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Osuna-Ramos JF, Camberos-Barraza J, Torres-Mondragón LE, Rábago-Monzón ÁR, Camacho-Zamora A, Valdez-Flores MA, Angulo-Rojo CE, Guadrón-Llanos AM, Picos-Cárdenas VJ, Calderón-Zamora L, Magaña-Gómez JA, Norzagaray-Valenzuela CD, Cárdenas-Torres FI, De la Herrán-Arita AK. Interplay between the Glymphatic System and the Endocannabinoid System: Implications for Brain Health and Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17458. [PMID: 38139290 PMCID: PMC10743431 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242417458] [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: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The intricate mechanisms governing brain health and function have long been subjects of extensive investigation. Recent research has shed light on two pivotal systems, the glymphatic system and the endocannabinoid system, and their profound role within the central nervous system. The glymphatic system is a recently discovered waste clearance system within the brain that facilitates the efficient removal of toxic waste products and metabolites from the central nervous system. It relies on the unique properties of the brain's extracellular space and is primarily driven by cerebrospinal fluid and glial cells. Conversely, the endocannabinoid system, a multifaceted signaling network, is intricately involved in diverse physiological processes and has been associated with modulating synaptic plasticity, nociception, affective states, appetite regulation, and immune responses. This scientific review delves into the intricate interconnections between these two systems, exploring their combined influence on brain health and disease. By elucidating the synergistic effects of glymphatic function and endocannabinoid signaling, this review aims to deepen our understanding of their implications for neurological disorders, immune responses, and cognitive well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan F. Osuna-Ramos
- Faculty of Medicine, Autonomous University of Sinaloa, Culiacán 80019, Mexico
| | - Josué Camberos-Barraza
- Faculty of Medicine, Autonomous University of Sinaloa, Culiacán 80019, Mexico
- Doctorado en Biomedicina Molecular, Autonomous University of Sinaloa, Culiacán 80019, Mexico
| | - Laura E. Torres-Mondragón
- Faculty of Medicine, Autonomous University of Sinaloa, Culiacán 80019, Mexico
- Maestría en Biomedicina Molecular, Autonomous University of Sinaloa, Culiacán 80019, Mexico
| | - Ángel R. Rábago-Monzón
- Faculty of Medicine, Autonomous University of Sinaloa, Culiacán 80019, Mexico
- Doctorado en Biomedicina Molecular, Autonomous University of Sinaloa, Culiacán 80019, Mexico
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Javier A. Magaña-Gómez
- Faculty of Nutrition Sciences and Gastronomy, Autonomous University of Sinaloa, Culiacán 80019, Mexico
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Abd-Nikfarjam B, Dolati-Somarin A, Baradaran Rahimi V, Askari VR. Cannabinoids in neuroinflammatory disorders: Focusing on multiple sclerosis, Parkinsons, and Alzheimers diseases. Biofactors 2023. [PMID: 36637897 DOI: 10.1002/biof.1936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The medicinal properties of cannabis and cannabinoid-derivative are entirely investigated and known. In addition, the identification of psychotropic plant cannabinoids has led to more studies regarding the cannabinoid system and its therapeutic features in the treatment and management of clinical symptoms of neuroinflammatory disorders, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinsons disease (PD), and Alzheimers disease (AD). In fact, cannabinoid agonists are able to control and regulate inflammatory responses. In contrast to the cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) and its unwanted adverse effects, the cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2) and its ligands hold promise for new and effective therapeutic approaches. So far, some successes have been achieved in this field. This review will discuss an outline of the endocannabinoid system's involvement in neuroinflammatory disorders. Moreover, the pharmacological efficacy of different natural and synthetic preparations of phytocannabinoids acting on cannabinoid receptors, particularly in MS, PD, and AD, will be updated. Also, the reasons for targeting CB2 for neurodegeneration will be explained.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahareh Abd-Nikfarjam
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | | | - Vafa Baradaran Rahimi
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Vahid Reza Askari
- International UNESCO Center for Health-Related Basic Sciences and Human Nutrition, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Pharmacological Research Center of Medicinal Plants, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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3
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Li S, Huang Y, Yu L, Ji X, Wu J. Impact of the Cannabinoid System in Alzheimer's Disease. Curr Neuropharmacol 2023; 21:715-726. [PMID: 35105293 PMCID: PMC10207907 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x20666220201091006] [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: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids are compounds isolated from cannabis and are also widely present in both nervous and immune systems of animals. In recent years, with in-depth research on cannabinoids, their clinical medicinal value has been evaluated, and many exciting achievements have been continuously accumulating, especially in the field of neurodegenerative disease. Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of neurodegenerative disease that causes dementia and has become a global health problem that seriously impacts human health today. In this review, we discuss the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. How cannabinoids act on different endocannabinoid receptor subtypes to regulate Alzheimer's disease and the roles of the endocannabinoid system in Alzheimer's disease are outlined, and the underlying mechanisms are discussed. Finally, we summarize the most relevant opportunities of cannabinoid pharmacology related to Alzheimer's disease and discuss the potential usefulness of cannabinoids in the clinical treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuangtao Li
- Shantou University Medical College, Brain Function and Disease Laboratory, Shantou, #22 Road Xinling, Guangdong 515041, China
| | - Yuanbing Huang
- Department of Neurology, Yunfu People’s Hospital, Yunfu, Guangdong 527300, China
| | - Lijun Yu
- Shantou University Medical College, Brain Function and Disease Laboratory, Shantou, #22 Road Xinling, Guangdong 515041, China
| | - Xiaoyu Ji
- Department of Neurology, Yunfu People’s Hospital, Yunfu, Guangdong 527300, China
| | - Jie Wu
- Shantou University Medical College, Brain Function and Disease Laboratory, Shantou, #22 Road Xinling, Guangdong 515041, China
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Estrada-Valencia R, de Lima ME, Colonnello A, Rangel-López E, Saraiva NR, de Ávila DS, Aschner M, Santamaría A. The Endocannabinoid System in Caenorhabditis elegans. Rev Physiol Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 184:1-31. [PMID: 34401955 PMCID: PMC8850531 DOI: 10.1007/112_2021_64] [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] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The existence of a formal Endocannabinoid System in C. elegans has been questioned due to data showing the absence of typical cannabinoid receptors in the worm; however, the presence of a full metabolism for endocannabinoids, alternative ligands, and receptors for these agents and a considerable number of orthologous and homologous genes regulating physiological cannabinoid-like signals and responses - several of which are similar to those of mammals - demonstrates a well-structured and functional complex system in nematodes. In this review, we describe and compare similarities and differences between the Endocannabinoid System in mammals and nematodes, highlighting the basis for the integral study of this novel system in the worm.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - María Eduarda de Lima
- Laboratorio de Aminoácidos Excitadores, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Aline Colonnello
- Laboratorio de Aminoácidos Excitadores, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Edgar Rangel-López
- Laboratorio de Aminoácidos Excitadores, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Nariani Rocha Saraiva
- Laboratório de Bioquímica e Toxicologia em Caenorhabditis elegans, UNIPAMPA, Uruguaiana, Brazil
| | - Daiana Silva de Ávila
- Laboratório de Bioquímica e Toxicologia em Caenorhabditis elegans, UNIPAMPA, Uruguaiana, Brazil
| | - Michael Aschner
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Abel Santamaría
- Laboratorio de Aminoácidos Excitadores, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía, Mexico City, Mexico.
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Gong M, Jia J. Contribution of blood-brain barrier-related blood-borne factors for Alzheimer’s disease vs. vascular dementia diagnosis: A pilot study. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:949129. [PMID: 36003963 PMCID: PMC9393528 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.949129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and vascular dementia (VaD) are the two most common types of neurodegenerative dementia among the elderly with similar symptoms of cognitive decline and overlapping neuropsychological profiles. Biological markers to distinguish patients with VaD from AD would be very useful. We aimed to investigate the expression of blood-brain barrier (BBB)-related blood-borne factors of soluble low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (sLRP1), cyclophilin A (CyPA), and matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) and its correlation with cognitive function between patients with AD and VaD. Materials and methods Plasma levels of sLRP1, CyPA, and MMP9 were analyzed in 26 patients with AD, 27 patients with VaD, and 27 normal controls (NCs). Spearman’s rank correlation analysis was used to explore the relationships among biomarker levels, cognitive function, and imaging references. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to discriminate the diagnosis of AD and VaD. Results Among these BBB-related factors, plasma CyPA levels in the VaD group were significantly higher than that in the AD group (p < 0.05). Plasma sLRP1 levels presented an increasing trend in VaD while maintaining slightly low levels in patients with AD (p > 0.05). Plasma MMP9 in different diagnostic groups displayed the following trend: VaD group > AD group > NC group, but the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Furthermore, plasma sLRP1 levels were positively related to MoCA scores, and plasma CyPA levels were significantly correlated with MTA scores (p < 0.05) in the AD group. Plasma MMP9 levels were negatively correlated with MoCA scores (p < 0.05) in the VaD groups. No significant correlation was detected between the other factors and different cognitive scores (p > 0.05). ROC analysis showed a good preference of plasma CyPA [AUC = 0.725, 95% CI (0.586–0.865); p = 0.0064] in diagnosis. Conclusion The plasma CyPA level is a reference index when distinguishing between an AD and subcortical ischemic vascular dementia (SIVD) diagnosis. Blood-derived factors associated with the BBB may provide new insights into the differential diagnosis of neurodegenerative dementia and warrant further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Gong
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Jianping Jia
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Geriatric Cognitive Disorders, Beijing, China
- Clinical Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and Memory Impairment, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Center of Alzheimer’s Disease, Beijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Jianping Jia,
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Bajaj S, Zameer S, Jain S, Yadav V, Vohora D. Effect of the MAGL/FAAH Dual Inhibitor JZL-195 on Streptozotocin-Induced Alzheimer's Disease-like Sporadic Dementia in Mice with an Emphasis on Aβ, HSP-70, Neuroinflammation, and Oxidative Stress. ACS Chem Neurosci 2022; 13:920-932. [PMID: 35316021 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.1c00699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease is identified by pathological hallmarks such as intracellular neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) and extracellular amyloid β plaques. Several hypotheses exist to define the neurodegeneration including microglial activation associated with neuroinflammatory processes. Recently, pharmacological inhibition of endocannabinoid (eCB)-degrading enzymes, fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL), is being investigated to modulate the pathology of Alzheimer's disease. While MAGL inhibitors upregulate 2-acyl glycerol (2-AG) levels and reduce neuroinflammation, FAAH inhibitors elevate anandamide (AEA) levels and prevent the degradation of HSP-70, thereby preventing the phosphorylation of tau protein and formation of NFTs in neural cells. We investigated the possible neuroprotective potential of the dual MAGL/FAAH inhibitor JZL-195 (20 mg/kg) against ICV-STZ-induced sporadic Alzheimer's disease (SAD) in Swiss albino mice using donepezil (5 mg/kg) as the standard. The protective effects of JZL-195 were observed by the reversal of altered levels of Aβ1-42, HSP-70, neuroinflammatory cytokines, and oxidative stress markers. However, JZL-195 expressed no cognitive improvement when assessed by spontaneous alternation behavior and Morris water maze tests and no effects on the AChE enzyme level in the hippocampal tissues of mice. Therefore, the findings of the present study indicate that although JZL-195 exhibited no improvement in cognitive deficits associated with sporadic Alzheimer's disease, it displayed significant reversal of the biochemical anomalies, thereby suggesting its therapeutic potential against the sporadic Alzheimer's disease model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivanshu Bajaj
- Neurobehavioral Pharmacological Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India
| | - Saima Zameer
- Neurobehavioral Pharmacological Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India
| | - Shreshta Jain
- Neurobehavioral Pharmacological Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India
| | - Vaishali Yadav
- Neurobehavioral Pharmacological Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India
| | - Divya Vohora
- Neurobehavioral Pharmacological Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India
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7
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Jiao H, Jia J. Ginsenoside compound K acts via LRP1 to alleviate Amyloid β 42-induced neuroinflammation in microglia by suppressing NF-κB. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2021; 590:14-19. [PMID: 34968779 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2021.12.071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alzheimer's disease (AD), has caused a mass of disability and mortality in elder populations, which increases global health burden. There are still limited effective disease-modifying drugs. Alleviating microglia-evoked neuroinflammation has become a promising treatment strategy for AD. Ginsenoside Compound K has been demonstrated to exhibit anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective benefits. Here we measured the effects of Ginsenoside Compound K in inhibiting amyloid-induced microglia inflammation and the possible molecular mechanisms and target of action in vitro. METHODS The cytotoxicity of all chemical reagents on BV2 cells were evaluated using the MTT assay. qRT-PCR and ELISA were carried out to detect the inflammatory cytokines levels. Western blot was utilized to determine the effect of Ginsenoside Compound K on the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) p65 nuclear translocation. Antagonist Receptor Associated Protein (RAP) was used to verify the engagement of low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1(LRP1). RESULTS Ginsenoside Compound K diminished inflammatory cytokine production and reversed NF-κB p65 nuclear translocation induced by Aβ42 oligomers. LRP1 expression was up-regulated by Ginsenoside Compound K. When LRP1 was blocked by antagonist RAP, the protective effect of Ginsenoside Compound K was massively eliminated. CONCLUSION These observations provide evidence for anti-inflammatory effect of Ginsenoside Compound K through NF-κB pathway via LRP1 activation, and support further evaluation of Ginsenoside Compound K as a potential effective modulator for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haishan Jiao
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Capital Medical University, 45 Changchun Street, Beijing, China
| | - Jianping Jia
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Capital Medical University, 45 Changchun Street, Beijing, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Geriatric Cognitive Disorders, Beijing, China; Clinical Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and Memory Impairment, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China; Center of Alzheimer's Disease, Beijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China; Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China.
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8
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Xiong Y, Lim CS. Understanding the Modulatory Effects of Cannabidiol on Alzheimer's Disease. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11091211. [PMID: 34573232 PMCID: PMC8472755 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11091211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the most common neurodegenerative disease, is characterized by progressive cognitive impairment. The deposition of amyloid beta (Aβ) and hyperphosphorylated tau is considered the hallmark of AD pathology. Many therapeutic approaches such as Food and Drug Administration-approved cholinesterase inhibitors and N–methyl–D–aspartate receptor antagonists have been used to intervene in AD pathology. However, current therapies only provide limited symptomatic relief and are ineffective in preventing AD progression. Cannabidiol (CBD), a phytocannabinoid devoid of psychoactive responses, provides neuroprotective effects through both cannabinoid and noncannabinoid receptors. Recent studies using an AD mouse model have suggested that CBD can reverse cognitive deficits along with Aβ-induced neuroinflammatory, oxidative responses, and neuronal death. Furthermore, CBD can reduce the accumulation of Aβ and hyperphosphorylation of tau, suggesting the possibility of delaying AD progression. Particularly, the noncannabinoid receptor, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma, has been suggested to be involved in multiple functions of CBD. Therefore, understanding the underlying mechanisms of CBD is necessary for intervening in AD pathology in depth and for the translation of preclinical studies into clinical settings. In this review, we summarize recent studies on the effect of CBD in AD and suggest problems to be overcome for the therapeutic use of CBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinyi Xiong
- Department of Pharmacology, Wonkwang University School of Medicine, Iksan 54538, Korea;
- Department of Rehabilitation, Affiliated Hospital of Jiujiang University, Jiujiang 332000, China
| | - Chae-Seok Lim
- Department of Pharmacology, Wonkwang University School of Medicine, Iksan 54538, Korea;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-63-850-6765; Fax: +82-63-850-7262
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Lowe H, Toyang N, Steele B, Bryant J, Ngwa W. The Endocannabinoid System: A Potential Target for the Treatment of Various Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:9472. [PMID: 34502379 PMCID: PMC8430969 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is primarily responsible for maintaining homeostasis, a balance in internal environment (temperature, mood, and immune system) and energy input and output in living, biological systems. In addition to regulating physiological processes, the ECS directly influences anxiety, feeding behaviour/appetite, emotional behaviour, depression, nervous functions, neurogenesis, neuroprotection, reward, cognition, learning, memory, pain sensation, fertility, pregnancy, and pre-and post-natal development. The ECS is also involved in several pathophysiological diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases. In recent years, genetic and pharmacological manipulation of the ECS has gained significant interest in medicine, research, and drug discovery and development. The distribution of the components of the ECS system throughout the body, and the physiological/pathophysiological role of the ECS-signalling pathways in many diseases, all offer promising opportunities for the development of novel cannabinergic, cannabimimetic, and cannabinoid-based therapeutic drugs that genetically or pharmacologically modulate the ECS via inhibition of metabolic pathways and/or agonism or antagonism of the receptors of the ECS. This modulation results in the differential expression/activity of the components of the ECS that may be beneficial in the treatment of a number of diseases. This manuscript in-depth review will investigate the potential of the ECS in the treatment of various diseases, and to put forth the suggestion that many of these secondary metabolites of Cannabis sativa L. (hereafter referred to as "C. sativa L." or "medical cannabis"), may also have potential as lead compounds in the development of cannabinoid-based pharmaceuticals for a variety of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry Lowe
- Biotech R & D Institute, University of the West Indies, Mona 99999, Jamaica; (H.L.); (J.B.)
- Vilotos Pharmaceuticals Inc., Baltimore, MD 21202, USA;
- Flavocure Biotech Inc., Baltimore, MD 21202, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland Medical School, Baltimore, MD 21202, USA
| | - Ngeh Toyang
- Vilotos Pharmaceuticals Inc., Baltimore, MD 21202, USA;
- Flavocure Biotech Inc., Baltimore, MD 21202, USA
| | - Blair Steele
- Biotech R & D Institute, University of the West Indies, Mona 99999, Jamaica; (H.L.); (J.B.)
| | - Joseph Bryant
- Biotech R & D Institute, University of the West Indies, Mona 99999, Jamaica; (H.L.); (J.B.)
| | - Wilfred Ngwa
- Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA;
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
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10
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Bajaj S, Jain S, Vyas P, Bawa S, Vohora D. The role of endocannabinoid pathway in the neuropathology of Alzheimer's disease: Can the inhibitors of MAGL and FAAH prove to be potential therapeutic targets against the cognitive impairment associated with Alzheimer's disease? Brain Res Bull 2021; 174:305-322. [PMID: 34217798 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2021.06.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive decline of cognitive function in combination with neuronal death. Current approved treatment target single dysregulated pathway instead of multiple mechanism, resulting in lack of efficacy in slowing down disease progression. The proclivity of endocannabinoid system to exert neuroprotective action and mitigate symptoms of neurodegeneration condition has received substantial interest. Growing evidence suggest the endocannabinoids (eCB) system, viz. anadamide (AEA) and arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG), as potential therapeutic targets with the ability to modify Alzheimer's pathology by targeting the inflammatory, neurodegenerative and cognitive aspects of the disease. In order to modulate endocannabinoid system, number of agents have been reported amongst which are inhibitors of the monoacylglycerol (MAGL) and fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), the enzymes that hydrolyses 2-AG and AEA respectively. However, little is known regarding the exact mechanistic signalling and their effects on pathophysiology and cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer's disease. Both MAGL and FAAH inhibitors possess fascinating properties that may offer a multi-faceted approach for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease such as potential to protect neurons from deleterious effect of amyloid-β, reducing phosphorylation of tau, reducing amyloid-β induced oxidative stress, stimulating neurotrophin to support brain intrinsic repair mechanism etc. Based on empirical evidence, MAGL and FAAH inhibitors might have potential for therapeutic efficacy against cognitive impairment associated with Alzheimer's disease. The aim of this review is to summarize the experimental studies demonstrating the polyvalent properties of MAGL or FAAH inhibitor compounds for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, and also effect of these on learning and types of memories, which together encourage to study these compounds over other therapeutics targets. Further research in this direction would enhance the molecular mechanisms and development of applicable interventions for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, which nevertheless stay as the primary unmet need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivanshu Bajaj
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
| | - Shreshta Jain
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
| | - Preeti Vyas
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
| | - Sandhya Bawa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
| | - Divya Vohora
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India.
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11
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Brucki SMD, Adoni T, Almeida CMO, Andrade DCD, Anghinah R, Barbosa LM, Bazan R, Carvalho AADS, Carvalho W, Christo PP, Coletta MD, Conforto AB, Correa-Neto Y, Engelhardt E, França Junior MC, Franco C, VON Glehn F, Gomes HR, Houly CGDB, Kaup AO, Kowacs F, Kanashiro A, Lopes VG, Maia D, Manreza M, Martinez ARM, Martinez SCG, Nader SN, Neves LDO, Okamoto IH, Oliveira RAAD, Peixoto FDM, Pereira CB, Saba RA, Sampaio LPDB, Schilling LP, Silva MTT, Silva ER, Smid J, Soares CN, Sobreira-Neto M, Sousa NADC, Souza LCD, Teive HAG, Terra VC, Vale M, Vieira VMG, Zanoteli E, Prado G. Cannabinoids in Neurology - Position paper from Scientific Departments from Brazilian Academy of Neurology. ARQUIVOS DE NEURO-PSIQUIATRIA 2021; 79:354-369. [PMID: 34133518 DOI: 10.1590/0004-282x-anp-2020-0432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Cannabinoids comprehend endocannabinoids, phytocannabinoids, and synthetic cannabinoids, with actions both in the central and peripherical nervous systems. A considerable amount of publications have been made in recent years, although cannabis has been known for over a thousand years. Scientific Departments from the Brazilian Academy of Neurology described evidence for medical use in their areas. Literature is constantly changing, and possible new evidence can emerge in the next days or months. Prescription of these substances must be discussed with patients and their families, with knowledge about adverse events and their efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Maria Dozzi Brucki
- Universidade de São Paulo, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil.,Hospital Santa Marcelina, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | - Tarso Adoni
- Hospital Sírio-Libanês, Núcleo de Neurociências, São Paulo SP, Brazil.,Hospital Heliópolis, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | - Carlos Mauricio Oliveira Almeida
- Universidade Estadual do Amazonas, Departamento de Neurologia, Manaus AM, Brazil.,Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Ribeirão Preto SP, Brazil
| | - Daniel Ciampi de Andrade
- Universidade de São Paulo, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | - Renato Anghinah
- Universidade de São Paulo, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | - Luciana Mendonça Barbosa
- Universidade de São Paulo, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Bazan
- Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Faculdade de Ciências Médicas e Biológicas de Botucatu, Hospital das Clínicas, Departamento de Neurologia, Psicologia e Psiquiatria, Botucatu SP, Brazil
| | | | - William Carvalho
- Hospital Geral de Goiânia Dr Alberto Rassi, Departamento de Neurologia, Goiânia GO, Brazil
| | - Paulo Pereira Christo
- Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte, Departamento de Neurologia, Belo Horizonte MG, Brazil.,Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Hospital das Clínicas, Departamento de Neurologia, Belo Horizonte MG, Brazil
| | - Marcus Della Coletta
- Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Escola Superior de Ciências da Saúde, Manaus AM, Brazil
| | - Adriana Bastos Conforto
- Universidade de São Paulo, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | | | - Eliasz Engelhardt
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Instituto de Neurologia Deolindo Couto, Departamento de Neurologia, Rio de Janeiro RJ, Brazil
| | | | | | - Felipe VON Glehn
- Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Instituto de Biologia, Genética, Imunologia e Bioagentes, Campinas SP, Brazil
| | - Helio Rodrigues Gomes
- Universidade de São Paulo, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | | | | | - Fernando Kowacs
- Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre, Departamento de Clínica Médica, Porto Alegre RS, Brazil.,Hospital Moinhos de Vento, Serviço de Neurologia e Neurocirurgia, Porto Alegre RS, Brazil
| | | | - Victor Gonçalves Lopes
- Hospital Federal dos Servidores do Estado, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | - Débora Maia
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Hospital das Clínicas, Departamento de Neurologia, Belo Horizonte MG, Brazil
| | - Maria Manreza
- Universidade de São Paulo, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | | | | | - Saulo Nardy Nader
- Universidade de São Paulo, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | | | | | - Rogério Adas Ayres de Oliveira
- Universidade de São Paulo, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | - Fabiano de Melo Peixoto
- Universidade de São Paulo, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | - Cristiana Borges Pereira
- Universidade de São Paulo, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | - Roberta Arb Saba
- Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil.,Hospital do Servidor Público Estadual, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | | | - Lucas Porcello Schilling
- Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, São Lucas Hospital, Instituto do Cérebro, Porto Alegre RS, Brazil
| | | | - Emanuelle Roberta Silva
- Universidade de São Paulo, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil.,Hospital Sírio-Libanês, Núcleo de Neurociências, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | - Jerusa Smid
- Universidade de São Paulo, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | | | - Manoel Sobreira-Neto
- Universidade Federal do Ceará, Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Medicina Clínica, Fortaleza CE, Brazil
| | | | - Leonardo Cruz de Souza
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Faculdade de Medicina, Grupo de Pesquisa em Neurologia Cognitiva e do Comportamento, Belo Horizonte MG, Brazil
| | | | | | - Matheus Vale
- Faculdade de Medicina do ABC, Departamento de Neurologia, Santo André SP, Brazil
| | | | - Edmar Zanoteli
- Universidade de São Paulo, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil.,Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | - Gilmar Prado
- Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil
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12
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Estrada JA, Contreras I. Endocannabinoid Receptors in the CNS: Potential Drug Targets for the Prevention and Treatment of Neurologic and Psychiatric Disorders. Curr Neuropharmacol 2021; 18:769-787. [PMID: 32065105 PMCID: PMC7536826 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x18666200217140255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 12/14/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system participates in the regulation of CNS homeostasis and functions, including neurotransmission, cell signaling, inflammation and oxidative stress, as well as neuronal and glial cell proliferation, differentiation, migration and survival. Endocannabinoids are produced by multiple cell types within the CNS and their main receptors, CB1 and CB2, are expressed in both neurons and glia. Signaling through these receptors is implicated in the modulation of neuronal and glial alterations in neuroinflammatory, neurodegenerative and psychiatric conditions, including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and Huntington’s disease, multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, stroke, epilepsy, anxiety and depression. The therapeutic potential of endocannabinoid receptors in neurological disease has been hindered by unwelcome side effects of current drugs used to target them; however, due to their extensive expression within the CNS and their involvement in physiological and pathological process in nervous tissue, they are attractive targets for drug development. The present review highlights the potential applications of the endocannabinoid system for the prevention and treatment of neurologic and psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Antonio Estrada
- Neurochemistry Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Toluca, Mexico
| | - Irazú Contreras
- Neurochemistry Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Toluca, Mexico
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13
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Uddin MS, Mamun AA, Sumsuzzman DM, Ashraf GM, Perveen A, Bungau SG, Mousa SA, El-Seedi HR, Bin-Jumah MN, Abdel-Daim MM. Emerging Promise of Cannabinoids for the Management of Pain and Associated Neuropathological Alterations in Alzheimer's Disease. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:1097. [PMID: 32792944 PMCID: PMC7387504 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.01097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an irreversible chronic neurodegenerative disorder that occurs when neurons in the brain degenerate and die. Pain frequently arises in older patients with neurodegenerative diseases including AD. However, the presence of pain in older people is usually overlooked with cognitive dysfunctions. Most of the times dementia patients experience moderate to severe pain but the development of severe cognitive dysfunctions tremendously affects their capability to express the presence of pain. Currently, there are no effective treatments against AD that emphasize the necessity for increasing research to develop novel drugs for treating or preventing the disease process. Furthermore, the prospective therapeutic use of cannabinoids in AD has been studied for the past few years. In this regard, targeting the endocannabinoid system has considered as a probable therapeutic strategy to control several associated pathological pathways, such as mitochondrial dysfunction, excitotoxicity, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation for the management of AD. In this review, we focus on recent studies about the role of cannabinoids for the treatment of pain and related neuropathological changes in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md. Sahab Uddin
- Department of Pharmacy, Southeast University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Pharmakon Neuroscience Research Network, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Abdullah Al Mamun
- Department of Pharmacy, Southeast University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Pharmakon Neuroscience Research Network, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | | | - Ghulam Md Ashraf
- King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Asma Perveen
- Glocal School of Life Sciences, Glocal University, Saharanpur, India
| | - Simona G. Bungau
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, Oradea, Romania
| | - Shaker A. Mousa
- Pharmaceutical Research Institute, Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, New York, NY, United States
| | - Hesham R. El-Seedi
- Division of Pharmacognosy, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Koom, Egypt
| | - May N. Bin-Jumah
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed M. Abdel-Daim
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
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14
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Therapeutic Potential of Direct Clearance of the Amyloid-β in Alzheimer's Disease. Brain Sci 2020; 10:brainsci10020093. [PMID: 32050618 PMCID: PMC7071829 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10020093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by deposition and accumulation of amyloid-β (Aβ) and its corresponding plaques within the brain. Although much debate exists whether these plaques are the cause or the effect of AD, the accumulation of Aβ is linked with the imbalance between the production and clearance of Aβ. The receptor for advanced glycation endproducts (RAGE) facilitates entry of free Aβ from the peripheral stream. Conversely, lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1), located in the abluminal side at the blood–brain barrier mediates the efflux of Aβ. Research on altering the rates of clearance of Aβ by targeting these two pathways has been extensively study. Additionally, a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) circulation assistant device has also been evaluated as an approach to increase solute concentration in the CSF via mechanical drainage, to allow for removal of Aβ from the brain. Herein, we provide a brief review of these approaches that are designed to re-establish a homeostatic Aβ balance in the brain.
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15
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Talarico G, Trebbastoni A, Bruno G, de Lena C. Modulation of the Cannabinoid System: A New Perspective for the Treatment of the Alzheimer's Disease. Curr Neuropharmacol 2019; 17:176-183. [PMID: 29962346 PMCID: PMC6343203 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x16666180702144644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2017] [Revised: 05/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is somewhat complex and has yet to be fully understood. As the ef-fectiveness of the therapy currently available for AD has proved to be limited, the need for new drugs has become increas-ingly urgent. The modulation of the endogenous cannabinoid system (ECBS) is one of the potential therapeutic approaches that is attracting a growing amount of interest. The ECBS consists of endogenous compounds and receptors. The receptors CB1 and CB2 have already been well characterized: CB1 receptors, which are abundant in the brain, particularly in the hip-pocampus, basal ganglia and cerebellum, regulate memory function and cognition. It has been suggested that the activation of CB1 receptors reduces intracellular Ca concentrations, inhibits glutamate release and enhances neurotrophin expression and neurogenesis. CB2 receptors are expressed, though to a lesser extent, in the central nervous system, particularly in the mi-croglia and immune system cells involved in the release of cytokines. CB2 receptors have been shown to be upregulated in neuritic plaque-associated microglia in the hippocampus and entorhinal cortex of patients, which suggests that these receptors play a role in the inflammatory pathology of AD. The role of the ECBS in AD is supported by cellular and animal models. By contrast, few clinical studies designed to investigate therapies aimed at reducing behaviour disturbances, especially night-time agitation, eating behaviour and aggressiveness, have yielded positive results. In this review, we will describe how the manipulation of the ECBS offers a potential approach to the treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Giuseppe Bruno
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza, University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo de Lena
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza, University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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16
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Seok H, Lee M, Shin E, Yun MR, Lee YH, Moon JH, Kim E, Lee PH, Lee BW, Kang ES, Lee HC, Cha BS. Low-dose pioglitazone can ameliorate learning and memory impairment in a mouse model of dementia by increasing LRP1 expression in the hippocampus. Sci Rep 2019; 9:4414. [PMID: 30867485 PMCID: PMC6416325 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-40736-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 02/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyloid-β (Aβ) accumulation in the brain is a pathological feature of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and enhancing Aβ clearance is a potential therapeutic strategy. Pioglitazone is a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ) agonist and is widely used to treat type 2 diabetes. We previously reported that low-dose pioglitazone increased the expression of low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1), which upregulates the clearance of Aβ, using human brain microvascular endothelial cells. We investigated whether low-dose pioglitazone can rescue the pathological phenotype and memory impairment in senescence-accelerated mouse prone-8 (SAMP8) mice by increasing LRP1 levels. SAMP8 mice were treated with vehicle or pioglitazone in dosages of 2 or 5 mg/kg/day for 7 weeks. In the water maze test, 2 mg/kg/day of pioglitazone significantly attenuated the increased escape latency in SAMP8 mice (p = 0.026), while 5 mg/kg/day of treatment did not. Compared with vehicle treatment, the hippocampi of SAMP8 mice with 2 mg/kg/day of pioglitazone exhibited fewer Aβ deposits and reduced Aβ1-40 levels, along with elevated LRP1 expression (p = 0.005). Collectively, our results proposed that a new therapeutic application of the PPAR-γ agonist for AD treatment should be considered at a lower dose than the conventional dose used to treat diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Seok
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea College of Medicine, Uijeongbu St. Mary's Hospital, Uijeongbu, Korea
| | - Minyoung Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eugene Shin
- Institute of Endocrine Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Mi Ra Yun
- Brain Korea 21 Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yong-Ho Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jae Hoon Moon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam-si, Korea
| | - Eosu Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Phil Hyu Lee
- Department of Neurology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Byung-Wan Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eun Seok Kang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyun Chul Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Bong Soo Cha
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea. .,Institute of Endocrine Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
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17
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Sarne Y. Beneficial and deleterious effects of cannabinoids in the brain: the case of ultra-low dose THC. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE 2019; 45:551-562. [PMID: 30864864 DOI: 10.1080/00952990.2019.1578366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
This article reviews the neurocognitive advantages and drawbacks of cannabinoid substances, and discusses the possible physiological mechanisms that underlie their dual activity. The article further reviews the neurocognitive effects of ultra-low doses of ∆9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC; 3-4 orders of magnitude lower than the conventional doses) in mice, and proposes such low doses of THC as a possible remedy for various brain injuries and for the treatment of age-related cognitive decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yosef Sarne
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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18
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Aymerich MS, Aso E, Abellanas MA, Tolon RM, Ramos JA, Ferrer I, Romero J, Fernández-Ruiz J. Cannabinoid pharmacology/therapeutics in chronic degenerative disorders affecting the central nervous system. Biochem Pharmacol 2018; 157:67-84. [PMID: 30121249 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2018.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 08/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) exerts a modulatory effect of important functions such as neurotransmission, glial activation, oxidative stress, or protein homeostasis. Dysregulation of these cellular processes is a common neuropathological hallmark in aging and in neurodegenerative diseases of the central nervous system (CNS). The broad spectrum of actions of cannabinoids allows targeting different aspects of these multifactorial diseases. In this review, we examine the therapeutic potential of the ECS for the treatment of chronic neurodegenerative diseases of the CNS focusing on Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. First, we describe the localization of the molecular components of the ECS and how they are altered under neurodegenerative conditions, either contributing to or protecting cells from degeneration. Second, we address recent advances in the modulation of the ECS using experimental models through different strategies including the direct targeting of cannabinoid receptors with agonists or antagonists, increasing the endocannabinoid tone by the inhibition of endocannabinoid hydrolysis, and activation of cannabinoid receptor-independent effects. Preclinical evidence indicates that cannabinoid pharmacology is complex but supports the therapeutic potential of targeting the ECS. Third, we review the clinical evidence and discuss the future perspectives on how to bridge human and animal studies to develop cannabinoid-based therapies for each neurodegenerative disorder. Finally, we summarize the most relevant opportunities of cannabinoid pharmacology related to each disease and the multiple unexplored pathways in cannabinoid pharmacology that could be useful for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria S Aymerich
- Universidad de Navarra, Facultad de Ciencias, Departamento de Bioquímica y Genética, Pamplona, Spain; Universidad de Navarra, CIMA, Programa de Neurociencias, Pamplona, Spain; IdiSNA, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, Spain.
| | - Ester Aso
- Departamento de Patología y Terapéutica Experimental, Universidad de Barcelona, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain; CIBERNED, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Spain
| | - Miguel A Abellanas
- Universidad de Navarra, Facultad de Ciencias, Departamento de Bioquímica y Genética, Pamplona, Spain; Universidad de Navarra, CIMA, Programa de Neurociencias, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Rosa M Tolon
- Facultad de Ciencias Experimentales, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Spain
| | - Jose A Ramos
- CIBERNED, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Spain; Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica, Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain; IRYCIS, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Isidre Ferrer
- Departamento de Patología y Terapéutica Experimental, Universidad de Barcelona, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain; CIBERNED, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Spain
| | - Julian Romero
- Facultad de Ciencias Experimentales, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Spain
| | - Javier Fernández-Ruiz
- CIBERNED, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Spain; Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica, Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain; IRYCIS, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria, Madrid, Spain
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19
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Gorzkiewicz A, Szemraj J. Brain endocannabinoid signaling exhibits remarkable complexity. Brain Res Bull 2018; 142:33-46. [PMID: 29953913 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2018.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Revised: 06/06/2018] [Accepted: 06/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid (eCB) signaling system is one of the most extensive of the mammalian brain. Despite the involvement of only few specific ligands and receptors, the system encompasses a vast diversity of triggered mechanisms and driven effects. It mediates a wide range of phenomena, including the regulation of transmitter release, neural excitability, synaptic plasticity, impulse spread, long-term neuronal potentiation, neurogenesis, cell death, lineage segregation, cell migration, inflammation, oxidative stress, nociception and the sleep cycle. It is also known to be involved in the processes of learning and memory formation. This extensive scope of action is attained by combining numerous variables. In a properly functioning brain, the correlations of these variables are kept in a strictly controlled balance; however, this balance is disrupted in many pathological conditions. However, while this balance is known to be disrupted by drugs in the case of addicts, the stimuli and mechanisms influencing the neurodegenerating brain remain elusive. This review examines the multiple factors and phenomena affecting the eCB signaling system in the brain. It evaluates techniques of controlling the eCB system to identify the obstacles in their applications and highlights the crucial interdependent variables that may influence biomedical research outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Gorzkiewicz
- Medical University of Lodz, ul.Mazowiecka 6/8, 92-215, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Janusz Szemraj
- Medical University of Lodz, ul.Mazowiecka 6/8, 92-215, Lodz, Poland
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20
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Karl T, Garner B, Cheng D. The therapeutic potential of the phytocannabinoid cannabidiol for Alzheimer's disease. Behav Pharmacol 2018; 28:142-160. [PMID: 27471947 DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0000000000000247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disorder, characterized by progressive loss of cognition. Over 35 million individuals currently have AD worldwide. Unfortunately, current therapies are limited to very modest symptomatic relief. The brains of AD patients are characterized by the deposition of amyloid-β and hyperphosphorylated forms of tau protein. AD brains also show neurodegeneration and high levels of oxidative stress and inflammation. The phytocannabinoid cannabidiol (CBD) possesses neuroprotective, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and reduces amyloid-β production and tau hyperphosphorylation in vitro. CBD has also been shown to be effective in vivo making the phytocannabinoid an interesting candidate for novel therapeutic interventions in AD, especially as it lacks psychoactive or cognition-impairing properties. CBD treatment would be in line with preventative, multimodal drug strategies targeting a combination of pathological symptoms, which might be ideal for AD therapy. Thus, this review will present a brief introduction to AD biology and current treatment options before outlining comprehensively CBD biology and pharmacology, followed by in-vitro and in-vivo evidence for the therapeutic potential of CBD. We will also discuss the role of the endocannabinioid system in AD before commenting on the potential future of CBD for AD therapy (including safety aspects).
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Karl
- aSchool of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown bNeuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA), Randwick cIllawarra Health and Medical Research Institute dSchool of Biological Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong eVictor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
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21
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Pascual AC, Gaveglio VL, Giusto NM, Pasquaré SJ. 2-Arachidonoylglycerol metabolism is differently modulated by oligomeric and fibrillar conformations of amyloid beta in synaptic terminals. Neuroscience 2017; 362:168-180. [PMID: 28844762 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2017.08.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2017] [Revised: 08/19/2017] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most prevalent disorder of senile dementia mainly characterized by amyloid-beta peptide (Aβ) deposits in the brain. Cannabinoids are relevant to AD as they exert several beneficial effects in many models of this disease. Still, whether the endocannabinoid system is either up- or down-regulated in AD has not yet been fully elucidated. Thus, the aim of the present paper was to analyze endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) metabolism in cerebral cortex synaptosomes incubated with Aβ oligomers or fibrils. These Aβ conformations were obtained by "aging" the 1-40 fragment of the peptide under different agitation and time conditions. A diminished availability of 2-AG resulting from a significant decrease in diacylglycerol lipase (DAGL) activity was observed in the presence of large Aβ1-40 oligomers along with synaptosomal membrane damage, as judged by transmission electron microscopy and LDH release. Conversely, a high availability of 2-AG resulting from an increase in DAGL and lysophosphatidic acid phosphohydrolase activities occurred in the presence of Aβ1-40 fibrils although synaptosomal membrane disruption was also observed. Interestingly, neither synaptosomal mitochondrial viability assayed by MTT reduction nor membrane lipid peroxidation assayed by TBARS formation measurements were altered by Aβ1-40 oligomers or fibrils. These results show a differential effect of Aβ1-40 peptide on 2-AG metabolism depending on its conformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana C Pascual
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca (INIBIBB, UNS-CONICET), Edificio E1, Camino La Carrindanga Km 7, 8000 Bahía Blanca, Argentina; Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional del Sur, San Juan 670, 8000 Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Virginia L Gaveglio
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca (INIBIBB, UNS-CONICET), Edificio E1, Camino La Carrindanga Km 7, 8000 Bahía Blanca, Argentina; Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional del Sur, San Juan 670, 8000 Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Norma M Giusto
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca (INIBIBB, UNS-CONICET), Edificio E1, Camino La Carrindanga Km 7, 8000 Bahía Blanca, Argentina; Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional del Sur, San Juan 670, 8000 Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Susana J Pasquaré
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca (INIBIBB, UNS-CONICET), Edificio E1, Camino La Carrindanga Km 7, 8000 Bahía Blanca, Argentina; Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional del Sur, San Juan 670, 8000 Bahía Blanca, Argentina.
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Basavarajappa BS, Shivakumar M, Joshi V, Subbanna S. Endocannabinoid system in neurodegenerative disorders. J Neurochem 2017; 142:624-648. [PMID: 28608560 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.14098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2017] [Revised: 05/22/2017] [Accepted: 06/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Most neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs) are characterized by cognitive impairment and other neurological defects. The definite cause of and pathways underlying the progression of these NDDs are not well-defined. Several mechanisms have been proposed to contribute to the development of NDDs. These mechanisms may proceed concurrently or successively, and they differ among cell types at different developmental stages in distinct brain regions. The endocannabinoid system, which involves cannabinoid receptors type 1 (CB1R) and type 2 (CB2R), endogenous cannabinoids and the enzymes that catabolize these compounds, has been shown to contribute to the development of NDDs in several animal models and human studies. In this review, we discuss the functions of the endocannabinoid system in NDDs and converse the therapeutic efficacy of targeting the endocannabinoid system to rescue NDDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Balapal S Basavarajappa
- Division of Analytical Psychopharmacology, Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, New York, USA.,New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York City, New York, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, New York City, New York, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Madhu Shivakumar
- Division of Analytical Psychopharmacology, Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, New York, USA
| | - Vikram Joshi
- Division of Analytical Psychopharmacology, Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, New York, USA
| | - Shivakumar Subbanna
- Division of Analytical Psychopharmacology, Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, New York, USA
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Shinohara M, Tachibana M, Kanekiyo T, Bu G. Role of LRP1 in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease: evidence from clinical and preclinical studies. J Lipid Res 2017; 58:1267-1281. [PMID: 28381441 DOI: 10.1194/jlr.r075796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 163] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2017] [Revised: 04/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Among the LDL receptor (LDLR) family members, the roles of LDLR-related protein (LRP)1 in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD), especially late-onset AD, have been the most studied by genetic, neuropathological, and biomarker analyses (clinical studies) or cellular and animal model systems (preclinical studies) over the last 25 years. Although there are some conflicting reports, accumulating evidence from preclinical studies indicates that LRP1 not only regulates the metabolism of amyloid-β peptides (Aβs) in the brain and periphery, but also maintains brain homeostasis, impairment of which likely contributes to AD development in Aβ-independent manners. Several preclinical studies have also demonstrated an involvement of LRP1 in regulating the pathogenic role of apoE, whose gene is the strongest genetic risk factor for AD. Nonetheless, evidence from clinical studies is not sufficient to conclude how LRP1 contributes to AD development. Thus, despite very promising results from preclinical studies, the role of LRP1 in AD pathogenesis remains to be further clarified. In this review, we discuss the potential mechanisms underlying how LRP1 affects AD pathogenesis through Aβ-dependent and -independent pathways by reviewing both clinical and preclinical studies. We also discuss potential therapeutic strategies for AD by targeting LRP1.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Guojun Bu
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL
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Hane FT, Robinson M, Lee BY, Bai O, Leonenko Z, Albert MS. Recent Progress in Alzheimer's Disease Research, Part 3: Diagnosis and Treatment. J Alzheimers Dis 2017; 57:645-665. [PMID: 28269772 PMCID: PMC5389048 DOI: 10.3233/jad-160907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The field of Alzheimer's disease (AD) research has grown exponentially over the past few decades, especially since the isolation and identification of amyloid-β from postmortem examination of the brains of AD patients. Recently, the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease (JAD) put forth approximately 300 research reports which were deemed to be the most influential research reports in the field of AD since 2010. JAD readers were asked to vote on these most influential reports. In this 3-part review, we review the results of the 300 most influential AD research reports to provide JAD readers with a readily accessible, yet comprehensive review of the state of contemporary research. Notably, this multi-part review identifies the "hottest" fields of AD research providing guidance for both senior investigators as well as investigators new to the field on what is the most pressing fields within AD research. Part 1 of this review covers pathogenesis, both on a molecular and macro scale. Part 2 review genetics and epidemiology, and part 3 covers diagnosis and treatment. This part of the review, diagnosis and treatment, reviews the latest diagnostic criteria, biomarkers, imaging, and treatments in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francis T. Hane
- Department of Chemistry, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, ON, Canada
- Thunder Bay Regional Research Institute, Thunder Bay, ON, Canada
- Department of Biology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Morgan Robinson
- Department of Biology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Brenda Y. Lee
- Department of Biology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Owen Bai
- Thunder Bay Regional Research Institute, Thunder Bay, ON, Canada
| | - Zoya Leonenko
- Department of Biology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Mitchell S. Albert
- Department of Chemistry, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, ON, Canada
- Thunder Bay Regional Research Institute, Thunder Bay, ON, Canada
- Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Thunder Bay, ON, Canada
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25
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Zhao Y, Li D, Zhao J, Song J, Zhao Y. The role of the low-density lipoprotein receptor–related protein 1 (LRP-1) in regulating blood-brain barrier integrity. Rev Neurosci 2016; 27:623-34. [PMID: 27206317 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2015-0069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2015] [Accepted: 03/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
AbstractThe blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a protective structure that helps maintaining the homeostasis in cerebral microenvironment by limiting the passage of molecules into the brain. BBB is formed by closely conjugated endothelial cells, with astrocytic endfeet surrounded and extracellular matrix (ECM) consolidated. Numerous neurological diseases can cause disturbance of BBB, leading to brain edema and neurological dysfunctions. The low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor–related protein 1 (LRP-1), a member of the LDL receptor gene family, is involved in a lot of important processes in the brain under both physiological and pathological conditions. As a membrane receptor, LRP-1 interacts with a variety of ligands and mediates the internalization of several important substances. LRP-1 is found responsible for inducing the opening of BBB following ischemic attack. It has also been reported that LRP-1 regulates several tight junction proteins and mediates the clearance of major ECM-degrading proteinases. In this review, we briefly discussed the role of LRP-1 in regulating BBB integrity by modulating tight junction proteins, endothelial cells and the remodeling of ECM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yahui Zhao
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’, and Jiaotong University College of Medicine, Xi’an 710061, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Dandong Li
- 2Department of Neurosurgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Junjie Zhao
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’, and Jiaotong University College of Medicine, Xi’an 710061, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Jinning Song
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’, and Jiaotong University College of Medicine, Xi’an 710061, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Yonglin Zhao
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’, and Jiaotong University College of Medicine, Xi’an 710061, Shaanxi Province, China
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26
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Altamura C, Ventriglia M, Martini MG, Montesano D, Errante Y, Piscitelli F, Scrascia F, Quattrocchi C, Palazzo P, Seccia S, Vernieri F, Di Marzo V. Elevation of Plasma 2-Arachidonoylglycerol Levels in Alzheimer's Disease Patients as a Potential Protective Mechanism against Neurodegenerative Decline. J Alzheimers Dis 2016; 46:497-506. [PMID: 25818503 DOI: 10.3233/jad-142349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Growing evidence suggests that the endocannabinoid system is involved in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and atherosclerosis. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to investigate the activation of the endocannabinoid system in AD in vivo and the possible intermediate role of atherosclerosis. METHODS We enrolled 41 patients with probable AD, and 30 age- and gender-matched controls. All subjects underwent: ultrasound examination of cerebral and neck vessels (including intima-media thickness and plaque stenosis evaluation); blood sampling to measure levels of endocannabinoid [anandamide (AEA), 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG)] and endogenous AEA analogues [N-palmitoyl-ethanolamide (PEA); N-oleoyl-ethanolamide]; neuropsychological evaluation and brain MRI (atrophy, white matter hyperintensity volume). RESULTS 2-AG levels were higher in AD patients compared to controls (Mann-Whitney test p = 0.021). In the AD group, 2-AG correlated to white matter hyperintensity volume (r = 0.415, p = 0.015) and was higher in patients with chronic heart ischemic disease (p = 0.023). In AD patients, 2-AG was also positively related to memory (r = 0.334, p = 0.05) and attention (r = 0.423, p = 0.018) performances. Constructional praxia test scores were lower in patients with higher levels of PEA (r =-0.389, p = 0.019). CONCLUSION AD patients present high plasma 2-AG levels, also in relation to heart ischemic disease and cerebral leukoaraiosis. This may be a protective mechanism hindering neurodegeneration, but it may also play an ambivalent role on cerebrovascular circulation. The increase in 2-AG and PEA levels observed with ongoing pathological processes may differently modulate cognitive performances.
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Aso E, Ferrer I. CB2 Cannabinoid Receptor As Potential Target against Alzheimer's Disease. Front Neurosci 2016; 10:243. [PMID: 27303261 PMCID: PMC4885828 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2016.00243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Accepted: 05/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The CB2 receptor is one of the components of the endogenous cannabinoid system, a complex network of signaling molecules and receptors involved in the homeostatic control of several physiological functions. Accumulated evidence suggests a role for CB2 receptors in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and indicates their potential as a therapeutic target against this neurodegenerative disease. Levels of CB2 receptors are significantly increased in post-mortem AD brains, mainly in microglia surrounding senile plaques, and their expression levels correlate with the amounts of Aβ42 and β-amyloid plaque deposition. Moreover, several studies on animal models of AD have demonstrated that specific CB2 receptor agonists, which are devoid of psychoactive effects, reduce AD-like pathology, resulting in attenuation of the inflammation associated with the disease but also modulating Aβ and tau aberrant processing, among other effects. CB2 receptor activation also improves cognitive impairment in animal models of AD. This review discusses available data regarding the role of CB2 receptors in AD and the potential usefulness of specific agonists of these receptors against AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ester Aso
- Institut de Neuropatologia, Servei d'Anatomia Patològica, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL)-Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Universitat de BarcelonaL'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
- CIBERNED - Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto Carlos IIIMadrid, Spain
| | - Isidro Ferrer
- Institut de Neuropatologia, Servei d'Anatomia Patològica, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL)-Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Universitat de BarcelonaL'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
- CIBERNED - Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto Carlos IIIMadrid, Spain
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28
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Dolles D, Nimczick M, Scheiner M, Ramler J, Stadtmüller P, Sawatzky E, Drakopoulos A, Sotriffer C, Wittmann HJ, Strasser A, Decker M. Aminobenzimidazoles and Structural Isomers as Templates for Dual-Acting Butyrylcholinesterase Inhibitors andhCB2R Ligands To Combat Neurodegenerative Disorders. ChemMedChem 2015; 11:1270-83. [DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.201500418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dominik Dolles
- Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry; Institute of Pharmacy and Food Chemistry; Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg; Am Hubland 97074 Würzburg Germany
| | - Martin Nimczick
- Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry; Institute of Pharmacy and Food Chemistry; Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg; Am Hubland 97074 Würzburg Germany
| | - Matthias Scheiner
- Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry; Institute of Pharmacy and Food Chemistry; Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg; Am Hubland 97074 Würzburg Germany
| | - Jacqueline Ramler
- Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry; Institute of Pharmacy and Food Chemistry; Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg; Am Hubland 97074 Würzburg Germany
| | - Patricia Stadtmüller
- Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry; Institute of Pharmacy and Food Chemistry; Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg; Am Hubland 97074 Würzburg Germany
| | - Edgar Sawatzky
- Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry; Institute of Pharmacy and Food Chemistry; Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg; Am Hubland 97074 Würzburg Germany
| | - Antonios Drakopoulos
- Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry; Institute of Pharmacy and Food Chemistry; Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg; Am Hubland 97074 Würzburg Germany
| | - Christoph Sotriffer
- Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry; Institute of Pharmacy and Food Chemistry; Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg; Am Hubland 97074 Würzburg Germany
| | - Hans-Joachim Wittmann
- Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry II; Institute of Pharmacy; University of Regensburg; 95053 Regensburg Germany
| | - Andrea Strasser
- Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry II; Institute of Pharmacy; University of Regensburg; 95053 Regensburg Germany
| | - Michael Decker
- Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry; Institute of Pharmacy and Food Chemistry; Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg; Am Hubland 97074 Würzburg Germany
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29
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Benbadis SR, Sanchez-Ramos J, Bozorg A, Giarratano M, Kalidas K, Katzin L, Robertson D, Vu T, Smith A, Zesiewicz T. Medical marijuana in neurology. Expert Rev Neurother 2015; 14:1453-65. [PMID: 25427150 DOI: 10.1586/14737175.2014.985209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Constituents of the Cannabis plant, cannabinoids, may be of therapeutic value in neurologic diseases. The most abundant cannabinoids are Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol, which possesses psychoactive properties, and cannabidiol, which has no intrinsic psychoactive effects, but exhibits neuroprotective properties in preclinical studies. A small number of high-quality clinical trials support the safety and efficacy of cannabinoids for treatment of spasticity of multiple sclerosis, pain refractory to opioids, glaucoma, nausea and vomiting. Lower level clinical evidence indicates that cannabinoids may be useful for dystonia, tics, tremors, epilepsy, migraine and weight loss. Data are also limited in regards to adverse events and safety. Common nonspecific adverse events are similar to those of other CNS 'depressants' and include weakness, mood changes and dizziness. Cannabinoids can have cardiovascular adverse events and, when smoked chronically, may affect pulmonary function. Fatalities are rare even with recreational use. There is a concern about psychological dependence, but physical dependence is less well documented. Cannabis preparations may presently offer an option for compassionate use in severe neurologic diseases, but at this point, only when standard-of-care therapy is ineffective. As more high-quality clinical data are gathered, the therapeutic application of cannabinoids will likely expand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selim R Benbadis
- Department of Neurology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
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30
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Baron EP. Comprehensive Review of Medicinal Marijuana, Cannabinoids, and Therapeutic Implications in Medicine and Headache: What a Long Strange Trip It's Been …. Headache 2015; 55:885-916. [PMID: 26015168 DOI: 10.1111/head.12570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/07/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of cannabis, or marijuana, for medicinal purposes is deeply rooted though history, dating back to ancient times. It once held a prominent position in the history of medicine, recommended by many eminent physicians for numerous diseases, particularly headache and migraine. Through the decades, this plant has taken a fascinating journey from a legal and frequently prescribed status to illegal, driven by political and social factors rather than by science. However, with an abundance of growing support for its multitude of medicinal uses, the misguided stigma of cannabis is fading, and there has been a dramatic push for legalizing medicinal cannabis and research. Almost half of the United States has now legalized medicinal cannabis, several states have legalized recreational use, and others have legalized cannabidiol-only use, which is one of many therapeutic cannabinoids extracted from cannabis. Physicians need to be educated on the history, pharmacology, clinical indications, and proper clinical use of cannabis, as patients will inevitably inquire about it for many diseases, including chronic pain and headache disorders for which there is some intriguing supportive evidence. OBJECTIVE To review the history of medicinal cannabis use, discuss the pharmacology and physiology of the endocannabinoid system and cannabis-derived cannabinoids, perform a comprehensive literature review of the clinical uses of medicinal cannabis and cannabinoids with a focus on migraine and other headache disorders, and outline general clinical practice guidelines. CONCLUSION The literature suggests that the medicinal use of cannabis may have a therapeutic role for a multitude of diseases, particularly chronic pain disorders including headache. Supporting literature suggests a role for medicinal cannabis and cannabinoids in several types of headache disorders including migraine and cluster headache, although it is primarily limited to case based, anecdotal, or laboratory-based scientific research. Cannabis contains an extensive number of pharmacological and biochemical compounds, of which only a minority are understood, so many potential therapeutic uses likely remain undiscovered. Cannabinoids appear to modulate and interact at many pathways inherent to migraine, triptan mechanisms ofaction, and opiate pathways, suggesting potential synergistic or similar benefits. Modulation of the endocannabinoid system through agonism or antagonism of its receptors, targeting its metabolic pathways, or combining cannabinoids with other analgesics for synergistic effects, may provide the foundation for many new classes of medications. Despite the limited evidence and research suggesting a role for cannabis and cannabinoids in some headache disorders, randomized clinical trials are lacking and necessary for confirmation and further evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric P Baron
- Department of Neurology, Headache Center, Cleveland Clinic Neurological Institute, Cleveland, OH, USA
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31
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Nimczick M, Decker M. New Approaches in the Design and Development of Cannabinoid Receptor Ligands: Multifunctional and Bivalent Compounds. ChemMedChem 2015; 10:773-86. [DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.201500041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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32
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Paris D, Ait-Ghezala G, Bachmeier C, Laco G, Beaulieu-Abdelahad D, Lin Y, Jin C, Crawford F, Mullan M. The spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk) regulates Alzheimer amyloid-β production and Tau hyperphosphorylation. J Biol Chem 2014; 289:33927-44. [PMID: 25331948 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m114.608091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
We have previously shown that the L-type calcium channel (LCC) antagonist nilvadipine reduces brain amyloid-β (Aβ) accumulation by affecting both Aβ production and Aβ clearance across the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Nilvadipine consists of a mixture of two enantiomers, (+)-nilvadipine and (-)-nilvadipine, in equal proportion. (+)-Nilvadipine is the active enantiomer responsible for the inhibition of LCC, whereas (-)-nilvadipine is considered inactive. Both nilvadipine enantiomers inhibit Aβ production and improve the clearance of Aβ across the BBB showing that these effects are not related to LCC inhibition. In addition, treatment of P301S mutant human Tau transgenic mice (transgenic Tau P301S) with (-)-nilvadipine reduces Tau hyperphosphorylation at several Alzheimer disease (AD) pertinent epitopes. A search for the mechanism of action of (-)-nilvadipine revealed that this compound inhibits the spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk). We further validated Syk as a target-regulating Aβ by showing that pharmacological inhibition of Syk or down-regulation of Syk expression reduces Aβ production and increases the clearance of Aβ across the BBB mimicking (-)-nilvadipine effects. Moreover, treatment of transgenic mice overexpressing Aβ and transgenic Tau P301S mice with a selective Syk inhibitor respectively decreased brain Aβ accumulation and Tau hyperphosphorylation at multiple AD relevant epitopes. We show that Syk inhibition induces an increased phosphorylation of the inhibitory Ser-9 residue of glycogen synthase kinase-3β, a primary Tau kinase involved in Tau phosphorylation, by activating protein kinase A, providing a mechanism explaining the reduction of Tau phosphorylation at GSK3β-dependent epitopes following Syk inhibition. Altogether our data highlight Syk as a promising target for preventing both Aβ accumulation and Tau hyperphosphorylation in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Paris
- From the Roskamp Institute, Sarasota, Florida 34243
| | | | | | - Gary Laco
- From the Roskamp Institute, Sarasota, Florida 34243
| | | | - Yong Lin
- From the Roskamp Institute, Sarasota, Florida 34243
| | - Chao Jin
- From the Roskamp Institute, Sarasota, Florida 34243
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Vendel E, de Lange ECM. Functions of the CB1 and CB 2 receptors in neuroprotection at the level of the blood-brain barrier. Neuromolecular Med 2014; 16:620-42. [PMID: 24929655 DOI: 10.1007/s12017-014-8314-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2014] [Accepted: 05/14/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The cannabinoid (CB) receptors are the main targets of the cannabinoids, which include plant cannabinoids, endocannabinoids and synthetic cannabinoids. Over the last few years, accumulated evidence has suggested a role of the CB receptors in neuroprotection. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is an important brain structure that is essential for neuroprotection. A link between the CB receptors and the BBB is thus likely, but this possible connection has only recently gained attention. Cannabinoids and the BBB share the same mechanisms of neuroprotection and both protect against excitotoxicity (CB1), cell death (CB1), inflammation (CB2) and oxidative stress (possibly CB independent)-all processes that also damage the BBB. Several examples of CB-mediated protection of the BBB have been found, such as inhibition of leukocyte influx and induction of amyloid beta efflux across the BBB. Moreover, the CB receptors were shown to improve BBB integrity, particularly by restoring the tightness of the tight junctions. This review demonstrated that both CB receptors are able to restore the BBB and neuroprotection, but much uncertainty about the underlying signaling cascades still exists and further investigation is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esmée Vendel
- Division of Pharmacology, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333CC, PO Box 9502, 2300 RA, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Aso E, Ferrer I. Cannabinoids for treatment of Alzheimer's disease: moving toward the clinic. Front Pharmacol 2014; 5:37. [PMID: 24634659 PMCID: PMC3942876 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2014.00037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2014] [Accepted: 02/19/2014] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The limited effectiveness of current therapies against Alzheimer’s disease (AD) highlights the need for intensifying research efforts devoted to developing new agents for preventing or retarding the disease process. During the last few years, targeting the endogenous cannabinoid system has emerged as a potential therapeutic approach to treat Alzheimer. The endocannabinoid system is composed by a number of cannabinoid receptors, including the well-characterized CB1 and CB2 receptors, with their endogenous ligands and the enzymes related to the synthesis and degradation of these endocannabinoid compounds. Several findings indicate that the activation of both CB1 and CB2 receptors by natural or synthetic agonists, at non-psychoactive doses, have beneficial effects in Alzheimer experimental models by reducing the harmful β-amyloid peptide action and tau phosphorylation, as well as by promoting the brain’s intrinsic repair mechanisms. Moreover, endocannabinoid signaling has been demonstrated to modulate numerous concomitant pathological processes, including neuroinflammation, excitotoxicity, mitochondrial dysfunction, and oxidative stress. The present paper summarizes the main experimental studies demonstrating the polyvalent properties of cannabinoid compounds for the treatment of AD, which together encourage progress toward a clinical trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ester Aso
- Institut de Neuropatologia, Servei d'Anatomia Patològica, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge-Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Universitat de Barcelona, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat Spain ; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto Carlos III Spain
| | - Isidre Ferrer
- Institut de Neuropatologia, Servei d'Anatomia Patològica, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge-Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Universitat de Barcelona, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat Spain ; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto Carlos III Spain
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