1
|
Villate A, Barreto GP, Nicolás MS, Aizpurua-Olaizola O, Olivares M, Usobiaga A. Development, Characterization and In Vitro Gastrointestinal Release of PLGA Nanoparticles Loaded with Full-Spectrum Cannabis Extracts. AAPS PharmSciTech 2024; 25:120. [PMID: 38816596 DOI: 10.1208/s12249-024-02836-4] [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: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids, such as ∆9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), are effective bioactive compounds that improve the quality of life of patients with certain chronic conditions. The copolymer poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) has been used to encapsulate such compounds separately, providing pharmaceutical grade edible products with unique features. In this work, a variety of PLGA based nanoformulations that maintain the natural cannabinoid profile found in the plant (known as full-spectrum) are proposed and evaluated. Three different cannabis sources were used, representing the three most relevant cannabis chemotypes. PLGA nanocapsules loaded with different amounts of cannabinoids were prepared by nanoemulsion, and were then functionalized with three of the most common coating polymers: pectin, alginate and chitosan. In order to evaluate the suitability of the proposed formulations, all the synthesized nanocapsules were characterized, and their cannabinoid content, size, zeta-potential, morphology and in vitro bioaccessibility was determined. Regardless of the employed cannabis source, its load and the functionalization, high cannabinoid content PLGA nanocapsules with suitable particle size and zeta-potential were obtained. Study of nanocapsules' morphology and in vitro release assays in gastro-intestinal media suggested that high cannabis source load may compromise the structure of nanocapsules and their release properties, and hence, the use of lower content of cannabis source is recommended.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aitor Villate
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940, Leioa, Basque, Spain.
- Research Centre for Experimental Marine Biology and Biotechnology (PIE), University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48620, Plentzia, Basque, Spain.
| | - Gastón Pablo Barreto
- Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Nacional del Centro de la Provincia de Buenos Aires, Av del Valle 5737, CP7400, Olavarría, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Física e Ingeniería del Centro de la Provincia de Buenos Aires, CIFICEN (UNCPBA-CICPBA -CONICET), Av. Del Valle 5737, B7400JWI, Olavarría, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Markel San Nicolás
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940, Leioa, Basque, Spain
- Research Centre for Experimental Marine Biology and Biotechnology (PIE), University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48620, Plentzia, Basque, Spain
- Sovereign Fields S.L, Larramendi Kalea 3, 20006, Donostia, Basque, Spain
| | | | - Maitane Olivares
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940, Leioa, Basque, Spain
- Research Centre for Experimental Marine Biology and Biotechnology (PIE), University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48620, Plentzia, Basque, Spain
| | - Aresatz Usobiaga
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940, Leioa, Basque, Spain
- Research Centre for Experimental Marine Biology and Biotechnology (PIE), University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48620, Plentzia, Basque, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Amato G, Runyon S, Vasukuttan V, Decker AM, Gay EA, Laudermilk L, Maitra R. Discovery of 1,3-disubstituted pyrazole peripheral cannabinoid receptor partial agonists. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2023; 93:129430. [PMID: 37543275 PMCID: PMC10529378 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2023.129430] [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: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
Partial agonists of peripheral cannabinoid receptors (CBRs) have potential therapeutic applications in several medical conditions. However, (-)-trans-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the principal active component of marijuana, which is a partial agonist of CB1 and CB2 penetrates the central nervous system (CNS) and produces adverse effects. Peripherally restricted partial agonists of CBRs, particularly of CB1, can be used to treat illnesses safely and effectively with a better therapeutic index. Here, we report on our efforts to synthesize pyrazole partial CBR agonists with peripheral selectivity, resulting in lead compound 40. This compound is a potent partial agonist of CB1 with ∼ 5-fold higher plasma biodistribution over brain and represents an early lead for optimization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- George Amato
- Discovery Sciences, RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Rd., Research Triangle Park, NC 27709-2194, USA
| | - Scott Runyon
- Discovery Sciences, RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Rd., Research Triangle Park, NC 27709-2194, USA
| | - Vineetha Vasukuttan
- Discovery Sciences, RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Rd., Research Triangle Park, NC 27709-2194, USA
| | - Ann M Decker
- Discovery Sciences, RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Rd., Research Triangle Park, NC 27709-2194, USA
| | - Elaine A Gay
- Discovery Sciences, RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Rd., Research Triangle Park, NC 27709-2194, USA
| | - Lucas Laudermilk
- Discovery Sciences, RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Rd., Research Triangle Park, NC 27709-2194, USA
| | - Rangan Maitra
- Discovery Sciences, RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Rd., Research Triangle Park, NC 27709-2194, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zhang SS, Zhang NN, Guo TT, Sheen LY, Ho CT, Bai NS. The impact of phyto- and endo-cannabinoids on central nervous system diseases:A review. J Tradit Complement Med 2022; 13:30-38. [PMID: 36685079 PMCID: PMC9845650 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtcme.2022.10.004] [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: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and aim Cannabis sativa L. is a medicinal plant with a long history. Phyto-cannabinoids are a class of compounds from C. sativa L. with varieties of structures. Endocannabinoids exist in the human body. This article provides an overview of natural cannabinoids (phyto-cannabinoids and endocannabinoids) with an emphasis on their pharmacology activities. Experimental procedure The keywords "Cannabis sativa L″, "cannabinoids", and "central nervous system (CNS) diseases" were used for searching and collecting pieces of literature from PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. The data were extracted and analyzed to explore the effects of cannabinoids on CNS diseases. Result and conclusion In this paper, schematic diagrams are used to intuitively show the phyto-cannabinoids skeletons' mutual conversion and pharmacological activities, with special emphasis on their relevant pharmacological activities on central nervous system (CNS) diseases. It was found that the endocannabinoid system and microglia play a crucial role in the treatment of CNS diseases. In the past few years, pharmacological studies focused on Δ9-THC, CBD, and the endocannabinoids system. It is expected to encourage new studies on a more deep exploration of other types of cannabinoids and the mechanism of their pharmacological activities in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shan-Shan Zhang
- College of Chemical Engineering, Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Northwest University, 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China,College of Food Science and Technology, Northwest University, 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Niu-Niu Zhang
- College of Food Science and Technology, Northwest University, 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Tian-Tian Guo
- College of Food Science and Technology, Northwest University, 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Lee-Yan Sheen
- Institute of Food Science and Technology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Tang Ho
- Department of Food Science, Rutgers University, 65 Dudley Road, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA,Corresponding author.
| | - Nai-Sheng Bai
- College of Food Science and Technology, Northwest University, 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China,Corresponding author.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Diaz MM, Caylor J, Strigo I, Lerman I, Henry B, Lopez E, Wallace MS, Ellis RJ, Simmons AN, Keltner JR. Toward Composite Pain Biomarkers of Neuropathic Pain-Focus on Peripheral Neuropathic Pain. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2022; 3:869215. [PMID: 35634449 PMCID: PMC9130475 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2022.869215] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain affects ~10-20% of the U.S. population with an estimated annual cost of $600 billion, the most significant economic cost of any disease to-date. Neuropathic pain is a type of chronic pain that is particularly difficult to manage and leads to significant disability and poor quality of life. Pain biomarkers offer the possibility to develop objective pain-related indicators that may help diagnose, treat, and improve the understanding of neuropathic pain pathophysiology. We review neuropathic pain mechanisms related to opiates, inflammation, and endocannabinoids with the objective of identifying composite biomarkers of neuropathic pain. In the literature, pain biomarkers typically are divided into physiological non-imaging pain biomarkers and brain imaging pain biomarkers. We review both types of biomarker types with the goal of identifying composite pain biomarkers that may improve recognition and treatment of neuropathic pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monica M. Diaz
- Department of Neurology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Jacob Caylor
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Irina Strigo
- Department of Psychiatry, San Francisco Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Imanuel Lerman
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Brook Henry
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Eduardo Lopez
- Department of Psychiatry, San Francisco Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Mark S. Wallace
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Ronald J. Ellis
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Alan N. Simmons
- Department of Psychiatry, San Diego & Center of Excellence in Stress and Mental Health, Veteran Affairs Health Care System, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - John R. Keltner
- Department of Psychiatry, San Diego & San Diego VA Medical Center, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Sexually Dimorphic Expression of Fear-conditioned Analgesia in Rats and Associated Alterations in the Endocannabinoid System in the Periaqueductal Grey. Neuroscience 2021; 480:117-130. [PMID: 34774710 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2021.11.005] [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: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system within the periaqueductal grey (PAG) has been implicated in fear-conditioned analgesia (FCA), the profound suppression of pain upon re-exposure to a context previously paired with an aversive stimulus. Since the endocannabinoid and nociceptive systems exhibit sexual dimorphism, the aim of the present study was to assess possible sex differences in the expression of FCA, fear in the presence of nociceptive tone, and associated sex-dependent alterations in the endocannabinoid system within the PAG. Male and female Sprague-Dawley rats received footshock (10 × 1s; 0.4 mA; every 60 s) or no-footshock in a conditioning arena and 23.5 h later received intraplantar injection of formalin (2.5%) under brief isoflourane anaesthetic into the right hind paw. Nociceptive and fear-related behaviours were assessed 30 min later. Levels of endocannabinoids, N-acylethanolamines and neurotransmitters in the PAG were assessed by LC-MS/MS and expression of endocannabinoid system-related proteins by Western immunoblotting. Male, but not female, rats exhibited robust FCA and greater expression of fear-related behaviours than females. Fear-conditioned formalin-treated males, but not females, had higher levels of N-oleoylethanolamine (OEA) and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the PAG, compared with non-fear-conditioned controls. There was no effect of fear conditioning on the levels of FAAH or CB1 receptor expression (CB1R) in the PAG of male or female formalin-treated rats. Non-fear-conditioned females had higher levels of CB1R and PPARγ expression than non-fear-conditioned male counterparts. In summary, our results provide evidence of sexual dimorphism in the expression of FCA and fear-related behaviours, and associated alterations in components of the endocannabinoid system and GABA within the PAG.
Collapse
|
6
|
Pantoja-Ruiz C, Restrepo-Jimenez P, Castañeda-Cardona C, Ferreirós A, Rosselli D. Cannabis and pain: a scoping review. Braz J Anesthesiol 2021; 72:142-151. [PMID: 34280454 PMCID: PMC9373074 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjane.2021.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
For centuries, cannabis has been used with many different purposes, including medicinal use, usually bypassing any formal approval process. However, during the last decade, interest in cannabis in medicine has been increasing, and several countries, including the United States and Canada, have produced their own legislation about marihuana and cannabis-based medicines. Because of this, interest in research has been increasing and evidence about its medical effects is becoming necessary. We conducted a review examining the evidence of cannabis in pain. Cannabis had been shown to be useful in acute and chronic pain, however recently, these results have been controverted. Within the different types of chronic pain, it has a weak evidence for neuropathic, rheumatic pain, and headache, modest evidence for multiple sclerosis related pain, and as adjuvant therapy in cancer pain. There is no strong evidence to recommend cannabis in order to decrease opioids in patients with chronic use. Even though cannabis-based medications appear to be mostly safe, mild adverse effects are common; somnolence, sedation, amnesia, euphoric mood, hyperhidrosis, paranoia, and confusion may limit the use of cannabis in clinical practice. Risks have not been systematically analyzed. Special concern arises on how adverse effect might affect vulnerable population such as elderly patients. More research is needed in order to evaluate benefits and risks, as well as the ideal administration route and dosages. As cannabis use increases in several countries, answers to these questions might be coming soon.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Camila Pantoja-Ruiz
- Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Medical School, Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Paula Restrepo-Jimenez
- Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Medical School, Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | | | - Diego Rosselli
- Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Medical School, Bogotá, Colombia.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Lourenço DM, Ribeiro-Rodrigues L, Sebastião AM, Diógenes MJ, Xapelli S. Neural Stem Cells and Cannabinoids in the Spotlight as Potential Therapy for Epilepsy. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E7309. [PMID: 33022963 PMCID: PMC7582633 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21197309] [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: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is one of the most common brain diseases worldwide, having a huge burden in society. The main hallmark of epilepsy is the occurrence of spontaneous recurrent seizures, having a tremendous impact on the lives of the patients and of their relatives. Currently, the therapeutic strategies are mostly based on the use of antiepileptic drugs, and because several types of epilepsies are of unknown origin, a high percentage of patients are resistant to the available pharmacotherapy, continuing to experience seizures overtime. Therefore, the search for new drugs and therapeutic targets is highly important. One key aspect to be targeted is the aberrant adult hippocampal neurogenesis (AHN) derived from Neural Stem Cells (NSCs). Indeed, targeting seizure-induced AHN may reduce recurrent seizures and shed some light on the mechanisms of disease. The endocannabinoid system is a known modulator of AHN, and due to the known endogenous antiepileptic properties, it is an interesting candidate for the generation of new antiepileptic drugs. However, further studies and clinical trials are required to investigate the putative mechanisms by which cannabinoids can be used to treat epilepsy. In this manuscript, we will review how cannabinoid-induced modulation of NSCs may promote neural plasticity and whether these drugs can be used as putative antiepileptic treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diogo M. Lourenço
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; (D.M.L.); (L.R.-R.); (A.M.S.); (M.J.D.)
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Leonor Ribeiro-Rodrigues
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; (D.M.L.); (L.R.-R.); (A.M.S.); (M.J.D.)
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ana M. Sebastião
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; (D.M.L.); (L.R.-R.); (A.M.S.); (M.J.D.)
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Maria J. Diógenes
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; (D.M.L.); (L.R.-R.); (A.M.S.); (M.J.D.)
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Sara Xapelli
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; (D.M.L.); (L.R.-R.); (A.M.S.); (M.J.D.)
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Dikmen DY, Okcay Y, Arslan R, Bektas N. Cannabinoid system involves in the analgesic effect of protocatechuic acid. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 27:605-612. [PMID: 31325037 DOI: 10.1007/s40199-019-00288-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 06/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Protocatechuic acid is an antioxidant which is shown to have analgesic activity in limited studies. However, the mechanisms of action remain unclear. OBJECTIVES It is aimed to investigate the possible contribution of cannabinoid system that supresses the nociceptive process by the activation of CB1 and CB2 receptors in central and peripheral levels of pain pathways, to the analgesic activity of protocatechuic acid. METHODS The analgesic activity of protocatechuic acid was determined at the doses of 75, 150 and 300 mg/kg (i.p.) by acetic acid-induced writhing and tail-immersion tests in mice. The results were compared to the analgesic effect of 300 mg/kg (i.p.) dipyrone and non-specific CB receptor agonist 5 mg/kg (i.p.) WIN 55,212-2. For investigating the contribution of cannabinoid system to protocatechuic acid analgesia; pre-treatment with 8 mg/kg (i.p.) CB1 antagonist AM251 and 8 mg/kg (i.p.) CB2 antagonist AM630 were performed separately before 300 mg/kg protocatechuic acid administration. RESULTS It was determined that protocatechuic acid has dose-dependent analgesic effect independently from locomotor activity and is comparable with effects of dipyrone and WIN 55,212-2. Pre-treatment with CB1 receptor antagonist AM251 significantly antagonized the protocatechuic acid-induced analgesia in the tail-immersion and writhing tests, whereas pre-treatment of CB2 receptor antagonist AM630 was found to be effective only in the tail-immersion test. CONCLUSION It is concluded that cannabinoid modulation contributes to the analgesic effect of protocatechuic acid in spinal level rather than peripheral. CB1 receptor stimulation rather than CB2 receptor stimulation mediates the analgesic effect of protocatechuic acid in both levels, especially peripheral. Graphical abstract Protocatechuic acid inhibits pain response via cannabinoidergic system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Duygu Yesim Dikmen
- Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Pharmacology, Anadolu University, 26470, Eskisehir, Turkey
| | - Yagmur Okcay
- Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Pharmacology, Anadolu University, 26470, Eskisehir, Turkey
| | - Rana Arslan
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology, Anadolu University, 26470, Eskisehir, Turkey
| | - Nurcan Bektas
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology, Anadolu University, 26470, Eskisehir, Turkey.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Mouro FM, Miranda-Lourenço C, Sebastião AM, Diógenes MJ. From Cannabinoids and Neurosteroids to Statins and the Ketogenic Diet: New Therapeutic Avenues in Rett Syndrome? Front Neurosci 2019; 13:680. [PMID: 31333401 PMCID: PMC6614559 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is an X-linked neurodevelopmental disorder caused mainly by mutations in the MECP2 gene, being one of the leading causes of mental disability in females. Mutations in the MECP2 gene are responsible for 95% of the diagnosed RTT cases and the mechanisms through which these mutations relate with symptomatology are still elusive. Children with RTT present a period of apparent normal development followed by a rapid regression in speech and behavior and a progressive deterioration of motor abilities. Epilepsy is one of the most common symptoms in RTT, occurring in 60 to 80% of RTT cases, being associated with worsening of other symptoms. At this point, no cure for RTT is available and there is a pressing need for the discovery of new drug candidates to treat its severe symptoms. However, despite being a rare disease, in the last decade research in RTT has grown exponentially. New and exciting evidence has been gathered and the etiopathogenesis of this complex, severe and untreatable disease is slowly being unfolded. Advances in gene editing techniques have prompted cure-oriented research in RTT. Nonetheless, at this point, finding a cure is a distant reality, highlighting the importance of further investigating the basic pathological mechanisms of this disease. In this review, we focus our attention in some of the newest evidence on RTT clinical and preclinical research, evaluating their impact in RTT symptomatology control, and pinpointing possible directions for future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Melo Mouro
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Catarina Miranda-Lourenço
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ana Maria Sebastião
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maria José Diógenes
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Rodrigues RS, Lourenço DM, Paulo SL, Mateus JM, Ferreira MF, Mouro FM, Moreira JB, Ribeiro FF, Sebastião AM, Xapelli S. Cannabinoid Actions on Neural Stem Cells: Implications for Pathophysiology. Molecules 2019; 24:E1350. [PMID: 30959794 PMCID: PMC6480122 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24071350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Revised: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/03/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
With the increase of life expectancy, neurodegenerative disorders are becoming not only a health but also a social burden worldwide. However, due to the multitude of pathophysiological disease states, current treatments fail to meet the desired outcomes. Therefore, there is a need for new therapeutic strategies focusing on more integrated, personalized and effective approaches. The prospect of using neural stem cells (NSC) as regenerative therapies is very promising, however several issues still need to be addressed. In particular, the potential actions of pharmacological agents used to modulate NSC activity are highly relevant. With the ongoing discussion of cannabinoid usage for medical purposes and reports drawing attention to the effects of cannabinoids on NSC regulation, there is an enormous, and yet, uncovered potential for cannabinoids as treatment options for several neurological disorders, specifically when combined with stem cell therapy. In this manuscript, we review in detail how cannabinoids act as potent regulators of NSC biology and their potential to modulate several neurogenic features in the context of pathophysiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rui S Rodrigues
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Diogo M Lourenço
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Sara L Paulo
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Joana M Mateus
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Miguel F Ferreira
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Francisco M Mouro
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - João B Moreira
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Filipa F Ribeiro
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Ana M Sebastião
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Sara Xapelli
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Abstract
Extracts from Cannabis species have aided the discovery of the endocannabinoid signaling system (ECSS) and phytocannabinoids that possess broad therapeutic potential. Whereas the reinforcing effects of C. sativa are largely attributed to CB1 receptor agonism by Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), the observed medicinal effects of Cannabis arise from the combined actions of various compounds. In addition to compounds bearing a classical cannabinoid structure, naturally occurring fatty acid amides and esters resembling anandamide and 2-arachidonoyl glycerol isolated from non- Cannabis species are also valuable tools for studying ECSS function. This review highlights the potential of plant-based secondary metabolites from Cannabis and unrelated species as ECSS modulators.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher W Cunningham
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Concordia University Wisconsin , Mequon , Wisconsin 53097 , United States
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Fernández-Ruiz J. Preface: Why a Special Issue on cannabinoid research in Spain? Biochem Pharmacol 2018; 157:1-7. [PMID: 30352232 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2018.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- 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), Madrid, Spain; Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|