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Li X, Ramos-Rolón AP, Kass G, Pereira-Rufino LS, Shifman N, Shi Z, Volkow ND, Wiers CE. Imaging neuroinflammation in individuals with substance use disorders. J Clin Invest 2024; 134:e172884. [PMID: 38828729 PMCID: PMC11142750 DOI: 10.1172/jci172884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence suggests a role of neuroinflammation in substance use disorders (SUDs). This Review presents findings from neuroimaging studies assessing brain markers of inflammation in vivo in individuals with SUDs. Most studies investigated the translocator protein 18 kDa (TSPO) using PET; neuroimmune markers myo-inositol, choline-containing compounds, and N-acetyl aspartate using magnetic resonance spectroscopy; and fractional anisotropy using MRI. Study findings have contributed to a greater understanding of neuroimmune function in the pathophysiology of SUDs, including its temporal dynamics (i.e., acute versus chronic substance use) and new targets for SUD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Li
- Center for Studies of Addiction, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Astrid P. Ramos-Rolón
- Center for Studies of Addiction, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Gabriel Kass
- Center for Studies of Addiction, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Lais S. Pereira-Rufino
- Departamento de Morfologia e Genética, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Naomi Shifman
- Center for Studies of Addiction, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Zhenhao Shi
- Center for Studies of Addiction, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Nora D. Volkow
- Laboratory of Neuroimaging, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Corinde E. Wiers
- Center for Studies of Addiction, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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Ayoub SM, Holloway BM, Miranda AH, Roberts BZ, Young JW, Minassian A, Ellis RJ. The Impact of Cannabis Use on Cognition in People with HIV: Evidence of Function-Dependent Effects and Mechanisms from Clinical and Preclinical Studies. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2024; 21:87-115. [PMID: 38602558 PMCID: PMC11129923 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-024-00698-w] [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] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Cannabis may have beneficial anti-inflammatory effects in people with HIV (PWH); however, given this population's high burden of persisting neurocognitive impairment (NCI), clinicians are concerned they may be particularly vulnerable to the deleterious effects of cannabis on cognition. Here, we present a systematic scoping review of clinical and preclinical studies evaluating the effects of cannabinoid exposure on cognition in HIV. RECENT FINDINGS Results revealed little evidence to support a harmful impact of cannabis use on cognition in HIV, with few eligible preclinical data existing. Furthermore, the beneficial/harmful effects of cannabis use observed on cognition were function-dependent and confounded by several factors (e.g., age, frequency of use). Results are discussed alongside potential mechanisms of cannabis effects on cognition in HIV (e.g., anti-inflammatory), and considerations are outlined for screening PWH that may benefit from cannabis interventions. We further highlight the value of accelerating research discoveries in this area by utilizing translatable cross-species tasks to facilitate comparisons across human and animal work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha M Ayoub
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive MC 0804, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0804, USA.
| | - Breanna M Holloway
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive MC 0804, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0804, USA
| | - Alannah H Miranda
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive MC 0804, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0804, USA
| | - Benjamin Z Roberts
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive MC 0804, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0804, USA
| | - Jared W Young
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive MC 0804, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0804, USA
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Arpi Minassian
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive MC 0804, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0804, USA
- VA Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, Veterans Administration San Diego HealthCare System, 3350 La Jolla Village Drive, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Ronald J Ellis
- Department of Neuroscience, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
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3
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Yadav-Samudrala BJ, Gorman BL, Dodson H, Ramineni S, Wallace ED, Peace MR, Poklis JL, Jiang W, Fitting S. Effects of acute Δ 9-tetrahydrocannabinol on behavior and the endocannabinoid system in HIV-1 Tat transgenic female and male mice. Brain Res 2024; 1822:148638. [PMID: 37858856 PMCID: PMC10873064 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2023.148638] [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: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis use is highly prevalent especially among people living with HIV (PLWH). Activation of the anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective endocannabinoid system by phytocannabinoids, i.e. Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), has been proposed to reduce HIV symptoms. However, THC's effects on HIV-related memory deficits are unclear. Using HIV-1 Tat transgenic mice, the current study investigates acute THC effects on various behavioral outcomes and the endocannabinoid system. For the rodent tetrad model, THC doses (1, 3, 10 mg/kg) induced known antinociceptive effects, with Tat induction increasing antinociceptive THC effects at 3 and 10 mg/kg doses. Only minor or no effects were noted for acute THC on body temperature, locomotor activity, and coordination. Increased anxiety-like behavior was found for females compared to males, but acute THC had no effect on anxiety. Object recognition memory was diminished by acute THC in Tat(-) females but not Tat(+) females, without affecting males. The endocannabinoid system and related lipids were not affected by acute THC, except for THC-induced decreases in CB1R protein expression levels in the spinal cord of Tat(-) mice. Female sex and Tat induction was associated with elevated 2-AG, AEA, AA, CB1R, CB2R, FAAH and/or MAGL expression in various brain regions. Further, AEA levels in the prefrontal cortex of Tat(+) females were negatively associated with object recognition memory. Overall, findings indicate that acute THC exerts differential effects on antinociception and memory, dependent on sex and HIV Tat expression, potentially in relation to an altered endocannabinoid system, which may be of relevance in view of potential cannabis-based treatment options for PLWH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barkha J Yadav-Samudrala
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Benjamin L Gorman
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Hailey Dodson
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Shreya Ramineni
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - E Diane Wallace
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Michelle R Peace
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Justin L Poklis
- Department of Forensic Science, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA
| | - Wei Jiang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA; Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Sylvia Fitting
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
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4
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Fenzl M, Backens M, Bodea S, Wittemann M, Werler F, Brielmaier J, Wolf RC, Reith W. Impact of cannabis use on brain metabolism using 31P and 1H magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Neuroradiology 2023; 65:1631-1648. [PMID: 37735222 PMCID: PMC10567915 DOI: 10.1007/s00234-023-03220-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This prospective cross-sectional study investigated the influence of regular cannabis use on brain metabolism in young cannabis users by using combined proton and phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy. METHODS The study was performed in 45 young cannabis users aged 18-30, who had been using cannabis on a regular basis over a period of at least 2 years and in 47 age-matched controls. We acquired 31P MRS data in different brain regions at 3T with a double-resonant 1H/31P head coil, anatomic images, and 1H MRS data with a standard 20-channel 1H head coil. Absolute concentration values of proton metabolites were obtained via calibration from tissue water as an internal reference, whereas a standard solution of 75 mmol/l KH2PO4 was used as an external reference for the calibration of phosphorus signals. RESULTS We found an overall but not statistically significant lower concentration level of several proton and phosphorus metabolites in cannabis users compared to non-users. In particular, energy-related phosphates such as adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and inorganic phosphate (Pi) were reduced in all regions under investigation. Phosphocreatine (PCr) showed lowered values mainly in the left basal ganglia and the left frontal white matter. CONCLUSION The results suggest that the increased risk of functional brain disorders observed in long-term cannabis users could be caused by an impairment of the energy metabolism of the brain, but this needs to be verified in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximilian Fenzl
- Institute of Neuroradiology, Saarland University, 66421, Homburg, Germany.
| | - Martin Backens
- Institute of Neuroradiology, Saarland University, 66421, Homburg, Germany.
| | - Silviu Bodea
- Helmholtz Zentrum Munich, German Research Center for Environmental Health Institute of Biological and Medical Imaging, 85748, Munich, Germany
| | - Miriam Wittemann
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Saarland University, 66421, Homburg, Germany
| | - Florian Werler
- Department of General Psychiatry at the Center for Psychosocial Medicine, Heidelberg University, 69115, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jule Brielmaier
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Saarland University, 66421, Homburg, Germany
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, RKH Clinic Ludwigsburg, 71640, Ludwigsburg, Germany
| | - Robert Christian Wolf
- Department of General Psychiatry at the Center for Psychosocial Medicine, Heidelberg University, 69115, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Reith
- Institute of Neuroradiology, Saarland University, 66421, Homburg, Germany
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5
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Watson CWM, Sundermann E, Helm J, Paolillo EW, Hong S, Ellis RJ, Letendre S, Marcotte TD, Heaton RK, Morgan EE, Grant I. A longitudinal study of cannabis use and risk for cognitive and functional decline among older adults with HIV. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:3401-3413. [PMID: 37155086 PMCID: PMC10766343 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04056-6] [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] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis use is rapidly increasing among older adults in the United States, in part to treat symptoms of common health conditions (e.g., chronic pain, sleep problems). Longitudinal studies of cannabis use and cognitive decline in aging populations living with chronic disease are lacking. We examined different levels of cannabis use and cognitive and everyday function over time among 297 older adults with HIV (ages 50-84 at baseline). Participants were classified based on average cannabis use: frequent (> weekly) (n = 23), occasional (≤ weekly) (n = 83), and non-cannabis users (n=191) and were followed longitudinally for up to 10 years (average years of follow-up = 3.9). Multi-level models examined the effects of average and recent cannabis use on global cognition, global cognitive decline, and functional independence. Occasional cannabis users showed better global cognitive performance overall compared to non-cannabis users. Rates of cognitive decline and functional problems did not vary by average cannabis use. Recent cannabis use was linked to worse cognition at study visits when participants had THC+ urine toxicology-this short-term decrement in cognition was driven by worse memory and did not extend to reports of functional declines. Occasional (≤ weekly) cannabis use was associated with better global cognition over time in older adults with HIV, a group vulnerable to chronic inflammation and cognitive impairment. Recent THC exposure may have a temporary adverse impact on memory. To inform safe and efficacious medical cannabis use, the effects of specific cannabinoid doses on cognition and biological mechanisms must be investigated in older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin Wei-Ming Watson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States.
- San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology, San Diego State University, University of California, San Diego, CA, United States.
| | - Erin Sundermann
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Jonathan Helm
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Emily W Paolillo
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
- San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology, San Diego State University, University of California, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Suzi Hong
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Ronald J Ellis
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Scott Letendre
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Thomas D Marcotte
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Robert K Heaton
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Erin E Morgan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Igor Grant
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
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6
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Zuo CS, Davis KA, Lukas SE. Lower dACC glutamate in cannabis users during early phase abstinence. Neuropsychopharmacology 2022; 47:1969-1975. [PMID: 35484401 PMCID: PMC9485248 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-022-01321-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Glutamate plays an important role in continued use of and relapse to abused substances. However, its involvement in cannabis withdrawal is still unclear. We hypothesize that regional glutamate is associated with the cannabis withdrawal syndrome and recently examined possible association of glutamate with cannabis withdrawal, using magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), in non-treatment-seeking cannabis users. We recruited 26 frequent cannabis users and 11 age-matched non-using controls. Of the 37, 20 users (8f/12m) and 10 controls (5f/5m) completed a verified 21-day abstinence protocol. Dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC) glutamate and γ-amino butyric acid (GABA) were measured with proton MRS at baseline and on abstinent days 7 and 21 in conjunction with measures of cannabis withdrawal and craving (MCQ), sleep difficulties (PSQI) and mood state. We used ANOVA to examine group differences in glutamate and GABA from baseline through day 21 and used linear regression to evaluate correlations between intra-individual glutamate and withdrawal symptoms. We found that self-reported anxiety severity (HAMA) was correlated with urinary THC/Cr ratios at baseline (r = 0.768, p = 0.000076) and abstinent day 7 (r = 0.5636, p = 0.0097), dACC glutamate was significantly lower in the users compared with the controls from baseline through day 21 (F = 5.90, p = 0.022), changes in glutamate between baseline and abstinent day 21 had a significantly negative correlation with corresponding changes in craving (r = -0.72, p = 0.005) after adjusting for age, consumption of alcohol/cigarettes, sleep difficulties, and urinary THC levels. These findings provide preliminary evidence that dACC glutamate is associated with the cannabis withdrawal syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun S Zuo
- McLean Imaging Center, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA, 02478, USA.
| | - Katherine A Davis
- McLean Imaging Center, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA, 02478, USA
| | - Scott E Lukas
- McLean Imaging Center, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA, 02478, USA
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7
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Subramaniam P, Prescot A, McGlade E, Renshaw P, Yurgelun-Todd D. Examination of gamma-aminobutyric acid and glutamate-glutamine levels in association with impulsive behavior in adolescent marijuana users. Drug Alcohol Depend 2022; 233:109326. [PMID: 35131529 PMCID: PMC9119664 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2022.109326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescent marijuana (MJ) use has been associated with alterations in brain structure and function as well as behavior. Examination of neurochemical correlates such as GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) and Glx (glutamate + glutamine) in MJ users remains limited. Impulsivity, identified as a risk factor and consequence of MJ use, has been associated with GABA and Glx levels in healthy and clinical populations. However, this relationship has not been investigated in MJ users. In this study, we examined levels of GABA and Glx in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and its relationship with impulsive behavior in MJ-using adolescents and healthy controls. METHODS Healthy control subjects (HC; N = 21) and MJ-using adolescents (N = 18) completed a metabolite-edited 1H MRS exam to measure ACC GABA and Glx levels, a structured clinical interview to assess MJ use, and the Barratt Impulsivity Scale (BIS-11) to evaluate impulsive behavior. RESULTS Adolescent MJ users had significantly lower tissue-corrected GABA (with macromolecules; GABA+) levels (p = 0.029) compared to HC's. No significant between-group differences were observed in ACC Glx levels. Assessment of impulsive behavior demonstrated no significant between-group differences in motor, non-planning, attention, and total impulsivity scores. Additionally, impulsivity measures and tissue-corrected GABA+ or Glx levels were not significantly correlated in either group. CONCLUSION Lower GABA levels in MJ users may indicate alterations in excitatory-inhibitory mechanisms critical for neurodevelopment. Although no significant relationships were observed between impulsive measures and GABA or Glx levels in both groups, further investigations are needed examining the relationship between neurochemical correlates, behavior, and adolescent MJ use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Punitha Subramaniam
- Diagnostic Neuroimaging Laboratory, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA.
| | - Andrew Prescot
- Diagnostic Neuroimaging Laboratory, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA,Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA
| | - Erin McGlade
- Diagnostic Neuroimaging Laboratory, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA,Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA,George E. Wahlen Department of Veteran Affairs Medical Center, VA VISN 19 Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA
| | - Perry Renshaw
- Diagnostic Neuroimaging Laboratory, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA,Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA,George E. Wahlen Department of Veteran Affairs Medical Center, VA VISN 19 Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA
| | - Deborah Yurgelun-Todd
- Diagnostic Neuroimaging Laboratory, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA,Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA,George E. Wahlen Department of Veteran Affairs Medical Center, VA VISN 19 Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA
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8
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Zuo CS, Davis KA, Kuppe MK, Dahlgren MK, Gruber S, Fitzmaurice GM, Lukas SE. Elevated striatal glutamate + glutamine in recreational cannabis users during abstinence. J Psychiatr Res 2022; 146:192-200. [PMID: 34999370 PMCID: PMC8803139 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2021.12.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis withdrawal symptoms contribute to relapse, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. We hypothesize that cannabis withdrawal may be associated with a reset of regional γ-amino butyric acid (GABA) and glutamate concentrations secondary to changes in the endocannabinoid system during abstinence and conducted a study on this issue. We used magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) to detect the associated changes of these neurochemicals in twenty-six frequent, recreational cannabis users and eleven age-matched non-using controls. Twenty users (8F/12M) and ten control (5F/5M) participants completed a verified 21-day abstinence period. Striatal GABA and glutamine concentrations were measured at baseline and on abstinence days 7 and 21 in conjunction with measures of cannabis withdrawal symptoms and mood state. Cannabis users reported increased self-reported ratings of cannabis-withdrawal-symptoms on abstinence day 7 relative to controls. Striatal glutamate + glutamine (Glx) group concentrations were elevated in cannabis users at baseline and abstinence days 7 and 21 (F = 7.16, p = 0.012), and changes in GABA concentration and withdrawal symptoms between baseline and abstinence day 7 were positively correlated (r = 0.550, p = 0.010). In addition, baseline striatal GABA concentrations were negatively correlated with withdrawal symptoms on abstinence day 7 (r = -0.680, p = 0.003). Our data demonstrate that striatal Glx was elevated in cannabis users and baseline striatal GABA correlated with withdrawal during the abstinence. In addition, striatal GABA may temporally correlate with self-reported withdrawal symptoms during the initial days of abrupt cannabis abstinence. These findings provide preliminary evidence that striatal GABA and Glx are associated with the severity of cannabis withdrawal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun S Zuo
- McLean Imaging Center, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA, 02478, USA.
| | - Katherine A Davis
- McLean Imaging Center, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA, 02478, USA
| | - Madeline K Kuppe
- Cognitive and Clinical Neuroimaging Core, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA, 02478, USA
| | - M Kathryn Dahlgren
- Cognitive and Clinical Neuroimaging Core, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA, 02478, USA
| | - Staci Gruber
- Cognitive and Clinical Neuroimaging Core, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA, 02478, USA
| | - Garrett M Fitzmaurice
- Laboratory for Psychiatric Biostatistics, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA, 02478, USA
| | - Scott E Lukas
- McLean Imaging Center, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA, 02478, USA
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9
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Ramaekers JG, Theunissen EL, van Ruitenbeek P, Mason NL. Cannabis Use and Neuroadaptation: A Call for Δ 9 -Tetrahydrocannabinol Challenge Studies. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:870750. [PMID: 35492732 PMCID: PMC9046729 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.870750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, the assessment of the neurobehavioral consequences of repeated cannabis use is restricted to studies in which brain function of chronic cannabis users is compared to that of non-cannabis using controls. The assumption of such studies is that changes in brain function of chronic users are caused by repeated and prolonged exposure to acute cannabis intoxication. However, differences in brain function between chronic cannabis users and non-users might also arise from confounding factors such as polydrug use, alcohol use, withdrawal, economic status, or lifestyle conditions. We propose a methodology that highlights the relevance of acute Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) dosing studies for a direct assessment of neuroadaptations in chronic cannabis users. The approach includes quantification of neurochemical, receptor, and functional brain network changes in response to an acute cannabis challenge, as well as stratification of cannabis using groups ranging from occasional to cannabis-dependent individuals. The methodology allows for an evaluation of THC induced neuroadaptive and neurocognitive changes across cannabis use history, that can inform neurobiological models on reward driven, compulsive cannabis use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes G Ramaekers
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Eef L Theunissen
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Peter van Ruitenbeek
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Natasha L Mason
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
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10
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Prisciandaro JJ, Mellick W, Squeglia LM, Hix S, Arnold L, Tolliver BK. Results from a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover, multimodal-MRI pilot study of gabapentin for co-occurring bipolar and cannabis use disorders. Addict Biol 2022; 27:e13085. [PMID: 34390300 PMCID: PMC9104469 DOI: 10.1111/adb.13085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Disrupted brain gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)/glutamate homeostasis is a promising target for pharmacological intervention in co-occurring bipolar disorder (BD) and cannabis use disorder (CUD). Gabapentin is a safe and well-tolerated medication, FDA-approved to treat other neurological diseases, that restores GABA/glutamate homeostasis, with treatment studies supporting efficacy in treating CUD, as well as anxiety and sleep disorders that are common to both BD and CUD. The present manuscript represents the primary report of a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover (1-week/condition), multimodal-MRI (proton-MR spectroscopy, functional MRI) pilot study of gabapentin (1200 mg/day) in BD + CUD (n = 22). Primary analyses revealed that (1) gabapentin was well tolerated and adherence and retention were high, (2) gabapentin increased dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC) and right basal ganglia (rBG) glutamate levels and (3) gabapentin increased activation to visual cannabis cues in the posterior midcingulate cortex (pMCC, a region involved in response inhibition to rewarding stimuli). Exploratory evaluation of clinical outcomes further found that in participants taking gabapentin versus placebo, (1) elevations of dACC GABA levels were associated with lower manic/mixed and depressive symptoms and (2) elevations of rBG glutamate levels and pMCC activation to cannabis cues were associated with lower cannabis use. Though promising, the findings from this study should be interpreted with caution due to observed randomization order effects on dACC glutamate levels and identification of statistical moderators that differed by randomization order (i.e. cigarette-smoking status on rBG glutamate levels and pMCC cue activation). Nonetheless, they provide the necessary foundation for a more robustly designed (urn-randomized, parallel-group) future study of adjuvant gabapentin for BD + CUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- James J Prisciandaro
- Addiction Sciences Division, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - William Mellick
- Addiction Sciences Division, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Lindsay M Squeglia
- Addiction Sciences Division, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Sara Hix
- Addiction Sciences Division, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Lauren Arnold
- Addiction Sciences Division, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Bryan K Tolliver
- Addiction Sciences Division, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
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11
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Crook CL, Savin MJ, Byrd D, Summers AC, Guzman VA, Morris EP, Tureson K, Aghvinian M, Cham H, Mindt MR. The neurocognitive effects of a past cannabis use disorder in a diverse sample of people living with HIV. AIDS Care 2021; 33:1482-1491. [PMID: 32951441 PMCID: PMC10310357 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2020.1822504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2019] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
People living with HIV (PLWH) report higher rates of cannabis use than the general population, a trend likely to continue in light of recent policy changes and the reported therapeutic benefits of cannabis for PLWH. Therefore, it is important to better understand cannabis-associated effects on neurocognition, especially as PLWH are at heightened risk for neurocognitive impairment. This study aimed to elucidate the effects of a past cannabis use disorder on current neurocognition in a diverse sample of PLWH. This cross-sectional study included 138 PLWH (age M(SD) = 47.28(8.06); education M(SD) = 12.64(2.73); 73% Male; 71% Latinx) who underwent neuropsychological, DSM-diagnostic, and urine toxicology evaluations. One-way ANCOVAs were conducted to examine effects of a past cannabis use disorder (CUD+) on tests of attention/working memory, processing speed, executive functioning, verbal fluency, learning, memory, and motor ability. Compared to the past CUD- group, the past CUD+ group performed significantly better on tests of processing speed, visual learning and memory, and motor ability (p's < .05). Findings suggest PLWH with past cannabis use have similar or better neurocognition across domains compared to PLWH without past use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cara L Crook
- Department of Psychology, Fordham University, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Micah J Savin
- Department of Psychology, Fordham University, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Desiree Byrd
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Psychology, Queens College and The Graduate Center, CUNY, Queens, NY, USA
| | - Angela C Summers
- Department of Psychology, Fordham University, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Vanessa A Guzman
- Department of Psychology, Fordham University, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Emily P Morris
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Kayla Tureson
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Maral Aghvinian
- Department of Psychology, Fordham University, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Heining Cham
- Department of Psychology, Fordham University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Monica Rivera Mindt
- Department of Psychology, Fordham University, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
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12
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE Recent cannabis exposure has been associated with lower rates of neurocognitive impairment in people with HIV (PWH). Cannabis's anti-inflammatory properties may underlie this relationship by reducing chronic neuroinflammation in PWH. This study examined relations between cannabis use and inflammatory biomarkers in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma, and cognitive correlates of these biomarkers within a community-based sample of PWH. METHODS 263 individuals were categorized into four groups: HIV- non-cannabis users (n = 65), HIV+ non-cannabis users (n = 105), HIV+ moderate cannabis users (n = 62), and HIV+ daily cannabis users (n = 31). Differences in pro-inflammatory biomarkers (IL-6, MCP-1/CCL2, IP-10/CXCL10, sCD14, sTNFR-II, TNF-α) by study group were determined by Kruskal-Wallis tests. Multivariable linear regressions examined relationships between biomarkers and seven cognitive domains, adjusting for age, sex/gender, race, education, and current CD4 count. RESULTS HIV+ daily cannabis users showed lower MCP-1 and IP-10 levels in CSF compared to HIV+ non-cannabis users (p = .015; p = .039) and were similar to HIV- non-cannabis users. Plasma biomarkers showed no differences by cannabis use. Among PWH, lower CSF MCP-1 and lower CSF IP-10 were associated with better learning performance (all ps < .05). CONCLUSIONS Current daily cannabis use was associated with lower levels of pro-inflammatory chemokines implicated in HIV pathogenesis and these chemokines were linked to the cognitive domain of learning which is commonly impaired in PWH. Cannabinoid-related reductions of MCP-1 and IP-10, if confirmed, suggest a role for medicinal cannabis in the mitigation of persistent inflammation and cognitive impacts of HIV.
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13
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Ritchay MM, Huggins AA, Wallace AL, Larson CL, Lisdahl KM. Resting state functional connectivity in the default mode network: Relationships between cannabis use, gender, and cognition in adolescents and young adults. Neuroimage Clin 2021; 30:102664. [PMID: 33872994 PMCID: PMC8080071 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2021.102664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cannabis is the most commonly used illicit substance in the United States, and nearly 1 in 4 young adults are current cannabis users. Chronic cannabis use is associated with changes in resting state functional connectivity (RSFC) in the default mode network (DMN) in adolescents and young adults; results are somewhat inconsistent across studies, potentially due to methodological differences. The aims of the present study were to examine potential differences in DMN RSFC between cannabis users and controls, and to examine, as an exploratory analysis, if gender moderated any findings. We further examined whether differences in RSFC related to differences in performance on selected neuropsychological measures. MATERIALS AND METHODS Seventy-seven 16-26-year-old participants underwent an MRI scan (including resting state scan), neuropsychological battery, toxicology screening, and drug use interview. Differences in DMN connectivity were examined between groups (cannabis vs. control) and with an exploratory group by gender interaction, using a left posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) seed-based analysis conducted in AFNI. RESULTS Cannabis users demonstrated weaker connectivity than controls between the left PCC and various DMN nodes, and the right Rolandic operculum/Heschl's gyrus. Cannabis users demonstrated stronger connectivity between the left PCC and the cerebellum and left supramarginal gyrus. The group by gender interaction was not significantly associated with connectivity differences. Stronger left PCC-cerebellum connectivity was associated with poorer performance on cognitive measures in cannabis users. In controls, intra-DMN connectivity was positively correlated with performance on a speeded selective/sustained attention measure. DISCUSSION Consistent with our hypotheses and other studies, cannabis users demonstrated weaker connectivity between the left PCC and DMN nodes. Chronic THC exposure may alter GABA and glutamate concentrations, which may alter brain communication. Future studies should be conducted with a larger sample size and examine gender differences and the mechanism by which these differences may arise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan M Ritchay
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Department of Psychology, 2441 E. Hartford Ave Garland 224, Milwaukee, 53211 WI, USA
| | - Ashley A Huggins
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Department of Psychology, 2441 E. Hartford Ave Garland 224, Milwaukee, 53211 WI, USA
| | - Alexander L Wallace
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Department of Psychology, 2441 E. Hartford Ave Garland 224, Milwaukee, 53211 WI, USA
| | - Christine L Larson
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Department of Psychology, 2441 E. Hartford Ave Garland 224, Milwaukee, 53211 WI, USA
| | - Krista M Lisdahl
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Department of Psychology, 2441 E. Hartford Ave Garland 224, Milwaukee, 53211 WI, USA.
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14
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Rinehart L, Spencer S. Which came first: Cannabis use or deficits in impulse control? Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 106:110066. [PMID: 32795592 PMCID: PMC7750254 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.110066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 07/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Impulse control deficits are often found to co-occur with substance use disorders (SUDs). On the one hand, it is well known that chronic intake of drugs of abuse remodels the brain with significant consequences for a range of cognitive behaviors. On the other hand, individual variation in impulse control may contribute to differences in susceptibility to SUDs. Both of these relationships have been described, thus leading to a "chicken or the egg" debate which remains to be fully resolved. Does impulsivity precede drug use or does it manifest as a function of problematic drug usage? The link between impulsivity and SUDs has been most strongly established for cocaine and alcohol use disorders using both preclinical models and clinical data. Much less is known about the potential link between impulsivity and cannabis use disorder (CUD) or the directionality of this relationship. The initiation of cannabis use occurs most often during adolescence prior to the brain's maturation, which is recognized as a critical period of development. The long-term effects of chronic cannabis use on the brain and behavior have started to be explored. In this review we will summarize these observations, especially as they pertain to the relationship between impulsivity and CUD, from both a psychological and biological perspective. We will discuss impulsivity as a multi-dimensional construct and attempt to reconcile the results obtained across modalities. Finally, we will discuss possible avenues for future research with emerging longitudinal data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Rinehart
- University of Minnesota, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
| | - Sade Spencer
- University of Minnesota, Department of Pharmacology, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
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15
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Yadav-Samudrala BJ, Fitting S. Mini-review: The therapeutic role of cannabinoids in neuroHIV. Neurosci Lett 2021; 750:135717. [PMID: 33587986 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2021.135717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
In the era of combined antiretroviral therapy (cART), human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) is considered a chronic disease with an inflammatory component that specifically targets the brain and causes a high prevalence of HIV-1-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND). The endocannabinoid (eCB) system has attracted interest as a target for treatment of neurodegenerative disorders, due to the potential anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties of cannabinoids, including its potential therapeutic use in HIV-1 neuropathogenesis. In this review, we summarize what is currently known about the structural and functional changes of the eCB system under conditions of HAND. This will be followed by summarizing the current clinical and preclinical findings on the effects of cannabis use and cannabinoids in the context of HIV-1 infection, with specifically focusing on viral load, cognition, inflammation, and neuroprotection. Lastly, we present some potential future directions to better understand the involvement of the eCB system and the role that cannabis use and cannabinoids play in neuroHIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barkha J Yadav-Samudrala
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Sylvia Fitting
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
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16
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Mason NL, Theunissen EL, Hutten NR, Tse DH, Toennes SW, Jansen JF, Stiers P, Ramaekers JG. Reduced responsiveness of the reward system is associated with tolerance to cannabis impairment in chronic users. Addict Biol 2021; 26:e12870. [PMID: 31865628 PMCID: PMC7757162 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Revised: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis is the most commonly used illicit drug in the world. However, because of a changing legal landscape and rising interest in therapeutic utility, there is an increasing trend in (long‐term) use and possibly cannabis impairment. Importantly, a growing body of evidence suggests that regular cannabis users develop tolerance to the impairing, as well as the rewarding, effects of the drug. However, the neuroadaptations that may underlie cannabis tolerance remain unclear. Therefore, this double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled, cross‐over study assessed the acute influence of cannabis on the brain and behavioral outcomes in two distinct cannabis user groups. Twelve occasional and 12 chronic cannabis users received acute doses of cannabis (300‐μg/kg delta‐9‐tetrahydrocannabinol) and placebo and underwent ultrahigh field functional magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic resonance spectroscopy. In occasional users, cannabis induced significant neurometabolic alterations in reward circuitry, namely, decrements in functional connectivity and increments in striatal glutamate concentrations, which were associated with increases in subjective high and decreases in performance on a sustained attention task. Such changes were absent in chronic users. The finding that cannabis altered circuitry and distorted behavior in occasional, but not chronic users, suggests reduced responsiveness of the reward circuitry to cannabis intoxication in chronic users. Taken together, the results suggest a pharmacodynamic mechanism for the development of tolerance to cannabis impairment, of which is important to understand in the context of the long‐term therapeutic use of cannabis‐based medications, as well as in the context of public health and safety of cannabis use when performing day‐to‐day operations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha L. Mason
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience Maastricht University Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Eef L. Theunissen
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience Maastricht University Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Nadia R.P.W. Hutten
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience Maastricht University Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Desmond H.Y. Tse
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience Maastricht University Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Stefan W. Toennes
- Institute of Legal Medicine University of Frankfurt Frankfurt/Main Germany
| | - Jacobus F.A. Jansen
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine Maastricht University Medical Center+ (MUMC+) Maastricht The Netherlands
- School for Mental Health and Neuroscience Maastricht University Medical Center Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Peter Stiers
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience Maastricht University Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Johannes G. Ramaekers
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience Maastricht University Maastricht The Netherlands
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17
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Towe SL, Meade CS, Cloak CC, Bell RP, Baptiste J, Chang L. Reciprocal Influences of HIV and Cannabinoids on the Brain and Cognitive Function. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2020; 15:765-779. [PMID: 32445005 PMCID: PMC7680275 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-020-09921-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Globally, cannabis is the most commonly used illicit drug, with disproportionately high use among persons with HIV. Despite advances in HIV care, nearly half of persons living with HIV continue to experience neurocognitive deficits or impairments that may have negative impacts on their daily function. Chronic cannabis use may play a role in the development or exacerbation of these impairments. Here we present a review summarizing existing research detailing the effect of cannabis use associated with the neuropathogenesis of HIV. We examine evidence for possible additive or synergistic effects of HIV infection and cannabis use on neuroHIV in both the preclinical and adult human literatures, including in vitro studies, animal models, clinical neuroimaging research, and studies examining the cognitive effects of cannabis. We discuss the limitations of existing research, including methodological challenges involved with clinical research with human subjects. We identify gaps in the field and propose critical research questions to advance our understanding of how cannabis use affects neuroHIV. Graphical Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheri L Towe
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, 27705, USA
| | - Christina S Meade
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, 27705, USA
| | - Christine C Cloak
- Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 670 W. Baltimore Street, HSF III, Room 1161, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Ryan P Bell
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, 27705, USA
| | - Julian Baptiste
- Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 670 W. Baltimore Street, HSF III, Room 1161, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Linda Chang
- Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 670 W. Baltimore Street, HSF III, Room 1161, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA.
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
- John A Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, 96813, USA.
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18
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Blest‐Hopley G, O'Neill A, Wilson R, Giampietro V, Lythgoe D, Egerton A, Bhattacharyya S. Adolescent-onset heavy cannabis use associated with significantly reduced glial but not neuronal markers and glutamate levels in the hippocampus. Addict Biol 2020; 25:e12827. [PMID: 31478302 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Revised: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 08/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis use has been associated with adverse mental health outcomes, the neurochemical underpinnings of which are poorly understood. Although preclinical evidence suggests glutamatergic dysfunction following cannabis exposure in several brain regions including the hippocampus, evidence from human studies have been inconsistent. We investigated the effect of persistent cannabis use on the brain levels of N-acetyl aspartate (NAA) and myoinositol, the metabolite markers of neurons and glia, the site of the main central cannabinoid CB1 receptor, and the levels of glutamate, the neurotransmitter directly affected by CB1 modulation. We investigated cannabis users (CUs) who started using during adolescence, the period of greatest vulnerability to cannabis effects and focused on the hippocampus, where type 1 cannabinoid receptors (CBR1) are expressed in high density and have been linked to altered glutamatergic neurotransmission. Twenty-two adolescent-onset CUs and 21 nonusing controls (NU), completed proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy, to measure hippocampal metabolite concentrations. Glutamate, NAA, and myoinositol levels were compared between CU and NU using separate analyses of covariance. CU had significantly lower myoinositol but not glutamate or NAA levels in the hippocampus compared with NU. Myoinositol levels in CU positively correlated with glutamate levels, whereas this association was absent in NU. Altered myoinositol levels may be a marker of glia dysfunction and is consistent with experimental preclinical evidence that cannabinoid-induced glial dysfunction may underlie cannabinoid-induced memory impairments. Future studies using appropriate imaging techniques such as positron emission tomography should investigate whether glial dysfunction associated with cannabis use underlies hippocampal dysfunction and memory impairment in CUs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Blest‐Hopley
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience King's College London London UK
| | - Aisling O'Neill
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience King's College London London UK
| | - Robin Wilson
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience King's College London London UK
| | - Vincent Giampietro
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience King's College London London UK
| | - David Lythgoe
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience King's College London London UK
| | - Alice Egerton
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience King's College London London UK
| | - Sagnik Bhattacharyya
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience King's College London London UK
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust London UK
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19
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Turco CV, Arsalan SO, Nelson AJ. The Influence of Recreational Substance Use in TMS Research. Brain Sci 2020; 10:E751. [PMID: 33080965 PMCID: PMC7603156 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10100751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) approaches are widely used to study cortical and corticospinal function. However, responses to TMS are subject to significant intra-and inter-individual variability. Acute and chronic exposure to recreational substances alters the excitability of the sensorimotor system and may contribute to the variability in TMS outcome measures. The increasing prevalence of recreational substance use poses a significant challenge for executing TMS studies, but there is a lack of clarity regarding the influence of these substances on sensorimotor function. (2) Methods: The literature investigating the influence of alcohol, nicotine, caffeine and cannabis on TMS outcome measures of corticospinal, intracortical and interhemispheric excitability was reviewed. (3) Results: Both acute and chronic use of recreational substances modulates TMS measures of excitability. Despite the abundance of research in this field, we identify knowledge gaps that should be addressed in future studies to better understand the influence of these substances on TMS outcomes. (4) Conclusions: This review highlights the need for TMS studies to take into consideration the history of participant substance use and to control for acute substance use prior to testing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Aimee J. Nelson
- Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada; (C.V.T.); (S.O.A.)
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20
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Newman SD, Cheng H, Kim DJ, Schnakenberg-Martin A, Dydak U, Dharmadhikari S, Hetrick W, O'Donnell B. An investigation of the relationship between glutamate and resting state connectivity in chronic cannabis users. Brain Imaging Behav 2020; 14:2062-2071. [PMID: 31302844 PMCID: PMC6955389 DOI: 10.1007/s11682-019-00165-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Human and animal studies have shown that heavy cannabis (CB) use interacts with glutamatergic signaling. Additionally, recent studies have suggested that glutamate (Glu) may drive resting state functional connectivity (RSfc). The aims of the current preliminary study were to: 1) determine whether dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC) Glu is related to RSfc between the dACC and two nodes of the reward network, the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and hippocampus (Hp); and 2) determine whether CB use interacts with the relationship between dACC Glu and RSfc. A group of 23 chronic CB users and 23 healthy controls participated in this multimodal MRI study. Glu levels were assessed in the dACC using magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). Linear regression models were used to determine whether dACC Glu and CB use predicts RSfc between the dACC and the NAc and Hp. While the effect size is small, the results showed that the connectivity between the dACC and right NAc was predicted by the interaction between dACC Glu levels and monthly CB use. Additionally, while there is some suggestion that dACC Glu is correlated with dACC-hippocampal connectivity, unlike for dACC/NAc connectivity the relationship between them does not appear to be affected by CB use. These preliminary findings are significant in that they demonstrate the need for future studies with larger sample sizes to better characterize the relationship between resting state connectivity and neurochemistry as well as to characterize how CB use interacts with that relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharlene D Newman
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, USA.
- Program in Neuroscience, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA.
| | - Hu Cheng
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, USA
- Program in Neuroscience, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Dae-Jin Kim
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, USA
| | | | - Ulrike Dydak
- School of Health Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Shalmali Dharmadhikari
- School of Health Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - William Hetrick
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, USA
- Program in Neuroscience, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Brian O'Donnell
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, USA
- Program in Neuroscience, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
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21
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Saloner R, Fields JA, Marcondes MCG, Iudicello JE, von Känel S, Cherner M, Letendre SL, Kaul M, Grant I. Methamphetamine and Cannabis: A Tale of Two Drugs and their Effects on HIV, Brain, and Behavior. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2020; 15:743-764. [PMID: 32929575 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-020-09957-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
HIV infection and drug use intersect epidemiologically, and their combination can result in complex effects on brain and behavior. The extent to which drugs affect the health of persons with HIV (PWH) depends on many factors including drug characteristics, use patterns, stage of HIV disease and its treatment, comorbid factors, and age. To consider the range of drug effects, we have selected two that are in common use by PWH: methamphetamine and cannabis. We compare the effects of methamphetamine with those of cannabis, to illustrate how substances may potentiate, worsen, or even buffer the effects of HIV on the CNS. Data from human, animal, and ex vivo studies provide insights into how these drugs have differing effects on the persistent inflammatory state that characterizes HIV infection, including effects on viral replication, immune activation, mitochondrial function, gut permeability, blood brain barrier integrity, glia and neuronal signaling. Moving forward, we consider how these mechanistic insights may inform interventions to improve brain outcomes in PWH. This review summarizes literature from clinical and preclinical studies demonstrating the adverse effects of METH, as well as the potentially beneficial effects of cannabis, on the interacting systemic (e.g., gut barrier leakage/microbial translocation, immune activation, inflammation) and CNS-specific (e.g., glial activation/neuroinflammation, neural injury, mitochondrial toxicity/oxidative stress) mechanisms underlying HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rowan Saloner
- Department of Psychiatry, HIV Neurobehavioral Research Program, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA. .,Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology, San Diego State University/University of California, San Diego , San Diego, CA, USA.
| | - Jerel Adam Fields
- Department of Psychiatry, HIV Neurobehavioral Research Program, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | - Jennifer E Iudicello
- Department of Psychiatry, HIV Neurobehavioral Research Program, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Sofie von Känel
- Department of Psychiatry, HIV Neurobehavioral Research Program, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Mariana Cherner
- Department of Psychiatry, HIV Neurobehavioral Research Program, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Scott L Letendre
- Department of Psychiatry, HIV Neurobehavioral Research Program, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Marcus Kaul
- Department of Psychiatry, HIV Neurobehavioral Research Program, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA.,Division of Biomedical Sciences, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Igor Grant
- Department of Psychiatry, HIV Neurobehavioral Research Program, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
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Wang HA, Liang HJ, Ernst TM, Oishi K, Chang L. Microstructural brain abnormalities in HIV+ individuals with or without chronic marijuana use. J Neuroinflammation 2020; 17:230. [PMID: 32758262 PMCID: PMC7409464 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-020-01910-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cognitive deficits and microstructural brain abnormalities are well documented in HIV-positive individuals (HIV+). This study evaluated whether chronic marijuana (MJ) use contributes to additional cognitive deficits or brain microstructural abnormalities that may reflect neuroinflammation or neuronal injury in HIV+. METHOD Using a 2 × 2 design, 44 HIV+ participants [23 minimal/no MJ users (HIV+), 21 chronic active MJ users (HIV + MJ)] were compared to 46 seronegative participants [24 minimal/no MJ users (SN) and 22 chronic MJ users (SN + MJ)] on neuropsychological performance (7 cognitive domains) and diffusion tensor imaging metrics, using an automated atlas to assess fractional anisotropy (FA), axial (AD), radial (RD), and mean (MD) diffusivities, in 18 cortical and 4 subcortical brain regions. RESULTS Compared to SN and regardless of MJ use, the HIV+ group had lower FA and higher diffusivities in multiple white matter and subcortical structures (p < 0.001-0.050), as well as poorer cognition in Fluency (p = 0.039), Attention/Working Memory (p = 0.009), Learning (p = 0.014), and Memory (p = 0.028). Regardless of HIV serostatus, MJ users had lower AD in uncinate fasciculus (p = 0.024) but similar cognition as nonusers. HIV serostatus and MJ use showed an interactive effect on mean diffusivity in the right globus pallidus but not on cognitive function. Furthermore, lower FA in left anterior internal capsule predicted poorer Fluency across all participants and worse Attention/Working Memory in all except SN subjects, while higher diffusivities in several white matter tracts also predicted lower cognitive domain Z-scores. Lastly, MJ users with or without HIV infection showed greater than normal age-dependent FA declines in superior longitudinal fasciculus, external capsule, and globus pallidus. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that, except in the globus pallidus, chronic MJ use had no additional negative influence on brain microstructure or neurocognitive deficits in HIV+ individuals. However, lower AD in the uncinate fasciculus of MJ users suggests axonal loss in this white matter tract that connects to cannabinoid receptor rich brain regions that are involved in verbal memory and emotion. Furthermore, the greater than normal age-dependent FA declines in the white matter tracts and globus pallidus in MJ users suggest that older chronic MJ users may eventually have lesser neuronal integrity in these brain regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah A. Wang
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 670 W. Baltimore Street, HSF III, Baltimore, MD 21201 USA
| | - Hua-Jun Liang
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 670 W. Baltimore Street, HSF III, Baltimore, MD 21201 USA
| | - Thomas M. Ernst
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 670 W. Baltimore Street, HSF III, Baltimore, MD 21201 USA
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Hawaii, John A. Burns School of Medicine, Honolulu, HI USA
| | - Kenichi Oishi
- Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Linda Chang
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 670 W. Baltimore Street, HSF III, Baltimore, MD 21201 USA
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Hawaii, John A. Burns School of Medicine, Honolulu, HI USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
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Kallianpur KJ, Birn R, Ndhlovu LC, Souza SA, Mitchell B, Paul R, Chow DC, Kohorn L, Shikuma CM. Impact of Cannabis Use on Brain Structure and Function in Suppressed HIV Infection. JOURNAL OF BEHAVIORAL AND BRAIN SCIENCE 2020; 10:344-370. [PMID: 32968547 DOI: 10.4236/jbbs.2020.108022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brain atrophy and cognitive deficits persist among individuals with suppressed HIV disease. The impact of cannabis use is unknown. METHODS HIV+ and HIV- participants underwent cross-sectional magnetic resonance imaging and neuropsychological testing. Lifetime frequency, duration (years), and recency of cannabis use were self-reported. Relationships of cannabis use to resting-state functional connectivity (RSFC) and to 9 regional brain volumes were assessed with corrections for multiple comparisons. Peripheral blood cytokines and monocyte subsets were measured in the HIV+ group and examined in relation to cannabis exposure. RESULTS We evaluated 52 HIV+ [50.8 ± 7.1 years old; 100% on antiretroviral therapy ≥ 3 months; 83% with plasma viral load < 50 copies/mL] and 55 HIV- [54.0 ± 7.5 years old] individuals. Among HIV+ participants, recent cannabis use (within 12 months) was associated with diminished RSFC, including of occipital cortex, controlling for age. Duration of use correlated negatively with volumes of all regions (most strikingly the nucleus accumbens) independently of recent use and intracranial volume. Recent use was associated with larger caudate and white matter volumes and lower soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 concentrations. Duration of use correlated positively with psychomotor speed. Use > 10 times/lifetime was linked to more somatic symptoms, better executive function, and lower CD14+CD16++ monocyte count. CONCLUSION HIV+ individuals demonstrated opposing associations with cannabis. Recent use may weaken RSFC and prolonged consumption may exacerbate atrophy of the accumbens and other brain regions. More frequent or recent cannabis use may reduce the inflammation and CD14+CD16++ monocytes that facilitate HIV neuroinvasion. HIV-specific cannabis studies are necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalpana J Kallianpur
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Medical Microbiology and Pharmacology, University of Hawaii-Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
- Center for Translational Research on Aging, Kuakini Medical Center, Honolulu, HI, USA
- Hawaii Center for AIDS, University of Hawaii-Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Rasmus Birn
- Department of Medical Physics, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Lishomwa C Ndhlovu
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Medical Microbiology and Pharmacology, University of Hawaii-Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
- Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Scott A Souza
- Hawaii Center for AIDS, University of Hawaii-Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
- The Queen's Medical Center, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Brooks Mitchell
- Hawaii Center for AIDS, University of Hawaii-Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Robert Paul
- Missouri Institute of Mental Health, University of Missouri-St Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Dominic C Chow
- Hawaii Center for AIDS, University of Hawaii-Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Lindsay Kohorn
- Hawaii Center for AIDS, University of Hawaii-Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Cecilia M Shikuma
- Hawaii Center for AIDS, University of Hawaii-Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
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Cannabis Exposure is Associated With a Lower Likelihood of Neurocognitive Impairment in People Living With HIV. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2020; 83:56-64. [PMID: 31809361 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aging and HIV have adverse effects on the central nervous system, including increased inflammation and neural injury and confer risk of neurocognitive impairment (NCI). Previous research suggests the nonacute neurocognitive effects of cannabis in the general population are adverse or null. However, in the context of aging and HIV, cannabis use may exert beneficial effects due to its anti-inflammatory properties. In the current study, we examined the independent and interactive effects of HIV and cannabis on NCI and the potential moderation of these effects by age. METHODS Participants included 679 people living with HIV (PLHIV) and 273 people living without HIV (HIV-) (18-79 years old) who completed neurocognitive, neuromedical, and substance use assessments. NCI was defined as a demographically corrected global deficit score ≥ 0.5. Logistic regression models examined the effects of age, HIV, cannabis (history of cannabis substance use disorder and cannabis use in past year), and their 2-way and 3-way interactions on NCI. RESULTS In logistic regression models, only a significant interaction of HIV X cannabis was detected (P = 0.02). Among PLHIV, cannabis was associated with a lower proportion of NCI (odds ratio = 0.53, 95% confidence interval = 0.33-0.85) but not among HIV- individuals (P = 0.40). These effects did not vary by age. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest cannabis exposure is linked to a lower odds of NCI in the context of HIV. A possible mechanism of this result is the anti-inflammatory effect of cannabis, which may be particularly important for PLHIV. Further investigations are needed to refine the effects of dose, timing, and cannabis compound on this relationship, which could inform guidelines for cannabis use among populations vulnerable to cognitive decline.
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25
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Daniju Y, Bossong MG, Brandt K, Allen P. Do the effects of cannabis on the hippocampus and striatum increase risk for psychosis? Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 112:324-335. [PMID: 32057817 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Revised: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis use is associated with increased risk of psychotic symptoms and in a small number of cases it can lead to psychoses. This review examines the neurobiological mechanisms that mediate the link between cannabis use and psychosis risk. We use an established preclinical model of psychosis, the methylazoxymethanol acetate (MAM) rodent model, as a framework to examine if psychosis risk in some cannabis users is mediated by the effects of cannabis on the hippocampus, and this region's role in the regulation of mesolimbic dopamine. We also examine how cannabis affects excitatory neurotransmission known to regulate hippocampal neural activity and output. Whilst there is clear evidence that cannabis/cannabinoids can affect hippocampal and medial temporal lobe function and structure, the evidence that cannabis/cannabinoids increase striatal dopamine function is less robust. There is limited evidence that cannabis use affects cortical and striatal glutamate levels, but there are currently too few studies to draw firm conclusions. Future work is needed to test the MAM model in relation to cannabis using multimodal neuroimaging approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Daniju
- Department of Psychology, University of Roehampton, London, UK
| | - M G Bossong
- Department of Psychiatry, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - K Brandt
- Department of Psychology, University of Roehampton, London, UK
| | - P Allen
- Department of Psychology, University of Roehampton, London, UK; Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK; Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, USA.
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26
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Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol increases striatal glutamate levels in healthy individuals: implications for psychosis. Mol Psychiatry 2020; 25:3231-3240. [PMID: 30770892 PMCID: PMC7714685 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-019-0374-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2018] [Revised: 12/06/2018] [Accepted: 12/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The neurobiological mechanisms underlying the association between cannabis use and acute or long-lasting psychosis are not completely understood. While some evidence suggests altered striatal dopamine may underlie the association, direct evidence that cannabis use affects either acute or chronic striatal dopamine is inconclusive. In contrast, pre-clinical research suggests that cannabis may affect dopamine via modulation of glutamate signaling. A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover design was used to investigate whether altered striatal glutamate, as measured using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy, underlies the acute psychotomimetic effects of intravenously administered delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC; 1.19 mg/2 ml), the key psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, in a set of 16 healthy participants (7 males) with modest previous cannabis exposure. Compared to placebo, acute administration of Δ9-THC significantly increased Glutamate (Glu) + Glutamine (Gln) metabolites (Glx) in the left caudate head (P = 0.027). Furthermore, compared to individuals who were not sensitive to the psychotomimetic effects of Δ9-THC, individuals who developed transient psychotic-like symptoms (~70% of the sample) had significantly lower baseline Glx (placebo; P 7= 0.023) and a 2.27-times higher increase following Δ9-THC administration. Lower baseline Glx values (r = -0.55; P = 0.026) and higher previous cannabis exposure (r = 0.52; P = 0.040) were associated with a higher Δ9-THC-induced Glx increase. These results suggest that an increase in striatal glutamate levels may underlie acute cannabis-induced psychosis while lower baseline levels may be a marker of greater sensitivity to its acute psychotomimetic effects and may have important public health implications.
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27
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Mason NL, Theunissen EL, Hutten NRPW, Tse DHY, Toennes SW, Stiers P, Ramaekers JG. Cannabis induced increase in striatal glutamate associated with loss of functional corticostriatal connectivity. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2019; 29:247-256. [PMID: 30553697 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2018.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2018] [Revised: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 12/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis is the most commonly used illicit drug and is known to alter state of consciousness and impair neurocognitive function. However, the mechanisms underlying these effects have yet to be fully elucidated. Rodent studies suggest that Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) activates dopaminergic neurons in the limbic system, subsequently enhancing dopamine, which is implicated in the rewarding effects of cannabis. Additional evidence suggests that THC may act indirectly on dopamine firing by modulating GABA and glutamate release. This double-blind, placebo-controlled study assessed the acute influence of two doses of THC on brain kinetics of glutamate, GABA, and dopamine, in relation to behavioral outcomes, by using magnetic resonance spectroscopy and functional magnetic resonance imaging. Twenty occasional cannabis users received acute doses of cannabis (300 µg/kg THC) and placebo, in one of two dose regimes (full dose and divided dose), during two separate testing days. Administration of THC increased striatal glutamate concentrations, and dopamine as indicated by a reduction in functional connectivity (FC) between the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and cortical areas. Alterations in glutamate and FC were dose dependent and evident in the full dose group where THC serum concentrations exceeded 2 ng/ml at T-max. Average glutamate changes correlated strongly with FC alterations. Additionally, THC induced changes in FC correlated with feelings of subjective high and decreased performance on an attention task. Taken together, this suggests that THC elicits subjective and cognitive alterations via increased striatal dopaminergic activity and loss of corticostriatal connectivity, which is associated with an increase in striatal glutamate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha L Mason
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
| | - Eef L Theunissen
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Nadia R P W Hutten
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Desmond H Y Tse
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Stefan W Toennes
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Frankfurt, Kennedyallee 104, D-60596, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Peter Stiers
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Johannes G Ramaekers
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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28
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Woodcock EA, Hillmer AT, Mason GF, Cosgrove KP. Imaging Biomarkers of the Neuroimmune System among Substance Use Disorders: A Systematic Review. MOLECULAR NEUROPSYCHIATRY 2019; 5:125-146. [PMID: 31312635 DOI: 10.1159/000499621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 03/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
There is tremendous interest in the role of the neuroimmune system and inflammatory processes in substance use disorders (SUDs). Imaging biomarkers of the neuroimmune system in vivo provide a vital translational bridge between preclinical and clinical research. Herein, we examine two imaging techniques that measure putative indices of the neuroimmune system and review their application among SUDs. Positron emission tomography (PET) imaging of 18 kDa translocator protein availability is a marker associated with microglia. Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy quantification of myo-inositol levels is a putative glial marker found in astrocytes. Neuroinflammatory responses are initiated and maintained by microglia and astrocytes, and thus represent important imaging markers. The goal of this review is to summarize neuroimaging findings from the substance use literature that report data using these markers and discuss possible mechanisms of action. The extant literature indicates abused substances exert diverse and complex neuroimmune effects. Moreover, drug effects may change across addiction stages, i.e. the neuroimmune effects of acute drug administration may differ from chronic use. This burgeoning field has considerable potential to improve our understanding and treatment of SUDs. Future research is needed to determine how targeting the neuroimmune system may improve treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric A Woodcock
- Departments of Psychiatry, and of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Ansel T Hillmer
- Departments of Psychiatry, and of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Graeme F Mason
- Departments of Psychiatry, and of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Kelly P Cosgrove
- Departments of Psychiatry, and of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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29
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Neurocognitive SuperAging in Older Adults Living With HIV: Demographic, Neuromedical and Everyday Functioning Correlates. J Int Neuropsychol Soc 2019; 25:507-519. [PMID: 30890191 PMCID: PMC6705613 DOI: 10.1017/s1355617719000018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Studies of neurocognitively elite older adults, termed SuperAgers, have identified clinical predictors and neurobiological indicators of resilience against age-related neurocognitive decline. Despite rising rates of older persons living with HIV (PLWH), SuperAging (SA) in PLWH remains undefined. We aimed to establish neuropsychological criteria for SA in PLWH and examined clinically relevant correlates of SA. METHODS 734 PLWH and 123 HIV-uninfected participants between 50 and 64 years of age underwent neuropsychological and neuromedical evaluations. SA was defined as demographically corrected (i.e., sex, race/ethnicity, education) global neurocognitive performance within normal range for 25-year-olds. Remaining participants were labeled cognitively normal (CN) or impaired (CI) based on actual age. Chi-square and analysis of variance tests examined HIV group differences on neurocognitive status and demographics. Within PLWH, neurocognitive status differences were tested on HIV disease characteristics, medical comorbidities, and everyday functioning. Multinomial logistic regression explored independent predictors of neurocognitive status. RESULTS Neurocognitive status rates and demographic characteristics differed between PLWH (SA=17%; CN=38%; CI=45%) and HIV-uninfected participants (SA=35%; CN=55%; CI=11%). In PLWH, neurocognitive groups were comparable on demographic and HIV disease characteristics. Younger age, higher verbal IQ, absence of diabetes, fewer depressive symptoms, and lifetime cannabis use disorder increased likelihood of SA. SA reported increased independence in everyday functioning, employment, and health-related quality of life than non-SA. CONCLUSIONS Despite combined neurological risk of aging and HIV, youthful neurocognitive performance is possible for older PLWH. SA relates to improved real-world functioning and may be better explained by cognitive reserve and maintenance of cardiometabolic and mental health than HIV disease severity. Future research investigating biomarker and lifestyle (e.g., physical activity) correlates of SA may help identify modifiable neuroprotective factors against HIV-related neurobiological aging. (JINS, 2019, 25, 507-519).
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30
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Cohen K, Weizman A, Weinstein A. Modulatory effects of cannabinoids on brain neurotransmission. Eur J Neurosci 2019; 50:2322-2345. [DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Revised: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Koby Cohen
- Department of Behavioral Science Ariel University Science Park 40700 Ariel Israel
| | | | - Aviv Weinstein
- Department of Behavioral Science Ariel University Science Park 40700 Ariel Israel
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31
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Okafor CN, Plankey MW, Li M, Chen X, Surkan PJ, Shoptaw S, Martin E, Cohen R, Sacktor N, Cook RL. Association of Marijuana Use with Changes in Cognitive Processing Speed and Flexibility for 17 Years in HIV-Seropositive and HIV-Seronegative Men. Subst Use Misuse 2019; 54:525-537. [PMID: 30700235 PMCID: PMC6443451 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2018.1495736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The long-term effects of marijuana on cognition, particularly in the context of HIV is not clear, as extant research shows mixed findings. OBJECTIVE To determine associations between current and cumulative exposure to marijuana and changes in cognitive processing speed and flexibility in 788 HIV-seropositive (HIV+) and 1,132 HIV-seronegative (HIV-) men followed for up to 17 years in the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study. RESULTS Among HIV+ men only, current daily marijuana use compared to none-use, was significantly associated with a greater annual percentage decline in cognitive processing speed assessed with the Trail Making Test A (TMTA) (β=-0.41, 95% confidence interval (CI): -0.88, -0.03, p=0.03)] and Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) (β= -0.14, 95% CI: -0.28, -0.01, p=0.04). Further, monthly marijuana use was associated with greater annual percentage decline in cognitive flexibility assessed with the Trail Making Test B (TMTB) (β= -0.70, 95% CI: -1.34, -0.05; p=0.03] and cognitive processing speed (SDMT) (β= -0.21, 95% CI: -0.40, -0.01, p=0.03). Among the HIV- men only, each 5-marijuana use-years (equivalent to 5-years of daily marijuana use) was significantly associated with a 0.17 annual percentage decline in cognitive processing speed only (TMTA) (β= -0.18, 95% CI: -0.36, -0.01; p=0.04). CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that marijuana use, particularly current use, may be associated with worse cognitive processing speed, but the magnitude of the estimates was not clinically meaningful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chukwuemeka N Okafor
- a Division of Infectious Diseases , David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angeles , California , USA.,b David Geffen School of Medicine , Department of Family Medicine at University of California , Los Angeles , California , USA
| | - Michael W Plankey
- c Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases , Georgetown University Medical Center , Washington, DC , USA
| | - Michael Li
- b David Geffen School of Medicine , Department of Family Medicine at University of California , Los Angeles , California , USA
| | - Xinguang Chen
- d Department of Epidemiology , College of Public Health and Health Professions, College of Medicine, University of Florida , Gainesville , Florida , USA
| | - Pamela J Surkan
- e Social and Behavioral Interventions Program, Department of International Health , Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health , Baltimore , Maryland , USA
| | - Steve Shoptaw
- b David Geffen School of Medicine , Department of Family Medicine at University of California , Los Angeles , California , USA
| | - Eileen Martin
- f Department of Psychiatry , Rush University Medical Center , Chicago , Illinois , USA
| | - Ronald Cohen
- g Center for Cognitive Aging and Memory, Institute on Aging, and the Departments of Neurology, Psychiatry, and Aging and Geriatric Research , University of Florida , Gainesville , Florida , USA
| | - Ned Sacktor
- h Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center , John Hopkins University , Baltimore , Maryland , USA
| | - Robert L Cook
- d Department of Epidemiology , College of Public Health and Health Professions, College of Medicine, University of Florida , Gainesville , Florida , USA
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32
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Bloomfield MAP, Hindocha C, Green SF, Wall MB, Lees R, Petrilli K, Costello H, Ogunbiyi MO, Bossong MG, Freeman TP. The neuropsychopharmacology of cannabis: A review of human imaging studies. Pharmacol Ther 2018; 195:132-161. [PMID: 30347211 PMCID: PMC6416743 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2018.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The laws governing cannabis are evolving worldwide and associated with changing patterns of use. The main psychoactive drug in cannabis is Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a partial agonist at the endocannabinoid CB1 receptor. Acutely, cannabis and THC produce a range of effects on several neurocognitive and pharmacological systems. These include effects on executive, emotional, reward and memory processing via direct interactions with the endocannabinoid system and indirect effects on the glutamatergic, GABAergic and dopaminergic systems. Cannabidiol, a non-intoxicating cannabinoid found in some forms of cannabis, may offset some of these acute effects. Heavy repeated cannabis use, particularly during adolescence, has been associated with adverse effects on these systems, which increase the risk of mental illnesses including addiction and psychosis. Here, we provide a comprehensive state of the art review on the acute and chronic neuropsychopharmacology of cannabis by synthesizing the available neuroimaging research in humans. We describe the effects of drug exposure during development, implications for understanding psychosis and cannabis use disorder, and methodological considerations. Greater understanding of the precise mechanisms underlying the effects of cannabis may also give rise to new treatment targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael A P Bloomfield
- Translational Psychiatry Research Group, Research Department of Mental Health Neuroscience, Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, United Kingdom; Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, United Kingdom; Psychiatric Imaging Group, MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences, Hammersmith Hospital, London, United Kingdom; NIHR University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre, University College Hospital, London, United Kingdom; Institute of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, United Kingdom.
| | - Chandni Hindocha
- Translational Psychiatry Research Group, Research Department of Mental Health Neuroscience, Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, United Kingdom; Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, United Kingdom; NIHR University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre, University College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sebastian F Green
- Translational Psychiatry Research Group, Research Department of Mental Health Neuroscience, Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew B Wall
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, United Kingdom; Centre for Neuropsychopharmacology, Division of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, United Kingdom; Invicro UK, Hammersmith Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel Lees
- Translational Psychiatry Research Group, Research Department of Mental Health Neuroscience, Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, United Kingdom; Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, United Kingdom; Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, United Kingdom
| | - Katherine Petrilli
- Translational Psychiatry Research Group, Research Department of Mental Health Neuroscience, Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, United Kingdom; Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, United Kingdom; Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, United Kingdom
| | - Harry Costello
- Translational Psychiatry Research Group, Research Department of Mental Health Neuroscience, Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, United Kingdom
| | - M Olabisi Ogunbiyi
- Translational Psychiatry Research Group, Research Department of Mental Health Neuroscience, Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, United Kingdom
| | - Matthijs G Bossong
- Department of Psychiatry, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Tom P Freeman
- Translational Psychiatry Research Group, Research Department of Mental Health Neuroscience, Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, United Kingdom; Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, United Kingdom; Department of Psychology, University of Bath, United Kingdom; National Addiction Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
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Colizzi M, Bhattacharyya S. Neurocognitive effects of cannabis: Lessons learned from human experimental studies. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2018; 242:179-216. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2018.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
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Abstract
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) enters the brain early after infecting humans and may remain in the central nervous system despite successful antiretroviral treatment. Many neuroimaging techniques were used to study HIV+ patients with or without opportunistic infections. These techniques assessed abnormalities in brain structures (using computed tomography, structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), diffusion MRI) and function (using functional MRI at rest or during a task, and perfusion MRI with or without a contrast agent). In addition, single-photon emission computed tomography with various tracers (e.g., thallium-201, Tc99-HMPAO) and positron emission tomography with various agents (e.g., [18F]-dexoyglucose, [11C]-PiB, and [11C]-TSPO tracers), were applied to study opportunistic infections or HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders. Neuroimaging provides diagnoses and biomarkers to quantitate the severity of brain injury or to monitor treatment effects, and may yield insights into the pathophysiology of HIV infection. As the majority of antiretroviral-stable HIV+ patients are living longer, age-related comorbid disorders (e.g., additional neuroinflammation, cerebrovascular disorders, or other dementias) will need to be considered. Other highly prevalent conditions, such as substance use disorders, psychiatric illnesses, and the long-term effects of combined antiretroviral therapy, all may lead to additional brain injury. Neuroimaging studies could provide knowledge regarding how these comorbid conditions impact the HIV-infected brain. Lastly, specific molecular imaging agents may be needed to assess the central nervous system viral reservoir.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Chang
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States; Department of Medicine and Department of Neurology, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Manoa, United States.
| | - Dinesh K Shukla
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
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Rigucci S, Xin L, Klauser P, Baumann PS, Alameda L, Cleusix M, Jenni R, Ferrari C, Pompili M, Gruetter R, Do KQ, Conus P. Cannabis use in early psychosis is associated with reduced glutamate levels in the prefrontal cortex. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2018; 235:13-22. [PMID: 29075884 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-017-4745-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2017] [Revised: 08/06/2017] [Accepted: 09/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Recent studies have shown that cannabis may disrupt glutamate (Glu) signaling depressing Glu tone in frequent users. Current evidence have also consistently reported lower Glu-levels in various brain regions, particularly in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) of chronic schizophrenia patients, while findings in early psychosis (EP) are not conclusive. Since cannabis may alter Glu synaptic plasticity and its use is a known risk factor for psychosis, studies focusing on Glu signaling in EP with or without a concomitant cannabis-usage seem crucial. OBJECTIVE We investigate the effect of cannabis use on prefrontal Glu-levels in EP users vs. both EP non-users and healthy controls (HC). METHODS Magnetic resonance spectroscopy was used to measure [GlumPFC] of 35 EP subjects (18 of whom were cannabis users) and 33 HC. For correlative analysis, neuropsychological performances were scored by the MATRICS-consensus cognitive battery. RESULTS [GlumPFC] was lower in EP users comparing to both HC and EP non-users (p < 0.001 and p = 0.01, respectively), while no differences were observed between EP non-users and HC. A greater [GlumPFC]-decline with age was observed in EP users (r = -.46; p = 0.04), but not in EP non-users or HC. Among neuropsychological outcomes, working memory was the only domain that differentiates patients depending on their cannabis use, with users having poorer performances. CONCLUSIONS Cannabis use is associated with reduced prefrontal [GlumPFC] and with a stronger Glu-levels decline with age. Glutamatergic abnormalities might influence the cognitive impairment observed in users and have some relevance for the progression of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Rigucci
- TIPP (Treatment and Early Intervention in Psychosis Program); Service of General Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
- Center for Psychiatric Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Neurosciences, Sensory Organs and Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Lijing Xin
- Animal imaging and technology core (AIT), Center for Biomedical Imaging (CIBM), Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Paul Klauser
- TIPP (Treatment and Early Intervention in Psychosis Program); Service of General Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
- Center for Psychiatric Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Philipp S Baumann
- TIPP (Treatment and Early Intervention in Psychosis Program); Service of General Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
- Center for Psychiatric Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Luis Alameda
- TIPP (Treatment and Early Intervention in Psychosis Program); Service of General Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
- Center for Psychiatric Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Martine Cleusix
- Center for Psychiatric Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Raoul Jenni
- Center for Psychiatric Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Carina Ferrari
- TIPP (Treatment and Early Intervention in Psychosis Program); Service of General Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Maurizio Pompili
- Department of Neurosciences, Sensory Organs and Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Rolf Gruetter
- Laboratory of Functional and Metabolic Imaging, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Departments of Radiology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Radiology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Kim Q Do
- Center for Psychiatric Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Philippe Conus
- TIPP (Treatment and Early Intervention in Psychosis Program); Service of General Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
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Vidot DC, Lerner B, Gonzalez R. Cannabis Use, Medication Management and Adherence Among Persons Living with HIV. AIDS Behav 2017; 21:2005-2013. [PMID: 28456895 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-017-1782-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis is used to relieve nausea, trigger weight gain, and reduce pain among adults living with HIV; however, the relationship between its use and medication adherence and management is unclear. Participants (N = 107) were from an ongoing cohort study of community-dwelling HIV+ adults, stratified by cannabis (CB) use: HIV+/CB+ (n = 41) and HIV+/CB- (n = 66). CB+ participants either tested positive in a urine toxicology screen for THC or had a self-reported history of regular and recent use. HIV-status was provided by physician results and/or biomarker assessment. Adherence was measured via the Morisky scale and medication management was assessed via the Medication Management Test-Revised. After adjusting for gender, we found no association between cannabis use group and adherence nor medication management. The amount of cannabis used was also not associated with measures of adherence and management. Preliminary findings suggest that cannabis use may not adversely influence medication adherence/management among adults living with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise C Vidot
- School of Nursing and Health Sciences, University of Miami, 5030 Brunson Ave, Coral Gables, FL, 33146, USA.
| | - Brenda Lerner
- Department of Psychology, Center for Children and Families, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Raul Gonzalez
- Department of Psychology, Center for Children and Families, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
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Thames AD, Kuhn TP, Williamson TJ, Jones JD, Mahmood Z, Hammond A. Marijuana effects on changes in brain structure and cognitive function among HIV+ and HIV- adults. Drug Alcohol Depend 2017; 170:120-127. [PMID: 27889592 PMCID: PMC5240153 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2016.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2016] [Revised: 11/08/2016] [Accepted: 11/09/2016] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The current study examined the independent and interactive effects of HIV and marijuana (MJ) use on brain structure and cognitive function among a sample of HIV-positive (HIV+) and HIV-negative (HIV-) individuals. METHODS Participants (HIV+, n=48; HIV-, n=29) individuals underwent cognitive testing, questionnaires about substance use, and brain MRI. The HIV+ group was clinically stable based upon current plasma CD4 count, 50% had undetectable viral load (i.e.,<20 copies/mL), and all were on a stable regimen of cART. RESULTS For HIV+ and HIV- participants, higher levels of MJ use were associated with smaller volumes in the entorhinal cortex and fusiform gyrus. HIV status (but not MJ use) was associated with cingulate thickness, such that HIV+ participants evidenced smaller thickness of the cingulate, as compared to HIV- controls. Regarding neurocognitive functioning, there was a HIV*MJ interactive effect on global cognition, such that when the amount of MJ use was less than 1.43g per week, the HIV- group displayed significantly better neurocognitive performance than the HIV+ group (t=3.14, p=0.002). However, when MJ use reached 1.43g per week, there were no significant HIV group differences in global cognitive performance (t=1.39, p=0.168). CONCLUSIONS Our results show independent and interactive effects of HIV and MJ on brain structure and cognition. However, our results do not support that HIV+ MJ users are at greater risk for adverse brain or cognitive outcomes compared to HIV- MJ users.
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Affiliation(s)
- April D Thames
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California Los Angeles, 740 Westwood Plaza 28-263, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
| | - Taylor P Kuhn
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California Los Angeles, 740 Westwood Plaza 28-263, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Timothy J Williamson
- Department of Psychology, University of California Los Angeles, Franz Hall, 502 Portola Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Jacob D Jones
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California Los Angeles, 740 Westwood Plaza 28-263, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Zanjbeel Mahmood
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California Los Angeles, 740 Westwood Plaza 28-263, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Andrea Hammond
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California Los Angeles, 740 Westwood Plaza 28-263, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Department of Psychology, California State University, Northridge, 18111 Nordhoff Street, Northridge, CA 91330, USA
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Norman LR, Basso M. An Update of the Review of Neuropsychological Consequences of HIV and Substance Abuse: A Literature Review and Implications for Treatment and Future Research. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 8:50-71. [PMID: 25751583 DOI: 10.2174/1874473708666150309124820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2014] [Revised: 03/04/2015] [Accepted: 03/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Neuropyschological dysfunction, ranging from mild cerebral indicators to dementia has been a consistent part of the medical picture of HIV/AIDS. However, advances in medical supervision, particularly as a result of antiretroviral (ARV) treatment, have resulted in some mitigation of the neuropsychological effects of HIV and necessitate re-evaluation of the pattern and nature of HIV-related cognitive or mental deficits. The associated enhancements in morbidity and mortality that have occurred as a result of ARV medication have led to a need for interventions and programs that maintain behaviors that are healthy and stop the resurgence of the risk of HIV transmission. Risk factors such as mental illness and substance use that may have contributed to the initial infection with HIV still need consideration. These risk factors may also increase neuropsychological dysfunction and impact observance of prevention for treatment and recommendations. Explicitly, a better comprehension of the role of substance use on the progression of HIV-related mental decline can enlighten management and evaluation of persons living with HIV with concurrent disorders of substance use. This review provides a summary of the neurophyschology of substance use and HIV and the existing research that has looked at the effects of both substance use and HIV disease on neurophyscological function and suggestions for future research and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa R Norman
- Public Health Program, Ponce School of Medicine, Ponce, PR 00732, USA.
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Colizzi M, McGuire P, Pertwee RG, Bhattacharyya S. Effect of cannabis on glutamate signalling in the brain: A systematic review of human and animal evidence. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2016; 64:359-81. [PMID: 26987641 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2016.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2016] [Revised: 03/09/2016] [Accepted: 03/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Use of cannabis or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), its main psychoactive ingredient, is associated with psychotic symptoms or disorder. However, the neurochemical mechanism that may underlie this psychotomimetic effect is poorly understood. Although dopaminergic dysfunction is generally recognized as the final common pathway in psychosis, evidence of the effects of Δ9-THC or cannabis use on dopaminergic measures in the brain is equivocal. In fact, it is thought that cannabis or Δ9-THC may not act on dopamine firing directly but indirectly by altering glutamate neurotransmission. Here we systematically review all studies examining acute and chronic effects of cannabis or Δ9-THC on glutamate signalling in both animals and man. Limited research carried out in humans tends to support the evidence that chronic cannabis use reduces levels of glutamate-derived metabolites in both cortical and subcortical brain areas. Research in animals tends to consistently suggest that Δ9-THC depresses glutamate synaptic transmission via CB1 receptor activation, affecting glutamate release, inhibiting receptors and transporters function, reducing enzyme activity, and disrupting glutamate synaptic plasticity after prolonged exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Colizzi
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London SE5 8AF, United Kingdom
| | - Philip McGuire
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London SE5 8AF, United Kingdom
| | - Roger G Pertwee
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, United Kingdom
| | - Sagnik Bhattacharyya
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London SE5 8AF, United Kingdom.
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Moeller SJ, London ED, Northoff G. Neuroimaging markers of glutamatergic and GABAergic systems in drug addiction: Relationships to resting-state functional connectivity. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2016; 61:35-52. [PMID: 26657968 PMCID: PMC4731270 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2015.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2015] [Revised: 11/05/2015] [Accepted: 11/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Drug addiction is characterized by widespread abnormalities in brain function and neurochemistry, including drug-associated effects on concentrations of the excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters glutamate and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), respectively. In healthy individuals, these neurotransmitters drive the resting state, a default condition of brain function also disrupted in addiction. Here, our primary goal was to review in vivo magnetic resonance spectroscopy and positron emission tomography studies that examined markers of glutamate and GABA abnormalities in human drug addiction. Addicted individuals tended to show decreases in these markers compared with healthy controls, but findings also varied by individual characteristics (e.g., abstinence length). Interestingly, select corticolimbic brain regions showing glutamatergic and/or GABAergic abnormalities have been similarly implicated in resting-state functional connectivity deficits in drug addiction. Thus, our secondary goals were to provide a brief review of this resting-state literature, and an initial rationale for the hypothesis that abnormalities in glutamatergic and/or GABAergic neurotransmission may underlie resting-state functional deficits in drug addiction. In doing so, we suggest future research directions and possible treatment implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott J Moeller
- Departments of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.
| | - Edythe D London
- Departments of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Departments of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, and Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Georg Northoff
- Brain Imaging and Neuroethics Research Unit, Institute of Mental Health Research, Ottawa, Canada.
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History of Illicit Stimulant Use Is Not Associated with Long-Lasting Changes in Learning of Fine Motor Skills in Humans. Neural Plast 2016; 2016:9485079. [PMID: 26819778 PMCID: PMC4706978 DOI: 10.1155/2016/9485079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2015] [Revised: 07/03/2015] [Accepted: 08/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Little is known about the long-lasting effect of use of illicit stimulant drugs on learning of new motor skills. We hypothesised that abstinent individuals with a history of primarily methamphetamine and ecstasy use would exhibit normal learning of a visuomotor tracking task compared to controls. The study involved three groups: abstinent stimulant users (n = 21; 27 ± 6 yrs) and two gender-matched control groups comprising nondrug users (n = 16; 22 ± 4 yrs) and cannabis users (n = 16; 23 ± 5 yrs). Motor learning was assessed with a three-minute visuomotor tracking task. Subjects were instructed to follow a moving target on a computer screen with movement of the index finger. Metacarpophalangeal joint angle and first dorsal interosseous electromyographic activity were recorded. Pattern matching was assessed by cross-correlation of the joint angle and target traces. Distance from the target (tracking error) was also calculated. Motor learning was evident in the visuomotor task. Pattern matching improved over time (cross-correlation coefficient) and tracking error decreased. However, task performance did not differ between the groups. The results suggest that learning of a new fine visuomotor skill is unchanged in individuals with a history of illicit stimulant use.
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Skalski LM, Towe SL, Sikkema KJ, Meade CS. The Impact of Marijuana Use on Memory in HIV-Infected Patients: A Comprehensive Review of the HIV and Marijuana Literatures. CURRENT DRUG ABUSE REVIEWS 2016; 9:126-141. [PMID: 27138170 PMCID: PMC5093083 DOI: 10.2174/1874473709666160502124503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2015] [Revised: 03/11/2016] [Accepted: 04/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The most robust neurocognitive effect of marijuana use is memory impairment. Memory deficits are also high among persons living with HIV/AIDS, and marijuana is the most commonly used drug in this population. Yet research examining neurocognitive outcomes resulting from co-occurring marijuana and HIV is limited. OBJECTIVE The primary objectives of this comprehensive review are to: (1) examine the literature on memory functioning in HIV-infected individuals; (2) examine the literature on memory functioning in marijuana users; (3) synthesize findings and propose a theoretical framework to guide future research. METHOD PubMed was searched for English publications 2000-2013. Twenty-two studies met inclusion criteria in the HIV literature, and 23 studies in the marijuana literature. RESULTS Among HIV-infected individuals, memory deficits with medium to large effect sizes were observed. Marijuana users also demonstrated memory problems, but results were less consistent due to the diversity of samples. CONCLUSION A compensatory hypothesis, based on the cognitive aging literature, is proposed to provide a framework to explore the interaction between marijuana and HIV. There is some evidence that individuals infected with HIV recruit additional brain regions during memory tasks to compensate for HIV-related declines in neurocognitive functioning. Marijuana is associated with disturbance in similar brain systems, and thus it is hypothesized that the added neural strain of marijuana can exhaust neural resources, resulting in pronounced memory impairment. It will be important to test this hypothesis empirically, and future research priorities are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda M. Skalski
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Sheri L. Towe
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Kathleen J. Sikkema
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Christina S. Meade
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
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Thames AD, Mahmood Z, Burggren AC, Karimian A, Kuhn TP. Combined effects of HIV and marijuana use on neurocognitive functioning and immune status. AIDS Care 2015; 28:628-32. [PMID: 26694807 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2015.1124983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The current study examined the independent and combined effects of HIV and marijuana (MJ) use (no use, light use, and moderate-to-heavy use) on neurocognitive functioning among a convenience sample of HIV-positive (HIV+) and HIV-negative (HIV-) individuals recruited from HIV community care clinics and advertisements in the Greater Los Angeles area. MJ users consisted of individuals who reported regular use of MJ for at least 12 months, with last reported use within the past month. Participants included 89 HIV+ (n = 55) and HIV- (n = 34) individuals who were grouped into non-users, light users, and moderate-to-heavy users based on self-reported MJ use. Participants were administered a brief cognitive test battery and underwent laboratory testing for CD4 count and viral load. HIV+ individuals demonstrated lower performance on neurocognitive testing than controls, and moderate-to-heavy MJ users performed more poorly on neurocognitive testing than light users or non-users. Moderate-to-heavy HIV+ users performed significantly lower on learning/memory than HIV- moderate-to-heavy users (MD = -8.34; 95% CI: -16.11 to -0.56) as well as all other comparison groups. In the domain of verbal fluency, HIV+ light users outperformed HIV- light users (MD = 7.28; 95% CI: 1.62-12.39), but no HIV group differences were observed at other MJ use levels. HIV+ MJ users demonstrated lower viral load (MD = -0.58; 95% CI: -1.30 to 0.14) and higher CD4 count than non-users (MD = 137.67; 95% CI: 9.48-265.85). The current study findings extend the literature by demonstrating the complex relationship between HIV status and MJ use on neurocognitive and clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- April D Thames
- a Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences , University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angeles , CA , USA
| | - Zanjbeel Mahmood
- a Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences , University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angeles , CA , USA
| | - Alison C Burggren
- a Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences , University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angeles , CA , USA
| | - Ahoo Karimian
- a Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences , University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angeles , CA , USA
| | - Taylor P Kuhn
- a Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences , University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angeles , CA , USA
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Abstract
There is extensive research on the safety, toxicology, potency, and therapeutic potential of cannabis. However, uncertainty remains facilitating continued debate on medical and recreational cannabis policies at the state and federal levels. This review will include a brief description of cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system; a summary of the acute and long-term effects of cannabis; and a discussion of the therapeutic potential of cannabis. The conclusions about safety and efficacy will then be compared with the current social and political climate to suggest future policy directions and general guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Sachs
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah, 383 Colorow Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA.
| | - Erin McGlade
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah, 383 Colorow Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA
| | - Deborah Yurgelun-Todd
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah, 383 Colorow Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA
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Abstract
Adolescence is characterized by heightened risk-taking, including substance misuse. These behavioral patterns are influenced by ontogenic changes in neurotransmitter systems, particularly the dopamine system, which is fundamentally involved in the neural coding of reward and motivated approach behavior. During adolescence, this system evidences a peak in activity. At the same time, the dopamine (DA) system is neuroplastically altered by substance abuse, impacting subsequent function. Here, we describe properties of the dopamine system that change with typical adolescent development and that are altered with substance abuse. Much of this work has been gleaned from animal models due to limitations in measuring dopamine in pediatric samples. Structural and functional neuroimaging techniques have been used to examine structures that are heavily DA-innervated; they measure morphological and functional changes with age and with drug exposure. Presenting marijuana abuse as an exemplar, we consider recent findings that support an adolescent peak in DA-driven reward-seeking behavior and related deviations in motivational systems that are associated with marijuana abuse/dependence. Clinicians are advised that (1) chronic adolescent marijuana use may lead to deficiencies in incentive motivation, (2) that this state is due to marijuana's interactions with the developing DA system, and (3) that treatment strategies should be directed to remediating resultant deficiencies in goal-directed activity.
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46
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Multivariate normative comparison, a novel method for more reliably detecting cognitive impairment in HIV infection. AIDS 2015; 29:547-57. [PMID: 25587908 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000000573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study is to assess whether multivariate normative comparison (MNC) improves detection of HIV-1-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND) as compared with Frascati and Gisslén criteria. METHODS One-hundred and three HIV-1-infected men with suppressed viremia on combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) for at least 12 months and 74 HIV-uninfected male controls (comparable regarding age, ethnicity, sexual orientation, premorbid intelligence and educational level), aged at least 45 years, underwent neuropsychological assessment covering six cognitive domains (fluency, attention, information processing speed, executive function, memory, and motor function). Frascati and Gisslén criteria were applied to detect HAND. Next, MNC was performed to compare the cognitive scores of each HIV-positive individual against the cognitive scores of the control group. RESULTS HIV-infected men showed significantly worse performance on the cognitive domains of attention, information processing speed and executive function compared with HIV-uninfected controls. HAND by Frascati criteria was highly prevalent in HIV-infected [48%; 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 38-58] but nearly equally so in HIV-uninfected men (36%; 95% CI 26-48), confirming the low specificity of this method. Applying Gisslén criteria, HAND-prevalence was reduced to 5% (95% CI 1-9) in HIV-infected men and to 1% (95% CI 1-3) among HIV-uninfected controls, indicating better specificity but reduced sensitivity. MNC identified cognitive impairment in 17% (95% CI 10-24) of HIV-infected men and in 5% (95% CI 0-10) of the control group (P = 0.02, one-tailed), showing an optimal balance between sensitivity and specificity. CONCLUSION Prevalence of cognitive impairment in HIV-1-infected men with suppressed viremia on cART estimated by MNC was much higher than that estimated by Gisslén criteria, while the false positive rate was greatly reduced compared with the Frascati criteria. VIDEO ABSTRACT :
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Kennedy CA, Zerbo E. HIV-Related Neurocognitive Disorders and Drugs of Abuse: Mired in Confound, Surrounded by Risk. CURRENT ADDICTION REPORTS 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s40429-014-0028-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Chang SL, Connaghan KP, Wei Y, Li MD. NeuroHIV and use of addictive substances. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2014; 118:403-40. [PMID: 25175871 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-801284-0.00013-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In the past three decades, substance abuse has been identified as a key comorbidity of human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) infection. Many studies have found that the use and abuse of addictive substances hastens the progression of HIV-1 infection and HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders. Advances in highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) in the mid-1990s have been successful in limiting the HIV-1 viral load and maintaining a relatively healthy immune response, allowing the life expectancy of patients infected with HIV to approach that of the general population. However, even with HAART, HIV-1 viral proteins are still expressed and eradication of the virus, particularly in the brain, the key reservoir organ, does not occur. In the post-HAART era, the clinical challenge in the treatment of HIV infection is inflammation of the central nervous system (CNS) and its subsequent neurological disorders. To date, various explicit and implicit connections have been identified between the neuronal circuitry involved in immune responses and brain regions affected by and implicated in substance abuse. This chapter discusses past and current medical uses of prototypical substances of abuse, including morphine, alcohol, cocaine, methamphetamine, marijuana, and nicotine, and the evidence that systemic infections, particularly HIV-1 infection, cause neurological dysfunction as a result of inflammation in the CNS, which can increase the risk of substance abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sulie L Chang
- Institute of NeuroImmune Pharmacology, Seton Hall University, South Orange, New Jersey, USA; Department of Biological Sciences, Seton Hall University, South Orange, New Jersey, USA.
| | - Kaitlyn P Connaghan
- Institute of NeuroImmune Pharmacology, Seton Hall University, South Orange, New Jersey, USA
| | - Yufeng Wei
- Institute of NeuroImmune Pharmacology, Seton Hall University, South Orange, New Jersey, USA
| | - Ming D Li
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
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Abstract
The session, "HIV and other Infectious Diseases," was chaired by Dr. Jacques Normand, Director of the AIDS Research Program of the U.S. National Institute on Drug Abuse. The two presenters (and their presentation topics) were: Dr. Linda Chang ("Neural Correlates of Cognitive Deficits and Training Effects on Brain Function in HIV-infected Individuals") and Dr. Steven Shoptaw ("HIV Prevention in Substance Users").
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Chang L, Munsaka SM, Kraft-Terry S, Ernst T. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy to assess neuroinflammation and neuropathic pain. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2013; 8:576-93. [PMID: 23666436 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-013-9460-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 199] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2013] [Accepted: 04/14/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy ((1)H MRS) has been applied to numerous clinical studies, especially for neurological disorders. This technique can non-invasively evaluate brain metabolites and neurochemicals in selected brain regions and is particularly useful for assessing neuroinflammatory disorders. Neurometabolites assessed with MRS include the neuronal markers N-acetylaspartate (NAA) and glutamate (Glu), as well as the glial marker myo-inositol (MI). Therefore, the concentrations of these metabolites typically correspond to disease severity and often correlate well with clinical variables in the various brain disorders. Neuroinflammation with activated astrocytes and microglia in brain disorders are often associated with elevated MI, and to a lesser extent elevated total creatine (tCr) and choline containing compounds (Cho), which are found in higher concentrations in glia than neurons, while neuronal injury is indicated by lower than normal levels of NAA and Glu. This review summarizes the neurometabolite abnormalities found in MRS studies performed in patients with neuroinflammatory disorders or neuropathic pain, which also may be associated with neuroinflammation. These brain disorders include multiple sclerosis, neuroviral infections (including Human Immunodeficiency virus and Hepatitis C), degenerative brain disorders (including Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease), stimulant abuse (including methamphetamine and cocaine) as well as several chronic pain syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Chang
- Department of Medicine, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawai'i at Manoa, Neuroscience and Magnetic Resonance Research Program, The Queen's Medical Center, 1356 Lusitana Street, UH Tower 7th Floor, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA.
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