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Kofman K, Levin M. Bioelectric pharmacology of cancer: A systematic review of ion channel drugs affecting the cancer phenotype. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 191:25-39. [PMID: 38971325 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2024.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
Cancer is a pernicious and pressing medical problem; moreover, it is a failure of multicellular morphogenesis that sheds much light on evolutionary developmental biology. Numerous classes of pharmacological agents have been considered as cancer therapeutics and evaluated as potential carcinogenic agents; however, these are spread throughout the primary literature. Here, we briefly review recent work on ion channel drugs as promising anti-cancer treatments and present a systematic review of the known cancer-relevant effects of 109 drugs targeting ion channels. The roles of ion channels in cancer are consistent with the importance of bioelectrical parameters in cell regulation and with the functions of bioelectric signaling in morphogenetic signals that act as cancer suppressors. We find that compounds that are well-known for having targets in the nervous system, such as voltage-gated ion channels, ligand-gated ion channels, proton pumps, and gap junctions are especially relevant to cancer. Our review suggests further opportunities for the repurposing of numerous promising candidates in the field of cancer electroceuticals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karina Kofman
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Michael Levin
- Allen Discovery Center at Tufts University, USA; Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University, USA.
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2
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Qian C, Wang Q, Qiao Y, Xu Z, Zhang L, Xiao H, Lin Z, Wu M, Xia W, Yang H, Bai J, Geng D. Arachidonic acid in aging: New roles for old players. J Adv Res 2024:S2090-1232(24)00180-2. [PMID: 38710468 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2024.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Arachidonic acid (AA), one of the most ubiquitous polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), provides fluidity to mammalian cell membranes. It is derived from linoleic acid (LA) and can be transformed into various bioactive metabolites, including prostaglandins (PGs), thromboxanes (TXs), lipoxins (LXs), hydroxy-eicosatetraenoic acids (HETEs), leukotrienes (LTs), and epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs), by different pathways. All these processes are involved in AA metabolism. Currently, in the context of an increasingly visible aging world population, several scholars have revealed the essential role of AA metabolism in osteoporosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and many other aging diseases. AIM OF REVIEW Although there are some reviews describing the role of AA in some specific diseases, there seems to be no or little information on the role of AA metabolism in aging tissues or organs. This review scrutinizes and highlights the role of AA metabolism in aging and provides a new idea for strategies for treating aging-related diseases. KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW As a member of lipid metabolism, AA metabolism regulates the important lipids that interfere with the aging in several ways. We present a comprehensivereviewofthe role ofAA metabolism in aging, with the aim of relieving the extreme suffering of families and the heavy economic burden on society caused by age-related diseases. We also collected and summarized data on anti-aging therapies associated with AA metabolism, with the expectation of identifying a novel and efficient way to protect against aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Qian
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizi Street, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, PR China
| | - Qing Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizi Street, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, PR China
| | - Yusen Qiao
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizi Street, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, PR China
| | - Ze Xu
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 17 Lujiang Road, Hefei, Anhui 230031, PR China
| | - Linlin Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 17 Lujiang Road, Hefei, Anhui 230031, PR China
| | - Haixiang Xiao
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizi Street, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, PR China
| | - Zhixiang Lin
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizi Street, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, PR China
| | - Mingzhou Wu
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizi Street, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, PR China
| | - Wenyu Xia
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizi Street, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, PR China
| | - Huilin Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizi Street, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, PR China.
| | - Jiaxiang Bai
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 17 Lujiang Road, Hefei, Anhui 230031, PR China.
| | - Dechun Geng
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizi Street, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, PR China.
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Tripathy M, Bui A, Henderson J, Sun J, Woods CR, Somani S, Doan T, Louis Sam Titus ASC, Mohan C. FAAH inhibition ameliorates breast cancer in a murine model. Oncotarget 2023; 14:910-918. [PMID: 37921652 PMCID: PMC10624203 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.28534] [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: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the leading cancer among females worldwide. Disease outcome depends on the hormonal status of the cancer and whether or not it is metastatic, but there is a need for more efficacious therapeutic strategies where first line treatment fails. In this study, Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase (FAAH) inhibition and endocannabinoids were examined as therapeutic alternatives. FAAH is an integral membrane enzyme that hydrolyzes endocannabinoids, rendering them inactive, and FAAH inhibition is predicted to increase cancer cell death. To test this, breast cancer cells were probed for FAAH expression using Western blot analysis, treated with FAAH inhibitors, exogenous endocannabinoids, and combinations of the two treatments, and assessed for viability. High levels of FAAH were observed in different breast cancer cell lines. FAAH inhibition was more effective than exogenous endocannabinoid treatment, and the combination of FAAH inhibitors and endocannabinoids was the most effective in inducing apoptosis of breast cancer cells in vitro. In addition, in vivo FAAH inhibition reduced breast cancer growth in immunodeficient mice. FAAH inhibition is a promising approach, and tremendous progress has been made in the field to validate this mechanism as an alternative to chemotherapy. Further research exploring the therapeutic potential and impact of FAAH expression on cancer cells is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mallika Tripathy
- Department Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Amy Bui
- Department Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Jared Henderson
- Department Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Jeffrey Sun
- Department Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | | | - Soumya Somani
- Department Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Thao Doan
- Department Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | | | - Chandra Mohan
- Department Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
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Yang Q, Kong S, Yu J, Xu Y, Tao M, Ma S, Tang C, Shen X, Tang Z, Ju S. MicroRNA miR-1275 coordinately regulates AEA/LPA signals via targeting FAAH in lipid metabolism reprogramming of gastric cancer. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:62. [PMID: 36702852 PMCID: PMC9879949 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-05584-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Glycerophospholipid signal and fatty acid metabolism are closely related to the occurrence and progression of tumours, and metabolic reprogramming caused by hydrolytic enzymes plays an important role in gastric cancer (GC). Here, we performed whole transcriptome sequencing and combined qRT-PCR to screen out the significantly high expression of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) in GC tissues, which was further verified in both TCGA and Oncomine databases. Functional tests confirmed that FAAH played an oncogene role in GC, and silencing FAAH could delay tumour growth, inhibit tumour metastasis, and promote cell apoptosis both in vitro and in vivo. FAAH-mediated lipid metabolism reprogramming through coordinated regulation of arachidonoyl ethanolamide (AEA)/lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) signalling and activated the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2)/prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) axis to promote GC progression. Luciferase reporter assay and immunofluorescence-fluorescence in situ hybridization (IF-FISH) were applied to validate the interactions of miR-1275/FAAH. Overexpression and knockdown of miR-1275 in vitro could indirectly modulate the above lipid signalling by targeting FAAH, thereby affecting GC progression. Our study indicates that deregulated FAAH is a key lipid signal and the miR-1275/FAAH/AEA/LPA axis can serve as a diagnostic biomarker for GC or as a target for therapy development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Yang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
- Centre of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shan Kong
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Jiangsu Province Official Hospital, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiajia Yu
- Centre of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yanhua Xu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mei Tao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shuo Ma
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chenxue Tang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xianjuan Shen
- Research Centre of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, 216001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhiyuan Tang
- Department of Pharmacy, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Shaoqing Ju
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China.
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Malheiro RF, Carmo H, Carvalho F, Silva JP. Cannabinoid-mediated targeting of mitochondria on the modulation of mitochondrial function and dynamics. Pharmacol Res 2023; 187:106603. [PMID: 36516885 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondria play a critical role in the regulation of several biological processes (e.g., programmed cell death, inflammation, neurotransmission, cell differentiation). In recent years, accumulating findings have evidenced that cannabinoids, a group of endogenous and exogenous (synthetic and plant-derived) psychoactive compounds that bind to cannabinoid receptors, may modulate mitochondrial function and dynamics. As such, mitochondria have gained increasing interest as central mediators in cannabinoids' pharmacological and toxicological signatures. Here, we review the mechanisms underlying the cannabinoids' modulation of mitochondrial activity and dynamics, as well as the potential implications of such mitochondrial processes' disruption on cell homeostasis and disease. Interestingly, cannabinoids may target different mitochondrial processes (e.g., regulation of intracellular calcium levels, bioenergetic metabolism, apoptosis, and mitochondrial dynamics, including mitochondrial fission and fusion, transport, mitophagy, and biogenesis), by modulating multiple and complex signaling pathways. Of note, the outcome may depend on the experimental models used, as well as the chemical structure, concentration, and exposure settings to the cannabinoid, originating equivocal data. Notably, this interaction seems to represent not only an important feature of cannabinoids' toxicological signatures, with potential implications for the onset of distinct pathological conditions (e.g., cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, metabolic syndromes), but also an opportunity to develop novel therapeutic strategies for such pathologies, which is also discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Filipe Malheiro
- Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; UCIBIO, Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Helena Carmo
- Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; UCIBIO, Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Félix Carvalho
- Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; UCIBIO, Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
| | - João Pedro Silva
- Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; UCIBIO, Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
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Antimicrobial and Cytotoxic Effects of Cannabinoids: An Updated Review with Future Perspectives and Current Challenges. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15101228. [PMID: 36297340 PMCID: PMC9607911 DOI: 10.3390/ph15101228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of new antibiotics is urgently needed to combat the threat of bacterial resistance. New classes of compounds that have novel properties are urgently needed for the development of effective antimicrobial agents. The extract of Cannabis sativa L. has been used to treat multiple ailments since ancient times. Its bioactivity is largely attributed to the cannabinoids found in its plant. Researchers are currently searching for new anti-infective agents that can treat various infections. Although its phytocannabinoid ingredients have a wide range of medical benefits beyond the treatment of infections, they are primarily associated to psychotropic effects. Different cannabinoids have been demonstrated to be helpful against harmful bacteria, including Gram-positive bacteria. Moreover, combination therapy involving the use of different antibiotics has shown synergism and broad-spectrum activity. The purpose of this review is to gather current data on the actions of Cannabis sativa (C. sativa) extracts and its primary constituents such as terpenes and cannabinoids towards pathogens in order to determine their antimicrobial properties and cytotoxic effects together with current challenges and future perspectives in biomedical application.
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Iozzo M, Sgrignani G, Comito G, Chiarugi P, Giannoni E. Endocannabinoid System and Tumour Microenvironment: New Intertwined Connections for Anticancer Approaches. Cells 2021; 10:cells10123396. [PMID: 34943903 PMCID: PMC8699381 DOI: 10.3390/cells10123396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumour microenvironment (TME) is now recognised as a hallmark of cancer, since tumour:stroma crosstalk supports the key steps of tumour growth and progression. The dynamic co-evolution of the tumour and stromal compartments may alter the surrounding microenvironment, including the composition in metabolites and signalling mediators. A growing number of evidence reports the involvement of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in cancer. ECS is composed by a complex network of ligands, receptors, and enzymes, which act in synergy and contribute to several physiological but also pathological processes. Several in vitro and in vivo evidence show that ECS deregulation in cancer cells affects proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis, and metastatic potential. Although it is still an evolving research, recent experimental evidence also suggests that ECS can modulate the functional behaviour of several components of the TME, above all the immune cells, endothelial cells and stromal components. However, the role of ECS in the tumour:stroma interplay remains unclear and research in this area is particularly intriguing. This review aims to shed light on the latest relevant findings of the tumour response to ECS modulation, encouraging a more in-depth analysis in this field. Novel discoveries could be promising for novel anti-tumour approaches, targeting the microenvironmental components and the supportive tumour:stroma crosstalk, thereby hindering tumour development.
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Hosami F, Ghadimkhah MH, Salimi V, Ghorbanhosseini SS, Tavakoli-Yaraki M. The strengths and limits of cannabinoids and their receptors in cancer: Insights into the role of tumorigenesis-underlying mechanisms and therapeutic aspects. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 144:112279. [PMID: 34624678 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112279] [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: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer, as a mysterious and complex disease, has a multi-stage molecular process that uses the cellular molecular machine and multiple signaling pathways to its advantage. Cannabinoids, as terpenophenolic compounds and their derivatives, showed influences on immune system responses, inflammation, and cell growth that have sparked a growing interest in exploring their effects on cancer cell fate, as well. A large body of evidence in experimental models indicating the involvement of cannabinoids and their related receptors in cancer cell growth, development, and fate. In accordance, the present study provided insights regarding the strengths and limits of cannabinoids and their receptors in critical steps of tumorigenesis and its underlying molecular pathways such as; cancer cell proliferation, type of cell death pathway, angiogenesis, invasion, metastasis and, immune system response. Based on the results of the present study and due to the contribution of cannabinoids in various cancer cell growth control processes, these compounds cancer can be considered worthwhile in finding new alternatives for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Hosami
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Vahid Salimi
- Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Masoumeh Tavakoli-Yaraki
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Bukke VN, Archana M, Villani R, Serviddio G, Cassano T. Pharmacological and Toxicological Effects of Phytocannabinoids and Recreational Synthetic Cannabinoids: Increasing Risk of Public Health. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14100965. [PMID: 34681189 PMCID: PMC8541640 DOI: 10.3390/ph14100965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Revised: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Synthetic Cannabinoids (CBs) are a novel class of psychoactive substances that have rapidly evolved around the world with the addition of diverse structural modifications to existing molecules which produce new structural analogues that can be associated with serious adverse health effects. Synthetic CBs represent the largest class of drugs detected by the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) with a total of 207 substances identified from 2008 to October 2020, and 9 compounds being reported for the first time. Synthetic CBs are sprayed on natural harmless herbs with an aim to mimic the euphoric effect of Cannabis. They are sold under different brand names including Black mamba, spice, K2, Bombay Blue, etc. As these synthetic CBs act as full agonists at the CB receptors, they are much more potent than natural Cannabis and have been increasingly associated with acute to chronic intoxications and death. Due to their potential toxicity and abuse, the US government has listed some synthetic CBs under schedule 1 classification. The present review aims to provide a focused overview of the literature concerning the development of synthetic CBs, their abuse, and potential toxicological effects including renal toxicity, respiratory depression, hyperemesis syndrome, cardiovascular effects, and a range of effects on brain function.
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Mangal N, Erridge S, Habib N, Sadanandam A, Reebye V, Sodergren MH. Cannabinoids in the landscape of cancer. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2021; 147:2507-2534. [PMID: 34259916 PMCID: PMC8310855 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-021-03710-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cannabinoids are a group of terpenophenolic compounds derived from the Cannabis sativa L. plant. There is a growing body of evidence from cell culture and animal studies in support of cannabinoids possessing anticancer properties. METHOD A database search of peer reviewed articles published in English as full texts between January 1970 and April 2021 in Google Scholar, MEDLINE, PubMed and Web of Science was undertaken. References of relevant literature were searched to identify additional studies to construct a narrative literature review of oncological effects of cannabinoids in pre-clinical and clinical studies in various cancer types. RESULTS Phyto-, endogenous and synthetic cannabinoids demonstrated antitumour effects both in vitro and in vivo. However, these effects are dependent on cancer type, the concentration and preparation of the cannabinoid and the abundance of receptor targets. The mechanism of action of synthetic cannabinoids, (-)-trans-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) has mainly been described via the traditional cannabinoid receptors; CB1 and CB2, but reports have also indicated evidence of activity through GPR55, TRPM8 and other ion channels including TRPA1, TRPV1 and TRPV2. CONCLUSION Cannabinoids have shown to be efficacious both as a single agent and in combination with antineoplastic drugs. These effects have occurred through various receptors and ligands and modulation of signalling pathways involved in hallmarks of cancer pathology. There is a need for further studies to characterise its mode of action at the molecular level and to delineate efficacious dosage and route of administration in addition to synergistic regimes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nagina Mangal
- Medical Cannabis Research Group, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, London, W12 0HS, UK
- Systems and Precision Cancer Medicine Team, Division of Molecular Pathology, Institute of Cancer Research, London, SM2 5NG, UK
| | - Simon Erridge
- Medical Cannabis Research Group, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, London, W12 0HS, UK
| | - Nagy Habib
- Medical Cannabis Research Group, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, London, W12 0HS, UK
| | - Anguraj Sadanandam
- Systems and Precision Cancer Medicine Team, Division of Molecular Pathology, Institute of Cancer Research, London, SM2 5NG, UK
| | - Vikash Reebye
- Medical Cannabis Research Group, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, London, W12 0HS, UK
| | - Mikael Hans Sodergren
- Medical Cannabis Research Group, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, London, W12 0HS, UK.
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Coronado-Álvarez A, Romero-Cordero K, Macías-Triana L, Tatum-Kuri A, Vera-Barrón A, Budde H, Machado S, Yamamoto T, Imperatori C, Murillo-Rodríguez E. The synthetic CB 1 cannabinoid receptor selective agonists: Putative medical uses and their legalization. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 110:110301. [PMID: 33741446 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2021.110301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
More than 500 molecules have been identified as components of Cannabis sativa (C. sativa), of which the most studied is Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC). Several studies have suggested that Δ9-THC exerts diverse biological effects, ranging from fragmentation of DNA to behavioral disruptions. Currently, it is accepted that most of the pharmacological properties of Δ9-THC engage the activation of the cannabinoid receptors, named CB1 and CB2. Interestingly, multiple pieces of evidence have suggested that the cannabinoid receptors play an active role in the modulation of several diseases leading to the design of synthetic cannabinoid-like compounds. Advances in the development of synthetic CB1 cannabinoid receptor selective agonists as therapeutical approaches are, however, limited. This review focuses on available evidence searched in PubMed regarding the synthetic CB1 cannabinoid receptor selective agonists such as AM-1235, arachidonyl-2' chloroethylamide (ACEA), CP 50,556-1 (Levonantradol), CP-55,940, HU-210, JWH-007, JWH-018, JWH-200 (WIN 55,225), methanandamide, nabilone, O-1812, UR-144, WIN 55,212-2, nabiximols, and dronabinol. Indeed, it would be ambitious to describe all available evidence related to the synthetic CB1 cannabinoid receptor selective agonists. However, and despite the positive evidence on the positive results of using these compounds in experimental models of health disturbances and preclinical trials, we discuss evidence in regards some concerns due to side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astrid Coronado-Álvarez
- Laboratorio de Neurociencias Moleculares e Integrativas, Escuela de Medicina, División Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Anáhuac Mayab, Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico; Intercontinental Neuroscience Research Group, Mexico
| | - Karen Romero-Cordero
- Laboratorio de Neurociencias Moleculares e Integrativas, Escuela de Medicina, División Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Anáhuac Mayab, Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico; Intercontinental Neuroscience Research Group, Mexico
| | - Lorena Macías-Triana
- Laboratorio de Neurociencias Moleculares e Integrativas, Escuela de Medicina, División Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Anáhuac Mayab, Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico; Intercontinental Neuroscience Research Group, Mexico
| | - Agnes Tatum-Kuri
- Laboratorio de Neurociencias Moleculares e Integrativas, Escuela de Medicina, División Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Anáhuac Mayab, Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico; Intercontinental Neuroscience Research Group, Mexico
| | - Alba Vera-Barrón
- Laboratorio de Neurociencias Moleculares e Integrativas, Escuela de Medicina, División Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Anáhuac Mayab, Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico; Intercontinental Neuroscience Research Group, Mexico
| | - Henning Budde
- Intercontinental Neuroscience Research Group, Mexico; Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sérgio Machado
- Intercontinental Neuroscience Research Group, Mexico; Laboratory of Physical Activity Neuroscience, Physical Activity Sciences Postgraduate Program, Salgado de Oliveira University, Niterói, Brazil
| | - Tetsuya Yamamoto
- Intercontinental Neuroscience Research Group, Mexico; Graduate School of Technology, Industrial and Social Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Claudio Imperatori
- Intercontinental Neuroscience Research Group, Mexico; Cognitive and Clinical Psychology Laboratory, Department of Human Sciences, European University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Eric Murillo-Rodríguez
- Laboratorio de Neurociencias Moleculares e Integrativas, Escuela de Medicina, División Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Anáhuac Mayab, Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico; Intercontinental Neuroscience Research Group, Mexico.
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Jaiswal S, Ayyannan SR. Anticancer Potential of Small-Molecule Inhibitors of Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase and Monoacylglycerol Lipase. ChemMedChem 2021; 16:2172-2187. [PMID: 33834617 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202100120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Recently fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) inhibitors have been in the limelight due to their anticancer potential. Both FAAH and MAGL are the endocannabinoid degrading enzymes that hydrolyze several endogenous ligands, mainly anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonic glycerol (2-AG), which regulate various pathophysiological conditions in the body such as emotion, cognition, energy balance, pain sensation, neuroinflammation, and cancer cell proliferation. FAAH and MAGL inhibitors block the metabolism of AEA and 2-AG, increase endogenous levels of fatty acid amides, and exert various therapeutic effects including chronic pain, metabolic disorders, psychoses, nausea and vomiting, depression, and anxiety disorders. FAAH and MAGL are primarily neurotherapeutic targets, but their contribution to various types of carcinomas are significant. Inhibitors of these enzymes either alone or as multitarget agents, or with supra-additive effects show the potential effect in ovarian, breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers. Besides highlighting the role of FAAH and MAGL in cancer progression, this review provides an update on the anticancer capabilities of known and newly discovered FAAH and MAGL inhibitors and also provides further directions to develop FAAH and MAGL inhibitors as new candidates for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivani Jaiswal
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering & Technology, Indian Institute of Technology (Banaras Hindu University), Varanasi, 221005, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Senthil Raja Ayyannan
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering & Technology, Indian Institute of Technology (Banaras Hindu University), Varanasi, 221005, Uttar Pradesh, India
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The Endocannabinoid, Anandamide, Acts as a Novel Inhibitor of LPS-Induced Inflammasome Activation in Human Gastric Cancer AGS Cell Line: Involvement of CB1 and TRPV1 Receptors. Mediators Inflamm 2021. [DOI: 10.1155/2021/6698049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammasome activation is a pivotal step for the maturation of IL-1β, which is involved in the development and progression of gastric cancer (GC). Endocannabinoids, such as anandamide (AEA), are emerging as new anticancer therapeutic agents; however, their effects on inflammasome components and underlying mechanisms have not been well elucidated. This study was designed to investigate the effects of AEA on the expression of inflammasome components in lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) stimulated AGS cells. Moreover, we explored the involvement of cannabinoid receptors (CRs), including CB1R and TRPV1R, in the observed effects of AEA. Our results showed that inflammation was induced by LPS (10 μg/ml) in AGS cells, and inflammasome components (NLRP3, MLRC4, ASC, IL-18, and IL-1β) were overexpressed. Exposure to AEA (10 μM, 24 h) before or after inflammation induction downregulated the expression of inflammasome components and attenuated inflammasome activation as demonstrated by cleavage of caspase 1 and matured IL-1β secretion, although AEA pretreatment showed more reducing effects on the inflammasome activation. In addition, blocking of CB1R and TRPV1R by application of AM-251 and AMG-9810 antagonists remarkably reversed the observed effects of AEA and revealed that NLRP3, NLRC4, and IL-1β genes were mainly regulated via CB1R, while TRPV1R could only regulate the expression of IL-1β and IL-18 genes. In conclusion, our results would indicate a novel anticancer effect of anandamide by attenuation of inflammasome activation and consequently reducing IL-1β production in human AGS cancer cell line via CB1R and TRPV1R.
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Moreno E, Cavic M, Krivokuca A, Canela EI. The Interplay between Cancer Biology and the Endocannabinoid System-Significance for Cancer Risk, Prognosis and Response to Treatment. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12113275. [PMID: 33167409 PMCID: PMC7694406 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12113275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The various components of the endocannabinoid system (ECS), such as the cannabinoid receptors (CBRs), cannabinoid ligands, and the signalling network behind it, are implicated in several tumour-related states, both as favourable and unfavourable factors. This review analyses the ECS's complex involvement in the susceptibility to cancer, prognosis, and response to treatment, focusing on its relationship with cancer biology in selected solid cancers (breast, gastrointestinal, gynaecological, prostate cancer, thoracic, thyroid, CNS tumours, and melanoma). Changes in the expression and activation of CBRs, as well as their ability to form distinct functional heteromers affect the cell's tumourigenic potential and their signalling properties, leading to pharmacologically different outcomes. Thus, the same ECS component can exert both protective and pathogenic effects in different tumour subtypes, which are often pathologically driven by different biological factors. The use of endogenous and exogenous cannabinoids as anti-cancer agents, and the range of effects they might induce (cell death, regulation of angiogenesis, and invasion or anticancer immunity), depend in great deal on the tumour type and the specific ECS component that they target. Although an attractive target, the use of ECS components in anti-cancer treatment is still interlinked with many legal and ethical issues that need to be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estefanía Moreno
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Institute of Biomedicine of the University of Barcelona (IBUB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Correspondence: (E.M.); (E.I.C.)
| | - Milena Cavic
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute for Oncology and Radiology of Serbia, Pasterova 14, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (M.C.); (A.K.)
| | - Ana Krivokuca
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute for Oncology and Radiology of Serbia, Pasterova 14, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (M.C.); (A.K.)
| | - Enric I. Canela
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Institute of Biomedicine of the University of Barcelona (IBUB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), 28031, Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: (E.M.); (E.I.C.)
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Brunetti L, Carrieri A, Piemontese L, Tortorella P, Loiodice F, Laghezza A. Beyond the Canonical Endocannabinoid System. A Screening of PPAR Ligands as FAAH Inhibitors. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21197026. [PMID: 32987725 PMCID: PMC7582602 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21197026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors (PPARs) have been connected to the endocannabinoid system. These nuclear receptors indeed mediate the effects of anandamide and similar substances such as oleoyl-ethanolamide and palmitoyl-ethanolamide. An increasing body of literature describing the interactions between the endocannabinoid system and PPARs has slowly but surely been accumulating over the past decade, and a multitarget approach involving these receptors and endocannabinoid degrading enzyme FAAH has been proposed for the treatment of inflammatory states, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease. The lack of knowledge about compounds endowed with such an activity profile therefore led us to investigate a library of readily available, well-characterized PPAR agonists that we had synthesized over the years in order to find a plausible lead compound for further development. Moreover, we propose a rationalization of our results via a docking study, which sheds some light on the binding mode of these PPAR agonists to FAAH and opens the way for further research in this field.
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Soto-Mercado V, Mendivil-Perez M, Jimenez-Del-Rio M, Fox JE, Velez-Pardo C. Cannabinoid CP55940 selectively induces apoptosis in Jurkat cells and in ex vivo T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia through H 2O 2 signaling mechanism. Leuk Res 2020; 95:106389. [PMID: 32540572 DOI: 10.1016/j.leukres.2020.106389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Revised: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is a highly heterogeneous malignant hematological disorder arising from T-cell progenitors. This study was aimed to evaluate the cytotoxic effect of CP55940 on human peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) and on T-ALL cells (Jurkat). PBL and Jurkat cells were treated with CP55940 (0-20 μM), and morphological changes in the cell nucleus/ DNA, mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), and intracellular reactive oxygen species levels were determined by fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry. Cellular apoptosis markers were also evaluated by western blotting, pharmacological inhibition and immunofluorescence. CP55940 induced apoptotic cell death in Jurkat cells, but not in PBL, in a dose-response manner with increasing fragmentation of DNA, arrest of cell cycle and damage of ΔΨm. CP55940 increased dichlorofluorescein fluorescence (DCF) intensity, increased DJ-1 Cys106- sulfonate, a marker of intracellular stress, induced the up-regulation of p53 and phosphorylation of transcription factor c-JUN. It increased the expression of BAX and PUMA, up-regulated mitochondrial proteins PINK1 and Parkin, and activated CASPASE-3. Antioxidant NAC, pifithrin-α, and SP600125 blocked CP55940 deleterious effect on Jurkat cells. However, the potent and highly specific cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptor inverse agonist SR141716 and SR144528 were unable to blunt CP55940-induced apoptosis in Jurkat cells. Conclusively CP55940 provokes cell death in Jurkat through CBR-independent mechanism. Interestingly, CP55940 was also cytotoxic to ex vivo T-ALL cells from chemotherapy-resistant pediatric patients. In conclusion, CP55940 selectively induces apoptosis in Jurkat cells through a H2O2-mediated signaling pathway. Our findings support the use of cannabinoids as a potential treatment for T-ALL cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viviana Soto-Mercado
- Neuroscience Research Group, Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine, University of Antioquia (UdeA), Calle 70 No. 52-21, and Calle 62 # 52-59, Building 1, Room 412 SIU, Medellin, Colombia
| | - Miguel Mendivil-Perez
- Neuroscience Research Group, Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine, University of Antioquia (UdeA), Calle 70 No. 52-21, and Calle 62 # 52-59, Building 1, Room 412 SIU, Medellin, Colombia
| | - Marlene Jimenez-Del-Rio
- Neuroscience Research Group, Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine, University of Antioquia (UdeA), Calle 70 No. 52-21, and Calle 62 # 52-59, Building 1, Room 412 SIU, Medellin, Colombia
| | - Javier E Fox
- Children's Hospital San Vicente Foundation, Pediatric Hematoncology Unit, Calle 64 # 51 D - 154, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Carlos Velez-Pardo
- Neuroscience Research Group, Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine, University of Antioquia (UdeA), Calle 70 No. 52-21, and Calle 62 # 52-59, Building 1, Room 412 SIU, Medellin, Colombia.
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Prospéro-García O, Ruiz Contreras AE, Ortega Gómez A, Herrera-Solís A, Méndez-Díaz M. Endocannabinoids as Therapeutic Targets. Arch Med Res 2020; 50:518-526. [PMID: 32028095 DOI: 10.1016/j.arcmed.2019.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Revised: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Most of the drugs of abuse affect the brain by interacting with naturally expressed molecular receptors. Marihuana affects a series of receptors including cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1R) and CB2R, among others. Endogenous molecules with cannabinoid activity interact with these receptors naturally. Receptors, ligands, synthesizing and degrading enzymes, as well as transporters, have been described. This endocannabinoid system modulates behaviors and physiological processes, i.e. food intake, the sleep-waking cycle, learning and memory, motivation, and pain perception, among others. The rather broad distribution of endocannabinoids in the brain explains the different effects marihuana induces in its users. However, this very same anatomical and physiological distribution makes this system a useful target for therapeutic endeavors. In this review, we briefly discuss the potential of small molecules that target the endocannabinoids as therapeutic tools to improve behaviors and treat illnesses. We believe that under medical supervision, endocannabinoid targets offer new advantages for patients for controlling multiple medical disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oscar Prospéro-García
- Departamento de Fisiología, Laboratorio de Canabinoides, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - Alejandra E Ruiz Contreras
- Laboratorio de Neurogenómica Cognitiva, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Alette Ortega Gómez
- Laboratorio de Medicina Traslacional, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Andrea Herrera-Solís
- Laboratorio Efectos Terapéuticos de los Canabinoides, Subdirección de Investigación Biomédica, Hospital General Dr. Manuel Gea González, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Mónica Méndez-Díaz
- Departamento de Fisiología, Laboratorio de Canabinoides, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
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Laezza C, Pagano C, Navarra G, Pastorino O, Proto MC, Fiore D, Piscopo C, Gazzerro P, Bifulco M. The Endocannabinoid System: A Target for Cancer Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21030747. [PMID: 31979368 PMCID: PMC7037210 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21030747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2019] [Revised: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the endocannabinoid system has received great interest as a potential therapeutic target in numerous pathological conditions. Cannabinoids have shown an anticancer potential by modulating several pathways involved in cell growth, differentiation, migration, and angiogenesis. However, the therapeutic efficacy of cannabinoids is limited to the treatment of chemotherapy-induced symptoms or cancer pain, but their use as anticancer drugs in chemotherapeutic protocols requires further investigation. In this paper, we reviewed the role of cannabinoids in the modulation of signaling mechanisms implicated in tumor progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Laezza
- Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology, IEOS CNR, 80131 Naples, Italy
- Correspondence: (C.L.); (M.B.)
| | - Cristina Pagano
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.P.); (G.N.); (O.P.)
| | - Giovanna Navarra
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.P.); (G.N.); (O.P.)
| | - Olga Pastorino
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.P.); (G.N.); (O.P.)
| | - Maria Chiara Proto
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano (SA), Italy; (M.C.P.); (D.F.); (C.P.)
| | - Donatella Fiore
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano (SA), Italy; (M.C.P.); (D.F.); (C.P.)
| | - Chiara Piscopo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano (SA), Italy; (M.C.P.); (D.F.); (C.P.)
| | - Patrizia Gazzerro
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano (SA), Italy; (M.C.P.); (D.F.); (C.P.)
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.P.); (G.N.); (O.P.)
- Correspondence: (C.L.); (M.B.)
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Brunetti L, Loiodice F, Piemontese L, Tortorella P, Laghezza A. New Approaches to Cancer Therapy: Combining Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase (FAAH) Inhibition with Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors (PPARs) Activation. J Med Chem 2019; 62:10995-11003. [PMID: 31407888 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.9b00885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Over the course of the past decade, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) have been identified as part of the cannabinoid signaling system: both phytocannabinoids and endocannabinoids are capable of binding and activating these nuclear receptors. Fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) hydrolyzes the endocannabinoid anandamide and other N-acylethanolamines. These substances have been shown to have numerous anticancer effects, and indeed the inhibition of FAAH has multiple beneficial effects that are mediated by PPARα subtype and by PPARγ subtype, especially antiproliferation and activation of apoptosis. The substrates of FAAH are also PPAR agonists, which explains the PPAR-mediated effects of FAAH inhibitors. Much like cannabinoid ligands and FAAH inhibitors, PPARγ agonists show antiproliferative effects on cancer cells, suggesting that additive or synergistic effects may be achieved through the positive modulation of both signaling systems. In this Miniperspective, we discuss the development of novel FAAH inhibitors able to directly act as PPAR agonists and their promising utilization as leads for the discovery of highly effective anticancer compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Brunetti
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco , Università degli Studi di Bari "Aldo Moro" , via Orabona 4 , 70125 Bari , Italy
| | - Fulvio Loiodice
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco , Università degli Studi di Bari "Aldo Moro" , via Orabona 4 , 70125 Bari , Italy
| | - Luca Piemontese
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco , Università degli Studi di Bari "Aldo Moro" , via Orabona 4 , 70125 Bari , Italy
| | - Paolo Tortorella
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco , Università degli Studi di Bari "Aldo Moro" , via Orabona 4 , 70125 Bari , Italy
| | - Antonio Laghezza
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco , Università degli Studi di Bari "Aldo Moro" , via Orabona 4 , 70125 Bari , Italy
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20
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Morales P, Jagerovic N. Antitumor Cannabinoid Chemotypes: Structural Insights. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:621. [PMID: 31214034 PMCID: PMC6555086 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabis has long been known to limit or prevent nausea and vomiting, lack of appetite, and pain. For this reason, cannabinoids have been successfully used in the treatment of some of the unwanted side effects caused by cancer chemotherapy. Besides their palliative effects, research from the past two decades has demonstrated their promising potential as antitumor agents in a wide variety of tumors. Cannabinoids of endogenous, phytogenic, and synthetic nature have been shown to impact the proliferation of cancer through the modulation of different proteins involved in the endocannabinoid system such as the G protein-coupled receptors CB1, CB2, and GRP55, the ionotropic receptor TRPV1, or the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). In this article, we aim to structurally classify the antitumor cannabinoid chemotypes described so far according to their targets and types of cancer. In a drug discovery approach, their in silico pharmacokinetic profile has been evaluated in order to identify appropriate drug-like profiles, which should be taken into account for further progress toward the clinic. This analysis may provide structural insights into the selection of specific cannabinoid scaffolds for the development of antitumor drugs for the treatment of particular types of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Morales
- Instituto de Quimica Medica, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientificas, Madrid, Spain
| | - Nadine Jagerovic
- Instituto de Quimica Medica, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientificas, Madrid, Spain
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21
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Ramer R, Schwarz R, Hinz B. Modulation of the Endocannabinoid System as a Potential Anticancer Strategy. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:430. [PMID: 31143113 PMCID: PMC6520667 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, the involvement of the endocannabinoid system in cancer development and possible options for a cancer-regressive effect of cannabinoids are controversially discussed. In recent decades, a number of preclinical studies have shown that cannabinoids have an anticarcinogenic potential. Therefore, especially against the background of several legal simplifications with regard to the clinical application of cannabinoid-based drugs, an extended basic knowledge about the complex network of the individual components of the endocannabinoid system is required. The canonical endocannabinoid system consists of the endocannabinoids N-arachidonoylethanolamine (anandamide) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol as well as the Gi/o protein-coupled transmembrane cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2. As a result of extensive studies on the broader effect of these factors, other fatty acid derivatives, transmembrane and intracellular receptors, enzymes and lipid transporters have been identified that contribute to the effect of endocannabinoids when defined in the broad sense as “extended endocannabinoid system.” Among these additional components, the endocannabinoid-degrading enzymes fatty acid amide hydrolase and monoacylglycerol lipase, lipid transport proteins of the fatty acid-binding protein family, additional cannabinoid-activated G protein-coupled receptors such as GPR55, members of the transient receptor family, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors were identified as targets for possible strategies to combat cancer progression. Other endocannabinoid-related fatty acids such as 2-arachidonoyl glyceryl ether, O-arachidonoylethanolamine, N-arachidonoyldopamine and oleic acid amide showed an effect via cannabinoid receptors, while other compounds such as endocannabinoid-like substances exert a permissive action on endocannabinoid effects and act via alternative intracellular target structures. This review gives an overview of the modulation of the extended endocannabinoid system using the example of anticancer cannabinoid effects, which have been described in detail in preclinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Ramer
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rostock University Medical Center, Rostock, Germany
| | - Rico Schwarz
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rostock University Medical Center, Rostock, Germany
| | - Burkhard Hinz
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rostock University Medical Center, Rostock, Germany
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23
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Anti-tumoral potential of MDA19 in human osteosarcoma via suppressing PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. Biosci Rep 2018; 38:BSR20181501. [PMID: 30442873 PMCID: PMC6294623 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20181501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2018] [Revised: 11/02/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common primary malignancy of skeleton with higher mortality rates amongst children and young adults worldwide, whereas effective and secure therapies have also been sought by researches with ongoing efforts. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the impact of N′-[(3Z)-1-(1-hexyl)-2-oxo-1,2-dihydro-3H-indol-3-ylidene] benzohydrazide (MDA19) on OS and explore its potential mechanism. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8) and colony formation assay were employed to evaluate the potential effect of MDA19 on U2OS and MG-63 cells proliferation. Moreover, transwell migration and invasion assay were performed to assess the influence of MDA19 on U2OS and MG-63 cells migration and invasion. In addition, Annexin V-FITC/propidium iodide (Annexin V-FITC/PI) staining and flow cytometry were used to examine apoptotic ratio of the U2OS and MG-63 cells. Meanwhile, Western blot analysis was applied to explore change of relevant mechanism proteins in OS cells treated with MDA19. Our study showed that MDA19 had anti-proliferative activity of OS cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner, simultaneously, inhibition of colony formation was also observed in U2OS and MG-63 cells after incubation of MDA19. Besides, MDA19 could significantly inhibit the number of migrated and invaded OS cells and markedly increase the OS cells apoptosis rate. Mechanistically, we detected detectable reductions in apoptosis related proteins, epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related proteins and activity of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling in U2OS and MG-63 cells exposure to MDA19. Overall, the current study indicates in vitro anti-proliferative, anti-metastatic, and pro-apoptotic potential of MDA19 in U2OS and MG-63 cells. Our findings propose a clue for further studies with this compound in preclinical and clinical treatment for OS.
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Honarmand M, Namazi F, Mohammadi A, Nazifi S. Can cannabidiol inhibit angiogenesis in colon cancer? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s00580-018-2810-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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25
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Maurya N, Velmurugan BK. Therapeutic applications of cannabinoids. Chem Biol Interact 2018; 293:77-88. [PMID: 30040916 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2018.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2018] [Revised: 07/10/2018] [Accepted: 07/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The psychoactive property of cannabinoids is well known and there has been a continuous controversy regarding the usage of these compounds for therapeutic purposes all over the world. Their use for medical and research purposes are restricted in various countries. However, their utility as medications should not be overshadowed by its negative physiological activities. This review article is focused on the therapeutic potential and applications of phytocannabinoids and endocannabinoids. We further highlights their mode of action, overall effects on physiology, various in vitro and in vivo studies that have been done so far and the extent to which these compounds can be useful in different disease conditions such as cancer, Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, pain, inflammation, glaucoma and many others. Thus, this work is an attempt to make the readers understand the positive implications of these compounds and indicates the significant developments of utilizing cannabinoids as therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Maurya
- School of Biotechnology, Rajiv Gandhi Proudyogiki Vishwavidyalaya, Bhopal, India
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26
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Fraguas‐Sánchez AI, Martín‐Sabroso C, Torres‐Suárez AI. Insights into the effects of the endocannabinoid system in cancer: a review. Br J Pharmacol 2018; 175:2566-2580. [PMID: 29663308 PMCID: PMC6003657 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2017] [Revised: 03/15/2018] [Accepted: 03/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last few decades, the endocannabinoid system has attracted a great deal of interest in terms of its applications to clinical medicine. In particular, its applications in cancer probably represent one of the therapeutic areas with most promise. On the one hand, expression of the endocannabinoid system is altered in numerous types of tumours, compared to healthy tissue, and this aberrant expression has been related to cancer prognosis and disease outcome, suggesting a role of this system in tumour growth and progression that depends on cancer type. On the other hand, cannabinoids exert an anticancer activity by inhibiting the proliferation, migration and/or invasion of cancer cells and also tumour angiogenesis. However, some cannabinoids, at lower concentrations, may increase tumour proliferation, inducing cancer growth. Enough data has been provided to consider the endocannabinoid system as a new therapeutic target in cancer, although further studies to fully establish the effect of cannabinoids on tumour progression are still needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Isabel Fraguas‐Sánchez
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of PharmacyComplutense University of MadridMadrid28040Spain
| | - Cristina Martín‐Sabroso
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of PharmacyComplutense University of MadridMadrid28040Spain
| | - Ana Isabel Torres‐Suárez
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of PharmacyComplutense University of MadridMadrid28040Spain
- Institute of Industrial PharmacyComplutense University of MadridMadrid28040Spain
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Schwarz R, Ramer R, Hinz B. Targeting the endocannabinoid system as a potential anticancer approach. Drug Metab Rev 2018; 50:26-53. [PMID: 29390896 DOI: 10.1080/03602532.2018.1428344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system is currently under intense investigation due to the therapeutic potential of cannabinoid-based drugs as treatment options for a broad variety of diseases including cancer. Besides the canonical endocannabinoid system that includes the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 and the endocannabinoids N-arachidonoylethanolamine (anandamide) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol, recent investigations suggest that other fatty acid derivatives, receptors, enzymes, and lipid transporters likewise orchestrate this system as components of the endocannabinoid system when defined as an extended signaling network. As such, fatty acids acting at cannabinoid receptors (e.g. 2-arachidonoyl glyceryl ether [noladin ether], N-arachidonoyldopamine) as well as endocannabinoid-like substances that do not elicit cannabinoid receptor activation (e.g. N-palmitoylethanolamine, N-oleoylethanolamine) have raised interest as anticancerogenic substances. Furthermore, the endocannabinoid-degrading enzymes fatty acid amide hydrolase and monoacylglycerol lipase, lipid transport proteins of the fatty acid binding protein family, additional cannabinoid-activated G protein-coupled receptors, members of the transient receptor potential family as well as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors have been considered as targets of antitumoral cannabinoid activity. Therefore, this review focused on the antitumorigenic effects induced upon modulation of this extended endocannabinoid network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rico Schwarz
- a Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology , Rostock University Medical Center , Rostock , Germany
| | - Robert Ramer
- a Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology , Rostock University Medical Center , Rostock , Germany
| | - Burkhard Hinz
- a Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology , Rostock University Medical Center , Rostock , Germany
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Pagano E, Borrelli F. Targeting cannabinoid receptors in gastrointestinal cancers for therapeutic uses: current status and future perspectives. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2017; 11:871-873. [PMID: 28817987 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2017.1367663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ester Pagano
- a Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery , University of Naples Federico II , Naples , Italy.,b Endocannabinoid Research Group
| | - Francesca Borrelli
- a Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery , University of Naples Federico II , Naples , Italy.,b Endocannabinoid Research Group
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Ramer R, Hinz B. Cannabinoids as Anticancer Drugs. ADVANCES IN PHARMACOLOGY (SAN DIEGO, CALIF.) 2017; 80:397-436. [PMID: 28826542 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apha.2017.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system encompassing cannabinoid receptors, endogenous receptor ligands (endocannabinoids), as well as enzymes conferring the synthesis and degradation of endocannabinoids has emerged as a considerable target for pharmacotherapeutical approaches of numerous diseases. Besides palliative effects of cannabinoids used in cancer treatment, phytocannabinoids, synthetic agonists, as well as substances that increase endogenous endocannabinoid levels have gained interest as potential agents for systemic cancer treatment. Accordingly, cannabinoid compounds have been reported to inhibit tumor growth and spreading in numerous rodent models. The underlying mechanisms include induction of apoptosis, autophagy, and cell cycle arrest in tumor cells as well as inhibition of tumor cell invasion and angiogenic features of endothelial cells. In addition, cannabinoids have been shown to suppress epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, to enhance tumor immune surveillance, and to support chemotherapeutics' effects on drug-resistant cancer cells. However, unwanted side effects include psychoactivity and possibly pathogenic effects on liver health. Other cannabinoids such as the nonpsychoactive cannabidiol exert a comparatively good safety profile while exhibiting considerable anticancer properties. So far experience with anticarcinogenic effects of cannabinoids is confined to in vitro studies and animal models. Although a bench-to-bedside conversion remains to be established, the current knowledge suggests cannabinoid compounds to serve as a group of drugs that may offer significant advantages for patients suffering from cancer diseases. The present review summarizes the role of the endocannabinoid system and cannabinoid compounds in tumor progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Ramer
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rostock University Medical Center, Rostock, Germany
| | - Burkhard Hinz
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rostock University Medical Center, Rostock, Germany.
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