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Li G, Choi J, Stephens KL, DeGeorge BR. Vasoactive and Antifibrotic Properties of Cannabinoids and Applications to Vasospastic/Vaso-Occlusive Disorders: A Systematic Review. Ann Plast Surg 2024; 92:S445-S452. [PMID: 38857012 DOI: 10.1097/sap.0000000000003985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Management of vasospastic and vaso-occlusive disorders is a complex challenge, with current treatments showing varied success. Cannabinoids have demonstrated both vasodilatory and antifibrotic properties, which present potential mechanisms for therapeutic relief. No existing review examines these effects in peripheral circulation in relation to vasospastic and vaso-occlusive disorders. This study aims to investigate vasodilatory and antifibrotic properties of cannabinoids in peripheral vasculature for application in vasospastic and vaso-occlusive disorders affecting the hand. METHODS A systematic search was conducted by 2 independent reviewers across PubMed, Cochrane, Ovid MEDLINE, and CINAHL to identify studies in accordance with the determined inclusion/exclusion criteria. Information regarding study design, medication, dosage, and hemodynamic or antifibrotic effects were extracted. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize study findings as appropriate. RESULTS A total of 584 articles were identified, and 32 were selected for inclusion. Studies were grouped by effect type: hemodynamic (n = 17, 53%) and antifibrotic (n = 15, 47%). Vasodilatory effects including reduced perfusion pressure, increased functional capillary density, inhibition of vessel contraction, and increased blood flow were reported in 82% of studies. Antifibrotic effects including reduced dermal thickening, reduced collagen synthesis, and reduced fibroblast migration were reported in 100% of studies. CONCLUSION Overall, cannabinoids were found to have vasodilatory and antifibrotic effects on peripheral circulation via both endothelium-dependent and independent mechanisms. Our review suggests the applicability of cannabis-based medicines for vasospastic and vaso-occlusive disorders affecting the hand (eg, Raynaud disease, Buerger disease). Future research should aim to assess the effectiveness of cannabis-based medicines for these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle Li
- From the University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA
| | - Janice Choi
- From the University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA
| | - Kristen L Stephens
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA
| | - Brent R DeGeorge
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA
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Yu Y, Liang C, Tang Q, Shi Y, Shen L. Characteristics of n6-methyladenosine (m6A) regulators and role of FTO/TNC in scleroderma. Gene 2024; 894:147989. [PMID: 37972699 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.147989] [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: 07/08/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND m6A regulators have important roles in a variety of autoimmune diseases, but their potential function in scleroderma, a refractory connective tissue disease, remains unclear. Tenascin C (TNC) is known to be a factor promoting collagen deposition in the development of scleroderma, but the regulatory relationship between TNC and m6A regulators is unknown. METHODS We extracted GSE33463 data consisting of forty-one healthy controls and sixty-one patients with scleroderma, and we analyzed the expression levels of twenty-one m6A regulators as well as the associations between them. In addition, we obtained random forest (RF) and nomogram models to predict the likehood of scleroderma. Next, we categorized the m6Aclusters and geneclusters by consensus clustering, and we performed an immune cell infiltration analysis for each cluster. Finally, we injected adenoviruses into a bleomycin (BLM)-induced mouse model of scleroderma, which was used to overexpress FTO and TNC. We assess the extent of skin fibrosis in the mice samples using pathology stains and measuring their hydroxyproline content and collagen mRNA. RESULTS We initially identified fourteen differentially expressed m6A regulators (WTAP, RBM15, CBLL1, FTO, ALKBH5, YTHDC1, YTHDC2, YTHDF1, YTHDF2, YTHDF3, RBMX, HNRNPC, IGFBP1 and IGFBP2). We found ALKBH5 to be positively associated with CBLL1 and RBM15, and FTO to be negatively associated with WTAP. In addition, we identified four m6A regulators (CBLL1, IGFBP1, YTHDF2 and IGFBP2) using a RF model, and we designed a nomogram model with those variables that proved reliable according to the calibration curve and clinical impact curve. We found that the m6Acluster A was correlated with Type 1 T helper cell infiltration and the genecluster A was correlated with regulatory T cell infiltration. Finally, we showed that FTO overexpression downregulated the m6A and mRNA levels of TNC, and alleviated skin fibrosis in the mouse model of scleroderma. Thus, our overexpression experiments provide preliminary evidence suggesting that TNC is an adverse factor in scleroderma. CONCLUSION Our approach might be useful as a new and accurate scleroderma diagnosis method. Moreover, our results suggested that FTO/TNC might be a novel scleroderma therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Yu
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chen Liang
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qinyu Tang
- Department of Dermatology, The Affiliated Changzhou Second People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, China
| | - Yuling Shi
- Department of Dermatology, Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China; Institute of Psoriasis, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Liangliang Shen
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China.
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Wang X, Zhang H, Liu Y, Xu Y, Yang B, Li H, Chen L. An overview on synthetic and biological activities of cannabidiol (CBD) and its derivatives. Bioorg Chem 2023; 140:106810. [PMID: 37659147 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.106810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023]
Abstract
(-)-Cannabidiol is a class of non-psychoactive plant cannabinoids derived from cannabis plants. Currently, Epidiolex (Cannabidiol) has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of two rare and severe forms of epilepsy related diseases, namely Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) and Dravet (DS). In addition, Cannabidiol and its structural analogues have received increasing attention due to their potential therapeutic effects such as neuroprotection, anti-epilepsy, anti-inflammation, anti-anxiety, and anti-cancer. Based on literature review, no comprehensive reviews on the synthesis of Cannabidiol and its derivatives have been found in recent years. Therefore, this article summarizes the published synthesis methods of Cannabidiol and the synthesis routes of Cannabidiol derivatives, and introduces the biological activities of some Cannabidiol analogues that have been studied extensively and have significant activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuli Wang
- Wuya College of Innovation, Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Huanbang Zhang
- Wuya College of Innovation, Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Application Research of Beiyao, Ministry of Education, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Heilongjiang 150006, China
| | - Yang Xu
- Wuya College of Innovation, Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Bingyou Yang
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Application Research of Beiyao, Ministry of Education, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Heilongjiang 150006, China.
| | - Hua Li
- Wuya College of Innovation, Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China; Institute of Structural Pharmacology & TCM Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou 350122, China.
| | - Lixia Chen
- Wuya College of Innovation, Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China.
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Maccarrone M, Di Marzo V, Gertsch J, Grether U, Howlett AC, Hua T, Makriyannis A, Piomelli D, Ueda N, van der Stelt M. Goods and Bads of the Endocannabinoid System as a Therapeutic Target: Lessons Learned after 30 Years. Pharmacol Rev 2023; 75:885-958. [PMID: 37164640 PMCID: PMC10441647 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.122.000600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The cannabis derivative marijuana is the most widely used recreational drug in the Western world and is consumed by an estimated 83 million individuals (∼3% of the world population). In recent years, there has been a marked transformation in society regarding the risk perception of cannabis, driven by its legalization and medical use in many states in the United States and worldwide. Compelling research evidence and the Food and Drug Administration cannabis-derived cannabidiol approval for severe childhood epilepsy have confirmed the large therapeutic potential of cannabidiol itself, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and other plant-derived cannabinoids (phytocannabinoids). Of note, our body has a complex endocannabinoid system (ECS)-made of receptors, metabolic enzymes, and transporters-that is also regulated by phytocannabinoids. The first endocannabinoid to be discovered 30 years ago was anandamide (N-arachidonoyl-ethanolamine); since then, distinct elements of the ECS have been the target of drug design programs aimed at curing (or at least slowing down) a number of human diseases, both in the central nervous system and at the periphery. Here a critical review of our knowledge of the goods and bads of the ECS as a therapeutic target is presented to define the benefits of ECS-active phytocannabinoids and ECS-oriented synthetic drugs for human health. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: The endocannabinoid system plays important roles virtually everywhere in our body and is either involved in mediating key processes of central and peripheral diseases or represents a therapeutic target for treatment. Therefore, understanding the structure, function, and pharmacology of the components of this complex system, and in particular of key receptors (like cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2) and metabolic enzymes (like fatty acid amide hydrolase and monoacylglycerol lipase), will advance our understanding of endocannabinoid signaling and activity at molecular, cellular, and system levels, providing new opportunities to treat patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Maccarrone
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy (M.M.); European Center for Brain Research, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy (M.M.); Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, University of Laval, Quebec, Canada (V.D.); Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (J.G.); Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (U.G.); Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina (A.C.H.); iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China (T.H.); Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (A.M.); Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California (D.P.); Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa, Japan (N.U.); Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands (M.S.)
| | - Vincenzo Di Marzo
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy (M.M.); European Center for Brain Research, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy (M.M.); Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, University of Laval, Quebec, Canada (V.D.); Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (J.G.); Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (U.G.); Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina (A.C.H.); iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China (T.H.); Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (A.M.); Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California (D.P.); Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa, Japan (N.U.); Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands (M.S.)
| | - Jürg Gertsch
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy (M.M.); European Center for Brain Research, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy (M.M.); Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, University of Laval, Quebec, Canada (V.D.); Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (J.G.); Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (U.G.); Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina (A.C.H.); iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China (T.H.); Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (A.M.); Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California (D.P.); Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa, Japan (N.U.); Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands (M.S.)
| | - Uwe Grether
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy (M.M.); European Center for Brain Research, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy (M.M.); Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, University of Laval, Quebec, Canada (V.D.); Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (J.G.); Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (U.G.); Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina (A.C.H.); iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China (T.H.); Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (A.M.); Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California (D.P.); Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa, Japan (N.U.); Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands (M.S.)
| | - Allyn C Howlett
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy (M.M.); European Center for Brain Research, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy (M.M.); Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, University of Laval, Quebec, Canada (V.D.); Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (J.G.); Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (U.G.); Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina (A.C.H.); iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China (T.H.); Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (A.M.); Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California (D.P.); Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa, Japan (N.U.); Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands (M.S.)
| | - Tian Hua
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy (M.M.); European Center for Brain Research, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy (M.M.); Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, University of Laval, Quebec, Canada (V.D.); Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (J.G.); Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (U.G.); Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina (A.C.H.); iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China (T.H.); Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (A.M.); Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California (D.P.); Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa, Japan (N.U.); Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands (M.S.)
| | - Alexandros Makriyannis
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy (M.M.); European Center for Brain Research, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy (M.M.); Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, University of Laval, Quebec, Canada (V.D.); Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (J.G.); Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (U.G.); Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina (A.C.H.); iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China (T.H.); Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (A.M.); Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California (D.P.); Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa, Japan (N.U.); Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands (M.S.)
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy (M.M.); European Center for Brain Research, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy (M.M.); Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, University of Laval, Quebec, Canada (V.D.); Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (J.G.); Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (U.G.); Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina (A.C.H.); iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China (T.H.); Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (A.M.); Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California (D.P.); Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa, Japan (N.U.); Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands (M.S.)
| | - Natsuo Ueda
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy (M.M.); European Center for Brain Research, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy (M.M.); Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, University of Laval, Quebec, Canada (V.D.); Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (J.G.); Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (U.G.); Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina (A.C.H.); iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China (T.H.); Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (A.M.); Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California (D.P.); Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa, Japan (N.U.); Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands (M.S.)
| | - Mario van der Stelt
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy (M.M.); European Center for Brain Research, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy (M.M.); Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, University of Laval, Quebec, Canada (V.D.); Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (J.G.); Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (U.G.); Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina (A.C.H.); iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China (T.H.); Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (A.M.); Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California (D.P.); Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa, Japan (N.U.); Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands (M.S.)
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Farina N, Campochiaro C, Lescoat A, Benanti G, De Luca G, Khanna D, Dagna L, Matucci-Cerinic M. Drug development and novel therapeutics to ensure a personalized approach in the treatment of systemic sclerosis. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2023; 19:1131-1142. [PMID: 37366065 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2023.2230370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a systemic disease encompassing autoimmunity, vasculopathy, and fibrosis. SSc is still burdened by high mortality and morbidity rates. Recent advances in understanding the pathogenesis of SSc have identified novel potential therapeutic targets. Several clinical trials have been subsequently designed to evaluate the efficacy of a number of new drugs. The aim of this review is to provide clinicians with useful information about these novel molecules. AREA COVERED In this narrative review, we summarize the available evidence regarding the most promising targeted therapies currently under investigation for the treatment of SSc. These medications include kinase inhibitors, B-cell depleting agents, and interleukin inhibitors. EXPERT OPINION Over the next five years, several new, targeted drugs will be introduced in clinical practice for the treatment of SSc. Such pharmacological agents will expand the existing pharmacopoeia and enable a more personalized and effective approach to patients with SSc. Thus, it will not only possible to target a specific disease domain, but also different stages of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Farina
- Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - C Campochiaro
- Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - A Lescoat
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Immunology, Rennes University Hospital, Rennes, France
| | - G Benanti
- Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - G De Luca
- Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - D Khanna
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
| | - L Dagna
- Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - M Matucci-Cerinic
- Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Aryannejad A, Eslami F, Shayan M, Noroozi N, Hedayatyanfard K, Tavangar SM, Jafari RM, Dehpour AR. Cannabidiol Improves Random-Pattern Skin Flap Survival in Rats: Involvement of Cannabinoid Type-2 Receptors. J Reconstr Microsurg 2023; 39:48-58. [PMID: 35817049 DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1749338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND One of the major complications associated with random-pattern skin flaps is distal necrosis. Cannabidiol (CBD) has recently gained much attention as a therapeutic anti-inflammatory agent. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of CBD on the random-pattern skin flap survival (SFS) in rats and to explore the possible involvement of cannabinoid type-2 (CB2) receptors. METHODS In this controlled experimental study, we randomly divided male Wistar rats into seven study groups (six rats each). We performed a random-pattern skin flap model in each rat following pretreatment with vehicle (control) or multiple doses of CBD (0.3, 1, 5, or 10 mg/kg). In a separate group, we injected SR144528 (2 mg/kg), a high affinity and selective CB2 inverse agonist, before the most effective dose of CBD (1 mg/kg). A sham nontreated and nonoperated group was also included. Seven days after surgeries, the percentage of necrotic area (PNA) was calculated. Histopathological microscopy, CB2 expression level, and interleukin (IL)-1β and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α concentrations were also investigated in the flap tissue samples. RESULTS A PNA of 72.7 ± 7.5 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 64.8-80.6) was captured in the control group. Following treatment with CBD 0.3, 1, 5, and 10 mg/kg, a dose-dependent effect was observed with PNAs of 51.0 ± 10.0 (95% CI: 40.5-61.5; p <0.05), 15.4 ± 5.8 (95% CI: 9.3-21.5; p <0.001), 37.1 ± 10.2 (95% CI: 26.3-47.8; p <0.001), and 46.4 ± 14.0 (95% CI: 31.7-61.1; p <0.001), respectively. Histopathologically, tissues enhanced significantly. Besides, CB2 expression surged remarkably, IL-1β and TNF-α concentrations decreased considerably after treatment with CBD of 1 mg/kg compared with the control (p <0.05 and <0.001, respectively). Administering SR144528 reversed the favorable effects of CBD of 1 mg/kg, both macroscopically and microscopically. CONCLUSION Pretreatment with CBD of 1 mg/kg improved SFS considerably in rats and exerted desirable anti-inflammatory effects which were possibly mediated by CB2 receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armin Aryannejad
- Department of Pharmacology, Experimental Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Faezeh Eslami
- Department of Pharmacology, Experimental Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Shayan
- Department of Pharmacology, Experimental Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nafise Noroozi
- Department of Pharmacology, Experimental Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Keshvad Hedayatyanfard
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran.,Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Seyed Mohammad Tavangar
- Department of Pathology, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Razieh Mohammad Jafari
- Department of Pharmacology, Experimental Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmad Reza Dehpour
- Department of Pharmacology, Experimental Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Cannabinoid Compounds as a Pharmacotherapeutic Option for the Treatment of Non-Cancer Skin Diseases. Cells 2022; 11:cells11244102. [PMID: 36552866 PMCID: PMC9777118 DOI: 10.3390/cells11244102] [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: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system has been shown to be involved in various skin functions, such as melanogenesis and the maintenance of redox balance in skin cells exposed to UV radiation, as well as barrier functions, sebaceous gland activity, wound healing and the skin's immune response. In addition to the potential use of cannabinoids in the treatment and prevention of skin cancer, cannabinoid compounds and derivatives are of interest as potential systemic and topical applications for the treatment of various inflammatory, fibrotic and pruritic skin conditions. In this context, cannabinoid compounds have been successfully tested as a therapeutic option for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia, atopic and seborrhoeic dermatitis, dermatomyositis, asteatotic and atopic eczema, uraemic pruritis, scalp psoriasis, systemic sclerosis and venous leg ulcers. This review provides an insight into the current literature on cannabinoid compounds as potential medicines for the treatment of skin diseases.
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del Río C, Ruiz-Pino F, Prados ME, Fiebich BL, Tena-Sempere M, Muñoz E. Cannabidiol markedly alleviates skin and liver fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:981817. [PMID: 36339540 PMCID: PMC9627610 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.981817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) has been suggested as a potential therapy for inflammatory and fibrotic diseases. Cannabidiol was demonstrated to reduce alcohol-induced liver inflammation and steatosis but its specific activity on the fibrotic process was not investigated. Herein, the antifibrotic effects of cannabidiol in the skin were analysed in vitro using NIH-3T3 fibroblasts and human dermal fibroblasts and in vivo using the bleomycin-induced model of skin fibrosis. In a second model, non-alcoholic liver fibrosis was induced in mice by CCl4 exposure. Cannabidiol was administered daily, intraperitoneally in mice challenged with bleomycin and orally in CCl4 mice, and skin and liver fibrosis and inflammation were assessed by immunochemistry. Cannabidiol inhibited collagen gene transcription and synthesis and prevented TGFβ-and IL-4 induced fibroblast migration. In the bleomycin model, cannabidiol prevented skin fibrosis and collagen accumulation around skin blood vessels, and in the CCl4 model cannabidiol significantly attenuated liver fibrosis measured by picrosirius red and Tenascin C staining and reduced T cell and macrophage infiltration. Altogether, our data further support the rationale of the medicinal use of this cannabinoid, as well as cannabis preparations containing it, in the management of fibrotic diseases including Systemic Sclerosis and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen del Río
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba-IMIBIC, Cordoba, Spain
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Fisiología e Inmunología, Universidad de Córdoba, Cordoba, Spain
- Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Cordoba, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Manuel Tena-Sempere
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba-IMIBIC, Cordoba, Spain
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Fisiología e Inmunología, Universidad de Córdoba, Cordoba, Spain
- Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Cordoba, Spain
- CIBER Fisiopatologia de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Eduardo Muñoz
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba-IMIBIC, Cordoba, Spain
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Fisiología e Inmunología, Universidad de Córdoba, Cordoba, Spain
- Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Cordoba, Spain
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García-Martín A, Navarrete C, Garrido-Rodríguez M, Prados ME, Caprioglio D, Appendino G, Muñoz E. EHP-101 alleviates angiotensin II-induced fibrosis and inflammation in mice. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 142:112007. [PMID: 34385107 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Some cannabinoids showed anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic activities. EHP-101 is an oral lipidic formulation of the novel non-psychotropic cannabidiol aminoquinone VCE-004.8, which showed antifibrotic activity in murine models of systemic sclerosis induced by bleomycin. We herein examined the effect of EHP-101 on cardiac and other organ fibrosis in a mouse model induced by Angiotensin II. VCE-004.8 inhibited TGFβ- and Ang II-induced myofibroblast differentiation in cardiac fibroblasts detected by α-SMA expression. VCE-004.8 also inhibited Ang II-induced ERK 1 + 2 phosphorylation, NFAT activation and mRNA expression of IL1β, IL6, Col1A2 and CCL2 in cardiac fibroblasts. Mice infused with Ang II resulted in collagen accumulation in left ventricle, aortic, dermal, renal and pulmonary tissues; oral administration of EHP-101, Ajulemic acid and Losartan improved these phenotypes. In myocardial tissue, Ang II induced infiltration of T cells and macrophages together with the accumulation of collagen and Tenascin C; those were all reduced by either EHP-101 or Losartan treatment. Cardiac tissue RNA-Seq analyses revealed a similar transcriptomic signature for both treatments for inflammatory and fibrotic pathways. However, the gene set enrichment analysis comparing data from EHP-101 vs Losartan showed specific hallmarks modified only by EHP-101. Specifically, EHP-101 inhibited the expression of genes such as CDK1, TOP2A and MKi67 that are regulated to the E2 factor family of transcription factors. This study suggests that the oral administration of EHP-101 prevents and inhibits cardiac inflammation and fibrosis. Furthermore, EHP-101 inhibits renal, pulmonary and dermal fibrosis. EHP-101 could offer new opportunities in the treatment of cardiac fibrosis and other fibrotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Martin Garrido-Rodríguez
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Fisiología e Inmunología, Universidad de Córdoba, Spain; Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba, Spain; Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Córdoba, Spain
| | | | - Diego Caprioglio
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Giovanni Appendino
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Eduardo Muñoz
- Emerald Health Pharmaceuticals, San Diego, USA; Departamento de Biología Celular, Fisiología e Inmunología, Universidad de Córdoba, Spain; Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba, Spain; Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Córdoba, Spain.
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Correia-Sá I, Carvalho C, A Machado V, Carvalho S, Serrão P, Marques M, Vieira-Coelho MA. Targeting cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) limits collagen production-An in vitro study in a primary culture of human fibroblasts. Fundam Clin Pharmacol 2021; 36:89-99. [PMID: 34259358 DOI: 10.1111/fcp.12716] [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: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies showed that cannabinoid 2 (CB2) receptor is involved in skin inflammation, fibrogenesis and re-epithelialization in mice, indicating that this receptor may be implicated in wound healing. Thus, topical use of cannabinoids may have a role in local fibrotic and wound healing diseases such as scars or keloids. We investigate the effect of the CB2 selective receptor agonist (6aR,10aR)-3-(1,1-Dimethylbutyl)-6a,7,10,10a-tetrahydro-6,6,9-trimethyl-6H-dibenzo[b,d]pyran (JWH133) and the CB2 selective receptor antagonist (6-Iodo-2-methyl-1-[2-(4-morpholinyl)ethyl]-1H-indol-3-yl)(4-methoxyphenyl)-methanone (AM630), on primary cultures of human fibroblasts. Primary cultures of adult human fibroblasts were obtained from abdominal human skin samples. Fibroblasts pretreated with JWH133 and/or AM630 were stimulated with TGF-β (10 ng/ml). Fibroblast activation into myofibroblasts was quantified by the expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) using Immunocytochemistry and Western Blot assays. Collagen content was quantified with the Sirius red staining assay. Upon human fibroblasts stimulation with TGF-β, a significant increase on α-SMA and CB2 receptor expression was observed. In these cells, JWH133 decreased α-SMA expression and collagen content. However, this effect was not observed in resting human fibroblasts. AM630 decreased α-SMA expression and collagen content in both resting and activated fibroblasts. This effect was time- and concentration-dependent with an IC50 value of 11 μM. The CB2 receptor appears to be involved in fibroblast repair during skin wound healing in humans, as TGF-β increases CB2 receptor expression and JWH133 produces an anti-fibrotic effect in human fibroblasts. AM630 also showed an anti-fibrotic effect hypothesizing that other cannabinoid receptors, such as TRPV, may be involved in this response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês Correia-Sá
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery and Burn Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto and Centro Hospitalar São João, Porto, Portugal.,Department of Biomedicine-Pharmacology and Therapeutics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oporto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Cláudia Carvalho
- Department of Biomedicine-Pharmacology and Therapeutics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oporto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Vera A Machado
- Department of Biomedicine-Pharmacology and Therapeutics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oporto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sofia Carvalho
- Department of Biomedicine-Pharmacology and Therapeutics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oporto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Paula Serrão
- Department of Biomedicine-Pharmacology and Therapeutics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oporto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Marisa Marques
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery and Burn Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto and Centro Hospitalar São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria A Vieira-Coelho
- Department of Biomedicine-Pharmacology and Therapeutics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oporto, Porto, Portugal
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National Institutes of Health Consensus Development Project on Criteria for Clinical Trials in Chronic Graft-versus-Host Disease: IV. The 2020 Highly morbid forms report. Transplant Cell Ther 2021; 27:817-835. [PMID: 34217703 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtct.2021.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) can be associated with significant morbidity, in part because of nonreversible fibrosis, which impacts physical functioning (eye, skin, lung manifestations) and mortality (lung, gastrointestinal manifestations). Progress in preventing severe morbidity and mortality associated with chronic GVHD is limited by a complex and incompletely understood disease biology and a lack of prognostic biomarkers. Likewise, treatment advances for highly morbid manifestations remain hindered by the absence of effective organ-specific approaches targeting "irreversible" fibrotic sequelae and difficulties in conducting clinical trials in a heterogeneous disease with small patient numbers. The purpose of this document is to identify current gaps, to outline a roadmap of research goals for highly morbid forms of chronic GVHD including advanced skin sclerosis, fasciitis, lung, ocular and gastrointestinal involvement, and to propose strategies for effective trial design. The working group made the following recommendations: (1) Phenotype chronic GVHD clinically and biologically in future cohorts, to describe the incidence, prognostic factors, mechanisms of organ damage, and clinical evolution of highly morbid conditions including long-term effects in children; (2) Conduct longitudinal multicenter studies with common definitions and research sample collections; (3) Develop new approaches for early identification and treatment of highly morbid forms of chronic GVHD, especially biologically targeted treatments, with a special focus on fibrotic changes; and (4) Establish primary endpoints for clinical trials addressing each highly morbid manifestation in relationship to the time point of intervention (early versus late). Alternative endpoints, such as lack of progression and improvement in physical functioning or quality of life, may be suitable for clinical trials in patients with highly morbid manifestations. Finally, new approaches for objective response assessment and exploration of novel trial designs for small populations are required.
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Burgaz S, García C, Gómez-Cañas M, Rolland A, Muñoz E, Fernández-Ruiz J. Neuroprotection with the Cannabidiol Quinone Derivative VCE-004.8 (EHP-101) against 6-Hydroxydopamine in Cell and Murine Models of Parkinson's Disease. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26113245. [PMID: 34071302 PMCID: PMC8198479 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26113245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 05/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The 3-hydroxyquinone derivative of the non-psychotrophic phytocannabinoid cannabigerol, so-called VCE-003.2, and some other derivatives have been recently investigated for neuroprotective properties in experimental models of Parkinson's disease (PD) in mice. The pharmacological effects in those models were related to the activity on the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ) and possibly other pathways. In the present study, we investigated VCE-004.8 (formulated as EHP-101 for oral administration), the 3-hydroxyquinone derivative of cannabidiol (CBD), with agonist activity at the cannabinoid receptor type-2 (CB2) receptor in addition to its activity at the PPAR-γ receptor. Studies were conducted in both in vivo (lesioned-mice) and in vitro (SH-SY5Y cells) models using the classic parkinsonian neurotoxin 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA). Our data confirmed that the treatment with VCE-004.8 partially reduced the loss of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)-positive neurons measured in the substantia nigra of 6-OHDA-lesioned mice, in parallel with an almost complete reversal of the astroglial (GFAP) and microglial (CD68) reactivity occurring in this structure. Such neuroprotective effects attenuated the motor deficiencies shown by 6-OHDA-lesioned mice in the cylinder rearing test, but not in the pole test. Next, we explored the mechanism involved in the beneficial effect of VCE-004.8 in vivo, by analyzing cell survival in cultured SH-SY5Y cells exposed to 6-OHDA. We found an important cytoprotective effect of VCE-004.8 at a concentration of 10 µM, which was completely reversed by the addition of antagonists, T0070907 and SR144528, aimed at blocking PPAR-γ and CB2 receptors, respectively. The treatment with T0070907 alone only caused a partial reversal, whereas SR144528 alone had no effect, indicating a major contribution of PPAR-γ receptors in the cytoprotective effect of VCE-004.8 at 10 µM. In summary, our data confirmed the neuroprotective potential of VCE-004.8 in 6-OHDA-lesioned mice, and in vitro studies confirmed a greater relevance for PPAR-γ receptors rather than CB2 receptors in these effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Burgaz
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute on Neurochemistry Research, Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (S.B.); (C.G.); (M.G.-C.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), 28031 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Concepción García
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute on Neurochemistry Research, Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (S.B.); (C.G.); (M.G.-C.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), 28031 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - María Gómez-Cañas
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute on Neurochemistry Research, Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (S.B.); (C.G.); (M.G.-C.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), 28031 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Alain Rolland
- Emerald Health Pharmaceuticals, San Diego, CA 92121, USA; (A.R.); (E.M.)
| | - Eduardo Muñoz
- Emerald Health Pharmaceuticals, San Diego, CA 92121, USA; (A.R.); (E.M.)
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Córdoba, Spain
- Department of Cellular Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, 14004 Córdoba, Spain
- Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, 14004 Córdoba, Spain
| | - Javier Fernández-Ruiz
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute on Neurochemistry Research, Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (S.B.); (C.G.); (M.G.-C.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), 28031 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), 28034 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-913941450
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Kogan NM, Peters M, Mechoulam R. Cannabinoid Quinones-A Review and Novel Observations. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26061761. [PMID: 33801057 PMCID: PMC8003933 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26061761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
A cannabinoid anticancer para-quinone, HU-331, which was synthesized by our group five decades ago, was shown to have very high efficacy against human cancer cell lines in-vitro and against in-vivo grafts of human tumors in nude mice. The main mechanism was topoisomerase IIα catalytic inhibition. Later, several groups synthesized related compounds. In the present presentation, we review the publications on compounds synthesized on the basis of HU-331, summarize their published activities and mechanisms of action and report the synthesis and action of novel quinones, thus expanding the structure-activity relationship in these series.
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Cannabidiol and Other Cannabinoids in Demyelinating Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22062992. [PMID: 33804243 PMCID: PMC8001020 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22062992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
A growing body of preclinical evidence indicates that certain cannabinoids, including cannabidiol (CBD) and synthetic derivatives, may play a role in the myelinating processes and are promising small molecules to be developed as drug candidates for management of demyelinating diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS), stroke and traumatic brain injury (TBI), which are three of the most prevalent demyelinating disorders. Thanks to the properties described for CBD and its interesting profile in humans, both the phytocannabinoid and derivatives could be considered as potential candidates for clinical use. In this review we will summarize current advances in the use of CBD and other cannabinoids as future potential treatments. While new research is accelerating the process for the generation of novel drug candidates and identification of druggable targets, the collaboration of key players such as basic researchers, clinicians and pharmaceutical companies is required to bring novel therapies to the patients.
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Massimini M, Dalle Vedove E, Bachetti B, Di Pierro F, Ribecco C, D'Addario C, Pucci M. Polyphenols and Cannabidiol Modulate Transcriptional Regulation of Th1/Th2 Inflammatory Genes Related to Canine Atopic Dermatitis. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:606197. [PMID: 33763461 PMCID: PMC7982812 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.606197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Canine atopic dermatitis (AD) is a multifactorial allergic disease associated with immune and abnormal skin barrier dysfunction and it is one of the primary causes of pruritus. Using a novel in vitro model of AD, here we tried to revert the alteration of transcriptional regulation of AD canine key genes testing a nutraceutical mixture containing flavonoids, stilbene, and cannabinoids, which are already well-known for their applications within dermatology diseases. The nutraceutical mixture induced in inflamed cells a significant downregulation (p < 0.05) of the gene expression of ccl2, ccl17, and tslp in keratinocytes and of ccl2, ccl17, and il31ra in monocytes. Consistent with the observed alterations of tslp, ccl2, ccl17, and il31ra messenger RNA (mRNA) levels, a significant increase (p < 0.05) of DNA methylation at specific CpG sites on the gene regulatory regions was found. These results lay the foundation for the use of these natural bioactives in veterinary medicine and provide a model for deeper understanding of their mechanisms of action, with potential translation to human research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Claudio D'Addario
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Mariangela Pucci
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
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Lago-Fernandez A, Zarzo-Arias S, Jagerovic N, Morales P. Relevance of Peroxisome Proliferator Activated Receptors in Multitarget Paradigm Associated with the Endocannabinoid System. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:1001. [PMID: 33498245 PMCID: PMC7863932 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22031001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids have shown to exert their therapeutic actions through a variety of targets. These include not only the canonical cannabinoid receptors CB1R and CB2R but also related orphan G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), ligand-gated ion channels, transient receptor potential (TRP) channels, metabolic enzymes, and nuclear receptors. In this review, we aim to summarize reported compounds exhibiting their therapeutic effects upon the modulation of CB1R and/or CB2R and the nuclear peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs). Concomitant actions at CBRs and PPARα or PPARγ subtypes have shown to mediate antiobesity, analgesic, antitumoral, or neuroprotective properties of a variety of phytogenic, endogenous, and synthetic cannabinoids. The relevance of this multitargeting mechanism of action has been analyzed in the context of diverse pathologies. Synergistic effects triggered by combinatorial treatment with ligands that modulate the aforementioned targets have also been considered. This literature overview provides structural and pharmacological insights for the further development of dual cannabinoids for specific disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nadine Jagerovic
- Medicinal Chemistry Institute, Spanish Research Council, Juan de la Cierva 3, 28006 Madrid, Spain; (A.L.-F.); (S.Z.-A.)
| | - Paula Morales
- Medicinal Chemistry Institute, Spanish Research Council, Juan de la Cierva 3, 28006 Madrid, Spain; (A.L.-F.); (S.Z.-A.)
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Parlar A, Arslan SO, Yumrutas O, Elibol E, Yalcin A, Uckardes F, Aydin H, Dogan MF, Kayhan Kustepe E, Ozer MK. Effects of cannabinoid receptor 2 synthetic agonist, AM1241, on bleomycin induced pulmonary fibrosis. Biotech Histochem 2020; 96:48-59. [PMID: 33325762 DOI: 10.1080/10520295.2020.1758343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Bleomycin (BLM) is a chemotherapeutic agent that can cause pulmonary fibrosis. Little is known about the possible protective role of the CB2 receptor agonist, AM1241. We investigated the effects of CB2 receptor activation by AM1241 on BLM induced lung fibrosis in a rat model. BLM was administered via the trachea. Adult female Wistar rats were divided into five groups: saline (control group), BLM (BLM group), CB2 agonist (AM1241) + BLM (BLMA group), CB2 antagonist (AM630) and CB2 agonist (AM1241) + BLM (BLMA + A group), and vehicle (dimethylsulfoxide) + BLM (BLM + vehicle group). Hydroxyproline, collagen type 1, total protein, glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α levels were measured in lung fibrosis and control tissue using standard methods. We investigated the histopathology of lung tissue to determine the extent of fibrosis. We found significantly higher levels of hydroxyproline, TNF-α, IL-6 and total protein in the BLM group compared to the BLMA group. The level of GSH also was higher in the BLMA group compared to the BLM group. Inflammation and fibrotic changes were significantly reduced in the BLMA group. Our findings suggest that CB2 receptor activation provided protection against BLM induced pulmonary fibrosis by suppressing oxidative stress and increasing cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Parlar
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, University of Adıyaman , Adıyaman, Turkey
| | - Seyfullah Oktay Arslan
- Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Yıldırım Beyazıt University , Ankara, Turkey
| | - Onder Yumrutas
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biology, University of Adıyaman , Adıyaman, Turkey
| | - Ebru Elibol
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, University of Adıyaman , Adıyaman, Turkey
| | - Alper Yalcin
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, University of Adıyaman , Adıyaman, Turkey
| | - Fatih Uckardes
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, University of Adıyaman , Adıyaman, Turkey
| | - Hasan Aydin
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, University of Adıyaman , Adıyaman, Turkey
| | - Muhammed Fatih Dogan
- Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Yıldırım Beyazıt University , Ankara, Turkey
| | - Elif Kayhan Kustepe
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, University of Adıyaman , Adıyaman, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Kaya Ozer
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, University of Adıyaman , Adıyaman, Turkey
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Navarrete C, Garcia-Martin A, DeMesa J, Muñoz E. Cannabinoids in Metabolic Syndrome and Cardiac Fibrosis. Curr Hypertens Rep 2020; 22:98. [PMID: 33089434 DOI: 10.1007/s11906-020-01112-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This article provides a concise overview of how cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system (ECS) have significant implications for the prevention and treatment of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and for the treatment of cardiovascular disorders, including cardiac fibrosis. RECENT FINDINGS Over the past few years, the ECS has emerged as a pivotal component of the homeostatic mechanisms for the regulation of many bodily functions, including inflammation, digestion, and energy metabolism. Therefore, the pharmacological modulation of the ECS by cannabinoids represents a novel strategy for the management of many diseases. Specifically, increasing evidence from preclinical research studies has opened new avenues for the development of cannabinoid-based therapies for the management and potential treatment of MetS and cardiovascular diseases. Current information indicates that modulation of the ECS can help maintain overall health and well-being due to its homeostatic function. From a therapeutic perspective, cannabinoids and the ECS have also been shown to play a key role in modulating pathophysiological states such as inflammatory, neurodegenerative, gastrointestinal, metabolic, and cardiovascular diseases, as well as cancer and pain. Thus, targeting and modulating the ECS with cannabinoids or cannabinoid derivatives may represent a major disease-modifying medical advancement to achieve successful treatment for MetS and certain cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jim DeMesa
- Emerald Health Pharmaceuticals, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Eduardo Muñoz
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba, University of Córdoba, Avda. Menéndez Pidal s/n, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.
- Departamento de Biologia Celular, Fisiologia e Inmunologia, Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain.
- Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, Córdoba, Spain.
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Effects of EHP-101 on inflammation and remyelination in murine models of Multiple sclerosis. Neurobiol Dis 2020; 143:104994. [PMID: 32599064 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2020.104994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is characterized by a combination of inflammatory and neurodegenerative processes in the spinal cord and the brain. Natural and synthetic cannabinoids such as VCE-004.8 have been studied in preclinical models of MS and represent promising candidates for drug development. VCE-004.8 is a multitarget synthetic cannabidiol (CBD) derivative acting as a dual Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma/Cannabinoid receptor type 2 (PPARγ/CB2) ligand agonist that also activates the Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) pathway. EHP-101 is an oral lipidic formulation of VCE-004.8 that has shown efficacy in several preclinical models of autoimmune, inflammatory, fibrotic, and neurodegenerative diseases. EHP-101 alleviated clinical symptomatology in EAE and transcriptomic analysis demonstrated that EHP-101 prevented the expression of many inflammatory genes closely associated with MS pathophysiology in the spinal cord. EHP-101 normalized the expression of several genes associated with oligodendrocyte function such as Teneurin 4 (Tenm4) and Gap junction gamma-3 (Gjc3) that were downregulated in EAE. EHP-101 treatment prevented microglia activation and demyelination in both the spinal cord and the brain. Moreover, EAE was associated with a loss in the expression of Oligodendrocyte transcription factor 2 (Olig2) in the corpus callosum, a marker for oligodendrocyte differentiation, which was restored by EHP-101 treatment. In addition, EHP-101 enhanced the expression of glutathione S-transferase pi (GSTpi), a marker for mature oligodendrocytes in the brain. We also found that a diet containing 0.2% cuprizone for six weeks induced a clear loss of myelin in the brain measured by Cryomyelin staining and Myelin basic protein (MBP) expression. Moreover, EHP-101 also prevented cuprizone-induced microglial activation, astrogliosis and reduced axonal damage. Our results provide evidence that EHP-101 showed potent anti-inflammatory activity, prevented demyelination, and enhanced remyelination. Therefore, EHP-101 represents a promising drug candidate for the potential treatment of different forms of MS.
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Li S, Wang Y, Zhang C. Network pharmacology strategy for predicting the correlation of Systemic Scleroderma with Vitamin D deficiency. Int Immunopharmacol 2020; 86:106702. [PMID: 32563782 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2020.106702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The deficiency of Vitamin D (VD) is a common symptom of systemic scleroderma (SSc), but the correlation of VD deficiency and SSc is not completely clear. Therefore, a strategy based on network pharmacology was designed to explore the correlation of VD deficiency and SSc. After a series of network construction and analysis, 5 integrins were predicated as the kernel targets in the correlation of VD deficiency and SSc, including ITGA5, ITGA4, ITGB3, ITGB1 and ITGAV. The crucial pathways in which the kernel targets participated were mainly involved in the function of immune, vascular and internal organ. The regulation modules of crucial pathways were closely related to the biological processes in the pathological of SSc. Taken together, the analysis predicted that the deficiency of VD might affect the pathological of SSc through the mediation of these integrins. Therefore, targeted regulation of these integrins might be an effective therapy against SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shizhe Li
- Institute of Chemical and Industrial Bioengineering, Jilin Engineering Normal University, Changchun 130052, PR China.
| | - Yeming Wang
- Institute of Chemical and Industrial Bioengineering, Jilin Engineering Normal University, Changchun 130052, PR China
| | - Chaoqun Zhang
- Institute of Chemical and Industrial Bioengineering, Jilin Engineering Normal University, Changchun 130052, PR China
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21
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Correia-Sá I, Paiva A, Carvalho CM, Vieira-Coelho MA. Cutaneous endocannabinoid system: Does it have a role on skin wound healing bearing fibrosis? Pharmacol Res 2020; 159:104862. [PMID: 32454223 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.104862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Recently, the endocannabinoid system has been identified in skin and it has been linked with the formation of skin fibrosis and wound healing. We aimed to find and analyse reported data on compounds acting in the endocannabinoid system with significant effect in skin fibrosis. METHODS A literature search on PUBMED was conducted for studies published in English until February 2020 on cannabinoids and skin fibrosis. The initial search was performed with terms: "cannabinoid" AND "skin". This search retrieved 296 publications from which 18 directly related to skin fibrosis or wound healing process were included in this review. RESULTS CB1 receptor inactivation and CB2 receptor activation show anti-fibrotic effects on cellular and animal experimental models of cutaneous fibrosis. CB2 receptor activation also promotes re-epithelization. Other cannabinoid related receptors, like adenosine A2A receptors and PPAR-γ, are also involved. Their activation lead to a pro-fibrotic and anti-fibrotic effect, respectively. CONCLUSION Several molecular drug targets for endocannabinoid system were identified in skin. It may be a promising approach for the treatment of excessive skin fibrosis disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês Correia-Sá
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery and Burn Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto and Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, EPE, Al. Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal; Department of Biomedicine - Pharmacology and Therapeutics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Anita Paiva
- Department of Biomedicine - Pharmacology and Therapeutics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Cláudia M Carvalho
- Department of Biomedicine - Pharmacology and Therapeutics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria A Vieira-Coelho
- Department of Biomedicine - Pharmacology and Therapeutics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Tóth KF, Ádám D, Bíró T, Oláh A. Cannabinoid Signaling in the Skin: Therapeutic Potential of the "C(ut)annabinoid" System. Molecules 2019; 24:E918. [PMID: 30845666 PMCID: PMC6429381 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24050918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Revised: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 03/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) has lately been proven to be an important, multifaceted homeostatic regulator, which influences a wide-variety of physiological processes all over the body. Its members, the endocannabinoids (eCBs; e.g., anandamide), the eCB-responsive receptors (e.g., CB₁, CB₂), as well as the complex enzyme and transporter apparatus involved in the metabolism of the ligands were shown to be expressed in several tissues, including the skin. Although the best studied functions over the ECS are related to the central nervous system and to immune processes, experimental efforts over the last two decades have unambiguously confirmed that cutaneous cannabinoid ("c[ut]annabinoid") signaling is deeply involved in the maintenance of skin homeostasis, barrier formation and regeneration, and its dysregulation was implicated to contribute to several highly prevalent diseases and disorders, e.g., atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, scleroderma, acne, hair growth and pigmentation disorders, keratin diseases, various tumors, and itch. The current review aims to give an overview of the available skin-relevant endo- and phytocannabinoid literature with a special emphasis on the putative translational potential, and to highlight promising future research directions as well as existing challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kinga Fanni Tóth
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary.
| | - Dorottya Ádám
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary.
| | - Tamás Bíró
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary.
- HCEMM Nonprofit Ltd., 6720 Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Attila Oláh
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary.
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García-Martín A, Garrido-Rodríguez M, Navarrete C, Caprioglio D, Palomares B, DeMesa J, Rollland A, Appendino G, Muñoz E. Cannabinoid derivatives acting as dual PPARγ/CB2 agonists as therapeutic agents for systemic sclerosis. Biochem Pharmacol 2019; 163:321-334. [PMID: 30825431 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2019.02.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) may play a role in the pathophysiology of systemic sclerosis (SSc). Cannabinoids acting as dual PPARγ/CB2 agonists, such as VCE-004.8 and Ajulemic acid (AjA), have been shown to alleviate skin fibrosis and inflammation in SSc models. Since both compounds are being tested in humans, we compared their activities in the bleomycin (BLM) SSc model. Specifically, the pharmacotranscriptomic signature of the compounds was determined by RNA-Seq changes in the skin of BLM mice treated orally with AjA or EHP-101, a lipidic formulation of VCE-004.8. While both compounds down-regulated the expression of genes involved in the inflammatory and fibrotic components of the disease and the pharmacotranscriptomic signatures were similar for both compounds in some pathways, we found key differences between the compounds in vasculogenesis. Additionally, we found 28 specific genes with translation potential by comparing with a list of human scleroderma genes. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that both compounds prevented fibrosis, collagen accumulation and Tenascin C (TNC) expression. The endothelial CD31+/CD34+ cells and telocytes were reduced in BLM mice and restored only by EHP-101 treatment. Finally, differences were found in plasmatic biomarker analysis; EHP-101, but not AjA, enhanced the expression of some factors related to angiogenesis and vasculogenesis. Altogether the results indicate that dual PPARγ/CB2 agonists qualify as a novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of SSc and other fibrotic diseases. EHP-101 demonstrated unique mechanisms of action related to the pathophysiology of SSc that could be beneficial in the treatment of this complex disease without current therapeutic options.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Diego Caprioglio
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Belén Palomares
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba, Spain; Departament of Cellular Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Spain; Universitary Hospital Reina Sofía, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Jim DeMesa
- Emerald Health Pharmaceuticals, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | - Giovanni Appendino
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Eduardo Muñoz
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba, Spain; Departament of Cellular Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, Spain; Universitary Hospital Reina Sofía, Córdoba, Spain.
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24
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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.
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