Effects of monoamine oxidase inhibitor and cytochrome P450 2D6 status on 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine metabolism and pharmacokinetics

Harnessing Pharmacogenomics in Clinical Research on Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy

Psychedelics have recently re-emerged as potential treatments for various psychiatric conditions that impose major public health costs and for which current treatment options have limited efficacy. At the same time, personalized medicine is increasingly being implemented in psychiatry to provide individualized drug dosing recommendations based on genetics. This review brings together these topics to explore the utility of pharmacogenomics (a key component of personalized medicine) in psychedelic-assisted therapies. We summarized the literature and explored the potential implications of genetic variability on the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of psychedelic drugs including lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), psilocybin, N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT), 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT), ibogaine and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA). Although existing evidence is limited, particularly concerning pharmacodynamics, studies investigating pharmacokinetics indicate that genetic variants in drug-metabolizing enzymes, such as cytochrome P450, impact the intensity of acute psychedelic effects for LSD and ibogaine, and that a dose reduction for CYP2D6 poor metabolizers may be appropriate. Furthermore, based on the preclinical evidence, it can be hypothesized that CYP2D6 metabolizer status might contribute to altered acute psychedelic experiences with 5-MeO-DMT and psilocybin when combined with monoamine oxidase inhibitors. In conclusion, considering early evidence that genetic factors can influence the effects of certain psychedelics, we suggest that pharmacogenomic testing should be further investigated in clinical research. This is necessary to evaluate its utility in improving the safety and therapeutic profile of psychedelic therapies and a potential future role in personalizing psychedelic-assisted therapies, should these treatments become available.

Serotonin 1A Receptors Modulate Serotonin 2A Receptor-Mediated Behavioral Effects of 5-Methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine Analogs in Mice

5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltrytpamine (5-MeO-DMT) analogs are used as recreational drugs, but they are also being developed as potential medicines, warranting further investigation into their pharmacology. Here, we investigated the neuropharmacology of 5-MeO-DMT and several of its N-alkyl, N-allyl, and 2-methyl analogs, with three major aims: 1) to determine in vitro receptor profiles for the compounds, 2) to characterize in vitro functional activities at serotonin (5-HT) 2A receptors (5-HT2A) and 1A receptors (5-HT1A), and 3) to examine the influence of 5-HT1A on 5-HT2A-mediated psychedelic-like effects in the mouse head twitch response (HTR) model. In vitro receptor binding and functional assays showed that all 5-MeO-DMT analogs bind with high affinity and activate multiple targets (e.g., 5-HT receptor subtypes, alpha adrenergic receptors), including potent effects at 5-HT2A and 5-HT1A. In C57Bl/6J mice, subcutaneous injection of the analogs induced HTRs with varying potencies (ED50 range = 0.2-1.8 mg/kg) and maximal effects (Emax range = 20-60 HTRs/30 min), while inducing hypothermia and hypolocomotion at higher doses (ED50 range = 3.2-20.6 mg/kg). 5-HT2A antagonist pretreatment blocked drug-induced HTRs, whereas 5-HT1A antagonist pretreatment enhanced HTRs. In general, N,N-dialkyl and N-isopropyl derivatives displayed HTR activity, while the N-methyl, N-ethyl, and 2-methyl analogs did not. Importantly, blockade of 5-HT1A unmasked latent HTR activity for the N-ethyl analog and markedly increased maximal responses for other HTR-active compounds (40-90 HTRs/30 min), supporting the notion that 5-HT1A agonist activity can dampen 5-HT2A-mediated HTRs. Suppression of 5-HT2A-mediated HTRs by 5-HT1A only occurred after high 5-MeO-DMT doses, suggesting involvement of other receptors in modulating psychedelic-like effects. Overall, our findings provide key information about the receptor target profiles for 5-MeO-DMT analogs, the structure-activity relationships for inducing psychedelic-like effects, and the critical role of 5-HT1A agonism in modulating acute psychoactive effects of 5-HT2A agonists.

Phase 1, placebo-controlled, single ascending dose trial to evaluate the safety, pharmacokinetics and effect on altered states of consciousness of intranasal BPL-003 (5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine benzoate) in healthy participants

AIMS

To investigate the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of BPL-003, a novel intranasal benzoate salt formulation of 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT), in healthy participants.

METHODS

In all, 44 psychedelic-naïve participants enrolled in the double-blind, placebo-controlled single ascending dose study (1-12 mg BPL-003). Concentrations of 5-MeO-DMT and its pharmacologically active metabolite, bufotenine, were determined in plasma and urine. PD endpoints included subjective drug intensity (SDI) rating, the Mystical Experience Questionnaire (MEQ-30) and the Ego Dissolution Inventory (EDI).

RESULTS

BPL-003 was well tolerated at doses up to 12 mg. There were no serious adverse events (AEs), and most AEs were mild; the most common being nasal discomfort, nausea, headache and vomiting. 5-MeO-DMT was rapidly absorbed and eliminated; the median time to peak plasma concentration was approximately 8-10 min and the mean terminal elimination half-life was <27 min. 5-MeO-DMT systemic exposure increased approximately dose-proportionally, while plasma bufotenine concentrations and urinary excretion of 5-MeO-DMT and bufotenine were negligible. The intensity of the SDI ratings was associated with plasma 5-MeO-DMT concentrations. MEQ-30 and EDI scores generally increased with the BPL-003 dose; 60% of participants had a 'complete mystical experience' at 10 and 12 mg doses. Profound and highly emotional consciousness-altering effects were observed with BPL-003, with a rapid onset and short-lasting duration.

CONCLUSION

The novel intranasal formulation of BPL-003 was well tolerated with dose-proportional increases in PK and PD effects. The short duration of action and induction of mystical experiences suggest clinical potential, warranting further trials.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT05347849.

A cane toad (Rhinella marina) N-methyltransferase converts primary indolethylamines to tertiary psychedelic amines

Psychedelic indolethylamines have emerged as potential medicines to treat several psychiatric pathologies. Natural sources of these compounds include 'magic mushrooms' (Psilocybe spp.), plants used to prepare ayahuasca, and toads. The skin and parotid glands of certain toads accumulate a variety of specialized metabolites including toxic guanidine alkaloids, lipophilic alkaloids, poisonous steroids, and hallucinogenic indolethylamines such as DMT, 5-methoxy-DMT, and bufotenin. The occurrence of psychedelics has contributed to the ceremonial use of toads, particularly among Mesoamerican peoples. Yet, the biosynthesis of psychedelic alkaloids has not been elucidated. Herein, we report a novel indolethylamine N-methyltransferase (RmNMT) from cane toad (Rhinella marina). The RmNMT sequence was used to identify a related NMT from the common toad, Bufo bufo. Close homologs from various frog species were inactive, suggesting a role for psychedelic indolethylamine biosynthesis in toads. Enzyme kinetic analyses and comparison with functionally similar enzymes showed that recombinant RmNMT was an effective catalyst and not product inhibited. The substrate promiscuity of RmNMT enabled the bioproduction of a variety of substituted indolethylamines at levels sufficient for purification, pharmacological screening, and metabolic stability assays. Since the therapeutic potential of psychedelics has been linked to activity at serotonergic receptors, we evaluated binding of derivatives at 5-HT1A and 5-HT2A receptors. Primary amines exhibited enhanced affinity at the 5-HT1A receptor compared with tertiary amines. With the exception of 6-substituted derivatives, N,N-dimethylation also protected against catabolism by liver microsomes.

Roles of selected non-P450 human oxidoreductase enzymes in protective and toxic effects of chemicals: review and compilation of reactions

This is an overview of the metabolic reactions of drugs, natural products, physiological compounds, and other (general) chemicals catalyzed by flavin monooxygenase (FMO), monoamine oxidase (MAO), NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase (NQO), and molybdenum hydroxylase enzymes (aldehyde oxidase (AOX) and xanthine oxidoreductase (XOR)), including roles as substrates, inducers, and inhibitors of the enzymes. The metabolism and bioactivation of selected examples of each group (i.e., drugs, "general chemicals," natural products, and physiological compounds) are discussed. We identified a higher fraction of bioactivation reactions for FMO enzymes compared to other enzymes, predominately involving drugs and general chemicals. With MAO enzymes, physiological compounds predominate as substrates, and some products lead to unwanted side effects or illness. AOX and XOR enzymes are molybdenum hydroxylases that catalyze the oxidation of various heteroaromatic rings and aldehydes and the reduction of a number of different functional groups. While neither of these two enzymes contributes substantially to the metabolism of currently marketed drugs, AOX has become a frequently encountered route of metabolism among drug discovery programs in the past 10-15 years. XOR has even less of a role in the metabolism of clinical drugs and preclinical drug candidates than AOX, likely due to narrower substrate specificity.

In silico study of dimethyltryptamine analogues against 5-HT1B receptor: Molecular docking, dynamic simulations and ADMET prediction

Introduction: The 5-HT1B receptor has a potential role in various psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. The objective of this study was to perform docking and molecular dynamics simulation to evaluate at atomic level the behavior of N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) on 5-HT1B receptor.Methods: In this study, initially, a search for DMT was performed using the PubChem database. Subsequently, molecular docking was executed using AutoDock Vina based in PyRx 0.8 with a 95% analogy. Additionally, ergotamine (ERG) and serotonin were used as control. Then, it ran a total of 100 ns molecular dynamics simulations on 5-HT1B bound with DMT, serotonin, 112814775, and ERG. Finally, pharmacokinetic prediction and IV acute toxicity for analogues and DMT were performed.Results: It was possible to show that 112814775 had the lowest binding energy with the receptor. In addition, 112814775 presented great conformational stability, low mobility, and stiffness compared to the control ligands: ERG, serotonin, and DMT subsequent dynamic analysis. With respect to the free energy calculation, contributions such as Van der Waals, electrostatics, and nonpolar interactions for all systems, were highlighted.Conclusion: 112814775 showed affinities with 5-HT1B receptor and evidenced notable behavior by molecular dynamic simulation according to root-mean-square deviation (RMSD), root-mean-square fluctuation (RMSF), solvent-accessible surface area (SASA), the radius of gyration, number of hydrogen bond, and free energy calculated. These results established the possible relevance of in-silico studies in search of DMT analogues against the 5-HT1B receptor, which may be associated with alterations such as depression and anxiety, and may become future study molecules for the treatment of this type of disorder.

A narrative synthesis of research with 5-MeO-DMT

BACKGROUND

5-Methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) is a naturally occurring, short-acting psychedelic tryptamine, produced by a variety of plant and animal species. Plants containing 5-MeO-DMT have been used throughout history for ritual and spiritual purposes. The aim of this article is to review the available literature about 5-MeO-DMT and inform subsequent clinical development.

METHODS

We searched PubMed database for articles about 5-MeO-DMT. Search results were cross-checked against earlier reviews and reference lists were hand searched. Findings were synthesised using a narrative synthesis approach. This review covers the pharmacology, chemistry and metabolism of 5-MeO-DMT, as well epidemiological studies, and reported adverse and beneficial effects.

RESULTS

5-MeO-DMT is serotonergic agonist, with highest affinity for 5-HT1A receptors. It was studied in a variety of animal models, but clinical studies with humans are lacking. Epidemiological studies indicate that, like other psychedelics, 5-MeO-DMT induces profound alterations in consciousness (including mystical experiences), with potential beneficial long-term effects on mental health and well-being.

CONCLUSION

5-MeO-DMT is a potentially useful addition to the psychedelic pharmacopoeia because of its short duration of action, relative lack of visual effects and putatively higher rates of ego-dissolution and mystical experiences. We conclude that further clinical exploration is warranted, using similar precautions as with other classic psychedelics.

Non-cytochrome P450 enzymes involved in the oxidative metabolism of xenobiotics: Focus on the regulation of gene expression and enzyme activity

Oxidative metabolism is one of the major biotransformation reactions that regulates the exposure of xenobiotics and their metabolites in the circulatory system and local tissues and organs, and influences their efficacy and toxicity. Although cytochrome (CY)P450s play critical roles in the oxidative reaction, extensive CYP450-independent oxidative metabolism also occurs in some xenobiotics, such as aldehyde oxidase, xanthine oxidoreductase, flavin-containing monooxygenase, monoamine oxidase, alcohol dehydrogenase, or aldehyde dehydrogenase-dependent oxidative metabolism. Drugs form a large portion of xenobiotics and are the primary target of this review. The common reaction mechanisms and roles of non-CYP450 enzymes in metabolism, factors affecting the expression and activity of non-CYP450 enzymes in terms of inhibition, induction, regulation, and species differences in pharmaceutical research and development have been summarized. These non-CYP450 enzymes are detoxifying enzymes, although sometimes they mediate severe toxicity. Synthetic or natural chemicals serve as inhibitors for these non-CYP450 enzymes. However, pharmacokinetic-based drug interactions through these inhibitors have rarely been reported in vivo. Although multiple mechanisms participate in the basal expression and regulation of non-CYP450 enzymes, only a limited number of inducers upregulate their expression. Therefore, these enzymes are considered non-inducible or less inducible. Overall, this review focuses on the potential xenobiotic factors that contribute to variations in gene expression levels and the activities of non-CYP450 enzymes.

Quantum chemical (QM:MM) investigation of the mechanism of enzymatic reaction of tryptamine and N,N-dimethyltryptamine with monoamine oxidase A

The endogenous psychedelic (mind-altering) N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) molecule has an important role in tissue protection, regeneration, and immunity via sigma-1 receptor activation as its natural ligand. The immunologic properties of DMT suggest this biogenic compound should be investigated thoroughly in other aspects as well. In our in silico project, we examined the metabolism of DMT and its primary analogue, the tryptamine (T), by the monoamine oxidase (MAO) flavoenzyme. MAO has two isoforms, MAO-A and MAO-B. MAOs perform the oxidation of various monoamines by their flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) cofactor. Two-layer QM:MM calculations at the ONIOM(M06-2X/6-31++G(d,p):UFF=QEq) level were performed including the whole enzyme to explore the potential energy surface (PES) of the reactions. Our findings reinforced that a hybrid mechanism, a mixture of pure H+ and H- transfer pathways, describes precisely the rate-determining step of amine oxidation as suggested by earlier works. Additionally, our results show that the oxidation of tertiary amine DMT requires a lower activation barrier than the primary amine T. This may reflect a general rule, thus we recommend further investigations. Furthermore, we demonstrated that at pH 7.4 the protonated form of these substrates enter the enzyme. As the deprotonation of substrates is crucial, we presumed protonated cofactor, FADH+, may form. Surprisingly, the activation barriers are much lower compared to FAD with both substrates. Therefore, we suggest further investigations in this direction.

Development of a mechanism-based pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic model to characterize the thermoregulatory effects of serotonergic drugs in mice

We have shown recently that concurrent harmaline, a monoamine oxidase-A inhibitor (MAOI), potentiates serotonin (5-HT) receptor agonist 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT)-induced hyperthermia. The objective of this study was to develop an integrated pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) model to characterize and predict the thermoregulatory effects of such serotonergic drugs in mice. Physiological thermoregulation was described by a mechanism-based indirect-response model with adaptive feedback control. Harmaline-induced hypothermia and 5-MeO-DMT–elicited hyperthermia were attributable to the loss of heat through the activation of 5-HT_1A receptor and thermogenesis via the stimulation of 5-HT_2A receptor, respectively. Thus serotonergic 5-MeO-DMT–induced hyperthermia was readily distinguished from handling/injection stress-provoked hyperthermic effects. This PK/PD model was able to simultaneously describe all experimental data including the impact of drug-metabolizing enzyme status on 5-MeO-DMT and harmaline PK properties, and drug- and stress-induced simple hypo/hyperthermic and complex biphasic effects. Furthermore, the modeling results revealed a 4-fold decrease of apparent SC₅₀ value (1.88–0.496 µmol/L) for 5-MeO-DMT when harmaline was co-administered, providing a quantitative assessment for the impact of concurrent MAOI harmaline on 5-MeO-DMT–induced hyperthermia. In addition, the hyperpyrexia caused by toxic dose combinations of harmaline and 5-MeO-DMT were linked to the increased systemic exposure to harmaline rather than 5-MeO-DMT, although the body temperature profiles were mispredicted by the model. The results indicate that current PK/PD model may be used as a new conceptual framework to define the impact of serotonergic agents and stress factors on thermoregulation.

Behavioral and pharmacokinetic interactions between monoamine oxidase inhibitors and the hallucinogen 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are often ingested together with tryptamine hallucinogens, but relatively little is known about the consequences of their combined use. We have shown previously that monoamine oxidase-A (MAO-A) inhibitors alter the locomotor profile of the hallucinogen 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) in rats, and enhance its interaction with 5-HT2A receptors. The goal of the present studies was to investigate the mechanism for the interaction between 5-MeO-DMT and MAOIs, and to determine whether other behavioral responses to 5-MeO-DMT are similarly affected. Hallucinogens disrupt prepulse inhibition (PPI) in rats, an effect typically mediated by 5-HT2A activation. 5-MeO-DMT also disrupts PPI but the effect is primarily attributable to 5-HT1A activation. The present studies examined whether an MAOI can alter the respective contributions of 5-HT1A and 5-HT2A receptors to the effects of 5-MeO-DMT on PPI. A series of interaction studies using the 5-HT1A antagonist WAY-100,635 and the 5-HT2A antagonist MDL 11,939 were performed to assess the respective contributions of these receptors to the behavioral effects of 5-MeO-DMT in rats pretreated with an MAOI. The effects of MAO-A inhibition on the pharmacokinetics of 5-MeO-DMT and its metabolism to bufotenine were assessed using liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-selective reaction monitoring-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-SRM-MS/MS). 5-MeO-DMT (1mg/kg) had no effect on PPI when tested 45-min post-injection but disrupted PPI in animals pretreated with the MAO-A inhibitor clorgyline or the MAO-A/B inhibitor pargyline. The combined effect of 5-MeO-DMT and pargyline on PPI was antagonized by pretreatment with either WAY-100,635 or MDL 11,939. Inhibition of MAO-A increased the level of 5-MeO-DMT in plasma and whole brain, but had no effect on the conversion of 5-MeO-DMT to bufotenine, which was found to be negligible. The present results confirm that 5-MeO-DMT can disrupt PPI by activating 5-HT2A, and indicate that MAOIs alter 5-MeO-DMT pharmacodynamics by increasing its accumulation in the central nervous system.

Modification of 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine-induced hyperactivity by monoamine oxidase A inhibitor harmaline in mice and the underlying serotonergic mechanisms

BACKGROUND

5-Methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) and harmaline are indolealkylamine (IAA) drugs often abused together. Our recent studies have revealed the significant effects of co-administered harmaline, a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), on 5-MeO-DMT pharmacokinetics and thermoregulation. This study was to delineate the impact of harmaline and 5-MeO-DMT on home-cage activity in mouse models, as well as the contribution of serotonin (5-HT) receptors.

METHODS

Home-cage activities of individual animals were monitored automatically in the home cages following implantation of telemetry transmitters and administration of various doses of IAA drugs and 5-HT receptor antagonists. Area under the effect curve (AUEC) of mouse activity values were calculated by trapezoidal rule.

RESULTS

High dose of harmaline (15mg/kg, ip) alone caused an early-phase (0-45min) hypoactivity in mice that was fully attenuated by 5-HT1A receptor antagonist WAY-100635, whereas a late-phase (45-180min) hyperactivity that was reduced by 5-HT2A receptor antagonist MDL-100907. 5-MeO-DMT (10 and 20mg/kg, ip) alone induced biphasic effects, an early-phase (0-45min) hypoactivity that was completely attenuated by WAY-100635, and a late-phase (45-180min) hyperactivity that was fully suppressed by MDL-100907. Interestingly, co-administration of MAOI harmaline (2-15mg/kg) with a subthreshold dose of 5-MeO-DMT (2mg/kg) induced excessive hyperactivities at late phase (45-180min) that could be abolished by either WAY-100635 or MDL-100907.

CONCLUSIONS

Co-administration of MAOI with 5-MeO-DMT provokes excessive late-phase hyperactivity, which involves the activation of both 5-HT1A and 5-HT2A receptors.

A comparison between genetically humanized and chimeric liver humanized mouse models for studies in drug metabolism and toxicity

Mice that have been genetically humanized for proteins involved in drug metabolism and toxicity and mice engrafted with human hepatocytes are emerging and promising in vivo models for an improved prediction of the pharmacokinetic, drug-drug interaction and safety characteristics of compounds in humans. The specific advantages and disadvantages of these models should be carefully considered when using them for studies in drug discovery and development. Here, an overview on the corresponding genetically humanized and chimeric liver humanized mouse models described to date is provided and illustrated with examples of their utility in drug metabolism and toxicity studies. We compare the strength and weaknesses of the two different approaches, give guidance for the selection of the appropriate model for various applications and discuss future trends and perspectives.

Potentiation of 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine-induced hyperthermia by harmaline and the involvement of activation of 5-HT1A and 5-HT2A receptors

5-Methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) and harmaline are serotonin (5-HT) analogs often abused together, which alters thermoregulation that may indicate the severity of serotonin toxicity. Our recent studies have revealed that co-administration of monoamine oxidase inhibitor harmaline leads to greater and prolonged exposure to 5-HT agonist 5-MeO-DMT that might be influenced by cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) status. This study was to define the effects of harmaline and 5-MeO-DMT on thermoregulation in wild-type and CYP2D6-humanized (Tg-CYP2D6) mice, as well as the involvement of 5-HT receptors. Animal core body temperatures were monitored noninvasively in the home cages after implantation of telemetry transmitters and administration of drugs. Harmaline (5 and 15 mg/kg, i.p.) alone was shown to induce hypothermia that was significantly affected by CYP2D6 status. In contrast, higher doses of 5-MeO-DMT (10 and 20 mg/kg) alone caused hyperthermia. Co-administration of harmaline (2, 5 or 15 mg/kg) remarkably potentiated the hyperthermia elicited by 5-MeO-DMT (2 or 10 mg/kg), which might be influenced by CYP2D6 status at certain dose combination. Interestingly, harmaline-induced hypothermia was only attenuated by 5-HT1A receptor antagonist WAY-100635, whereas 5-MeO-DMT- and harmaline-5-MeO-DMT-induced hyperthermia could be suppressed by either WAY-100635 or 5-HT2A receptor antagonists (MDL-100907 and ketanserin). Moreover, stress-induced hyperthermia under home cage conditions was not affected by WAY-100635 but surprisingly attenuated by MDL-100907 and ketanserin. Our results indicate that co-administration of monoamine oxidase inhibitor largely potentiates 5-MeO-DMT-induced hyperthermia that involves the activation of both 5-HT1A and 5-HT2A receptors. These findings shall provide insights into development of anxiolytic drugs and new strategies to relieve the lethal hyperthermia in serotonin toxicity.

LC-MS/MS quantitative determination of Tetrapterys mucronata alkaloids, a plant occasionally used in ayahuasca preparation

INTRODUCTION

Tetrapterys mucronata Cav. (Malpighiaceae) is a plant used in some regions of Brazil in the preparation of ayahuasca.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the content of the main tryptamine alkaloids in the stem bark of T. mucronata Cav. and assess their possible toxic and hallucinogenic properties based on the doses found in a water decoction that mimics the ayahuasca preparation.

METHODS

Four alkaloids previously described for their toxic and hallucinogenic properties were quantitated by multiple reaction monitoring HPLC combined with electrospray ionisation and tandem MS (HPLC-ESI/MS/MS) in the water decoction and ethanolic extracts from the bark of T. mucronata.

RESULTS

Exhaustive extraction of the stem barks with ethanol revealed the following alkaloid levels: bufotenine (1) 3.26 ± 0.31 mg/g, 5-methoxy-N-methyltryptamine (2) 0.88 ± 0.08 mg/g, 5-methoxy-bufotenine (3) 3.07 ± 0.22 mg/g and 2-methyl-6-methoxy-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-β-carboline (4) 0.14 ± 0.004 mg/g. The water decoction presented slightly lower levels, ranging between 2.32 ± 0.14, 0.50 ± 0.04, 1.53 ± 0.09 and 0.10 ± 0.01 mg/g for (1), (2), (3) and (4) respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The HPLC-ESI/MS/MS quantitation revealed significant alkaloid levels, in particular for bufotenine and 5-methoxy-bufotenine. As such compounds are known for their toxic and hallucinogenic properties, these results indicate that the consumption of this plant as an ingredient in ayahuasca preparations may present a risk to consumers.

Concise Synthesis of N,N-Dimethyltryptamine and 5-Methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine Starting with Bufotenine from Brazilian Anadenanthera ssp

Bufotenine (1, 5-hydroxy- N,N-dimethyltryptamine) was isolated from seeds of Anadenanthera spp., a tree widespread in the Brazilian cerrado, using an efficient acid-base shakeout protocol. The conversion of bufotenine into N,N-dimethyltryptamine (4) and 5-methoxy- N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5) was accomplished through an innovative and short approach featuring the use of novel bufotenine-aminoborane complex (7). Furthermore, an easy methodology for conversion of bufotenine into 5-hydroxy -N,N,N-trimethyltryptamine (6) was well-established. This is the first study that highlights bufotenine as a resource for the production of N, N-dimethyltryptamines for either pharmacological and toxicological investigations or for synthetic purposes.

Electrochemical simulation of phase I metabolism for 21 drugs using four different working electrodes in an automated screening setup with MS detection

Background: Electrochemical conversion of xenobiotics has been shown to mimic human phase I metabolism for a few compounds. Materials & methods: Twenty-one compounds were analyzed with a semiautomated electrochemical setup and mass spectrometry detection. Results: The system was able to mimic some metabolic pathways, such as oxygen gain, dealkylation and deiodination, but many of the expected and known metabolites were not produced. Conclusion: Electrochemical conversion is a useful approach for the preparative synthesis of some types of metabolites, but as a screening method for unknown phase I metabolites, the method is, in our opinion, inferior to incubation with human liver microsomes and in vivo experiments with laboratory animals, for example.

Drug-drug interactions and metabolism in cytochrome P450 2C knockout mice: application to troleandomycin and midazolam

Drug-drug interactions (DDIs) may cause serious drug toxicity and delay development of candidate drugs. Screening using human liver microsomes and hepatocytes can help predict DDIs but do not always provide the degree of certainty required for confident progression of a candidate drug. Thus a suitable in vivo test system could be of great value. Here a Cyp2c knockout (KO) mouse was investigated for studying DDIs using midazolam (MDZ) a standard human CYP3A4 substrate and troleandomycin (TAO) a potent human CYP3A4 inhibitor. Pharmacokinetics (PK) and biotransformation of MDZ were investigated following dosing to Cyp2c KO and wild type mice before and after TAO treatment. The noteworthy differences in the metabolism of MDZ in Cyp2c KO compared to wild type mice confirms the important role that Cyp2c enzymes play in the murine metabolism of MDZ in vivo. The impact of Cyp3a inhibition produced a further increase in circulating MDZ concentrations in all individuals from both strains of mice though the impact of the elimination of the Cyp2c pathway in the KO mice on the AUC was less than perhaps expected. We have shown that TAO produces an increase in the MDZ concentration and a reduction in the 1'hydroxymidazolam/midazolam formation ratio but the expected difference in the magnitude of this effect between the wild type and the Cyp2c KO mice was not seen. The magnitude of the TAO effect was also smaller than is reported in humans. Hence further work is required before this animal model could be used to predict clinical interactions.

Pharmacokinetic interactions between monoamine oxidase A inhibitor harmaline and 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine, and the impact of CYP2D6 status

5-Methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT or street name "5-MEO") is a newer designer drug belonging to a group of naturally occurring indolealkylamines. Our recent study has demonstrated that coadministration of monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) inhibitor harmaline (5 mg/kg) increases systemic exposure to 5-MeO-DMT (2 mg/kg) and active metabolite bufotenine. This study is aimed at delineating harmaline and 5-MeO-DMT pharmacokinetic (PK) interactions at multiple dose levels, as well as the impact of CYP2D6 that affects harmaline PK and determines 5-MeO-DMT O-demethylation to produce bufotenine. Our data revealed that inhibition of MAO-A-mediated metabolic elimination by harmaline (2, 5, and 15 mg/kg) led to a sharp increase in systemic and cerebral exposure to 5-MeO-DMT (2 and 10 mg/kg) at all dose combinations. A more pronounced effect on 5-MeO-DMT PK was associated with greater exposure to harmaline in wild-type mice than CYP2D6-humanized (Tg-CYP2D6) mice. Harmaline (5 mg/kg) also increased blood and brain bufotenine concentrations that were generally higher in Tg-CYP2D6 mice. Surprisingly, greater harmaline dose (15 mg/kg) reduced bufotenine levels. The in vivo inhibitory effect of harmaline on CYP2D6-catalyzed bufotenine formation was confirmed by in vitro study using purified CYP2D6. Given these findings, a unified PK model including the inhibition of MAO-A- and CYP2D6-catalyzed 5-MeO-DMT metabolism by harmaline was developed to describe blood harmaline, 5-MeO-DMT, and bufotenine PK profiles in both wild-type and Tg-CYP2D6 mouse models. This PK model may be further employed to predict harmaline and 5-MeO-DMT PK interactions at various doses, define the impact of CYP2D6 status, and drive harmaline-5-MeO-DMT pharmacodynamics.

Behavioral effects of α,α,β,β-tetradeutero-5-MeO-DMT in rats: comparison with 5-MeO-DMT administered in combination with a monoamine oxidase inhibitor

RATIONALE

Ayahuasca is a psychoactive tea prepared from a combination of plants that contain a hallucinogenic tryptamine and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Behavioral pattern monitor (BPM) experiments demonstrated that the combination of 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) and a behaviorally inactive dose of an MAO(A) inhibitor such as harmaline or clorgyline induces biphasic effects on locomotor activity in rats, initially reducing locomotion and then increasing activity as time progresses.

OBJECTIVES

The present study investigated whether the biphasic locomotor profile induced by the combination of 5-MeO-DMT and an MAOI is a consequence of a reduction in the rate of 5-MeO-DMT metabolism. This hypothesis was tested using a deuterated derivative of 5-MeO-DMT (α,α,β,β-tetradeutero-5-MeO-DMT) that is resistant to metabolism by MAO.

RESULTS

Confirming our previous findings, 1.0 mg/kg 5-MeO-DMT (s.c.) had biphasic effects on locomotor activity in rats pretreated with a behaviorally inactive dose of the nonselective MAOI pargyline (10 mg/kg). Administration of 5-MeO-DMT alone, even at doses greater than 1.0 mg/kg, produced only reductions in locomotor activity. Although low doses of α,α,β,β-tetradeutero-5-MeO-DMT (0.3 and 1.0 mg/kg, s.c.) produced only hypoactivity in the BPM, a dose of 3.0 mg/kg induced a biphasic locomotor profile similar to that produced by the combination of 5-MeO-DMT and an MAOI. Receptor binding studies demonstrated that deuterium substitution had little effect on the affinity of 5-MeO-DMT for a wide variety of neurotransmitter binding sites.

CONCLUSIONS

The finding with α,α,β,β-tetradeutero-5-MeO-DMT indicates that the hyperactivity induced by 5-MeO-DMT after MAO inhibition is a consequence of reduced metabolism of 5-MeO-DMT, leading to prolonged occupation of central serotonin receptors. These results demonstrate that deuterated tryptamines may be useful in behavioral and pharmacological studies to mimic the effects of tryptamine/MAOI combinations.

Humanized transgenic mouse models for drug metabolism and pharmacokinetic research

Extrapolation of the metabolic, pharmacokinetic and toxicological data obtained from animals to humans is not always straightforward, given the remarkable species difference in drug metabolism that is due in large part to the differences in drug-metabolizing enzymes between animals and humans. Furthermore, genetic variations in drug-metabolizing enzymes may significantly alter pharmacokinetics, drug efficacy and safety. Thus, humanized transgenic mouse lines, in which the human drug-metabolizing enzymes are expressed in mouse tissues in the presence or absence of mouse orthologues, have been developed to address such challenges. These humanized transgenic mice are valuable animal models in understanding the significance of specific human drug-metabolizing enzymes in drug clearance and pharmacokinetics, as well as in predicting potential drug-drug interactions and chemical toxicity in humans. This review, therefore, aims to summarize the development and application of some humanized transgenic mouse models expressing human drug-metabolizing enzymes. The limitations of these genetically modified mouse models are also discussed.

MicroRNA expression is differentially altered by xenobiotic drugs in different human cell lines

Several noncoding microRNAs (miR or miRNA) have been shown to regulate the expression of drug-metabolizing enzymes and transporters. Xenobiotic drug-induced changes in enzyme and transporter expression may be associated with the alteration of miRNA expression. Therefore, this study investigated the impact of 19 xenobiotic drugs (e.g. dexamethasone, vinblastine, bilobalide and cocaine) on the expression of ten miRNAs (miR-18a, -27a, -27b, -124a, -148a, -324-3p, -328, -451, -519c and -1291) in MCF-7, Caco-2, SH-SY5Y and BE(2)-M17 cell systems. The data revealed that miRNAs were differentially expressed in human cell lines and the change in miRNA expression was dependent on the drug, as well as the type of cells investigated. Notably, treatment with bilobalide led to a 10-fold increase of miR-27a and a 2-fold decrease of miR-148a in Caco-2 cells, but no change of miR-27a and a 2-fold increase of miR-148a in MCF-7 cells. Neuronal miR-124a was generally down-regulated by psychoactive drugs (e.g. cocaine, methadone and fluoxetine) in BE(2)-M17 and SH-SY5Y cells. Dexamethasone and vinblastine, inducers of drug-metabolizing enzymes and transporters, suppressed the expression of miR-27b, -148a and -451 that down-regulate the enzymes and transporters. These findings should provide increased understanding of the altered gene expression underlying drug disposition, multidrug resistance, drug-drug interactions and neuroplasticity.

Stimulus control by 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine in wild-type and CYP2D6-humanized mice

In previous studies we have observed that, in comparison with wild type mice, Tg-CYP2D6 mice have increased serum levels of bufotenine [5-hydroxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine] following the administration of 5-MeO-DMT. Furthermore, following the injection of 5-MeO-DMT, harmaline was observed to increase serum levels of bufotenine and 5-MeO-DMT in both wild-type and Tg-CYP2D6 mice. In the present investigation, 5-MeO-DMT-induced stimulus control was established in wild-type and Tg-CYP2D6 mice. The two groups did not differ in their rate of acquisition of stimulus control. When tested with bufotenine, no 5-MeO-DMT-appropriate responding was observed. In contrast, the more lipid soluble analog of bufotenine, acetylbufotenine, was followed by an intermediate level of responding. The combination of harmaline with 5-MeO-DMT yielded a statistically significant increase in 5-MeO-DMT-appropriate responding in Tg-CYP2D6 mice; a comparable increase occurred in wild-type mice. In addition, it was noted that harmaline alone was followed by a significant degree of 5-MeO-DMT-appropriate responding in Tg-CYP2D6 mice. It is concluded that wild-type and Tg-CYPD2D6 mice do not differ in terms of acquisition of stimulus control by 5-MeO-DMT or in their response to bufotenine and acetylbufotenine. In both groups of mice, harmaline was found to enhance the stimulus effects of 5-MeO-DMT.

Nonlinear pharmacokinetics of 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine in mice

5-Methoxy-N,N,-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT), an abused serotonergic indolealkylamine drug, was placed into Schedule I controlled substance status in the United States as of January 19, 2011. In previous studies, we have shown the impact of monoamine oxidase A and cytochrome P450 2D6 enzymes on 5-MeO-DMT metabolism and pharmacokinetics. The aim of this study was to investigate 5-MeO-DMT pharmacokinetic properties after intravenous or intraperitoneal administration of three different doses (2, 10, and 20 mg/kg) to CYP2D6-humanized (Tg-CYP2D6) and wild-type control mice. Systemic exposure [area under the curve (AUC)] to 5-MeO-DMT was increased nonproportionally with the increase in dose. The existence of nonlinearity in serum 5-MeO-DMT pharmacokinetics was clearly manifested by dose-normalized AUC values, which were approximately 1.5- to 2.0-fold (intravenous) and 1.8- to 2.7-fold (intraperitoneal) higher in wild-type or Tg-CYP2D6 mice dosed with 10 and 20 mg/kg 5-MeO-DMT, respectively, than those in mice treated with 2 mg/kg 5-MeO-DMT. Furthermore, a two-compartment model including first-order absorption, nonlinear (Michaelis-Menten) elimination, and CYP2D6-dependent linear elimination from the central compartment was developed to characterize the intravenous and intraperitoneal pharmacokinetic data for 5-MeO-DMT in wild-type and Tg-CYP2D6 mice. In addition, 5-MeO-DMT was readily detected in mouse brain after drug treatment, and brain 5-MeO-DMT concentrations were also increased nonproportionally with the increase of dose. The results establish a nonlinear pharmacokinetic property for 5-MeO-DMT in mice, suggesting that the risk of 5-MeO-DMT intoxication may be increased nonproportionally at higher doses.