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Tanaka K, Subramaniam S, Atluri S, Amoako AA, Mortlock S, Montgomery GW, McKinnon B. Endometrial Cell-Type Specific Regulation of the Endocannabinoids System and the Impact of Menstrual Cycle and Endometriosis. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2024. [PMID: 39286880 DOI: 10.1089/can.2024.0081] [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: 09/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol are endogenous agonists of the cannabinoid receptors and regulate and control many cellular functions. Their activities are governed by enzymes and proteins that regulate their synthesis, receptor binding, transport, and degradation, which are known as the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The aim of this study was to investigate the regulation of endocannabinoid activity in the endometrium by studying the RNA and protein expression of the ECS within endometrial cell types and during different menstrual cycle stages and the impact of endometriosis. Materials and Methods: The RNA expression of 70 ECS genes was assessed using RNA sequencing of isolated endometrial epithelial and stromal cells. Subsequent immunofluorescence-stained endometrial samples on ECS components of interest were objectively analyzed via an agnostic and automated image analysis pipeline to extract quantitative information. Differential gene and protein expression was investigated between the two cell types, menstrual cycle phases, and endometriosis cases and controls. Results: Sufficient RNA expression was detected for 45 genes, and 17 (38%) genes were significantly different between epithelial and stromal cells. FAAH RNA was significantly higher in epithelial cells compared with stromal cells. Protein expression analysis of the main synthesizing (NAPE-PLD) and catabolizing (FAAH and NAAA) enzymes of AEA revealed a significantly stronger epithelial expression compared to stromal cells. The RNA and protein expression of CB1 receptors was very low with no significant difference between epithelial and stromal cells. Eleven ECS genes were regulated across the menstrual cycle, and there was no gene with significant difference between endometriosis cases and controls in epithelial cells. Discussion: Differential expression of ECS genes supports a cell type-specific endocannabinoid activity in the endometrium. As endocannabinoids are short-lived signaling molecules, higher RNA and protein expression of FAAH in the epithelial cells suggests an active regulation of endocannabinoid activity in epithelial cells within the endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keisuke Tanaka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | | | - Sharat Atluri
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Akwasi A Amoako
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Sally Mortlock
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Grant W Montgomery
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Brett McKinnon
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
- Department of Biomedical Research, University of Berne, Berne, Switzerland
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Najafi L, Moasses Z, Bahmanpour S. The marijuana, cannabinoids, and female reproductive system. J Appl Toxicol 2024. [PMID: 38754862 DOI: 10.1002/jat.4630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
The marijuana is considered as widely used recreational illicit drug that has become popular among women of reproductive age. It is believed that the marijuana use may have negative impacts on the female fertility. However, the exact mechanisms of its reproductive toxicity remain unclear. The studies suggest that the exogenous cannabinoids may interfere with endocannabinoid system and disrupt hypothalamic-pituitary-ovary axis. Consequently, it impacts the female fertility by disruption of normal secretion of ovarian sex hormones and menstrual cycles. However, other studies have shown that medical marijuana is useful analgesic agent for pain management. But, given that the wide range of cannabinoids side effects are reported, it seems that caution should be taken in the recreational use of these substances. In summary, this article aimed to review the possible impacts of marijuana and its derivatives on the main female reproductive organs and embryonic growth and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Najafi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Zia Moasses
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Soghra Bahmanpour
- Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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3
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Feduniw S, Krupa I, Łagowska K, Laudański P, Tabarkiewicz J, Stawarz B, Raba G. Placental Cannabinoid Receptor Expression in Preterm Birth. J Pregnancy 2024; 2024:6620156. [PMID: 38745869 PMCID: PMC11093692 DOI: 10.1155/2024/6620156] [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: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: The cannabinoid receptor (CBR) plays a significant role in oogenesis, pregnancy, and childbirth. It might also play a significant role in preterm birth (PTB). The aim of the study was to investigate the association between the expression of the CBR in the placenta and the incidence of PTB. Methods: This prospective, observational, multicentre preliminary study was conducted on placental samples obtained from 109 women. The study included 95 patients hospitalized due to the high risk of PTB. They were divided into two groups: Group 1, where the expression of the CBR1 and CBR1a was analyzed, and Group 2, in which we examined CBR2 expression. The control group, that is, Group 3, consisted of 14 women who delivered at term, and their placentas were tested for the presence of all three receptor types (CBR1, CBR1a, and CBR2). Results: The study used reverse transcription and real-time PCR methods to assess the expression of CBRs in the placental tissues. The expression of the CBR2, CBR1, and CBR1a receptors was significantly lower in the placentas of women after PTB compared to those after term births, p = 0.038, 0.033, and 0.034, respectively. Conclusions: The presence of CBR mRNA in the human placental tissue was confirmed. The decreased expression of CBRs could serve as an indicator in predicting PTB.
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MESH Headings
- Humans
- Female
- Pregnancy
- Placenta/metabolism
- Premature Birth/metabolism
- Prospective Studies
- Adult
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/metabolism
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/genetics
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/metabolism
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/genetics
- Case-Control Studies
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Receptors, Cannabinoid/metabolism
- Receptors, Cannabinoid/genetics
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Affiliation(s)
- Stepan Feduniw
- Department of Gynecology, University Hospital Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Izabela Krupa
- Laboratory for Translational Research in Medicine, Centre for Innovative Research in Medical and Natural Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rzeszów, 35-310 Rzeszów, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Łagowska
- Laboratory for Translational Research in Medicine, Centre for Innovative Research in Medical and Natural Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rzeszów, 35-310 Rzeszów, Poland
| | - Piotr Laudański
- Chair and Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Gynecological Oncology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- Women's Health Research Institute, Calisia University, 62-800 Kalisz, Poland
- OVIklinika Infertility Center, 01-377 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jacek Tabarkiewicz
- Laboratory for Translational Research in Medicine, Centre for Innovative Research in Medical and Natural Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rzeszów, 35-310 Rzeszów, Poland
- Department of Human Immunology, Institute of Medical Sciences, Medical College of Rzeszów University, University of Rzeszów, 35-959 Rzeszów, Poland
| | | | - Grzegorz Raba
- Medical College of Rzeszów University, University of Rzeszów, 35-315 Rzeszów, Poland
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Taylor AH, Bachkangi P, Konje JC. Labour and premature delivery differentially affect the expression of the endocannabinoid system in the human placenta. Histochem Cell Biol 2023; 160:577-593. [PMID: 37750996 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-023-02236-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
Plasma concentrations of N-arachidonyletholamine (AEA), N-oleoylethanolamide (OEA) and N-palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) increase at term and can predict when a woman is likely to go into labour. We hypothesised that increased plasma AEA concentrations in women in preterm and term labour might also be increased and have a function in the placenta at the end of pregnancy. Here we examined the expression of the N-acylethanolamine-modulating enzymes fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and N-acyl-phosphatidylethanolamine-specific phospholipase-D (NAPE-PLD) and of the cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) in the placenta and their activation in an in vitro model of the third-trimester placenta to determine if those expressions change with labour and have functional significance. Expression of CB1, CB2, FAAH and NAPE-PLD was examined by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and RT-qPCR in placental samples obtained from four patient groups: preterm not in labour (PTNL), term not in labour (TNL), preterm in labour (PTL) and term in labour (TL). Additionally, the effects of AEA on a third-trimester human cell line (TCL-1) were evaluated. All ECS components were present in the third-trimester placenta, with NAPE-PLD and CB2 being the key modulated proteins in terms of expression. Functionally, AEA reduced TCL-1 cell numbers through the actions of the CB2 receptor whilst CB1 maintained placental integrity through the expression of the transcription regulators histone deacetylase 3, thyroid hormone receptor β 1 and the modulation of 5α reductase type 1. The placenta in the third trimester and at term is different from the placenta in the first trimester with respect to the expression of CB1, CB2, FAAH and NAPE-PLD, and the expression of these proteins is affected by labour. These data suggest that early perturbation of some ECS components in the placenta may cause AEA-induced PTL and thus PTB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony H Taylor
- Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Sciences Section, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK.
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK.
| | - Panos Bachkangi
- Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Sciences Section, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Queen's Hospital, University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust, Burton On Trent, UK
| | - Justin C Konje
- Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Sciences Section, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
- Feto Maternal Centre, Al Markhiya, Doha, Qatar
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Bányai B, Vass Z, Kiss S, Balogh A, Brandhuber D, Karvaly G, Kovács K, Nádasy GL, Hunyady L, Dörnyei G, Horváth EM, Szekeres M. Role of CB1 Cannabinoid Receptors in Vascular Responses and Vascular Remodeling of the Aorta in Female Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16429. [PMID: 38003619 PMCID: PMC10671338 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216429] [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: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Both the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and estrogens have significant roles in cardiovascular control processes. Cannabinoid type 1 receptors (CB1Rs) mediate acute vasodilator and hypotensive effects, although their role in cardiovascular pathological conditions is still controversial. Estrogens exert cardiovascular protection in females. We aimed to study the impact of ECS on vascular functions. Experiments were performed on CB1R knockout (CB1R KO) and wild-type (WT) female mice. Plasma estrogen metabolite levels were determined. Abdominal aortas were isolated for myography and histology. Vascular effects of phenylephrine (Phe), angiotensin II, acetylcholine (Ach) and estradiol (E2) were obtained and repeated with inhibitors of nitric oxide synthase (NOS, Nω-nitro-L-arginine) and of cyclooxygenase (COX, indomethacin). Histological stainings (hematoxylin-eosin, resorcin-fuchsin) and immunostainings for endothelial NOS (eNOS), COX-2, estrogen receptors (ER-α, ER-β) were performed. Conjugated E2 levels were higher in CB1R KO compared to WT mice. Vasorelaxation responses to Ach and E2 were increased in CB1R KO mice, attenuated by NOS-inhibition. COX-inhibition decreased Phe-contractions, while it increased Ach-relaxation in the WT group but not in the CB1R KO. Effects of indomethacin on E2-relaxation in CB1R KO became opposite to that observed in WT. Histology revealed lower intima/media thickness and COX-2 density, higher eNOS and lower ER-β density in CB1R KO than in WT mice. CB1R KO female mice are characterized by increased vasorelaxation associated with increased utilization of endothelial NO and a decreased impact of constrictor prostanoids. Our results indicate that the absence or inhibition of CB1Rs may have beneficial vascular effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bálint Bányai
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 37-47 Tűzoltó Street, 1094 Budapest, Hungary; (B.B.); (S.K.); (G.L.N.); (L.H.); (E.M.H.)
| | - Zsolt Vass
- Department of Morphology and Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Semmelweis University, 17 Vas Street, 1088 Budapest, Hungary; (Z.V.); (A.B.); (D.B.)
| | - Stella Kiss
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 37-47 Tűzoltó Street, 1094 Budapest, Hungary; (B.B.); (S.K.); (G.L.N.); (L.H.); (E.M.H.)
- Department of Morphology and Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Semmelweis University, 17 Vas Street, 1088 Budapest, Hungary; (Z.V.); (A.B.); (D.B.)
| | - Anikó Balogh
- Department of Morphology and Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Semmelweis University, 17 Vas Street, 1088 Budapest, Hungary; (Z.V.); (A.B.); (D.B.)
| | - Dóra Brandhuber
- Department of Morphology and Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Semmelweis University, 17 Vas Street, 1088 Budapest, Hungary; (Z.V.); (A.B.); (D.B.)
| | - Gellért Karvaly
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 4 Nagyvárad Square, 1089 Budapest, Hungary; (G.K.); (K.K.)
| | - Krisztián Kovács
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 4 Nagyvárad Square, 1089 Budapest, Hungary; (G.K.); (K.K.)
| | - György L. Nádasy
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 37-47 Tűzoltó Street, 1094 Budapest, Hungary; (B.B.); (S.K.); (G.L.N.); (L.H.); (E.M.H.)
| | - László Hunyady
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 37-47 Tűzoltó Street, 1094 Budapest, Hungary; (B.B.); (S.K.); (G.L.N.); (L.H.); (E.M.H.)
- Institute of Enzymology, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, 2 Magyar Tudósok Körútja, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gabriella Dörnyei
- Department of Morphology and Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Semmelweis University, 17 Vas Street, 1088 Budapest, Hungary; (Z.V.); (A.B.); (D.B.)
| | - Eszter Mária Horváth
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 37-47 Tűzoltó Street, 1094 Budapest, Hungary; (B.B.); (S.K.); (G.L.N.); (L.H.); (E.M.H.)
| | - Mária Szekeres
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 37-47 Tűzoltó Street, 1094 Budapest, Hungary; (B.B.); (S.K.); (G.L.N.); (L.H.); (E.M.H.)
- Department of Morphology and Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Semmelweis University, 17 Vas Street, 1088 Budapest, Hungary; (Z.V.); (A.B.); (D.B.)
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Motamedi S, Amleshi RS, Javar BA, Shams P, Kohlmeier KA, Shabani M. Cannabis during pregnancy: A way to transfer an impairment to later life. Birth Defects Res 2023; 115:1327-1344. [PMID: 37318343 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.2207] [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: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Epidemiological studies examining the influence of cannabis across the lifespan show that exposure to cannabis during gestation or during the perinatal period is associated with later-life mental health issues that manifest during childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. The risk of later-life negative outcomes following early exposure is particularly high in persons who have specific genetic variants, implying that cannabis usage interacts with genetics to heighten mental health risks. Prenatal and perinatal exposure to psychoactive components has been shown in animal research to be associated with long-term effects on neural systems relevant to psychiatric and substance use disorders. The long-term molecular, epigenetic, electrophysiological, and behavioral consequences of prenatal and perinatal exposure to cannabis are discussed in this article. Animal and human studies, as well as in vivo neuroimaging methods, are used to provide insights into the changes induced in the brain by cannabis. Here, based on the literature from both animal models and humans, it can be concluded that prenatal cannabis exposure alters the developmental route of several neuronal regions with correlated functional consequences evidenced as changes in social behavior and executive functions throughout life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sina Motamedi
- Neuroscience Research Center, Neuropharmacology Institute, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Reza Saboori Amleshi
- Neuroscience Research Center, Neuropharmacology Institute, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Behnoush Akbari Javar
- Neuroscience Research Center, Neuropharmacology Institute, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Health Foresight and Innovation Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Parisa Shams
- Neuroscience Research Center, Neuropharmacology Institute, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Kristi A Kohlmeier
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mohammad Shabani
- Neuroscience Research Center, Neuropharmacology Institute, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
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Przybycień P, Gąsior-Perczak D, Placha W. Cannabinoids and PPAR Ligands: The Future in Treatment of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Women with Obesity and Reduced Fertility. Cells 2022; 11:cells11162569. [PMID: 36010645 PMCID: PMC9406585 DOI: 10.3390/cells11162569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids (CBs) are used to treat chronic pain, chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, and multiple sclerosis spasticity. Recently, the medicinal use of CBs has attracted increasing interest as a new therapeutic in many diseases. Data indicate a correlation between CBs and PPARs via diverse mechanisms. Both the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) may play a significant role in PCOS and PCOS related disorders, especially in disturbances of glucose-lipid metabolism as well as in obesity and fertility. Taking into consideration the ubiquity of PCOS in the human population, it seems indispensable to search for new potential therapeutic targets for this condition. The aim of this review is to examine the relationship between metabolic disturbances and obesity in PCOS pathology. We discuss current and future therapeutic interventions for PCOS and related disorders, with emphasis on the metabolic pathways related to PCOS pathophysiology. The link between the ECS and PPARs is a promising new target for PCOS, and we examine this relationship in depth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Przybycień
- Chair of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 31-034 Krakow, Poland
- Endocrinology Clinic, Holycross Cancer Centre, 25-734 Kielce, Poland
| | - Danuta Gąsior-Perczak
- Endocrinology Clinic, Holycross Cancer Centre, 25-734 Kielce, Poland
- Collegium Medicum, Jan Kochanowski University, 25-317 Kielce, Poland
| | - Wojciech Placha
- Chair of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 31-034 Krakow, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-12-422-74-00
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Berger N, Allerkamp H, Wadsack C. Serine Hydrolases in Lipid Homeostasis of the Placenta-Targets for Placental Function? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:6851. [PMID: 35743292 PMCID: PMC9223866 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23126851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The metabolic state of pregnant women and their unborn children changes throughout pregnancy and adapts to the specific needs of each gestational week. These adaptions are accomplished by the actions of enzymes, which regulate the occurrence of their endogenous substrates and products in all three compartments: mother, placenta and the unborn. These enzymes determine bioactive lipid signaling, supply, and storage through the generation or degradation of lipids and fatty acids, respectively. This review focuses on the role of lipid-metabolizing serine hydrolases during normal pregnancy and in pregnancy-associated pathologies, such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus, or preterm birth. The biochemical properties of each class of lipid hydrolases are presented, with special emphasis on their role in placental function or dysfunction. While, during a normal pregnancy, an appropriate tonus of bioactive lipids prevails, dysregulation and aberrant signaling occur in diseased states. A better understanding of the dynamics of serine hydrolases across gestation and their involvement in placental lipid homeostasis under physiological and pathophysiological conditions will help to identify new targets for placental function in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natascha Berger
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria; (N.B.); (H.A.)
| | - Hanna Allerkamp
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria; (N.B.); (H.A.)
| | - Christian Wadsack
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria; (N.B.); (H.A.)
- BioTechMed-Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria
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Gene expression of the endocannabinoid system in endometrium through menstrual cycle. Sci Rep 2022; 12:9400. [PMID: 35672435 PMCID: PMC9174470 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-13488-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocannabinoids mediate cellular functions and their activity is controlled by a complex system of enzymes, membrane receptors and transport molecules. Endocannabinoids are present in endometrium, a cyclical regenerative tissue requiring tightly regulated cellular mechanisms for maturation. The objective of this study was to investigate the gene expression of key elements involved in the endocannabinoid system across the menstrual cycle. RNA was isolated from endometrial tissue and genome-wide gene expression datasets were generated using RNA-sequencing. An a priori set of 70 genes associated with endocannabinoid system were selected from published literature. Gene expression across the menstrual cycle was analyzed using a moderated t test, corrected for multiple testing with Bonferroni’s method. A total of 40 of the 70 genes were present in > 90% of the samples, and significant differential gene expression identified for 29 genes. We identified 4 distinct regulation patterns for synthesizing enzymes, as well as a distinct regulation pattern for degradations and transporting enzymes. This study charts the expression of endometrial endocannabinoid system genes across the menstrual cycle. Altered expression of genes that control endocannabinoid may allow fine control over endocannabinoid concentrations and their influence on cellular function, maturation and differentiation as the endometrium matures through the menstrual cycle.
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Yang T, Zhao J, Liu F, Li Y. Lipid metabolism and endometrial receptivity. Hum Reprod Update 2022; 28:858-889. [PMID: 35639910 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obesity has now been recognized as a high-risk factor for reproductive health. Although remarkable advancements have been made in ART, a considerable number of infertile obese women still suffer from serial implantation failure, despite the high quality of embryos transferred. Although obesity has long been known to exert various deleterious effects on female fertility, the underlying mechanisms, especially the roles of lipid metabolism in endometrial receptivity, remain largely elusive. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review summarizes current evidence on the impacts of several major lipids and lipid-derived mediators on the embryonic implantation process. Emerging methods for evaluating endometrial receptivity, for example transcriptomic and lipidomic analysis, are also discussed. SEARCH METHODS The PubMed and Embase databases were searched using the following keywords: (lipid or fatty acid or prostaglandin or phospholipid or sphingolipid or endocannabinoid or lysophosphatidic acid or cholesterol or progesterone or estrogen or transcriptomic or lipidomic or obesity or dyslipidemia or polycystic ovary syndrome) AND (endometrial receptivity or uterine receptivity or embryo implantation or assisted reproductive technology or in vitro fertilization or embryo transfer). A comprehensive literature search was performed on the roles of lipid-related metabolic pathways in embryo implantation published between January 1970 and March 2022. Only studies with original data and reviews published in English were included in this review. Additional information was obtained from references cited in the articles resulting from the literature search. OUTCOMES Recent studies have shown that a fatty acids-related pro-inflammatory response in the embryo-endometrium boundary facilitates pregnancy via mediation of prostaglandin signaling. Phospholipid-derived mediators, for example endocannabinoids, lysophosphatidic acid and sphingosine-1-phosphate, are associated with endometrial receptivity, embryo spacing and decidualization based on evidence from both animal and human studies. Progesterone and estrogen are two cholesterol-derived steroid hormones that synergistically mediate the structural and functional alterations in the uterus ready for blastocyst implantation. Variations in serum cholesterol profiles throughout the menstrual cycle imply a demand for steroidogenesis at the time of window of implantation (WOI). Since 2002, endometrial transcriptomic analysis has been serving as a diagnostic tool for WOI dating. Numerous genes that govern lipid homeostasis have been identified and, based on specific alterations of lipidomic signatures differentially expressed in WOI, lipidomic analysis of endometrial fluid provides a possibility for non-invasive diagnosis of lipids alterations during the WOI. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Given that lipid metabolic dysregulation potentially plays a role in infertility, a better understanding of lipid metabolism could have significant clinical implications for the diagnosis and treatment of female reproductive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianli Yang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, P.R. China.,Clinical Research Center for Women's Reproductive Health in Hunan Province, Changsha, P.R. China
| | - Jing Zhao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, P.R. China.,Clinical Research Center for Women's Reproductive Health in Hunan Province, Changsha, P.R. China
| | - Feng Liu
- National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, and Key Laboratory of Diabetes Immunology, Ministry of Education, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, P.R. China
| | - Yanping Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, P.R. China.,Clinical Research Center for Women's Reproductive Health in Hunan Province, Changsha, P.R. China
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11
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Mistry M, Simpson P, Morris E, Fritz AK, Karavadra B, Lennox C, Prosser-Snelling E. Cannabidiol for the Management of Endometriosis and Chronic Pelvic Pain. J Minim Invasive Gynecol 2021; 29:169-176. [PMID: 34839061 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmig.2021.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review the available literature on the effect of cannabis-based products on the female reproductive system and establish if there is any evidence that they benefit or harm patients with endometriosis and therefore if there is sufficient evidence to recommend them. DATA SOURCES An electronic-based search was performed in PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane Database. Reference lists of articles retrieved were reviewed and a grey literature search was also performed. METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION The original database search yielded 264 articles from PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane Database, of which forty-one were included. One hundred and sixty-one studies relating to gynaecological malignancy, conditions unrelated to endometriosis or therapies unrelated to cannabis-based products were excluded. Twelve articles were included from a grey literature search and review of references. RESULTS The majority of available evidence is from laboratory studies aiming to simulate the effects of cannabis-based products on preclinical endometriosis models. Some show evidence of benefit with cannabis-based products. However, results are conflicting and the impact in humans cannot necessarily be extrapolated from this data. Few studies exist looking at the effect of cannabis or its derived products in women with endometriosis - the majority are in the form of surveys and are affected by bias. National guidance was also reviewed: at present this dictates that cannabis-based products can only be prescribed for conditions where there is clear published evidence of benefit and only when all other treatment options have been exhausted. CONCLUSION Current treatment options for endometriosis often affect fertility and/or have undesirable side effects that impede long-term management. Cannabis-based products have been suggested as a novel therapeutic option that may circumvent these issues. However, there is a paucity of well-designed, robust studies and randomised controlled trials looking at their use in the treatment of endometriosis. In addition, cannabis use has a potential for harm in the long term; with a possible association with 'cannabis use disorder', psychosis and mood disturbances. At present, national guidance cannot recommend cannabis-based products to patients in the UK due to lack of clear evidence of benefit. More comprehensive research into the impact of endocannabinoids in the context of endometriosis is required before their use can be recommended or prescribed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megha Mistry
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, NR4 7UY, UK
| | - Paul Simpson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, NR4 7UY, UK.
| | - Edward Morris
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, NR4 7UY, UK
| | - Ann-Katrin Fritz
- Department of Anaesthesia and Pain Management, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, NR4 7UY, UK
| | - Babu Karavadra
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, NR4 7UY, UK
| | - Carole Lennox
- Department of Anaesthesia, Queen's Hospital, Rom Valley Way, Romford, RM7 0AG, UK
| | - Ed Prosser-Snelling
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, NR4 7UY, UK
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12
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N-Acyl Dopamines Induce Apoptosis in Endometrial Stromal Cells from Patients with Endometriosis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910648. [PMID: 34638988 PMCID: PMC8509064 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is characterized by the formation and development of endometrial tissues outside the uterus, based on an imbalance between proliferation and cell death, leading to the uncontrolled growth of ectopic foci. The potential target for the regulation of these processes is the endocannabinoid system, which was found to be involved in the migration, proliferation, and survival of tumor cells. In this paper, we investigated the effect of endocannabinoid-like compounds from the N-acyl dopamine (NADA) family on the viability of stromal cells from ectopic and eutopic endometrium of patients with ovarian endometriosis. N-arachidonoyldopamine, N-docosahexaenoyldopamine, and N-oleoyldopamine have been shown to have a five-times-more-selective cytotoxic effect on endometrioid stromal cells. To study the mechanisms of the toxic effect, inhibitory analysis, measurements of caspase-3/9 activity, reactive oxygen species, and the mitochondrial membrane potential were performed. It was found that NADA induced apoptosis via an intrinsic pathway through the CB1 receptor and downstream serine palmitoyltransferase, NO synthase activation, increased ROS production, and mitochondrial dysfunction. The higher selectivity of NADA for endometriotic stromal cells and the current lack of effective drug treatment can be considered positive factors for further research of these compounds as possible therapeutic agents against endometriosis.
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13
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Taylor AH, Tortolani D, Ayakannu T, Konje JC, Maccarrone M. (Endo)Cannabinoids and Gynaecological Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 13:E37. [PMID: 33375539 PMCID: PMC7795647 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13010037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Gynaecological cancers can be primary neoplasms, originating either from the reproductive tract or the products of conception, or secondary neoplasms, representative of metastatic disease. For some of these cancers, the exact causes are unknown; however, it is recognised that the precise aetiopathogeneses for most are multifactorial and include exogenous (such as diet) and endogenous factors (such as genetic predisposition), which mutually interact in a complex manner. One factor that has been recognised to be involved in the pathogenesis and progression of gynaecological cancers is the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS consists of endocannabinoids (bioactive lipids), their receptors, and metabolic enzymes responsible for their synthesis and degradation. In this review, the impact of plant-derived (Cannabis species) cannabinoids and endocannabinoids on gynaecological cancers will be discussed within the context of the complexity of the proteins that bind, transport, and metabolise these compounds in reproductive and other tissues. In particular, the potential of endocannabinoids, their receptors, and metabolic enzymes as biomarkers of specific cancers, such as those of the endometrium, will be addressed. Additionally, the therapeutic potential of targeting selected elements of the ECS as new action points for the development of innovative drugs will be presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony H. Taylor
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK; (A.H.T.); (T.A.)
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Daniel Tortolani
- European Centre for Brain Research, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, 00164 Rome, Italy;
| | - Thangesweran Ayakannu
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK; (A.H.T.); (T.A.)
- Gynaecology Oncology Cancer Centre, Liverpool Women’s NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool Women’s Hospital, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GB, UK
| | - Justin C. Konje
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK; (A.H.T.); (T.A.)
| | - Mauro Maccarrone
- European Centre for Brain Research, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, 00164 Rome, Italy;
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
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14
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Maia J, Fonseca BM, Teixeira N, Correia-da-Silva G. The fundamental role of the endocannabinoid system in endometrium and placenta: implications in pathophysiological aspects of uterine and pregnancy disorders. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 26:586-602. [PMID: 32347309 PMCID: PMC7317288 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmaa005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2019] [Revised: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The endocannabinoid system (ECS) consists of the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2, the main endocannabinoids anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and their metabolic enzymes N-acylphosphatidylethanolamine-specific phospholipase D, fatty acid amide hydrolase, diacylglycerol lipase and monoacylglycerol lipase. This system is involved in the modulation of essential physiological processes. Its role in the reproductive system has become significantly important in recent years, given its major role in events such as gametogenesis, decidualisation, implantation and placentation. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE In this paper, we review the literature and summarize the role of the ECS elements in reproduction and their potential as early markers for diagnosis of reproductive disorders or as pharmacological targets for treatment. SEARCH METHODS Original research and review papers published from 1964 to June 2019 were selected in terms of relevance, reliability and quality by searching PubMed, MEDLINE and Web of Science, using the following search terms: endocannabinoid system and endometriosis; endocannabinoid system and ectopic pregnancy; endocannabinoid system and miscarriage; endocannabinoid system and pre-eclampsia; endocannabinoid system and endometrial cancer; endocannabinoid system and reproduction; endocannabinoid, endometrium; placenta; N-acylethanolamines; anandamide; 2-arachidonoylglycerol; and cannabinoids. OUTCOMES This review demonstrates relevant information concerning ECS alterations in endometriosis, ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, pre-eclampsia and endometrial cancer. We highlight the importance of the endocannabinoids in endometrial and placental physiology and pathophysiology, from studies in vitro and in vivo and in clinical observations. The most studied of the endogenous cannabinoids is AEA. The levels of AEA were increased in plasma of patients with endometriosis and miscarriage, as well as in the fallopian tube of women with ectopic pregnancy and in endometrial biopsies of endometrial cancer. Changes in the pattern of expression of the cannabinoid receptor CB1 were also observed in endometrial biopsies of endometriosis, fallopian tube and decidua of patients with ectopic pregnancy and pre-eclamptic placenta. Moreover, alterations in CB2 expression have been reported in association with endometrial cancer. In general, studies on the cannabinoid signalling through CB2 and on the biological activities of the other major endocannabinoid, namely 2-AG, as well as its metabolic enzymes are scarce and avidly required. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The pathophysiological mechanisms involved in the described endometrial and placental pathologies are still unclear and lack the means for an early diagnosis. Based on current evidence, though alterations in ECS are demonstrated at tissue level, it is difficult to associate plasmatic changes in AEA with specific endometrial and placental diseases. Thus, pairing alterations in AEA levels with 2-AG and/or other endocannabinoid-like molecules may provide more accurate and early diagnoses. In addition, patients may benefit from new therapies that target the ECS and endocannabinoid signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Maia
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Laboratório de Bioquímica, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - BM Fonseca
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Laboratório de Bioquímica, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - N Teixeira
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Laboratório de Bioquímica, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - G Correia-da-Silva
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Laboratório de Bioquímica, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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15
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Ayakannu T, Taylor AH, Bari M, Mastrangelo N, Maccarrone M, Konje JC. Expression and Function of the Endocannabinoid Modulating Enzymes Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase and N-Acylphosphatidylethanolamine-Specific Phospholipase D in Endometrial Carcinoma. Front Oncol 2019; 9:1363. [PMID: 31921630 PMCID: PMC6930916 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.01363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The concentrations of three N-acylethanolamines (NAEs), anandamide (AEA), N-oleoylethanolamide (OEA), and N-palmitylethanolamide (PEA) are increased in the endometria of women with endometrial cancer (EC). It is widely accepted that plasma levels of these three NAEs are regulated by the actions of the rate-limiting enzymes N-acylphoshatidylethanolamine-specific phospholipase D (NAPE-PLD) and fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), which are synthesizing and degradative, respectively. The expression and activity of these enzymes have not previously been studied in EC. Methods: FAAH activity in peripheral blood lymphocytes, and transcript and protein expression for FAAH and NAPE-PLD in EC tissues were measured using enzyme, quantitative RT-PCR, and histomorphometry (of immunoreactive tissue sections), respectively. Samples were from 6 post-menopausal women with atrophic endometria (controls) and 34 women with histologically diagnosed EC. Concentrations of the three NAEs also measured in plasma and tissues were correlated with lymphocytic FAAH activity and the NAPE-PLD and FAAH transcript and protein levels. Results: Peripheral lymphocyte FAAH activity was unaffected in women with EC compared to controls. The FAAH transcript expression level was significantly (p < 0.0001) 75% lower in EC whilst NAPE-PLD levels were not significantly (p = 0.798) increased. In line with the transcript data, a significant (p < 0.0001) tumor type-dependent 70–90% decrease in FAAH protein and significant 4- to 14-fold increase in NAPE-PLD protein (p < 0.0001) was observed in the malignant tissue with more advanced disease having lower FAAH and higher NAPE-PLD expression than less advanced disease. Correlation analyses also confirmed that tissue NAE concentrations were inversely related to FAAH expression and directly correlated to NAPE-PLD expression and the NAPE-PLD/FAAH ratio. Conclusion: These data support our previous observation of tissue levels of AEA, OEA, and PEA and a role for NAE metabolism in the pathogenesis of EC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thangesweran Ayakannu
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom.,Gynaecology Oncology Cancer Centre, Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool Women's Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony H Taylor
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom.,Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Monica Bari
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Mauro Maccarrone
- Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Justin C Konje
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar.,Women's Wellness and Research Center, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
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16
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Cecconi S, Rapino C, Di Nisio V, Rossi G, Maccarrone M. The (endo)cannabinoid signaling in female reproduction: What are the latest advances? Prog Lipid Res 2019; 77:101019. [PMID: 31862482 DOI: 10.1016/j.plipres.2019.101019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Revised: 10/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis extracts like marijuana have the highest consumption rate worldwide. Yet, their societal acceptance as recreational and therapeutic drugs could represent a serious hazard to female human reproduction, because cannabis ingredients [termed (phyto)cannabinoids] can perturb an endogenous system of lipid signals known as endocannabinoids. Accumulated evidence on animal models and humans has demonstrated a crucial role of these endogenous signals on different aspects of female reproduction, where they act through an ensamble of proteins that synthesize, transport, degrade and traffic them. Several reports have recently evidenced the potential role of endocannabinoids as biomarkers of female infertility for disease treatment and prevention, as well as their possible epigenetic effects on pregnancy. The purpose of this review is to provide an update of data collected in the last decade on the effects of cannabinoids and endocannabinoids on female reproductive events, from development and maturation of follicles and oocytes, to fertilization, oviductal transport, implantation and labor. In this context, a particular attention has been devoted to the ovary and the production of fertilizable oocytes, because recent studies have addressed this hot topic with conflicting results among species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Cecconi
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - Cinzia Rapino
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy.
| | - Valentina Di Nisio
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - Gianna Rossi
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - Mauro Maccarrone
- Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, 00128 Rome, Italy; European Center for Brain Research (CERC)/Santa Lucia Foundation, Via del Fosso di Fiorano, 64 - 00143 Rome, Italy.
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17
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Tanaka K, Mayne L, Khalil A, Baartz D, Eriksson L, Mortlock SA, Montgomery G, McKinnon B, Amoako AA. The role of the endocannabinoid system in aetiopathogenesis of endometriosis: A potential therapeutic target. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2019; 244:87-94. [PMID: 31785471 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2019.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Revised: 11/08/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis affects a large proportion of women during their reproductive years and is associated with pain and infertility, also affecting psychological wellbeing and quality of life. The pathogenesis of the disease remains unclear, although it is believed to be multifactorial. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) consists of a number of ligands, receptors and enzymes, and has gained interests in endometriosis research. This review aims to summarise all available evidence reporting the roles of the ECS in endometriosis. A literature search of the PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science electronic medical databases was performed. Original and review articles published in peer-reviewed journals were included. No publication date or publication status restrictions were imposed. Significant differences in the concentrations and expressions of the components of the ECS were reported in the eutopic and ectopic endometrium, and the systemic circulation of women with endometriosis compared to controls. Endometriosis appears to be associated with downregulation of CB1 receptors and upregulation of TRPV1 receptors. The role of CB1 and progesterone in anti-inflammatory action and the role of TRPV1 in inflammation and pain are of particular interests. Furthermore, the ECS has been reported to be involved in processes relevant to endometriosis, including cell migration, cell proliferation, apoptosis, inflammation, and interacts with sex steroid hormones. The ECS may play a role in disease establishment, progression, and pain in endometriosis. However, reports are based on studies of limited size and there are inconsistencies among the definition of their control groups. There are also conflicting reports regarding precise involvement of the ECS in endometriosis. Future research with larger numbers, strict inclusion and exclusion criteria and detailed clinical information is imperative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keisuke Tanaka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Leah Mayne
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Akram Khalil
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - David Baartz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Lars Eriksson
- The University of Queensland, UQ Library, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Sally-Anne Mortlock
- The Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Grant Montgomery
- The Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Brett McKinnon
- The Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital of Berne, Berne, Switzerland
| | - Akwasi A Amoako
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
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18
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Ayakannu T, Taylor AH, Marczylo TH, Maccarrone M, Konje JC. Identification of Novel Predictive Biomarkers for Endometrial Malignancies: N-Acylethanolamines. Front Oncol 2019; 9:430. [PMID: 31245282 PMCID: PMC6579876 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.00430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To identify new biochemical markers for endometrial cancer (EC). Recent evidence suggests that members of the endocannabinoid system (N-acylethanolamines) that bind to and activate receptors that are dysregulated in EC are involved in this tumour's biology. These observations suggest increased N-acylethanolamine levels in the tissue that might appear in plasma and could be used as disease biomarkers. Methods: N-arachidonoylethanolamine (anandamide, AEA) and the N-acylethanolamine substances, N-oleoylethanolamine (OEA), and N-palmitoylethanolamine (PEA) were quantified in plasma and endometrial tissue collected from 31 EC and seven atrophic controls using UHPLC-MS/MS. Receiver-operating characteristics (ROC) and logistic regression were used to determine diagnostic accuracy. Cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) and 2 (CB2) protein levels were determined by specific immunohistochemistry and histomorphometric analyses. Correlations between plasma and tissue levels of the three N-acylethanolamines and tissue levels of the three N-acylethanolamines and CB1 and CB2 receptor expression levels were determined using correlation analysis. Results: Plasma and tissue AEA and PEA levels were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in EC than controls whilst OEA levels were significantly elevated in type 1 EC tissues but not in plasma. There were significant positive correlations between plasma and tissue levels of AEA (R 2 = 0.302, p = 0.008) and PEA (R 2 = 0.182, p = 0.047), but not for OEA (R 2 = 0.022, p = 0.506). The diagnostic accuracies for EC were: sensitivity of 53.3%, specificity of 100% for plasma AEA (>1.36 nM); sensitivity of 73.3%, specificity of 100% for plasma PEA (>27.5 nM); and sensitivity of 93.3%, specificity of 28.6% for plasma OEA (>4.97 nM). Logistic regression increased the area under the ROC curve (AUC) from 0.781 for AEA, 0.857 for PEA, and 0.543 for OEA to a combined AUC of 0.933 for EC diagnosis. Significant inverse correlations between tissue AEA (R 2 = 0.343, p = 0.003) and PEA (R 2 = 0.384, p < 0.0001) levels and CB1 expression were observed. No correlation between tissue levels of OEA and CB1 and tissue levels of any of the three N-acylethanolamines and CB2 protein expression were observed, except in the type 1 EC patients. Conclusion: Since plasma AEA and PEA are significantly elevated in patients with EC and a reflection of production by the endometrial tumour, then these lipids have the potential to be useful biomarkers for the early diagnosis of EC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thangesweran Ayakannu
- Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom.,Gynaecology Oncology Cancer Centre, Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool Women's Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony H Taylor
- Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom.,Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Timothy H Marczylo
- Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom.,Toxicology Department at the Centre for Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards, Public Health England, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Mauro Maccarrone
- Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Justin C Konje
- Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Sidra Medicine, Women's Wellness and Research Center, HMC, Doha, Qatar
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19
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Luschnig P, Schicho R. Cannabinoids in Gynecological Diseases. Med Cannabis Cannabinoids 2019; 2:14-21. [PMID: 34676329 DOI: 10.1159/000499164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a multifunctional homeostatic system involved in many physiological and pathological conditions. The ligands of the ECS are the endo-cannabinoids, whose actions are mimicked by exogenous cannabinoids, such as phytocannabinoids and synthetic cannabinoids. Responses to the ligands of the ECS are mediated by numerous receptors like the classical cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) as well as ECS-related receptors, e.g., G protein-coupled receptors 18 and 55 (GPR18 and GPR55), transient receptor potential ion channels, and nuclear peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors. The ECS regulates almost all levels of female reproduction, starting with oocyte production through to parturition. Dysregulation of the ECS is associated with the development of gynecological disorders from fertility disorders to cancer. Cannabinoids that act at the ECS as specific agonists or antagonists may potentially influence dysregulation and, therefore, represent new therapeutic options for the therapy of gynecological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Luschnig
- Division of Pharmacology, Otto Loewi Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Rudolf Schicho
- Division of Pharmacology, Otto Loewi Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
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20
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Li Y, Bian F, Sun X, Dey SK. Mice Missing Cnr1 and Cnr2 Show Implantation Defects. Endocrinology 2019; 160:938-946. [PMID: 30776303 PMCID: PMC6435011 DOI: 10.1210/en.2019-00024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoid/endocannabinoid signaling is primarily mediated by cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1; encoded by Cnr1) and/or type 2 (CB2; encoded by Cnr2). Here, we show that Cnr1-/-Cnr2-/- mice are subfertile as a result of compromised implantation. Upon implantation, the epithelium is smooth and adhered to the blastocyst trophectoderm within the implantation chamber (crypt) in wild-type mice, whereas the epithelium in Cnr1-/-Cnr2-/- mice is ruffled, which compromises appropriate blastocyst-uterine interactions. The suboptimal implantation leads to higher incidence of pregnancy failure in Cnr1-/-Cnr2-/- mice. Histological analysis revealed heightened edema around the implantation chamber in these deleted females. With the use of a reporter mouse line, we observed that CB2 is present on endothelial cells of uterine blood vessels, and its absence leads to blood vessel leakage during implantation. These results suggest that appropriately regulated uterine edema is important to optimal implantation.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Embryo Implantation/genetics
- Female
- Infertility, Female/genetics
- Infertility, Female/metabolism
- Mice
- Mice, Knockout
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/genetics
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/metabolism
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/genetics
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/metabolism
- Signal Transduction/physiology
- Uterus/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingju Li
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Fenghua Bian
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Xiaofei Sun
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Correspondence: Sudhansu K. Dey, PhD, or Xiaofei Sun, PhD, Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, MLC 7045, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45229. E-mail: or
| | - Sudhansu K Dey
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Correspondence: Sudhansu K. Dey, PhD, or Xiaofei Sun, PhD, Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, MLC 7045, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45229. E-mail: or
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Ayakannu T, Taylor AH, Marczylo TH, Konje JC. New Insights of Uterine Leiomyoma Pathogenesis: Endocannabinoid System. Med Sci Monit Basic Res 2019; 25:76-87. [PMID: 30842391 PMCID: PMC6421936 DOI: 10.12659/msmbr.914019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The aim of this study was to determine if components of the endocannabinoid system are modulated in uterine leiomyomas (fibroids). Components studied included cannabinoid receptors 1 (CB1) and 2 (CB2); the G protein-coupled receptor GPR55; transient potential vanilloid receptor 1 (TRPV1) and the endocannabinoid modulating enzymes N-acylphosphatidylethanolamine-specific phospholipase D (NAPE-PLD) and fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), and their N-acylethanolamine (NAE) ligands: N-arachidonylethanolamine (AEA), N-oleoylethanolamine (OEA), and N-palmityolethanaolamine (PEA). Material/Methods Transcript levels of CB1, CB2, TRPV1, GPR55, NAPE-PLD, and FAAH were measured using RT-PCR and correlated with the tissue levels of the 3 NAEs in myometrial tissues. The tissues studied were: 1) fibroids, 2) myometrium adjacent/juxtaposed to the fibroid lesions, and 3) normal myometrium. Thirty-seven samples were processed for NAE measurements and 28 samples were used for RT-PCR analyses. Results FAAH expression was significantly lower in fibroids, resulting in a NAPE-PLD: FAAH ratio that favors higher AEA levels in pre-menopausal tissues, whilst PEA levels were significantly lower, particularly in post-menopausal women, suggesting PEA protects against fibroid pathogenesis. The CB1: CB2 ratio was lower in fibroids, suggesting that loss of CB1 expression affects the fibroid cell phenotype. Significant correlations between reduced FAAH, CB1, and GPR55 expression and PEA in fibroids indicate that the loss of these endocannabinoid system components are biomarkers of leiomyomata. Conclusions Loss of expression of CB1, FAAH, GPR55, and PEA production are linked to the pathogenesis of uterine fibroids and further understanding of this might eventually lead to better disease indicators or the development of therapeutic potentials that might eventually be used in the management of uterine fibroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thangesweran Ayakannu
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Sciences, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, North Cumbria University Hospital NHS Trust, Carlisle, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony H Taylor
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Sciences, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom.,Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Timothy H Marczylo
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Sciences, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom.,Public Health England, Chilton, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Justin C Konje
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Sciences, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Sidra Medicine, Doha and Wellness Women's Research Centre, Doha, Qatar
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22
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Shen X, Duan H, Wang S, Hong W, Wang YY, Lin SL. Expression of Cannabinoid Receptors in Myometrium and its Correlation With Dysmenorrhea in Adenomyosis. Reprod Sci 2019; 26:1618-1625. [PMID: 30832539 DOI: 10.1177/1933719119833483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The myometrium, especially the junctional zone (JZ), is now well documented to have a role in the pathogenesis of adenomyosis. Cannabinoid receptors have been shown to participate in the establishment of endometriosis and its pain perception. However, its relation to adenomyosis has not been identified yet. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of cannabinoid receptor type I (CB1) and type II (CB2) in myometrium of uteri with and without adenomyosis and determine the correlation between their levels and clinical parameters of adenomyosis. We collected tissue samples of JZ and the outer myometrium from 45 premenopausal women with adenomyosis and 34 women without adenomyosis. CB1 and CB2 messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression levels were evaluated by the use of Western blotting and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction from all samples. Clinical information on the severity of dysmenorrhea and other data were collected. We found both CB1 and CB2 mRNA and protein levels in women with adenomyosis were significantly higher than those of controls, and CB1 expression levels in JZ were positively correlated with the severity of dysmenorrhea. These data suggest that cannabinoid receptor CB1 may be involved in the pathogenesis of dysmenorrhea in adenomyosis and may be a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Shen
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Hua Duan
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Sha Wang
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Hong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Luhe Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu-Yan Wang
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Si-Li Lin
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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23
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Decreased Expression of Cannabinoid Receptors in the Eutopic and Ectopic Endometrium of Patients with Adenomyosis. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 2019:5468954. [PMID: 30800671 PMCID: PMC6360557 DOI: 10.1155/2019/5468954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 01/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Objective Adenomyosis is a common gynecologic benign disease that may have a life-long negative impact on women. Previous studies have indicated that the endocannabinoid system may participate in the progress of endometriosis. Our research aims to analyze the expression patterns of the typical cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2), the main constituents of the endocannabinoid system, in endometrial samples derived from patients diagnosed as adenomyosis or not. Methods Eutopic and corresponding ectopic endometrium from 45 premenopausal women diagnosed as adenomyosis and normal endometrium from 34 age-matched women lacking evidence of adenomyosis were examined by immunohistochemistry and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) to determine the CB1 and CB2 expression levels. Results In either the proliferative or the secretory phase, CB1 and CB2 protein and mRNA levels were both significantly lower in the eutopic and ectopic endometrium of adenomyosis when compared with normal endometrium. For women with adenomyosis, CB1 and CB2 protein and mRNA levels were much lower in the ectopic endometrium than the eutopic in both phases of the cycle. Both CB1 and CB2 protein and mRNA levels were increased during the secretory phase in normal endometrium, while CB1 lost its cyclic variation in the eutopic and ectopic endometrium from patients diagnosed as adenomyosis. Conclusion The decreased expression of CB1 and CB2 in the eutopic and ectopic endometrium from patients diagnosed as adenomyosis suggests that cannabinoid receptors may participate in the pathogenesis of adenomyosis.
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24
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Ayakannu T, Taylor AH, Konje JC. Cannabinoid receptor expression in estrogen-dependent and estrogen-independent endometrial cancer. J Recept Signal Transduct Res 2018; 38:385-392. [PMID: 30569804 DOI: 10.1080/10799893.2018.1531890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The lack of good diagnostic/prognostic biomarkers and the often late presentation of endometrial cancer (EC) hinders the amelioration of the morbidity and mortality rates associated with this primarily estrogen-driven disease, a disease that is becoming more prevalent in the population. Previous studies on the expression of the classical cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2, suggest these could provide good diagnostic/prognostic biomarkers for EC but those observations have been contradictory. In this study, we sought to resolve the inconsistency of CB1 and CB2 expression levels in different EC studies. To that end, we used qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry (IHC) for CB1 and CB2 in endometrial biopsies from women with or without EC and found that transcript levels for both CB1 and CB2 were significantly decreased by 90 and 80%, respectively in EC. These observations were supported by histomorphometric studies where CB1 and CB2 staining intensity was decreased in all types of EC. These data suggest that the loss of both types of CB receptors is potentially involved in the development of or progression of EC and that CB1 and CB2 receptor expression could serve as useful histological markers and therapeutic targets in the treatment of or prevention of EC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thangesweran Ayakannu
- a Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine , University of Leicester , Leicester , UK.,b Department of Gynaecology Oncology , Royal Surrey County Hospital , Guildford , UK.,c Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine , University of Surrey , Guildford , UK
| | - Anthony H Taylor
- a Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine , University of Leicester , Leicester , UK.,d Department of Molecular and Cell Biology , University of Leicester, Leicester , UK
| | - Justin C Konje
- a Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine , University of Leicester , Leicester , UK.,e Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology , Sidra Medical and Research Centre , Doha , Qatar
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25
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Neradugomma NK, Drafton K, O'Day DR, Liao MZ, Han LW, Glass IA, Mao Q. Marijuana use differentially affects cannabinoid receptor expression in early gestational human endometrium and placenta. Placenta 2018; 66:36-39. [PMID: 29884300 PMCID: PMC5995327 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2018.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 05/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Marijuana is one of the most abused drugs among pregnant women leading to maternal and fetal abnormalities. Cannabinoids are the active ingredients of marijuana, which interact with cannabinoid receptors such as CNR1 and CNR2 to activate cellular signaling pathways. Human endometrium and placenta are known to express CNR1 and CNR2 and can respond to cannabinoid signaling. In this study, we show that marijuana use significantly increases mRNA or protein expression of CNR1 and CNR2 in human endometrium from the first and early second trimester pregnancies, with minor effects on placental expression of CNRs.
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MESH Headings
- Adolescent
- Adult
- Alcohol Drinking/adverse effects
- Alcohol Drinking/genetics
- Alcohol Drinking/metabolism
- Case-Control Studies
- Endometrium/metabolism
- Female
- Humans
- Marijuana Use/adverse effects
- Marijuana Use/genetics
- Marijuana Use/metabolism
- Placenta/metabolism
- Pregnancy
- Pregnancy Trimester, First
- Pregnancy Trimester, Second
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/genetics
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/metabolism
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/genetics
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/metabolism
- Signal Transduction
- Smoking/adverse effects
- Smoking/genetics
- Smoking/metabolism
- Young Adult
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Affiliation(s)
- Naveen K Neradugomma
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, United States.
| | - Kaitlyn Drafton
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, United States
| | - Diana R O'Day
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, United States
| | - Michael Z Liao
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, United States
| | - Lyrialle W Han
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, United States
| | - Ian A Glass
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, United States
| | - Qingcheng Mao
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, United States.
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26
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Bonsale R, Seyed Sharifi R, Dirandeh E, Hedayat N, Mojtahedin A, Ghorbanalinia M, Abolghasemi A. Endocannabinoids as endometrial inflammatory markers in lactating Holstein cows. Reprod Domest Anim 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.13169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- R Bonsale
- Department of Animal Sciences; College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources; University of Mohaghegh Ardabili; Ardabil Iran
| | - R Seyed Sharifi
- Department of Animal Sciences; College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources; University of Mohaghegh Ardabili; Ardabil Iran
| | - E Dirandeh
- Department of Animal Sciences; Sari Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University; Sari Iran
| | - N Hedayat
- Department of Animal Sciences; College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources; University of Mohaghegh Ardabili; Ardabil Iran
| | - A Mojtahedin
- Department of Animal Sciences; College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources; University of Mohaghegh Ardabili; Ardabil Iran
| | - M Ghorbanalinia
- Department of Animal Sciences; Sari Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University; Sari Iran
| | - A Abolghasemi
- Section of Physiology; Department of Biomedical Sciences; University of Cagliari; Cagliari Sardegna Italy
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27
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Fonseca BM, Correia-da-Silva G, Teixeira NA. Cannabinoid-induced cell death in endometrial cancer cells: involvement of TRPV1 receptors in apoptosis. J Physiol Biochem 2018; 74:261-272. [PMID: 29441458 DOI: 10.1007/s13105-018-0611-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2017] [Accepted: 02/02/2018] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Among a variety of phytocannabinoids, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are the most promising therapeutic compounds. Besides the well-known palliative effects in cancer patients, cannabinoids have been shown to inhibit in vitro growth of tumor cells. Likewise, the major endocannabinoids (eCBs), anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), induce tumor cell death. The purpose of the present study was to characterize cannabinoid elements and evaluate the effect of cannabinoids in endometrial cancer cell viability. The presence of cannabinoid receptors, transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1), and endocannabinoid-metabolizing enzymes were determined by qRT-PCR and Western blot. We also examined the effects and the underlying mechanisms induced by eCBs and phytocannabinoids in endometrial cancer cell viability. Besides TRPV1, both EC cell lines express all the constituents of the endocannabinoid system. We observed that at concentrations higher than 5 μM, eCBs and CBD induced a significant reduction in cell viability in both Ishikawa and Hec50co cells, whereas THC did not cause any effect. In Ishikawa cells, contrary to Hec50co, treatment with AEA and CBD resulted in an increase in the levels of activated caspase -3/-7, in cleaved PARP, and in reactive oxygen species generation, confirming that the reduction in cell viability observed in the MTT assay was caused by the activation of the apoptotic pathway. Finally, these effects were dependent on TRPV1 activation and intracellular calcium levels. These data indicate that cannabinoids modulate endometrial cancer cell death. Selective targeting of TPRV1 by AEA, CBD, or other stable analogues may be an attractive research area for the treatment of estrogen-dependent endometrial carcinoma. Our data further support the evaluation of CBD and CBD-rich extracts for the potential treatment of endometrial cancer, particularly, that has become non-responsive to common therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- B M Fonseca
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Laboratório de Bioquímica, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira n.° 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal.
| | - G Correia-da-Silva
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Laboratório de Bioquímica, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira n.° 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
| | - N A Teixeira
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Laboratório de Bioquímica, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira n.° 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
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28
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Guerreiro TM, Gonçalves RF, Melo CFOR, de Oliveira DN, Lima EDO, Visintin JA, de Achilles MA, Catharino RR. A Metabolomic Overview of Follicular Fluid in Cows. Front Vet Sci 2018; 5:10. [PMID: 29473045 PMCID: PMC5809397 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2018.00010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 01/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Follicular fluid (FF) protects the oocyte against proteolysis and extrusion during ovulation, providing an appropriate microenvironment that favors proper embryonic development; thereby, FF plays a key role in embryo quality. Being directly related to cattle breeding, studying FF is extremely important in livestock science to measure cattle fertility. This may eventually help to assess the quality of both meat and milk, products widely consumed worldwide. There is an important commercial interest in the evaluation and characterization of compounds present in the FF of livestock that present greater likelihood of pregnancy. Mass spectrometry is a great ally for this type of analysis and can provide quick and efficient screening for molecular markers in biological samples. The present study demonstrated the potential of high-resolution mass spectrometry in analyzing FF samples from two distinct groups of Nellore cows (Bos indicus): high and low fertility, as determined by the number of oocytes produced. We were able to delineate markers of interest for each group, which may ultimately be related to biochemical pathways that lead to higher or lower reproductive performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiane Melina Guerreiro
- Innovare Biomarkers Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Campinas - UNICAMP, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Roseli Fernandes Gonçalves
- Department of Animal Reproduction, College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, São Paulo University - USP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carlos Fernando O Rodrigues Melo
- Innovare Biomarkers Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Campinas - UNICAMP, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Diogo Noin de Oliveira
- Innovare Biomarkers Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Campinas - UNICAMP, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Estela de Oliveira Lima
- Innovare Biomarkers Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Campinas - UNICAMP, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jose Antônio Visintin
- Department of Animal Reproduction, College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, São Paulo University - USP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Rodrigo Ramos Catharino
- Innovare Biomarkers Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Campinas - UNICAMP, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
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29
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Correa F, Wolfson ML, Valchi P, Aisemberg J, Franchi AM. Endocannabinoid system and pregnancy. Reproduction 2017; 152:R191-R200. [PMID: 27798285 DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Accepted: 08/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (eCS), is a complex system, comprising the main endogenous ligands anandamide and 2-arachidonoyl glycerol, the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 and the biosynthetic and degrading enzymes. Cumulative evidence shows that the eCS plays an important role in reproduction, from egg fertilization to parturition. Therefore, alterations in this system, either by recreation/therapeutic use of cannabis or deregulation of the endogenous cannabinoids, might lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes, including retardation in embryo development, poor blastocyst implantation, inhibition of decidualization, miscarriage and compromised placentation. Nevertheless, the molecular mechanisms by which the eCS participates in different stages of pregnancy remain poorly understood. In this review, we will examine the evidence from animal and human studies to support the role of the eCS in implantation, early-to-late pregnancy and placentation as well as the difficulties of targeting this system for treatment of female infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Correa
- Center for Pharmacological and Botanical StudiesNational Research Council, School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Manuel L Wolfson
- Center for Pharmacological and Botanical StudiesNational Research Council, School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Paula Valchi
- Center for Pharmacological and Botanical StudiesNational Research Council, School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Julieta Aisemberg
- Center for Pharmacological and Botanical StudiesNational Research Council, School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ana María Franchi
- Center for Pharmacological and Botanical StudiesNational Research Council, School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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30
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Almada M, Amaral C, Diniz-da-Costa M, Correia-da-Silva G, Teixeira NA, Fonseca BM. The endocannabinoid anandamide impairs in vitro decidualization of human cells. Reproduction 2017; 152:351-61. [PMID: 27568210 DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2016] [Accepted: 08/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Endocannabinoids (eCBs) are endogenous mediators that along with the cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2), a membrane transporter and metabolic enzymes form the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Several eCBs have been discovered with emphasis on anandamide (AEA). They are involved in several biological processes such as energy balance, immune response and reproduction. Decidualization occurs during the secretory phase of human menstrual cycle, which involves proliferation and differentiation of endometrial stromal cells into decidual cells and is crucial for the establishment and progression of pregnancy. In this study, a telomerase-immortalized human endometrial stromal cell line (St-T1b) and non-differentiated primary cultures of human decidual fibroblasts from term placenta were used to characterize the ECS using immunoblotting and qRT-PCR techniques. It was shown that St-T1b cells express CB1, but not CB2, and that both receptors are expressed in HdF cells. Furthermore, the expression of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), the main degrading enzyme of AEA, increased during stromal cell differentiation. AEA inhibited cell proliferation, through deregulation of cell cycle progression and induced polyploidy. Moreover, through CB1 binding receptor, AEA also impaired cell differentiation. Therefore, AEA is proposed as a modulator of human decidualization. Our findings may provide wider implications, as deregulated levels of AEA, due to Cannabis sativa consumption or altered expression of the metabolic enzymes, may negatively regulate human endometrial stromal cell decidualization with an impact on human (in)fertility.Free Portuguese abstract: A Portuguese translation of this abstract is freely available at http://www.reproduction-online.org/content/152/4/351/suppl/DC1.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Almada
- UCIBIO@REQUIMTELaboratório de Bioquímica, Departamento Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - C Amaral
- UCIBIO@REQUIMTELaboratório de Bioquímica, Departamento Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - M Diniz-da-Costa
- UCIBIO@REQUIMTELaboratório de Bioquímica, Departamento Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - G Correia-da-Silva
- UCIBIO@REQUIMTELaboratório de Bioquímica, Departamento Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - N A Teixeira
- UCIBIO@REQUIMTELaboratório de Bioquímica, Departamento Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - B M Fonseca
- UCIBIO@REQUIMTELaboratório de Bioquímica, Departamento Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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31
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Bilgic E, Guzel E, Kose S, Aydin MC, Karaismailoglu E, Akar I, Usubutun A, Korkusuz P. Endocannabinoids modulate apoptosis in endometriosis and adenomyosis. Acta Histochem 2017; 119:523-532. [PMID: 28549792 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2017.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2016] [Revised: 05/09/2017] [Accepted: 05/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Adenomyosis that is a form of endometriosis is the growth of ectopic endometrial tissue within the muscular wall of the uterus (myometrium), which may cause dysmenorrhea and infertility. Endocannabinoid mediated apoptotic mechanisms of endometriosis and adenomyosis are not known. We hypothesized that the down regulation of endocannabinoid receptors and/or alteration in their regulatory enzymes may have a direct role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis and adenomyosis through apoptosis. Endocannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2, their synthesizing and catabolizing enzymes (FAAH, NAPE-PLD, DAGL, MAGL) and the apoptotic indexes were immunohistochemically assessed in endometriotic and adenomyotic tissues. Findings were compared to normal endometrium and myometrium. Endometrial adenocarcinoma (Ishikawa) and ovarian endometriosis cyst wall stromal (CRL-7566) cell lines were furthermore cultured with or without cannabinoid receptor agonists. The IC50 value for CB1 and CB2 receptor agonists was quantified. Cannabinoid agonists on cell death were investigated by Annexin-V/Propidium iodide labeling with flow cytometry. CB1 and CB2 receptor levels decreased in endometriotic and adenomyotic tissues compared to the control group (p=0,001 and p=0,001). FAAH, NAPE-PLD, MAGL and DAGL enzyme levels decreased in endometriotic and adenomyotic tissues compared to control (p=0,001, p=0,001, p=0,001 and p=0,002 respectively). Apoptotic cell indexes both in endometriotic and adenomyotic tissues also decreased significantly, compared to the control group (p=0,001 and p=0,001). CB1 and CB2 receptor agonist mediated dose dependent fast anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects were detected in Ishikawa and ovarian endometriosis cyst wall stromal cell lines (CRL-7566). Endocannabinoids are suggested to increase apoptosis mechanisms in endometriosis and adenomyosis. CB1 and CB2 antagonists can be considered as potential medical therapeutic agents for endometriosis and adenomyosis.
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32
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Spatial distribution of cannabinoid receptor 1 and fatty acid amide hydrolase in the cat ovary and oviduct. Acta Histochem 2017; 119:417-422. [PMID: 28478955 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2017.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2016] [Revised: 04/26/2017] [Accepted: 04/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Involvement of the endocannabinoid system in female reproduction has been extensively described in humans with the cognate receptors and ligands being found in the ovaries and genital tract. In human, an imbalance of the endocannabinoid system is linked with both ectopic pregnancy and infertility. In bovine species anandamide levels regulate aspects of sperm-oviduct interaction. Here we report the immunohistochemical distribution of cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1R) and fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) in cat ovary and oviduct, using paraffin-embedded tissue samples and commercially available antibodies. We found a differential expression of both CB1R and FAAH during different stages of ovarian function and in the oviduct. CB1R was detected only in tertiary follicle granulosa cells while more immature follicles were negative. FAAH was instead found in ovarian pre-antral follicles, the oocyte cytoplasm, and in granulosa cells of primary, secondary and tertiary follicles. Secondary and tertiary follicles were also FAAH immunoreactive. Luteal cells were immunopositive for both CB1R and FAAH. Because CBR1 in oviduct was found only in ciliated cells, it might represent a specific marker at least in cats. In contrast, FAAH immunoreactivity was observed in both ciliated and non-ciliated cells. The present study may thus serve as the starting point for further investigations on the role of the endocannabinoid system in cat reproduction. Additional work will be needed to assess whether the morphological distribution of CB1R and FAAH changes in different conditions such as pre-pubertal age, follicular phase of the sexual cycle and pregnancy.
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Cui N, Yang Y, Xu Y, Zhang J, Jiang L, Hao G. Decreased expression of fatty acid amide hydrolase in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Gynecol Endocrinol 2017; 33:368-372. [PMID: 28132572 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2016.1269742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the correlation between endocannabinoids and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and the expression levels of endocannabinoids in different phases of menstruation. The expression of cannabinoid receptors (CB1) and fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) in the endometrium were immunohistochemically stained and compared between women with PCOS and the control group. Integrated optical density (IOD) was assessed to analyze their expression levels. The CB1 and FAAH were expressed in endometrial epithelial cytoplasm. No significant difference in CB1 level was observed between PCOS and non-PCOS women. Additionally, the expression of CB1 did not fluctuate with menstrual cycle. However, the FAAH levels were lower in the PCOS group than the non-PCOS group (p < 0.05). FAAH levels in secretory phases were significantly elevated compared to menstrual and proliferative phases (p < 0.05). Our results demonstrate that the endocannabinoid system may play an important role in menstruation, and dysregulation of the system may result in PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Cui
- a Department of Reproduction , The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University , Shijiazhuang , China
| | - Yang Yang
- a Department of Reproduction , The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University , Shijiazhuang , China
| | - Yueming Xu
- a Department of Reproduction , The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University , Shijiazhuang , China
| | - Jie Zhang
- a Department of Reproduction , The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University , Shijiazhuang , China
| | - Lei Jiang
- a Department of Reproduction , The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University , Shijiazhuang , China
| | - Guimin Hao
- a Department of Reproduction , The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University , Shijiazhuang , China
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Cui N, Feng X, Zhao Z, Zhang J, Xu Y, Wang L, Hao G. Restored Plasma Anandamide and Endometrial Expression of Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome by the Combination Use of Diane-35 and Metformin. Clin Ther 2017; 39:751-758. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2017.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2016] [Revised: 02/13/2017] [Accepted: 02/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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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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Pagano E, Orlando P, Finizio S, Rossi A, Buono L, Iannotti FA, Piscitelli F, Izzo AA, Di Marzo V, Borrelli F. Role of the endocannabinoid system in the control of mouse myometrium contractility during the menstrual cycle. Biochem Pharmacol 2016; 124:83-93. [PMID: 27899300 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2016.11.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2016] [Accepted: 11/25/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis and cannabinoids are known to affect female reproduction. However, the role of the endocannabinoid system in mouse uterine contractility in the dioestrus and oestrus phases has not been previously investigated. The present study aimed at filling this gap. Endocannabinoid (anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol) levels were measured in mouse uterus at dioestrus and oestrus phases by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry; quantitative reverse transcription-PCR and western blot were used to measured the expression of cannabinoid receptors and enzymes involved in the metabolism of endocannabinoids. Contractility was evaluated in vitro either on the spontaneous contractions or by stimulating the isolated uterus with exogenous spasmogens. The tissue concentrations of anandamide and 2-AG were reduced in the oestrus phase, compared to dioestrus. Uteri obtained in the dioestrus, but not oestrus, phase showed spontaneous phasic prostaglandin-mediated contractions that were reduced by ACEA (CB1 receptor agonist) and to a lower extent by JWH133 (CB2 receptor agonist). These inhibitory effects were counteracted by the corresponding selective antagonists. Neither ACEA nor JWH133 did affect the contractions induced by exogenous PGE2 in the uterus from the oestrus phase. The FAAH inhibitor JNJ1661010 and, to a lower extent, the MAGL inhibitor JZL184 also reduced spontaneous contractions. It is concluded that the endocannabinoid system undergoes to adaptive changes between the oestrus and dioestrus phases. CB1 and, to a lower extent, CB2 receptor activation results in selective inhibition of myometrial contractility, without un-specific relaxing effects on the smooth muscle. These results might be of interest for female marijuana smokers as well as for the design of novel tocolytic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ester Pagano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy; Endocannabinoid Research Group, National Research Council, Naples, Italy
| | - Pierangelo Orlando
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, National Research Council, Naples, Italy; Institute of Protein Biochemistry, National Research Council, Naples, Italy; Institute of Applied Sciences & Intelligent Systems, National Research Council, Pozzuoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Stefania Finizio
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonietta Rossi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Lorena Buono
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, National Research Council, Naples, Italy; Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council, Pozzuoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Fabio Arturo Iannotti
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, National Research Council, Naples, Italy; Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council, Pozzuoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Fabiana Piscitelli
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, National Research Council, Naples, Italy; Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council, Pozzuoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Angelo A Izzo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy; Endocannabinoid Research Group, National Research Council, Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Di Marzo
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, National Research Council, Naples, Italy; Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council, Pozzuoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Borrelli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy; Endocannabinoid Research Group, National Research Council, Naples, Italy.
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Sanchez AM, Quattrone F, Pannese M, Ulisse A, Candiani M, Diaz-Alonso J, Velasco G, Panina-Bordignon P. The cannabinoid receptor CB1 contributes to the development of ectopic lesions in a mouse model of endometriosis. Hum Reprod 2016; 32:175-184. [PMID: 27821707 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dew281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2016] [Revised: 10/05/2016] [Accepted: 10/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does signaling via the cannabinoid (CB1) receptor play a role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis in a mouse model? SUMMARY ANSWER Mice treated with a CB1 agonist developed larger ectopic lesions, while less severe lesions developed in the absence of functional CB1 expression. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The expression of components of the endocannabinoid system has been demonstrated in both mouse and human uteri. CB1 receptors are expressed in human epithelial and stromal cell lines derived from eutopic endometrium and deep infiltrating endometriosis nodules. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This was a randomized study in a mouse model of endometriosis. In a first set of experiments, mice with endometriosis were treated with the CB1 receptor agonist methanandamide (MET) (5 mg/kg, n = 20) on Days 1-5 and 8-12. In a second set of experiments, endometriosis development was evaluated in CB1-/- mice and in their wild-type (WT) littermates. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Endometriosis-like lesions were induced in Balb/c and C57/Bl6 mice. Two weeks after disease induction, the lesions were counted, measured and either included for immunohistochemistry analysis or frozen for gene expression profiling by semi-quantitative real-time PCR. To limit the role of chance, the experiments were conducted under standardized laboratory conditions with appropriate controls. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The lesion total volume was significantly higher in MET-treated compared with vehicle-treated mice (P < 0.05). Expression levels of mRNA for survivin, N-cadherin, integrin β1 and interleukin-6 were increased in the ectopic endometrium of MET-treated versus vehicle-treated mice (P < 0.05). CB1-/- recipients that received endometrial tissue fragments from CB1-/- donors, WT recipients that received endometrial tissue fragments from CB1-/- donors and CB1-/- recipients that received endometrial tissue fragments from WT donors all showed a significant reduction in total lesion volume and lower expression of survivin and N-cadherin compared with WT recipients receiving uterine fragments from WT donors (P < 0.05). LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION We provide evidence that endocannabinoid signaling via CB1 receptor plays a role in the development of endometriosis in a mouse model. However, the relative contribution of the CB1-mediated signaling pathways active in inflammatory, uterine and peritoneal cells remains to be ascertained. Since the study was performed in a mouse model, the significance of the findings in the human system warrants further investigation. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Clarifying the function and regulation of CB1 and its molecular interactions with endogenous ligands, and how endocannabinoids levels are regulated in women with endometriosis, represent critical areas of research for the potential development of a novel medical treatment of the disease. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS A.M.S. was supported by a fellowship from Fondazione Giorgio Pardi. The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana-Maria Sanchez
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Quattrone
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Pannese
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Adele Ulisse
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Candiani
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Javier Diaz-Alonso
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, School of Biology, Complutense University , Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
| | - Guillermo Velasco
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, School of Biology, Complutense University , Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Paola Panina-Bordignon
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
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Rodriguez-Sanchez IP, Guindon J, Ruiz M, Tejero ME, Hubbard G, Martinez-de-Villarreal LE, Barrera-Saldaña HA, Dick EJ, Comuzzie AG, Schlabritz-Loutsevitch NE. The endocannabinoid system in the baboon (Papio spp.) as a complex framework for developmental pharmacology. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2016; 58:23-30. [PMID: 27327781 PMCID: PMC5897907 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2016.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2015] [Revised: 05/19/2016] [Accepted: 06/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The consumption of marijuana (exogenous cannabinoid) almost doubled in adults during last decade. Consumption of exogenous cannabinoids interferes with the endogenous cannabinoid (or "endocannabinoid" (eCB)) system (ECS), which comprises N-arachidonylethanolamide (anandamide, AEA), 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG), endocannabinoid receptors (cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2 (CB1R and CB2R), encoded by CNR1 and CNR2, respectively), and synthesizing/degrading enzymes (FAAH, fatty-acid amide hydrolase; MAGL, monoacylglycerol lipase; DAGL-α, diacylglycerol lipase-alpha). Reports regarding the toxic and therapeutic effects of pharmacological compounds targeting the ECS are sometimes contradictory. This may be caused by the fact that structure of the eCBs varies in the species studied. OBJECTIVES First: to clone and characterize the cDNAs of selected members of ECS in a non-human primate (baboon, Papio spp.), and second: to compare those cDNA sequences to known human structural variants (single nucleotide polymorphisms and haplotypes). MATERIALS AND METHODS Polymerase chain reaction-amplified gene products from baboon tissues were transformed into Escherichia coli. Amplicon-positive clones were sequenced, and the obtained sequences were conceptually translated into amino-acid sequences using the genetic code. RESULTS Among the ECS members, CNR1 was the best conserved gene between humans and baboons. The phenotypes associated with mutations in the untranslated regions of this gene in humans have not been described in baboons. One difference in the structure of CNR2 between humans and baboons was detected in the region with the only known clinically relevant polymorphism in a human receptor. All of the differences in the amino-acid structure of DAGL-α between humans and baboons were located in the hydroxylase domain, close to phosphorylation sites. None of the differences in the amino-acid structure of MAGL observed between baboons and humans were located in the area critical for enzyme function. CONCLUSION The evaluation of the data, obtained in non-human primate model of cannabis-related developmental exposure should take into consideration possible evolutionary-determined species-specific differences in the CB1R expression, CB2R transduction pathway, and FAAH and DAGLα substrate-enzyme interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iram P Rodriguez-Sanchez
- Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Genética, Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - Josee Guindon
- Department of Pharmacology and Neurobiology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Marco Ruiz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center at the Permian Basin, Odessa, TX, USA
| | - M Elizabeth Tejero
- Laboratorio de Nutrigenética y Nutrigenómica, Instituto Nacional de Medicina Genómica (INMEGEN), México, D.F., Mexico
| | - Gene Hubbard
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | | | - Hugo A Barrera-Saldaña
- Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Bioquímica y Medicina Molecular, Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - Edward J Dick
- Southwest National Primate Research Center, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Anthony G Comuzzie
- Department of Genetics, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX, USA
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Ernst J, Grabiec U, Greither T, Fischer B, Dehghani F. The endocannabinoid system in the human granulosa cell line KGN. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2016; 423:67-76. [PMID: 26773729 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2016.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2015] [Revised: 12/01/2015] [Accepted: 01/06/2016] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian steroidogenesis is embedded in a sensitive network of regulatory mechanisms crucial for human fertility. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) represents an intrinsic modulating system involved in the regulation of endocrine functions. In the present study we characterized the ECS in the human granulosa cell line KGN and its impact on gonadotropin sensitivity and steroid hormone synthesis under basal and FSH-stimulated conditions. Expression studies were performed and estradiol was measured. CB1, CB2, DAGL, FAAH, GPR55, MAGL, NAPE-PLD and TRPV1 were expressed without FSH-dependent effects. Treatment with selective cannabinoid receptor agonists reduced basal but not FSH-stimulated estradiol and CYP19. Progesterone was not altered by ECS manipulation. CB1 agonist changed the expression of miRNAs associated with granulosa cell function, e.g. miR-23a, miR-24, miR-181a and miR-320a. Present data indicate a modulating role of the intrinsic ovarian ECS in the regulation of estradiol synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Ernst
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Grosse Steinstrasse 52, D-06097 Halle (Saale), Germany.
| | - Urszula Grabiec
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Grosse Steinstrasse 52, D-06097 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Thomas Greither
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Halle (Saale), Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Ernst-Grube-Strasse 40, D-06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Bernd Fischer
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Grosse Steinstrasse 52, D-06097 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Faramarz Dehghani
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Grosse Steinstrasse 52, D-06097 Halle (Saale), Germany
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Sanchez AM, Cioffi R, Viganò P, Candiani M, Verde R, Piscitelli F, Di Marzo V, Garavaglia E, Panina-Bordignon P. Elevated Systemic Levels of Endocannabinoids and Related Mediators Across the Menstrual Cycle in Women With Endometriosis. Reprod Sci 2016; 23:1071-9. [PMID: 26887427 DOI: 10.1177/1933719116630414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoids and modulators of the endocannabinoid system affect specific mechanisms that are critical to the establishment and development of endometriosis. The aim of this study was to measure the systemic levels of endocannabinoids and related mediators in women with and without endometriosis and to investigate whether such levels correlated with endometriosis-associated pain. Plasma and endometrial biopsies were obtained from women with a laparoscopic diagnosis of endometriosis (n = 27) and no endometrial pathology (n = 29). Plasma levels of endocannabinoids (N-arachidonoylethanolamine [AEA] and 2-arachidonoylglycerol [2-AG]) and related mediators (N-oleoylethanolamine [OEA] and N-palmitoylethanolamine [PEA]), messenger RNA expression of some of their receptors (cannabinoid receptor type 1 [CB1], CB2, transient receptor potential vanilloid type [TRPV1]), and the enzymes involved in the synthesis (N-acyl-phosphatidylethanolamine-hydrolyzing phospholipase D [NAPE-PLD]) and degradation (fatty acid amide hydrolase 1 [FAAH]) of AEA, OEA, and PEA were evaluated in endometrial stromal cells. The systemic levels of AEA, 2-AG, and OEA were elevated in endometriosis in the secretory phase compared to controls. The expression of CB1 was higher in secretory phase endometrial stromal cells of controls versus endometriosis. Similar expression levels of CB2, TRPV1, NAPE-PLD, and FAAH were detected in controls and endometriosis. Patients with moderate-to-severe dysmenorrhea and dyspareunia showed higher AEA and PEA levels than those with low-to-moderate pain symptoms, respectively. The association of increased circulating AEA and 2-AG with decreased local CB1 expression in endometriosis suggests a negative feedback loop regulation, which may impair the capability of these mediators to control pain. These preliminary data suggest that the pharmacological manipulation of the action or levels of these mediators may offer an alternative option for the management of endometriosis-associated pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Maria Sanchez
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Raffaella Cioffi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Viganò
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Candiani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberta Verde
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, CNR, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Paola Panina-Bordignon
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
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Wolfson ML, Correa F, Leishman E, Vercelli C, Cymeryng C, Blanco J, Bradshaw HB, Franchi AM. Lipopolysaccharide-induced murine embryonic resorption involves changes in endocannabinoid profiling and alters progesterone secretion and inflammatory response by a CB1-mediated fashion. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2015; 411:214-22. [PMID: 25958042 PMCID: PMC4458170 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2015.04.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2014] [Revised: 04/29/2015] [Accepted: 04/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Genital tract infections are a common complication of human pregnancy that can result in miscarriage. We have previously shown that a lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induces embryonic resorption in a murine model of inflammatory miscarriage. This is accompanied by a dramatic decrease in systemic progesterone levels associated with a robust pro-inflammatory response that results in embryo resorption. Here, we tested the hypothesis that the endogenous cannabinoid system (eCS), through cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1), plays a role in regulating progesterone levels and, therefore, the pro-inflammatory response. We show that LPS treatment in pregnant mice causes significant changes in the eCS ligands, which are reversed by progesterone treatment. We further show the CB1-KO mice maintain higher plasma progesterone levels after LPS treatment, which is associated with a feebler uterine inflammatory response and a significant drop in embryo resorption. These data suggest that manipulation of CB1 receptors and/or ligands is a potential therapeutic avenue to decrease infection-induced miscarriage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel L Wolfson
- Laboratory of Physiopathology of Pregnancy and Labor, Center for Pharmacological and Botanical Studies, National Research Council, School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Fernando Correa
- Laboratory of Physiopathology of Pregnancy and Labor, Center for Pharmacological and Botanical Studies, National Research Council, School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Emma Leishman
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Claudia Vercelli
- Biomedicine Research Institute of Buenos Aires, Partner Institute of the Max Planck Society (MPSP), National Research Council, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires (CABA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Cora Cymeryng
- Laboratory of Molecular Endocrinology, Center for Pharmacological and Botanical Studies, National Research Council, School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Julieta Blanco
- Laboratory of Physiopathology of Pregnancy and Labor, Center for Pharmacological and Botanical Studies, National Research Council, School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Heather B Bradshaw
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Ana María Franchi
- Laboratory of Physiopathology of Pregnancy and Labor, Center for Pharmacological and Botanical Studies, National Research Council, School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Ayakannu T, Taylor AH, Willets JM, Brown L, Lambert DG, McDonald J, Davies Q, Moss EL, Konje JC. Validation of endogenous control reference genes for normalizing gene expression studies in endometrial carcinoma. Mol Hum Reprod 2015; 21:723-35. [PMID: 26124453 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gav033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2015] [Accepted: 06/01/2015] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Real-time quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) is a powerful technique used for the relative quantification of target genes, using reference (housekeeping) genes for normalization to ensure the generation of accurate and robust data. A systematic examination of the suitability of endogenous reference genes for gene expression studies in endometrial cancer tissues is absent. The aims of this study were therefore to identify and evaluate from the thirty-two possible reference genes from a TaqMan(®) array panel their suitability as an internal control gene. The mathematical software packages geNorm qBasePLUS identified Pumilio homolog 1 (Drosophila) (PUM1), ubiquitin C (UBC), phosphoglycerate kinase (PGK1), mitochondrial ribosomal protein L19 (MRPL19) and peptidylpropyl isomerase A (cyclophilin A) (PPIA) as the best reference gene combination, whilst NormFinder identified MRPL19 as the best single reference gene, with importin 8 (IPO8) and PPIA being the best combination of two reference genes. BestKeeper ranked MRPL19 as the most stably expressed gene. In addition, the study was validated by examining the relative expression of a test gene, which encodes the cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1). A significant difference in CB1 mRNA expression between malignant and normal endometrium using MRPL19, PPIA, and IP08 in combination was observed. The use of MRPL19, IPO8 and PPIA was identified as the best reference gene combination for the normalization of gene expression levels in endometrial carcinoma. This study demonstrates that the arbitrary selection of endogenous control reference genes for normalization in qRT-PCR studies of endometrial carcinoma, without validation, risks the production of inaccurate data and should therefore be discouraged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thangesweran Ayakannu
- Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester LE2 7LX, UK
| | - Anthony H Taylor
- Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester LE2 7LX, UK Biosciences, School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Clifton Campus, Nottingham, NG11 8NS
| | - Jonathon M Willets
- Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester LE2 7LX, UK
| | - Laurence Brown
- Histopathology Department, University Hospital of Leicester NHS Trust, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester LE1 5WW, UK
| | - David G Lambert
- Division of Anaesthetics, Critical Care and Pain Management, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester LE2 7LX, UK
| | - John McDonald
- Division of Anaesthetics, Critical Care and Pain Management, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester LE2 7LX, UK
| | - Quentin Davies
- Gynaecology Oncology Department, University Hospital of Leicester NHS Trust, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester LE1 5WW, UK
| | - Esther L Moss
- Gynaecology Oncology Department, University Hospital of Leicester NHS Trust, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester LE1 5WW, UK
| | - Justin C Konje
- Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester LE2 7LX, UK Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Sidra Medical and Research Center, PO Box 26999, Doha, Qatar
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Ayakannu T, Taylor AH, Willets JM, Konje JC. The evolving role of the endocannabinoid system in gynaecological cancer. Hum Reprod Update 2015; 21:517-35. [PMID: 25958409 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmv022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2014] [Accepted: 04/09/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The 'endocannabinoid system' (ECS), comprising endogenous ligands (endocannabinoids) and their regulating enzymes, together with the cannabinoid receptors, has attracted a great deal of attention because it affects not only all facets of human reproduction, from gametogenesis through to parturition and beyond, but also targets key mechanisms affecting some hallmarks of cancer. Recent evidence showing that cannabinoid receptors play a very important role in the development of malignancies outside of the reproductive organs suggests a similar role for the ECS in the establishment or continued development of gynaecological malignancy. METHODS Primary papers and review articles, and primary sources within these papers, up to December 2014, on the evolving role of the ECS in cancer, with a special focus on gynaecological cancers, were obtained by Medline and PubMed searches using the search terms: 'cancer', 'cannabinoid', 'endocannabinoid', 'gynaecology' and 'malignancy'. Non-English manuscripts were excluded. RESULTS More than 2100 sources were obtained from which only 112 were specifically important to the topic. Analysis of those articles supports a role of the ECS in gynaecological cancers but leaves many gaps in our knowledge that need to be filled. How some of the relevant receptors are activated and cause changes in cell phenotypes that progress to malignancy remains undiscovered and an area for future research. Increasing evidence suggests that malignant transformation within the female genital tract could be accompanied by deregulation of components of the ECS, acting through rather complex cannabinoid receptor-dependent and receptor-independent mechanisms. CONCLUSIONS The paucity of studies in this area suggests that research using animal models is needed to evaluate endocannabinoid signalling in cancer networks. Future randomized clinical studies should reveal whether endocannabinoids or their derivatives prove to be useful therapeutic targets for gynaecological and other cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thangesweran Ayakannu
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester LE2 7LX, UK
| | - Anthony H Taylor
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester LE2 7LX, UK Biosciences, School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Clifton Campus, Nottingham NG1 4BU, UK
| | - Jonathan M Willets
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester LE2 7LX, UK
| | - Justin C Konje
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester LE2 7LX, UK Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Sidra Medical and Research Centre, Doha P.O. Box 26999, Qatar
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Abstract
The lasting research on the endocannabinoid system (ECS) has now provided solid and convincing evidence that proves the detrimental effects of recreational drug abuse (a growing habit among teenagers) on fertility. Endocannabinoids (eCBs) affect reproductive events from gametogenesis to fertilization, from embryo implantation to the final outcome of pregnancy and, thus, they have been proposed as suitable biomarkers to predict the reproductive potential of male and female gametes in clinical practice. Novel tools for reproductive medicine are highly sought after, and here we report the latest findings on the impact of the ECS on fertility, demonstrating how basic research can be translated into new medical strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Battista
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Monica Bari
- European Center for Brain Research/IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Mauro Maccarrone
- European Center for Brain Research/IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy.
- School of Medicine and Center of Integrated Research, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Via Alvaro del Portillo 21, 00128, Rome, Italy.
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Scotchie JG, Savaris RF, Martin CE, Young SL. Endocannabinoid regulation in human endometrium across the menstrual cycle. Reprod Sci 2014; 22:113-23. [PMID: 24819878 DOI: 10.1177/1933719114533730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Humans produce endogenous cannabinoids (endocannabinoids), a group of molecules that activate the same receptors as tetrahydrocannabinol. Endocannabinoids play important roles in reproduction in multiple species, but data in human endometrium are limited. Because endocannabinoids such as anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG) often act within tissues as paracrine factors, their effects can be modulated by changes in expression of locally produced synthetic and degradative/oxidative enzymes. The objective of this study was to localize and quantify expression of these key synthetic and degradative/oxidative enzymes for AEA and 2-AG in human endometrium throughout the menstrual cycle. Key synthetic enzymes include N-arachidonyl-phosphatidylethanolamine phospholipase-D (NAPE-PLD), diacylglycerol-lipase a (DAGL-α, and DAGL-β. Key degradative enzymes include fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL); cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2) is an oxidative enzyme. Endometrial samples were collected in 49 regularly cycling, normal women. Protein localization and expression were achieved by immunohistochemistry and messenger RNA (mRNA) expression by real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. No significant cycle-dependent mRNA expression was observed except that of COX2 (P = .002), which demonstrated maximum expression in the proliferative phase. During the secretory phase, NAPE-PLD protein had increased expression in luminal (P = .001), stromal (P = .007), and glandular (P = .04) epithelia, while FAAH had increased glandular (P = .009) and luminal (P = .01) expression. Increased expression in glandular epithelia was identified for MAGL (P = .03). The COX2 had increased luminal expression during the early secretory phase (P < .0001). In conclusion, maximal expression of degradatory/oxidative enzymes in the secretory phase may foster decreased endocannabinoid tone during implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica G Scotchie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Ricardo F Savaris
- Departamento de Ginecologia e Obstetrícia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Caitlin E Martin
- Departamento de Ginecologia e Obstetrícia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Steven L Young
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Abstract
Endocannabinoids are endogenous ligands of cannabinoid, vanilloid and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors that activate multiple signal transduction pathways. Together with their receptor and the enzymes responsible for their synthesis and degradation, these compounds constitute the endocannabinoid system that has been recently shown to play, in humans, an important role in modulating several central and peripheral functions including reproduction. Given the relevance of the system, drugs that are able to interfere with the activity of endocannabinoids are currently considered as candidates for the treatment of various diseases. In this review, we will summarise the current knowledge regarding the effects of endocannabinoids in female reproductive organs. In particular, we will focus on some newly reported mechanisms that can affect endometrial plasticity both in physiological and in pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maria Di Blasio
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Via Zucchi 18, 20095 Cusano Milanino, Milano, Italy.
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Patel SK, Jackson L, Warren AY, Arya P, Shaw RW, Khan RN. A role for two-pore potassium (K2P) channels in endometrial epithelial function. J Cell Mol Med 2013; 17:134-46. [PMID: 23305490 PMCID: PMC3823143 DOI: 10.1111/j.1582-4934.2012.01656.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2012] [Accepted: 10/15/2012] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The human endometrial epithelium is pivotal to menstrual cycle progression, implantation and early pregnancy. Endometrial function is directly regulated by local factors that include pH, oxygen tension and ion concentrations to generate an environment conducive to fertilization. A superfamily of potassium channels characterized by two-pore domains (K2P) and encoded by KCNK genes is implicated in the control of the cell resting membrane potential through the generation of leak currents and modulation by various physicochemical stimuli. The aims of the study were to determine the expression and function of K2P channel subtypes in proliferative and secretory phase endometrium obtained from normo-ovulatory women and in an endometrial cancer cell line. Using immunochemical methods, real-time qRT-PCR proliferation assays and electrophysiology. Our results demonstrate mRNA for several K2P channel subtypes in human endometrium with molecular expression of TREK-1 shown to be higher in proliferative than secretory phase endometrium (P < 0.001). The K2P channel blockers methanandamide, lidocaine, zinc and curcumin had antiproliferative effects (P < 0.01) in an endometrial epithelial cancer cell line indicating a role for TASK and TREK-1 channels in proliferation. Tetraethylammonium- and 4-aminopyridine-insensitive outwards currents were inhibited at all voltages by reducing extracellular pH from 7.4 to 6.6. Higher expression of TREK-1 expression in proliferative phase endometrium may, in part, underlie linked to increased cell division. The effects of pH and a lack of effect of non-specific channel blockers of voltage-gated potassium channels imply a role for K2P channels in the regulation of human endometrial function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suraj K Patel
- Academic Division of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Nottingham, Derby, UK
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Sanchez AM, Vigano P, Mugione A, Panina-Bordignon P, Candiani M. The molecular connections between the cannabinoid system and endometriosis. Mol Hum Reprod 2012; 18:563-71. [DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gas037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
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McHugh D, Page J, Dunn E, Bradshaw HB. Δ(9) -Tetrahydrocannabinol and N-arachidonyl glycine are full agonists at GPR18 receptors and induce migration in human endometrial HEC-1B cells. Br J Pharmacol 2012; 165:2414-24. [PMID: 21595653 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01497.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 189] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Endometriosis is a disorder in which the endometrium forms growths outside the uterus and is associated with chronic pain. Recent evidence suggests that endometrial motility plays a role in the aetiology of endometriosis. The endocannabinoid system regulates cellular migration. Given the growing involvement of the endocannabinoids in reproduction, we investigated the role of the endocannabinoid system in migration of endometrial cells. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Migration of the human endometrial HEC-1B cells was assayed. Standard PCR techniques were used to determine the presence of the GPCR, GPR18, in HEC-1B cells, and p44/42 MAPK was assayed in stably transfected HEK293-GPR18 cells to determine receptor specificity for known cannabinoid agonists and antagonists. N-arachidonoyl ethanolamine (AEA) metabolism was measured, using HPLC/MS/MS for lipid analysis. KEY RESULTS AEA, Δ(9) -tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ(9) -THC) and N-arachidonoyl glycine (NAGly) induce migration of HEC-1B cells through cannabinoid CB(1) receptor-independent mechanisms. MAPK activation in HEK293-GPR18 cells revealed novel pharmacology for known CB(1) and CB(2) receptor ligands at GPR18 receptors, including Δ(9) -THC, which activates MAPK at nanomolar concentrations, whereas WIN 55212-2, CP55940, JWH-133 and JWH-015, and arachidonyl-1-hydroxy-2-propylamide (R1-methanandamide) had no effect. Moreover, HEC-1B migration and MAPK activation by NAGly and Δ(9) -THC were antagonized by Pertussis toxin, AM251 and cannabidiol. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS An understanding of the function and regulation of GPR18 and its molecular interactions with endogenous ligands, and how phytocannabinoids play a role with GPR18 signalling is vital if we are to comprehensively assess the function of the cannabinoid signalling system in human health and disease. LINKED ARTICLES This article is commented on by Alexander, pp. 2411-2413 of this issue and is part of a themed section on Cannabinoids in Biology and Medicine. To view Alexander visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01731.x. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2012.165.issue-8. To view Part I of Cannabinoids in Biology and Medicine visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2011.163.issue-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas McHugh
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington,IN 47405, USA
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Resuehr D, Glore DR, Taylor HS, Bruner-Tran KL, Osteen KG. Progesterone-dependent regulation of endometrial cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1-R) expression is disrupted in women with endometriosis and in isolated stromal cells exposed to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD). Fertil Steril 2012; 98:948-56.e1. [PMID: 22789143 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2012] [Revised: 06/11/2012] [Accepted: 06/11/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the differentiation-related expression of cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1-R) messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein in endometrial tissue obtained from women with and without endometriosis and to determine the impact of acute 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) exposure on CB1-R gene expression in isolated endometrial stromal cells. DESIGN Laboratory-based study. SETTING University-affiliated medical center. PATIENT(S) Women with and without endometriosis undergoing volunteer endometrial biopsies after informed consent. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Analysis of in vivo CB1-R mRNA and protein expression in human endometrial tissues and mRNA expression in isolated stromal cells after exposure to TCDD or a progesterone receptor antagonist (onapristone). RESULT(S) Expression of CB1-R mRNA and protein was highest during the progesterone-dominated secretory phase in control samples, but expression was minimal in the endometrial tissues acquired from women with endometriosis, regardless of the cycle phase. Although progesterone was found to induce CB1-R mRNA expression in endometrial stromal cells from control donors, steroid-induced expression of this gene was inhibited by cotreatment with either TCDD or onapristone. CONCLUSION(S) Our studies reveal a role for the anti-inflammatory actions of progesterone in regulating endometrial cannabinoid signaling, which is disrupted in women with endometriosis. We demonstrate for the first time that acute TCDD exposure disrupts cannabinoid signaling in the human endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Resuehr
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, USA
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