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Durydivka O, Kuchar M, Blahos J. SGIP1 Deletion in Mice Attenuates Mechanical Hypersensitivity Elicited by Inflammation. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2024. [PMID: 38979622 DOI: 10.1089/can.2024.0020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Activation of cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1R) in the nervous system modulates the processing of acute and chronic pain. CB1R activity is regulated by desensitization and internalization. SH3-containing GRB2-like protein 3-interacting protein 1 (SGIP1) inhibits the internalization of CB1R. This causes increased and prolonged association of the desensitized receptor with G protein-coupled receptor kinase 3 (GRK3) and beta-arrestin on the cell membrane and results in decreased activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) pathway. Genetic deletion of SGIP1 in mice leads to altered CB1R-related functions, such as decreased anxiety-like behaviors, modified cannabinoid tetrad behaviors, reduced acute nociception, and increased sensitivity to analgesics. In this work, we asked if deletion of SGIP1 affects chronic nociception and analgesic effect of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and WIN 55,212-2 (WIN) in mice. Methods: We measured tactile responses of hind paws to increasing pressure in wild-type and SGIP1 knock-out mice. Inflammation in the paw was induced by local injection of carrageenan. To determine the mechanical sensitivity, the paw withdrawal threshold (PWT) was measured using an electronic von Frey instrument with the progression of the applied force. Results: The responses to mechanical stimuli varied depending on the sex, genotype, and treatment. SGIP1 knock-out male mice exhibited lower PWT than wild-type males. On the contrary, the female mice exhibited comparable PWT. Following THC or WIN treatment in male mice, SGIP1 knock-out males exhibited PWT lower than wild-type males. THC treatment in SGIP1 knock-out females resulted in PWT higher than after THC treatment of wild-type females. However, SGIP1 knock-out and wild-type female mice exhibited similar PWT after WIN treatment. Conclusions: We provide evidence that SGIP1, possibly by interacting with CB1R, is involved in processing the responses to chronic pain. The absence of SGIP1 results in enhanced sensitivity to mechanical stimuli in males, but not females. The antinociceptive effect of THC is superior to that of WIN in SGIP1 knock-out mice in the carrageenan-induced model of chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oleh Durydivka
- Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Kuchar
- Department of Chemistry of Natural Compounds, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Forensic Laboratory of Biologically Active Substances, Prague, Czech Republic
- Psychedelic Research Center, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czech Republic
| | - Jaroslav Blahos
- Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
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Ajrawat P, Yang Y, Wasilewski E, Leroux T, Ladha KS, Bhatia A, Singh M, Thaker S, Kapoor M, Furlan AD, Kotra LP, Clarke H. Medical Cannabis Use and Inflammatory Cytokines and Chemokines Among Adult Chronic Pain Patients. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2024; 9:267-281. [PMID: 36342776 DOI: 10.1089/can.2022.0143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Utilizing cannabis as a therapeutic option for chronic pain (CP) has increased significantly. However, data regarding the potential immunomodulatory effects of cannabis in CP patients remain scarce. We aimed at exploring the relationship between cannabis use and inflammatory cytokines and chemokines among a cohort of CP patients. Methods: Adult patients with a CP diagnosis and medical authorization of cannabis were enrolled. Patients completed validated clinical questionnaires and self-reported the effectiveness of cannabis for symptom management. Patients' blood and cannabis samples were analyzed for the presence of four major cannabinoids, two major cannabinoid metabolites, 29 different cytokines/chemokines, and cortisol. The multivariable linear regression model was used to identify cannabis and patient factors associated with immune markers. Results: Fifty-six patients (48±15 years; 64% females) were included, with dried cannabis (53%) being the most common type of cannabis consumed. Seventy percent of products were considered delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC)-dominant. The majority of patients (96%) self-reported effective pain management, and 76% reported a significant decrease in analgesic medication usage (p≤0.001). Compared with males, female patients had higher plasma levels of cannabidiol (CBD), cannabidiolic acid, Δ9-THC, and 11-hydroxy-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol but lower concentrations of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinolic acid and 11-nor-9-carboxy-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC-COOH). Females had significantly lower eotaxin levels (p=0.04) in comparison to male patients. The regression analysis indicated that high cannabis doses were related to increased levels of interleukin (IL)-12p40 (p=0.02) and IL-6 (p=0.01), whereas female sex was associated with decreased eotaxin (p≤0.01) concentrations. Blood CBD levels were associated with lower vascular endothelial growth factor (p=0.04) concentrations, and THC-COOH was a factor related to decreased tumor necrosis factor alpha (p=0.02) and IL-12p70 (p=0.03). Conclusion: This study provides further support for the patient-perceived effectiveness of cannabis in managing CP symptoms and reducing analgesic medication consumption. The results suggest a potential sex difference in metabolizing cannabinoids, and the varying immune marker concentrations may support a possible immunomodulatory effect associated with patient sex and cannabis product type. These preliminary findings provide grounds for further validation using larger, well-designed studies with longer follow-up periods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prabjit Ajrawat
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Management, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Yi Yang
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ewa Wasilewski
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Timothy Leroux
- Osteoarthritis Research Program, Division of Orthopedics, Schroeder Arthritis Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Karim S Ladha
- Department of Anesthesia, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anuj Bhatia
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Management, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mandeep Singh
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Management, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sonalben Thaker
- Pain Research Unit, Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mohit Kapoor
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Osteoarthritis Research Program, Division of Orthopedics, Schroeder Arthritis Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Centre for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrea D Furlan
- Centre for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- KITE, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lakshmi P Kotra
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Pain Research Unit, Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Centre for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hance Clarke
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Management, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Pain Research Unit, Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Centre for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Authement AK, Isoherranen N. The impact of pregnancy and associated hormones on the pharmacokinetics of Δ 9-tetrahydrocannabinol. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2024; 20:73-93. [PMID: 38258511 DOI: 10.1080/17425255.2024.2309213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION (-)-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the main psychoactive component of cannabis. Cannabis is the most widely used drug of abuse by pregnant individuals, but its maternal-fetal safety is still unclear. The changes in THC disposition during pregnancy may affect THC safety and pharmacology. AREAS COVERED This review summarizes the current literature on THC metabolism and pharmacokinetics in humans. It provides an analysis of how hormonal changes during pregnancy may alter the expression of cannabinoid metabolizing enzymes and THC and its metabolite pharmacokinetics. THC is predominately (>70%) cleared by hepatic metabolism to its psychoactive active metabolite, 11-OH-THC by cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2C9 and to other metabolites (<30%) by CYP3A4. Other physiological processes that change during pregnancy and may alter cannabinoid disposition are also reviewed. EXPERT OPINION THC and its metabolites disposition likely change during pregnancy. Hepatic CYP2C9 and CYP3A4 are induced in pregnant individuals and in vitro by pregnancy hormones. This induction of CYP2C9 and CYP3A4 is predicted to lead to altered THC and 11-OH-THC disposition and pharmacodynamic effects. More in vitro studies of THC metabolism and induction of the enzymes metabolizing cannabinoids are necessary to improve the prediction of THC pharmacokinetics in pregnant individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurora K Authement
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Aviram J, Glezerman M, Hayam E, Belobrov R, Procaccia S, Meiri D, Eisenberg E. Evaluating Sex Differences in Efficacy, Safety and Pharmacokinetics in Patients Treated with Cannabis by a Metered-Dose Inhaler. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1426. [PMID: 37895897 PMCID: PMC10610259 DOI: 10.3390/ph16101426] [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: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical studies on medical cannabis (MC) treatment have shown sex-related differences, including higher susceptibility to adverse events among women and greater analgesia among men. Here, we used the Syqe metered-dose inhaler (MDI) and a single chemovar to analyze sex differences. METHODS A total of 1249 Israeli chronic pain patients were assessed for pain intensity, sleep and adverse events (AEs) over 240 days. RESULTS Following the first two weeks, no significant sex differences were found in the effectiveness or safety of MC treatment (p > 0.05). Inhaled Δ9-THC doses did not vary significantly between sexes (p > 0.05) except in the first month of treatment. Pain reduction and sleep improvement were similar for both sexes (p > 0.05). The overall rate of AEs was equal and relatively low at 10% (n = 65, 10% of women and n = 60, 10% of men; χ2 (1) = 0.05, p = 0.820). A secondary analysis of pharmacokinetic data showed no significant differences between sexes in Δ9-THC and its metabolite pharmacokinetics, cardiovascular measures, or AE severity (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Uniform MC treatment via the Syqe MDI showed no sex differences in short-term effectiveness, safety and pharmacokinetics, nor in long-term effects, under "real-life" conditions. These findings provide insights into MC treatment which may inform clinical practice and policy-making in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marek Glezerman
- Faculty of Medicine and Head, Gender- and Sex Conscious Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | | | | | - Shiri Procaccia
- Faculty of Biology, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3200003, Israel
| | - David Meiri
- Faculty of Biology, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3200003, Israel
| | - Elon Eisenberg
- Rappaport Faculty of Medicine-Technion, Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3525433, Israel
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Craft RM, Gogulski HY, Freels TG, Glodosky NC, McLaughlin RJ. Vaporized cannabis extract-induced antinociception in male vs female rats with persistent inflammatory pain. Pain 2023; 164:2036-2047. [PMID: 37027147 PMCID: PMC11323050 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Although preclinical studies generally report robust antinociceptive effects of cannabinoids in rodent persistent pain models, randomized controlled trials in chronic pain patients report limited pain relief from cannabis/cannabinoids. Differences between animal and human studies that may contribute to these discrepant findings include route of cannabis/cannabinoid administration, type of cannabis/cannabinoid, and how pain is measured. To address these factors, rats with complete Freund adjuvant (CFA)-induced hind paw inflammation were exposed acutely or repeatedly to vaporized cannabis extract that was either tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or cannabidiol (CBD)dominant. One measure of evoked pain (mechanical threshold), 2 functional measures of pain (hind paw weight-bearing, and locomotor activity), and hind paw edema were assessed for up to 2 hours after vapor exposure. Acute exposure to vaporized THC-dominant extract (200 or 400 mg/mL) decreased mechanical allodynia and hind paw edema and increased hind paw weight-bearing and locomotor activity, with no sex differences. After repeated exposure to vaporized THC-dominant extract (twice daily for 3 days), only the antiallodynic effect was significant. Acute exposure to vaporized CBD-dominant cannabis extract (200 mg/mL) did not produce any effects in either sex; repeated exposure to this extract (100, 200, or 400 mg/mL) decreased mechanical allodynia in male rats only. Sex differences (or lack thereof) in the effects of vaporized cannabis extracts were not explained by sex differences in plasma levels of THC, CBD, or their major metabolites. These results suggest that although vaporized THC-dominant extract is likely to be modestly effective against inflammatory pain in both male and female rats, tolerance may develop, and the CBD-dominant extract may be effective only in male rats.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Timothy G Freels
- Integrative Physiology and Neuroscience, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
| | | | - Ryan J McLaughlin
- Integrative Physiology and Neuroscience, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
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Huang J, Huang D, Ruan X, Huang J, Xu D, Heavey S, Olivier J, Na R. Association between cannabis use with urological cancers: A population-based cohort study and a mendelian randomization study in the UK biobank. Cancer Med 2023; 12:3468-3476. [PMID: 35975633 PMCID: PMC9939109 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.5132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Legislation of cannabis use has been approved in many European and North American countries. Its impact on urological cancers is unclear. This study was conducted to explore the association between cannabis use and the risk of urological cancers. METHODS We identified 151,945 individuals with information on cannabis use in the UK Biobank from 2006 to 2010. Crude and age-standardized incidence ratios of different urological cancers were evaluated in the entire cohort and subgroups. Cox regression was performed for survival analysis. RESULTS Previous use of cannabis was a significant protective factor for renal cell carcinoma (HR = 0.61, 95%CI:0.40-0.93, p = 0.021) and prostate cancer (HR = 0.82, 95%CI:0.73-0.93, p = 0.002) in multivariable analysis. The association between previous cannabis use and both renal cell carcinoma and bladder cancer was only observed in females (HRRCC = 0.42, 95%CI:0.19-0.94, p = 0.034; HRBCa = 0.43, 95%CI:0.21-0.86, p = 0.018) but not in men. There was no significant association between cannabis use and testicular cancer incidence. Mendelian randomization demonstrated a potential causal effect of cannabis use on a lower incidence of renal cell carcinoma. CONCLUSIONS Previous use of cannabis was associated with a lower risk of bladder cancer, renal cell carcinoma, and prostate cancer. The inverse association between cannabis and both renal cell carcinoma and bladder cancer was only found in females but not in males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyi Huang
- Department of UrologyRuijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Da Huang
- Department of UrologyRuijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Xiaohao Ruan
- Department of UrologyRuijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Jinlun Huang
- Department of UrologyRuijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Danfeng Xu
- Department of UrologyRuijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Susan Heavey
- Division of Surgery and Interventional SciencesUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Jonathan Olivier
- Department of Urology, CHU LilleClaude Huriez Hospital, University of LilleLilleFrance
| | - Rong Na
- Division of Urology, Department of SurgeryQueen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong KongHong Kong
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Hempel B, Xi ZX. Receptor mechanisms underlying the CNS effects of cannabinoids: CB 1 receptor and beyond. ADVANCES IN PHARMACOLOGY (SAN DIEGO, CALIF.) 2021; 93:275-333. [PMID: 35341569 PMCID: PMC10709991 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apha.2021.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis legalization continues to progress in many US states and other countries. Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) is the major psychoactive constituent in cannabis underlying both its abuse potential and the majority of therapeutic applications. However, the neural mechanisms underlying cannabis action are not fully understood. In this chapter, we first review recent progress in cannabinoid receptor research, and then examine the acute CNS effects of Δ9-THC or other cannabinoids (WIN55212-2) with a focus on their receptor mechanisms. In experimental animals, Δ9-THC or WIN55212-2 produces classical pharmacological effects (analgesia, catalepsy, hypothermia, hypolocomotion), biphasic changes in affect (reward vs. aversion, anxiety vs. anxiety relief), and cognitive deficits (spatial learning and memory, short-term memory). Accumulating evidence indicates that activation of CB1Rs underlies the majority of Δ9-THC or WIN55121-2's pharmacological and behavioral effects. Unexpectedly, glutamatergic CB1Rs preferentially underlie cannabis action relative to GABAergic CB1Rs. Functional roles for CB1Rs expressed on astrocytes and mitochondria have also been uncovered. In addition, Δ9-THC or WIN55212-2 is an agonist at CB2R, GPR55 and PPARγ receptors and recent studies implicate these receptors in a number of their CNS effects. Other receptors (such as serotonin, opioid, and adenosine receptors) also modulate Δ9-THC's actions and their contributions are detailed. This chapter describes the neural mechanisms underlying cannabis action, which may lead to new discoveries in cannabis-based medication development for the treatment of cannabis use disorder and other human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Briana Hempel
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Zheng-Xiong Xi
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, MD, United States.
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Ruiz CM, Torrens A, Lallai V, Castillo E, Manca L, Martinez MX, Justeson DN, Fowler CD, Piomelli D, Mahler SV. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of aerosolized ("vaped") THC in adolescent male and female rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2021; 238:3595-3605. [PMID: 34495367 PMCID: PMC8665923 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-021-05976-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Adolescent exposure to ∆9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychotropic constituent of cannabis, might affect brain development, and in rodent models leads to long-term behavioral and physiological alterations. Yet, the basic pharmacology of this drug in adolescent rodents, especially when ingested via ecologically relevant routes like aerosol inhalation, commonly referred to as "vaping," is still poorly characterized. Moreover, sex differences exist in THC metabolism, kinetics, and behavioral effects, but these have not been rigorously examined after vapor dosing in adolescents. OBJECTIVES We investigated the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of aerosolized THC (30 min inhalation exposure, 25 or 100 mg/ml) in adolescent Wistar rats of both sexes. METHODS Liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry analysis of THC and its major metabolites was conducted on blood plasma and brain tissue at 5, 30, 60, and 120 min following a 30-min aerosol dosing session. Effects on activity in a novel environment for 120 min after aerosol, and temperature, were measured in separate rats. RESULTS We found sex-dependent differences in the pharmacokinetics of THC and its active (11-OH-THC) and inactive (11-COOH-THC) metabolites in the blood and brain, along with dose- and sex-dependent effects on anxiety-like and exploratory behaviors; namely, greater 11-OH-THC levels accompanied by greater behavioral effects in females at the low dose but similar hypothermic effects in both sexes at the high dose. CONCLUSIONS These results provide a benchmark for dosing adolescent rats with aerosolized (or "vaped") THC, which could facilitate adoption by other labs of this potentially human-relevant THC exposure model to understand cannabis effects on the developing brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Ruiz
- Department of Neurobiology & Behavior, University of California Irvine, 2205 McGaugh Hall, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - A Torrens
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, 1244 Gillespie Hall, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - V Lallai
- Department of Neurobiology & Behavior, University of California Irvine, 2205 McGaugh Hall, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - E Castillo
- Department of Neurobiology & Behavior, University of California Irvine, 2205 McGaugh Hall, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - L Manca
- Department of Neurobiology & Behavior, University of California Irvine, 2205 McGaugh Hall, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - M X Martinez
- Department of Neurobiology & Behavior, University of California Irvine, 2205 McGaugh Hall, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - D N Justeson
- Department of Neurobiology & Behavior, University of California Irvine, 2205 McGaugh Hall, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - C D Fowler
- Department of Neurobiology & Behavior, University of California Irvine, 2205 McGaugh Hall, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - D Piomelli
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, 1244 Gillespie Hall, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - S V Mahler
- Department of Neurobiology & Behavior, University of California Irvine, 2205 McGaugh Hall, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
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Salviato BZ, Raymundi AM, Rodrigues da Silva T, Salemme BW, Batista Sohn JM, Araújo FS, Guimarães FS, Bertoglio LJ, Stern CA. Female but not male rats show biphasic effects of low doses of Δ 9-tetrahydrocannabinol on anxiety: can cannabidiol interfere with these effects? Neuropharmacology 2021; 196:108684. [PMID: 34181978 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2021] [Revised: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the main phytocannabinoid present in the Cannabis sativa. It can produce dose-dependent anxiolytic or anxiogenic effects in males. THC effects on anxiety have scarcely been studied in females, despite their higher prevalence of anxiety disorders. Cannabidiol, another phytocannabinoid, has been reported to attenuate anxiety and some THC-induced effects. The present study aimed to investigate the behavioral and neurochemical effects of THC administered alone or combined with CBD in naturally cycling female rats tested in the elevated plus-maze. Systemically administered THC produced biphasic effects in females, anxiolytic at low doses (0.075 or 0.1 mg/kg) and anxiogenic at a higher dose (1.0 mg/kg). No anxiety changes were observed in males treated with the same THC dose range. The anxiogenic effect of THC was prevented by co-administration of CBD (1.0 or 3.0 mg/kg). CBD (3.0 mg/kg) caused an anxiolytic effect. At a lower dose (1.0 mg/kg), it facilitated the anxiolytic effect of the low THC dose. The anxiogenic effect of THC was accompanied by increased dopamine levels in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and nucleus accumbens (NAc). In contrast, its anxiolytic effect was associated with increased mPFC serotonin concentrations. The anxiolytic effect of CBD was accompanied by increased mPFC serotonin turnover. Together, these results indicate that female rats are susceptible to the biphasic effects of low THC doses on anxiety. These effects could depend on mPFC and NAc dopaminergic and serotoninergic neurotransmissions. CBD could minimize potential THC high-dose side effects whereas enhancing the anxiolytic action of its low doses in females.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ana Maria Raymundi
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Parana, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Leandro José Bertoglio
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianopolis, SC, Brazil
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Oliveira da Cruz JF, Ioannidou C, Pagano Zottola AC, Muguruza C, Gomez‐Sotres P, Fernandez M, Callado LF, Marsicano G, Busquets‐Garcia A. Sex-dependent pharmacological profiles of the synthetic cannabinoid MMB-Fubinaca. Addict Biol 2021; 26:e12940. [PMID: 32744799 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids have emerged as novel psychoactive substances with damaging consequences for public health. They exhibit high affinity at the cannabinoid type-1 (CB1 ) receptor and produce similar and often more potent effects as other CB1 receptor agonists. However, we are still far from a complete pharmacological understanding of these compounds. In this study, by using behavioral, molecular, pharmacological, and electrophysiological approaches, we aimed at characterizing several in vitro and in vivo pharmacological effects of the synthetic cannabinoid MMB-Fubinaca (also known as AMB-Fubinaca or FUB-AMB), a particular synthetic cannabinoid. MMB-Fubinaca stimulates CB1 receptor-mediated functional coupling to G-proteins in mouse and human brain preparations in a similar manner as the CB1 receptor agonist WIN55,512-2 but with a much greater potency. Both drugs similarly activate the CB1 receptor-dependent extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway. Notably, in vivo administration of MMB-Fubinaca in mice induced greater behavioral and electrophysiological effects in male than in female mice in a CB1 receptor-dependent manner. Overall, these data provide a solid pharmacological profiling of the effects of MMB-Fubinaca and important information about the mechanisms of action underlying its harmful impact in humans. At the same time, they reinforce the significant sexual dimorphism of cannabinoid actions, which will have to be taken into account in future animal and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- José F. Oliveira da Cruz
- INSERM, U1215 NeuroCentre Magendie Bordeaux France
- University of Bordeaux Bordeaux France
- Center for Neural Science New York University New York New York USA
| | - Christina Ioannidou
- INSERM, U1215 NeuroCentre Magendie Bordeaux France
- University of Bordeaux Bordeaux France
| | | | - Carolina Muguruza
- Department of Pharmacology University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU Leioa Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental, CIBERSAM Spain
| | - Paula Gomez‐Sotres
- INSERM, U1215 NeuroCentre Magendie Bordeaux France
- University of Bordeaux Bordeaux France
| | - Monica Fernandez
- INSERM, U1215 NeuroCentre Magendie Bordeaux France
- University of Bordeaux Bordeaux France
| | - Luis F. Callado
- Department of Pharmacology University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU Leioa Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental, CIBERSAM Spain
| | - Giovanni Marsicano
- INSERM, U1215 NeuroCentre Magendie Bordeaux France
- University of Bordeaux Bordeaux France
| | - Arnau Busquets‐Garcia
- INSERM, U1215 NeuroCentre Magendie Bordeaux France
- University of Bordeaux Bordeaux France
- Integrative Pharmacology and Systems Neuroscience Research Group, Neurosciences Research Program IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute) Barcelona Spain
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Ruiz CM, Torrens A, Castillo E, Perrone CR, Cevallos J, Inshishian VC, Harder EV, Justeson DN, Huestis MA, Swarup V, Piomelli D, Mahler SV. Pharmacokinetic, behavioral, and brain activity effects of Δ 9-tetrahydrocannabinol in adolescent male and female rats. Neuropsychopharmacology 2021; 46:959-969. [PMID: 32927465 PMCID: PMC8115040 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-020-00839-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the intoxicating constituent of cannabis and is responsible for the drug's reinforcing effects. Retrospective human studies suggest that cannabis use during adolescence is linked to long-term negative psychological outcomes, but in such studies it is difficult to distinguish the effects of THC from those of coexisting factors. Therefore, translationally relevant animal models are required to properly investigate THC effects in adolescents. However, though the relevance of these studies depends upon human-relevant dosing, surprisingly little is known about THC pharmacology and its effects on behavior and brain activity in adolescent rodents-especially in females. Here, we conducted a systematic investigation of THC pharmacokinetics, metabolism and distribution in blood and brain, and of THC effects upon behavior and neural activity in adolescent Long Evans rats of both sexes. We administered THC during an early-middle adolescent window (postnatal days 27-45) in which the brain may be particularly sensitive to developmental perturbation by THC. We determined the pharmacokinetic profile of THC and its main first-pass metabolites (11-hydroxy-THC and 11-nor-9-carboxy-THC) in blood and brain following acute injection (0.5 or 5 mg/kg, intraperitoneal). We also evaluated THC effects on behavioral assays of anxiety, locomotion, and place conditioning, as well as c-Fos expression in 14 brain regions. Confirming previous work, we find marked sex differences in THC metabolism, including a female-specific elevation in the bioactive metabolite 11-hydroxy-THC. Furthermore, we find dose-dependent and sex-dependent effects on behavior, neural activity, and functional connectivity across multiple nodes of brain stress and reward networks. Our findings are relevant for interpreting results of rat adolescent THC exposure studies, and may lend new insights into how THC impacts the brain in a sex-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina M. Ruiz
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
| | - Alexa Torrens
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
| | - Erik Castillo
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
| | - Christina R. Perrone
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697 USA ,grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
| | - Jenny Cevallos
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
| | - Victoria C. Inshishian
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697 USA ,grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
| | - Eden V. Harder
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
| | - Drew N. Justeson
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
| | - Marilyn A. Huestis
- grid.265008.90000 0001 2166 5843Institute of Emerging Health Professions, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107 USA
| | - Vivek Swarup
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA. .,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA. .,Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
| | - Stephen V. Mahler
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
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12
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Blanton HL, Barnes RC, McHann MC, Bilbrey JA, Wilkerson JL, Guindon J. Sex differences and the endocannabinoid system in pain. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2021; 202:173107. [PMID: 33444598 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2021.173107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis use has been increasing in recent years, particularly among women, and one of the most common uses of cannabis for medical purposes is pain relief. Pain conditions and response to analgesics have been demonstrated to be influenced by sex, and evidence is emerging that this is also true with cannabinoid-mediated analgesia. In this review we evaluate the preclinical evidence supporting sex differences in cannabinoid pharmacology, as well as emerging evidence from human studies, both clinical and observational. Numerous animal studies have reported sex differences in the antinociceptive response to natural and synthetic cannabinoids that may correlate to sex differences in expression, and function, of endocannabinoid system components. Female rodents have generally been found to be more sensitive to the effects of Δ9-THC. This finding is likely a function of both pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics factors including differences in metabolism, differences in cannabinoid receptor expression, and influence of ovarian hormones including estradiol and progesterone. Preclinical evidence supporting direct interactions between sex hormones and the endocannabinoid system may translate to sex differences in response to cannabis and cannabinoid use in men and women. Further research into the role of sex in endocannabinoid system function is critical as we gain a deeper understanding of the impact of the endocannabinoid system in various disease states, including chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry L Blanton
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, United States of America.
| | - Robert C Barnes
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, United States of America
| | - Melissa C McHann
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, United States of America
| | - Joshua A Bilbrey
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States of America
| | - Jenny L Wilkerson
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States of America
| | - Josée Guindon
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, United States of America.
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13
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Tirado-Muñoz J, Lopez-Rodriguez AB, Fonseca F, Farré M, Torrens M, Viveros MP. Effects of cannabis exposure in the prenatal and adolescent periods: Preclinical and clinical studies in both sexes. Front Neuroendocrinol 2020; 57:100841. [PMID: 32339546 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2020.100841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Revised: 03/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/19/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis is the most commonly used illicit drug among adolescents and young adults, including pregnant women. There is substantial evidence for a significant association between prenatal cannabis exposure and lower birth weight in offspring, and mixed results regarding later behavioural outcomes in the offspring. Adolescent cannabis use, especially heavy use, has been associated with altered executive function, depression, psychosis and use of other drugs later in life. Human studies have limitations due to several confounding factors and have provided scarce information about sex differences. In general, animal studies support behavioural alterations reported in humans and have revealed diverse sex differences and potential underlying mechanisms (altered mesolimbic dopaminergic and hippocampal glutamatergic systems and interference with prefrontal cortex maturation). More studies are needed that analyse sex and gender influences on cannabis-induced effects with great clinical relevance such as psychosis, cannabis use disorder and associated comorbidities, to achieve more personalized and accurate treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith Tirado-Muñoz
- Addiction Research Group, IMIM-Institut Hospital del Mar d'Investigacions Mèdiques, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana Belen Lopez-Rodriguez
- School of Biochemistry & Immunology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Francina Fonseca
- Addiction Research Group, IMIM-Institut Hospital del Mar d'Investigacions Mèdiques, Barcelona, Spain; Institute of Neuropsychiatry and Addictions, Parc de Salut Mar, Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Magi Farré
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol and Institut de Recerca Germas Trias (HUGTP-IGTP), Badalona, Spain; Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Torrens
- Addiction Research Group, IMIM-Institut Hospital del Mar d'Investigacions Mèdiques, Barcelona, Spain; Institute of Neuropsychiatry and Addictions, Parc de Salut Mar, Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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14
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Flores Á, Maldonado R, Berrendero F. THC exposure during adolescence does not modify nicotine reinforcing effects and relapse in adult male mice. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2020; 237:801-809. [PMID: 31858159 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-019-05416-8] [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: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Cannabis use is typically initiated during adolescence, and different studies suggest that adolescent cannabinoid exposure may increase the risk for drug addiction in adulthood. OBJECTIVES This study investigated the effects of adolescent exposure to the main psychoactive component of cannabis, ∆9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), in the reinforcing properties of nicotine in adult male mice. Possible alterations in relapse to nicotine-seeking behaviour in adult animals due to THC adolescent exposure were also evaluated. METHODS Adolescent mice were exposed to escalating doses of THC from PND35 to PND49. When mice reached adulthood (PND70), surgical procedures were applied for further behavioural evaluation. Nicotine self-administration sessions were conducted consecutively for 10 days. Following extinction, mice were tested for cue- and stress-induced reinstatement of nicotine-seeking behaviour. RESULTS Adolescent THC treatment did not modify acquisition and extinction of nicotine self-administration in adulthood. Moreover, THC exposure did not alter relapse to nicotine seeking induced by stress or nicotine-associated cues. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that a history of exposure to THC during adolescence under these particular conditions does not modify the reinforcing effects and seeking behaviour of nicotine in the adult period.
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Affiliation(s)
- África Flores
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, PRBB, C/ Doctor Aiguader 88, 08003, Barcelona, Spain.,Institute of Neurosciences, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rafael Maldonado
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, PRBB, C/ Doctor Aiguader 88, 08003, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Fernando Berrendero
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, PRBB, C/ Doctor Aiguader 88, 08003, Barcelona, Spain. .,Faculty of Experimental Sciences, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, UFV, 28223, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Madrid, Spain.
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15
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de Almeida AS, Rigo FK, De Prá SDT, Milioli AM, Dalenogare DP, Pereira GC, Ritter CDS, Peres DS, Antoniazzi CTDD, Stein C, Moresco RN, Oliveira SM, Trevisan G. Characterization of Cancer-Induced Nociception in a Murine Model of Breast Carcinoma. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2019; 39:605-617. [PMID: 30850915 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-019-00666-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2018] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Severe and poorly treated pain often accompanies breast cancer. Thus, novel mechanisms involved in breast cancer-induced pain should be investigated. Then, it is necessary to characterize animal models that are reliable with the symptoms and progression of the disease as observed in humans. Explaining cancer-induced nociception in a murine model of breast carcinoma was the aim of this study. 4T1 (104) lineage cells were inoculated in the right fourth mammary fat pad of female BALB/c mice; after this, mechanical and cold allodynia, or mouse grimace scale (MGS) were observed for 30 days. To determine the presence of bone metastasis, we performed the metastatic clonogenic test and measure calcium serum levels. At 20 days after tumor induction, the antinociceptive effect of analgesics used to relieve pain in cancer patients (acetaminophen, naproxen, codeine or morphine) or a cannabinoid agonist (WIN 55,212-2) was tested. Mice inoculated with 4T1 cells developed mechanical and cold allodynia and increased MGS. Bone metastasis was confirmed using the clonogenic assay, and hypercalcemia was observed 20 days after cells inoculation. All analgesic drugs reduced the mechanical and cold allodynia, while the MGS was decreased only by the administration of naproxen, codeine, or morphine. Also, WIN 55,212-2 improved all nociceptive measures. This pain model could be a reliable form to observe the mechanisms of breast cancer-induced pain or to observe the efficacy of novel analgesic compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Spring de Almeida
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Farmacologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS, 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Flávia Karine Rigo
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense (Unesc), Criciúma, SC, 88006-000, Brazil
| | - Samira Dal-Toé De Prá
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense (Unesc), Criciúma, SC, 88006-000, Brazil
| | - Alessandra Marcone Milioli
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense (Unesc), Criciúma, SC, 88006-000, Brazil
| | - Diéssica Padilha Dalenogare
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Farmacologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS, 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Gabriele Cheiran Pereira
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Farmacologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS, 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Camila Dos Santos Ritter
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Farmacologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS, 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Diulle Spat Peres
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Farmacologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS, 97105-900, Brazil
| | | | - Carolina Stein
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS, 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Rafael Noal Moresco
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS, 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Sara Marchesan Oliveira
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica Toxicológica, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS, 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Trevisan
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Farmacologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS, 97105-900, Brazil. .,Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense (Unesc), Criciúma, SC, 88006-000, Brazil. .,Programa de Pós-Graduação em Farmacologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Avenida Roraima, 1000, Building 21, Room 5207, Santa Maria, RS, 97105-900, Brazil.
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16
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Struik D, Sanna F, Fattore L. The Modulating Role of Sex and Anabolic-Androgenic Steroid Hormones in Cannabinoid Sensitivity. Front Behav Neurosci 2018; 12:249. [PMID: 30416437 PMCID: PMC6212868 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2018.00249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis is the most commonly used illicit drug worldwide. Although its use is associated with multiple adverse health effects, including the risk of developing addiction, recreational and medical cannabis use is being increasing legalized. In addition, use of synthetic cannabinoid drugs is gaining considerable popularity and is associated with mass poisonings and occasional deaths. Delineating factors involved in cannabis use and addiction therefore becomes increasingly important. Similarly to other drugs of abuse, the prevalence of cannabis use and addiction differs remarkably between males and females, suggesting that sex plays a role in regulating cannabinoid sensitivity. Although it remains unclear how sex may affect the initiation and maintenance of cannabis use in humans, animal studies strongly suggest that endogenous sex hormones modulate cannabinoid sensitivity. In addition, synthetic anabolic-androgenic steroids alter substance use and further support the importance of sex steroids in controlling drug sensitivity. The recent discovery that pregnenolone, the precursor of all steroid hormones, controls cannabinoid receptor activation corroborates the link between steroid hormones and the endocannabinoid system. This article reviews the literature regarding the influence of endogenous and synthetic steroid hormones on the endocannabinoid system and cannabinoid action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dicky Struik
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari - Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Sanna
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari - Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Liana Fattore
- CNR Institute of Neuroscience-Cagliari, National Research Council, Rome, Italy
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17
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Trexler KR, Nass SR, Crowe MS, Gross JD, Jones MS, McKitrick AW, Siderovski DP, Kinsey SG. Novel behavioral assays of spontaneous and precipitated THC withdrawal in mice. Drug Alcohol Depend 2018; 191:14-24. [PMID: 30071445 PMCID: PMC6404969 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2018.05.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2017] [Revised: 05/15/2018] [Accepted: 05/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A subset of cannabis users develop some degree of Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD). Although behavioral therapy has some success in treating CUD, many users relapse, often citing altered sleep, mood, and irritability. Preclinical animal tests of cannabinoid withdrawal focus primarily on somatic-related behaviors precipitated by a cannabinoid receptor antagonist. The goal of the present study was to develop novel cannabinoid withdrawal assays that are either antagonist-precipitated or spontaneously induced by abstinence. METHODS C57BL/6 J mice were repeatedly administered the phytocannabinoid Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC; 1, 10 or 50 mg/kg, s.c.), the synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist JWH-018 (1 mg/kg, s.c.), or vehicle (1:1:18 parts ethanol:Kolliphor EL:saline, s.c.) for 6 days. Withdrawal was precipitated with the cannabinoid receptor inverse agonist rimonabant (3 mg/kg, i.p.) or elicited via abstinence (i.e., spontaneous withdrawal), and putative stress-related behavior was scored. Classic somatic signs of cannabinoid withdrawal were also quantified. RESULTS Precipitated THC withdrawal significantly increased plasma corticosterone. Precipitated withdrawal from either THC or JWH-018 suppressed marble burying, increased struggling in the tail suspension test, and elicited somatic withdrawal behaviors. The monoacylglycerol lipase inhibitor JZL184 attenuated somatic precipitated withdrawal but had no effect on marble burying or struggling. Spontaneous THC or JWH-018 withdrawal-induced paw tremors, head twitches, and struggled in the tail suspension test after 24-48 h abstinence. JZL184 or THC attenuated these spontaneous withdrawal-induced behaviors. CONCLUSION Outcomes from tail suspension and marble burying tests reveal that THC withdrawal is multifaceted, eliciting and suppressing behaviors in these tests, in addition to inducing well-documented somatic signs of withdrawal.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sara R. Nass
- Department of Psychology, West Virginia University; Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University
| | - Molly S. Crowe
- Department of Psychology, West Virginia University; Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Virginia Commonwealth University
| | - Joshua D. Gross
- Department of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, West Virginia University
| | | | | | - David P. Siderovski
- Department of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, West Virginia University
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18
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Cooper ZD, Craft RM. Sex-Dependent Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids: A Translational Perspective. Neuropsychopharmacology 2018; 43:34-51. [PMID: 28811670 PMCID: PMC5719093 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2017.140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 206] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2017] [Revised: 06/14/2017] [Accepted: 06/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Recent policy changes have led to significant increases in the use of cannabis for both medical and recreational purposes. Although men are more likely to endorse past month cannabis use and are more frequently diagnosed with Cannabis Use Disorder relative to women, a growing proportion of medical cannabis users are reported to be women. The increased popularity of cannabis for medical purposes and the narrowing gap in prevalence of use between men and women raises questions regarding sex-dependent effects related to therapeutic efficacy and negative health effects of cannabis and cannabinoids. The objective of this review is to provide a translational perspective on the sex-dependent effects of cannabis and cannabinoids by synthesizing findings from preclinical and clinical studies focused on sex comparisons of their therapeutic potential and abuse liability, two specific areas that are of significant public health relevance. Hormonal and pharmacological mechanisms that may underlie sex differences in the effects of cannabis and cannabinoids are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziva D Cooper
- Division on Substance Abuse, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rebecca M Craft
- Department of Psychology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
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