endocannabinoids and cannabinoid receptors type 1 and 2 (CB(1), CB(2)) play a significant role in physiologic and pathologic processes, including cognitive and immune functions. While the addictive properties of marijuana, an extract from the Cannabis plant, are well recognized, there is growing appreciation of the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids in multiple pathologic conditions involving chronic inflammation (inflammatory bowel disease, arthritis, autoimmune disorders, multiple sclerosis, HIV-1 infection, stroke, Alzheimer's disease to name a few), mainly mediated by CB(2) activation. Development of CB(2) agonists as therapeutic agents has been hampered by the complexity of their intracellular signaling, relative paucity of highly selective compounds and insufficient data regarding end effects in the target cells and organs. This review attempts to summarize recent advances in studies of CB(2) activation in the setting of neuroinflammation, immunomodulation and HIV-1 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Slava Rom
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia PA (USA)
| | - Yuri Persidsky
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia PA (USA)
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Pieper K, Grimbacher B, Eibel H. B-cell biology and development. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2013; 131:959-71. [PMID: 23465663 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2013.01.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 315] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2012] [Revised: 01/21/2013] [Accepted: 01/22/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
B cells develop from hematopoietic precursor cells in an ordered maturation and selection process. Extensive studies with many different mouse mutants provided fundamental insights into this process. However, the characterization of genetic defects causing primary immunodeficiencies was essential in understanding human B-cell biology. Defects in pre-B-cell receptor components or in downstream signaling proteins, such as Bruton tyrosine kinase and B-cell linker protein, arrest development at the pre-B-cell stage. Defects in survival-regulating proteins, such as B-cell activator of the TNF-α family receptor (BAFF-R) or caspase recruitment domain-containing protein 11 (CARD11), interrupt maturation and prevent differentiation of transitional B cells into marginal zone and follicular B cells. Mature B-cell subsets, immune responses, and memory B-cell and plasma cell development are disturbed by mutations affecting Toll-like receptor signaling, B-cell antigen receptor coreceptors (eg, CD19), or enzymes responsible for immunoglobulin class-switch recombination. Transgenic mouse models helped to identify key regulatory mechanisms, such as receptor editing and clonal anergy, preventing the activation of B cells expressing antibodies recognizing autoantigens. Nevertheless, the combination of susceptible genetic backgrounds with the rescue of self-reactive B cells by T cells allows the generation of autoreactive clones found in patients with many autoimmune diseases and even in those with primary immunodeficiencies. The rapid progress of functional genomic research is expected to foster the development of new tools that specifically target dysfunctional B lymphocytes to treat autoimmunity, B-cell malignancies, and immunodeficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin Pieper
- Centre of Chronic Immunodeficiency, University Medical Centre Freiburg, Faculty of Biology, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität, Freiburg, Germany
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Zogopoulos P, Vasileiou I, Patsouris E, Theocharis S. The neuroprotective role of endocannabinoids against chemical-induced injury and other adverse effects. J Appl Toxicol 2013; 33:246-64. [DOI: 10.1002/jat.2828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2012] [Revised: 08/31/2012] [Accepted: 09/01/2012] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Zogopoulos
- 1st Department of Pathology, Medical School; National and Kapodistrian University of Athens; Athens; Greece
| | - Ioanna Vasileiou
- 1st Department of Pathology, Medical School; National and Kapodistrian University of Athens; Athens; Greece
| | - Efstratios Patsouris
- 1st Department of Pathology, Medical School; National and Kapodistrian University of Athens; Athens; Greece
| | - Stamatios Theocharis
- 1st Department of Pathology, Medical School; National and Kapodistrian University of Athens; Athens; Greece
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Avraham Y, Amer J, Doron S, Abu-Tair L, Mahamid M, Khatib A, Berry EM, Safadi R. The direct profibrotic and indirect immune antifibrotic balance of blocking the cannabinoid 2 receptor. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2012; 302:G1364-72. [PMID: 22517772 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00191.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Cannabinoid 2 (CB2) receptors expressed on immune cells are considered to be antifibrogenic. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) directly interact with phagocytosis lymphocytes, but the nature of this interaction is obscure. We aimed to study the effects of CB2 receptors on hepatic fibrosis via their role in mediating immunity. Hepatic fibrosis was induced by carbon-tetrachloride (CCl(4)) administration in C57BL/6 wild-type (WT) and CB2 knockout (CB2(-/-)) mice. Irradiated animals were reconstituted with WT or CB2(-/-) lymphocytes. Lymphocytes from naïve/fibrotic WT animals and healthy/cirrhotic hepatitis C virus were preincubated in vitro with or without CB2 antagonist, evaluated for proliferation and apoptosis, and then cocultured with primary mouse HSCs or a human HSC line (LX2), respectively. Lymphocyte phagocytosis was then evaluated. Following CCl(4)-administration, CB2(-/-) mice developed significant hepatic fibrosis but less necroinflammation. WT mice harbored decreased liver CD4(+) and NK(+) cells but increased CD8(+) subsets. Naïve CB2(-/-) mice had significantly decreased T cell subsets. Adoptive transfer of CB2(-/-) lymphocytes led to decreased fibrosis in the irradiated WT recipient compared with animals receiving WT lymphocytes. Moreover, necroinflammation also tended to decrease. In vitro, a CB2-antagonist directly increased human HSC activation and increased apoptosis and decreased proliferation of mice/human T cells (healthy/fibrotic) and their phagocytosis. We concluded that CB2(-/-) lymphocytes exert an antifibrotic activity, whereas lack of CB2 receptor in HSCs promotes fibrosis. These findings broaden our understanding of cannabinoid signaling in hepatic fibrosis beyond their activity solely in HSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yosefa Avraham
- Department of Human Nutrition and Metabolism, Braun School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
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50
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Basu S, Dittel BN. Unraveling the complexities of cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) immune regulation in health and disease. Immunol Res 2012; 51:26-38. [PMID: 21626285 DOI: 10.1007/s12026-011-8210-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
It has become clear that the endocannabinoid system is a potent regulator of immune responses, with the cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) as the key component due to its high expression by all immune subtypes. CB2 has been shown to regulate immunity by a number of mechanisms including development, migration, proliferation, and effector functions. In addition, CB2 has been shown to modulate the function of all immune cell types examined to date. CB2 is a G(i)-protein-coupled receptor and thus exhibits a complex pharmacology allowing both stimulatory and inhibitory signaling that depends on receptor expression levels, ligand concentration, and cell lineage specificities. Here, we discuss both in vitro and in vivo experimental evidence that CB2 is a potent regulator of immune responses making it a prime target for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sreemanti Basu
- Blood Research Institute, Blood Center of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
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