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Alzu'bi A, Abu-El-Rub E, Almahasneh F, Tahat L, Athamneh RY, Khasawneh R, Alzoubi H, Ghorab DS, Almazari R, Zoubi MSA, Al-Zoubi RM. Delineating the molecular mechanisms of hippocampal neurotoxicity induced by chronic administration of synthetic cannabinoid AB-FUBINACA in mice. Neurotoxicology 2024; 103:50-59. [PMID: 38823587 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2024.05.009] [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: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
Chronic use of synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) has been associated with cognitive and behavioural deficits and an increased risk of neuropsychiatric disorders. The underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms of the neurotoxic effects of long-term use of SCs have not been well investigated in the literature. Herein, we evaluated the in vivo effects of chronic administration of AB-FUBINACA on the hippocampus in mice. Our results revealed that the administration of AB-FUBINACA induced a significant impairment in recognition memory associated with histopathological changes in the hippocampus. These findings were found to be correlated with increased level of oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and apoptosis markers, and reduced expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which plays an essential role in modulating synaptic plasticity integral for promoting learning and memory in the hippocampus. Additionally, we showed that AB-FUBINACA significantly decreased the expression of NR1, an important functional subunit of glutamate/NMDA receptors and closely implicated in the development of toxic psychosis. These findings shed light on the long-term neurotoxic effects of SCs on hippocampus and the underlying mechanisms of these effects. This study provided new targets for possible medical interventions to improve the treatment guidelines for SCs addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayman Alzu'bi
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid 211-63, Jordan.
| | - Ejlal Abu-El-Rub
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid 211-63, Jordan
| | - Fatimah Almahasneh
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid 211-63, Jordan
| | - Lena Tahat
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Yarmouk University, Irbid 211-63, Jordan
| | - Rabaa Y Athamneh
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Science, Zarqa University, Zarqa 13110, Jordan
| | - Ramada Khasawneh
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid 211-63, Jordan
| | - Hiba Alzoubi
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid 211-63, Jordan
| | - Doaa S Ghorab
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid 211-63, Jordan; Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Rawan Almazari
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid 211-63, Jordan
| | - Mazhar Salim Al Zoubi
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid 211-63, Jordan
| | - Raed M Al-Zoubi
- Surgical Research Section, Department of Surgery, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; Department of Biomedical Sciences, QU-Health, College of Health Sciences, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar; Department of Chemistry, Jordan University of Science and Technology, P.O.Box 3030, Irbid 22110, Jordan.
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2
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Bilel S, Zamberletti E, Caffino L, Tirri M, Mottarlini F, Arfè R, Barbieri M, Beggiato S, Boccuto F, Bernardi T, Casati S, Brini AT, Parolaro D, Rubino T, Ferraro L, Fumagalli F, Marti M. Cognitive dysfunction and impaired neuroplasticity following repeated exposure to the synthetic cannabinoid JWH-018 in male mice. Br J Pharmacol 2023; 180:2777-2801. [PMID: 37311647 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16164] [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: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Psychotic disorders have been reported in long-term users of synthetic cannabinoids. This study aims at investigating the long-lasting effects of repeated JWH-018 exposure. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Male CD-1 mice were injected with vehicle, JWH-018 (6 mg·kg-1 ), the CB1 -antagonist NESS-0327 (1 mg·kg-1 ) or co-administration of NESS-0327 and JWH-018, every day for 7 days. After 15 or 16 days washout, we investigated the effects of JWH-018 on motor function, memory, social dominance and prepulse inhibition (PPI). We also evaluated glutamate levels in dialysates from dorsal striatum, striatal dopamine content and striatal/hippocampal neuroplasticity focusing on the NMDA receptor complex and the neurotrophin BDNF. These measurements were accompanied by in vitro electrophysiological evaluations in hippocampal preparations. Finally, we investigated the density of CB1 receptors and levels of the endocannabinoid anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and their main synthetic and degrading enzymes in the striatum and hippocampus. KEY RESULTS The repeated treatment with JWH-018 induced psychomotor agitation while reducing social dominance, recognition memory and PPI in mice. JWH-018 disrupted hippocampal LTP and decreased BDNF expression, reduced the synaptic levels of NMDA receptor subunits and decreased the expression of PSD95. Repeated exposure to JWH-018, reduced hippocampal CB1 receptor density and induced a long-term alteration in AEA and 2-AG levels and their degrading enzymes, FAAH and MAGL, in the striatum. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Our findings suggest that repeated administration of a high dose of JWH-018 leads to the manifestation of psychotic-like symptoms accompanied by alterations in neuroplasticity and change in the endocannabinoid system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrine Bilel
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Erica Zamberletti
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV) and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Italy
| | - Lucia Caffino
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, 'Rodolfo Paoletti', Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Micaela Tirri
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Francesca Mottarlini
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, 'Rodolfo Paoletti', Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Raffaella Arfè
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mario Barbieri
- Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Sarah Beggiato
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology (SVeB), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Federica Boccuto
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Tatiana Bernardi
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Prevention, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Sara Casati
- Department of Biomedical Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna T Brini
- Department of Biomedical Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- IRCCS Galeazzi Orthopedic Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniela Parolaro
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV) and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Italy
- Zardi-Gori Foundation, Milan, Italy
| | - Tiziana Rubino
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV) and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Italy
| | - Luca Ferraro
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology (SVeB), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Laboratory for the Technology of Advanced Therapies (LTTA Centre), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fabio Fumagalli
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, 'Rodolfo Paoletti', Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Marti
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Collaborative Center for the Italian National Early Warning System, Department of Anti-Drug Policies, Presidency of the Council of Ministers, Rome, Italy
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3
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Naser Al-Eitan L, Zuhair Alahmad S. The Expression Analyses of GSK3B, VEGF, ANG1, and ANG2 in Human Brain Microvascular Endothelial Cells Treated with the Synthetic Cannabinoid XLR-11. Gene 2023:147585. [PMID: 37355149 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.147585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system receptors, cannabinoid receptors type-1 (CBR-1) and -2 (CBR-2), are implicated in several behavioral and cognitive processes. Many studies have indicated a correlation between cannabinoid receptors and angiogenesis. The current study aims to reveal the possible molecular signaling involved in brain angiogenesis induced by the activation of CBR-1 and CBR-2. We investigated whether the synthetic cannabinoid XLR-11, an agonist of CBR-1 and CBR-2, influences the mRNA and protein expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), angiopoietin-1 (ANG1) and -2 (ANG2) in human brain microvascular endothelial cells (hBMVEs). Furthermore, we determined the phosphorylation of glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK3B) expression. Treatment of hBMVEs cells with XLR-11 elevated the mRNA levels of VEGF, ANG1, and ANG2. The secretion of these proangiogenic factors was increased in the media. Furthermore, the intracellular expression of VEGF, ANG1, ANG2, and GSK3B was significantly increased. This current research provides a new possible approach by targeting the cannabinoid receptors to control and regulate brain angiogenesis for treating a variety of angiogenesis-related diseases. This could be achived by using different agonists or antagonists of the cannabinoid receptors based on the nature of the diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laith Naser Al-Eitan
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan.
| | - Saif Zuhair Alahmad
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan.
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Chronic exposure to a synthetic cannabinoid alters cerebral brain metabolism and causes long-lasting behavioral deficits in adult mice. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2023:10.1007/s00702-023-02607-8. [PMID: 36853560 PMCID: PMC10374737 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-023-02607-8] [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: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, there has been growing evidence that cannabinoids have promising medicinal and pharmacological effects. However, the growing interest in medical cannabis highlights the need to better understand brain alterations linking phytocannabinoids or synthetic cannabinoids to clinical and behavioral phenotypes. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of long-term WIN 55,212-2 treatment-with and without prolonged abstinence-on cerebral metabolism and memory function in healthy wildtype mice. Adult C57BI/6J mice were divided into two treatment groups to study the acute effects of WIN 55,212-2 treatment as well the effects of WIN 55,212-2 treatment after an extended washout phase. We could demonstrate that 3 mg/kg WIN 55,212-2 treatment in early adulthood leads to a hypometabolism in several brain regions including the hippocampus, cerebellum, amygdala and midbrain, even after prolonged abstinence. Furthermore, prolonged acute WIN 55,212-2 treatment in 6-months-old mice reduced the glucose metabolism in the hippocampus and midbrain. In addition, Win 55,212-2 treatment during adulthood lead to spatial memory and recognition memory deficits without affecting anxiety behavior. Overall we could demonstrate that treatment with the synthetic CB1/CB2 receptor aganist Win 55,212-2 during adulthood causes persistent memory deficits, especially when mice were treated in early adulthood. Our findings highlight the risks of prolonged WIN 55,212-2 use and provide new insights into the mechanisms underlying the effects of chronic cannabinoid exposure on the brain and behavior.
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5
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Ben-Ami L, Ravona-Springer R, Tsarfaty G, Raizman R, Shumacher A, Sharvit-Ginon I, Greenbaum L, Bendlin BB, Okun E, Heymann A, Schnaider Beeri M, Livny A. Neural correlates of subjective cognitive decline in adults at high risk for Alzheimer's disease. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1067196. [PMID: 36819726 PMCID: PMC9930909 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1067196] [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: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Recently, interest has emerged in subjective cognitive decline (SCD) as a potential precursor to Alzheimer's disease (AD) dementia. Whether individuals with SCD harbor brain alterations in midlife, when AD-related pathology begins, is yet to be elucidated. Furthermore, the role of apolipoprotein ε4 (APOE ε4) allele, a robust AD risk factor, in the relationship between SCD and brain alterations is unknown. We examined whether APOE genotype modulates the association of SCD with brain measures in individuals at high AD risk. Methods Middle-aged adults with parental history of AD dementia underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and the Memory Functioning Questionnaire. Regression analysis tested the extent to which SCD was associated with activation during an functional MRI (fMRI) working-memory task, and white-matter microstructure. APOE ε4 genotype was tested as a moderator. Results Among APOE ε4 carriers, but not among non-carriers, SCD was associated with higher activation in the anterior cingulate (p = 0.003), inferior, middle, and superior frontal cortices (p = 0.041, p = 0.048, p = 0.037, respectively); and with lower fractional anisotropy in the uncinate fasciculus (p = 0.002), adjusting for age, sex, and education. Conclusion In middle aged, cognitively normal individuals at high AD risk, higher SCD was associated with greater brain alterations possibly reflecting incipient AD pathology. When accompanied by a family history of AD and an APOE ε4 allele, SCD may have important clinical value, allowing a window for early intervention and for participants' stratification in AD prevention clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liat Ben-Ami
- Division of Diagnostic Imaging, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel,The Leslie and Susan Gonda Multidisciplinary Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Ramit Ravona-Springer
- The Joseph Sagol Neuroscience Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel HaShomer, Israel,Memory Clinic, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Galia Tsarfaty
- Division of Diagnostic Imaging, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Reut Raizman
- Division of Diagnostic Imaging, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Aleeza Shumacher
- Division of Diagnostic Imaging, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Inbal Sharvit-Ginon
- The Joseph Sagol Neuroscience Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel HaShomer, Israel,Department of Psychology, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Lior Greenbaum
- The Joseph Sagol Neuroscience Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel HaShomer, Israel,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel,The Danek Gertner Institute of Human Genetics, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Barbara B. Bendlin
- Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Eitan Okun
- The Leslie and Susan Gonda Multidisciplinary Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel,The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel,The Paul Feder Laboratory on Alzheimer’s Disease Research, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Anthony Heymann
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel,Maccabi Healthcare Services, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Michal Schnaider Beeri
- The Joseph Sagol Neuroscience Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel HaShomer, Israel,Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Abigail Livny
- Division of Diagnostic Imaging, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel,The Joseph Sagol Neuroscience Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel HaShomer, Israel,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel,The Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel,*Correspondence: Abigail Livny,
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6
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Marandure BN, Mhizha S, Wilson A. " Spice Was Made, by the Devil Himself": A Thematic Analysis of the Experience of an Addiction to Synthetic Cannabinoids. J Psychoactive Drugs 2022:1-9. [PMID: 35640052 DOI: 10.1080/02791072.2022.2083534] [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: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids (SC) are the most common type of new psychoactive substances used predominantly as a replacement for cannabis. There is a wealth of literature on the negative effects experienced by users of SC. However, there is a paucity of research on the experience of addiction to SC from the users' perspectives. The present study qualitatively explored the experience of addiction to SC. Online blog entries detailing the experience of SC addiction were analyzed using thematic analysis. Users reported being stuck in a cycle of addiction which was composed of addiction hallmarks. They also experienced a range of significant physical, mental health and psychosocial problems. Suicidal ideation was also reported, with potential for its occurrence during withdrawal, due to shame of being addicted, and as the only way to stop the addiction cycle. Additionally, both psychotic and cognitive symptoms were reported to persist following cessation, enhancing current understanding of long-term SC effects. Therefore, users require both clinical and psychosocial support for these issues, most notably suicidal ideation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blessing N Marandure
- Institute of Psychological Science, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, De Montfort University, Leicester, UK
| | - Samson Mhizha
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Studies, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Amanda Wilson
- Institute of Psychological Science, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, De Montfort University, Leicester, UK
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7
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Orazietti V, Basile G, Giorgetti R, Giorgetti A. Effects of synthetic cannabinoids on psychomotor, sensory and cognitive functions relevant for safe driving. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:998828. [PMID: 36226105 PMCID: PMC9548613 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.998828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Recreational use of Synthetic Cannabinoids (SCs), one of the largest groups of New Psychoactive Substances (NPS), has increased globally over the past few years. Driving is a structured process requiring the cooperation of several cognitive and psychomotor functions, organized in different levels of complexity. Each of these functions can be affected when Driving Under the Influence (DUI) of SCs. In order to reduce the likelihood of SC-related road accidents, it is essential to understand which areas of psychomotor performance are most affected by these substances, as well as the severity of impairment. For this purpose, a multiple database- literature review of recent experimental studies in humans and animals regarding the psychomotor effects of SCs has been performed. Despite the many limitations connected to experimental studies on humans, results showed a consistency between animal and human data. SCs appear to impair psychomotor performance in humans, affecting different domains related to safe driving even at low doses. Cases of DUI of SC have been repeatedly reported, although the exact prevalence is likely to be underestimated due to current analytical and interpretative issues. For this reason, an accurate physical examination performed by trained and experienced personnel has a primary role in recognizing signs of impairment in case of strong suspicion of SC consumption. The identification of a suspected case should be followed by reliable laboratory examination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasco Orazietti
- Department of Excellence of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Marche Polytechnic University of Ancona, Ancona, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Basile
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Galeazzi Orthopedics Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Raffaele Giorgetti
- Department of Excellence of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Marche Polytechnic University of Ancona, Ancona, Italy
| | - Arianna Giorgetti
- Department of Excellence of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Marche Polytechnic University of Ancona, Ancona, Italy.,Unit of Legal Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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8
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Loganathan K. Value-based cognition and drug dependency. Addict Behav 2021; 123:107070. [PMID: 34359016 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2021.107070] [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: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 07/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Value-based decision-making is thought to play an important role in drug dependency. Achieving elevated levels of euphoria or ameliorating dysphoria/pain may motivate goal-directed drug consumption in both drug-naïve and long-time users. In other words, drugs become viewed as the preferred means of attaining a desired internal state. The bias towards choosing drugs may affect one's cognition. Observed biases in learning, attention and memory systems within the brain gradually focus one's cognitive functions towards drugs and related cues to the exclusion of other stimuli. In this narrative review, the effects of drug use on learning, attention and memory are discussed with a particular focus on changes across brain-wide functional networks and the subsequent impact on behaviour. These cognitive changes are then incorporated into the cycle of addiction, an established model outlining the transition from casual drug use to chronic dependency. If drug use results in the elevated salience of drugs and their cues, the studies highlighted in this review strongly suggest that this salience biases cognitive systems towards the motivated pursuit of addictive drugs. This bias is observed throughout the cycle of addiction, possibly contributing to the persistent hold that addictive drugs have over the dependent. Taken together, the excessive valuation of drugs as the preferred means of achieving a desired internal state affects more than just decision-making, but also learning, attentional and mnemonic systems. This eventually narrows the focus of one's thoughts towards the pursuit and consumption of addictive drugs.
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9
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Yüncü Z, Cakmak Celik Z, Colak C, Thapa T, Fornito A, Bora E, Kitis O, Zorlu N. Resting state functional connectivity in adolescent synthetic cannabinoid users with and without attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Hum Psychopharmacol 2021; 36:e2781. [PMID: 33675677 DOI: 10.1002/hup.2781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) have become increasingly popular in recent years, especially among adolescents. The first aim of the current study was to examine resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) in SC users compared to controls. Our second aim was to examine the influence of comorbid attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptomatology on rsFC changes in SC users compared to controls. METHODS Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) analysis included 25 SC users (14 without ADHD and 11 with ADHD combined type) and 12 control subjects. RESULTS We found (i) higher rsFC between the default mode network (DMN) and salience network, dorsal attention network and cingulo-opercular network, and (ii) lower rsFC within the DMN and between the DMN and visual network in SC users compared to controls. There were no significant differences between SC users with ADHD and controls, nor were there any significant differences between SC users with and without ADHD. CONCLUSIONS We found the first evidence of abnormalities within and between resting state networks in adolescent SC users without ADHD. In contrast, SC users with ADHD showed no differences compared to controls. These results suggest that comorbidity of ADHD and substance dependence may show different rsFC alterations than substance use alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeki Yüncü
- Department of Child Psychiatry, Ege University School of Medicine, Izmir, Turkey
| | | | - Ciğdem Colak
- Department of Psychiatry, Cigli Regional Training Hospital, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Tribikram Thapa
- Brain & Mental Health Laboratory, Monash Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neurosciences and School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alex Fornito
- Brain & Mental Health Laboratory, Monash Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neurosciences and School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Emre Bora
- Department of Psychiatry, Dokuz Eylül University Medical School, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Omer Kitis
- Department of Radiodiagnostics, Ege University School of Medicine, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Nabi Zorlu
- Department of Psychiatry, Katip Celebi University, Ataturk Training and Research Hospital, Izmir, Turkey
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10
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Tik N, Livny A, Gal S, Gigi K, Tsarfaty G, Weiser M, Tavor I. Predicting individual variability in task-evoked brain activity in schizophrenia. Hum Brain Mapp 2021; 42:3983-3992. [PMID: 34021674 PMCID: PMC8288090 DOI: 10.1002/hbm.25534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2021] [Revised: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
What goes wrong in a schizophrenia patient's brain that makes it so different from a healthy brain? In this study, we tested the hypothesis that the abnormal brain activity in schizophrenia is tightly related to alterations in brain connectivity. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), we demonstrated that both resting‐state functional connectivity and brain activity during the well‐validated N‐back task differed significantly between schizophrenia patients and healthy controls. Nevertheless, using a machine‐learning approach we were able to use resting‐state functional connectivity measures extracted from healthy controls to accurately predict individual variability in the task‐evoked brain activation in the schizophrenia patients. The predictions were highly accurate, sensitive, and specific, offering novel insights regarding the strong coupling between brain connectivity and activity in schizophrenia. On a practical perspective, these findings may allow to generate task activity maps for clinical populations without the need to actually perform any tasks, thereby reducing patients inconvenience while saving time and money.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niv Tik
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Abigail Livny
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Division of Diagnostic Imaging, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel.,Joseph Sagol Neuroscience Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel
| | - Shachar Gal
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Karny Gigi
- Department of Psychiatry, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel
| | - Galia Tsarfaty
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Division of Diagnostic Imaging, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel
| | - Mark Weiser
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Department of Psychiatry, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel
| | - Ido Tavor
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Strauss Center for Computational Neuroimaging, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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11
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He X, Li X, Fu J, Xu J, Liu H, Zhang P, Li W, Yu C, Ye Z, Qin W. The morphometry of left cuneus mediating the genetic regulation on working memory. Hum Brain Mapp 2021; 42:3470-3480. [PMID: 33939221 PMCID: PMC8249898 DOI: 10.1002/hbm.25446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Working memory is a basic human cognitive function. However, the genetic signatures and their biological pathway remain poorly understood. In the present study, we tried to clarify this issue by exploring the potential associations and pathways among genetic variants, brain morphometry and working memory performance. We first carried out association analyses between 2‐back accuracy and 212 image‐derived phenotypes from 1141 Human Connectome Project (HCP) subjects using a linear mixed model (LMM). We found a significantly positive correlation between the left cuneus volume and 2‐back accuracy (T = 3.615, p = 3.150e−4, Cohen's d = 0.226, corrected using family‐wise error [FWE] method). Based on the LMM‐based genome‐wide association study (GWAS) on the HCP dataset and UK Biobank 33 k GWAS summary statistics, we identified eight independent single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that were reliably associated with left cuneus volume in both UKB and HCP dataset. Within the eight SNPs, we found a negative correlation between the rs76119478 polymorphism and 2‐back accuracy accuracy (T = −2.045, p = .041, Cohen's d = −0.129). Finally, an LMM‐based mediation analysis elucidated a significant effect of left cuneus volume in mediating rs76119478 polymorphism on the 2‐back accuracy (indirect effect = −0.007, 95% BCa CI = [−0.045, −0.003]). These results were also replicated in a subgroup of Caucasians in the HCP population. Further fine mapping demonstrated that rs76119478 maps on intergene CTD‐2315A10.2 adjacent to protein‐encoding gene DAAM1, and is significantly associated with L3HYPDH mRNA expression. Our study suggested this new variant rs76119478 may regulate the working memory through exerting influence on the left cuneus volume.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxi He
- Department of Radiology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China.,Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, China.,Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China.,Department of Radiology and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Functional Imaging, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xi Li
- Department of Radiology and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Functional Imaging, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Jilian Fu
- Department of Radiology and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Functional Imaging, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Jiayuan Xu
- Department of Radiology and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Functional Imaging, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Huaigui Liu
- Department of Radiology and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Functional Imaging, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Peng Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China.,Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, China.,Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Radiology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China.,Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, China.,Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Chunshui Yu
- Department of Radiology and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Functional Imaging, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China.,CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhaoxiang Ye
- Department of Radiology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China.,Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, China.,Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Wen Qin
- Department of Radiology and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Functional Imaging, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
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12
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Kulu M, Özarslan Y, Ozsoy F, Karamustafalıoğlu O. Optical Coherence Tomography findings in patients with Multiple Substance Use Disorder. Cutan Ocul Toxicol 2021; 40:37-44. [PMID: 33555206 DOI: 10.1080/15569527.2021.1874007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is a relatively new diagnosis method displaying biological tissue layers by with high-resolution sections. In the present study, the purpose was to examine the OCT findings of patients with Multiple Substance Use Disorder (MSUD) by comparing these findings with healthy controls. METHODS The study included 30 MSUD and 30 controls. Detailed biomicroscopic examinations were carried out for all participants, and intraocular pressure, followed by OCT. The central macular thickness (CMT), mean macular thickness (MMT), mean macular volume (MMV), and retinal nerve fibre layer thickness (RNFL) were measured by using OCT. RESULTS It was determined that the MMT and CMT were thinned in both eyes compared to the healthy controls. The MMV was decreased in both eyes in patients with substance use disorders compared to healthy controls. The RNFL and total thickness were thickened in temporal and inferior parts in patients with MSUD in both eyes compared to healthy. In the superior quadrant, thickening was detected only in the left eye. CONCLUSIONS Based on our results obtained here, it was concluded that vision-related findings should be carefully questioned and evaluated when treatment is planned for patients with substance use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Müberra Kulu
- Clinic of Psychiatry, Tokat Mental Health and Diseases Hospital, Tokat, Turkey
| | - Yakup Özarslan
- Clinic of Ophthalmology, Tokat State Hospital, Tokat, Turkey
| | - Filiz Ozsoy
- Clinic of Psychiatry, Tokat State Hospital, Tokat, Turkey
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13
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Strawn JR, Lu L, Peris T, Levine A, Walkup JT. Research Review: Pediatric anxiety disorders - what have we learnt in the last 10 years? J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2021; 62:114-139. [PMID: 32500537 PMCID: PMC7718323 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anxiety disorders first emerge during the critical developmental periods of childhood and adolescence. This review synthesizes recent findings on the prevalence, risk factors, and course of the anxiety disorders; and their neurobiology and treatment. METHODS For this review, searches were conducted using PubMed, PsycINFO, and clinicaltrials.gov. Findings related to the epidemiology, neurobiology, risk factors, and treatment of pediatric anxiety disorders were then summarized. FINDINGS Anxiety disorders are high prevalence, and early-onset conditions associated with multiple risk factors including early inhibited temperament, environment stress, and structural and functional abnormalities in the prefrontal-amygdala circuitry as well as the default mode and salience networks. The anxiety disorders are effectively treated with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). CONCLUSIONS Anxiety disorders are high prevalence, early-onset conditions associated with a distinct neurobiological fingerprint, and are consistently responsive to treatment. Questions remain regarding who is at risk of developing anxiety disorders as well as the way in which neurobiology predicts treatment response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey R. Strawn
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Lu Lu
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio,Huaxi MR Research Center, Dept. of Radiology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tara Peris
- UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Los Angeles, California
| | - Amir Levine
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University and New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY
| | - John T. Walkup
- Pritzker Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Lurie Children’s Hospital, Chicago, Illinois
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14
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Qiu Z, Wang J. Altered neural activities during response inhibition in adults with addiction: a voxel-wise meta-analysis. Psychol Med 2021; 51:387-399. [PMID: 33612127 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291721000362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous literature has extensively investigated the brain activity during response inhibition in adults with addiction. Inconsistent results including both hyper- and hypo-activities in the fronto-parietal network (FPN) and the ventral attention network (VAN) have been found in adults with addictions, compared with healthy controls (HCs). METHODS Voxel-wise meta-analyses of abnormal task-evoked regional activity were conducted for adults with substance dependence (SD) and behavioral addiction during response inhibition tasks to solve previous inconsistencies. Twenty-three functional magnetic resonance imaging studies including 479 substance users, 38 individuals with behavioral addiction and 494 HCs were identified. RESULTS Compared with HCs, all addictions showed hypo-activities in regions within FPN (inferior frontal gyrus and supramarginal gyrus) and VAN (inferior frontal gyrus, middle temporal gyrus, temporal pole and insula), and hyper-activities in the cerebellum during response inhibition. SD subgroup showed almost the same activity patterns, with an additional hypoactivation of the precentral gyrus, compared with HCs. Stronger activation of the cerebellum was associated with longer addiction duration for adults with SD. We could not conduct meta-analytic investigations into the behavioral addiction subgroup due to the small number of datasets. CONCLUSION This meta-analysis revealed altered activation of FPN, VAN and the cerebellum in adults with addiction during response inhibition tasks using non-addiction-related stimuli. Although FPN and VAN showed lower activity, the cerebellum exhibited stronger activity. These results may help to understand the neural pathology of response inhibition in addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeguo Qiu
- Department of Applied Psychology, Guangdong University of Foreign Studies, Guangzhou510006, China
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane4072, Australia
| | - Junjing Wang
- Department of Applied Psychology, Guangdong University of Foreign Studies, Guangzhou510006, China
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15
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Brunt TM, Bossong MG. The neuropharmacology of cannabinoid receptor ligands in central signaling pathways. Eur J Neurosci 2020; 55:909-921. [PMID: 32974975 PMCID: PMC9291836 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system is a complex neuronal system involved in a number of biological functions, like attention, anxiety, mood, memory, appetite, reward, and immune responses. It is at the centre of scientific interest, which is driven by therapeutic promise of certain cannabinoid ligands and the changing legalization of herbal cannabis in many countries. The endocannabinoid system is a modulatory system, with endocannabinoids as retrograde neurotransmitters rather than direct neurotransmitters. Neuropharmacology of cannabinoid ligands in the brain can therefore be understood in terms of their modulatory actions through other neurotransmitter systems. The CB1 receptor is chiefly responsible for effects of endocannabinoids and analogous ligands in the brain. An overview of the neuropharmacology of several cannabinoid receptor ligands, including endocannabinoids, herbal cannabis and synthetic cannabinoid receptor ligands is given in this review. Their mechanism of action at the endocannabinoid system is described, mainly in the brain. In addition, effects of cannabinoid ligands on other neurotransmitter systems will also be described, such as dopamine, serotonin, glutamate, noradrenaline, opioid, and GABA. In light of this, therapeutic potential and adverse effects of cannabinoid receptor ligands will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tibor M. Brunt
- Department of Psychiatry Amsterdam Institute for Addiction ResearchAmsterdam UMCUniversity of Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Matthijs G. Bossong
- Department of Psychiatry University Medical Center Utrecht Brain CenterUtrecht University Utrecht The Netherlands
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16
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Chye Y, Kirkham R, Lorenzetti V, McTavish E, Solowij N, Yücel M. Cannabis, Cannabinoids, and Brain Morphology: A Review of the Evidence. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY: COGNITIVE NEUROSCIENCE AND NEUROIMAGING 2020; 6:627-635. [PMID: 32948510 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsc.2020.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis and cannabinoid-based products are increasingly being accepted and commodified globally. Yet there is currently limited understanding of the effect of the varied cannabinoid compounds on the brain. Exogenous cannabinoids interact with the endogenous cannabinoid system that underpins vital functions in the brain and body, and they are thought to perturb key brain and cognitive function. However, much neuroimaging research has been confined to observational studies of cannabis users, without examining the specific role of the various cannabinoids (Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol, etc.). This review summarizes the brain structural imaging evidence to date associated with cannabis use, its major cannabinoids (e.g., Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol), and synthetic cannabinoid products that have emerged as recreational drugs. In doing so, we seek to highlight some of the key issues to consider in understanding cannabinoid-related brain effects, emphasizing the dual neurotoxic and neuroprotective role of cannabinoids, and the need to consider the distinct role of the varied cannabinoids in establishing their effect on the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yann Chye
- BrainPark, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Monash Biomedical Imaging Facility, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rebecca Kirkham
- BrainPark, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Monash Biomedical Imaging Facility, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Valentina Lorenzetti
- BrainPark, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Monash Biomedical Imaging Facility, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; School of Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Eugene McTavish
- BrainPark, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Monash Biomedical Imaging Facility, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nadia Solowij
- School of Psychology, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia; Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia; Australian Centre for Cannabinoid Clinical and Research Excellence, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Murat Yücel
- BrainPark, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Monash Biomedical Imaging Facility, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
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17
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Effects of the synthetic cannabinoid XLR-11 on the viability and migration rates of human brain microvascular endothelial cells in a clinically-relevant model. Pharmacol Rep 2020; 72:1717-1724. [PMID: 32632915 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-020-00123-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) are a group of newly-developed drugs that bind and activate endocannabinoid system receptors. Angiogenesis is a biological process in which new blood vessels are formed from preexistent blood vessels. It plays a vital role in tissue growth, wound healing, and embryogenesis. This study aims to investigate the effects of the synthetic cannabinoid XLR-11 on specific cellular functions such as viability and angiogenesis in vitro. METHODS Human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMECs) were cultured in DMEM/F12 medium supplemented with an endothelial cell growth kit. The MTT assay was used to investigate the viability of endothelial cells. An endothelial cell migration assay was used to investigate migration ability, while a tube formation assay was used to investigate the angiogenic capacity of the endothelial cells. RESULTS XLR-11 was found to enhance the viability of HBMECs. Moreover, the migration rate and angiogenic capacity significantly increased in the presence of various concentrations of XLR-11 compared to the control. CONCLUSION The current study shows that XLR-11 increases the viability of human brain microvascular endothelial cells and enhances angiogenesis in the brain in vitro, suggesting that XLR-11 could potentially be used as a therapeutic angiogenic drug in human brain injury treatment.
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18
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Alves VL, Gonçalves JL, Aguiar J, Teixeira HM, Câmara JS. The synthetic cannabinoids phenomenon: from structure to toxicological properties. A review. Crit Rev Toxicol 2020; 50:359-382. [PMID: 32530350 DOI: 10.1080/10408444.2020.1762539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The word "cannabinoid" refers to every chemical substance, regardless of structure or origin, that joins the cannabinoid receptors of the body and brain and that have similar effects to those produced by the Cannabis plant and based on their source of production, cannabinoids can be classified into endocannabinoids, phytocannabinoids and synthetic cannabinoids. Synthetic cannabinoids represent the largest class of drugs detected through the EU Early Warning System with a total of 190 substances notified from 2008 to 2018 and about 280 have been reported worldwide to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. Sprayed on natural herb mixtures with the aim to mimic the euphoria effect of cannabis and sold as "herbal smoking blends" or "herbal incense" under brand names like "Spice" or "K2", synthetic cannabinoids are available from websites for the combination with herbal materials or more recently, for the use in e-cigarettes. Currently labeled as "not for human consumption" to circumvent legislation, their legal status varies by country with many government institutions currently pushing for their control. However, due to the emergence of new substances, it requires a constant update of the list of controlled drugs. Little is known about how these substances work and their toxic effects in humans and the same product could vary not only in the amount and in the type of substance added. In the last years, synthetic cannabinoids have been associated with deaths and acute intoxications in Europe and, despite a range of new measures introduced in this area, continue to represent a challenge to current drug policy models. These synthetic substances are much more potent than natural cannabis, as well as displayed greater efficacy, acting as full agonists at the cannabinoid receptors. It is possible that, along with being highly potent, some may also have long half-lives, potentially leading to a prolonged psychoactive effect. The present work provides a review on existing literature about the development of synthetic cannabinoids as substances of abuse, current patterns of abuse and their legal status, chemical classification, and some pharmacological and toxicological properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera L Alves
- CQM - Centro de Química da Madeira, Universidade da Madeira, Funchal, Portugal
| | - João L Gonçalves
- CQM - Centro de Química da Madeira, Universidade da Madeira, Funchal, Portugal
| | - Joselin Aguiar
- CQM - Centro de Química da Madeira, Universidade da Madeira, Funchal, Portugal
| | - Helena M Teixeira
- Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Coimbra, Portugal.,Instituto Nacional de Medicina Legal e Ciências Forenses, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - José S Câmara
- CQM - Centro de Química da Madeira, Universidade da Madeira, Funchal, Portugal.,Faculdade de Ciências Exactas e da Engenharia, Universidade da Madeira, Funchal, Portugal
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19
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Cohen K, Rosenzweig S, Rosca P, Pinhasov A, Weizman A, Weinstein A. Personality Traits and Psychotic Proneness Among Chronic Synthetic Cannabinoid Users. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:355. [PMID: 32477173 PMCID: PMC7242629 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2019] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Chronic use of synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) has been associated with a wide range of negative consequences for health including psychotic and affective disturbances. Accumulating evidence indicates that cannabinoids use may be a risk factor for schizophrenia, and chronic natural cannabis users score higher than non-users on measures of schizotypal personality traits. However, little is known regarding the personality characteristics of SC users, especially in comparison with recreational cannabis users and healthy individuals. This study aimed to examine the differences in personality characteristics and schizotypy between SC users, regular cannabis users, and non-users and to compare these measures between groups. METHODS Forty-two chronic SC users, 39 natural cannabis users, and 47 non-using control participants, without history of mental disorder, or current substance use diagnosis (mean age 26± 4.47 years; 23 females, 105 males), completed the Big-Five Factor Inventory (BFI), the Schizotypal Personality Questionnaire-Brief (SPQ-B), substance use history, rating scales of depression and anxiety, and a demographic questionnaire. RESULTS On the BFI, SC users scored higher than natural cannabis users and non-users on neuroticism, but lower on agreeableness and extraversion, and endorsed greater schizotypal symptoms on the SPQ-B. In addition, SC users had lower scores on conscientiousness than non-users, and natural cannabis users were more extroverted than non-users. Higher openness and lower conscientiousness predicted schizotypy for both SC and natural cannabis users. Finally, greater neuroticism predicted schizotypy for natural cannabis users, and introversion predicted schizotypy for non-users. CONCLUSIONS These results show that chronic SC users differ from natural cannabis users and non-users on dimensions of specific personality traits and schizotypy that may indicate psychotic proneness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koby Cohen
- Department of Behavioral Science, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Shiri Rosenzweig
- Department of Behavioral Science, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Paola Rosca
- Ministry of Health (Israel), Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Albert Pinhasov
- Adelson School of Medicine, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
- Department of Molecular Biology, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | | | - Aviv Weinstein
- Department of Behavioral Science, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
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20
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Zhao W, Zimmermann K, Zhou X, Zhou F, Fu M, Dernbach C, Scheele D, Weber B, Eckstein M, Hurlemann R, Kendrick KM, Becker B. Impaired cognitive performance under psychosocial stress in cannabis-dependent men is associated with attenuated precuneus activity. J Psychiatry Neurosci 2020; 45:88-97. [PMID: 31509368 PMCID: PMC7828906 DOI: 10.1503/jpn.190039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Deficient regulation of stress plays an important role in the escalation of substance use, addiction and relapse. Accumulating evidence suggests dysregulations in cognitive and reward-related processes and the underlying neural circuitry in cannabis dependence. However, despite the important regulatory role of the endocannabinoid system in the stress response, associations between chronic cannabis use and altered stress processing at the neural level have not been systematically examined. METHODS Against this background, the present functional MRI study examined psychosocial stress processing in cannabis-dependent men (n = 28) and matched controls (n = 23) using an established stress-induction paradigm (Montreal Imaging Stress Task) that combines computerized (adaptive) mental arithmetic challenges with social evaluative threat. RESULTS During psychosocial stress exposure, but not the no-stress condition, cannabis users demonstrated impaired performance relative to controls. In contrast, levels of experienced stress and cardiovascular stress responsivity did not differ from controls. Functional MRI data revealed that stress-induced performance deteriorations in cannabis users was accompanied by decreased precuneus activity and increased connectivity of this region with the superior frontal gyrus. LIMITATIONS Only male cannabis-dependent users were examined; the generalizability in female users remains to be determined. CONCLUSION Together, the present findings provide first evidence for exaggerated stress-induced cognitive performance deteriorations in cannabis users. The neural data suggest that deficient stress-related recruitment of the precuneus may be associated with the deterioration of performance at the behavioural level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weihua Zhao
- From the Clinical Hospital of Chengdu Brain Science Institute, MOE Key Laboratory for Neuroinformation, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China (Zhao, Zhou, Zhou, Fu, Kendrick, Becker); the Department of Psychiatry and Division of Medical Psychology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany (Zimmermann, Dernbach, Scheele, Hurlemann); the Center for Economics and Neuroscience, Department of Epileptology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany (Weber); the Department of NeuroCognition, Life and Brain Center, Bonn, Germany (Weber); and the Institute of Medical Psychology, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany (Eckstein)
| | - Kaeli Zimmermann
- From the Clinical Hospital of Chengdu Brain Science Institute, MOE Key Laboratory for Neuroinformation, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China (Zhao, Zhou, Zhou, Fu, Kendrick, Becker); the Department of Psychiatry and Division of Medical Psychology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany (Zimmermann, Dernbach, Scheele, Hurlemann); the Center for Economics and Neuroscience, Department of Epileptology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany (Weber); the Department of NeuroCognition, Life and Brain Center, Bonn, Germany (Weber); and the Institute of Medical Psychology, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany (Eckstein)
| | - Xinqi Zhou
- From the Clinical Hospital of Chengdu Brain Science Institute, MOE Key Laboratory for Neuroinformation, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China (Zhao, Zhou, Zhou, Fu, Kendrick, Becker); the Department of Psychiatry and Division of Medical Psychology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany (Zimmermann, Dernbach, Scheele, Hurlemann); the Center for Economics and Neuroscience, Department of Epileptology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany (Weber); the Department of NeuroCognition, Life and Brain Center, Bonn, Germany (Weber); and the Institute of Medical Psychology, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany (Eckstein)
| | - Feng Zhou
- From the Clinical Hospital of Chengdu Brain Science Institute, MOE Key Laboratory for Neuroinformation, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China (Zhao, Zhou, Zhou, Fu, Kendrick, Becker); the Department of Psychiatry and Division of Medical Psychology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany (Zimmermann, Dernbach, Scheele, Hurlemann); the Center for Economics and Neuroscience, Department of Epileptology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany (Weber); the Department of NeuroCognition, Life and Brain Center, Bonn, Germany (Weber); and the Institute of Medical Psychology, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany (Eckstein)
| | - Meina Fu
- From the Clinical Hospital of Chengdu Brain Science Institute, MOE Key Laboratory for Neuroinformation, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China (Zhao, Zhou, Zhou, Fu, Kendrick, Becker); the Department of Psychiatry and Division of Medical Psychology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany (Zimmermann, Dernbach, Scheele, Hurlemann); the Center for Economics and Neuroscience, Department of Epileptology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany (Weber); the Department of NeuroCognition, Life and Brain Center, Bonn, Germany (Weber); and the Institute of Medical Psychology, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany (Eckstein)
| | - Christian Dernbach
- From the Clinical Hospital of Chengdu Brain Science Institute, MOE Key Laboratory for Neuroinformation, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China (Zhao, Zhou, Zhou, Fu, Kendrick, Becker); the Department of Psychiatry and Division of Medical Psychology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany (Zimmermann, Dernbach, Scheele, Hurlemann); the Center for Economics and Neuroscience, Department of Epileptology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany (Weber); the Department of NeuroCognition, Life and Brain Center, Bonn, Germany (Weber); and the Institute of Medical Psychology, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany (Eckstein)
| | - Dirk Scheele
- From the Clinical Hospital of Chengdu Brain Science Institute, MOE Key Laboratory for Neuroinformation, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China (Zhao, Zhou, Zhou, Fu, Kendrick, Becker); the Department of Psychiatry and Division of Medical Psychology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany (Zimmermann, Dernbach, Scheele, Hurlemann); the Center for Economics and Neuroscience, Department of Epileptology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany (Weber); the Department of NeuroCognition, Life and Brain Center, Bonn, Germany (Weber); and the Institute of Medical Psychology, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany (Eckstein)
| | - Bernd Weber
- From the Clinical Hospital of Chengdu Brain Science Institute, MOE Key Laboratory for Neuroinformation, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China (Zhao, Zhou, Zhou, Fu, Kendrick, Becker); the Department of Psychiatry and Division of Medical Psychology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany (Zimmermann, Dernbach, Scheele, Hurlemann); the Center for Economics and Neuroscience, Department of Epileptology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany (Weber); the Department of NeuroCognition, Life and Brain Center, Bonn, Germany (Weber); and the Institute of Medical Psychology, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany (Eckstein)
| | - Monika Eckstein
- From the Clinical Hospital of Chengdu Brain Science Institute, MOE Key Laboratory for Neuroinformation, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China (Zhao, Zhou, Zhou, Fu, Kendrick, Becker); the Department of Psychiatry and Division of Medical Psychology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany (Zimmermann, Dernbach, Scheele, Hurlemann); the Center for Economics and Neuroscience, Department of Epileptology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany (Weber); the Department of NeuroCognition, Life and Brain Center, Bonn, Germany (Weber); and the Institute of Medical Psychology, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany (Eckstein)
| | - René Hurlemann
- From the Clinical Hospital of Chengdu Brain Science Institute, MOE Key Laboratory for Neuroinformation, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China (Zhao, Zhou, Zhou, Fu, Kendrick, Becker); the Department of Psychiatry and Division of Medical Psychology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany (Zimmermann, Dernbach, Scheele, Hurlemann); the Center for Economics and Neuroscience, Department of Epileptology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany (Weber); the Department of NeuroCognition, Life and Brain Center, Bonn, Germany (Weber); and the Institute of Medical Psychology, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany (Eckstein)
| | - Keith M. Kendrick
- From the Clinical Hospital of Chengdu Brain Science Institute, MOE Key Laboratory for Neuroinformation, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China (Zhao, Zhou, Zhou, Fu, Kendrick, Becker); the Department of Psychiatry and Division of Medical Psychology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany (Zimmermann, Dernbach, Scheele, Hurlemann); the Center for Economics and Neuroscience, Department of Epileptology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany (Weber); the Department of NeuroCognition, Life and Brain Center, Bonn, Germany (Weber); and the Institute of Medical Psychology, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany (Eckstein)
| | - Benjamin Becker
- From the Clinical Hospital of Chengdu Brain Science Institute, MOE Key Laboratory for Neuroinformation, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China (Zhao, Zhou, Zhou, Fu, Kendrick, Becker); the Department of Psychiatry and Division of Medical Psychology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany (Zimmermann, Dernbach, Scheele, Hurlemann); the Center for Economics and Neuroscience, Department of Epileptology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany (Weber); the Department of NeuroCognition, Life and Brain Center, Bonn, Germany (Weber); and the Institute of Medical Psychology, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany (Eckstein)
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Cohen K, Mama Y, Rosca P, Pinhasov A, Weinstein A. Chronic Use of Synthetic Cannabinoids Is Associated With Impairment in Working Memory and Mental Flexibility. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:602. [PMID: 32695029 PMCID: PMC7339911 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We have recently shown that chronic use of Synthetic Cannabinoids (SCs) has been associated with mood disorders and impairments in executive functions. There is also evidence indicating that chronic SC users have higher rates of comorbidity with depression and psychotic symptoms. Here, we investigate performance on executive function and emotional processing tasks in regular SC users and a measure of schizotypal traits. METHOD Thirty chronic SC users, 32 recreational cannabis users, and 32 non-using control participants, without history of mental disorder, or current substance abuse diagnosis (mean age 26 ± 4.27 years; 85 males, 9 females), were tested in addiction treatment centers in Israel. Computerized neurocognitive function tests; the N-back task, Go/No-Go task, Wisconsin Sorting Card-like Task (WSCT), and emotional face recognition task and questionnaires of depression, anxiety and schizotypal traits and symptoms were used. RESULTS SC users have performed worse than recreational cannabis users and non-cannabis users on the N-back working-memory task (lower accuracy) and the WSCT cognitive flexibility task. SC users showed greater schizotypal traits and symptoms compared with recreational cannabis users and non-user control participants. A positive association was found in cannabinoid-user groups between schizotypal traits and symptoms and cognitive and emotional processing measures. Finally, SC users have scored higher on depression and state-trait anxiety measures than recreational cannabis users or healthy control participants. CONCLUSIONS Repeated use of SCs is associated with impairment in executive functions and emotional processing. These alterations are associated with depression and schizotypal traits and symptoms. This adds to existing evidence on the long-term consequences of SC drugs and their risks for mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koby Cohen
- Department of Behavioral Science, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Yaniv Mama
- Department of Behavioral Science, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Paola Rosca
- Ministry of Health (Israel), Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Albert Pinhasov
- Adelson School of Medicine, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel.,Department of Molecular Biology, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Aviv Weinstein
- Department of Behavioral Science, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
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22
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Sanli S, Ghorbani-Zamani F, Moulahoum H, Gumus ZP, Coskunol H, Odaci Demirkol D, Timur S. Application of Biofunctionalized Magnetic Nanoparticles Based-Sensing in Abused Drugs Diagnostics. Anal Chem 2019; 92:1033-1040. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.9b04025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Serdar Sanli
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ege University, 35100-Bornova, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Faezeh Ghorbani-Zamani
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ege University, 35100-Bornova, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Hichem Moulahoum
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ege University, 35100-Bornova, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Zinar Pinar Gumus
- Central Research Test and Analysis Laboratory Application and Research Center, Ege University, 35100-Bornova, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Hakan Coskunol
- Ege University, Faculty of Medicine, 35100-Bornova, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Dilek Odaci Demirkol
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ege University, 35100-Bornova, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Suna Timur
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ege University, 35100-Bornova, Izmir, Turkey
- Central Research Test and Analysis Laboratory Application and Research Center, Ege University, 35100-Bornova, Izmir, Turkey
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23
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Longworth M, Reekie TA, Blakey K, Boyd R, Connor M, Kassiou M. New-generation azaindole-adamantyl-derived synthetic cannabinoids. Forensic Toxicol 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s11419-019-00466-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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