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Yorimitsu H, Ozaki T, Kaga A, Saito H. Generation of Aryllithium Reagents from N-Arylpyrroles Using Lithium. SYNTHESIS-STUTTGART 2021. [DOI: 10.1055/a-1482-2567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
AbstractTreatment of 1-aryl-2,5-diphenylpyrroles with lithium powder in tetrahydrofuran at 0 °C results in the generation of the corresponding aryllithium reagents through reductive C–N bond cleavage.
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QSAR Model for Predicting the Cannabinoid Receptor 1 Binding Affinity and Dependence Potential of Synthetic Cannabinoids. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25246057. [PMID: 33371501 PMCID: PMC7767513 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25246057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, there have been frequent reports on the adverse effects of synthetic cannabinoid (SC) abuse. SCs cause psychoactive effects, similar to those caused by marijuana, by binding and activating cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1R) in the central nervous system. The aim of this study was to establish a reliable quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSAR) model to correlate the structures and physicochemical properties of various SCs with their CB1R-binding affinities. We prepared tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and 14 SCs and their derivatives (naphthoylindoles, naphthoylnaphthalenes, benzoylindoles, and cyclohexylphenols) and determined their binding affinity to CB1R, which is known as a dependence-related target. We calculated the molecular descriptors for dataset compounds using an R/CDK (R package integrated with CDK, version 3.5.0) toolkit to build QSAR regression models. These models were established, and statistical evaluations were performed using the mlr and plsr packages in R software. The most reliable QSAR model was obtained from the partial least squares regression method via Y-randomization test and external validation. This model can be applied in vivo to predict the addictive properties of illicit new SCs. Using a limited number of dataset compounds and our own experimental activity data, we built a QSAR model for SCs with good predictability. This QSAR modeling approach provides a novel strategy for establishing an efficient tool to predict the abuse potential of various SCs and to control their illicit use.
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Pang H, Wu D, Cong H, Yin G. Stereoselective Palladium-Catalyzed 1,3-Arylboration of Unconjugated Dienes for Expedient Synthesis of 1,3-Disubstituted Cyclohexanes. ACS Catal 2019. [DOI: 10.1021/acscatal.9b02747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hailiang Pang
- The Institute for Advanced Studies, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Dong Wu
- The Institute for Advanced Studies, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Hengjiang Cong
- College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Guoyin Yin
- The Institute for Advanced Studies, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
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Anzillotti L, Marezza F, Calò L, Andreoli R, Agazzi S, Bianchi F, Careri M, Cecchi R. Determination of synthetic and natural cannabinoids in oral fluid by solid-phase microextraction coupled to gas chromatography/mass spectrometry: A pilot study. Talanta 2019; 201:335-341. [DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2019.04.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2019] [Revised: 04/05/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoid (SC) products have gained popularity as abused drugs over the past decade in many countries. The SCs broadly impact psychological state (e.g., mood, suicidal thoughts and psychosis) and physiological functions (e.g., cardiovascular, gastrointestinal and urinary). This review is about the effects of SCs on psychotic symptoms in clinical settings and the potentially relevant chemistry and mechanisms of action for SCs. Induction of psychotic symptoms after consuming SC products were reported, including new-onset psychosis and psychotic relapses. The role of SCs in psychosis is more complex than any single chemical component might explain, and these effects may not be a simple extension of the typical effects of cannabis or natural cannabinoids.
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Comparison of the discriminative stimulus and response rate effects of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and synthetic cannabinoids in female and male rats. Drug Alcohol Depend 2017; 172:51-59. [PMID: 28130989 PMCID: PMC5309167 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2016.11.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2016] [Revised: 10/29/2016] [Accepted: 11/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women report greater sensitivity to the subjective effects of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Similarly, female rodents tend to be more sensitive to some pharmacological effects of THC and synthetic cannabinoids. This study examined sex differences in discriminative stimulus and response rate effects of THC and synthetic cannabinoids in rats. METHODS A cumulative dosing THC discrimination procedure was utilized to evaluate sex differences in the discriminative stimulus effects of THC and three synthetic cannabinoids: CP47,497, WIN55,212-2, and JWH-018. Sex differences in the effects of these four compounds and a degradant of A-834735 on response rates also were assessed in a food-reinforced discrete dosing procedure. RESULTS Females required a lower training dose than males for acquisition of the discrimination. Further, THC was more potent at producing rimonabant-reversible discriminative stimulus and response rate effects in females. While synthetic cannabinoids were more potent in producing THC-like effects than was THC in female rats, greater discrepancies were observed in male rats. Similar sensitivity to the response rate-decreasing effects induced by most, but not all (A-834735 degradant), synthetic cannabinoids was seen in both sexes. CONCLUSIONS This study represents one of the first direct comparisons of sex differences in THC discrimination. Females were more sensitive to THC's effects, which may be related, in part, to sex differences in THC metabolism. Synthetic cannabinoids were more potent than THC in both sexes, but were considerably more so in male than in female rats. Future research should emphasize further characterization of sex differences in cannabinoid pharmacology.
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Tai S, Fantegrossi WE. Pharmacological and Toxicological Effects of Synthetic Cannabinoids and Their Metabolites. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2017; 32:249-262. [PMID: 28012093 PMCID: PMC5392241 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2016_60] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Commercial preparations containing synthetic cannabinoids (SCBs) are rapidly emerging as drugs of abuse. Although often assumed to be "safe" and "legal" alternatives to cannabis, reports indicate that SCBs induce toxicity not often associated with the primary psychoactive component of marijuana, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC). This chapter will summarize the evidence that use of SCBs poses greater health risks relative to marijuana and suggest that distinct pharmacological properties and metabolism of SCBs relative to Δ9-THC may contribute to this increased toxicity. Studies reviewed will indicate that in contrast to partial agonist properties of Δ9-THC typically observed in vitro, SCBs act as full CB1 and CB2 receptor agonists both in cellular assays and animal studies. Furthermore, unlike Δ9-THC metabolism, several SCB metabolites retain high affinity for and exhibit a range of intrinsic activities at CB1 and CB2 receptors. Finally, the potential for SCBs to cause adverse drug-drug interactions with other drugs of abuse, as well as with common therapeutic agents, will be discussed. Collectively, the evidence provided in this chapter indicates that SCBs should not be considered safe and legal alternatives to marijuana. Instead, the enhanced toxicity of SCBs relative to marijuana, perhaps resulting from the combined actions of a complex mixture of different SCBs present and their active metabolites that retain high affinity for CB1 and CB2 receptors, highlights the inherent danger that may accompany use of these substances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherrica Tai
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences College of Medicine, Mail Slot 638, 4301 West Markham Street, Little Rock, AR, 72207, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan Medical School, 2301 MSRB III, 1150 W. Medical Center Drive, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - William E Fantegrossi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences College of Medicine, Mail Slot 638, 4301 West Markham Street, Little Rock, AR, 72207, USA.
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Basavarajappa BS, Subbanna S. CB1 receptor-mediated signaling underlies the hippocampal synaptic, learning, and memory deficits following treatment with JWH-081, a new component of spice/K2 preparations. Hippocampus 2014; 24:178-88. [PMID: 24123667 DOI: 10.1002/hipo.22213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2013] [Revised: 09/18/2013] [Accepted: 10/02/2013] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Recently, synthetic cannabinoids have been sprayed onto plant material, which is subsequently packaged and sold as "Spice" or "K2" to mimic the effects of marijuana. A recent report identified several synthetic additives in samples of "Spice/K2", including JWH-081, a synthetic ligand for the cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1). The deleterious effects of JWH-081 on brain function are not known, particularly on CB1 signaling, synaptic plasticity, learning and memory. Here, we evaluated the effects of JWH-081 on pCaMKIV, pCREB, and pERK1/2 signaling events followed by long-term potentiation (LTP), hippocampal-dependent learning and memory tasks using CB1 receptor wild-type (WT) and knockout (KO) mice. Acute administration of JWH-081 impaired CaMKIV phosphorylation in a dose-dependent manner, whereas inhibition of CREB phosphorylation in CB1 receptor WT mice was observed only at higher dose of JWH-081 (1.25 mg/kg). JWH-081 at higher dose impaired CaMKIV and CREB phosphorylation in a time-dependent manner in CB1 receptor WT mice but not in KO mice and failed to alter ERK1/2 phosphorylation. In addition, SR treated or CB1 receptor KO mice have a lower pCaMKIV/CaMKIV ratio and higher pCREB/CREB ratio compared with vehicle or WT littermates. In hippocampal slices, JWH-081 impaired LTP in CB1 receptor WT but not in KO littermates. Furthermore, JWH-081 at higher dose impaired object recognition, spontaneous alternation and spatial memory on the Y-maze in CB1 receptor WT mice but not in KO mice. Collectively our findings suggest that deleterious effects of JWH-081 on hippocampal function involves CB1 receptor mediated impairments in CaMKIV and CREB phosphorylation, LTP, learning and memory in mice.
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Samano KL, Poklis JL, Lichtman AH, Poklis A. Development of a high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method for the identification and quantification of CP-47,497, CP-47,497-C8 and JWH-250 in mouse brain. J Anal Toxicol 2014; 38:307-14. [PMID: 24816398 DOI: 10.1093/jat/bku043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
While Marijuana continues to be the most widely used illicit drug, abuse of synthetic cannabinoid (SCB) compounds in 'Spice' or 'K2' herbal incense products has emerged as a significant public health concern in many European countries and in the USA. Several of these SCBs have been declared Schedule I controlled substances but detection and quantification in biological samples remain a challenge. Therefore, we present a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method after liquid-liquid extraction for the quantitation of CP-47,497, CP-47,497-C8 and JWH-250 in mouse brain. We report data for linearity, limit of quantification, accuracy/bias, precision, recovery, selectivity, carryover, matrix effects and stability experiments which were developed and fully validated based on Scientific Working Group for Forensic Toxicology guidelines for forensic toxicology method validation. Acceptable coefficients of variation for accuracy/bias, within- and between-run precision and selectivity were determined, with all values within ±15% of the target concentration. Validation experiments revealed degradation of CP-47, 497 and CP-47,497-C8 at different temperatures, and significant ion suppression was produced in brain for all compounds tested. The method was successfully applied to detect and quantify CP-47,497 in brains from mice demonstrating significant cannabimimetic behavioral effects as assessed by the classical tetrad paradigm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly L Samano
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Box 980613, Richmond, VA 23298-0613, USA
| | - Justin L Poklis
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Box 980613, Richmond, VA 23298-0613, USA
| | - Aron H Lichtman
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Box 980613, Richmond, VA 23298-0613, USA
| | - Alphonse Poklis
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Box 980613, Richmond, VA 23298-0613, USA Department of Forensic Science, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA Department of Pathology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
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Barnes AJ, Young S, Spinelli E, Martin TM, Klette KL, Huestis MA. Evaluation of a homogenous enzyme immunoassay for the detection of synthetic cannabinoids in urine. Forensic Sci Int 2014; 241:27-34. [PMID: 24845968 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2014.04.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2013] [Revised: 03/28/2014] [Accepted: 04/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The recent emergence and widespread availability of many new synthetic cannabinoids support the need for an accurate and high-throughput urine screen for these new designer drugs. We evaluated performance of the immunalysis homogeneous enzyme immunoassay (HEIA) to sensitively, selectively, and rapidly identify urinary synthetic cannabinoids. METHODS 2443 authentic urine samples were analyzed with the HEIA that targets JWH-018 N-pentanoic acid, and a validated LC-MS/MS method for 29 synthetic cannabinoids and metabolites. Semi-quantitative HEIA results were obtained, permitting performance evaluation at and around three cutoffs (5, 10 and 20 μg/L), and diagnostic sensitivity, specificity and efficiency determination. Performance challenges at ±25 and ±50% of each cutoff level, cross-reactivity and interferences also were evaluated. RESULTS Sensitivity, specificity, and efficiency of the immunalysis HEIA K2 Spice kit with the manufacturer's recommended 10 μg/L cutoff were 75.6%, 99.6% and 96.8%, respectively, as compared to the reference LC-MS/MS method with limits of detection of 0.1-10 μg/L. Performance at 5 μg/L was 92.2%, 98.1% and 97.4%, and for the 20 μg/L cutoff were 62.9%, 99.7% and 95.4%. Semi-quantitative results for in-house prepared standards were obtained from 2.5-30 μg/L, and documented acceptable linearity from 5-25 μg/L, with inter-day imprecision <30% (n = 17). Thirteen of 74 synthetic cannabinoids evaluated were classified as highly cross-reactive (≥50% at 10 μg/L); 4 showed moderate cross-reactivity (10-50% at 10 μg/L), 30 low cross-reactivity (<10% at 500 μg/L), and 27 <1% cross-reactivity at 500 μg/L. There was no interference from 102 investigated compounds. Only a mixture containing 1000 μg/L each of buprenorphine/norbuprenorphine produced a positive result above our proposed cutoff (5 μg/L) but below the manufacturer's recommended cutoff concentration (10 μg/L). CONCLUSION The Immunalysis HEIA K2 Spice kit required no sample preparation, had a high-throughput, and acceptable sensitivity, specificity and efficiency, offering a viable method for screening synthetic cannabinoids in urine that cross-react with JWH-018 N-pentanoic acid antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allan J Barnes
- Chemistry and Drug Metabolism, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Sheena Young
- Chemistry and Drug Metabolism, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Eliani Spinelli
- Chemistry and Drug Metabolism, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA; School of Pharmacy, Fluminense Federal University, CAPES Foundation, BEX 1534/12-2, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Thomas M Martin
- Drug Testing and Program Policy, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Operational Readiness and Safety, Washington DC, USA
| | - Kevin L Klette
- Drug Testing and Program Policy, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Operational Readiness and Safety, Washington DC, USA
| | - Marilyn A Huestis
- Chemistry and Drug Metabolism, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA.
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Fantegrossi WE, Moran JH, Radominska-Pandya A, Prather PL. Distinct pharmacology and metabolism of K2 synthetic cannabinoids compared to Δ(9)-THC: mechanism underlying greater toxicity? Life Sci 2013; 97:45-54. [PMID: 24084047 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2013.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 159] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2013] [Revised: 09/10/2013] [Accepted: 09/19/2013] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
K2 or Spice products are emerging drugs of abuse that contain synthetic cannabinoids (SCBs). Although assumed by many teens and first time drug users to be a "safe" and "legal" alternative to marijuana, many recent reports indicate that SCBs present in K2 produce toxicity not associated with the primary psychoactive component of marijuana, ∆(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ(9)-THC). This mini-review will summarize recent evidence that use of K2 products poses greater health risks relative to marijuana, and suggest that distinct pharmacological properties and metabolism of SCBs relative to Δ(9)-THC may contribute to the observed toxicity. Studies reviewed will indicate that in contrast to partial agonist properties of Δ(9)-THC typically observed in vitro, SCBs in K2 products act as full cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1R) and type 2 (CB2R) agonists in both cellular assays and animal studies. Furthermore, unlike Δ(9)-THC metabolism, several SCB metabolites retain high affinity for, and exhibit a range of intrinsic activities at, CB1 and CB2Rs. Finally, several reports indicate that although quasi-legal SCBs initially evaded detection and legal consequences, these presumed "advantages" have been limited by new legislation and development of product and human testing capabilities. Collectively, evidence reported in this mini-review suggests that K2 products are neither safe nor legal alternatives to marijuana. Instead, enhanced toxicity of K2 products relative to marijuana, perhaps resulting from the combined actions of a complex mixture of different SCBs present and their active metabolites that retain high affinity for CB1 and CB2Rs, highlights the inherent danger that may accompany use of these substances.
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Affiliation(s)
- William E Fantegrossi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Jeffery H Moran
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA; Arkansas Department of Public Health, Public Health Laboratory, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Anna Radominska-Pandya
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Paul L Prather
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA.
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Johnson LA, Johnson RL, Portier RB. Current “Legal Highs”. J Emerg Med 2013; 44:1108-15. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2012.09.147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2011] [Revised: 04/29/2012] [Accepted: 09/09/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Since 2004, a new wave of synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) known as "Spice drugs" has come under scrutiny because of their suspected link to neurological and psychiatric sequelae. These "herbal incense" or "potpourri blends" have gained popularity as a result of being more potent than natural cannabinoids, are not detected with current screening tests, and are easily modified by manufacturers to bypass legal restrictions. Unfortunately, cases of withdrawal phenomena, nausea, hypertension, and psychosis are now being reported in the medical literature. In addition, after reports in lay media of seizures and coma attributed to the consumption of the drug, anecdotal reports have emerged of similar findings in the medical literature. CASE DESCRIPTION We report on a 48-year-old man who, after consuming the herbal blend, lost consciousness and suffered several episodes of seizures. Despite a complicated ICU stay, the patient recovered well with no subsequent neurological sequelae. CONCLUSIONS The authors interpreted the history and findings consistent with the consumption of a large amount of synthetic cannabinoids leading to new-onset seizures and coma. However, at the time of admission, the lack of routine laboratory testing and treatment options delayed the diagnosis and delivery of appropriate therapy.
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Jordan-Hore JA, Sanderson JN, Lee AL. Mild and ligand-free Pd(II)-catalyzed conjugate additions to hindered γ-substituted cyclohexenones. Org Lett 2012; 14:2508-11. [PMID: 22545864 DOI: 10.1021/ol300794a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Ligand-free cationic Pd(II) catalyst with NaNO3 as an additive is a highly active catalytic system for conjugate additions to sterically hindered γ-substituted cyclohexenones. More challenging γγ- and βγ-substrates also react well to produce products with quaternary centers in good dr. The conjugate additions occur in a diastereoselective fashion under mild, practical and air-stable conditions, using readily available commercial reagents.
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Affiliation(s)
- James A Jordan-Hore
- School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University , Edinburgh EH14 4AS, Scotland, United Kingdom
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Fattore L, Fratta W. Beyond THC: The New Generation of Cannabinoid Designer Drugs. Front Behav Neurosci 2011; 5:60. [PMID: 22007163 PMCID: PMC3187647 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2011.00060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 238] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2011] [Accepted: 08/24/2011] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids are functionally similar to delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive principle of cannabis, and bind to the same cannabinoid receptors in the brain and peripheral organs. From 2008, synthetic cannabinoids were detected in herbal smoking mixtures sold on websites and in "head shops" under the brand name of Spice Gold, Yucatan Fire, Aroma, and others. Although these products (also known as "Spice drugs" or "legal highs") do not contain tobacco or cannabis, when smoked they produce effects similar to THC. Intoxication, withdrawal, psychosis, and death have been recently reported after consumption, posing difficult social, political, and health challenges. More than 140 different Spice products have been identified to date. The ability to induce strong cannabis-like psychoactive effects, along with the fact that they are readily available on the Internet, still legal in many countries, marketed as natural safe substances, and undetectable by conventional drug screening tests, has rendered these drugs very popular and particularly appealing to young and drug-naïve individuals seeking new experiences. An escalating number of compounds with cannabinoid receptor activity are currently being found as ingredients of Spice, of which almost nothing is known in terms of pharmacology, toxicology, and safety. Since legislation started to control the synthetic cannabinoids identified in these herbal mixtures, many new analogs have appeared on the market. New cannabimimetic compounds are likely to be synthesized in the near future to replace banned synthetic cannabinoids, leading to a "dog chasing its tail" situation. Spice smokers are exposed to drugs that are extremely variable in composition and potency, and are at risk of serious, if not lethal, outcomes. Social and health professionals should maintain a high degree of alertness for Spice use and its possible psychiatric effects in vulnerable people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liana Fattore
- Institute of Neuroscience – Cagliari National Research Council of Italy, @ Department of Neuroscience, Cittadella Universitaria di MonserratoCagliari, Italy
- Centre of Excellence “Neurobiology of Dependence,” Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, University of CagliariMonserrato, Italy
| | - Walter Fratta
- Centre of Excellence “Neurobiology of Dependence,” Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, University of CagliariMonserrato, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, University of CagliariMonserrato, Italy
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Zuba D, Byrska B, Maciow M. Comparison of “herbal highs” composition. Anal Bioanal Chem 2011; 400:119-26. [DOI: 10.1007/s00216-011-4743-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2010] [Revised: 01/25/2011] [Accepted: 01/28/2011] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Huffman JW, Hepburn SA, Reggio PH, Hurst DP, Wiley JL, Martin BR. Synthesis and pharmacology of 1-methoxy analogs of CP-47,497. Bioorg Med Chem 2010; 18:5475-82. [PMID: 20621488 PMCID: PMC2920039 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2010.06.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2010] [Revised: 06/15/2010] [Accepted: 06/17/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Three 1-methoxy analogs of CP-47,497 (7, 8, and 19) have been synthesized and their affinities for the cannabinoid CB(1) and CB(2) receptors have been determined. Although these compounds exhibit selectivity for the CB(2) receptor none have significant affinity for either receptor. Modeling and receptor docking studies were carried out, which provide a rationalization for the weak affinities of these compounds for either receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- John W Huffman
- Howard L Hunter Laboratory, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634-0973, United States.
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Müller H, Sperling W, Köhrmann M, Huttner HB, Kornhuber J, Maler JM. The synthetic cannabinoid Spice as a trigger for an acute exacerbation of cannabis induced recurrent psychotic episodes. Schizophr Res 2010; 118:309-10. [PMID: 20056392 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2009.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2009] [Revised: 10/29/2009] [Accepted: 12/03/2009] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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Atwood BK, Huffman J, Straiker A, Mackie K. JWH018, a common constituent of 'Spice' herbal blends, is a potent and efficacious cannabinoid CB receptor agonist. Br J Pharmacol 2010; 160:585-93. [PMID: 20100276 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2009.00582.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 214] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE 'Spice' is an herbal blend primarily marketed in Europe as a mild hallucinogen with prominent cannabis-like effects and as a legal alternative to cannabis. However, a recent report identified a number of synthetic additives in samples of 'Spice'. One of these, the indole derivative JWH018, is a ligand for the cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB(1)) cannabinoid receptor and inhibits cAMP production in CB(1) receptor-expressing CHO cells. Other effects of JWH018 on CB(1) receptor-mediated signalling are not known, particularly in neurons. Here we have evaluated the signalling pathways activated by JWH018 at CB(1) receptors. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH We investigated the effects of JWH018 on neurotransmission in cultured autaptic hippocampal neurons. We further analysed its activation of ERK1/2 mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) and internalization of CB(1) receptors in HEK293 cells stably expressing this receptor. KEY RESULTS In cultured autaptic hippocampal neurons, JWH018 potently inhibited excitatory postsynaptic currents (IC(50)= 14.9 nM) in a concentration- and CB(1) receptor-dependent manner. Furthermore, it increased ERK1/2 MAPK phosphorylation (EC(50)= 4.4 nM). We also found that JWH018 potently induced rapid and robust CB(1) receptor internalization (EC(50)= 2.8 nM; t(1/2)= 17.3 min). CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS JWH018, a prominent component of several herbal preparations marketed for their psychoactivity, is a potent and effective CB(1) receptor agonist that activates multiple CB(1) receptor signalling pathways. Thus, it is likely that the subjective effects of 'Spice' are due to activation of cannabinoid CB(1) receptors by JWH018, added to this herbal preparation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brady K Atwood
- The Gill Center and the Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
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Hanlon KE, Vanderah TW. Constitutive activity at the cannabinoid CB(1) receptor and behavioral responses. Methods Enzymol 2010; 484:3-30. [PMID: 21036224 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-381298-8.00001-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The cannabinoid receptor type 1, found mainly on cells of the central and peripheral nervous system, is a major component of the endogenous cannabinoid system. Constitutive and endogenous activity at cannabinoid receptor type 1 regulates a diverse subset of biological processes including appetite, mood, motor function, learning and memory, and pain. The complexity of cannabinoid receptor type 1 activity is not limited to the constitutive activity of the receptor: promiscuity of ligands associated with and the capability of this receptor to instigate G protein sequestration also complicates the activity of cannabinoid receptor type 1. The therapeutic use of cannabinoid receptor type 1 agonists is still a heavily debated topic, making research on the mechanisms underlying the potential benefits and risks of cannabinoid use more vital than ever. Elucidation of these mechanisms and the quest for agonists and antagonists with greater specificity will allow a greater control of the side effects and risks involved in utilizing cannabinoids as therapeutic agents. In this chapter, we review a small subset of techniques used in the pharmacological application of and the behavioral effects of molecules acting at the paradoxical cannabinoid receptor type 1.
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Giroud C, Bollmann M, Thomas A, Mangin P, Favrat B. Consommation de cannabis: quels sont les risques ? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009. [DOI: 10.1051/ata/2009021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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