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Awwad F, Fantino EI, Héneault M, Diaz-Garza AM, Merindol N, Custeau A, Gélinas SE, Meddeb-Mouelhi F, Li J, Lemay JF, Karas BJ, Desgagne-Penix I. Bioengineering of the Marine Diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum with Cannabis Genes Enables the Production of the Cannabinoid Precursor, Olivetolic Acid. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16624. [PMID: 38068947 PMCID: PMC10706280 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316624] [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: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The increasing demand for novel natural compounds has prompted the exploration of innovative approaches in bioengineering. This study investigates the bioengineering potential of the marine diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum through the introduction of cannabis genes, specifically, tetraketide synthase (TKS), and olivetolic acid cyclase (OAC), for the production of the cannabinoid precursor, olivetolic acid (OA). P. tricornutum is a promising biotechnological platform due to its fast growth rate, amenability to genetic manipulation, and ability to produce valuable compounds. Through genetic engineering techniques, we successfully integrated the cannabis genes TKS and OAC into the diatom. P. tricornutum transconjugants expressing these genes showed the production of the recombinant TKS and OAC enzymes, detected via Western blot analysis, and the production of cannabinoids precursor (OA) detected using the HPLC/UV spectrum when compared to the wild-type strain. Quantitative analysis revealed significant olivetolic acid accumulation (0.6-2.6 mg/L), demonstrating the successful integration and functionality of the heterologous genes. Furthermore, the introduction of TKS and OAC genes led to the synthesis of novel molecules, potentially expanding the repertoire of bioactive compounds accessible through diatom-based biotechnology. This study demonstrates the successful bioengineering of P. tricornutum with cannabis genes, enabling the production of OA as a precursor for cannabinoid production and the synthesis of novel molecules with potential pharmaceutical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Awwad
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, 3351 Boulevard des Forges, Trois-Riviere, QC G9A 5H7, Canada
| | - Elisa Ines Fantino
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, 3351 Boulevard des Forges, Trois-Riviere, QC G9A 5H7, Canada
| | - Marianne Héneault
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, 3351 Boulevard des Forges, Trois-Riviere, QC G9A 5H7, Canada
| | - Aracely Maribel Diaz-Garza
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, 3351 Boulevard des Forges, Trois-Riviere, QC G9A 5H7, Canada
| | - Natacha Merindol
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, 3351 Boulevard des Forges, Trois-Riviere, QC G9A 5H7, Canada
- Groupe de Recherche en Biologie Végétale, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Riviere, QC G9A 5H7, Canada
| | - Alexandre Custeau
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, 3351 Boulevard des Forges, Trois-Riviere, QC G9A 5H7, Canada
| | - Sarah-Eve Gélinas
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, 3351 Boulevard des Forges, Trois-Riviere, QC G9A 5H7, Canada
| | - Fatma Meddeb-Mouelhi
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, 3351 Boulevard des Forges, Trois-Riviere, QC G9A 5H7, Canada
- Groupe de Recherche en Biologie Végétale, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Riviere, QC G9A 5H7, Canada
| | - Jessica Li
- Department of Biochemistry, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Jean-François Lemay
- Centre National en Électrochimie et en Technologies Environnementales Inc., 2263 Avenue du Collège, Shawinigan, QC G9N 6V8, Canada
| | - Bogumil J. Karas
- Department of Biochemistry, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Isabel Desgagne-Penix
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, 3351 Boulevard des Forges, Trois-Riviere, QC G9A 5H7, Canada
- Groupe de Recherche en Biologie Végétale, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Riviere, QC G9A 5H7, Canada
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Fordjour E, Manful CF, Sey AA, Javed R, Pham TH, Thomas R, Cheema M. Cannabis: a multifaceted plant with endless potentials. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1200269. [PMID: 37397476 PMCID: PMC10308385 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1200269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis sativa, also known as "hemp" or "weed," is a versatile plant with various uses in medicine, agriculture, food, and cosmetics. This review attempts to evaluate the available literature on the ecology, chemical composition, phytochemistry, pharmacology, traditional uses, industrial uses, and toxicology of Cannabis sativa. So far, 566 chemical compounds have been isolated from Cannabis, including 125 cannabinoids and 198 non-cannabinoids. The psychoactive and physiologically active part of the plant is a cannabinoid, mostly found in the flowers, but also present in smaller amounts in the leaves, stems, and seeds. Of all phytochemicals, terpenes form the largest composition in the plant. Pharmacological evidence reveals that the plants contain cannabinoids which exhibit potential as antioxidants, antibacterial agents, anticancer agents, and anti-inflammatory agents. Furthermore, the compounds in the plants have reported applications in the food and cosmetic industries. Significantly, Cannabis cultivation has a minimal negative impact on the environment in terms of cultivation. Most of the studies focused on the chemical make-up, phytochemistry, and pharmacological effects, but not much is known about the toxic effects. Overall, the Cannabis plant has enormous potential for biological and industrial uses, as well as traditional and other medicinal uses. However, further research is necessary to fully understand and explore the uses and beneficial properties of Cannabis sativa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Fordjour
- School of Science and the Environment, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Corner Brook, NL, Canada
- Biotron Experimental Climate Change Research Centre/Department of Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Charles F. Manful
- School of Science and the Environment, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Corner Brook, NL, Canada
| | - Albert A. Sey
- School of Science and the Environment, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Corner Brook, NL, Canada
| | - Rabia Javed
- School of Science and the Environment, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Corner Brook, NL, Canada
| | - Thu Huong Pham
- School of Science and the Environment, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Corner Brook, NL, Canada
| | - Raymond Thomas
- Biotron Experimental Climate Change Research Centre/Department of Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Mumtaz Cheema
- School of Science and the Environment, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Corner Brook, NL, Canada
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Siracusa L, Ruberto G, Cristino L. Recent Research on Cannabis sativa L.: Phytochemistry, New Matrices, Cultivation Techniques, and Recent Updates on Its Brain-Related Effects (2018-2023). Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28083387. [PMID: 37110621 PMCID: PMC10146690 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28083387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis sativa L. is a plant that humankind has been using for millennia. The basis of its widespread utilization is its adaptability to so many different climatic conditions, with easy cultivability in numerous diverse environments. Because of its variegate phytochemistry, C. sativa has been used in many sectors, although the discovery of the presence in the plant of several psychotropic substances (e.g., Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, THC) caused a drastic reduction of its cultivation and use together with its official ban from pharmacopeias. Fortunately, the discovery of Cannabis varieties with low content of THC as well as the biotechnological development of new clones rich in many phytochemical components endorsed with peculiar and many important bioactivities has demanded the reassessment of these species, the study and use of which are currently experiencing new and important developments. In this review we focus our attention on the phytochemistry, new matrices, suitable agronomic techniques, and new biological activities developed in the five last years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Siracusa
- Istituto di Chimica Biomolecolare, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Paolo Gaifami, 18, 95126 Catania, CT, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Ruberto
- Istituto di Chimica Biomolecolare, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Paolo Gaifami, 18, 95126 Catania, CT, Italy
| | - Luigia Cristino
- Istituto di Chimica Biomolecolare, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Campi Flegrei, 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, NA, Italy
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Patil N, Chandel V, Rana A, Jain M, Kaushik P. Investigation of Cannabis sativa Phytochemicals as Anti-Alzheimer's Agents: An In Silico Study. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:plants12030510. [PMID: 36771595 PMCID: PMC9919841 DOI: 10.3390/plants12030510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis sativa is a medicinal plant that has been known for years and is used as an Ayurvedic medicine. This plant has great potential in treating various types of brain diseases. Phytochemicals present in this plant act as antioxidants by maintaining synaptic plasticity and preventing neuronal loss. Cannabidiol (CBD) and Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are both beneficial in treating Alzheimer's disease by increasing the solubility of Aβ42 amyloid and Tau aggregation. Apart from these therapeutic effects, there are certain unknown functions of these phytochemicals in Alzheimer's disease that we want to elucidate through this study. In this research, our approach is to analyze the effect of phytochemicals in Cannabis sativa on multiple culprit enzymes in Alzheimer's disease, such as AChE (Acetylcholinesterase), BChE (Butyrylcholinesterase), γ-secretase, and BACE-1. In this study, the compounds were selected by Lipinski's rule, ADMET, and ProTox based on toxicity. Molecular docking between the selected compounds (THCV, Cannabinol C2, and Cannabidiorcol) and enzymes mentioned above was obtained by various software programs including AutoDock Vina 4.2, AutoDock, and iGEMDOCK. In comparison to Donepezil (BA = -8.4 kcal/mol, Ki = 1.46 mM), Rivastigmine (BA = -7.0 kcal/mol, Ki = 0.02 mM), and Galantamine (BA = -7.1, Ki = 2.1 mM), Cannabidiorcol (BA = -9.4 kcal/mol, Ki = 4.61 mM) shows significant inhibition of AChE. On the other hand, Cannabinol C2 (BA = -9.2 kcal/mol, Ki = 4.32 mM) significantly inhibits Butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) in comparison to Memantine (BA = -6.8 kcal/mol, Ki = 0.54 mM). This study sheds new light and opens new avenues for elucidating the role of bioactive compounds present in Cannabis sativa in treating Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nil Patil
- Department of Life Sciences, Parul Institute of Applied Sciences, Parul University, Vadodara 391760, Gujarat, India
- Laboratory 209, Cell & Developmental Biology Laboratory, Centre of Research for Development, Parul University, Vadodara 391760, Gujarat, India
| | - Vaishnavi Chandel
- Department of Life Sciences, Parul Institute of Applied Sciences, Parul University, Vadodara 391760, Gujarat, India
| | - Aarzu Rana
- Department of Life Sciences, Parul Institute of Applied Sciences, Parul University, Vadodara 391760, Gujarat, India
| | - Mukul Jain
- Department of Life Sciences, Parul Institute of Applied Sciences, Parul University, Vadodara 391760, Gujarat, India
- Laboratory 209, Cell & Developmental Biology Laboratory, Centre of Research for Development, Parul University, Vadodara 391760, Gujarat, India
| | - Prashant Kaushik
- Instituto de Conservacióny Mejora de la Agrodiversidad Valenciana, Universitat Politècnica de València, 46022 Valencia, Spain
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Metabolic Engineering of Nicotiana benthamiana to Produce Cannabinoid Precursors and Their Analogues. Metabolites 2022; 12:metabo12121181. [PMID: 36557219 PMCID: PMC9786632 DOI: 10.3390/metabo12121181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the perspective towards the use of cannabis has slowly shifted from being an illicit drug to a medicinal plant. The pathway and enzymes involved in the production of cannabinoids are known; however, studies evaluating the production of cannabinoids in heterologous plants and cell cultures are still limited. In this study, we assessed the potential use of N. benthamiana (Nicotiana benthamiana) plants as a heterologous host for producing natural and novel cannabinoids. Transgenic N. benthamiana plants expressing genes encoding cannabis acyl-activating enzyme and olivetol synthase were generated, which were then used for transiently expressing other downstream pathway genes. Production of olivetolic acid and divarinic acid, the universal precursors for major and minor cannabinoids, respectively, was observed in transgenic N. benthamiana plants. To produce novel cannabinoid precursors with different side chains, various fatty acids were infiltrated into the transgenic N. benthamiana plants and the production of novel derivatives was observed. Although we were not able to derive the core intermediate, cannabigerolic acid, from our transgenic plants, possibly due to the low production levels of the precursors, our transgenics plants still serve as a high-potential platform for further development and exploring the N. benthamiana chemical space for generating novel cannabinoids.
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