1
|
Squire E, Lee HL, Jeong W, Lee S, Ravichandiran V, Limoli CL, Piomelli D, Parihar VK, Jung KM. Targeting dysfunctional endocannabinoid signaling in a mouse model of Gulf War illness. Neuropharmacology 2024; 261:110142. [PMID: 39241906 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2024.110142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2024] [Revised: 07/30/2024] [Accepted: 09/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024]
Abstract
Gulf War Illness (GWI) is a chronic disorder characterized by a heterogeneous set of symptoms that include pain, fatigue, anxiety, and cognitive impairment. These are thought to stem from damage caused by exposure under unpredictable stress to toxic Gulf War (GW) chemicals, which include pesticides, nerve agents, and prophylactic drugs. We hypothesized that GWI pathogenesis might be rooted in long-lasting disruption of the endocannabinoid (ECB) system, a signaling complex that serves important protective functions in the brain. Using a mouse model of GWI, we found that tissue levels of the ECB messenger, anandamide, were significantly reduced in the brain of diseased mice, compared to healthy controls. In addition, transcription of the Faah gene, which encodes for fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), the enzyme that deactivates anandamide, was significant elevated in prefrontal cortex of GWI mice and brain microglia. Behavioral deficits exhibited by these animals, including heightened anxiety-like and depression-like behaviors, and defective extinction of fearful memories, were corrected by administration of the FAAH inhibitor, URB597, which normalized brain anandamide levels. Furthermore, GWI mice displayed unexpected changes in the microglial transcriptome, implying persistent dampening of homeostatic surveillance genes and abnormal expression of pro-inflammatory genes upon immune stimulation. Together, these results suggest that exposure to GW chemicals produce a deficit in brain ECB signaling which is associated with persistent alterations in microglial function. Pharmacological normalization of anandamide-mediated ECB signaling may offer an effective therapeutic strategy for ameliorating GWI symptomology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erica Squire
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Hye-Lim Lee
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Woojin Jeong
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Sumin Lee
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - V Ravichandiran
- National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hajipur, Bihar, 844102, India
| | - Charles L Limoli
- Radiation Oncology, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA; Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Vipan Kumar Parihar
- National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hajipur, Bihar, 844102, India; Radiation Oncology, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA.
| | - Kwang-Mook Jung
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Trojan V, Landa L, Šulcová A, Slíva J, Hřib R. The Main Therapeutic Applications of Cannabidiol (CBD) and Its Potential Effects on Aging with Respect to Alzheimer's Disease. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1446. [PMID: 37892128 PMCID: PMC10604144 DOI: 10.3390/biom13101446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of cannabinoids (substances contained specifically in hemp plants) for therapeutic purposes has received increased attention in recent years. Presently, attention is paid to two main cannabinoids: delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). With respect to the psychotropic effects and dependence potential of THC (though it is very mild), its use is associated with certain restrictions, and thus the therapeutic properties of CBD are frequently emphasized because there are no limitations associated with the risk of dependence. Therefore, this review covers the main pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic features of CBD (including characteristics of endocannabinoidome) with respect to its possible beneficial effects on selected diseases in clinical practice. A substantial part of the text deals with the main effects of CBD on aging, including Alzheimer's disease and related underlying mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Václav Trojan
- International Clinical Research Centre, Cannabis Facility, St. Anne’s University Hospital, Pekařská 53, 602 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Leoš Landa
- International Clinical Research Centre, Cannabis Facility, St. Anne’s University Hospital, Pekařská 53, 602 00 Brno, Czech Republic
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Alexandra Šulcová
- International Clinical Research Centre, Cannabis Facility, St. Anne’s University Hospital, Pekařská 53, 602 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jiří Slíva
- Department of Pharmacology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Ruská 87, 100 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Radovan Hřib
- International Clinical Research Centre, Cannabis Facility, St. Anne’s University Hospital, Pekařská 53, 602 00 Brno, Czech Republic
- Centre for Pain Management, Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, St. Anne’s University Hospital, Pekařská 53, 602 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zhu Y, Huang R, Wang D, Yu L, Liu Y, Huang R, Yin S, He X, Chen B, Liu Z, Cheng L, Zhu R. EVs-mediated delivery of CB2 receptor agonist for Alzheimer's disease therapy. Asian J Pharm Sci 2023; 18:100835. [PMID: 37645682 PMCID: PMC10460952 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajps.2023.100835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a typical neurodegenerative disease that leads to irreversible neuronal degeneration, and effective treatment remains elusive due to the unclear mechanism. We utilized biocompatible mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles as carriers loaded with the CB2 target medicine AM1241 (EVs-AM1241) to protect against neurodegenerative progression and neuronal function in AD model mice. According to the results, EVs-AM1241 were successfully constructed and exhibited better bioavailability and therapeutic effects than bare AM1241. The Morris water maze (MWM) and fear conditioning tests revealed that the learning and memory of EVs-AM1241-treated model mice were significantly improved. In vivo electrophysiological recording of CA1 neurons indicated enhanced response to an auditory conditioned stimulus following fear learning. Immunostaining and Western blot analysis showed that amyloid plaque deposition and amyloid β (Aβ)-induced neuronal apoptosis were significantly suppressed by EVs-AM1241. Moreover, EVs-AM1241 increased the number of neurons and restored the neuronal cytoskeleton, indicating that they enhanced neuronal regeneration. RNA sequencing revealed that EVs-AM1241 facilitated Aβ phagocytosis, promoted neurogenesis and ultimately improved learning and memory through the calcium-Erk signaling pathway. Our study showed that EVs-AM1241 efficiently reversed neurodegenerative pathology and enhanced neurogenesis in model mice, indicating that they are very promising particles for treating AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanjing Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury Repair and Regeneration of Ministry of Education, Department of Orthopaedics, Tongji Hospital, School of Life Science and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200065, China
- Frontier Science Center for Stem Cell Research, Tongji University, Shanghai 200065, China
| | - Ruiqi Huang
- Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury Repair and Regeneration of Ministry of Education, Department of Orthopaedics, Tongji Hospital, School of Life Science and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200065, China
| | - Deheng Wang
- School of Basic Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Liqun Yu
- Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury Repair and Regeneration of Ministry of Education, Department of Orthopaedics, Tongji Hospital, School of Life Science and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200065, China
| | - Yuchen Liu
- Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury Repair and Regeneration of Ministry of Education, Department of Orthopaedics, Tongji Hospital, School of Life Science and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200065, China
| | - Runzhi Huang
- Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury Repair and Regeneration of Ministry of Education, Department of Orthopaedics, Tongji Hospital, School of Life Science and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200065, China
| | - Shuai Yin
- Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury Repair and Regeneration of Ministry of Education, Department of Orthopaedics, Tongji Hospital, School of Life Science and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200065, China
| | - Xiaolie He
- Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury Repair and Regeneration of Ministry of Education, Department of Orthopaedics, Tongji Hospital, School of Life Science and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200065, China
| | - Bairu Chen
- Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury Repair and Regeneration of Ministry of Education, Department of Orthopaedics, Tongji Hospital, School of Life Science and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200065, China
| | - Zhibo Liu
- Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury Repair and Regeneration of Ministry of Education, Department of Orthopaedics, Tongji Hospital, School of Life Science and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200065, China
| | - Liming Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury Repair and Regeneration of Ministry of Education, Department of Orthopaedics, Tongji Hospital, School of Life Science and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200065, China
- Frontier Science Center for Stem Cell Research, Tongji University, Shanghai 200065, China
- Clinical Center For Brain And Spinal Cord Research, Tongji University, Shanghai 200065, China
| | - Rongrong Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury Repair and Regeneration of Ministry of Education, Department of Orthopaedics, Tongji Hospital, School of Life Science and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200065, China
- Frontier Science Center for Stem Cell Research, Tongji University, Shanghai 200065, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Terradillos I, Bonilla-Del Río I, Puente N, Serrano M, Mimenza A, Lekunberri L, Anaut-Lusar I, Reguero L, Gerrikagoitia I, Ruiz de Martín Esteban S, Hillard CJ, Grande MT, Romero J, Elezgarai I, Grandes P. Altered glial expression of the cannabinoid 1 receptor in the subiculum of a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. Glia 2023; 71:866-879. [PMID: 36437738 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The alteration of the endocannabinoid tone usually associates with changes in the expression and/or function of the cannabinoid CB1 receptor. In Alzheimer's disease (AD), amyloid beta (Aβ)-containing aggregates induce a chronic inflammatory response leading to reactivity of both microglia and astrocytes. However, how this glial response impacts on the glial CB1 receptor expression in the subiculum of a mouse model of AD, a brain region particularly affected by large accumulation of plaques and concomitant subcellular changes in microglia and astrocytes, is unknown. The CB1 receptor localization in both glial cells was investigated in the subiculum of male 5xFAD/CB2 EGFP/f/f (AD model) and CB2 EGFP/f/f mice by immuno-electron microscopy. The findings revealed that glial CB1 receptors suffer remarkable changes in the AD mouse. Thus, CB1 receptor expression increases in reactive microglia in 5xFAD/CB2 EGFP/f/f , but remains constant in astrocytes with CB1 receptor labeling rising proportionally to the perimeter of the reactive astrocytes. Not least, the CB1 receptor localization in microglial processes in the subiculum of controls and closely surrounding amyloid plaques and dystrophic neurites of the AD model, supports previous suggestions of the presence of the CB1 receptor in microglia. These findings on the correlation between glial reactivity and the CB1 receptor expression in microglial cells and astrocytes, contribute to the understanding of the role of the endocannabinoid system in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Itziar Terradillos
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain.,Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Leioa, Spain
| | - Itziar Bonilla-Del Río
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain.,Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Leioa, Spain
| | - Nagore Puente
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain.,Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Leioa, Spain
| | - Maitane Serrano
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain.,Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Leioa, Spain
| | - Amaia Mimenza
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain.,Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Leioa, Spain
| | - Leire Lekunberri
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain.,Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Leioa, Spain
| | - Ilazki Anaut-Lusar
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain.,Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Leioa, Spain
| | - Leire Reguero
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain.,Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Leioa, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Gerrikagoitia
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain.,Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Leioa, Spain
| | | | - Cecilia J Hillard
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Neuroscience Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - María T Grande
- Faculty of Experimental Sciences, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Spain
| | - Julián Romero
- Faculty of Experimental Sciences, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Spain
| | - Izaskun Elezgarai
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain.,Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Leioa, Spain
| | - Pedro Grandes
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain.,Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Leioa, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ruiz de Martín Esteban S, Benito-Cuesta I, Terradillos I, Martínez-Relimpio AM, Arnanz MA, Ruiz-Pérez G, Korn C, Raposo C, Sarott RC, Westphal MV, Elezgarai I, Carreira EM, Hillard CJ, Grether U, Grandes P, Grande MT, Romero J. Cannabinoid CB 2 Receptors Modulate Microglia Function and Amyloid Dynamics in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:841766. [PMID: 35645832 PMCID: PMC9136843 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.841766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The distribution and roles of the cannabinoid CB2 receptor in the CNS are still a matter of debate. Recent data suggest that, in addition to its presence in microglial cells, the CB2 receptor may be also expressed at low levels, yet biologically relevant, in other cell types such as neurons. It is accepted that the expression of CB2 receptors in the CNS is low under physiological conditions and is significantly elevated in chronic neuroinflammatory states associated with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. By using a novel mouse model (CB2 EGFP/f/f), we studied the distribution of cannabinoid CB2 receptors in the 5xFAD mouse model of Alzheimer's disease (by generating 5xFAD/CB2 EGFP/f/f mice) and explored the roles of CB2 receptors in microglial function. We used a novel selective and brain penetrant CB2 receptor agonist (RO6866945) as well as mice lacking the CB2 receptor (5xFAD/CB2 -/-) for these studies. We found that CB2 receptors are expressed in dystrophic neurite-associated microglia and that their modulation modifies the number and activity of microglial cells as well as the metabolism of the insoluble form of the amyloid peptide. These results support microglial CB2 receptors as potential targets for the development of amyloid-modulating therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Irene Benito-Cuesta
- Faculty of Experimental Sciences, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Spain
| | - Itziar Terradillos
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain.,Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Science Park of the University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain
| | - Ana M Martínez-Relimpio
- Faculty of Experimental Sciences, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Spain
| | - M Andrea Arnanz
- Faculty of Experimental Sciences, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Spain
| | - Gonzalo Ruiz-Pérez
- Faculty of Experimental Sciences, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Spain
| | - Claudia Korn
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland
| | - Catarina Raposo
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland
| | - Roman C Sarott
- Laboratorium Für Organische Chemie, Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Matthias V Westphal
- Laboratorium Für Organische Chemie, Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Izaskun Elezgarai
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain.,Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Science Park of the University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain
| | - Erick M Carreira
- Laboratorium Für Organische Chemie, Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Cecilia J Hillard
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Neuroscience Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Uwe Grether
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland
| | - Pedro Grandes
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain.,Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Science Park of the University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain
| | - M Teresa Grande
- Faculty of Experimental Sciences, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Spain
| | - Julián Romero
- Faculty of Experimental Sciences, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Advancements in the development of multi-target directed ligands for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Bioorg Med Chem 2022; 61:116742. [PMID: 35398739 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2022.116742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a multifactorial irreversible neurological disorder which results in cognitive impairment, loss of cholinergic neurons in synapses of the basal forebrain and neuronal death. Exact pathology of the disease is not yet known however, many hypotheses have been proposed for its treatment. The available treatments including monotherapies and combination therapies are not able to combat the disease effectively because of its complex pathological mechanism. A multipotent drug for AD has the potential to bind or inhibit multiple targets responsible for the progression of the disease like aggregated Aβ, hyperphosphorylated tau proteins, cholinergic and adrenergic receptors, MAO enzymes, overactivated N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA), α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptor etc. The traditional approach of one disease-one target-one drug has been rationalized to one drug-multi targets for the chronic diseases like AD and cancer. Thus, over the last decade research focus has been shifted towards the development of multi target directed ligands (MTDLs) which can simultaneously inhibit multiple targets and stop or slow the progression of the disease. The MTDLs can be more effective against AD and eliminate any possibility of drug-drug interactions. Many important active pharmacophore units have been fused, merged or incorporated into different scaffolds to synthesize new potent drugs. In the current article, we have described various hypothesis for AD and effectiveness of the MTDLs treatment strategy is discussed in detail. Different chemical scaffolds and their synthetic strategies have been described and important functionalities are identified in the chemical scaffold that have the potential to bind to the multiple targets. The important leads identified in this study with MTDL characteristics have the potential to be developed as drug candidates for the effective treatment of AD.
Collapse
|
7
|
Petekkaya E, Kuş B, Doğan S, Bayaroğulları H, Mutlu T, Murat Melek İ, Arpacı A. Possible role of endocannabinoids in olfactory and taste dysfunctions in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's patients and volumetric changes in the brain. J Clin Neurosci 2022; 100:52-58. [PMID: 35398594 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2022.03.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to determine the volumes of primary brain regions associated with smell and taste in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's patients and healthy controls using MR imaging and examine volumetric changes in comparison to smell/taste questionnaire and test results and endocannabinoid (EC) levels. The study included 15 AD patients with mild cognitive dysfunction scored as 18 ≤ MMSE ≤ 23, 15 PD patients with scores of 18 < MoCA < 26 and 18 ≤ MMSE ≤ 23, and 15 healthy controls. A taste and smell questionnaire was given to the participants, and their taste and smell statuses were examined using the Sniffin' Sticks smell identification test and Burghart Taste Strips. EC levels were analyzed in the blood serum samples of the participants using the ELISA method. The volumes of the left olfactory bulb (p = 0.001), left amygdala (p = 0.004), left hippocampus (p = 0.008), and bilateral insula (left p = 0.000, right p = 0.000) were significantly smaller in the Alzheimer's patients than the healthy controls. The volumes of the left olfactory bulb (p = 0.001) and left hippocampus (p = 0.009) were significantly smaller in the Parkinson's patients than the healthy controls. A significant correlation was determined between volume reduction in the left Rolandic operculum cortical region and taste dysfunction. EC levels were significantly higher in both AD (p = 0.000) and PD (p = 0.006) in comparison to the controls. Our results showed that volumetric changes occur in the brain regions associated with smell and taste in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's patients. It was observed that ECs played a role in these volumetric changes and the olfactory and taste dysfunctions of the patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emine Petekkaya
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Kastamonu University, Kastamonu, Turkey.
| | - Berna Kuş
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mustafa Kemal University, Hatay, Turkey
| | - Serdar Doğan
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mustafa Kemal University, Hatay, Turkey
| | - Hanifi Bayaroğulları
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mustafa Kemal University, Hatay, Turkey
| | - Turay Mutlu
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Mustafa Kemal University, Hatay, Turkey
| | - İsmet Murat Melek
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Mustafa Kemal University, Hatay, Turkey
| | - Abdullah Arpacı
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mustafa Kemal University, Hatay, Turkey.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Coles M, Watt G, Kreilaus F, Karl T. Medium-Dose Chronic Cannabidiol Treatment Reverses Object Recognition Memory Deficits of APP Swe /PS1ΔE9 Transgenic Female Mice. Front Pharmacol 2021; 11:587604. [PMID: 33424597 PMCID: PMC7789874 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.587604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease that causes behavioral and cognitive impairments. The phytocannabinoid cannabidiol (CBD) has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties, and in vitro and limited in vivo evidence suggests that CBD possesses therapeutic-like properties for the treatment of AD. Cannabinoids are known to have dose-dependent effects and the therapeutic potential of medium-dose CBD for AD transgenic mice has not been assessed in great detail yet. 12-month-old control and APP Swe /PS1ΔE9 (APPxPS1) transgenic female mice were treated daily via intraperitoneal injection with 5 mg/kg bodyweight CBD (or vehicle) commencing three weeks prior to the assessment of behavioral domains including anxiety, exploration, locomotion, motor functions, cognition, and sensorimotor gating. APPxPS1 mice exhibited a hyperlocomotive and anxiogenic-like phenotype and had wild type-like motor and spatial learning abilities, although AD transgenic mice took generally longer to complete the cheeseboard training (due to a lower locomotion speed). Furthermore spatial learning and reversal learning was delayed by one day in APPxPS1 mice compared to control mice. All mice displayed intact spatial memory and retrieval memory, but APPxPS1 mice showed reduced levels of perseverance in the cheeseboard probe trial. Importantly, vehicle-treated APPxPS1 mice were characterized by object recognition deficits and delayed spatial learning, which were reversed by CBD treatment. Finally, impairments in sensorimotor gating of APPxPS1 mice were not affected by CBD. In conclusion, medium-dose CBD appears to have therapeutic value for the treatment of particular behavioral impairments present in AD patients. Future research should consider the molecular mechanisms behind CBD's beneficial properties for AD transgenic mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Madilyn Coles
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
| | - Georgia Watt
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
| | - Fabian Kreilaus
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
| | - Tim Karl
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia.,Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Reddy V, Grogan D, Ahluwalia M, Salles ÉL, Ahluwalia P, Khodadadi H, Alverson K, Nguyen A, Raju SP, Gaur P, Braun M, Vale FL, Costigliola V, Dhandapani K, Baban B, Vaibhav K. Targeting the endocannabinoid system: a predictive, preventive, and personalized medicine-directed approach to the management of brain pathologies. EPMA J 2020; 11:217-250. [PMID: 32549916 PMCID: PMC7272537 DOI: 10.1007/s13167-020-00203-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis-inspired medical products are garnering increasing attention from the scientific community, general public, and health policy makers. A plethora of scientific literature demonstrates intricate engagement of the endocannabinoid system with human immunology, psychology, developmental processes, neuronal plasticity, signal transduction, and metabolic regulation. Despite the therapeutic potential, the adverse psychoactive effects and historical stigma, cannabinoids have limited widespread clinical application. Therefore, it is plausible to weigh carefully the beneficial effects of cannabinoids against the potential adverse impacts for every individual. This is where the concept of "personalized medicine" as a promising approach for disease prediction and prevention may take into the account. The goal of this review is to provide an outline of the endocannabinoid system, including endocannabinoid metabolizing pathways, and will progress to a more in-depth discussion of the therapeutic interventions by endocannabinoids in various neurological disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vamsi Reddy
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA USA
| | - Dayton Grogan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA USA
| | - Meenakshi Ahluwalia
- Department of Pathology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA USA
| | - Évila Lopes Salles
- Department of Oral Biology and Diagnostic Sciences, Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA USA
| | - Pankaj Ahluwalia
- Department of Pathology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA USA
| | - Hesam Khodadadi
- Department of Oral Biology and Diagnostic Sciences, Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA USA
| | - Katelyn Alverson
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA USA
| | - Andy Nguyen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA USA
| | - Srikrishnan P. Raju
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA USA
- Brown University, Providence, RI USA
| | - Pankaj Gaur
- Georgia Cancer Center, Augusta University, Augusta, GA USA
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington DC, USA
| | - Molly Braun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, USA
- VISN 20 Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, USA
| | - Fernando L. Vale
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA USA
| | | | - Krishnan Dhandapani
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA USA
| | - Babak Baban
- Department of Oral Biology and Diagnostic Sciences, Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA USA
| | - Kumar Vaibhav
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Crunfli F, Vrechi TA, Costa AP, Torrão AS. Cannabinoid Receptor Type 1 Agonist ACEA Improves Cognitive Deficit on STZ-Induced Neurotoxicity Through Apoptosis Pathway and NO Modulation. Neurotox Res 2019; 35:516-529. [PMID: 30607903 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-018-9991-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2018] [Revised: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 12/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The cannabinoid system has the ability to modulate cellular and molecular mechanisms, including excitotoxicity, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation, acting as a neuroprotective agent, by its relationship with signaling pathways associated to the control of cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival. Recent reports have raised new perspectives on the possible role of cannabinoid system in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer disease's (AD). AD is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the presence of amyloid plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, neuronal death, and progressive cognitive loss, which could be caused by energy metabolism impairment, changes in insulin signaling, chronic oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, Tau hyperphosphorylation, and Aβ deposition in the brain. Thus, we investigated the presumptive protective effect of the cannabinoid type 1 (CB1)-selective receptor agonist arachidonyl-2'-chloroethylamide (ACEA) against streptozotocin (STZ) exposure stimuli in an in vitro neuronal model (Neuro-2a neuroblastoma cells) and in vivo model (intracerebroventricular STZ injection), experimental models of sporadic AD. Our results demonstrated that ACEA treatment reversed cognitive impairment and increased activity of Akt and ERK triggered by STZ, and increased IR expression and increased the anti-apoptotic proteins levels, Bcl-2. In the in vitro model, ACEA was able to rescue cells from STZ-triggered death and modulated the NO release by STZ. Our study has demonstrated a participation of the cannabinoid system in cellular survival, involving the CB1 receptor, which occurs by positive regulation of the anti-apoptotic proteins, suggesting the participation of this system in neurodegenerative processes. Our data suggest that the cannabinoid system is an interesting therapeutic target for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Crunfli
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 1524, São Paulo, SP, 05508-000, Brazil.
| | - Talita A Vrechi
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 1524, São Paulo, SP, 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Andressa P Costa
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 1524, São Paulo, SP, 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Andréa S Torrão
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 1524, São Paulo, SP, 05508-000, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Karl T, Garner B, Cheng D. The therapeutic potential of the phytocannabinoid cannabidiol for Alzheimer's disease. Behav Pharmacol 2018; 28:142-160. [PMID: 27471947 DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0000000000000247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disorder, characterized by progressive loss of cognition. Over 35 million individuals currently have AD worldwide. Unfortunately, current therapies are limited to very modest symptomatic relief. The brains of AD patients are characterized by the deposition of amyloid-β and hyperphosphorylated forms of tau protein. AD brains also show neurodegeneration and high levels of oxidative stress and inflammation. The phytocannabinoid cannabidiol (CBD) possesses neuroprotective, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and reduces amyloid-β production and tau hyperphosphorylation in vitro. CBD has also been shown to be effective in vivo making the phytocannabinoid an interesting candidate for novel therapeutic interventions in AD, especially as it lacks psychoactive or cognition-impairing properties. CBD treatment would be in line with preventative, multimodal drug strategies targeting a combination of pathological symptoms, which might be ideal for AD therapy. Thus, this review will present a brief introduction to AD biology and current treatment options before outlining comprehensively CBD biology and pharmacology, followed by in-vitro and in-vivo evidence for the therapeutic potential of CBD. We will also discuss the role of the endocannabinioid system in AD before commenting on the potential future of CBD for AD therapy (including safety aspects).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tim Karl
- aSchool of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown bNeuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA), Randwick cIllawarra Health and Medical Research Institute dSchool of Biological Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong eVictor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
|
13
|
Wang H, Zhou J, Liu QZ, Wang LL, Shang J. Simvastatin and Bezafibrate ameliorate Emotional disorder Induced by High fat diet in C57BL/6 mice. Sci Rep 2017; 7:2335. [PMID: 28539670 PMCID: PMC5443827 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-02576-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2016] [Accepted: 04/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
High fat diet (HFD)-induced metabolic disorders may lead to emotional disorders. This study aimed to explore the effect of simvastatin (SMV) and bezafibrate (BZ) on improving HFD-induced emotional changes, and tried to identify their different mechanisms. The intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test (IPGTT) was used to evaluate glucose control ability; and behavior tests including open field tests (OFT), forced swimming tests (FST), tail suspension tests (TST) and sucrose preference (SPT), were then performed to evaluate emotional changes. Serum samples were collected for the LC-MS based metabolomics analysis to explore the emotional-related differential compounds; we then evaluated the effect of the drugs. The abnormal serum metabolic profiling and emotional changes caused by HFD in mice was alleviated by SMV treatment, whereas BZ only affected the emotional disorder. The improvement of cannabinoid analogues and then produced influences on the endocannabinoid system, which may be a potential mechanism SMV action. BZ promoted tryptophan-serotonin pathway and inhibited tryptophan-kynurenine pathway, which may be its mechanism of action. Here, we proposed a shed light on the biological mechanisms underlying the observed effects, and identified an important drug candidate for the treatment of emotional disorders induced by HFD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of TCM Evaluation and Translational Research, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Jia Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of TCM Evaluation and Translational Research, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Qiong Zhen Liu
- Qinghai Key Laboratory of Tibetan Medicine Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, 810008, Qinghai Province, P.R. China
| | - Lu Lu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of TCM Evaluation and Translational Research, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Jing Shang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China. .,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of TCM Evaluation and Translational Research, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Slavik R, Müller Herde A, Haider A, Krämer SD, Weber M, Schibli R, Ametamey SM, Mu L. Discovery of a fluorinated 4-oxo-quinoline derivative as a potential positron emission tomography radiotracer for imaging cannabinoid receptor type 2. J Neurochem 2016; 138:874-86. [PMID: 27385045 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.13716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2016] [Revised: 06/08/2016] [Accepted: 06/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2) is part of the endocannabinoid system and has gained growing attention in recent years because of its important role in neuroinflammatory/neurodegenerative diseases. Recently, we reported on a carbon-11 labeled 4-oxo-quinoline derivative, designated RS-016, as a promising radiotracer for imaging CB2 using PET. In this study, three novel fluorinated analogs of RS-016 were designed, synthesized, and pharmacologically evaluated. The results of our efforts led to the identification of N-(1-adamantyl)-1-(2-(2-fluoroethoxy)ethyl)-8-methoxy-4-oxo-1,4-dihydroquinoline-3-carboxamide (RS-126) as the most potent candidate for evaluation as a CB2 PET ligand. [(18) F]RS-126 was obtained in ≥ 99% radiochemical purity with an average specific radioactivity of 98 GBq/μmol at the end of the radiosynthesis. [(18) F]RS-126 showed a logD7.4 value of 1.99 and is stable in vitro in rat and human plasma over 120 min, whereas 55% intact parent compound was found in vivo in rat blood plasma at 10 min post injection. In vitro autoradiographic studies with CB2-positive rat spleen tissue revealed high and blockable binding which was confirmed in in vivo displacement experiments with rats by dynamic PET imaging. Ex vivo biodistribution studies confirmed accumulation of [(18) F]RS-126 in rat spleen with a specificity of 79% under blocking conditions. The moderate elevated CB2 levels in LPS-treated mice brain did not permit the detection of CB2 by [(18) F]RS-126 using PET imaging. In summary, [(18) F]RS-126 demonstrated high specificity toward CB2 receptor in vitro and in vivo and is a promising radioligand for imaging CB2 receptor expression. Cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2) is an interesting target for PET imaging. Specific binding of [(18) F]RS-126 in CB2-positive spleen tissue (white arrow head) was confirmed in in vivo displacement experiments with rats. Time activity curve of [(18) F]RS-126 in the spleen after the addition of GW405833 (CB2 specific ligand, green) demonstrates faster radiotracer elimination (blue) compared to the tracer only (red).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roger Slavik
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Ahmed Haider
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Stefanie D Krämer
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Markus Weber
- Neuromuscular Diseases Unit/ALS Clinic, Kantonsspital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Roger Schibli
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Simon M Ametamey
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Linjing Mu
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland. .,Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Javid FA, Phillips RM, Afshinjavid S, Verde R, Ligresti A. Cannabinoid pharmacology in cancer research: A new hope for cancer patients? Eur J Pharmacol 2016; 775:1-14. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2016.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2015] [Revised: 01/05/2016] [Accepted: 02/03/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
|
16
|
Application of a novel metabolomic approach based on atmospheric pressure photoionization mass spectrometry using flow injection analysis for the study of Alzheimer׳s disease. Talanta 2015; 131:480-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2014.07.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2014] [Revised: 07/21/2014] [Accepted: 07/25/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
|
17
|
Abstract
The ECs (endocannabinoids) AEA (anandamide) and 2-AG (2-arachidonoylglycerol) and their lipid congeners OEA (N-oleoylethanolamide) and PEA (N-palmitoylethanolamide) are multifunctional lipophilic signalling molecules. The ECs, OEA and PEA have multiple physiological roles including involvement in learning and memory, neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, neuroprotection and neurogenesis. They have also been implicated in the pathology of, or perhaps protective responses to, neurodegenerative diseases. This is particularly the case with Alzheimer's disease, the most common age-related dementia associated with impairments in learning and memory accompanied by neuroinflammation, oxidative stress and neurodegeneration. The present mini-review examines the evidence supporting the roles that ECs appear to play in Alzheimer's disease and the potential for beneficial therapeutic manipulation of the EC signalling system.
Collapse
|
18
|
Cheng D, Low JK, Logge W, Garner B, Karl T. Chronic cannabidiol treatment improves social and object recognition in double transgenic APPswe/PS1∆E9 mice. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2014; 231:3009-17. [PMID: 24577515 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-014-3478-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2013] [Accepted: 01/27/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Patients suffering from Alzheimer's disease (AD) exhibit a decline in cognitive abilities including an inability to recognise familiar faces. Hallmark pathological changes in AD include the aggregation of amyloid-β (Aβ), tau protein hyperphosphorylation as well as pronounced neurodegeneration, neuroinflammation, neurotoxicity and oxidative damage. OBJECTIVES The non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid cannabidiol (CBD) exerts neuroprotective, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and promotes neurogenesis. CBD also reverses Aβ-induced spatial memory deficits in rodents. MATERIALS AND METHODS Thus we determined the therapeutic-like effects of chronic CBD treatment (20 mg/kg, daily intraperitoneal injections for 3 weeks) on the APPswe/PS1∆E9 (APPxPS1) transgenic mouse model for AD in a number of cognitive tests, including the social preference test, the novel object recognition task and the fear conditioning paradigm. We also analysed the impact of CBD on anxiety behaviours in the elevated plus maze. RESULTS Vehicle-treated APPxPS1 mice demonstrated impairments in social recognition and novel object recognition compared to wild type-like mice. Chronic CBD treatment reversed these cognitive deficits in APPxPS1 mice without affecting anxiety-related behaviours. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study to investigate the effect of chronic CBD treatment on cognition in an AD transgenic mouse model. Our findings suggest that CBD may have therapeutic potential for specific cognitive impairments associated with AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Cheng
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Barker St, Randwick, NSW, 2031, Australia
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Mu L, Bieri D, Slavik R, Drandarov K, Müller A, Cermak S, Weber M, Schibli R, Krämer SD, Ametamey SM. Radiolabeling and in vitro /in vivo evaluation of N-(1-adamantyl)-8-methoxy-4-oxo-1-phenyl-1,4-dihydroquinoline-3-carboxamide as a PET probe for imaging cannabinoid type 2 receptor. J Neurochem 2013; 126:616-24. [PMID: 23795580 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.12354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2013] [Revised: 06/12/2013] [Accepted: 06/19/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The cannabinoid type 2 (CB2) receptor plays an important role in neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Alzheimer’s disease and is therefore a very promising target for therapeutic approaches as well as for imaging. Based on the literature, we identified one 4-oxoquinoline derivative(designated KD2) as the lead structure. It was synthesized, radiolabeled and evaluated as a potential imaging tracer for CB2. [11C]KD2 was obtained in 99% radiochemical purity.Moderate blood–brain barrier (BBB) passage was predicted for KD2 from an in vitro transport assay with P-glycoprotein-transfected Madin Darby canine kidney cells. No efflux of KD2 by P-glycoprotein was detected. In vitro autoradiography of rat and mouse spleen slices demonstrated that [11C]KD2 exhibits high specific binding towards CB2. High spleen uptake of [11C]KD2 was observed in dynamic positron emission tomography(PET) studies with Wistar rats and its specificity was confirmed by displacement study with a selective CB2 agonist, GW405833. A pilot autoradiography study with post-mortem spinal cord slices from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)patients with [11C]KD2 suggested the presence of CB2 receptors under disease conditions. Specificity of [11C]KD2 binding could also be demonstrated on these human tissues. In conclusion, [11C]KD2 shows good in vitro and in vivo properties as a potential PET tracer for CB2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linjing Mu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Center for Radiopharmaceutical Sciences of ETH-PSI-USZ, University Hospital Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
WIN55212-2 attenuates amyloid-beta-induced neuroinflammation in rats through activation of cannabinoid receptors and PPAR-γ pathway. Neuropharmacology 2012; 63:653-66. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2012.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2011] [Revised: 04/27/2012] [Accepted: 05/13/2012] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
|
21
|
D'Addario C, Di Francesco A, Arosio B, Gussago C, Dell'Osso B, Bari M, Galimberti D, Scarpini E, Altamura AC, Mari D, Maccarrone M. Epigenetic regulation of fatty acid amide hydrolase in Alzheimer disease. PLoS One 2012; 7:e39186. [PMID: 22720070 PMCID: PMC3373611 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0039186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2012] [Accepted: 05/21/2012] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Alzheimer disease (AD) is a progressive, degenerative and irreversible neurological disorder with few therapies available. In search for new potential targets, increasing evidence suggests a role for the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the regulation of neurodegenerative processes. METHODS We have studied the gene expression status and the epigenetic regulation of ECS components in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of subjects with late-onset AD (LOAD) and age-matched controls (CT). RESULTS We found an increase in fatty acid amide hydrolase (faah) gene expression in LOAD subjects (2.30 ± 0.48) when compared to CT (1.00 ± 0.14; *p<0.05) and no changes in the mRNA levels of any other gene of ECS elements. Consistently, we also observed in LOAD subjects an increase in FAAH protein levels (CT: 0.75 ± 0.04; LOAD: 1.11 ± 0.15; *p<0.05) and activity (pmol/min per mg protein CT: 103.80 ± 8.73; LOAD: 125.10 ± 4.00; *p<0.05), as well as a reduction in DNA methylation at faah gene promoter (CT: 55.90 ± 4.60%; LOAD: 41.20 ± 4.90%; *p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS Present findings suggest the involvement of FAAH in the pathogenesis of AD, highlighting the importance of epigenetic mechanisms in enzyme regulation; they also point to FAAH as a new potential biomarker for AD in easily accessible peripheral cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudio D'Addario
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | | | - Beatrice Arosio
- Geriatric Unit, Department of Medical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Fondazione Cà Granda, IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Cristina Gussago
- Geriatric Unit, Department of Medical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Fondazione Cà Granda, IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Bernardo Dell'Osso
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Milan, Fondazione Cà Granda, IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Monica Bari
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
- European Center for Brain Research (CERC)/IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Galimberti
- Department of Neurological Sciences, “Dino Ferrari” Center, University of Milan, Fondazione Cà Granda, IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Elio Scarpini
- Department of Neurological Sciences, “Dino Ferrari” Center, University of Milan, Fondazione Cà Granda, IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - A. Carlo Altamura
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Milan, Fondazione Cà Granda, IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniela Mari
- Geriatric Unit, Department of Medical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Fondazione Cà Granda, IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Mauro Maccarrone
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
- European Center for Brain Research (CERC)/IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Karl T, Cheng D, Garner B, Arnold JC. The therapeutic potential of the endocannabinoid system for Alzheimer's disease. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2012; 16:407-20. [PMID: 22448595 DOI: 10.1517/14728222.2012.671812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Dementia currently affects over 35 million people worldwide. The most common form of dementia is Alzheimer's disease (AD). Currently, treatments for AD do not stop or reverse the progression of the disease and they are accompanied by side effects. AREAS COVERED The main features of AD pathology, treatment options currently available, the endocannabinoid system and its functionality in general and its role in AD pathology in detail will be outlined. A particular focus will be on the therapeutic potential of the phytocannabinoid cannabidiol. EXPERT OPINION Based on the complex pathology of AD, a preventative, multimodal drug approach targeting a combination of pathological AD symptoms appears ideal. Importantly, cannabinoids show anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective and antioxidant properties and have immunosuppressive effects. Thus, the cannabinoid system should be a prime target for AD therapy. The cannabinoid receptor 2 appears to be a promising candidate but its role in AD has to be investigated cautiously. Furthermore, the phytocannabinoid cannabidiol is of particular interest as it lacks the psychoactive and cognition-impairing properties of other cannabinoids. In conclusion, future research should focus on the evaluation of the effects of manipulations to the endocannabinoid system in established animal models for AD, combined with early-phase studies in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tim Karl
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick, NSW, Australia.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Martín-Moreno AM, Brera B, Spuch C, Carro E, García-García L, Delgado M, Pozo MA, Innamorato NG, Cuadrado A, de Ceballos ML. Prolonged oral cannabinoid administration prevents neuroinflammation, lowers β-amyloid levels and improves cognitive performance in Tg APP 2576 mice. J Neuroinflammation 2012; 9:8. [PMID: 22248049 PMCID: PMC3292807 DOI: 10.1186/1742-2094-9-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 165] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2011] [Accepted: 01/16/2012] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Alzheimer's disease (AD) brain shows an ongoing inflammatory condition and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories diminish the risk of suffering the neurologic disease. Cannabinoids are neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory agents with therapeutic potential. Methods We have studied the effects of prolonged oral administration of transgenic amyloid precursor protein (APP) mice with two pharmacologically different cannabinoids (WIN 55,212-2 and JWH-133, 0.2 mg/kg/day in the drinking water during 4 months) on inflammatory and cognitive parameters, and on 18F-fluoro-deoxyglucose (18FDG) uptake by positron emission tomography (PET). Results Novel object recognition was significantly reduced in 11 month old Tg APP mice and 4 month administration of JWH was able to normalize this cognitive deficit, although WIN was ineffective. Wild type mice cognitive performance was unaltered by cannabinoid administration. Tg APP mice showed decreased 18FDG uptake in hippocampus and cortical regions, which was counteracted by oral JWH treatment. Hippocampal GFAP immunoreactivity and cortical protein expression was unaffected by genotype or treatment. In contrast, the density of Iba1 positive microglia was increased in Tg APP mice, and normalized following JWH chronic treatment. Both cannabinoids were effective at reducing the enhancement of COX-2 protein levels and TNF-α mRNA expression found in the AD model. Increased cortical β-amyloid (Aβ) levels were significantly reduced in the mouse model by both cannabinoids. Noteworthy both cannabinoids enhanced Aβ transport across choroid plexus cells in vitro. Conclusions In summary we have shown that chronically administered cannabinoid showed marked beneficial effects concomitant with inflammation reduction and increased Aβ clearance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana María Martín-Moreno
- Neurodenegeration Group, Dept. of Cellular, Molecular and Developmental Neurobiology, Instituto Cajal, CSIC, Doctor Arce 37, Madrid 28002, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Jung KM, Astarita G, Yasar S, Vasilevko V, Cribbs DH, Head E, Cotman CW, Piomelli D. An amyloid β42-dependent deficit in anandamide mobilization is associated with cognitive dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease. Neurobiol Aging 2011; 33:1522-32. [PMID: 21546126 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2011.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2010] [Revised: 12/14/2010] [Accepted: 03/15/2011] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoids and their attending cannabinoid (CB)(1) receptors have been implicated in the control of cognition, but their possible roles in dementias are still unclear. In the present study, we used liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry to conduct an endocannabinoid-targeted lipidomic analysis of postmortem brain samples from 38 Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients and 17 control subjects, matched for age and postmortem interval. The analysis revealed that midfrontal and temporal cortex tissue from AD patients contains, relative to control subjects, significantly lower levels of the endocannabinoid anandamide and its precursor 1-stearoyl, 2-docosahexaenoyl-sn-glycero-phosphoethanolamine-N-arachidonoyl (NArPE). No such difference was observed with the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoyl-sn-glycerol or 15 additional lipid species. In AD patients, but not in control subjects, statistically detectable positive correlations were found between (1) anandamide content in midfrontal cortex and scores of the Kendrick's Digit Copy test (p = 0.004, r = 0.81; n = 10), which measures speed of information processing; and (2) anandamide content in temporal cortex and scores of the Boston Naming test (p = 0.027, r = 0.52; n = 18), which assesses language facility. Furthermore, anandamide and NArPE levels in midfrontal cortex of the study subjects inversely correlated with levels of the neurotoxic amyloid peptide, amyloid β-protein (Aβ)(42), while showing no association with Aβ(40) levels, amyloid plaque load or tau protein phosphorylation. Finally, high endogenous levels of Aβ(42) in Swedish mutant form of amyloid precursor protein (APP(SWE))/Neuro-2a cells directly reduced anandamide and NArPE concentrations in cells lysates. The results suggest that an Aβ(42)-dependent impairment in brain anandamide mobilization contributes to cognitive dysfunction in AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kwang-Mook Jung
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697-4625, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Petrosino S, Ménard B, Zsürger N, Di Marzo V, Chabry J. Alteration of the endocannabinoid system in mouse brain during prion disease. Neuroscience 2011; 177:292-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2010.12.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2010] [Revised: 12/22/2010] [Accepted: 12/24/2010] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
|
26
|
Is lipid signaling through cannabinoid 2 receptors part of a protective system? Prog Lipid Res 2011; 50:193-211. [PMID: 21295074 DOI: 10.1016/j.plipres.2011.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 312] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2010] [Revised: 01/26/2011] [Accepted: 01/26/2011] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The mammalian body has a highly developed immune system which guards against continuous invading protein attacks and aims at preventing, attenuating or repairing the inflicted damage. It is conceivable that through evolution analogous biological protective systems have been evolved against non-protein attacks. There is emerging evidence that lipid endocannabinoid signaling through cannabinoid 2 (CB₂) receptors may represent an example/part of such a protective system/armamentarium. Inflammation/tissue injury triggers rapid elevations in local endocannabinoid levels, which in turn regulate signaling responses in immune and other cells modulating their critical functions. Changes in endocannabinoid levels and/or CB₂ receptor expressions have been reported in almost all diseases affecting humans, ranging from cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, liver, kidney, neurodegenerative, psychiatric, bone, skin, autoimmune, lung disorders to pain and cancer, and modulating CB₂ receptor activity holds tremendous therapeutic potential in these pathologies. While CB₂ receptor activation in general mediates immunosuppressive effects, which limit inflammation and associated tissue injury in large number of pathological conditions, in some disease states activation of the CB₂ receptor may enhance or even trigger tissue damage, which will also be discussed alongside the protective actions of the CB₂ receptor stimulation with endocannabinoids or synthetic agonists, and the possible biological mechanisms involved in these effects.
Collapse
|
27
|
Walther S, Halpern M. Cannabinoids and Dementia: A Review of Clinical and Preclinical Data. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2010; 3:2689-2708. [PMID: 27713372 PMCID: PMC4033945 DOI: 10.3390/ph3082689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2010] [Revised: 08/05/2010] [Accepted: 08/16/2010] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system has been shown to be associated with neurodegenerative diseases and dementia. We review the preclinical and clinical data on cannabinoids and four neurodegenerative diseases: Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Huntington’s disease (HD), Parkinson’s disease (PD) and vascular dementia (VD). Numerous studies have demonstrated an involvement of the cannabinoid system in neurotransmission, neuropathology and neurobiology of dementias. In addition, several candidate compounds have demonstrated efficacy in vitro. However, some of the substances produced inconclusive results in vivo. Therefore, only few trials have aimed to replicate the effects seen in animal studies in patients. Indeed, the literature on cannabinoid administration in patients is scarce. While preclinical findings suggest causal treatment strategies involving cannabinoids, clinical trials have only assessed the suitability of cannabinoid receptor agonists, antagonists and cannabidiol for the symptomatic treatment of dementia. Further research is needed, including in vivo models of dementia and human studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Walther
- University Hospital of Psychiatry, Bolligenstrasse 111, 3000 Bern 60, Switzerland;.
| | - Michael Halpern
- University Hospital of Psychiatry, Bolligenstrasse 111, 3000 Bern 60, Switzerland;.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Gorantla S, Makarov E, Roy D, Finke-Dwyer J, Murrin LC, Gendelman HE, Poluektova L. Immunoregulation of a CB2 receptor agonist in a murine model of neuroAIDS. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2010; 5:456-68. [PMID: 20549374 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-010-9225-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2010] [Accepted: 05/24/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Chronic HIV-1 infection commonly affects behavioral, cognitive, and motor functions in the infected human host and is commonly referred to as HIV-1-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND). This occurs, in measure, as a consequence of ingress of leukocytes into brain perivascular regions. Such cells facilitate viral infection and disease by eliciting blood-brain barrier and neuronal network dysfunctions. Previous works demonstrated that the endocannabinoid system modulates neuroimmunity and as such neuronal and glial functions. Herein, we investigated CB2R receptor expression in murine HIV-1 encephalitis (HIVE) and the abilities of a highly selective CB2R agonist, Gp1a, to modulate disease. HIV-1-infected human monocyte-derived macrophages were injected into the caudate and putamen of immunodeficient mice reconstituted with human peripheral blood lymphocytes (hu-PBL/HIVE). Brains of hu-PBL/HIVE mice showed microglial activation and increased expression of CB2R, but not CB1R or GPR55. Gp1a substantively reduced infiltration of human cells into the mouse brain and reduced HLA DQ activation. Gp1a down modulated CCR5 expression on human cells in the spleen with an increase in Fas ligand expression. Our results support the notion that CB2 receptor agonists may be a viable therapeutic candidate for HAND.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Santhi Gorantla
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5880, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Bari M, Rapino C, Mozetic P, Maccarrone M. The endocannabinoid system in gp120-mediated insults and HIV-associated dementia. Exp Neurol 2010; 224:74-84. [PMID: 20353779 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2010.03.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Endocannabinoids (eCBs) include a group of lipid mediators that act as endogenous agonists at cannabinoid (CB(1), CB(2)) and vanilloid (TRPV1) receptors. In the last two decades a number of eCBs-metabolizing enzymes have been discovered that, together with eCBs and congeners, target receptors and proteins responsible for their transport and intracellular trafficking form the so-called "endocannabinoid system" (ECS). Within the central nervous system ECS elements participate in neuroprotection against neuroinflammatory/neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and multiple sclerosis. More recently, a role for eCBs has been documented also in human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) envelope glycoprotein gp120-mediated insults, and in HIV-associated dementia (HAD). The modulation of ECS in the latter disease conditions is the subject of this review, that will also address the molecular mechanisms underlying the neuroprotective effects of eCBs. In particular, the interactions between neurons and glia during neuroinflammation, and the alterations of ECS in these cells upon gp120 insults and HAD will be discussed, along with the potential therapeutic exploitation of ECS-oriented drugs for the treatment of HAD and related disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monica Bari
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Griesmaier E, Keller M. Neuroprotective strategies in excitotoxic brain injury: potential applications to the preterm brain. FUTURE NEUROLOGY 2009. [DOI: 10.2217/fnl.09.28] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Neuronal and oligodendroglial cell death owing to increased glutamate levels plays an important role in the pathophysiology of hypoxic-, ischemic- and inflammation-mediated brain injury as well as in disorders such as epilepsy, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s or Huntington’s disease. In addition, excitotoxic brain injury is known to be a major contributing factor to brain injury in preterm infants. Excitotoxicity is characterized as excessive glutamatergic activation of postsynaptic receptors that consequently leads to cell injury and cell death. The major excitatory amino acid neurotransmitter is glutamate. Glutamate plays a key role in brain development, affecting progenitor cell differentiation, proliferation, migration and survival. In physiological conditions the presence of glutamate in the synapse is regulated by ATP-dependent glutamate transporters in neurons and glial cells, with astrocytes being responsible for a major part of glutamate uptake in the brain. In pathologic circumstances the function of the transporters is impaired, leading to glutamate accumulation in the synaptic cleft and in turn excessive activation of postsynaptic glutamate receptors with subsequent massive Ca2+ influx, activation of neuronal nitric oxide synthase, translocation of proapoptotic genes to the mitochondria, mitochondrial dysfunction, release of cytochrome C into the cytosol, activation of caspases and subsequent cell death. Based on the pathogenic concept of an overactivation of the excitatory pathways, glutamate receptors have been a longstanding therapeutic target for rational drug design. This article reviews the pathophysiology of excitotoxic brain injury in the example of preterm brain injury, as well as current research on therapeutic antiexcitotoxic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elke Griesmaier
- Department of Pediatrics IV, Medical University Innsbruck, Austria, Anichstr. 35, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Matthias Keller
- Department of Pediatrics I University Hospital Essen, Hufelandstraße 55, 45147 Essen Germany
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Koppel J, Bradshaw H, Goldberg TE, Khalili H, Marambaud P, Walker MJ, Pazos M, Gordon ML, Christen E, Davies P. Endocannabinoids in Alzheimer's disease and their impact on normative cognitive performance: a case-control and cohort study. Lipids Health Dis 2009; 8:2. [PMID: 19144193 PMCID: PMC2631501 DOI: 10.1186/1476-511x-8-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2008] [Accepted: 01/14/2009] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuropathological, animal, and cell culture studies point to a role for the body's own endogenous cannabinoids (eCBs) system in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology and treatment. To date, no published studies have investigated the potential utility of circulating eCBs as diagnostic biomarkers for AD or the impact of central eCBs on cognition. RESULTS In comparison with healthy controls, there were no significant differences in measured eCB concentrations in plasma samples from patients with AD. Detectable eCBs in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) had no relationship to cognitive performance in healthy controls at risk for AD. In pooled plasma samples, an inverse correlation was observed between plasma levels of the eCB 2-AG (2-arachidonoylglycerol) and TNF-alpha (r = -0.41, p < 0.02). CONCLUSION These results suggest that circulating endocannabinoids do not have utility as diagnostic biomarkers for AD and do not have a robust correlation with cognitive performance. Circulating levels of 2-AG may downregulate TNF-alpha production.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy Koppel
- The Litwin-Zucker Research Center for the Study of Alzheimer's Disease and Memory Disorders, The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Koppel J, Davies P. Targeting the endocannabinoid system in Alzheimer's disease. J Alzheimers Dis 2009; 15:495-504. [PMID: 18997302 DOI: 10.3233/jad-2008-15315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system is rapidly emerging as a potential drug target for a variety of immune-mediated central nervous system diseases. There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that endocannabinoid interventions may have particular relevance to Alzheimer's disease. Here we present a review of endocannabinoid physiology, the evidence that underscores its utility as a potential target for intervention in Alzheimer's disease, and suggest future pathways of research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy Koppel
- The Albert Einstein College of Medicine and The Litwin-Zucker Research Center for the Study of Alzheimer's Disease and Memory Disorders, The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Marchalant Y, Brothers HM, Wenk GL. Inflammation and aging: can endocannabinoids help? Biomed Pharmacother 2008; 62:212-7. [PMID: 18400455 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2008.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2008] [Accepted: 02/19/2008] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Aging often leads to cognitive decline due to neurodegenerative process in the brain. As people live longer, there exists a growing concern linked to long-term, slowly debilitating diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease for which a cure has not yet been found. Recently, the role of neuroinflammation has attracted attention due to its slow onset, chronic nature and its possible role in the development of many different neurodegenerative diseases. In the future, treatment of chronic neuroinflammation may help counteract aspects of neurodegenerative disease. Our recent studies have focused upon the endocannabinoid system for its unique effects on the expression of neuroinflammation. The basis for the manipulation of the endocannabinoid system in the brain in combination with existing treatments for Alzheimer's disease will be discussed in this review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yannick Marchalant
- Department of Psychology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Abstract
The presence of functional cannabinoid CB2 receptors in the CNS has provoked considerable controversy over the past few years. Formerly considered as an exclusively peripheral receptor, it is now accepted that it is also present in limited amounts and distinct locations in the brain of several animal species, including humans. Furthermore, the inducible nature of these receptors under neuroinflammatory conditions, in contrast to CB1, makes them attractive targets for the development of novel therapeutic approaches. In fact, the undesired psychoactive effects caused by CB1 activation have largely limited the clinical use of cannabinoid-related compounds that act on these receptors. In this review some recent findings on the antiinflammatory properties of CB2 receptors are presented, as well as new perspectives that have been obtained based on studies of human postmortem brain samples. In addition, various working hypotheses are also proposed and discussed.
Collapse
|