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Wiley JL, Marusich JA, Blough BE, Namjoshi O, Brackeen M, Akinfiresoye LR, Walker TD, Prioleau C, Barrus DG, Gamage TF. Evaluation of cannabimimetic effects of selected minor cannabinoids and Terpenoids in mice. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2024; 132:110984. [PMID: 38417478 PMCID: PMC11015967 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2024.110984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The cannabis plant contains several cannabinoids, and many terpenoids that give cannabis its distinctive flavoring and aroma. Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) is the plant's primary psychoactive constituent. Given the abuse liability of Δ9-THC, assessment of the psychoactive effects of minor cannabinoids and other plant constituents is important, especially for compounds that may be used medicinally. This study sought to evaluate select minor cannabinoids and terpenes for Δ9-THC-like psychoactivity in mouse Δ9-THC drug discrimination and determine their binding affinities at CB1 and CB2 receptors. METHODS Δ9-THC, cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinol (CBN), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabichromenevarin (CBCV), Δ8-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ8-THC), (6aR,9R)-Δ10-tetrahydrocannabinol [(6aR,9R)-Δ10-THC], Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol varin (THCV), β-caryophyllene (BC), and β-caryophyllene oxide (BCO) were examined. RESULTS All minor cannabinoids showed measurable cannabinoid 1 (CB1) and cannabinoid 2 (CB2) receptor binding, with CBC, CBCV, and CBD, showing the weakest CB1 receptor binding affinity. BC and BCO exhibited negligible affinity for both CB1 and CB2 receptors. In drug discrimination, only Δ8-THC fully substituted for Δ9-THC, while CBN and (6aR,9R)-Δ10-THC partially substituted for Δ9-THC. THCV and BCO did not alter the discriminative stimulus effects of Δ9-THC. CONCLUSION In summary, only some of myriad cannabinoids and other chemicals found in the cannabis plant bind potently to the identified cannabinoid receptors. Further, only four of the compounds tested herein [Δ9-THC, Δ8-THC, (6aR,9R)-Δ10-THC, and CBN] produced Δ9-THC-like discriminative stimulus effects, suggesting they may possess cannabimimetic subjective effects. Given that the medicinal properties of phytocannabinoids and terpenoids are being investigated scientifically, delineation of their potential adverse effects, including their ability to produce Δ9-THC-like intoxication, is crucial.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Luli R Akinfiresoye
- United States Department of Justice, Drug Enforcement Administration, Diversion Control Division, Drug and Chemical Evaluation Section, 8701 Morrissette Drive, Springfield, VA, USA
| | - Teneille D Walker
- United States Department of Justice, Drug Enforcement Administration, Diversion Control Division, Drug and Chemical Evaluation Section, 8701 Morrissette Drive, Springfield, VA, USA
| | - Cassandra Prioleau
- United States Department of Justice, Drug Enforcement Administration, Diversion Control Division, Drug and Chemical Evaluation Section, 8701 Morrissette Drive, Springfield, VA, USA
| | | | - Thomas F Gamage
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA; Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
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Patel M, Zheng X, Akinfiresoye LR, Prioleau C, Walker TD, Glass M, Marusich JA. Pharmacological evaluation of new generation OXIZID synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 971:176549. [PMID: 38561104 PMCID: PMC11132922 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) remain one the largest classes of new psychoactive substances, and are increasingly associated with severe adverse effects and death compared to the phytocannabinoid Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). In the attempt to circumvent the rapid emergence of novel SCRAs, several nations have implemented 'generic' legislations, or 'class-wide' bans based on common structural scaffolds. However, this has only encouraged the incorporation of new chemical entities, including distinct core and linker structures, for which there is a dearth of pharmacological data. The current study evaluated five emergent OXIZID SCRAs for affinity and functional activity at the cannabinoid CB1 receptor (CB1) in HEK 293 cells, as well as pharmacological equivalence with THC in drug discrimination in mice. All OXIZID compounds behaved as agonists in Gαi protein activation and β-arrestin 2 translocation assays, possessing low micromolar affinity at CB1. All ligands also substituted for THC in drug discrimination, where potencies broadly correlated with in vitro activity, with the methylcyclohexane analogue BZO-CHMOXIZID being the most potent. Notably, MDA-19 (BZO-HEXOXIZID) exhibited partial efficacy in vitro, generating an activity profile most similar to that of THC, and partial substitution in vivo. Overall, the examined OXIZIDs were comparatively less potent and efficacious than previous generations of SCRAs. Further toxicological data will elucidate whether the moderate cannabimimetic activity for this series of SCRAs will translate to severe adverse health effects as seen with previous generations of SCRAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Patel
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Xiaoxi Zheng
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand; Institute of Environmental Science and Research Ltd (ESR), New Zealand
| | - Luli R Akinfiresoye
- United States Department of Justice, Drug Enforcement Administration, Diversion Control Division, Drug and Chemical Evaluation Section, 8701 Morrissette Drive, Springfield, VA, USA
| | - Cassandra Prioleau
- United States Department of Justice, Drug Enforcement Administration, Diversion Control Division, Drug and Chemical Evaluation Section, 8701 Morrissette Drive, Springfield, VA, USA
| | - Teneille D Walker
- United States Department of Justice, Drug Enforcement Administration, Diversion Control Division, Drug and Chemical Evaluation Section, 8701 Morrissette Drive, Springfield, VA, USA
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand; Institute of Environmental Science and Research Ltd (ESR), New Zealand.
| | - Julie A Marusich
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Rd, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
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Corli G, Tirri M, Bassi M, Bernardi T, Boccuto F, Borsari M, Zauli G, Bilel S, Marti M. 5-HT 2A receptors are involved in the pharmaco-toxicological effects of the synthetic cannabinoids JWH-018 and 5F-PB22: In vivo studies in mice. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 971:176486. [PMID: 38458413 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176486] [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: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Over the last years, Synthetic Cannabinoids (SCs) have been among the largest and most frequently seized groups of Novel Psychoactive Substances (NPS). These substances have been frequently detected in biological samples from patients involved in several intoxication and death cases. Their serious adverse effects have been related to their action as potent agonist of cannabinoid CB1 receptors. However, evidence concerning the potential interaction between SCs and serotoninergic mechanisms has emerged. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the involvement of 5-HT2A receptors in the effects induced by acute systemic administration of 1-pentyl-3-(1-naphthoyl)indole (JWH-018; 1 mg/kg) and quinolin-8-yl 1-pentyfluoro-1H-indole-3-8-carboxylate (5F-PB22; 1 mg/kg). Sensorimotor (visual, acoustic, and tactile) responses, pain threshold (acute mechanical and thermal nociception), core temperature, breath rate and motor performance (stepping activity) have been assessed in CD-1 male mice. The present results pointed out that both substances deeply alter sensorimotor responses, nociceptive threshold, core temperature, breath rate and motor activity in mice. Noteworthy, pretreatment with the selective 5-HT2A receptors antagonist MDL100907 (0.1 mg/kg) at least partially prevented sensorimotor disruption, antinociception and hypothermic effects. Conversely, the respiratory and motor impairment was not prevented. Thus, it states the relevance of serotoninergic 5-HT2A mechanisms on pharmaco-toxicological effects induced by SCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Corli
- Department of Excellence of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, LTTA Center and University Center of Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Micaela Tirri
- Department of Excellence of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, LTTA Center and University Center of Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Marta Bassi
- Department of Excellence of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, LTTA Center and University Center of Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Tatiana Bernardi
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Prevention, University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Federica Boccuto
- Department of Excellence of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, LTTA Center and University Center of Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Martina Borsari
- Department of Excellence of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, LTTA Center and University Center of Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giorgio Zauli
- Research Department, King Khaled Eye Specialistic Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sabrine Bilel
- Department of Excellence of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, LTTA Center and University Center of Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Matteo Marti
- Department of Excellence of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, LTTA Center and University Center of Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy; Collaborative Center for the Italian National Early Warning System, Department of Anti-Drug Policies, Presidency of the Council of Ministers, Italy.
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Corli G, Roda E, Tirri M, Bilel S, De Luca F, Strano-Rossi S, Gaudio RM, De-Giorgio F, Fattore L, Locatelli CA, Marti M. Sex-specific behavioural, metabolic, and immunohistochemical changes after repeated administration of the synthetic cannabinoid AKB48 in mice. Br J Pharmacol 2024; 181:1361-1382. [PMID: 38148741 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE AKB48 is a synthetic cannabinoid illegally sold for its psychoactive cannabis-like effects that have been associated with acute intoxication and whose effects are poorly known. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Using a behavioural, neurochemical, and immunohistochemical approach, we investigated the pharmaco-toxicological effects, pharmacokinetics, and neuroplasticity at cannabinoid CB1 receptors in the cerebellum and cortex induced by repeated AKB48 administration in male and female mice. KEY RESULTS The effects of AKB48 varied significantly depending on sex and treatment duration. The first injection impaired sensorimotor responses and reduced body temperature, analgesia, and breath rate to a greater extent in females than in males; the second injection induced stronger effects in males while the third injection of AKB48 induced weaker responses in both sexes, suggesting emergence of tolerance. The CB1 receptor antagonist NESS-0327 prevented the effects induced by repeated AKB48, confirming a CB1 receptor-mediated action. Blood AKB48 levels were higher in females than in males and repeated administration caused a progressive rise of AKB48 levels in both sexes, suggesting an inhibitory effect on cytochrome activity. Finally, immunohistochemical analysis revealed higher expression of CB1 receptors in the cerebellum and cortex of females, and a rapid CB1 receptor down-regulation in cerebellar and cortical areas following repeated AKB48 injections, with neuroadaptation occurring generally more rapidly in females than in males. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS We have shown for the first time that AKB48 effects significantly vary with prolonged use and that sex affects the pharmacodynamic/pharmacokinetic responses to repeated administration, suggesting a sex-tailored approach in managing AKB48-induced intoxication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Corli
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elisa Roda
- Laboratory of Clinical & Experimental Toxicology, Pavia Poison Centre, National Toxicology Information Centre, Toxicology Unit, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, IRCCS, Pavia, Italy
| | - Micaela Tirri
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Sabrine Bilel
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fabrizio De Luca
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (DIVAS), University of Milan, Lodi, Italy
| | - Sabina Strano-Rossi
- Institute of Public Health, Section of Legal Medicine, Catholic University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Rosa Maria Gaudio
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- University Center of Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fabio De-Giorgio
- Department of Health Care Surveillance and Bioethics, Section of Legal Medicine, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Liana Fattore
- National Research Council, CNR Institute of Neuroscience-Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Carlo Alessandro Locatelli
- Laboratory of Clinical & Experimental Toxicology, Pavia Poison Centre, National Toxicology Information Centre, Toxicology Unit, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, IRCCS, Pavia, Italy
| | - Matteo Marti
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Department of Anti-Drug Policies, Presidency of the Council of Ministers, Collaborative Center for the Italian National Early Warning System, Rome, Italy
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Brewer AL, Felter CE, Sternitzky AR, Spencer SM. Somatic and anxiety-like behaviors in male and female rats during withdrawal from the non-selective cannabinoid agonist WIN 55,212-2. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2024; 236:173707. [PMID: 38244864 PMCID: PMC10923112 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2024.173707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids are associated with higher risk of dependence and more intense withdrawal symptoms than plant-derived Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Avoidance of withdrawal symptoms, including anxiogenic effects, can contribute to continued cannabinoid use. Adult male and female Long-Evans rats were given escalating doses of WIN 55,212-2 (WIN) via twice daily intrajugular infusions. Precipitated withdrawal was elicited with SR 141716 (rimonabant) 4 h after the final infusion. Global withdrawal scores (GWS) were compiled by summing z-scores of observed somatic behaviors over a 30-min period with locomotor activity simultaneously collected via beam breaks. Rimonabant precipitated withdrawal in female and male rats at 3 or 10 mg/kg, respectively, but the individual behaviors contributing to GWS were not identical. 3 mg/kg rimonabant did not impact locomotor behavior in females, but 10 mg/kg decreased locomotion in male controls. Spontaneous withdrawal observed between 6 and 96 h after the final infusion was quantifiable up to 24 h following WIN administration. Individual behaviors contributing to GWS varied by sex and time point. Males undergoing spontaneous withdrawal engaged in more locomotion than females undergoing withdrawal. Separate groups of rats were subjected to a battery of anxiety-like behavioral tests (elevated plus maze, open field test, and marble burying test) one or two weeks after WIN or vehicle infusions. At one week abstinence, sex-related effects were noted in marble burying and the open field test but were unrelated to drug treatment. At two weeks abstinence, females undergoing withdrawal spent more time grooming during marble burying and performed more marble manipulations than their male counterparts. WIN infusions did not impact estrous cycling, and GWS scores were not correlated with estrous at withdrawal. Collectively, these results show qualitative sex differences in behaviors contributing to the behavioral experience of cannabinoid withdrawal supporting clinical findings from THC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail L Brewer
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America; Medical Discovery Team on Addiction, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America.
| | - Claire E Felter
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America; Medical Discovery Team on Addiction, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America
| | - Anna R Sternitzky
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America; Medical Discovery Team on Addiction, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America
| | - Sade M Spencer
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America; Medical Discovery Team on Addiction, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America
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Moore CF, Davis CM, Sempio C, Klawitter J, Christians U, Weerts EM. Δ 9-Tetrahydrocannabinol Vapor Exposure Produces Conditioned Place Preference in Male and Female Rats. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2024; 9:111-120. [PMID: 36179013 PMCID: PMC10874829 DOI: 10.1089/can.2022.0175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The use of place conditioning procedures and drug vapor exposure models can increase our understanding of the rewarding and aversive effects of vaped cannabis products. Currently there are limited data on the conditioned rewarding effects of vaporized Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive constituent of cannabis in rats, and no studies to date examining sex differences. Methods: Male and female Sprague-Dawley rats (N=96; 12 per sex/group) underwent place conditioning sessions immediately after exposure to THC or vehicle (propylene glycol [PG]) vapor. Locomotor activity was measured by beam breaks during conditioning sessions. THC vapor-conditioned rats received one of three THC vapor exposure amounts (low: 5 puffs of 100 mg/mL THC, medium: 5 puffs of 200 mg/mL THC, or high: 10 puffs of 200 mg/mL THC) and matched vehicle vapor (PG) exposure on alternate days for 16 daily sessions. A "no THC" control group of vehicle-conditioned rats received only PG vapor exposure each day. After the 8th and 16th conditioning sessions, untreated rats were tested for conditioned place preference (CPP) or aversion (CPA). Next, extinction tests and a THC vapor-primed reinstatement test were conducted. Results: THC vapor produced CPP and locomotor effects in an exposure dependent manner, and some sex differences were observed. Low THC vapor exposure did not produce CPP in males or females. Medium THC vapor exposure produced CPP in males, but not females. High THC vapor exposure produced CPP in both males and females. Medium and high THC vapor exposure amounts produced hyperactivity in female rats, but not male rats. CPP was more resistant to extinction in females than males. THC vapor reexposure (i.e., drug-prime) after extinction did not result in reinstatement of CPP for either sex. Conclusion: This study demonstrates conditioned rewarding effects of THC vapor in both male and female rats and provides evidence for sex differences in amounts of THC vapor that produce CPP and in time to extinction. CPA was not observed at any of the THC vapor exposure amounts tested. These data provide a foundation for future exploration of the conditioned effects of cannabis constituents and extracts using vapor exposure models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine F. Moore
- Division of Behavioral Biology, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Catherine M. Davis
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Cristina Sempio
- iC42 Clinical Research and Development, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Jost Klawitter
- iC42 Clinical Research and Development, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Uwe Christians
- iC42 Clinical Research and Development, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Elise M. Weerts
- Division of Behavioral Biology, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Marusich JA, Wiley JL. Δ 9-tetrahydrocannabinol discrimination: Effects of route of administration in mice. DRUG AND ALCOHOL DEPENDENCE REPORTS 2023; 9:100205. [PMID: 38045495 PMCID: PMC10690562 DOI: 10.1016/j.dadr.2023.100205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Background Route of administration is an important pharmacokinetic variable in development of translationally relevant preclinical models. Humans primarily administer cannabis through smoking, vaping, and edibles. In contrast, preclinical research has historically utilized injected Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The present study sought to examine how route of administration affected the potency and time course of THC's discriminative stimulus properties. Methods Adult female and male C57BL/6 mice were trained to discriminate intraperitoneal (i.p.) THC from vehicle in a drug discrimination procedure. After discrimination was acquired, a dose-effect curve was determined for i.p., oral (p.o.), subcutaneous (s.c.), and aerosolized THC. Subsequently, the time course of effects of each route of administration was determined. Results THC administered i.p., p.o., s.c., or via aerosolization fully substituted for i.p. THC. The potency of THC's psychoactive effects was similar for i.p., p.o., and s.c., except that THC was more potent when administered s.c. vs p.o. in females. All routes of administration had a similar potency in both sexes. The duration of THC's psychoactive effects was similar across i.p., s.c., and p.o. routes of administration, whereas aerosolized THC produced a faster onset and shorter duration of effects compared to the other routes. Conclusion THC administered via multiple routes of administration, including those commonly used in preclinical research (i.p. and s.c.) and more translationally relevant routes (aerosol and p.o.), produced THC-like discriminative stimulus effects in mice trained to discriminate i.p. THC. More precise predictions of THC's effects in humans may result from use of these translationally relevant routes of administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie A. Marusich
- Center for Drug Discovery, RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Rd, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Jenny L. Wiley
- Center for Drug Discovery, RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Rd, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
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Abraham AD, Wiley JL, Marusich JA. Experimenter administered Δ 9-THC decreases nicotine self-administration in a rat model. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2023; 231:173632. [PMID: 37690617 PMCID: PMC10543614 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2023.173632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The co-use of nicotine and cannabis has been steadily rising in the United States. Rodent studies suggest that delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) could increase addictive qualities of nicotine, but whether repeated THC exposure alters self-administration of nicotine has not been tested. We hypothesized that THC would increase the reinforcing effects of nicotine and alter nicotine intake. METHODS Adult male and female Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with THC (0, 3, 30 mg/kg) daily for 14 days prior to and during training for intravenous self-administration of nicotine. Rats were allowed to self-administer nicotine for several weeks, then tested for sensitivity to nicotine dose through multiple determinations of a nicotine dose-effect curve with or without THC pretreatment. A separate set of rats were trained on fixed ratio responding for sucrose and assessed for THC effects on behavior. RESULTS Post-session THC decreased nicotine self-administration in male and female rats throughout acquisition and maintenance and increased the latency to stable rates of nicotine intake during acquisition. Post-session THC shifted nicotine dose-effect curves downward, and pre-session THC suppressed responding at higher nicotine doses. Unlike nicotine, responding for sucrose was not affected by post-session THC. Pre-session THC decreased responding for sucrose, particularly for THC-naïve rats. CONCLUSIONS Repeated post-session THC decreased nicotine-taking behaviors but did not alter sucrose responding. Thus, post-session THC may alter sensitivity to nicotine. Pre-session THC treatment decreased lever pressing in both sucrose and nicotine studies, indicating this effect was nonspecific. These studies show that THC modulates patterns of nicotine intake in rat models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antony D Abraham
- Center for Drug Discovery, RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Rd, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Jenny L Wiley
- Center for Drug Discovery, RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Rd, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Julie A Marusich
- Center for Drug Discovery, RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Rd, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA.
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Manke HN, Nunn SS, Sulima A, Rice KC, Riley AL. Effects of Serial Polydrug Use on the Rewarding and Aversive Effects of the Novel Synthetic Cathinone Eutylone. Brain Sci 2023; 13:1294. [PMID: 37759895 PMCID: PMC10526358 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13091294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As individual synthetic cathinones become scheduled and regulated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), new ones regularly are produced and distributed. One such compound is eutylone, a novel third-generation synthetic cathinone whose affective properties (and abuse potential) are largely unknown. The following experiments begin to characterize these effects and how they may be impacted by drug history (a factor affecting reward/aversion for other drugs of abuse). METHODS Eutylone was assessed for its ability to induce conditioned taste avoidance (CTA; aversive effect) and conditioned place preference (CPP; rewarding effect) and their relationship (Experiment 1). Following this, the effects of exposure to cocaine or 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine [MDMA] on eutylone's affective properties were investigated (Experiment 2). RESULTS Eutylone produced dose-dependent CTA and CPP (Experiment 1), and these endpoints were unrelated. Pre-exposure to cocaine and MDMA differentially impacted taste avoidance induced by eutylone (MDMA > cocaine) and did not impact eutylone-induced place preference. CONCLUSIONS These data indicate that eutylone, like other synthetic cathinones, has co-occurring, independent rewarding and aversive effects that may contribute to its abuse potential and that these effects are differentially impacted by drug history. Although these studies begin the characterization of eutylone, future studies should examine the impact of other factors on eutylone's affective properties and its eventual reinforcing effects (i.e., intravenous self-administration [IVSA]) to predict its use and abuse liability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley N. Manke
- Psychopharmacology Laboratory, Center for Neuroscience and Behavior, Department of Neuroscience, American University, 4400 Massachusetts Ave, NW, Washington, DC 20016, USA; (H.N.M.)
| | - Samuel S. Nunn
- Psychopharmacology Laboratory, Center for Neuroscience and Behavior, Department of Neuroscience, American University, 4400 Massachusetts Ave, NW, Washington, DC 20016, USA; (H.N.M.)
| | - Agnieszka Sulima
- Drug Design and Synthesis Section, National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), Bethesda, MD 20892, USA (K.C.R.)
| | - Kenner C. Rice
- Drug Design and Synthesis Section, National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), Bethesda, MD 20892, USA (K.C.R.)
| | - Anthony L. Riley
- Psychopharmacology Laboratory, Center for Neuroscience and Behavior, Department of Neuroscience, American University, 4400 Massachusetts Ave, NW, Washington, DC 20016, USA; (H.N.M.)
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Lulek CF, Maulik M, Mitra S, Guindon J, Morgan DJ, Henderson-Redmond AN. Sex differences in acute delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ 9-THC) response and tolerance as a function of mouse strain. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2023; 240:1987-2003. [PMID: 37516707 PMCID: PMC10471687 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-023-06421-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023]
Abstract
Cannabinoids are increasingly used to alleviate pain; however, tolerance to their antinociceptive effects, including those of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), may limit their therapeutic utility. With more women than men using medical cannabis for pain relief, it is crucial to understand how sex influences cannabinoid-mediated antinociception and tolerance. Though studies in rats consistently find females are more sensitive to the acute antinociceptive effects of cannabinoids, our work with mice consistently finds the converse. The present study examined whether our observed sex differences in Δ9-THC-induced antinociception and tolerance are consistent across multiple mouse strains or are strain-dependent. Male and female C57BL/6J (B6), DBA/2, AKR, and CBA/J mice were assessed for differences in acute Δ9-THC-induced antinociception and hypothermia prior to and following seven days of once-daily Δ9-THC administration. Consistent with our previous findings, male B6 mice were more sensitive to the acute antinociceptive effects of Δ9-THC than female littermates, an effect which dissipated with age. B6 males had decreased cannabinoid expression in the PAG compared to females. While DBA and CBA female mice showed increased Δ9-THC-antinociception compared to male littermates at 30 and 10 mg/kg Δ9-THC, respectively, these differences were less pronounced at higher doses, revealing that dose of Δ9-THC may also be important. Overall, CBA mice were more sensitive to Δ9-THC-induced antinociception while AKR mice were less responsive. These studies highlight the therapeutic potential of Δ9-THC in pain management and underscore the importance of considering not only Δ9-THC dose as a function of sex, but potentially genetic differences when evaluating their clinical utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney F Lulek
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, WV, 25755, USA
| | - Malabika Maulik
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, WV, 25755, USA
| | - Swarup Mitra
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, WV, 25755, USA
| | - Josée Guindon
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, 79430, USA
| | - Daniel J Morgan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, WV, 25755, USA
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11
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MacNair L, Eglit GML, Mosesova I, Bonn-Miller MO, Peters EN. Sex Differences in the Safety and Subjective Effects of Two Oral Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol-Containing Cannabis Products over Multiple Doses Among Healthy Adults. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2023. [PMID: 37582197 DOI: 10.1089/can.2022.0340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: A growing number of females report consuming cannabis products. There is a paucity of data on sex differences in safety and subjective effects after repeated use of varying oral doses of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC; the primary psychoactive constituent of cannabis). Materials and Methods: Data were from two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multiple-dose, between-subject trials of two THC-containing oral cannabis products. Healthy adults received placebo, low-dose THC (∼2.5 or ∼5 mg per dose), or high-dose THC (∼7.5 or ∼10 mg per dose) twice daily for 7 days. There were 38 males (8 placebo, 17 low-dose THC, 13 high-dose THC) and 46 females (8 placebo, 17 low-dose THC, 21 high-dose THC). Analyses compared adverse events (AEs) and subjective effects between males and females, by THC dose. Results: In the placebo and low-dose THC groups, there were no sex differences in the relative rate of AEs. In the high-dose THC group, females versus males reported 3.08 (95% confidence interval [CI]=1.31-8.33) times as many AEs. There were no significant interactions of sex×low-dose THC group for any subjective effect. In the high-dose THC group, females versus males reported greater "relaxed" ratings (b=15.14, 95% CI=1.44-28.84, p=0.027), whereas in the placebo group, males versus females reported greater ratings of "liking the effect" (b=-30.01, 95% CI=2.77-57.26, p=0.028). Although analyses were underpowered to assess the sex×THC dose×day interaction, the initial sex disparity in AEs and some subjective effects in the high-dose THC group appeared to shrink after the first day. Conclusions: In this exploratory analysis, sex differences in some responses to oral THC were nuanced. Females appeared more sensitive than males to AEs and some subjective effects at higher but not lower doses. Males reported higher ratings than females on some subjective effects in response to placebo. Initial sex differences in response to higher doses of oral THC tended to diminish over 7 days of dosing. If replicated, findings could help inform sex-specific dosing strategies of medical cannabis products and could help educate medical cannabis patients on any temporality of effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura MacNair
- Canopy Growth Corporation, Smiths Falls, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Irina Mosesova
- Canopy Growth Corporation, Smiths Falls, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Erica N Peters
- Canopy Growth Corporation, Smiths Falls, Ontario, Canada
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12
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Allegra S, Chiara F, Di Grazia D, Gaspari M, De Francia S. Evaluation of Sex Differences in Preclinical Pharmacology Research: How Far Is Left to Go? Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:786. [PMID: 37375734 DOI: 10.3390/ph16060786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Until the last quarter of the 20th century, sex was not recognized as a variable in health research, nor was it believed to be a factor that could affect health and illness. Researchers preferred studying male models for a variety of reasons, such as simplicity, lower costs, hormone confounding effects, and fear of liability from perinatal exposure in case of pregnancy. Equitable representation is imperative for determining the safety, effectiveness, and tolerance of therapeutic agents for all consumers. Decades of female models' underrepresentation in preclinical studies has resulted in inequality in the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of disease between the sexes. Sex bias has been highlighted as one of the contributing factors to the poor translation and replicability of preclinical research. There have been multiple calls for action, and the inclusion of sex as a biological variable is increasingly supported. However, although there has been substantial progress in the efforts to include more female models in preclinical studies, disparities today remain. In the present review, we consider the current standard practice of the preclinical research setting, why the sex bias exists, why there is the need to include female models, and what risks may arise from continuing this exclusion from experimental design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Allegra
- Department of Biological and Clinical Sciences, University of Turin, S. Luigi Gonzaga Hospital, 10043 Orbassano, Italy
| | - Francesco Chiara
- Department of Biological and Clinical Sciences, University of Turin, S. Luigi Gonzaga Hospital, 10043 Orbassano, Italy
| | - Daniela Di Grazia
- Department of Biological and Clinical Sciences, University of Turin, S. Luigi Gonzaga Hospital, 10043 Orbassano, Italy
| | - Marco Gaspari
- Department of Biological and Clinical Sciences, University of Turin, S. Luigi Gonzaga Hospital, 10043 Orbassano, Italy
| | - Silvia De Francia
- Department of Biological and Clinical Sciences, University of Turin, S. Luigi Gonzaga Hospital, 10043 Orbassano, Italy
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13
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Marchetti B, Bilel S, Tirri M, Corli G, Roda E, Locatelli CA, Cavarretta E, De-Giorgio F, Marti M. Acute Cardiovascular and Cardiorespiratory Effects of JWH-018 in Awake and Freely Moving Mice: Mechanism of Action and Possible Antidotal Interventions? Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:7515. [PMID: 37108687 PMCID: PMC10142259 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
JWH-018 is the most known compound among synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) used for their psychoactive effects. SCs-based products are responsible for several intoxications in humans. Cardiac toxicity is among the main side effects observed in emergency departments: SCs intake induces harmful effects such as hypertension, tachycardia, chest pain, arrhythmias, myocardial infarction, breathing impairment, and dyspnea. This study aims to investigate how cardio-respiratory and vascular JWH-018 (6 mg/kg) responses can be modulated by antidotes already in clinical use. The tested antidotes are amiodarone (5 mg/kg), atropine (5 mg/kg), nifedipine (1 mg/kg), and propranolol (2 mg/kg). The detection of heart rate, breath rate, arterial oxygen saturation (SpO2), and pulse distention are provided by a non-invasive apparatus (Mouse Ox Plus) in awake and freely moving CD-1 male mice. Tachyarrhythmia events are also evaluated. Results show that while all tested antidotes reduce tachycardia and tachyarrhythmic events and improve breathing functions, only atropine completely reverts the heart rate and pulse distension. These data may suggest that cardiorespiratory mechanisms of JWH-018-induced tachyarrhythmia involve sympathetic, cholinergic, and ion channel modulation. Current findings also provide valuable impetus to identify potential antidotal intervention to support physicians in the treatment of intoxicated patients in emergency clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Marchetti
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (B.M.); (S.B.); (M.T.); (G.C.)
| | - Sabrine Bilel
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (B.M.); (S.B.); (M.T.); (G.C.)
| | - Micaela Tirri
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (B.M.); (S.B.); (M.T.); (G.C.)
| | - Giorgia Corli
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (B.M.); (S.B.); (M.T.); (G.C.)
| | - Elisa Roda
- Laboratory of Clinical & Experimental Toxicology, Pavia Poison Centre, National Toxicology Information Centre, Toxicology Unit, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (E.R.); (C.A.L.)
| | - Carlo Alessandro Locatelli
- Laboratory of Clinical & Experimental Toxicology, Pavia Poison Centre, National Toxicology Information Centre, Toxicology Unit, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (E.R.); (C.A.L.)
| | - Elena Cavarretta
- Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy;
- Mediterrranea Cardiocentro, 80122 Napoli, Italy
| | - Fabio De-Giorgio
- Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Health Care Surveillance and Bioetics, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy;
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Matteo Marti
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (B.M.); (S.B.); (M.T.); (G.C.)
- Collaborative Center for the Italian National Early Warning System, Department of Anti-Drug Policies, 00186 Rome, Italy
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14
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Omran GA, Abd Allah ESH, Mohammed SA, El Shehaby DM. Behavioral, biochemical and histopathological toxic profiles induced by sub-chronic cannabimimetic WIN55, 212-2 administration in mice. BMC Pharmacol Toxicol 2023; 24:8. [PMID: 36750905 PMCID: PMC9906926 DOI: 10.1186/s40360-023-00644-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
WIN55, 212-2 mesylate is a synthetic cannabinoid (SC) agonist of CB1 and CB2 receptors with much higher affinity to CB1 receptor than tetrahydrocannabinol and many potential therapeutic effects. Few studies have evaluated SCs effects on more complex animal behavior and sex differences in cannabinoids toxicology. The current study was undertaken for determination of behavioral (Open Field test), biochemical (liver and kidney function test plus GABA & Glutamate levels), histopathological and CB1 immunohistochemistry risks of sub-chronic administration of SC WIN55, 212-2 mesylate in male and female mice. A total of 40 healthy adult mice were randomly divided into four groups (5 mice each): a negative control group, a vehicle group, a low dose (0.05 mg/kg) group and a high dose group (0.1 mg/kg) for each gender.Open Field Test revealed dose and gender-dependent anxiogenic effect with reduced locomotor activity in both sexes especially the higher doses with female mice being less compromised. GABA and glutamate levels increased significantly in both dose groups compared to controls alongside female mice versus males. No significant biochemical alterations were found in all groups with minimal histopathological changes. The CB1 receptors immunohistochemistry revealed a significant increase in the number of CB1 positive neurons in both low and high dose groups against controls with higher expression in female brains.ConclusionsThere were sexual dimorphism effects induced by sub-chronic exposure to WIN55, 212-2 with lesser female mice affection and dose-dependent influences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghada A. Omran
- grid.252487.e0000 0000 8632 679XForensic Medicine & Clinical Toxicology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Eman S. H. Abd Allah
- grid.252487.e0000 0000 8632 679XMedical Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Sherine Ahmed Mohammed
- grid.412659.d0000 0004 0621 726XMedical Histology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Doaa M. El Shehaby
- grid.252487.e0000 0000 8632 679XForensic Medicine & Clinical Toxicology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
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15
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Jalewa J, Todd J, Michie PT, Hodgson DM, Harms L. The effect of schizophrenia risk factors on mismatch responses in a rat model. Psychophysiology 2023; 60:e14175. [PMID: 36087044 PMCID: PMC10909418 DOI: 10.1111/psyp.14175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Reduced mismatch negativity (MMN), a robust finding in schizophrenia, has prompted interest in MMN as a preclinical biomarker of schizophrenia. The rat brain can generate human-like mismatch responses (MMRs) which therefore enables the exploration of the neurobiology of reduced MMRs. Given epidemiological evidence that two developmental factors, maternal infection and adolescent cannabis use, increase the risk of schizophrenia, we determined the effect of these two developmental risk factors on rat MMR amplitude in different auditory contexts. MMRs were assessed in awake adult male and female Wistar rats that were offspring of pregnant dams treated with either a viral infection mimetic (poly I:C) inducing maternal immune activation (MIA) or saline control. In adolescence, subgroups of the prenatal treatment groups were exposed to either a synthetic cannabinoid (adolescent cannabinoid exposure: ACE) or vehicle. The context under which MMRs were obtained was manipulated by employing two different oddball paradigms, one that manipulated the physical difference between rare and common auditory stimuli, and another that manipulated the probability of the rare stimulus. The design of the multiple stimulus sequences across the two paradigms also allowed an investigation of context on MMRs to two identical stimulus sequences. Male offspring exposed to each of the risk factors for schizophrenia (MIA, ACE or both) showed a reduction in MMR, which was evident only in the probability paradigm, with no effects seen in the physical difference. Our findings highlight the importance of contextual factors induced by paradigm manipulations and sex for modeling schizophrenia-like MMN impairments in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaishree Jalewa
- School of Psychological Sciences, College of Engineering, Science and EnvironmentUniversity of NewcastleCallaghanNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Juanita Todd
- School of Psychological Sciences, College of Engineering, Science and EnvironmentUniversity of NewcastleCallaghanNew South WalesAustralia
- Hunter Medical Research InstituteNew Lambton HeightsNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Patricia T. Michie
- School of Psychological Sciences, College of Engineering, Science and EnvironmentUniversity of NewcastleCallaghanNew South WalesAustralia
- Hunter Medical Research InstituteNew Lambton HeightsNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Deborah M. Hodgson
- School of Psychological Sciences, College of Engineering, Science and EnvironmentUniversity of NewcastleCallaghanNew South WalesAustralia
- Hunter Medical Research InstituteNew Lambton HeightsNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Lauren Harms
- Hunter Medical Research InstituteNew Lambton HeightsNew South WalesAustralia
- School of Biomedical Science and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and WellbeingUniversity of NewcastleCallaghanNew South WalesAustralia
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16
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Marusich JA, Gamage TF, Zhang Y, Akinfiresoye LR, Wiley JL. In vitro and in vivo pharmacology of nine novel synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2022; 220:173467. [PMID: 36154844 PMCID: PMC9837865 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2022.173467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) are novel psychoactive substances that bind to and activate CB1 receptors in the brain. The structural manipulations observed in newer SCRAs suggest that manufacturers have incorporated modern drug development techniques into their repertoire, often producing higher CB1 receptor affinity than Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC). This study examined nine SCRAs recently detected by forensic surveillance, some of which caused fatalities: 5F-MDMB-PICA, FUB-144, 5F-MMB-PICA, MMB-4en-PICA, MMB-FUBICA, 5F-EDMB-PINACA, APP-BINACA, MDMB-4en-PINACA, and FUB-AKB48. Compounds were evaluated for CB1 and CB2 receptor binding affinity and functional activation and for their effects on body temperature, time course, and pharmacological equivalence with Δ9-THC in Δ9-THC drug discrimination in mice. All SCRAs bound to and activated CB1 and CB2 receptors with high affinity, with similar or greater affinity for CB2 than CB1 receptors and stimulated [35S]GTPγS binding in CB1 and CB2 expressing cell membranes. All compounds produced hypothermia, with shorter latency to peak effects for SCRAs than Δ9-THC. All SCRAs fully substituted for Δ9-THC in drug discrimination at one or more doses. Rank order potency in producing in vivo effects mostly aligned with rank order CB1 receptor affinities. Potencies for Δ9-THC-like discriminative stimulus effects were similar across sex except Δ9-THC was more potent in females and 5F-MMB-PICA was more potent in males. In summary, 5F-EMDB-PINACA, 5F-MDMB-PICA, MDMB-4en-PINACA, FUB-144, FUB-AKB48, 5F-MMB-PICA, MMB-4en-PICA, and MMB-FUBICA are potent and efficacious SCRAs with pharmacology like that of past SCRAs that have been abused in humans. In contrast, APP-BINACA was efficacious, but had lower potency than most past SCRAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie A Marusich
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Rd, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA.
| | - Thomas F Gamage
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Rd, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Yanan Zhang
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Rd, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Luli R Akinfiresoye
- United States Department of Justice, Drug Enforcement Administration, Diversion Control Division, Drug and Chemical Evaluation Section, 8701 Morrissette Drive, Springfield, VA 22152, USA
| | - Jenny L Wiley
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Rd, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
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17
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Wilson CD, Zheng F, Fantegrossi WE. Convulsant doses of abused synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists AB-PINACA, 5F-AB-PINACA, 5F-ADB-PINACA and JWH-018 do not elicit electroencephalographic (EEG) seizures in male mice. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2022; 239:3237-3248. [PMID: 35933518 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-022-06205-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) are found in illicit smoking products, such as "K2" or "Spice." Convulsions are commonly reported adverse effects of SCRAs but are poorly understood. OBJECTIVES We determined convulsant effects of SCRAs AB-PINACA, and 5F-ADB-PINACA in adult male NIH Swiss mice, and then determined if convulsant effects of AB-PINACA, 5F-AB-PINACA, 5F-ADB-PINACA, and JWH-018 elicited seizure-like effects using EEG. METHODS Mice were administered SCRAs or pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) and placed in observation chambers where convulsant effects were scored. The capacity of the CB1R antagonist rimonabant, the benzodiazepine diazepam, or the non-specific CYP450 inhibitor 1-aminobenzotriazole (1-ABT) to attenuate convulsant effects was determined. Other mice were prepared with EEG headmounts to ascertain whether observed convulsions occurred concurrently with seizure-like effects by assessing root-mean-square (RMS) power, high amplitude EEG spike analysis, and videography. RESULTS Mice receiving AB-PINACA or 5F-ADB-PINACA exhibited dose-dependent convulsant effects that were blocked by 10 mg/kg rimonabant pretreatment but not by pretreatment with 10 mg/kg diazepam; these convulsant effects were not altered in the presence of 100 mg/kg 1-ABT. Repeated administration of 10 mg/kg AB-PINACA and 3 mg/kg 5F-ADB-PINACA produced partial tolerance to convulsant effects but did not lead to cross-tolerance to PTZ-induced convulsions. In EEG studies, convulsant doses of AB-PINACA, 5F-AB-PINACA, 5F-ADB-PINACA, and JWH-018 did not produce seizures concomitantly with convulsions. CONCLUSIONS These data extend previous findings of convulsant effects of SCRAs and suggest that convulsant effects of AB-PINACA, 5F-AB-PINACA, 5F-ADB-PINACA, and JWH-018 are CB1R-mediated but are not associated with electroencephalographic seizures. These results further suggest that benzodiazepines may not effectively treat convulsions elicited by SCRA use in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catheryn D Wilson
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 West Markham Street, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Fang Zheng
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 West Markham Street, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - William E Fantegrossi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 West Markham Street, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA.
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18
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Glatfelter GC, Partilla JS, Baumann MH. Structure-activity relationships for 5F-MDMB-PICA and its 5F-pentylindole analogs to induce cannabinoid-like effects in mice. Neuropsychopharmacology 2022; 47:924-932. [PMID: 34802041 PMCID: PMC8882184 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-021-01227-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) are an evolving class of new psychoactive substances found on recreational drug markets worldwide. The indole-containing compound, 5F-MDMB-PICA, is a popular SCRA associated with serious medical consequences, including overdose and hospitalizations. In vitro studies reveal that 5F-MDMB-PICA is a potent agonist at cannabinoid type 1 receptors (CB1), but little information exists regarding in vivo pharmacology of the drug. To this end, we examined the in vitro and in vivo cannabinoid-like effects produced by 5F-MDMB-PICA and related 5F-pentylindole analogs with differing composition of the head group moiety (i.e., 5F-NNEI, 5F-SDB-006, 5F-CUMYL-PICA, 5F-MMB-PICA). In mouse brain membranes, 5F-MDMB-PICA and its analogs inhibited binding to [3H]rimonabant-labeled CB1 and displayed agonist actions in [35S]GTPγS functional assays. 5F-MDMB-PICA exhibited the highest CB1 affinity (Ki = 1.24 nM) and functional potency (EC50 = 1.46 nM), but head group composition markedly influenced activity in both assays. For example, the 3,3-dimethylbutanoate (5F-MDMB-PICA) and cumyl (5F-CUMYL-PICA) head groups engendered high CB1 affinity and potency, whereas a benzyl (5F-SDB-006) head group did not. In C57BL/6J mice, all 5F-pentylindole SCRAs produced dose- and time-dependent hypothermia, catalepsy, and analgesia that were reversed by rimonabant, indicating CB1 involvement. In vitro Ki and EC50 values were positively correlated with in vivo ED50 potency estimates. Our findings demonstrate that 5F-MDMB-PICA is a potent SCRA, and subtle alterations to head group composition can have profound influence on pharmacological effects at CB1. Importantly, measures of CB1 binding and efficacy in mouse brain tissue seem to accurately predict in vivo drug potency in this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grant C. Glatfelter
- grid.420090.f0000 0004 0533 7147Designer Drug Research Unit (DDRU), National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), Intramural Research Program (IRP), Baltimore, MD USA
| | - John S. Partilla
- grid.420090.f0000 0004 0533 7147Designer Drug Research Unit (DDRU), National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), Intramural Research Program (IRP), Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Michael H. Baumann
- grid.420090.f0000 0004 0533 7147Designer Drug Research Unit (DDRU), National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), Intramural Research Program (IRP), Baltimore, MD USA
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19
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Kim HJJ, Zagzoog A, Smolyakova AM, Ezeaka UC, Benko MJ, Holt T, Laprairie RB. In vivo Evidence for Brain Region-Specific Molecular Interactions Between Cannabinoid and Orexin Receptors. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:790546. [PMID: 34992518 PMCID: PMC8724524 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.790546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid and orexin neuromodulatory systems serve key roles in many of the same biological functions such as sleep, appetite, pain processing, and emotional behaviors related to reward. The type 1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1R) and both subtypes of the orexin receptor, orexin receptor type 1 (OX1R) and orexin receptor type 2 (OX2R) are not only expressed in the same brain regions modulating these functions, but physically interact as heterodimers in recombinant and neuronal cell cultures. In the current study, male and female C57BL/6 mice were co-treated with the cannabinoid receptor agonist CP55,940 and either the OX2R antagonist TCS-OX2-29 or the dual orexin receptor antagonist (DORA) TCS-1102. Mice were then evaluated for catalepsy, body temperature, thermal anti-nociception, and locomotion, after which their brains were collected for receptor colocalization analysis. Combined treatment with the DORA TCS-1102 and CP55,940 potentiated catalepsy more than CP55,940 alone, but this effect was not observed for changes in body temperature, nociception, locomotion, or via selective OX2R antagonism. Co-treatment with CP55,940 and TCS-1102 also led to increased CB1R-OX1R colocalization in the ventral striatum. This was not seen following co-treatment with TCS-OX2-29, nor in CB1R-OX2R colocalization. The magnitude of effects following co-treatment with CP55,940 and either the DORA or OX2R-selective antagonist was greater in males than females. These data show that CB1R-OX1R colocalization in the ventral striatum underlies cataleptic additivity between CP55,940 and the DORA TCS-1102. Moreover, cannabinoid-orexin receptor interactions are sex-specific with regards to brain region and functionality. Physical or molecular interactions between these two systems may provide valuable insight into drug-drug interactions between cannabinoid and orexin drugs for the treatment of insomnia, pain, and other disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye Ji J. Kim
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Ayat Zagzoog
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Anna Maria Smolyakova
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Udoka C. Ezeaka
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Michael J. Benko
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Teagan Holt
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Robert B. Laprairie
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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Coronado-Álvarez A, Romero-Cordero K, Macías-Triana L, Tatum-Kuri A, Vera-Barrón A, Budde H, Machado S, Yamamoto T, Imperatori C, Murillo-Rodríguez E. The synthetic CB 1 cannabinoid receptor selective agonists: Putative medical uses and their legalization. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 110:110301. [PMID: 33741446 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2021.110301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
More than 500 molecules have been identified as components of Cannabis sativa (C. sativa), of which the most studied is Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC). Several studies have suggested that Δ9-THC exerts diverse biological effects, ranging from fragmentation of DNA to behavioral disruptions. Currently, it is accepted that most of the pharmacological properties of Δ9-THC engage the activation of the cannabinoid receptors, named CB1 and CB2. Interestingly, multiple pieces of evidence have suggested that the cannabinoid receptors play an active role in the modulation of several diseases leading to the design of synthetic cannabinoid-like compounds. Advances in the development of synthetic CB1 cannabinoid receptor selective agonists as therapeutical approaches are, however, limited. This review focuses on available evidence searched in PubMed regarding the synthetic CB1 cannabinoid receptor selective agonists such as AM-1235, arachidonyl-2' chloroethylamide (ACEA), CP 50,556-1 (Levonantradol), CP-55,940, HU-210, JWH-007, JWH-018, JWH-200 (WIN 55,225), methanandamide, nabilone, O-1812, UR-144, WIN 55,212-2, nabiximols, and dronabinol. Indeed, it would be ambitious to describe all available evidence related to the synthetic CB1 cannabinoid receptor selective agonists. However, and despite the positive evidence on the positive results of using these compounds in experimental models of health disturbances and preclinical trials, we discuss evidence in regards some concerns due to side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astrid Coronado-Álvarez
- Laboratorio de Neurociencias Moleculares e Integrativas, Escuela de Medicina, División Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Anáhuac Mayab, Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico; Intercontinental Neuroscience Research Group, Mexico
| | - Karen Romero-Cordero
- Laboratorio de Neurociencias Moleculares e Integrativas, Escuela de Medicina, División Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Anáhuac Mayab, Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico; Intercontinental Neuroscience Research Group, Mexico
| | - Lorena Macías-Triana
- Laboratorio de Neurociencias Moleculares e Integrativas, Escuela de Medicina, División Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Anáhuac Mayab, Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico; Intercontinental Neuroscience Research Group, Mexico
| | - Agnes Tatum-Kuri
- Laboratorio de Neurociencias Moleculares e Integrativas, Escuela de Medicina, División Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Anáhuac Mayab, Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico; Intercontinental Neuroscience Research Group, Mexico
| | - Alba Vera-Barrón
- Laboratorio de Neurociencias Moleculares e Integrativas, Escuela de Medicina, División Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Anáhuac Mayab, Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico; Intercontinental Neuroscience Research Group, Mexico
| | - Henning Budde
- Intercontinental Neuroscience Research Group, Mexico; Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sérgio Machado
- Intercontinental Neuroscience Research Group, Mexico; Laboratory of Physical Activity Neuroscience, Physical Activity Sciences Postgraduate Program, Salgado de Oliveira University, Niterói, Brazil
| | - Tetsuya Yamamoto
- Intercontinental Neuroscience Research Group, Mexico; Graduate School of Technology, Industrial and Social Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Claudio Imperatori
- Intercontinental Neuroscience Research Group, Mexico; Cognitive and Clinical Psychology Laboratory, Department of Human Sciences, European University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Eric Murillo-Rodríguez
- Laboratorio de Neurociencias Moleculares e Integrativas, Escuela de Medicina, División Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Anáhuac Mayab, Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico; Intercontinental Neuroscience Research Group, Mexico.
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21
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Wiley JL, Taylor SI, Marusich JA. Δ 9-Tetrahydrocannabinol discrimination: Effects of route of administration in rats. Drug Alcohol Depend 2021; 225:108827. [PMID: 34186444 PMCID: PMC8282763 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.108827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis users typically smoke or vape cannabis or ingest it in edibles, whereas cannabinoids are typically administered via injection in rodent research. The present study examined the effects of route of administration (ROA) of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive constituent of cannabis. Adult female and male Long Evans rats were trained to discriminate intraperitoneal (i.p.) THC from vehicle in a drug discrimination procedure. Following acquisition, dose-effect curves were determined with THC using i.p., oral (p.o.), and subcutaneous (s.c.) injection in both sexes and aerosol exposure in males only, followed by a time course with one dose for each ROA. Both sexes acquired THC discrimination in a similar number of sessions, although baseline response rates were significantly lower in females than males. THC fully substituted for the 3 mg/kg i.p. training dose across all ROA. While potencies were similar for ROA involving first-pass metabolism (i.p. and p.o.), THC potency was lower with s.c. administration. During the time course analysis, aerosol administration had the shortest latency to onset of discriminative stimulus effects and the shortest duration of effect, whereas s.c. administration had the longest duration. The results of this examination of the effects of ROA on an abuse-related effect of THC provide an empirical foundation to facilitate choice of ROA for mechanistic investigation of THC's pharmacology. Further, animal models using translationally relevant ROA may facilitate more accurate predictions of their effects in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny L Wiley
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA.
| | - Shanequa I Taylor
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Julie A Marusich
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
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22
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Salviato BZ, Raymundi AM, Rodrigues da Silva T, Salemme BW, Batista Sohn JM, Araújo FS, Guimarães FS, Bertoglio LJ, Stern CA. Female but not male rats show biphasic effects of low doses of Δ 9-tetrahydrocannabinol on anxiety: can cannabidiol interfere with these effects? Neuropharmacology 2021; 196:108684. [PMID: 34181978 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2021] [Revised: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the main phytocannabinoid present in the Cannabis sativa. It can produce dose-dependent anxiolytic or anxiogenic effects in males. THC effects on anxiety have scarcely been studied in females, despite their higher prevalence of anxiety disorders. Cannabidiol, another phytocannabinoid, has been reported to attenuate anxiety and some THC-induced effects. The present study aimed to investigate the behavioral and neurochemical effects of THC administered alone or combined with CBD in naturally cycling female rats tested in the elevated plus-maze. Systemically administered THC produced biphasic effects in females, anxiolytic at low doses (0.075 or 0.1 mg/kg) and anxiogenic at a higher dose (1.0 mg/kg). No anxiety changes were observed in males treated with the same THC dose range. The anxiogenic effect of THC was prevented by co-administration of CBD (1.0 or 3.0 mg/kg). CBD (3.0 mg/kg) caused an anxiolytic effect. At a lower dose (1.0 mg/kg), it facilitated the anxiolytic effect of the low THC dose. The anxiogenic effect of THC was accompanied by increased dopamine levels in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and nucleus accumbens (NAc). In contrast, its anxiolytic effect was associated with increased mPFC serotonin concentrations. The anxiolytic effect of CBD was accompanied by increased mPFC serotonin turnover. Together, these results indicate that female rats are susceptible to the biphasic effects of low THC doses on anxiety. These effects could depend on mPFC and NAc dopaminergic and serotoninergic neurotransmissions. CBD could minimize potential THC high-dose side effects whereas enhancing the anxiolytic action of its low doses in females.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ana Maria Raymundi
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Parana, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Leandro José Bertoglio
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianopolis, SC, Brazil
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23
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Boullon L, Finn DP, Llorente-Berzal Á. Sex Differences in a Rat Model of Peripheral Neuropathic Pain and Associated Levels of Endogenous Cannabinoid Ligands. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2021; 2:673638. [PMID: 35295501 PMCID: PMC8915733 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2021.673638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic neuropathic pain is a major unmet clinical need affecting 10% of the world population, the majority of whom suffer from co-morbid mood disorders. Sex differences have been reported in pain prevalence, perception and response to analgesics. However, sexual dimorphism in chronic neuropathic pain and the associated neurobiology, are still poorly understood. The lack of efficacy and the adverse effects associated with current pharmacological treatments, further underline the need for new therapeutic targets. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a lipid signalling system which regulates a large number of physiological processes, including pain. The aim of this study was to investigate sexual dimorphism in pain-, anxiety- and depression-related behaviours, and concomitant alterations in supraspinal and spinal endocannabinoid levels in the spared nerve injury (SNI) animal model of peripheral neuropathic pain. Sham or SNI surgery was performed in adult male and female Sprague-Dawley rats. Mechanical and cold allodynia was tested weekly using von Frey and acetone drop tests, respectively. Development of depression-related behaviours was analysed using sucrose splash and sucrose preference tests. Locomotor activity and anxiety-related behaviours were assessed with open field and elevated plus maze tests. Levels of endocannabinoid ligands and related N-acylethanolamines in supraspinal regions of the descending inhibitory pain pathway, and spinal cord, were analysed 42 days post-surgery. SNI surgery induced allodynia in rats of both sexes. Female-SNI rats exhibited earlier onset and greater sensitivity to cold and mechanical allodynia than their male counterparts. In male rats, SNI induced a significant reduction of rearing, compared to sham controls. Trends for depressive-like behaviours in females and for anxiety-like behaviours in males were observed after SNI surgery but did not reach statistical significance. No concomitant alterations in levels of endogenous cannabinoid ligands and related N-acylethanolamines were observed in the regions analysed. Our results demonstrate differential development of SNI-induced nociceptive behaviour between male and female rats suggesting important sexually dimorphic modifications in pain pathways. SNI had no effect on depression- or anxiety-related behaviours in animals of either sex, or on levels of endocannabinoid ligands and related N-acylethanolamines across the regions involved in the descending modulation of nociception at the time points investigated.
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24
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Ruiz CM, Torrens A, Castillo E, Perrone CR, Cevallos J, Inshishian VC, Harder EV, Justeson DN, Huestis MA, Swarup V, Piomelli D, Mahler SV. Pharmacokinetic, behavioral, and brain activity effects of Δ 9-tetrahydrocannabinol in adolescent male and female rats. Neuropsychopharmacology 2021; 46:959-969. [PMID: 32927465 PMCID: PMC8115040 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-020-00839-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the intoxicating constituent of cannabis and is responsible for the drug's reinforcing effects. Retrospective human studies suggest that cannabis use during adolescence is linked to long-term negative psychological outcomes, but in such studies it is difficult to distinguish the effects of THC from those of coexisting factors. Therefore, translationally relevant animal models are required to properly investigate THC effects in adolescents. However, though the relevance of these studies depends upon human-relevant dosing, surprisingly little is known about THC pharmacology and its effects on behavior and brain activity in adolescent rodents-especially in females. Here, we conducted a systematic investigation of THC pharmacokinetics, metabolism and distribution in blood and brain, and of THC effects upon behavior and neural activity in adolescent Long Evans rats of both sexes. We administered THC during an early-middle adolescent window (postnatal days 27-45) in which the brain may be particularly sensitive to developmental perturbation by THC. We determined the pharmacokinetic profile of THC and its main first-pass metabolites (11-hydroxy-THC and 11-nor-9-carboxy-THC) in blood and brain following acute injection (0.5 or 5 mg/kg, intraperitoneal). We also evaluated THC effects on behavioral assays of anxiety, locomotion, and place conditioning, as well as c-Fos expression in 14 brain regions. Confirming previous work, we find marked sex differences in THC metabolism, including a female-specific elevation in the bioactive metabolite 11-hydroxy-THC. Furthermore, we find dose-dependent and sex-dependent effects on behavior, neural activity, and functional connectivity across multiple nodes of brain stress and reward networks. Our findings are relevant for interpreting results of rat adolescent THC exposure studies, and may lend new insights into how THC impacts the brain in a sex-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina M. Ruiz
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
| | - Alexa Torrens
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
| | - Erik Castillo
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
| | - Christina R. Perrone
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697 USA ,grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
| | - Jenny Cevallos
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
| | - Victoria C. Inshishian
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697 USA ,grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
| | - Eden V. Harder
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
| | - Drew N. Justeson
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
| | - Marilyn A. Huestis
- grid.265008.90000 0001 2166 5843Institute of Emerging Health Professions, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107 USA
| | - Vivek Swarup
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA. .,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA. .,Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
| | - Stephen V. Mahler
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
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25
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Wiley JL, Barrus DG, Farquhar CE, Lefever TW, Gamage TF. Sex, species and age: Effects of rodent demographics on the pharmacology of ∆ 9-tetrahydrocanabinol. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 106:110064. [PMID: 32810571 PMCID: PMC7750258 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.110064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis edibles are becoming more common in an increasingly diverse population of users, and the impact of first pass metabolism on cannabis's pharmacological profile across age and sex is not well understood. The present study examined the impact of age, sex and rodent species on the effects of intraperitoneal (i.p.) delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and its primary psychoactive metabolite, 11-OH-THC, in rodent models of psychoactivity and molecular assays of cannabinoid receptor type-1 (CB1) pharmacology. Like oral THC, i.p. THC also undergoes first pass metabolism. In both species and sexes, 11-OH-THC exhibited marginally higher affinity (~1.5 fold) than THC and both served as partial agonists in [35S]GTPγS binding with equivalent potency; 11-OH-THC exhibited slightly greater efficacy in rat brain tissue. In ICR mice, 11-OH-THC exhibited greater potency than THC in assays of catalepsy (7- to 15-fold) and hypothermia (7- to 31-fold). Further, 11-OH-THC was more potent in THC drug discrimination (7- to 9-fold) in C57Bl/6 J mice, with THC-like discriminative stimulus effects being CB1-, but not CB2-, mediated. THC's discriminative stimulus also was stable across age in mice, as its potency did not change over the course of the experiment (~17 months). While sex differences in THC's effects were not revealed in mice, THC was significantly more potent in females Sprague-Dawley rats than in males trained to discriminate THC from vehicle. This study demonstrates a cross-species in the psychoactive effects of i.p. THC across sex that may be related to differential metabolism of THC into its psychoactive metabolite 11-OH-THC, suggesting that species is a crucial design consideration in the preclinical study of phytocannabinoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny L Wiley
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA.
| | - Daniel G Barrus
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | | | - Timothy W Lefever
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Thomas F Gamage
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
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26
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Blanton HL, Barnes RC, McHann MC, Bilbrey JA, Wilkerson JL, Guindon J. Sex differences and the endocannabinoid system in pain. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2021; 202:173107. [PMID: 33444598 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2021.173107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis use has been increasing in recent years, particularly among women, and one of the most common uses of cannabis for medical purposes is pain relief. Pain conditions and response to analgesics have been demonstrated to be influenced by sex, and evidence is emerging that this is also true with cannabinoid-mediated analgesia. In this review we evaluate the preclinical evidence supporting sex differences in cannabinoid pharmacology, as well as emerging evidence from human studies, both clinical and observational. Numerous animal studies have reported sex differences in the antinociceptive response to natural and synthetic cannabinoids that may correlate to sex differences in expression, and function, of endocannabinoid system components. Female rodents have generally been found to be more sensitive to the effects of Δ9-THC. This finding is likely a function of both pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics factors including differences in metabolism, differences in cannabinoid receptor expression, and influence of ovarian hormones including estradiol and progesterone. Preclinical evidence supporting direct interactions between sex hormones and the endocannabinoid system may translate to sex differences in response to cannabis and cannabinoid use in men and women. Further research into the role of sex in endocannabinoid system function is critical as we gain a deeper understanding of the impact of the endocannabinoid system in various disease states, including chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry L Blanton
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, United States of America.
| | - Robert C Barnes
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, United States of America
| | - Melissa C McHann
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, United States of America
| | - Joshua A Bilbrey
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States of America
| | - Jenny L Wilkerson
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States of America
| | - Josée Guindon
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, United States of America.
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27
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Δ 9-tetrahydrocannabinol: Drug discrimination abuse liability testing in female Lister Hooded rats: Trials, tribulations and triumphs. J Pharmacol Toxicol Methods 2020; 106:106937. [PMID: 33096236 DOI: 10.1016/j.vascn.2020.106937] [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] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The assessment of the abuse potential of CNS-active drugs is a regulatory requirement. Drug discrimination is one of the nonclinical tests that contribute to this assessment by providing information on a drug's potential to induce a discriminative stimulus comparable to that of a known drug of abuse. AIM The objective was to validate drug discrimination in the rat for the purpose of supporting regulatory submissions for novel drugs with potential cannabinoid-like activity. METHODS Ten female Lister hooded rats were trained to discriminate no-drug from Δ9-THC (1.5 mg/kg, IP) under a FR10 schedule of reinforcement. Once trained, a Δ9-THC dose-response curve was obtained using doses of 0.25, 0.75, 1.5, and 3 mg/kg, IP. This was followed by evaluation of amphetamine (0.3 mg/kg, SC); morphine (3 mg/kg, IP); midazolam (2.5 mg/kg, PO); and the synthetic cannabinoids WIN55,212-2 (0.75 to 2 mg/kg, IP), CP-47,497 (0.5 to 2 mg/kg, IP), and JWH-018 (1 mg/kg, IP) for their discriminative stimulus similarity to Δ9-THC. RESULTS Pharmacological specificity was demonstrated by achieving the anticipated dose-response curve for Δ9-THC, and a vehicle-like response for the non-cannabinoid drugs. Although full generalisation was obtained for JWH-018, in contrast to published literature, WIN55,212-2 and CP-47,497 failed to generalise to Δ9-THC. DISCUSSION Based on the literature review performed in light of the results obtained, contrasting and unpredictable behavioural responses produced by cannabinoids in animals and humans raises the question of the reliability and relevance of including drug discrimination and self-administration studies within an abuse potential assessment for novel cannabinoid-like drugs.
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28
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Fattore L, Marti M, Mostallino R, Castelli MP. Sex and Gender Differences in the Effects of Novel Psychoactive Substances. Brain Sci 2020; 10:brainsci10090606. [PMID: 32899299 PMCID: PMC7564810 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10090606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex and gender deeply affect the subjective effects and pharmaco-toxicological responses to drugs. Men are more likely than women to use almost all types of illicit drugs and to present to emergency departments for serious or fatal intoxications. However, women are just as likely as men to develop substance use disorders, and may be more susceptible to craving and relapse. Clinical and preclinical studies have shown important differences between males and females after administration of “classic” drugs of abuse (e.g., Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), morphine, cocaine). This scenario has become enormously complicated in the last decade with the overbearing appearance of the new psychoactive substances (NPS) that have emerged as alternatives to regulated drugs. To date, more than 900 NPS have been identified, and can be catalogued in different pharmacological categories including synthetic cannabinoids, synthetic stimulants (cathinones and amphetamine-like), hallucinogenic phenethylamines, synthetic opioids (fentanyls and non-fentanyls), new benzodiazepines and dissociative anesthetics (i.e., methoxetamine and phencyclidine-derivatives). This work collects the little knowledge reached so far on the effects of NPS in male and female animal and human subjects, highlighting how much sex and gender differences in the effects of NPS has yet to be studied and understood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liana Fattore
- Institute of Neuroscience-Cagliari, National Research Council (CNR), Cittadella Universitaria, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Matteo Marti
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
- Department of Anti-Drug Policies, Collaborative Center for the Italian National Early Warning System, Presidency of the Council of Ministers, 00187 Rome, Italy
| | - Rafaela Mostallino
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy; (R.M.); (M.P.C.)
| | - Maria Paola Castelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy; (R.M.); (M.P.C.)
- National Institute of Neuroscience (INN), University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
- Center of Excellence “Neurobiology of Addiction”, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
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Cross-Generational THC Exposure Alters Heroin Reinforcement in Adult Male Offspring. Drug Alcohol Depend 2020; 212:107985. [PMID: 32386920 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2020.107985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Revised: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An emerging area of preclinical research has investigated whether drug use in parents prior to conception influences drug responsivity in their offspring. The present work sought to further characterize such effects with cannabis by examining whether a parental THC history modified locomotor sensitization to morphine and self-administration of heroin in adult progeny. METHODS Male and female Sprague Dawley rats were exposed to eight injections of 0 or 1.5 mg/kg THC during adolescence and bred with subjects from the same dose group. In Experiment 1, adult male and female offspring (F1-THC and F1-Veh) underwent locomotor sensitization procedures with morphine over five trials followed by a 5-day abstinence period and a final morphine challenge. In Experiment 2, subjects were trained to self-administer heroin and tested under a number of conditions (FR1, FR5, FR10, PR, dose response assessment, extinction, cue- + stress-induced reinstatement). RESULTS Germline THC exposure had no effect on morphine locomotor sensitization. However, F1-THC males displayed a reduced motivation to self-administer heroin relative to F1-Veh males. CONCLUSIONS The present data indicate that parental THC exposure alters the reinforcing properties of heroin in a sex-specific manner. As such, mild to moderate cannabis use during adolescence may alter heroin abuse liability for males in the subsequent generation, but have limited effects on females.
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Tirado-Muñoz J, Lopez-Rodriguez AB, Fonseca F, Farré M, Torrens M, Viveros MP. Effects of cannabis exposure in the prenatal and adolescent periods: Preclinical and clinical studies in both sexes. Front Neuroendocrinol 2020; 57:100841. [PMID: 32339546 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2020.100841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Revised: 03/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/19/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis is the most commonly used illicit drug among adolescents and young adults, including pregnant women. There is substantial evidence for a significant association between prenatal cannabis exposure and lower birth weight in offspring, and mixed results regarding later behavioural outcomes in the offspring. Adolescent cannabis use, especially heavy use, has been associated with altered executive function, depression, psychosis and use of other drugs later in life. Human studies have limitations due to several confounding factors and have provided scarce information about sex differences. In general, animal studies support behavioural alterations reported in humans and have revealed diverse sex differences and potential underlying mechanisms (altered mesolimbic dopaminergic and hippocampal glutamatergic systems and interference with prefrontal cortex maturation). More studies are needed that analyse sex and gender influences on cannabis-induced effects with great clinical relevance such as psychosis, cannabis use disorder and associated comorbidities, to achieve more personalized and accurate treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith Tirado-Muñoz
- Addiction Research Group, IMIM-Institut Hospital del Mar d'Investigacions Mèdiques, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana Belen Lopez-Rodriguez
- School of Biochemistry & Immunology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Francina Fonseca
- Addiction Research Group, IMIM-Institut Hospital del Mar d'Investigacions Mèdiques, Barcelona, Spain; Institute of Neuropsychiatry and Addictions, Parc de Salut Mar, Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Magi Farré
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol and Institut de Recerca Germas Trias (HUGTP-IGTP), Badalona, Spain; Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Torrens
- Addiction Research Group, IMIM-Institut Hospital del Mar d'Investigacions Mèdiques, Barcelona, Spain; Institute of Neuropsychiatry and Addictions, Parc de Salut Mar, Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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31
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Matheson J, Sproule B, Di Ciano P, Fares A, Le Foll B, Mann RE, Brands B. Sex differences in the acute effects of smoked cannabis: evidence from a human laboratory study of young adults. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2020; 237:305-316. [PMID: 31637452 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-019-05369-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Accepted: 09/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Animal studies have found robust sex differences in the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). However, the human evidence remains equivocal, despite findings that women may experience more severe consequences of cannabis use than men. OBJECTIVES The objective of this secondary analysis was to examine sex differences in THC pharmacokinetics and in acute subjective, physiological, and cognitive effects of smoked cannabis in a sample of regular cannabis users (use 1-4 days per week) aged 19-25 years. METHODS Ninety-one healthy young adults were randomized to receive active (12.5% THC; 17 females, 43 males) or placebo (< 0.1% THC; 9 females, 21 males) cannabis using a 2:1 allocation ratio. Blood samples to quantify concentrations of THC, 11-OH-THC, and 11-Nor-carboxy-THC (THC-COOH), as well as measures of subjective drug effects, vital signs, and cognition were collected over a period of 6 h following ad libitum smoking of a 750-mg cannabis cigarette. RESULTS Females smoked less of the cannabis cigarette than males (p = 0.008) and had a lower peak concentration of THC and THC-COOH than males (p ≤ 0.01). Blood THC concentrations remained lower in females even when adjusting for differences in estimated dose of THC inhaled. There was very little evidence of sex differences in visual analog scale (VAS) ratings of subjective drug effects, mood, heart rate, blood pressure, or cognitive effects of cannabis. CONCLUSIONS Females experienced the same acute effects of smoked cannabis as males at a lower observed dose, highlighting the need for more research on sex differences in the pharmacology of THC, especially when administered by routes in which titrating to the desired effect is more difficult (e.g., cannabis edibles).
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Matheson
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, 27 King's College Circle, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3H7, Canada.
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 2S1, Canada.
| | - Beth Sproule
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, 144 College Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3M2, Canada
- Pharmacy Department, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 1001 Queen Street, Toronto, Ontario, M6J 1H4, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, 250 College Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5T 1R8, Canada
| | - Patricia Di Ciano
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, 27 King's College Circle, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3H7, Canada
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 2S1, Canada
- Translational Addiction Research Laboratory, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 2S1, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5T 1R8, Canada
| | - Andrew Fares
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, 27 King's College Circle, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3H7, Canada
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 2S1, Canada
| | - Bernard Le Foll
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, 27 King's College Circle, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3H7, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, 250 College Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5T 1R8, Canada
- Translational Addiction Research Laboratory, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 2S1, Canada
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, 500 University Avenue, 5th Floor, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1V7, Canada
| | - Robert E Mann
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 2S1, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5T 3M7, Canada
| | - Bruna Brands
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, 27 King's College Circle, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3H7, Canada
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 2S1, Canada
- Controlled Substances Directorate, Health Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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32
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Wiley JL, Lefever TW, Glass M, Thomas BF. Do you feel it now? Route of administration and Δ 9-tetrahydrocannabinol-like discriminative stimulus effects of synthetic cannabinoids in mice. Neurotoxicology 2019; 73:161-167. [PMID: 30953678 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2019.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Revised: 03/25/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
A recent push to provide more translationally relevant preclinical models for examination of pharmacological mechanisms underlying inhaled substances of abuse has resulted in the development of equipment and methods that allows exposure of freely moving rodents to aerosolized psychoactive drugs. In the present study, synthetic cannabinoids (CP55,940, AB-CHMINACA, and AMB-FUBINACA) were administered intraperitoneally (i.p.) or aerosolized via a modified electronic cigarette device. Subsequently, the compounds were evaluated in adult male and female C57/Bl6 mice trained to discriminate i.p. 5.6 mg/kg Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) for food reinforcement. When administered i.p., THC and AB-CHMINACA were equally potent at producing THC-like effects in both sexes, but CP55,940 and AMB-FUBINACA were more potent in males. Upon aerosol exposure, all compounds continued to produce THC-like effects in both sexes, with AMB-FUBINACA remaining the most potent. In contrast, aerosolized CP55,940 showed substantial decreases in potency in both sexes. Aerosolized nicotine did not substitute for THC in either sex. In females, aerosolized cumyl-4CN-BINACA produced concentration-dependent increases in responding on the THC-associated nosepoke. In addition, the effects of an active concentration of AMB-FUBINACA were reversed by rimonabant, suggesting CB1 receptor mediation. These results show that synthetic cannabinoids produce THC-like effects when injected i.p. or after aerosolization. This study adds to a growing literature suggesting that evaluation of abuse liability of substances via aerosol exposure is feasible and may provide a translationally relevant method that allows for investigation of factors important to the abuse of drugs which humans typically smoke or vape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny L Wiley
- RTI International, 3040 E. Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, 27709, NC, USA.
| | - Timothy W Lefever
- RTI International, 3040 E. Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, 27709, NC, USA
| | - Michelle Glass
- University of Otago, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Brian F Thomas
- RTI International, 3040 E. Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, 27709, NC, USA
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Borsoi M, Manduca A, Bara A, Lassalle O, Pelissier-Alicot AL, Manzoni OJ. Sex Differences in the Behavioral and Synaptic Consequences of a Single in vivo Exposure to the Synthetic Cannabimimetic WIN55,212-2 at Puberty and Adulthood. Front Behav Neurosci 2019; 13:23. [PMID: 30890922 PMCID: PMC6411818 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2019.00023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Heavy cannabis consumption among adolescents is associated with significant and lasting neurobiological, psychological and health consequences that depend on the age of first use. Chronic exposure to cannabinoid agonists during the perinatal period or adolescence alters social behavior and prefrontal cortex (PFC) activity in adult rats. However, sex differences on social behavior as well as PFC synaptic plasticity after acute cannabinoid activation remain poorly explored. Here, we determined that the consequences of a single in vivo exposure to the synthetic cannabimimetic WIN55,212-2 differently affected PFC neuronal and synaptic functions after 24 h in male and female rats during the pubertal and adulthood periods. During puberty, single cannabinoid exposure (SCE) reduced play behavior in females but not males. In contrast, the same treatment impaired sociability in both sexes at adulthood. General exploration and memory recognition remained normal at both ages and both sexes. At the synaptic level, SCE ablated endocannabinoid-mediated synaptic plasticity in the PFC of females of both ages and heightened excitability of PFC pyramidal neurons at adulthood, while males were spared. In contrast, cannabinoid exposure was associated with impaired long-term potentiation (LTP) specifically in adult males. Together, these data indicate behavioral and synaptic sex differences in response to a single in vivo exposure to cannabinoid at puberty and adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milene Borsoi
- Aix Marseille Université, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Institut de Neurobiologie de la Méditerranée (INMED), Marseille, France.,Cannalab, Cannabinoids Neuroscience Research International Associated Laboratory, INSERM-Indiana University, Marseille, France
| | - Antonia Manduca
- Aix Marseille Université, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Institut de Neurobiologie de la Méditerranée (INMED), Marseille, France.,Cannalab, Cannabinoids Neuroscience Research International Associated Laboratory, INSERM-Indiana University, Marseille, France
| | - Anissa Bara
- Aix Marseille Université, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Institut de Neurobiologie de la Méditerranée (INMED), Marseille, France.,Cannalab, Cannabinoids Neuroscience Research International Associated Laboratory, INSERM-Indiana University, Marseille, France
| | - Olivier Lassalle
- Aix Marseille Université, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Institut de Neurobiologie de la Méditerranée (INMED), Marseille, France.,Cannalab, Cannabinoids Neuroscience Research International Associated Laboratory, INSERM-Indiana University, Marseille, France
| | - Anne-Laure Pelissier-Alicot
- Aix Marseille Université, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Institut de Neurobiologie de la Méditerranée (INMED), Marseille, France.,Cannalab, Cannabinoids Neuroscience Research International Associated Laboratory, INSERM-Indiana University, Marseille, France.,Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Marseille (APHM), CHU Conception, Service de Psychiatrie, Marseille, France.,Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Marseille (APHM), CHU Timone Adultes, Service de Médecine Légale, Marseille, France
| | - Olivier J Manzoni
- Aix Marseille Université, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Institut de Neurobiologie de la Méditerranée (INMED), Marseille, France.,Cannalab, Cannabinoids Neuroscience Research International Associated Laboratory, INSERM-Indiana University, Marseille, France
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Struik D, Sanna F, Fattore L. The Modulating Role of Sex and Anabolic-Androgenic Steroid Hormones in Cannabinoid Sensitivity. Front Behav Neurosci 2018; 12:249. [PMID: 30416437 PMCID: PMC6212868 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2018.00249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis is the most commonly used illicit drug worldwide. Although its use is associated with multiple adverse health effects, including the risk of developing addiction, recreational and medical cannabis use is being increasing legalized. In addition, use of synthetic cannabinoid drugs is gaining considerable popularity and is associated with mass poisonings and occasional deaths. Delineating factors involved in cannabis use and addiction therefore becomes increasingly important. Similarly to other drugs of abuse, the prevalence of cannabis use and addiction differs remarkably between males and females, suggesting that sex plays a role in regulating cannabinoid sensitivity. Although it remains unclear how sex may affect the initiation and maintenance of cannabis use in humans, animal studies strongly suggest that endogenous sex hormones modulate cannabinoid sensitivity. In addition, synthetic anabolic-androgenic steroids alter substance use and further support the importance of sex steroids in controlling drug sensitivity. The recent discovery that pregnenolone, the precursor of all steroid hormones, controls cannabinoid receptor activation corroborates the link between steroid hormones and the endocannabinoid system. This article reviews the literature regarding the influence of endogenous and synthetic steroid hormones on the endocannabinoid system and cannabinoid action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dicky Struik
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari - Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Sanna
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari - Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Liana Fattore
- CNR Institute of Neuroscience-Cagliari, National Research Council, Rome, Italy
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35
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Barrus DG, Lefever TW, Wiley JL. Evaluation of reinforcing and aversive effects of voluntary Δ 9-tetrahydrocannabinol ingestion in rats. Neuropharmacology 2018; 137:133-140. [PMID: 29758385 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2018] [Revised: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 04/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Edible cannabis-infused products are an increasingly popular method of using cannabis in the United States. Yet, preclinical research to determine mechanisms underlying abuse of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive constituent of cannabis, has focused primarily on the effects of parenteral administration. The purpose of this study was to examine the rewarding and aversive effects of oral THC in a novel rodent voluntary ingestion model. Adult male and female Sprague Dawley rats were given access to sucrose-sweetened solutions during daily sessions. A range of THC concentrations, each paired with a unique flavor previously tested alone, was introduced into these solutions for four-session exposure periods and drinking volumes were measured. Injected (i.p.) THC doses were also paired with unique flavors to compare the effects of route of THC administration on drinking. Introduction of THC into sucrose solutions dose-dependently decreased drinking upon initial exposure, though drinking generally increased in subsequent sessions. By contrast, i.p. THC produced sustained dose-dependent decreases in drinking in rats of both sexes. Subsequent exposure to paired flavors in the absence of THC resulted in further decreases in drinking, suggesting route-specific aversion. Additional testing using saccharin-sweetened solutions in a two-bottle choice paradigm was also conducted, with THC producing sustained dose-dependent decreases in drinking after initial exposure in rats of both sexes. Though self-administration of ingested THC was not demonstrated, evidence of route-specific THC aversion was observed, which suggests that certain routes and/or rates of THC administration may mitigate some of its aversive effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel G Barrus
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Timothy W Lefever
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Jenny L Wiley
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA.
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36
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Short-Term Genetic Selection for Adolescent Locomotor Sensitivity to Delta9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Behav Genet 2018; 48:224-235. [PMID: 29550900 DOI: 10.1007/s10519-018-9894-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2017] [Accepted: 03/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis use is linked to positive and negative outcomes. Identifying genetic targets of susceptibility to the negative effects of cannabinoid use is of growing importance. The current study sought to complete short-term selective breeding for adolescent sensitivity and resistance to the locomotor effects of a single 10 mg/kg THC dose in the open field. Selection for THC-locomotor sensitivity was moderately heritable, with the greatest estimates of heritability seen in females from the F2 to S3 generations. Selection for locomotor sensitivity also resulted in increased anxiety-like activity in the open field. These results are the first to indicate that adolescent THC-locomotor sensitivity can be influenced via selective breeding. Development of lines with a genetic predisposition for THC-sensitivity or resistance to locomotor effects allow for investigation of risk factors, differences in consequences of THC use, identification of correlated behavioral responses, and detection of genetic targets that may contribute to heightened cannabinoid sensitivity.
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37
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Evaluating the abuse potential of psychedelic drugs as part of the safety pharmacology assessment for medical use in humans. Neuropharmacology 2018; 142:89-115. [PMID: 29427652 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.01.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2017] [Revised: 01/07/2018] [Accepted: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Psychedelics comprise drugs come from various pharmacological classes including 5-HT2A agonists, indirect 5-HT agonists, e.g., MDMA, NMDA antagonists and κ-opioid receptor agonists. There is resurgence in developing psychedelics to treat psychiatric disorders with high unmet clinical need. Many, but not all, psychedelics are schedule 1 controlled drugs (CDs), i.e., no approved medical use. For existing psychedelics in development, regulatory approval will require a move from schedule 1 to a CD schedule for drugs with medical use, i.e., schedules 2-5. Although abuse of the psychedelics is well documented, a systematic preclinical and clinical evaluation of the risks they pose in a medical-use setting does not exist. We describe the non-clinical tests required for a regulatory evaluation of abuse/dependence risks, i.e., drug-discrimination, intravenous self-administration and physical dependence liability. A synopsis of the existing data for the various types of psychedelics is provided and we describe our findings with psychedelic drugs in these models. FDA recently issued its guidance on abuse/dependence evaluation of drug-candidates (CDER/FDA, 2017). We critically review the guidance, discuss the impact this document will have on non-clinical abuse/dependence testing, and offer advice on how non-clinical abuse/dependence experiments can be designed to meet not only the expectations of FDA, but also other regulatory agencies. Finally, we offer views on how these non-clinical tests can be refined to provide more meaningful information to aid the assessment of the risks posed by CNS drug-candidates for abuse and physical dependence. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Psychedelics: New Doors, Altered Perceptions'.
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Cooper ZD, Craft RM. Sex-Dependent Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids: A Translational Perspective. Neuropsychopharmacology 2018; 43:34-51. [PMID: 28811670 PMCID: PMC5719093 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2017.140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 201] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2017] [Revised: 06/14/2017] [Accepted: 06/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Recent policy changes have led to significant increases in the use of cannabis for both medical and recreational purposes. Although men are more likely to endorse past month cannabis use and are more frequently diagnosed with Cannabis Use Disorder relative to women, a growing proportion of medical cannabis users are reported to be women. The increased popularity of cannabis for medical purposes and the narrowing gap in prevalence of use between men and women raises questions regarding sex-dependent effects related to therapeutic efficacy and negative health effects of cannabis and cannabinoids. The objective of this review is to provide a translational perspective on the sex-dependent effects of cannabis and cannabinoids by synthesizing findings from preclinical and clinical studies focused on sex comparisons of their therapeutic potential and abuse liability, two specific areas that are of significant public health relevance. Hormonal and pharmacological mechanisms that may underlie sex differences in the effects of cannabis and cannabinoids are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziva D Cooper
- Division on Substance Abuse, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rebecca M Craft
- Department of Psychology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
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Cooper ZD, Poklis JL, Liu F. Methodology for controlled administration of smoked synthetic cannabinoids JWH-018 and JWH-073. Neuropharmacology 2017; 134:92-100. [PMID: 29146503 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.11.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2017] [Revised: 11/08/2017] [Accepted: 11/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) are a significant public health concern given their widespread use and severe effects associated with intoxication. However, there is a paucity of controlled human studies investigating the behavioral and physiological effects and pharmacokinetics of these compounds. Designing a reliable method to administer consistent, concentration-dependent synthetic cannabinoids is an integral component of controlled study of these compounds. Further, optimizing methods to assess the parent compounds and metabolites in plasma is critical in order to be able to establish their pharmacokinetics after administration. To develop a reliable method to administer smokable, concentration-dependent SCs, cigarettes were prepared with plant matter adulterated with increasing concentrations of the first generation cannabinoids found in SC products, JWH-018 and JWH-073. Cigarettes were assessed 1-6 months after preparation using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) to determine compound stability over time and concentration consistency throughout the cigarettes. Optimal conditions to detect metabolites in human plasma as a function of storage temperature (-4 °C to -80 °C) and time (24 h - 1 month) were also determined. Analyses verified that the method utilized to develop SC cigarettes yielded consistent, concentration-dependent products within 25% of the expected concentrations. JWH-018, JWH-073 and metabolites in spiked plasma were stable under the time and temperature conditions; concentrations were within ±20% of target values. These studies provide techniques and methods to conduct controlled investigations of the dose-dependent effects of first generation SCs to begin understanding risks associated with use. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Designer Drugs and Legal Highs.'
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziva D Cooper
- Division on Substance Abuse, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Medical Center, USA.
| | - Justin L Poklis
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, USA
| | - Fei Liu
- Vanderbilt University Institute of Imaging Science, Vanderbilt University, USA
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40
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Abstract
Purpose of the Review Cannabis is the most commonly used illicit substance worldwide. In recent decades, highly concentrated products have flooded the market, and prevalence rates have increased. Gender differences exist in cannabis use, as men have higher prevalence of both cannabis use and cannabis use disorder (CUD), while women progress more rapidly from first use to CUD. This paper reviews findings from preclinical and human studies examining the sex-specific neurobiological underpinnings of cannabis use and CUD, and associations with psychiatric symptoms. Recent Findings Sex differences exist in the endocannabinoid system, in cannabis exposure effects on brain structure and function, and in the co-occurrence of cannabis use with symptoms of anxiety, depression and schizophrenia. In female cannabis users, anxiety symptoms correlate with larger amygdala volume and social anxiety disorder symptoms correlate with CUD symptoms. Female cannabis users are reported to be especially vulnerable to earlier onset of schizophrenia, and mixed trends emerge in the correlation of depressive symptoms with cannabis exposure in females and males. Summary As prevalence of cannabis use may continue to increase given the shifting policy landscape regarding marijuana laws, understanding the neurobiological mechanisms of cannabis exposure in females and males is key. Examining these mechanisms may help inform future research on sex-specific pharmacological and behavioral interventions for women and men with high-risk cannabis use, comorbid psychiatric disease, and CUD.
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Longworth M, Banister SD, Boyd R, Kevin RC, Connor M, McGregor IS, Kassiou M. Pharmacology of Cumyl-Carboxamide Synthetic Cannabinoid New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) CUMYL-BICA, CUMYL-PICA, CUMYL-5F-PICA, CUMYL-5F-PINACA, and Their Analogues. ACS Chem Neurosci 2017; 8:2159-2167. [PMID: 28792725 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.7b00267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids (SC) are the largest class of new psychoactive substances (NPS), and are increasingly associated with serious adverse effects. The majority of SC NPS are 1,3-disubstituted indoles and indazoles featuring a diversity of subunits at the 1- and 3-positions. Most recently, cumyl-derived indole- and indazole-3-carboxamides have been detected by law enforcement agencies and by emergency departments. Herein we describe the synthesis, characterization, and pharmacology of SCs CUMYL-BICA, CUMYL-PICA, CUMYL-5F-PICA, CUMYL-PINACA, CUMYL-5F-PINACA, and related analogues. All cumyl-derived SCs were potent, efficacious agonists at CB1 (EC50 = 0.43-12.3 nM) and CB2 (EC50 = 11.3-122 nM) receptors in a fluorometric assay of membrane potential, with selectivity for CB1 activation (3.1-53 times over CB2). CUMYL-PICA and CUMYL-5F-PICA were evaluated in rats using biotelemetry, and induced hypothermia and bradycardia at doses of 1 mg/kg. Hypothermia was reversed by pretreatment with a CB1, but not CB2, antagonist, confirming that cumyl-derived SCs are cannabimimetic in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell Longworth
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Samuel D. Banister
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Rochelle Boyd
- Department
of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Richard C. Kevin
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Mark Connor
- Department
of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Iain S. McGregor
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Michael Kassiou
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
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Thomas BF, Lefever TW, Cortes RA, Grabenauer M, Kovach AL, Cox AO, Patel PR, Pollard GT, Marusich JA, Kevin RC, Gamage TF, Wiley JL. Thermolytic Degradation of Synthetic Cannabinoids: Chemical Exposures and Pharmacological Consequences. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2017; 361:162-171. [PMID: 28087785 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.116.238717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2016] [Accepted: 01/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids are manufactured clandestinely with little quality control and are distributed as herbal "spice" for smoking or as bulk compound for mixing with a solvent and inhalation via electronic vaporizers. Intoxication with synthetic cannabinoids has been associated with seizure, excited delirium, coma, kidney damage, and other disorders. The chemical alterations produced by heating these structurally novel compounds for consumption are largely unknown. Here, we show that heating synthetic cannabinoids containing tetramethylcyclopropyl-ring substituents produced thermal degradants with pharmacological activity that varied considerably from their parent compounds. Moreover, these degradants were formed under conditions simulating smoking. Some products of combustion retained high affinity at the cannabinoid 1 (CB1) and CB2 receptors, were more efficacious than (-)-cis-3-[2-hydroxy-4-(1,1-dimethylheptyl)phenyl]-trans-4-(3-hydroxypropyl)cyclohexanol (CP55,940) in stimulating CB1 receptor-mediated guanosine 5'-O-(3-thiotriphosphate) (GTPγS) binding, and were potent in producing Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol-like effects in laboratory animals, whereas other compounds had low affinity and efficacy and were devoid of cannabimimetic activity. Degradants that retained affinity and efficacy also substituted in drug discrimination tests for the prototypical synthetic cannabinoid 1-pentyl-3-(1-naphthoyl)indole (JWH-018), and are likely to produce psychotropic effects in humans. Hence, it is important to take into consideration the actual chemical exposures that occur during use of synthetic cannabinoid formulations to better comprehend the relationships between dose and effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian F Thomas
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (B.F.T., T.W.L., R.A.C., M.G., A.L.K., A.O.C, P.R.P, J.A.M, T.F.G, J.L.W.); Howard Associates, LLC, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (G.T.P.); and School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia (R.C.K.)
| | - Timothy W Lefever
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (B.F.T., T.W.L., R.A.C., M.G., A.L.K., A.O.C, P.R.P, J.A.M, T.F.G, J.L.W.); Howard Associates, LLC, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (G.T.P.); and School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia (R.C.K.)
| | - Ricardo A Cortes
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (B.F.T., T.W.L., R.A.C., M.G., A.L.K., A.O.C, P.R.P, J.A.M, T.F.G, J.L.W.); Howard Associates, LLC, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (G.T.P.); and School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia (R.C.K.)
| | - Megan Grabenauer
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (B.F.T., T.W.L., R.A.C., M.G., A.L.K., A.O.C, P.R.P, J.A.M, T.F.G, J.L.W.); Howard Associates, LLC, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (G.T.P.); and School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia (R.C.K.)
| | - Alexander L Kovach
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (B.F.T., T.W.L., R.A.C., M.G., A.L.K., A.O.C, P.R.P, J.A.M, T.F.G, J.L.W.); Howard Associates, LLC, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (G.T.P.); and School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia (R.C.K.)
| | - Anderson O Cox
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (B.F.T., T.W.L., R.A.C., M.G., A.L.K., A.O.C, P.R.P, J.A.M, T.F.G, J.L.W.); Howard Associates, LLC, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (G.T.P.); and School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia (R.C.K.)
| | - Purvi R Patel
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (B.F.T., T.W.L., R.A.C., M.G., A.L.K., A.O.C, P.R.P, J.A.M, T.F.G, J.L.W.); Howard Associates, LLC, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (G.T.P.); and School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia (R.C.K.)
| | - Gerald T Pollard
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (B.F.T., T.W.L., R.A.C., M.G., A.L.K., A.O.C, P.R.P, J.A.M, T.F.G, J.L.W.); Howard Associates, LLC, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (G.T.P.); and School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia (R.C.K.)
| | - Julie A Marusich
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (B.F.T., T.W.L., R.A.C., M.G., A.L.K., A.O.C, P.R.P, J.A.M, T.F.G, J.L.W.); Howard Associates, LLC, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (G.T.P.); and School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia (R.C.K.)
| | - Richard C Kevin
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (B.F.T., T.W.L., R.A.C., M.G., A.L.K., A.O.C, P.R.P, J.A.M, T.F.G, J.L.W.); Howard Associates, LLC, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (G.T.P.); and School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia (R.C.K.)
| | - Thomas F Gamage
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (B.F.T., T.W.L., R.A.C., M.G., A.L.K., A.O.C, P.R.P, J.A.M, T.F.G, J.L.W.); Howard Associates, LLC, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (G.T.P.); and School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia (R.C.K.)
| | - Jenny L Wiley
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (B.F.T., T.W.L., R.A.C., M.G., A.L.K., A.O.C, P.R.P, J.A.M, T.F.G, J.L.W.); Howard Associates, LLC, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (G.T.P.); and School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia (R.C.K.)
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43
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Weinstein AM, Rosca P, Fattore L, London ED. Synthetic Cathinone and Cannabinoid Designer Drugs Pose a Major Risk for Public Health. Front Psychiatry 2017; 8:156. [PMID: 28878698 PMCID: PMC5572353 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2017.00156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2017] [Accepted: 08/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
As part of an increasing worldwide use of designer drugs, recent use of compounds containing cathinones and synthetic cannabinoids is especially prevalent. Here, we reviewed current literature on the prevalence, epidemiology, bio-behavioral effects, and detection of these compounds. Gender differences and clinical effects will also be examined. Chronic use of synthetic cathinone compounds can have major effects on the central nervous system and can induce acute psychosis, hypomania, paranoid ideation, and delusions, similar to the effects of other better-known amphetamine-type stimulants. Synthetic cannabinoid products have effects that are somewhat similar to those of natural cannabis but more potent and long-lasting than THC. Some of these compounds are potent and dangerous, having been linked to psychosis, mania, and suicidal ideation. Novel compounds are developed rapidly and new screening techniques are needed to detect them as well as a rigorous regulation and legislation reinforcement to prevent their distribution and use. Given the rapid increase in the use of synthetic cathinones and cannabinoid designer drugs, their potential for dependence and abuse, and harmful medical and psychiatric effects, there is a need for research and education in the areas of prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aviv M Weinstein
- Department of Behavioral Science, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Paola Rosca
- Department for the Treatment of Substance Abuse, Ministry of Health, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Liana Fattore
- Institute of Neuroscience-Cagliari, National Research Council of Italy, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Edythe D London
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Brain Research Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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