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Wainwright CL, Walsh SK. Pharmacology of Non-Psychoactive Phytocannabinoids and Their Potential for Treatment of Cardiometabolic Disease. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2024. [PMID: 39235486 DOI: 10.1007/164_2024_731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/06/2024]
Abstract
The use of Cannabis sativa by humans dates back to the third millennium BC, and it has been utilized in many forms for multiple purposes, including production of fibre and rope, as food and medicine, and (perhaps most notably) for its psychoactive properties for recreational use. The discovery of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) as the main psychoactive phytocannabinoid contained in cannabis by Gaoni and Mechoulam in 1964 (J Am Chem Soc 86, 1646-1647), was the first major step in cannabis research; since then the identification of the chemicals (phytocannabinoids) present in cannabis, the classification of the pharmacological targets of these compounds and the discovery that the body has its own endocannabinoid system (ECS) have highlighted the potential value of cannabis-derived compounds in the treatment of many diseases, such as neurological disorders and cancers. Although the use of Δ9-THC as a therapeutic agent is constrained by its psychoactive properties, there is growing evidence that non-psychoactive phytocannabinoids, derived from both Cannabis sativa and other plant species, as well as non-cannabinoid compounds found in Cannabis sativa, have real potential as therapeutics. This chapter will focus on the possibilities for using these compounds in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease and related metabolic disturbances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cherry L Wainwright
- Centre for Cardiometabolic Health Research, School of Pharmacy & Life Sciences, Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen, Scotland, UK.
| | - Sarah K Walsh
- Centre for Cardiometabolic Health Research, School of Pharmacy & Life Sciences, Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen, Scotland, UK
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2
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Pekkarinen L, Kantonen T, Oikonen V, Haaparanta-Solin M, Aarnio R, Dickens AM, von Eyken A, Latva-Rasku A, Dadson P, Kirjavainen AK, Rajander J, Kalliokoski K, Rönnemaa T, Nummenmaa L, Nuutila P. Lower abdominal adipose tissue cannabinoid type 1 receptor availability in young men with overweight. Obesity (Silver Spring) 2023; 31:1844-1858. [PMID: 37368516 DOI: 10.1002/oby.23770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cannabinoid type 1 receptors (CB1R) modulate feeding behavior and energy homeostasis, and the CB1R tone is dysgulated in obesity. This study aimed to investigate CB1R availability in peripheral tissue and brain in young men with overweight versus lean men. METHODS Healthy males with high (HR, n = 16) or low (LR, n = 20) obesity risk were studied with fluoride 18-labeled FMPEP-d2 positron emission tomography to quantify CB1R availability in abdominal adipose tissue, brown adipose tissue, muscle, and brain. Obesity risk was assessed by BMI, physical exercise habits, and familial obesity risk, including parental overweight, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. To assess insulin sensitivity, fluoro-[18 F]-deoxy-2-D-glucose positron emission tomography during hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp was performed. Serum endocannabinoids were analyzed. RESULTS CB1R availability in abdominal adipose tissue was lower in the HR than in the LR group, whereas no difference was found in other tissues. CB1R availability of abdominal adipose tissue and brain correlated positively with insulin sensitivity and negatively with unfavorable lipid profile, BMI, body adiposity, and inflammatory markers. Serum arachidonoyl glycerol concentration was associated with lower CB1R availability of the whole brain, unfavorable lipid profile, and higher serum inflammatory markers. CONCLUSIONS The results suggest endocannabinoid dysregulation already in the preobesity state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Pekkarinen
- Turku PET Centre, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Department of Endocrinology, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Tatu Kantonen
- Turku PET Centre, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Clinical Neurosciences, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Vesa Oikonen
- Turku PET Centre, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Merja Haaparanta-Solin
- Turku PET Centre, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- MediCity Research Laboratory, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | | | - Alex M Dickens
- Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
| | - Annie von Eyken
- Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
| | | | - Prince Dadson
- Turku PET Centre, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | | | - Johan Rajander
- Turku PET Centre, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
| | | | - Tapani Rönnemaa
- Department of Endocrinology, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
- Department of Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Lauri Nummenmaa
- Turku PET Centre, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Department of Psychology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Pirjo Nuutila
- Turku PET Centre, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Department of Endocrinology, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
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Hirsch S, Hinden L, Naim MBD, Baraghithy S, Permyakova A, Azar S, Nasser T, Portnoy E, Agbaria M, Nemirovski A, Golomb G, Tam J. Hepatic targeting of the centrally active cannabinoid 1 receptor (CB 1R) blocker rimonabant via PLGA nanoparticles for treating fatty liver disease and diabetes. J Control Release 2023; 353:254-269. [PMID: 36442615 PMCID: PMC9900386 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.11.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Over-activation of the endocannabinoid/CB1R system is a hallmark feature of obesity and its related comorbidities, most notably type 2 diabetes (T2D), and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Although the use of drugs that widely block the CB1R was found to be highly effective in treating all metabolic abnormalities associated with obesity, they are no longer considered a valid therapeutic option due to their adverse neuropsychiatric side effects. Here, we describe a novel nanotechnology-based drug delivery system for repurposing the abandoned first-in-class global CB1R antagonist, rimonabant, by encapsulating it in polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) for effective hepatic targeting of CB1Rs, enabling effective treatment of NAFLD and T2D. Rimonabant-encapsulated NPs (Rimo-NPs) were mainly distributed in the liver, spleen, and kidney, and only negligible marginal levels of rimonabant were found in the brain of mice treated by iv/ip administration. In contrast to freely administered rimonabant treatment, no CNS-mediated behavioral activities were detected in animals treated with Rimo-NPs. Chronic treatment of diet-induced obese mice with Rimo-NPs resulted in reduced hepatic steatosis and liver injury as well as enhanced insulin sensitivity, which were associated with enhanced cellular uptake of the formulation into hepatocytes. Collectively, we successfully developed a method of encapsulating the centrally acting CB1R blocker in NPs with desired physicochemical properties. This novel drug delivery system allows hepatic targeting of rimonabant to restore the metabolic advantages of blocking CB1R in peripheral tissues, especially in the liver, without the negative CB1R-mediated neuropsychiatric side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shira Hirsch
- Obesity and Metabolism Laboratory, POB 12065, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel
| | - Liad Hinden
- Obesity and Metabolism Laboratory, POB 12065, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel
| | - Meital Ben-David Naim
- The Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Saja Baraghithy
- Obesity and Metabolism Laboratory, POB 12065, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel
| | - Anna Permyakova
- Obesity and Metabolism Laboratory, POB 12065, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel
| | - Shahar Azar
- Obesity and Metabolism Laboratory, POB 12065, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel
| | - Taher Nasser
- The Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Emma Portnoy
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Israel
| | - Majd Agbaria
- The Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Alina Nemirovski
- The Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Gershon Golomb
- The Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Joseph Tam
- Obesity and Metabolism Laboratory, POB 12065, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel; The Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel.
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Abstract
The endocannabinoid system is found in most, if not all, mammalian organs and is involved in a variety of physiological functions, ranging from the control of synaptic plasticity in the brain to the modulation of smooth muscle motility in the gastrointestinal tract. This signaling complex consists of G protein-coupled cannabinoid receptors, endogenous ligands for those receptors (endocannabinoids) and enzymes/transporters responsible for the formation and deactivation of these ligands. There are two subtypes of cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2, and two major endocannabinoids, arachidonoylethanolamide (anandamide) and 2-arachidonoyl-sn-glycerol (2-AG), which are produced upon demand through cleavage of distinct phospholipid precursors. All molecular components of the endocannabinoid system are represented in the adipose organ, where endocannabinoid signals are thought to regulate critical homeostatic processes, including adipogenesis, lipogenesis and thermogenesis. Importantly, obesity was found to be associated with excess endocannabinoid activity in visceral fat depots, and the therapeutic potential of normalizing such activity by blocking CB1 receptors has been the focus of substantial preclinical and clinical research. Results have been mixed thus far, mostly owing to the emergence of psychiatric side effects rooted in the protective functions served by brain endocannabinoids in mood and affect regulation. Further studies about the roles played by the endocannabinoid system in the adipose organ will offer new insights into the pathogenesis of obesity and might help identify new ways to leverage this signaling complex for therapeutic benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwang-Mook Jung
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, 3101 Gillespie NRF, Irvine, CA, 92697-1275, USA
| | - Lin Lin
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, 3101 Gillespie NRF, Irvine, CA, 92697-1275, USA
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, 3101 Gillespie NRF, Irvine, CA, 92697-1275, USA.
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
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5
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Behl T, Chadha S, Sachdeva M, Sehgal A, Kumar A, Dhruv, Venkatachalam T, Hafeez A, Aleya L, Arora S, Batiha GES, Nijhawan P, Bungau S. Understanding the possible role of endocannabinoid system in obesity. Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat 2021; 152:106520. [PMID: 33249225 DOI: 10.1016/j.prostaglandins.2020.106520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Maintenance of weight is essential for sustenance, well-being and to endorse prolonged life. The prevalence of obesity is increasing at an alarming rate globally, due to modern lifestyle and dietary habits. Endocannabinoids are fatty acid derivatives and numerous studies are carried out which focuses and targets their relationship with obesity, via multiple signals which have been recently known for exerting crucial role in regulating energy balance. PURPOSE This article aims at examining the prospects of endocannabinoids in obesity via directing the role of ECs in stimulating hunger. RESULT In last few years, irregular stimulation of endocannabinoid system has been suggested as a chief element in the progression of obesity-associated metabolic complications. Certainly, this cascade system comprises of cannabinoid type1 and 2 receptors (CB1R and CB2R) along with their endogenous lipid ligands which are responsible for enhanced feeding behavior as well as lipid metabolism. Significantly, inhibiting CB1R activity might reduce metabolic abnormality linked with obesity. CONCLUSION Conclusion withdrawn on the basis of supporting scientific data and evidences report that the blockade of cannabinoids can serve as a therapeutic potential for treatment of obesity. Future prospective aims at assessing molecular pathways which contributes towards ECS, elicited weight control and to evaluate how these mechanisms are presently relocated into the production of novel cannabinoid drugs exhibiting enriched care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tapan Behl
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India.
| | - Swati Chadha
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
| | - Monika Sachdeva
- Fatima College of Health Sciences, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Aayush Sehgal
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
| | - Arun Kumar
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
| | - Dhruv
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
| | | | - Abdul Hafeez
- Glocal School of Pharmacy, Glocal University, Mirzapur Pole, Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Lotfi Aleya
- Chrono-Environment Laboratory, Bourgogne Franche-Comté University, France
| | - Sandeep Arora
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
| | - Gaber El-Saber Batiha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Egypt
| | - Priya Nijhawan
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
| | - Simona Bungau
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, Oradea, Romania
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6
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Karimian Azari E, Kerrigan A, O’Connor A. Naturally Occurring Cannabinoids and their Role in Modulation of Cardiovascular Health. J Diet Suppl 2020; 17:625-650. [DOI: 10.1080/19390211.2020.1790708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Aileen Kerrigan
- Research and Development department, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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7
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Quarta C, Cota D. Anti-obesity therapy with peripheral CB1 blockers: from promise to safe(?) practice. Int J Obes (Lond) 2020; 44:2179-2193. [PMID: 32317751 DOI: 10.1038/s41366-020-0577-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Pharmacological blockers of the cannabinoid receptor type-1 (CB1) have been considered for a long time as the holy grail of obesity pharmacotherapy. These agents were hastily released in the clinical setting, due to their clear-cut therapeutic efficacy. However, the first generation of these drugs, which were able to target both the brain and peripheral tissues, had serious neuropsychiatric effects, leading authorities to ban their clinical use. New peripherally restricted CB1 blockers, characterized by low brain penetrance, have been developed over the past 10 years. In preclinical studies, these molecules seem to overcome the neuropsychiatric negative effects previously observed with brain-penetrant CB1 inhibitors, while retaining or even outperforming their efficacy. The mechanisms of action of these peripherally restricted compounds are only beginning to emerge, and a balanced discussion of the risk/benefits ratio associated to their possible clinical use is urgently needed, in order to avoid repeating past mistakes. Here, we will critically discuss the advantages and the possible hidden threats associated with the use of peripheral CB1 blockers for the pharmacotherapy of obesity and its associated metabolic complications. We will address whether this novel pharmacological approach might 'compete' with current pharmacotherapies for obesity and diabetes, while also conceptualizing future CB1-based pharmacological trends that may significantly lower the risk/benefits ratio associated with the use of these drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmelo Quarta
- INSERM, Neurocentre Magendie, Physiopathologie de la Plasticité Neuronale, U1215, F-33000, Bordeaux, France. .,University of Bordeaux, Neurocentre Magendie, Physiopathologie de la Plasticité Neuronale, U1215, F-33000, Bordeaux, France.
| | - Daniela Cota
- INSERM, Neurocentre Magendie, Physiopathologie de la Plasticité Neuronale, U1215, F-33000, Bordeaux, France. .,University of Bordeaux, Neurocentre Magendie, Physiopathologie de la Plasticité Neuronale, U1215, F-33000, Bordeaux, France.
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8
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Sládek M, Houdek P, Sumová A. Circadian profiling reveals distinct regulation of endocannabinoid system in the rat plasma, liver and adrenal glands by light-dark and feeding cycles. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Cell Biol Lipids 2019; 1864:158533. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbalip.2019.158533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Revised: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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9
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Cannabis: From a Plant That Modulates Feeding Behaviors toward Developing Selective Inhibitors of the Peripheral Endocannabinoid System for the Treatment of Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:toxins11050275. [PMID: 31096702 PMCID: PMC6563239 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11050275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In this review, we discuss the role of the endocannabinoid (eCB) system in regulating energy and metabolic homeostasis. Endocannabinoids, via activating the cannabinoid type-1 receptor (CB1R), are commonly known as mediators of the thrifty phenotype hypothesis due to their activity in the central nervous system, which in turn regulates food intake and underlies the development of metabolic syndrome. Indeed, these findings led to the clinical testing of globally acting CB1R blockers for obesity and various metabolic complications. However, their therapeutic potential was halted due to centrally mediated adverse effects. Recent observations that highlighted the key role of the peripheral eCB system in metabolic regulation led to the preclinical development of various novel compounds that block CB1R only in peripheral organs with very limited brain penetration and without causing behavioral side effects. These unique molecules, which effectively ameliorate obesity, type II diabetes, fatty liver, insulin resistance, and chronic kidney disease in several animal models, are likely to be further developed in the clinic and may revive the therapeutic potential of blocking CB1R once again.
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10
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Ruiz de Azua I, Lutz B. Multiple endocannabinoid-mediated mechanisms in the regulation of energy homeostasis in brain and peripheral tissues. Cell Mol Life Sci 2019; 76:1341-1363. [PMID: 30599065 PMCID: PMC11105297 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-018-2994-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2018] [Revised: 11/22/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid (eCB) system is widely expressed in many central and peripheral tissues, and is involved in a plethora of physiological processes. Among these, activity of the eCB system promotes energy intake and storage, which, however, under pathophysiological conditions, can favour the development of obesity and obesity-related disorders. It is proposed that eCB signalling is evolutionary beneficial for survival under periods of scarce food resources. Remarkably, eCB signalling is increased both in hunger and in overnutrition conditions, such as obesity and type-2 diabetes. This apparent paradox suggests a role of the eCB system both at initiation and at clinical endpoint of obesity. This review will focus on recent findings about the role of the eCB system controlling whole-body metabolism in mice that are genetically modified selectively in different cell types. The current data in fact support the notion that eCB signalling is not only engaged in the development but also in the maintenance of obesity, whereby specific cell types in central and peripheral tissues are key sites in regulating the entire body's energy homeostasis.
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MESH Headings
- Adipose Tissue/metabolism
- Animals
- Brain/metabolism
- Endocannabinoids/metabolism
- Energy Metabolism
- Muscle, Skeletal/metabolism
- Obesity/metabolism
- Obesity/pathology
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/genetics
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/metabolism
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/genetics
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Inigo Ruiz de Azua
- German Resilience Center (DRZ) and Institute of Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Duesbergweg 5, 55128, Mainz, Germany.
| | - Beat Lutz
- German Resilience Center (DRZ) and Institute of Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Duesbergweg 5, 55128, Mainz, Germany
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Pepper I, Vinik A, Lattanzio F, McPheat W, Dobrian A. Countering the Modern Metabolic Disease Rampage With Ancestral Endocannabinoid System Alignment. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:311. [PMID: 31156558 PMCID: PMC6533883 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 04/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
When primitive vertebrates evolved from ancestral members of the animal kingdom and acquired complex locomotive and neurological toolsets, a constant supply of energy became necessary for their continued survival. To help fulfill this need, the endocannabinoid (eCB) system transformed drastically with the addition of the cannabinoid-1 receptor (CB1R) to its gene repertoire. This established an eCB/CB1R signaling mechanism responsible for governing the whole organism's energy balance, with its activation triggering a shift toward energy intake and storage in the brain and the peripheral organs (i.e., liver and adipose). Although this function was of primal importance for humans during their pre-historic existence as hunter-gatherers, it became expendable following the successive lifestyle shifts of the Agricultural and Industrial Revolutions. Modernization of the world has further increased food availability and decreased energy expenditure, thus shifting the eCB/CB1R system into a state of hyperactive deregulated signaling that contributes to the 21st century metabolic disease pandemic. Studies from the literature supporting this perspective come from a variety of disciplines, including biochemistry, human medicine, evolutionary/comparative biology, anthropology, and developmental biology. Consideration of both biological and cultural evolution justifies the design of improved pharmacological treatments for obesity and Type 2 diabetes (T2D) that focus on peripheral CB1R antagonism. Blockade of peripheral CB1Rs, which universally promote energy conservation across the vertebrate lineage, represents an evolutionary medicine strategy for clinical management of present-day metabolic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian Pepper
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, United States
- *Correspondence: Ian Pepper
| | - Aaron Vinik
- Strelitz Diabetes Center, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, United States
| | - Frank Lattanzio
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, United States
| | - William McPheat
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, United States
| | - Anca Dobrian
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, United States
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12
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Watkins BA. Endocannabinoids, exercise, pain, and a path to health with aging. Mol Aspects Med 2018; 64:68-78. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2018.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Revised: 09/22/2018] [Accepted: 10/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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13
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Rodríguez-Rodríguez IA, Fernandez-Quiroga KA, Morales-San Claudio PD, Balderas-Rentería I, González-Santiago O. No association between G1359A CB1 polymorphisms and pain in young northeastern Mexicans. Pharmacogenomics 2018; 19:1251-1258. [PMID: 30371142 DOI: 10.2217/pgs-2018-0125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM Recent studies show an association between the endocannabinoid system and pain. In this study, we analyzed the association between two CNR1 gene polymorphisms and pain perception in a northeast Mexican population. METHODS Genotypic and allelic frequencies were obtained for both polymorphisms. Pain threshold, tolerance and perception were measured using the cold pressor task. RESULTS No significant association between the polymorphisms and pain perception was found (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION Genotypic and allelic frequencies for both polymorphisms were reported for the first time in a Mexican population; however, our results suggest that there is not a significant association between these and pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ismael A Rodríguez-Rodríguez
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Pedro de Alba S/N, Ciudad Universitaria, San Nicolás de los Garza, Nuevo Leon, CP 66455, Mexico
| | - Karla A Fernandez-Quiroga
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Pedro de Alba S/N, Ciudad Universitaria, San Nicolás de los Garza, Nuevo Leon, CP 66455, Mexico
| | - Pilar Dc Morales-San Claudio
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Pedro de Alba S/N, Ciudad Universitaria, San Nicolás de los Garza, Nuevo Leon, CP 66455, Mexico
| | - Isaías Balderas-Rentería
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Pedro de Alba S/N, Ciudad Universitaria, San Nicolás de los Garza, Nuevo Leon, CP 66455, Mexico
| | - Omar González-Santiago
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Pedro de Alba S/N, Ciudad Universitaria, San Nicolás de los Garza, Nuevo Leon, CP 66455, Mexico
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14
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Liu BX, Sun W, Kong XQ. Perirenal Fat: A Unique Fat Pad and Potential Target for Cardiovascular Disease. Angiology 2018; 70:584-593. [PMID: 30301366 DOI: 10.1177/0003319718799967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Although visceral obesity is recognized as a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), the efficacy of omental fat removal in CVD treatment is still controversial. There is a need to identify other visceral fat depots for CVD management. This review aims to provide a summary on perirenal fat as an important risk factor for CVD. Studies on epidemiology, anatomy, and function of perirenal fat were reviewed. Observational studies in humans suggest that excessive perirenal fat increases the risk of hypertension and coronary heart disease. Anatomy studies prove that perirenal fat is unique compared to other connective tissues in that it is well vascularized, innervated, and drains into the lymphatic system. Other special morphological features include a complete fascia border, sympathetic-independent development of architecture, and proximity to the kidneys. Based on these anatomical features, perirenal fat regulates the cardiovascular system presumably via neural reflex, adipokine secretion, and fat-kidney interaction. These new insights suggest that perirenal fat may constitute a promising target for CVD management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo-Xun Liu
- 1 Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Sun
- 1 Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiang-Qing Kong
- 1 Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
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15
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Tam J, Hinden L, Drori A, Udi S, Azar S, Baraghithy S. The therapeutic potential of targeting the peripheral endocannabinoid/CB 1 receptor system. Eur J Intern Med 2018; 49:23-29. [PMID: 29336868 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2018.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Revised: 01/03/2018] [Accepted: 01/04/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Endocannabinoids (eCBs) are internal lipid mediators recognized by the cannabinoid-1 and -2 receptors (CB1R and CB2R, respectively), which also mediate the different physiological effects of marijuana. The endocannabinoid system, consisting of eCBs, their receptors, and the enzymes involved in their biosynthesis and degradation, is present in a vast number of peripheral organs. In this review we describe the role of the eCB/CB1R system in modulating the metabolism in several peripheral organs. We assess how eCBs, via activating the CB1R, contribute to obesity and regulate food intake. In addition, we describe their roles in modulating liver and kidney functions, as well as bone remodeling and mass. Special importance is given to emphasizing the efficacy of the recently developed peripherally restricted CB1R antagonists, which were pre-clinically tested in the management of energy homeostasis, and in ameliorating both obesity- and diabetes-induced metabolic complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Tam
- Obesity and Metabolism Laboratory, Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel.
| | - Liad Hinden
- Obesity and Metabolism Laboratory, Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel
| | - Adi Drori
- Obesity and Metabolism Laboratory, Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel
| | - Shiran Udi
- Obesity and Metabolism Laboratory, Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel
| | - Shahar Azar
- Obesity and Metabolism Laboratory, Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel
| | - Saja Baraghithy
- Obesity and Metabolism Laboratory, Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel
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Perinatal maternal high-fat diet induces early obesity and sex-specific alterations of the endocannabinoid system in white and brown adipose tissue of weanling rat offspring. Br J Nutr 2017; 118:788-803. [PMID: 29110748 DOI: 10.1017/s0007114517002884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Perinatal maternal high-fat (HF) diet programmes offspring obesity. Obesity is associated with overactivation of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in adult subjects, but the role of the ECS in the developmental origins of obesity is mostly unknown. The ECS consists of endocannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors (cannabinoid type-1 receptor (CB1) and cannabinoid type-2 receptor (CB2)) and metabolising enzymes. We hypothesised that perinatal maternal HF diet would alter the ECS in a sex-dependent manner in white and brown adipose tissue of rat offspring at weaning in parallel to obesity development. Female rats received standard diet (9 % energy content from fat) or HF diet (29 % energy content from fat) before mating, during pregnancy and lactation. At weaning, male and female offspring were killed for tissue harvest. Maternal HF diet induced early obesity, white adipocyte hypertrophy and increased lipid accumulation in brown adipose tissue associated with sex-specific changes of the ECS's components in weanling rats. In male pups, maternal HF diet decreased CB1 and CB2 protein in subcutaneous adipose tissue. In female pups, maternal HF diet increased visceral and decreased subcutaneous CB1. In brown adipose tissue, maternal HF diet increased CB1 regardless of pup sex. In addition, maternal HF diet differentially changed oestrogen receptor across the adipose depots in male and female pups. The ECS and oestrogen signalling play an important role in lipogenesis, adipogenesis and thermogenesis, and we observed early changes in their targets in adipose depots of the offspring. The present findings provide insights into the involvement of the ECS in the developmental origins of metabolic disease induced by inadequate maternal nutrition in early life.
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17
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Simon V, Cota D. MECHANISMS IN ENDOCRINOLOGY: Endocannabinoids and metabolism: past, present and future. Eur J Endocrinol 2017; 176:R309-R324. [PMID: 28246151 DOI: 10.1530/eje-16-1044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2016] [Revised: 02/10/2017] [Accepted: 02/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS), including cannabinoid type 1 and type 2 receptors (CB1R and CB2R), endogenous ligands called endocannabinoids and their related enzymatic machinery, is known to have a role in the regulation of energy balance. Past information generated on the ECS, mainly focused on the involvement of this system in the central nervous system regulation of food intake, while at the same time clinical studies pointed out the therapeutic efficacy of brain penetrant CB1R antagonists like rimonabant for obesity and metabolic disorders. Rimonabant was removed from the market in 2009 and its obituary written due to its psychiatric side effects. However, in the meanwhile a number of investigations had started to highlight the roles of the peripheral ECS in the regulation of metabolism, bringing up new hope that the ECS might still represent target for treatment. Accordingly, peripherally restricted CB1R antagonists or inverse agonists have shown to effectively reduce body weight, adiposity, insulin resistance and dyslipidemia in obese animal models. Very recent investigations have further expanded the possible toolbox for the modulation of the ECS, by demonstrating the existence of endogenous allosteric inhibitors of CB1R, the characterization of the structure of the human CB1R, and the likely involvement of CB2R in metabolic disorders. Here we give an overview of these findings, discussing what the future may hold in the context of strategies targeting the ECS in metabolic disease.
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MESH Headings
- Allosteric Regulation/drug effects
- Animals
- Anti-Obesity Agents/adverse effects
- Anti-Obesity Agents/pharmacology
- Anti-Obesity Agents/therapeutic use
- Cannabinoid Receptor Antagonists/adverse effects
- Cannabinoid Receptor Antagonists/pharmacology
- Cannabinoid Receptor Antagonists/therapeutic use
- Drug Inverse Agonism
- Endocannabinoids/metabolism
- Energy Intake/drug effects
- Energy Metabolism/drug effects
- Humans
- Models, Biological
- Obesity/drug therapy
- Obesity/metabolism
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/agonists
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/metabolism
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/agonists
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/metabolism
- Signal Transduction/drug effects
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Simon
- INSERM and University of BordeauxNeurocentre Magendie, Physiopathologie de la Plasticité Neuronale, U1215, Bordeaux, France
| | - Daniela Cota
- INSERM and University of BordeauxNeurocentre Magendie, Physiopathologie de la Plasticité Neuronale, U1215, Bordeaux, France
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18
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Reichelt AC. Adolescent Maturational Transitions in the Prefrontal Cortex and Dopamine Signaling as a Risk Factor for the Development of Obesity and High Fat/High Sugar Diet Induced Cognitive Deficits. Front Behav Neurosci 2016; 10:189. [PMID: 27790098 PMCID: PMC5061823 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2016.00189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2016] [Accepted: 09/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Adolescence poses as both a transitional period in neurodevelopment and lifestyle practices. In particular, the developmental trajectory of the prefrontal cortex (PFC), a critical region for behavioral control and self-regulation, is enduring, not reaching functional maturity until the early 20 s in humans. Furthermore, the neurotransmitter dopamine is particularly abundant during adolescence, tuning the brain to rapidly learn about rewards and regulating aspects of neuroplasticity. Thus, adolescence is proposed to represent a period of vulnerability towards reward-driven behaviors such as the consumption of palatable high fat and high sugar diets. This is reflected in the increasing prevalence of obesity in children and adolescents as they are the greatest consumers of “junk foods”. Excessive consumption of diets laden in saturated fat and refined sugars not only leads to weight gain and the development of obesity, but experimental studies with rodents indicate they evoke cognitive deficits in learning and memory process by disrupting neuroplasticity and altering reward processing neurocircuitry. Consumption of these high fat and high sugar diets have been reported to have a particularly pronounced impact on cognition when consumed during adolescence, demonstrating a susceptibility of the adolescent brain to enduring cognitive deficits. The adolescent brain, with heightened reward sensitivity and diminished behavioral control compared to the mature adult brain, appears to be a risk for aberrant eating behaviors that may underpin the development of obesity. This review explores the neurodevelopmental changes in the PFC and mesocortical dopamine signaling that occur during adolescence, and how these potentially underpin the overconsumption of palatable food and development of obesogenic diet-induced cognitive deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy C Reichelt
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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19
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Mazier W, Saucisse N, Gatta-Cherifi B, Cota D. The Endocannabinoid System: Pivotal Orchestrator of Obesity and Metabolic Disease. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2015; 26:524-537. [PMID: 26412154 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2015.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2015] [Revised: 07/22/2015] [Accepted: 07/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) functions to adjust behavior and metabolism according to environmental changes in food availability. Its actions range from the regulation of sensory responses to the development of preference for the consumption of calorically-rich food and control of its metabolic handling. ECS activity is beneficial when access to food is scarce or unpredictable. However, when food is plentiful, the ECS favors obesity and metabolic disease. We review recent advances in understanding the roles of the ECS in energy balance, and discuss newly identified mechanisms of action that, after the withdrawal of first generation cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) receptor antagonists for the treatment of obesity, have made the ECS once again an attractive target for therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilfrid Mazier
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Neurocentre Magendie, Physiopathologie de la Plasticité Neuronale, Unité 862, 33000 Bordeaux, France; University of Bordeaux, Neurocentre Magendie, Physiopathologie de la Plasticité Neuronale, Unité 862, 33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Nicolas Saucisse
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Neurocentre Magendie, Physiopathologie de la Plasticité Neuronale, Unité 862, 33000 Bordeaux, France; University of Bordeaux, Neurocentre Magendie, Physiopathologie de la Plasticité Neuronale, Unité 862, 33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Blandine Gatta-Cherifi
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Neurocentre Magendie, Physiopathologie de la Plasticité Neuronale, Unité 862, 33000 Bordeaux, France; University of Bordeaux, Neurocentre Magendie, Physiopathologie de la Plasticité Neuronale, Unité 862, 33000 Bordeaux, France; Endocrinology Department, Haut-Lévêque Hospital, 33604 Pessac, France
| | - Daniela Cota
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Neurocentre Magendie, Physiopathologie de la Plasticité Neuronale, Unité 862, 33000 Bordeaux, France; University of Bordeaux, Neurocentre Magendie, Physiopathologie de la Plasticité Neuronale, Unité 862, 33000 Bordeaux, France.
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20
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Pereira MJ, Palming J, Svensson MK, Rizell M, Dalenbäck J, Hammar M, Fall T, Sidibeh CO, Svensson PA, Eriksson JW. FKBP5 expression in human adipose tissue increases following dexamethasone exposure and is associated with insulin resistance. Metabolism 2014; 63:1198-208. [PMID: 24997500 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2014.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2014] [Revised: 05/01/2014] [Accepted: 05/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study effects of dexamethasone on gene expression in human adipose tissue aiming to identify potential novel mechanisms for glucocorticoid-induced insulin resistance. MATERIALS/METHODS Subcutaneous and omental adipose tissue, obtained from non-diabetic donors (10 M/15 F; age: 28-60 years; BMI: 20.7-30.6 kg/m²), was incubated with or without dexamethasone (0.003-3 μmol/L) for 24 h. Gene expression was assessed by microarray and real time-PCR and protein expression by immunoblotting. RESULTS FKBP5 (FK506-binding protein 5) and CNR1 (cannabinoid receptor 1) were the most responsive genes to dexamethasone in both subcutaneous and omental adipose tissue (~7-fold). Dexamethasone increased FKBP5 gene and protein expression in a dose-dependent manner in both depots. The gene product, FKBP51 protein, was 10-fold higher in the omental than in the subcutaneous depot, whereas the mRNA levels were similar. Higher FKBP5 gene expression in omental adipose tissue was associated with reduced insulin effects on glucose uptake in both depots. Furthermore, FKBP5 gene expression in subcutaneous adipose tissue was positively correlated with serum insulin, HOMA-IR and subcutaneous adipocyte diameter and negatively with plasma HDL-cholesterol. FKBP5 SNPs were found to be associated with type 2 diabetes and diabetes-related phenotypes in large population-based samples. CONCLUSIONS Dexamethasone exposure promotes expression of FKBP5 in adipose tissue, a gene that may be implicated in glucocorticoid-induced insulin resistance.
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MESH Headings
- Adult
- Biological Transport/drug effects
- Cells, Cultured
- Dexamethasone/pharmacology
- Endothelium, Vascular/cytology
- Endothelium, Vascular/drug effects
- Endothelium, Vascular/metabolism
- Gene Expression Regulation/drug effects
- Glucocorticoids/pharmacology
- Glucose/metabolism
- Humans
- Insulin/blood
- Insulin/pharmacology
- Insulin Resistance
- Intra-Abdominal Fat/blood supply
- Intra-Abdominal Fat/cytology
- Intra-Abdominal Fat/drug effects
- Intra-Abdominal Fat/metabolism
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Osmolar Concentration
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/agonists
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/genetics
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/metabolism
- Stromal Cells/cytology
- Stromal Cells/drug effects
- Stromal Cells/metabolism
- Subcutaneous Fat, Abdominal/blood supply
- Subcutaneous Fat, Abdominal/cytology
- Subcutaneous Fat, Abdominal/drug effects
- Subcutaneous Fat, Abdominal/metabolism
- Tacrolimus Binding Proteins/chemistry
- Tacrolimus Binding Proteins/genetics
- Tacrolimus Binding Proteins/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria J Pereira
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Jenny Palming
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine and Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Maria K Svensson
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine and Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Magnus Rizell
- Department of Surgery, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jan Dalenbäck
- Department of Surgery, Frölunda Specialist Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | - Tove Fall
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Cherno O Sidibeh
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Per-Arne Svensson
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine and Center for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jan W Eriksson
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; AstraZeneca R&D, Mölndal, Sweden.
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21
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Merroun I, Sánchez-González C, Martínez R, López-Chaves C, Porres JM, Aranda P, Llopis J, Galisteo M, Zarzuelo A, Errami M, López-Jurado M. Novel effects of the cannabinoid inverse agonist AM 251 on parameters related to metabolic syndrome in obese Zucker rats. Metabolism 2013; 62:1641-50. [PMID: 23932644 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2013.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2012] [Revised: 06/20/2013] [Accepted: 06/22/2013] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Recent research suggests that cannabinoid receptor CB1 antagonists can affect appetite and body weight gain, although their influence on other parameters related to metabolic syndrome is not well documented. The present study was designed to assess the effects of chronic treatment with the CB1 receptor inverse agonist AM 251 (3 mg/kg for 3 weeks) in obese and lean Zucker rats on parameters related to metabolic syndrome. MATERIALS AND METHODS Four groups of rats were used: lean Zucker rats, untreated obese Zucker rats, AM 251-treated obese Zucker rats and a pair-fed obese Zucker rat experimental group which received the same amount of food as that consumed by the animals treated with AM251. Food intake, body weight gain, energy expenditure, plasma biochemical parameters, leptin, insulin and hepatic status markers were analysed. RESULTS Daily injection of AM 251 in obese Zucker rats produced a marked and sustained decrease in daily food intake and body weight and a considerable increase in energy expenditure in comparison with untreated obese Zucker rats. AM 251 administration to obese rats significantly reduced plasma levels of glucose, leptin, AST, ALT, Gamma GT, total bilirubin and LDL cholesterol whereas HDL cholesterol plasma levels increased. The results also showed a decrease in liver/weight body ratio and total fat content in the liver. The main effects of AM251 (3 mg/kg) found in this study were not observed in pair-fed obese animals, highlighting the additional beneficial effects of treatment with AM 251. The results obtained in obese rats can be interpreted as a decrease in leptin and insulin resistance, thereby improving glucose and lipid metabolism, alleviating the steatosis present in the metabolic syndrome and thus favourably modifying plasma levels of hepatic biomarkers. CONCLUSION Our results indicate that the cannabinoid CB1 inverse agonist AM 251 represents a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of obesity and metabolic syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ikram Merroun
- Department of Physiology, School of Pharmacy, University of Granada, Campus University of Granada s/n, Granada 18071, Spain
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22
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Iannotti FA, Piscitelli F, Martella A, Mazzarella E, Allarà M, Palmieri V, Parrella C, Capasso R, Di Marzo V. Analysis of the "endocannabinoidome" in peripheral tissues of obese Zucker rats. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 2013; 89:127-35. [PMID: 23830028 DOI: 10.1016/j.plefa.2013.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2012] [Revised: 05/30/2013] [Accepted: 06/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) represents one of the major determinants of metabolic disorders. We investigated potential changes in the endogenous levels of anandamide (AEA), 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), N-oleoylethanolamine (OEA) and N-palmitoylethanolamine (PEA) in some peripheral organs and tissues of obese Zucker(fa/fa) and lean Zucker(fa/+) rats by qPCR, liquid chromatography mass spectrometry, western blot and enzymatic activity assays. At 10-12 weeks of age AEA levels were significantly lower in BAT, small intestine and heart and higher in soleus of Zucker(fa/fa) rats. In this tissue, also the expression of CB1 receptors was higher. By contrast in Zucker(fa/fa) rats, 2-AG levels were changed (and lower) solely in the small and large intestine. Finally, in Zucker(fa/fa), PEA levels were unchanged, whereas OEA was slightly lower in BAT, and higher in the large intestine. Interestingly, these differences were accompanied by differential alterations of the genes regulating ECS tone. In conclusion, the levels of endocannabinoids are altered during obesity in a way partly correlating with changes of the genes related to their metabolism and activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- F A Iannotti
- Endocannabinoid Research Group (ERG), Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry (ICB), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Pozzuoli (NA), Italy
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23
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Vasileiou I, Fotopoulou G, Matzourani M, Patsouris E, Theocharis S. Evidence for the involvement of cannabinoid receptors' polymorphisms in the pathophysiology of human diseases. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2013; 17:363-77. [DOI: 10.1517/14728222.2013.754426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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24
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Lee S, Kwon MS, Park T. Network graph analysis of gene-gene interactions in genome-wide association study data. Genomics Inform 2012; 10:256-62. [PMID: 23346039 PMCID: PMC3543927 DOI: 10.5808/gi.2012.10.4.256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2012] [Revised: 11/14/2012] [Accepted: 11/16/2012] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Most common complex traits, such as obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and cancers, are known to be associated with multiple genes, environmental factors, and their epistasis. Recently, the development of advanced genotyping technologies has allowed us to perform genome-wide association studies (GWASs). For detecting the effects of multiple genes on complex traits, many approaches have been proposed for GWASs. Multifactor dimensionality reduction (MDR) is one of the powerful and efficient methods for detecting high-order gene-gene (GxG) interactions. However, the biological interpretation of GxG interactions identified by MDR analysis is not easy. In order to aid the interpretation of MDR results, we propose a network graph analysis to elucidate the meaning of identified GxG interactions. The proposed network graph analysis consists of three steps. The first step is for performing GxG interaction analysis using MDR analysis. The second step is to draw the network graph using the MDR result. The third step is to provide biological evidence of the identified GxG interaction using external biological databases. The proposed method was applied to Korean Association Resource (KARE) data, containing 8838 individuals with 327,632 single-nucleotide polymorphisms, in order to perform GxG interaction analysis of body mass index (BMI). Our network graph analysis successfully showed that many identified GxG interactions have known biological evidence related to BMI. We expect that our network graph analysis will be helpful to interpret the biological meaning of GxG interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sungyoung Lee
- Interdisciplinary Program in Bioinformatics, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-747, Korea
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25
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Vaidyanathan V, Bastarrachea RA, Higgins PB, Voruganti VS, Kamath S, DiPatrizio NV, Piomelli D, Comuzzie AG, Parks EJ. Selective cannabinoid-1 receptor blockade benefits fatty acid and triglyceride metabolism significantly in weight-stable nonhuman primates. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2012; 303:E624-34. [PMID: 22761159 PMCID: PMC3468508 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00072.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The goal of this study was to determine whether administration of the CB₁ cannabinoid receptor antagonist rimonabant would alter fatty acid flux in nonhuman primates. Five adult baboons (Papio Sp) aged 12.1 ± 4.7 yr (body weight: 31.9 ± 2.1 kg) underwent repeated metabolic tests to determine fatty acid and TG flux before and after 7 wk of treatment with rimonabant (15 mg/day). Animals were fed ad libitum diets, and stable isotopes were administered via diet (d₃₁-tripalmitin) and intravenously (¹³C₄-palmitate, ¹³C₁-acetate). Plasma was collected in the fed and fasted states, and blood lipids were analyzed by GC-MS. DEXA was used to assess body composition and a hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp used to assess insulin-mediated glucose disposal. During the study, no changes were observed in food intake, body weight, plasma, and tissue endocannabinoid concentrations or the quantity of liver-TG fatty acids originating from de novo lipogenesis (19 ± 6 vs. 16 ± 5%, for pre- and posttreatment, respectively, P = 0.39). However, waist circumference was significantly reduced 4% in the treated animals (P < 0.04), glucose disposal increased 30% (P = 0.03), and FFA turnover increased 37% (P = 0.02). The faster FFA flux was consistent with a 43% reduction in these fatty acids used for TRL-TG synthesis (40 ± 3 vs. 23 ± 4%, P = 0.02) and a twofold increase in TRL-TG turnover (1.5 ± 0.9 vs. 3.1 ± 1.4 μmol·kg⁻¹·h⁻¹, P = 0.03). These data support the potential for a strong effect of CB₁ receptor antagonism at the level of adipose tissue, resulting in improvements in fasting turnover of fatty acids at the whole body level, central adipose storage, and significant improvements in glucose homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vidya Vaidyanathan
- Center for Human Nutrition, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390-9052, USA
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26
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Aguirre CA, Castillo VA, Llanos MN. Excess of the endocannabinoid anandamide during lactation induces overweight, fat accumulation and insulin resistance in adult mice. Diabetol Metab Syndr 2012; 4:35. [PMID: 22823902 PMCID: PMC3439322 DOI: 10.1186/1758-5996-4-35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2012] [Accepted: 07/23/2012] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Environmental conditions in early life can induce permanent physiological changes, sometimes increasing the risk of chronic diseases during adulthood. Neural and peripheral circuits controlling energy balance may be modulated during such a critical period. Since type 1 cannabinoid receptors (CB1R) have recently emerged as targets for modulating energy balance, their premature chronic activation during early life may result in long-term metabolic consequences associated to overweight/obesity. Endogenous activation of CB1R mainly occurs after binding to the endocannabinoid Anandamide (AEA). OBJECTIVE To evaluate long-term effects of AEA treatment during lactation on body weight, epididymal fat accumulation and related metabolic parameters during adulthood. DESIGN Male mice pups were orally treated with a solution of AEA (20 μg/g body weight in soy oil) or vehicle during the whole lactation period. After weaning, food intake and body weight were recorded every 10 days. Adult animals were subjected to glucose and insulin tolerance tests. Subsequently, animals were sacrificed and epididymal fat pads were extracted. Circulating levels of plasma insulin, leptin, non-sterified fatty acids (NEFA), triglyceride and cholesterol were also evaluated. RESULTS AEA-treated mice during lactation showed a significant increase in accumulated food intake, body weight and epididymal fat during adulthood when compared to control mice. When evaluating CB1R protein expression in epididymal fat, the AEA-treated group showed a 150 % increase in expression compared to the control mice. This group also displayed significantly higher levels of circulating glucose, insulin, leptin, triglycerides, cholesterol and NEFA. Moreover, a marked state of insulin resistance was an important finding in the AEA-treated group. CONCLUSION This study showed that overweight, accumulation of visceral fat and associated metabolic disturbances, such as a higher lipid profile and insulin resistance, can be programmed by a treatment with the endocannabinoid AEA during lactation in adult mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina A Aguirre
- Laboratorio de Nutrición y Regulación Metabólica, Instituto de Nutrición y Tecnología de los Alimentos (INTA), Universidad de Chile, Casilla 138-11, El Líbano, 5524 Santiago, Chile
| | - Valeska A Castillo
- Laboratorio de Nutrición y Regulación Metabólica, Instituto de Nutrición y Tecnología de los Alimentos (INTA), Universidad de Chile, Casilla 138-11, El Líbano, 5524 Santiago, Chile
| | - Miguel N Llanos
- Laboratorio de Nutrición y Regulación Metabólica, Instituto de Nutrición y Tecnología de los Alimentos (INTA), Universidad de Chile, Casilla 138-11, El Líbano, 5524 Santiago, Chile
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Silvestri C, Di Marzo V. Second generation CB1 receptor blockers and other inhibitors of peripheral endocannabinoid overactivity and the rationale of their use against metabolic disorders. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2012; 21:1309-22. [DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2012.704019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cristoforo Silvestri
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry – CNR, Endocannabinoid Research Group,
Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078, Pozzuoli (NA), Italy ;
| | - Vincenzo Di Marzo
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry – CNR, Endocannabinoid Research Group,
Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078, Pozzuoli (NA), Italy ;
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Bermudez-Silva FJ, Cardinal P, Cota D. The role of the endocannabinoid system in the neuroendocrine regulation of energy balance. J Psychopharmacol 2012; 26:114-24. [PMID: 21824982 DOI: 10.1177/0269881111408458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Animal and human studies carried out so far have established a role for the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the regulation of energy balance. Here we critically discuss the role of the endocannabinoid signalling in brain structures, such as the hypothalamus and reward-related areas, and its interaction with neurotransmitter and neuropeptide systems involved in the regulation of food intake and body weight. The ECS has been found to interact with peripheral signals, like leptin, insulin, ghrelin and satiety hormones and the resulting effects on both central and peripheral mechanisms affecting energy balance and adiposity will be described. Furthermore, ECS dysregulation has been associated with the development of dyslipidemia, glucose intolerance and obesity; phenomena that are often accompanied by a plethora of neuroendocrine alterations which might play a causal role in determining ECS dysregulation. Despite the withdrawal of the first generation of cannabinoid type 1 receptor (CB1) antagonists from the pharmaceutical market due to the occurrence of psychiatric adverse events, new evidence suggests that peripherally restricted CB1 antagonists might be efficacious for the treatment of obesity and its associated metabolic disorders. Thus, a perspective on new promising strategies to selectively target the ECS in the context of energy balance regulation is given.
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Łaczmański Ł, Milewicz A, Dunajska K, Jędrzejczuk D, Pawlak M, Lwow F. Endocannabinoid type 1 receptor gene (CNR1) polymorphisms (rs806381, rs10485170, rs6454674, rs2023239) and cardiovascular risk factors in postmenopausal women. Gynecol Endocrinol 2011; 27:1023-7. [PMID: 21480765 DOI: 10.3109/09513590.2011.569796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) in women increases with menopausal stage. Obesity with metabolic disorders is the most important risk factor for CVD. The incidence of this phenotype of obesity increases in postmenopausal women. The endocannabinoid system plays an important role in regulation of several metabolic pathways. The aim of this work was to investigate whether genetic variations in the cannabinoid receptor gene (CNR1) can affect cardiovascular risk factors (e.g. fat distribution, obesity, fasting glucose, lipid profile, blood pressure, and free androgen and estrogen indexes) in postmenopausal women. METHODS The rs806381, rs10485170, rs6454674, and rs2023239 polymorphisms of the CNR1 gene were genotyped in 384 randomly selected postmenopausal Polish women (aged 50-60) using the minisequencing technique. RESULTS The rs806381, rs10485170, rs6454674, and rs2023239 polymorphisms were not significantly associated with anthropometric measures (waist circumference, carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, body mass index [BMI], total fat, glucose, insulin, fasting insulin resistance index [FIRI]). However, the rs2023239 polymorphism was associated with the free androgen index (p = 0.03). DISCUSSION It seems that further genotyping of the endocannabinoid receptor gene cannot be used as a significant marker of predisposition to CVD in postmenopausal women, but it would be interesting to study this interrelation on a larger population of postmenopausal women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Łukasz Łaczmański
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Wroclaw Medical University, Poland.
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30
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You T, Disanzo BL, Wang X, Yang R, Gong D. Adipose tissue endocannabinoid system gene expression: depot differences and effects of diet and exercise. Lipids Health Dis 2011; 10:194. [PMID: 22035053 PMCID: PMC3213035 DOI: 10.1186/1476-511x-10-194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2011] [Accepted: 10/28/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alterations of endocannabinoid system in adipose tissue play an important role in lipid regulation and metabolic dysfunction associated with obesity. The purpose of this study was to determine whether gene expression levels of cannabinoid type 1 receptor (CB1) and fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) are different in subcutaneous abdominal and gluteal adipose tissue, and whether hypocaloric diet and aerobic exercise influence subcutaneous adipose tissue CB1 and FAAH gene expression in obese women. METHODS Thirty overweight or obese, middle-aged women (BMI = 34.3 ± 0.8 kg/m2, age = 59 ± 1 years) underwent one of three 20-week weight loss interventions: caloric restriction only (CR, N = 9), caloric restriction plus moderate-intensity aerobic exercise (CRM, 45-50% HRR, N = 13), or caloric restriction plus vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise (CRV, 70-75% HRR, N = 8). Subcutaneous abdominal and gluteal adipose tissue samples were collected before and after the interventions to measure CB1 and FAAH gene expression. RESULTS At baseline, FAAH gene expression was higher in abdominal, compared to gluteal adipose tissue (2.08 ± 0.11 vs. 1.78 ± 0.10, expressed as target gene/β-actin mRNA ratio × 10-3, P < 0.05). Compared to pre-intervention, CR did not change abdominal, but decreased gluteal CB1 (Δ = -0.82 ± 0.25, P < 0.05) and FAAH (Δ = -0.49 ± 0.14, P < 0.05) gene expression. CRM or CRV alone did not change adipose tissue CB1 and FAAH gene expression. However, combined CRM and CRV (CRM+CRV) decreased abdominal adipose tissue FAAH gene expression (Δ = -0.37 ± 0.18, P < 0.05). The changes in gluteal CB1 and abdominal FAAH gene expression levels in the CR alone and the CRM+CRV group were different (P < 0.05) or tended to be different (P = 0.10). CONCLUSIONS There are depot differences in subcutaneous adipose tissue endocannabinoid system gene expression in obese individuals. Aerobic exercise training may preferentially modulate abdominal adipose tissue endocannabinoid-related gene expression during dietary weight loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tongjian You
- Department of Exercise and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA 02125, USA.
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31
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de Miguel-Yanes JM, Manning AK, Shrader P, McAteer JB, Goel A, Hamsten A, Fox CS, Florez JC, Dupuis J, Meigs JB. Variants at the endocannabinoid receptor CB1 gene (CNR1) and insulin sensitivity, type 2 diabetes, and coronary heart disease. Obesity (Silver Spring) 2011; 19:2031-7. [PMID: 21633404 PMCID: PMC3686489 DOI: 10.1038/oby.2011.135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Inhibition of the endocannabinoid receptor CB1 improves insulin sensitivity, lowers glycemia, and slows atherosclerosis. We analyzed whether common variants in the gene encoding CB1, CNR1, are associated with insulin resistance, risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D) or coronary heart disease (CHD). We studied 2,411 participants of the Framingham Offspring Study (mean age 60 years, 52% women) for quantitative traits and CHD, and the Framingham SHARe database for T2D risk. We genotyped 19 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that tagged 85% (at r(2) = 0.8) of common (>5%) CNR1 SNPs. Fasting blood glucose and insulin at the 7th (1999-2001) exam were collected. We used age-, sex-, BMI-adjusted models to test additive associations of genotype with homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA(IR)) (linear mixed-effect models), T2D, or CHD. To account for multiple tests of SNPs, we generated empirical P values. The C allele at SNP rs806365 (frequency, 57.4%), ~4.1 kb 3' from CNR1, was associated with increased HOMA(IR) (n = 2,261, β = 0.05 per C, empirical P = 0.01), risk of T2D (674 cases, odds ratio = 1.19 per C, nominal P = 0.01) and CHD (237 cases, hazard ratio = 1.23 per C, nominal P = 0.04). The association of rs806365 with HOMA(IR) was replicated in a meta-analysis of two independent cohorts (National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III genetic cohort (NHANES-III) plus Partners Case-Control Diabetes Study; 2,540 white individuals, β = 0.037, nominal P = 0.007), but not in the large Meta-Analyses of Glucose and Insulin-related traits Consortium (MAGIC) Consortium (n = 29,248, nominal P = 0.74). The association of rs806365 was not replicated either with T2D in Diabetes Genetics Replication and Meta-analysis (DIAGRAM) (n = 10,128, nominal P = 0.31), or with CHD in PROCARDIS (n = 13,614, nominal P = 0.37). Although supported by initial results, we found no reproducible statistical association of common variation at CNR1 with insulin resistance, T2D, or CHD.
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Janero DR, Lindsley L, Vemuri VK, Makriyannis A. Cannabinoid 1 G protein-coupled receptor (periphero-)neutral antagonists: emerging therapeutics for treating obesity-driven metabolic disease and reducing cardiovascular risk. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2011; 6:995-1025. [DOI: 10.1517/17460441.2011.608063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Kunos G, Tam J. The case for peripheral CB₁ receptor blockade in the treatment of visceral obesity and its cardiometabolic complications. Br J Pharmacol 2011; 163:1423-31. [PMID: 21434882 PMCID: PMC3165952 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01352.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2010] [Revised: 02/21/2011] [Accepted: 02/28/2011] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In this review, we consider the role of endocannabinoids and cannabinoid-1 (CB(1)) cannabinoid receptors in metabolic regulation and as mediators of the thrifty phenotype that underlies the metabolic syndrome. We survey the actions of endocannabinoids on food intake and body weight, as well as on the metabolic complications of visceral obesity, including fatty liver, insulin resistance and dyslipidemias. Special emphasis is placed on weighing the relative importance of CB(1) receptors located in peripheral tissues versus the central nervous system in mediating the metabolic effects of endocannabinoids. Finally, we review recent observations that indicate that peripherally restricted CB(1) receptor antagonists retain efficacy in reducing weight and improving metabolic abnormalities in mouse models of obesity without causing behavioural effects predictive of neuropsychiatric side effects in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Kunos
- Laboratory of Physiologic Studies, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-9413, USA.
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Wangensteen T, Akselsen H, Holmen J, Undlien D, Retterstøl L. A common haplotype in NAPEPLD is associated with severe obesity in a Norwegian population-based cohort (the HUNT study). Obesity (Silver Spring) 2011; 19:612-7. [PMID: 20885390 DOI: 10.1038/oby.2010.219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Obesity has a strong genetic etiology involving numerous identified metabolic pathways and others not yet examined. We investigated the association between severe obesity and genetic variation in selected candidate genes, including three drug-related genes: cannabinoid receptor 1 (CNR1), N-acyl phosphatidylethanolamine phospholipase D (NAPEPLD), and gastric lipase (LIPF); and three genes related to inflammation: nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase, six-transmembrane epithelial antigen of the prostate 4 (STEAP4) and interleukin 18 (IL-18). Subjects were 1,632 individuals with severe obesity (BMI ≥ 35 kg/m²) and 3,379 controls (BMI 20-24.9 kg/m²) that took part in a Norwegian population based cohort study. Tagging single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the coding region of these genes were analyzed. SNP-haplotypes for each gene were constructed in order to analyze allelic, genotypic, and haplotypic association to obesity. A single SNPs rs17605251 in NAPEPLD was nominally associated with BMI ≥ 35 kg/m² (P = 0.035). A common haplotype in NAPEPLD was associated with BMI ≥ 35 kg/m² after correction for multiple testing. The allele frequency was 56.8% in cases and 60.3% in controls, giving an odds ratio (OR) of 0.87 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.79, 0.95; P = 0.0016). Homozygosity for this haplotype was protective against obesity (OR 0.79 (CI 0.70-0.91); P = 0.00059). The SNP rs7913071 in LIPF was associated with obesity, but the association lost statistical significance after correction for multiple testing. The CNR1, IL-18, STEAP4, and nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase genes were not associated with obesity. In conclusion a common haplotype in NAPEPLD, an enzyme involved in endocannabinoid synthesis, was protective against obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresia Wangensteen
- Department of Medical Genetics, Oslo University Hospital, Ullevål, Oslo, Norway.
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Hu WC, Feng P. G1359A polymorphism in the cannabinoid receptor-1 gene is associated with metabolic syndrome in the Chinese Han population. Arch Med Res 2011; 41:378-82. [PMID: 20851297 DOI: 10.1016/j.arcmed.2010.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2010] [Accepted: 07/21/2010] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Recent studies suggest that endocannabinoids modulate food intake and lipogenesis through cannabinoid receptor-1 (CNR1). This study aims to determine the association between G1359A polymorphism of CNR1 and metabolic syndrome (MetS) in the Chinese Han population. METHODS A total of 382 subjects at risk for MetS and 136 healthy subjects from Tianjin, China were genotyped for the G1359A polymorphism of CNR1 using TaqMan assay. Anthropometric measurements and serum analyses were done for body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, blood pressure, serum triglycerides (TG), serum total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, fasting plasma glucose, and plasma insulin levels. RESULTS GG genotype of CNR1 has a higher incidence in MetS subjects than in control subjects. Logistic regression analysis shows that the GG genotype was significantly associated with the increased risk of developing MetS (OR 2.204, 95% CI 1.277-3.803, p = 0.005). Compared with CNR1 GG genotype in MetS subjects, CNR1 GA and AA genotypes in subjects with MetS had relatively lower levels of BMI, waist circumference, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and TG. CONCLUSIONS Results suggest that the G1359A polymorphism of the CNR1 gene may contribute to MetS susceptibility in the Chinese Han population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Chao Hu
- Department of Endocrinology, General Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, PR China
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Rajesh M, Mukhopadhyay P, Haskó G, Liaudet L, Mackie K, Pacher P. Cannabinoid-1 receptor activation induces reactive oxygen species-dependent and -independent mitogen-activated protein kinase activation and cell death in human coronary artery endothelial cells. Br J Pharmacol 2010; 160:688-700. [PMID: 20590572 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2010.00712.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Impaired endothelial activity and/or cell death play a critical role in the development of vascular dysfunction associated with congestive heart failure, diabetic complications, hypertension, coronary artery disease and atherosclerosis. Increasing evidence suggests that cannabinoid 1 (CB(1)) receptor inhibition is beneficial in atherosclerosis and cardiovascular inflammation both in experimental models, as well as in humans. Here, we investigated the effects of CB(1) receptor activation with the endocannabinoid anandamide (AEA) or synthetic agonist HU210 on cell death and interrelated signal transduction pathways in human primary coronary artery endothelial cells (HCAECs). EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Cell death, CB(1) receptor expression, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and activation of signal transduction pathways in HCAECs were determined by flow cytometry and molecular biology tools. KEY RESULTS In HCAECs expressing CB(1) receptors (demonstrated by Western immunoblot and flow cytometry) AEA (5-15 microM) or HU210 (30-1000 nM) triggered concentration- and time-dependent activation of p38 and c-Jun NH(2)-terminal protein kinase (JNK)-mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), cell death and ROS generation. The AEA- or HU210-induced cell death and MAPK activation were attenuated by CB(1) antagonists [SR141716 (rimonabant) and AM281], inhibitors of p38 and JNK-MAPKs or the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine. N-acetylcysteine alone prevented AEA- or HU210-induced ROS generation, but only partially attenuated MAPK activation and cell death. In contrast, in combination with CB(1) antagonists, N-acetylcysteine completely prevented these effects. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS CB(1) receptor activation in endothelial cells may amplify the ROS-MAPK activation-cell death pathway in pathological conditions when the endocannabinoid synthetic or metabolic pathways are dysregulated by excessive inflammation and/or oxidative/nitrosative stress, thereby contributing to the development of endothelial dysfunction and pathophysiology of multiple cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohanraj Rajesh
- Laboratory of Physiologic Studies, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-9413, USA
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Mukhopadhyay P, Pan H, Rajesh M, Bátkai S, Patel V, Harvey-White J, Mukhopadhyay B, Haskó G, Gao B, Mackie K, Pacher P. CB1 cannabinoid receptors promote oxidative/nitrosative stress, inflammation and cell death in a murine nephropathy model. Br J Pharmacol 2010; 160:657-68. [PMID: 20590569 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2010.00769.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Accumulating recent evidence suggests that cannabinoid-1 (CB(1)) receptor activation may promote inflammation and cell death and its pharmacological inhibition is associated with anti-inflammatory and tissue-protective effects in various preclinical disease models, as well as in humans. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH In this study, using molecular biology and biochemistry methods, we have investigated the effects of genetic deletion or pharmacological inhibition of CB(1) receptors on inflammation, oxidative/nitrosative stress and cell death pathways associated with a clinically relevant model of nephropathy, induced by an important chemotherapeutic drug cisplatin. RESULTS Cisplatin significantly increased endocannabinoid anandamide content, activation of p38 and JNK mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), apoptotic and poly (ADP-ribose)polymerase-dependent cell death, enhanced inflammation (leucocyte infiltration, tumour necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-1beta) and promoted oxidative/nitrosative stress [increased expressions of superoxide-generating enzymes (NOX2(gp91phox), NOX4), inducible nitric oxide synthase and tissue 4-hydroxynonenal and nitrotyrosine levels] in the kidneys of mice, accompanied by marked histopathological damage and impaired renal function (elevated creatinine and serum blood urea nitrogen) 3 days following its administration. Both genetic deletion and pharmacological inhibition of CB(1) receptors with AM281 or SR141716 markedly attenuated the cisplatin-induced renal dysfunction and interrelated oxidative/nitrosative stress, p38 and JNK MAPK activation, cell death and inflammatory response in the kidney. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS The endocannabinoid system through CB(1) receptors promotes cisplatin-induced tissue injury by amplifying MAPK activation, cell death and interrelated inflammation and oxidative/nitrosative stress. These results also suggest that inhibition of CB(1) receptors may exert beneficial effects in renal (and most likely other) diseases associated with enhanced inflammation, oxidative/nitrosative stress and cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Partha Mukhopadhyay
- Laboratory of Physiological Studies, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-9413, USA
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