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Rodrigues FDS, Newton WR, Tassinari ID, da Cunha Xavier FH, Marx A, de Fraga LS, Wright K, Guedes RP, Bambini-Jr V. Cannabidiol prevents LPS-induced inflammation by inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome and iNOS activity in BV2 microglia cells via CB2 receptors and PPARγ. Neurochem Int 2024; 177:105769. [PMID: 38761855 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2024.105769] [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: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
Neuroinflammation stands as a critical player in the pathogenesis of diverse neurological disorders, with microglial cells playing a central role in orchestrating the inflammatory landscape within the central nervous system. Cannabidiol (CBD) has gained attention for its potential to elicit anti-inflammatory responses in microglia, offering promising perspectives for conditions associated with neuroinflammation. Here we investigated whether the NLRP3 inflammasome and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) are involved in the protective effects of CBD, and if their modulation is dependent on cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) and PPARγ signalling pathways. We found that treatment with CBD attenuated pro-inflammatory markers in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-challenged BV2 microglia in a CB2- and PPARγ-dependent manner. At a molecular level, CBD inhibited the LPS-induced pro-inflammatory responses by suppressing iNOS and NLRP3/Caspase-1-dependent signalling cascades, resulting in reduced nitric oxide (NO), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) concentrations. Notably, the protective effects of CBD on NLRP3 expression, Caspase-1 activity, and IL-1β concentration were partially hindered by the antagonism of both CB2 receptors and PPARγ, while iNOS expression and NO secretion were dependent exclusively on PPARγ activation, with no CB2 involvement. Interestingly, CBD exhibited a protective effect against TNF-α increase, regardless of CB2 or PPARγ activation. Altogether, these findings indicate that CB2 receptors and PPARγ mediate the anti-inflammatory effects of CBD on the NLRP3 inflammasome complex, iNOS activity and, ultimately, on microglial phenotype. Our results highlight the specific components responsible for the potential therapeutic applications of CBD on neuroinflammatory conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda da Silva Rodrigues
- Graduate Program in Biosciences, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil; Division of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Lancaster University, Lancaster, Lancashire, United Kingdom.
| | - William Robert Newton
- Division of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Lancaster University, Lancaster, Lancashire, United Kingdom; MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, Exeter University, Exeter, United Kingdom.
| | - Isadora D'Ávila Tassinari
- Division of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Lancaster University, Lancaster, Lancashire, United Kingdom; Graduate Program in Physiology, Institute of Basic Health Sciences (ICBS), Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
| | | | - Adél Marx
- Division of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Lancaster University, Lancaster, Lancashire, United Kingdom.
| | - Luciano Stürmer de Fraga
- Graduate Program in Physiology, Institute of Basic Health Sciences (ICBS), Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
| | - Karen Wright
- Division of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Lancaster University, Lancaster, Lancashire, United Kingdom.
| | - Renata Padilha Guedes
- Graduate Program in Biosciences, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil; Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
| | - Victorio Bambini-Jr
- Division of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Lancaster University, Lancaster, Lancashire, United Kingdom.
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2
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Zhang J, Yan J, Li S, Chen Q, Lin J, Peng Y, Liu Y, Wang B, Wei X, Sun C, Niu S. GPR55 activation improves anxiety- and depression-like behaviors of mice during methamphetamine withdrawal. Heliyon 2024; 10:e30462. [PMID: 38720745 PMCID: PMC11077030 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e30462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Methamphetamine is a potent and highly addictive neurotoxic psychostimulant that triggers a spectrum of adverse emotional responses during withdrawal. G-protein coupled receptor 55 (GPR55), a novel endocannabinoid receptor, is closely associated with mood regulation. Herein, we developed a murine model of methamphetamine-induced anxiety- and depressive-like behavior during abstinence which showed a decreased GPR55 expression in the hippocampus. Activation of GPR55 mitigated these behavioral symptoms, concomitantly ameliorating impairments in hippocampal neurogenesis and reducing neuroinflammation. These findings underscore the pivotal role of GPR55 in mediating the neuropsychological consequences of methamphetamine withdrawal, potentially via mechanisms involving the modulation of hippocampal neurogenesis and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinlong Zhang
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Science, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830011, China
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, China
| | - Jie Yan
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Science, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830011, China
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, China
| | - Shuyue Li
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Science, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830011, China
| | - Qianqian Chen
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, China
| | - Jiang Lin
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, China
| | - Yilin Peng
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, China
| | - Yuhang Liu
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, China
| | - Binbin Wang
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, China
| | - Xinrong Wei
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Science, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830011, China
| | - Chen Sun
- School of Public Health, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830011, China
| | - Shuliang Niu
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Science, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830011, China
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830011, China
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3
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Badaut J, Hippauf L, Malinconi M, Noarbe BP, Obenaus A, Dubois CJ. Endocannabinoid-mediated rescue of somatosensory cortex activity, plasticity and related behaviors following an early in life concussion. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.30.577914. [PMID: 38352553 PMCID: PMC10862852 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.30.577914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Due to the assumed plasticity of immature brain, early in life brain alterations are thought to lead to better recoveries in comparison to the mature brain. Despite clinical needs, how neuronal networks and associated behaviors are affected by early in life brain stresses, such as pediatric concussions, have been overlooked. Here we provide first evidence in mice that a single early in life concussion durably increases neuronal activity in the somatosensory cortex into adulthood, disrupting neuronal integration while the animal is performing sensory-related tasks. This represents a previously unappreciated clinically relevant mechanism for the impairment of sensory-related behavior performance. Furthermore, we demonstrate that pharmacological modulation of the endocannabinoid system a year post-concussion is well-suited to rescue neuronal activity and plasticity, and to normalize sensory-related behavioral performance, addressing the fundamental question of whether a treatment is still possible once post-concussive symptoms have developed, a time-window compatible with clinical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Badaut
- Univ. Bordeaux, CNRS, CRMSB, UMR 5536, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
- Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | - L Hippauf
- Univ. Bordeaux, CNRS, CRMSB, UMR 5536, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - M Malinconi
- Univ. Bordeaux, CNRS, CRMSB, UMR 5536, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - B P Noarbe
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - A Obenaus
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - C J Dubois
- Univ. Bordeaux, CNRS, CRMSB, UMR 5536, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
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4
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Al-Khazaleh AK, Zhou X, Bhuyan DJ, Münch GW, Al-Dalabeeh EA, Jaye K, Chang D. The Neurotherapeutic Arsenal in Cannabis sativa: Insights into Anti-Neuroinflammatory and Neuroprotective Activity and Potential Entourage Effects. Molecules 2024; 29:410. [PMID: 38257323 PMCID: PMC10821245 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29020410] [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: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Cannabis, renowned for its historical medicinal use, harbours various bioactive compounds-cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. While major cannabinoids like delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) have received extensive scrutiny for their pharmacological properties, emerging evidence underscores the collaborative interactions among these constituents, suggesting a collective therapeutic potential. This comprehensive review explores the intricate relationships and synergies between cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids in cannabis. Cannabinoids, pivotal in cannabis's bioactivity, exhibit well-documented analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects. Terpenes, aromatic compounds imbuing distinct flavours, not only contribute to cannabis's sensory profile but also modulate cannabinoid effects through diverse molecular mechanisms. Flavonoids, another cannabis component, demonstrate anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties, particularly relevant to neuroinflammation. The entourage hypothesis posits that combined cannabinoid, terpene, and flavonoid action yields synergistic or additive effects, surpassing individual compound efficacy. Recognizing the nuanced interactions is crucial for unravelling cannabis's complete therapeutic potential. Tailoring treatments based on the holistic composition of cannabis strains allows optimization of therapeutic outcomes while minimizing potential side effects. This review underscores the imperative to delve into the intricate roles of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, offering promising prospects for innovative therapeutic interventions and advocating continued research to unlock cannabis's full therapeutic potential within the realm of natural plant-based medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad K. Al-Khazaleh
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia; (X.Z.); (D.J.B.); (G.W.M.); (K.J.)
| | - Xian Zhou
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia; (X.Z.); (D.J.B.); (G.W.M.); (K.J.)
| | - Deep Jyoti Bhuyan
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia; (X.Z.); (D.J.B.); (G.W.M.); (K.J.)
- School of Science, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia
| | - Gerald W. Münch
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia; (X.Z.); (D.J.B.); (G.W.M.); (K.J.)
- Pharmacology Unit, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia
| | - Elaf Adel Al-Dalabeeh
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science, University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan;
| | - Kayla Jaye
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia; (X.Z.); (D.J.B.); (G.W.M.); (K.J.)
| | - Dennis Chang
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia; (X.Z.); (D.J.B.); (G.W.M.); (K.J.)
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5
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Ekodo Voundi M, Hanekamp W, Lehr M. Synthesis, activity and metabolic stability of propan-2-one substituted tetrazolylalkanoic acids as dual inhibitors of cytosolic phospholipase A 2α and fatty acid amide hydrolase. RSC Med Chem 2023; 14:2079-2088. [PMID: 37859716 PMCID: PMC10583809 DOI: 10.1039/d3md00224a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The serine hydrolases cytosolic phospholipase A2α (cPLA2α) and fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) are interesting targets for the development of new anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs. Structural modifications of a potent dual inhibitor with a propan-2-one substituted tetrazolylpropionic acid moiety led to compounds with also nanomolar activity against both enzymes but better physicochemical properties. The structure-activity relationships showed that the variations had partially divergent effects on the inhibitory activity of the compounds towards cPLA2α and FAAH reflecting differences in the binding mode to the enzymes. Furthermore, the metabolic stability of the target structures was investigated in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merlin Ekodo Voundi
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, University of Münster Corrensstrasse 48 48149 Münster Germany
| | - Walburga Hanekamp
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, University of Münster Corrensstrasse 48 48149 Münster Germany
| | - Matthias Lehr
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, University of Münster Corrensstrasse 48 48149 Münster Germany
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Kwee CMB, Leen NA, Van der Kamp RC, Van Lissa CJ, Cath DC, Groenink L, Baas JMP. Anxiolytic effects of endocannabinoid enhancing compounds: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2023; 72:79-94. [PMID: 37094409 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2023.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system is a promising candidate for anxiolytic therapy, but translation to the clinic has been lagging. We meta-analyzed the evidence for anxiety-reduction by compounds that facilitate endocannabinoid signaling in humans and animals. To identify areas of specific potential, effects of moderators were assessed. Literature was searched in Pubmed and Embase up to May 2021. A placebo/vehicle-control group was required and in human studies, randomization. We excluded studies that co-administered other substances. Risk of bias was assessed with SYRCLE's RoB tool and Cochrane RoB 2.0. We conducted three-level random effects meta-analyses and explored sources of heterogeneity using Bayesian regularized meta-regression (BRMA). The systematic review yielded 134 studies. We analyzed 120 studies (114 animal, 6 human) that investigated cannabidiol (CBD, 61), URB597 (39), PF-3845 (6) and AM404 (14). Pooled effects on conditioned and unconditioned anxiety in animals (with the exception of URB597 on unconditioned anxiety) and on experimentally induced anxiety in humans favored the investigational drugs over placebo/vehicle. Publication year was negatively associated with effects of CBD on unconditioned anxiety. Compared to approach avoidance tests, tests of repetitive-compulsive behavior were associated with larger effects of CBD and URB597, and the social interaction test with smaller effects of URB597. Larger effects of CBD on unconditioned anxiety were observed when anxiety pre-existed. Studies reported few side effects at therapeutic doses. The evidence quality was low with indications of publication bias. More clinical trials are needed to translate the overall positive results to clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline M B Kwee
- Department of Experimental Psychology and Helmholtz Institute, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Altrecht Academic Anxiety Center, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Nadia A Leen
- Department of Experimental Psychology and Helmholtz Institute, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Brain Research & Innovation Center, Ministry of Defence, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Department of Psychiatry, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Rian C Van der Kamp
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, VUmc medical faculty, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Caspar J Van Lissa
- Department of Methodology and Statistics, Tilburg University, Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | - Danielle C Cath
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands; GGZ Drenthe, Department of specialist trainings, Assen, the Netherlands
| | - Lucianne Groenink
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmacology, UIPS, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Johanna M P Baas
- Department of Experimental Psychology and Helmholtz Institute, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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Genovese T, Duranti A, Monaco F, Siracusa R, Fusco R, Impellizzeri D, D’Amico R, Cordaro M, Cuzzocrea S, Di Paola R. Inhibition of Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase (FAAH) Regulates NF-kb Pathways Reducing Bleomycin-Induced Chronic Lung Inflammation and Pulmonary Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10125. [PMID: 37373275 PMCID: PMC10298572 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241210125] [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: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The deadly interstitial lung condition known as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) worsens over time and for no apparent reason. The traditional therapy approaches for IPF, which include corticosteroids and immunomodulatory drugs, are often ineffective and can have noticeable side effects. The endocannabinoids are hydrolyzed by a membrane protein called fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). Increasing endogenous levels of endocannabinoid by pharmacologically inhibiting FAAH results in numerous analgesic advantages in a variety of experimental models for pre-clinical pain and inflammation. In our study, we mimicked IPF by administering intratracheal bleomycin, and we administered oral URB878 at a dose of 5 mg/kg. The histological changes, cell infiltration, pro-inflammatory cytokine production, inflammation, and nitrosative stress caused by bleomycin were all reduced by URB878. Our data clearly demonstrate for the first time that the inhibition of FAAH activity was able to counteract not only the histological alteration bleomycin-induced but also the cascade of related inflammatory events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Genovese
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy (R.S.); (D.I.)
| | - Andrea Duranti
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Piazza del Rinascimento, 6, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Francesco Monaco
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Rosalba Siracusa
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy (R.S.); (D.I.)
| | - Roberta Fusco
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy (R.S.); (D.I.)
| | - Daniela Impellizzeri
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy (R.S.); (D.I.)
| | - Ramona D’Amico
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy (R.S.); (D.I.)
| | - Marika Cordaro
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Salvatore Cuzzocrea
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy (R.S.); (D.I.)
| | - Rosanna Di Paola
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy;
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8
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Walther A, Kirschbaum C, Wehrli S, Rothe N, Penz M, Wekenborg M, Gao W. Depressive symptoms are negatively associated with hair N-arachidonoylethanolamine (anandamide) levels: A cross-lagged panel analysis of four annual assessment waves examining hair endocannabinoids and cortisol. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2023; 121:110658. [PMID: 36252885 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2022.110658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is increasingly being recognized as key regulatory system coupled with the glucocorticoid system implicated in the pathophysiology of major depressive disorder (MDD). However, prior studies examining the ECS in MDD have been inconclusive, of small sample size or of cross-sectional nature limiting interpretation of causal inferences or time-dependent effects. METHODS In a prospective community-based cohort study including 128 individuals (women: 108), depressive symptoms (PHQ-9) as well as hair cortisol and endocannabinoids were measured annually over four years (T1-T4). Cortisol, N-arachidonoylethanolamine (AEA), and 2-arachidonoyl-sn-glycerol/1-arachidonoyl-sn-glycerol (2-AG/1-AG) were extracted from 3 cm hair segments reflecting cumulative concentrations of the last three months prior sampling. RESULTS Cross-sectional group comparisons at baseline revealed reduced AEA and cortisol levels in the group with a positive MDD screening compared to individuals with low depressive symptomatology (both p < .05). Cross-lagged panel models showed that AEA levels at T2 were negatively associated with depressive symptoms at T3 (p < .05). Also, depressive symptoms at T3 were negatively associated with AEA levels at T4 (p < .01). The direction of association was reversed for 2-AG/1-AG, as 2-AG/1-AG levels at T1 were positively associated with depressive symptoms at T2 (p < .01). CONCLUSIONS While cross-sectional analyses suggest higher depressive symptomatology to be associated with reduced AEA and cortisol release, longitudinal analyses reveal that primarily AEA levels are negatively associated with depressive symptoms. These longitudinal associations elucidate time-dependent relationships between depressive symptomatology and the ECS and further highlight AEA as potential treatment target in MDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Walther
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Biopsychology, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | | | - Susanne Wehrli
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Biopsychology, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany; Child and Adolescent Health Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Marlene Penz
- Institute for Education and Psychology, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Linz, Austria
| | | | - Wei Gao
- Biopsychology, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
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9
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FAAH Inhibition Restores Early Life Stress-Induced Alterations in PFC microRNAs Associated with Depressive-Like Behavior in Male and Female Rats. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232416101. [PMID: 36555739 PMCID: PMC9782513 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232416101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Early life stress (ELS) increases predisposition to depression. We compared the effects of treatment with the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitor URB597, and the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor paroxetine, on ELS-induced depressive-like behavior and the expression of microRNAs (miRs) associated with depression in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), hippocampal CA1 area, lateral habenula and dorsal raphe in rats. We also examined the mRNA expression of serotonergic (htr1a and slc6a4) and endocannabinoid (cnr1, cnr2 and faah) targets in the mPFC following ELS and pharmacological treatment. Adult males and females exposed to the 'Limited Bedding and Nesting' ELS paradigm demonstrated a depressive-like phenotype and late-adolescence URB597 treatment, but not paroxetine, reversed this phenotype. In the mPFC, ELS downregulated miR-16 in males and miR-135a in females and URB597 treatment restored this effect. In ELS females, the increase in cnr2 and decrease in faah mRNAs in the mPFC were reversed by URB597 treatment. We show for the first time that URB597 reversed ELS-induced mPFC downregulation in specific miRs and stress-related behaviors, suggesting a novel mechanism for the beneficial effects of FAAH inhibition. The differential effects of ELS and URB597 on males and females highlight the importance of developing sex-specific treatment approaches.
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10
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Varsha KK, Nagarkatti M, Nagarkatti P. Role of Gut Microbiota in Cannabinoid-Mediated Suppression of Inflammation. ADVANCES IN DRUG AND ALCOHOL RESEARCH 2022; 2:10550. [PMID: 36776218 PMCID: PMC9910956 DOI: 10.3389/adar.2022.10550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system have been well established to play a crucial role in the regulation of the immune response. Also, emerging data from numerous investigations unravel the imperative role of gut microbiota and their metabolites in the maintenance of immune homeostasis and gut barrier integrity. In this review, we concisely report the immunosuppressive mechanisms triggered by cannabinoids, and how they are closely associated with the alterations in the gut microbiome and metabolome following exposure to endogenous or exogenous cannabinoids. We discuss how cannabinoid-mediated induction of microbial secondary bile acids, short chain fatty acids, and indole metabolites, produced in the gut, can suppress inflammation even in distal organs. While clearly, more clinical studies are necessary to establish the cross talk between exo- or endocannabinoid system with the gut microbiome and the immune system, the current evidence opens a new avenue of cannabinoid-gut-microbiota-based therapeutics to regulate immunological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Prakash Nagarkatti
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
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11
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Anil SM, Peeri H, Koltai H. Medical Cannabis Activity Against Inflammation: Active Compounds and Modes of Action. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:908198. [PMID: 35614947 PMCID: PMC9124761 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.908198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation often develops from acute, chronic, or auto-inflammatory disorders that can lead to compromised organ function. Cannabis (Cannabis sativa) has been used to treat inflammation for millennia, but its use in modern medicine is hampered by a lack of scientific knowledge. Previous studies report that cannabis extracts and inflorescence inhibit inflammatory responses in vitro and in pre-clinical and clinical trials. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a modulator of immune system activity, and dysregulation of this system is involved in various chronic inflammations. This system includes cannabinoid receptor types 1 and 2 (CB1 and CB2), arachidonic acid-derived endocannabinoids, and enzymes involved in endocannabinoid metabolism. Cannabis produces a large number of phytocannabinoids and numerous other biomolecules such as terpenes and flavonoids. In multiple experimental models, both in vitro and in vivo, several phytocannabinoids, including Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabigerol (CBG), exhibit activity against inflammation. These phytocannabinoids may bind to ECS and/or other receptors and ameliorate various inflammatory-related diseases by activating several signaling pathways. Synergy between phytocannabinoids, as well as between phytocannabinoids and terpenes, has been demonstrated. Cannabis activity can be improved by selecting the most active plant ingredients (API) while eliminating parts of the whole extract. Moreover, in the future cannabis components might be combined with pharmaceutical drugs to reduce inflammation.
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Borsini A, Nicolaou A, Camacho-Muñoz D, Kendall AC, Di Benedetto MG, Giacobbe J, Su KP, Pariante CM. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids protect against inflammation through production of LOX and CYP450 lipid mediators: relevance for major depression and for human hippocampal neurogenesis. Mol Psychiatry 2021; 26:6773-6788. [PMID: 34131267 PMCID: PMC8760043 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-021-01160-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) can exert antidepressant, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, but the exact molecular mechanism underlying their effects is still not fully understood. We conducted both in vitro and clinical investigations to test which EPA or DHA metabolites are involved in these anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective and antidepressant effects. In vitro, we used the human hippocampal progenitor cell line HPC0A07/03C, and pre-treated cells with either EPA or DHA, followed by interleukin 1beta (IL1β), IL6 and interferon-alpha (IFN-α). Both EPA and DHA prevented the reduction in neurogenesis and the increase in apoptosis induced by these cytokines; moreover, these effects were mediated by the lipoxygenase (LOX) and cytochrome P450 (CYP450) EPA/DHA metabolites, 5-hydroxyeicosapentaenoic acid (HEPE), 4-hydroxydocosahexaenoic acid (HDHA), 18-HEPE, 20-HDHA, 17(18)-epoxyeicosatetraenoic acid (EpETE) and 19(20)-epoxydocosapentaenoic acid (EpDPA), detected here for the first time in human hippocampal neurones using mass spectrometry lipidomics of the supernatant. In fact, like EPA/DHA, co-treatment with these metabolites prevented cytokines-induced reduction in neurogenesis and apoptosis. Moreover, co-treatment with 17(18)-EpETE and 19(20)-EpDPA and the soluble epoxide hydroxylase (sEH) inhibitor, TPPU (which prevents their conversion into dihydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (DiHETE)/ dihydroxydocosapentaenoic acid (DiHDPA) metabolites) further enhanced their neurogenic and anti-apoptotic effects. Interestingly, these findings were replicated in a sample of n = 22 patients with a DSM-IV Major Depressive Disorder, randomly assigned to treatment with either EPA (3.0 g/day) or DHA (1.4 g/day) for 12 weeks, with exactly the same LOX and CYP450 lipid metabolites increased in the plasma of these patients following treatment with their precursor, EPA or DHA, and some evidence that higher levels of these metabolites were correlated with less severe depressive symptoms. Overall, our study provides the first evidence for the relevance of LOX- and CYP450-derived EPA/DHA bioactive lipid metabolites as neuroprotective molecular targets for human hippocampal neurogenesis and depression, and highlights the importance of sEH inhibitors as potential therapeutic strategy for patients suffering from depressive symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Borsini
- Stress, Psychiatry and Immunology Laboratory, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychological Medicine, King's College London, London, UK.
| | - Anna Nicolaou
- Laboratory for Lipidomics and Lipid Biology, Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Dolores Camacho-Muñoz
- Laboratory for Lipidomics and Lipid Biology, Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Alexandra C Kendall
- Laboratory for Lipidomics and Lipid Biology, Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Maria Grazia Di Benedetto
- Stress, Psychiatry and Immunology Laboratory, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychological Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
- Biological Psychiatry Unit, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio, Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy
| | - Juliette Giacobbe
- Stress, Psychiatry and Immunology Laboratory, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychological Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Kuan-Pin Su
- Stress, Psychiatry and Immunology Laboratory, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychological Medicine, King's College London, London, UK.
- College of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.
- Depression Center, An-Nan Hospital, China Medical University, Tainan, Taiwan.
| | - Carmine M Pariante
- Stress, Psychiatry and Immunology Laboratory, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychological Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
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