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Medeiros AC, Medeiros P, Pigatto GR, Maione S, Coimbra NC, de Freitas RL. Cannabidiol in the dorsal hippocampus attenuates emotional and cognitive impairments related to neuropathic pain: The role of prelimbic neocortex-hippocampal connections. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2024; 134:111039. [PMID: 38797491 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2024.111039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Chronic neuropathic pain (NP) is commonly associated with cognitive and emotional impairments. Cannabidiol (CBD) presents a broad spectrum of action with a potential analgesic effect. This work investigates the CBD effect on comorbidity between chronic NP, depression, and memory impairment. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH The connection between the neocortex and the hippocampus was investigated with biotinylated dextran amine (BDA) deposits in the prelimbic cortex (PrL). Wistar rats were submitted to chronic constriction injury (CCI) of the sciatic nerve and CA1 treatment with CBD (15, 30, 60 nmol). KEY RESULTS BDA-labeled perikarya and terminal buttons were found in CA1 and dentate gyrus. CCI-induced mechanical and cold allodynia increased c-Fos protein expression in the PrL and CA1. The number of astrocytes in PrL and CA1 increased, and the number of neuroblasts decreased in CA1. Animals submitted to CCI procedure showed increasing depressive-like behaviors, such as memory impairment. CBD (60 nmol) treatment decreased mechanical and cold allodynia, attenuated depressive-associated behaviors, and improved memory performance. Cobalt chloride (CoCl2: 1 nM), WAY-100635 (0.37 nmol), and AM251 (100 nmol) intra-PrL reversed the effect of CA1 treatment with CBD (60 nmol) on nociceptive, cognitive, and depressive behaviors. CONCLUSION CBD represents a promising therapeutic perspective in the pharmacological treatment of chronic NP and associated comorbidities such as depression and memory impairments. The CBD effects possibly recruit the CA1-PrL pathway, inducing neuroplasticity. CBD acute treatment into the CA1 produces functional and molecular morphological improvements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Carolina Medeiros
- Multi-User Center of Neuroelectrophysiology, Department of Surgery and Anatomy, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14049-900, Brazil; Laboratory of Neurosciences of Pain & Emotions, Department of Surgery and Anatomy, FMRP-USP, Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14049-900, Brazil; Behavioural Neurosciences Institute (INeC), Av. do Café, 2450, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14050-220, Brazil
| | - Priscila Medeiros
- Multi-User Center of Neuroelectrophysiology, Department of Surgery and Anatomy, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14049-900, Brazil; Laboratory of Neurosciences of Pain & Emotions, Department of Surgery and Anatomy, FMRP-USP, Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14049-900, Brazil; Laboratory of Neuroanatomy and Neuropsychobiology, Department of Pharmacology, FMRP-USP, Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14049-900, Brazil; Department of General and Specialized Nursing, Ribeirão Preto Nursing School of the University of São Paulo (EERP-USP), Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Glauce Regina Pigatto
- Laboratory of Neuroanatomy and Neuropsychobiology, Department of Pharmacology, FMRP-USP, Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Sabatino Maione
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Norberto Cysne Coimbra
- Multi-User Center of Neuroelectrophysiology, Department of Surgery and Anatomy, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14049-900, Brazil; Laboratory of Neuroanatomy and Neuropsychobiology, Department of Pharmacology, FMRP-USP, Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14049-900, Brazil; Behavioural Neurosciences Institute (INeC), Av. do Café, 2450, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14050-220, Brazil
| | - Renato Leonardo de Freitas
- Multi-User Center of Neuroelectrophysiology, Department of Surgery and Anatomy, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14049-900, Brazil; Laboratory of Neurosciences of Pain & Emotions, Department of Surgery and Anatomy, FMRP-USP, Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14049-900, Brazil; Behavioural Neurosciences Institute (INeC), Av. do Café, 2450, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14050-220, Brazil; Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples 80138, Italy.
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Wang S, Yu L, Guo H, Zuo W, Guo Y, Liu H, Wang J, Wang J, Li X, Hou W, Wang M. Gastrodin Ameliorates Post-Stroke Depressive-Like Behaviors Through Cannabinoid-1 Receptor-Dependent PKA/RhoA Signaling Pathway. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04267-5. [PMID: 38856794 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04267-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Post-stroke depression (PSD) is a significant complication in stroke patients, increases long-term mortality, and exaggerates ischemia-induced brain injury. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms and effective therapeutic targets related to PSD have remained elusive. Here, we employed an animal behavioral model of PSD by combining the use of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) followed by spatial restraint stress to study the molecular underpinnings and potential therapies of PSD. Interestingly, we found that sub-chronic application of gastrodin (Gas), a traditional Chinese medicinal herb Gastrodia elata extraction, relieved depression-related behavioral deficits, increased the impaired expression of synaptic transmission-associated proteins, and restored the altered spine density in hippocampal CA1 of PSD animals. Furthermore, our results indicated that the anti-PSD effect of Gas was dependent on membrane cannabinoid-1 receptor (CB1R) expression. The contents of phosphorated protein kinase A (p-PKA) and phosphorated Ras homolog gene family member A (p(ser188)-RhoA) were decreased in the hippocampus of PSD-mice, which was reversed by Gas treatment, and CB1R depletion caused a diminished efficacy of Gas on p-PKA and p-RhoA expression. In addition, the anti-PSD effect of Gas was partially blocked by PKA inhibition or RhoA activation, indicating that the anti-PSD effect of Gas is associated with the CB1R-mediated PKA/RhoA signaling pathway. Together, our findings revealed that Gas treatment possesses protective effects against the post-stroke depressive-like state; the CB1R-involved PKA/RhoA signaling pathway is critical in mediating Gas's anti-PSD potency, suggesting that Gas application may be beneficial in the prevention and adjunctive treatment of PSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiquan Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710127, Shaanxi, China
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Liang Yu
- Department of Information, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Haiyun Guo
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wenqiang Zuo
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yaru Guo
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Huiqing Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jiajia Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jin Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xia Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Wugang Hou
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Minghui Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China.
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Kim J, Huang H, Gilbert ET, Arndt KC, English DF, Jia X. T-DOpE probes reveal sensitivity of hippocampal oscillations to cannabinoids in behaving mice. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1686. [PMID: 38402238 PMCID: PMC10894268 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46021-4] [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: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Understanding the neural basis of behavior requires monitoring and manipulating combinations of physiological elements and their interactions in behaving animals. We developed a thermal tapering process enabling fabrication of low-cost, flexible probes combining ultrafine features: dense electrodes, optical waveguides, and microfluidic channels. Furthermore, we developed a semi-automated backend connection allowing scalable assembly. We demonstrate T-DOpE (Tapered Drug delivery, Optical stimulation, and Electrophysiology) probes achieve in single neuron-scale devices (1) high-fidelity electrophysiological recording (2) focal drug delivery and (3) optical stimulation. The device tip can be miniaturized (as small as 50 µm) to minimize tissue damage while the ~20 times larger backend allows for industrial-scale connectorization. T-DOpE probes implanted in mouse hippocampus revealed canonical neuronal activity at the level of local field potentials (LFP) and neural spiking. Taking advantage of the triple-functionality of these probes, we monitored LFP while manipulating cannabinoid receptors (CB1R; microfluidic agonist delivery) and CA1 neuronal activity (optogenetics). Focal infusion of CB1R agonist downregulated theta and sharp wave-ripple oscillations (SPW-Rs). Furthermore, we found that CB1R activation reduces sharp wave-ripples by impairing the innate SPW-R-generating ability of the CA1 circuit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jongwoon Kim
- The Bradley Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Hengji Huang
- The Bradley Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Earl T Gilbert
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Kaiser C Arndt
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | | | - Xiaoting Jia
- The Bradley Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA.
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA.
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA.
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4
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Kim J, Huang H, Gilbert E, Arndt K, English DF, Jia X. Tapered Drug delivery, Optical stimulation, and Electrophysiology (T-DOpE) probes reveal the importance of cannabinoid signaling in hippocampal CA1 oscillations in behaving mice. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.06.08.544251. [PMID: 37333172 PMCID: PMC10274863 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.08.544251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the neural basis of behavior requires monitoring and manipulating combinations of physiological elements and their interactions in behaving animals. Here we developed a thermal tapering process (TTP) which enables the fabrication of novel, low-cost, flexible probes that combine ultrafine features of dense electrodes, optical waveguides, and microfluidic channels. Furthermore, we developed a semi-automated backend connection allowing scalable assembly of the probes. We demonstrate that our T-DOpE ( T apered D rug delivery, Op tical stimulation, and E lectrophysiology) probe achieves in a single neuron-scale device (1) high-fidelity electrophysiological recording (2) focal drug delivery and (3) optical stimulation. With a tapered geometry, the device tip can be minimized (as small as 50 μm) to ensure minimal tissue damage while the backend is ~20 times larger allowing for direct integration with industrial-scale connectorization. Acute and chronic implantation of the probes in mouse hippocampus CA1 revealed canonical neuronal activity at the level of local field potentials and spiking. Taking advantage of the triple-functionality of the T-DOpE probe, we monitored local field potentials with simultaneous manipulation of endogenous type 1 cannabinoid receptors (CB1R; via microfluidic agonist delivery) and CA1 pyramidal cell membrane potential (optogenetic activation). Electro-pharmacological experiments revealed that focal infusion of CB1R agonist CP-55,940 in dorsal CA1 downregulated theta and sharp wave-ripple oscillations. Furthermore, using the full electro-pharmacological-optical feature set of the T-DOpE probe we found that CB1R activation reduces sharp wave-ripples (SPW-Rs) by impairing the innate SPW-R-generating ability of the CA1 circuit.
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Duarte FV, Ciampi D, Duarte CB. Mitochondria as central hubs in synaptic modulation. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:173. [PMID: 37266732 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-04814-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondria are present in the pre- and post-synaptic regions, providing the energy required for the activity of these very specialized neuronal compartments. Biogenesis of synaptic mitochondria takes place in the cell body, and these organelles are then transported to the synapse by motor proteins that carry their cargo along microtubule tracks. The transport of mitochondria along neurites is a highly regulated process, being modulated by the pattern of neuronal activity and by extracellular cues that interact with surface receptors. These signals act by controlling the distribution of mitochondria and by regulating their activity. Therefore, mitochondria activity at the synapse allows the integration of different signals and the organelles are important players in the response to synaptic stimulation. Herein we review the available evidence regarding the regulation of mitochondrial dynamics by neuronal activity and by neuromodulators, and how these changes in the activity of mitochondria affect synaptic communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipe V Duarte
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- III - Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Daniele Ciampi
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Carlos B Duarte
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
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6
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Neuroplastic alterations in cannabinoid receptors type 1 (CB1) in animal models of epileptic seizures. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 137:104675. [PMID: 35460705 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Currently, there is an urgent need to better comprehend neuroplastic alterations in cannabinoid receptors type 1 (CB1) and to understand the biological meaning of these alterations in epileptic disorders. The present study reviewed neuroplastic changes in CB1 distribution, expression, and functionality in animal models of epileptic seizures. Neuroplastic alterations in CB1 were consistently observed in chemical, genetic, electrical, and febrile seizure models. Most studies assessed changes in hippocampal and cortical CB1, while thalamic, hypothalamic, and brainstem nuclei were rarely investigated. Additionally, the relationship between CB1 alteration and the control of brain excitability through modulation of specific neuronal networks, such as striatonigral, nigrotectal and thalamocortical pathways, and inhibitory projections to hippocampal pyramidal neurons, were all presented and discussed in the present review. Neuroplastic alterations in CB1 detected in animal models of epilepsy may reflect two different scenarios: (1) endogenous adaptations aimed to control neuronal hyperexcitability in epilepsy or (2) pathological alterations that facilitate neuronal hyperexcitability. Additionally, a better comprehension of neuroplastic and functional alterations in CB1 can improve pharmacological therapies for epilepsies and their comorbidities.
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7
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Acid Sphingomyelinase Is a Modulator of Contextual Fear. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23063398. [PMID: 35328819 PMCID: PMC8954852 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Acid sphingomyelinase (ASM) regulates a variety of physiological processes and plays an important role in emotional behavior. The role of ASM in fear-related behavior has not been investigated so far. Using transgenic mice overexpressing ASM (ASMtg) and ASM deficient mice, we studied whether ASM regulates fear learning and expression of cued and contextual fear in a classical fear conditioning paradigm, a model used to investigate specific attributes of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). We show that ASM does not affect fear learning as both ASMtg and ASM deficient mice display unaltered fear conditioning when compared to wild-type littermates. However, ASM regulates the expression of contextual fear in a sex-specific manner. While ASM overexpression enhances the expression of contextual fear in both male and female mice, ASM deficiency reduces the expression of contextual fear specifically in male mice. The expression of cued fear, however, is not regulated by ASM as ASMtg and ASM deficient mice display similar tone-elicited freezing levels. This study shows that ASM modulates the expression of contextual fear but not of cued fear in a sex-specific manner and adds a novel piece of information regarding the involvement of ASM in hippocampal-dependent aversive memory.
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Dudok B, Soltesz I. Imaging the endocannabinoid signaling system. J Neurosci Methods 2022; 367:109451. [PMID: 34921843 PMCID: PMC8734437 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2021.109451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid (eCB) system is one of the most widespread neuromodulatory systems in the mammalian brain, with a multifaceted role in functions ranging from development to synaptic plasticity. Endocannabinoids are synthesized on demand from membrane lipid precursors, and act primarily on a single G-protein coupled receptor type, CB1, to carry out diverse functions. Despite the importance of the eCB system both in healthy brain function and in disease, critically important details of eCB signaling remained unknown. How eCBs are released from the membrane, how these lipid molecules are transported between cells, and how the distribution of their receptors is controlled, remained elusive. Recent advances in optical microscopy methods and biosensor engineering may open up new avenues for studying eCB signaling. We summarize applications of superresolution microscopy using single molecule localization to reveal distinct patterns of nanoscale CB1 distribution in neuronal axons and axon terminals. We review single particle tracking studies using quantum dots that allowed visualizing CB1 trajectories. We highlight the recent development of fluorescent eCB biosensors, that revealed spatiotemporally specific eCB release in live cells and live animals. Finally, we discuss future directions where method development may help to advance a precise understanding of eCB signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barna Dudok
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | - Ivan Soltesz
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
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Ferraro A, Wig P, Boscarino J, Reich CG. Sex differences in endocannabinoid modulation of rat CA1 dendritic neurotransmission. Neurobiol Stress 2020; 13:100283. [PMID: 33344734 PMCID: PMC7739177 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2020.100283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Endocannabinoid sex differences are present in the rat hippocampus. Specifically, at perisomatic GABAergic synapses, tonic anandamide (AEA) and estrogenic-AEA signaling are active in females but not males. Furthermore, in males, hippocampal eCB function varies along the CA1 pyramidal somatodendritic axis. Constitutive CB1 and tonic 2-AG activity are present at perisomatic GABAergic synapses and lacking at dendritic GABAergic synapses. It is unknown if these eCB somatodendritic differences occur at female GABAergic synapses. Moreover, it is unclear whether eCB sex differences occur at hippocampal glutamatergic synapses. In vitro, field potential (fEPSP) recordings were performed to assess eCB sex differences at rat CA3-CA1 dendritic synapses. At female GABAergic synapses, we observed: 1) constitutive CB1 function, 2) tonic AEA, 3) tonic 2-AG and 3) estrogen (ERα)-driven 2-AG activity. In contrast, only constitutive CB1 and tonic 2-AG activity was observed in males. Sex differences in eCB/CB1 signaling at dendritic synapses appear to shift the basal excitatory/inhibitory balance towards excitation in females and towards inhibition in males. Chronic Mild Stress (CMS) exposure (21 days) in female rats reverses CB1constitutive function and impairs both tonic and ERα-driven eCB signaling. Endocannabinoid sex differences under both normal and stress conditions may contribute to sexual disparities in stress-related neurobehavioral disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelica Ferraro
- Program in Psychology, Ramapo College of New Jersey, Mahwah, NJ, 07430, USA
| | - Philip Wig
- Program in Psychology, Ramapo College of New Jersey, Mahwah, NJ, 07430, USA
| | - Joseph Boscarino
- Program in Psychology, Ramapo College of New Jersey, Mahwah, NJ, 07430, USA
| | - Christian G Reich
- Program in Psychology, Ramapo College of New Jersey, Mahwah, NJ, 07430, USA
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Bartoll A, Toledano-Zaragoza A, Casas J, Guzmán M, Schuchman EH, Ledesma MD. Inhibition of fatty acid amide hydrolase prevents pathology in neurovisceral acid sphingomyelinase deficiency by rescuing defective endocannabinoid signaling. EMBO Mol Med 2020; 12:e11776. [PMID: 33016621 PMCID: PMC7645369 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.201911776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Acid sphingomyelinase deficiency (ASMD) leads to cellular accumulation of sphingomyelin (SM), neurodegeneration, and early death. Here, we describe the downregulation of the endocannabinoid (eCB) system in neurons of ASM knockout (ASM‐KO) mice and a ASMD patient. High SM reduced expression of the eCB receptor CB1 in neuronal processes and induced its accumulation in lysosomes. Activation of CB1 receptor signaling, through inhibition of the eCB‐degrading enzyme fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), reduced SM levels in ASM‐KO neurons. Oral treatment of ASM‐KO mice with a FAAH inhibitor prevented SM buildup; alleviated inflammation, neurodegeneration, and behavioral alterations; and extended lifespan. This treatment showed benefits even after a single administration at advanced disease stages. We also found CB1 receptor downregulation in neurons of a mouse model and a patient of another sphingolipid storage disorder, Niemann–Pick disease type C (NPC). We showed the efficacy of FAAH inhibition to reduce SM and cholesterol levels in NPC patient‐derived cells and in the brain of a NPC mouse model. Our findings reveal a pathophysiological crosstalk between neuronal SM and the eCB system and offer a new treatment for ASMD and other sphingolipidoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrián Bartoll
- Centro Biologia Molecular Severo Ochoa (CSIC-UAM), Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Manuel Guzmán
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN), Complutense University, Madrid, Spain
| | - Edward H Schuchman
- Department of Genetics & Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York NY, USA
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Di Maria V, Moindrot M, Ryde M, Bono A, Quintino L, Ledri M. Development and Validation of CRISPR Activator Systems for Overexpression of CB1 Receptors in Neurons. Front Mol Neurosci 2020; 13:168. [PMID: 33013319 PMCID: PMC7506083 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2020.00168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy approaches using viral vectors for the overexpression of target genes have been for several years the focus of gene therapy research against neurological disorders. These approaches deliver robust expression of therapeutic genes, but are typically limited to the delivery of single genes and often do not manipulate the expression of the endogenous locus. In the last years, the advent of CRISPR-Cas9 technologies have revolutionized many areas of scientific research by providing novel tools that allow simple and efficient manipulation of endogenous genes. One of the applications of CRISPR-Cas9, termed CRISPRa, based on the use of a nuclease-null Cas9 protein (dCas9) fused to transcriptional activators, enables quick and efficient increase in target endogenous gene expression. CRISPRa approaches are varied, and different alternatives exist with regards to the type of Cas9 protein and transcriptional activator used. Several of these approaches have been successfully used in neurons in vitro and in vivo, but have not been so far extensively applied for the overexpression of genes involved in synaptic transmission. Here we describe the development and application of two different CRISPRa systems, based on single or dual Lentiviral and Adeno-Associated viral vectors and VP64 or VPR transcriptional activators, and demonstrate their efficiency in increasing mRNA and protein expression of the Cnr1 gene, coding for neuronal CB1 receptors. Both approaches were similarly efficient in primary neuronal cultures, and achieved a 2–5-fold increase in Cnr1 expression, but the AAV-based approach was more efficient in vivo. Our dual AAV-based VPR system in particular, based on Staphylococcus aureus dCas9, when injected in the hippocampus, displayed almost complete simultaneous expression of both vectors, high levels of dCas9 expression, and good efficiency in increasing Cnr1 mRNA as measured by in situ hybridization. In addition, we also show significant upregulation of CB1 receptor protein in vivo, which is reflected by an increased ability in reducing neurotransmitter release, as measured by electrophysiology. Our results show that CRISPRa techniques could be successfully used in neurons to target overexpression of genes involved in synaptic transmission, and can potentially represent a next-generation gene therapy approach against neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Di Maria
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurophysiology and Epilepsy, Department of Clinical Sciences, Epilepsy Center, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Marine Moindrot
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurophysiology and Epilepsy, Department of Clinical Sciences, Epilepsy Center, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Martin Ryde
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurophysiology and Epilepsy, Department of Clinical Sciences, Epilepsy Center, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Antonino Bono
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurophysiology and Epilepsy, Department of Clinical Sciences, Epilepsy Center, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Luis Quintino
- Laboratory of CNS Gene Therapy, Department of Experimental Medical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Marco Ledri
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurophysiology and Epilepsy, Department of Clinical Sciences, Epilepsy Center, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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Piscitelli F, Silvestri C. Role of the Endocannabinoidome in Human and Mouse Atherosclerosis. Curr Pharm Des 2020; 25:3147-3164. [PMID: 31448709 DOI: 10.2174/1381612825666190826162735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The Endocannabinoid (eCB) system and its role in many physiological and pathological conditions is well described and accepted, and includes cardiovascular disorders. However, the eCB system has been expanded to an "-ome"; the endocannabinoidome (eCBome) that includes endocannabinoid-related mediators, their protein targets and metabolic enzymes, many of which significantly impact upon cardiometabolic health. These recent discoveries are here summarized with a special focus on their potential involvement in atherosclerosis. We described the role of classical components of the eCB system (eCBs, CB1 and CB2 receptors) and eCB-related lipids, their regulatory enzymes and molecular targets in atherosclerosis. Furthermore, since increasing evidence points to significant cross-talk between the eCBome and the gut microbiome and the gut microbiome and atherosclerosis, we explore the possibility that a gut microbiome - eCBome axis has potential implications in atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiana Piscitelli
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Council of Research, Pozzuoli (NA), Italy
| | - Cristoforo Silvestri
- Institut universitaire de cardiologie et de pneumologie de Québec (IUCPQ), 2725 Chemin Sainte-Foy, Québec, QC, G1V 4G5, Canada.,Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
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13
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Khan AU, Falconi-Sobrinho LL, Dos Anjos-Garcia T, de Fátima Dos Santos Sampaio M, de Souza Crippa JA, Menescal-de-Oliveira L, Coimbra NC. Cannabidiol-induced panicolytic-like effects and fear-induced antinociception impairment: the role of the CB 1 receptor in the ventromedial hypothalamus. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2020; 237:1063-1079. [PMID: 31919563 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-019-05435-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE The behavioural effects elicited by chemical constituents of Cannabis sativa, such as cannabidiol (CBD), on the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) are not well understood. There is evidence that VMH neurons play a relevant role in the modulation of unconditioned fear-related defensive behavioural reactions displayed by laboratory animals. OBJECTIVES This study was designed to explore the specific pattern of distribution of the CB1 receptors in the VMH and to investigate the role played by this cannabinoid receptor in the effect of CBD on the control of defensive behaviours and unconditioned fear-induced antinociception. METHODS A panic attack-like state was triggered in Wistar rats by intra-VMH microinjections of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA). One of three different doses of CBD was microinjected into the VMH prior to local administration of NMDA. In addition, the most effective dose of CBD was used after pre-treatment with the CB1 receptor selective antagonist AM251, followed by NMDA microinjections in the VMH. RESULTS The morphological procedures demonstrated distribution of labelled CB1 receptors on neuronal perikarya situated in dorsomedial, central and ventrolateral divisions of the VMH. The neuropharmacological approaches showed that both panic attack-like behaviours and unconditioned fear-induced antinociception decreased after intra-hypothalamic microinjections of CBD at the highest dose (100 nmol). These effects, however, were blocked by the administration of the CB1 receptor antagonist AM251 (100 pmol) in the VMH. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that CBD causes panicolytic-like effects and reduces unconditioned fear-induced antinociception when administered in the VMH, and these effects are mediated by the CB1 receptor-endocannabinoid signalling mechanism in VMH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmat Ullah Khan
- Laboratory of Neuroanatomy and Neuropsychobiology, Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 14049-900, Brazil.,Department of Eastern Medicine and Surgery, School of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Poonch Rawalakot, Hajira Road, Shamsabad, Rawalakot, Azad Jammu & Kashmir, 12350, Pakistan.,Neurobiology of Emotions (NAP-USP-NuPNE) Research Centre, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine of the University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Luiz Luciano Falconi-Sobrinho
- Laboratory of Neuroanatomy and Neuropsychobiology, Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 14049-900, Brazil.,Neurobiology of Emotions (NAP-USP-NuPNE) Research Centre, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine of the University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 14049-900, Brazil.,Behavioural Neurosciences Institute (INeC), Avenida do Café, 2450, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 4220-030, Brazil
| | - Tayllon Dos Anjos-Garcia
- Laboratory of Neuroanatomy and Neuropsychobiology, Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 14049-900, Brazil.,Neurobiology of Emotions (NAP-USP-NuPNE) Research Centre, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine of the University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Maria de Fátima Dos Santos Sampaio
- Laboratory of Neuroanatomy and Neuropsychobiology, Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 14049-900, Brazil
| | - José Alexandre de Souza Crippa
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioural Sciences, Division of Psychiatry, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Leda Menescal-de-Oliveira
- Neurobiology of Emotions (NAP-USP-NuPNE) Research Centre, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine of the University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 14049-900, Brazil.,Laboratory of Neurophysiology, Department of Physiology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Norberto Cysne Coimbra
- Laboratory of Neuroanatomy and Neuropsychobiology, Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 14049-900, Brazil. .,Neurobiology of Emotions (NAP-USP-NuPNE) Research Centre, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine of the University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 14049-900, Brazil. .,Behavioural Neurosciences Institute (INeC), Avenida do Café, 2450, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 4220-030, Brazil.
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14
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Patricio-Martínez A, Sánchez-Zavaleta R, Angulo-Cruz I, Gutierrez-Praxedis L, Ramírez E, Martínez-García I, Limón ID. The Acute Activation of the CB1 Receptor in the Hippocampus Decreases Neurotoxicity and Prevents Spatial Memory Impairment in Rats Lesioned with β-Amyloid 25-35. Neuroscience 2019; 416:239-254. [PMID: 31400487 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2019.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Revised: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Given their anti-inflammatory properties, cannabinoids have been shown to be neuroprotective agents and to reduce excitotoxicity, through the activation of the Cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1r). These properties have led to CB1r being proposed as pharmacological targets for the treatment of various neurodegenerative diseases. Amyloid-β 25-35 (Aβ25-35) induces the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and increases nitric oxide (NO●) levels. It has been observed that increased NO● concentrations trigger biochemical pathways that contribute to neuronal death and cognitive damage. This study aimed to evaluate the neuroprotective effect of an acute activation of CB1r on spatial memory and its impact on iNOS protein expression, NO● levels, gliosis and the neurodegenerative process induced by the injection of Aβ(25-35) into the CA1 subfield of the hippocampus. ACEA [1 μM/1 μL] and Aβ(25-35) [100 μM/1 μL] and their respective vehicle groups were injected into the CA1 subfield of the hippocampus. The animals were tested for spatial learning and memory in the eight-arm radial maze, with the results revealing that the administration of ACEA plus Aβ(25-35) improves learning and memory processes, in contrast with the Aβ(25-35) group. Moreover, ACEA plus Aβ(25-35) prevented both the increase in iNOS protein and NO● levels and the reactive gliosis induced by Aβ(25-35). Importantly, neurodegeneration was significantly reduced by the administration of ACEA plus Aβ(25-35) in the CA1 subfield of the hippocampus. The data obtained in the present research suggest that the acute early activation of CB1r is crucial for neuroprotection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleidy Patricio-Martínez
- Laboratorio de Neurofarmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas-Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Puebla, Mexico; Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas-Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Puebla, Mexico
| | - Rodolfo Sánchez-Zavaleta
- Laboratorio de Neurofarmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas-Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Puebla, Mexico
| | - Isael Angulo-Cruz
- Laboratorio de Neurofarmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas-Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Puebla, Mexico
| | - Liliana Gutierrez-Praxedis
- Laboratorio de Neurofarmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas-Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Puebla, Mexico
| | - Eleazar Ramírez
- Laboratorio de Neurofarmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas-Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Puebla, Mexico
| | - Isabel Martínez-García
- Laboratorio de Neuroquímica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas-Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Puebla, Mexico
| | - Ilhuicamina Daniel Limón
- Laboratorio de Neurofarmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas-Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Puebla, Mexico.
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15
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Antonazzo M, Botta M, Bengoetxea H, Ruiz-Ortega JÁ, Morera-Herreras T. Therapeutic potential of cannabinoids as neuroprotective agents for damaged cells conducing to movement disorders. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2019; 146:229-257. [PMID: 31349929 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2019.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The basal ganglia (BG), an organized network of nuclei that integrates cortical information, play a crucial role in controlling motor function. In fact, movement disorders such as Parkinson's disease (PD) and Huntington's disease (HD) are caused by the degeneration of specific structures within the BG. There is substantial evidence supporting the idea that cannabinoids may constitute novel promising compounds for the treatment of movement disorders as neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory agents. This potential therapeutic role of cannabinoids is based, among other qualities, on their capacity to reduce oxidative injury and excitotoxicity, control calcium influx and limit the toxicity of reactive microglia. The mechanisms involved in these effects are related to CB1 and CB2 receptor activation, although some of the effects are CB receptor independent. Thus, taking into account the aforementioned properties, compounds that act on the endocannabinoid system could be useful as a basis for developing disease-modifying therapies for PD and HD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Antonazzo
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, Spain; Neurodegenerative Diseases Group, BioCruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - María Botta
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Harkaitz Bengoetxea
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, Spain
| | - José Ángel Ruiz-Ortega
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, Spain; Neurodegenerative Diseases Group, BioCruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Bizkaia, Spain; Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Teresa Morera-Herreras
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, Spain; Neurodegenerative Diseases Group, BioCruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Bizkaia, Spain.
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16
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Cannabinoid signalling in embryonic and adult neurogenesis: possible implications for psychiatric and neurological disorders. Acta Neuropsychiatr 2019; 31:1-16. [PMID: 29764526 DOI: 10.1017/neu.2018.11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoid signalling modulates several aspects of brain function, including the generation and survival of neurons during embryonic and adult periods. The present review intended to summarise evidence supporting a role for the endocannabinoid system on the control of neurogenesis and neurogenesis-dependent functions. Studies reporting participation of cannabinoids on the regulation of any step of neurogenesis and the effects of cannabinoid compounds on animal models possessing neurogenesis-dependent features were selected from Medline. Qualitative evaluation of the selected studies indicated that activation of cannabinoid receptors may change neurogenesis in embryonic or adult nervous systems alongside rescue of phenotypes in animal models of different psychiatric and neurological disorders. The text offers an overview on the effects of cannabinoids on central nervous system development and the possible links with psychiatric and neurological disorders such as anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, brain ischaemia/stroke and Alzheimer's disease. An understanding of the mechanisms by which cannabinoid signalling influences developmental and adult neurogenesis will help foster the development of new therapeutic strategies for neurodevelopmental, psychiatric and neurological disorders.
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17
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Xu X, Jiang S, Xu E, Wu X, Zhao R. Inhibition of CB1 receptor ameliorates spatial learning and memory impairment in mice with traumatic brain injury. Neurosci Lett 2018; 696:127-131. [PMID: 30576711 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2018.12.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2018] [Revised: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an increasingly prevalent condition affecting people of all ages and genders. The impairment of spatial learning and memory is one of the most common effects of TBI. Unfortunately, it currently lacks effective therapeutic interventions. The endocannabinoid (EC) system regulates a diverse array of physiological processes. Here, we found a 6.7-fold increase of 2-AG levels at 1 d post-TBI, declining thereafter. After 5 d, the levels were still 3.3-fold higher than in the controls. AM281, a CB1 receptor antagonist, reversed the TBI-reduced NMDA receptor subunits NR2B in the hippocampus and ameliorate the spatial learning and memory impairment at 7 d post-TBI, suggesting CB1 receptor is involved in the TBI-induced hippocampal-dependent spatial learning and memory impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoming Xu
- Department of Forensic Clinical Medicine, School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China.
| | - Shukun Jiang
- Department of Forensic Clinical Medicine, School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China
| | - Enyu Xu
- Department of Forensic Toxicological Analysis, School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China
| | - Xu Wu
- Department of Forensic Pathology, School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China
| | - Rui Zhao
- Department of Forensic Pathology, School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China
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18
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Secci ME, Mascia P, Sagheddu C, Beggiato S, Melis M, Borelli AC, Tomasini MC, Panlilio LV, Schindler CW, Tanda G, Ferré S, Bradberry CW, Ferraro L, Pistis M, Goldberg SR, Schwarcz R, Justinova Z. Astrocytic Mechanisms Involving Kynurenic Acid Control Δ 9-Tetrahydrocannabinol-Induced Increases in Glutamate Release in Brain Reward-Processing Areas. Mol Neurobiol 2018; 56:3563-3575. [PMID: 30151725 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-018-1319-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The reinforcing effects of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in rats and monkeys, and the reinforcement-related dopamine-releasing effects of THC in rats, can be attenuated by increasing endogenous levels of kynurenic acid (KYNA) through systemic administration of the kynurenine 3-monooxygenase inhibitor, Ro 61-8048. KYNA is a negative allosteric modulator of α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (α7nAChRs) and is synthesized and released by astroglia, which express functional α7nAChRs and cannabinoid CB1 receptors (CB1Rs). Here, we tested whether these presumed KYNA autoreceptors (α7nAChRs) and CB1Rs regulate glutamate release. We used in vivo microdialysis and electrophysiology in rats, RNAscope in situ hybridization in brain slices, and primary culture of rat cortical astrocytes. Acute systemic administration of THC increased extracellular levels of glutamate in the nucleus accumbens shell (NAcS), ventral tegmental area (VTA), and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). THC also reduced extracellular levels of KYNA in the NAcS. These THC effects were prevented by administration of Ro 61-8048 or the CB1R antagonist, rimonabant. THC increased the firing activity of glutamatergic pyramidal neurons projecting from the mPFC to the NAcS or to the VTA in vivo. These effects were averted by pretreatment with Ro 61-8048. In vitro, THC elicited glutamate release from cortical astrocytes (on which we demonstrated co-localization of the CB1Rs and α7nAChR mRNAs), and this effect was prevented by KYNA and rimonabant. These results suggest a key role of astrocytes in interactions between the endocannabinoid system, kynurenine pathway, and glutamatergic neurotransmission, with ramifications for the pathophysiology and treatment of psychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria E Secci
- Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd., Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Paola Mascia
- Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd., Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Claudia Sagheddu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Sarah Beggiato
- Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Miriam Melis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Andrea C Borelli
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maria C Tomasini
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Leigh V Panlilio
- Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd., Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Charles W Schindler
- Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd., Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Gianluigi Tanda
- Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, Intramural Research Program, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sergi Ferré
- Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, Intramural Research Program, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Charles W Bradberry
- Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd., Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Luca Ferraro
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Marco Pistis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy
- National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Section of Cagliari, Neuroscience Institute, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Steven R Goldberg
- Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd., Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Robert Schwarcz
- Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Zuzana Justinova
- Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd., Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA.
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19
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Lupica CR, Hoffman AF. Cannabinoid disruption of learning mechanisms involved in reward processing. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 25:435-445. [PMID: 30115765 PMCID: PMC6097761 DOI: 10.1101/lm.046748.117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The increasing use of cannabis, its derivatives, and synthetic cannabinoids for medicinal and recreational purposes has led to burgeoning interest in understanding the addictive potential of this class of molecules. It is estimated that ∼10% of marijuana users will eventually show signs of dependence on the drug, and the diagnosis of cannabis use disorder (CUD) is increasing in the United States. The molecule that sustains the use of cannabis is Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), and our knowledge of its effects, and those of other cannabinoids on brain function has expanded rapidly in the past two decades. Additionally, the identification of endogenous cannabinoid (endocannabinoid) systems in brain and their roles in physiology and behavior, demonstrate extensive involvement of these lipid signaling molecules in regulating CNS function. Here, we examine roles for endogenous cannabinoids in shaping synaptic activity in cortical and subcortical brain circuits, and we discuss mechanisms in which exogenous cannabinoids, such as Δ9-THC, interact with endocannabinoid systems to disrupt neuronal network oscillations. We then explore how perturbation of the interaction of this activity within brain reward circuits may lead to impaired learning. Finally, we propose that disruption of cellular plasticity mechanisms by exogenous cannabinoids in cortical and subcortical circuits may explain the difficulty in establishing viable cannabinoid self-administration models in animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carl R Lupica
- Electrophysiology Research Section, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA
| | - Alexander F Hoffman
- Electrophysiology Research Section, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA
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20
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Aguilera G, Santamaria A. Potential Therapeutic Targets of the Endocannabinoid System in Common Neurodegenerative Disorders and Organic Acidemias. JOURNAL OF INBORN ERRORS OF METABOLISM AND SCREENING 2017. [DOI: 10.1177/2326409817723667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Aguilera
- Laboratorio de Aminoácidos Excitadores, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía, Mexico City, Mexico
- Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas y de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Abel Santamaria
- Laboratorio de Aminoácidos Excitadores, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía, Mexico City, Mexico
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21
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Haj-Mirzaian A, Amini-Khoei H, Haj-Mirzaian A, Amiri S, Ghesmati M, Zahir M, Shafaroodi H, Dehpour AR. Activation of cannabinoid receptors elicits antidepressant-like effects in a mouse model of social isolation stress. Brain Res Bull 2017; 130:200-210. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2017.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2016] [Revised: 01/24/2017] [Accepted: 01/25/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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22
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Cristino L, Imperatore R, Di Marzo V. Techniques for the Cellular and Subcellular Localization of Endocannabinoid Receptors and Enzymes in the Mammalian Brain. Methods Enzymol 2017; 593:61-98. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.mie.2017.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
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23
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Kutlu MG, Gould TJ. Effects of drugs of abuse on hippocampal plasticity and hippocampus-dependent learning and memory: contributions to development and maintenance of addiction. Learn Mem 2016; 23:515-33. [PMID: 27634143 PMCID: PMC5026208 DOI: 10.1101/lm.042192.116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 198] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2016] [Accepted: 07/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
It has long been hypothesized that conditioning mechanisms play major roles in addiction. Specifically, the associations between rewarding properties of drugs of abuse and the drug context can contribute to future use and facilitate the transition from initial drug use into drug dependency. On the other hand, the self-medication hypothesis of drug abuse suggests that negative consequences of drug withdrawal result in relapse to drug use as an attempt to alleviate the negative symptoms. In this review, we explored these hypotheses and the involvement of the hippocampus in the development and maintenance of addiction to widely abused drugs such as cocaine, amphetamine, nicotine, alcohol, opiates, and cannabis. Studies suggest that initial exposure to stimulants (i.e., cocaine, nicotine, and amphetamine) and alcohol may enhance hippocampal function and, therefore, the formation of augmented drug-context associations that contribute to the development of addiction. In line with the self-medication hypothesis, withdrawal from stimulants, ethanol, and cannabis results in hippocampus-dependent learning and memory deficits, which suggest that an attempt to alleviate these deficits may contribute to relapse to drug use and maintenance of addiction. Interestingly, opiate withdrawal leads to enhancement of hippocampus-dependent learning and memory. Given that a conditioned aversion to drug context develops during opiate withdrawal, the cognitive enhancement in this case may result in the formation of an augmented association between withdrawal-induced aversion and withdrawal context. Therefore, individuals with opiate addiction may return to opiate use to avoid aversive symptoms triggered by the withdrawal context. Overall, the systematic examination of the role of the hippocampus in drug addiction may help to formulate a better understanding of addiction and underlying neural substrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Munir Gunes Kutlu
- Department of Biobehavioral Health, Penn State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
| | - Thomas J Gould
- Department of Biobehavioral Health, Penn State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
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Dorsal hippocampus cannabinoid type 1 receptors modulate the expression of contextual fear conditioning in rats: Involvement of local glutamatergic/nitrergic and GABAergic neurotransmissions. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2016; 26:1579-89. [PMID: 27591981 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2016.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2016] [Revised: 08/04/2016] [Accepted: 08/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) is highly expressed in the dorsal portion of hippocampus - a brain region that has been involved in the control of conditioned emotional response (CER) in the contextual fear conditioning (CFC) model. These responses are characterized by increased freezing behavior and autonomic parameters. Moreover, CB1 receptors activation negatively modulate the release of several neurotransmitters, including glutamate and GABA, which also have been related to modulation of CER. Therefore, our aim was to investigate the involvement of CB1 receptors in the dorsal hippocampus on CER expression. Independent groups of male Wistar rats submitted to the contextual fear conditioning received bilateral intra-hippocampal injections (500 nL/side) of the following drugs or vehicle before re-exposure to the aversive context: AM251 (CB1 antagonist; 0.1, 0.3 and 1nmol); AP7 (NMDA antagonist; 1nmol)+AM251 (0.3nmol); NPLA (0.01nmol; nNOS inhibitor)+AM251 (0.3nmol); Bicuculline (1.3pmol; GABAA antagonist)+AM251 (0.1 and 1nmol). In the present paper, AM251 (0.3nmol) increased CER, while this response was prevented by both AP7 and NPLA pretreatment. After pretreatment with Bicuculline, the lower and higher ineffective doses of AM251 were able to increase the CER, supporting the balance between GABAergic and glutamatergic mechanisms controlling this response. Our results suggest that increased CER evoked by CB1 blockade in the dorsal hippocampus depends on NMDA receptor activation and NO formation. Moreover, a fine-tune control promoted by GABAergic and glutamatergic mechanisms in this brain area modulate the CER after CB1 blockade.
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25
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Clark IA, Vissel B. Excess cerebral TNF causing glutamate excitotoxicity rationalizes treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and neurogenic pain by anti-TNF agents. J Neuroinflammation 2016; 13:236. [PMID: 27596607 PMCID: PMC5011997 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-016-0708-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2016] [Accepted: 08/30/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The basic mechanism of the major neurodegenerative diseases, including neurogenic pain, needs to be agreed upon before rational treatments can be determined, but this knowledge is still in a state of flux. Most have agreed for decades that these disease states, both infectious and non-infectious, share arguments incriminating excitotoxicity induced by excessive extracellular cerebral glutamate. Excess cerebral levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) are also documented in the same group of disease states. However, no agreement exists on overarching mechanism for the harmful effects of excess TNF, nor, indeed how extracellular cerebral glutamate reaches toxic levels in these conditions. Here, we link the two, collecting and arguing the evidence that, across the range of neurodegenerative diseases, excessive TNF harms the central nervous system largely through causing extracellular glutamate to accumulate to levels high enough to inhibit synaptic activity or kill neurons and therefore their associated synapses as well. TNF can be predicted from the broader literature to cause this glutamate accumulation not only by increasing glutamate production by enhancing glutaminase, but in addition simultaneously reducing glutamate clearance by inhibiting re-uptake proteins. We also discuss the effects of a TNF receptor biological fusion protein (etanercept) and the indirect anti-TNF agents dithio-thalidomides, nilotinab, and cannabinoids on these neurological conditions. The therapeutic effects of 6-diazo-5-oxo-norleucine, ceptriaxone, and riluzole, agents unrelated to TNF but which either inhibit glutaminase or enhance re-uptake proteins, but do not do both, as would anti-TNF agents, are also discussed in this context. By pointing to excess extracellular glutamate as the target, these arguments greatly strengthen the case, put now for many years, to test appropriately delivered ant-TNF agents to treat neurodegenerative diseases in randomly controlled trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian A Clark
- Biomedical Sciences and Biochemistry, Research School of Biology, Australian National University, Acton, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, 0200, Australia.
| | - Bryce Vissel
- Neurodegeneration Research Group, Garvan Institute, 384 Victoria Street, Sydney, New South Wales, 2010, Australia
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26
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Effect of synthetic cannabinoids on spontaneous neuronal activity: Evaluation using Ca 2+ spiking and multi-electrode arrays. Eur J Pharmacol 2016; 786:148-160. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2016.05.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2016] [Revised: 05/18/2016] [Accepted: 05/30/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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27
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Gutiérrez-Rodríguez A, Puente N, Elezgarai I, Ruehle S, Lutz B, Reguero L, Gerrikagoitia I, Marsicano G, Grandes P. Anatomical characterization of the cannabinoid CB 1 receptor in cell-type-specific mutant mouse rescue models. J Comp Neurol 2016; 525:302-318. [PMID: 27339436 DOI: 10.1002/cne.24066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2016] [Revised: 06/13/2016] [Accepted: 06/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Type 1 cannabinoid (CB1 ) receptors are widely distributed in the brain. Their physiological roles depend on their distribution pattern, which differs remarkably among cell types. Hence, subcellular compartments with little but functionally relevant CB1 receptors can be overlooked, fostering an incomplete mapping. To overcome this, knockin mice with cell-type-specific rescue of CB1 receptors have emerged as excellent tools for investigating CB1 receptors' cell-type-specific localization and sufficient functional role with no bias. However, to know whether these rescue mice maintain endogenous CB1 receptor expression level, detailed anatomical studies are necessary. The subcellular distribution of hippocampal CB1 receptors of rescue mice that express the gene exclusively in dorsal telencephalic glutamatergic neurons (Glu-CB1 -RS) or GABAergic neurons (GABA-CB1 -RS) was studied by immunoelectron microscopy. Results were compared with conditional CB1 receptor knockout lines. As expected, CB1 immunoparticles appeared at presynaptic plasmalemma, making asymmetric and symmetric synapses. In the hippocampal CA1 stratum radiatum, the values of the CB1 receptor-immunopositive excitatory and inhibitory synapses were Glu-CB1 -RS, 21.89% (glutamatergic terminals); 2.38% (GABAergic terminals); GABA-CB1 -RS, 1.92% (glutamatergic terminals); 77.92% (GABAergic terminals). The proportion of CB1 receptor-immunopositive excitatory and inhibitory synapses in the inner one-third of the dentate molecular layer was Glu-CB1 -RS, 53.19% (glutamatergic terminals); 2.30% (GABAergic terminals); GABA-CB1 -RS, 3.19% (glutamatergic terminals); 85.07% (GABAergic terminals). Taken together, Glu-CB1 -RS and GABA-CB1 -RS mice show the usual CB1 receptor distribution and expression in hippocampal cell types with specific rescue of the receptor, thus being ideal for in-depth anatomical and functional investigations of the endocannabinoid system. J. Comp. Neurol. 525:302-318, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Gutiérrez-Rodríguez
- Department of Neurosciences, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, E-48940, Leioa, Spain.,Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Bizkaia Science and Technology Park, 48170, Zamudio, Spain.,Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, F-33076, France
| | - Nagore Puente
- Department of Neurosciences, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, E-48940, Leioa, Spain.,Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Bizkaia Science and Technology Park, 48170, Zamudio, Spain
| | - Izaskun Elezgarai
- Department of Neurosciences, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, E-48940, Leioa, Spain.,Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Bizkaia Science and Technology Park, 48170, Zamudio, Spain
| | - Sabine Ruehle
- Division of Neurobiology, Medical Research Council Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, CB2 0QH, United Kingdom.,Institute of Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Beat Lutz
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Leire Reguero
- Department of Neurosciences, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, E-48940, Leioa, Spain.,Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Bizkaia Science and Technology Park, 48170, Zamudio, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Gerrikagoitia
- Department of Neurosciences, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, E-48940, Leioa, Spain.,Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Bizkaia Science and Technology Park, 48170, Zamudio, Spain
| | - Giovanni Marsicano
- Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, F-33076, France.,INSERM, U1215 Neurocentre Magendie, Endocannabinoids and Neuroadaptation, Bordeaux, 33077, France
| | - Pedro Grandes
- Department of Neurosciences, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, E-48940, Leioa, Spain.,Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Bizkaia Science and Technology Park, 48170, Zamudio, Spain.,Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, V8P 5C2, British Columbia, Canada
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28
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Scheller A, Kirchhoff F. Endocannabinoids and Heterogeneity of Glial Cells in Brain Function. Front Integr Neurosci 2016; 10:24. [PMID: 27458351 PMCID: PMC4932105 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2016.00024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2016] [Accepted: 06/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Anja Scheller
- Molecular Physiology, Center for Integrative Physiology and Molecular Medicine, University of Saarland Homburg, Germany
| | - Frank Kirchhoff
- Molecular Physiology, Center for Integrative Physiology and Molecular Medicine, University of Saarland Homburg, Germany
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29
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Abstract
Marijuana affects neural functions through the binding of its active component (Δ9-THC) to cannabinoid receptors in the CNS. Recent studies have elucidated that endogenous ligands for cannabinoid receptors, endocannabinoids, serve as retrograde messengers at central synapses. Endocannabinoids are produced on demand in activity-dependent manners and released from postsynaptic neurons. The released endocannabinoids travel backward across the synapse, activate presynaptic CB1 cannabinoid receptors, and modulate presynaptic functions. Retrograde endocannabinoid signaling is crucial for certain forms of short-term and long-term synaptic plasticity at excitatory or inhibitory synapses in many brain regions, and thereby contributes to various aspects of brain function including learning and memory. Molecular identities of the CB1 receptor and enzymes involved in production and degradation of endocannabinoids have been elucidated. Anatomical studies have demonstrated unique distributions of these molecules around synapses, which provide morphological bases for the roles of endocannabinoids as retrograde messengers. CB1-knockout mice exhibit various behavioral abnormalities and multiple defects in synaptic plasticity, supporting the notion that endocannabinoid signaling is involved in various aspects of neural function. In this review article, the authors describe molecular mechanisms of the endocannabinoid-mediated synaptic modulation and its possible physiological significance. NEUROSCIENTIST 13(2):127—137, 2007.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Hashimotodani
- Department of Neurophysiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
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30
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Barbieri M, Ossato A, Canazza I, Trapella C, Borelli AC, Beggiato S, Rimondo C, Serpelloni G, Ferraro L, Marti M. Synthetic cannabinoid JWH-018 and its halogenated derivatives JWH-018-Cl and JWH-018-Br impair Novel Object Recognition in mice: Behavioral, electrophysiological and neurochemical evidence. Neuropharmacology 2016; 109:254-269. [PMID: 27346209 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2016.06.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2016] [Revised: 06/14/2016] [Accepted: 06/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
It is well known that an impairment of learning and memory function is one of the major physiological effects caused by natural or synthetic cannabinoid consumption in rodents, nonhuman primates and in humans. JWH-018 and its halogenated derivatives (JWH-018-Cl and JWH-018-Br) are synthetic CB1/CB2 cannabinoid agonists, illegally marketed as "Spice" and "herbal blend" for their Cannabis-like psychoactive effects. In the present study the effects of acute exposure to JWH-018, JWH-018-Cl, JWH-018-Br (JWH-018-R compounds) and Δ(9)-THC (for comparison) on Novel Object Recognition test (NOR) has been investigated in mice. Moreover, to better characterize the effects of JWH-018-R compounds on memory function, in vitro electrophysiological and neurochemical studies in hippocampal preparations have been performed. JWH-018, JWH-018-Cl and JWH-018-Br dose-dependently impaired both short- and long-memory retention in mice (respectively 2 and 24 h after training session). Their effects resulted more potent respect to that evoked by Δ(9)-THC. Moreover, in vitro studies showed as JWH-018-R compounds negatively affected electrically evoked synaptic transmission, LTP and aminoacid (glutamate and GABA) release in hippocampal slices. Behavioral, electrophysiological and neurochemical effects were fully prevented by CB1 receptor antagonist AM251 pretreatment, suggesting a CB1 receptor involvement. These data support the hypothesis that synthetic JWH-018-R compounds, as Δ(9)-THC, impair cognitive function in mice by interfering with hippocampal synaptic transmission and memory mechanisms. This data outline the danger that the use and/or abuse of these synthetic cannabinoids may represent for the cognitive process in human consumer.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Barbieri
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - A Ossato
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology (SVeB), University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - I Canazza
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology (SVeB), University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - C Trapella
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - A C Borelli
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - S Beggiato
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology (SVeB), University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - C Rimondo
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of Verona, Italy
| | - G Serpelloni
- U.R.I.To.N., Forensic Toxicology Unit, Department of Health Science, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - L Ferraro
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology (SVeB), University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - M Marti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology (SVeB), University of Ferrara, Italy; Center for Neuroscience and Istituto Nazionale di Neuroscienze, Italy.
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31
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Cannabinoid Type 2 Receptors Mediate a Cell Type-Specific Plasticity in the Hippocampus. Neuron 2016; 90:795-809. [PMID: 27133464 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2016.03.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 203] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2014] [Revised: 01/20/2016] [Accepted: 03/18/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Endocannabinoids (eCBs) exert major control over neuronal activity by activating cannabinoid receptors (CBRs). The functionality of the eCB system is primarily ascribed to the well-documented retrograde activation of presynaptic CB1Rs. We find that action potential-driven eCB release leads to a long-lasting membrane potential hyperpolarization in hippocampal principal cells that is independent of CB1Rs. The hyperpolarization, which is specific to CA3 and CA2 pyramidal cells (PCs), depends on the activation of neuronal CB2Rs, as shown by a combined pharmacogenetic and immunohistochemical approach. Upon activation, they modulate the activity of the sodium-bicarbonate co-transporter, leading to a hyperpolarization of the neuron. CB2R activation occurred in a purely self-regulatory manner, robustly altered the input/output function of CA3 PCs, and modulated gamma oscillations in vivo. To conclude, we describe a cell type-specific plasticity mechanism in the hippocampus that provides evidence for the neuronal expression of CB2Rs and emphasizes their importance in basic neuronal transmission.
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32
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de Vin F, Choi SM, Bolognesi ML, Lefebvre RA. Presynaptic M3 muscarinic cholinoceptors mediate inhibition of excitatory synaptic transmission in area CA1 of rat hippocampus. Brain Res 2015; 1629:260-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2015.10.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2015] [Revised: 10/11/2015] [Accepted: 10/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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33
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Metabolome disruption of the rat cerebrum induced by the acute toxic effects of the synthetic cannabinoid MAM-2201. Life Sci 2015; 137:49-55. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2015.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2015] [Revised: 04/17/2015] [Accepted: 05/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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34
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Jahn HM, Scheller A, Kirchhoff F. Genetic control of astrocyte function in neural circuits. Front Cell Neurosci 2015; 9:310. [PMID: 26347607 PMCID: PMC4538289 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2015.00310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2015] [Accepted: 07/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
During the last two decades numerous genetic approaches affecting cell function in vivo have been developed. Current state-of-the-art technology permits the selective switching of gene function in distinct cell populations within the complex organization of a given tissue parenchyma. The tamoxifen-inducible Cre/loxP gene recombination and the doxycycline-dependent modulation of gene expression are probably the most popular genetic paradigms. Here, we will review applications of these two strategies while focusing on the interactions of astrocytes and neurons in the central nervous system (CNS) and their impact for the whole organism. Abolishing glial sensing of neuronal activity by selective deletion of glial transmitter receptors demonstrated the impact of astrocytes for higher cognitive functions such as learning and memory, or the more basic body control of muscle coordination. Interestingly, also interfering with glial output, i.e., the release of gliotransmitters can drastically change animal’s physiology like sleeping behavior. Furthermore, such genetic approaches have also been used to restore astrocyte function. In these studies two alternatives were employed to achieve proper genetic targeting of astrocytes: transgenes using the promoter of the human glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) or homologous recombination into the glutamate-aspartate transporter (GLAST) locus. We will highlight their specific properties that could be relevant for their use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah M Jahn
- Molecular Physiology, Center for Integrative Physiology and Molecular Medicine (CIPMM), University of Saarland Homburg, Germany
| | - Anja Scheller
- Molecular Physiology, Center for Integrative Physiology and Molecular Medicine (CIPMM), University of Saarland Homburg, Germany
| | - Frank Kirchhoff
- Molecular Physiology, Center for Integrative Physiology and Molecular Medicine (CIPMM), University of Saarland Homburg, Germany
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35
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Anderson GR, Aoto J, Tabuchi K, Földy C, Covy J, Yee AX, Wu D, Lee SJ, Chen L, Malenka RC, Südhof TC. β-Neurexins Control Neural Circuits by Regulating Synaptic Endocannabinoid Signaling. Cell 2015. [PMID: 26213384 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2015.06.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
α- and β-neurexins are presynaptic cell-adhesion molecules implicated in autism and schizophrenia. We find that, although β-neurexins are expressed at much lower levels than α-neurexins, conditional knockout of β-neurexins with continued expression of α-neurexins dramatically decreased neurotransmitter release at excitatory synapses in cultured cortical neurons. The β-neurexin knockout phenotype was attenuated by CB1-receptor inhibition, which blocks presynaptic endocannabinoid signaling, or by 2-arachidonoylglycerol synthesis inhibition, which impairs postsynaptic endocannabinoid release. In synapses formed by CA1-region pyramidal neurons onto burst-firing subiculum neurons, presynaptic in vivo knockout of β-neurexins aggravated endocannabinoid-mediated inhibition of synaptic transmission and blocked LTP; presynaptic CB1-receptor antagonists or postsynaptic 2-arachidonoylglycerol synthesis inhibition again reversed this block. Moreover, conditional knockout of β-neurexins in CA1-region neurons impaired contextual fear memories. Thus, our data suggest that presynaptic β-neurexins control synaptic strength in excitatory synapses by regulating postsynaptic 2-arachidonoylglycerol synthesis, revealing an unexpected role for β-neurexins in the endocannabinoid-dependent regulation of neural circuits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garret R Anderson
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University Medical School, 265 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA 94305-5453, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University Medical School, 265 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA 94305-5453, USA
| | - Jason Aoto
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University Medical School, 265 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA 94305-5453, USA
| | - Katsuhiko Tabuchi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University Medical School, 265 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA 94305-5453, USA; Department of Neurophysiology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto 390-8621, Japan
| | - Csaba Földy
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University Medical School, 265 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA 94305-5453, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University Medical School, 265 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA 94305-5453, USA
| | - Jason Covy
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University Medical School, 265 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA 94305-5453, USA
| | - Ada Xin Yee
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University Medical School, 265 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA 94305-5453, USA
| | - Dick Wu
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University Medical School, 265 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA 94305-5453, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University Medical School, 265 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA 94305-5453, USA
| | - Sung-Jin Lee
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University Medical School, 265 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA 94305-5453, USA
| | - Lu Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University Medical School, 265 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA 94305-5453, USA
| | - Robert C Malenka
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University Medical School, 265 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA 94305-5453, USA; Nancy Pritzker Laboratory, Stanford University Medical School, 265 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA 94305-5453, USA
| | - Thomas C Südhof
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University Medical School, 265 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA 94305-5453, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University Medical School, 265 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA 94305-5453, USA.
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36
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Abstract
This review compares the biological and physiological function of Sigma receptors [σRs] and their potential therapeutic roles. Sigma receptors are widespread in the central nervous system and across multiple peripheral tissues. σRs consist of sigma receptor one (σ1R) and sigma receptor two (σ2R) and are expressed in numerous regions of the brain. The sigma receptor was originally proposed as a subtype of opioid receptors and was suggested to contribute to the delusions and psychoses induced by benzomorphans such as SKF-10047 and pentazocine. Later studies confirmed that σRs are non-opioid receptors (not an µ opioid receptor) and play a more diverse role in intracellular signaling, apoptosis and metabolic regulation. σ1Rs are intracellular receptors acting as chaperone proteins that modulate Ca2+ signaling through the IP3 receptor. They dynamically translocate inside cells, hence are transmembrane proteins. The σ1R receptor, at the mitochondrial-associated endoplasmic reticulum membrane, is responsible for mitochondrial metabolic regulation and promotes mitochondrial energy depletion and apoptosis. Studies have demonstrated that they play a role as a modulator of ion channels (K+ channels; N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors [NMDAR]; inositol 1,3,5 triphosphate receptors) and regulate lipid transport and metabolism, neuritogenesis, cellular differentiation and myelination in the brain. σ1R modulation of Ca2+ release, modulation of cardiac myocyte contractility and may have links to G-proteins. It has been proposed that σ1Rs are intracellular signal transduction amplifiers. This review of the literature examines the mechanism of action of the σRs, their interaction with neurotransmitters, pharmacology, location and adverse effects mediated through them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin G Rousseaux
- a Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine , University of Ottawa , Ottawa , ON , Canada and
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37
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Abstract
The physiological and pathophysiological functions of the endocannabinoid system have been studied extensively using transgenic and targeted knockout mouse models. The first gene deletions of the cannabinoid CB(1) receptor were described in the late 1990s, soon followed by CB(2) and FAAH mutations in early 2000. These mouse models helped to elucidate the fundamental role of endocannabinoids as retrograde transmitters in the CNS and in the discovery of many unexpected endocannabinoid functions, for example, in the skin, bone and liver. We now have knockout mouse models for almost every receptor and enzyme of the endocannabinoid system. Conditional mutant mice were mostly developed for the CB(1) receptor, which is widely expressed on many different neurons, astrocytes and microglia, as well as on many cells outside the CNS. These mouse strains include "floxed" CB(1) alleles and mice with a conditional re-expression of CB(1). The availability of these mice made it possible to decipher the function of CB(1) in specific neuronal circuits and cell populations or to discriminate between central and peripheral effects. Many of the genetic mouse models were also used in combination with viral expression systems. The purpose of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the existing genetic models and to summarize some of the most important discoveries that were made with these animals.
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MESH Headings
- Amidohydrolases/genetics
- Amidohydrolases/metabolism
- Animals
- Endocannabinoids/genetics
- Endocannabinoids/metabolism
- Gene Deletion
- Gene Expression Regulation
- Genotype
- Humans
- Hydrolysis
- Mice, Knockout
- Mice, Mutant Strains
- Monoacylglycerol Lipases/genetics
- Monoacylglycerol Lipases/metabolism
- Mutation
- Phenotype
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/genetics
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/metabolism
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/genetics
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/metabolism
- Signal Transduction/genetics
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Zimmer
- Institute of Molecular Psychiatry, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.
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38
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Johnson BN, Palmer CP, Bourgeois EB, Elkind JA, Putnam BJ, Cohen AS. Augmented Inhibition from Cannabinoid-Sensitive Interneurons Diminishes CA1 Output after Traumatic Brain Injury. Front Cell Neurosci 2014; 8:435. [PMID: 25565968 PMCID: PMC4271495 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2014.00435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2014] [Accepted: 12/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The neurological impairments associated with traumatic brain injury include learning and memory deficits and increased risk of seizures. The hippocampus is critically involved in both of these phenomena and highly susceptible to damage by traumatic brain injury. To examine network activity in the hippocampal CA1 region after lateral fluid percussion injury, we used a combination of voltage-sensitive dye, field potential, and patch clamp recording in mouse hippocampal brain slices. When the stratum radiatum (SR) was stimulated in slices from injured mice, we found decreased depolarization in SR and increased hyperpolarization in stratum oriens (SO), together with a decrease in the percentage of pyramidal neurons firing stimulus-evoked action potentials. Increased hyperpolarization in SO persisted when glutamatergic transmission was blocked. However, we found no changes in SO responses when the alveus was stimulated to directly activate SO. These results suggest that the increased SO hyperpolarization evoked by SR stimulation was mediated by interneurons that have cell bodies and/or axons in SR, and form synapses in stratum pyramidale and SO. A low concentration (100 nM) of the synthetic cannabinoid WIN55,212-2, restored CA1 output in slices from injured animals. These findings support the hypothesis that increased GABAergic signaling by cannabinoid-sensitive interneurons contributes to the reduced CA1 output following traumatic brain injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian N Johnson
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia , Philadelphia, PA , USA
| | - Chris P Palmer
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine , Philadelphia, PA , USA
| | - Elliot B Bourgeois
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School , Boston, MA , USA
| | - Jaclynn A Elkind
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia , Philadelphia, PA , USA
| | - Brendan J Putnam
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia , Philadelphia, PA , USA
| | - Akiva S Cohen
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia , Philadelphia, PA , USA ; Department of Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine , Philadelphia, PA , USA
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39
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Distinct modulation of the endocannabinoid system upon kainic acid-induced in vivo seizures and in vitro epileptiform bursting. Mol Cell Neurosci 2014; 62:1-9. [PMID: 25064144 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2014.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2014] [Revised: 05/06/2014] [Accepted: 07/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
There is clear evidence on the neuroprotective role of the endocannabinoid (eCB) signaling cascade in various models of epilepsy. In particular, increased levels of eCBs protect against kainic acid (KA)-induced seizures. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying this effect and its age-dependence are still unknown. To clarify this issue, we investigated which step of the biosynthetic and catabolic pathways of the eCBs may be responsible for the eCB-mediated neuroprotection in the hippocampus of P14 and P56-70 KA-treated rats. We found that both anandamide and N-palmitoylethanolamine, together with their biosynthetic enzyme significantly increased in the hippocampus of younger KA-treated rats, while decreasing in adults. In contrast, the levels of the other major eCB, 2-arachidonoylglycerol, similar to its biosynthetic enzyme, were higher in the hippocampus of P56-70 compared to P14 rats. In line with these data, extracellular field recordings in CA1 hippocampus showed that enhancement of endogenous AEA and 2-AG significantly counteracted KA-induced epileptiform bursting in P56-70 and P14 rats, respectively. On the contrary, while the CB1R antagonist SR141716 per se did not affect the population spike, it did worsen KA-induced bursts, confirming increased eCB tone upon KA treatment. Altogether these data indicate an age-specific alteration of the eCB system caused by KA and provide insights for the protective mechanism of the cannabinoid system against epileptiform discharges.
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Tortoriello G, Morris CV, Alpar A, Fuzik J, Shirran SL, Calvigioni D, Keimpema E, Botting CH, Reinecke K, Herdegen T, Courtney M, Hurd YL, Harkany T. Miswiring the brain: Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol disrupts cortical development by inducing an SCG10/stathmin-2 degradation pathway. EMBO J 2014; 33:668-85. [PMID: 24469251 DOI: 10.1002/embj.201386035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 156] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Children exposed in utero to cannabis present permanent neurobehavioral and cognitive impairments. Psychoactive constituents from Cannabis spp., particularly Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), bind to cannabinoid receptors in the fetal brain. However, it is unknown whether THC can trigger a cannabinoid receptor-driven molecular cascade to disrupt neuronal specification. Here, we show that repeated THC exposure disrupts endocannabinoid signaling, particularly the temporal dynamics of CB1 cannabinoid receptor, to rewire the fetal cortical circuitry. By interrogating the THC-sensitive neuronal proteome we identify Superior Cervical Ganglion 10 (SCG10)/stathmin-2, a microtubule-binding protein in axons, as a substrate of altered neuronal connectivity. We find SCG10 mRNA and protein reduced in the hippocampus of midgestational human cannabis-exposed fetuses, defining SCG10 as the first cannabis-driven molecular effector in the developing cerebrum. CB1 cannabinoid receptor activation recruits c-Jun N-terminal kinases to phosphorylate SCG10, promoting its rapid degradation in situ in motile axons and microtubule stabilization. Thus, THC enables ectopic formation of filopodia and alters axon morphology. These data highlight the maintenance of cytoskeletal dynamics as a molecular target for cannabis, whose imbalance can limit the computational power of neuronal circuitries in affected offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Tortoriello
- Division of Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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41
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CA1 pyramidal cell theta-burst firing triggers endocannabinoid-mediated long-term depression at both somatic and dendritic inhibitory synapses. J Neurosci 2013; 33:13743-57. [PMID: 23966696 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0817-13.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocannabinoids (eCBs) are retrograde lipid messengers that, by targeting presynaptic type 1 cannabinoid receptors (CB1Rs), mediate short- and long-term synaptic depression of neurotransmitter release throughout the brain. Short-term depression is typically triggered by postsynaptic, depolarization-induced calcium rises, whereas long-term depression is induced by synaptic activation of Gq/11 protein-coupled receptors. Here we report that a physiologically relevant pattern of postsynaptic activity, in the form of theta-burst firing (TBF) of hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons, can trigger long-term depression of inhibitory transmission (iLTD) in rat hippocampal slices. Paired recordings between CA1 interneurons and pyramidal cells, followed by post hoc morphological reconstructions of the interneurons' axon, revealed that somatic and dendritic inhibitory synaptic inputs equally expressed TBF-induced iLTD. Simultaneous recordings from neighboring pyramidal cells demonstrated that eCB signaling triggered by TBF was highly restricted to only a single, active cell. Furthermore, pairing submaximal endogenous activation of metabotropic glutamate or muscarinic acetylcholine receptors with submaximal TBF unmasked associative iLTD. Although CB1Rs are also expressed at Schaffer-collateral excitatory terminals, long-term plasticity under various recording conditions was spared at these synapses. Consistent with this observation, TBF also shifted the balance of excitation and inhibition in favor of excitatory throughput, thereby altering information flow through the CA1 circuit. Given the near ubiquity of burst-firing activity patterns and CB1R expression in the brain, the properties described here may be a general means by which neurons fine tune the strength of their inputs in a cell-wide and cell-specific manner.
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42
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Reich CG, Mihalik GR, Iskander AN, Seckler JC, Weiss MS. Adolescent chronic mild stress alters hippocampal CB1 receptor-mediated excitatory neurotransmission and plasticity. Neuroscience 2013; 253:444-54. [PMID: 24035826 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2013.08.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2013] [Revised: 08/29/2013] [Accepted: 08/29/2013] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Endocannabinoids (eCBs) are involved in the stress response and alterations in eCB signaling may contribute to the etiology of mood disorders. Exposure to chronic mild stress (CMS), a model of depression, produces downregulation of the cannabinoid 1 (CB1) receptor in the hippocampus of male rats. However, it is unknown how this stress-induced change in CB1 levels affects eCB-mediated neurotransmission. In vitro, field potential recordings from CMS-exposed (21-days) rats were performed to assess the effects of stress on eCB-regulated glutamatergic neurotransmission in/on hippocampal area CA1. We observed that application of the CB1 agonist, WIN 55,212-5 (1 μM), in stress animals resulted in a ∼135% increase in excitatory neurotransmission, whereas CB1 activation in non-stress animals leads to a ∼30% decrease. However, during blockade of GABA(A) neurotransmission with picrotoxin, CB1 activation yielded a ∼35% decrease in stress animals. These findings indicate that CMS does not directly affect glutamatergic neurotransmission. Rather, CMS sensitizes CB1 function on GABAergic terminals, leading to less inhibition and an increase in excitatory neurotransmission. This finding is reinforced in that induction of weak long-term-potentiation (LTP) is enhanced in CMS-exposed animals compared to controls and this enhancement is CB1-dependent. Lastly, we observed that the LTP-blocking property of WIN 55,212-5 shifts from being glutamate-dependent in non-stress animals to being GABA-dependent in stress animals. These results effectively demonstrate that CMS significantly alters hippocampal eCB-mediated neurotransmission and synaptic plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- C G Reich
- Program in Psychology, Ramapo College of New Jersey, Mahwah, NJ 07430, USA.
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43
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Hoffman AF, Lupica CR. Synaptic targets of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol in the central nervous system. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2013; 3:cshperspect.a012237. [PMID: 23209160 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a012237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The availability of potent synthetic agonists for cannabinoid receptors has facilitated our understanding of cannabinoid actions on synaptic transmission in the central nervous system. Moreover, the ability of these compounds to inhibit neurotransmitter release at many central synapses is thought to underlie most of the behavioral effects of cannabinoid agonists. However, despite the widespread use and misuse of marijuana, and recognition of its potential adverse psychological effects in humans, comparatively few studies have examined the actions of its primary psychoactive constituent, Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), at well-defined synaptic pathways. Here we examine the recent literature describing the effects of acute and repeated THC exposure on synaptic function in several brain regions and explore the importance of these neurobiological actions of THC in drug addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander F Hoffman
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program, Electrophysiology Research Section, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA
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44
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Bushlin I, Gupta A, Stockton SD, Miller LK, Devi LA. Dimerization with cannabinoid receptors allosterically modulates delta opioid receptor activity during neuropathic pain. PLoS One 2012; 7:e49789. [PMID: 23272051 PMCID: PMC3522681 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0049789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2012] [Accepted: 10/11/2012] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The diversity of receptor signaling is increased by receptor heteromerization leading to dynamic regulation of receptor function. While a number of studies have demonstrated that family A G-protein-coupled receptors are capable of forming heteromers in vitro, the role of these heteromers in normal physiology and disease has been poorly explored. In this study, direct interactions between CB(1) cannabinoid and delta opioid receptors in the brain were examined. Additionally, regulation of heteromer levels and signaling in a rodent model of neuropathic pain was explored. First we examined changes in the expression, function and interaction of these receptors in the cerebral cortex of rats with a peripheral nerve lesion that resulted in neuropathic pain. We found that, following the peripheral nerve lesion, the expression of both cannabinoid type 1 receptor (CB(1)R) and the delta opioid receptor (DOR) are increased in select brain regions. Concomitantly, an increase in CB(1)R activity and decrease in DOR activity was observed. We hypothesize that this decrease in DOR activity could be due to heteromeric interactions between these two receptors. Using a CB(1)R-DOR heteromer-specific antibody, we found increased levels of CB(1)R-DOR heteromer protein in the cortex of neuropathic animals. We subsequently examined the functionality of these heteromers by testing whether low, non-signaling doses of CB(1)R ligands influenced DOR signaling in the cortex. We found that, in cortical membranes from animals that experienced neuropathic pain, non-signaling doses of CB(1)R ligands significantly enhanced DOR activity. Moreover, this activity is selectively blocked by a heteromer-specific antibody. Together, these results demonstrate an important role for CB(1)R-DOR heteromers in altered cortical function of DOR during neuropathic pain. Moreover, they suggest the possibility that a novel heteromer-directed therapeutic strategy for enhancing DOR activity, could potentially be employed to reduce anxiety associated with chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ittai Bushlin
- Department of Pharmacology and Systems Therapeutics, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
- Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Achla Gupta
- Department of Pharmacology and Systems Therapeutics, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Steven D. Stockton
- Department of Pharmacology and Systems Therapeutics, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
- Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Lydia K. Miller
- Department of Pharmacology and Systems Therapeutics, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Lakshmi A. Devi
- Department of Pharmacology and Systems Therapeutics, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
- Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
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45
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Castillo PE, Younts TJ, Chávez AE, Hashimotodani Y. Endocannabinoid signaling and synaptic function. Neuron 2012; 76:70-81. [PMID: 23040807 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2012.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 721] [Impact Index Per Article: 60.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/14/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Endocannabinoids are key modulators of synaptic function. By activating cannabinoid receptors expressed in the central nervous system, these lipid messengers can regulate several neural functions and behaviors. As experimental tools advance, the repertoire of known endocannabinoid-mediated effects at the synapse, and their underlying mechanism, continues to expand. Retrograde signaling is the principal mode by which endocannabinoids mediate short- and long-term forms of plasticity at both excitatory and inhibitory synapses. However, growing evidence suggests that endocannabinoids can also signal in a nonretrograde manner. In addition to mediating synaptic plasticity, the endocannabinoid system is itself subject to plastic changes. Multiple points of interaction with other neuromodulatory and signaling systems have now been identified. In this Review, we focus on new advances in synaptic endocannabinoid signaling in the mammalian brain. The emerging picture not only reinforces endocannabinoids as potent regulators of synaptic function but also reveals that endocannabinoid signaling is mechanistically more complex and diverse than originally thought.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo E Castillo
- Dominick P. Purpura Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA.
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46
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Predator threat stress promotes long lasting anxiety-like behaviors and modulates synaptophysin and CB1 receptors expression in brain areas associated with PTSD symptoms. Neurosci Lett 2012. [PMID: 23178193 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2012.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Several studies have suggested that changes in hippocampal, prefrontal cortex and amygdaloid complex function are associated with the main symptoms of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Predator exposure can mimic some aspects of PSTD such as hyperarousal and chronic anxiety. However, little is known about the neural substrate involved in this model. Synaptophysin (SYP) expression has been used to evaluate synaptic plastic changes while cannabinoids have emerged as a therapeutic target for the treatment of stress- and anxiety-related disorders. The present work evaluated whether the long lasting behavioral effects evoked by predator exposure are associated to long-term changes in the expression of the Cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) and the synaptic protein SYP in brain areas related to the genesis of PTSD symptoms (frontal cortex, hippocampus and amygdaloid complex). Male Wistar rats were exposed to a live or a dummy cat and seven days later submitted to the elevated plus maze test. To explore possible neurobiological mechanisms involved in these effects, CB1 receptor and SYP mRNA expression were measured in the hippocampus, frontal cortex and amygdaloid complex. Single predator exposure promoted long-lasting anxiogenic effects. Seven days after predator threat CB1 mRNA expression was down regulated in the frontal cortex and amygdaloid complex while SYP gene was up regulated in the amygdaloid complex. Our results suggested that predator exposure causes long-lasting anxiogenic effects associated with hyperactivation of amygdaloid complex and modulation of CB1 receptor in brain areas related to PTSD symptoms.
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Jacob W, Marsch R, Marsicano G, Lutz B, Wotjak CT. Cannabinoid CB1 receptor deficiency increases contextual fear memory under highly aversive conditions and long-term potentiation in vivo. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2012; 98:47-55. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2012.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2011] [Revised: 03/30/2012] [Accepted: 04/25/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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48
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Han J, Kesner P, Metna-Laurent M, Duan T, Xu L, Georges F, Koehl M, Abrous DN, Mendizabal-Zubiaga J, Grandes P, Liu Q, Bai G, Wang W, Xiong L, Ren W, Marsicano G, Zhang X. Acute cannabinoids impair working memory through astroglial CB1 receptor modulation of hippocampal LTD. Cell 2012; 148:1039-50. [PMID: 22385967 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2012.01.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 343] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2011] [Revised: 10/21/2011] [Accepted: 01/11/2012] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Impairment of working memory is one of the most important deleterious effects of marijuana intoxication in humans, but its underlying mechanisms are presently unknown. Here, we demonstrate that the impairment of spatial working memory (SWM) and in vivo long-term depression (LTD) of synaptic strength at hippocampal CA3-CA1 synapses, induced by an acute exposure of exogenous cannabinoids, is fully abolished in conditional mutant mice lacking type-1 cannabinoid receptors (CB(1)R) in brain astroglial cells but is conserved in mice lacking CB(1)R in glutamatergic or GABAergic neurons. Blockade of neuronal glutamate N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDAR) and of synaptic trafficking of glutamate α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-isoxazole propionic acid receptors (AMPAR) also abolishes cannabinoid effects on SWM and LTD induction and expression. We conclude that the impairment of working memory by marijuana and cannabinoids is due to the activation of astroglial CB(1)R and is associated with astroglia-dependent hippocampal LTD in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Han
- College of Life Sciences and Key Laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Shaanxi Normal University, Xian, China
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49
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Messer RD, Levine ES. Epileptiform activity in the CA1 region of the hippocampus becomes refractory to attenuation by cannabinoids in part because of endogenous γ-aminobutyric acid type B receptor activity. J Neurosci Res 2012; 90:1454-63. [PMID: 22388975 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.23027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2011] [Revised: 11/30/2011] [Accepted: 12/12/2011] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The anticonvulsant properties of marijuana have been known for centuries. The recently characterized endogenous cannabinoid system thus represents a promising target for novel anticonvulsant agents; however, administration of exogenous cannabinoids has shown mixed results in both human epilepsy and animal models. The ability of cannabinoids to attenuate release of both excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters may explain the variable effects of cannabinoids in different models of epilepsy, but this has not been well explored. Using acute mouse brain slices, we monitored field potentials in the CA1 region of the hippocampus to characterize systematically the effects of the cannabinoid agonist WIN55212-2 (WIN) on evoked basal and epileptiform activity. WIN, acting presynaptically, significantly reduced the amplitude and slope of basal field excitatory postsynaptic potentials as well as stimulus-evoked epileptiform responses induced by omission of magnesium from the extracellular solution. In contrast, the combination of omission of magnesium plus elevation of potassium induced an epileptiform response that was refractory to attenuation by WIN. The effect of WIN in this model was partially restored by blocking γ-aminobutyric acid type B (GABA(B) ), but not GABA(A) , receptors. Subtle differences in models of epileptiform activity can profoundly alter the efficacy of cannabinoids. Endogenous GABA(B) receptor activation played a role in the decreased cannabinoid sensitivity observed for epileptiform activity induced by omission of magnesium plus elevation of potassium. These results suggest that interplay between presynaptic G protein-coupled receptors with overlapping downstream targets may underlie the variable efficacy of cannabinoids in different models of epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricka D Messer
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington,CT 06030, USA
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50
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Moreira FA, Aguiar DC, Terzian ALB, Guimarães FS, Wotjak CT. Cannabinoid type 1 receptors and transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 channels in fear and anxiety-two sides of one coin? Neuroscience 2011; 204:186-92. [PMID: 21906661 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2011.08.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2011] [Revised: 08/16/2011] [Accepted: 08/22/2011] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 channel (TRPV1; originally vanilloid receptor VR1) is activated in peripheral terminals of nociceptive fibers by noxious heat, low pH, and natural products such as capsaicin, the pungent ingredient of red-hot chilli peppers. Evidence has been accumulating that TRPV1 is expressed also in the brain, where it seems to be involved in antinociception, locomotor control, and regulation of affective behaviors. This ion channel might be activated by arachidonoyl ethanolamide (anandamide), the endogenous agonist of the cannabinoid type 1 (CB(1)) receptor. However, while CB(1) activation leads to a decrease in intracellular calcium and attenuation of synaptic transmission, anandamide binding to TRPV1 results in elevated calcium levels and potentiated synaptic transmission. This suggests a tripartite regulatory system with antagonistic effects of CB(1) and TRPV1, which are tied together by the same endogenous ligand. Such a system may have important implication for the modulation of behavioral responses. The present commentary elaborates on this interplay between CB(1) receptors and TRPV1 channels in the context of fear- and anxiety-related behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- F A Moreira
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Av. Antonio Carlos 6627, 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
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