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Intranuovo F, Majellaro M, Mastropasqua F, Delre P, Abatematteo FS, Mangiatordi GF, Stefanachi A, Brea J, Loza MI, Riganti C, Ligresti A, Kumar P, Esposito D, Cristino L, Nicois A, González L, Perrone MG, Colabufo NA, Sotelo E, Abate C, Contino M. N-Adamantyl-1-alkyl-4-oxo-1,4-dihydroquinoline-3-carboxamide Derivatives as Fluorescent Probes to Detect Microglia Activation through the Imaging of Cannabinoid Receptor Subtype 2 (CB2R). J Med Chem 2024. [PMID: 38937147 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c00564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Cannabinoid receptor subtype 2 (CB2R) is emerging as a pivotal biomarker to identify the first steps of inflammation-based diseases such as cancer and neurodegeneration. There is an urgent need to find specific probes that may result in green and safe alternatives to the commonly used radiative technologies, to deepen the knowledge of the CB2R pathways impacting the onset of the above-mentioned pathologies. Therefore, based on one of the CB2R pharmacophores, we developed a class of fluorescent N-adamantyl-1-alkyl-4-oxo-1,4-dihydroquinoline-3-carboxamide derivatives spanning from the green to the near-infrared (NIR) regions of the light spectrum. Among the synthesized fluorescent ligands, the green-emitting compound 55 exhibited a favorable binding profile (strong CB2R affinity and high selectivity). Notably, this ligand demonstrated versatility as its use was validated in different experimental settings such as flow cytometry saturation, competitive fluorescence assays, and in vitro microglia cells mimicking inflammation states where CB2R are overexpressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Intranuovo
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari ALDO MORO, via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Maria Majellaro
- Centro Singular de Investigación en Química Biolóxica e Materiais Moleculares (CiQUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago, Spain
- Departamento de Quimica Orgánica, Facultade de Farmacia, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Francesco Mastropasqua
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari ALDO MORO, via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Pietro Delre
- Institute of Crystallography, National Research Council of Italy, Via Amendola, 122/o, 70126 Bari, Italy
| | - Francesca Serena Abatematteo
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari ALDO MORO, via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | | | - Angela Stefanachi
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari ALDO MORO, via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Josè Brea
- Innopharma Screening Platform, BioFarma Research Group, Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CIMUS), University of Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology. School of Pharmacy, University of Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Maria Isabel Loza
- Innopharma Screening Platform, BioFarma Research Group, Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CIMUS), University of Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology. School of Pharmacy, University of Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Chiara Riganti
- Dipartimento di Oncologia, Università degli Studi di Torino, 10124 Torino, Italy
| | - Alessia Ligresti
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, 80078 Pozzuoli (NA), Italy
| | - Poulami Kumar
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, 80078 Pozzuoli (NA), Italy
| | - Daniela Esposito
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, 80078 Pozzuoli (NA), Italy
| | - Luigia Cristino
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, 80078 Pozzuoli (NA), Italy
| | - Alessandro Nicois
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, 80078 Pozzuoli (NA), Italy
| | - Lucía González
- Centro Singular de Investigación en Química Biolóxica e Materiais Moleculares (CiQUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago, Spain
- Departamento de Quimica Orgánica, Facultade de Farmacia, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Maria Grazia Perrone
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari ALDO MORO, via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Nicola Antonio Colabufo
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari ALDO MORO, via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Eddy Sotelo
- Centro Singular de Investigación en Química Biolóxica e Materiais Moleculares (CiQUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago, Spain
- Departamento de Quimica Orgánica, Facultade de Farmacia, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Carmen Abate
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari ALDO MORO, via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Marialessandra Contino
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari ALDO MORO, via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
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Girella A, Di Bartolomeo M, Dainese E, Buzzelli V, Trezza V, D'Addario C. Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase and Cannabinoid Receptor Type 1 Genes Regulation is Modulated by Social Isolation in Rats. Neurochem Res 2024; 49:1278-1290. [PMID: 38368587 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-024-04117-9] [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: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
Social isolation is a state of lack of social connections, involving the modulation of different molecular signalling cascades and associated with high risk of mental health issues. To investigate if and how gene expression is modulated by social experience at the central level, we analyzed the effects of 5 weeks of social isolation in rats focusing on endocannabinoid system genes transcription in key brain regions involved in emotional control. We observed selective reduction in mRNA levels for fatty acid amide hydrolase (Faah) and cannabinoid receptor type 1 (Cnr1) genes in the amygdala complex and of Cnr1 in the prefrontal cortex of socially isolated rats when compared to controls, and these changes appear to be partially driven by trimethylation of Lysine 27 and acetylation of Lysine 9 at Histone 3. The alterations of Cnr1 transcriptional regulation result also directly correlated with those of oxytocin receptor gene. We here suggest that to counteract the effects of SI, it is of relevance to restore the endocannabinoid system homeostasis via the use of environmental triggers able to revert those epigenetic mechanisms accounting for the alterations observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Girella
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via Renato Balzarini, 1, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Martina Di Bartolomeo
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via Renato Balzarini, 1, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Enrico Dainese
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via Renato Balzarini, 1, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | | | - Viviana Trezza
- Department of Science, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
- Neuroendocrinology, Metabolism and Neuropharmacology Unit, IRCSS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio D'Addario
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via Renato Balzarini, 1, 64100, Teramo, Italy.
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Bellia F, Girella A, Annunzi E, Benatti B, Vismara M, Priori A, Festucci F, Fanti F, Compagnone D, Adriani W, Dell'Osso B, D'Addario C. Selective alterations of endocannabinoid system genes expression in obsessive compulsive disorder. Transl Psychiatry 2024; 14:118. [PMID: 38409080 PMCID: PMC10897168 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-024-02829-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is listed as one of the top 10 most disabling neuropsychiatric conditions in the world. The neurobiology of OCD has not been completely understood and efforts are needed in order to develop new treatments. Beside the classical neurotransmitter systems and signalling pathways implicated in OCD, the possible involvement of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) has emerged in pathophysiology of OCD. We report here selective downregulation of the genes coding for enzymes allowing the synthesis of the endocannabinoids. We found reduced DAGLα and NAPE-PLD in blood samples of individuals with OCD (when compared to healthy controls) as well as in the amygdala complex and prefrontal cortex of dopamine transporter (DAT) heterozygous rats, manifesting compulsive behaviours. Also mRNA levels of the genes coding for cannabinoid receptors type 1 and type 2 resulted downregulated, respectively in the rat amygdala and in human blood. Moreover, NAPE-PLD changes in gene expression resulted to be associated with an increase in DNA methylation at gene promoter, and the modulation of this gene in OCD appears to be correlated to the progression of the disease. Finally, the alterations observed in ECS genes expression appears to be correlated with the modulation in oxytocin receptor gene expression, consistently with what recently reported. Overall, we confirm here a role for ECS in OCD at both preclinical and clinical level. Many potential biomarkers are suggested among its components, in particular NAPE-PLD, that might be of help for a prompt and clear diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Bellia
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100, Teramo, Italy
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), University "G. D'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, 66100, Chieti, Italy
| | - Antonio Girella
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Eugenia Annunzi
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University "G. d' Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, 66100, Chieti, Italy
| | - Beatrice Benatti
- Department of Psychiatry, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences "Luigi Sacco", University of Milan, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, 20019, Milan, Italy
- "Aldo Ravelli" Center for Nanotechnology and Neurostimulation, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Vismara
- Department of Psychiatry, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences "Luigi Sacco", University of Milan, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, 20019, Milan, Italy
| | - Alberto Priori
- Department of Psychiatry, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences "Luigi Sacco", University of Milan, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, 20019, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabiana Festucci
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Federico Fanti
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Dario Compagnone
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Walter Adriani
- Center for Behavioural Sciences and Mental Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, I-00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Bernardo Dell'Osso
- Department of Psychiatry, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences "Luigi Sacco", University of Milan, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, 20019, Milan, Italy.
- "Aldo Ravelli" Center for Nanotechnology and Neurostimulation, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
| | - Claudio D'Addario
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100, Teramo, Italy.
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, 10316, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Migliaro M, Ruiz-Contreras AE, Herrera-Solís A, Méndez-Díaz M, Prospéro-García OE. Endocannabinoid system and aggression across animal species. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 153:105375. [PMID: 37643683 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105375] [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: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
This narrative review article summarizes the current state of knowledge regarding the relationship between the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and aggression across multiple vertebrate species. Experimental evidence indicates that acute administration of phytocannabinoids, synthetic cannabinoids, and the pharmacological enhancement of endocannabinoid signaling decreases aggressive behavior in several animal models. However, research on the chronic effects of cannabinoids on animal aggression has yielded inconsistent findings, indicating a need for further investigation. Cannabinoid receptors, particularly cannabinoid receptor type 1, appear to be an important part of the endogenous mechanism involved in the dampening of aggressive behavior. Overall, this review underscores the importance of the ECS in regulating aggressive behavior and provides a foundation for future research in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Migliaro
- Grupo de Neurociencias: Laboratorio de Cannabinoides, Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, UNAM, Mexico.
| | - Alejandra E Ruiz-Contreras
- Grupo de Neurociencias: Laboratorio de Neurogenómica Cognitiva, Unidad de Investigación en Psicobiología y Neurociencias, Coordinación de Psicobiología y Neurociencias, Facultad de Psicología, UNAM, Mexico
| | - Andrea Herrera-Solís
- Grupo de Neurociencias: Laboratorio de Efectos Terapéuticos de los Cannabinoides, Hospital General Dr. Manuel Gea González, Secretaría de Salud, Mexico
| | - Mónica Méndez-Díaz
- Grupo de Neurociencias: Laboratorio de Cannabinoides, Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, UNAM, Mexico
| | - Oscar E Prospéro-García
- Grupo de Neurociencias: Laboratorio de Cannabinoides, Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, UNAM, Mexico
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Corli G, Tirri M, Bilel S, Arfè R, Coccini T, Roda E, Marchetti B, Vincenzi F, Zauli G, Borea PA, Locatelli CA, Varani K, Marti M. MAM-2201 acute administration impairs motor, sensorimotor, prepulse inhibition, and memory functions in mice: a comparison with its analogue AM-2201. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2023:10.1007/s00213-023-06378-8. [PMID: 37233813 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-023-06378-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE 1-[(5-fluoropentyl)-1H-indol-3-yl](4-methyl-1-naphthalenyl) methanone (MAM-2201) is a potent synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist illegally marketed in "spice" products and as "synthacaine" for its psychoactive effects. It is a naphthoyl-indole derivative which differs from its analogue 1-[(5-Fluoropentyl)-1H-indol-3-yl](1-naphthylenyl) methanone (AM-2201) by the presence of a methyl substituent on carbon 4 (C-4) of the naphthoyl moiety. Multiple cases of intoxication and impaired driving have been linked to AM-2201 and MAM-2201 consumption. OBJECTIVES This study aims to investigate the in vitro (murine and human cannabinoid receptors) and in vivo (CD-1 male mice) pharmacodynamic activity of MAM-2201 and compare its effects with those induced by its desmethylated analogue, AM-2201. RESULTS In vitro competition binding studies confirmed that MAM-2201 and AM-2201 possess nanomolar affinity for both CD-1 murine and human CB1 and CB2 receptors, with preference for the CB1 receptor. In agreement with the in vitro binding data, in vivo studies showed that MAM-2201 induces visual, acoustic, and tactile impairments that were fully prevented by pretreatment with CB1 receptor antagonist/partial agonist AM-251, indicating a CB1 receptor mediated mechanism of action. Administration of MAM-2201 also altered locomotor activity and PPI responses of mice, pointing out its detrimental effect on motor and sensory gating functions and confirming its potential use liability. MAM-2201 and AM-2201 also caused deficits in short- and long-term working memory. CONCLUSION These findings point to the potential public health burden that these synthetic cannabinoids may pose, with particular emphasis on impaired driving and workplace performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Corli
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, LTTA Center and University Center of Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato Di Mortara 17-19, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Micaela Tirri
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, LTTA Center and University Center of Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato Di Mortara 17-19, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Sabrine Bilel
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, LTTA Center and University Center of Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato Di Mortara 17-19, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Raffaella Arfè
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, LTTA Center and University Center of Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato Di Mortara 17-19, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Teresa Coccini
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Toxicology, and Poison Control Centre and National Toxicology Information Centre, Toxicology Unit, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Via Maugeri 10, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Elisa Roda
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Toxicology, and Poison Control Centre and National Toxicology Information Centre, Toxicology Unit, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Via Maugeri 10, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Beatrice Marchetti
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, LTTA Center and University Center of Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato Di Mortara 17-19, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Vincenzi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giorgio Zauli
- Research Department, King Khaled Eye Specialistic Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Carlo Alessandro Locatelli
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Toxicology, and Poison Control Centre and National Toxicology Information Centre, Toxicology Unit, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Via Maugeri 10, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Katia Varani
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Matteo Marti
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, LTTA Center and University Center of Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato Di Mortara 17-19, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
- Department of Anti-Drug Policies, Collaborative Center for the Italian National Early Warning System, Presidency of the Council of Ministers, Ferrara, Italy.
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Chen P, Wang C, Gong Q, Chai Y, Chen Y, Song C, Wu Y, Wang L. Alterations of endogenous pain-modulatory system of the cerebral cortex in the neuropathic pain. iScience 2023; 26:106668. [PMID: 37168579 PMCID: PMC10165265 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic pain (NeP) remains a significant clinical challenge owing to insufficient awareness of its pathological mechanisms. We elucidated the aberrant metabolism of the cerebral cortex in NeP induced by the chronic constriction injury (CCI) using metabolomics and proteomics analyses. After CCI surgery, the values of MWT and TWL markedly reduced and maintained at a low level. CCI induced the significant dysregulation of 57 metabolites and 31 proteins in the cerebral cortex. Integrative analyses showed that the differentially expressed metabolites and proteins were primarily involved in alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism, GABAergic synapse, and retrograde endocannabinoid signaling. Targeted metabolomics and western blot analysis confirmed the alterations of some key metabolites and proteins in endogenous pain-modulatory system. In conclusion, our study revealed the alterations of endocannabinoids system and purinergic system in the CCI group, and provided a novel perspective on the roles of endogenous pain-modulatory system in the pathological mechanisms of NeP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Chen
- Basic Medical School, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China
- Corresponding author
| | - Chen Wang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510282, Guangdong, China
| | - Qian Gong
- First Clinical Medical School, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, Guangdong, China
| | - Yihui Chai
- Basic Medical School, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Yunzhi Chen
- Basic Medical School, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Cuiwen Song
- Basic Medical School, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Yuanhua Wu
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China
- Corresponding author
| | - Long Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, China
- Corresponding author
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Chen C. Inhibiting degradation of 2-arachidonoylglycerol as a therapeutic strategy for neurodegenerative diseases. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 244:108394. [PMID: 36966972 PMCID: PMC10123871 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Endocannabinoids are endogenous lipid signaling mediators that participate in a variety of physiological and pathological processes. 2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) is the most abundant endocannabinoid and is a full agonist of G-protein-coupled cannabinoid receptors (CB1R and CB2R), which are targets of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis. While 2-AG has been well recognized as a retrograde messenger modulating synaptic transmission and plasticity at both inhibitory GABAergic and excitatory glutamatergic synapses in the brain, growing evidence suggests that 2-AG also functions as an endogenous terminator of neuroinflammation in response to harmful insults, thus maintaining brain homeostasis. Monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) is the key enzyme that degrades 2-AG in the brain. The immediate metabolite of 2-AG is arachidonic acid (AA), a precursor of prostaglandins (PGs) and leukotrienes. Several lines of evidence indicate that pharmacological or genetic inactivation of MAGL, which boosts 2-AG levels and reduces its hydrolytic metabolites, resolves neuroinflammation, mitigates neuropathology, and improves synaptic and cognitive functions in animal models of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson's disease (PD), and traumatic brain injury (TBI)-induced neurodegenerative disease. Thus, it has been proposed that MAGL is a potential therapeutic target for treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. As the main enzyme hydrolyzing 2-AG, several MAGL inhibitors have been identified and developed. However, our understanding of the mechanisms by which inactivation of MAGL produces neuroprotective effects in neurodegenerative diseases remains limited. A recent finding that inhibition of 2-AG metabolism in astrocytes, but not in neurons, protects the brain from TBI-induced neuropathology might shed some light on this unsolved issue. This review provides an overview of MAGL as a potential therapeutic target for neurodegenerative diseases and discusses possible mechanisms underlying the neuroprotective effects of restraining degradation of 2-AG in the brain.
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The Endocannabinoid System and Physical Exercise. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24031989. [PMID: 36768332 PMCID: PMC9916354 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24031989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is involved in various processes, including brain plasticity, learning and memory, neuronal development, nociception, inflammation, appetite regulation, digestion, metabolism, energy balance, motility, and regulation of stress and emotions. Physical exercise (PE) is considered a valuable non-pharmacological therapy that is an immediately available and cost-effective method with a lot of health benefits, one of them being the activation of the endogenous cannabinoids. Endocannabinoids (eCBs) are generated as a response to high-intensity activities and can act as short-term circuit breakers, generating antinociceptive responses for a short and variable period of time. A runner's high is an ephemeral feeling some sport practitioners experience during endurance activities, such as running. The release of eCBs during sustained physical exercise appears to be involved in triggering this phenomenon. The last decades have been characterized by an increased interest in this emotional state induced by exercise, as it is believed to alleviate pain, induce mild sedation, increase euphoric levels, and have anxiolytic effects. This review provides information about the current state of knowledge about endocannabinoids and physical effort and also an overview of the studies published in the specialized literature about this subject.
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9
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Jakowiecki J, Orzeł U, Gliździnska A, Możajew M, Filipek S. Specificities of Protein Homology Modeling for Allosteric Drug Design. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2627:339-348. [PMID: 36959457 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2974-1_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/25/2023]
Abstract
The allosteric binding sites are usually located in the flexible areas of proteins, which are hardly visible in the crystal structures. However, there are notable exceptions like allosteric sites in receptors in class B and C of GPCRs, which are located within a well-defined bundle of transmembrane helices. Class B and C evolved from class A and even after swapping of orthosteric and allosteric sites the central binding site persisted and it can be used for easy design of allosteric drugs. However, studying the ligand binding to the allosteric sites in the most populated class A of GPCRs is still a challenge, since they are located mostly in unresolved parts of the receptor's structure, and especially N-terminus. This chapter provides an example of cannabinoid CB1 receptor N-terminal homology modeling, ligand-guided modeling of the allosteric site in GABA receptor, as well as C-linker modeling in the potassium ion channels where the allosteric phospholipid ligand PIP2 is bound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Jakowiecki
- Faculty of Chemistry, Biological and Chemical Research Centre, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Urszula Orzeł
- Faculty of Chemistry, Biological and Chemical Research Centre, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Gliździnska
- Faculty of Chemistry, Biological and Chemical Research Centre, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Mariusz Możajew
- Faculty of Chemistry, Biological and Chemical Research Centre, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Sławomir Filipek
- Faculty of Chemistry, Biological and Chemical Research Centre, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.
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Bigsby S, Neapetung J, Campanucci VA. Voltage-gated sodium channels in diabetic sensory neuropathy: Function, modulation, and therapeutic potential. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:994585. [PMID: 36467605 PMCID: PMC9713017 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.994585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Voltage-gated sodium channels (Na V ) are the main contributors to action potential generation and essential players in establishing neuronal excitability. Na V channels have been widely studied in pain pathologies, including those that develop during diabetes. Diabetic sensory neuropathy (DSN) is one of the most common complications of the disease. DSN is the result of sensory nerve damage by the hyperglycemic state, resulting in a number of debilitating symptoms that have a significant negative impact in the quality of life of diabetic patients. Among those symptoms are tingling and numbness of hands and feet, as well as exacerbated pain responses to noxious and non-noxious stimuli. DSN is also a major contributor to the development of diabetic foot, which may lead to lower limb amputations in long-term diabetic patients. Unfortunately, current treatments fail to reverse or successfully manage DSN. In the current review we provide an updated report on Na V channels including structure/function and contribution to DSN. Furthermore, we summarize current research on the therapeutic potential of targeting Na V channels in pain pathologies, including DSN.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Verónica A. Campanucci
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology (APP), College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
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11
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Mensah E, Tabrizchi R, Daneshtalab N. Pharmacognosy and Effects of Cannabinoids in the Vascular System. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2022; 5:1034-1049. [PMID: 36407955 PMCID: PMC9667477 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.2c00141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the pharmacodynamics of cannabinoids is an essential subject due to the recent increasing global acceptance of cannabis and its derivation for recreational and therapeutic purposes. Elucidating the interaction between cannabinoids and the vascular system is critical to exploring cannabinoids as a prospective therapeutic agent for treating vascular-associated clinical conditions. This review aims to examine the effect of cannabinoids on the vascular system and further discuss the fundamental pharmacological properties and mechanisms of action of cannabinoids in the vascular system. Data from literature revealed a substantial interaction between endocannabinoids, phytocannabinoids, and synthetic cannabinoids within the vasculature of both humans and animal models. However, the mechanisms and the ensuing functional response is blood vessels and species-dependent. The current understanding of classical cannabinoid receptor subtypes and the recently discovered atypical cannabinoid receptors and the development of new synthetic analogs have further enhanced the pharmacological characterization of the vascular cannabinoid receptors. Compelling evidence also suggest that cannabinoids represent a formidable therapeutic candidate for vascular-associated conditions. Nonetheless, explanations of the mechanisms underlining these processes are complex and paradoxical based on the heterogeneity of receptors and signaling pathways. Further insight from studies that uncover the mechanisms underlining the therapeutic effect of cannabinoids in the treatment of vascular-associated conditions is required to determine whether the known benefits of cannabinoids thus currently outweigh the known/unknown risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Mensah
- Faculty
of Medicine, Division of Biomedical Sciences, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador, St. John’s, NL A1C 5S7, Canada
| | - Reza Tabrizchi
- Faculty
of Medicine, Division of Biomedical Sciences, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador, St. John’s, NL A1C 5S7, Canada
| | - Noriko Daneshtalab
- School
of Pharmacy, Memorial University of Newfoundland
and Labrador, St. John’s, NL A1B 3V6, Canada
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12
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Alzu’bi A, Zoubi MSA, Al-Trad B, AbuAlArjah MI, Shehab M, Alzoubi H, Albals D, Abdelhady GT, El-Huneidi W. Acute Hepatic Injury Associated with Acute Administration of Synthetic Cannabinoid XLR-11 in Mouse Animal Model. TOXICS 2022; 10:668. [PMID: 36355959 PMCID: PMC9692363 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10110668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The widespread recreational use of synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) has become a serious health issue. Reports of life-threatening intoxications related to SC consumption have markedly increased in recent years, including neurotoxicity, cardiotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, and hepatotoxicity. We investigated the impact of acute administration of the synthetic cannabinoid XLR-11 (3 mg/kg, i.p. for 5 consecutive days) on the liver in BALB/c mouse animal model. Using real-time quantitative RT-PCR, MDA assay, and TUNEL assay, we found consistent up-regulation of a variety of genes involved in oxidative stress (NOX2, NOX4, and iNOS), inflammation (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6), and apoptosis (Bax) in the liver of XLR-11 treated mice compared to control mice. These finding were supported with an elevation of MDA levels and TUNEL positive cells in the liver of XLR-11 treated mice which further confirm increased oxidative stress and apoptosis, respectively. Histopathological analysis of the liver of XLR-11 treated mice confirmed pronounced hepatic necrosis associated with inflammatory cell infiltration. Furthermore, elevated ALT and AST serum levels were also identified in XLR-11 treated mice indicating possible liver damage. Overall, SC-induced hepatotoxicity seems to be mainly mediated by activated oxidative stress and inflammatory processes in the liver, but the specific mechanisms involved require further investigations. However, the present study shed light on the potential deleterious role of acute administration of SCs in the progression to acute hepatic injury which enhances our understanding of the adverse effect of SC consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayman Alzu’bi
- 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
| | - Bahaa Al-Trad
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Yarmouk University, Irbid 211-63, Jordan
| | - Manal Isam AbuAlArjah
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid 211-63, Jordan
| | - Malek Shehab
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Yarmouk University, Irbid 211-63, Jordan
| | - Hiba Alzoubi
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid 211-63, Jordan
| | - Dima Albals
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Yarmouk University, Irbid 211-63, Jordan
| | - Gamal T. Abdelhady
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid 211-63, Jordan
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt
| | - Waseem El-Huneidi
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
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13
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Licitra R, Marchese M, Naef V, Ogi A, Martinelli M, Kiferle C, Fronte B, Santorelli FM. A Review on the Bioactivity of Cannabinoids on Zebrafish Models: Emphasis on Neurodevelopment. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10081820. [PMID: 36009367 PMCID: PMC9404760 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10081820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
For centuries, the cannabis plant has been used as a source of food, fiber, and medicine. Recently, scientific interest in cannabis has increased considerably, as its bioactive compounds have shown promising potential in the treatment of numerous musculoskeletal and neurological diseases in humans. However, the mechanisms that underlie its possible effects on neurodevelopment and nervous-system functioning remain poorly understood and need to be further investigated. Although the bulk of research on cannabis and cannabinoids is based on in vitro or rodent models, the zebrafish has now emerged as a powerful in vivo model for drug-screening studies and translational research. We here review the available literature on the use of cannabis/cannabinoids in zebrafish, and particularly in zebrafish models of neurological disorders. A critical analysis suggests that zebrafish could serve as an experimental tool for testing the bioactivity of cannabinoids, and they could thus provide important insights into the safety and efficacy of different cannabis-extract-based products. The review showed that zebrafish exhibit similar behaviors to rodents following cannabinoid exposure. The authors stress the importance of analyzing the full spectrum of naturally occurring cannabinoids, rather than just the main ones, THC and CBD, and they offer some pointers on performing behavioral analysis in zebrafish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosario Licitra
- Molecular Medicine and Neurobiology—ZebraLab, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, 56128 Pisa, Italy; (R.L.); (V.N.); (A.O.)
| | - Maria Marchese
- Molecular Medicine and Neurobiology—ZebraLab, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, 56128 Pisa, Italy; (R.L.); (V.N.); (A.O.)
- Correspondence: (M.M.); (F.M.S.)
| | - Valentina Naef
- Molecular Medicine and Neurobiology—ZebraLab, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, 56128 Pisa, Italy; (R.L.); (V.N.); (A.O.)
| | - Asahi Ogi
- Molecular Medicine and Neurobiology—ZebraLab, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, 56128 Pisa, Italy; (R.L.); (V.N.); (A.O.)
| | - Marco Martinelli
- PlantLab, Institute of Life Sciences, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (M.M.); (C.K.)
| | - Claudia Kiferle
- PlantLab, Institute of Life Sciences, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (M.M.); (C.K.)
| | - Baldassare Fronte
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Filippo Maria Santorelli
- Molecular Medicine and Neurobiology—ZebraLab, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, 56128 Pisa, Italy; (R.L.); (V.N.); (A.O.)
- Correspondence: (M.M.); (F.M.S.)
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14
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Synthesis and In Vitro Characterization of Selective Cannabinoid CB2 Receptor Agonists: Biological Evaluation against Neuroblastoma Cancer Cells. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27093019. [PMID: 35566369 PMCID: PMC9101764 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27093019] [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: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
1,8-naphthyridine-3-carboxamide structures were previously identified as a promising scaffold from which to obtain CB2R agonists with anticancer and anti-inflammatory activity. This work describes the synthesis and functional characterization of new 1,8-naphthyridin-2(1H)-one-3-carboxamides with high affinity and selectivity for CB2R. The new compounds were able to pharmacologically modulate the cAMP response without modulating CB2R-dependent β-arrestin2 recruitment. These structures were also evaluated for their anti-cancer activity against SH-SY5Y and SK-N-BE cells. They were able to reduce the cell viability of both neuroblastoma cancer cell lines with micromolar potency (IC50 of FG158a = 11.8 μM and FG160a = 13.2 μM in SH-SY5Y cells) by a CB2R-mediated mechanism. Finally, in SH-SY5Y cells one of the newly synthesized compounds, FG158a, was able to modulate ERK1/2 expression by a CB2R-mediated effect, thus suggesting that this signaling pathway might be involved in its potential anti-cancer effect.
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15
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Khaksar S, Salimi M, Zeinoddini H, Naderi N. The Role of the Possible Receptors and Intracellular Pathways in Protective Effect of Exogenous Anandamide in Kindling Model of Epilepsy. Neurochem Res 2022; 47:1226-1242. [PMID: 35112235 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-021-03517-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
In this research, the involvement of CB1 and TRPV1 receptors in the possible protective effects of anandamide were investigated in the kindling model of epilepsy. The basolateral amygdala of the rat brain was chosen to put stimulating electrodes. Semi-rapid kindling was induced by a repetitive sub-threshold stimulation for 5-9 consecutive days. There were seven groups, six of which were kindled and used for drug testing by intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) microinjection. (i) Sham, (ii) control group received vehicles, (iii) anandamide (AEA; 100 ng/rat), (iv) capsazepine (TRPV1 antagonist; 100 ng/rat), (v) AM251 (CB1 antagonist; 100 ng/rat), (vi) AM251 + anandamide, and (vii) capsazepine + anandamide. The after-discharge duration, seizure duration, and stage five duration were measured in rats. Moreover, the expressions of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and the cAMP responsive element binding (CREB) proteins in the hippocampus were also studied. The anandamide-treated group showed a significant decrease in seizure scores, while no change was shown in seizure scores in the capsazepine- and AM251-treated groups compared with the control group. Co-administrations of either capsazepine + AEA or AM251 + AEA attenuated the protective effect of AEA against seizure. Furthermore, the group received AEA showed a decrease in the expressions of CREB and p-CREB possibly through the activation of the CB1 and TRPV1 receptors. Activation of CB1 and TRPV1 receptors might be involved in AEA anticonvulsant effect in kindling model of epilepsy. This effect could be due to suppression of CREB phosphorylation in hippocampal neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sepideh Khaksar
- Department of Plant Sciences, Biological Sciences, Alzahra University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mona Salimi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hadi Zeinoddini
- Department of Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, No. 2660, Vali-e-Asr Ave, 1996835113, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nima Naderi
- Department of Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, No. 2660, Vali-e-Asr Ave, 1996835113, Tehran, Iran. .,Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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16
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van den Hoogen NJ, Harding EK, Davidson CED, Trang T. Cannabinoids in Chronic Pain: Therapeutic Potential Through Microglia Modulation. Front Neural Circuits 2022; 15:816747. [PMID: 35069129 PMCID: PMC8777271 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2021.816747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain is a complex sensory, cognitive, and emotional experience that imposes a great personal, psychological, and socioeconomic burden on patients. An estimated 1.5 billion people worldwide are afflicted with chronic pain, which is often difficult to treat and may be resistant to the potent pain-relieving effects of opioid analgesics. Attention has therefore focused on advancing new pain therapies directed at the cannabinoid system because of its key role in pain modulation. Endocannabinoids and exogenous cannabinoids exert their actions primarily through Gi/o-protein coupled cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors expressed throughout the nervous system. CB1 receptors are found at key nodes along the pain pathway and their activity gates both the sensory and affective components of pain. CB2 receptors are typically expressed at low levels on microglia, astrocytes, and peripheral immune cells. In chronic pain states, there is a marked increase in CB2 expression which modulates the activity of these central and peripheral immune cells with important consequences for the surrounding pain circuitry. Growing evidence indicate that interventions targeting CB1 or CB2 receptors improve pain outcomes in a variety of preclinical pain models. In this mini-review, we will highlight recent advances in understanding how cannabinoids modulate microglia function and its implications for cannabinoid-mediated analgesia, focusing on microglia-neuron interactions within the spinal nociceptive circuitry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nynke J. van den Hoogen
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Erika K. Harding
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Chloé E. D. Davidson
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Tuan Trang
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- *Correspondence: Tuan Trang
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17
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Nguyen T, Gamage TF, Finlay DB, Decker AM, Langston TL, Barrus D, Glass M, Li JX, Kenakin TP, Zhang Y. Development of 3-(4-Chlorophenyl)-1-(phenethyl)urea Analogues as Allosteric Modulators of the Cannabinoid Type-1 Receptor: RTICBM-189 is Brain Penetrant and Attenuates Reinstatement of Cocaine-Seeking Behavior. J Med Chem 2021; 65:257-270. [PMID: 34929081 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
We have shown that CB1 receptor negative allosteric modulators (NAMs) attenuated the reinstatement of cocaine-seeking behaviors in rats. In an effort to further define the structure-activity relationships and assess the druglike properties of the 3-(4-chlorophenyl)-1-(phenethyl)urea-based CB1 NAMs that we recently reported, we introduced substituents of different electronic properties and sizes to the phenethyl group and evaluated their potency in CB1 calcium mobilization, cAMP, and GTPγS assays. We found that 3-position substitutions such as Cl, F, and Me afforded enhanced CB1 potency, whereas 4-position analogues were generally less potent. The 3-chloro analogue (31, RTICBM-189) showed no activity at >50 protein targets and excellent brain permeation but relatively low metabolic stability in rat liver microsomes. Pharmacokinetic studies in rats confirmed the excellent brain exposure of 31 with a brain/plasma ratio Kp of 2.0. Importantly, intraperitoneal administration of 31 significantly and selectively attenuated the reinstatement of the cocaine-seeking behavior in rats without affecting locomotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thuy Nguyen
- Research Triangle Institute, Research Triangle Park, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709, United States
| | - Thomas F Gamage
- Research Triangle Institute, Research Triangle Park, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709, United States
| | - David B Finlay
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | - Ann M Decker
- Research Triangle Institute, Research Triangle Park, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709, United States
| | - Tiffany L Langston
- Research Triangle Institute, Research Triangle Park, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709, United States
| | - Daniel Barrus
- Research Triangle Institute, Research Triangle Park, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709, United States
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | - Jun-Xu Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University at Buffalo, the State University of New York, Buffalo, New York 14214, United States
| | - Terry P Kenakin
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
| | - Yanan Zhang
- Research Triangle Institute, Research Triangle Park, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709, United States
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18
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Soti M, Ranjbar H, Kohlmeier KA, Shabani M. Parkinson's disease related alterations in cannabinoid transmission. Brain Res Bull 2021; 178:82-96. [PMID: 34808322 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2021.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by the progressive loss of dopaminergic (DAergic) neurons of the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) by neurodegeneration. Recent findings in animal models of PD propose tonic inhibition of the remaining DA neurons through GABA release from reactive glial cells. Movement dysfunctions could be ameliorated by promotion of activity in dormant DA cells. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is extensively present in basal ganglia (BG) and is known as an indirect modulator of DAergic neurotransmission, thus drugs designed to target this system have shown promising therapeutic potential in PD patients. Interestingly, down/up-regulation of cannabinoid receptors (CBRs) varies across the different stages of PD, suggesting that some of the motor/ non-motor deficits may be related to changes in CBRs. Determination of the profile of changes of these receptors across the different stages of PD as well as their neural distribution within the BG could improve understanding of PD and identify pathways important in disease pathobiology. In this review, we focus on temporal and spatial alterations of CBRs during PD in the BG. At present, as inconclusive, but suggestive results have been obtained, future investigations should be conducted to extend preclinical studies examining CBRs changes within each stage in controlled clinical trials in order to determine the potential of targeting CBRs in management of PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monavareh Soti
- Neuroscience Research Center, Neuropharmacology Institute, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Hoda Ranjbar
- Neuroscience Research Center, Neuropharmacology Institute, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Kristi A Kohlmeier
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Mohammad Shabani
- Neuroscience Research Center, Neuropharmacology Institute, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
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19
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Nanoscale Sub-Compartmentalization of the Dendritic Spine Compartment. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11111697. [PMID: 34827695 PMCID: PMC8615865 DOI: 10.3390/biom11111697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Compartmentalization of the membrane is essential for cells to perform highly specific tasks and spatially constrained biochemical functions in topographically defined areas. These membrane lateral heterogeneities range from nanoscopic dimensions, often involving only a few molecular constituents, to micron-sized mesoscopic domains resulting from the coalescence of nanodomains. Short-lived domains lasting for a few milliseconds coexist with more stable platforms lasting from minutes to days. This panoply of lateral domains subserves the great variety of demands of cell physiology, particularly high for those implicated in signaling. The dendritic spine, a subcellular structure of neurons at the receiving (postsynaptic) end of central nervous system excitatory synapses, exploits this compartmentalization principle. In its most frequent adult morphology, the mushroom-shaped spine harbors neurotransmitter receptors, enzymes, and scaffolding proteins tightly packed in a volume of a few femtoliters. In addition to constituting a mesoscopic lateral heterogeneity of the dendritic arborization, the dendritic spine postsynaptic membrane is further compartmentalized into spatially delimited nanodomains that execute separate functions in the synapse. This review discusses the functional relevance of compartmentalization and nanodomain organization in synaptic transmission and plasticity and exemplifies the importance of this parcelization in various neurotransmitter signaling systems operating at dendritic spines, using two fast ligand-gated ionotropic receptors, the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor and the glutamatergic receptor, and a second-messenger G-protein coupled receptor, the cannabinoid receptor, as paradigmatic examples.
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20
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The Vertical and Horizontal Pathways in the Monkey Retina Are Modulated by Typical and Atypical Cannabinoid Receptors. Cells 2021; 10:cells10113160. [PMID: 34831383 PMCID: PMC8622302 DOI: 10.3390/cells10113160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid (eCB) system has been found in all visual parts of the central ner-vous system and plays a role in the processing of visual information in many species, including monkeys and humans. Using anatomical methods, cannabinoid receptors are present in the monkey retina, particularly in the vertical glutamatergic pathway, and also in the horizontal GABAergic pathway. Modulating the eCB system regulates normal retinal function as demonstrated by electrophysiological recordings. The characterization of the expression patterns of all types of cannabinoid receptors in the retina is progressing, and further research is needed to elucidate their exact role in processing visual information. Typical cannabinoid receptors include G-protein coupled receptor CB1R and CB2R, and atypical cannabinoid receptors include the G-protein coupled receptor 55 (GPR55) and the ion channel transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1). This review focuses on the expression and localization studies carried out in monkeys, but some data on other animal species and humans will also be reported. Furthermore, the role of the endogenous cannabinoid receptors in retinal function will also be presented using intraocular injections of known modulators (agonists and antagonists) on electroretinographic patterns in monkeys. The effects of the natural bioactive lipid lysophosphatidylglucoside and synthetic FAAH inhibitor URB597 on retinal function, will also be described. Finally, the potential of typical and atypical cannabinoid receptor acti-vity regulation in retinal diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and retinitis pigmentosa will be briefly explored.
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21
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Wang X, Liu D, Shen L, Li F, Li Y, Yang L, Xu T, Tao H, Yao D, Wu L, Hirata K, Bohn LM, Makriyannis A, Liu X, Hua T, Liu ZJ, Wang J. A Genetically Encoded F-19 NMR Probe Reveals the Allosteric Modulation Mechanism of Cannabinoid Receptor 1. J Am Chem Soc 2021; 143:16320-16325. [PMID: 34596399 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.1c06847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Due to the lack of genetically encoded probes for fluorine-19 nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (19F NMR), its utility for probing eukaryotic membrane protein dynamics is limited. Here we report an efficient method for the genetic incorporation of an unnatural amino acid (UAA), 3'-trifluoromenthyl-phenylalanine (mtfF), into cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) in the Baculovirus Expression System. The probe can be inserted at any environmentally sensitive site, while causing minimal structural perturbation to the target protein. Using 19F NMR and X-ray crystallography methods, we discovered that the allosteric modulator Org27569 and agonists synergistically stabilize a previously unrecognized pre-active state. An allosteric modulation model is proposed to explain Org27569's distinct behavior. We demonstrate that our site-specific 19F NMR labeling method is a powerful tool in decoding the mechanism of GPCR allosteric modulation. This new method should be broadly applicable for uncovering conformational states for many important eukaryotic membrane proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Wang
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China.,Laboratory of RNA Biology, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Dongsheng Liu
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Ling Shen
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China.,Institute of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.,CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Fahui Li
- Laboratory of RNA Biology, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Yongze Li
- Laboratory of RNA Biology, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Lingyun Yang
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Tiandan Xu
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Houchao Tao
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Deqiang Yao
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Lijie Wu
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | | | - Laura M Bohn
- Departments of Molecular Medicine and Neuroscience, Scripps Research, Jupiter, Florida 33458, United States
| | - Alexandros Makriyannis
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Xiaohong Liu
- Laboratory of RNA Biology, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Tian Hua
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Zhi-Jie Liu
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China.,Institute of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Jiangyun Wang
- Laboratory of RNA Biology, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing 100101, China
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22
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Ahmadi-Mahmoodabadi N, Emamghoreishi M, Nasehi M, Zarrindast MR. The bidirectional effect of prelimbic 5-hydroxytryptamine type-4 (5-HT4) receptors on ACPA-mediated aversive memory impairment in adult male Sprague-Dawley rats. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES 2021; 24:726-733. [PMID: 34630949 PMCID: PMC8487599 DOI: 10.22038/ijbms.2021.49501.11317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Objectives This study aimed at investigating the effect of serotonergic 5-HT4 receptor agonist/antagonist on memory consolidation deficit induced by ACPA (a potent, selective CB1 cannabinoid receptor agonist) in the pre-limbic (PL) cortex. Materials and Methods We used the step-through passive avoidance test to evaluate memory consolidation of male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. Bilateral post-training microinjections of the drugs were done in a volume of 0.6 μl/rat into the PL area (0.3 μl per side). Results The results showed a significant interaction between RS67333 hydrochloride (5-HT4 receptor agonist) or RS23597-190 hydrochloride (5-HT4 receptor antagonist) and ACPA on consolidation of aversive memory. RS67333 hydrochloride (0.5 μg/rat) enhanced consolidation of memory and its co-administration at the ineffective dose of 0.005 μg/rat with ineffective (0.001 μg/rat) or effective (0.1 μg/rat) doses of ACPA improved and prevented impairment of memory caused by ACPA, respectively. In other words, RS67333 had a bidirectional effect on ACPA-caused amnesia. While RS23597-190 hydrochloride had no effect on memory at the doses used (0.005, 0.01, 0.1, or 0.5 μg/rat); but its concomitant use with an effective dose of ACPA (0.1 μg/rat) potentiated amnesia. None of the drugs had an effect on locomotor activity. Conclusion This study revealed that activation or deactivation of the 5-HT4 receptors in the PL may mediate the IA memory impairment induced by ACPA indicating a modulatory role for the 5-HT4 serotonergic receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nargol Ahmadi-Mahmoodabadi
- Institute for Cognitive Science Studies, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Basic Sciences, Campus of Shahid Bahonar, Farhangian University of Shiraz, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Emamghoreishi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine and Department of Neuroscience, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Nasehi
- Cognitive and Neuroscience Research Center, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Reza Zarrindast
- Institute for Cognitive Science Studies, Tehran, Iran.,Cognitive and Neuroscience Research Center, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.,Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,School of Cognitive Sciences, Institute for Research in Fundamental Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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23
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Beyond the Usual Suspects: Physiological Roles of the Arabidopsis Amidase Signature (AS) Superfamily Members in Plant Growth Processes and Stress Responses. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11081207. [PMID: 34439873 PMCID: PMC8393822 DOI: 10.3390/biom11081207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The diversification of land plants largely relies on their ability to cope with constant environmental fluctuations, which negatively impact their reproductive fitness and trigger adaptive responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. In this limiting landscape, cumulative research attention has centred on deepening the roles of major phytohormones, mostly auxins, together with brassinosteroids, jasmonates, and abscisic acid, despite the signaling networks orchestrating the crosstalk among them are so far only poorly understood. Accordingly, this review focuses on the Arabidopsis Amidase Signature (AS) superfamily members, with the aim of highlighting the hitherto relatively underappreciated functions of AMIDASE1 (AMI1) and FATTY ACID AMIDE HYDROLASE (FAAH), as comparable coordinators of the growth-defense trade-off, by balancing auxin and ABA homeostasis through the conversion of their likely bioactive substrates, indole-3-acetamide and N-acylethanolamine.
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24
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Ramesh K, Rosenbaum DM. Molecular basis for ligand modulation of the cannabinoid CB 1 receptor. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 179:3487-3495. [PMID: 34265078 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The cannabinoid CB1 receptor is the most abundant G protein coupled receptor (GPCR) in the central nervous system, which mediates the functional response to endocannabinoids and Cannabis compounds. A variety of ligands for CB1 receptors have been developed as promising drug candidates for the treatment of neurological disorders. New high-resolution structures of CB1 receptor in different functional states have significantly improved our molecular understanding of CB1 ligand interactions, selectivity, receptor activation and allosteric modulation. These advances have paved the way for development of novel ligands for different therapeutic applications. In this review, we describe the structural determinants for modulation of CB1 receptors by different types of ligands, as well as the differences between CB1 and its homologous, the CB2 receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karthik Ramesh
- Department of Biophysics, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Daniel M Rosenbaum
- Department of Biophysics, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
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25
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Wei C, Huang L, Zheng Y, Cai X. Selective activation of cannabinoid receptor 2 regulates Treg/Th17 balance to ameliorate neutrophilic asthma in mice. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:1015. [PMID: 34277815 PMCID: PMC8267324 DOI: 10.21037/atm-21-2778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background The cannabinoid receptor 2 (CNR2) plays a critical role in relieving asthma, with the mechanism still unclear. We aimed to investigate the mechanism of the CNR2 agonist (β-caryophyllene, β-Car) in regulating the balance of regulatory T cells (Treg) and T helper cell 17 (Th17) and thus its role in asthma. Methods The study group of 50 pathogen-free female BALB/c mice were randomly divided at 6–8 weeks old into five groups of Control, Asthma, Asthma + β-Car (10 mg/kg), Asthma + β-Car + SR144528 (specific CNR2 antagonist, 3 mg/kg), and Asthma + β-Car + CMD178 (inhibitor of Treg cell, 10 mg/kg). ELISA was conducted to evaluate the main inflammatory cytokines [interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor-α], and those secreted by Treg (transforming growth factor-β and IL-10), and Th17 (IL-17A and IL-22). Markers of Treg and Th17 cells were assessed by flow cytometry. In vitro, the CD4+ T cells were sorted and directed to differentiate to Treg and Th17 cells. The expression levels of CNR2, STAT5 and JNK1/2 were investigated by western blot and immunofluorescence assay. Results β-Car relieved neutrophilic asthma severity in mice by elevating the marker genes’ expression of Treg and inhibiting those of Th17, causing an increased proportion of Treg to Th17. β-Car also promoted the directed differentiation of CD4+ T cells into Treg, but not Th17. Activation of the CNR2 regulated the Treg/Th17 balance and relieved neutrophilic asthma possibly through promotion of phosphorylation of STAT5 and JNK1/2. Conclusions The effect of the selective CNR2 agonist activating STAT5 and JNK1/2 signaling was to change the Treg/Th17 balance and reduce the inflammatory reaction, thus ameliorating neutrophilic asthma in a mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaochao Wei
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Hainan General Hospital, Haikou, China
| | - Linhui Huang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Hainan General Hospital, Haikou, China
| | - Yamei Zheng
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Hainan General Hospital, Haikou, China
| | - Xingjun Cai
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Hainan General Hospital, Haikou, China
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26
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Endocannabinoid System and Its Regulation by Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Full Spectrum Hemp Oils. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115479. [PMID: 34067450 PMCID: PMC8196941 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) consists of endogenous cannabinoids, their receptors, and metabolic enzymes that play a critical homeostatic role in modulating polyunsaturated omega fatty acid (PUFA) signaling to maintain a balanced inflammatory and redox state. Whole food-based diets and dietary interventions linked to PUFAs of animal (fish, calamari, krill) or plant (hemp, flax, walnut, algae) origin, as well as full-spectrum hemp oils, are increasingly used to support the ECS tone, promote healthy metabolism, improve risk factors associated with cardiovascular disorders, encourage brain health and emotional well-being, and ameliorate inflammation. While hemp cannabinoids of THC and CBD groups show distinct but complementary actions through a variety of cannabinoid (CB1 and CB2), adenosine (A2A), and vanilloid (TRPV1) receptors, they also modulate PUFA metabolism within a wide variety of specialized lipid mediators that promote or resolve inflammation and oxidative stress. Clinical evidence reviewed in this study links PUFAs and cannabinoids to changes in ECS tone, immune function, metabolic and oxidative stress adaptation, and overall maintenance of a well-balanced systemic function of the body. Understanding how the body coordinates signals from the exogenous and endogenous ECS modulators is critical for discerning the underlying molecular mechanisms of the ECS tone in healthy and disease states. Nutritional and lifestyle interventions represent promising approaches to address chronic metabolic and inflammatory disorders that may overlap in the population at risk. Further investigation and validation of dietary interventions that modulate the ECS are required in order to devise clinically successful second-generation management strategies.
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27
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Allosteric Modulation of the CB1 Cannabinoid Receptor by Cannabidiol-A Molecular Modeling Study of the N-Terminal Domain and the Allosteric-Orthosteric Coupling. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26092456. [PMID: 33922473 PMCID: PMC8122825 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26092456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Revised: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The CB1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1R) contains one of the longest N termini among class A G protein-coupled receptors. Mutagenesis studies suggest that the allosteric binding site of cannabidiol (CBD) involves residues from the N terminal domain. In order to study the allosteric binding of CBD to CB1R we modeled the whole N-terminus of this receptor using the replica exchange molecular dynamics with solute tempering (REST2) approach. Then, the obtained structures of CB1R with the N terminus were used for ligand docking. A natural cannabinoid receptor agonist, Δ9-THC, was docked to the orthosteric site and a negative allosteric modulator, CBD, to the allosteric site positioned between extracellular ends of helices TM1 and TM2. The molecular dynamics simulations were then performed for CB1R with ligands: (i) CBD together with THC, and (ii) THC-only. Analyses of the differences in the residue-residue interaction patterns between those two cases allowed us to elucidate the allosteric network responsible for the modulation of the CB1R by CBD. In addition, we identified the changes in the orthosteric binding mode of Δ9-THC, as well as the changes in its binding energy, caused by the CBD allosteric binding. We have also found that the presence of a complete N-terminal domain is essential for a stable binding of CBD in the allosteric site of CB1R as well as for the allosteric-orthosteric coupling mechanism.
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28
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Song CG, Kang X, Yang F, Du WQ, Zhang JJ, Liu L, Kang JJ, Jia N, Yue H, Fan LY, Wu SX, Jiang W, Gao F. Endocannabinoid system in the neurodevelopment of GABAergic interneurons: implications for neurological and psychiatric disorders. Rev Neurosci 2021; 32:803-831. [PMID: 33781002 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2020-0134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In mature mammalian brains, the endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays an important role in the regulation of synaptic plasticity and the functioning of neural networks. Besides, the ECS also contributes to the neurodevelopment of the central nervous system. Due to the increase in the medical and recreational use of cannabis, it is inevitable and essential to elaborate the roles of the ECS on neurodevelopment. GABAergic interneurons represent a group of inhibitory neurons that are vital in controlling neural network activity. However, the role of the ECS in the neurodevelopment of GABAergic interneurons remains to be fully elucidated. In this review, we provide a brief introduction of the ECS and interneuron diversity. We focus on the process of interneuron development and the role of ECS in the modulation of interneuron development, from the expansion of the neural stem/progenitor cells to the migration, specification and maturation of interneurons. We further discuss the potential implications of the ECS and interneurons in the pathogenesis of neurological and psychiatric disorders, including epilepsy, schizophrenia, major depressive disorder and autism spectrum disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang-Geng Song
- Department of Neurobiology and Institute of Neurosciences, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, 169 Chang Le Xi Road, Xi'an710032, Shaanxi, China.,Department of Neurology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, 127 Chang Le Xi Road, Xi'an710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xin Kang
- Department of Neurobiology and Institute of Neurosciences, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, 169 Chang Le Xi Road, Xi'an710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Fang Yang
- Department of Neurology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, 127 Chang Le Xi Road, Xi'an710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wan-Qing Du
- Department of Neurobiology and Institute of Neurosciences, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, 169 Chang Le Xi Road, Xi'an710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jia-Jia Zhang
- National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine & Department of Cell Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, 169 Chang Le Xi Road, Xi'an710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Long Liu
- Department of Neurobiology and Institute of Neurosciences, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, 169 Chang Le Xi Road, Xi'an710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jun-Jun Kang
- Department of Neurobiology and Institute of Neurosciences, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, 169 Chang Le Xi Road, Xi'an710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ning Jia
- Department of Neurobiology and Institute of Neurosciences, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, 169 Chang Le Xi Road, Xi'an710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Hui Yue
- Department of Neurobiology and Institute of Neurosciences, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, 169 Chang Le Xi Road, Xi'an710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Lu-Yu Fan
- Department of Neurobiology and Institute of Neurosciences, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, 169 Chang Le Xi Road, Xi'an710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Sheng-Xi Wu
- Department of Neurobiology and Institute of Neurosciences, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, 169 Chang Le Xi Road, Xi'an710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wen Jiang
- Department of Neurology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, 127 Chang Le Xi Road, Xi'an710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Fang Gao
- Department of Neurobiology and Institute of Neurosciences, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, 169 Chang Le Xi Road, Xi'an710032, Shaanxi, China
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29
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Laksmidewi AAAP, Soejitno A. Endocannabinoid and dopaminergic system: the pas de deux underlying human motivation and behaviors. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2021; 128:615-630. [PMID: 33712975 PMCID: PMC8105194 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-021-02326-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Endocannabinoid system (ECS) has been identified ever since cannabinoid, an active substance of Cannabis, was known to interact with endogenous cannabinoid (endocannabinoid/eCB) receptors. It later turned out that eCB was more intricate than previously thought. It has a pervasive role and exerts a multitude of cellular signaling mechanisms, regulating various physiological neurotransmission pathways in the human brain, including the dopaminergic (DA) system. eCB roles toward DA system were robust, clearly delineated, and reproducible with respect to physiological as well as pathological neurochemical and neurobehavioral manifestations of DA system, particularly those involving the nigrostriatal and mesocorticolimbic pathways. The eCB–DA system regulates the basics in the Maslow’s pyramid of hierarchy of needs required for individual survival such as food and sexual activity for reproductive purpose to those of higher needs in the pyramid, including self-actualization behaviors leading to achievement and reward (e.g., academic- and/or work-related performance and achievements). It is, thus, interesting to specifically discuss the eCB–DA system, not only on the molecular level, but also its tremendous potential to be developed as a future therapeutic strategy for various neuropsychiatric problems, including obesity, drug addiction and withdrawal, pathological hypersexuality, or low motivation behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- A A A Putri Laksmidewi
- Neurobehavioral and Cognitive Division, Neurology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University/Sanglah Hospital, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia.
| | - Andreas Soejitno
- Neurobehavioral and Cognitive Division, Neurology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University/Sanglah Hospital, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
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30
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Everett TJ, Gomez DM, Hamilton LR, Oleson EB. Endocannabinoid modulation of dopamine release during reward seeking, interval timing, and avoidance. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 104:110031. [PMID: 32663486 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.110031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Endocannabinoids (eCBs) are neuromodulators that influence a wide range of neural systems and behaviors. In the current review, we describe our recent research showing how eCBs, particularly 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), concurrently shape mesolimbic dopamine (DA) release and associated behavior. We will restrict our discussion by emphasizing three distinct behaviors: reward seeking, interval timing, and active avoidance. During reward seeking we find that 2-AG is necessary to observe cue-evoked DA release events that are thought to represent the value of a rewarding outcome. We then describe data showing that 2-AG modulates unique patterns of DA release and behavior observed under conditions of periodic reinforcement. These data are discussed within the context of interval timing and adjunctive behavior. eCB modulation of DA release is also implicated in defensive behavior, including the avoidance of harm. As in reward seeking, our data suggest that the concentration of DA that is evoked by a warning signal can represent the value of an avoidance outcome. And, disrupting eCB signaling concomitantly reduces the concentration of the avoidance value signal and active avoidance. Disruptions in reward seeking, interval timing, and defensive behavior are commonly observed in a variety of movement disorders (e.g., Parkinson's and Huntington's disease) and disorders of motivation (e.g., addiction). We believe our data on eCB-DA interactions have implications for the development of novel pharmacotherapies to treat these disorders. Thus, we conclude by discussing how eCB pharmacology might be harnessed to treat disorders of movement and motivation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Devan M Gomez
- Psychology Department, University of Colorado Denver, USA; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marquette University, USA
| | | | - Erik B Oleson
- Psychology Department, University of Colorado Denver, USA; Integrative Biology Department, University of Colorado Denver, USA.
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31
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Hanachi R, Ben Said R, Allal H, Rahali S, Alkhalifah MAM, Alresheedi F, Tangour B, Hochlaf M. Structural, QSAR, machine learning and molecular docking studies of 5-thiophen-2-yl pyrazole derivatives as potent and selective cannabinoid-1 receptor antagonists. NEW J CHEM 2021. [DOI: 10.1039/d1nj02261j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
We performed a structural study followed by theoretical analysis of the chemical descriptors and biological activity of a series of 5-thiophen-2-yl pyrazole derivatives as potent and selective cannabinoid-1 (CB1) receptor antagonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riadh Hanachi
- Laboratoire de Caractérisations, Applications et Modélisations des Matériaux, Faculté des Sciences de Tunis, Université Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Ridha Ben Said
- Laboratoire de Caractérisations, Applications et Modélisations des Matériaux, Faculté des Sciences de Tunis, Université Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science and Arts, Qassim University, ArRass, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hamza Allal
- Department of Technology, Faculty of Technology, 20 August 1955 University of Skikda, P.O. Box 26, El Hadaik Road, 21000 Skikda, Algeria
- Research Unit of Environmental Chemistry and Molecular Structural (CHEMS), University of Constantine-1, 25000, Constantine, Algeria
| | - Seyfeddine Rahali
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science and Arts, Qassim University, ArRass, Saudi Arabia
- Research Unit of Modelization on Fundamental Sciences and Didactics. Universitéde Tunis El Manar, Tunis 2092, Tunisia
| | | | - Faisal Alresheedi
- Department of Physics, College of Science, Qassim University, Buraidah 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Bahoueddine Tangour
- Research Unit of Modelization on Fundamental Sciences and Didactics. Universitéde Tunis El Manar, Tunis 2092, Tunisia
| | - Majdi Hochlaf
- Université Gustave Eiffel, COSYS/LISIS, 5 Bd Descartes, 77454, Champs sur Marne, France
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32
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Gomez DM, Everett TJ, Hamilton LR, Ranganath A, Cheer JF, Oleson EB. Chronic cannabinoid exposure produces tolerance to the dopamine releasing effects of WIN 55,212-2 and heroin in adult male rats. Neuropharmacology 2021; 182:108374. [PMID: 33115642 PMCID: PMC7836093 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.108374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids were introduced into recreational drug culture in 2008 and quickly became one of the most commonly abused drugs in the United States. The neurobiological consequences resulting from synthetic cannabinoid repeated exposure remain poorly understood. It is possible that a blunted dopamine (DA) response may lead drug users to consume larger quantities to compensate for this form of neurochemical tolerance. Because the endogenous cannabinoid and opioid systems exhibit considerable cross-talk and cross-tolerance frequently develops following repeated exposure to either opioids or cannabinoids, there is interest in investigating whether a history of synthetic cannabinoid exposure influences the ability of heroin to increase DA release. To test the effects of chronic cannabinoid exposure on cannabinoid- and heroin-evoked DA release, male adult rats were treated with either vehicle or a synthetic cannabinoid (WIN55-212-2; WIN) using an intravenous (IV) dose escalation regimen (0.2-0.8 mg/kg IV over 9 treatments). As predicted, WIN-treated rats showed a rightward shift in the dose-response relationship across all behavioral/physiological measures when compared to vehicle-treated controls. Then, using fast-scan cyclic voltammetry to measure changes in the frequency of transient DA events in the nucleus accumbens shell of awake and freely-moving rats, it was observed that the DA releasing effects of both WIN and heroin were significantly reduced in male rats with a pharmacological history of cannabinoid exposure. These results demonstrate that repeated exposure to the synthetic cannabinoid WIN can produce tolerance to its DA releasing effects and cross-tolerance to the DA releasing effects of heroin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devan M Gomez
- Psychology Department, University of Colorado Denver, USA; Current: Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marquette University, USA
| | | | | | - Ajit Ranganath
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, University of Maryland Baltimore, USA
| | - Joseph F Cheer
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, University of Maryland Baltimore, USA
| | - Erik B Oleson
- Psychology Department, University of Colorado Denver, USA; Biology Department, University of Colorado Denver, USA.
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33
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Vecchini Rodríguez CM, Escalona Meléndez Y, Flores-Otero J. Cannabinoid Receptors and Ligands: Lessons from CNS Disorders and the Quest for Novel Treatment Venues. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1297:43-64. [PMID: 33537936 PMCID: PMC8502072 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-61663-2_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
The potential use of cannabinoids for therapeutic purposes is at the forefront of cannabinoid research which aims to develop innovative strategies to prevent, manage and treat a broad spectrum of human diseases. This chapter briefly reviews the pivotal role of the endocannabinoid system in modulating the central nervous system and its roles on neurodegenerative diseases and brain disorders. Ligand-induced modulation of cannabinoid 1 and 2 receptors to modulate immune response, decrease neurodegeneration and pain are aspects that are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara M Vecchini Rodríguez
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine, San Juan, PR, USA
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, PR, USA
| | | | - Jacqueline Flores-Otero
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine, San Juan, PR, USA.
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, PR, USA.
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34
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Accurate Silent Synapse Estimation from Simulator-Corrected Electrophysiological Data Using the SilentMLE Python Package. STAR Protoc 2020; 1:100176. [PMID: 33377070 PMCID: PMC7757407 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2020.100176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The proportion of silent (AMPAR-lacking) synapses is thought to be related to the plasticity potential of neural networks. We created a maximum-likelihood estimator of silent synapse fraction based on simulations of the underlying experimental methodology. Here, we provide a set of guidelines for running a Python package on compatible experimental synaptic data. Compared with traditional failure-rate approaches, this synthetic likelihood estimator improves the validity and accuracy of the estimates of the silent synapse fraction. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Lynn et al. (2020). Guidelines for acquiring failure-rate data and parsing successes/failures Simple installation guide for the SilentMLE package Initializing experimentally constrained estimators of the silent synapse fraction Expected results and interpretation of estimator output
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Narwani V, Bourdillon A, Nalamada K, Manes RP, Hildrew DM. Does cannabis alleviate tinnitus? A review of the current literature. Laryngoscope Investig Otolaryngol 2020; 5:1147-1155. [PMID: 33364406 PMCID: PMC7752070 DOI: 10.1002/lio2.479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Endocannabinoid pathways have been proposed to affect the underlying pathophysiology of tinnitus. The aim of this study is to evaluate the scope and findings of existing literature on the relationship between cannabis and cannabinoid pathways and tinnitus. METHODS We conducted a review of animal, clinical and survey studies investigating the relationship between the use of cannabis-derived agents and tinnitus. Using pertinent keywords and MeSH terms on PubMed, relevant studies were identified, yielding four animal studies, two large cross-sectional survey studies, one clinical cross-over study, and one case report. RESULTS Animal studies revealed that cannabinoid receptor expression in the cochlear nucleus varied with tinnitus symptomatology and the use of cannabinoid agents either increased or had no effect on tinnitus-related behavior. Survey studies yielded conflicting results between cannabis use and tinnitus in the general population. Clinical data is largely lacking, although a small cohort study showed a dose-dependent relationship between tetrahydrocannabinol consumption and frequency of tinnitus episodes in patients receiving treatment for cancer. CONCLUSION While animal studies have revealed that cannabinoid receptors likely have a role in modulating auditory signaling, there is no compelling data either from animal or human studies for the use of cannabinoids to alleviate tinnitus. Further research is necessary to elucidate their precise role to guide development of therapeutic interventions. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE NA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishal Narwani
- Division of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Department of SurgeryYale University School of MedicineNew HavenConnecticutUSA
| | | | - Keerthana Nalamada
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of ConnecticutFarmingtonConnecticutUSA
| | - R. Peter Manes
- Division of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Department of SurgeryYale University School of MedicineNew HavenConnecticutUSA
| | - Douglas M. Hildrew
- Division of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Department of SurgeryYale University School of MedicineNew HavenConnecticutUSA
- Division of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Department of SurgeryVA Connecticut Healthcare SystemWest HavenConnecticutUSA
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Feeney W, Moorthy AS, Sisco E. Spectral trends in GC-EI-MS data obtained from the SWGDRUG mass spectral library and literature: A resource for the identification of unknown compounds. Forensic Chem 2020; 31:10.1016/j.forc.2022.100459. [PMID: 36578315 PMCID: PMC9793444 DOI: 10.1016/j.forc.2022.100459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Rapid identification of new or emerging psychoactive substances remains a critical challenge in forensic drug chemistry laboratories. Current analytical protocols are well-designed for confirmation of known substances yet struggle when new compounds are encountered. Many laboratories initially attempt to classify new compounds using gas chromatography-electron ionization-mass spectrometry (GC-EI-MS). Though there is a large body of research focused on the analysis of illicit substances with GC-EI-MS, there is little high-level discussion of mass spectral trends for different classes of drugs. This manuscript compiles literature information and performs simple exploratory analyses on evaluated GC-EI-MS data to investigate mass spectral trends for illicit substance classes. Additionally, this work offers other important aspects: brief discussions of how each class of drugs is used; illustrations of EI mass spectra with proposed structures of commonly observed ions; and summaries of mass spectral trends that can help an analyst classify new illicit compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Feeney
- Corresponding author at: Surface and Trace Chemical Analysis Group, Material Measurement Laboratory, 100 Bureau Drive, Gaithersburg, MD 20899, USA. (W. Feeney)
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The prevalence of cancer pain will continue to rise as pain is common among the survivorship and general cancer population. As interest in cannabis and cannabinoids for medicinal use including pain management continues to rise, there is growing need to update and review the current state of evidence for their use. The literature was searched for articles in English with key words cannabis, cannabinoids, and cancer pain. The sources of articles were PubMed, Embase, and open Google search. RECENT FINDINGS In a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial including a 3-week treatment period of nabiximol for advanced cancer patients with pain refractory to optimized opiate therapy, improvements in average pain were seen in the intention to treat population (P = 0.0854) and per- protocol population (P = 0.0378). SUMMARY To date, preclinical data has demonstrated evidence to suggest promising potential for cancer pain and the urgent need to translate this into clinical practice. Unfortunately, due to limited data, for adults with advanced cancer being treated with opiate therapy, the addition of cannabis or cannabinoids is not currently supported to address cancer pain effectively.
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Mangiatordi GF, Intranuovo F, Delre P, Abatematteo FS, Abate C, Niso M, Creanza TM, Ancona N, Stefanachi A, Contino M. Cannabinoid Receptor Subtype 2 (CB2R) in a Multitarget Approach: Perspective of an Innovative Strategy in Cancer and Neurodegeneration. J Med Chem 2020; 63:14448-14469. [PMID: 33094613 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The cannabinoid receptor subtype 2 (CB2R) represents an interesting and new therapeutic target for its involvement in the first steps of neurodegeneration as well as in cancer onset and progression. Several studies, focused on different types of tumors, report a promising anticancer activity induced by CB2R agonists due to their ability to reduce inflammation and cell proliferation. Moreover, in neuroinflammation, the stimulation of CB2R, overexpressed in microglial cells, exerts beneficial effects in neurodegenerative disorders. With the aim to overcome current treatment limitations, new drugs can be developed by specifically modulating, together with CB2R, other targets involved in such multifactorial disorders. Building on successful case studies of already developed multitarget strategies involving CB2R, in this Perspective we aim at prompting the scientific community to consider new promising target associations involving HDACs (histone deacetylases) and σ receptors by employing modern approaches based on molecular hybridization, computational polypharmacology, and machine learning algorithms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Francesca Intranuovo
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro, Via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Pietro Delre
- CNR-Institute of Crystallography, Via Amendola 122/o, 70126 Bari, Italy.,Dipartimento di Chimica, Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Francesca Serena Abatematteo
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro, Via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Carmen Abate
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro, Via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Mauro Niso
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro, Via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Teresa Maria Creanza
- CNR-Institute of Intelligent Industrial Technologies and Systems for Advanced Manufacturing, Via Amendola 122/o, 70126 Bari, Italy
| | - Nicola Ancona
- CNR-Institute of Intelligent Industrial Technologies and Systems for Advanced Manufacturing, Via Amendola 122/o, 70126 Bari, Italy
| | - Angela Stefanachi
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro, Via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Marialessandra Contino
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro, Via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
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Lourenço DM, Ribeiro-Rodrigues L, Sebastião AM, Diógenes MJ, Xapelli S. Neural Stem Cells and Cannabinoids in the Spotlight as Potential Therapy for Epilepsy. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E7309. [PMID: 33022963 PMCID: PMC7582633 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21197309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is one of the most common brain diseases worldwide, having a huge burden in society. The main hallmark of epilepsy is the occurrence of spontaneous recurrent seizures, having a tremendous impact on the lives of the patients and of their relatives. Currently, the therapeutic strategies are mostly based on the use of antiepileptic drugs, and because several types of epilepsies are of unknown origin, a high percentage of patients are resistant to the available pharmacotherapy, continuing to experience seizures overtime. Therefore, the search for new drugs and therapeutic targets is highly important. One key aspect to be targeted is the aberrant adult hippocampal neurogenesis (AHN) derived from Neural Stem Cells (NSCs). Indeed, targeting seizure-induced AHN may reduce recurrent seizures and shed some light on the mechanisms of disease. The endocannabinoid system is a known modulator of AHN, and due to the known endogenous antiepileptic properties, it is an interesting candidate for the generation of new antiepileptic drugs. However, further studies and clinical trials are required to investigate the putative mechanisms by which cannabinoids can be used to treat epilepsy. In this manuscript, we will review how cannabinoid-induced modulation of NSCs may promote neural plasticity and whether these drugs can be used as putative antiepileptic treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diogo M. Lourenço
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; (D.M.L.); (L.R.-R.); (A.M.S.); (M.J.D.)
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Leonor Ribeiro-Rodrigues
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; (D.M.L.); (L.R.-R.); (A.M.S.); (M.J.D.)
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ana M. Sebastião
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; (D.M.L.); (L.R.-R.); (A.M.S.); (M.J.D.)
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Maria J. Diógenes
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; (D.M.L.); (L.R.-R.); (A.M.S.); (M.J.D.)
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Sara Xapelli
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; (D.M.L.); (L.R.-R.); (A.M.S.); (M.J.D.)
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
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Wallace AL, Wade NE, Lisdahl KM. Impact of 2 Weeks of Monitored Abstinence on Cognition in Adolescent and Young Adult Cannabis Users. J Int Neuropsychol Soc 2020; 26:776-784. [PMID: 32307027 PMCID: PMC7483189 DOI: 10.1017/s1355617720000260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Previous research suggests recovery from cannabis-related deficits in verbal learning and memory functioning after periods of cannabis abstinence in adolescents. Here, we examine how cannabis cessation affects cognitive performance over 2 weeks of monitored abstinence compared to controls in adolescents and young adults. METHODS Seventy-four participants (35 cannabis users) aged 16-26 ceased all cannabis, alcohol, and other illicit substance consumption for a 2-week period; abstinence was monitored via weekly urinalysis, breath, and sweat patch testing. Starting at baseline, participants completed weekly abbreviated neuropsychological batteries. Measures included tests of attention, inhibition, verbal working memory, and learning. Repeated measures assessed within and between subject effects for time and group status, while controlling for past year alcohol and nicotine use. RESULTS Cannabis users showed increased performance compared to controls on sustained attention tasks after 2 weeks of cannabis use. CONCLUSIONS Deficits in attention, but not verbal learning and memory, recovered after 2 weeks of monitored abstinence. This differs from previous literature, suggesting that other cognitive domains may show signs of recovery after periods of cannabis cessation in adolescents and young adults.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Natasha E. Wade
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA USA
| | - Krista M. Lisdahl
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
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Lynn MB, Lee KFH, Soares C, Naud R, Béïque JC. A Synthetic Likelihood Solution to the Silent Synapse Estimation Problem. Cell Rep 2020; 32:107916. [PMID: 32697998 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.107916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Functional features of synaptic populations are typically inferred from random electrophysiological sampling of small subsets of synapses. Are these samples unbiased? Here, we develop a biophysically constrained statistical framework to address this question and apply it to assess the performance of a widely used method based on a failure-rate analysis to quantify the occurrence of silent (AMPAR-lacking) synapses. We simulate this method in silico and find that it is characterized by strong and systematic biases, poor reliability, and weak statistical power. Key conclusions are validated by whole-cell recordings from hippocampal neurons. To address these shortcomings, we develop a simulator of the experimental protocol and use it to compute a synthetic likelihood. By maximizing the likelihood, we infer silent synapse fraction with no bias, low variance, and superior statistical power over alternatives. Together, this generalizable approach highlights how a simulator of experimental methodologies can substantially improve the estimation of physiological properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael B Lynn
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Kevin F H Lee
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Cary Soares
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Richard Naud
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; Centre for Neural Dynamics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; University of Ottawa's Brain and Mind Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; Department of Physics, STEM Complex, Room 336, 150 Louis Pasteur Private, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada.
| | - Jean-Claude Béïque
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; Canadian Partnership for Stroke Recovery, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; Centre for Neural Dynamics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; University of Ottawa's Brain and Mind Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada.
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42
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Loo JSE, Yong AYY, Yong YN. The effect of multiple simulation parameters on MM/PBSA performance for binding affinity prediction of CB1 cannabinoid receptor agonists and antagonists. Chem Biol Drug Des 2020; 96:1244-1254. [PMID: 32462752 DOI: 10.1111/cbdd.13733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Both the inactive- and active-state CB1 receptor crystal structures have now been solved, allowing their application in various structure-based drug design methods. One potential method utilizing these crystal structures is the Molecular Mechanics/Poisson-Boltzmann Surface Area (MM/PBSA) method of predicting relative binding free.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason S E Loo
- Center for Drug Discovery and Molecular Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia.,School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Amelia Y Y Yong
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Yen Nee Yong
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
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Franco R, Rivas-Santisteban R, Reyes-Resina I, Casanovas M, Pérez-Olives C, Ferreiro-Vera C, Navarro G, Sánchez de Medina V, Nadal X. Pharmacological potential of varinic-, minor-, and acidic phytocannabinoids. Pharmacol Res 2020; 158:104801. [PMID: 32416215 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.104801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Revised: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
While natural Δ9-tetrahidrocannabinol (Δ9THC), cannabidiol (CBD), and their therapeutic potential have been extensively researched, some cannabinoids have been less extensively investigated. The present article compiles data from the literature that highlight the health benefits and therapeutic potential of lesser known phytocannabinoids, which we have divided into varinic, acidic, and "minor" (i.e., cannabinoids that are not present in high quantities in common varieties of Cannabis sativa L). A growing interest in these compounds, which are enriched in some cannabis varieties, has already resulted in enough preclinical information to show that they are promising therapeutic agents for a variety of diseases. Every phytocannabinoid has a "preferential" mechanism of action, and often targets the cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and/or CB2. The recent resolution of the structure of cannabinoid receptors demonstrates the atypical nature of cannabinoid binding, and that different binding modes depend on the agonist or partial agonist/inverse agonist, which allows for differential signaling, even acting on the same cannabinoid receptor. In addition, other players and multiple signaling pathways may be targeted/engaged by phytocannabinoids, thereby expanding the mechanistic possibilities for therapeutic use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Franco
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CiberNed), Spain.
| | - Rafael Rivas-Santisteban
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CiberNed), Spain
| | - Irene Reyes-Resina
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CiberNed), Spain
| | - Mireia Casanovas
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CiberNed), Spain
| | - Catalina Pérez-Olives
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Gemma Navarro
- Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, School of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain
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Gomes-de-Souza L, Costa-Ferreira W, Oliveira LA, Benini R, Crestani CC. Cannabinoid receptor type 1 in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis modulates cardiovascular responses to stress via local N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor/neuronal nitric oxide synthase/soluble guanylate cyclase/protein kinase G signaling. J Psychopharmacol 2020; 34:429-440. [PMID: 31913077 DOI: 10.1177/0269881119897556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endocannabinoid neurotransmission in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis is involved in the control of cardiovascular responses to stress. However, the local mechanisms involved is this regulation are not known. AIMS The purpose of this study was to assess an interaction of bed nucleus of the stria terminalis endocannabinoid neurotransmission with local nitrergic signaling, as well as to investigate the involvement of local N-methyl-D-aspartate glutamate receptor and nitric oxide signaling in the control of cardiovascular responses to acute restraint stress by bed nucleus of the stria terminalis endocannabinoid neurotransmission in rats. METHODS The first protocol evaluated the effect of intra-bed nucleus of the stria terminalis microinjection of the selective cannabinoid receptor type 1 receptor antagonist AM251 in nitrite/nitrate content in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis following restraint stress. The other protocols evaluated the impact of local pretreatment with the selective N-methyl-D-aspartate glutamate receptor antagonist LY235959, the selective neuronal nitric oxide synthase inhibitor Nω-propyl-L-arginine, the soluble guanylate cyclase inhibitor 1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one, or the protein kinase G inhibitor KT5823 in restraint-evoked cardiovascular changes following bed nucleus of the stria terminalis treatment with AM251. RESULTS Bilateral microinjection of AM251 into the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis increased local nitric oxide release during restraint stress. Bed nucleus of the stria terminalis treatment with the cannabinoid receptor type 1 receptor antagonist also enhanced the tachycardia caused by restraint stress, but without affecting arterial pressure increase and sympathetic-mediated cutaneous vasoconstriction. The facilitation of restraint-evoked tachycardia following bed nucleus of the stria terminalis treatment with the cannabinoid receptor type 1 receptor antagonist was completely inhibited by local pretreatment with LY235959, Nω-propyl-L-arginine, 1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one, or KT5823. CONCLUSIONS Our results provide evidence that bed nucleus of the stria terminalis endocannabinoid neurotransmission inhibits local N-methyl-D-aspartate/neuronal nitric oxide synthase/soluble guanylate cyclase/protein kinase G signaling, and this mechanism is involved in the control of the cardiovascular responses to stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Gomes-de-Souza
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Araraquara, Brazil.,Joint Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar)-UNESP Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Willian Costa-Ferreira
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Araraquara, Brazil.,Joint Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar)-UNESP Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Leandro A Oliveira
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Araraquara, Brazil.,Joint Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar)-UNESP Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Benini
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Araraquara, Brazil.,Joint Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar)-UNESP Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Carlos C Crestani
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Araraquara, Brazil.,Joint Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar)-UNESP Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences, São Carlos, Brazil
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Wei F, Zhao L, Jing Y. Signaling molecules targeting cannabinoid receptors: Hemopressin and related peptides. Neuropeptides 2020; 79:101998. [PMID: 31831183 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2019.101998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Revised: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoid receptors (CBRs) are part of the endocannabinoid system, which is involved in various physiological processes such as nociception, inflammation, appetite, stress, and emotion regulation. Many studies have linked the endocannabinoid system to neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's disease, Huntington's chorea, Alzheimer's disease, and multiple sclerosis. Hemopressin [Hp; a fragment of the hemoglobin α1 chain (95-103 amino acids)] and related peptides [VD-Hpα and RVD-Hpα] are peptides that bind to CBRs. Hp acts as an inverse agonist to CB1 receptor (CB1R), VD-Hpα acts as an agonist to CB1R, and RVD-Hpα acts as a negative allosteric modulator of CB1R and a positive allosteric modulator of CB2R. Because of the critical roles of CBRs in numerous physiological processes, it is appealing to use Hp and related peptides for therapeutic purposes. This review discusses their discovery, structure, metabolism, brain exposure, self-assembly characteristics, pharmacological characterization, and pharmacological activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengmei Wei
- Department of Physiology and Psychology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu Province 730000, PR China
| | - Long Zhao
- Department of Orthopaedics, Lanzhou University First Affiliated Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu Province 730000, PR China
| | - Yuhong Jing
- Institute of Anatomy and Histology & Embryology, Neuroscience, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, PR China; Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, PR China.
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Thapa D, Cairns EA, Szczesniak AM, Kulkarni PM, Straiker AJ, Thakur GA, Kelly MEM. Allosteric Cannabinoid Receptor 1 (CB1) Ligands Reduce Ocular Pain and Inflammation. Molecules 2020; 25:E417. [PMID: 31968549 PMCID: PMC7024337 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25020417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) activation has been reported to reduce transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1)-induced inflammatory responses and is anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory in corneal injury. We examined whether allosteric ligands, can modulate CB1 signaling to reduce pain and inflammation in corneal hyperalgesia. Corneal hyperalgesia was generated by chemical cauterization of cornea in wildtype and CB2 knockout (CB2-/-) mice. The novel racemic CB1 allosteric ligand GAT211 and its enantiomers GAT228 and GAT229 were examined alone or in combination with the orthosteric CB1 agonist Δ8-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ8-THC). Pain responses were assessed following capsaicin (1 µM) stimulation of injured corneas at 6 h post-cauterization. Corneal neutrophil infiltration was also analyzed. GAT228, but not GAT229 or GAT211, reduced pain scores in response to capsaicin stimulation. Combination treatments of 0.5% GAT229 or 1% GAT211 with subthreshold Δ8-THC (0.4%) significantly reduced pain scores following capsaicin stimulation. The anti-nociceptive effects of both GAT229 and GAT228 were blocked with CB1 antagonist AM251, but remained unaffected in CB2-/- mice. Two percent GAT228, or the combination of 0.2% Δ8-THC with 0.5% GAT229 also significantly reduced corneal inflammation. CB1 allosteric ligands could offer a novel approach for treating corneal pain and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinesh Thapa
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Elizabeth A. Cairns
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | | | - Pushkar M. Kulkarni
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Alex J. Straiker
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Ganesh A. Thakur
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Melanie E. M. Kelly
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management & Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
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α 2-Adrenoceptor agonist induces peripheral antinociception via the endocannabinoid system. Pharmacol Rep 2020; 72:96-103. [PMID: 32016857 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-019-00053-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2019] [Revised: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Xylazine is an α2 adrenoceptor agonist that is extensively used in veterinary medicine and animal experimentation procedures to produce analgesia, sedation and muscle relaxation without causing general anesthesia. Considering the lack of knowledge of the mechanisms involved in peripheral antinociception induced by xylazine and the potential interactions between the adrenergic and endocannabinoid systems, the present study investigated the contribution of the latter system in the mechanism of xylazine. METHODS The rat paw pressure test, in which hyperalgesia was induced by the intraplantar injection of prostaglandin E2, was performed. RESULTS Xylazine administered via an intraplantar injection (25, 50 and 100 μg) induced a peripheral antinociceptive effect against prostaglandin E2 (2 μg)-induced hyperalgesia. This effect was blocked by treatment with the selective CB1 cannabinoid antagonist AM251 (20, 40 and 80 μg) but not by the selective CB2 cannabinoid antagonist AM630 (100 μg). The anandamide reuptake inhibitor VDM11 (2.5 μg) intensified the peripheral antinociceptive effect of a submaximal dose of xylazine (25 μg), and the inhibitor of endocannabinoid enzymatic hydrolysis, MAFP (0.5 μg), showed a tendency towards this same effect. In addition, liquid-chromatography mass spectrometric analysis indicated that xylazine (100 μg) treatment was associated with an increase in anandamide levels in the rat paws treated with PGE2. CONCLUSIONS The present results provides evidence that the peripheral antinociceptive effect of the α2 adrenoceptor agonist xylazine probably results from anandamide release and subsequent CB1 cannabinoid receptor activation.
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Worob A, Wenthur C. DARK Classics in Chemical Neuroscience: Synthetic Cannabinoids (Spice/K2). ACS Chem Neurosci 2019; 11:3881-3892. [PMID: 31799831 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.9b00586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
This Review covers the background, pharmacology, adverse effects, synthesis, pharmacokinetics, metabolism, and history of synthetic cannabinoid compounds. Synthetic cannabinoids are a class of novel psychoactive substances that act as agonists at cannabinoid receptors. This class of compounds is structurally diverse and rapidly changing, with multiple generations of molecules having been developed in the past decade. The structural diversity of synthetic cannabinoids is supported by the breadth of chemical space available for exploitation by clandestine chemists and incentivized by attempts to remain ahead of legal pressures. As a class, synthetic cannabinoid products have a more serious adverse effect profile than that of traditional phytocannabinoids, including notable risks of lethality, as well as a history of dangerous adulteration. Most synthetic cannabinoids are rapidly metabolized to active species with prolonged residence times and peripheral tissue distribution, and analytical confirmation of use of these compounds remains challenging. Overall, the emergence of synthetic cannabinoids serves as a noteworthy example of the pressing public health challenges associated with the increasing development of easily synthesized, structurally flexible, highly potent, psychoactive drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Worob
- Divisions of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin—Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53705, United States
| | - Cody Wenthur
- Divisions of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin—Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53705, United States
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Wouters E, Walraed J, Robertson MJ, Meyrath M, Szpakowska M, Chevigné A, Skiniotis G, Stove C. Assessment of Biased Agonism among Distinct Synthetic Cannabinoid Receptor Agonist Scaffolds. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2019; 3:285-295. [PMID: 32296768 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.9b00069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) is a key drug target for a number of diseases, including metabolic syndromes and neuropathic pain. Most of the typical cannabinoid ligands provoke psychotropic side effects that impair their therapeutic utility. As of today, it is not yet clearly known which structural features of cannabinoid ligands determine a preference toward specific signaling pathways. Distinct bioassays are typically used to elucidate signaling preferences. However, these are often based on different cell lines and use different principles and/or read-outs, which makes straightforward assessment of "ligand bias" difficult. Within this context, this study is the first to investigate ligand bias among synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) in as closely analogous conditions as possible, by applying a new functional complementation-based assay panel to assess the recruitment of Gαi protein or β-arrestin2 to CB1. In a panel of 21 SCRAs, chosen to cover a broad diversity in chemical structures, distinct, although often subtle, preferences toward specific signaling pathways were observed. Relative to CP55940, here considered as a "balanced" reference agonist, most of the selected SCRAs (e.g., 5F-APINACA, CUMYL-PEGACLONE, among others) displayed preferred signaling through the β-arrestin2 pathway, whereas MMB-CHMICA could serve as a potential "balanced" agonist. Interestingly, EG-018 was the only SCRA showing a significant (10-fold) preference toward G protein over β-arrestin2 recruitment. While it is currently unclear what this exactly means in terms of abuse potential and/or toxicity, the approach proposed here may allow construction of a knowledge base that in the end may allow better insight into the structure-"functional" activity relationship of these compounds. This may aid the development of new therapeutics with less unwanted psychoactive effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise Wouters
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jolien Walraed
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Michael Joseph Robertson
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology and Department of Structural Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, 94305 California, United States.,Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology and Department of Structural Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, 94305 California, United States
| | - Max Meyrath
- Immuno-Pharmacology and Interactomics, Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Strassen 1445, Luxembourg
| | - Martyna Szpakowska
- Immuno-Pharmacology and Interactomics, Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Strassen 1445, Luxembourg
| | - Andy Chevigné
- Immuno-Pharmacology and Interactomics, Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Strassen 1445, Luxembourg
| | - Georgios Skiniotis
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology and Department of Structural Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, 94305 California, United States.,Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology and Department of Structural Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, 94305 California, United States
| | - Christophe Stove
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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Wouters E, Walraed J, Banister SD, Stove CP. Insights into biased signaling at cannabinoid receptors: synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists. Biochem Pharmacol 2019; 169:113623. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2019.08.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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