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Bortolato M, Braccagni G, Pederson CA, Floris G, Fite PJ. "Weeding out" violence? Translational perspectives on the neuropsychobiological links between cannabis and aggression. AGGRESSION AND VIOLENT BEHAVIOR 2024; 78:101948. [PMID: 38828012 PMCID: PMC11141739 DOI: 10.1016/j.avb.2024.101948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Recent shifts in societal attitudes towards cannabis have led to a dramatic increase in consumption rates in many Western countries, particularly among young people. This trend has shed light on a significant link between cannabis use disorder (CUD) and pathological reactive aggression, a condition involving disproportionate aggressive and violent reactions to minor provocations. The discourse on the connection between cannabis use and aggression is frequently enmeshed in political and legal discussions, leading to a polarized understanding of the causative relationship between cannabis use and aggression. However, integrative analyses from both human and animal research indicate a complex, bidirectional interplay between cannabis misuse and pathological aggression. On the one hand, emerging research reveals a shared genetic and environmental predisposition for both cannabis use and aggression, suggesting a common underlying biological mechanism. On the other hand, there is evidence that cannabis consumption can lead to violent behaviors while also being used as a self-medication strategy to mitigate the negative emotions associated with pathological reactive aggression. This suggests that the coexistence of pathological aggression and CUD may result from overlapping vulnerabilities, potentially creating a self-perpetuating cycle where each condition exacerbates the other, escalating into externalizing and violent behaviors. This article aims to synthesize existing research on the intricate connections between these issues and propose a theoretical model to explain the neurobiological mechanisms underpinning this complex relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Bortolato
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Consortium for Translational Research on Aggression and Drug Abuse (ConTRADA), University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
| | - Giulia Braccagni
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Casey A. Pederson
- Department of Psychiatry, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Gabriele Floris
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Neural Sciences, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Paula J. Fite
- Consortium for Translational Research on Aggression and Drug Abuse (ConTRADA), University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
- Clinical Child Psychology Program, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
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Zhao H, Liu Y, Cai N, Liao X, Tang L, Wang Y. Endocannabinoid Hydrolase Inhibitors: Potential Novel Anxiolytic Drugs. Drug Des Devel Ther 2024; 18:2143-2167. [PMID: 38882045 PMCID: PMC11179644 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s462785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Over the past decade, the idea of targeting the endocannabinoid system to treat anxiety disorders has received increasing attention. Previous studies focused more on developing cannabinoid receptor agonists or supplementing exogenous cannabinoids, which are prone to various adverse effects due to their strong pharmacological activity and poor receptor selectivity, limiting their application in clinical research. Endocannabinoid hydrolase inhibitors are considered to be the most promising development strategies for the treatment of anxiety disorders. More recent efforts have emphasized that inhibition of two major endogenous cannabinoid hydrolases, monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) and fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), indirectly activates cannabinoid receptors by increasing endogenous cannabinoid levels in the synaptic gap, circumventing receptor desensitization resulting from direct enhancement of endogenous cannabinoid signaling. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the anxiolytic effects of MAGL and FAAH inhibitors and their potential pharmacological mechanisms, highlight reported novel inhibitors or natural products, and provide an outlook on future directions in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongqing Zhao
- Science & Technology Innovation Center, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, People’s Republic of China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prevention & Treatment of Depressive Diseases, Changsha, Hunan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yang Liu
- Science & Technology Innovation Center, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, People’s Republic of China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prevention & Treatment of Depressive Diseases, Changsha, Hunan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Na Cai
- Outpatient Department, the First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaolin Liao
- Science & Technology Innovation Center, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, People’s Republic of China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prevention & Treatment of Depressive Diseases, Changsha, Hunan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lin Tang
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prevention & Treatment of Depressive Diseases, Changsha, Hunan, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuhong Wang
- Science & Technology Innovation Center, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, People’s Republic of China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prevention & Treatment of Depressive Diseases, Changsha, Hunan, People’s Republic of China
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Carrascosa AJ, Navarrete F, Saldaña R, García-Gutiérrez MS, Montalbán B, Navarro D, Gómez-Guijarro FM, Gasparyan A, Murcia-Sánchez E, Torregrosa AB, Pérez-Doblado P, Gutiérrez L, Manzanares J. Cannabinoid Analgesia in Postoperative Pain Management: From Molecular Mechanisms to Clinical Reality. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6268. [PMID: 38892456 PMCID: PMC11172912 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25116268] [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: 04/26/2024] [Revised: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Postoperative pain (POP) is a challenging clinical phenomenon that affects the majority of surgical patients and demands effective management to mitigate adverse outcomes such as persistent pain. The primary goal of POP management is to alleviate suffering and facilitate a seamless return to normal function for the patient. Despite compelling evidence of its drawbacks, opioid analgesia remains the basis of POP treatment. Novel therapeutic approaches rely on multimodal analgesia, integrating different pharmacological strategies to optimize efficacy while minimizing adverse effects. The recognition of the imperative role of the endocannabinoid system in pain regulation has prompted the investigation of cannabinoid compounds as a new therapeutic avenue. Cannabinoids may serve as adjuvants, enhancing the analgesic effects of other drugs and potentially replacing or at least reducing the dependence on other long-term analgesics in pain management. This narrative review succinctly summarizes pertinent information on the molecular mechanisms, clinical therapeutic benefits, and considerations associated with the plausible use of various cannabinoid compounds in treating POP. According to the available evidence, cannabinoid compounds modulate specific molecular mechanisms intimately involved in POP. However, only two of the eleven clinical trials that evaluated the efficacy of different cannabinoid interventions showed positive results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio J. Carrascosa
- Servicio de Anestesiologia y Reanimación, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Avda. Córdoba s/n, 28041 Madrid, Spain; (A.J.C.); (R.S.); (B.M.); (F.M.G.-G.); (E.M.-S.); (P.P.-D.)
| | - Francisco Navarrete
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Avda de Ramón y Cajal s/n, San Juan de Alicante, 03550 Alicante, Spain; (F.N.); (M.S.G.-G.); (D.N.); (A.G.); (A.B.T.); (L.G.)
- Redes de Investigación Cooperativa Orientada a Resultados en Salud (RICORS), Red de Investigación en Atención Primaria de Adicciones (RIAPAd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL), 03010 Alicante, Spain
| | - Raquel Saldaña
- Servicio de Anestesiologia y Reanimación, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Avda. Córdoba s/n, 28041 Madrid, Spain; (A.J.C.); (R.S.); (B.M.); (F.M.G.-G.); (E.M.-S.); (P.P.-D.)
| | - María S. García-Gutiérrez
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Avda de Ramón y Cajal s/n, San Juan de Alicante, 03550 Alicante, Spain; (F.N.); (M.S.G.-G.); (D.N.); (A.G.); (A.B.T.); (L.G.)
- Redes de Investigación Cooperativa Orientada a Resultados en Salud (RICORS), Red de Investigación en Atención Primaria de Adicciones (RIAPAd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL), 03010 Alicante, Spain
| | - Belinda Montalbán
- Servicio de Anestesiologia y Reanimación, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Avda. Córdoba s/n, 28041 Madrid, Spain; (A.J.C.); (R.S.); (B.M.); (F.M.G.-G.); (E.M.-S.); (P.P.-D.)
| | - Daniela Navarro
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Avda de Ramón y Cajal s/n, San Juan de Alicante, 03550 Alicante, Spain; (F.N.); (M.S.G.-G.); (D.N.); (A.G.); (A.B.T.); (L.G.)
- Redes de Investigación Cooperativa Orientada a Resultados en Salud (RICORS), Red de Investigación en Atención Primaria de Adicciones (RIAPAd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL), 03010 Alicante, Spain
| | - Fernando M. Gómez-Guijarro
- Servicio de Anestesiologia y Reanimación, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Avda. Córdoba s/n, 28041 Madrid, Spain; (A.J.C.); (R.S.); (B.M.); (F.M.G.-G.); (E.M.-S.); (P.P.-D.)
| | - Ani Gasparyan
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Avda de Ramón y Cajal s/n, San Juan de Alicante, 03550 Alicante, Spain; (F.N.); (M.S.G.-G.); (D.N.); (A.G.); (A.B.T.); (L.G.)
- Redes de Investigación Cooperativa Orientada a Resultados en Salud (RICORS), Red de Investigación en Atención Primaria de Adicciones (RIAPAd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL), 03010 Alicante, Spain
| | - Elena Murcia-Sánchez
- Servicio de Anestesiologia y Reanimación, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Avda. Córdoba s/n, 28041 Madrid, Spain; (A.J.C.); (R.S.); (B.M.); (F.M.G.-G.); (E.M.-S.); (P.P.-D.)
| | - Abraham B. Torregrosa
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Avda de Ramón y Cajal s/n, San Juan de Alicante, 03550 Alicante, Spain; (F.N.); (M.S.G.-G.); (D.N.); (A.G.); (A.B.T.); (L.G.)
- Redes de Investigación Cooperativa Orientada a Resultados en Salud (RICORS), Red de Investigación en Atención Primaria de Adicciones (RIAPAd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL), 03010 Alicante, Spain
| | - Paloma Pérez-Doblado
- Servicio de Anestesiologia y Reanimación, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Avda. Córdoba s/n, 28041 Madrid, Spain; (A.J.C.); (R.S.); (B.M.); (F.M.G.-G.); (E.M.-S.); (P.P.-D.)
| | - Luisa Gutiérrez
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Avda de Ramón y Cajal s/n, San Juan de Alicante, 03550 Alicante, Spain; (F.N.); (M.S.G.-G.); (D.N.); (A.G.); (A.B.T.); (L.G.)
- Redes de Investigación Cooperativa Orientada a Resultados en Salud (RICORS), Red de Investigación en Atención Primaria de Adicciones (RIAPAd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL), 03010 Alicante, Spain
| | - Jorge Manzanares
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Avda de Ramón y Cajal s/n, San Juan de Alicante, 03550 Alicante, Spain; (F.N.); (M.S.G.-G.); (D.N.); (A.G.); (A.B.T.); (L.G.)
- Redes de Investigación Cooperativa Orientada a Resultados en Salud (RICORS), Red de Investigación en Atención Primaria de Adicciones (RIAPAd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL), 03010 Alicante, Spain
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Kanwal H, Sangineto M, Ciarnelli M, Castaldo P, Villani R, Romano AD, Serviddio G, Cassano T. Potential Therapeutic Targets to Modulate the Endocannabinoid System in Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4050. [PMID: 38612861 PMCID: PMC11012768 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25074050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), the most common neurodegenerative disease (NDD), is characterized by chronic neuronal cell death through progressive loss of cognitive function. Amyloid beta (Aβ) deposition, neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and hyperphosphorylated tau proteins are considered the hallmarks of AD pathology. Different therapeutic approaches approved by the Food and Drug Administration can only target a single altered pathway instead of various mechanisms that are involved in AD pathology, resulting in limited symptomatic relief and almost no effect in slowing down the disease progression. Growing evidence on modulating the components of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) proclaimed their neuroprotective effects by reducing neurochemical alterations and preventing cellular dysfunction. Recent studies on AD mouse models have reported that the inhibitors of the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoacylglycerol (MAGL), hydrolytic enzymes for N-arachidonoyl ethanolamine (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), respectively, might be promising candidates as therapeutical intervention. The FAAH and MAGL inhibitors alone or in combination seem to produce neuroprotection by reversing cognitive deficits along with Aβ-induced neuroinflammation, oxidative responses, and neuronal death, delaying AD progression. Their exact signaling mechanisms need to be elucidated for understanding the brain intrinsic repair mechanism. The aim of this review was to shed light on physiology and pathophysiology of AD and to summarize the experimental data on neuroprotective roles of FAAH and MAGL inhibitors. In this review, we have also included CB1R and CB2R modulators with their diverse roles to modulate ECS mediated responses such as anti-nociceptive, anxiolytic, and anti-inflammatory actions in AD. Future research would provide the directions in understanding the molecular mechanisms and development of new therapeutic interventions for the treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hina Kanwal
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (M.S.); (M.C.); (R.V.); (A.D.R.); (G.S.); (T.C.)
| | - Moris Sangineto
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (M.S.); (M.C.); (R.V.); (A.D.R.); (G.S.); (T.C.)
| | - Martina Ciarnelli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (M.S.); (M.C.); (R.V.); (A.D.R.); (G.S.); (T.C.)
| | - Pasqualina Castaldo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, School of Medicine, University “Politecnica delle Marche”, 60126 Ancona, Italy;
| | - Rosanna Villani
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (M.S.); (M.C.); (R.V.); (A.D.R.); (G.S.); (T.C.)
| | - Antonino Davide Romano
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (M.S.); (M.C.); (R.V.); (A.D.R.); (G.S.); (T.C.)
| | - Gaetano Serviddio
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (M.S.); (M.C.); (R.V.); (A.D.R.); (G.S.); (T.C.)
| | - Tommaso Cassano
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (M.S.); (M.C.); (R.V.); (A.D.R.); (G.S.); (T.C.)
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Gobira PH, Joca SR, Moreira FA. Roles of cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors in the modulation of psychostimulant responses. Acta Neuropsychiatr 2024; 36:67-77. [PMID: 35993329 DOI: 10.1017/neu.2022.23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Addiction to psychostimulant drugs, such as cocaine, D-amphetamine, and methamphetamine, is a public health issue that substantially contributes to the global burden of disease. Psychostimulant drugs promote an increase in dopamine levels within the mesocorticolimbic system, which is central to the rewarding properties of such drugs. Cannabinoid receptors (CB1R and CB2R) are expressed in the main areas of this system and implicated in the neuronal mechanisms underlying the rewarding effect of psychostimulant drugs. Here, we reviewed studies focusing on pharmacological intervention targeting cannabinoid CB1R and CB2R and their interaction in the modulation of psychostimulant responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- P H Gobira
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - S R Joca
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - F A Moreira
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
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Comai S, Nunez N, Atkin T, Ghabrash MF, Zakarian R, Fielding A, Saint-Laurent M, Low N, Sauber G, Ragazzi E, Hillard CJ, Gobbi G. Dysfunction in endocannabinoids, palmitoylethanolamide, and degradation of tryptophan into kynurenine in individuals with depressive symptoms. BMC Med 2024; 22:33. [PMID: 38273283 PMCID: PMC10809514 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-024-03248-8] [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: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The endocannabinoid (eCB) system and the serotonin (5-HT) are both implicated in the severity of the depression. 5-HT is synthesized from the amino acid tryptophan (Trp), which is also a precursor for kynurenine (Kyn) whose production is increased at the expense of 5-HT in depressed patients. No clinical studies have investigated the crosstalk between the eCB system and the Trp/5-HT/Kyn pathways. Here, we hypothesized that the eCB system is associated with an enhanced Kyn production in relation to the severity of depressive symptoms. METHODS Eighty-two subjects (51 patients with a diagnosis of depressive disorder (DSM-5) and 31 healthy volunteers), were assessed with the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS), Beck Depression Scale, and Global Clinical Impression. Serum concentrations of eCBs (N-arachidonoylethanolamine (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG)); structurally related fatty acyl compounds 2-oleoylglycerol (2-OG), oleoylethanolamide (OEA), and palmitoylethanolamide (PEA); Trp, Kyn, Kyn/Trp ratio (an index of Trp degradation into Kyn) and 5-HT were also determined. RESULTS Following a principal component analysis including the severity of depression, Kyn and the Kyn/Trp ratio appear to be directly associated with 2-AG, AEA, and PEA. Interestingly, these biomarkers also permitted to distinguish the population into two main clusters: one of individuals having mild/severe depressive symptoms and the other with an absence of depressive symptoms. Using parametric analysis, higher serum levels of 2-AG, Kyn, and the ratio Kyn/Trp and lower levels of Trp and 5-HT were found in individuals with mild/severe depressive symptoms than in those without depressive symptoms. While in asymptomatic people, PEA was directly associated to Trp, and OEA indirectly linked to 5-HT, in individuals with depressive symptoms, these correlations were lost, and instead, positive correlations between AEA and 2-AG, PEA and AEA, and PEA vs 2-AG and OEA concentrations were found. CONCLUSIONS Parametric and non-parametric analyses suggest a possible association between eCBs, tryptophan/kynurenine biomarkers, and severity of depression, confirming a likely interplay among inflammation, stress, and depression. The enhanced relationships among the biomarkers of the 2-AG and AEA pathways and related lipids seen in individuals with depressive symptoms, but not in asymptomatics, suggest an altered metabolism of the eCB system in depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Comai
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy.
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy.
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
- IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.
| | - Nicolas Nunez
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Tobias Atkin
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Rita Zakarian
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Allan Fielding
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Marie Saint-Laurent
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Nancy Low
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Garrett Sauber
- Neuroscience Research Center and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Eugenio Ragazzi
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Cecilia J Hillard
- Neuroscience Research Center and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Gabriella Gobbi
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, QC, Canada.
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Hassan FU, Liu C, Mehboob M, Bilal RM, Arain MA, Siddique F, Chen F, Li Y, Zhang J, Shi P, Lv B, Lin Q. Potential of dietary hemp and cannabinoids to modulate immune response to enhance health and performance in animals: opportunities and challenges. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1285052. [PMID: 38111585 PMCID: PMC10726122 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1285052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids are a group of bioactive compounds abundantly present in Cannabis sativa plant. The active components of cannabis with therapeutic potential are known as cannabinoids. Cannabinoids are divided into three groups: plant-derived cannabinoids (phytocannabinoids), endogenous cannabinoids (endocannabinoids), and synthetic cannabinoids. These compounds play a crucial role in the regulation various physiological processes including the immune modulation by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (A complex cell-signaling system). Cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) stimulates the binding of orexigenic peptides and inhibits the attachment of anorexigenic proteins to hypothalamic neurons in mammals, increasing food intake. Digestibility is unaffected by the presence of any cannabinoids in hemp stubble. Endogenous cannabinoids are also important for the peripheral control of lipid processing in adipose tissue, in addition to their role in the hypothalamus regulation of food intake. Regardless of the kind of synaptic connection or the length of the transmission, endocannabinoids play a crucial role in inhibiting synaptic transmission through a number of mechanisms. Cannabidiol (CBD) mainly influences redox equilibrium through intrinsic mechanisms. Useful effects of cannabinoids in animals have been mentioned e.g., for disorders of the cardiovascular system, pain treatment, disorders of the respiratory system or metabolic disorders. Dietary supplementation of cannabinoids has shown positive effects on health, growth and production performance of small and large animals. Animal fed diet supplemented with hemp seeds (180 g/day) or hemp seed cake (143 g/kg DM) had achieved batter performance without any detrimental effects. But the higher level of hemp or cannabinoid supplementation suppress immune functions and reduce productive performance. With an emphasis on the poultry and ruminants, this review aims to highlight the properties of cannabinoids and their derivatives as well as their significance as a potential feed additive in their diets to improve the immune status and health performance of animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faiz-ul Hassan
- Institute of Bast Fiber Crops, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha, China
- Faculty of Animal Production and Technology, Cholistan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Bahawalpur, Pakistan
| | - Chunjie Liu
- Institute of Bast Fiber Crops, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha, China
| | - Maryam Mehboob
- Department of Zoology, Wildlife and Fisheries, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Rana Muhammad Bilal
- Faculty of Animal Production and Technology, Cholistan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Bahawalpur, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Asif Arain
- Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lasbela University of Agriculture, Water and Marine Sciences, Uthal, Balochistan, Pakistan
| | - Faisal Siddique
- Faculty of Animal Production and Technology, Cholistan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Bahawalpur, Pakistan
| | - Fengming Chen
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of the TCM Agricultural Biogenomics, Changsha Medical University, Changsha, China
| | - Yuying Li
- Institute of Bast Fiber Crops, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha, China
| | - Jingmeng Zhang
- Institute of Bast Fiber Crops, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha, China
| | - Pengjun Shi
- Institute of Bast Fiber Crops, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha, China
| | - Biguang Lv
- Institute of Bast Fiber Crops, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha, China
| | - Qian Lin
- Institute of Bast Fiber Crops, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha, China
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Hill MN, Haney M, Hillard CJ, Karhson DS, Vecchiarelli HA. The endocannabinoid system as a putative target for the development of novel drugs for the treatment of psychiatric illnesses. Psychol Med 2023; 53:7006-7024. [PMID: 37671673 PMCID: PMC10719691 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291723002465] [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: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis is well established to impact affective states, emotion and perceptual processing, primarily through its interactions with the endocannabinoid system. While cannabis use is quite prevalent in many individuals afflicted with psychiatric illnesses, there is considerable controversy as to whether cannabis may worsen these conditions or provide some form of therapeutic benefit. The development of pharmacological agents which interact with components of the endocannabinoid system in more localized and discrete ways then via phytocannabinoids found in cannabis, has allowed the investigation if direct targeting of the endocannabinoid system itself may represent a novel approach to treat psychiatric illness without the potential untoward side effects associated with cannabis. Herein we review the current body of literature regarding the various pharmacological tools that have been developed to target the endocannabinoid system, their impact in preclinical models of psychiatric illness and the recent data emerging of their utilization in clinical trials for psychiatric illnesses, with a specific focus on substance use disorders, trauma-related disorders, and autism. We highlight several candidate drugs which target endocannabinoid function, particularly inhibitors of endocannabinoid metabolism or modulators of cannabinoid receptor signaling, which have emerged as potential candidates for the treatment of psychiatric conditions, particularly substance use disorder, anxiety and trauma-related disorders and autism spectrum disorders. Although there needs to be ongoing clinical work to establish the potential utility of endocannabinoid-based drugs for the treatment of psychiatric illnesses, the current data available is quite promising and shows indications of several potential candidate diseases which may benefit from this approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew N. Hill
- Departments of Cell Biology and Anatomy & Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, Hotchkiss Brain Institute and The Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Margaret Haney
- Department of Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, USA
| | - Cecilia J. Hillard
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Neuroscience Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, USA
| | - Debra S. Karhson
- Department of Psychology, University of New Orleans, New Orleans, USA
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Gobira PH, LaMar J, Marques J, Sartim A, Silveira K, Santos L, Wegener G, Guimaraes FS, Mackie K, Lu HC, Joca S. CB1 Receptor Silencing Attenuates Ketamine-Induced Hyperlocomotion Without Compromising Its Antidepressant-Like Effects. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2023; 8:768-778. [PMID: 36067014 PMCID: PMC10771879 DOI: 10.1089/can.2022.0072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The antidepressant properties of ketamine have been extensively demonstrated in experimental and clinical settings. However, the psychotomimetic side effects still limit its wider use as an antidepressant. It was recently observed that endocannabinoids are inolved in ketamine induced reward properties. As an increase in endocannabinoid signaling induces antidepressant effects, this study aimed to investigate the involvement of cannabinoid type 1 receptors (CB1R) in the antidepressant and psychostimulant effects induced by ketamine. Methods: We tested the effects of genetic and pharmacological inhibition of CB1R in the hyperlocomotion and antidepressant-like properties of ketamine. The effects of ketamine (10-20 mg/kg) were assessed in the open-field and the forced swim tests (FSTs) in CB1R knockout (KO) and wild-type (WT) mice (male and female), and mice pre-treated with rimonabant (CB1R antagonist, 3-10 mg/kg). Results: We found that the motor hyperactivity elicited by ketamine was impaired in CB1R male and female KO mice. A similar effect was observed upon pharmacological blockade of CB1R in WT mice. However, genetic CB1R deletion did not modify the antidepressant effect of ketamine in male mice submitted to the FST. Surprisingly, pharmacological blockade of CB1R induced an antidepressant-like effect in both male and female mice, which was not further potentiated by ketamine. Conclusions: Our results support the hypothesis that CB1R mediate the psychostimulant side effects induced by ketamine, but not its antidepressant properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Henrique Gobira
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Jacob LaMar
- The Linda and Jack Gill Center for Biomolecular Science, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Jade Marques
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Ariandra Sartim
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Kennia Silveira
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Luana Santos
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Gregers Wegener
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Ken Mackie
- The Linda and Jack Gill Center for Biomolecular Science, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
- Program in Neuroscience, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Hui-Chen Lu
- The Linda and Jack Gill Center for Biomolecular Science, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
- Program in Neuroscience, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Sâmia Joca
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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10
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Martin EL, Baker NL, Sempio C, Christians U, Klawitter J, McRae-Clark AL. Sex differences in endocannabinoid tone in a pilot study of cannabis use disorder and acute cannabis abstinence. Addict Biol 2023; 28:e13337. [PMID: 37753564 PMCID: PMC10539022 DOI: 10.1111/adb.13337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis use disorder (CUD) presents differently in men and women, particularly in symptoms of cannabis withdrawal. Novel pharmacotherapeutic interventions for CUD, such as those that target the endocannabinoid (eCB) system, must be developed in a manner consistent with these sex differences. The present pilot study sought to prospectively assess sex differences in cannabis withdrawal in a small sample of adults with moderate-to-severe CUD and to determine if withdrawal was associated with peripheral eCB and eCB congener tone. Men and women (n = 5/sex) completed 2 weeks of study participation separated by 1 month; in the latter week, participants abstained from cannabis use. Each week, participants attended in-person laboratory visits during which blood was drawn repeatedly to assess plasma eCB and eCB congener tone. Participants also completed multiple daily ambulatory assessments to assess cannabis use and withdrawal symptoms. As anticipated, women reported a greater increase in withdrawal symptoms during the abstinent week [Δ = 9.4 (SE = 1.1); p < 0.001] than men [Δ = 1.2 (SE = 1.2); p = 0.35]. Sex differences in levels of the eCB N-arachidonoylethanolamide (AEA), as well as the eCB congeners stearoylethanolamide (SEA) and linoleylethanolamide (LEA), were evident during abstinence at the morning time point only (p's < 0.05). LEA was associated with withdrawal symptom expression in both sexes [β = 0.16 (SE = 0.09)] and palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) [β = 0.22 (SE = 0.13)] and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) [β = 0.32 (SE = 0.15)] were associated with withdrawal symptoms in women only. Pharmacotherapeutic development for CUD should consider evident sex differences in eCB and eCB congener tone during abstinence and their associations with cannabis withdrawal, as eCB-based interventions may produce differential effects by sex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin L. Martin
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC USA
| | - Nathaniel L. Baker
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC USA
| | - Cristina Sempio
- iC42 Clinical Research and Development, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO USA
| | - Uwe Christians
- iC42 Clinical Research and Development, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO USA
| | - Jost Klawitter
- iC42 Clinical Research and Development, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO USA
- Institute of Cognitive Science, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO USA
| | - Aimee L. McRae-Clark
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC USA
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC USA
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11
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Frazier R, Li BUK, Venkatesan T. Diagnosis and Management of Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome: A Critical Review. Am J Gastroenterol 2023:00000434-990000000-00677. [PMID: 36791365 DOI: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000002216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
Cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS) is a chronic disorder of gut-brain interaction characterized by recurrent disabling episodes of nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. CVS affects both children and adults with a prevalence of approximately 2% in the United States. CVS is more common in female individuals and affects all races. The pathophysiology of CVS is unknown and a combination of genetic, environmental, autonomic, and neurohormonal factors is believed to play a role. CVS is also closely associated with migraine headaches and likely have a shared pathophysiology. The diagnosis of CVS is based on the Rome criteria, and minimal recommended testing includes an upper endoscopy and imaging studies of the abdomen. CVS is frequently associated with anxiety, depression, and autonomic dysfunction. Patients with CVS commonly use cannabis therapeutically for symptom relief. By contrast, cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome is believed to be a subset of CVS with chronic heavy cannabis use leading to hyperemesis. Due to the recalcitrant nature of the illness, patients often visit the emergency department and are hospitalized for acute CVS flares. Guidelines on the management of CVS recommend a biopsychosocial approach. Prophylactic therapy consists of tricyclic antidepressants (amitriptyline), antiepileptics (topiramate), and aprepitant in refractory patients. Abortive therapy consists of triptans, antiemetics (ondansetron), and sedation. Treatment of comorbid conditions is extremely important to improve overall patient outcomes. CVS has a significant negative impact on patients, families, and the healthcare system, and future research to understand its pathophysiology and develop targeted therapies is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosita Frazier
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Scottsdale, Arizona, USA
| | - B U K Li
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Thangam Venkatesan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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12
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Horsted T, Hesthaven KL, Leutscher PDC. Safety and effectiveness of cannabinoids to Danish patients with treatment refractory chronic pain-A retrospective observational real-world study. Eur J Pain 2023; 27:234-247. [PMID: 36394124 PMCID: PMC10107230 DOI: 10.1002/ejp.2054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabinoids are considered a therapeutic option to patients suffering from treatment refractory chronic pain (TRCP) insufficiently relieved by conventional analgesics or experiencing intolerable adverse events (AEs) from those. This study aimed to explore safety and effectiveness of oral cannabinoids among patients with TRCP. METHODS A retrospective study was conducted among Danish patients with TRCP being prescribed oral cannabinoids. Data on AEs and changes in pain intensity by numeric rating scale (NRS) before and after initiation of oral cannabinoid therapy were analysed. RESULTS Among 826 eligible patients ≥18 years old, 529 (64%) were included for data analysis at first follow-up (F/U1) (median 56 days from baseline) and 214 (26%) for second follow-up (F/U2) (median 126 days from F/U1). Mean age was 60 ± 15.9 years and 70% were females. AEs were in general reported mild to moderate by 42% of patients at F/U1 and 34% at F/U2. AEs were mainly related to gastrointestinal (F/U1: 17% and F/U2: 13%) and nervous system disorders (F/U1: 14% and F/U2: 11%). Reduction in NRS was significantly different at both follow-up consultations compared with baseline (<0.0001). Clinically relevant pain reduction (NRS ≥30%) was reported by 17% at F/U1 and 10% of patients at F/U2 in intention-to-treat analysis whereas the figures were 32% and 45% respectively, in per-protocol analysis. CONCLUSION Oral cannabinoid therapy seems to be safe and mildly effective in patients with TRCP. Randomized controlled trials with focus on comparable pain characteristics in diagnostical homogenous patient subgroups are needed for further improvement of evidence level for relief of chronic pain using oral cannabinoids. SIGNIFICANCE The findings in this retrospective study conducted in a real-world clinical setting suggest a favourable safety profile of cannabinoids. Moreover, one-sixth (intention-to-treat) and one-third (per-protocol) of patients with chronic pain refractory to conventional analgesics, or experiencing intolerable adverse effects, benefited significantly from therapy with oral cannabinoid regimens. Combination of THC and CBD seems overall more effective than cannabinoid monotherapy. Conduction of randomized controlled trials investigating safety and efficacy of cannabinoid therapy to diagnosis specific patient subgroups with comparable clinical and pathophysiological chronic pain characteristics is warranted, hence contributing further to the process of clinical evidence clarification currently in progress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tina Horsted
- The Pain Clinic in Copenhagen, Horsted Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Peter Derek Christian Leutscher
- Centre for Clinic Research, North Denmark Regional Hospital, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
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13
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Martinez Ramirez CE, Ruiz-Pérez G, Stollenwerk TM, Behlke C, Doherty A, Hillard CJ. Endocannabinoid signaling in the central nervous system. Glia 2023; 71:5-35. [PMID: 36308424 PMCID: PMC10167744 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24280] [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: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
It is hard to overestimate the influence of the endocannabinoid signaling (ECS) system on central nervous system (CNS) function. In the 40 years since cannabinoids were found to trigger specific cell signaling cascades, studies of the ECS system continue to cause amazement, surprise, and confusion! CB1 cannabinoid receptors are expressed widely in the CNS and regulate cell-cell communication via effects on the release of both neurotransmitters and gliotransmitters. CB2 cannabinoid receptors are difficult to detect in the CNS but seem to "punch above their weight" as compounds targeting these receptors have significant effects on inflammatory state and behavior. Positive and negative allosteric modulators for both receptors have been identified and examined in preclinical studies. Concentrations of the endocannabinoid ligands, N-arachidonoylethanolamine and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), are regulated by a combination of enzymatic synthesis and degradation and inhibitors of these processes are available and making their way into clinical trials. Importantly, ECS regulates many essential brain functions, including regulation of reward, anxiety, inflammation, motor control, and cellular development. While the field is on the cusp of preclinical discoveries providing impactful clinical and therapeutic insights into many CNS disorders, there is still much to be learned about this remarkable and versatile modulatory system.
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Affiliation(s)
- César E Martinez Ramirez
- Neuroscience Research Center and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Gonzalo Ruiz-Pérez
- Neuroscience Research Center and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Todd M Stollenwerk
- Neuroscience Research Center and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Christina Behlke
- Neuroscience Research Center and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Ashley Doherty
- Neuroscience Research Center and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Cecilia J Hillard
- Neuroscience Research Center and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
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14
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Gómez-Cañas M, Rodríguez-Cueto C, Satta V, Hernández-Fisac I, Navarro E, Fernández-Ruiz J. Endocannabinoid-Binding Receptors as Drug Targets. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2576:67-94. [PMID: 36152178 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2728-0_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis plant has been used from ancient times with therapeutic purposes for treating human pathologies, but the identification of the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the therapeutic properties of the phytocannabinoids, the active compounds in this plant, occurred in the last years of the past century. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, seminal studies demonstrated the existence of cannabinoid receptors and other elements of the so-called endocannabinoid system. These G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are a key element in the functions assigned to endocannabinoids and appear to serve as promising pharmacological targets. They include CB1, CB2, and GPR55, but also non-GPCRs can be activated by endocannabinoids, like ionotropic receptor TRPV1 and even nuclear receptors of the PPAR family. Their activation, inhibition, or simply modulation have been associated with numerous physiological effects at both central and peripheral levels, which may have therapeutic value in different human pathologies, then providing a solid experimental explanation for both the ancient medicinal uses of Cannabis plant and the recent advances in the development of cannabinoid-based specific therapies. This chapter will review the scientific knowledge generated in the last years around the research on the different endocannabinoid-binding receptors and their signaling mechanisms. Our intention is that this knowledge may help readers to understand the relevance of these receptors in health and disease conditions, as well as it may serve as the theoretical basis for the different experimental protocols to investigate these receptors and their signaling mechanisms that will be described in the following chapters.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Gómez-Cañas
- Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica, Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Carmen Rodríguez-Cueto
- Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica, Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Valentina Satta
- Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica, Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Inés Hernández-Fisac
- Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica, Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elisa Navarro
- Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica, Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier Fernández-Ruiz
- Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica, Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
- Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain.
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15
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Botsford C, Brellenthin AG, Cisler JM, Hillard CJ, Koltyn KF, Crombie KM. Circulating endocannabinoids and psychological outcomes in women with PTSD. J Anxiety Disord 2023; 93:102656. [PMID: 36469982 PMCID: PMC9839585 DOI: 10.1016/j.janxdis.2022.102656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent research has attempted to elucidate the relationship between blood-based biomarkers (e.g., endocannabinoids; eCBs: including N-arachidonoylethanolamine [AEA] and 2-arachidonoylglycerol [2-AG]) and mental health outcomes in psychiatric populations such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Prior research suggests that adults with PTSD may have altered circulating eCB tone and a blunted mobilization of eCBs (particularly 2-AG) in response to stress (e.g., aerobic exercise), although our understanding has been limited in part due to heterogenous samples and small sample sizes. METHODS A subset of data was pooled from five studies in which women with and without PTSD (N = 98) completed questionnaires related to mood states and a blood draw prior to and following a bout of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise in order to determine: 1) whether circulating eCBs differ between groups and whether depressive and PTSD symptom severity are associated with baseline eCBs, 2) whether a bout of aerobic exercise increases circulating eCBs in adult women with PTSD, and 3) whether circulating eCBs are associated with overall mood states and exercise-induced improvements in mood states in women with and without PTSD. RESULTS PTSD diagnoses were not associated with baseline concentrations of eCBs. Greater depressive symptom severity and PTSD symptom severity within the negative alteration in cognition and mood cluster were associated with lower circulating AEA. Circulating AEA significantly increased following aerobic exercise for both groups, whereas circulating 2-AG only increased in women without PTSD. Greater circulating AEA within the PTSD group was associated with lower depressive mood, confusion, and total mood disturbance. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that greater circulating AEA is associated with better overall mood and lower depressive and PTSD symptom severity, and that an acute bout of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise increases circulating AEA (but not 2-AG) in adult women with PTSD. These findings are consistent with the idea that greater eCB tone (particularly AEA) following pharmacological and/or non-pharmacological manipulations may be beneficial for improving psychological outcomes (e.g., mood, cognition) among PTSD, and possibly other psychiatric populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe Botsford
- University of Wisconsin - Madison, Department of Psychiatry, 6001 Research Park Boulevard, Madison, WI 53719, United States.
| | - Angelique G Brellenthin
- Iowa State University, Department of Kinesiology, Forker Building, 534 Wallace Road, Ames, IA 50011, United States.
| | - Josh M Cisler
- The University of Texas at Austin, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, 1601 Trinity Street, Building B, Austin, TX 78712, United States; Institute for Early Life Adversity Research, The University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School & Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, 1601 Trinity Street, Building B, Austin, TX 78712, United States.
| | - Cecilia J Hillard
- Medical College of Wisconsin, Neuroscience Research Center, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 8701 Watertown Plank Rd, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA.
| | - Kelli F Koltyn
- University of Wisconsin - Madison, Department of Kinesiology, 1300 University Avenue, Madison, WI 53706, United States.
| | - Kevin M Crombie
- The University of Texas at Austin, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, 1601 Trinity Street, Building B, Austin, TX 78712, United States.
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Anand U, Pacchetti B, Anand P, Sodergren MH. The Endocannabinoid Analgesic Entourage Effect: Investigations in Cultured DRG Neurons. J Pain Res 2022; 15:3493-3507. [PMID: 36394060 PMCID: PMC9642605 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s378876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The endocannabinoid 2-Arachidonyl glycerol (2-AG) exerts dose-related anti-nociceptive effects, which are potentiated by the related but inactive 2-palmitoyl glycerol (2-PG) and 2-linoleoyl glycerol (2-LG). This potentiation of analgesia and other in vivo measures was described as the "entourage effect". We investigated this effect on TRPV1 signalling in cultured dorsal root ganglion (DRG) nociceptors. METHODS Adult rat DRG neurons were cultured in medium containing NGF and GDNF at 37°C. 48 h later cultures were loaded with 2 µM Fura2AM for calcium imaging, and treated with 2-AG, 2-PG and 2-LG, individually or combined, for 5 min, followed by 1 µMol capsaicin. The amplitude and latency of capsaicin responses were measured (N=3-7 rats, controls N=16), and analysed. RESULTS In controls, 1 µMol capsaicin elicited immediate calcium influx in a subset of neurons, with average latency of 1.27 ± 0.2 s and amplitude of 0.15 ± 0.01 Units. 2-AG (10-100 µMol) elicited calcium influx in some neurons. In the presence of 2-AG (0.001-100 µMol), capsaicin responses were markedly delayed in 64% neurons by up to 320 s (P<0.001). 2-PG increased capsaicin response latency at 0.1 nMol-100 µMol (P<0.001), in 60% neurons, as did 2-LG at 0.1-100 µMol (P<0.001), in 76% neurons. Increased capsaicin response latency due to 2-AG and 2-PG was sensitive to the CB2 but not to the CB1 receptor antagonist. Combined application of 1 µMol 2-AG, 5 µMol 2-PG and 10 µMol 2-LG, also resulted in significantly increased capsaicin response latency up to 281.5 ± 41.5 s (P<0.001), in 96% neurons, that was partially restored by the CB2, but not the CB1 antagonist. CONCLUSION 2-AG, 2-LG and 2-PG significantly delayed TRPV1 signalling in the majority of capsaicin-sensitive DRG neurons, that was markedly increased following combined application. Further studies of these endocannabinoids are required to identify the underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uma Anand
- Medical Cannabis Research Group, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, W12 0HS, UK
| | | | - Praveen Anand
- Professor of Clinical Neurology, Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, W12 0HS, UK
| | - Mikael Hans Sodergren
- Medical Cannabis Research Group, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, W12 0HS, UK
- Curaleaf International Limited, London, EC2A 2EW, UK
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Woyach V, Sherman K, Hillard CJ, Hopp FA, Hogan QH, Dean C. Fatty acid amide hydrolase activity in the dorsal periaqueductal gray attenuates neuropathic pain and associated dysautonomia. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2022; 323:R749-R762. [PMID: 36154489 PMCID: PMC9639763 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00073.2022] [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: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The complexity of neuropathic pain and its associated comorbidities, including dysautonomia, make it difficult to treat. Overlap of anatomical regions and pharmacology of sympathosensory systems in the central nervous system (CNS) provide targets for novel treatment strategies. The dorsal periaqueductal gray (dPAG) is an integral component of both the descending pain modulation system and the acute stress response and is critically involved in both analgesia and the regulation of sympathetic activity. Local manipulation of the endocannabinoid signaling system holds great promise to provide analgesia without excessive adverse effects and also influence autonomic output. Inhibition of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) increases brain concentrations of the endocannabinoid N-arachidonoylethanolamine (AEA) and reduces pain-related behaviors in neuropathic pain models. Neuropathic hyperalgesia and reduced sympathetic tone are associated with increased FAAH activity in the dPAG, which suggests the hypothesis that inhibition of FAAH in the dPAG will normalize pain sensation and autonomic function in neuropathic pain. To test this hypothesis, the effects of systemic or intra-dPAG FAAH inhibition on hyperalgesia and dysautonomia developed after spared nerve injury (SNI) were assessed in male and female rats. Administration of the FAAH inhibitor PF-3845 into the dPAG reduces hyperalgesia behavior and the decrease in sympathetic tone induced by SNI. Prior administration of the CB1 receptor antagonist AM281, attenuated the antihyperalgesic and sympathetic effects of FAAH inhibition. No sex differences were identified. These data support an integrative role for AEA/CB1 receptor signaling in the dPAG contributing to the regulation of both hyperalgesia behavior and altered sympathetic tone in neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Woyach
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- Research Service, Zablocki Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Milwaukee Wisconsin
| | - Katherine Sherman
- Research Service, Zablocki Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Milwaukee Wisconsin
| | - Cecilia J Hillard
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Neuroscience Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Francis A Hopp
- Research Service, Zablocki Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Milwaukee Wisconsin
| | - Quinn H Hogan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- Research Service, Zablocki Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Milwaukee Wisconsin
| | - Caron Dean
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- Research Service, Zablocki Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Milwaukee Wisconsin
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18
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Li H, Chen R, Zhou Y, Wang H, Sun L, Yang Z, Bai L, Zhang J. Endocannabinoids regulate cocaine-associated memory through brain AEA-CB1R signalling activation. Mol Metab 2022; 65:101597. [PMID: 36096452 PMCID: PMC9508352 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2022.101597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Contextual drug-associated memory precipitates craving and relapse in substance users, and the risk of relapse is a major challenge in the treatment of substance use disorders. Thus, understanding the neurobiological underpinnings of how this association memory is formed and maintained will inform future advances in the treatment of drug addiction. Brain endocannabinoids (eCBs) signalling has been associated with drug-induced neuroadaptations, but the role of lipases that mediate small lipid ligand biosynthesis and metabolism in regulating drug-associated memory has not been examined. Here, we explored how manipulation of the lipase fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), which is involved in mediating the level of the lipid ligand anandamide (AEA), affects cocaine-associated memory formation. Methods We applied behavioural, pharmacological and biochemical methods to detect cocaine-associated memory formation, eCBs in the dorsal dentate gyrus (dDG), and the activity of related enzymes. We further examined the roles of abnormal FAAH activity and AEA–CB1R signalling in the regulation of cocaine-associated memory formation and granule neuron dendritic structure alterations in the dDG through Western blotting, electron microscopy and immunofluorescence. Results In the present study, we found that cocaine induced a decrease in the level of FAAH in the dDG and increased the level of AEA. A high level of AEA activated cannabinoid type 1 receptors (CB1Rs) and further triggered CB1R signalling activation and granule neuron dendritic remodelling, and these effects were reversed by blockade of CB1Rs in the brain. Furthermore, inhibition of FAAH in the dDG markedly increased AEA levels and promoted cocaine-associated memory formation through CB1R signalling activation. Conclusions Together, our findings demonstrate that the lipase FAAH influences CB1R signalling activation and granule neuron dendritic structure alteration in the dDG by regulating AEA levels and that AEA and AEA metabolism play a key role in cocaine-associated memory formation. Manipulation of AEA production may serve as a potential therapeutic strategy for drug addiction and relapse prevention. AEA plays an important role in the cocaine-associated memory formation through triggering CB1Rs. Cocaine decreases FAAH level and leads to AEA increasing, which activate CB1R signaling and remodel dendritic spines structure of granule neurons. Regulating AEA degradation through manipulation of FAAH, governs the cocaine-associated memory formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongchun Li
- National Chengdu Center for Safety Evaluation of Drugs, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy/Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
| | - Rong Chen
- National Chengdu Center for Safety Evaluation of Drugs, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy/Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuanyi Zhou
- National Chengdu Center for Safety Evaluation of Drugs, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy/Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Haichuan Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Luqiang Sun
- Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhen Yang
- Histology and Imaging Platform, Core Facilities of West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Lin Bai
- Histology and Imaging Platform, Core Facilities of West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Histology and Imaging Platform, Core Facilities of West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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19
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Serum Concentrations of the Endocannabinoid, 2-Arachidonoylglycerol, in the Peri-Trauma Period Are Positively Associated with Chronic Pain Months Later. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10071599. [PMID: 35884902 PMCID: PMC9313032 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10071599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocannabinoid signaling and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis are activated by trauma and both stress systems regulate the transition from acute to chronic pain. This study aimed to develop a model of relationships among circulating concentrations of cortisol and endocannabinoids (eCBs) immediately after traumatic injury and the presence of chronic pain months later. Pain scores and serum concentrations of eCBs and cortisol were measured during hospitalization and 5–10 months later in 147 traumatically injured individuals. Exploratory correlational analyses and path analysis were completed. The study sample was 50% Black and Latino and primarily male (69%); 34% percent endorsed a pain score of 4 or greater at follow-up and were considered to have chronic pain. Path analysis was used to model relationships among eCB, 2-arachidonolyglycerol (2-AG), cortisol, and pain, adjusting for sex and injury severity (ISS). Serum 2-AG concentrations at the time of injury were associated with chronic pain in 3 ways: a highly significant, independent positive predictor; a mediator of the effect of ISS, and through a positive relationship with cortisol concentrations. These data indicate that 2-AG concentrations at the time of an injury are positively associated with chronic pain and suggest excessive activation of endocannabinoid signaling contributes to risk for chronic pain.
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20
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A Vecchiarelli H, Morena M, TY Lee T, S Nastase A, J Aukema R, D. Leitl K, Megan Gray J, N Petrie G, J.Tellez-Monnery K, N.Hill M. Sex and stressor modality influence acute stress-induced dynamic changes in corticolimbic endocannabinoid levels in adult Sprague Dawley rats. Neurobiol Stress 2022; 20:100470. [PMID: 36039150 PMCID: PMC9418543 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2022.100470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Research over the past few decades has established a role for the endocannabinoid system in contributing to the neural and endocrine responses to stress exposure. The two endocannabinoid ligands, anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG), both play roles in regulating the stress response and both exhibit dynamic changes in response to stress exposure. Most of this previous research, however, was conducted in male rodents. Given that, especially in rodents, the stress response is influenced by sex, an understanding of how these dynamic responses of endocannabinoids in response to stress is influenced by sex could provide insight into sex differences of the acute stress response. We exposed adult, Sprague Dawley rats to different commonly utilized acute stress modalities, specifically restraint, swim and foot shock stress. Thirty minutes following stress onset, we excised the amygdala, hippocampus and medial prefrontal cortex, corticolimbic brain regions involved in the stress response, to measure endocannabinoid levels. When AEA levels were altered in response to restraint and swim stress, they were reduced, whereas exposure to foot shock stress led to an increase in the amygdala. 2-AG levels, when they were altered by stress exposure were only increased, specifically in males in the amygdala following swim stress, and in the hippocampus and medial prefrontal cortex overall following foot shock stress. This increase in 2-AG levels following stress only in males was the only sex difference found in stress-induced changes in endocannabinoid levels. There were no consistent sex differences observed. Collectively, these data contribute to our further understanding of the interactions between stress and endocannabinoid function. Stressor modality influences acute stress-induced changes in endocannabinoid levels in corticolimbic brain regions. There are minimal sex differences with regards to basal levels or stress-induced changes in endocannabinoid levels. AEA decreased from acute restraint and swim stresses but increased from acute foot shock stress. 2-AG levels only showed increases when they were impacted by the different stress modalities.
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21
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Inhibiting Endocannabinoid Hydrolysis as Emerging Analgesic Strategy Targeting a Spectrum of Ion Channels Implicated in Migraine Pain. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23084407. [PMID: 35457225 PMCID: PMC9027089 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Migraine is a disabling neurovascular disorder characterized by severe pain with still limited efficient treatments. Endocannabinoids, the endogenous painkillers, emerged, alternative to plant cannabis, as promising analgesics against migraine pain. In this thematic review, we discuss how inhibition of the main endocannabinoid-degrading enzymes, monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) and fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), could raise the level of endocannabinoids (endoCBs) such as 2-AG and anandamide in order to alleviate migraine pain. We describe here: (i) migraine pain signaling pathways, which could serve as specific targets for antinociception; (ii) a divergent distribution of MAGL and FAAH activities in the key regions of the PNS and CNS implicated in migraine pain signaling; (iii) a complexity of anti-nociceptive effects of endoCBs mediated by cannabinoid receptors and through a direct modulation of ion channels in nociceptive neurons; and (iv) the spectrum of emerging potent MAGL and FAAH inhibitors which efficiently increase endoCBs levels. The specific distribution and homeostasis of endoCBs in the main regions of the nociceptive system and their generation ‘on demand’, along with recent availability of MAGL and FAAH inhibitors suggest new perspectives for endoCBs-mediated analgesia in migraine pain.
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22
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deRoon-Cassini TA, Bergner CL, Chesney SA, Schumann NR, Lee TS, Brasel KJ, Hillard CJ. Circulating endocannabinoids and genetic polymorphisms as predictors of posttraumatic stress disorder symptom severity: heterogeneity in a community-based cohort. Transl Psychiatry 2022; 12:48. [PMID: 35105857 PMCID: PMC8807700 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-022-01808-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid signaling system (ECSS) regulates fear and anxiety. While ECSS hypoactivity can contribute to symptoms of established post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), the role of the ECSS in PTSD development following trauma is unknown. A prospective, longitudinal cohort study of 170 individuals (47% non-Hispanic Caucasian and 70% male) treated at a level 1 trauma center for traumatic injury was carried out. PTSD symptom assessments and blood were obtained during hospitalization and at follow-up (6-8 months post injury). Serum concentrations of the endocannabinoids N-arachidonoylethanolamine (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) were determined at both time points and selected genetic polymorphisms in endocannabinoid genes, including rs324420 in fatty acid amide hydrolase, were assessed. For the entire sample, serum concentrations of AEA at hospitalization were significantly higher in those diagnosed with PTSD at follow-up (p = 0.030). Serum concentrations of 2-AG were significantly, positively correlated with PTSD symptom severity at follow-up only in minorities (p = 0.014). Minority participants (mostly Black/African American) also demonstrated significant, negative correlations between serum AEA concentrations and PTSD symptom severity both measured at hospitalization (p = 0.015). The A/A genotype at rs324420 was associated with significantly higher PTSD symptom severity (p = 0.025) and occurred exclusively in the Black participants. Collectively, these results are contrary to our hypothesis and find positive associations between circulating endocannabinoids and risk for PTSD. Minority status is an important modulator of the association between endocannabinoids and risk for PTSD, suggesting that the ECSS contributes to risk most significantly in these individuals and the contextual factors related to these findings should be further explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terri A deRoon-Cassini
- Department of Surgery, Division of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States.
- Comprehensive Injury Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States.
| | - Carisa L Bergner
- Comprehensive Injury Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | | | | | | | - Karen J Brasel
- Department of Surgery, Oregon Health and Science University, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Cecilia J Hillard
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Neuroscience Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
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23
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Siebers M, Biedermann SV, Fuss J. Do Endocannabinoids Cause the Runner’s High? Evidence and Open Questions. Neuroscientist 2022; 29:352-369. [PMID: 35081831 PMCID: PMC10159215 DOI: 10.1177/10738584211069981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The runner’s high is an ephemeral feeling some humans experience during and after endurance exercise. Recent evidence in mice suggests that a runner’s high depends on the release of endocannabinoids (eCBs) during exercise. However, little is known under what circumstances eCBs are released during exercise in humans. This systematic review sampled all data from clinical trials in humans on eCB levels following exercise from the discovery of eCBs until April 20, 2021. PubMed/NCBI, Ovid MEDLINE, and Cochrane library were searched systematically and reviewed following the PRISMA guidelines. From 278 records, 21 met the inclusion criteria. After acute exercise, 14 of 17 studies detected an increase in eCBs. In contrast, after a period of long-term endurance exercise, four articles described a decrease in eCBs. Even though several studies demonstrated an association between eCB levels and features of the runner’s high, reliable proof of the involvement of eCBs in the runner’s high in humans has not yet been achieved due to methodological hurdles. In this review, we suggest how to advance the study of the influence of eCBs on the beneficial effects of exercise and provide recommendations on how endocannabinoid release is most likely to occur under laboratory conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Siebers
- Institute of Forensic Psychiatry and Sex Research, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Human Behavior Laboratory, Institute for Sex Research, Sexual Medicine and Forensic Psychiatry, Center of Psychosocial Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sarah V. Biedermann
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Center of Psychosocial Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Johannes Fuss
- Institute of Forensic Psychiatry and Sex Research, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Human Behavior Laboratory, Institute for Sex Research, Sexual Medicine and Forensic Psychiatry, Center of Psychosocial Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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24
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Peng J, Fan M, An C, Ni F, Huang W, Luo J. A narrative review of molecular mechanism and therapeutic effect of Cannabidiol (CBD). Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2022; 130:439-456. [PMID: 35083862 DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.13710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) is an abundant non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid in Cannabis extracts which has high affinity on a series of receptors, including type 1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1), type 2 cannabinoid receptor (CB2), GPR55, transient receptor potential vanilloid (TRPV), and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ). By modulating the activities of these receptors, CBD exhibits multiple therapeutic effects, including neuroprotective, antiepileptic, anxiolytic, antipsychotic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-cancer properties. CBD could also be applied to treat or prevent COVID-19 and its complications. Here, we provide a narrative review of CBD's applications in human diseases: from mechanism of action to clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiangling Peng
- Department of Diabetes Complications and Metabolism, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Mingjie Fan
- Department of Diabetes Complications and Metabolism, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Chelsea An
- Department of Diabetes Complications and Metabolism, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Feng Ni
- Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wendong Huang
- Department of Diabetes Complications and Metabolism, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA
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25
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Sultana S, Berger G, Lehmann C. Components of the Endogenous Cannabinoid System as Potential Biomarkers for Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 12:diagnostics12010019. [PMID: 35054185 PMCID: PMC8775086 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12010019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) is a chronic condition causing bladder pressure and pain. The condition is of unknown etiology and is often accompanied by other symptoms, including chronic pelvic pain, increased urinary urgency, and frequency. There is no definitive diagnosis for IC/BPS, and treatment options are currently limited to physical therapy and medications to help alleviate symptoms. The endogenous cannabinoid system (ECS) is an important regulator of numerous physiological systems, including the urinary system. Modulations of the ECS have been shown to be beneficial for IC/BPS-associated pain and inflammation in rodents. As an attempt to identify potential biomarkers for IC/BPS, we reviewed experimental studies where the components of the ECS have been quantified in experimental models of IC/BPS. Further investigations using well-defined animal models and patients’ data are required to obtain stronger evidence regarding the potential for ECS components to be definitive biomarkers for IC/BPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saki Sultana
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (G.B.); (C.L.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Geraint Berger
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (G.B.); (C.L.)
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management and Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Christian Lehmann
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (G.B.); (C.L.)
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management and Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
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26
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Jain S, Bisht A, Verma K, Negi S, Paliwal S, Sharma S. The role of fatty acid amide hydrolase enzyme inhibitors in Alzheimer's disease. Cell Biochem Funct 2021; 40:106-117. [PMID: 34931308 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.3680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 11/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) is a prominent enzyme of the endocannabinoid system that degrades endogenous cannabinoid anandamide and oleamide. These lipid amides are involved in reducing neuroinflammation, pain and regulation of other neurological-related activities including feeding behaviours, sleep patterns, body temperature, memory processes and locomotory activity. Many of these activities are affected in most neurological disorders. Increased levels of brain FAAH expressions are speculated to correlate with decreased levels of lipid amides and increased AD-related symptoms. Thus, inhibition of FAAH shows promising potential in amelioration of symptoms associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD). The review aims at establishing the detrimental role of increased FAAH expression in AD and highlights the translational potential and therapeutic application of FAAH inhibitors in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Smita Jain
- Department of Pharmacy, Banasthali Vidyapith, Banasthali, India
| | - Akansha Bisht
- Department of Pharmacy, Banasthali Vidyapith, Banasthali, India
| | - Kanika Verma
- Department of Pharmacy, Banasthali Vidyapith, Banasthali, India
| | - Swarnima Negi
- Department of Pharmacy, Banasthali Vidyapith, Banasthali, India
| | - Sarvesh Paliwal
- Department of Pharmacy, Banasthali Vidyapith, Banasthali, India
| | - Swapnil Sharma
- Department of Pharmacy, Banasthali Vidyapith, Banasthali, India
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27
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Baglot SL, VanRyzin JW, Marquardt AE, Aukema RJ, Petrie GN, Hume C, Reinl EL, Bieber JB, McLaughlin RJ, McCarthy MM, Hill MN. Maternal-fetal transmission of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and its metabolites following inhalation and injection exposure during pregnancy in rats. J Neurosci Res 2021; 100:713-730. [PMID: 34882838 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis use during pregnancy has increased over the past few decades, with recent data indicating that, in youth and young adults especially, up to 22% of people report using cannabis during pregnancy. Animal models provide the ability to study prenatal cannabis exposure (PCE) with control over timing and dosage; however, these studies utilize both injection and inhalation approaches. While it is known that Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC; primary psychoactive component of cannabis) can cross the placenta, examination of the transmission and concentration of THC and its metabolites from maternal blood into the placenta and fetal brain remains relatively unknown, and the influence of route of administration has never been examined. Pregnant female rats were exposed to either vaporized THC-dominant cannabis extract for pulmonary consumption or subcutaneous injection of THC repeatedly during the gestational period. Maternal blood, placenta, and fetal brains were collected following the final administration of THC for analysis of THC and its metabolites, as well as endocannabinoid concentrations, through mass spectrometry. Both routes of administration resulted in the transmission of THC and its metabolites in placenta and fetal brain. Repeated exposure to inhaled THC vapor resulted in fetal brain THC concentrations that were about 30% of those seen in maternal blood, whereas repeated injections resulted in roughly equivalent concentrations of THC in maternal blood and fetal brain. Neither inhalation nor injection of THC during pregnancy altered fetal brain endocannabinoid concentrations. Our data provide the first characterization of maternal-fetal transmission of THC and its metabolites following both vaporized delivery and injection routes of administration. These data are important to establish the maternal-fetal transmission in preclinical injection and inhalation models of PCE and may provide insight into predicting fetal exposure in human studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha L Baglot
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jonathan W VanRyzin
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ashley E Marquardt
- Program in Neuroscience, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Robert J Aukema
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Gavin N Petrie
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Catherine Hume
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Erin L Reinl
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - John B Bieber
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ryan J McLaughlin
- Department of Integrative Physiology and Neuroscience, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Margaret M McCarthy
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Program in Neuroscience, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Matthew N Hill
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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28
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Iozzo M, Sgrignani G, Comito G, Chiarugi P, Giannoni E. Endocannabinoid System and Tumour Microenvironment: New Intertwined Connections for Anticancer Approaches. Cells 2021; 10:cells10123396. [PMID: 34943903 PMCID: PMC8699381 DOI: 10.3390/cells10123396] [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: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumour microenvironment (TME) is now recognised as a hallmark of cancer, since tumour:stroma crosstalk supports the key steps of tumour growth and progression. The dynamic co-evolution of the tumour and stromal compartments may alter the surrounding microenvironment, including the composition in metabolites and signalling mediators. A growing number of evidence reports the involvement of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in cancer. ECS is composed by a complex network of ligands, receptors, and enzymes, which act in synergy and contribute to several physiological but also pathological processes. Several in vitro and in vivo evidence show that ECS deregulation in cancer cells affects proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis, and metastatic potential. Although it is still an evolving research, recent experimental evidence also suggests that ECS can modulate the functional behaviour of several components of the TME, above all the immune cells, endothelial cells and stromal components. However, the role of ECS in the tumour:stroma interplay remains unclear and research in this area is particularly intriguing. This review aims to shed light on the latest relevant findings of the tumour response to ECS modulation, encouraging a more in-depth analysis in this field. Novel discoveries could be promising for novel anti-tumour approaches, targeting the microenvironmental components and the supportive tumour:stroma crosstalk, thereby hindering tumour development.
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Mitra S, Gobira PH, Werner CT, Martin JA, Iida M, Thomas SA, Erias K, Miracle S, Lafargue C, An C, Dietz DM. A role for the endocannabinoid enzymes monoacylglycerol and diacylglycerol lipases in cue-induced cocaine craving following prolonged abstinence. Addict Biol 2021; 26:e13007. [PMID: 33496035 PMCID: PMC11000690 DOI: 10.1111/adb.13007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2020] [Revised: 12/25/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Following exposure to drugs of abuse, long-term neuroadaptations underlie persistent risk to relapse. Endocannabinoid signaling has been associated with drug-induced neuroadaptations, but the role of lipases that mediate endocannabinoid biosynthesis and metabolism in regulating relapse behaviors following prolonged periods of drug abstinence has not been examined. Here, we investigated how pharmacological manipulation of lipases involved in regulating the expression of the endocannabinoid 2-AG in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) influence cocaine relapse via discrete neuroadaptations. At prolonged abstinence (30 days) from cocaine self-administration, there is an increase in the NAc levels of diacylglycerol lipase (DAGL), the enzyme responsible for the synthesis of the endocannabinoid 2-AG, along with decreased levels of monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL), which hydrolyzes 2-AG. Since endocannabinoid-mediated behavioral plasticity involves phosphatase dysregulation, we examined the phosphatase calcineurin after 30 days of abstinence and found decreased expression in the NAc, which we demonstrate is regulated through the transcription factor EGR1. Intra-NAc pharmacological manipulation of DAGL and MAGL with inhibitors DO-34 and URB-602, respectively, bidirectionally regulated cue-induced cocaine seeking and altered the phosphostatus of translational initiation factor, eIF2α. Finally, we found that cocaine seeking 30 days after abstinence leads to decreased phosphorylation of eIF2α and reduced expression of its downstream target NPAS4, a protein involved in experience-dependent neuronal plasticity. Together, our findings demonstrate that lipases that regulate 2-AG expression influence transcriptional and translational changes in the NAc related to drug relapse vulnerability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swarup Mitra
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Program in Neuroscience, The State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
- These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Pedro H. Gobira
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Program in Neuroscience, The State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
- These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Craig T. Werner
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Program in Neuroscience, The State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Jennifer A. Martin
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Program in Neuroscience, The State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Madoka Iida
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Program in Neuroscience, The State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Shruthi A. Thomas
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Program in Neuroscience, The State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Kyra Erias
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Program in Neuroscience, The State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Sophia Miracle
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Program in Neuroscience, The State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Charles Lafargue
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Program in Neuroscience, The State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Chunna An
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Program in Neuroscience, The State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - David M. Dietz
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Program in Neuroscience, The State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
- Department of Psychology, The State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
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Campbell WA, Blum S, Reske A, Hoang T, Blackshaw S, Fischer AJ. Cannabinoid signaling promotes the de-differentiation and proliferation of Müller glia-derived progenitor cells. Glia 2021; 69:2503-2521. [PMID: 34231253 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Endocannabinoids (eCB) are lipid-based neurotransmitters that are known to influence synaptic function in the visual system. eCBs are also known to suppress neuroinflammation in different pathological states. However, nothing is known about the roles of the eCB system during the transition of Müller glia (MG) into proliferating progenitor-like cells in the retina. Accordingly, we used the chick and mouse model to characterize expression patterns of eCB-related genes and applied pharmacological agents to investigate how the eCB system impacts glial reactivity and the capacity of MG to become Müller glia-derived progenitor cells (MGPCs). We queried single cell RNA-seq libraries to identify eCB-related genes and identify cells with dynamic patterns of expression in damaged retinas. MG and inner retinal neurons expressed the eCB receptor CNR1, as well as enzymes involved in eCB metabolism. In the chick, intraocular injections of cannabinoids, 2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and Anandamide (AEA), stimulated the formation of MGPCs. Cannabinoid Receptor 1 (CNR1)-agonists and Monoglyceride Lipase-inhibitor promoted the formation of MGPCs, whereas CNR1-antagonist and inhibitors of eCB synthesis suppressed this process. In damaged mouse retinas where MG activate NFkB-signaling, activation of CNR1 decreased and inhibition of CNR1 increased NFkB, whereas levels of neuronal cell death were unaffected. Surprisingly, retinal microglia were largely unaffected by increases or decreases in eCB-signaling in both chick and mouse retinas. We conclude that the eCB system in the retina influences the reactivity of MG and the formation of proliferating MGPCs, but does not influence the reactivity of immune cells in the retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Warren A Campbell
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Sydney Blum
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Alana Reske
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Thanh Hoang
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Seth Blackshaw
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Andy J Fischer
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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Hurrle T, Gläser F, Bröhmer MC, Nieger M, Bräse S. The Diels-Alder Approach towards Cannabinoid Derivatives and Formal Synthesis of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). ChemistryOpen 2021; 10:587-592. [PMID: 33988908 PMCID: PMC8121136 DOI: 10.1002/open.202000343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2020] [Revised: 02/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Based on the Diels-Alder reaction of vinylchromenes with electron-poor dienophiles, we developed a strategy for the synthesis of tetrahydrocannabinol derivatives. Substituted vinyl chromenes could be converted with several dienophiles to successfully isolate several complex molecules. These molecules already contain the cannabinoid-like base structure and further processing of one such derivative led to a precursor of Δ9 -tetrahydrocannabinol. The most challenging step towards this precursor was an epoxidation step that was ultimately achieved via dimethyl dioxirane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Hurrle
- Institute of Organic ChemistryKarlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) Campus SouthFritz-Haber-Weg 676131KarlsruheGermany
- Institute of Biological and Chemical Systems (IBCS-FMS)Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) Campus NorthHermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 176344Eggenstein-LeopoldshafenGermany
| | - Franziska Gläser
- Institute of Organic ChemistryKarlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) Campus SouthFritz-Haber-Weg 676131KarlsruheGermany
| | - Manuel C. Bröhmer
- Institute of Organic ChemistryKarlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) Campus SouthFritz-Haber-Weg 676131KarlsruheGermany
| | - Martin Nieger
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of HelsinkiP.O. Box 55, A.I.Virtasen aukio 100014HelsinkiFinland
| | - Stefan Bräse
- Institute of Organic ChemistryKarlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) Campus SouthFritz-Haber-Weg 676131KarlsruheGermany
- Institute of Biological and Chemical Systems (IBCS-FMS)Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) Campus NorthHermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 176344Eggenstein-LeopoldshafenGermany
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Evidence for the Endocannabinoid System as a Therapeutic Target in the Treatment of Cannabis Use Disorder. CURRENT ADDICTION REPORTS 2021; 7:545-552. [PMID: 33816054 DOI: 10.1007/s40429-020-00342-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of Review Cannabis use disorder (CUD) is highly prevalent. Psychotherapy alone is not adequately effective, with few individuals achieving abstinence. Pharmacotherapeutic supplementation may improve efficacy, and the endocannabinoid system presents a target specifically dysregulated by heavy cannabis use. This review compiles current literature evaluating endocannabinoid modulation as a treatment strategy for CUD, with implications for future research. Recent Findings Cannabinoid receptor agonists have been found to reduce cannabis withdrawal symptoms without a notable effect on relapse, and antagonists can produce severe psychiatric symptoms. Fatty acid amide hydrolase inhibitors and cannabidiol demonstrate the most promising efficacy in treating CUD thus far, but research with these compounds is still preliminary. Summary Components of the endocannabinoid system may serve as unique treatment targets with differential efficacy for the treatment of cannabis use disorder as a whole. Further research is needed exploring novel methods for targeting endocannabinoid dysfunction in CUD.
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Yuan CY, Zhou V, Sauber G, Stollenwerk T, Komorowski R, López A, Tolón RM, Romero J, Hillard CJ, Drobyski WR. Signaling through the type 2 cannabinoid receptor regulates the severity of acute and chronic graft-versus-host disease. Blood 2021; 137:1241-1255. [PMID: 33027805 PMCID: PMC7933769 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2020004871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) pathophysiology is a complex interplay between cells that comprise the adaptive and innate arms of the immune system. Effective prophylactic strategies are therefore contingent upon approaches that address contributions from both immune cell compartments. In the current study, we examined the role of the type 2 cannabinoid receptor (CB2R), which is expressed on nearly all immune cells, and demonstrated that absence of the CB2R on donor CD4+ or CD8+ T cells or administration of a selective CB2R pharmacological antagonist exacerbated acute GVHD lethality. This was accompanied primarily by the expansion of proinflammatory CD8+ T cells, indicating that constitutive CB2R expression on T cells preferentially regulated CD8+ T-cell alloreactivity. Using a novel CB2ReGFP reporter mouse, we observed significant loss of CB2R expression on T cells, but not macrophages, during acute GVHD, indicative of differential alterations in receptor expression under inflammatory conditions. Therapeutic targeting of the CB2R with the agonists Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and JWH-133 revealed that only THC mitigated lethal T cell-mediated acute GVHD. Conversely, only JWH-133 was effective in a sclerodermatous chronic GVHD model where macrophages contributed to disease biology. In vitro, both THC and JWH-133 induced arrestin recruitment and extracellular regulated kinase phosphorylation via CB2R, but THC had no effect on CB2R-mediated inhibition of adenylyl cyclase. This study shows that the CB2R plays a critical role in the regulation of GVHD and suggests that effective therapeutic targeting is dependent upon agonist signaling characteristics and receptor selectivity in conjunction with the composition of pathogenic immune effector cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Richard Komorowski
- Department of Pathology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI; and
| | - Alicia López
- Faculty of Experimental Sciences, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rosa María Tolón
- Faculty of Experimental Sciences, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Julian Romero
- Faculty of Experimental Sciences, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Madrid, Spain
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Endocannabinoid system in psychotic and mood disorders, a review of human studies. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 106:110096. [PMID: 32898588 PMCID: PMC8582009 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.110096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Despite widespread evidence of endocannabinoid system involvement in the pathophysiology of psychiatric disorders, our understanding remains rudimentary. Here we review studies of the endocannabinoid system in humans with psychotic and mood disorders. Postmortem, peripheral, cerebrospinal fluid and in vivo imaging studies provide evidence for the involvement of the endocannabinoid system in psychotic and mood disorders. Psychotic disorders and major depressive disorder exhibit alterations of brain cannabinoid CB1 receptors and peripheral blood endocannabinoids. Further, these changes may be sensitive to treatment status, disease state, and symptom severity. Evidence from psychotic disorder extend to endocannabinoid metabolizing enzymes in the brain and periphery, whereas these lines of evidence remain poorly developed in mood disorders. A paucity of studies examining this system in bipolar disorder represents a notable gap in the literature. Despite a growing body of productive work in this field of research, there is a clear need for investigation beyond the CB1 receptor in order to more fully elucidate the role of the endocannabinoid system in psychotic and mood disorders.
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Goldstein Ferber S, Weller A, Yadid G, Friedman A. Discovering the Lost Reward: Critical Locations for Endocannabinoid Modulation of the Cortico-Striatal Loop That Are Implicated in Major Depression. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:1867. [PMID: 33668515 PMCID: PMC7918043 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Depression, the most prevalent psychiatric disorder in the Western world, is characterized by increased negative affect (i.e., depressed mood, cost value increase) and reduced positive affect (i.e., anhedonia, reward value decrease), fatigue, loss of appetite, and reduced psychomotor activity except for cases of agitative depression. Some forms, such as post-partum depression, have a high risk for suicidal attempts. Recent studies in humans and in animal models relate major depression occurrence and reoccurrence to alterations in dopaminergic activity, in addition to other neurotransmitter systems. Imaging studies detected decreased activity in the brain reward circuits in major depression. Therefore, the location of dopamine receptors in these circuits is relevant for understanding major depression. Interestingly, in cortico-striatal-dopaminergic pathways within the reward and cost circuits, the expression of dopamine and its contribution to reward are modulated by endocannabinoid receptors. These receptors are enriched in the striosomal compartment of striatum that selectively projects to dopaminergic neurons of substantia nigra compacta and is vulnerable to stress. This review aims to show the crosstalk between endocannabinoid and dopamine receptors and their vulnerability to stress in the reward circuits, especially in corticostriatal regions. The implications for novel treatments of major depression are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sari Goldstein Ferber
- Department of Psychology and the Leslie and Susan Gonda (Goldschmied) Multidisciplinary Brain Research Center, Bar Ilan University, Ramat Gan 5290002, Israel; (S.G.F.); (A.W.)
| | - Aron Weller
- Department of Psychology and the Leslie and Susan Gonda (Goldschmied) Multidisciplinary Brain Research Center, Bar Ilan University, Ramat Gan 5290002, Israel; (S.G.F.); (A.W.)
| | - Gal Yadid
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences and the Leslie and Susan Gonda (Goldschmied) Multidisciplinary Brain Research Center, Bar Ilan University, Ramat Gan 5290002, Israel;
| | - Alexander Friedman
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA
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Circulating endocannabinoids and prospective risk for depression in trauma-injury survivors. Neurobiol Stress 2021; 14:100304. [PMID: 33614866 PMCID: PMC7876629 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2021.100304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Biological mechanisms associated with response to trauma may impact risk for depression. One such mechanism is endocannabinoid signaling (eCB), a neuromodulatory system comprised of the CB1 subtype of cannabinoid receptors (CB1R), encoded by the CNR1 gene, and two primary endogenous ligands: 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and N-arachidonylethanolamine (AEA), hydrolyzed by monoacylglycerol lipase (gene name MGLL) and fatty acid amide hydrolase (gene name FAAH). Preclinical data suggest that eCB/CB1R signaling acts as a stress buffer and its loss or suppression increases depression-like behaviors. We examined circulating concentrations of the eCBs (2-AG and AEA) days and six months after a traumatic injury as a marker of eCB/CB1R signaling and as predictors of Center for Epidemiologic Studies of Depression Scale-Revised [CESD-R] scores as a measure of depression severity six months after injury. We also explored associations of CNR1, FAAH, and MGLL genetic variance with depression severity at six months. Results from hierarchical multiple linear regressions showed that higher 2-AG serum concentrations after trauma predicted greater depression at six months (β = 0.23, p = 0.007); neither AEA after trauma, nor 2-AG and AEA at six months were significant predictors (p's > 0.305). Carriers of minor allele for the putative single nucleotide polymorphism in the CNR1 gene rs806371 (β = 0.19, p = 0.024) experienced greater depression at six months. These data suggest that the eCB signaling system is highly activated following trauma and that eCB/CB1R activity contributes to long-term depression risk.
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Saldaña-Shumaker SL, Grenning AJ, Cunningham CW. Modern approaches to the development of synthetic cannabinoid receptor probes. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2021; 203:173119. [PMID: 33508249 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2021.173119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system, which spans the central and peripheral nervous systems and regulates many biologic processes, is an important target for probe discovery and medications development. Whereas the earliest endocannabinoid receptor probes were derivatives of the non-selective phytocannabinoids isolated from Cannabis species, modern drug discovery techniques have expanded the definitions of what constitutes a CB1R or CB2R cannabinoid receptor ligand. This review highlights recent advances in synthetic cannabinoid receptor chemistry and pharmacology. We provide examples of new CB1R- and CB2R-selective probes, and discuss rational approaches to the design of peripherally-restricted agents. We also describe structural classes of positive- and negative allosteric modulators (PAMs and NAMs) of CB1R and CB2R. Finally, we introduce new opportunities for cannabinoid receptor probe development that have emerged in recent years, including biased agonists that may lead to medications lacking adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Savanah L Saldaña-Shumaker
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Concordia University Wisconsin, 12800 N. Lake Shore Drive, Mequon, WI 53097, USA
| | - Alexander J Grenning
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florida, PO Box 117200, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Christopher W Cunningham
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Concordia University Wisconsin, 12800 N. Lake Shore Drive, Mequon, WI 53097, USA.
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Coronado C, Wade NE, Aguinaldo LD, Mejia MH, Jacobus J. Neurocognitive Correlates of Adolescent Cannabis Use: An Overview of Neural Activation Patterns in Task-Based Functional MRI Studies. JOURNAL OF PEDIATRIC NEUROPSYCHOLOGY 2021; 6:1-13. [PMID: 33425663 DOI: 10.1007/s40817-020-00076-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Adolescence is dynamic and comprises physiological, psychological, and neurocognitive changes. Notably, many developmentally associated neurobiological changes (e.g., synaptic pruning, myelination) coincide with peak substances use prevalence rates, particularly for cannabis use. Cannabis remains the most commonly used illicit drug among adolescents with 23.9% reporting cannabis use in the last year (Johnston et al., 2019). Adolescents who engage in cannabis use often show poorer neurocognitive performance and alterations in structural and functional brain development as compared to their non-using peers (Jacobus & Tapert, 2014). Over the past several decades, the cognitive domains most consistently associated with cannabis use among adolescents are learning and memory and several facets of executive functioning (e.g., inhibitory control, decision-making). Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is a non-invasive method for probing the neural substrates underlying possible cannabis-related changes in cognition. This brief review aims to synthesize recent findings on the relationship between adolescent (≤25 years old) cannabis use and neural response during task-based functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Findings thus far suggest aberrant, often hyperactive, response to task-based stimuli in youth cannabis users. When considering the future directions of fMRI research with cannabis-using youth, review of existing studies also highlights the need for more prospective research with diverse samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clarisa Coronado
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Natasha E Wade
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Laika D Aguinaldo
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
| | | | - Joanna Jacobus
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
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Vaseghi S, Nasehi M, Zarrindast MR. How do stupendous cannabinoids modulate memory processing via affecting neurotransmitter systems? Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 120:173-221. [PMID: 33171142 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Revised: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, we wanted to review the role of cannabinoids in learning and memory in animal models, with respect to their interaction effects with six principal neurotransmitters involved in learning and memory including dopamine, glutamate, GABA (γ-aminobutyric acid), serotonin, acetylcholine, and noradrenaline. Cannabinoids induce a wide-range of unpredictable effects on cognitive functions, while their mechanisms are not fully understood. Cannabinoids in different brain regions and in interaction with different neurotransmitters, show diverse responses. Previous findings have shown that cannabinoids agonists and antagonists induce various unpredictable effects such as similar effect, paradoxical effect, or dualistic effect. It should not be forgotten that brain neurotransmitter systems can also play unpredictable roles in mediating cognitive functions. Thus, we aimed to review and discuss the effect of cannabinoids in interaction with neurotransmitters on learning and memory. In addition, we mentioned to the type of interactions between cannabinoids and neurotransmitter systems. We suggested that investigating the type of interactions is a critical neuropharmacological issue that should be considered in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salar Vaseghi
- Cognitive and Neuroscience Research Center (CNRC), Amir-Almomenin Hospital, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Institute for Cognitive Science Studies (ICSS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Nasehi
- Cognitive and Neuroscience Research Center (CNRC), Amir-Almomenin Hospital, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mohammad-Reza Zarrindast
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Institute for Cognitive Science Studies (ICSS), Tehran, Iran; Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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40
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Carter GT, McLaughlin RJ, Cuttler C, Sauber GJ, Weeks DL, Hillard CJ, Weiss MD. Endocannabinoids and related lipids in serum from patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Muscle Nerve 2020; 63:120-126. [PMID: 33094490 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The goals of this study were to determine whether serum concentrations of endocannabinoids (eCB) and related lipids predict disease status in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) relative to healthy controls, and whether concentrations correlate with disease duration and severity. METHODS Serum concentrations of the eCBs 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and N-arachidonoylethanolamine (AEA), and related lipids palmitoylethanolamine (PEA), oleoylethanolamine (OEA), and 2-oleoylglycerol (2-OG), were measured in samples from 47 patients with ALS and 19 healthy adults. Hierarchical binary logistic and linear regression analyses assessed whether lipid concentrations predicted disease status (ALS or healthy control), duration, or severity. RESULTS Binary logistic regression revealed that, after controlling for age and gender, 2-AG, 2-OG and AEA concentrations were unique predictors of the presence of ALS, demonstrating odds ratios of 0.86 (P = .039), 1.03 (P = .023), and 42.17 (P = .026), respectively. When all five lipids and covariates (age, sex, race, ethnicity, body mass index, presence of a feeding tube) were included, the resulting model had an overall classification accuracy of 92.9%. Hierarchical linear regression analyses indicated that in patients with ALS, AEA and OEA inversely correlated with disease duration (P = .030 and .031 respectively), while PEA demonstrated a positive relationship with disease duration (P = .013). None of the lipids examined predicted disease severity. CONCLUSIONS These findings support previous studies indicating significant alterations in concentrations of circulating lipids in patients with ALS. They suggest that arachidonic and oleic acid containing small lipids may serve as biomarkers for identifying the presence and duration of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ryan J McLaughlin
- Department of Integrative Physiology & Neuroscience, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Carrie Cuttler
- Department of Psychology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Garrett J Sauber
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Neuroscience Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Douglas L Weeks
- St. Luke's Rehabilitation Institute, Spokane, Washington, USA
| | - Cecilia J Hillard
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Neuroscience Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Michael D Weiss
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
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41
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deRoon-Cassini TA, Stollenwerk TM, Beatka M, Hillard CJ. Meet Your Stress Management Professionals: The Endocannabinoids. Trends Mol Med 2020; 26:953-968. [PMID: 32868170 PMCID: PMC7530069 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2020.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid signaling system (ECSS) is altered by exposure to stress and mediates and modulates the effects of stress on the brain. Considerable preclinical data support critical roles for the endocannabinoids and their target, the CB1 cannabinoid receptor, in the adaptation of the brain to repeated stress exposure. Chronic stress exposure increases vulnerability to mental illness, so the ECSS has attracted attention as a potential therapeutic target for the prevention and treatment of stress-related psychopathology. We discuss human genetic studies indicating that the ECSS contributes to risk for mental illness in those exposed to severe stress and trauma early in life, and we explore the potential difficulties in pharmacological manipulation of the ECSS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terri A deRoon-Cassini
- Neuroscience Research Center, USA; Department of Surgery, Division of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Todd M Stollenwerk
- Neuroscience Research Center, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Margaret Beatka
- Neuroscience Research Center, USA; Department of Pathology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Cecilia J Hillard
- Neuroscience Research Center, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA.
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42
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Stielper ZF, Fucich EA, Middleton JW, Hillard CJ, Edwards S, Molina PE, Gilpin NW. Traumatic Brain Injury and Alcohol Drinking Alter Basolateral Amygdala Endocannabinoids in Female Rats. J Neurotrauma 2020; 38:422-434. [PMID: 32838651 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2020.7175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) affects approximately 3 million Americans yearly and increases vulnerability to developing psychiatric comorbidities. Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is the most prevalent psychiatric diagnosis preceding injury and TBI may increase subsequent alcohol use. The basolateral amygdala (BLA) is a limbic structure commonly affected by TBI that is implicated in anxiety and AUD. Endocannabinoids (eCBs) regulate synaptic activity in the BLA, and BLA eCB modulation alters anxiety-like behavior and stress reactivity. Previous work from our laboratories showed that systemic eCB degradation inhibition ameliorates TBI-induced increases in anxiety-like behavior and motivation to respond for alcohol in male rats. Here, we used a lateral fluid percussion model to test moderate TBI effects on anxiety-like behavior, alcohol drinking, and eCB levels and cell signaling in BLA, as well as the effect of alcohol drinking on anxiety-like behavior and the BLA eCB system, in female rats. Our results show that TBI does not promote escalation of operant alcohol self-administration or increase anxiety-like behavior in female rats. In the BLA, TBI and alcohol drinking alter tissue amounts of 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and N-arachidonoylethanolamine (anandamide; AEA) 1 h post-injury, and 2-AG levels remain low 11 days post-injury. Eleven days after injury, BLA pyramidal neurons were hyperexcitable, but measures of synaptic transmission and eCB signaling were unchanged. These data show that TBI impacts BLA 2-AG tissue levels, that this effect is modified by alcohol drinking, and also that TBI increases BLA cell excitability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary F Stielper
- Department of Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.,Alcohol and Drug Abuse Center of Excellence, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Fucich
- Department of Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.,Alcohol and Drug Abuse Center of Excellence, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.,Neuroscience Program, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Jason W Middleton
- Alcohol and Drug Abuse Center of Excellence, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.,Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Cecilia J Hillard
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Scott Edwards
- Department of Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.,Alcohol and Drug Abuse Center of Excellence, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Patricia E Molina
- Department of Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.,Alcohol and Drug Abuse Center of Excellence, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Nicholas W Gilpin
- Department of Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.,Alcohol and Drug Abuse Center of Excellence, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.,Southeast Louisiana VA Healthcare System, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
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43
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Ladha KS, Ajrawat P, Yang Y, Clarke H. Understanding the Medical Chemistry of the Cannabis Plant is Critical to Guiding Real World Clinical Evidence. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25184042. [PMID: 32899678 PMCID: PMC7570835 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25184042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2020] [Revised: 08/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
While cannabis has been consumed for thousands of years, the medical-legal landscape surrounding its use has dramatically evolved over the past decades. Patients are turning to cannabis as a therapeutic option for several medical conditions. Given the surge in interest over the past decades there exists a major gap in the literature with respect to understanding the products that are currently being consumed by patients. The current perspective highlights the lack of relevance within the current literature towards understanding the medical chemistry of the products being consumed. The cannabis industry must rigorously invest into understanding what people are consuming from a chemical composition standpoint. This will inform what compounds in addition to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol may be producing physiologic/therapeutic effects from plant based extracts. Only through real-world evidence and a formalized, granular data collection process within which we know the chemical inputs for patients already using or beginning to use medical cannabis, we can come closer to the ability to provide targeted clinical decision making and design future appropriate randomized controlled trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karim S. Ladha
- Department of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1E2, Canada;
- Department of Anesthesia, St, Michael′s Hospital, Toronto, ON M5B 1W8, Canada
- Centre For Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada;
| | - Prabjit Ajrawat
- Centre For Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada;
- Department of Anesthesia, Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - Yi Yang
- Centre for Molecular Design and Preformulations and Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 1L7, Canada;
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - Hance Clarke
- Department of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1E2, Canada;
- Centre For Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada;
- Department of Anesthesia, Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada
- Transitional Pain Service, Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-416-340-4800-5679; Fax: +1-416-340-3698
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44
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Slepukhina MA, Ivashchenko DV, Sheina MA, Muradian AA, Blagovestnov DA, Sychev DA. Pain pharmacogenetics. Drug Metab Pers Ther 2020; 35:dmpt-2020-2939. [PMID: 32776897 DOI: 10.1515/dmpt-2020-2939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Pain is a significant problem in medicine. The use of PGx markers to personalize postoperative analgesia can increase its effectiveness and avoid undesirable reactions. This article describes the mechanisms of nociception and antinociception and shows the pathophysiological mechanisms of pain in the human body. The main subject of this article is pharmacogenetic approach to the selection of anesthetics. Current review presents data for local and general anesthetics, opioids, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. None of the anesthetics currently has clinical guidelines for pharmacogenetic testing. This literature review summarizes the results of original research available, to date, and draws attention to this area.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dmitriy V Ivashchenko
- Child Psychiatry and Psychotherapy Department, Department of Personalized Medicine, Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education, Moscow, Russia
| | - Maria A Sheina
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | | | | | - Dmitriy A Sychev
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education, Moscow, Russia
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45
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Correia-Sá IB, Carvalho CM, Serrão PV, Loureiro AI, Fernandes-Lopes C, Marques M, Vieira-Coelho MA. A new role for anandamide: defective link between the systemic and skin endocannabinoid systems in hypertrophic human wound healing. Sci Rep 2020; 10:11134. [PMID: 32636441 PMCID: PMC7341842 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-68058-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of cannabinoids to treat fibrotic skin diseases is an emergent issue. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate systemic and skin endocannabinoid responses in the wound-healing process in humans. A prospective study was performed in 50 patients who underwent body-contouring surgery. Anandamide (N-arachidonoylethanolamine, AEA), 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) and oleoylethanolamide (OEA) were quantified using LC-MS/MS. Ten (20%) patients developed hypertrophic (HT) scars. No significant changes were observed between the normal (N) scar and HT scar groups in terms of plasma and skin endocannabinoids. Nevertheless, a positive correlation between plasma and skin AEA concentrations was found in the N group (r = 0.38, p = 0.015), which was absent in the HT group. Moreover, the AEA concentration was significantly lower in HT scar tissue than in normal scar tissue (0.77 ± 0.12 ng/g vs 1.15 ± 0.15 ng/g, p < 0.001). Interestingly, in all patients, the surgical intervention produced a time-dependent effect with a U shape for AEA, PEA and OEA plasma concentrations. In contrast, 2-AG plasma concentrations increased 5 days after surgery and were reduced and stabilized 3 months later. These results suggest crosstalk between systemic and local skin endocannabinoid systems during human wound healing. AEA appears to be the most likely candidate for this link, which is deficient in patients with HT scars.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês B Correia-Sá
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery and Burn Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto and Centro Hospitalar São João, EPE, Al. Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200 - 319, Porto, Portugal. .,Department of Biomedicine - Pharmacology and Therapeutics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Cláudia M Carvalho
- Department of Biomedicine - Pharmacology and Therapeutics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Paula V Serrão
- Department of Biomedicine - Pharmacology and Therapeutics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,MedInUP-Centro de Investigação Farmacológica E Inovação Medicamentosa, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana I Loureiro
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Research and Development, BIAL-Portela & Cª., S.A., Trofa, Portugal
| | - Carlos Fernandes-Lopes
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Research and Development, BIAL-Portela & Cª., S.A., Trofa, Portugal
| | - Marisa Marques
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery and Burn Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto and Centro Hospitalar São João, EPE, Al. Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200 - 319, Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria A Vieira-Coelho
- Department of Biomedicine - Pharmacology and Therapeutics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,MedInUP-Centro de Investigação Farmacológica E Inovação Medicamentosa, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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46
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Meccariello R. Endocannabinoid System in Health and Disease: Current Situation and Future Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21103549. [PMID: 32443408 PMCID: PMC7278997 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21103549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Rosaria Meccariello
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples "Parthenope", Via Medina 40, 80133 Naples, Italy
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47
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Disease-Specific Derangement of Circulating Endocannabinoids and N-Acylethanolamines in Myeloproliferative Neoplasms. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21093399. [PMID: 32403407 PMCID: PMC7246996 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21093399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Growing evidence highlights the endocannabinoid (EC) system involvement in cancer progression. Lipid mediators of this system are secreted by hematopoietic cells, including the ECs 2-arachidonoyl-glycerol (2AG) and arachidonoyl-ethanolamide (AEA), the 2AG metabolite 1AG, and members of N-acylethanolamine (NAE) family—palmitoyl-ethanolamide (PEA) and oleoyl-ethanolamide (OEA). However, the relevance of the EC system in myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) was never investigated. We explored the EC plasma profile in 55 MPN patients, including myelofibrosis (MF; n = 41), polycythemia vera (PV; n = 9), and essential thrombocythemia (ET; n = 5) subclasses and in 10 healthy controls (HC). AEA, PEA, OEA, 2AG, and 1AG plasma levels were measured by LC–MS/MS. Overall considered, MPN patients displayed similar EC and NAE levels compared to HC. Nonetheless, AEA levels in MPN were directly associated with the platelet count. MF patients showed higher levels of the sum of 2AG and 1AG compared to ET and PV patients, higher OEA/AEA ratios compared to HC and ET patients, and higher OEA/PEA ratios compared to HC. Furthermore, the sum of 2AG and 1AG positively correlated with JAK2V617F variant allele frequency and splenomegaly in MF and was elevated in high-risk PV patients compared to in low-risk PV patients. In conclusion, our work revealed specific alterations of ECs and NAE plasma profile in MPN subclasses and potentially relevant associations with disease severity.
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48
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Gaydukov AE, Dzhalagoniya IZ, Tarasova EO, Balezina OP. The Participation of Endocannabinoid Receptors in the Regulation of Spontaneous Synaptic Activity at Neuromuscular Junctions of Mice. BIOCHEMISTRY MOSCOW SUPPLEMENT SERIES A-MEMBRANE AND CELL BIOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1134/s1990747819060059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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49
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Abstract
ABSTRACT:Cannabidiol (CBD) has been generating increasing interest in medicine due to its therapeutic properties and an apparent lack of negative side effects. Research has suggested that high dosages of CBD can be taken acutely and chronically with little to no risk. This review focuses on the neuroprotective effects of a CBD, with an emphasis on its implications for recovering from a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) or concussion. CBD has been shown to influence the endocannabinoid system, both by affecting cannabinoid receptors and other receptors involved in the endocannabinoid system such as vanilloid receptor 1, adenosine receptors, and 5-hydroxytryptamine via cannabinoid receptor-independent mechanisms. Concussions can result in many physiological consequences, potentially resulting in post-concussion syndrome. While impairments in cerebrovascular and cardiovascular physiology following concussion have been shown, there is unfortunately still no single treatment available to enhance recovery. CBD has been shown to influence the blood brain barrier, brain-derived neurotrophic factors, cognitive capacity, the cerebrovasculature, cardiovascular physiology, and neurogenesis, all of which have been shown to be altered by concussion. CBD can therefore potentially provide treatment to enhance neuroprotection by reducing inflammation, regulating cerebral blood flow, enhancing neurogenesis, and protecting the brain against reactive oxygen species. Double-blind randomized controlled trials are still required to validate the use of CBD as medication following mild TBIs, such as concussion.
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50
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Burgdorf CE, Jing D, Yang R, Huang C, Hill MN, Mackie K, Milner TA, Pickel VM, Lee FS, Rajadhyaksha AM. Endocannabinoid genetic variation enhances vulnerability to THC reward in adolescent female mice. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2020; 6:eaay1502. [PMID: 32095523 PMCID: PMC7015690 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aay1502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Adolescence represents a developmental period with the highest risk for initiating cannabis use. Little is known about whether genetic variation in the endocannabinoid system alters mesolimbic reward circuitry to produce vulnerability to the rewarding properties of the exogenous cannabinoid Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Using a genetic knock-in mouse model (FAAHC/A) that biologically recapitulates the human polymorphism associated with problematic drug use, we find that in adolescent female mice, but not male mice, this FAAH polymorphism enhances the mesolimbic dopamine circuitry projecting from the ventral tegmental area (VTA) to the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and alters cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1R) levels at inhibitory and excitatory terminals in the VTA. These developmental changes collectively increase vulnerability of adolescent female FAAHC/A mice to THC preference that persists into adulthood. Together, these findings suggest that this endocannabinoid genetic variant is a contributing factor for increased susceptibility to cannabis dependence in adolescent females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin E. Burgdorf
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Feil Family Brain and Mind and Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Deqiang Jing
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Ruirong Yang
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Chienchun Huang
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Matthew N. Hill
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Departments of Cell Biology and Anatomy and Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Ken Mackie
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Teresa A. Milner
- Feil Family Brain and Mind and Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Virginia M. Pickel
- Feil Family Brain and Mind and Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Francis S. Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Sackler Institute for Developmental Psychobiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Anjali M. Rajadhyaksha
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Feil Family Brain and Mind and Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
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