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Martínez-Rodríguez TY, Valdés-Miramontes EH, Muñoz-Valle JF, Reyes-Castillo Z. Genetic Evidence of Endocannabinoid System on Perceived Stress and Restricted Food Intake: The Role of Variants rs324420 in FAAH Gene and rs1049353 in CNR1 Gene. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2024. [PMID: 38968406 DOI: 10.1089/can.2024.0077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is active in brain regions involved in stress, food intake, and emotional regulation. The CB1 receptor and the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) enzyme regulate the ECS. Genetic variants in the FAAH gene (rs324420) and in the CNR1 gene (rs1049353) have been involved in both chronic stress and obesity. As a maladaptive strategy to evade the stress, three dysfunctional eating patterns may appear: cognitive restriction, disinhibition, and emotional eating. Aim: To evaluate the association of variants rs324420 in the FAAH gene and rs1049353 in the CNR1 gene with perceived stress, dysfunctional eating patterns, and anthropometric and body composition variables. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 189 participants from western Mexico. The Spanish version of the Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire and the Perceived Stress Scale were applied. Genotyping was performed with TaqMan® probes. Results: It was found that subjects with CA/AA genotypes in FAAH had a higher risk of presenting high scores in stress perception than CC genotype carriers (odds ratio [OR] 1.85, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.007-3.339; p = 0.048); in addition, the CC genotype of this genetic variant was related to higher body weight and body fat, but no association was found with dysfunctional eating patterns. As for the CNR1 single-nucleotide polymorphism, this variant showed no significant association with stress perception scores, but subjects with GA/AA genotypes in CNR1 had a lower risk of presenting high scores of restriction in food intake compared with GG genotype carriers (OR 0.11, 95% CI 0.046-0.322; p < 0.001). Therefore, this study suggests a differential role of the ECS genes FAAH and CNR1 in perceived stress and dysfunctional eating patterns, respectively. Further studies in other populations are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Yadira Martínez-Rodríguez
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Comportamiento Alimentario y Nutrición, Centro Universitario del Sur, Universidad de Guadalajara, Zapotlán el Grande, México
| | - Elia H Valdés-Miramontes
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Comportamiento Alimentario y Nutrición, Centro Universitario del Sur, Universidad de Guadalajara, Zapotlán el Grande, México
| | - José Francisco Muñoz-Valle
- Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias Biomédicas, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, México
| | - Zyanya Reyes-Castillo
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Comportamiento Alimentario y Nutrición, Centro Universitario del Sur, Universidad de Guadalajara, Zapotlán el Grande, México
- Laboratorio de Biomedicina y Biotecnología para la Salud, Centro Universitario del Sur, Universidad de Guadalajara, Zapotlán el Grande, México
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Desai S, Zundel CG, Evanski JM, Gowatch LC, Bhogal A, Ely S, Carpenter C, Shampine M, O'Mara E, Rabinak CA, Marusak HA. Genetic variation in endocannabinoid signaling: Anxiety, depression, and threat- and reward-related brain functioning during the transition into adolescence. Behav Brain Res 2024; 463:114925. [PMID: 38423255 PMCID: PMC10977105 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2024.114925] [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: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The endocannabinoid system modulates neural activity throughout the lifespan. In adults, neuroimaging studies link a common genetic variant in fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH C385A)-an enzyme that regulates endocannabinoid signaling-to reduced risk of anxiety and depression, and altered threat- and reward-related neural activity. However, limited research has investigated these associations during the transition into adolescence, a period of substantial neurodevelopment and increased psychopathology risk. METHODS This study included FAAH genotype and longitudinal neuroimaging and neurobehavioral data from 4811 youth (46% female; 9-11 years at Baseline, 11-13 years at Year 2) from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive DevelopmentSM Study. Linear mixed models examined the effects of FAAH and the FAAH x time interaction on anxiety and depressive symptoms, amygdala reactivity to threatening faces, and nucleus accumbens (NAcc) response to happy faces during the emotional n-back task. RESULTS A significant main effect of FAAH on depressive symptoms was observed, such that depressive symptoms were lower across both timepoints in those with the AA genotype compared to both AC and CC genotypes (p's<0.05). There were no significant FAAH x time interactions for anxiety, depression, or neural responses (p's>0.05). Additionally, there were no main effects of FAAH on anxiety or neural responses (p's>0.05). CONCLUSIONS Our findings add to emerging evidence linking the FAAH C385A variant to lower risk of psychopathology, and extend these findings to a developmental sample. In particular, we found lower depressive symptoms in FAAH AA genotypes compared to AC and CC genotypes. Future research is needed to characterize the role of the FAAH variant and the eCB system more broadly in neurodevelopment and psychiatric risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shreya Desai
- Dept. of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, USA
| | - Clara G Zundel
- Dept. of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, USA
| | - Julia M Evanski
- Dept. of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, USA
| | - Leah C Gowatch
- Dept. of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, USA
| | - Amanpreet Bhogal
- Dept. of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, USA
| | - Samantha Ely
- Dept. of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, USA
| | - Carmen Carpenter
- Dept. of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, USA
| | - MacKenna Shampine
- Dept. of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, USA
| | - Emilie O'Mara
- Dept. of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, USA
| | - Christine A Rabinak
- Dept. of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, USA; Dept. of Pharmacy Practice, Wayne State University, USA
| | - Hilary A Marusak
- Dept. of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, USA; Dept. of Pharmacology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, USA; Merrill Palmer Skillman Institute for Child and Family Development, Wayne State University, USA.
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3
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Bottiroli S, Greco R, Franco V, Zanaboni A, Palmisani M, Vaghi G, Sances G, De Icco R, Tassorelli C. Peripheral Endocannabinoid Components and Lipid Plasma Levels in Patients with Resistant Migraine and Co-Morbid Personality and Psychological Disorders: A Cross-Sectional Study. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1893. [PMID: 38339171 PMCID: PMC10855606 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031893] [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: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Resistant migraine characterizes those patients who have failed at least three classes of migraine prophylaxis. These difficult-to-treat patients are likely to be characterized by a high prevalence of psychological disturbances. A dysfunction of the endocannabinoid system (ECS), including alteration in the levels of endocannabinoid congeners, may underlie several psychiatric disorders and the pathogenesis of migraines. Here we explored whether the peripheral gene expression of major components of the ECS and the plasma levels of endocannabinoids and related lipids are associated with psychological disorders in resistant migraine. Fifty-one patients (age = 46.0 ± 11.7) with resistant migraine received a comprehensive psychological evaluation according to the DSM-5 criteria. Among the patients, 61% had personality disorders (PD) and 61% had mood disorders (MD). Several associations were found between these psychological disorders and peripheral ECS alterations. Lower plasma levels of palmitoiletanolamide (PEA) were found in the PD group compared with the non-PD group. The MD group was characterized by lower mRNA levels of diacylglycerol lipase α (DAGLα) and CB2 (cannabinoid-2) receptor. The results suggest the existence of peripheral dysfunction in some components of the ECS and an alteration in plasma levels of PEA in patients with resistant migraine and mood or personality disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Bottiroli
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (S.B.); (A.Z.); (G.V.); (R.D.I.); (C.T.)
- Headache Science and Neurorehabilitation Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (V.F.); (M.P.); (G.S.)
| | - Rosaria Greco
- Headache Science and Neurorehabilitation Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (V.F.); (M.P.); (G.S.)
| | - Valentina Franco
- Headache Science and Neurorehabilitation Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (V.F.); (M.P.); (G.S.)
- Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Annamaria Zanaboni
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (S.B.); (A.Z.); (G.V.); (R.D.I.); (C.T.)
- Headache Science and Neurorehabilitation Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (V.F.); (M.P.); (G.S.)
| | - Michela Palmisani
- Headache Science and Neurorehabilitation Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (V.F.); (M.P.); (G.S.)
- Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Gloria Vaghi
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (S.B.); (A.Z.); (G.V.); (R.D.I.); (C.T.)
- Headache Science and Neurorehabilitation Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (V.F.); (M.P.); (G.S.)
| | - Grazia Sances
- Headache Science and Neurorehabilitation Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (V.F.); (M.P.); (G.S.)
| | - Roberto De Icco
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (S.B.); (A.Z.); (G.V.); (R.D.I.); (C.T.)
- Headache Science and Neurorehabilitation Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (V.F.); (M.P.); (G.S.)
| | - Cristina Tassorelli
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (S.B.); (A.Z.); (G.V.); (R.D.I.); (C.T.)
- Headache Science and Neurorehabilitation Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (V.F.); (M.P.); (G.S.)
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4
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Rullo L, Losapio LM, Morosini C, Mottarlini F, Schiavi S, Buzzelli V, Ascone F, Ciccocioppo R, Fattore L, Caffino L, Fumagalli F, Romualdi P, Trezza V, Candeletti S. Outcomes of early social experiences on glucocorticoid and endocannabinoid systems in the prefrontal cortex of male and female adolescent rats. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1270195. [PMID: 38174157 PMCID: PMC10762649 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1270195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Social and emotional experiences differently shape individual's neurodevelopment inducing substantial changes in neurobiological substrates and behavior, particularly when they occur early in life. In this scenario, the present study was aimed at (i) investigating the impact of early social environments on emotional reactivity of adolescent male and female rats and (ii) uncovering the underlying molecular features, focusing on the cortical endocannabinoid (eCB) and glucocorticoid systems. To this aim, we applied a protocol of environmental manipulation based on early postnatal socially enriched or impoverished conditions. Social enrichment was realized through communal nesting (CN). Conversely, an early social isolation (ESI) protocol was applied (post-natal days 14-21) to mimic an adverse early social environment. The two forms of social manipulation resulted in specific behavioral and molecular outcomes in both male and female rat offspring. Despite the combination of CN and ESI did not affect emotional reactivity in both sexes, the molecular results reveal that the preventive exposure to CN differently altered mRNA and protein expression of the main components of the glucocorticoid and eCB systems in male and female rats. In particular, adolescent females exposed to the combination of CN and ESI showed increased corticosterone levels, unaltered genomic glucocorticoid receptor, reduced cannabinoid receptor type-1 and fatty acid amide hydrolase protein levels, suggesting that the CN condition evokes different reorganization of these systems in males and females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Rullo
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Loredana Maria Losapio
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Camilla Morosini
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesca Mottarlini
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences “Rodolfo Paoletti,” Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Schiavi
- Section of Biomedical Sciences and Technologies, Department of Science, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Buzzelli
- Section of Biomedical Sciences and Technologies, Department of Science, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Ascone
- Section of Biomedical Sciences and Technologies, Department of Science, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Ciccocioppo
- School of Pharmacy, Center for Neuroscience, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Liana Fattore
- CNR Institute of Neuroscience-Cagliari, National Research Council, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Lucia Caffino
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences “Rodolfo Paoletti,” Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabio Fumagalli
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences “Rodolfo Paoletti,” Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Patrizia Romualdi
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Viviana Trezza
- Section of Biomedical Sciences and Technologies, Department of Science, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
| | - Sanzio Candeletti
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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5
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Silva HH, Tavares V, Neto BV, Cerqueira F, Medeiros R, Silva MRG. FAAH rs324420 Polymorphism: Biological Pathways, Impact on Elite Athletic Performance and Insights for Sport Medicine. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1946. [PMID: 37895295 PMCID: PMC10606937 DOI: 10.3390/genes14101946] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene variation linked to physiological functions is recognised to affect elite athletic performance by modulating training and competition-enabling behaviour. The fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) has been investigated as a good candidate for drug targeting, and recently, its single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs324420 was reported to be associated with athletic performance. Given the implications, the biological pathways of this genetic polymorphism linked to elite athletic performance, considering sport type, psychological traits and sports injuries, need to be dissected. Thus, a narrative review of the literature concerning the biological mechanisms of this SNP was undertaken. In addition to its role in athletic performance, FAAH rs324420 is also involved in important mechanisms underlying human psychopathologies, including substance abuse and neural dysfunctions. However, cumulative evidence concerning the C385A variant is inconsistent. Therefore, validation studies considering homogeneous sports modalities are required to better define the role of this SNP in elite athletic performance and its impact on stress coping, pain regulation and inflammation control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo-Henrique Silva
- ICBAS-Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Portuguese Ministry of Education, 1399-025 Lisbon, Portugal
- Leixões Sport Clube, Senior Female Volleyball Team, 4450-277 Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - Valéria Tavares
- ICBAS-Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; (B.V.N.); (F.C.)
- FMUP-Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
| | - Beatriz Vieira Neto
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; (B.V.N.); (F.C.)
- LPCC, Research Department-Portuguese League Against Cancer (LPPC-NRN), 4200-172 Porto, Portugal
| | - Fátima Cerqueira
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; (B.V.N.); (F.C.)
- FP-I3ID, FP-BHS, CEBIMED and Faculty of Health Sciences, University Fernando Pessoa, 4200-150 Porto, Portugal;
- CIIMAR/CIMAR, Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, 4450-208 Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - Rui Medeiros
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; (B.V.N.); (F.C.)
- FMUP-Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
- LPCC, Research Department-Portuguese League Against Cancer (LPPC-NRN), 4200-172 Porto, Portugal
- FP-I3ID, FP-BHS, CEBIMED and Faculty of Health Sciences, University Fernando Pessoa, 4200-150 Porto, Portugal;
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Department, Clinical Pathology SVIPO Porto Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria-Raquel G. Silva
- FP-I3ID, FP-BHS, CEBIMED and Faculty of Health Sciences, University Fernando Pessoa, 4200-150 Porto, Portugal;
- CIAS-Research Centre for Anthropology and Health-Human Biology, Health and Society, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
- CHRC-Comprehensive Health Research Centre, Nova Medical School, Nova University of Lisbon, 1150-090 Lisboa, Portugal
- Scientific Committee of the Gymnastics Federation of Portugal, 1600-159 Lisboa, Portugal
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6
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Bornscheuer L, Lundin A, Forsell Y, Lavebratt C, Melas PA. Functional Variation in the FAAH Gene Is Directly Associated with Subjective Well-Being and Indirectly Associated with Problematic Alcohol Use. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1826. [PMID: 37761966 PMCID: PMC10530831 DOI: 10.3390/genes14091826] [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: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) is an enzyme that degrades anandamide, an endocannabinoid that modulates mesolimbic dopamine release and, consequently, influences states of well-being. Despite these known interactions, the specific role of FAAH in subjective well-being remains underexplored. Since well-being is a dynamic trait that can fluctuate over time, we hypothesized that we could provide deeper insights into the link between FAAH and well-being using longitudinal data. To this end, we analyzed well-being data collected three years apart using the WHO (Ten) Well-Being Index and genotyped a functional polymorphism in the FAAH gene (rs324420, Pro129Thr) in a sample of 2822 individuals. We found that the A-allele of rs324420, which results in reduced FAAH activity and elevated anandamide levels, was associated with lower well-being scores at both time points (Wave I, B: -0.52, p = 0.007; Wave II, B: -0.41, p = 0.03, adjusted for age and sex). A subsequent phenome-wide association study (PheWAS) affirmed our well-being findings in the UK Biobank (N = 126,132, alternative C-allele associated with elevated happiness, p = 0.008) and revealed an additional association with alcohol dependence. In our cohort, using lagged longitudinal mediation analyses, we uncovered evidence of an indirect association between rs324420 and problematic alcohol use (AUDIT-P) through the pathway of lower well-being (indirect effect Boot: 0.015, 95% CI [0.003, 0.030], adjusted for AUDIT in Wave I). We propose that chronically elevated anandamide levels might influence disruptions in the endocannabinoid system-a biological contributor to well-being-which could, in turn, contribute to increased alcohol intake, though multiple factors may be at play. Further genetic studies and mediation analyses are needed to validate and extend these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Bornscheuer
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Stockholm University, 10691 Stockholm, Sweden;
| | - Andreas Lundin
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden; (A.L.); (Y.F.)
| | - Yvonne Forsell
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden; (A.L.); (Y.F.)
| | - Catharina Lavebratt
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, 17176 Stockholm, Sweden;
- Center for Molecular Medicine, L8:00, Karolinska University Hospital, 17176 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Philippe A. Melas
- Center for Molecular Medicine, L8:00, Karolinska University Hospital, 17176 Stockholm, Sweden
- Center for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, 11364 Stockholm, Sweden
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7
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Coelho A, Lima-Bastos S, Gobira P, Lisboa S. Endocannabinoid signaling and epigenetics modifications in the neurobiology of stress-related disorders. Neuronal Signal 2023; 7:NS20220034. [PMID: 37520658 PMCID: PMC10372471 DOI: 10.1042/ns20220034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Stress exposure is associated with psychiatric conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It is also a vulnerability factor to developing or reinstating substance use disorder. Stress causes several changes in the neuro-immune-endocrine axis, potentially resulting in prolonged dysfunction and diseases. Changes in several transmitters, including serotonin, dopamine, glutamate, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), glucocorticoids, and cytokines, are associated with psychiatric disorders or behavioral alterations in preclinical studies. Complex and interacting mechanisms make it very difficult to understand the physiopathology of psychiatry conditions; therefore, studying regulatory mechanisms that impact these alterations is a good approach. In the last decades, the impact of stress on biology through epigenetic markers, which directly impact gene expression, is under intense investigation; these mechanisms are associated with behavioral alterations in animal models after stress or drug exposure, for example. The endocannabinoid (eCB) system modulates stress response, reward circuits, and other physiological functions, including hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis activation and immune response. eCBs, for example, act retrogradely at presynaptic neurons, limiting the release of neurotransmitters, a mechanism implicated in the antidepressant and anxiolytic effects after stress. Epigenetic mechanisms can impact the expression of eCB system molecules, which in turn can regulate epigenetic mechanisms. This review will present evidence of how the eCB system and epigenetic mechanisms interact and the consequences of this interaction in modulating behavioral changes after stress exposure in preclinical studies or psychiatric conditions. Moreover, evidence that correlates the involvement of the eCB system and epigenetic mechanisms in drug abuse contexts will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur A. Coelho
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sávio Lima-Bastos
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Pedro H. Gobira
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sabrina F. Lisboa
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil
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8
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Perini I, Mayo LM, Capusan AJ, Paul ER, Yngve A, Kampe R, Gauffin E, Mazurka R, Ghafouri B, Stensson N, Asratian A, Hamilton JP, Kastbom Å, Gustafsson PA, Heilig M. Resilience to substance use disorder following childhood maltreatment: association with peripheral biomarkers of endocannabinoid function and neural indices of emotion regulation. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:2563-2571. [PMID: 37041416 PMCID: PMC10611562 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02033-y] [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: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
Childhood maltreatment (CM) is a risk factor for substance use disorders (SUD) in adulthood. Understanding the mechanisms by which people are susceptible or resilient to developing SUD after exposure to CM is important for improving intervention. This case-control study investigated the impact of prospectively assessed CM on biomarkers of endocannabinoid function and emotion regulation in relation to the susceptibility or resilience to developing SUD. Four groups were defined across the dimensions of CM and lifetime SUD (N = 101 in total). After screening, participants completed two experimental sessions on separate days, aimed at assessing the behavioral, physiological, and neural mechanisms involved in emotion regulation. In the first session, participants engaged in tasks assessing biochemical (i.e., cortisol, endocannabinoids), behavioral, and psychophysiological indices of stress and affective reactivity. During the second session, the behavioral and brain mechanisms associated with emotion regulation and negative affect were investigated using magnetic resonance imaging. CM-exposed adults who did not develop SUD, operationally defined as resilient to developing SUD, had higher peripheral levels of the endocannabinoid anandamide at baseline and during stress exposure, compared to controls. Similarly, this group had increased activity in salience and emotion regulation regions in task-based measures of emotion regulation compared to controls, and CM-exposed adults with lifetime SUD. At rest, the resilient group also showed significantly greater negative connectivity between ventromedial prefrontal cortex and anterior insula compared to controls and CM-exposed adults with lifetime SUD. Collectively, these peripheral and central findings point to mechanisms of potential resilience to developing SUD after documented CM exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Perini
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.
- Center for Medical Image Science and Visualization (CMIV), Linköping, Sweden.
| | - Leah M Mayo
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.
- Center for Medical Image Science and Visualization (CMIV), Linköping, Sweden.
| | - Andrea J Capusan
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Psychiatry, Linköping University Hospital, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Elisabeth R Paul
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Center for Medical Image Science and Visualization (CMIV), Linköping, Sweden
| | - Adam Yngve
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Center for Medical Image Science and Visualization (CMIV), Linköping, Sweden
| | - Robin Kampe
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Center for Medical Image Science and Visualization (CMIV), Linköping, Sweden
| | - Emelie Gauffin
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Psychiatry, Linköping University Hospital, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Raegan Mazurka
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Bijar Ghafouri
- Pain and Rehabilitation Centre, Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Niclas Stensson
- Pain and Rehabilitation Centre, Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Anna Asratian
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - J Paul Hamilton
- Department of Biological and Medical Psychology University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Åsa Kastbom
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Psychiatry, Linköping University Hospital, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Per A Gustafsson
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Markus Heilig
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Center for Medical Image Science and Visualization (CMIV), Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Psychiatry, Linköping University Hospital, Linköping, Sweden
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Alsaafin A, Chenoweth MJ, Sylvestre MP, O'Loughlin J, Tyndale RF. Genetic variation in fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH): Associations with early drinking and smoking behaviors. Addict Behav 2023; 137:107545. [PMID: 36403489 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2022.107545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The endocannabinoid system is implicated in psychiatric disorders and drug dependence. Within this system, fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) metabolizes endocannabinoids. Individuals with A-group genotypes (C/A or A/A) of a common FAAH variant (rs324420; C > A; Pro129Thr) have slower enzymatic activity compared to C-group individuals (C/C genotype). Slow FAAH activity is differentially associated with alcohol and nicotine use. METHODS Among European-ancestry participants in the NDIT study (n = 249-607), genotype associations with past-year binge drinking in young adults were estimated in logistic regression models. In adolescents, hazard ratios (HR) were estimated from Cox proportional hazards models to assess the FAAH genotype group association with time to drinking initiation and attaining drinking frequency outcomes. HR were also used to assess genotype effect on time to smoking initiation and attaining early smoking milestones (e.g., first inhalation, ICD-10 dependence). RESULTS Compared to those in the C-group, those in the A-group had higher odds of binge drinking at ages 20 (Odds ratio (OR) = 2.16, 95 % CI 1.36-3.42) and 30 (OR = 1.61, 95 % CI 1.10-2.36). Time to initiation of drinking and daily drinking was faster in adolescents in the A-group (HR = 1.39, 95 % CI 1.09-1.77 and HR = 2.24, 95 % CI 1.05-4.76, respectively). Time to smoking initiation was faster in the A-group (HR = 1.20, 95 % CI 1.04-1.39); however, time to smoking milestones among adolescent smokers was not consistently different for the A- versus C-groups (HR = 0.43 to 1.13). CONCLUSIONS Slow FAAH activity (A-group) was associated with greater risks for binge drinking, drinking initiation and escalation, and cigarette smoking initiation, but had little impact on the escalation in cigarette smoking behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaa Alsaafin
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Meghan J Chenoweth
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Marie-Pierre Sylvestre
- Centre de recherche du centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, Québec, Canada; Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Jennifer O'Loughlin
- Centre de recherche du centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, Québec, Canada; Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Rachel F Tyndale
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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10
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The study of rs324420 (C385A) polymorphism of the FAAH gene of the endocannabinoid system in patients with epilepsy and ADHD. Epilepsy Res 2023; 192:107100. [PMID: 37018974 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2023.107100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid (eCB) system regulates many physiological functions in the central nervous system. Fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) is an essential enzyme in the eCB system, degrading anandamide. Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs324420 is a common genetic polymorphism of the FAAH gene and has been associated with susceptibility to neurological conditions. This study examined whether the SNP rs324420 (C385A) is associated with epilepsy and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This study consists of two case-control parts. The first part comprises 250 epilepsy subjects and 250 healthy individuals as controls. The second one comprises 157 cases with ADHD and 136 healthy individuals as controls. Genotyping was carried out using polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) technique. Interestingly, the FAAH C384A genotype (OR 1.755, 95 % CI 1.124-2.742, p = 0.013) and allele (OR 1.462, 95 % CI 1.006-2.124, p = 0.046) distribution showed an association with generalized epilepsy. On the other hand, this SNP was not associated with the risk of ADHD. To our knowledge, there was no study on the association between rs324420 (C385A) polymorphism and the risks of ADHD or epilepsy. This study provided the first evidence of an association between generalized epilepsy and rs324420 (C385A) of FAAH. Larger sample sizes and functional studies are warranted to explore the clinical utility of FAAH genotyping as a possible marker for increased generalized epilepsy risk.
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11
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Xu H, Li T, Gong Q, Xu H, Hu Y, Lü W, Yang X, Li J, Xu W, Kuang W. Genetic variations in the retrograde endocannabinoid signaling pathway in Chinese patients with major depressive disorder. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1153509. [PMID: 37168668 PMCID: PMC10165312 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1153509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The retrograde endocannabinoid (eCB) pathway is closely associated with the etiology of major depressive disorder (MDD) at both pathophysiological and genetic levels. This study aimed to investigate the potential role of genetic mutations in the eCB pathway and underlying mechanisms in Han Chinese patients with MDD. Methods A total of 96 drug-naïve patients with first-episode MDD and 62 healthy controls (HCs) were recruited. Whole-exome sequencing was performed to identify the gene mutation profiles in patients with MDD. Results were filtered to focus on low-frequency variants and rare mutations (minor allele frequencies <0.05) related to depressive phenotypes. Enrichment analyses were performed for 146 selected genes to examine the pathways in which the most significant enrichment occurred. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis was performed to explore the biological functions of the eCB pathway. Finally, based on current literature, a preliminary analysis was conducted to explore the effect of genetic mutations on the function of this pathway. Results Our analysis identified 146 (15.02%) depression-related genetic mutations in patients with MDD when compared with HCs, and 37 of the mutations were enriched in the retrograde eCB signaling pathway. Seven hub genes in the eCB pathway were closely related to mitochondrial function, including Complex I genes (NDUFS4, NDUFV2, NDUFA2, NDUFA12, NDUFB11) and genes associated with protein (PARK7) and enzyme (DLD) function in the regulation of mitochondrial oxidative stress. Conclusion These results indicate that genetic mutations in the retrograde eCB pathway represent potential etiological factors associated with the pathogenesis of MDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huifang Xu
- Department of Psychiatry and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tongtong Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qiyong Gong
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Joint Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine (SCU-CUHK), Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Haizhen Xu
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Joint Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine (SCU-CUHK), Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yongbo Hu
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Joint Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine (SCU-CUHK), Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wenqi Lü
- Department of Psychiatry and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xin Yang
- Department of Psychiatry and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jin Li
- Department of Psychiatry and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wenming Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Wenming Xu,
| | - Weihong Kuang
- Department of Psychiatry and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Weihong Kuang,
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Piras C, Pibiri M, Conte S, Ferranti G, Leoni VP, Liggi S, Spada M, Muntoni S, Caboni P, Atzori L. Metabolomics analysis of plasma samples of patients with fibromyalgia and electromagnetic sensitivity using GC-MS technique. Sci Rep 2022; 12:21923. [PMID: 36535959 PMCID: PMC9763344 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-25588-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic and systemic condition that causes widespread chronic pain, asthenia, and muscle stiffness, as well as in some cases depression, anxiety, and disorders of the autonomic system. The exact causes that lead to the development of FM are still unknown today. In a percentage of individuals, the symptoms of FM are often triggered and/or exacerbated by proximity to electrical and electromagnetic devices. Plasma metabolomic profile of 54 patients with fibromyalgia and self-reported electromagnetic sensitivity (IEI-EMF) were compared to 23 healthy subjects using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) coupled with multivariate statistical analysis techniques. Before the GC-MS analysis the plasma samples were extracted with a modified Folch method and then derivatized with methoxamine hydrochloride in pyridine solution and N-trimethylsilyltrifuoroacetamide. The combined analysis allowed to identify a metabolomic profile able of distinguishing IEI-EMF patients and healthy subjects. IEI-EMF patients were therefore characterized by the alteration of 19 metabolites involved in different metabolic pathways such as energy metabolism, muscle, and pathways related to oxidative stress defense and chronic pain. The results obtained in this study complete the metabolomic "picture" previously investigated on the same cohort of IEI-EMF patients with 1H-NMR spectroscopy, placing a further piece for better understanding the pathophysiological mechanisms in patients with IEI-EMF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Piras
- grid.7763.50000 0004 1755 3242Department of Biomedical Sciences, Clinical Metabolomics Unit, University of Cagliari, Blocco A, Cittadella Universitaria, Monserrato, CA Italy
| | - Monica Pibiri
- grid.7763.50000 0004 1755 3242Department of Biomedical Sciences, Clinical Metabolomics Unit, University of Cagliari, Blocco A, Cittadella Universitaria, Monserrato, CA Italy
| | - Stella Conte
- grid.7763.50000 0004 1755 3242Department of Education, Psychology and Philosophy, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Gabriella Ferranti
- grid.7763.50000 0004 1755 3242Department of Education, Psychology and Philosophy, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Vera Piera Leoni
- grid.7763.50000 0004 1755 3242Department of Biomedical Sciences, Clinical Metabolomics Unit, University of Cagliari, Blocco A, Cittadella Universitaria, Monserrato, CA Italy
| | - Sonia Liggi
- grid.7445.20000 0001 2113 8111Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Martina Spada
- grid.7763.50000 0004 1755 3242Department of Biomedical Sciences, Clinical Metabolomics Unit, University of Cagliari, Blocco A, Cittadella Universitaria, Monserrato, CA Italy
| | - Sandro Muntoni
- grid.7763.50000 0004 1755 3242Department of Biomedical Sciences, Clinical Metabolomics Unit, University of Cagliari, Blocco A, Cittadella Universitaria, Monserrato, CA Italy
| | - Pierluigi Caboni
- grid.7763.50000 0004 1755 3242Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Luigi Atzori
- grid.7763.50000 0004 1755 3242Department of Biomedical Sciences, Clinical Metabolomics Unit, University of Cagliari, Blocco A, Cittadella Universitaria, Monserrato, CA Italy
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13
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Hu G, Zhang M, Wang Y, Yu M, Zhou Y. Potential of Heterogeneous Compounds as Antidepressants: A Narrative Review. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232213776. [PMID: 36430254 PMCID: PMC9692659 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232213776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Depression is a globally widespread disorder caused by a complicated interplay of social, psychological, and biological factors. Approximately 280 million people are suffering from depression worldwide. Traditional frontline antidepressants targeting monoamine neurotransmitters show unsatisfactory effects. The development and application of novel antidepressants for dissimilar targets are on the agenda. This review characterizes the antidepressant effects of multiple endogenous compounds and/or their targets to provide new insight into the working mechanism of antidepressants. We also discuss perspectives and challenges for the generation of novel antidepressants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gonghui Hu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266000, China
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
- Institute of Brain Sciences and Related Disorders, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
- Institute of Brain Sciences and Related Disorders, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Yuyang Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266000, China
| | - Ming Yu
- Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation Institute, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao 266000, China
| | - Yu Zhou
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266000, China
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
- Institute of Brain Sciences and Related Disorders, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
- Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation Institute, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao 266000, China
- Correspondence:
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14
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Modulation of Endocannabinoid System Components in Depression: Pre-Clinical and Clinical Evidence. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23105526. [PMID: 35628337 PMCID: PMC9146799 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Depression is characterized by continuous low mood and loss of interest or pleasure in enjoyable activities. First-line medications for mood disorders mostly target the monoaminergic system; however, many patients do not find relief with these medications, and those who do suffer from negative side effects and a discouragingly low rate of remission. Studies suggest that the endocannabinoid system (ECS) may be involved in the etiology of depression and that targeting the ECS has the potential to alleviate depression. ECS components (such as receptors, endocannabinoid ligands, and degrading enzymes) are key neuromodulators in motivation and cognition as well as in the regulation of stress and emotions. Studies in depressed patients and in animal models for depression have reported deficits in ECS components, which is motivating researchers to identify potential diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers within the ECS. By understanding the effects of cannabinoids on ECS components in depression, we enhance our understanding of which brain targets they hit, what biological processes they alter, and eventually how to use this information to design better therapeutic options. In this article, we discuss the literature on the effects of cannabinoids on ECS components of specific depression-like behaviors and phenotypes in rodents and then describe the findings in depressed patients. A better understanding of the effects of cannabinoids on ECS components in depression may direct future research efforts to enhance diagnosis and treatment.
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15
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Molecular Alterations of the Endocannabinoid System in Psychiatric Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23094764. [PMID: 35563156 PMCID: PMC9104141 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The therapeutic benefits of the current medications for patients with psychiatric disorders contrast with a great variety of adverse effects. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) components have gained high interest as potential new targets for treating psychiatry diseases because of their neuromodulator role, which is essential to understanding the regulation of many brain functions. This article reviewed the molecular alterations in ECS occurring in different psychiatric conditions. The methods used to identify alterations in the ECS were also described. We used a translational approach. The animal models reproducing some behavioral and/or neurochemical aspects of psychiatric disorders and the molecular alterations in clinical studies in post-mortem brain tissue or peripheral tissues were analyzed. This article reviewed the most relevant ECS changes in prevalent psychiatric diseases such as mood disorders, schizophrenia, autism, attentional deficit, eating disorders (ED), and addiction. The review concludes that clinical research studies are urgently needed for two different purposes: (1) To identify alterations of the ECS components potentially useful as new biomarkers relating to a specific disease or condition, and (2) to design new therapeutic targets based on the specific alterations found to improve the pharmacological treatment in psychiatry.
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16
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Mayo LM, Rabinak CA, Hill MN, Heilig M. Targeting the Endocannabinoid System in the Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A Promising Case of Preclinical-Clinical Translation? Biol Psychiatry 2022; 91:262-272. [PMID: 34598785 PMCID: PMC11097652 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2021.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid (eCB) system is one the most ubiquitous signaling systems of the brain and offers a rich pharmacology including multiple druggable targets. Preclinical research shows that eCB activity influences functional connectivity between the prefrontal cortex and amygdala and thereby influences an organism's ability to cope with threats and stressful experiences. Animal studies show that CB1 receptor activation within the amygdala is essential for extinction of fear memories. Failure to extinguish traumatic memories is a core symptom of posttraumatic stress disorder, suggesting that potentiating eCB signaling may have a therapeutic potential in this condition. However, it has been unknown whether animal findings in this domain translate to humans. Data to inform this critical question are now emerging and are the focus of this review. We first briefly summarize the biology of the eCB system and the animal studies that support its role in fear extinction and stress responding. We then discuss the pharmacological eCB-targeting strategies that may be exploited for therapeutic purposes: direct CB1 receptor activation, using Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol or its synthetic analogs; or indirect potentiation, through inhibition of eCB-degrading enzymes, the anandamide-degrading enzyme fatty acid amide hydrolase; or the 2-AG (2-arachidonoyl glycerol)-degrading enzyme monoacylglycerol lipase. We then review recent human data on direct CB1 receptor activation via Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and anandamide potentiation through fatty acid amide hydrolase blockade. The available human data consistently support a translation of animal findings on fear memories and stress reactivity and suggest a potential therapeutic utility in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah M Mayo
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Science, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.
| | - Christine A Rabinak
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Translational Neuroscience Program, Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Matthew N Hill
- Departments of Cell Biology and Anatomy & Psychiatry, Hotchkiss Brain Institute and the Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Markus Heilig
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Science, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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17
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deRoon-Cassini TA, Bergner CL, Chesney SA, Schumann NR, Lee TS, Brasel KJ, Hillard CJ. Circulating endocannabinoids and genetic polymorphisms as predictors of posttraumatic stress disorder symptom severity: heterogeneity in a community-based cohort. Transl Psychiatry 2022; 12:48. [PMID: 35105857 PMCID: PMC8807700 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-022-01808-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid signaling system (ECSS) regulates fear and anxiety. While ECSS hypoactivity can contribute to symptoms of established post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), the role of the ECSS in PTSD development following trauma is unknown. A prospective, longitudinal cohort study of 170 individuals (47% non-Hispanic Caucasian and 70% male) treated at a level 1 trauma center for traumatic injury was carried out. PTSD symptom assessments and blood were obtained during hospitalization and at follow-up (6-8 months post injury). Serum concentrations of the endocannabinoids N-arachidonoylethanolamine (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) were determined at both time points and selected genetic polymorphisms in endocannabinoid genes, including rs324420 in fatty acid amide hydrolase, were assessed. For the entire sample, serum concentrations of AEA at hospitalization were significantly higher in those diagnosed with PTSD at follow-up (p = 0.030). Serum concentrations of 2-AG were significantly, positively correlated with PTSD symptom severity at follow-up only in minorities (p = 0.014). Minority participants (mostly Black/African American) also demonstrated significant, negative correlations between serum AEA concentrations and PTSD symptom severity both measured at hospitalization (p = 0.015). The A/A genotype at rs324420 was associated with significantly higher PTSD symptom severity (p = 0.025) and occurred exclusively in the Black participants. Collectively, these results are contrary to our hypothesis and find positive associations between circulating endocannabinoids and risk for PTSD. Minority status is an important modulator of the association between endocannabinoids and risk for PTSD, suggesting that the ECSS contributes to risk most significantly in these individuals and the contextual factors related to these findings should be further explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terri A deRoon-Cassini
- Department of Surgery, Division of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States.
- Comprehensive Injury Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States.
| | - Carisa L Bergner
- Comprehensive Injury Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | | | | | | | - Karen J Brasel
- Department of Surgery, Oregon Health and Science University, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Cecilia J Hillard
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Neuroscience Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
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18
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Gallego-Landin I, García-Baos A, Castro-Zavala A, Valverde O. Reviewing the Role of the Endocannabinoid System in the Pathophysiology of Depression. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:762738. [PMID: 34938182 PMCID: PMC8685322 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.762738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Major depressive disorder is a high-impact, debilitating disease and it is currently considered the most prevalent mental illness. It is associated with disability, as well as increased morbidity and mortality. Despite its significant repercussions in our society, its exact pathophysiology remains unclear and therefore, available antidepressant treatment options are limited and, in some cases, ineffective. In the past years, research has focused on the development of a multifactorial theory of depression. Simultaneously, evidence supporting the role of the endocannabinoid system in the neurobiology of neuropsychiatric diseases has emerged. Studies have shown that the endocannabinoid system strongly impacts neurotransmission, and the neuroendocrine and neuroimmune systems, which are known to be dysfunctional in depressive patients. Accordingly, common antidepressants were shown to have a direct impact on the expression of cannabinoid receptors throughout the brain. Therefore, the relationship between the endocannabinoid system and major depressive disorder is worth consideration. Nevertheless, most studies focus on smaller pieces of what is undoubtedly a larger mosaic of interdependent processes. Therefore, the present review summarizes the existing literature regarding the role of the endocannabinoid system in depression aiming to integrate this information into a holistic picture for a better understanding of the relationship between the two.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Gallego-Landin
- Neurobiology of Behaviour Research Group (GReNeC—NeuroBio), Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alba García-Baos
- Neurobiology of Behaviour Research Group (GReNeC—NeuroBio), Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Adriana Castro-Zavala
- Neurobiology of Behaviour Research Group (GReNeC—NeuroBio), Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Olga Valverde
- Neurobiology of Behaviour Research Group (GReNeC—NeuroBio), Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
- Neuroscience Research Programme, IMIM-Hospital del Mar Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
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19
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Ney LJ, Matthews A, Hsu CMK, Zuj DV, Nicholson E, Steward T, Nichols D, Graham B, Harrison B, Bruno R, Felmingham K. Cannabinoid polymorphisms interact with plasma endocannabinoid levels to predict fear extinction learning. Depress Anxiety 2021; 38:1087-1099. [PMID: 34151472 DOI: 10.1002/da.23170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The endocannabinoid system is gaining increasing attention as a favorable target for improving posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) treatments. Exposure therapy is the gold-standard treatment for PTSD, and fear extinction learning is a key concept underlying successful exposure. METHODS This study examined the role of genetic endocannabinoid polymorphisms in a fear extinction paradigm with PTSD compared to healthy participants (N = 220). Participants provided saliva for genotyping, completed a fear conditioning and extinction task, with blood samples taken before and after the task (n = 57). Skin conductance was the outcome and was analyzed using mixed models. RESULTS Results for cannabinoid receptor type 1 polymorphisms suggested that minor alleles of rs2180619 and rs1049353 were associated with poorer extinction learning in PTSD participants. The minor allele of the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) polymorphism rs324420 was associated with worse extinction in PTSD participants. Subanalysis of healthy participants (n = 57) showed the FAAH rs324420 genotype effect was dependent on plasma arachidonoyl ethanolamide (AEA) level, but not oleoylethanolamide or 2-arachidonoyl glycerol. Specifically, higher but not lower AEA levels in conjunction with the minor allele of FAAH rs324420 were associated with better extinction learning. CONCLUSIONS These findings provide translational evidence that cannabinoid receptor 1 and AEA are involved in extinction learning in humans. FAAH rs324420's effect on fear extinction is moderated by AEA plasma level in healthy controls. These findings imply that FAAH inhibitors may be effective for targeting anxiety in PTSD, but this effect needs to be explored further in clinical populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke J Ney
- School of Psychology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | | | | | - Daniel V Zuj
- Department of Psychology, Swansea University, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Emma Nicholson
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Trevor Steward
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - David Nichols
- Central Science Laboratory, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Bronwyn Graham
- School of Psychology, The University of New South Wales, Kensington, Australia
| | - Ben Harrison
- Department of Psychiatry, Melbourne Neuropsychiatry Center, University of Melbourne & Melbourne Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Raimondo Bruno
- School of Psychology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Kim Felmingham
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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20
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Sphingolipid and Endocannabinoid Profiles in Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9091173. [PMID: 34572359 PMCID: PMC8467584 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9091173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2021] [Revised: 09/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Genes encoding endocannabinoid and sphingolipid metabolism pathways were suggested to contribute to the genetic risk towards attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The present pilot study assessed plasma concentrations of candidate endocannabinoids, sphingolipids and ceramides in individuals with adult ADHD in comparison with healthy controls and patients with affective disorders. Targeted lipid analyses of 23 different lipid species were performed in 71 mental disorder patients and 98 healthy controls (HC). The patients were diagnosed with adult ADHD (n = 12), affective disorder (major depression, MD n = 16 or bipolar disorder, BD n = 6) or adult ADHD with comorbid affective disorders (n = 37). Canonical discriminant analysis and CHAID analyses were used to identify major components that predicted the diagnostic group. ADHD patients had increased plasma concentrations of sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P d18:1) and sphinganine-1-phosphate (S1P d18:0). In addition, the endocannabinoids, anandamide (AEA) and arachidonoylglycerol were increased. MD/BD patients had increased long chain ceramides, most prominently Cer22:0, but low endocannabinoids in contrast to ADHD patients. Patients with ADHD and comorbid affective disorders displayed increased S1P d18:1 and increased Cer22:0, but the individual lipid levels were lower than in the non-comorbid disorders. Sphingolipid profiles differ between patients suffering from ADHD and affective disorders, with overlapping patterns in comorbid patients. The S1P d18:1 to Cer22:0 ratio may constitute a diagnostic or prognostic tool.
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21
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Sufian MS, Amin MR, Ali DW. Early suppression of the endocannabinoid degrading enzymes FAAH and MAGL alters locomotor development in zebrafish. J Exp Biol 2021; 224:271961. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.242635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT
The fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) enzymes are the predominant catabolic regulators of the major endocannabinoids (eCBs) anadamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), respectively. The expression and roles of eCBs during early embryogenesis remain to be fully investigated. Here, we inhibited FAAH and MAGL in zebrafish embryos during the first 24 h of life and examined motor neuron and locomotor development at 2 and 5 days post fertilization (dpf). Application of the dual FAAH/MAGL inhibitor, JZL195 (2 µmol l−1), resulted in a reduction in primary and secondary motor neuron axonal branching. JZL195 also reduced nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) expression at neuromuscular junctions. Application of URB597 (5 µmol l−1), a specific inhibitor of the FAAH enzyme, also decreased primary motor neuron branching but did not affect secondary motor neuron branching and nAChR expression. Interestingly, JZL184 (5 µmol l−1), a specific inhibitor of MAGL, showed no effects on motor neuron branching or nAChR expression. Co-treatment of the enzyme inhibitors with the CB1R inhibitor AM251 confirmed the involvement of CB1R in motor neuron branching. Disruption of FAAH or MAGL reduced larval swimming activity, and AM251 attenuated the JZL195- and URB597-induced locomotor changes, but not the effects of JZL184. Together, these findings indicate that inhibition of FAAH, or augmentation of AEA acting through CB1R during early development, may be responsible for locomotor deficiencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Shah Sufian
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2E9, Canada
| | - M. Ruhul Amin
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2E9, Canada
| | - Declan W. Ali
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2E9, Canada
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2E9, Canada
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta, 2-132 Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Research Innovation, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2E1, Canada
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22
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Zabik NL, Iadipaolo AS, Marusak HA, Peters C, Burghardt K, Rabinak CA. A common genetic variant in fatty acid amide hydrolase is linked to alterations in fear extinction neural circuitry in a racially diverse, nonclinical sample of adults. J Neurosci Res 2021; 100:744-761. [PMID: 34051704 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Poor fear extinction learning and recall are linked to the development of fear-based disorders, like posttraumatic stress disorder, and are associated with aberrant activation of fear-related neural circuitry. This includes greater amygdala activation during extinction learning and lesser hippocampal and ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC) activation during recall. Emerging data indicate that genetic variation in fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH C385A; rs324420) is associated with increased peripheral endocannabinoid (eCB) levels and lesser threat-related amygdala reactivity. Preclinical studies link increased eCB signaling to better extinction learning and recall, thus FAAH C385A may protect against the development of trauma-related psychopathology by facilitating extinction learning. However, how this FAAH variant affects fear extinction neural circuitry remains unknown. In the present study, we used a novel, immersive-reality fear extinction paradigm paired with functional neuroimaging to assess FAAH C385A effects on fear-related neural circuitry and conditioned fear responding (US expectancy ratings, subjective units of distress, and skin conductance responding) in healthy adults from an urban area (Detroit, MI; N = 59; C/C = 35, A-carrier = 24). We found lesser amygdala activation in A-allele carriers, compared to C/C homozygotes, during early extinction recall. Likewise, we found lesser dorsal anterior cingulate cortex and greater hippocampus activation in early extinction learning in A-carriers compared to C/C homozygotes. We found no effects of FAAH C385A on vmPFC activation or behavioral fear indices. These data support and extend previous findings that FAAH genetic variation, associated with increased eCB signaling and subsequent enhanced fear extinction, may predict individual differences in successful fear learning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole L Zabik
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA.,Translational Neuroscience Program, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | | | - Hilary A Marusak
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA.,Merrill Palmer Skillman Institute for Child and Family Development, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Craig Peters
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Kyle Burghardt
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA.,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Christine A Rabinak
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA.,Translational Neuroscience Program, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA.,Merrill Palmer Skillman Institute for Child and Family Development, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA.,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
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23
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Peripheral endocannabinoid serum level in association with repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) treatment in patients with major depressive disorder. Sci Rep 2021; 11:8867. [PMID: 33893327 PMCID: PMC8065048 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-87840-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is an effective and well tolerable biological intervention in major depressive disorder (MDD) contributing to rapid symptom improvement. Molecular mechanisms underpinning the therapeutic effects of rTMS have still not been clarified. Recently published animal data implicated relevant associations with changes in endocannabinoid (eCB) brain levels during rTMS treatment, human studies, however, have not been published. In our study we assessed the detailed phenotypic spectrum of MDD and serum 2-arachidnoylglycerol (2-AG) and anandamide (AEA) levels in 18 patients with treatment-resistant depression before, immediately following, and two weeks after completion of a 10-day rTMS treatment. We found significant associations between serum 2-AG level changes from pretreatment to 2 weeks after treatment and symptom reduction. The greater the increase of 2-AG levels, the greater the improvement of depressive (p = 0.031), anxious (p = 0.007) and anhedonia symptoms (p = 0.047). Here we report for the first time a significant association of human circulating eCB and antidepressant effect of rTMS. Our data may indicate that direct stimulation of targeted brain areas can rapidly alleviate depressive complaints via activation of the eCB system.
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24
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Warren WG, Papagianni EP, Stevenson CW, Stubbendorff C. In it together? The case for endocannabinoid-noradrenergic interactions in fear extinction. Eur J Neurosci 2021; 55:952-970. [PMID: 33759226 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Anxiety and trauma-related disorders, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), are debilitating mental illnesses with great personal and socioeconomic costs. Examining memory formation and relevant behavioural responding associated with aversive stimuli may improve our understanding of the neurobiology underlying fear memory processing and PTSD treatment. The neurocircuitry underpinning learned fear and its inhibition through extinction is complex, involving synergistic interactions between different neurotransmitter systems in inter-connected brain areas. Endocannabinoid and noradrenergic transmission have both been implicated separately in fear memory processing and PTSD, but potential interactions between these systems in relation to fear extinction have received little attention to date. Their receptors are expressed together in brain areas crucial for fear extinction, which is enhanced by both cannabinoid and noradrenergic receptor activation in these areas. Moreover, cannabinoid signalling modulates the activity of locus coeruleus noradrenaline (NA) neurons and the release of NA in the medial prefrontal cortex, a brain area that is crucial for fear extinction. Interestingly, endocannabinoid-noradrenergic system interactions have been shown to regulate the encoding and retrieval of fear memory. Thus, noradrenergic regulation of fear extinction may also be driven indirectly in part via cannabinoid receptor signalling. In this perspective paper, we collate the available relevant literature and propose a synergistic role for the endocannabinoid and noradrenergic systems in regulating fear extinction, the study of which may further our understanding of the neurobiological substrates of PTSD and its treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- William G Warren
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, UK
| | | | - Carl W Stevenson
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, UK
| | - Christine Stubbendorff
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, UK.,Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
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25
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Filbey FM, Beaton D, Prashad S. The contributions of the endocannabinoid system and stress on the neural processing of reward stimuli. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 106:110183. [PMID: 33221340 PMCID: PMC8204292 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.110183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The brain's endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in reward processes by mediating appetitive learning and encoding the reinforcing properties of substances. Evidence also suggests that endocannabinoids are an important constituent of neuronal substrates involved in emotional responses to stress. Thus, it is critical to understand how the endocannabinoid system and stress may affect reward processes given their importance in substance use disorders. We examined the relationship between factors that regulate endocannabinoid system signaling (i.e., cannabinoid receptor genes and prolonged cannabis exposure) and stress on fMRI BOLD response to reward cues using multivariate statistical analysis. We found that proxies for endocannabinoid system signaling (i.e., endocannabinoid genes and chronic exposure to cannabis) and stress have differential effects on neural response to cannabis cues. Specifically, a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) variant in the cannabinoid receptor 1 (CNR1) gene, early life stress, and current perceived stress modulated reward responsivity in long-term, heavy cannabis users, while a variant in the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) gene and current perceived stress modulated cue-elicited response in non-using controls. These associations were related to distinct neural responses to cannabis-related cues compared to natural reward cues. Understanding the contributions of endocannabinoid system factors and stress that lead to downstream effects on neural mechanisms underlying sensitivity to rewards, such as cannabis, will contribute towards a better understanding of endocannabinoid-targeted therapies as well as individual risks for cannabis use disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- F M Filbey
- Center for BrainHealth, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, TX, USA.
| | - D Beaton
- Rotman Research Institute, Baycrest Health Sciences, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - S Prashad
- Department of Kinesiology and Educational Psychology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States of America
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26
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Lazary J, Eszlari N, Kriko E, Tozser D, Dome P, Deakin JFW, Juhasz G, Bagdy G. Genetic analyses of the endocannabinoid pathway in association with affective phenotypic variants. Neurosci Lett 2021; 744:135600. [PMID: 33421489 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2020.135600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGORUND Increasing experimental data confirm the crucial role of the endocannabinoid (eCB) system in the regulation of stress response and emotional processes. Despite of the fact, that genetically determined vulnerability for stress is a widely accepted concept in the pathomechanism of affective disorders, replicable human genetic results with interaction analyses of early life trauma and eCB genes are rare. The aim of this study is to test the associations between genetic variants of the eCB pathway, childhood trauma and affective phenotypes. METHODS We selected 18,897 SNPs in the eCB pathway of a GWAS dataset in two general population cohorts (BP sample N = 837; MN sample N = 988). Association analyses were performed on the anxious and depressive subscales of the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI-ANX and BSI-DEP, respectively). Childhood trauma was assessed by the Childhood Adversity Questionnaire (CAQ). Association analyses were performed in the R 2.0. statistical program using the SNPassoc package. REULTS Genetic effect was more robust in the BP sample than in the MN sample. The most comprehensive results showed that SNPs in the CACNA1C gene associated with depressive phenotype in interaction with CAQ in both BP (p = 1.2 × 10-4) and MN samples (p = 1.6 × 10-4). Direct association analyses (without interaction) provided significant associations between SNPs in different genesets of the two study populations. SNPs in KCNJ3 and GNB5 genes on the BSI-DEP (p = 6.1 × 10-5; p = 7.1 × 10-4) and GNG12 gene on the BSI-ANX (p = 7.4 × 10-6) in the BP sample, while GABAergic, ADCY1 and HTR2A gene variants can be outlined from results of MN sample with less strong p-values. CONCLUSION Our results confirmed the prominent role of CACNA1C gene in the pathogenic effect of early life stress in the development of affective vulnerability in two different study populations using GxE interaction analysis. CACNA1C gene, as it encodes for L-type voltage-gated calcium channel, contributes to neuronal excitability, plasticity and neurogenesis being a crucial effector of both eCB signaling and the BDNF-CREB pathway as well. Our findings suggest that childhood trauma related depression may have more robust genetically determined basis than without early life stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judit Lazary
- National Institute of Psychiatry and Addictions, Budapest, Hungary; Department of Pharmacodynamics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Nora Eszlari
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Eszter Kriko
- Centre for Bioinformatics, University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest, Hungary
| | - Dora Tozser
- Centre for Bioinformatics, University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest, Hungary
| | - Peter Dome
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - J F William Deakin
- Neuroscience and Psychiatry Unit, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Gabriella Juhasz
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gyorgy Bagdy
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
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27
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Metabolomic changes in animal models of depression: a systematic analysis. Mol Psychiatry 2021; 26:7328-7336. [PMID: 34471249 PMCID: PMC8872989 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-021-01269-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Extensive research has been carried out on the metabolomic changes in animal models of depression; however, there is no general agreement about which metabolites exhibit constant changes. Therefore, the aim of this study was to identify consistently altered metabolites in large-scale metabolomics studies of depression models. We performed vote counting analyses to identify consistently upregulated or downregulated metabolites in the brain, blood, and urine of animal models of depression based on 3743 differential metabolites from 241 animal metabolomics studies. We found that serotonin, dopamine, gamma-aminobutyric acid, norepinephrine, N-acetyl-L-aspartic acid, anandamide, and tryptophan were downregulated in the brain, while kynurenine, myo-inositol, hydroxykynurenine, and the kynurenine to tryptophan ratio were upregulated. Regarding blood metabolites, tryptophan, leucine, tyrosine, valine, trimethylamine N-oxide, proline, oleamide, pyruvic acid, and serotonin were downregulated, while N-acetyl glycoprotein, corticosterone, and glutamine were upregulated. Moreover, citric acid, oxoglutaric acid, proline, tryptophan, creatine, betaine, L-dopa, palmitic acid, and pimelic acid were downregulated, and hippuric acid was upregulated in urine. We also identified consistently altered metabolites in the hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, serum, and plasma. These findings suggested that metabolomic changes in depression models are characterized by decreased neurotransmitter and increased kynurenine metabolite levels in the brain, decreased amino acid and increased corticosterone levels in blood, and imbalanced energy metabolism and microbial metabolites in urine. This study contributes to existing knowledge of metabolomic changes in depression and revealed that the reproducibility of candidate metabolites was inadequate in previous studies.
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28
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deRoon-Cassini TA, Stollenwerk TM, Beatka M, Hillard CJ. Meet Your Stress Management Professionals: The Endocannabinoids. Trends Mol Med 2020; 26:953-968. [PMID: 32868170 PMCID: PMC7530069 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2020.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid signaling system (ECSS) is altered by exposure to stress and mediates and modulates the effects of stress on the brain. Considerable preclinical data support critical roles for the endocannabinoids and their target, the CB1 cannabinoid receptor, in the adaptation of the brain to repeated stress exposure. Chronic stress exposure increases vulnerability to mental illness, so the ECSS has attracted attention as a potential therapeutic target for the prevention and treatment of stress-related psychopathology. We discuss human genetic studies indicating that the ECSS contributes to risk for mental illness in those exposed to severe stress and trauma early in life, and we explore the potential difficulties in pharmacological manipulation of the ECSS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terri A deRoon-Cassini
- Neuroscience Research Center, USA; Department of Surgery, Division of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Todd M Stollenwerk
- Neuroscience Research Center, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Margaret Beatka
- Neuroscience Research Center, USA; Department of Pathology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Cecilia J Hillard
- Neuroscience Research Center, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA.
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29
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Scherma M, Muntoni AL, Riedel G, Fratta W, Fadda P. Cannabinoids and their therapeutic applications in mental disorders
. DIALOGUES IN CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCE 2020; 22:271-279. [PMID: 33162770 PMCID: PMC7605020 DOI: 10.31887/dcns.2020.22.3/pfadda] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Mental disorders represent a significant public health burden worldwide due to their high prevalence, chronically disabling nature, and substantial impact on quality of life. Despite growing knowledge of the pathological mechanisms that underlie the development of these disorders, a high percentage of patients do not respond to first-line clinical treatments; thus, there is a strong need for alternative therapeutic approaches. During the past half-century, after the identification of the endocannabinoid system and its role in multiple physiological processes, both natural and synthetic cannabinoids have attracted considerable interest as putative medications in pathological conditions such as, but not exclusive to, mental disorders. Here, we provide a summary of cannabinoid effects in support of possible therapeutic applications for major depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder, and schizophrenia. Considering this evidence, highlighted benefits and risks of cannabinoid use in the management of these illnesses require further experimental study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Scherma
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - Anna Lisa Muntoni
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Cagliari, Italy
| | - Gernot Riedel
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Walter Fratta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - Paola Fadda
- Author affiliations: Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Italy; Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Cagliari, Italy; Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, Scotland, United Kingdom (Gernot Riedel); National Neuroscience Institute, Pisa, Italy
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30
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Effects of ∆ 9-tetrahydrocannabinol on aversive memories and anxiety: a review from human studies. BMC Psychiatry 2020; 20:420. [PMID: 32842985 PMCID: PMC7448997 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-020-02813-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may stem from the formation of aberrant and enduring aversive memories. Some PTSD patients have recreationally used Cannabis, probably aiming at relieving their symptomatology. However, it is still largely unknown whether and how Cannabis or its psychotomimetic compound Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) attenuates the aversive/traumatic memory outcomes. Here, we seek to review and discuss the effects of THC on aversive memory extinction and anxiety in healthy humans and PTSD patients. METHODS Medline, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Central Register for Controlled Trials databases were searched to identify peer-reviewed published studies and randomized controlled trials in humans published in English between 1974 and July 2020, including those using only THC and THC combined with cannabidiol (CBD). The effect size of the experimental intervention under investigation was calculated. RESULTS At low doses, THC can enhance the extinction rate and reduce anxiety responses. Both effects involve the activation of cannabinoid type-1 receptors in discrete components of the corticolimbic circuitry, which could couterbalance the low "endocannabinoid tonus" reported in PTSD patients. The advantage of associating CBD with THC to attenuate anxiety while minimizing the potential psychotic or anxiogenic effect produced by high doses of THC has been reported. The effects of THC either alone or combined with CBD on aversive memory reconsolidation, however, are still unknown. CONCLUSIONS Current evidence from healthy humans and PTSD patients supports the THC value to suppress anxiety and aversive memory expression without producing significant adverse effects if used in low doses or when associated with CBD. Future studies are guaranteed to address open questions related to their dose ratios, administration routes, pharmacokinetic interactions, sex-dependent differences, and prolonged efficacy.
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31
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Ferber SG, Roth TL, Weller A. Epigenetic fragility of the endocannabinoid system under stress: risk for mood disorders and pharmacogenomic implications. Epigenomics 2020; 12:657-660. [PMID: 32396405 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2020-0037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sari Goldstein Ferber
- Psychology Department, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel.,Gonda Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Tania L Roth
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, University of Delaware, DE 19716, USA
| | - Aron Weller
- Psychology Department, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel.,Gonda Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
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Lin E, Tsai SJ. Gene-Environment Interactions and Role of Epigenetics in Anxiety Disorders. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1191:93-102. [PMID: 32002924 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-32-9705-0_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Several environmental risk factors such as early adverse childhood experiences, stress, and stressful life events are associated with anxiety disorders. Current approaches such as epigenetics and gene-environment interactions were used to identify candidate biomarkers for anxiety disorders to assess determinants of disease. In this chapter, in relation to gene-environment interactions, a variety of association studies regarding anxiety disorders were surveyed. We then showed supporting results from recent association studies such as human studies and animal models in terms of the epigenetic contribution to disease susceptibility to anxiety disorders. At last, future directions and limitations are highlighted. With the advances in multi-omics technologies, innovative ideas regarding disease prevention and drug responsiveness in anxiety disorders require further research in epigenetics and gene-environment interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugene Lin
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.,Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.,Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Jen Tsai
- Department of Psychiatry, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan. .,Division of Psychiatry, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan. .,Institute of Brain Science, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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Navarrete F, García-Gutiérrez MS, Jurado-Barba R, Rubio G, Gasparyan A, Austrich-Olivares A, Manzanares J. Endocannabinoid System Components as Potential Biomarkers in Psychiatry. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:315. [PMID: 32395111 PMCID: PMC7197485 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The high heterogeneity of psychiatric disorders leads to a lack of diagnostic precision. Therefore, the search of biomarkers is a fundamental aspect in psychiatry to reach a more personalized medicine. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) has gained increasing interest due to its involvement in many different functional processes in the brain, including the regulation of emotions, motivation, and cognition. This article reviews the role of the main components of the ECS as biomarkers in certain psychiatric disorders. Studies carried out in rodents evaluating the effects of pharmacological and genetic manipulation of cannabinoid receptors or endocannabinoids (eCBs) degrading enzymes were included. Likewise, the ECS-related alterations occurring at the molecular level in animal models reproducing some behavioral and/or neuropathological aspects of psychiatric disorders were reviewed. Furthermore, clinical studies evaluating gene or protein alterations in post-mortem brain tissue or in vivo blood, plasma, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples were analyzed. Also, the results from neuroimaging studies using positron emission tomography (PET) or functional magnetic resonance (fMRI) were included. This review shows the close involvement of cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1r) in stress regulation and the development of mood disorders [anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder (BD)], in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as in the etiopathogenesis of schizophrenia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or eating disorders (i.e. anorexia and bulimia nervosa). On the other hand, recent results reveal the potential therapeutic action of the endocannabinoid tone manipulation by inhibition of eCBs degrading enzymes, as well as by the modulation of cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2r) activity on anxiolytic, antidepressive, or antipsychotic associated effects. Further clinical research studies are needed; however, current evidence suggests that the components of the ECS may become promising biomarkers in psychiatry to improve, at least in part, the diagnosis and pharmacological treatment of psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Navarrete
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Alicante, Spain.,Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Salud García-Gutiérrez
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Alicante, Spain.,Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rosa Jurado-Barba
- Instituto de Investigación i+12, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain.,Servicio de Psiquiatría, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain.,Departamento de Psicología, Facultad de Educación y Salud, Universidad Camilo José Cela, Madrid, Spain
| | - Gabriel Rubio
- Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación i+12, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain.,Servicio de Psiquiatría, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Psychiatry, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ani Gasparyan
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Alicante, Spain.,Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Jorge Manzanares
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Alicante, Spain.,Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Cannabis is widely used worldwide and cannabis use disorders are highly comorbid with anxiety disorders. In this review, we consider the recent literature on the effects of cannabis on the incidence, course, and treatment outcomes of anxiety disorders. RECENT FINDINGS Although cannabis use is mostly found to be associated with increased incidence of anxiety disorders, these findings are generally not sustained in adjusted analyses controlling for multiple confounders. There are some equivocal data suggesting higher risk for anxiety disorders among heavy cannabis users. The scarce data available indicates no clear effect of cannabis use on the course and treatment outcomes of anxiety disorders. SUMMARY Further research is needed focusing on trajectories of cannabis-induced acute anxiety, effects of cannabis use on treatment outcomes in anxiety disorders, and common genetic factors. Future epidemiological studies should utilize more precise measures of cannabis use and address several confounding factors which may affect the association between cannabis use and anxiety disorders.
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Lazary J, Eszlari N, Juhasz G, Bagdy G. A functional variant of CB2 receptor gene interacts with childhood trauma and FAAH gene on anxious and depressive phenotypes. J Affect Disord 2019; 257:716-722. [PMID: 31382124 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2019.07.083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2019] [Revised: 07/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Accumulating data suggest that CB2 receptor plays a crucial role in development of anxiety via regulatory function of stress response and neuroimmune crosstalk. Although animal experiments confirm this relationship, relevant human genetic studies on CB2 receptor gene (CNR2) in association with affective phenotype are absent. METHODS CNR2 R63Q and FAAH C385A functional polymorphisms were genotyped of 921 volunteers from the general population. Phenotypic variables were measured by the Zung Self-related Depression Scale (ZSDS), The State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (Trait subscale, STAI-T) and the depressive and anxious subscales of the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI-DEP and BSI-ANX). Early life trauma was assesssed by the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CHQ). Using general linear models we tested possible associations between phenotypic variance and genotype distribution. RESULTS There was a significant main effect of RR genotype of R63Q on ZSDS score (p = 0.007) and a remarkble interacting effect of CHQ and R63Q on scores of ZSDS, STAI-T and BSI-ANX scales (p = 0.009; p = 0.003; p = 0.001; respectively). R allele of R63Q and A allele of FAAH C385A were associated with significantly higher ZSDS, STAI-T and BSI-ANX scores compared to non-risk allele carriers (p = 0.009; p = 0.007; p = 0.007, respectively). The highest phenotypic scores were observed in GxGxE model (pZSDS = 0.04; pBSI-DEP = 0.006; pSTAI-T = 0.001; pBSI-ANX = 3.8 × 10-5). CONCLUSIONS In this first human genetic study on CNR2 and childhood trauma we revealed that dysfunctional CB2 receptor and FAAH can contribute to greater sensitivity for childhood trauma possibly via weaker inhibiton of inflammatory and overactivated HPA axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judit Lazary
- Nyírő Gyula National Institute of Psychiatry and Addictions, Budapest, Hungary; MTA-SE Neuropsychopharmacology and Neurochemistry Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Science, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Nora Eszlari
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; NAP-2-SE New Antidepressant Target Research Group, Hungarian Brain Research Program, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gabriella Juhasz
- MTA-SE Neuropsychopharmacology and Neurochemistry Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Science, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; Department of Pharmacodynamics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; NAP-2-SE New Antidepressant Target Research Group, Hungarian Brain Research Program, Budapest, Hungary; SE-NAP 2 Genetic Brain Imaging Migraine Research Group, Hungarian Brain Research Program, Budapest, Hungary; Neuroscience and Psychiatry Unit, Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom; Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Gyorgy Bagdy
- MTA-SE Neuropsychopharmacology and Neurochemistry Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Science, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; Department of Pharmacodynamics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; NAP-2-SE New Antidepressant Target Research Group, Hungarian Brain Research Program, Budapest, Hungary
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Minichino A, Senior M, Brondino N, Zhang SH, Godwlewska BR, Burnet PW, Cipriani A, Lennox BR. Measuring Disturbance of the Endocannabinoid System in Psychosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JAMA Psychiatry 2019; 76:914-923. [PMID: 31166595 PMCID: PMC6552109 DOI: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2019.0970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a lipid-based endogenous signaling system. Its relevance to psychosis is through the association between cannabis use and the onset and course of illness and through the antipsychotic properties of cannabidiol, a potential ECS enhancer. OBJECTIVE To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of the blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) measures of the ECS in psychotic disorders. DATA SOURCES Web of Science and PubMed were searched from inception through June 13, 2018. The articles identified were reviewed, as were citations to previous publications and the reference lists of retrieved articles. STUDY SELECTION Original articles were included that reported blood or CSF measures of ECS activity in patients with psychotic illnesses and in healthy controls. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS PRISMA guidelines, independent extraction by multiple observers, and random-effects meta-analysis were used. Heterogeneity was assessed with the I2 index. Sensitivity analyses tested the robustness of the results. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The clinical relevance of ECS modifications in psychotic disorders was investigated by (1) a quantitative synthesis of the differences in blood and CSF markers of the ECS between patients and healthy controls, and (2) a qualitative synthesis of the association of these markers with symptom severity, stage of illness, and response to treatment. RESULTS A total of 18 studies were included. Three individual meta-analyses were performed to identify the differences in ECS markers between people with schizophrenia and healthy controls. Five studies, including 226 patients and 385 controls, reported significantly higher concentrations of anandamide in the CSF of patients than controls (standardized mean difference [SMD], 0.97; 95% CI, 0.67-1.26; P < .001; I2 = 54.8%). In 9 studies, with 344 patients and 411 controls, significantly higher anandamide levels in blood were found in patients, compared with controls (SMD, 0.55; 95% CI, 0.05-1.04; P = .03; I2 = 89.6%). In 3 studies, involving 88 patients and 179 controls, a significantly higher expression of type 1 cannabinoid receptors on peripheral immune cells was reported in patients compared with controls (SMD, 0.57; 95% CI, 0.31-0.84; P < .001; I2 = 0%). Higher ECS tone was found at an early stage of illness in individuals who were antipsychotic naïve or free, and it had an inverse association with symptom severity and was normalized after successful treatment. Moderate to high level of heterogeneity in methods was found between studies. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Testing clinically relevant markers of the ECS in the blood and CSF of people with psychotic illness appears possible, and these markers provide useful biomarkers for the psychotic disorder; however, not all studies accounted for important variables, such as cannabis use. TRIAL REGISTRATION PROSPERO identifier: CRD42018099863.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amedeo Minichino
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Morwenna Senior
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Natascia Brondino
- Section of Psychiatry, Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Sam H Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | - Philip W.J Burnet
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Andrea Cipriani
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom,Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Belinda R. Lennox
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Abstract
Substance and alcohol use disorders impose large health and economic burdens on individuals, families, communities, and society. Neither prevention nor treatment efforts are effective in all individuals. Results are often modest. Advances in neuroscience and addiction research have helped to describe the neurobiological changes that occur when a person transitions from recreational substance use to a substance use disorder or addiction. Understanding both the drivers and consequences of substance use in vulnerable populations, including those whose brains are still maturing, has revealed behavioral and biological characteristics that can increase risks of addiction. These findings are particularly timely, as law- and policymakers are tasked to reverse the ongoing opioid epidemic, as more states legalize marijuana, as new products including electronic cigarettes and newly designed abused substances enter the legal and illegal markets, and as "deaths of despair" from alcohol and drug misuse continue.
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Affiliation(s)
- George R. Uhl
- New Mexico VA Healthcare SystemAlbuquerqueNew Mexico
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38
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Musci RJ, Augustinavicius JL, Volk H. Gene-Environment Interactions in Psychiatry: Recent Evidence and Clinical Implications. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2019; 21:81. [PMID: 31410638 PMCID: PMC7340157 DOI: 10.1007/s11920-019-1065-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW We identify the recent evidence for gene-by-environment interaction studies in relation to psychiatric disorders. We focus on the key genotypic data as well as environmental exposures and how they interact to predict psychiatric disorders and psychiatric symptomatology. We direct our focus on the psychiatric outcomes that were focused on by the Psychiatric Genetics Consortium. RECENT FINDINGS Many of the studies focus on candidate gene approaches, with most of the studies drawing upon previous literature to decide the genes of interest. Other studies used a genome-wide approach. While some studies demonstrated positive replication of previous findings, replication is still an issue within gene-by-environment interaction studies. Gene-by-environment interaction research in psychiatry globally suggests some susceptibility to environmental exposures based on genotype; however, greater clarity is needed around the idea that genetic risk may not be disorder specific.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rashelle J. Musci
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Jura L. Augustinavicius
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Heather Volk
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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Ney LJ, Matthews A, Bruno R, Felmingham KL. Cannabinoid interventions for PTSD: Where to next? Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2019; 93:124-140. [PMID: 30946942 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2019.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Revised: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Cannabinoids are a promising method for pharmacological treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Despite considerable research devoted to the effect of cannabinoid modulation on PTSD symptomology, there is not a currently agreed way by which the cannabinoid system should be targeted in humans. In this review, we present an overview of recent research identifying neurological pathways by which different cannabinoid-based treatments may exert their effects on PTSD symptomology. We evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of each of these different approaches, including recent challenges presented to favourable options such as fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitors. This article makes the strengths and challenges of different potential cannabinoid treatments accessible to psychological researchers interested in cannabinoid therapeutics and aims to aid selection of appropriate tools for future clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke J Ney
- School of Psychology, University of Tasmania, Australia.
| | | | | | - Kim L Felmingham
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Australia
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40
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Rodrigues RS, Lourenço DM, Paulo SL, Mateus JM, Ferreira MF, Mouro FM, Moreira JB, Ribeiro FF, Sebastião AM, Xapelli S. Cannabinoid Actions on Neural Stem Cells: Implications for Pathophysiology. Molecules 2019; 24:E1350. [PMID: 30959794 PMCID: PMC6480122 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24071350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Revised: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/03/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
With the increase of life expectancy, neurodegenerative disorders are becoming not only a health but also a social burden worldwide. However, due to the multitude of pathophysiological disease states, current treatments fail to meet the desired outcomes. Therefore, there is a need for new therapeutic strategies focusing on more integrated, personalized and effective approaches. The prospect of using neural stem cells (NSC) as regenerative therapies is very promising, however several issues still need to be addressed. In particular, the potential actions of pharmacological agents used to modulate NSC activity are highly relevant. With the ongoing discussion of cannabinoid usage for medical purposes and reports drawing attention to the effects of cannabinoids on NSC regulation, there is an enormous, and yet, uncovered potential for cannabinoids as treatment options for several neurological disorders, specifically when combined with stem cell therapy. In this manuscript, we review in detail how cannabinoids act as potent regulators of NSC biology and their potential to modulate several neurogenic features in the context of pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui S Rodrigues
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Diogo M Lourenço
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Sara L Paulo
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Joana M Mateus
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Miguel F Ferreira
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Francisco M Mouro
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - João B Moreira
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Filipa F Ribeiro
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Ana M Sebastião
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Sara Xapelli
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
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41
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Zhao N, Zhang H, Clark JJ, Maity A, Wu MC. Composite kernel machine regression based on likelihood ratio test for joint testing of genetic and gene–environment interaction effect. Biometrics 2019; 75:625-637. [DOI: 10.1111/biom.13003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2018] [Accepted: 10/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ni Zhao
- Department of BiostatisticsJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimore, Maryland
| | - Haoyu Zhang
- Department of BiostatisticsJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimore, Maryland
| | - Jennifer J. Clark
- Department of BiostatisticsUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Arnab Maity
- Department of StatisticsNorth Carolina State UniversityRaleigh, North Carolina
| | - Michael C. Wu
- Public Health Sciences Division,Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research CenterSeattle, Washington
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42
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Harris BN, Hohman ZP, Campbell CM, King KS, Tucker CA. FAAH genotype, CRFR1 genotype, and cortisol interact to predict anxiety in an aging, rural Hispanic population: A Project FRONTIER study. Neurobiol Stress 2019; 10:100154. [PMID: 30949563 PMCID: PMC6430712 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2019.100154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2018] [Revised: 01/21/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The neurophysiological underpinnings involved in susceptibility to and maintenance of anxiety are not entirely known. However, two stress-responsive systems, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and the endocannabinoid system, may interact in anxiety. Here, we examine the relationship between FAAH genotype, CRFR1 genotype, baseline cortisol, and state anxiety in a rural adult population using data from Project FRONTIER. We predicted that FAAH A (AA and AC vs CC; rs324420) and three CRFR1 SNP minor alleles (rs7209436 C→ T [minor allele]; rs110402, G → A [minor]; and rs242924 G→ T [minor]), would interact to predict low baseline cortisol and low state anxiety scores. We found partial support for our prediction. In CRFR1 minor carriers, the FAAH AA or AC (vs. CC) genotype was associated with higher cortisol and with lower anxiety. In CRFR1 non-minors, those with FAAH AA or AC (vs. CC) showed decreased cortisol and higher anxiety. These results suggest that FAAH CC genotype only conveys risk for anxiety in individuals who are also carriers of the CRFR1 minor combination. FAAH genotype was significantly associated with baseline cortisol but was not independently associated with anxiety. Contrary to our predictions, baseline cortisol was negatively associated with anxiety. Lastly, we did not find any independent relationships between any of our SNPs and baseline cortisol or anxiety. These data suggest FAAH and cortisol interact to predict state anxiety, but that the relationship depends on CRFR1 genotype. The Project FRONTIER dataset is supported by Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Garrison Institute on Aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Breanna N Harris
- Department of Biological Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Zachary P Hohman
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Callie M Campbell
- Department of Biological Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Kaleb S King
- Department of Biological Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Cody A Tucker
- Department of Biological Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA
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43
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Gärtner A, Dörfel D, Diers K, Witt SH, Strobel A, Brocke B. Impact of FAAH genetic variation on fronto-amygdala function during emotional processing. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2019; 269:209-221. [PMID: 30291441 DOI: 10.1007/s00406-018-0944-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2018] [Accepted: 09/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Recent translational studies identified a common endocannabinoid polymorphism, FAAH C385A, in the gene for the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). This polymorphism alters endocannabinoid anandamide levels, which are known to be involved in the fronto-amygdala circuitry implicated in mood regulation and anxiety-like behaviors. While it has been shown that the variant that selectively enhances fronto-amygdala connectivity at rest is associated with decreased anxiety-like behaviors, no study so far has investigated whether this finding of FAAH-related differential plasticity extends to task-related differential functional expression and regulation during negative emotional processing. Using an imaging genetics approach, this study aimed to replicate and extend prior findings by examining functional activity and task-related connectivity in fronto-amygdala regions during emotion reactivity and emotional down-regulation of negative affect. Therefore, 48 healthy young adults underwent a functional MRI resting state measurement, completed an emotion regulation paradigm and provided self-reports on anxiety and use of emotion regulation strategies. In line with previous studies, preliminary evidence suggests that A-allele carriers demonstrate stronger fronto-amygdala connectivity during rest. In addition, exploratory whole-brain analyses indicate differential functional activity of A-allele carriers during emotion reactivity and emotion regulation. There were no associations with anxiety-related self-reports and use of emotional regulation strategies. Further research using larger samples and polygenic approaches is indicated to clarify the precise role and its underlying mechanisms in emotion processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Gärtner
- Faculty of Psychology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
| | - Denise Dörfel
- Faculty of Psychology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Kersten Diers
- Faculty of Psychology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Stephanie H Witt
- Department of Genetic Epidemiology in Psychiatry, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Alexander Strobel
- Faculty of Psychology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Burkhard Brocke
- Faculty of Psychology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Anxiety- and trauma-related disorders are prevalent and debilitating mental illnesses associated with a significant socioeconomic burden. Current treatment approaches often have inadequate therapeutic responses, leading to symptom relapse. Here we review recent preclinical and clinical findings on the potential of cannabinoids as novel therapeutics for regulating fear and anxiety. RECENT FINDINGS Evidence from preclinical studies has shown that the non-psychotropic phytocannabinoid cannabidiol and the endocannabinoid anandamide have acute anxiolytic effects and also regulate learned fear by dampening its expression, enhancing its extinction and disrupting its reconsolidation. The findings from the relevant clinical literature are still very preliminary but are nonetheless encouraging. Based on this preclinical evidence, larger-scale placebo-controlled clinical studies are warranted to investigate the effects of cannabidiol in particular as an adjunct to psychological therapy or medication to determine its potential utility for treating anxiety-related disorders in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni P. Papagianni
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, LE12 5RD UK
| | - Carl W. Stevenson
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, LE12 5RD UK
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Nedic Erjavec G, Svob Strac D, Tudor L, Konjevod M, Sagud M, Pivac N. Genetic Markers in Psychiatry. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1192:53-93. [PMID: 31705490 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-32-9721-0_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Psychiatric disorders such as addiction (substance use and addictive disorders), depression, eating disorders, schizophrenia, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are severe, complex, multifactorial mental disorders that carry a high social impact, enormous public health costs, and various comorbidities as well as premature morbidity. Their neurobiological foundation is still not clear. Therefore, it is difficult to uncover new set of genes and possible genetic markers of these disorders since the understanding of the molecular imbalance leading to these disorders is not complete. The integrative approach is needed which will combine genomics and epigenomics; evaluate epigenetic influence on genes and their influence on neuropeptides, neurotransmitters, and hormones; examine gene × gene and gene × environment interplay; and identify abnormalities contributing to development of these disorders. Therefore, novel genetic approaches based on systems biology focused on improvement of the identification of the biological underpinnings might offer genetic markers of addiction, depression, eating disorders, schizophrenia, and PTSD. These markers might be used for early prediction, detection of the risk to develop these disorders, novel subtypes of the diseases and tailored, personalized approach to therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gordana Nedic Erjavec
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, Bijenicka 54, HR-10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Dubravka Svob Strac
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, Bijenicka 54, HR-10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Lucija Tudor
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, Bijenicka 54, HR-10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marcela Konjevod
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, Bijenicka 54, HR-10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marina Sagud
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Salata 2, HR-10000, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Kispaticeva 12, HR-10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Nela Pivac
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, Bijenicka 54, HR-10000, Zagreb, Croatia.
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Hill MN, Eiland L, Lee TTY, Hillard CJ, McEwen BS. Early life stress alters the developmental trajectory of corticolimbic endocannabinoid signaling in male rats. Neuropharmacology 2018; 146:154-162. [PMID: 30496752 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.11.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2018] [Revised: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 11/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Early-life stress modulates the development of cortico-limbic circuits and increases vulnerability to adult psychopathology. Given the important stress-buffering role of endocannabinoid (eCB) signaling, we performed a comprehensive investigation of the developmental trajectory of the eCB system and the impact of exposure to early life stress induced by repeated maternal separation (MS; 3 h/day) from postnatal day 2 (PND2) to PND12. Tissue levels of the eCB molecules anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) were measured after MS exposures, as well under basal conditions at juvenile (PND14), adolescent (PND40) and adult (PND70) timepoints in the prefrontal cortex (PFC), amygdala and hippocampus. We also examined the effects of MS on CB1 receptor binding in these three brain regions at PND40 and PND70. AEA content was found to increase from PND2 into adulthood in a linear manner across all brain regions, while 2-AG was found to exhibit a transient spike during the juvenile period (PND12-14) within the amygdala and PFC, but increased in a linear manner across development in the hippocampus. Exposure to MS resulted in bidirectional changes in AEA and 2-AG tissue levels within the amygdala and hippocampus and produced a sustained reduction in eCB function in the hippocampus at adulthood. CB1 receptor densities across all brain regions were generally found to be downregulated later in life following exposure to MS. Collectively, these data demonstrate that early life stress can alter the normative ontogeny of the eCB system, resulting in a sustained deficit in eCB function, particularly within the hippocampus, in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew N Hill
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Departments of Cell Biology & Anatomy and Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada; Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Lisa Eiland
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Tiffany T Y Lee
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA; Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Cecilia J Hillard
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Neuroscience Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Bruce S McEwen
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA.
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The endocannabinoid system in mental disorders: Evidence from human brain studies. Biochem Pharmacol 2018; 157:97-107. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2018.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Accepted: 07/12/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Gonda X, Petschner P, Eszlari N, Baksa D, Edes A, Antal P, Juhasz G, Bagdy G. Genetic variants in major depressive disorder: From pathophysiology to therapy. Pharmacol Ther 2018; 194:22-43. [PMID: 30189291 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2018.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
In spite of promising preclinical results there is a decreasing number of new registered medications in major depression. The main reason behind this fact is the lack of confirmation in clinical studies for the assumed, and in animals confirmed, therapeutic results. This suggests low predictive value of animal studies for central nervous system disorders. One solution for identifying new possible targets is the application of genetics and genomics, which may pinpoint new targets based on the effect of genetic variants in humans. The present review summarizes such research focusing on depression and its therapy. The inconsistency between most genetic studies in depression suggests, first of all, a significant role of environmental stress. Furthermore, effect of individual genes and polymorphisms is weak, therefore gene x gene interactions or complete biochemical pathways should be analyzed. Even genes encoding target proteins of currently used antidepressants remain non-significant in genome-wide case control investigations suggesting no main effect in depression, but rather an interaction with stress. The few significant genes in GWASs are related to neurogenesis, neuronal synapse, cell contact and DNA transcription and as being nonspecific for depression are difficult to harvest pharmacologically. Most candidate genes in replicable gene x environment interactions, on the other hand, are connected to the regulation of stress and the HPA axis and thus could serve as drug targets for depression subgroups characterized by stress-sensitivity and anxiety while other risk polymorphisms such as those related to prominent cognitive symptoms in depression may help to identify additional subgroups and their distinct treatment. Until these new targets find their way into therapy, the optimization of current medications can be approached by pharmacogenomics, where metabolizing enzyme polymorphisms remain prominent determinants of therapeutic success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xenia Gonda
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Kutvolgyi Clinical Centre, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; NAP-2-SE New Antidepressant Target Research Group, Hungarian Brain Research Program, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; MTA-SE Neuropsychopharmacology and Neurochemistry Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Peter Petschner
- MTA-SE Neuropsychopharmacology and Neurochemistry Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; Department of Pharmacodynamics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Nora Eszlari
- NAP-2-SE New Antidepressant Target Research Group, Hungarian Brain Research Program, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; Department of Pharmacodynamics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Daniel Baksa
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; SE-NAP 2 Genetic Brain Imaging Migraine Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Hungarian Brain Research Program, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Andrea Edes
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; SE-NAP 2 Genetic Brain Imaging Migraine Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Hungarian Brain Research Program, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Peter Antal
- Department of Measurement and Information Systems, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gabriella Juhasz
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; SE-NAP 2 Genetic Brain Imaging Migraine Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Hungarian Brain Research Program, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; Neuroscience and Psychiatry Unit, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Gyorgy Bagdy
- NAP-2-SE New Antidepressant Target Research Group, Hungarian Brain Research Program, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; MTA-SE Neuropsychopharmacology and Neurochemistry Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; Department of Pharmacodynamics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.
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Natividad LA, Buczynski MW, Herman MA, Kirson D, Oleata CS, Irimia C, Polis I, Ciccocioppo R, Roberto M, Parsons LH. Constitutive Increases in Amygdalar Corticotropin-Releasing Factor and Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase Drive an Anxious Phenotype. Biol Psychiatry 2017; 82:500-510. [PMID: 28209423 PMCID: PMC5509512 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2017.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2016] [Revised: 12/21/2016] [Accepted: 01/04/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) mediates anxiogenic responses by activating CRF type 1 (CRF1) receptors in limbic brain regions. Anxiety is further modulated by the endogenous cannabinoid (eCB) system that attenuates the synaptic effects of stress. In the amygdala, acute stress activates the enzymatic clearance of the eCB N-arachidonoylethanolamine via fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), although it is unclear whether chronic dysregulation of CRF systems induces maladaptive changes in amygdalar eCB signaling. Here, we used genetically selected Marchigian Sardinian P (msP) rats carrying an innate overexpression of CRF1 receptors to study the role of constitutive upregulation in CRF systems on amygdalar eCB function and persistent anxiety-like effects. METHODS We applied behavioral, pharmacological, and biochemical methods to broadly characterize anxiety-like behaviors and amygdalar eCB clearance enzymes in msP versus nonselected Wistar rats. Subsequent studies examined the influence of dysregulated CRF and FAAH systems in altering excitatory transmission in the central amygdala (CeA). RESULTS msPs display an anxious phenotype accompanied by elevations in amygdalar FAAH activity and reduced dialysate N-arachidonoylethanolamine levels in the CeA. Elevations in CRF-CRF1 signaling dysregulate FAAH activity, and this genotypic difference is normalized with pharmacological blockade of CRF1 receptors. msPs also exhibit elevated baseline glutamatergic transmission in the CeA, and dysregulated CRF-FAAH facilitates stress-induced increases in glutamatergic activity. Treatment with an FAAH inhibitor relieves sensitized glutamatergic responses in msPs and attenuates the anxiety-like phenotype. CONCLUSIONS Pathological anxiety and stress hypersensitivity are driven by constitutive increases in CRF1 signaling that dysregulate N-arachidonoylethanolamine signaling mechanisms and reduce neuronal inhibitory control of CeA glutamatergic synapses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis A Natividad
- Committee on the Neurobiology of Addictive Disorders, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California
| | - Matthew W Buczynski
- Committee on the Neurobiology of Addictive Disorders, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California; Virginia Tech School of Neuroscience, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia
| | - Melissa A Herman
- Committee on the Neurobiology of Addictive Disorders, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California
| | - Dean Kirson
- Committee on the Neurobiology of Addictive Disorders, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California
| | - Christopher S Oleata
- Committee on the Neurobiology of Addictive Disorders, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California
| | - Cristina Irimia
- Committee on the Neurobiology of Addictive Disorders, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California
| | - Ilham Polis
- Committee on the Neurobiology of Addictive Disorders, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California
| | - Roberto Ciccocioppo
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Marisa Roberto
- Committee on the Neurobiology of Addictive Disorders, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California.
| | - Loren H Parsons
- Committee on the Neurobiology of Addictive Disorders, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California
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Corroon JM, Mischley LK, Sexton M. Cannabis as a substitute for prescription drugs - a cross-sectional study. J Pain Res 2017; 10:989-998. [PMID: 28496355 PMCID: PMC5422566 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s134330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The use of medical cannabis is increasing, most commonly for pain, anxiety and depression. Emerging data suggest that use and abuse of prescription drugs may be decreasing in states where medical cannabis is legal. The aim of this study was to survey cannabis users to determine whether they had intentionally substituted cannabis for prescription drugs. Methods A total of 2,774 individuals were a self-selected convenience sample who reported having used cannabis at least once in the previous 90 days. Subjects were surveyed via an online anonymous questionnaire on cannabis substitution effects. Participants were recruited through social media and cannabis dispensaries in Washington State. Results A total of 1,248 (46%) respondents reported using cannabis as a substitute for prescription drugs. The most common classes of drugs substituted were narcotics/opioids (35.8%), anxiolytics/benzodiazepines (13.6%) and antidepressants (12.7%). A total of 2,473 substitutions were reported or approximately two drug substitutions per affirmative respondent. The odds of reporting substituting were 4.59 (95% confidence interval [CI], 3.87–5.43) greater among medical cannabis users compared with non-medical users and 1.66 (95% CI, 1.27–2.16) greater among those reporting use for managing the comorbidities of pain, anxiety and depression. A slightly higher percentage of those who reported substituting resided in states where medical cannabis was legal at the time of the survey (47% vs. 45%, p=0.58), but this difference was not statistically significant. Discussion These patient-reported outcomes support prior research that individuals are using cannabis as a substitute for prescription drugs, particularly, narcotics/opioids, and independent of whether they identify themselves as medical or non-medical users. This is especially true if they suffer from pain, anxiety and depression. Additionally, this study suggests that state laws allowing access to, and use of, medical cannabis may not be influencing individual decision-making in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Michelle Sexton
- Department of Medical Research, Center for the Study of Cannabis and Social Policy, Seattle, WA, USA
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