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Dobovišek L, Borštnar S, Debeljak N, Kranjc Brezar S. Cannabinoids and triple-negative breast cancer treatment. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1386548. [PMID: 39176080 PMCID: PMC11338791 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1386548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) accounts for about 10-20% of all breast cancer cases and is associated with an unfavorable prognosis. Until recently, treatment options for TNBC were limited to chemotherapy. A new successful systemic treatment is immunotherapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors, but new tumor-specific biomarkers are needed to improve patient outcomes. Cannabinoids show antitumor activity in most preclinical studies in TNBC models and do not appear to have adverse effects on chemotherapy. Clinical data are needed to evaluate efficacy and safety in humans. Importantly, the endocannabinoid system is linked to the immune system and immunosuppression. Therefore, cannabinoid receptors could be a potential biomarker for immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy or a novel mechanism to reverse resistance to immunotherapy. In this article, we provide an overview of the currently available information on how cannabinoids may influence standard therapy in TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luka Dobovišek
- Division of Medical Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Simona Borštnar
- Division of Medical Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Nataša Debeljak
- Medical Centre for Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Simona Kranjc Brezar
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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2
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Abdollahzadeh Hamzekalayi MR, Hooshyari Ardakani M, Moeini Z, Rezaei R, Hamidi N, Rezaei Somee L, Zolfaghar M, Darzi R, Kamalipourazad M, Riazi G, Meknatkhah S. A systematic review of novel cannabinoids and their targets: Insights into the significance of structure in activity. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 976:176679. [PMID: 38821167 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176679] [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: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
To provide a comprehensive framework of the current information on the potency and efficacy of interaction between phyto- and synthetic cannabinoids and their respective receptors, an electronic search of the PubMed, Scopus, and EMBASE literature was performed. Experimental studies included reports of mechanistic data providing affinity, efficacy, and half-maximal effective concentration (EC50). Among the 108 included studies, 174 structures, and 16 targets were extracted. The most frequent ligands belonged to the miscellaneous category with 40.2% followed by phytocannabinoid-similar, indole-similar, and pyrrole-similar structures with an abundance of 17.8%, 16.6%, and 12% respectively. 64.8% of structures acted as agonists, 17.1 % appeared as inverse agonists, 10.8% as antagonists, and 7.2% of structures were reported with antagonist/inverse agonist properties. Our outcomes identify the affinity, EC50, and efficacy of the interactions between cannabinoids and their corresponding receptors and the subsequent response, evaluated in the available evidence. Considering structures' significance and very important effects of on the activities, the obtained results also provide clues to drug repurposing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Zahra Moeini
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Rezaei
- Medicinal Plants and Drugs Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Negin Hamidi
- Medicinal Plants and Drugs Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Rezaei Somee
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdis Zolfaghar
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Raheleh Darzi
- Department of Plant Science, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Kamalipourazad
- Department of Plant Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modarres University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Gholamhossein Riazi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sogol Meknatkhah
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
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3
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Galeano M, Vaccaro F, Irrera N, Caradonna E, Borgia F, Li Pomi F, Squadrito F, Vaccaro M. Melanoma and cannabinoids: A possible chance for cancer treatment. Exp Dermatol 2024; 33:e15144. [PMID: 39039940 DOI: 10.1111/exd.15144] [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: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system is composed by a complex and ubiquitous network of endogenous lipid ligands, enzymes for their synthesis and degradation, and receptors, which can also be stimulated by exogenous compounds, such as those derived from the Cannabis sativa. Cannabis and its bioactive compounds, including cannabinoids and non-cannabinoids, have been extensively studied in different conditions. Recent data have shown that the endocannabinoid system is responsible for maintaining the homeostasis of various skin functions such as proliferation, differentiation and release of inflammatory mediators. Because of their role in regulating these key processes, cannabinoids have been studied for the treatment of skin cancers and melanoma; their anti-tumour effects regulate skin cancer progression and are mainly related to the inhibition of tumour growth, proliferation, invasion and angiogenesis, through apoptosis and autophagy induction. This review aims at summarising the current field of research on the potential uses of cannabinoids in the melanoma field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariarosaria Galeano
- Department of Human Pathology and Evolutive Age "Gaetano Barresi", University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Federico Vaccaro
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Imaging, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Department of Mathematical and Computer Sciences, Physical Sciences and Earth Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Natasha Irrera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Emanuela Caradonna
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Francesco Borgia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Federica Li Pomi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Francesco Squadrito
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Mario Vaccaro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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4
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Hassan Kalantar Neyestanaki M, Gholizadeh O, Hosseini Tabatabaie F, Akbarzadeh S, Yasamineh S, Afkhami H, Sedighi S. Immunomodulatory effects of cannabinoids against viral infections: a review of its potential use in SARS-CoV2 infection. Virusdisease 2024; 35:342-356. [PMID: 39071880 PMCID: PMC11269557 DOI: 10.1007/s13337-024-00871-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic is a global health crisis affecting millions of people worldwide. Along with vaccine development, there is also a priority to discover new drugs and treatments. One approach involves modulating the immune system to manage inflammation and cytokine storms. Patients with a high severity of complications exhibit a high level of inflammatory cytokines, particularly IL-6, in the airways and other infected tissues. Several studies have reported the function of the endocannabinoid system in regulating inflammation and different immune responses. Cannabinoids are a class of natural chemicals found in the Cannabis plant. Recently, the anti-inflammatory properties of cannabinoids and their mediatory immunosuppression mechanisms through the endocannabinoid system have engrossed scientists in the health field for infectious conditions. Research suggests that the immune system can regulate cytokine activation through cannabinoid receptors, particularly with Cannabidiol (CBD), the second most prevalent compound in cannabis. While CBD has been deemed safe by the World Health Organization and shows no signs of abuse potential, excessive CBD use may lead to respiratory depression. CBD shows promise in reducing immune cell recruitment and cytokine storms in organs affected by SARS-CoV2. However, before clinical use, it's crucial to evaluate cannabinoid-based medications' active ingredient concentrations and potential interactions with other drugs, along with associated side effects. Indication-based dosing, consistent formulations, and ensuring purity and potency are essential. This review highlights cannabinoids' effects on COVID-19 management and prognosis, drawing from preclinical and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Fatemeh Hosseini Tabatabaie
- Department of Bacteriology and Virology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Sama Akbarzadeh
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Natural Science, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Saman Yasamineh
- Young Researchers and Elite Club, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hamed Afkhami
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahed University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Somayeh Sedighi
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Science of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
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5
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Sobieraj J, Strzelecka K, Sobczak M, Oledzka E. How Biodegradable Polymers Can be Effective Drug Delivery Systems for Cannabinoids? Prospectives and Challenges. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:4607-4649. [PMID: 38799700 PMCID: PMC11128233 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s458907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids are compounds found in and derived from the Cannabis plants that have become increasingly recognised as significant modulating factors of physiological mechanisms and inflammatory reactions of the organism, thus inevitably affecting maintenance of homeostasis. Medical Cannabis popularity has surged since its legal regulation growing around the world. Numerous promising discoveries bring more data on cannabinoids' pharmacological characteristics and therapeutic applications. Given the current surge in interest in the medical use of cannabinoids, there is an urgent need for an effective method of their administration. Surpassing low bioavailability, low water solubility, and instability became an important milestone in the advancement of cannabinoids in pharmaceutical applications. The numerous uses of cannabinoids in clinical practice remain restricted by limited administration alternatives, but there is hope when biodegradable polymers are taken into account. The primary objective of this review is to highlight the wide range of indications for which cannabinoids may be used, as well as the polymeric carriers that enhance their effectiveness. The current review described a wide range of therapeutic applications of cannabinoids, including pain management, neurological and sleep disorders, anxiety, and cancer treatment. The use of these compounds was further examined in the area of dermatology and cosmetology. Finally, with the use of biodegradable polymer-based drug delivery systems (DDSs), it was demonstrated that cannabinoids can be delivered specifically to the intended site while also improving the drug's physicochemical properties, emphasizing their utility. Nevertheless, additional clinical trials on novel cannabinoids' formulations are required, as their full spectrum therapeutical potential is yet to be unravelled.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Sobieraj
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Biomaterials, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, 02-097, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Strzelecka
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Biomaterials, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, 02-097, Poland
| | - Marcin Sobczak
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Biomaterials, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, 02-097, Poland
| | - Ewa Oledzka
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Biomaterials, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, 02-097, Poland
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6
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Gajghate S, Li H, Rom S. GPR55 Inactivation Diminishes Splenic Responses and Improves Neurological Outcomes in the Mouse Ischemia/Reperfusion Stroke Model. Cells 2024; 13:280. [PMID: 38334672 PMCID: PMC10855118 DOI: 10.3390/cells13030280] [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: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Although strokes are frequent and severe, treatment options are scarce. Plasminogen activators, the only FDA-approved agents for clot treatment (tissue plasminogen activators (tPAs)), are used in a limited patient group. Moreover, there are few approaches for handling the brain's inflammatory reactions to a stroke. The orphan G protein-coupled receptor 55 (GPR55)'s connection to inflammatory processes has been recently reported; however, its role in stroke remains to be discovered. Post-stroke neuroinflammation involves the central nervous system (CNS)'s resident microglia activation and the infiltration of leukocytes from circulation into the brain. Additionally, splenic responses have been shown to be detrimental to stroke recovery. While lymphocytes enter the brain in small numbers, they regularly emerge as a very influential leukocyte subset that causes secondary inflammatory cerebral damage. However, an understanding of how this limited lymphocyte presence profoundly impacts stroke outcomes remains largely unclear. In this study, a mouse model for transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO) was used to mimic ischemia followed by a reperfusion (IS/R) stroke. GPR55 inactivation, with a potent GPR55-specific antagonist, ML-193, starting 6 h after tMCAO or the absence of the GPR55 in mice (GPR55 knock out (GPR55ko)) resulted in a reduced infarction volume, improved neurological outcomes, and decreased splenic responses. The inhibition of GPR55 with ML-193 diminished CD4+T-cell spleen egress and attenuated CD4+T-cell brain infiltration. Additionally, ML-193 treatment resulted in an augmented number of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in the brain post-tMCAO. Our report offers documentation and the functional evaluation of GPR55 in the brain-spleen axis and lays the foundation for refining therapeutics for patients after ischemic attacks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sachin Gajghate
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Hongbo Li
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA;
| | - Slava Rom
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA;
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7
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Safi K, Sobieraj J, Błaszkiewicz M, Żyła J, Salata B, Dzierżanowski T. Tetrahydrocannabinol and Cannabidiol for Pain Treatment-An Update on the Evidence. Biomedicines 2024; 12:307. [PMID: 38397910 PMCID: PMC10886939 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12020307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
In light of the current International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) and the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) guidelines, the topic of cannabinoids in relation to pain remains controversial, with insufficient research presently available. Cannabinoids are an attractive pain management option due to their synergistic effects when administered with opioids, thereby also limiting the extent of respiratory depression. On their own, however, cannabinoids have been shown to have the potential to relieve specific subtypes of chronic pain in adults, although controversies remain. Among these subtypes are neuropathic, musculoskeletal, cancer, and geriatric pain. Another interesting feature is their effectiveness in chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). Analgesic benefits are hypothesized to extend to HIV-associated neuropathic pain, as well as to lower back pain in the elderly. The aim of this article is to provide an up-to-date review of the existing preclinical as well as clinical studies, along with relevant systematic reviews addressing the roles of various types of cannabinoids in neuropathic pain settings. The impact of cannabinoids in chronic cancer pain and in non-cancer conditions, such as multiple sclerosis and headaches, are all discussed, as well as novel techniques of administration and relevant mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Tomasz Dzierżanowski
- Palliative Medicine Clinic, Medical University of Warsaw, Żwirki i Wigury 61, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
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Nocheva H, Stoynev N, Vodenicharov V, Krastev D, Krastev N, Mileva M. Cannabinoid and Serotonergic Systems: Unraveling the Pathogenetic Mechanisms of Stress-Induced Analgesia. Biomedicines 2024; 12:235. [PMID: 38275406 PMCID: PMC10813752 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12010235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The perception of "stress" triggers many physiological and behavioral responses, collectively called the stress response. Such a complex process allows for coping with stress and also triggers severe pathology. Because of the multidirectional effect of stress on the body, multiple systems participate in its pathogenesis, with the endogenous cannabinoid and the serotoninergic ones among them. These two systems also take part in the pain perception decrease, known as stress-induced analgesia (SIA), which can then be taken as an indirect indicator of the stress response. The aim of our study was to study the changes in cold SIA (c-SIA) resulting from the exogenous activation of cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT, serotonin) receptor type 1A (5-HT1A). Various combinations of agonists and/or antagonists of CB1 and 5-HT1A, before or after 1 h of cold exposure, were applied, since we presumed that the exogenous activation of the receptors before the cold exposure would influence the pathogenesis of the stress response, while their activation after the stressful trigger would influence the later development. Our results show that the serotonergic system "maintained" c-SIA in the pre-stress treatment, while the cannabinoids' modulative effect was more prominent in the post-stress treatment. Here, we show the interactions of the two systems in the stress response. The interpretation and understanding of the mechanisms of interaction between CB1 and 5-HT1A may provide information for the prevention and control of adverse stress effects, as well as suggest interesting directions for the development of targeted interventions for the control of specific body responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hristina Nocheva
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical Faculty, Medical University, 2 Zdrave Str., 1431 Sofia, Bulgaria; (H.N.); (N.S.)
| | - Nikolay Stoynev
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical Faculty, Medical University, 2 Zdrave Str., 1431 Sofia, Bulgaria; (H.N.); (N.S.)
| | - Vlayko Vodenicharov
- Department of Epidemiology and Hygiene, Medical Faculty, Medical University, 2 Zdrave Str., 1431 Sofia, Bulgaria;
| | - Dimo Krastev
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, South-West University “Neofit Rilski”, Blagoevgrad, 66, Ivan Mihaylov Str., 2700 Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria;
| | - Nikolay Krastev
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University, 2, Zdrave Str., 1431 Sofia, Bulgaria;
| | - Milka Mileva
- Institute of Microbiology “Stephan Angeloff”, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 26, Acad. Georgi Bonchev Str., 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
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Motamedy S, Soltani B, Kameshki H, Kermani AA, Amleshi RS, Nazeri M, Shabani M. The Therapeutic Potential and Molecular Mechanisms Underlying the Neuroprotective Effects of Sativex ® - A Cannabis-derived Spray. Mini Rev Med Chem 2024; 24:1427-1448. [PMID: 38318827 DOI: 10.2174/0113895575285934240123110158] [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: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Sativex is a cannabis-based medicine that comes in the form of an oromucosal spray. It contains equal amounts of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol, two compounds derived from cannabis plants. Sativex has been shown to have positive effects on symptoms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), multiple sclerosis (MS), and sleep disorders. It also has analgesic, antiinflammatory, antitumoral, and neuroprotective properties, which make it a potential treatment option for other neurological disorders. The article reviews the results of recent preclinical and clinical studies that support the therapeutic potential of Sativex and the molecular mechanisms behind its neuroprotective benefits in various neurological disorders. The article also discusses the possible advantages and disadvantages of using Sativex as a neurotherapeutic agent, such as its safety, efficacy, availability, and legal status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sina Motamedy
- Neuroscience Research Center, Neuropharmacology Institute, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Bahareh Soltani
- Afzalipour Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Halimeh Kameshki
- Afzalipour Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | | | - Reza Saboori Amleshi
- Neuroscience Research Center, Neuropharmacology Institute, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Masoud Nazeri
- Department of Anesthesiology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, University Hospital Erlangen, Krankenhausstraße 12, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Mohammad Shabani
- Neuroscience Research Center, Neuropharmacology Institute, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
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Zamith Cunha R, Semprini A, Salamanca G, Gobbo F, Morini M, Pickles KJ, Roberts V, Chiocchetti R. Expression of Cannabinoid Receptors in the Trigeminal Ganglion of the Horse. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15949. [PMID: 37958932 PMCID: PMC10648827 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115949] [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: 09/10/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoid receptors are expressed in human and animal trigeminal sensory neurons; however, the expression in the equine trigeminal ganglion is unknown. Ten trigeminal ganglia from five horses were collected post-mortem from an abattoir. The expression of cannabinoid receptors type 1 (CB1R) and type 2 (CB2R), and the cannabinoid-related receptors like transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 (TRPV1), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARɣ), and G protein-related receptor 55 (GPR55) in the trigeminal ganglia (TG) of the horse were studied, using immunofluorescence on cryosections and formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) sections. Neurons and glial cells were identified using fluorescent Nissl staining NeuroTrace® and an antibody directed against the glial marker glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), respectively. Macrophages were identified by means of an antibody directed against the macrophages/microglia marker ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1 (IBA1). The protein expression of CB1R, CB2R, TRPV1, and PPARɣ was found in the majority of TG neurons in both cryosections and FFPE sections. The expression of GPR55 immunoreactivity was mainly detectable in FFPE sections, with expression in the majority of sensory neurons. Some receptors were also observed in glial cells (CB2R, TRPV1, PPARγ, and GPR55) and inflammatory cells (PPARγ and GPR55). These results support further investigation of such receptors in disorders of equine trigeminal neuronal excitability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Zamith Cunha
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, 37200 Bologna, Italy; (R.Z.C.); (A.S.); (G.S.); (F.G.); (M.M.)
| | - Alberto Semprini
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, 37200 Bologna, Italy; (R.Z.C.); (A.S.); (G.S.); (F.G.); (M.M.)
| | - Giulia Salamanca
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, 37200 Bologna, Italy; (R.Z.C.); (A.S.); (G.S.); (F.G.); (M.M.)
| | - Francesca Gobbo
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, 37200 Bologna, Italy; (R.Z.C.); (A.S.); (G.S.); (F.G.); (M.M.)
| | - Maria Morini
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, 37200 Bologna, Italy; (R.Z.C.); (A.S.); (G.S.); (F.G.); (M.M.)
| | - Kirstie J. Pickles
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Nottingham LE12 5RD, UK;
| | - Veronica Roberts
- Bristol Vet School, University of Bristol, Bristol BS40 5DU, UK;
| | - Roberto Chiocchetti
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, 37200 Bologna, Italy; (R.Z.C.); (A.S.); (G.S.); (F.G.); (M.M.)
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di Biase L, Pecoraro PM, Carbone SP, Caminiti ML, Di Lazzaro V. Levodopa-Induced Dyskinesias in Parkinson's Disease: An Overview on Pathophysiology, Clinical Manifestations, Therapy Management Strategies and Future Directions. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4427. [PMID: 37445461 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12134427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Since its first introduction, levodopa has become the cornerstone for the treatment of Parkinson's disease and remains the leading therapeutic choice for motor control therapy so far. Unfortunately, the subsequent appearance of abnormal involuntary movements, known as dyskinesias, is a frequent drawback. Despite the deep knowledge of this complication, in terms of clinical phenomenology and the temporal relationship during a levodopa regimen, less is clear about the pathophysiological mechanisms underpinning it. As the disease progresses, specific oscillatory activities of both motor cortical and basal ganglia neurons and variation in levodopa metabolism, in terms of the dopamine receptor stimulation pattern and turnover rate, underlie dyskinesia onset. This review aims to provide a global overview on levodopa-induced dyskinesias, focusing on pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, therapy management strategies and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lazzaro di Biase
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 200, 00128 Roma, Italy
- Brain Innovations Lab, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Álvaro del Portillo, 21, 00128 Rome, Italy
| | - Pasquale Maria Pecoraro
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 200, 00128 Roma, Italy
- Unit of Neurology, Neurophysiology, Neurobiology and Psichiatry, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21, 00128 Roma, Italy
| | - Simona Paola Carbone
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 200, 00128 Roma, Italy
- Unit of Neurology, Neurophysiology, Neurobiology and Psichiatry, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21, 00128 Roma, Italy
| | - Maria Letizia Caminiti
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 200, 00128 Roma, Italy
- Unit of Neurology, Neurophysiology, Neurobiology and Psichiatry, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21, 00128 Roma, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Di Lazzaro
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 200, 00128 Roma, Italy
- Unit of Neurology, Neurophysiology, Neurobiology and Psichiatry, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21, 00128 Roma, Italy
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12
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Frankowska M, Wydra K, Suder A, Zaniewska M, Gawliński D, Miszkiel J, Furgała-Wojas A, Sałat K, Filip M, Müller CE, Kieć-Kononowicz K, Kotańska M. Novel GPR18 Ligands in Rodent Pharmacological Tests: Effects on Mood, Pain, and Eating Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24109046. [PMID: 37240392 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24109046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The lack of selective pharmacological tools has limited the full unraveling of G protein-coupled receptor 18 (GPR18) functions. The present study was aimed at discovering the activities of three novel preferential or selective GPR18 ligands, one agonist (PSB-KK-1415) and two antagonists (PSB-CB-5 and PSB-CB-27). We investigated these ligands in several screening tests, considering the relationship between GPR18 and the cannabinoid (CB) receptor system, and the control of endoCB signaling over emotions, food intake, pain sensation, and thermoregulation. We also assessed whether the novel compounds could modulate the subjective effects evoked by Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Male mice or rats were pretreated with the GPR18 ligands, and locomotor activity, depression- and anxiety-like symptoms, pain threshold, core temperature, food intake, and THC-vehicle discrimination were measured. Our screening analyses indicated that GPR18 activation partly results in effects that are similar to those of CB receptor activation, considering the impact on emotional behavior, food intake, and pain activity. Thus, the orphan GPR18 may provide a novel therapeutic target for mood, pain, and/or eating disorders, and further investigation is warranted to better discern its function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Frankowska
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12 Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Karolina Wydra
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12 Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Agata Suder
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12 Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Magdalena Zaniewska
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12 Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Dawid Gawliński
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12 Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Joanna Miszkiel
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12 Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Anna Furgała-Wojas
- Chair of Pharmacodynamics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9 Street, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
| | - Kinga Sałat
- Chair of Pharmacodynamics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9 Street, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Filip
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12 Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Christa E Müller
- PharmaCenter Bonn, Pharmaceutical Institute, Pharmaceutical & Medicinal Chemistry, University of Bonn, An der Immenburg 4, D-53121 Bonn, Germany
| | - Katarzyna Kieć-Kononowicz
- Chair of Technology and Biotechnology of Drugs, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9 Street, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
| | - Magdalena Kotańska
- Department of Pharmacological Screening, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9 Street, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
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13
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Lathrop JR, Rosen SN, Heitkemper MM, Buchanan DT. Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome and Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome: The State of the Science. Gastroenterol Nurs 2023; 46:208-224. [PMID: 37074964 DOI: 10.1097/sga.0000000000000730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 04/20/2023] Open
Abstract
This article provides a narrative review of the state of the science for both cyclic vomiting syndrome and cannabis hyperemesis syndrome along with a discussion of the relationship between these 2 conditions. The scope of this review includes the historical context of these conditions as well as the prevalence, diagnostic criteria, pathogenesis, and treatment strategies for both conditions. A synopsis of the endocannabinoid system provides a basis for the hypothesis that a lack of cannabidiol in modern high-potency Δ 9 -tetrahydrocannabinol cannabis may be contributory to cannabis hyperemesis syndrome and possibly other cannabis use disorders. In concluding assessment, though the publications addressing both adult cyclic vomiting syndrome and cannabis hyperemesis syndrome are steadily increasing overall, the state of the science supporting the treatments, prognosis, etiology, and confounding factors (including cannabis use) is of moderate quality. Much of the literature portrays these conditions separately and as such sometimes fails to account for the confounding of adult cyclic vomiting syndrome with cannabis hyperemesis syndrome. The diagnostic and therapeutic approaches are, at present, based generally on case series publications and expert opinion, with a very limited number of randomized controlled trials and a complete absence of Level 1 evidence within the cyclic vomiting literature overall as well as for cannabis hyperemesis syndrome specifically.
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Affiliation(s)
- James R Lathrop
- James R. Lathrop, DNP, FNP, ARNP, is a PhD student under the Department of Biobehavioral Nursing & Health Informatics, School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle
- Sheldon N. Rosen, MD, is Clinical Associate Professor, Division of Gastroenterology, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle
- Margaret M. Heitkemper, PhD, RN, FAAN, is Professor and Elizabeth Sterling Soule Endowed Chair in Nursing, Department of Biobehavioral Nursing & Health Informatics, School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle
- Diana Taibi Buchanan, PhD, RN, is Associate Professor and Mary S. Tschudin Endowed Professor of Nursing Education, Department of Biobehavioral Nursing & Health Informatics, School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle
| | - Sheldon N Rosen
- James R. Lathrop, DNP, FNP, ARNP, is a PhD student under the Department of Biobehavioral Nursing & Health Informatics, School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle
- Sheldon N. Rosen, MD, is Clinical Associate Professor, Division of Gastroenterology, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle
- Margaret M. Heitkemper, PhD, RN, FAAN, is Professor and Elizabeth Sterling Soule Endowed Chair in Nursing, Department of Biobehavioral Nursing & Health Informatics, School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle
- Diana Taibi Buchanan, PhD, RN, is Associate Professor and Mary S. Tschudin Endowed Professor of Nursing Education, Department of Biobehavioral Nursing & Health Informatics, School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle
| | - Margaret M Heitkemper
- James R. Lathrop, DNP, FNP, ARNP, is a PhD student under the Department of Biobehavioral Nursing & Health Informatics, School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle
- Sheldon N. Rosen, MD, is Clinical Associate Professor, Division of Gastroenterology, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle
- Margaret M. Heitkemper, PhD, RN, FAAN, is Professor and Elizabeth Sterling Soule Endowed Chair in Nursing, Department of Biobehavioral Nursing & Health Informatics, School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle
- Diana Taibi Buchanan, PhD, RN, is Associate Professor and Mary S. Tschudin Endowed Professor of Nursing Education, Department of Biobehavioral Nursing & Health Informatics, School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle
| | - Diana Taibi Buchanan
- James R. Lathrop, DNP, FNP, ARNP, is a PhD student under the Department of Biobehavioral Nursing & Health Informatics, School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle
- Sheldon N. Rosen, MD, is Clinical Associate Professor, Division of Gastroenterology, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle
- Margaret M. Heitkemper, PhD, RN, FAAN, is Professor and Elizabeth Sterling Soule Endowed Chair in Nursing, Department of Biobehavioral Nursing & Health Informatics, School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle
- Diana Taibi Buchanan, PhD, RN, is Associate Professor and Mary S. Tschudin Endowed Professor of Nursing Education, Department of Biobehavioral Nursing & Health Informatics, School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle
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14
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Cai S, Guo Z, Wang X, Huang K, Yuan K, Huang L. Cortical thickness differences are associated with cellular component morphogenesis of astrocytes and excitatory neurons in nonsuicidal self-injuring youth. Cereb Cortex 2023; 33:811-822. [PMID: 35253859 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhac103] [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: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) generally occurs in youth and probably progresses to suicide. An examination of cortical thickness differences (ΔCT) between NSSI individuals and controls is crucial to investigate potential neurobiological correlates. Notably, ΔCT are influenced by specific genetic factors, and a large proportion of cortical thinning is associated with the expression of genes that overlap in astrocytes and pyramidal cells. However, in NSSI youth, the mechanisms underlying the relations between the genetic and cell type-specific transcriptional signatures to ΔCT are unclear. Here, we studied the genetic association of ΔCT in NSSI youth by performing a partial least-squares regression (PLSR) analysis of gene expression data and 3D-T1 brain images of 45 NSSI youth and 75 controls. We extracted the top-10 Gene Ontology terms for the enrichment results of upregulated PLS component 1 genes related to ΔCT to conduct the cell-type classification and enrichment analysis. Enrichment of cell type-specific genes shows that cellular component morphogenesis of astrocytes and excitatory neurons accounts for the observed NSSI-specific ΔCT. We validated the main results in independent datasets to verify the robustness and specificity. We concluded that the brain ΔCT is associated with cellular component morphogenesis of astrocytes and excitatory neurons in NSSI youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suping Cai
- School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710071, PR China
| | - Zitong Guo
- School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710071, PR China
| | - Xuwen Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710071, PR China
| | - Kexin Huang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710071, PR China
| | - Kai Yuan
- School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710071, PR China.,School of Life Science andTechnology, Xidian University, Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuro Imaging Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710071, PR China.,Information Processing Laboratory, School of Information Engineering, Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology, Baotou, Inner Mongolia 014010, PR China.,Xi'an Key Laboratory of Intelligent Sensing and Regulation of Trans-Scale Life Information, School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710126, PR China
| | - Liyu Huang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710071, PR China
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15
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Hosami F, Salimi V, Safizadeh B, Abedini A, Ghadimkhah MH, Tavakoli-Yaraki M. Evaluation of the local and circulating expression level of cannabinoid receptor 2 in patients with lung cancer. GENE REPORTS 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.genrep.2022.101671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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16
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MIHALTAN F, NECHITA A, CONSTANTIN A. Cannabis - a Rewritten History and Its Pulmonary Consequences. MAEDICA 2022; 17:911-920. [PMID: 36818264 PMCID: PMC9923077 DOI: 10.26574/maedica.2022.17.4.911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis presents itself as another challenge of the last decade. Better and better deciphered through in-depth studies, this drug remains a source of scientific debates. Legalized in some states, it competes with tobacco regarding the effects generating respiratory symptoms, chronic bronchitis, bronchial cancer, respiratory infections, etc. In this article we will review the pharmacology, epidemiology, clinical and prevention aspects and try to demonstrate which of these are the most effective means of prevention. This review proves once again that this drug has many hidden dangers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florin MIHALTAN
- ”Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Andrada NECHITA
- ”Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ancuta CONSTANTIN
- ”Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
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17
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Mensah E, Tabrizchi R, Daneshtalab N. Pharmacognosy and Effects of Cannabinoids in the Vascular System. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2022; 5:1034-1049. [PMID: 36407955 PMCID: PMC9667477 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.2c00141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the pharmacodynamics of cannabinoids is an essential subject due to the recent increasing global acceptance of cannabis and its derivation for recreational and therapeutic purposes. Elucidating the interaction between cannabinoids and the vascular system is critical to exploring cannabinoids as a prospective therapeutic agent for treating vascular-associated clinical conditions. This review aims to examine the effect of cannabinoids on the vascular system and further discuss the fundamental pharmacological properties and mechanisms of action of cannabinoids in the vascular system. Data from literature revealed a substantial interaction between endocannabinoids, phytocannabinoids, and synthetic cannabinoids within the vasculature of both humans and animal models. However, the mechanisms and the ensuing functional response is blood vessels and species-dependent. The current understanding of classical cannabinoid receptor subtypes and the recently discovered atypical cannabinoid receptors and the development of new synthetic analogs have further enhanced the pharmacological characterization of the vascular cannabinoid receptors. Compelling evidence also suggest that cannabinoids represent a formidable therapeutic candidate for vascular-associated conditions. Nonetheless, explanations of the mechanisms underlining these processes are complex and paradoxical based on the heterogeneity of receptors and signaling pathways. Further insight from studies that uncover the mechanisms underlining the therapeutic effect of cannabinoids in the treatment of vascular-associated conditions is required to determine whether the known benefits of cannabinoids thus currently outweigh the known/unknown risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Mensah
- Faculty
of Medicine, Division of Biomedical Sciences, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador, St. John’s, NL A1C 5S7, Canada
| | - Reza Tabrizchi
- Faculty
of Medicine, Division of Biomedical Sciences, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador, St. John’s, NL A1C 5S7, Canada
| | - Noriko Daneshtalab
- School
of Pharmacy, Memorial University of Newfoundland
and Labrador, St. John’s, NL A1B 3V6, Canada
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18
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Edinoff AN, Wu NW, Nix CA, Bonin B, Mouhaffel R, Vining S, Gibson W, Cornett EM, Murnane KS, Kaye AM, Kaye AD. Historical Pathways for Opioid Addiction, Withdrawal with Traditional and Alternative Treatment Options with Ketamine, Cannabinoids, and Noribogaine: A Narrative Review. Health Psychol Res 2022; 10:38672. [PMID: 36628122 PMCID: PMC9817468 DOI: 10.52965/001c.38672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Even as prescription opioid dispensing rates have begun to decrease, the use of illicit opioids such as heroin and fentanyl has increased. Thus, the end of the opioid epidemic is not in sight, and treating patients that are addicted to opioids remains of utmost importance. Currently, the primary pharmacotherapies used to treat opioid addiction over the long term are the opioid antagonist naltrexone, the partial-agonist buprenorphine, and the full agonist methadone. Naloxone is an antagonist used to rapidly reverse opioid overdose. While these treatments are well-established and used regularly, the gravity of the opioid epidemic necessitates that all possible avenues of treatment be explored. Therefore, in this narrative review, we analyze current literature regarding use of the alternative medications ketamine, noribogaine, and cannabinoids in treating patients suffering from opioid use disorder. Beyond its use as an anesthetic, ketamine has been shown to have many applications in several medical specialties. Of particular interest to the subject at hand, ketamine is promising in treating individuals addicted to opioids, alcohol, and cocaine. Therapeutically administered cannabinoids have been proposed for the treatment of multiple illnesses. These include, but are not limited to epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, chronic pain conditions, anxiety disorders, and addiction. The cannabinoid dronabinol has been seen to have varying effects. High doses appear to reduce withdrawal symptoms but this comes at the expense of increased adverse side effects such as sedation and tachycardia. Noribogaine is a weak MOR antagonist and relatively potent KOR agonist, which may explain the clinical anti-addictive effects. More research should be done to assess the viability of these medications for the treatment of OUD and withdrawal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber N Edinoff
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts General Hospital; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Shreveport; Louisiana Addiction Research Center
| | - Natalie W Wu
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Shreveport
| | - Catherine A Nix
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Shreveport; Louisiana Addiction Research Center
| | - Bryce Bonin
- School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Shreveport
| | - Rama Mouhaffel
- School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Shreveport
| | - Stephen Vining
- School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Shreveport
| | - William Gibson
- School of Medicine, Louisiana State University New Orleans
| | - Elyse M Cornett
- Department of Anesthesiology, Louisiana State University Shreveport
| | - Kevin S Murnane
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Shreveport; Louisiana Addiction Research Center; Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology & Neuroscience, Louisiana State University Health Shreveport
| | - Adam M Kaye
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, University of the Pacific
| | - Alan D Kaye
- Louisiana Addiction Research Center, Shreveport; Department of Anesthesiology, Louisiana State University Shreveport
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19
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Zhang Z, Chai R. Hear the sounds: The role of G Protein-Coupled Receptors in the cochlea. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2022; 323:C1088-C1099. [PMID: 35938679 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00453.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Sound is converted by hair cells in the cochlea into electrical signals, which are transmitted by spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) and heard by the auditory cortex. G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are crucial receptors that regulate a wide range of physiological functions in different organ and tissues. The research of GPCRs in the cochlea is essential for the understanding of the cochlea development, hearing disorders, and the treatment for hearing loss. Recently, several GPCRs have been found to play important roles in the cochlea. Frizzleds and Lgrs are dominant GPCRs that regulate stem cell self-renew abilities. Moreover, Frizzleds and Celsrs have been demonstrated to play core roles in the modulation of cochlear planar cell polarity (PCP). In addition, hearing loss can be caused by mutations of certain GPCRs, such as Vlgr1, Gpr156, S1P2 and Gpr126. And A1, A2A and CB2 activation by agonists have protective functions on noise- or drug-induced hearing loss. Here, we review the key findings of GPCR in the cochlea, and discuss the role of GPCR in the cochlea, such as stem cell fate, PCP, hearing loss, and hearing protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Zhongda Hospital, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Advanced Institute for Life and Health, Jiangsu Province High-Tech Key Laboratory for Bio-Medical Research, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Renjie Chai
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Zhongda Hospital, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Advanced Institute for Life and Health, Jiangsu Province High-Tech Key Laboratory for Bio-Medical Research, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
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20
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Raux PL, Drutel G, Revest JM, Vallée M. New perspectives on the role of the neurosteroid pregnenolone as an endogenous regulator of type-1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1R) activity and function. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13034. [PMID: 34486765 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Pregnenolone is a steroid with specific characteristics, being the first steroid to be synthesised from cholesterol at all sites of steroidogenesis, including the brain. For many years, pregnenolone was defined as an inactive precursor of all steroids because no specific target had been discovered. However, over the last decade, it has become a steroid of interest because it has been recognised as being a biomarker for brain-related disorders through the development of metabolomic approaches and advanced analytical methods. In addition, physiological roles for pregnenolone emerged when specific targets were discovered. In this review, we highlight the discovery of the selective interaction of pregnenolone with the type-1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1R). After describing the specific characteristic of CB1Rs, we discuss the newly discovered mechanisms of their regulation by pregnenolone. In particular, we describe the action of pregnenolone as a negative allosteric modulator and a specific signalling inhibitor of the CB1R. These particular characteristics of pregnenolone provide a great strategic opportunity for therapeutic development in CB1-related disorders. Finally, we outline new perspectives using innovative genetic tools for the discovery of original regulatory mechanisms of pregnenolone on CB1-related functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre-Louis Raux
- INSERM U1215, Neurocentre Magendie, Group "Physiopathology and Therapeutic Approaches of Stress-Related Disease", Bordeaux, France
- University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Guillaume Drutel
- INSERM U1215, Neurocentre Magendie, Group "Physiopathology and Therapeutic Approaches of Stress-Related Disease", Bordeaux, France
- University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Jean-Michel Revest
- INSERM U1215, Neurocentre Magendie, Group "Physiopathology and Therapeutic Approaches of Stress-Related Disease", Bordeaux, France
- University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Monique Vallée
- INSERM U1215, Neurocentre Magendie, Group "Physiopathology and Therapeutic Approaches of Stress-Related Disease", Bordeaux, France
- University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
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21
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McAllister SD, Abood ME, Califano J, Guzmán M. Cannabinoid Cancer Biology and Prevention. J Natl Cancer Inst Monogr 2021; 2021:99-106. [PMID: 34850900 DOI: 10.1093/jncimonographs/lgab008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Plant-based, synthetic, and endogenous cannabinoids have been shown to control a diverse array of biological processes, including regulation of cell fate across cancers. Their promise as broad-based antitumor agents in preclinical models has led to the initiation of pilot clinical trials. Session 5 of the National Cancer Institute's Cannabis, Cannabinoids and Cancer Research Symposium provides an overview of this research topic. Overall, the presentations highlight cannabinoid signal transduction and specific molecular mechanisms underlying cannabinoid antitumor activity. They also demonstrate the broad-based antitumor activity of the plant-based, synthetic, and endogenous cannabinoid compounds. Importantly, evidence is presented demonstrating when cannabinoids may be contraindicated as a treatment for cancer, as in the case of human papilloma virus-meditated oropharynx cancer or potentially other p38 MAPK pathway-driven cancers. Finally, it is discussed that a key to advancing cannabinoids into the clinic is to conduct well-designed, large-scale clinical trials to determine whether cannabinoids are effective antitumor agents in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean D McAllister
- California Pacific Medical Center Research Institute, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Mary E Abood
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Joseph Califano
- Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.,Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Manuel Guzmán
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, CIBERNED, IUIN and IRYCIS, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain
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22
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On the Biomedical Properties of Endocannabinoid Degradation and Reuptake Inhibitors: Pre-clinical and Clinical Evidence. Neurotox Res 2021; 39:2072-2097. [PMID: 34741755 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-021-00424-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is composed of endogenous cannabinoids; components involved in their synthesis, transport, and degradation; and an expansive variety of cannabinoid receptors. Hypofunction or deregulation of the ECS is related to pathological conditions. Consequently, endogenous enhancement of endocannabinoid levels and/or regulation of their metabolism represent promising therapeutic approaches. Several major strategies have been suggested for the modulation of the ECS: (1) blocking endocannabinoids degradation, (2) inhibition of endocannabinoid cellular uptake, and (3) pharmacological modulation of cannabinoid receptors as potential therapeutic targets. Here, we focused in this review on degradation/reuptake inhibitors over cannabinoid receptor modulators in order to provide an updated synopsis of contemporary evidence advancing mechanisms of endocannabinoids as pharmacological tools with therapeutic properties for the treatment of several disorders. For this purpose, we revisited the available literature and reported the latest advances regarding the biomedical properties of fatty acid amide hydrolase and monoacylglycerol lipase inhibitors in pre-clinical and clinical studies. We also highlighted anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol reuptake inhibitors with promising results in pre-clinical studies using in vitro and animal models as an outlook for future research in clinical trials.
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23
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Visvanathar R, Papanikolaou M, Nôga DA, Pádua-Reis M, Tort ABL, Blunder M. Hippocampal Cb 2 receptors: an untold story. Rev Neurosci 2021; 33:413-426. [PMID: 34717053 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2021-0109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The field of cannabinoid research has been receiving ever-growing interest. Ongoing debates worldwide about the legislation of medical cannabis further motivates research into cannabinoid function within the central nervous system (CNS). To date, two well-characterized cannabinoid receptors exist. While most research has investigated Cb1 receptors (Cb1Rs), Cb2 receptors (Cb2Rs) in the brain have started to attract considerable interest in recent years. With indisputable evidence showing the wide-distribution of Cb2Rs in the brain of different species, they are no longer considered just peripheral receptors. However, in contrast to Cb1Rs, the functionality of central Cb2Rs remains largely unexplored. Here we review recent studies on hippocampal Cb2Rs. While conflicting results about their function have been reported, we have made significant progress in understanding the involvement of Cb2Rs in modulating cellular properties and network excitability. Moreover, Cb2Rs have been shown to be expressed in different subregions of the hippocampus, challenging our prior understanding of the endocannabinoid system. Although more insight into their functional roles is necessary, we propose that targeting hippocampal Cb2Rs may offer novel therapies for diseases related to memory and adult neurogenesis deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin Visvanathar
- Behavioral Neurophysiology, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Center, Uppsala University, Husargatan 3, 751 23, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Maria Papanikolaou
- Behavioral Neurophysiology, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Center, Uppsala University, Husargatan 3, 751 23, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Diana Aline Nôga
- Behavioral Neurophysiology, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Center, Uppsala University, Husargatan 3, 751 23, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Marina Pádua-Reis
- Behavioral Neurophysiology, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Center, Uppsala University, Husargatan 3, 751 23, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Martina Blunder
- Behavioral Neurophysiology, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Center, Uppsala University, Husargatan 3, 751 23, Uppsala, Sweden
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Elgohary R, Abdelsalam RM, Abdel-Salam OME, Khattab MM, Salem NA, El-Khyat ZA, Morsy FA. Protective effect of cannabinoids on gastric mucosal lesions induced by water immersion restrain stress in rats. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES 2021; 24:1182-1189. [PMID: 35083004 PMCID: PMC8751742 DOI: 10.22038/ijbms.2021.54338.12213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to determine the impact of cannabinoid agonists and antagonists on the mucosal lesion progress in the stomach induced by water-immersion restraint stress (WIRS). MATERIALS AND METHODS Rats subjected to WIRS for 4 hr were treated with Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), CBR1 agonist (NADA, 1 mg/kg), CBR1 antagonist (Rimonabant, 1 mg/kg), CBR2 agonist (GW405833 1 mg/kg) or CBR2 antagonist (AM630, 1 mg/kg SC) 30 min before WIRS. Microscopic lesions, oxidative stress, inflammatory cytokines biomarkers, and (Myeloperoxidase) MPO in gastric tissues were determined. RESULTS Results indicated development of severe gastric lesions with a substantial increase in the contents of (nitric oxide) NO, (malondialdehyde) MDA, (interleukin-1 beta) IL-1β, MPO, (tumor necrosis factor-alpha) TNF-α, and a significant fall in the content of GSH and the activity of PON-1 after WIRS. CONCLUSION Treatment with NADA and AM630 protected gastric tissues against ulcers as demonstrated by a decrease in the contents of MDA, TNF-α, MPO, and IL-1β along with an increase in the content of PON-1 activity and GSH in the stomach tissues. On the other hand, treatment with SR141716A or GW405833 showed no protective effects on ulcers development. It seems that cannabinoids exert their antioxidant potential and anti-inflammatory effects against WIRS-induced gastric ulcers by activation of CB1R.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rania Elgohary
- Narcotics, Ergogenics and Poisons Department, National Research Centre (NRC), Cairo, Egypt,Corresponding author: Rania Elgohary. National Research Centre (NRC), 33 El Bohouth St. (Former El-Tahrir St.), 01022219049,12622 Dokki.
| | - Rania M. Abdelsalam
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Omar ME Abdel-Salam
- Narcotics, Ergogenics and Poisons Department, National Research Centre (NRC), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud M. Khattab
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Neveen A. Salem
- Narcotics, Ergogenics and Poisons Department, National Research Centre (NRC), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Zakaria A. El-Khyat
- Medical Biochemistry Department, National Research Centre (NRC), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Fatma A. Morsy
- Clinical Pathology Department, National Research Centre (NRC), Cairo, Egypt
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25
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Cannabinoids and chronic pelvic pain in women: Focus on endometriosis. JOURNAL OF ENDOMETRIOSIS AND PELVIC PAIN DISORDERS 2021. [DOI: 10.1177/22840265211011277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Chronic pelvic pain in women is common and frequently difficult to treat. Chronic pelvic pain often develops in the setting of endometriosis, interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome, and vulvodynia. Cannabinoids are a promising treatment modality for non-cancer chronic pain, but have not been studied in women with chronic pelvic pain nor in specific chronic pelvic pain conditions. This review focuses on the interaction of the endocannabinoid system with the menstrual cycles, with endometriotic lesions, and within the bladder. Furthermore, it provides a brief overview of existing literature of the effects of endocannabinoids on chronic pain generally, with a focus on neuropathic pain. Finally, it discusses limited data available regarding the use of cannabinoids in women with chronic pelvic pain conditions. In the opinion of the authors, cannabinoids are a reasonable treatment modality for refractory chronic pelvic pain, especially if a neuropathic component is suspected. Practitioners should expect a modest effect on pain levels with an acceptable safety profile.
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Ahmed I, Rehman SU, Shahmohamadnejad S, Zia MA, Ahmad M, Saeed MM, Akram Z, Iqbal HMN, Liu Q. Therapeutic Attributes of Endocannabinoid System against Neuro-Inflammatory Autoimmune Disorders. Molecules 2021; 26:3389. [PMID: 34205169 PMCID: PMC8199938 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26113389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
In humans, various sites like cannabinoid receptors (CBR) having a binding affinity with cannabinoids are distributed on the surface of different cell types, where endocannabinoids (ECs) and derivatives of fatty acid can bind. The binding of these substance(s) triggers the activation of specific receptors required for various physiological functions, including pain sensation, memory, and appetite. The ECs and CBR perform multiple functions via the cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1); cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2), having a key effect in restraining neurotransmitters and the arrangement of cytokines. The role of cannabinoids in the immune system is illustrated because of their immunosuppressive characteristics. These characteristics include inhibition of leucocyte proliferation, T cells apoptosis, and induction of macrophages along with reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines secretion. The review seeks to discuss the functional relationship between the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and anti-tumor characteristics of cannabinoids in various cancers. The therapeutic potential of cannabinoids for cancer-both in vivo and in vitro clinical trials-has also been highlighted and reported to be effective in mice models in arthritis for the inflammation reduction, neuropathic pain, positive effect in multiple sclerosis and type-1 diabetes mellitus, and found beneficial for treating in various cancers. In human models, such studies are limited; thereby, further research is indispensable in this field to get a conclusive outcome. Therefore, in autoimmune disorders, therapeutic cannabinoids can serve as promising immunosuppressive and anti-fibrotic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishtiaq Ahmed
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning 530005, China;
- School of Medical Science, Gold Coast Campus, Griffith University, Southport, QLD 4222, Australia;
| | - Saif Ur Rehman
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning 530005, China;
| | - Shiva Shahmohamadnejad
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 14176-13151, Iran;
| | - Muhammad Anjum Zia
- Enzyme Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38040, Pakistan; (M.A.Z.); (M.M.S.)
| | - Muhammad Ahmad
- Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (SBBUVAS), Sakrand 67210, Pakistan;
| | - Muhammad Muzammal Saeed
- Enzyme Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38040, Pakistan; (M.A.Z.); (M.M.S.)
| | - Zain Akram
- School of Medical Science, Gold Coast Campus, Griffith University, Southport, QLD 4222, Australia;
| | - Hafiz M. N. Iqbal
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, 64849 Monterrey, Mexico;
| | - Qingyou Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning 530005, China;
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Ho TC, Tius MA, Nikas SP, Tran NK, Tong F, Zhou H, Zvonok N, Makriyannis A. Oxa-adamantyl cannabinoids. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2021; 38:127882. [PMID: 33636308 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2021.127882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 01/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
As a continuation of earlier work on classical cannabinoids bearing bulky side chains we report here the design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of 3'-functionalized oxa-adamantyl cannabinoids as a novel class of cannabinergic ligands. Key synthetic steps involve nucleophilic addition/transannular cyclization of aryllithium to epoxyketone in the presence of cerium chloride and stereoselective construction of the tricyclic cannabinoid nucleus. The synthesis of the oxa-adamantyl cannabinoids is convenient, and amenable to scale up allowing the preparation of these analogs in sufficient quantities for detailed in vitro evaluation. The novel oxa-adamantyl cannabinoids reported here were found to be high affinity ligands for the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors. In the cyclase assay these compounds were found to behave as potent and efficacious CB1 receptor agonists. Isothiocyanate analog AM10504 is capable of irreversibly labeling both the CB1 and CB2 receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanh C Ho
- Department of Chemistry, University of Hawaii at Manoa, 2545 The Mall, Honolulu, HI 96822, United States
| | - Marcus A Tius
- Department of Chemistry, University of Hawaii at Manoa, 2545 The Mall, Honolulu, HI 96822, United States.
| | - Spyros P Nikas
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Ngan K Tran
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Fei Tong
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Han Zhou
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Nikolai Zvonok
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Alexandros Makriyannis
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, United States.
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Mielnik CA, Lam VM, Ross RA. CB 1 allosteric modulators and their therapeutic potential in CNS disorders. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 106:110163. [PMID: 33152384 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.110163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
CB1 is the most abundant GPCR found in the mammalian brain. It has garnered considerable attention as a potential therapeutic drug target. CB1 is involved in a wide range of physiological and psychiatric processes and has the potential to be targeted in a wide range of disease states. However, most of the selective and non-selective synthetic CB1 agonists and antagonists/inverse agonists developed to date are primarily used as research tools. No novel synthetic cannabinoids are currently in the clinic for use in psychiatric illness; synthetic analogues of the phytocannabinoid THC are on the market to treat nausea and vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy, along with off-label use for pain. Novel strategies are being explored to target CB1, but with emphasis on the elimination or mitigation of the potential psychiatric adverse effects that are observed by central agonism/antagonism of CB1. New pharmacological options are being pursued that may avoid these adverse effects while preserving the potential therapeutic benefits of CB1 modulation. Allosteric modulation of CB1 is one such approach. In this review, we will summarize and critically analyze both the in vitro characterization and in vivo validation of CB1 allosteric modulators developed to date, with a focus on CNS therapeutic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catharine A Mielnik
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Vincent M Lam
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Ruth A Ross
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada.
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Breijyeh Z, Jubeh B, Bufo SA, Karaman R, Scrano L. Cannabis: A Toxin-Producing Plant with Potential Therapeutic Uses. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:117. [PMID: 33562446 PMCID: PMC7915118 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13020117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
For thousands of years, Cannabis sativa has been utilized as a medicine and for recreational and spiritual purposes. Phytocannabinoids are a family of compounds that are found in the cannabis plant, which is known for its psychotogenic and euphoric effects; the main psychotropic constituent of cannabis is Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC). The pharmacological effects of cannabinoids are a result of interactions between those compounds and cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2, located in many parts of the human body. Cannabis is used as a therapeutic agent for treating pain and emesis. Some cannabinoids are clinically applied for treating chronic pain, particularly cancer and multiple sclerosis-associated pain, for appetite stimulation and anti-emesis in HIV/AIDS and cancer patients, and for spasticity treatment in multiple sclerosis and epilepsy patients. Medical cannabis varies from recreational cannabis in the chemical content of THC and cannabidiol (CBD), modes of administration, and safety. Despite the therapeutic effects of cannabis, exposure to high concentrations of THC, the main compound that is responsible for most of the intoxicating effects experienced by users, could lead to psychological events and adverse effects that affect almost all body systems, such as neurological (dizziness, drowsiness, seizures, coma, and others), ophthalmological (mydriasis and conjunctival hyperemia), cardiovascular (tachycardia and arterial hypertension), and gastrointestinal (nausea, vomiting, and thirst), mainly associated with recreational use. Cannabis toxicity in children is more concerning and can cause serious adverse effects such as acute neurological symptoms (stupor), lethargy, seizures, and even coma. More countries are legalizing the commercial production and sale of cannabis for medicinal use, and some for recreational use as well. Liberalization of cannabis laws has led to increased incidence of toxicity, hyperemesis syndrome, lung disease cardiovascular disease, reduced fertility, tolerance, and dependence with chronic prolonged use. This review focuses on the potential therapeutic effects of cannabis and cannabinoids, as well as the acute and chronic toxic effects of cannabis use on various body systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Breijyeh
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem Abu Dis P144, Palestine; (Z.B.); (B.J.)
| | - Buthaina Jubeh
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem Abu Dis P144, Palestine; (Z.B.); (B.J.)
| | - Sabino A. Bufo
- Department of Sciences, University of Basilicata, 85100 Potenza, Italy
- Department of Geography, Environmental Management & Energy Studies, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg 2092, South Africa
| | - Rafik Karaman
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem Abu Dis P144, Palestine; (Z.B.); (B.J.)
- Department of Sciences, University of Basilicata, 85100 Potenza, Italy
| | - Laura Scrano
- Department of European Cultures (DICEM), University of Basilicata, 75100 Matera, Italy;
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Turu G, Soltész-Katona E, Tóth AD, Juhász C, Cserző M, Misák Á, Balla A, Caron MG, Hunyady L. Biased Coupling to β-Arrestin of Two Common Variants of the CB 2 Cannabinoid Receptor. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:714561. [PMID: 34484125 PMCID: PMC8415483 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.714561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
β-arrestins are partners of the G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), regulating their intracellular trafficking and signaling. Development of biased GPCR agonists, selectively targeting either G protein or β-arrestin pathways, are in the focus of interest due to their therapeutic potential in different pathological conditions. The CB2 cannabinoid receptor (CB2R) is a GPCR involved in various functions in the periphery and the central nervous system. Two common occurring variants of CB2R, harboring Q63R or L133I missense mutations, have been implicated in the development of a diverse set of disorders. To evaluate the effect of these mutations, we characterized the binding profile of these mutant CB2 receptors to G proteins and β-arrestin2. Although their ability to inhibit cAMP signaling was similar, the Q63R mutant had increased, whereas the L133I mutant receptor had decreased β-arrestin2 binding. In line with these observations, the variants also had altered intracellular trafficking. Our results show that two common variants of the CB2 receptor have biased signaling properties, which may contribute to the pathogenesis of the associated disorders and may offer CB2R as a target for further development of biased receptor activation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gábor Turu
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-SE Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Hungarian Academy of Sciences and Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
- *Correspondence: Gábor Turu, ; László Hunyady,
| | - Eszter Soltész-Katona
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-SE Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Hungarian Academy of Sciences and Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - András Dávid Tóth
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-SE Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Hungarian Academy of Sciences and Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Cintia Juhász
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Miklós Cserző
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-SE Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Hungarian Academy of Sciences and Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ádám Misák
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - András Balla
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-SE Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Hungarian Academy of Sciences and Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Marc G. Caron
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
| | - László Hunyady
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-SE Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Hungarian Academy of Sciences and Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- *Correspondence: Gábor Turu, ; László Hunyady,
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Escelsior A, Belvederi Murri M, Corsini GP, Serafini G, Aguglia A, Zampogna D, Cattedra S, Nebbia J, Trabucco A, Prestia D, Olcese M, Barletta E, Pereira da Silva B, Amore M. Cannabinoid use and self-injurious behaviours: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Affect Disord 2021; 278:85-98. [PMID: 32956965 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2020.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2019] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The increasing availability of high-potency cannabis-derived compounds and the use of synthetic cannabinoids may be responsible for severe side effects like cognitive impairment, psychosis or self-injurious behaviours (SIB). In particular, SIB like non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) and deliberate self-harm (DSH) raise growing concern as a possible consequence of cannabis use. However, the research to date has not addressed the relationship between cannabinoid use and SIB systematically. METHODS We conducted a systematic review on PubMed up to March 2020, using search terms related to cannabinoids and SIB. RESULTS The search yielded a total of 440 abstracts. Of those, 37 studies published between 1995 and 2020 were eligible for inclusion. Cannabinoid use was significantly associated with SIB at the cross-sectional (OR=1.569, 95%CI [1.167-2.108]) and longitudinal (OR=2.569, 95%CI [2.207-3.256]) level. Chronic use, presence of mental disorders, depressive symptoms, emotional dysregulation and impulsive traits might further increase the likelihood of self-harm in cannabis users. Synthetic cannabinoids may trigger highly destructive SIB mainly through the psychotomimetic properties of these compounds. CONCLUSION Cannabinoid use was associated with an increased prevalence of self-injury and may act as a causative factor with a duration-dependent manner. Emotional regulation and behavioural impulsivity functions might crucially moderate this association. Future studies should further investigate the mechanisms underlying this association, while exploring potential therapeutic applications of substances modulating the endocannabinoid system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Escelsior
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy.
| | - Martino Belvederi Murri
- Institute of Psychiatry, Department of Biomedical and Specialty Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giovanni Pietro Corsini
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Gianluca Serafini
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Andrea Aguglia
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Domenico Zampogna
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Simone Cattedra
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Jacopo Nebbia
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Alice Trabucco
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Davide Prestia
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Martina Olcese
- Department of Educational Science - Psychology Unit, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Beatriz Pereira da Silva
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Mario Amore
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
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Perin P, Mabou Tagne A, Enrico P, Marino F, Cosentino M, Pizzala R, Boselli C. Cannabinoids, Inner Ear, Hearing, and Tinnitus: A Neuroimmunological Perspective. Front Neurol 2020; 11:505995. [PMID: 33329293 PMCID: PMC7719758 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.505995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2019] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabis has been used for centuries for recreational and therapeutic purposes. Whereas, the recreative uses are based on the psychotropic effect of some of its compounds, its therapeutic effects range over a wide spectrum of actions, most of which target the brain or the immune system. Several studies have found cannabinoid receptors in the auditory system, both at peripheral and central levels, thus raising the interest in cannabinoid signaling in hearing, and especially in tinnitus, which is affected also by anxiety, memory, and attention circuits where cannabinoid effects are well described. Available studies on animal models of tinnitus suggest that cannabinoids are not likely to be helpful in tinnitus treatment and could even be harmful. However, the pharmacology of cannabinoids is very complex, and most studies focused on neural CB1R-based responses. Cannabinoid effects on the immune system (where CB2Rs predominate) are increasingly recognized as essential in understanding nervous system pathological responses, and data on immune cannabinoid targets have emerged in the auditory system as well. In addition, nonclassical cannabinoid targets (such as TRP channels) appear to play an important role in the auditory system as well. This review will focus on neuroimmunological mechanisms for cannabinoid effects and their possible use as protective and therapeutic agents in the ear and auditory system, especially in tinnitus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Perin
- Department of Brain and Behavioural Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Roberto Pizzala
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Cinzia Boselli
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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Abstract
In traditional medicine, Cannabis sativa has been prescribed for a variety of diseases. Today, the plant is largely known for its recreational purpose, but it may find a way back to what it was originally known for: a herbal remedy. Most of the plant's ingredients, such as Δ-tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol, cannabigerol, and others, have demonstrated beneficial effects in preclinical models of intestinal inflammation. Endogenous cannabinoids (endocannabinoids) have shown a regulatory role in inflammation and mucosal permeability of the gastrointestinal tract where they likely interact with the gut microbiome. Anecdotal reports suggest that in humans, Cannabis exerts antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, and antidiarrheal properties. Despite these reports, strong evidence on beneficial effects of Cannabis in human gastrointestinal diseases is lacking. Clinical trials with Cannabis in patients suffering from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have shown improvement in quality of life but failed to provide evidence for a reduction of inflammation markers. Within the endogenous opioid system, mu opioid receptors may be involved in anti-inflammation of the gut. Opioids are frequently used to treat abdominal pain in IBD; however, heavy opioid use in IBD is associated with opioid dependency and higher mortality. This review highlights latest advances in the potential treatment of IBD using Cannabis/cannabinoids or opioids.
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Spanagel R. Cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system in reward processing and addiction: from mechanisms to interventions
. DIALOGUES IN CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCE 2020; 22:241-250. [PMID: 33162767 PMCID: PMC7605022 DOI: 10.31887/dcns.2020.22.3/rspanagel] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The last decades have seen a major gain in understanding the action of
cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system in reward processing and the development of
addictive behavior. Cannabis-derived psychoactive compounds such as
Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and synthetic cannabinoids directly interact with the reward
system and thereby have addictive properties. Cannabinoids induce their reinforcing
properties by an increase in tonic dopamine levels through a cannabinoid type 1 (CB1)
receptor–dependent mechanism within the ventral tegmental area. Cues that are
conditioned to cannabis smoking can induce drug-seeking responses (ie, craving) by
eliciting phasic dopamine events. A dopamine-independent mechanism involved in
drug-seeking responses involves an endocannabinoid/glutamate interaction within the
corticostriatal part of the reward system. In conclusion, pharmacological blockade of
endocannabinoid signaling should lead to a reduction in drug craving and subsequently
should reduce relapse behavior in addicted individuals. Indeed, there is increasing
preclinical evidence that targeting the endocannabinoid system reduces craving and
relapse, and allosteric modulators at CB1 receptors and fatty acid amide hydrolase
inhibitors are in clinical development for cannabis use disorder. Cannabidiol, which
mainly acts on CB1 and CB2 receptors, is currently being tested in patients with alcohol
use disorder and opioid use disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rainer Spanagel
- Institute of Psychopharmacology, Central Institute of Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Germany
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Singh K, Jamshidi N, Zomer R, Piva TJ, Mantri N. Cannabinoids and Prostate Cancer: A Systematic Review of Animal Studies. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E6265. [PMID: 32872551 PMCID: PMC7503992 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer is a major cause of death among men worldwide. Recent preclinical evidence implicates cannabinoids as powerful regulators of cell growth and differentiation, as well as potential anti-cancer agents. The aim of this review was to evaluate the effect of cannabinoids on in vivo prostate cancer models. The databases searched included PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science from inception to August 2020. Articles reporting on the effect of cannabinoids on prostate cancer were deemed eligible. We identified six studies that were all found to be based on in vivo/xenograft animal models. Results: In PC3 and DU145 xenografts, WIN55,212-2 reduced cell proliferation in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, in LNCaP xenografts, WIN55,212-2 reduced cell proliferation by 66-69%. PM49, which is a synthetic cannabinoid quinone, was also found to result in a significant inhibition of tumor growth of up to 90% in xenograft models of LNCaP and 40% in xenograft models of PC3 cells, respectively. All studies have reported that the treatment of prostate cancers in in vivo/xenograft models with various cannabinoids decreased the size of the tumor, the outcomes of which depended on the dose and length of treatment. Within the limitation of these identified studies, cannabinoids were shown to reduce the size of prostate cancer tumors in animal models. However, further well-designed and controlled animal studies are warranted to confirm these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanika Singh
- The Pangenomics Lab, School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria 3083, Australia;
| | - Negar Jamshidi
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria 3083, Australia; (N.J.); (T.J.P.)
| | - Roby Zomer
- MGC Pharmaceuticals Limited, West Perth, Western Australia 6005, Australia;
| | - Terrence J. Piva
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria 3083, Australia; (N.J.); (T.J.P.)
| | - Nitin Mantri
- The Pangenomics Lab, School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria 3083, Australia;
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Ripamonte GC, Bernardes-Ribeiro M, Patrone LGA, Vicente MC, Bícego KC, Gargaglioni LH. Functional role for preoptic CB1 receptors in breathing and thermal control. Neurosci Lett 2020; 732:135021. [PMID: 32454147 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2020.135021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 04/12/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The anteroventral preoptic region (AVPO) of the hypothalamus is involved in both temperature and breathing regulation. This area densely express cannabinoid receptors type 1 (CB1) that modulate both excitatory and inhibitory synaptic transmission. However, it is still unknown if the endocannabinoid system located in the AVPO participates in breathing control and thermoregulation. Therefore, we tested the participation of CB1 in the AVPO in the modulation of ventilation and thermal control during normoxia and hypoxia. To this end, body temperature (Tb) of Wistar rats was monitored by datallogers and ventilation (VE) by whole body plethysmography before and after intra-AVPO microinjection of AM-251 (CB1 antagonist, 50 and 100 pmol) followed by 60 min of hypoxia exposure (7% O2). Intra-AVPO microinjection of the higher dose of AM-251 increased VE but did not change Tb under resting conditions. Exposure of rats to 7% of inspired oxygen evoked typical hypoxia-induced anapyrexia and hyperventilation after vehicle microinjection. The higher dose of the cannabinoid antagonist increased the hypoxia-induced hyperventilation, in the same magnitude as observed under normoxic condition, whereas the drop in Tb elicited by hypoxia was attenuated. Therefore, the present results demonstrate that the endocannabinoid system acting on CB1 receptors in the AVPO exerts a tonic inhibitory modulation on breathing but seem not be involved in thermoregulation during resting conditions. In addition, activation of CB1 receptors in the AVPO stimulate thermal response during hypoxia, reducing energetically expensive responses, such as the hypoxic hyperventilation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel C Ripamonte
- Department of Animal Morphology and Physiology, Sao Paulo State University, UNESP/FCAV at Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - Mariana Bernardes-Ribeiro
- Department of Animal Morphology and Physiology, Sao Paulo State University, UNESP/FCAV at Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - Luis Gustavo A Patrone
- Department of Animal Morphology and Physiology, Sao Paulo State University, UNESP/FCAV at Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - Mariane C Vicente
- Department of Animal Morphology and Physiology, Sao Paulo State University, UNESP/FCAV at Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - Kênia C Bícego
- Department of Animal Morphology and Physiology, Sao Paulo State University, UNESP/FCAV at Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - Luciane H Gargaglioni
- Department of Animal Morphology and Physiology, Sao Paulo State University, UNESP/FCAV at Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil.
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Jenkinson S, Goody SMG, Bassyouni A, Jones R, Otto-Bruc A, Duquennoy S, DaSilva JK, Butler P, Mead A. Translation of in vitro cannabinoid 1 receptor agonist activity to in vivo pharmacodynamic endpoints. J Pharmacol Toxicol Methods 2020; 104:106899. [PMID: 32702414 DOI: 10.1016/j.vascn.2020.106899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Building an understanding of in vivo efficacy based on the evaluation of in vitro affinity or potency is critical in expediting early decision making in drug discovery and can significantly reduce the need for animal studies. The aim of the present study was to understand the translation of in vitro to in vivo endpoints for the cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1). METHODS Using a selection of CB1 agonists we describe an evaluation of in vitro to in vivo translation comparing in vitro receptor affinity or functional potency, using both cAMP and β-arrestin endpoints, to various in vivo CB1 agonist-associated endpoints. RESULTS We demonstrate that in vitro CB1 agonism significantly correlates with the CB1-induced cue in the drug discrimination model in vivo, but not with other purported CB1 agonist-mediated in vivo endpoints, including hypothermia and sedation. Thus, these data challenge common perceptions regarding CB1 agonist-induced tetrad effects in rodents. DISCUSSION This work exemplifies how in vitro profiling of receptor affinity or potency can predict in vivo pharmacodynamic effects, using the CB1 as an example system. The translatability of in vitro activity to in vivo efficacy allows for the ability to rapidly contextualize off-target CB1 in vitro findings, allowing clear and rapid definition of the risk posed by such activity without the need for extensive animal studies. This has significant implications in terms of early decision making in drug discovery and reducing the use of animals in research, while also outlining a template for expanding the approach for additional targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Jenkinson
- Worldwide Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., La Jolla, CA 92121, USA.
| | - Susan M G Goody
- Worldwide Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., Groton, CT 06340, USA
| | - Asser Bassyouni
- Worldwide Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., La Jolla, CA 92121, USA
| | - Rhys Jones
- Worldwide Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., La Jolla, CA 92121, USA
| | | | | | - Jamie K DaSilva
- Worldwide Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., Groton, CT 06340, USA
| | - Paul Butler
- Worldwide Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., La Jolla, CA 92121, USA
| | - Andy Mead
- Worldwide Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., Groton, CT 06340, USA
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Allende G, Chávez-Reyes J, Guerrero-Alba R, Vázquez-León P, Marichal-Cancino BA. Advances in Neurobiology and Pharmacology of GPR12. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:628. [PMID: 32457622 PMCID: PMC7226366 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
GPR12 is a G protein-coupled orphan receptor genetically related to type 1 and type 2 cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) which are ancient proteins expressed all over the body. Both cannabinoid receptors, but especially CB1, are involved in neurodevelopment and cognitive processes such as learning, memory, brain reward, coordination, etc. GPR12 shares with CB1 that both are mainly expressed into the brain. Regrettably, very little is known about physiology of GPR12. Concerning its pharmacology, GPR12 seems to be endogenously activated by the lysophospholipids sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) and sphingosyl-phosphorylcholine (SPC). Exogenously, GPR12 is a target for the phytocannabinoid cannabidiol (CBD). Functionally, GPR12 seems to be related to neurogenesis and neural inflammation, but its relationship with cognitive functions remains to be characterized. Although GPR12 was initially suggested to be a cannabinoid receptor, it does not meet the five criteria proposed in 2010 by the International Union of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology (IUPHAR). In this review, we analyze all the direct available information in PubMed database about expression, function, and pharmacology of this receptor in central nervous system (CNS) trying to provide a broad overview of its current and prospective neurophysiology. Moreover, in this mini-review we highlight the need to produce more relevant data about the functions of GPR12 in CNS. Hence, this work should motivate further research in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gonzalo Allende
- Departamento de Fisiología y Farmacología, Centro de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad Autónoma de Aguascalientes, Ciudad Universitaria, Aguascalientes, Mexico
| | - Jesús Chávez-Reyes
- Departamento de Fisiología y Farmacología, Centro de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad Autónoma de Aguascalientes, Ciudad Universitaria, Aguascalientes, Mexico
| | - Raquel Guerrero-Alba
- Departamento de Fisiología y Farmacología, Centro de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad Autónoma de Aguascalientes, Ciudad Universitaria, Aguascalientes, Mexico
| | - Priscila Vázquez-León
- Departamento de Fisiología y Farmacología, Centro de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad Autónoma de Aguascalientes, Ciudad Universitaria, Aguascalientes, Mexico
| | - Bruno A Marichal-Cancino
- Departamento de Fisiología y Farmacología, Centro de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad Autónoma de Aguascalientes, Ciudad Universitaria, Aguascalientes, Mexico
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Kovalchuk O, Kovalchuk I. Cannabinoids as anticancer therapeutic agents. Cell Cycle 2020; 19:961-989. [PMID: 32249682 PMCID: PMC7217364 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2020.1742952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2019] [Revised: 02/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The recent announcement of marijuana legalization in Canada spiked many discussions about potential health benefits of Cannabis sativa. Cannabinoids are active chemical compounds produced by cannabis, and their numerous effects on the human body are primarily exerted through interactions with cannabinoid receptor types 1 (CB1) and 2 (CB2). Cannabinoids are broadly classified as endo-, phyto-, and synthetic cannabinoids. In this review, we will describe the activity of cannabinoids on the cellular level, comprehensively summarize the activity of all groups of cannabinoids on various cancers and propose several potential mechanisms of action of cannabinoids on cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Kovalchuk
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
- Pathway Rx Inc., Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
| | - Igor Kovalchuk
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
- Pathway Rx Inc., Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
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40
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Stasiulewicz A, Znajdek K, Grudzień M, Pawiński T, Sulkowska JI. A Guide to Targeting the Endocannabinoid System in Drug Design. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21082778. [PMID: 32316328 PMCID: PMC7216112 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21082778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is one of the most crucial systems in the human organism, exhibiting multi-purpose regulatory character. It is engaged in a vast array of physiological processes, including nociception, mood regulation, cognitive functions, neurogenesis and neuroprotection, appetite, lipid metabolism, as well as cell growth and proliferation. Thus, ECS proteins, including cannabinoid receptors and their endogenous ligands’ synthesizing and degrading enzymes, are promising therapeutic targets. Their modulation has been employed in or extensively studied as a treatment of multiple diseases. However, due to a complex nature of ECS and its crosstalk with other biological systems, the development of novel drugs turned out to be a challenging task. In this review, we summarize potential therapeutic applications for ECS-targeting drugs, especially focusing on promising synthetic compounds and preclinical studies. We put emphasis on modulation of specific proteins of ECS in different pathophysiological areas. In addition, we stress possible difficulties and risks and highlight proposed solutions. By presenting this review, we point out information pivotal in the spotlight of ECS-targeting drug design, as well as provide an overview of the current state of knowledge on ECS-related pharmacodynamics and show possible directions for needed research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Stasiulewicz
- Department of Drug Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland; (M.G.); (T.P.)
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Biological Systems Modelling, Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland;
- Correspondence: (A.S.); (J.I.S.)
| | - Katarzyna Znajdek
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Biological Systems Modelling, Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland;
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Monika Grudzień
- Department of Drug Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland; (M.G.); (T.P.)
| | - Tomasz Pawiński
- Department of Drug Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland; (M.G.); (T.P.)
| | - Joanna I. Sulkowska
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Biological Systems Modelling, Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland;
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 1, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
- Materials and Process Simulation Center, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
- Correspondence: (A.S.); (J.I.S.)
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Cannabinoids and Hormone Receptor-Positive Breast Cancer Treatment. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12030525. [PMID: 32106399 PMCID: PMC7139952 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12030525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cancer in women worldwide. Approximately 70–80% of BCs express estrogen receptors (ER), which predict the response to endocrine therapy (ET), and are therefore hormone receptor-positive (HR+). Endogenous cannabinoids together with cannabinoid receptor 1 and 2 (CB1, CB2) constitute the basis of the endocannabinoid system. Interactions of cannabinoids with hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis hormones are well documented, and two studies found a positive correlation between peak plasma endogenous cannabinoid anandamide with peak plasma 17β-estradiol, luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone levels at ovulation in healthy premenopausal women. Do cannabinoids have an effect on HR+ BC? In this paper we review known and possible interactions between cannabinoids and specific HR+ BC treatments. In preclinical studies, CB1 and CB2 agonists (i.e., anandamide, THC) have been shown to inhibit the proliferation of ER positive BC cell lines. There is less evidence for antitumor cannabinoid action in HR+ BC in animal models and there are no clinical trials exploring the effects of cannabinoids on HR+ BC treatment outcomes. Two studies have shown that tamoxifen and several other selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERM) can act as inverse agonists on CB1 and CB2, an interaction with possible clinical consequences. In addition, cannabinoid action could interact with other commonly used endocrine and targeted therapies used in the treatment of HR+ BC.
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Synthesis of Functionalized Cannabilactones. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25030684. [PMID: 32041131 PMCID: PMC7037859 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25030684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Revised: 02/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
A new approach to synthesize cannabilactones using Suzuki cross-coupling reaction followed by one-step demethylation-cyclization is presented. The two key cannabilactone prototypes AM1710 and AM1714 were obtained selectively in high overall yields and in a lesser number of synthetic steps when compared to our earlier synthesis. The new approach expedited the synthesis of cannabilactone analogs with structural modifications at the four potential pharmacophoric regions.
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Schurman LD, Lu D, Kendall DA, Howlett AC, Lichtman AH. Molecular Mechanism and Cannabinoid Pharmacology. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2020; 258:323-353. [PMID: 32236882 PMCID: PMC8637936 DOI: 10.1007/164_2019_298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Since antiquity, Cannabis has provoked enormous intrigue for its potential medicinal properties as well as for its unique pharmacological effects. The elucidation of its major cannabinoid constituents, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), led to the synthesis of new cannabinoids (termed synthetic cannabinoids) to understand the mechanisms underlying the pharmacology of Cannabis. These pharmacological tools were instrumental in the ultimate discovery of the endogenous cannabinoid system, which consists of CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors and endogenously produced ligands (endocannabinoids), which bind and activate both cannabinoid receptors. CB1 receptors mediate the cannabimimetic effects of THC and are highly expressed on presynaptic neurons in the nervous system, where they modulate neurotransmitter release. In contrast, CB2 receptors are primarily expressed on immune cells. The endocannabinoids are tightly regulated by biosynthetic and hydrolytic enzymes. Accordingly, the endocannabinoid system plays a modulatory role in many physiological processes, thereby generating many promising therapeutic targets. An unintended consequence of this research was the emergence of synthetic cannabinoids sold for human consumption to circumvent federal laws banning Cannabis use. Here, we describe research that led to the discovery of the endogenous cannabinoid system and show how knowledge of this system benefitted as well as unintentionally harmed human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lesley D Schurman
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Dai Lu
- Rangel College of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Texas A&M University, Kingsville, TX, USA
| | - Debra A Kendall
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Allyn C Howlett
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Center for Research on Substance Use and Addiction, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Aron H Lichtman
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA.
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA.
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Maybruck BT, Lam WC, Specht CA, Ilagan MXG, Donlin MJ, Lodge JK. The Aminoalkylindole BML-190 Negatively Regulates Chitosan Synthesis via the Cyclic AMP/Protein Kinase A1 Pathway in Cryptococcus neoformans. mBio 2019; 10:e02264-19. [PMID: 31848271 PMCID: PMC6918072 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02264-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcus neoformans can cause fatal meningoencephalitis in patients with AIDS or other immunocompromising conditions. Current antifungals are suboptimal to treat this disease; therefore, novel targets and new therapies are needed. Previously, we have shown that chitosan is a critical component of the cryptococcal cell wall and is required for survival in the mammalian host and that chitosan deficiency results in rapid clearance from the mammalian host. We had also identified several specific proteins that were required for chitosan biosynthesis, and we hypothesize that screening for compounds that inhibit chitosan biosynthesis would identify additional genes/proteins that influence chitosan biosynthesis. To identify these compounds, we developed a robust and novel cell-based flow cytometry screening method to identify small-molecule inhibitors of chitosan production. We screened the ICCB Known Bioactives library and identified 8 compounds that reduced chitosan in C. neoformans We used flow cytometry-based counterscreens and confirmatory screens, followed by a biochemical secondary screen to refine our primary screening hits to 2 confirmed hits. One of the confirmed hits that reduced chitosan content was the aminoalkylindole BML-190, a known inverse agonist of mammalian cannabinoid receptors. We demonstrated that BML-190 likely targets the C. neoformans G-protein-coupled receptor Gpr4 and, via the cyclic AMP (cAMP)/protein kinase A (PKA) signaling pathway, contributes to an intracellular accumulation of cAMP that results in decreased chitosan. Our discovery suggests that this approach could be used to identify additional compounds and pathways that reduce chitosan biosynthesis and could lead to potential novel therapeutics against C. neoformansIMPORTANCECryptococcus neoformans is a fungal pathogen that kills ∼200,000 people every year. The cell wall is an essential organelle that protects fungi from the environment. Chitosan, the deacetylated form of chitin, has been shown to be an essential component of the cryptococcal cell wall during infection of a mammalian host. In this study, we screened a set of 480 compounds, which are known to have defined biological activities, for activity that reduced chitosan production in C. neoformans Two of these compounds were confirmed using an alternative method of measuring chitosan, and one of these was demonstrated to impact the cAMP signal transduction pathway. This work demonstrates that the cAMP pathway regulates chitosan biosynthesis in C. neoformans and validates that this screening approach could be used to find potential antifungal agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian T Maybruck
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Woei C Lam
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Charles A Specht
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ma Xenia G Ilagan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Maureen J Donlin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Jennifer K Lodge
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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Allosteric Modulation of Cannabinoid Receptor 1-Current Challenges and Future Opportunities. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20235874. [PMID: 31771126 PMCID: PMC6928801 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20235874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Revised: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1R), a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR), plays an essential role in the control of many physiological processes such as hunger, memory loss, gastrointestinal activity, catalepsy, fear, depression, and chronic pain. Therefore, it is an attractive target for drug discovery to manage pain, neurodegenerative disorders, obesity, and substance abuse. However, the psychoactive adverse effects, generated by CB1R activation in the brain, limit the use of the orthosteric CB1R ligands as drugs. The discovery of CB1R allosteric modulators during the last decade provided new tools to target the CB1R. Moreover, application of the site-directed mutagenesis in combination with advanced physical methods, especially X-ray crystallography and computational modeling, has opened new horizons for understanding the complexity of the structure, function, and activity of cannabinoid receptors. In this paper, we present the latest advances in research on the CB1R, its allosteric modulation and allosteric ligands, and their translational potential. We focused on structural essentials of the cannabinoid 1 receptor- ligand (drug) interactions, as well as modes of CB1R signaling regulation.
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46
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Alapafuja SO, Nikas SP, Ho TC, Tong F, Benchama O, Makriyannis A. Chain Substituted Cannabilactones with Selectivity for the CB2 Cannabinoid Receptor. Molecules 2019; 24:E3559. [PMID: 31581433 PMCID: PMC6804212 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24193559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2019] [Revised: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 09/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In earlier work, we reported a novel class of CB2 selective ligands namely cannabilactones. These compounds carry a dimethylheptyl substituent at C3, which is typical for synthetic cannabinoids. In the current study with the focus on the pharmacophoric side chain at C3 we explored the effect of replacing the C1'-gem-dimethyl group with the bulkier cyclopentyl ring, and, we also probed the chain's length and terminal carbon substitution with bromo or cyano groups. One of the analogs synthesized namely 6-[1-(1,9-dihydroxy-6-oxo-6H-benzo[c]chromen-3-yl) cyclopentyl] hexanenitrile (AM4346) has very high affinity (Ki = 4.9 nM) for the mouse CB2 receptor (mCB2) and 131-fold selectivity for that target over the rat CB1 (rCB1). The species difference in the affinities of AM4346 between the mouse (m) and the human (h) CB2 receptors is reduced when compared to our first-generation cannabilactones. In the cyclase assay, our lead compound was found to be a highly potent and efficacious hCB2 receptor agonist (EC50 = 3.7 ± 1.5 nM, E(max) = 89%). We have also extended our structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies to include biphenyl synthetic intermediates that mimic the structure of the phytocannabinoid cannabinodiol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shakiru O Alapafuja
- Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Spyros P Nikas
- Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Thanh C Ho
- Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Fei Tong
- Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Othman Benchama
- Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Alexandros Makriyannis
- Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
- Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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47
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Abstract
Cannabinoid receptors, endocannabinoids and the enzymes responsible for their biosynthesis and degradation constitute the endocannabinoid system. In recent decades, the endocannabinoid system has attracted considerable interest as a potential therapeutic target in numerous pathological conditions. Its involvement in several physiological processes is well known, such as in energy balance, appetite stimulation, blood pressure, pain modulation, embryogenesis, nausea and vomiting control, memory, learning and immune response, among others, as well as in pathological conditions where it exerts a protective role in the development of certain disorders. As a result, it has been reported that changes in endocannabinoid levels may be related to neurological diseases such as Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, Alzheimer's disease and multiple sclerosis, as well as anorexia and irritable bowel syndrome. Alterations in the endocannabinoid system have also been associated with cancer, affecting the growth, migration and invasion of some tumours. Cannabinoids have been tested in several cancer types, including brain, breast and prostate cancers. Cannabinoids have shown promise as analgesics for the treatment of both inflammatory and neuropathic pain. There is also evidence for a role of the endocannabinoid system in the control of emotional states, and cannabinoids could prove useful in decreasing and palliating post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms and anxiolytic disorders. The role of the endocannabinoid system in addictions has also been examined, and cannabinoids have been postulated as alternative and co-adjuvant treatments in some abuse syndromes, mainly in ethanol and opioid abuses. The expression of the endocannabinoid system in the eye suggests that it could be a potential therapeutic target for eye diseases. Considering the importance of the endocannabinoid system and the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids in this vast number of medical conditions, several clinical studies with cannabinoid-based medications are ongoing. In addition, some cannabinoid-based medications have already been approved in various countries, including nabilone and dronabinol capsules for the treatment of nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy, dronabinol capsules for anorexia, an oral solution of dronabinol for both vomiting associated with chemotherapy and anorexia, a Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol/cannabidiol oromucosal spray for pain related to cancer and for spasticity and pain associated with multiple sclerosis, and an oral solution of cannabidiol for Dravet and Lennox-Gastaut syndromes. Here, we review the available efficacy, safety and tolerability data for cannabinoids in a range of medical conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Isabel Fraguas-Sánchez
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Food Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Plaza Ramón y Cajal s/n, 28040 , Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Isabel Torres-Suárez
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Food Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Plaza Ramón y Cajal s/n, 28040 , Madrid, Spain. .,Institute of Industrial Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 , Madrid, Spain.
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48
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Bukiya AN, Dopico AM. Cannabinoid Interactions with Proteins: Insights from Structural Studies. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1162:39-50. [PMID: 31332733 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-21737-2_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoids have been widely used for recreational and medicinal purposes. The increasing legalization of cannabinoid use and the growing success in Medicinal Chemistry of cannabinoids have fueled recent interest in cannabinoid-sensing sites in receptor proteins. Here, we review structural data from high-resolution cryo-EM and crystallography studies that depict phytocannabinoid, endocannabinoid, and synthetic cannabinoid molecules bound to various proteins. The latter include antigen-binding fragment (Fab), cellular retinol binding protein 2 (CRBP2), fatty acid-binding protein 5 (FABP5), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPAR γ), and cannabinoid receptor types 1 and 2 (CB1 and CB2). Cannabinoid-protein complexes reveal the complex design of cannabinoid binding sites that are usually presented by conventional ligand-binding pockets on respective proteins. However, subtle differences in cannabinoid interaction with amino acids within the binding pocket often result in diverse consequences for protein function. The rapid increase in available structural data on cannabinoid-protein interactions will ultimately direct drug design efforts toward rendering highly potent cannabinoid-related pharmacotherapies that are devoid of side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna N Bukiya
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA.
| | - Alex M Dopico
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
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49
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Russo S, De Azevedo WF. Advances in the Understanding of the Cannabinoid Receptor 1 – Focusing on the Inverse Agonists Interactions. Curr Med Chem 2019; 26:1908-1919. [DOI: 10.2174/0929867325666180417165247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2017] [Revised: 02/21/2018] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Background:
Cannabinoid Receptor 1 (CB1) is a membrane protein prevalent in
the central nervous system, whose crystallographic structure has recently been solved. Studies
will be needed to investigate CB1 complexes with its ligands and its role in the development
of new drugs.
Objective:
Our goal here is to review the studies on CB1, starting with general aspects and
focusing on the recent structural studies, with emphasis on the inverse agonists bound structures.
Methods:
We start with a literature review, and then we describe recent studies on CB 1 crystallographic
structure and docking simulations. We use this structural information to depict
protein-ligand interactions. We also describe the molecular docking method to obtain complex
structures of CB 1 with inverse agonists.
Results:
Analysis of the crystallographic structure and docking results revealed the residues
responsible for the specificity of the inverse agonists for CB 1. Most of the intermolecular interactions
involve hydrophobic residues, with the participation of the residues Phe 170 and
Leu 359 in all complex structures investigated in the present study. For the complexes with
otenabant and taranabant, we observed intermolecular hydrogen bonds involving residues His
178 (otenabant) and Thr 197 and Ser 383 (taranabant).
Conclusion:
Analysis of the structures involving inverse agonists and CB 1 revealed the pivotal
role played by residues Phe 170 and Leu 359 in their interactions and the strong intermolecular
hydrogen bonds highlighting the importance of the exploration of intermolecular interactions
in the development of novel inverse agonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvana Russo
- Laboratory of Computational Systems Biology, School of Sciences, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Av. Ipiranga, 6681, Porto Alegre-RS 90619-900, Brazil
| | - Walter Filgueira De Azevedo
- Laboratory of Computational Systems Biology, School of Sciences, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Av. Ipiranga, 6681, Porto Alegre-RS 90619-900, Brazil
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50
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Milando R, Friedman A. Cannabinoids: Potential Role in Inflammatory and Neoplastic Skin Diseases. Am J Clin Dermatol 2019; 20:167-180. [PMID: 30542832 DOI: 10.1007/s40257-018-0410-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system is a complex and nearly ubiquitous network of endogenous ligands, enzymes, and receptors that can also be stimulated by exogenous compounds such as those derived from the marijuana plant, Cannabis sativa. Recent data have shown that the endocannabinoid system is fully functional in the skin and is responsible for maintaining many aspects of skin homeostasis, such as proliferation, differentiation, and release of inflammatory mediators. Because of its role in regulating these key processes, the endocannabinoid system has been studied for its modulating effects on both inflammatory disorders of the skin and skin cancer. Although legal restrictions on marijuana as a Schedule I drug in the USA have made studying cannabinoid compounds unfavorable, an increasing number of studies and clinical trials have focused on the therapeutic uses of cannabinoids. This review seeks to summarize the current, and rapidly expanding field of research on the broad potential uses of cannabinoids in inflammatory and neoplastic diseases of the skin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rose Milando
- George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Adam Friedman
- George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA.
- Department of Dermatology, The George Washington University Medical Faculty Associates, 2150 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Suite 2B-430, Washington, DC, 20037, USA.
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