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Zhao M, Wu J, Jin Y, Li M, Yu K, Yu H. Schisandrin B from Schisandra chinensis alleviated pain via glycine receptors, Nav1.7 channels and Cav2.2 channels. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 326:117996. [PMID: 38431110 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.117996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Schisandra chinensis, the dried and ripe fruit of the magnolia family plant Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill, was commonly used in traditional analgesic prescription. Studies have shown that the extract of Schisandra chinensis (SC) displayed analgesic activity. However, the analgesic active component and the exact mechanisms have yet to be revealed. AIM OF THE STUDY The present study was to investigate the anti-nociceptive constituent of Schisandra chinensis, assess its analgesic effect, and explore the potential molecular mechanisms. MATERIALS AND METHODS The effects of a series of well-recognized compounds from SC on glycine receptors were investigated. The analgesic effect of the identified compound was evaluated in three pain models. Mechanistic studies were performed using patch clamp technique on various targets expressed in recombinant cells. These targets included glycine receptors, Nav1.7 sodium channels, Cav2.2 calcium channels et al. Meanwhile, primary cultured spinal dorsal horn (SDH) neurons and dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons were also utilized. RESULTS Schisandrin B (SchB) was a positive allosteric modulator of glycine receptors in spinal dorsal horn neurons. The EC50 of SchB on glycine receptors in spinal dorsal horn neurons was 2.94 ± 0.28 μM. In three pain models, the analgesic effect of SchB was comparable to that of indomethacin at the same dose. Besides, SchB rescued PGE2-induced suppression of α3 GlyR activity and alleviated persistent pain. Notably, SchB could also potently decrease the frequency of action potentials and inhibit sodium and calcium channels in DRG neurons. Consistent with the data from DRG neurons, SchB was also found to significantly block Nav1.7 sodium channels and Cav2.2 channels in recombinant cells. CONCLUSION Our results demonstrated that, Schisandrin B, the primary lignan component of Schisandra chinensis, may exert its analgesic effect by acting on multiple ion channels, including glycine receptors, Nav1.7 channels, and Cav2.2 channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miao Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China.
| | - Jun Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China.
| | - Yuchen Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China.
| | - Min Li
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China.
| | - KeXin Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China.
| | - Haibo Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China.
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Alvarez LD, Carina Alves NR. Structural Basis for Molecular Recognition of Cannabinoids by Inhibitory Cys-Loop Channels. J Med Chem 2024; 67:3274-3286. [PMID: 38428383 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c02391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Cannabis sativa has a long history of medicinal use, dating back to ancient times. This plant produces cannabinoids, which are now known to interact with several human proteins, including Cys-loop receptors for glycine (GlyR) and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABAAR). As these channels are the primary mediators of inhibitory signals, they contribute to the diverse effects of cannabinoids on the nervous system. Evidence suggests that cannabinoid binding sites are located within the transmembrane domain, although their precise location has remained undetermined for over a decade. The process of identification of the binding site and the computational approaches employed are the main subjects of this Perspective, which includes an analysis of the most recently resolved cryo-EM structures of zebrafish GlyR bound to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and the THC-GlyR complex obtained through molecular dynamics simulations. With this work, we aim to contribute to guiding future studies investigating the molecular basis of cannabinoid action on inhibitory channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lautaro D Alvarez
- Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Universitaria, Buenos Aires C1428EGA, Argentina
- UMYMFOR, CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad UniversitariaBuenos Aires C1428EGA, Argentina
| | - N R Carina Alves
- Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Universitaria, Buenos Aires C1428EGA, Argentina
- UMYMFOR, CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad UniversitariaBuenos Aires C1428EGA, Argentina
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3
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Huang Q, Zhu W, Gao X, Liu X, Zhang Z, Xing B. Nanoparticles-mediated ion channels manipulation: From their membrane interactions to bioapplications. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 195:114763. [PMID: 36841331 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.114763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
Ion channels are transmembrane proteins ubiquitously expressed in all cells that control various ions (e.g. Na+, K+, Ca2+ and Cl- etc) crossing cellular plasma membrane, which play critical roles in physiological processes including regulating signal transduction, cell proliferation as well as excitatory cell excitation and conduction. Abnormal ion channel function is usually associated with dysfunctions and many diseases, such as neurodegenerative disorders, ophthalmic diseases, pulmonary diseases and even cancers. The precise regulation of ion channels not only helps to decipher physiological and pathological processes, but also is expected to become cutting-edge means for disease treatment. Recently, nanoparticles-mediated ion channel manipulation emerges as a highly promising way to meet the increasing requirements with respect to their simple, efficient, precise, spatiotemporally controllable and non-invasive regulation in biomedicine and other research frontiers. Thanks the advantages of their unique properties, nanoparticles can not only directly block the pore sites or kinetics of ion channels through their tiny size effect, and perturb active voltage-gated ion channel by their charged surface, but they can also act as antennas to conduct or enhance external physical stimuli to achieve spatiotemporal, precise and efficient regulation of various ion channel activities (e.g. light-, mechanical-, and temperature-gated ion channels etc). So far, nanoparticles-mediated ion channel regulation has shown potential prospects in many biomedical fields at the interfaces of neuro- and cardiovascular modulation, physiological function regeneration and tumor therapy et al. Towards such important fields, in this typical review, we specifically outline the latest studies of different types of ion channels and their activities relevant to the diseases. In addition, the different types of stimulation responsive nanoparticles, their interaction modes and targeting strategies towards the plasma membrane ion channels will be systematically summarized. More importantly, the ion channel regulatory methods mediated by functional nanoparticles and their bioapplications associated with physiological modulation and therapeutic development will be discussed. Last but not least, current challenges and future perspectives in this field will be covered as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiwen Huang
- Department of Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Surface & Interface Science of Polymer Materials of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Weisheng Zhu
- Department of Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Surface & Interface Science of Polymer Materials of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Xiaoyin Gao
- Department of Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Surface & Interface Science of Polymer Materials of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Xinping Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China
| | - Zhijun Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Surface & Interface Science of Polymer Materials of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, China.
| | - Bengang Xing
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering & Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 637371, Singapore.
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4
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Schmiedhofer P, Vogel FD, Koniuszewski F, Ernst M. Cys-loop receptors on cannabinoids: All high? Front Physiol 2022; 13:1044575. [PMID: 36439263 PMCID: PMC9682269 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.1044575] [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: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocannabinoids (eCBS) are endogenously derived lipid signaling molecules that serve as tissue hormones and interact with multiple targets, mostly within the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a highly conserved regulatory system involved in homeostatic regulation, organ formation, and immunomodulation of chordates. The term “cannabinoid” evolved from the distinctive class of plant compounds found in Cannabis sativa, an ancient herb, due to their action on CB1 and CB2 receptors. CB1/2 receptors are the primary targets for eCBs, but their effects are not limited to the ECS. Due to the high interest and extensive research on the ECS, knowledge on its constituents and physiological role is substantial and still growing. Crosstalk and multiple targeting of molecules are common features of endogenous and plant compounds. Cannabimimetic molecules can be divided according to their origin, natural or synthetic, including phytocannabinoids (pCB’s) or synthetic cannabinoids (sCB’s). The endocannabinoid system (ECS) consists of receptors, transporters, enzymes, and signaling molecules. In this review, we focus on the effects of cannabinoids on Cys-loop receptors. Cys-loop receptors belong to the class of membrane-bound pentameric ligand gated ion channels, each family comprising multiple subunits. Mammalians possess GABA type A receptors (GABAAR), glycine receptors (GlyR), serotonin receptors type 3 (5-HT3R), and nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR). Several studies have shown different modulatory effects of CBs on multiple members of the Cys-loop receptor family. We highlight the existing knowledge, especially on subunits and protein domains with conserved binding sites for CBs and their possible pharmacological and physiological role in epilepsy and in chronic pain. We further discuss the potential for cannabinoids as first line treatments in epilepsy, chronic pain and other neuropsychiatric conditions, indicated by their polypharmacology and therapeutic profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Schmiedhofer
- SBR Development Holding, Vienna, Austria
- *Correspondence: Philip Schmiedhofer, ; Margot Ernst,
| | - Florian Daniel Vogel
- Department of Pathobiology of the Nervous System, Center for Brain Research, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Filip Koniuszewski
- Department of Pathobiology of the Nervous System, Center for Brain Research, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Margot Ernst
- Department of Pathobiology of the Nervous System, Center for Brain Research, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- *Correspondence: Philip Schmiedhofer, ; Margot Ernst,
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5
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Oz M, Yang KHS, Mahgoub MO. Effects of cannabinoids on ligand-gated ion channels. Front Physiol 2022; 13:1041833. [PMID: 36338493 PMCID: PMC9627301 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.1041833] [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: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Phytocannabinoids such as Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol, endocannabinoids such as N-arachidonoylethanolamine (anandamide) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol, and synthetic cannabinoids such as CP47,497 and JWH-018 constitute major groups of structurally diverse cannabinoids. Along with these cannabinoids, CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors and enzymes involved in synthesis and degradation of endocannabinoids comprise the major components of the cannabinoid system. Although, cannabinoid receptors are known to be involved in anti-convulsant, anti-nociceptive, anti-psychotic, anti-emetic, and anti-oxidant effects of cannabinoids, in recent years, an increasing number of studies suggest that, at pharmacologically relevant concentrations, these compounds interact with several molecular targets including G-protein coupled receptors, ion channels, and enzymes in a cannabinoid-receptor independent manner. In this report, the direct actions of endo-, phyto-, and synthetic cannabinoids on the functional properties of ligand-gated ion channels and the plausible mechanisms mediating these effects were reviewed and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murat Oz
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
- *Correspondence: Murat Oz,
| | - Keun-Hang Susan Yang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Schmid College of Science and Technology, Chapman University, One University Drive, Orange, CA, United States
| | - Mohamed Omer Mahgoub
- Department of Health and Medical Sciences, Khawarizmi International College, Abu Dhabi, UAE
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6
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Gallagher CI, Ha DA, Harvey RJ, Vandenberg RJ. Positive Allosteric Modulators of Glycine Receptors and Their Potential Use in Pain Therapies. Pharmacol Rev 2022; 74:933-961. [PMID: 36779343 PMCID: PMC9553105 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.122.000583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Glycine receptors are ligand-gated ion channels that mediate synaptic inhibition throughout the mammalian spinal cord, brainstem, and higher brain regions. They have recently emerged as promising targets for novel pain therapies due to their ability to produce antinociception by inhibiting nociceptive signals within the dorsal horn of the spinal cord. This has greatly enhanced the interest in developing positive allosteric modulators of glycine receptors. Several pharmaceutical companies and research facilities have attempted to identify new therapeutic leads by conducting large-scale screens of compound libraries, screening new derivatives from natural sources, or synthesizing novel compounds that mimic endogenous compounds with antinociceptive activity. Advances in structural techniques have also led to the publication of multiple high-resolution structures of the receptor, highlighting novel allosteric binding sites and providing additional information for previously identified binding sites. This has greatly enhanced our understanding of the functional properties of glycine receptors and expanded the structure activity relationships of novel pharmacophores. Despite this, glycine receptors are yet to be used as drug targets due to the difficulties in obtaining potent, selective modulators with favorable pharmacokinetic profiles that are devoid of side effects. This review presents a summary of the structural basis for how current compounds cause positive allosteric modulation of glycine receptors and discusses their therapeutic potential as analgesics. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Chronic pain is a major cause of disability, and in Western societies, this will only increase as the population ages. Despite the high level of prevalence and enormous socioeconomic burden incurred, treatment of chronic pain remains limited as it is often refractory to current analgesics, such as opioids. The National Institute for Drug Abuse has set finding effective, safe, nonaddictive strategies to manage chronic pain as their top priority. Positive allosteric modulators of glycine receptors may provide a therapeutic option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casey I Gallagher
- Molecular Biomedicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia (C.I.G., D.A.H., R.J.V.) and Biomedical Science, School of Health and Behavioural Sciences and Sunshine Coast Health Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore, Australia (R.J.H.)
| | - Damien A Ha
- Molecular Biomedicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia (C.I.G., D.A.H., R.J.V.) and Biomedical Science, School of Health and Behavioural Sciences and Sunshine Coast Health Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore, Australia (R.J.H.)
| | - Robert J Harvey
- Molecular Biomedicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia (C.I.G., D.A.H., R.J.V.) and Biomedical Science, School of Health and Behavioural Sciences and Sunshine Coast Health Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore, Australia (R.J.H.)
| | - Robert J Vandenberg
- Molecular Biomedicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia (C.I.G., D.A.H., R.J.V.) and Biomedical Science, School of Health and Behavioural Sciences and Sunshine Coast Health Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore, Australia (R.J.H.)
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7
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Zou G, Xia J, Luo H, Xiao D, Jin J, Miao C, Zuo X, Gao Q, Zhang Z, Xue T, You Y, Zhang Y, Zhang L, Xiong W. Combined alcohol and cannabinoid exposure leads to synergistic toxicity by affecting cerebellar Purkinje cells. Nat Metab 2022; 4:1138-1149. [PMID: 36109623 DOI: 10.1038/s42255-022-00633-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Combined use of cannabis and alcohol results in greater psychoactive toxicity than either substance alone, but the underlying central mechanisms behind this worsened outcome remain unclear. Here we show that the synergistic effect of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and ethanol on motor incoordination in mice is achieved by activating presynaptic type 1 cannabinoid receptors (CB1R) and potentiating extrasynaptic glycine receptors (GlyR) within cerebellar Purkinje cells (PCs). The combination of ethanol and THC significantly reduces miniature excitatory postsynaptic current frequency in a CB1R-dependent manner, while increasing the extrasynaptic GlyR-mediated chronic chloride current, both leading to decreased PC activity. Ethanol enhances THC actions by boosting the blood-brain-barrier permeability of THC and enriching THC in the cell membrane. Di-desoxy-THC, a designed compound that specifically disrupts THC-GlyR interaction without affecting the basic functions of CB1R and GlyR, is able to restore PC function and motor coordination in mice. Our findings provide potential therapeutic strategies for overcoming the synergistic toxicity caused by combining cannabis and alcohol use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guichang Zou
- Institute on Aging and Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Institute of Artificial Intelligence, Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center, Hefei, China
| | - Jing Xia
- Institute on Aging and Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Heyi Luo
- Institute on Aging and Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Dan Xiao
- Institute on Aging and Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Jin Jin
- Institute on Aging and Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Chenjian Miao
- Institute on Aging and Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Xin Zuo
- Institute on Aging and Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Qianqian Gao
- CAS Key Laboratory of Soft Matter Chemistry, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Zhi Zhang
- Institute on Aging and Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Tian Xue
- Institute on Aging and Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Yezi You
- CAS Key Laboratory of Soft Matter Chemistry, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Ye Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Laboratory for Integrative Neuroscience, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Wei Xiong
- Institute on Aging and Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
- Institute of Artificial Intelligence, Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center, Hefei, China.
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Biomedical Aging Research, Hefei, China.
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Pedrazzi JFC, Ferreira FR, Silva-Amaral D, Lima DA, Hallak JEC, Zuardi AW, Del-Bel EA, Guimarães FS, Costa KCM, Campos AC, Crippa ACS, Crippa JAS. Cannabidiol for the treatment of autism spectrum disorder: hope or hype? Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2022; 239:2713-2734. [PMID: 35904579 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-022-06196-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is defined as a group of neurodevelopmental disorders whose symptoms include impaired communication and social interaction, restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior, and varying levels of intellectual disability. ASD is observed in early childhood and is one of the most severe chronic childhood disorders in prevalence, morbidity, and impact on society. It is usually accompanied by attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, and epilepsy. The treatment of ASD has low efficacy, possibly because it has a heterogeneous nature, and its neurobiological basis is not clearly understood. Drugs such as risperidone and aripiprazole are the only two drugs available that are recognized by the Food and Drug Administration, primarily for treating the behavioral symptoms of this disorder. These drugs have limited efficacy and a high potential for inducing undesirable effects, compromising treatment adherence. Therefore, there is great interest in exploring the endocannabinoid system, which modulates the activity of other neurotransmitters, has actions in social behavior and seems to be altered in patients with ASD. Thus, cannabidiol (CBD) emerges as a possible strategy for treating ASD symptoms since it has relevant pharmacological actions on the endocannabinoid system and shows promising results in studies related to disorders in the central nervous system. OBJECTIVES Review the preclinical and clinical data supporting CBD's potential as a treatment for the symptoms and comorbidities associated with ASD, as well as discuss and provide information with the purpose of not trivializing the use of this drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- João F C Pedrazzi
- Department of Neurosciences and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Frederico R Ferreira
- Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, 21040-900, Brazil
| | - Danyelle Silva-Amaral
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Daniel A Lima
- Department of Neurosciences and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jaime E C Hallak
- Department of Neurosciences and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Antônio W Zuardi
- Department of Neurosciences and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Elaine A Del-Bel
- Department of Neurosciences and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Morphology, Physiology, and Basic Pathology, School of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Francisco S Guimarães
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Karla C M Costa
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alline C Campos
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana C S Crippa
- Graduate Program in Child and Adolescent Health, Neuropediatric Center of the Hospital of Clinics (CENEP), Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - José A S Crippa
- Department of Neurosciences and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
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9
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Kumar A, Kindig K, Rao S, Zaki AM, Basak S, Sansom MSP, Biggin PC, Chakrapani S. Structural basis for cannabinoid-induced potentiation of alpha1-glycine receptors in lipid nanodiscs. Nat Commun 2022; 13:4862. [PMID: 35982060 PMCID: PMC9388682 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-32594-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Nociception and motor coordination are critically governed by glycine receptor (GlyR) function at inhibitory synapses. Consequentially, GlyRs are attractive targets in the management of chronic pain and in the treatment of several neurological disorders. High-resolution mechanistic details of GlyR function and its modulation are just emerging. While it has been known that cannabinoids such as Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the principal psychoactive constituent in marijuana, potentiate GlyR in the therapeutically relevant concentration range, the molecular mechanism underlying this effect is still not understood. Here, we present Cryo-EM structures of full-length GlyR reconstituted into lipid nanodisc in complex with THC under varying concentrations of glycine. The GlyR-THC complexes are captured in multiple conformational states that reveal the basis for THC-mediated potentiation, manifested as different extents of opening at the level of the channel pore. Taken together, these structural findings, combined with molecular dynamics simulations and functional analysis, provide insights into the potential THC binding site and the allosteric coupling to the channel pore.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arvind Kumar
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Kayla Kindig
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Shanlin Rao
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Sandip Basak
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Mark S P Sansom
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Philip C Biggin
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Sudha Chakrapani
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.
- Cleveland Center for Membrane and Structural Biology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.
- Department of Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.
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10
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Neuromolecular Mechanisms of Cannabis Action. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1264:15-28. [PMID: 33332001 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-57369-0_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Most of our current understanding of the neuromolecular mechanisms of Cannabis action focusses on two plant cannabinoids, THC and CBD. THC acts primarily through presynaptic CB cannabinoid receptors to regulate neurotransmitter release in the brain, spinal cord and peripheral nerves. CBD action, on the other hand, is probably mediated through multiple molecular targets.
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11
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Sheipouri D, Gallagher CI, Shimmon S, Rawling T, Vandenberg RJ. A System for Assessing Dual Action Modulators of Glycine Transporters and Glycine Receptors. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10121618. [PMID: 33266066 PMCID: PMC7760315 DOI: 10.3390/biom10121618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Reduced inhibitory glycinergic neurotransmission is implicated in a number of neurological conditions such as neuropathic pain, schizophrenia, epilepsy and hyperekplexia. Restoring glycinergic signalling may be an effective method of treating these pathologies. Glycine transporters (GlyTs) control synaptic and extra-synaptic glycine concentrations and slowing the reuptake of glycine using specific GlyT inhibitors will increase glycine extracellular concentrations and increase glycine receptor (GlyR) activation. Glycinergic neurotransmission can also be improved through positive allosteric modulation (PAM) of GlyRs. Despite efforts to manipulate this synapse, no therapeutics currently target it. We propose that dual action modulators of both GlyTs and GlyRs may show greater therapeutic potential than those targeting individual proteins. To show this, we have characterized a co-expression system in Xenopus laevis oocytes consisting of GlyT1 or GlyT2 co-expressed with GlyRα1. We use two electrode voltage clamp recording techniques to measure the impact of GlyTs on GlyRs and the effects of modulators of these proteins. We show that increases in GlyT density in close proximity to GlyRs diminish receptor currents. Reductions in GlyR mediated currents are not observed when non-transportable GlyR agonists are applied or when Na+ is not available. GlyTs reduce glycine concentrations across different concentration ranges, corresponding with their ion-coupling stoichiometry, and full receptor currents can be restored when GlyTs are blocked with selective inhibitors. We show that partial inhibition of GlyT2 and modest GlyRα1 potentiation using a dual action compound, is as useful in restoring GlyR currents as a full and potent single target GlyT2 inhibitor or single target GlyRα1 PAM. The co-expression system developed in this study will provide a robust means for assessing the likely impact of GlyR PAMs and GlyT inhibitors on glycine neurotransmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diba Sheipouri
- School of Medical Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (D.S.); (C.I.G.)
| | - Casey I. Gallagher
- School of Medical Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (D.S.); (C.I.G.)
| | - Susan Shimmon
- School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia; (S.S.); (T.R.)
| | - Tristan Rawling
- School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia; (S.S.); (T.R.)
| | - Robert J. Vandenberg
- School of Medical Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (D.S.); (C.I.G.)
- Correspondence:
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Yao L, Liu C, Wang N, Du F, Fan S, Guo Y, Zhang L, Pan Y, Xiong W. Cholesterol regulates cannabinoid analgesia through glycine receptors. Neuropharmacology 2020; 177:108242. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.108242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2020] [Revised: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a multifactorial, pervasive neurodevelopmental disorder defined by the core symptoms of significant impairment in social interaction and communication as well as restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior. In addition to these core behaviors, persons with ASD frequently have associated noncore behavioral disturbance (ie, self-injury, aggression), as well as several medical comorbidities. Currently, no effective treatment exists for the core symptoms of ASD. This review reports the available preclinical and clinical data regarding the use of cannabis and cannabidiol in the treatment of core symptoms, noncore symptoms and comorbidities associated with ASD. Additionally, we describe our clinical experience working with children and young adults with ASD who have used cannabis or cannabidiol. At present, preclinical and clinical data suggest a potential for therapeutic benefit among some persons with ASD and that it is overall well tolerated. Further research is required to better identify patients who may benefit from treatment without adverse effects.
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Morales P, Jagerovic N. Novel approaches and current challenges with targeting the endocannabinoid system. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2020; 15:917-930. [PMID: 32336154 PMCID: PMC7502221 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2020.1752178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The pathophysiological relevance of the endocannabinoid system has been widely demonstrated in a variety of diseases including cancer, neurological disorders, and metabolic issues. Therefore, targeting the receptors and the endogenous machinery involved in this system can provide a successful therapeutic outcome. Ligands targeting the canonical cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2, along with inhibitors of the endocannabinoid enzymes have been thoroughly studied in diverse disease models. In fact, phytocannabinoids such as cannabidiol or Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol are currently on the market for the management of neuropathic pain due to spasticity in multiple sclerosis or seizures in children epilepsy amongst others. AREAS COVERED Challenges in the pharmacology of cannabinoids arise from its pharmacokinetics, off-target effects, and psychoactive effects. In this context, the current review outlines the novel molecular approaches emerging in the field discussing their clinical potential. EXPERT OPINION Even if orthosteric CB1 and CB2 ligands are on the forefront in cannabinoid clinical research, emerging strategies such as allosteric or biased modulation of these receptors along with controlled off-targets effects may increase the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Morales
- Instituto de Química Médica, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Madrid, Spain
| | - Nadine Jagerovic
- Instituto de Química Médica, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Madrid, Spain
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15
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Yao L, Wells M, Wu X, Xu Y, Zhang L, Xiong W. Membrane cholesterol dependence of cannabinoid modulation of glycine receptor. FASEB J 2020; 34:10920-10930. [PMID: 32608538 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201903093r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoids exert therapeutic effects on several diseases such as chronic pain and startle disease by targeting glycine receptors (GlyRs). Our previous studies have shown that cannabinoids target a serine residue at position 296 in the third transmembrane helix of the α1/α3 GlyR. This site is located on the outside of the ion channel protein at the lipid interface where the cholesterol concentrates. However, whether membrane cholesterol regulates cannabinoid-GlyR interaction remains unknown. Here, we show that GlyRs are closely associated with cholesterol/caveolin-rich domains at subcellular levels. Membrane cholesterol reduction significantly inhibits cannabinoid potentiation of glycine-activated currents in cultured spinal neurons and in HEK 293T cells expressing α1/α3 GlyRs. Such inhibition is fully rescued by cholesterol replenishment in a concentration-dependent manner. Molecular docking calculations further reveal that cholesterol regulates cannabinoid enhancement of GlyR function through both direct and indirect mechanisms. Taken together, these findings suggest that cholesterol is critical for the cannabinoid-GlyR interaction in the cell membrane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Yao
- Institute on Aging and Brain Disorders, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Marta Wells
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Xiongwu Wu
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Yan Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Li Zhang
- Laboratory for Integrative Neuroscience, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Wei Xiong
- Institute on Aging and Brain Disorders, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.,Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
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Identification of N-acyl amino acids that are positive allosteric modulators of glycine receptors. Biochem Pharmacol 2020; 180:114117. [PMID: 32579961 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2020.114117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Glycine receptors (GlyRs) mediate inhibitory neurotransmission within the spinal cord and play a crucial role in nociceptive signalling. This makes them primary targets for the development of novel chronic pain therapies. Endogenous lipids have previously been shown to modulate glycine receptors and produce analgesia in pain models, however little is known about what chemical features mediate these effects. In this study, we characterised lipid modulation of GlyRs by screening a library of N-acyl amino acids across all receptor subtypes and determined chemical features crucial for their activity. Acyl-glycine's with a C18 carbon tail were found to produce the greatest potentiation, and require a cis double bond within the central region of the carbon tail (ω6 - ω9) to be active. At 1 µM, C18 ω6,9 glycine potentiated glycine induced currents in α3 and α3β receptors by over 50%, and α1, α2, α1β and α2β receptors by over 100%. C18 ω9 glycine (N-oleoyl glycine) significantly enhance glycine induced peak currents and cause a dose-dependent shift in the glycine concentration response. In the presence of 3 µM C18 ω9 glycine, the EC5o of glycine at the α1 receptor was reduced from 17 µM to 10 µM. This study has identified several acyl-amino acids which are positive allosteric modulators of GlyRs and make promising lead compounds for the development of novel chronic pain therapies.
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Abstract
The inhibitory glycine receptor is a member of the Cys-loop superfamily of ligand-gated ion channels. It is the principal mediator of rapid synaptic inhibition in the spinal cord and brainstem and plays an important role in the modulation of higher brain functions including vision, hearing, and pain signaling. Glycine receptor function is controlled by only a few agonists, while the number of antagonists and positive or biphasic modulators is steadily increasing. These modulators are important for the study of receptor activation and regulation and have found clinical interest as potential analgesics and anticonvulsants. High-resolution structures of the receptor have become available recently, adding to our understanding of structure-function relationships and revealing agonistic, inhibitory, and modulatory sites on the receptor protein. This Review presents an overview of compounds that activate, inhibit, or modulate glycine receptor function in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrike Breitinger
- Department of Biochemistry, German University in Cairo, New Cairo 11835, Egypt
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Lara CO, Burgos CF, Moraga-Cid G, Carrasco MA, Yévenes GE. Pentameric Ligand-Gated Ion Channels as Pharmacological Targets Against Chronic Pain. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:167. [PMID: 32218730 PMCID: PMC7079299 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain is a common detrimental condition that affects around 20% of the world population. The current drugs to treat chronic pain states, especially neuropathic pain, have a limited clinical efficiency and present significant adverse effects that complicates their regular use. Recent studies have proposed new therapeutic strategies focused on the pharmacological modulation of G-protein-coupled receptors, transporters, enzymes, and ion channels expressed on the nociceptive pathways. The present work intends to summarize recent advances on the pharmacological modulation of pentameric ligand-gated ion channels, which plays a key role in pain processing. Experimental data have shown that novel allosteric modulators targeting the excitatory nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, as well as the inhibitory GABAA and glycine receptors, reverse chronic pain-related behaviors in preclinical assays. Collectively, these evidences strongly suggest the pharmacological modulation of pentameric ligand-gated ion channels is a promising strategy towards the development of novel therapeutics to treat chronic pain states in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- César O Lara
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Concepcion, Concepcion, Chile
| | - Carlos F Burgos
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Concepcion, Concepcion, Chile
| | - Gustavo Moraga-Cid
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Concepcion, Concepcion, Chile
| | - Mónica A Carrasco
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Talca, Talca, Chile
| | - Gonzalo E Yévenes
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Concepcion, Concepcion, Chile
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Cannabinoids Rescue Cocaine-Induced Seizures by Restoring Brain Glycine Receptor Dysfunction. Cell Rep 2020; 30:4209-4219.e7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.02.106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2019] [Revised: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
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Zou G, Xia J, Han Q, Liu D, Xiong W. The synthetic cannabinoid dehydroxylcannabidiol restores the function of a major GABA A receptor isoform in a cell model of hyperekplexia. J Biol Chem 2020; 295:138-145. [PMID: 31757808 PMCID: PMC6952599 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra119.011221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Revised: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The functions of the glycine receptor (GlyR) and GABAA receptor (GABAAR) are both impaired in hyperekplexia, a neurological disorder usually caused by GlyR mutations. Although emerging evidence indicates that cannabinoids can directly restore normal GlyR function, whether they affect GABAAR in hyperekplexia remains unknown. Here we show that dehydroxylcannabidiol (DH-CBD), a synthetic nonpsychoactive cannabinoid, restores the GABA- and glycine-activated currents (IGABA and IGly , respectively) in HEK293 cells coexpressing a major GABAAR isoform (α1β2γ2) and GlyRα1 carrying a human hyperekplexia-associated mutation (GlyRα1R271Q). Using coimmunoprecipitation and FRET assays, we found that DH-CBD disrupts the protein interaction between GABAAR and GlyRα1R271Q Furthermore, a point mutation of GlyRα1, changing Ser-296 to Ala-296, which is critical for cannabinoid binding on GlyR, significantly blocked DH-CBD-induced restoration of IGABA and IGly currents. This S296A substitution also considerably attenuated DH-CBD-induced disruption of the interaction between GlyRα1R271Q and GABAAR. These findings suggest that, because it restores the functions of both GlyRα1 and GABAAR, DH-CBD may represent a potentially valuable candidate drug to manage hyperekplexia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guichang Zou
- Institute on Aging and Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of the University of Science and Technology of China, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Jing Xia
- Institute on Aging and Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of the University of Science and Technology of China, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Qianqian Han
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Wei Xiong
- Institute on Aging and Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of the University of Science and Technology of China, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China; Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China; Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China.
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