1
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Bell RP, Cohen JR, Towe SL, Gadde S, Al-Khalil K, Costello A, Song AW, Meade CS. Chronic cannabis use associated with subcortical topological reorganization of structural connectivity in adults. Drug Alcohol Depend 2024; 262:111405. [PMID: 39079224 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2024.111405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 06/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis is commonly used in the United States. However, chronic cannabis use has been linked to alterations in white matter (WM) integrity. Studies investigating WM in people who use cannabis (PWC) have produced varying results, which may be due to a variety of factors, including a focus on individual WM tracts. Here, we examined WM connectivity using a module-based approach to help clarify whether cannabis use is associated with differences in WM organization. METHODS Connectomics is used to map complex networks of inter and intra-connected cortical and subcortical regions. A key concept of brain organization is the presence of groups of densely interconnected regions, referred to as modules. Here, we used WM structural connectivity estimates to compare connectome organization between adults who used cannabis regularly (n=53), and adults who did not use cannabis (n=60). We quantified aspects of network organization both across the whole brain and within specific modules. RESULTS There were no significant results between groups after correcting for multiple comparisons for whole-brain metrics. When considering group differences in network organization metrics for 10 identified modules, we observed that adult PWC showed higher within-module degree, local efficiency, and network strength in a right subcortical module relative to adults that did not use cannabis. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that cannabis use in adults is associated with alterations of subcortical WM network organization. The observed differences in WM organization may be due to the involvement of the endocannabinoid system in the alteration of WM growth processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- R P Bell
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA.
| | - J R Cohen
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - S L Towe
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - S Gadde
- Brain Imaging and Analysis Center, Duke University Medical Center, Campus, Box 3918, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - K Al-Khalil
- Duke University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Campus Box 102848, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - A Costello
- Duke University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Campus Box 102848, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - A W Song
- Brain Imaging and Analysis Center, Duke University Medical Center, Campus, Box 3918, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - C S Meade
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA; Brain Imaging and Analysis Center, Duke University Medical Center, Campus, Box 3918, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Campus Box 90086, Durham, NC 27708, USA
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2
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Oliver D, Chesney E, Cullen AE, Davies C, Englund A, Gifford G, Kerins S, Lalousis PA, Logeswaran Y, Merritt K, Zahid U, Crossley NA, McCutcheon RA, McGuire P, Fusar-Poli P. Exploring causal mechanisms of psychosis risk. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 162:105699. [PMID: 38710421 PMCID: PMC11250118 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105699] [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: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Robust epidemiological evidence of risk and protective factors for psychosis is essential to inform preventive interventions. Previous evidence syntheses have classified these risk and protective factors according to their strength of association with psychosis. In this critical review we appraise the distinct and overlapping mechanisms of 25 key environmental risk factors for psychosis, and link these to mechanistic pathways that may contribute to neurochemical alterations hypothesised to underlie psychotic symptoms. We then discuss the implications of our findings for future research, specifically considering interactions between factors, exploring universal and subgroup-specific factors, improving understanding of temporality and risk dynamics, standardising operationalisation and measurement of risk and protective factors, and developing preventive interventions targeting risk and protective factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominic Oliver
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; NIHR Oxford Health Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK; OPEN Early Detection Service, Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK; Early Psychosis: Interventions and Clinical-Detection (EPIC) Lab, Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.
| | - Edward Chesney
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; Addictions Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, 4 Windsor Walk, London SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Alexis E Cullen
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden
| | - Cathy Davies
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Amir Englund
- Addictions Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, 4 Windsor Walk, London SE5 8AF, UK
| | - George Gifford
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Sarah Kerins
- Early Psychosis: Interventions and Clinical-Detection (EPIC) Lab, Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Paris Alexandros Lalousis
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ludwig-Maximilian-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Yanakan Logeswaran
- Early Psychosis: Interventions and Clinical-Detection (EPIC) Lab, Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; Department of Biostatistics & Health Informatics, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Kate Merritt
- Division of Psychiatry, Institute of Mental Health, UCL, London, UK
| | - Uzma Zahid
- Department of Psychology, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Nicolas A Crossley
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Chile
| | - Robert A McCutcheon
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Philip McGuire
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; NIHR Oxford Health Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK; OPEN Early Detection Service, Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Paolo Fusar-Poli
- Early Psychosis: Interventions and Clinical-Detection (EPIC) Lab, Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ludwig-Maximilian-University Munich, Munich, Germany; Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy; OASIS Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London SE11 5DL, UK
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3
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Alzu'bi A, Abu-El-Rub E, Almahasneh F, Tahat L, Athamneh RY, Khasawneh R, Alzoubi H, Ghorab DS, Almazari R, Zoubi MSA, Al-Zoubi RM. Delineating the molecular mechanisms of hippocampal neurotoxicity induced by chronic administration of synthetic cannabinoid AB-FUBINACA in mice. Neurotoxicology 2024; 103:50-59. [PMID: 38823587 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2024.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
Chronic use of synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) has been associated with cognitive and behavioural deficits and an increased risk of neuropsychiatric disorders. The underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms of the neurotoxic effects of long-term use of SCs have not been well investigated in the literature. Herein, we evaluated the in vivo effects of chronic administration of AB-FUBINACA on the hippocampus in mice. Our results revealed that the administration of AB-FUBINACA induced a significant impairment in recognition memory associated with histopathological changes in the hippocampus. These findings were found to be correlated with increased level of oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and apoptosis markers, and reduced expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which plays an essential role in modulating synaptic plasticity integral for promoting learning and memory in the hippocampus. Additionally, we showed that AB-FUBINACA significantly decreased the expression of NR1, an important functional subunit of glutamate/NMDA receptors and closely implicated in the development of toxic psychosis. These findings shed light on the long-term neurotoxic effects of SCs on hippocampus and the underlying mechanisms of these effects. This study provided new targets for possible medical interventions to improve the treatment guidelines for SCs addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayman Alzu'bi
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid 211-63, Jordan.
| | - Ejlal Abu-El-Rub
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid 211-63, Jordan
| | - Fatimah Almahasneh
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid 211-63, Jordan
| | - Lena Tahat
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Yarmouk University, Irbid 211-63, Jordan
| | - Rabaa Y Athamneh
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Science, Zarqa University, Zarqa 13110, Jordan
| | - Ramada Khasawneh
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid 211-63, Jordan
| | - Hiba Alzoubi
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid 211-63, Jordan
| | - Doaa S Ghorab
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid 211-63, Jordan; Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Rawan Almazari
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid 211-63, Jordan
| | - Mazhar Salim Al Zoubi
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid 211-63, Jordan
| | - Raed M Al-Zoubi
- Surgical Research Section, Department of Surgery, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; Department of Biomedical Sciences, QU-Health, College of Health Sciences, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar; Department of Chemistry, Jordan University of Science and Technology, P.O.Box 3030, Irbid 22110, Jordan.
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4
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Denton EE, Jung SS, Ventura CAI. Clinical Diagnosis and Management of Gradual Onset Cannabis-Induced Psychosis Following the Consumption of Delta-8-Tetrahydrocannabinol. Cureus 2024; 16:e55464. [PMID: 38571826 PMCID: PMC10988276 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.55464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Cannabis-induced psychosis (CIP) is an increasingly acknowledged psychiatric phenomenon observed in vulnerable patients exposed to cannabis. This brief case report details a male patient in his 20s, who presents to the ED with derealization two days after ingesting a gummy worm containing delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ8-THC). Two days post-ED discharge, the patient gradually developed symptoms of religious-themed psychosis and was prescribed 10 mg of aripiprazole daily. The patient seemingly recovered within four days of starting treatment. This paper contributes to the limited literature pertaining to CIP and discusses implications for diagnostics and treatment in the ED setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward E Denton
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, USA
| | - Sophia S Jung
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
| | - Christian Angelo I Ventura
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
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5
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Colizzi M, Bortoletto R, Antolini G, Bhattacharyya S, Balestrieri M, Solmi M. Biobehavioral Interactions between Endocannabinoid and Hypothalamicpituitary- adrenal Systems in Psychosis: A Systematic Review. Curr Neuropharmacol 2024; 22:495-520. [PMID: 37533248 PMCID: PMC10845076 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x21666230801150032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The diathesis-stress paradigm and the cannabinoid-hypothesis have been proposed as possible pathophysiological models of schizophrenia. However, they have historically been studied independently of each other. OBJECTIVE This PRISMA 2020-compliant systematic review aimed at reappraising the interplay between the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the endocannabinoid (eCB) system in psychosis- spectrum disorder risk and outcome. METHODS All pathophysiological and outcome clinical studies, concomitantly evaluating the two systems in psychosis-spectrum disorder risk and different stages of illness, were gathered from electronic databases (Pubmed, Web of Science, and Scopus), and discussed. RESULTS 41 eligible outputs were extracted, focusing on at least a biological measure (9 HPA-related studies: 4 eCB-interventional, 1 HPA-interventional, 1 both HPA-interventional and non-interventional, 3 non-interventional; 2 eCB-related studies: non-interventional), environmental measures only (29 studies: 1 eCB- interventional, 28 non-interventional), and genetic measures (1 study: non-interventional). Independent contributions of aberrancies in the two systems to the physiopathology and outcome of psychosis were confirmed. Also, concomitant alterations in the two systems, either genetically defined (e.g., CNR1 genetic variation), biologically determined (e.g., dysfunctional HPA axis or endocannabinoid signaling), or behaviorally imputed (e.g., cannabis use, stress exposure, and response), were consistently reported in psychosis. Further, a complex biobehavioral perturbation was revealed not only within each system (e.g., cannabis use affecting the eCB tone, stress exposure affecting the HPA axis), but also across the two systems (e.g., THC affecting the HPA axis, childhood trauma affecting the endocannabinoid signaling). CONCLUSION There is a need to concomitantly study the two systems' mechanistic contribution to psychosis in order to establish more refined biological relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Colizzi
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medicine (DAME), University of Udine, Udine 33100, Italy
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Riccardo Bortoletto
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medicine (DAME), University of Udine, Udine 33100, Italy
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Giulia Antolini
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Maternal-Child Integrated Care Department, Integrated University Hospital of Verona, Verona 37126, Italy
| | - Sagnik Bhattacharyya
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Matteo Balestrieri
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medicine (DAME), University of Udine, Udine 33100, Italy
| | - Marco Solmi
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Mental Health, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Charité Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
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6
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Shi L, Kang S, Choi CY, Noonan BL, Carrica LK, Liang NC, Gulley JM. Effects of combined exposure to ethanol and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol during adolescence on synaptic plasticity in the prefrontal cortex of Long Evans rats. Neuropharmacology 2024; 242:109765. [PMID: 37863313 PMCID: PMC10872915 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2023.109765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Significant exposure to alcohol or cannabis during adolescence can induce lasting disruptions of neuronal signaling in brain regions that are later to mature, such as the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). Considerably less is known about the effects of alcohol and cannabis co-use, despite its common occurrence. Here, we used male and female Long-Evans rats to investigate the effects of early-life exposure to ethanol, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), or their combination on high frequency stimulation (HFS)-induced plasticity in the prelimbic region of the mPFC. Animals were injected daily from postnatal days 30-45 with vehicle or THC (escalating doses, 3-20 mg/kg) and allowed to drink vehicle (0.1% saccharin) or 10% ethanol immediately after each injection. In vitro brain slice electrophysiology was then used to record population responses of layer V neurons following HFS in layer II/III after 3-4 weeks of abstinence. We found that THC exposure reduced body weight gains observed in ad libitum fed rats, and reduced intake of saccharin and ethanol. Compared to controls, there was a significant reduction in HFS-induced long-term depression (LTD) in rats exposed to either drug alone, and an absence of LTD in rats exposed to the drug combination. Bath application of indiplon or AR-A014418, which enhance GABAA receptor function or inhibit glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β), respectively, suggested the effects of ethanol, THC or their combination were due in part to lasting adaptations in GABA and GSK3β signaling. These results suggest the potential for long-lasting adaptations in mPFC output following co-exposure to alcohol and THC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linyuan Shi
- Department of Psychology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, USA
| | - Shuo Kang
- Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, USA
| | - Chan Young Choi
- Department of Psychology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, USA
| | - Brynn L Noonan
- Department of Psychology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, USA
| | - Lauren K Carrica
- Department of Psychology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, USA
| | - Nu-Chu Liang
- Department of Psychology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, USA; Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, USA; Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, USA; Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, USA
| | - Joshua M Gulley
- Department of Psychology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, USA; Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, USA; Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, USA.
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7
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Buchwald D, Schmidt C, Buchwald D, Winter KI, Nielsen IB, Klostergaard K, Melgaard D, Fagerberg SK, Leutscher PDC. Impact of Low-Dose Dronabinol Therapy on Cognitive Function in Cancer Patients Receiving Palliative Care: A Case-Series Intervention Study. Palliat Med Rep 2023; 4:326-333. [PMID: 38098857 PMCID: PMC10719641 DOI: 10.1089/pmr.2023.0024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cannabis may offer therapeutic benefits to patients with advanced cancer not responding adequately to conventional palliative treatment. However, tolerability is a major concern. Cognitive function is a potential adverse reaction to tetrahydrocannabinol containing regimens. The aim of this study was to test cognitive function in patients being prescribed dronabinol as an adjuvant palliative therapy. Methods Adult patients with advanced cancer and severe related pain refractory to conventional palliative treatment were included in this case-series study. Patients were examined at baseline in conjunction with initiation of dronabinol therapy and at a two-week follow-up using three selected Wechsler's adult intelligence scale III neurocognitive tests: Processing Speed Index (PSI), Perceptual Organization Index (POI), and Working Memory Index (WMI). Patients were also assessed using pain visual analog scale, Major Depression Inventory, and Brief Fatigue Inventory. Results Eight patients consented to take part in the study. Two patients discontinued dronabinol therapy, one due to a complaint of dizziness and another critical progression of cancer disease, respectively. The remaining six patients were successfully treated with a daily dosage of 12.5 mg dronabinol (p = 0.039). PSI (p = 0.020), POI (p = 0.034.), and WMI (p = 0.039). Conclusions Cognitive function improved in this group of patients with advanced cancer in conjunction with low-dose dronabinol therapy. The cause is likely multifactorial including reported relief of cancer-associated symptoms. Further clinical investigation is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ditte Buchwald
- Centre for Clinical Research, North Denmark Regional Hospital, Hjørring, Denmark
- Department of Communication and Psychology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Casper Schmidt
- Department of Communication and Psychology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Dorte Buchwald
- Centre for Clinical Research, North Denmark Regional Hospital, Hjørring, Denmark
- Palliative Care Team, Department of Gerontology, North Denmark Regional Hospital, Hjørring, Denmark
| | - Kristina Iris Winter
- Centre for Clinical Research, North Denmark Regional Hospital, Hjørring, Denmark
- Palliative Care Team, Department of Gerontology, North Denmark Regional Hospital, Hjørring, Denmark
| | - Ivan Bo Nielsen
- Palliative Care Team, Department of Gerontology, North Denmark Regional Hospital, Hjørring, Denmark
| | - Kirsten Klostergaard
- Centre for Clinical Research, North Denmark Regional Hospital, Hjørring, Denmark
| | - Dorte Melgaard
- Centre for Clinical Research, North Denmark Regional Hospital, Hjørring, Denmark
- Department of Communication and Psychology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Steen K. Fagerberg
- Centre for Clinical Research, North Denmark Regional Hospital, Hjørring, Denmark
| | - Peter Derek Christian Leutscher
- Centre for Clinical Research, North Denmark Regional Hospital, Hjørring, Denmark
- Palliative Care Team, Department of Gerontology, North Denmark Regional Hospital, Hjørring, Denmark
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Teodoro R, Gündel D, Deuther-Conrad W, Kazimir A, Toussaint M, Wenzel B, Bormans G, Hey-Hawkins E, Kopka K, Brust P, Moldovan RP. Synthesis, Structure-Activity Relationships, Radiofluorination, and Biological Evaluation of [ 18F]RM365, a Novel Radioligand for Imaging the Human Cannabinoid Receptor Type 2 (CB2R) in the Brain with PET. J Med Chem 2023; 66:13991-14010. [PMID: 37816245 PMCID: PMC10614203 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023]
Abstract
The development of cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2R) PET radioligands has been intensively explored due to the pronounced CB2R upregulation under various pathological conditions. Herein, we report on the synthesis of a series of CB2R affine fluorinated indole-2-carboxamide ligands. Compound RM365 was selected for PET radiotracer development due to its high CB2R affinity (Ki = 2.1 nM) and selectivity over CB1R (factor > 300). Preliminary in vitro evaluation of [18F]RM365 indicated species differences in the binding to CB2R (KD of 2.32 nM for the hCB2R vs KD > 10,000 nM for the rCB2R). Metabolism studies in mice revealed a high in vivo stability of [18F]RM365. PET imaging in a rat model of local hCB2R(D80N) overexpression in the brain demonstrates the ability of [18F]RM365 to reach and selectively label the hCB2R(D80N) with a high signal-to-background ratio. Thus, [18F]RM365 is a very promising PET radioligand for the imaging of upregulated hCB2R expression under pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Teodoro
- Institute
of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Department of Neuroradiopharmaceuticals,
Research Site Leipzig, Helmholtz-Zentrum
Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), 04318 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Daniel Gündel
- Institute
of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Department of Neuroradiopharmaceuticals,
Research Site Leipzig, Helmholtz-Zentrum
Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), 04318 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Winnie Deuther-Conrad
- Institute
of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Department of Neuroradiopharmaceuticals,
Research Site Leipzig, Helmholtz-Zentrum
Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), 04318 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Aleksandr Kazimir
- Faculty
of Chemistry and Mineralogy, Institute of Inorganic Chemistry, Universität Leipzig, Johannisallee 29, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Magali Toussaint
- Institute
of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Department of Neuroradiopharmaceuticals,
Research Site Leipzig, Helmholtz-Zentrum
Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), 04318 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Barbara Wenzel
- Institute
of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Department of Neuroradiopharmaceuticals,
Research Site Leipzig, Helmholtz-Zentrum
Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), 04318 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Guy Bormans
- Radiopharmaceutical
Research, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, BE-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Evamarie Hey-Hawkins
- Faculty
of Chemistry and Mineralogy, Institute of Inorganic Chemistry, Universität Leipzig, Johannisallee 29, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Klaus Kopka
- Institute
of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Department of Neuroradiopharmaceuticals,
Research Site Leipzig, Helmholtz-Zentrum
Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), 04318 Leipzig, Germany
- Faculty
of Chemistry and Food Chemistry, School of Science, TU Dresden, 01069 Dresden, Germany
| | - Peter Brust
- Institute
of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Department of Neuroradiopharmaceuticals,
Research Site Leipzig, Helmholtz-Zentrum
Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), 04318 Leipzig, Germany
- The
Lübeck Institute of Experimental Dermatology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Rareş-Petru Moldovan
- Institute
of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Department of Neuroradiopharmaceuticals,
Research Site Leipzig, Helmholtz-Zentrum
Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), 04318 Leipzig, Germany
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9
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Shi L, Kang S, Choi CY, Noonan BL, Carrica LK, Liang NC, Gulley JM. Effects of combined exposure to ethanol and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol during adolescence on synaptic plasticity in the prefrontal cortex of Long Evans rats. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.14.553087. [PMID: 37645740 PMCID: PMC10462006 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.14.553087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Significant exposure to alcohol or cannabis during adolescence can induce lasting disruptions of neuronal signaling in brain regions that are later to mature, such as the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). Considerably less is known about the effects of alcohol and cannabis co-use, despite its common occurrence. Here, we used male and female Long-Evans rats to investigate the effects of early-life exposure to ethanol, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), or their combination on high frequency stimulation (HFS)-induced plasticity in the prelimbic region of the mPFC. Animals were injected daily from postnatal days 30 to 45 with vehicle or THC (escalating doses, 3-20 mg/kg) and allowed to drink vehicle (0.1% saccharin) or 10% ethanol immediately after each injection. In vitro brain slice electrophysiology was then used to record population responses of layer V neurons following HFS in layer II/III after 3-4 weeks of abstinence. We found that THC exposure reduced body weight gains observed in ad libitum fed rats, and reduced intake of saccharin and ethanol. Compared to controls, there was a significant reduction in HFS-induced long-term depression (LTD) in rats exposed to either drug alone, and an absence of LTD in rats exposed to the drug combination. Bath application of indiplon or AR-A014418, which enhance GABAA receptor function or inhibit glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β), respectively, suggested the effects of ethanol, THC or their combination were due in part to lasting adaptations in GABA and GSK3β signaling. These results suggest the potential for long-lasting adaptations in mPFC output following co-exposure to alcohol and THC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linyuan Shi
- Department of Psychology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
| | - Shuo Kang
- Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
| | - Chan Young Choi
- Department of Psychology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
| | - Brynn L. Noonan
- Department of Psychology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
| | | | - Nu-Chu Liang
- Department of Psychology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
- Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
| | - Joshua M. Gulley
- Department of Psychology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
- Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
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10
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Bortoletto R, Piscitelli F, Candolo A, Bhattacharyya S, Balestrieri M, Colizzi M. Questioning the role of palmitoylethanolamide in psychosis: a systematic review of clinical and preclinical evidence. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1231710. [PMID: 37533892 PMCID: PMC10390736 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1231710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The endocannabinoid (eCB) system disruption has been suggested to underpin the development of psychosis, fueling the search for novel, better-tolerated antipsychotic agents that target the eCB system. Among these, palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), an N-acylethanolamine (AE) with neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties, has drawn attention for its antipsychotic potential. Methods This Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020-compliant systematic review aimed at reappraising all clinical and preclinical studies investigating the biobehavioral role of PEA in psychosis. Results Overall, 13 studies were eligible for data extraction (11 human, 2 animal). Observational studies investigating PEA tone in psychosis patients converged on the evidence for increased PEA plasma (6 human) and central nervous system (CNS; 1 human) levels, as a potential early compensatory response to illness and its severity, that seems to be lost in the longer-term (CNS; 1 human), opening to the possibility of exogenously supplementing it to sustain control of the disorder. Consistently, PEA oral supplementation reduced negative psychotic and manic symptoms among psychosis patients, with no serious adverse events (3 human). No PEA changes emerged in either preclinical psychosis model (2 animal) studied. Discussion Evidence supports PEA signaling as a potential psychosis biomarker, also indicating a therapeutic role of its supplementation in the disorder. Systematic review registration https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/AFMTK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Bortoletto
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medicine (DAME), University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Fabiana Piscitelli
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Materials Technologies, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council (CNR), Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Anna Candolo
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medicine (DAME), University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Sagnik Bhattacharyya
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Matteo Balestrieri
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medicine (DAME), University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Marco Colizzi
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medicine (DAME), University of Udine, Udine, Italy
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
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11
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de Oliveira MC, Vides MC, Lassi DLS, Torales J, Ventriglio A, Bombana HS, Leyton V, Périco CDAM, Negrão AB, Malbergier A, Castaldelli-Maia JM. Toxicity of Synthetic Cannabinoids in K2/Spice: A Systematic Review. Brain Sci 2023; 13:990. [PMID: 37508922 PMCID: PMC10377539 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13070990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) are emerging drugs of abuse sold as 'K2', 'K9' or 'Spice'. Evidence shows that using SCs products leads to greater health risks than cannabis. They have been associated with greater toxicity and higher addiction potential unrelated to the primary psychoactive component of marijuana, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC). Moreover, early cases of intoxication and death related to SCs highlight the inherent danger that may accompany the use of these substances. However, there is limited knowledge of the toxicology of Spice ingredients. This systematic review intends to analyze the toxicity of SCs compounds in Spice/K2 drugs. (2) Methods: Studies analyzing synthetic cannabinoid toxicity and dependence were included in the present review. We searched the PubMed database of the US National Library of Medicine, Google Scholar, CompTox Chemicals, and Web of Science up to May 2022. (3) Results: Sixty-four articles reporting the effects of synthetic cannabinoids in humans were included in our review. Ten original papers and fifty-four case studies were also included. Fourteen studies reported death associated with synthetic cannabinoid use, with AB-CHMINACA and MDMB-CHMICA being the main reported SCs. Tachycardia and seizures were the most common toxicity symptoms. The prevalence of neuropsychiatric symptoms was higher in third-generation SCs. (4) Conclusion: SCs may exhibit higher toxicity than THC and longer-lasting effects. Their use may be harmful, especially in people with epilepsy and schizophrenia, because of the increased risk of the precipitation of psychiatric and neurologic disorders. Compared to other drugs, SCs have a higher potential to trigger a convulsive crisis, a decline in consciousness, and hemodynamic changes. Therefore, it is crucial to clarify their potential harms and increase the availability of toxicology data in both clinical and research settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Campello de Oliveira
- Interdisciplinary Group of Alcohol and Drug Studies (GREA), Institute Perdizes, Department of Psychiatry Medical School, São Paulo University, São Paulo 05403-903, SP, Brazil
| | - Mariana Capelo Vides
- Interdisciplinary Group of Alcohol and Drug Studies (GREA), Institute Perdizes, Department of Psychiatry Medical School, São Paulo University, São Paulo 05403-903, SP, Brazil
| | - Dângela Layne Silva Lassi
- Interdisciplinary Group of Alcohol and Drug Studies (GREA), Institute Perdizes, Department of Psychiatry Medical School, São Paulo University, São Paulo 05403-903, SP, Brazil
| | - Julio Torales
- Department of Psychological Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, National University of Asuncion, San Lorenzo 111421, Paraguay
| | - Antonio Ventriglio
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Medical School, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Henrique Silva Bombana
- Department of Legal Medicine, Medical School, São Paulo University, São Paulo 05508-090, SP, Brazil
| | - Vilma Leyton
- Department of Legal Medicine, Medical School, São Paulo University, São Paulo 05508-090, SP, Brazil
| | | | - André Brooking Negrão
- Interdisciplinary Group of Alcohol and Drug Studies (GREA), Institute Perdizes, Department of Psychiatry Medical School, São Paulo University, São Paulo 05403-903, SP, Brazil
| | - André Malbergier
- Interdisciplinary Group of Alcohol and Drug Studies (GREA), Institute Perdizes, Department of Psychiatry Medical School, São Paulo University, São Paulo 05403-903, SP, Brazil
| | - João Maurício Castaldelli-Maia
- Interdisciplinary Group of Alcohol and Drug Studies (GREA), Institute Perdizes, Department of Psychiatry Medical School, São Paulo University, São Paulo 05403-903, SP, Brazil
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical School, FMABC University Center, Santo André 09060-870, SP, Brazil
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
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12
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Freeman-Striegel L, Hamilton J, Kannappan R, Bell T, Robison L, Thanos PK. Chronic Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol treatment has dose-dependent effects on open field exploratory behavior and [ 3H] SR141716A receptor binding in the rat brain. Life Sci 2023:121825. [PMID: 37270168 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Acute and chronic Δ9-THC exposure paradigms affect the body differently. More must be known about the impact of chronic Δ9-THC on cannabinoid-1 (CB1R) and mu-opioid (MOR) receptor levels in the brain. The present study examined chronic Δ9-THC's effects on CB1R and MOR levels and locomotor activity. MAIN METHODS Adolescent Sprague-Dawley rats were given daily intraperitoneal injections of Δ9-THC [0.75mg/kg (low dose or LD) or 2.0 mg/kg (high dose or HD)] or vehicle for 24 days, and locomotion in the open field was tested after the first and fourth weeks of chronic Δ9-THC exposure. Brains were harvested at the end of treatment. [3H] SR141716A and [3H] DAMGO autoradiography assessed CB1R and MOR levels, respectively. KEY FINDINGS Relative to each other, chronic HD rats showed reduced vertical plane (VP) entries and time, while LD rats had increased VP entries and time for locomotion, as assessed by open-field testing; no effects were found relative to the control. Autoradiography analyses showed that HD Δ9-THC significantly decreased CB1R binding relative to LD Δ9-THC in the cingulate (33%), primary motor (42%), secondary motor (33%) somatosensory (38%), rhinal (38%), and auditory (50%) cortices; LD Δ9-THC rats displayed elevated binding in the primary motor (33% increase) and hypothalamic (33 % increase) regions compared with controls. No significant differences were observed in MOR binding for the LD or HD compared to the control. SIGNIFICANCE These results demonstrate that chronic Δ9-THC dose-dependently altered CB1R levels throughout the brain and locomotor activity in the open field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lily Freeman-Striegel
- Behavioral Neuropharmacology and Neuroimaging Laboratory on Addictions (BNNLA), Clinical Research Institute on Addictions, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, United States of America
| | - John Hamilton
- Behavioral Neuropharmacology and Neuroimaging Laboratory on Addictions (BNNLA), Clinical Research Institute on Addictions, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, United States of America; Department of Psychology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, United States of America
| | - Renuka Kannappan
- Behavioral Neuropharmacology and Neuroimaging Laboratory on Addictions (BNNLA), Clinical Research Institute on Addictions, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, United States of America
| | - Tyler Bell
- Behavioral Neuropharmacology and Neuroimaging Laboratory on Addictions (BNNLA), Clinical Research Institute on Addictions, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, United States of America
| | - Lisa Robison
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, United States of America
| | - Panayotis K Thanos
- Behavioral Neuropharmacology and Neuroimaging Laboratory on Addictions (BNNLA), Clinical Research Institute on Addictions, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, United States of America; Department of Psychology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, United States of America.
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13
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Sayson LV, Ortiz DM, Lee HJ, Kim M, Custodio RJP, Yun J, Lee CH, Lee YS, Cha HJ, Cheong JH, Kim HJ. Deletion of Cryab increases the vulnerability of mice to the addiction-like effects of the cannabinoid JWH-018 via upregulation of striatal NF-κB expression. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1135929. [PMID: 37007015 PMCID: PMC10060981 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1135929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids have exhibited unpredictable abuse liabilities, especially self-administration (SA) responses in normal rodent models, despite seemingly inducing addiction-like effects in humans. Thus, an efficient pre-clinical model must be developed to determine cannabinoid abuse potential in animals and describe the mechanism that may mediate cannabinoid sensitivity. The Cryab knockout (KO) mice were recently discovered to be potentially sensitive to the addictive effects of psychoactive drugs. Herein, we examined the responses of Cryab KO mice to JWH-018 using SA, conditioned place preference, and electroencephalography. Additionally, the effects of repeated JWH-018 exposure on endocannabinoid- and dopamine-related genes in various addiction-associated brain regions were examined, along with protein expressions involving neuroinflammation and synaptic plasticity. Cryab KO mice exhibited greater cannabinoid-induced SA responses and place preference, along with divergent gamma wave alterations, compared to wild-type (WT) mice, implying their higher sensitivity to cannabinoids. Endocannabinoid- or dopamine-related mRNA expressions and accumbal dopamine concentrations after repeated JWH-018 exposure were not significantly different between the WT and Cryab KO mice. Further analyses revealed that repeated JWH-018 administration led to possibly greater neuroinflammation in Cryab KO mice, which may arise from upregulated NF-κB, accompanied by higher expressions of synaptic plasticity markers, which might have contributed to the development of cannabinoid addiction-related behavior in Cryab KO mice. These findings signify that increased neuroinflammation via NF-κB may mediate the enhanced addiction-like responses of Cryab KO mice to cannabinoids. Altogether, Cryab KO mice may be a potential model for cannabinoid abuse susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leandro Val Sayson
- Department of Pharmacy, Uimyung Research Institute for Neuroscience, Sahmyook University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Darlene Mae Ortiz
- Department of Pharmacy, Uimyung Research Institute for Neuroscience, Sahmyook University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Jun Lee
- Department of Pharmacy, Uimyung Research Institute for Neuroscience, Sahmyook University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Mikyung Kim
- Department of Chemistry and Life Science, Sahmyook University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Raly James Perez Custodio
- Department of Ergonomics, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors—IfADo, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Jaesuk Yun
- College of Pharmacy and Medical Research Center, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungcheongbuk-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Chae Hyeon Lee
- Medicinal Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Fundamental Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Sup Lee
- Medicinal Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Fundamental Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Jin Cha
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Gyeongsangnam–do, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Hoon Cheong
- Institute for New Drug Development, School of Pharmacy, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do, Republic of Korea
- *Correspondence: Jae Hoon Cheong, ; Hee Jin Kim,
| | - Hee Jin Kim
- Department of Pharmacy, Uimyung Research Institute for Neuroscience, Sahmyook University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- *Correspondence: Jae Hoon Cheong, ; Hee Jin Kim,
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14
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Buzzi B, Koseli E, Moncayo L, Shoaib M, Damaj M. Role of Neuronal Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors in Cannabinoid Dependence. Pharmacol Res 2023; 191:106746. [PMID: 37001709 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis is among the most widely consumed psychoactive drugs around the world and cannabis use disorder (CUD) has no current approved pharmacological treatment. Nicotine and cannabis are commonly co-used which suggests there to be overlapping neurobiological actions supported primarily by the co-distribution of both receptor systems in the brain. There appears to be strong rationale to explore the role that nicotinic receptors play in cannabinoid dependence. Preclinical studies suggest that the ɑ7 nAChR subtype may play a role in modulating the reinforcing and discriminative stimulus effects of cannabinoids, while the ɑ4β2 * nAChR subtype may be involved in modulating the motor and sedative effects of cannabinoids. Preclinical and human genetic studies point towards a potential role of the ɑ5, ɑ3, and β4 nAChR subunits in CUD, while human GWAS studies strongly implicate the ɑ2 subunit as playing a role in CUD susceptibility. Clinical studies suggest that current smoking cessation agents, such as varenicline and bupropion, may also be beneficial in treating CUD, although more controlled studies are necessary. Additional behavioral, molecular, and mechanistic studies investigating the role of nAChR in the modulation of the pharmacological effects of cannabinoids are needed.
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15
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Lorenzetti V, Gaillard A, Thomson D, Englund A, Freeman TP. Effects of cannabinoids on resting state functional brain connectivity: A systematic review. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 145:105014. [PMID: 36563921 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.105014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis products are widely used for medical and non-medical reasons worldwide and vary in content of cannabinoids such as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). Resting state functional connectivity offers a powerful tool to investigate the effects of cannabinoids on the human brain. We systematically reviewed functional neuroimaging evidence of connectivity during acute cannabinoid administration. A pre-registered (PROSPERO ID: CRD42020184264) systematic review of 13 studies comprising 318 participants (mean age of 25 years) was conducted and reported using the PRISMA checklist. During THC and THCv exposure vs placebo reduced connectivity with the NAcc was widely reported. Limited evidence shows that such effects are offset by co-administration of CBD. NAcc-frontal region connectivity was associated with intoxication levels. Cannabis intoxication vs placebo was associated with lower striatal-ACC connectivity. CBD and CBDv vs placebo were associated with both higher and lower connectivity between striatal-prefrontal/other regions. Overall, cannabis and cannabinoids change functional connectivity in the human brain during resting state as a function of the type of cannabinoid examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Lorenzetti
- Neuroscience of Addiction and Mental Health Program, Healthy Brain and Mind Research Centre, School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Australia.
| | - Alexandra Gaillard
- Neuroscience of Addiction and Mental Health Program, Healthy Brain and Mind Research Centre, School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Australia
| | - Diny Thomson
- Neuroscience of Addiction and Mental Health Program, Healthy Brain and Mind Research Centre, School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Australia; Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Science, Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Australia
| | - Amir Englund
- Addictions Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK
| | - Tom P Freeman
- Addiction and Mental Health Group, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Bath, UK
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Lorenzetti V, Kowalczyk M, Duehlmeyer L, Greenwood LM, Chye Y, Yücel M, Whittle S, Roberts CA. Brain Anatomical Alterations in Young Cannabis Users: Is it All Hype? A Meta-Analysis of Structural Neuroimaging Studies. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2023; 8:184-196. [PMID: 35443799 DOI: 10.1089/can.2021.0099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Cannabis use has a high prevalence in young youth and is associated with poor psychosocial outcomes. Such outcomes have been ascribed to the impact of cannabis exposure on the developing brain. However, findings from individual studies of volumetry in youth cannabis users are equivocal. Objectives: Our primary objective was to systematically review the evidence on brain volume differences between young cannabis users and nonusers aged 12-26 where profound neuromaturation occurs, accounting for the role of global brain volumes (GBVs). Our secondary objective was to systematically integrate the findings on the association between youth age and volumetry in youth cannabis users. Finally, we aimed to evaluate the quality of the evidence. Materials and Methods: A systematic search was run in three databases (PubMed, Scopus, and PsycINFO) and was reported using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. We run meta-analyses (with and without controlling for GBV) of brain volume differences between young cannabis users and nonusers. We conducted metaregressions to explore the role of age on volumetric differences. Results: Sixteen studies were included. The reviewed samples included 830 people with mean age 22.5 years (range 14-26 years). Of these, 386 were cannabis users (with cannabis use onset at 15-19 years) and 444 were controls. We found no detectable group differences in any of the GBVs (intracranium, total brain, total white matter, and total gray matter) and regional brain volumes (i.e., hippocampus, amygdala, orbitofrontal cortex, and total cerebellum). Age and cannabis use level did not predict (standardized mean) volume group differences in metaregression. We found little evidence of publication bias (Egger's test p>0.1). Conclusions: Contrary to evidence in adult samples (or in samples mixing adults and youth), previous single studies in young cannabis users, and meta-analyses of brain function in young cannabis users, this early evidence suggests nonsignificant volume differences between young cannabis users and nonusers. While prolonged and long-term exposure to heavy cannabis use may be required to detect gross volume alterations, more studies in young cannabis users are needed to map in detail cannabis-related neuroanatomical changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Lorenzetti
- Neuroscience of Addiction and Mental Health Program, Healthy Brain and Mind Research Centre, School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Fitzroy, Australia
| | - Magdalena Kowalczyk
- Neuroscience of Addiction and Mental Health Program, Healthy Brain and Mind Research Centre, School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Fitzroy, Australia
| | - Leonie Duehlmeyer
- Neuroscience of Addiction and Mental Health Program, Healthy Brain and Mind Research Centre, School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Fitzroy, Australia
| | - Lisa-Marie Greenwood
- Research School of Psychology, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Yann Chye
- BrainPark, The Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences and Monash Biomedical Imaging Facility, Clayton, Australia
| | - Murat Yücel
- BrainPark, The Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences and Monash Biomedical Imaging Facility, Clayton, Australia
| | - Sarah Whittle
- Melbourne Neuropsychiatry Centre, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, Australia
| | - Carl A Roberts
- Department of Psychology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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Asch RH, Hillmer AT, Baldassarri SR, Esterlis I. The metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 as a biomarker for psychiatric disorders. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2023; 168:265-310. [PMID: 36868631 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2022.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The role of glutamate system in the etiology and pathophysiology of psychiatric disorders has gained considerable attention in the past two decades, including dysregulation of the metabotropic glutamatergic receptor subtype 5 (mGlu5). Thus, mGlu5 may represent a promising therapeutic target for psychiatric conditions, particularly stress-related disorders. Here, we describe mGlu5 findings in mood disorders, anxiety, and trauma disorders, as well as substance use (specifically nicotine, cannabis, and alcohol use). We highlight insights gained from positron emission tomography (PET) studies, where possible, and discuss findings from treatment trials, when available, to explore the role of mGlu5 in these psychiatric disorders. Through the research evidence reviewed in this chapter, we make the argument that, not only is dysregulation of mGlu5 evident in numerous psychiatric disorders, potentially functioning as a disease "biomarker," the normalization of glutamate neurotransmission via changes in mGlu5 expression and/or modulation of mGlu5 signaling may be a needed component in treating some psychiatric disorders or symptoms. Finally, we hope to demonstrate the utility of PET as an important tool for investigating mGlu5 in disease mechanisms and treatment response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth H Asch
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States.
| | - Ansel T Hillmer
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States; Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Stephen R Baldassarri
- Yale Program in Addiction Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States; Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Irina Esterlis
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States; Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States; Clinical Neurosciences Division, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States
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18
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Rault O, Romeo B, Butlen-Ducuing F, Rari E, Benyamina A, Martelli C. Impact of cannabis use and its cessation on the dosage and the efficacy of antipsychotic drugs in in- and outpatients with schizophrenia taking medication: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Psychiatr Res 2022; 156:713-721. [PMID: 36410310 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2022.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Compared with the general population, there are more cannabis users among patients suffering from schizophrenia and this consumption seems to impact the course and the treatment of their pathology. The aim of this meta-analysis and systematic review was to assess the impact of cannabis use on the efficacy of treatments, more particularly regarding the antipsychotic dosage, symptoms evolution, therapeutic resistance and the risk of relapse in patients with schizophrenia taking medication. We performed a systematic search of keywords on multiple databases up to August 2020 to identify all studies meeting the following criteria: comparison between cannabis smokers and non-cannabis users in patients with schizophrenia, assessment of antipsychotics doses, information about their efficacy or resistance to treatment and control of the compliance. Standardized mean differences were calculated for antipsychotic dosage and symptoms evolution at discharge, and a systematic review was performed for other outcomes. Twelve studies were included. Cannabis use did not seem to be associated with higher doses of antipsychotics at seven days and at the end of the studies, nor with poorer symptoms evolution, and nor with higher rate of antipsychotic resistance. However, cannabis use seems to be associated with a higher risk of relapse. This meta-analysis provides evidence that previous cannabis use, or occasional use, in patients with schizophrenia taking medication does not impact antipsychotic efficacy as described by antipsychotic dosage or PANSS score.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ophélie Rault
- APHP, Paul Brousse Hospital, Department of Psychiatry and Addictology, F-94800, Villejuif, France; Unité Psychiatrie-Comorbidités-Addictions-Unité de Recherche PSYCOMADD 4872, Université Paris Sud - AP-HP, Université Paris Saclay, France.
| | - Bruno Romeo
- APHP, Paul Brousse Hospital, Department of Psychiatry and Addictology, F-94800, Villejuif, France; Unité Psychiatrie-Comorbidités-Addictions-Unité de Recherche PSYCOMADD 4872, Université Paris Sud - AP-HP, Université Paris Saclay, France
| | - Florence Butlen-Ducuing
- Office of Therapies for Neurological and Psychiatric Disorders, European Medicines Agency, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Eirini Rari
- APHP, Paul Brousse Hospital, Department of Psychiatry and Addictology, F-94800, Villejuif, France; Unité Psychiatrie-Comorbidités-Addictions-Unité de Recherche PSYCOMADD 4872, Université Paris Sud - AP-HP, Université Paris Saclay, France
| | - Amine Benyamina
- APHP, Paul Brousse Hospital, Department of Psychiatry and Addictology, F-94800, Villejuif, France; Unité Psychiatrie-Comorbidités-Addictions-Unité de Recherche PSYCOMADD 4872, Université Paris Sud - AP-HP, Université Paris Saclay, France
| | - Catherine Martelli
- APHP, Paul Brousse Hospital, Department of Psychiatry and Addictology, F-94800, Villejuif, France; Unité Psychiatrie-Comorbidités-Addictions-Unité de Recherche PSYCOMADD 4872, Université Paris Sud - AP-HP, Université Paris Saclay, France; INSERM U A1299 "Trajectoires développementales en Psychiatrie", Université Paris-Saclay, Ecole Normale Supérieure Paris-Saclay, CNRS 9010, Centre Borelli, Digiteo-Labs, Bâtiment 660 Claude Shannon, Avenue des Sciences, 91190, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
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19
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Tang Y, Tonkovich KL, Rudisill TM. The Effectiveness and Safety of Cannabidiol in Non-seizure-related Indications: A Systematic Review of Published Randomized Clinical Trials. Pharmaceut Med 2022; 36:353-385. [PMID: 36271316 PMCID: PMC9708636 DOI: 10.1007/s40290-022-00446-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Legislative changes have fueled the global availability of cannabis and cannabis-derived compounds, such as cannabidiol. Little is known about the effectiveness and safety of cannabidiol for treating health conditions other than seizure disorders. OBJECTIVE A systematic review of the literature was performed to investigate other health conditions, characteristics of the studied populations, and the effectiveness of cannabidiol in randomized clinical trials. METHODS Seven publication databases were searched from February to March 2021. The inclusion criteria for studies were: (1) utilized a randomized clinical trial design; (2) published in a peer-reviewed journal or thesis/dissertation; (3) published in English; (4) investigated either prescription (i.e., Epidiolex) or non-prescription CBD that was derived from the Cannabis sativa plant with < 3% ∆9-tetrahydrocannabinol; and (5) reported at least one outcome. This review excluded seizure-related disorders as several previous reviews have been done on this topic; it also excluded published protocols, other systematic reviews, or meta-analyses of randomized clinical trials that investigated cannabidiol. Independent reviewing, risk of bias assessment, and data abstraction were performed by two authors. RESULTS Fifty-eight studies from eight countries were included in this review. Twenty-seven studies (47%) were conducted in healthy populations, 14% were restricted to male individuals (n = 8), and 72% had sample sizes of fewer than 40 participants. Doses of cannabidiol used in these studies ranged from 400 µg to 6000 mg. The effect of cannabidiol on mental health was the most studied topic (53%), which focused mainly on anxiety, psychosis, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders. The remaining studies investigated neurological conditions (19%) and a myriad of other health conditions or outcomes. While cannabidiol appears to be anxiolytic, its effectiveness for other conditions was highly variable. CONCLUSIONS This review highlights the inconsistencies of cannabidiol as a treatment for non-seizure-related health conditions or outcomes. Studies incorporating larger sample sizes in more diverse populations are encouraged. While cannabidiol was generally safe and well tolerated even in high doses among the included studies, clearer dosing guidelines and increased regulation of cannabidiol products are also needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuni Tang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, West Virginia University, PO BOX 9190, Morgantown, WV, 26506, USA
| | - Kolbi L Tonkovich
- Department of Family Medicine, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Toni Marie Rudisill
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, West Virginia University, PO BOX 9190, Morgantown, WV, 26506, USA.
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20
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Wan X, Eguchi A, Qu Y, Yang Y, Chang L, Shan J, Mori C, Hashimoto K. Gut-microbiota-brain axis in the vulnerability to psychosis in adulthood after repeated cannabis exposure during adolescence. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2022; 272:1297-1309. [PMID: 35666299 DOI: 10.1007/s00406-022-01437-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Increasing epidemiological evidence shows that the use of cannabis during adolescence could increase the risk for psychosis in adulthood. However, the precise mechanisms underlying long-lasting cannabis-induced risk for psychosis remain unclear. Accumulating evidence suggests the role of gut microbiota in the pathogenesis of psychiatric disorders. Here, we examined whether gut microbiota plays a role in the risk for psychosis of adult after exposure of cannabinoid (CB) receptor agonist WIN55,212-2 during adolescence. Repeated administration of WIN55,212-2 (2 mg/kg/day) during adolescence (P35-P45) significantly increased the expression of Iba1 (ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1) in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and nucleus accumbens (NAc) of adult mice after administration of lipopolysaccharide (LPS: 0.5 mg/kg). In contrast, there were no changes in blood levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines between the two groups. Although alpha-diversity and beta-diversity of gut microbiota were no differences between the two groups, there were several microbes altered between the two groups. Interestingly, there were significant correlations between the relative abundance of microbiota and Iba1 expression in the mPFC and NAc. Furthermore, there were also significant correlations between the relative abundance of microbiota and several metabolites in the blood. These findings suggest that gut microbiota may play a role in the microglial activation in the mPFC and NAc of adult mice after repeated WIN55,212-2 exposure during adolescence. Therefore, it is likely that gut-microbiota-microglia crosstalk might play a role in increased risk for psychosis in adults with cannabis use during adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiayun Wan
- Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Chiba University Center for Forensic Mental Health, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Akifumi Eguchi
- Department of Sustainable Health Science, Chiba University Center for Preventive Medical Sciences, Chiba, 263-8522, Japan
| | - Youge Qu
- Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Chiba University Center for Forensic Mental Health, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Yong Yang
- Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Chiba University Center for Forensic Mental Health, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Lijia Chang
- Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Chiba University Center for Forensic Mental Health, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Jiajing Shan
- Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Chiba University Center for Forensic Mental Health, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Chisato Mori
- Department of Sustainable Health Science, Chiba University Center for Preventive Medical Sciences, Chiba, 263-8522, Japan.,Department of Bioenvironmental Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Kenji Hashimoto
- Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Chiba University Center for Forensic Mental Health, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan.
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21
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Hasbi A, Madras BK, George SR. Daily THC and withdrawal increase dopamine D1-D2 receptor heteromer to mediate anhedonia and anxiogenic-like behavior through a dynorphin and kappa opioid receptor mechanism. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY GLOBAL OPEN SCIENCE 2022. [PMID: 37519471 PMCID: PMC10382712 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsgos.2022.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Frequent cannabis use is associated with a higher risk of developing cannabis use disorder and other adverse consequences. However, rodent models studying the underlying mechanisms of the reinforcing and withdrawal effects of the primary constituent of cannabis, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), have been limited. Methods This study investigated the effects of daily THC (1 mg/kg, intraperitoneal, 9 days) and spontaneous withdrawal (7 days) on hedonic and aversion-like behaviors in male rats. In parallel, underlying neuroadaptive changes in dopaminergic, opioidergic, and cannabinoid signaling in the nucleus accumbens were evaluated, along with a candidate peptide designed to reverse altered signaling. Results Chronic THC administration induced anhedonic- and anxiogenic-like behaviors not attributable to altered locomotor activity. These effects persisted after drug cessation. In the nucleus accumbens, THC treatment and withdrawal catalyzed increased cannabinoid CB1 receptor activity without modifying receptor expression. Dopamine D1-D2 receptor heteromer expression rose steeply with THC, accompanied by increased calcium-linked signaling, activation of BDNF/TrkB (brain-derived neurotrophic factor/tropomyosin receptor kinase B) pathway, dynorphin expression, and kappa opioid receptor signaling. Disruption of the D1-D2 heteromer by an interfering peptide during withdrawal reversed the anxiogenic-like and anhedonic-like behaviors as well as the neurochemical changes. Conclusions Chronic THC increases nucleus accumbens dopamine D1-D2 receptor heteromer expression and function, which results in increased dynorphin expression and kappa opioid receptor activation. These changes plausibly reduce dopamine release to trigger anxiogenic- and anhedonic-like behaviors after daily THC administration that persist for at least 7 days after drug cessation. These findings conceivably provide a therapeutic strategy to alleviate negative symptoms associated with cannabis use and withdrawal.
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22
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Newman SD, Schnakenberg Martin AM, Raymond D, Cheng H, Wilson L, Barnes S, O’Donnell BF. The relationship between cannabis use and taurine: A MRS and metabolomics study. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0269280. [PMID: 35653401 PMCID: PMC9162360 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0269280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Taurine is an essential amino acid. It has been shown to be neuroprotective including protecting against the neurotoxic effects of glutamate. The goal of the current study was to examine the relationship between CB use and taurine measured in brain using magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), and peripherally from a urine sample. Two experiments are presented. The first is a reanalysis of published data that examined taurine and glutamate in the dorsal anterior cingulate of a CB user group and non-user group using MRS. The second experiment, in a separate CB user group, used metabolomics analysis to measure taurine levels in urine. Because body composition has been associated with the pharmacokinetics of cannabis and taurine levels, a moderation model was examined with body composition included as the covariate. The MRS study found taurine levels were correlated with glutamate in both groups and taurine was correlated with frequency of CB use in the CB user group. The moderation model demonstrated significant effects of CB use and BMI; the interaction was marginally significant with lower BMI individuals showing a positive relationship between CB use and taurine. A similar finding was observed for the urine analysis. Both CB use and weight, as well as the interaction were significant. In this case, individuals with higher weight showed an association between CB use and taurine levels. This study shows the feasibility and potential importance of examining the relationship between taurine and CB use as it may shed light on a mechanism that underlies the neuroprotective effects of CB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharlene D. Newman
- Alabama Life Research Institute, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Ashley M. Schnakenberg Martin
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
- Psychology Service, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - David Raymond
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States of America
| | - Hu Cheng
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States of America
| | - Landon Wilson
- Targeted Metabolomics and Proteomics Laboratory, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Stephen Barnes
- Targeted Metabolomics and Proteomics Laboratory, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Brian F. O’Donnell
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States of America
- Program in Neuroscience, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States of America
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23
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Remy I, Schwitzer T, Albuisson É, Schwan R, Krieg J, Bernardin F, Ligier F, Lalanne L, Maillard L, Laprevote V. Impaired P100 among regular cannabis users in response to magnocellular biased visual stimuli. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2022; 113:110437. [PMID: 34520807 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2021.110437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Regular cannabis using causes vision impairment by affecting human retinal neurotransmission. However, studies less considered its impact on the subsequent visual cortical processing, key feature for the integration of the visual signal in brain. We aimed at investigating this purpose in regular cannabis users using spatial frequencies and temporal frequencies filtered visual stimuli. We recruited 45 regular cannabis users and 25 age-matched controls. We recorded visual evoked potentials during the projection of low spatial frequency (0.5 cycles/degree) or high spatial frequency gratings (15 cycles/degree), which were presented statically (0 Hz) or dynamically (8 Hz). We analyzed the amplitude, latency, and area under the curve of both P100 and N170, best EEG markers for early visual processing. Data were compared between groups by repeated measures ANCOVA. Results showed a significant decrease in P100 amplitude among regular cannabis users in low spatial frequency (F(1,67) = 4.43; p = 0.04) and in dynamic condition (F(1,67) = 4.35; p = 0.04). Analysis also reported a decrease in P100 area under the curve in regular cannabis users to low spatial frequency (F(1,67) = 4.31; p = 0.04) and in dynamic condition (F(1,67) = 7.65; p < 0.01). No effect was found on P100 latency, N170 amplitude, latency, or area under the curve. We found alteration of P100 responses to low spatial frequency and dynamic stimuli in regular cannabis users. This result could be interpreted as a preferential magnocellular impairment where such deficit could be linked to glutamatergic dysfunction. As mentioned in the literature, visual and electrophysiological anomalies in schizophrenia are related to a magnocellular dysfunction. Further studies are needed to clarify electrophysiological deficits in both populations. CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION: Electrophysiological Study of the Functioning of Magnocellular Visual Pathway in Regular Cannabis Users (CAUSA MAP). [NCT02864680; ID 2013-A00097-38]. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02864680?cond=Cannabis&cntry=FR&draw=2&rank=1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irving Remy
- Centre Psychothérapique de Nancy, Pôle Hospitalo-Universitaire de Psychiatrie d'Adultes du Grand Nancy, Laxou F-54520, France; INSERM U1114, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Département de Psychiatrie, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, F-67200, France; BioSerenity - 47, Boulevard de l'Hôpital, ICM-IPEPS, 75013, Paris, France
| | - Thomas Schwitzer
- Centre Psychothérapique de Nancy, Pôle Hospitalo-Universitaire de Psychiatrie d'Adultes du Grand Nancy, Laxou F-54520, France; Université de Lorraine, Faculté de Médecine, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy F-54505, France; Université de Lorraine, IADI, INSERM U1254, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, F-54511, France
| | - Éliane Albuisson
- Unité de méthodologie, Gestion des données statistiques, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire de Nancy, DRCI, Département MPI, UMDS, F-54000 Nancy, France; Université de Lorraine, Faculté de Médecine, Département du Grand Est de Recherche en Soins Primaires (DEGERESP), F-54000 Nancy, France; Université de Lorraine, CNRS, Institut Élie-Cartan de Lorraine, F-54000 Nancy, France
| | - Raymund Schwan
- Centre Psychothérapique de Nancy, Pôle Hospitalo-Universitaire de Psychiatrie d'Adultes du Grand Nancy, Laxou F-54520, France; Université de Lorraine, Faculté de Médecine, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy F-54505, France; Université de Lorraine, IADI, INSERM U1254, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, F-54511, France
| | - Julien Krieg
- Centre Psychothérapique de Nancy, Pôle Hospitalo-Universitaire de Psychiatrie d'Adultes du Grand Nancy, Laxou F-54520, France; INSERM U1114, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Département de Psychiatrie, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, F-67200, France
| | - Florent Bernardin
- Centre Psychothérapique de Nancy, Pôle Hospitalo-Universitaire de Psychiatrie d'Adultes du Grand Nancy, Laxou F-54520, France; INSERM U1114, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Département de Psychiatrie, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, F-67200, France
| | - Fabienne Ligier
- Centre Psychothérapique de Nancy, Pôle Universitaire de Psychiatrie de l'Enfant et de l'Adolescent, Laxou F-54520, France; Université de Lorraine, EA 4360 APEMAC, Equipe MICS, F-54000, France; Université de Lorraine, EA 4432 InterPsy, Equipe PRISME, F-54000, France
| | - Laurence Lalanne
- INSERM U1114, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Département de Psychiatrie, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, F-67200, France; Unité de Psychiatrie et d'Addictologie, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, F-67200, France
| | - Louis Maillard
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, CRAN, UMR 7039, F-54500, Nancy, France; Service de Neurologie, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire de Nancy, Nancy F-54000, France
| | - Vincent Laprevote
- Centre Psychothérapique de Nancy, Pôle Hospitalo-Universitaire de Psychiatrie d'Adultes du Grand Nancy, Laxou F-54520, France; INSERM U1114, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Département de Psychiatrie, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, F-67200, France; Université de Lorraine, Faculté de Médecine, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy F-54505, France.
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Navarrete F, García-Gutiérrez MS, Gasparyan A, Navarro D, López-Picón F, Morcuende Á, Femenía T, Manzanares J. Biomarkers of the Endocannabinoid System in Substance Use Disorders. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12030396. [PMID: 35327588 PMCID: PMC8946268 DOI: 10.3390/biom12030396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite substance use disorders (SUD) being one of the leading causes of disability and mortality globally, available therapeutic approaches remain ineffective. The difficulty in accurately characterizing the neurobiological mechanisms involved with a purely qualitative diagnosis is an obstacle to improving the classification and treatment of SUD. In this regard, identifying central and peripheral biomarkers is essential to diagnosing the severity of drug dependence, monitoring therapeutic efficacy, predicting treatment response, and enhancing the development of safer and more effective pharmacological tools. In recent years, the crucial role that the endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays in regulating the reinforcing and motivational properties of drugs of abuse has been described. This has led to studies characterizing ECS alterations after exposure to various substances to identify biomarkers with potential diagnostic, prognostic, or therapeutic utility. This review aims to compile the primary evidence available from rodent and clinical studies on how the ECS components are modified in the context of different substance-related disorders, gathering data from genetic, molecular, functional, and neuroimaging experimental approaches. Finally, this report concludes that additional translational research is needed to further characterize the modifications of the ECS in the context of SUD, and their potential usefulness in the necessary search for biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Navarrete
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Avda. de Ramón y Cajal s/n, San Juan de Alicante, 03550 Alicante, Spain; (F.N.); (M.S.G.-G.); (A.G.); (D.N.); (Á.M.); (T.F.)
- Departamento de Medicina Clínica, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL), Universidad Miguel Hernández, 03010 Alicante, Spain
- Redes de Investigación Cooperativa Orientada a Resultados en Salud (RICORS), Red de Investigación en Atención Primaria de Adicciones (RIAPAd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - María S. García-Gutiérrez
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Avda. de Ramón y Cajal s/n, San Juan de Alicante, 03550 Alicante, Spain; (F.N.); (M.S.G.-G.); (A.G.); (D.N.); (Á.M.); (T.F.)
- Departamento de Medicina Clínica, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL), Universidad Miguel Hernández, 03010 Alicante, Spain
- Redes de Investigación Cooperativa Orientada a Resultados en Salud (RICORS), Red de Investigación en Atención Primaria de Adicciones (RIAPAd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ani Gasparyan
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Avda. de Ramón y Cajal s/n, San Juan de Alicante, 03550 Alicante, Spain; (F.N.); (M.S.G.-G.); (A.G.); (D.N.); (Á.M.); (T.F.)
- Departamento de Medicina Clínica, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL), Universidad Miguel Hernández, 03010 Alicante, Spain
- Redes de Investigación Cooperativa Orientada a Resultados en Salud (RICORS), Red de Investigación en Atención Primaria de Adicciones (RIAPAd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Daniela Navarro
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Avda. de Ramón y Cajal s/n, San Juan de Alicante, 03550 Alicante, Spain; (F.N.); (M.S.G.-G.); (A.G.); (D.N.); (Á.M.); (T.F.)
- Departamento de Medicina Clínica, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL), Universidad Miguel Hernández, 03010 Alicante, Spain
- Redes de Investigación Cooperativa Orientada a Resultados en Salud (RICORS), Red de Investigación en Atención Primaria de Adicciones (RIAPAd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco López-Picón
- PET Preclinical Imaging Laboratory, Turku PET Centre, University of Turku, 20520 Turku, Finland;
| | - Álvaro Morcuende
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Avda. de Ramón y Cajal s/n, San Juan de Alicante, 03550 Alicante, Spain; (F.N.); (M.S.G.-G.); (A.G.); (D.N.); (Á.M.); (T.F.)
| | - Teresa Femenía
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Avda. de Ramón y Cajal s/n, San Juan de Alicante, 03550 Alicante, Spain; (F.N.); (M.S.G.-G.); (A.G.); (D.N.); (Á.M.); (T.F.)
- Redes de Investigación Cooperativa Orientada a Resultados en Salud (RICORS), Red de Investigación en Atención Primaria de Adicciones (RIAPAd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Jorge Manzanares
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Avda. de Ramón y Cajal s/n, San Juan de Alicante, 03550 Alicante, Spain; (F.N.); (M.S.G.-G.); (A.G.); (D.N.); (Á.M.); (T.F.)
- Departamento de Medicina Clínica, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL), Universidad Miguel Hernández, 03010 Alicante, Spain
- Redes de Investigación Cooperativa Orientada a Resultados en Salud (RICORS), Red de Investigación en Atención Primaria de Adicciones (RIAPAd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-965-919-248
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25
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Functional brain connectomes reflect acute and chronic cannabis use. Sci Rep 2022; 12:2449. [PMID: 35165360 PMCID: PMC8844352 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-06509-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractResting state fMRI has been employed to identify alterations in functional connectivity within or between brain regions following acute and chronic exposure to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component in cannabis. Most studies focused a priori on a limited number of local brain areas or circuits, without considering the impact of cannabis on whole-brain network organization. The present study attempted to identify changes in the whole-brain human functional connectome as assessed with ultra-high field (7T) resting state scans of cannabis users (N = 26) during placebo and following vaporization of cannabis. Two distinct data-driven methodologies, i.e. network-based statistics (NBS) and connICA, were used to identify changes in functional connectomes associated with acute cannabis intoxication and history of cannabis use. Both methodologies revealed a broad state of hyperconnectivity within the entire range of major brain networks in chronic cannabis users compared to occasional cannabis users, which might be reflective of an adaptive network reorganization following prolonged cannabis exposure. The connICA methodology also extracted a distinct spatial connectivity pattern of hypoconnectivity involving the dorsal attention, limbic, subcortical and cerebellum networks and of hyperconnectivity between the default mode and ventral attention network, that was associated with the feeling of subjective high during THC intoxication. Whole-brain network approaches identified spatial patterns in functional brain connectomes that distinguished acute from chronic cannabis use, and offer an important utility for probing the interplay between short and long-term alterations in functional brain dynamics when progressing from occasional to chronic use of cannabis.
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Prisciandaro JJ, Mellick W, Squeglia LM, Hix S, Arnold L, Tolliver BK. Results from a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover, multimodal-MRI pilot study of gabapentin for co-occurring bipolar and cannabis use disorders. Addict Biol 2022; 27:e13085. [PMID: 34390300 PMCID: PMC9104469 DOI: 10.1111/adb.13085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Disrupted brain gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)/glutamate homeostasis is a promising target for pharmacological intervention in co-occurring bipolar disorder (BD) and cannabis use disorder (CUD). Gabapentin is a safe and well-tolerated medication, FDA-approved to treat other neurological diseases, that restores GABA/glutamate homeostasis, with treatment studies supporting efficacy in treating CUD, as well as anxiety and sleep disorders that are common to both BD and CUD. The present manuscript represents the primary report of a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover (1-week/condition), multimodal-MRI (proton-MR spectroscopy, functional MRI) pilot study of gabapentin (1200 mg/day) in BD + CUD (n = 22). Primary analyses revealed that (1) gabapentin was well tolerated and adherence and retention were high, (2) gabapentin increased dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC) and right basal ganglia (rBG) glutamate levels and (3) gabapentin increased activation to visual cannabis cues in the posterior midcingulate cortex (pMCC, a region involved in response inhibition to rewarding stimuli). Exploratory evaluation of clinical outcomes further found that in participants taking gabapentin versus placebo, (1) elevations of dACC GABA levels were associated with lower manic/mixed and depressive symptoms and (2) elevations of rBG glutamate levels and pMCC activation to cannabis cues were associated with lower cannabis use. Though promising, the findings from this study should be interpreted with caution due to observed randomization order effects on dACC glutamate levels and identification of statistical moderators that differed by randomization order (i.e. cigarette-smoking status on rBG glutamate levels and pMCC cue activation). Nonetheless, they provide the necessary foundation for a more robustly designed (urn-randomized, parallel-group) future study of adjuvant gabapentin for BD + CUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- James J Prisciandaro
- Addiction Sciences Division, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - William Mellick
- Addiction Sciences Division, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Lindsay M Squeglia
- Addiction Sciences Division, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Sara Hix
- Addiction Sciences Division, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Lauren Arnold
- Addiction Sciences Division, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Bryan K Tolliver
- Addiction Sciences Division, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
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Gibson LP, Karoly HC, Ellingson JM, Klawitter J, Sempio C, Squeri JE, Bryan AD, Bidwell LC, Hutchison KE. Effects of cannabidiol in cannabis flower: Implications for harm reduction. Addict Biol 2022; 27:e13092. [PMID: 34467598 PMCID: PMC9357513 DOI: 10.1111/adb.13092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Using a federally compatible, naturalistic at-home administration procedure, the present study examined the acute effects of three cannabis flower chemovars with different tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) to cannabidiol (CBD) ratios, in order to test whether chemovars with a higher CBD content produce different effects. Participants were randomly assigned to ad libitum administration of one of three chemovars (THC-dominant: 24% THC, 1% CBD; THC+CBD: 9% THC, 10% CBD; CBD-dominant: 1% THC, 23% CBD); 159 regular cannabis users (male = 94, female = 65) were assessed in a mobile pharmacology lab before, immediately after, and 1 h after ad libitum administration of their assigned chemovar. Plasma cannabinoids as well as positive (e.g., high, elation) and negative (e.g., paranoia and anxiety) subjective effects were assessed at each time points. Participants who used the CBD-dominant and THC + CBD chemovars had significantly less THC and more CBD in plasma samples compared to participants who used the THC-dominant chemovar. Further, the THC + CBD chemovar was associated with similar levels of positive subjective effects, but significantly less paranoia and anxiety, as compared to the THC-dominant chemovar. This is one of the first studies to examine the differential effects of various THC to CBD ratios using chemovars that are widely available in state-regulated markets. Individuals using a THC + CBD chemovar had significantly lower plasma THC concentrations and reported less paranoia and anxiety while also reporting similar positive mood effects as compared to individuals using THC only, which is intriguing from a harm reduction perspective. Further research is needed to clarify the harm reduction potential of CBD in cannabis products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurel P. Gibson
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, USA
| | - Hollis C. Karoly
- Department of Psychology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Jarrod M. Ellingson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Jost Klawitter
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA,Department of Anesthesiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Cristina Sempio
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Julia E. Squeri
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, USA
| | - Angela D. Bryan
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, USA,Institute of Cognitive Science, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, USA
| | - L. Cinnamon Bidwell
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, USA,Institute of Cognitive Science, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, USA
| | - Kent E. Hutchison
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA,Institute of Cognitive Science, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, USA
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Schwitzer T, Moreno-Zaragoza A, Dramé L, Schwan R, Angioi-Duprez K, Albuisson E, Laprévote V. Variations of retinal dysfunctions with the level of cannabis use in regular users: Toward a better understanding of cannabis use pathophysiology. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:959347. [PMID: 36465284 PMCID: PMC9712212 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.959347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The impact of regular cannabis use on retinal function has already been studied using flash (fERG) and pattern (PERG) electroretinogram. Delayed ganglion and bipolar cells responses were observed as showed by increased peak time of PERG N95 and fERG b-wave recorded in photopic condition. Hypoactivity of amacrine cells was also showed by decreased amplitudes of oscillatory potentials (OPs). However, it is unknown how these retinal anomalies evolve according to the level of cannabis use in cannabis users. The aim of this study was to longitudinally assess the retinal function during a treatment aiming to reduce cannabis use. We recorded PERG and fERG in 40 regular cannabis users receiving either an 8 weeks mindfulness-based relapse prevention program or an 8 weeks treatment-as-usual therapy. ERGs were recorded before treatment, at the end of it, and 4 weeks afterward. We found reduced peak times in PERG N95 and fERG b-wave (p = 0.032 and p = 0.024: Dunn's post-hoc test) recorded at week 8 and increased amplitudes in OP2 and OP3 (p = 0.012 and p = 0.030: Dunn's post-hoc test) recorded at week 12 in users with decreased cannabis use. These results support variations of retinal anomalies with the level of cannabis use, implying that reduction of cannabis use could restore retinal function in regular users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Schwitzer
- Pôle Hospitalo-Universitaire de Psychiatrie d'Adultes et d'Addictologie du Grand Nancy, Centre Psychothérapique de Nancy, Laxou, France.,INSERM U1254, Imagerie Adaptative Diagnostique et Interventionnelle, Université de Lorraine, Nancy, France.,Faculté de Médecine, Université de Lorraine, Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy, France.,Fondation FondaMental, Créteil, France
| | - Aldo Moreno-Zaragoza
- Pôle Hospitalo-Universitaire de Psychiatrie d'Adultes et d'Addictologie du Grand Nancy, Centre Psychothérapique de Nancy, Laxou, France
| | - Louis Dramé
- Pôle Hospitalo-Universitaire de Psychiatrie d'Adultes et d'Addictologie du Grand Nancy, Centre Psychothérapique de Nancy, Laxou, France
| | - Raymund Schwan
- Pôle Hospitalo-Universitaire de Psychiatrie d'Adultes et d'Addictologie du Grand Nancy, Centre Psychothérapique de Nancy, Laxou, France.,INSERM U1254, Imagerie Adaptative Diagnostique et Interventionnelle, Université de Lorraine, Nancy, France.,Faculté de Médecine, Université de Lorraine, Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy, France.,Fondation FondaMental, Créteil, France
| | - Karine Angioi-Duprez
- Faculté de Médecine, Université de Lorraine, Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy, France.,Service d'Ophtalmologie, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire de Nancy (CHRU Nancy), Nancy, France
| | - Eliane Albuisson
- Faculté de Médecine, Université de Lorraine, Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy, France.,CHRU-Nancy, Délégation à la Recherche Clinique et à l'Innovation, Département Méthodologie Promotion Investigation, Unité de Méthodologie, Data Management et Statistique, Unité de Méthodologie, Datamanagement et Statistiques, Nancy, France.,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Institut Élie-Cartan de Lorraine, UMR 7502, Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy, France.,Département du Grand Est de Recherche en Soins Primaires: DEGERESP, Nancy, France
| | - Vincent Laprévote
- Pôle Hospitalo-Universitaire de Psychiatrie d'Adultes et d'Addictologie du Grand Nancy, Centre Psychothérapique de Nancy, Laxou, France.,Faculté de Médecine, Université de Lorraine, Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy, France.,INSERM U1114, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Département de Psychiatrie, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
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Stark T, Di Martino S, Drago F, Wotjak CT, Micale V. Phytocannabinoids and schizophrenia: Focus on adolescence as a critical window of enhanced vulnerability and opportunity for treatment. Pharmacol Res 2021; 174:105938. [PMID: 34655773 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The recent shift in socio-political debates and growing liberalization of Cannabis use across the globe has raised concern regarding its impact on vulnerable populations such as adolescents. Concurrent with declining perception of Cannabis harms, more adolescents are using it daily in several countries and consuming marijuana strains with high content of psychotropic delta (9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). These dual, related trends seem to facilitate the development of compromised social and cognitive performance at adulthood, which are described in preclinical and human studies. Cannabis exerts its effects via altering signalling within the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which modulates the stress circuitry during the neurodevelopment. In this context early interventions appear to circumvent the emergence of adult neurodevelopmental deficits. Accordingly, Cannabis sativa second-most abundant compound, cannabidiol (CBD), emerges as a potential therapeutic agent to treat neuropsychiatric disorders. We first focus on human and preclinical studies on the long-term effects induced by adolescent THC exposure as a "critical window" of enhanced neurophysiological vulnerability, which could be involved in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia and related primary psychotic disorders. Then, we focus on adolescence as a "window of opportunity" for early pharmacological treatment, as novel risk reduction strategy for neurodevelopmental disorders. Thus, we review current preclinical and clinical evidence regarding the efficacy of CBD in terms of positive, negative and cognitive symptoms treatment, safety profile, and molecular targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tibor Stark
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic; Department of Stress Neurobiology & Neurogenetics, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany
| | - Serena Di Martino
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Carsten T Wotjak
- Department of Stress Neurobiology & Neurogenetics, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany; Central Nervous System Diseases Research (CNSDR), Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co KG, 88397 Biberach an der Riss, Germany
| | - Vincenzo Micale
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
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Epigenetic Mediation of AKT1 rs1130233's Effect on Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol-Induced Medial Temporal Function during Fear Processing. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11091240. [PMID: 34573260 PMCID: PMC8471665 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11091240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
High doses of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive component of cannabis, have been shown to have anxiogenic effects. Additionally, THC effects have been shown to be modulated by genotype, including the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs1130233 at the protein kinase AKT1 gene, a key component of the dopamine signalling cascade. As such, it is likely that epigenetic methylation around this SNP may affect AKT gene expression, which may in turn impact on the acute effects of THC on brain function. We investigated the genetic (AKT1 rs1130233) and epigenetic modulation of brain function during fear processing in a 2-session, double-blind, cross-over, randomized placebo-controlled THC administration, in 36 healthy males. Fear processing was assessed using an emotion (fear processing) paradigm, under functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Complete genetic and fMRI data were available for 34 participants. THC caused an increase in anxiety and transient psychotomimetic symptoms and para-hippocampal gyrus/amygdala activation. Number of A alleles at the AKT1 rs1130233 SNP, and percentage methylation at the CpG11-12 site, were independently associated with a greater effect of THC on activation in a network of brain regions including left and right parahippocampal gyri, respectively. AKT1 rs1130233 moderation of the THC effect on left parahippocampal activation persisted after covarying for methylation percentage, and was partially mediated in sections of the left parahippocampal gyrus/hippocampus by methylation percentage. These results may offer an example of how genetic and epigenetic variations influence the psychotomimetic and neurofunctional effects of THC.
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Kozak K, Smith PH, Lowe DJ, Weinberger AH, Cooper ZD, Rabin RA, George TP. A systematic review and meta-analysis of sex differences in cannabis use disorder amongst people with comorbid mental illness. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE 2021; 47:535-547. [PMID: 34280058 PMCID: PMC9144491 DOI: 10.1080/00952990.2021.1946071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While males are more likely diagnosed with cannabis use disorder (CUD), females are more susceptible to developing and maintaining CUD. Yet, for both sexes, CUD is associated with high rates of comorbid mental illness (MI). OBJECTIVES To identify and compare sex differences in the prevalence of comorbid CUD amongst individuals with/without MIs. METHODS This systematic review generated pooled odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) from 37 studies (including clinical trials, cohort, and case-control studies) among individuals with and without MIs, quantifying sex differences in rates of comorbid CUD. A meta-analysis was also completed. RESULTS In the CUD-only group, males were twice as likely to have CUD than females (OR = 2.0, CI = 1.9-2.1). Among MIs, males were more likely than females to have CUD comorbid with schizophrenia (OR ~2.6, CI = 2.5-2.7) and other psychotic, mood, and substance use disorders (1> OR <2.2, CI = 0.7-2.6). The reverse association (females > males) was observed for anxiety disorders and antisocial personality disorder (OR = 0.8, CI = 0.7-1.0). Among females, MIs increased the likelihood of having CUD, except for psychotic disorders and depression. A meta-analysis was inconclusive due to high heterogeneity across studies. Thus, comparisons across MI groups were not possible. CONCLUSION While males are more likely to be diagnosed with CUD, there are important sex differences in the prevalence of CUD across MI diagnoses that should be taken into account when approaching CUD prevention and determining treatment efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Kozak
- Institute of Medical Science (IMS), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Addictions Division, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Philip H. Smith
- Department of Kinesiology and Health, Miami University, Oxford, Ohio, USA
| | - Darby J.E Lowe
- Institute of Medical Science (IMS), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Addictions Division, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrea H. Weinberger
- Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, Yeshiva University and the Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Ziva D Cooper
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Science, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, California, USA
- UCLA Cannabis Research Initiative, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Rachel A. Rabin
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University and the Douglas Mental Health Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Tony P. George
- Institute of Medical Science (IMS), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Addictions Division, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Kearney-Ramos T, Haney M. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation as a potential treatment approach for cannabis use disorder. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 109:110290. [PMID: 33677045 PMCID: PMC9165758 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2021.110290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The expanding legalization of cannabis across the United States is associated with increases in cannabis use, and accordingly, an increase in the number and severity of individuals with cannabis use disorder (CUD). The lack of FDA-approved pharmacotherapies and modest efficacy of psychotherapeutic interventions means that many of those who seek treatment for CUD relapse within the first few months. Consequently, there is a pressing need for innovative, evidence-based treatment development for CUD. Preliminary evidence suggests that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) may be a novel, non-invasive therapeutic neuromodulation tool for the treatment of a variety of substance use disorders (SUDs), including recently receiving FDA clearance (August 2020) for use as a smoking cessation aid in tobacco cigarette smokers. However, the potential of rTMS for CUD has not yet been reviewed. This paper provides a primer on therapeutic neuromodulation techniques for SUDs, with a particular focus on reviewing the current status of rTMS research in people who use cannabis. Lastly, future directions are proposed for rTMS treatment development in CUD, with suggestions for study design parameters and clinical endpoints based on current gold-standard practices for therapeutic neuromodulation research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tonisha Kearney-Ramos
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA; Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Margaret Haney
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York, USA,Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
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The Effects of Acute Δ 9-Tetrahydrocannabinol on Striatal Glutamatergic Function: A Proton Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy Study. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY: COGNITIVE NEUROSCIENCE AND NEUROIMAGING 2021; 6:660-667. [PMID: 34099186 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsc.2021.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis and its main psychoactive component, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), can elicit transient psychotic symptoms. A key candidate biological mechanism of how THC induces psychotic symptoms is the modulation of glutamate in the brain. We sought to investigate the effects of acute THC administration on striatal glutamate levels and its relationship to the induction of psychotic symptoms. METHODS We used proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy to measure glutamate levels in the striatum in 20 healthy participants after THC (15 mg, oral) and matched placebo administration in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled design. Psychotic symptoms were measured using the Psychotomimetic States Inventory. RESULTS We found that THC administration did not significantly change glutamate (glutamate plus glutamine relative to creatine) concentration in the striatum (p = .58; scaled Jeffreys-Zellner-Siow Bayes factor = 4.29). THC increased psychotic symptoms, but the severity of these symptoms was not correlated with striatal glutamate levels. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that oral administration of 15 mg of THC does not result in altered striatal glutamate levels. Further work is needed to clarify the effects of THC on striatal glutamate.
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Oscillatory potentials abnormalities in regular cannabis users: Amacrine cells dysfunction as a marker of central dopaminergic modulation. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 108:110083. [PMID: 32860840 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.110083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis is a neuromodulating substance that acts on central synaptic transmission. Regular cannabis use induces a decreased capacity for dopamine synthesis in the brain. The retina is considered an easy means of investigating dysfunctions of synaptic transmission in the brain. We have previously studied the impact of regular cannabis use on retinal function. Using the N95 wave of the pattern electroretinogram, we found a 6 ms-delayed ganglion cells response. Using the b-wave of the photopic flash electroretinogram, we found a 1 ms-delayed bipolar cells response. Here, we investigated amacrine cells function because these cells are located between the bipolar cells and the ganglion cells and contribute to amplifying the signal between these two layers of the retina. We tested the effect of regular cannabis use on these retinal dopaminergic cells. We assessed the role of these cells in amplifying the delay observed previously. METHODS We recorded dark-adapted 3.0 flash ERG oscillatory potentials in 56 regular cannabis users and 29 healthy controls. The amplitude and implicit time of OP1, OP2, OP3 and OP4 were evaluated. RESULTS Cannabis users showed a significant decrease in OP2 amplitude (p = 0.029, Mann-Whitney test) and OP3 amplitude (p = 0.024, Mann-Whitney test). No significant difference was found between the groups for OP1 and OP4 amplitude or for the implicit time of oscillatory potentials. CONCLUSIONS These results reflect the impact of regular cannabis use on amacrine cells function. They highlight abnormalities in dopaminergic transmission and are similar to those found in Parkinson's disease. Oscillatory potentials could be used as markers of central dopaminergic modulation.
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Blest-Hopley G, O'Neill A, Wilson R, Giampietro V, Bhattacharyya S. Disrupted parahippocampal and midbrain function underlie slower verbal learning in adolescent-onset regular cannabis use. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2021; 238:1315-1331. [PMID: 31814047 PMCID: PMC8062355 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-019-05407-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Prolonged use of cannabis, the most widely used illicit drug worldwide, has been consistently associated with impairment in memory and verbal learning. Although the neurophysiological underpinnings of these impairments have been investigated previously using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), while performing memory tasks, the results of these studies have been inconsistent and no clear picture has emerged yet. Furthermore, no previous studies have investigated trial-by-trial learning. OBJECTIVES We aimed to investigate the neural underpinnings of impaired verbal learning in cannabis users as estimated over repeated learning trials. METHODS We studied 21 adolescent-onset regular cannabis users and 21 non-users using fMRI performed at least 12 h after last cannabis use, while they performed a paired associate verbal learning task that allowed us to examine trial-by-trial learning. Brain activation during repeated verbal encoding and recall conditions of the task was indexed using the blood oxygen level-dependent haemodynamic response fMRI signal. RESULTS There was a significant improvement in recall score over repeated trials indicating learning occurring across the two groups of participants. However, learning was significantly slower in cannabis users compared to non-users (p = 0.032, partial eta-squared = 0.108). While learning verbal stimuli over repeated encoding blocks, non-users displayed progressive increase in recruitment of the midbrain, parahippocampal gyrus and thalamus (p = 0.00939, partial eta-squared = 0.180). In contrast, cannabis users displayed a greater but disrupted activation pattern in these regions, which showed a stronger correlation with new word-pairs learnt over the same blocks in cannabis users than in non-users. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that disrupted medial temporal and midbrain function underlie slower learning in adolescent-onset cannabis users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Blest-Hopley
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Aisling O'Neill
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Robin Wilson
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Vincent Giampietro
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Sagnik Bhattacharyya
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, UK.
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, Camberwell, London, UK.
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36
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Martin‐Rodriguez JF, Ruiz‐Veguilla M, Alvarez de Toledo P, Aizpurua‐Olaizola O, Zarandona I, Canal‐Rivero M, Rodriguez‐Baena A, Mir P. Impaired motor cortical plasticity associated with cannabis use disorder in young adults. Addict Biol 2021; 26:e12912. [PMID: 32323450 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12912] [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: 10/24/2019] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Maladaptive cortical plasticity has been described in individuals with heroin and methamphetamine addiction and may mediate other substance abuse disorders. It is unknown whether cannabis dependence in humans alters the capacity for induction of cortical plasticity. The aim of this study was to non-invasively investigate cortical plasticity with transcranial magnetic stimulation in young adults who meet DSM-5 criteria for cannabis use disorder (CUD). Thirty men (ages 20- 30) who used cannabis daily over the previous 6 months (15 diagnosed of CUD) and 15 demographically matched non-users were enrolled in this study. All participants underwent two sessions of theta burst stimulation (TBS) in which either continuous TBS (cTBS; 600 pulses, 80% active motor threshold) or intermittent TBS (iTBS; 2-s train of cTBS repeated every 10 s for a total of 190 s, 600 pulses) was applied over the primary motor cortex. The effects of these protocols were assessed by analysing the contralateral motor evoked potentials (MEPs). The relationships between cortical plasticity and problematic cannabis use, degree of dependence, and nicotine addiction were also investigated. Significant MEP inhibition after cTBS was observed in both cannabis users without CUD and non-users, while this inhibition was not seen in cannabis users with CUD. Strikingly, less motor cortical plasticity was observed in subjects with severe problematic cannabis use. No significant differences between users and non-users were found in the iTBS-induced cortical plasticity measures. Our study provides the first evidence of maladaptive cortical plasticity associated with cannabis use disorder and problematic cannabis use in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Francisco Martin‐Rodriguez
- Unidad de Trastornos del Movimiento, Servicio de Neurología y Neurofisiología Clínica, Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío/CSIC/Universidad de Sevilla Seville Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED) Madrid Spain
- Experimental Psychology Department, Faculty of Psychology University of Seville Seville Spain
| | - Miguel Ruiz‐Veguilla
- CIBERSAM Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Salud Mental Madrid Spain
- UGC‐SALUD MENTAL, Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla (IBIS) Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocio/CSIC/Universidad de Sevilla/UGC Salud Mental HVR Seville Spain
| | - Paloma Alvarez de Toledo
- Unidad de Trastornos del Movimiento, Servicio de Neurología y Neurofisiología Clínica, Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío/CSIC/Universidad de Sevilla Seville Spain
| | | | - Iratxe Zarandona
- Departamento de Química Analítica Universidad del País Vasco (UPV/EHU) Leioa Spain
| | - Manuel Canal‐Rivero
- CIBERSAM Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Salud Mental Madrid Spain
- Departamento de Psiquiatría Hospital Universitario Germans Trías i Pujol Badalona, Barcelona Spain
| | - Antonio Rodriguez‐Baena
- Unidad de Trastornos del Movimiento, Servicio de Neurología y Neurofisiología Clínica, Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío/CSIC/Universidad de Sevilla Seville Spain
| | - Pablo Mir
- Unidad de Trastornos del Movimiento, Servicio de Neurología y Neurofisiología Clínica, Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío/CSIC/Universidad de Sevilla Seville Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED) Madrid Spain
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37
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Wilkerson JL, Bilbrey JA, Felix JS, Makriyannis A, McMahon LR. Untapped endocannabinoid pharmacological targets: Pipe dream or pipeline? Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2021; 206:173192. [PMID: 33932409 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2021.173192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
It has been established that the endogenous cannabinoid (endocannabinoid) system plays key modulatory roles in a wide variety of pathological conditions. The endocannabinoid system comprises both cannabinoid receptors, their endogenous ligands including 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), N-arachidonylethanolamine (anandamide, AEA), and enzymes that regulate the synthesis and degradation of endogenous ligands which include diacylglycerol lipase alpha (DAGL-α), diacylglycerol lipase beta (DAGL-β), fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL), α/β hydrolase domain 6 (ABHD6). As the endocannabinoid system exerts considerable involvement in the regulation of homeostasis and disease, much effort has been made towards understanding endocannabinoid-related mechanisms of action at cellular, physiological, and pathological levels as well as harnessing the various components of the endocannabinoid system to produce novel therapeutics. However, drug discovery efforts within the cannabinoid field have been slower than anticipated to reach satisfactory clinical endpoints and raises an important question into the validity of developing novel ligands that therapeutically target the endocannabinoid system. To answer this, we will first examine evidence that supports the existence of an endocannabinoid system role within inflammatory diseases, neurodegeneration, pain, substance use disorders, mood disorders, as well as metabolic diseases. Next, this review will discuss recent clinical studies, within the last 5 years, of cannabinoid compounds in context to these diseases. We will also address some of the challenges and considerations within the cannabinoid field that may be important in the advancement of therapeutics into the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny L Wilkerson
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
| | - Joshua A Bilbrey
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Jasmine S Felix
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Alexandros Makriyannis
- Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Departments of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Lance R McMahon
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
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38
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Colizzi M, Bortoletto R, Costa R, Zoccante L. Palmitoylethanolamide and Its Biobehavioral Correlates in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review of Human and Animal Evidence. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13041346. [PMID: 33919499 PMCID: PMC8073263 DOI: 10.3390/nu13041346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) pathophysiology is not completely understood; however, altered inflammatory response and glutamate signaling have been reported, leading to the investigation of molecules targeting the immune-glutamatergic system in ASD treatment. Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is a naturally occurring saturated N-acylethanolamine that has proven to be effective in controlling inflammation, depression, epilepsy, and pain, possibly through a neuroprotective role against glutamate toxicity. Here, we systematically reviewed all human and animal studies examining PEA and its biobehavioral correlates in ASD. Studies indicate altered serum/brain levels of PEA and other endocannabinoids (ECBs)/acylethanolamines (AEs) in ASD. Altered PEA signaling response to social exposure and altered expression/activity of enzymes responsible for the synthesis and catalysis of ECBs/AEs, as well as downregulation of the peroxisome proliferator activated receptor-α (PPAR-α) and cannabinoid receptor target GPR55 mRNA brain expression, have been reported. Stress and exposure to exogenous cannabinoids may modulate ECBs/AEs levels and expression of candidate genes for neuropsychiatric disorders, with implications for ASD. Limited research suggests that PEA supplementation reduces overall autism severity by improving language and social and nonsocial behaviors. Potential neurobiological underpinnings include modulation of immune response, neuroinflammation, neurotrophy, apoptosis, neurogenesis, neuroplasticity, neurodegeneration, mitochondrial function, and microbiota activity, possibly through peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α (PPAR-α) activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Colizzi
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Maternal-Child Integrated Care Department, Integrated University Hospital of Verona, 37126 Verona, Italy; (R.B.); (L.Z.)
- Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London SE5 8AF, UK
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-045-812-6832
| | - Riccardo Bortoletto
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Maternal-Child Integrated Care Department, Integrated University Hospital of Verona, 37126 Verona, Italy; (R.B.); (L.Z.)
| | - Rosalia Costa
- Community Mental Health Team, Department of Mental Health, ASST Mantova, 46100 Mantua, Italy;
| | - Leonardo Zoccante
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Maternal-Child Integrated Care Department, Integrated University Hospital of Verona, 37126 Verona, Italy; (R.B.); (L.Z.)
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39
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Gerring ZF, Vargas AM, Gamazon ER, Derks EM. An integrative systems-based analysis of substance use: eQTL-informed gene-based tests, gene networks, and biological mechanisms. Am J Med Genet B Neuropsychiatr Genet 2021; 186:162-172. [PMID: 33369091 PMCID: PMC8137546 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.b.32829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Genome-wide association studies have identified multiple genetic risk factors underlying susceptibility to substance use, however, the functional genes and biological mechanisms remain poorly understood. The discovery and characterization of risk genes can be facilitated by the integration of genome-wide association data and gene expression data across biologically relevant tissues and/or cell types to identify genes whose expression is altered by DNA sequence variation (expression quantitative trait loci; eQTLs). The integration of gene expression data can be extended to the study of genetic co-expression, under the biologically valid assumption that genes form co-expression networks to influence the manifestation of a disease or trait. Here, we integrate genome-wide association data with gene expression data from 13 brain tissues to identify candidate risk genes for 8 substance use phenotypes. We then test for the enrichment of candidate risk genes within tissue-specific gene co-expression networks to identify modules (or groups) of functionally related genes whose dysregulation is associated with variation in substance use. We identified eight gene modules in brain that were enriched with gene-based association signals for substance use phenotypes. For example, a single module of 40 co-expressed genes was enriched with gene-based associations for drinks per week and biological pathways involved in GABA synthesis, release, reuptake and degradation. Our study demonstrates the utility of eQTL and gene co-expression analysis to uncover novel biological mechanisms for substance use traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary F Gerring
- Translational Neurogenomics Laboratory; QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Angela Mina Vargas
- Translational Neurogenomics Laboratory; QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Eric R Gamazon
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA,Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA,Clare Hall, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Eske M Derks
- Translational Neurogenomics Laboratory; QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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40
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Delayed on- and off-retinal responses of cones pathways in regular cannabis users: An On-Off flash electroretinogram case-control study. J Psychiatr Res 2021; 136:312-318. [PMID: 33636687 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2021.02.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The retina is considered a useful area for investigating synaptic transmission abnormalities in neuropsychiatric disorders, including as a result of using cannabis, the most widely consumed illicit substance in the developed world. The impact of regular cannabis use on retinal function has already been evaluated, using pattern and flash electroretinogram (ERG) to demonstrate a delay in ganglion and bipolar cell response. Using multifocal ERG, it was showed that the delay to be preferentially located in the central retina. ERG tests do not separately examine the impact of cannabis on the On and Off pathways. The purpose of this study is to assess On and Off pathway function using On-Off ERG. We conducted an On-Off ERG test in 42 regular cannabis users and 26 healthy controls. The protocol was compliant with the International Society for Clinical Electrophysiology of Vision (ISCEV) standards. Amplitude and peak time were measured for the a-, b- and d-waves. Results in the regular cannabis users showed a significant increase in the latencies of both the b- and the d-wave (p = 0.020, p = 0.022, respectively, Mann-Whitney U test), with no change in the wave amplitudes. A-wave peak time and amplitude were unchanged. These findings are reflective of an effect of regular cannabis use on the On and Off pathways and are consistent with previous findings which also identified increases in retinal neuron response times. We confirm here that regular cannabis use impacts the post-receptoral cones pathway at the level of bipolar cells, affecting the On and Off pathways.
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41
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Popescu A, Marian M, Drăgoi AM, Costea RV. Understanding the genetics and neurobiological pathways behind addiction (Review). Exp Ther Med 2021; 21:544. [PMID: 33815617 PMCID: PMC8014976 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.9976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The hypothesis issued by modern medicine states that many diseases known to humans are genetically determined, influenced or not by environmental factors, which is applicable to most psychiatric disorders as well. This article focuses on two pending questions regarding addiction: Why do some individuals become addicted while others do not? along with Is it a learned behavior or is it genetically predefined? Recent data suggest that addiction is more than repeated exposure, it is the synchronicity between intrinsic factors (genotype, sex, age, preexisting addictive disorder, or other mental illness), extrinsic factors (childhood, level of education, socioeconomic status, social support, entourage, drug availability) and the nature of the addictive agent (pharmacokinetics, path of administration, psychoactive properties). The dopamine-mesolimbic motivation-reward-reinforcement cycle remains the most coherent physiological theory in addiction. While the common property of addictive substances is that they are dopamine-agonists, each class has individual mechanisms, pharmacokinetics and psychoactive potentials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Popescu
- Department of Psychiatry, 'Prof. Dr. Alex. Obregia' Clinical Hospital of Psychiatry, 041914 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Maria Marian
- Department of Psychiatry, 'Prof. Dr. Alex. Obregia' Clinical Hospital of Psychiatry, 041914 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ana Miruna Drăgoi
- Department of Psychiatry, 'Prof. Dr. Alex. Obregia' Clinical Hospital of Psychiatry, 041914 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Radu-Virgil Costea
- Department of General Surgery, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
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42
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Bonilla-Del Río I, Puente N, Mimenza A, Ramos A, Serrano M, Lekunberri L, Gerrikagoitia I, Christie BR, Nahirney PC, Grandes P. Acute Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol prompts rapid changes in cannabinoid CB 1 receptor immunolabeling and subcellular structure in CA1 hippocampus of young adult male mice. J Comp Neurol 2021; 529:2332-2346. [PMID: 33368252 DOI: 10.1002/cne.25098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The use and abuse of cannabis can be associated with significant pathophysiology, however, it remains unclear whether (1) acute administration of Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) during early adulthood alters the cannabinoid type 1 (CB1 ) receptor localization and expression in cells of the brain, and (2) THC produces structural brain changes. Here we use electron microscopy and a highly sensitive pre-embedding immunogold method to examine CB1 receptors in the hippocampus cornu ammonis subfield 1 (CA1) 30 min after male mice were exposed to a single THC injection (5 mg/kg). The findings show that acute exposure to THC can significantly decrease the percentage of CB1 receptor immunopositive terminals making symmetric synapses, mitochondria, and astrocytes. The percentage of CB1 receptor-labeled terminals forming asymmetric synapses was unaffected. Lastly, CB1 receptor expression was significantly lower at terminals of symmetric and asymmetric synapses as well as in mitochondria. Structurally, CA1 dendrites were significantly larger, and contained more spines and mitochondria following acute THC administration. The area of the dendritic spines, synaptic terminals, mitochondria, and astrocytes decreased significantly following acute THC exposure. Altogether, these results indicate that even a single THC exposure can have a significant impact on CB1 receptor expression, and can alter CA1 ultrastructure, within 30 min of drug exposure. These changes may contribute to the behavioral alterations experienced by young individuals shortly after cannabis intoxication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Itziar Bonilla-Del Río
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain.,Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Science Park of the University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain
| | - Nagore Puente
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain.,Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Science Park of the University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain
| | - Amaia Mimenza
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain.,Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Science Park of the University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain
| | - Almudena Ramos
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain.,Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Science Park of the University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain
| | - Maitane Serrano
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain.,Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Science Park of the University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain
| | - Leire Lekunberri
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain.,Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Science Park of the University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Gerrikagoitia
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain.,Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Science Park of the University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain
| | - Brian R Christie
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.,Island Medical Program, University of British Columbia, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Patrick C Nahirney
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.,Island Medical Program, University of British Columbia, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Pedro Grandes
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain.,Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Science Park of the University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain.,Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
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43
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Brunt TM, Bossong MG. The neuropharmacology of cannabinoid receptor ligands in central signaling pathways. Eur J Neurosci 2020; 55:909-921. [PMID: 32974975 PMCID: PMC9291836 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system is a complex neuronal system involved in a number of biological functions, like attention, anxiety, mood, memory, appetite, reward, and immune responses. It is at the centre of scientific interest, which is driven by therapeutic promise of certain cannabinoid ligands and the changing legalization of herbal cannabis in many countries. The endocannabinoid system is a modulatory system, with endocannabinoids as retrograde neurotransmitters rather than direct neurotransmitters. Neuropharmacology of cannabinoid ligands in the brain can therefore be understood in terms of their modulatory actions through other neurotransmitter systems. The CB1 receptor is chiefly responsible for effects of endocannabinoids and analogous ligands in the brain. An overview of the neuropharmacology of several cannabinoid receptor ligands, including endocannabinoids, herbal cannabis and synthetic cannabinoid receptor ligands is given in this review. Their mechanism of action at the endocannabinoid system is described, mainly in the brain. In addition, effects of cannabinoid ligands on other neurotransmitter systems will also be described, such as dopamine, serotonin, glutamate, noradrenaline, opioid, and GABA. In light of this, therapeutic potential and adverse effects of cannabinoid receptor ligands will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tibor M. Brunt
- Department of Psychiatry Amsterdam Institute for Addiction ResearchAmsterdam UMCUniversity of Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Matthijs G. Bossong
- Department of Psychiatry University Medical Center Utrecht Brain CenterUtrecht University Utrecht The Netherlands
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44
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Towe SL, Meade CS, Cloak CC, Bell RP, Baptiste J, Chang L. Reciprocal Influences of HIV and Cannabinoids on the Brain and Cognitive Function. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2020; 15:765-779. [PMID: 32445005 PMCID: PMC7680275 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-020-09921-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Globally, cannabis is the most commonly used illicit drug, with disproportionately high use among persons with HIV. Despite advances in HIV care, nearly half of persons living with HIV continue to experience neurocognitive deficits or impairments that may have negative impacts on their daily function. Chronic cannabis use may play a role in the development or exacerbation of these impairments. Here we present a review summarizing existing research detailing the effect of cannabis use associated with the neuropathogenesis of HIV. We examine evidence for possible additive or synergistic effects of HIV infection and cannabis use on neuroHIV in both the preclinical and adult human literatures, including in vitro studies, animal models, clinical neuroimaging research, and studies examining the cognitive effects of cannabis. We discuss the limitations of existing research, including methodological challenges involved with clinical research with human subjects. We identify gaps in the field and propose critical research questions to advance our understanding of how cannabis use affects neuroHIV. Graphical Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheri L Towe
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, 27705, USA
| | - Christina S Meade
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, 27705, USA
| | - Christine C Cloak
- Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 670 W. Baltimore Street, HSF III, Room 1161, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Ryan P Bell
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, 27705, USA
| | - Julian Baptiste
- Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 670 W. Baltimore Street, HSF III, Room 1161, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Linda Chang
- Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 670 W. Baltimore Street, HSF III, Room 1161, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA.
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
- John A Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, 96813, USA.
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45
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Vaseghi S, Nasehi M, Zarrindast MR. How do stupendous cannabinoids modulate memory processing via affecting neurotransmitter systems? Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 120:173-221. [PMID: 33171142 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Revised: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, we wanted to review the role of cannabinoids in learning and memory in animal models, with respect to their interaction effects with six principal neurotransmitters involved in learning and memory including dopamine, glutamate, GABA (γ-aminobutyric acid), serotonin, acetylcholine, and noradrenaline. Cannabinoids induce a wide-range of unpredictable effects on cognitive functions, while their mechanisms are not fully understood. Cannabinoids in different brain regions and in interaction with different neurotransmitters, show diverse responses. Previous findings have shown that cannabinoids agonists and antagonists induce various unpredictable effects such as similar effect, paradoxical effect, or dualistic effect. It should not be forgotten that brain neurotransmitter systems can also play unpredictable roles in mediating cognitive functions. Thus, we aimed to review and discuss the effect of cannabinoids in interaction with neurotransmitters on learning and memory. In addition, we mentioned to the type of interactions between cannabinoids and neurotransmitter systems. We suggested that investigating the type of interactions is a critical neuropharmacological issue that should be considered in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salar Vaseghi
- Cognitive and Neuroscience Research Center (CNRC), Amir-Almomenin Hospital, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Institute for Cognitive Science Studies (ICSS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Nasehi
- Cognitive and Neuroscience Research Center (CNRC), Amir-Almomenin Hospital, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mohammad-Reza Zarrindast
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Institute for Cognitive Science Studies (ICSS), Tehran, Iran; Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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46
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Blest‐Hopley G, O'Neill A, Wilson R, Giampietro V, Lythgoe D, Egerton A, Bhattacharyya S. Adolescent-onset heavy cannabis use associated with significantly reduced glial but not neuronal markers and glutamate levels in the hippocampus. Addict Biol 2020; 25:e12827. [PMID: 31478302 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Revised: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 08/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis use has been associated with adverse mental health outcomes, the neurochemical underpinnings of which are poorly understood. Although preclinical evidence suggests glutamatergic dysfunction following cannabis exposure in several brain regions including the hippocampus, evidence from human studies have been inconsistent. We investigated the effect of persistent cannabis use on the brain levels of N-acetyl aspartate (NAA) and myoinositol, the metabolite markers of neurons and glia, the site of the main central cannabinoid CB1 receptor, and the levels of glutamate, the neurotransmitter directly affected by CB1 modulation. We investigated cannabis users (CUs) who started using during adolescence, the period of greatest vulnerability to cannabis effects and focused on the hippocampus, where type 1 cannabinoid receptors (CBR1) are expressed in high density and have been linked to altered glutamatergic neurotransmission. Twenty-two adolescent-onset CUs and 21 nonusing controls (NU), completed proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy, to measure hippocampal metabolite concentrations. Glutamate, NAA, and myoinositol levels were compared between CU and NU using separate analyses of covariance. CU had significantly lower myoinositol but not glutamate or NAA levels in the hippocampus compared with NU. Myoinositol levels in CU positively correlated with glutamate levels, whereas this association was absent in NU. Altered myoinositol levels may be a marker of glia dysfunction and is consistent with experimental preclinical evidence that cannabinoid-induced glial dysfunction may underlie cannabinoid-induced memory impairments. Future studies using appropriate imaging techniques such as positron emission tomography should investigate whether glial dysfunction associated with cannabis use underlies hippocampal dysfunction and memory impairment in CUs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Blest‐Hopley
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience King's College London London UK
| | - Aisling O'Neill
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience King's College London London UK
| | - Robin Wilson
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience King's College London London UK
| | - Vincent Giampietro
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience King's College London London UK
| | - David Lythgoe
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience King's College London London UK
| | - Alice Egerton
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience King's College London London UK
| | - Sagnik Bhattacharyya
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience King's College London London UK
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust London UK
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Colizzi M, Weltens N, Lythgoe DJ, Williams SC, Van Oudenhove L, Bhattacharyya S. Differential sensitivity to the acute psychotomimetic effects of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol associated with its differential acute effects on glial function and cortisol. Psychol Med 2020; 52:1-8. [PMID: 33107418 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291720003827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis use has been associated with psychosis through exposure to delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), its key psychoactive ingredient. Although preclinical and human evidence suggests that Δ9-THC acutely modulates glial function and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity, whether differential sensitivity to the acute psychotomimetic effects of Δ9-THC is associated with differential effects of Δ9-THC on glial function and HPA-axis response has never been tested. METHODS A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover study investigated whether sensitivity to the psychotomimetic effects of Δ9-THC moderates the acute effects of a single Δ9-THC dose (1.19 mg/2 ml) on myo-inositol levels, a surrogate marker of glia, in the Anterior Cingulate Cortex (ACC), and circadian cortisol levels, the key neuroendocrine marker of the HPA-axis, in a set of 16 healthy participants (seven males) with modest previous cannabis exposure. RESULTS The Δ9-THC-induced change in ACC myo-inositol levels differed significantly between those sensitive to (Δ9-THC minus placebo; M = -0.251, s.d. = 1.242) and those not sensitive (M = 1.615, s.d. = 1.753) to the psychotomimetic effects of the drug (t(14) = 2.459, p = 0.028). Further, the Δ9-THC-induced change in cortisol levels over the study period (baseline minus 2.5 h post-drug injection) differed significantly between those sensitive to (Δ9-THC minus placebo; M = -275.4, s.d. = 207.519) and those not sensitive (M = 74.2, s.d. = 209.281) to the psychotomimetic effects of the drug (t(13) = 3.068, p = 0.009). Specifically, Δ9-THC exposure lowered ACC myo-inositol levels and disrupted the physiological diurnal cortisol decrease only in those subjects developing transient psychosis-like symptoms. CONCLUSIONS The interindividual differences in transient psychosis-like effects of Δ9-THC are the result of its differential impact on glial function and stress response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Colizzi
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Biomedical Research Centre, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, and Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK
- Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Italy
| | - Nathalie Weltens
- Laboratory for Brain-Gut Axis Studies (LaBGAS), Translational Research Center for Gastrointestinal Disorders (TARGID), Department of Chronic Diseases, Metabolism and Ageing, University of Leuven, Belgium
| | - David J Lythgoe
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK
| | - Steve Cr Williams
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK
| | - Lukas Van Oudenhove
- Laboratory for Brain-Gut Axis Studies (LaBGAS), Translational Research Center for Gastrointestinal Disorders (TARGID), Department of Chronic Diseases, Metabolism and Ageing, University of Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sagnik Bhattacharyya
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Biomedical Research Centre, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, and Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK
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Hasin DS, Aharonovich E. Implications of Medical and Recreational Marijuana Laws for Neuroscience Research: a Review. Curr Behav Neurosci Rep 2020; 7:258-266. [PMID: 34336547 PMCID: PMC8323790 DOI: 10.1007/s40473-020-00222-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review Review of US medical and recreational marijuana laws (MML and RML), their effects on cannabis potency, prevalence of non-medical cannabis use and cannabis use disorder (CUD) in adolescents and adults, and implications for neuroscience research, given what is known about the relationship of cannabis to neurocognitive impairments and underlying brain functioning. Recent Findings Cannabis potency may be increasing faster in states with MML or RML than in other states. MML and RML have not impacted prevalence in adolescents but have consistently been shown to increase rates of adult non-medical use and CUD. Summary Recent neurocognitive or neuroimaging studies may be more impacted by cannabis than studies conducted when MML and RML were less common. Neurocognitive or neuroimaging studies conducted in MML or RML states should carefully test potential participants for recent cannabis use. More research is needed on cannabis and cognition in medical marijuana patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah S. Hasin
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, 722 W 168th St, New York, NY 10032, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, 1051 Riverside Dr, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Medical Center, 1051 Riverside Dr, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Efrat Aharonovich
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, 1051 Riverside Dr, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Medical Center, 1051 Riverside Dr, New York, NY 10032, USA
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Newman SD, Cheng H, Kim DJ, Schnakenberg-Martin A, Dydak U, Dharmadhikari S, Hetrick W, O'Donnell B. An investigation of the relationship between glutamate and resting state connectivity in chronic cannabis users. Brain Imaging Behav 2020; 14:2062-2071. [PMID: 31302844 PMCID: PMC6955389 DOI: 10.1007/s11682-019-00165-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Human and animal studies have shown that heavy cannabis (CB) use interacts with glutamatergic signaling. Additionally, recent studies have suggested that glutamate (Glu) may drive resting state functional connectivity (RSfc). The aims of the current preliminary study were to: 1) determine whether dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC) Glu is related to RSfc between the dACC and two nodes of the reward network, the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and hippocampus (Hp); and 2) determine whether CB use interacts with the relationship between dACC Glu and RSfc. A group of 23 chronic CB users and 23 healthy controls participated in this multimodal MRI study. Glu levels were assessed in the dACC using magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). Linear regression models were used to determine whether dACC Glu and CB use predicts RSfc between the dACC and the NAc and Hp. While the effect size is small, the results showed that the connectivity between the dACC and right NAc was predicted by the interaction between dACC Glu levels and monthly CB use. Additionally, while there is some suggestion that dACC Glu is correlated with dACC-hippocampal connectivity, unlike for dACC/NAc connectivity the relationship between them does not appear to be affected by CB use. These preliminary findings are significant in that they demonstrate the need for future studies with larger sample sizes to better characterize the relationship between resting state connectivity and neurochemistry as well as to characterize how CB use interacts with that relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharlene D Newman
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, USA.
- Program in Neuroscience, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA.
| | - Hu Cheng
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, USA
- Program in Neuroscience, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Dae-Jin Kim
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, USA
| | | | - Ulrike Dydak
- School of Health Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Shalmali Dharmadhikari
- School of Health Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - William Hetrick
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, USA
- Program in Neuroscience, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Brian O'Donnell
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, USA
- Program in Neuroscience, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
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50
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Stith SS, Diviant JP, Brockelman F, Keeling K, Hall B, Lucern S, Vigil JM. Alleviative effects of Cannabis flower on migraine and headache. JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE 2020; 18:416-424. [PMID: 32758396 DOI: 10.1016/j.joim.2020.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2019] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Few studies to date have measured the real-time effects of consumption of common and commercially available Cannabis products for the treatment of headache and migraine under naturalistic conditions. This study examines, for the first time, the effectiveness of using dried Cannabis flower, the most widely used type of Cannabis product in the United States, in actual time for treatment of headache- and migraine-related pain and the associations between different product characteristics and changes in symptom intensity following Cannabis use. METHODS Between 06/10/2016 and 02/12/2019, 699 people used the Releaf Application to record real-time details of their Cannabis use, including product characteristics and symptom intensity levels prior to and following self-administration; data included 1910 session-level attempts to treat headache- (1328 sessions) or migraine-related pain (582 sessions). Changes in headache- or migraine-related pain intensity were measured on a 0-10 scale prior to, and immediately, following Cannabis consumption. RESULTS Ninety-four percent of users experienced symptom relief within a two-hour observation window. The average symptom intensity reduction was 3.3 points on a 0-10 scale (standard deviation = 2.28, Cohen's d = 1.58), with males experiencing greater relief than females (P < 0.001) and a trend that younger users (< 35 years) experience greater relief than older users (P = 0.08). Mixed effects regression models showed that, among the known (i.e., labeled) product characteristics, tetrahydrocannabinol levels 10% and higher are the strongest independent predictors of symptom relief, and this effect is particularly prominent in headache rather than migraine sufferers (P < 0.05), females (P < 0.05) and younger users (P < 0.001). Females and younger users also appear to gain greater symptom relief from flower labeled as "C. indica" rather than "C. sativa" or other hybrid strains. CONCLUSION These results suggest that whole dried Cannabis flower may be an effective medication for treatment of migraine- and headache-related pain, but the effectiveness differs according to characteristics of the Cannabis plant, the combustion methods, and the age and gender of the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah S Stith
- Department of Economics, Faculty of Economics, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, USA
| | - Jegason P Diviant
- Department of Psychology, Student of Psychology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, USA
| | - Franco Brockelman
- Morebetter Ltd. Software Developer, Hyattsville, Maryland 20781, USA
| | - Keenan Keeling
- Morebetter Ltd. Software Developer, Hyattsville, Maryland 20781, USA
| | - Branden Hall
- Morebetter Ltd. Software Developer, Hyattsville, Maryland 20781, USA
| | - Storri Lucern
- Department of Psychology, Student of Psychology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, USA
| | - Jacob M Vigil
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, USA.
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