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Türkoğlu Ö, Ertuğrul A. The Role of Cannabis in the Development of Psychosis. TURK PSIKIYATRI DERGISI = TURKISH JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRY 2024; 35:234-244. [PMID: 39224996 PMCID: PMC11375744 DOI: 10.5080/u27122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Cannabis is known to cause psychotic disorders, and the increasing use of cannabis constitutes an important health problem. Growing evidence that cannabis causes the development of psychosis has led to an increase in the number of studies in this field. This review aims to clarify the role of cannabis use in the development of psychosis, discuss the current literature about the underlying neurobiological mechanisms. For this purpose PubMed was searched for the keywords "cannabis use, psychosis, schizophrenia, endocannabinoid system, pathophysiology, neurobiology"; the articles published in the last 10 years were reviewed. Epidemiological studies showed that cannabis use starting at an earlier age is associated with an increased risk of psychosis, this risk is more pronounced in people with genetic predisposition and increases with heavy and high potency cannabis use. Studies showed that the endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in nervous system development and functions as a homeostatic regulator in physiological processes, is affected by cannabis use during critical periods of development like adolescence; cannabis use affects physiological processes such as synaptic pruning due to the effects of this system on neurotransmitters like glutamate and dopamine leading to long-term behavioral and psychological consequences. Additionally, evidence that dysfunctions in the endocannabinoid system play a role in the etiology of schizophrenia suggests that cannabis affects the disease process by worsening existing dysfunctions in this system. Understanding the relationship between cannabis use and the development of psychosis and underlying neurobiological mechanisms will help to identify new treatment targets, and develop appropriate preventive approaches. Keywords: Cannabis Abuse, Psychotic Disorders, Schizophrenia, Endocannabinoids, Neurobiology.
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Hou L, Zhang H, Li Y, Zhu H, Liao K, Guo B, Dong C, Li G, Ye W, Wang L, Xu H. Correlation analysis of positron emission tomography/computed tomography-magnetic resonance imaging of cannabinoid type 1 receptor in the lumbar spine and brain of aged osteoporosis female cynomolgus monkeys. Quant Imaging Med Surg 2023; 13:7924-7935. [PMID: 38106237 PMCID: PMC10722013 DOI: 10.21037/qims-23-118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Background Although cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1R) antagonists can inhibit bone loss in osteoporosis mouse models, different strains of mice show different bone mass phenotypes after knock out the CB1R gene. The relationship between CB1R and bone metabolism is complex, and its regulatory role in bone metabolism and as a therapeutic target for osteoporosis requires further investigation. Methods Based on lumbar spine volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD) data of healthy female cynomolgus monkeys aged 1-25 years, naturally aged postmenopausal female osteoporotic monkeys and normal young monkeys were screened by detecting lumbar vertebrae vBMD and estradiol levels in this study. Positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET/CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans were performed on the lumbar spine and brain of the two groups of monkeys using the probe [11C]OMAR, which specifically targets CB1R, and the difference in the CB1R expression of osteoporotic monkeys was evaluated. Results The vBMD values of two standard deviations (SDs) below the peak bone value (428.1±53.8 g/cm3) were set as the reference standard for osteoporosis vBMD. Of the 49 healthy female cynomolgus monkeys, 4 postmenopausal older osteoporotic monkeys (18-26 years) and 5 young control monkeys (6-7 years) were selected, and the mean vBMD of the lumbar spine of the two groups was 295.07±19.11 and 419.72±16.14 g/cm3, respectively (P<0.0001). Radioactive uptake in the lumbar spine was linearly and negatively correlated with vBMD (r=-0.7977; P=0.01). Dynamic PET/MR imaging of the brains showed that CB1R was upregulated in the osteoporosis group, and there was a negative linear correlation between the vBMD and area under the time-radioactivity curve (AUC) of the thalamus (r=-0.8506; P=0.0153) and prefrontal cortex (r=-0.8306; P=0.0207). Conclusions In this study, PET/CT-MRI molecular imaging technology revealed that CB1R was upregulated in the lumbar spine and brain of the osteoporosis monkeys and that CB1R may be regulated by the brain-bone axis. CB1R antagonist may be a potential drug for the treatment of osteoporosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Hou
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haitong Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ying Li
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Honghao Zhu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kai Liao
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bin Guo
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chenchen Dong
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guocong Li
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weijian Ye
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hao Xu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
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Chou S, Fish KN, Lewis DA, Sweet RA. Terminal type-specific cannabinoid CB1 receptor alterations in patients with schizophrenia: A pilot study. Neurobiol Dis 2023; 185:106262. [PMID: 37586566 PMCID: PMC10958392 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2023.106262] [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: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individuals with schizophrenia are at elevated genetic risks for comorbid cannabis use, and often experience exacerbations of cognitive and psychotic symptoms when exposed to cannabis. These findings have led a number of investigators to examine cannabinoid CB1 receptor (CB1R) alterations in schizophrenia, though with conflicting results. We recently demonstrated the presence of CB1R in both excitatory and inhibitory boutons in the human prefrontal cortex, with differential levels of the receptor between bouton types. We hypothesized that the differential enrichment of CB1R between bouton types - a factor previously unaccounted for when examining CB1R changes in schizophrenia - may resolve prior discrepant reports and increase our insight into the effects of CB1R alterations on the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. METHODS Using co-labeling immunohistochemistry and fluorescent microscopy, we examined total CB1R levels and CB1R levels within excitatory (vGlut1-positive) and inhibitory (vGAT-positive) boutons of prefrontal cortex samples from ten pairs of individuals (nine male pairs and one female pair) diagnosed with schizophrenia and non-psychiatric comparisons. RESULTS Significantly higher total CB1R levels were found within samples from individuals with schizophrenia. Terminal type-specific analyses identified significantly higher CB1R levels within excitatory boutons in samples from individuals with schizophrenia relative to comparisons. In contrast, CB1R levels within the subset of inhibitory boutons that normally express high CB1R levels (presumptive cholecystokinin neuron boutons) were lower in samples from individuals with schizophrenia relative to comparison samples. CONCLUSION Given CB1R's role in suppressing neurotransmission upon activation, these results suggest an overall shift in excitatory and inhibitory balance regulation toward a net reduction of excitatory activity in schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinnyi Chou
- Translational Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, United States of America
| | - Kenneth N Fish
- Translational Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, United States of America
| | - David A Lewis
- Translational Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, United States of America
| | - Robert A Sweet
- Translational Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, United States of America.
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Chou S, Fish KN, Lewis DA, Sweet RA. Terminal type-specific cannabinoid CB1 receptor alterations in patients with schizophrenia: a pilot study. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.04.11.536217. [PMID: 37090672 PMCID: PMC10120624 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.11.536217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
Background Individuals with schizophrenia are at elevated genetic risks for comorbid cannabis use, and often experience exacerbations of cognitive and psychotic symptoms when exposed to cannabis. These findings have led a number of investigators to examine cannabinoid CB1 receptor (CB1R) alterations in schizophrenia, though with conflicting results. We recently demonstrated the presence of CB1R in both excitatory and inhibitory boutons in the human prefrontal cortex, with differential levels of the receptor between bouton types. We hypothesized that the differential enrichment of CB1R between bouton types - a factor previously unaccounted for when examining CB1R changes in schizophrenia - may resolve prior discrepant reports and increase our insight into the effects of CB1R alterations on the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. Methods Using co-labeling immunohistochemistry and fluorescent microscopy, we examined total CB1R levels and CB1R levels within excitatory (vGlut1-positive) and inhibitory (vGAT-positive) boutons of prefrontal cortex samples from ten pairs of individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia and non-psychiatric comparisons. Results Significantly higher total CB1R levels were found within samples from individuals with schizophrenia. Terminal type-specific analyses identified significantly higher CB1R levels within excitatory boutons in samples from individuals with schizophrenia relative to comparisons. In contrast, CB1R levels within the subset of inhibitory boutons that normally express high CB1R levels (presumptive cholecystokinin neuron boutons) were lower in samples from individuals with schizophrenia relative to comparison samples. Conclusion Given CB1R's role in suppressing neurotransmission upon activation, these results suggest an overall shift in excitatory and inhibitory balance regulation toward a net reduction of excitatory activity in schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinnyi Chou
- Translational Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15261
| | - Kenneth N Fish
- Translational Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15261
| | - David A Lewis
- Translational Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15261
| | - Robert A Sweet
- Translational Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15261
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5
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Pak K, Kantonen T, Pekkarinen L, Nuutila P, Nummenmaa L. Association of CNR1 gene and cannabinoid 1 receptor protein in the human brain. J Neurosci Res 2023; 101:327-337. [PMID: 36440544 PMCID: PMC10100072 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.25149] [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: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
We aimed to integrate genomic mapping from brain mRNA atlas with the protein expression from positron emission tomography (PET) scans of type 1 cannabinoid (CB1) receptor and to compare the predictive power of CB1 receptor with those of other neuroreceptor/transporters using a meta-analysis. Volume of distribution (VT ) from F18-FMPEP-d2 PET scans, CNR1 gene (Cannabinoid receptor 1) expression, and H3-CP55940 binding were calculated and correlation analysis was performed. Between VT of F18-FMPEP-d2 PET scans and CNR1 mRNA expression, moderate strength of correlation was observed (rho = .5067, p = .0337). Strong positive correlation was also found between CNR1 mRNA expression and H3-CP55940 binding (r = .6336, p = .0364), validating the finding between F18-FMPEP-d2 PET scans and CNR1 mRNA. The correlation between VT of F18-FMPEP-d2 PET scans and H3-CP55940 binding was marginally significant (r = .5025, p = .0563). From the meta-analysis, the correlation coefficient between mRNA expression and protein expressions ranged from -.10 to .99, with a pooled effect of .76. In conclusion, we observed the moderate to strong associations between gene and protein expression for CB1 receptor in the human brain, which was validated by autoradiography. We combined the autoradiographic finding with PET of CB1 receptor, producing the density atlas map of CB1 receptor. From the meta-analysis, the moderate to strong correlation was observed between mRNA expression and protein expressions across multiple genes. Further study is needed to investigate the relationship between multiple genes and in vivo proteins to improve and accelerate drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyoungjune Pak
- Turku PET Centre, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland.,Department of Nuclear Medicine and Biomedical Research Institute, Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Tatu Kantonen
- Turku PET Centre, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland.,Clinical Neurosciences, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Laura Pekkarinen
- Turku PET Centre, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Pirjo Nuutila
- Turku PET Centre, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland.,Department of Endocrinology, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Lauri Nummenmaa
- Turku PET Centre, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland.,Department of Psychology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
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Royse SK, Lopresti BJ, Mathis CA, Tollefson S, Narendran R. Beyond monoamines: II. Novel applications for PET imaging in psychiatric disorders. J Neurochem 2023; 164:401-443. [PMID: 35716057 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15657] [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: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Early applications of positron emission tomography (PET) in psychiatry sought to identify derangements of cerebral blood flow and metabolism. The need for more specific neurochemical imaging probes was soon evident, and these probes initially targeted the sites of action of neuroleptic (dopamine D2 receptors) and psychoactive (serotonin receptors) drugs. For nearly 30 years, the centrality of monoamine dysfunction in psychiatric disorders drove the development of an armamentarium of monoaminergic PET radiopharmaceuticals and imaging methodologies. However, continued investments in monoamine-enhancing drug development realized only modest gains in efficacy and tolerability. As patent protection for many widely prescribed and profitable psychiatric drugs lapsed, drug development pipelines shifted away from monoamines in search of novel targets with the promises of improved efficacy, or abandoned altogether. Over this period, PET radiopharmaceutical development activities closely parallelled drug development priorities, resulting in the development of new PET imaging agents for non-monoamine targets. In part two of this review, we survey clinical research studies using the novel targets and radiotracers described in part one across major psychiatric application areas such as substance use disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, mood disorders, and schizophrenia. Important limitations of the studies described are discussed, as well as key methodologic issues, challenges to the field, and the status of clinical trials seeking to exploit these targets for novel therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah K Royse
- Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Brian J Lopresti
- Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Chester A Mathis
- Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Savannah Tollefson
- Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Rajesh Narendran
- Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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7
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Ferreira PC, Bellaver B, Povala G, Brum WS, Tissot C, Badji A, Sloan ME, Benedet AL, Rosa-Neto P, Ashton NJ, Pascoal TA, Leuzy A, Zimmer ER. Endocannabinoid System Biomarkers in Alzheimer's Disease. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2023; 8:77-91. [PMID: 36394442 PMCID: PMC10081722 DOI: 10.1089/can.2022.0151] [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] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Alterations in the endocannabinoid system (ES) have been described in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathophysiology. In the past years, multiple ES biomarkers have been developed, promising to advance our understanding of ES changes in AD. Discussion: ES biomarkers, including positron emission tomography with cannabinoid receptors tracers and biofluid-based endocannabinoids, are associated with AD disease progression and pathological features. Conclusion: Although not specific enough for AD diagnosis, ES biomarkers hold promise for prognosis, drug-target engagement, and a better understanding of the disease. Here, we summarize currently available ES biomarker findings and discuss their potential applications in the AD research field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pâmela C.L. Ferreira
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Department of Neurology and Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Bruna Bellaver
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Department of Neurology and Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Guilherme Povala
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Department of Neurology and Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Wagner S. Brum
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience & Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Cécile Tissot
- Department of Neurology and Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Translational Neuroimaging Laboratory, McGill University Research Centre for Studies in Aging, Alzheimer's Disease Research Unit, Douglas Research Institute, Le Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux (CIUSSS) de l'Ouest-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Psychiatry and Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Atef Badji
- Division of Clinical Geriatrics, Center for Alzheimer Research, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Karolinska University Hospital, Theme Aging, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Matthew E. Sloan
- Addictions Division, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Neurosciences and Clinical Translation, Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychological Clinical Science, University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andréa L. Benedet
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience & Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Mölndal, Sweden
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Pedro Rosa-Neto
- Translational Neuroimaging Laboratory, McGill University Research Centre for Studies in Aging, Alzheimer's Disease Research Unit, Douglas Research Institute, Le Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux (CIUSSS) de l'Ouest-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Psychiatry and Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Nicholas J. Ashton
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience & Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Mölndal, Sweden
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Maurice Wohl Institute Clinical Neuroscience Institute, London, United Kingdom
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre for Mental Health and Biomedical Research Unit for Dementia at South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tharick A. Pascoal
- Department of Neurology and Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Antoine Leuzy
- Clinical Memory Research Unit, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Eduardo R. Zimmer
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Translational Neuroimaging Laboratory, McGill University Research Centre for Studies in Aging, Alzheimer's Disease Research Unit, Douglas Research Institute, Le Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux (CIUSSS) de l'Ouest-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Pharmacology and Therapeutics, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Brain Institute of Rio Grande do Sul, PUCRS, Porto Alegre, Brazil
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D'Souza DC, DiForti M, Ganesh S, George TP, Hall W, Hjorthøj C, Howes O, Keshavan M, Murray RM, Nguyen TB, Pearlson GD, Ranganathan M, Selloni A, Solowij N, Spinazzola E. Consensus paper of the WFSBP task force on cannabis, cannabinoids and psychosis. World J Biol Psychiatry 2022; 23:719-742. [PMID: 35315315 DOI: 10.1080/15622975.2022.2038797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The liberalisation of cannabis laws, the increasing availability and potency of cannabis has renewed concern about the risk of psychosis with cannabis. METHODS The objective of the WFSBP task force was to review the literature about this relationship. RESULTS Converging lines of evidence suggest that exposure to cannabis increases the risk for psychoses ranging from transient psychotic states to chronic recurrent psychosis. The greater the dose, and the earlier the age of exposure, the greater the risk. For some psychosis outcomes, the evidence supports some of the criteria of causality. However, alternate explanations including reverse causality and confounders cannot be conclusively excluded. Furthermore, cannabis is neither necessary nor sufficient to cause psychosis. More likely it is one of the multiple causal components. In those with established psychosis, cannabis has a negative impact on the course and expression of the illness. Emerging evidence also suggests alterations in the endocannabinoid system in psychotic disorders. CONCLUSIONS Given that exposure to cannabis and cannabinoids is modifiable, delaying or eliminating exposure to cannabis or cannabinoids, could potentially impact the rates of psychosis related to cannabis, especially in those who are at high risk for developing the disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepak Cyril D'Souza
- Psychiatry Service, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA.,Abraham Ribicoff Research Facilities, Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven, CT, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Marta DiForti
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, London, UK.,South London and Maudsley NHS Mental Health Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Suhas Ganesh
- Psychiatry Service, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA.,Abraham Ribicoff Research Facilities, Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven, CT, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Tony P George
- Addictions Division and Centre for Complex Interventions, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Wayne Hall
- The National Centre for Youth Substance Use Research, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Carsten Hjorthøj
- Copenhagen Research Center for Mental Health - CORE, Mental Health Center Copenhagen, Copenhagen University, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Public Health, Section of Epidemiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Oliver Howes
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.,Institute for Clinical Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Matcheri Keshavan
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Massachusetts Mental Health Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Robin M Murray
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Timothy B Nguyen
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, London, UK.,Institute for Clinical Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Godfrey D Pearlson
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.,Olin Neuropsychiatry Ctr. Institute of Living, Hartford, CT, USA
| | - Mohini Ranganathan
- Psychiatry Service, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA.,Abraham Ribicoff Research Facilities, Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven, CT, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Alex Selloni
- Abraham Ribicoff Research Facilities, Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven, CT, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Nadia Solowij
- School of Psychology and Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,Australian Centre for Cannabinoid Clinical and Research Excellence (ACRE), New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Edoardo Spinazzola
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
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9
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Li X, Zhao G, Huang H, Ye J, Xu J, Zhou Y, Zhu X, Wang L, Wang F. Lifespan changes in cannabinoid 1 receptor mRNA expression in the female C57BL/6J mouse brain. J Comp Neurol 2022; 531:294-313. [PMID: 36240125 DOI: 10.1002/cne.25427] [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: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Many brain functions that underlie behavior, cognition, and emotions vary with age, as does susceptibility to neuropsychological disorders. The expression of specific genes that are involved in these functions, such as the genes encoding for oxytocin, its receptors, and apolipoprotein D, varies with age across different brain regions. The cannabinoid 1 receptor (CB1 R) is one of the most widely spread G-protein coupled receptors in the central nervous system and is increasingly recognized for its important contribution to various brain functions. Although changes in CB1 R expression with age have been reported in the male mouse brain, they have not been well investigated in the female brain. Here, we used fluorescence in situ hybridization to target CB1 R mRNA in the whole brains of female C57BL/6J mice aged 4, 6, 12, 52 (12 months) and 86 weeks (20 months), and quantified CB1 R-positive cells in 36 brain regions across the whole brain. The results showed that CB1 R-positive cells number changed with age. Specifically, CB1 R expression increased with age in some subregions of the cortex, decreased with age in the lateral septal area, and reached its lowest level at 52 weeks in the thalamus, hypothalamus, and hindbrain subregions. Cluster analysis revealed that some brain regions shared similar temporal characteristics in CB1 R-positive cell number across the lifespan. Our results provide evidence that investigation of the neural basis of age-related characteristics of female brain functions is not only warranted but required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xulin Li
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Translational Research for Brain Diseases, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, the Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, 518055, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Gaoyang Zhao
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Translational Research for Brain Diseases, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, the Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, 518055, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hongren Huang
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Translational Research for Brain Diseases, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, the Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, 518055, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jialin Ye
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Translational Research for Brain Diseases, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, the Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, 518055, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Junfeng Xu
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Translational Research for Brain Diseases, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, the Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, 518055, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan Zhou
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Translational Research for Brain Diseases, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, the Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, 518055, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaojuan Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Epigenetics, Ministry of Education, Institute of Genetics and Cytology, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China
| | - Liping Wang
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Translational Research for Brain Diseases, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, the Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Translational Research for Brain Diseases, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, the Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, 518055, China
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10
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Gunasekera B, Diederen K, Bhattacharyya S. Cannabinoids, reward processing, and psychosis. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2022; 239:1157-1177. [PMID: 33644820 PMCID: PMC9110536 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-021-05801-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence suggests that an overlap exists between the neurobiology of psychotic disorders and the effects of cannabinoids on neurocognitive and neurochemical substrates involved in reward processing. AIMS We investigate whether the psychotomimetic effects of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and the antipsychotic potential of cannabidiol (CBD) are underpinned by their effects on the reward system and dopamine. METHODS This narrative review focuses on the overlap between altered dopamine signalling and reward processing induced by cannabinoids, pre-clinically and in humans. A systematic search was conducted of acute cannabinoid drug-challenge studies using neuroimaging in healthy subjects and those with psychosis RESULTS: There is evidence of increased striatal presynaptic dopamine synthesis and release in psychosis, as well as abnormal engagement of the striatum during reward processing. Although, acute THC challenges have elicited a modest effect on striatal dopamine, cannabis users generally indicate impaired presynaptic dopaminergic function. Functional MRI studies have identified that a single dose of THC may modulate regions involved in reward and salience processing such as the striatum, midbrain, insular, and anterior cingulate, with some effects correlating with the severity of THC-induced psychotic symptoms. CBD may modulate brain regions involved in reward/salience processing in an opposite direction to that of THC. CONCLUSIONS There is evidence to suggest modulation of reward processing and its neural substrates by THC and CBD. Whether such effects underlie the psychotomimetic/antipsychotic effects of these cannabinoids remains unclear. Future research should address these unanswered questions to understand the relationship between endocannabinoid dysfunction, reward processing abnormalities, and psychosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon Gunasekera
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, Box P067, London, SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Kelly Diederen
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, Box P067, London, SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Sagnik Bhattacharyya
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, Box P067, London, SE5 8AF, UK.
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11
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Molecular Alterations of the Endocannabinoid System in Psychiatric Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23094764. [PMID: 35563156 PMCID: PMC9104141 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The therapeutic benefits of the current medications for patients with psychiatric disorders contrast with a great variety of adverse effects. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) components have gained high interest as potential new targets for treating psychiatry diseases because of their neuromodulator role, which is essential to understanding the regulation of many brain functions. This article reviewed the molecular alterations in ECS occurring in different psychiatric conditions. The methods used to identify alterations in the ECS were also described. We used a translational approach. The animal models reproducing some behavioral and/or neurochemical aspects of psychiatric disorders and the molecular alterations in clinical studies in post-mortem brain tissue or peripheral tissues were analyzed. This article reviewed the most relevant ECS changes in prevalent psychiatric diseases such as mood disorders, schizophrenia, autism, attentional deficit, eating disorders (ED), and addiction. The review concludes that clinical research studies are urgently needed for two different purposes: (1) To identify alterations of the ECS components potentially useful as new biomarkers relating to a specific disease or condition, and (2) to design new therapeutic targets based on the specific alterations found to improve the pharmacological treatment in psychiatry.
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12
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Inflammation and Nitro-oxidative Stress as Drivers of Endocannabinoid System Aberrations in Mood Disorders and Schizophrenia. Mol Neurobiol 2022; 59:3485-3503. [PMID: 35347586 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-02800-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is composed of the endocannabinoid ligands anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylgycerol (2-AG), their target cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) and the enzymes involved in their synthesis and metabolism (N-acyltransferase and fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) in the case of AEA and diacylglycerol lipase (DAGL) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) in the case of 2-AG). The origins of ECS dysfunction in major neuropsychiatric disorders remain to be determined, and this paper explores the possibility that they may be associated with chronically increased nitro-oxidative stress and activated immune-inflammatory pathways, and it examines the mechanisms which might be involved. Inflammation and nitro-oxidative stress are associated with both increased CB1 expression, via increased activity of the NADPH oxidases NOX4 and NOX1, and increased CNR1 expression and DNA methylation; and CB2 upregulation via increased pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, binding of the transcription factor Nrf2 to an antioxidant response element in the CNR2 promoter region and the action of miR-139. CB1 and CB2 have antagonistic effects on redox signalling, which may result from a miRNA-enabled negative feedback loop. The effects of inflammation and oxidative stress are detailed in respect of AEA and 2-AG levels, via effects on calcium homeostasis and phospholipase A2 activity; on FAAH activity, via nitrosylation/nitration of functional cysteine and/or tyrosine residues; and on 2-AG activity via effects on MGLL expression and MAGL. Finally, based on these detailed molecular neurobiological mechanisms, it is suggested that cannabidiol and dimethyl fumarate may have therapeutic potential for major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
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13
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Chand GB, Jiang H, Miller JP, Rhodes CH, Tu Z, Wong DF. Differential Sphingosine-1-Phosphate Receptor-1 Protein Expression in the Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex Between Schizophrenia Type 1 and Type 2. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:827981. [PMID: 35350429 PMCID: PMC8957823 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.827981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the etiology and treatment approaches in schizophrenia is challenged in part by the heterogeneity of this disorder. One encouraging progress is the growing evidence that there are subtypes of schizophrenia. Recent in vitro findings of messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) gene expression on postmortem dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) showed that schizophrenia has two subtypes, those with a relatively normal DLPFC transcriptome (Type 1) and those with differentially expressed genes (Type 2). Sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor-1 (S1PR1) is one of the genes that was highly upregulated in Type 2 compared to Type 1 and controls. The impact of that finding is limited because it only can be confirmed through analysis of autopsy tissue, and the clinical characteristics such as symptoms severity or illness duration except for cause of death was not available from that Medical Examiner based autopsy study. However, S1PR1 has great potential because it is a target gene that can be accessed via positron emission tomography (PET) in vivo using specific radioligands (starting with [11C]CS1P1) successfully developed at our center in human brain imaging. As a preliminary study to validate this PET target in schizophrenia, S1PR1 protein expression was assessed by receptor autoradiography (ARG) using [3H]CS1P1 and immunohistochemistry (IHC) in the DLPFC from patients with schizophrenia classified as Type 1 or Type 2 based on their DLPFC transcriptomes and from controls. Our analyses demonstrate that ARG S1PR1 protein expression is significantly higher in Type 2 compared to Type 1 (p < 0.05) and controls (p < 0.05), which was consistent with previous mRNA S1PR1. These findings support the possibility that PET S1PR1 can be used as a future imaging biomarker to distinguish these subgroups of schizophrenic patients during life with obvious implications for both patient management and the design of clinical trials to validate novel pharmacologic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ganesh B. Chand
- Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Hao Jiang
- Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - J. Philip Miller
- Division of Biostatistics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | | | - Zhude Tu
- Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Dean Foster Wong
- Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Neuroscience, and Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
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14
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Seillier A. The endocannabinoid system as a therapeutic target for schizophrenia: Failures and potentials. Neurosci Lett 2021; 759:136064. [PMID: 34146641 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2021.136064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Owing to its psychotropic effects, Cannabis has been stigmatized by its recreational use leading to a dramatic decline in the experimentations about its medical use in the twentieth century. The medical properties of the plant - known since ancient times - have received increased attention over recent years; yet, the research on its potential application in the field of psychiatry is still nascent. In this connection, the non-psychotropic cannabidiol (CBD) has emerged as a phytocannabinoid compound with promising antipsychotic effects. In addition, advances in our understanding of the endocannabinoid system, along with accumulating evidence implicating this system in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia, have stimulated research by the pharmaceutical industry to explore whether alteration of this system can be of medical benefit. This review examines the current state of evidence regarding the clinical potential of cannabinoid-based drugs as a treatment for schizophrenia, while discussing various limitations with the therapeutic approaches considered so far. In the second part, the author highlights the most promising strategies, as well as the most interesting directions one could follow, in the emerging field of cannabinoid therapies for schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Seillier
- RP1 Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Topolova 748, 250 67 Klecany, Prague East, Czech Republic.
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15
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Morris G, Walder K, Kloiber S, Amminger P, Berk M, Bortolasci CC, Maes M, Puri BK, Carvalho AF. The endocannabinoidome in neuropsychiatry: Opportunities and potential risks. Pharmacol Res 2021; 170:105729. [PMID: 34119623 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) comprises two cognate endocannabinoid receptors referred to as CB1R and CB2R. ECS dysregulation is apparent in neurodegenerative/neuro-psychiatric disorders including but not limited to schizophrenia, major depressive disorder and potentially bipolar disorder. The aim of this paper is to review mechanisms whereby both receptors may interact with neuro-immune and neuro-oxidative pathways, which play a pathophysiological role in these disorders. CB1R is located in the presynaptic terminals of GABAergic, glutamatergic, cholinergic, noradrenergic and serotonergic neurons where it regulates the retrograde suppression of neurotransmission. CB1R plays a key role in long-term depression, and, to a lesser extent, long-term potentiation, thereby modulating synaptic transmission and mediating learning and memory. Optimal CB1R activity plays an essential neuroprotective role by providing a defense against the development of glutamate-mediated excitotoxicity, which is achieved, at least in part, by impeding AMPA-mediated increase in intracellular calcium overload and oxidative stress. Moreover, CB1R activity enables optimal neuron-glial communication and the function of the neurovascular unit. CB2R receptors are detected in peripheral immune cells and also in central nervous system regions including the striatum, basal ganglia, frontal cortex, hippocampus, amygdala as well as the ventral tegmental area. CB2R upregulation inhibits the presynaptic release of glutamate in several brain regions. CB2R activation also decreases neuroinflammation partly by mediating the transition from a predominantly neurotoxic "M1" microglial phenotype to a more neuroprotective "M2" phenotype. CB1R and CB2R are thus novel drug targets for the treatment of neuro-immune and neuro-oxidative disorders including schizophrenia and affective disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerwyn Morris
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - Ken Walder
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia; Deakin University, Centre for Molecular and Medical Research, School of Medicine, Geelong, Australia
| | - Stefan Kloiber
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Ursula Franklin Street, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Paul Amminger
- Orygen, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael Berk
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia; Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Centre for Youth Mental Health, Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health and the Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Chiara C Bortolasci
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - Michael Maes
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia; Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand; Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | | | - Andre F Carvalho
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia.
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16
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Endocannabinoid system in psychotic and mood disorders, a review of human studies. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 106:110096. [PMID: 32898588 PMCID: PMC8582009 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.110096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Despite widespread evidence of endocannabinoid system involvement in the pathophysiology of psychiatric disorders, our understanding remains rudimentary. Here we review studies of the endocannabinoid system in humans with psychotic and mood disorders. Postmortem, peripheral, cerebrospinal fluid and in vivo imaging studies provide evidence for the involvement of the endocannabinoid system in psychotic and mood disorders. Psychotic disorders and major depressive disorder exhibit alterations of brain cannabinoid CB1 receptors and peripheral blood endocannabinoids. Further, these changes may be sensitive to treatment status, disease state, and symptom severity. Evidence from psychotic disorder extend to endocannabinoid metabolizing enzymes in the brain and periphery, whereas these lines of evidence remain poorly developed in mood disorders. A paucity of studies examining this system in bipolar disorder represents a notable gap in the literature. Despite a growing body of productive work in this field of research, there is a clear need for investigation beyond the CB1 receptor in order to more fully elucidate the role of the endocannabinoid system in psychotic and mood disorders.
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17
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Appiah-Kusi E, Wilson R, Colizzi M, Foglia E, Klamerus E, Caldwell A, Bossong MG, McGuire P, Bhattacharyya S. Childhood trauma and being at-risk for psychosis are associated with higher peripheral endocannabinoids. Psychol Med 2020; 50:1862-1871. [PMID: 31422779 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291719001946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence has been accumulating regarding alterations in components of the endocannabinoid system in patients with psychosis. Of all the putative risk factors associated with psychosis, being at clinical high-risk for psychosis (CHR) has the strongest association with the onset of psychosis, and exposure to childhood trauma has been linked to an increased risk of development of psychotic disorder. We aimed to investigate whether being at-risk for psychosis and exposure to childhood trauma were associated with altered endocannabinoid levels. METHOD We compared 33 CHR participants with 58 healthy controls (HC) and collected information about previous exposure to childhood trauma as well as plasma samples to analyse endocannabinoid levels. RESULTS Individuals with both CHR and experience of childhood trauma had higher N-palmitoylethanolamine (p < 0.001) and anandamide (p < 0.001) levels in peripheral blood compared to HC and those with no childhood trauma. There was also a significant correlation between N-palmitoylethanolamine levels and symptoms as well as childhood trauma. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest an association between CHR and/or childhood maltreatment and elevated endocannabinoid levels in peripheral blood, with a greater alteration in those with both CHR status and history of childhood maltreatment compared to those with either of those risks alone. Furthermore, endocannabinoid levels increased linearly with the number of risk factors and elevated endocannabinoid levels correlated with the severity of CHR symptoms and extent of childhood maltreatment. Further studies in larger cohorts, employing longitudinal designs are needed to confirm these findings and delineate the precise role of endocannabinoid alterations in the pathophysiology of psychosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Appiah-Kusi
- Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN), Box PO 63, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, LondonSE5 8AF, UK
| | - R Wilson
- Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN), Box PO 63, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, LondonSE5 8AF, UK
| | - M Colizzi
- Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN), Box PO 63, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, LondonSE5 8AF, UK
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Policlinico 'G. B. Rossi', P.le L.A. Scuro 10, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - E Foglia
- Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN), Box PO 63, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, LondonSE5 8AF, UK
| | - E Klamerus
- Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN), Box PO 63, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, LondonSE5 8AF, UK
| | - A Caldwell
- King's College London, Mass Spectometry Facility, Franklin Wilkins Building, 150 Stamford Street, London, SE1 9NH, UK
| | - M G Bossong
- Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN), Box PO 63, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, LondonSE5 8AF, UK
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Center Utrecht Brain Center, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - P McGuire
- Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN), Box PO 63, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, LondonSE5 8AF, UK
| | - S Bhattacharyya
- Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN), Box PO 63, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, LondonSE5 8AF, UK
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18
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The Cannabinoid CB 1 Receptor in Schizophrenia. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY: COGNITIVE NEUROSCIENCE AND NEUROIMAGING 2020; 6:646-659. [PMID: 33077399 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsc.2020.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Converging lines of evidence from epidemiological, preclinical, and experimental studies indicate that the endocannabinoid system may be involved in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia and suggest that the cannabinoid CB1 receptor may be a potential therapeutic target. In view of this, we first provide an overview of the endocannabinoid system and systematically review the evidence for CB1 receptor alterations in animal models of schizophrenia and clinical studies in schizophrenia. MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycArticles, and PsycINFO were systematically searched from inception until January 7, 2020. Of 1187 articles, 24 were included in the systematic review, including 8 preclinical studies measuring the CB1 receptor in the context of an established animal model of schizophrenia and 16 clinical studies investigating the CB1 receptor in schizophrenia. The majority of preclinical studies (6 of 8) have shown that the CB1 receptor is reduced in the context of animal models of schizophrenia. Moreover, the majority of in vivo clinical imaging studies that used arterial blood sampling to quantify the radiotracer kinetics (3 of 4) have shown reduced CB1 receptor availability in schizophrenia. However, mixed findings have been reported in ex vivo literature, including reports of no change in receptor levels (5 of 11), increased receptor levels (4 of 11), and decreased receptor levels (2 of 11). We review methodological reasons for these discrepancies and review how CB1 receptor dysfunction may contribute to the pathophysiology of schizophrenia, drawing on the role of the receptor in regulating synaptic transmission and synaptic plasticity. We also discuss how the CB1 receptor may be a potential therapeutic target.
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Zamberletti E, Rubino T. Impact of Endocannabinoid System Manipulation on Neurodevelopmental Processes Relevant to Schizophrenia. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY: COGNITIVE NEUROSCIENCE AND NEUROIMAGING 2020; 6:616-626. [PMID: 32855107 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsc.2020.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The neurodevelopmental hypothesis of schizophrenia has received much support from epidemiological and neuropathological studies and provides a framework to explain how early developmental abnormalities might manifest as psychosis in early adulthood. According to this theory, the onset of schizophrenia is likely the result of a complex interplay between a genetic predisposition and environmental factors whose respective influence might contribute to the etiology and progression of the disorder. The two most sensitive windows for neurodevelopment are the prenatal/perinatal and the adolescent windows, both of which are characterized by specific processes impinging upon brain structure and functionality, whose alterations may contribute to the onset of schizophrenia. An increasing number of articles suggest the involvement of the endocannabinoid system in the modulation of at least some of these processes, especially in the prenatal/perinatal window. Thus, it is not surprising that disturbing the physiological role of endocannabinoid signaling in these sensitive windows might alter the correct formation of neuronal networks, eventually predisposing to neuropsychiatric diseases later in life. We review the most recent preclinical studies that evaluated the impact of endocannabinoid system modulation in the two sensitive developmental windows on neurodevelopmental processes that possess a specific relevance to schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Zamberletti
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Varese, Italy
| | - Tiziana Rubino
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Varese, Italy.
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20
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Navarrete F, García-Gutiérrez MS, Jurado-Barba R, Rubio G, Gasparyan A, Austrich-Olivares A, Manzanares J. Endocannabinoid System Components as Potential Biomarkers in Psychiatry. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:315. [PMID: 32395111 PMCID: PMC7197485 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The high heterogeneity of psychiatric disorders leads to a lack of diagnostic precision. Therefore, the search of biomarkers is a fundamental aspect in psychiatry to reach a more personalized medicine. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) has gained increasing interest due to its involvement in many different functional processes in the brain, including the regulation of emotions, motivation, and cognition. This article reviews the role of the main components of the ECS as biomarkers in certain psychiatric disorders. Studies carried out in rodents evaluating the effects of pharmacological and genetic manipulation of cannabinoid receptors or endocannabinoids (eCBs) degrading enzymes were included. Likewise, the ECS-related alterations occurring at the molecular level in animal models reproducing some behavioral and/or neuropathological aspects of psychiatric disorders were reviewed. Furthermore, clinical studies evaluating gene or protein alterations in post-mortem brain tissue or in vivo blood, plasma, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples were analyzed. Also, the results from neuroimaging studies using positron emission tomography (PET) or functional magnetic resonance (fMRI) were included. This review shows the close involvement of cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1r) in stress regulation and the development of mood disorders [anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder (BD)], in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as in the etiopathogenesis of schizophrenia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or eating disorders (i.e. anorexia and bulimia nervosa). On the other hand, recent results reveal the potential therapeutic action of the endocannabinoid tone manipulation by inhibition of eCBs degrading enzymes, as well as by the modulation of cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2r) activity on anxiolytic, antidepressive, or antipsychotic associated effects. Further clinical research studies are needed; however, current evidence suggests that the components of the ECS may become promising biomarkers in psychiatry to improve, at least in part, the diagnosis and pharmacological treatment of psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Navarrete
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Alicante, Spain.,Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Salud García-Gutiérrez
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Alicante, Spain.,Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rosa Jurado-Barba
- Instituto de Investigación i+12, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain.,Servicio de Psiquiatría, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain.,Departamento de Psicología, Facultad de Educación y Salud, Universidad Camilo José Cela, Madrid, Spain
| | - Gabriel Rubio
- Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación i+12, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain.,Servicio de Psiquiatría, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Psychiatry, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ani Gasparyan
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Alicante, Spain.,Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Jorge Manzanares
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Alicante, Spain.,Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
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21
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Borgan F, Laurikainen H, Veronese M, Marques TR, Haaparanta-Solin M, Solin O, Dahoun T, Rogdaki M, Salokangas RKR, Karukivi M, Di Forti M, Turkheimer F, Hietala J, Howes O. In Vivo Availability of Cannabinoid 1 Receptor Levels in Patients With First-Episode Psychosis. JAMA Psychiatry 2019; 76:1074-1084. [PMID: 31268519 PMCID: PMC6613300 DOI: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2019.1427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Experimental and epidemiological studies implicate the cannabinoid 1 receptor (CB1R) in the pathophysiology of psychosis. However, whether CB1R levels are altered in the early stages of psychosis and whether they are linked to cognitive function or symptom severity remain unknown. OBJECTIVE To investigate CB1R availability in first-episode psychosis (FEP) without the confounds of illness chronicity or the use of illicit substances or antipsychotics. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This cross-sectional, case-control study of 2 independent samples included participants receiving psychiatric early intervention services at 2 independent centers in Turku, Finland (study 1) and London, United Kingdom (study 2). Study 1 consisted of 18 volunteers, including 7 patients with affective or nonaffective psychoses taking antipsychotic medication and 11 matched controls; study 2, 40 volunteers, including 20 antipsychotic-naive or antipsychotic-free patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder and 20 matched controls. Data were collected from January 5, 2015, through September 26, 2018, and analyzed from June 20, 2016, through February 12, 2019. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The availability of CB1R was indexed using the distribution volume (VT, in milliliters per cubic centimeter) of 2 CB1R-selective positron emission tomography radiotracers: fluoride 18-labeled FMPEP-d2 (study 1) and carbon 11-labeled MePPEP (study 2). Cognitive function was measured using the Wechsler Digit Symbol Coding Test. Symptom severity was measured using the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale for study 1 and the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale for study 2. RESULTS A total of 58 male individuals were included in the analyses (mean [SD] age of controls, 27.16 [5.93] years; mean [SD] age of patients, 26.96 [4.55] years). In study 1, 7 male patients with FEP (mean [SD] age, 26.80 [5.40] years) were compared with 11 matched controls (mean [SD] age, 27.18 [5.86] years); in study 2, 20 male patients with FEP (mean [SD] age, 27.00 [5.06] years) were compared with 20 matched controls (mean [SD] age, 27.15 [6.12] years). In study 1, a significant main effect of group on [18F]FMPEP-d2 VT was found in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) (t16 = -4.48; P < .001; Hedges g = 1.2), hippocampus (t16 = -2.98; P = .006; Hedges g = 1.4), striatum (t16 = -4.08; P = .001; Hedges g = 1.9), and thalamus (t16 = -4.67; P < .001; Hedges g = 1.4). In study 2, a significant main effect of group on [11C]MePPEP VT was found in the ACC (Hedges g = 0.8), hippocampus (Hedges g = 0.5), striatum (Hedges g = 0.4), and thalamus (Hedges g = 0.7). In patients, [11C]MePPEP VT in the ACC was positively associated with cognitive functioning (R = 0.60; P = .01), and [11C]MePPEP VT in the hippocampus was inversely associated with Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale total symptom severity (R = -0.50; P = .02). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE The availability of CB1R was lower in antipsychotic-treated and untreated cohorts relative to matched controls. Exploratory analyses indicated that greater reductions in CB1R levels were associated with greater symptom severity and poorer cognitive functioning in male patients. These findings suggest that CB1R may be a potential target for the treatment of psychotic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faith Borgan
- Psychosis Studies Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom,MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Heikki Laurikainen
- Turku PET (Positron Emission Tomography) Centre, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Mattia Veronese
- Centre for Neuroimaging Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tiago Reis Marques
- Psychosis Studies Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom,MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Merja Haaparanta-Solin
- Turku PET (Positron Emission Tomography) Centre, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Olof Solin
- Turku PET (Positron Emission Tomography) Centre, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Tarik Dahoun
- MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom,Institute of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, United Kingdom,Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Maria Rogdaki
- MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Raimo KR Salokangas
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Max Karukivi
- Department of Psychiatry, Turku University, Satakunta Hospital District, Turku, Finland
| | - Marta Di Forti
- Psychosis Studies Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Federico Turkheimer
- Centre for Neuroimaging Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jarmo Hietala
- Turku PET (Positron Emission Tomography) Centre, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Oliver Howes
- Psychosis Studies Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom,MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom,Institute of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, United Kingdom
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22
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Muguruza C, Morentin B, Meana JJ, Alexander SP, Callado LF. Endocannabinoid system imbalance in the postmortem prefrontal cortex of subjects with schizophrenia. J Psychopharmacol 2019; 33:1132-1140. [PMID: 31237179 DOI: 10.1177/0269881119857205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The endocannabinoid system - comprising cannabinoid receptors, endocannabinoid ligands and their synthesis and inactivation enzymes - has been widely implicated in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. However, little is known regarding the status of the different elements of the endocannabinoid system in the brain of schizophrenic patients. We have previously reported altered endocannabinoid levels in the postmortem brain of subjects with schizophrenia compared with matched controls. AIMS Our aim was to further examine the status of the main elements of the endocannabinoid system in the postmortem prefrontal cortex of the same cohort of subjects. METHODS Gene expression and function of the cannabinoid receptor type-1 (CB1) and the endocannabinoid degrading enzymes fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) have been assessed. RESULTS A significant decrease in CB1 mRNA levels in schizophrenia was found, without alteration of FAAH or MAGL mRNA expression. Moreover, positive correlations among mRNA expressions of the three genes studied were found in the prefrontal cortex of controls but not in schizophrenic subjects. No alteration was found in CB1 receptor mediated functional coupling to G-proteins, but a significant increase of FAAH activity was found in schizophrenic subjects compared with controls. 2-arachidonoylglycerol levels and MAGL activity were found to positively correlate in controls but not in schizophrenic subjects. CONCLUSIONS The present findings reveal an imbalance in the expression and function of different elements of the endocannabinoid system in schizophrenia. This outcome highlights the relevance of the endocannabinoid system in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia and emphasises its elements as potential targets in the search for new therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Muguruza
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Spain
| | - Benito Morentin
- Section of Forensic Pathology, Basque Institute of Legal Medicine, Bilbao, Spain
| | - J Javier Meana
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Spain.,Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Stephen Ph Alexander
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham Medical School, Nottingham, UK
| | - Luis F Callado
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Spain.,Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
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23
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Affiliation(s)
- David W Volk
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Veterans Integrated Service Network 4 Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - David A Lewis
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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24
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Jacobson MR, Watts JJ, Boileau I, Tong J, Mizrahi R. A systematic review of phytocannabinoid exposure on the endocannabinoid system: Implications for psychosis. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2019; 29:330-348. [PMID: 30635160 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2018.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2017] [Revised: 07/17/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis, the most widely used illicit drug worldwide, produces psychoactive effects through its component cannabinoids, which act on the endocannabinoid system. Research on how cannabinoid exposure affects the endocannabinoid system is limited. Substantial evidence indicates cannabis use as a risk factor for psychosis, and the mechanism(s) by which this is occurring is/are currently unknown. Here, we conduct the first review of the effects of exogenous cannabinoids on the endocannabinoid system in humans with and without psychotic disorders. The most well established finding is the down-regulation of cannabinoid CB1 receptors (CB1R) after chronic and recent cannabis exposure, but it remains uncertain whether this effect is present in cannabis users with schizophrenia. We highlight where cannabis exposure affects the endocannabinoid system in a pattern that may mirror what is seen in psychosis, and how further research can push this field forward. In these times of changing cannabis legislation, research highlighting the biological effects of cannabinoids is greatly needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya R Jacobson
- Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College St., Toronto, Ontario M5T 1R8, Canada; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, 1 King's College Circle, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada.
| | - Jeremy J Watts
- Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College St., Toronto, Ontario M5T 1R8, Canada; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, 1 King's College Circle, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada.
| | - Isabelle Boileau
- Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College St., Toronto, Ontario M5T 1R8, Canada; Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, 250 College St., Toronto, Ontario M5T 1R8, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, 250 College St., Toronto, Ontario M5T 1R8, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, 1 King's College Circle, University of Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada.
| | - Junchao Tong
- Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College St., Toronto, Ontario M5T 1R8, Canada; Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, 250 College St., Toronto, Ontario M5T 1R8, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, 250 College St., Toronto, Ontario M5T 1R8, Canada.
| | - Romina Mizrahi
- Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College St., Toronto, Ontario M5T 1R8, Canada; Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, 250 College St., Toronto, Ontario M5T 1R8, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, 250 College St., Toronto, Ontario M5T 1R8, Canada; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, 1 King's College Circle, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, 1 King's College Circle, University of Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada.
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25
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The endocannabinoid system in mental disorders: Evidence from human brain studies. Biochem Pharmacol 2018; 157:97-107. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2018.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Accepted: 07/12/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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26
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Laurikainen H, Tuominen L, Tikka M, Merisaari H, Armio RL, Sormunen E, Borgan F, Veronese M, Howes O, Haaparanta-Solin M, Solin O, Hietala J. Sex difference in brain CB1 receptor availability in man. Neuroimage 2018; 184:834-842. [PMID: 30296558 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2018.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Revised: 09/20/2018] [Accepted: 10/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) has a widespread neuromodulatory function in the central nervous system and is involved in important aspects of brain function including brain development, cortical rhythms, plasticity, reward, and stress sensitivity. Many of these effects are mediated via the cannabinoid CB1 receptor (CB1R) subtype. Animal studies convincingly show an interaction between the ECS and sex hormones, as well as a sex difference of higher brain CB1R in males. Human in vivo studies of sex difference have yielded discrepant findings. Gender differences in CB1R availability were investigated in vivo in 11 male and 11 female healthy volunteers using a specific CB1R tracer [18F]FMPEP-d2 and positron emission tomography (PET). Regional [18F]FMPEP-d2 distribution volume was used as a proxy for CB1R availability. In addition, we explored whether CB1R availability is linked to neuropsychological functioning. Relative to females, CB1R availability was on average 41% higher in males (p = 0.002) with a regionally specific effect larger in the posterior cingulate and retrosplenial cortices (p = 0.001). Inter-subject variability in CB1R availability was similar in both groups. Voxel-based analyses revealed an inverse association between CB1R availability and visuospatial working memory task performance in both groups (p < 0.001). A CB1R sex difference with a large effect size was observed and should be considered in the design of CB1R-related studies on neuropsychiatric disorders. The behavioural correlates and clinical significance of this difference remain to be further elucidated, but our studies suggest an association between CB1R availability and working memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heikki Laurikainen
- Turku PET Centre, Turku University Hospital, Finland; Department of Psychiatry, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Finland
| | - Lauri Tuominen
- Turku PET Centre, Turku University Hospital, Finland; Department of Psychiatry, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Finland; Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Maria Tikka
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Finland
| | | | - Reetta-Liina Armio
- Turku PET Centre, Turku University Hospital, Finland; Department of Psychiatry, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Finland
| | - Elina Sormunen
- Turku PET Centre, Turku University Hospital, Finland; Department of Psychiatry, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Finland
| | - Faith Borgan
- Psychosis Studies Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, UK
| | - Mattia Veronese
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, UK
| | - Oliver Howes
- Psychosis Studies Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, UK
| | | | - Olof Solin
- Turku PET Centre, Turku University Hospital, Finland
| | - Jarmo Hietala
- Turku PET Centre, Turku University Hospital, Finland; Department of Psychiatry, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Finland.
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27
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Sami MB, Bhattacharyya S. Are cannabis-using and non-using patients different groups? Towards understanding the neurobiology of cannabis use in psychotic disorders. J Psychopharmacol 2018; 32:825-849. [PMID: 29591635 PMCID: PMC6058406 DOI: 10.1177/0269881118760662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
A substantial body of credible evidence has accumulated that suggest that cannabis use is an important potentially preventable risk factor for the development of psychotic illness and its worse prognosis following the onset of psychosis. Here we summarize the relevant evidence to argue that the time has come to investigate the neurobiological effects of cannabis in patients with psychotic disorders. In the first section we summarize evidence from longitudinal studies that controlled for a range of potential confounders of the association of cannabis use with increased risk of developing psychotic disorders, increased risk of hospitalization, frequent and longer hospital stays, and failure of treatment with medications for psychosis in those with established illness. Although some evidence has emerged that cannabis-using and non-using patients with psychotic disorders may have distinct patterns of neurocognitive and neurodevelopmental impairments, the biological underpinnings of the effects of cannabis remain to be fully elucidated. In the second and third sections we undertake a systematic review of 70 studies, including over 3000 patients with psychotic disorders or at increased risk of psychotic disorder, in order to delineate potential neurobiological and neurochemical mechanisms that may underlie the effects of cannabis in psychotic disorders and suggest avenues for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Musa Basseer Sami
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, UK
- Lambeth Early Onset Inpatient Unit, Lambeth Hospital, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Sagnik Bhattacharyya
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, UK
- Lambeth Early Onset Inpatient Unit, Lambeth Hospital, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, UK
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28
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Role of the Endocannabinoid System in the Pathophysiology of Schizophrenia: Implications for Pharmacological Intervention. CNS Drugs 2018; 32:605-619. [PMID: 30022465 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-018-0539-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The term schizophrenia describes a group of multifaceted psychiatric conditions causing significant impairment of the quality of life of affected patients. Although multiple pharmacological treatment options exist, e.g. first- or second-generation antipsychotics, these therapeutics often cause disturbing side effects, such as extrapyramidal symptoms, prolactin increase, sexual dysfunction and/or metabolic syndrome. Furthermore, cognitive impairments and negative symptoms, two factors significantly influencing the course and outcome, are not sufficiently addressed by the available antipsychotics. Since its discovery, multiple clinical and preclinical studies have linked the endocannabinoid system to schizophrenia. Both the endocannabinoid anandamide and the cannabinoid CB1 receptor are deeply linked to underlying disease processes. Based hereon, clinical trials in schizophrenia have explored cannabidiol, a primary component of Cannabis sativa, and rimonabant, a partial antagonist to the CB1 receptor. While the latter did not reveal positive results, cannabidiol significantly ameliorated psychotic symptoms, which was associated with an increase in anandamide serum levels. However, the exact mechanisms of the antipsychotic effects of cannabidiol are not fully understood, and, furthermore, only a limited number of clinical trials in humans have been concluded to date. Thus, the level of proof of safety and efficacy required to approve the therapeutic use of cannabidiol in schizophrenia is currently lacking. However, cannabidiol is a promising candidate as an effective and mechanistically different antipsychotic treatment with a favourable side-effect profile. We therefore conclude that further studies are urgently needed to clarify the antipsychotic effects and safety profile of cannabidiol, and to fully explore its potential antipsychotic mechanism.
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29
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Cooper A, Singh S, Hook S, Tyndall JDA, Vernall AJ. Chemical Tools for Studying Lipid-Binding Class A G Protein-Coupled Receptors. Pharmacol Rev 2017; 69:316-353. [PMID: 28655732 DOI: 10.1124/pr.116.013243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2016] [Accepted: 05/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoid, free fatty acid, lysophosphatidic acid, sphingosine 1-phosphate, prostanoid, leukotriene, bile acid, and platelet-activating factor receptor families are class A G protein-coupled receptors with endogenous lipid ligands. Pharmacological tools are crucial for studying these receptors and addressing the many unanswered questions surrounding expression of these receptors in normal and diseased tissues. An inherent challenge for developing tools for these lipid receptors is balancing the often lipophilic requirements of the receptor-binding pharmacophore with favorable physicochemical properties to optimize highly specific binding. In this study, we review the radioligands, fluorescent ligands, covalent ligands, and antibodies that have been used to study these lipid-binding receptors. For each tool type, the characteristics and design rationale along with in vitro and in vivo applications are detailed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Cooper
- School of Pharmacy, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Sameek Singh
- School of Pharmacy, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Sarah Hook
- School of Pharmacy, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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30
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D'Addario C, Micale V, Di Bartolomeo M, Stark T, Pucci M, Sulcova A, Palazzo M, Babinska Z, Cremaschi L, Drago F, Carlo Altamura A, Maccarrone M, Dell'Osso B. A preliminary study of endocannabinoid system regulation in psychosis: Distinct alterations of CNR1 promoter DNA methylation in patients with schizophrenia. Schizophr Res 2017; 188:132-140. [PMID: 28108228 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2017.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2016] [Revised: 01/10/2017] [Accepted: 01/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Compelling evidence supports the involvement of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in psychosis vulnerability. We here evaluated the transcriptional regulation of ECS components in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) obtained from subjects suffering from bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder and schizophrenia, focusing in particular on the effects of DNA methylation. We observed selective alterations of DNA methylation at the promoter of CNR1, the gene coding for the type-1 cannabinoid receptor, in schizophrenic patients (N=25) with no changes in any other disorder. We confirmed the regulation of CNR1 in a well-validated animal model of schizophrenia, induced by prenatal methylazoxymethanol (MAM) acetate exposure (N=7 per group) where we found, in the prefrontal cortex, a significant increase in CNR1 expression and a consistent reduction in DNA methylation at specific CpG sites of gene promoter. Overall, our findings suggest a selective dysregulation of ECS in psychosis, and highlight the evaluation of CNR1 DNA methylation levels in PBMCs as a potential biomarker for schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio D'Addario
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Italy; Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Vincenzo Micale
- CEITEC/Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic; Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Martina Di Bartolomeo
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Italy
| | - Tibor Stark
- Masaryk University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Mariangela Pucci
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Italy
| | | | - Mariacarlotta Palazzo
- Centro Sant'Ambrogio, Ordine Ospedaliero San Giovanni di Dio-Fatebenefratelli, Cernusco sul Naviglio, Italy
| | - Zuzana Babinska
- Masaryk University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Laura Cremaschi
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Milan, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - A Carlo Altamura
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Milan, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Mauro Maccarrone
- Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Rome, Italy; European Center for Brain Research, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Bernardo Dell'Osso
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Milan, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Bipolar Disorders Clinic, Stanford University, CA, USA.
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31
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Chesworth R, Karl T. Molecular Basis of Cannabis-Induced Schizophrenia-Relevant Behaviours: Insights from Animal Models. Curr Behav Neurosci Rep 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s40473-017-0120-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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32
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Ruggiero RN, Rossignoli MT, De Ross JB, Hallak JEC, Leite JP, Bueno-Junior LS. Cannabinoids and Vanilloids in Schizophrenia: Neurophysiological Evidence and Directions for Basic Research. Front Pharmacol 2017; 8:399. [PMID: 28680405 PMCID: PMC5478733 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2017.00399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2017] [Accepted: 06/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Much of our knowledge of the endocannabinoid system in schizophrenia comes from behavioral measures in rodents, like prepulse inhibition of the acoustic startle and open-field locomotion, which are commonly used along with neurochemical approaches or drug challenge designs. Such methods continue to map fundamental mechanisms of sensorimotor gating, hyperlocomotion, social interaction, and underlying monoaminergic, glutamatergic, and GABAergic disturbances. These strategies will require, however, a greater use of neurophysiological tools to better inform clinical research. In this sense, electrophysiology and viral vector-based circuit dissection, like optogenetics, can further elucidate how exogenous cannabinoids worsen (e.g., tetrahydrocannabinol, THC) or ameliorate (e.g., cannabidiol, CBD) schizophrenia symptoms, like hallucinations, delusions, and cognitive deficits. Also, recent studies point to a complex endocannabinoid-endovanilloid interplay, including the influence of anandamide (endogenous CB1 and TRPV1 agonist) on cognitive variables, such as aversive memory extinction. In fact, growing interest has been devoted to TRPV1 receptors as promising therapeutic targets. Here, these issues are reviewed with an emphasis on the neurophysiological evidence. First, we contextualize imaging and electrographic findings in humans. Then, we present a comprehensive review on rodent electrophysiology. Finally, we discuss how basic research will benefit from further combining psychopharmacological and neurophysiological tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael N Ruggiero
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São PauloRibeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Matheus T Rossignoli
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São PauloRibeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Jana B De Ross
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São PauloRibeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Jaime E C Hallak
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São PauloRibeirão Preto, Brazil.,National Institute for Science and Technology-Translational Medicine, National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq)Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Joao P Leite
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São PauloRibeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Lezio S Bueno-Junior
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São PauloRibeirão Preto, Brazil
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Murray RM, Englund A, Abi-Dargham A, Lewis DA, Di Forti M, Davies C, Sherif M, McGuire P, D'Souza DC. Cannabis-associated psychosis: Neural substrate and clinical impact. Neuropharmacology 2017. [PMID: 28634109 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Prospective epidemiological studies have consistently demonstrated that cannabis use is associated with an increased subsequent risk of both psychotic symptoms and schizophrenia-like psychoses. Early onset of use, daily use of high-potency cannabis, and synthetic cannabinoids carry the greatest risk. The risk-increasing effects are not explained by shared genetic predisposition between schizophrenia and cannabis use. Experimental studies in healthy humans show that cannabis and its active ingredient, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), can produce transient, dose-dependent, psychotic symptoms, as well as an array of psychosis-relevant behavioral, cognitive and psychophysiological effects; the psychotogenic effects can be ameliorated by cannabidiol (CBD). Findings from structural imaging studies in cannabis users have been inconsistent but functional MRI studies have linked the psychotomimetic and cognitive effects of THC to activation in brain regions implicated in psychosis. Human PET studies have shown that acute administration of THC weakly releases dopamine in the striatum but that chronic users are characterised by low striatal dopamine. We are beginning to understand how cannabis use impacts on the endocannabinoid system but there is much still to learn about the biological mechanisms underlying how cannabis increases risk of psychosis. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled "A New Dawn in Cannabinoid Neurobiology".
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Affiliation(s)
- R M Murray
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College, London, UK.
| | - A Englund
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College, London, UK
| | - A Abi-Dargham
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, New York, USA
| | - D A Lewis
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburg, PA, USA
| | - M Di Forti
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College, London, UK
| | - C Davies
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College, London, UK
| | - M Sherif
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, CT, USA
| | - P McGuire
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College, London, UK
| | - D C D'Souza
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, CT, USA
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Silveira MM, Arnold JC, Laviolette SR, Hillard CJ, Celorrio M, Aymerich MS, Adams WK. Seeing through the smoke: Human and animal studies of cannabis use and endocannabinoid signalling in corticolimbic networks. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2017; 76:380-395. [PMID: 27639448 PMCID: PMC5350061 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2016.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2015] [Revised: 08/02/2016] [Accepted: 09/13/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Public opinion surrounding the recreational use and therapeutic potential of cannabis is shifting. This review describes new work examining the behavioural and neural effects of cannabis and the endocannabinoid system, highlighting key regions within corticolimbic brain circuits. First, we consider the role of human genetic factors and cannabis strain chemotypic differences in contributing to interindividual variation in the response to cannabinoids, such as THC, and review studies demonstrating that THC-induced impairments in decision-making processes are mediated by actions at prefrontal CB1 receptors. We further describe evidence that signalling through prefrontal or ventral hippocampal CB1 receptors modulates mesolimbic dopamine activity, aberrations of which may contribute to emotional processing deficits in schizophrenia. Lastly, we review studies suggesting that endocannabinoid tone in the amygdala is a critical regulator of anxiety, and report new data showing that FAAH activity is integral to this response. Together, these findings underscore the importance of cannabinoid signalling in the regulation of cognitive and affective behaviours, and encourage further research given their social, political, and therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mason M Silveira
- Department of Psychology, Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - Jonathon C Arnold
- The Brain and Mind Centre and Discipline of Pharmacology, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Steven R Laviolette
- Addiction Research Group and Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Cecilia J Hillard
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Neuroscience Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Marta Celorrio
- Program of Neurosciences, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, Pamplona 31008, Spain; Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, School of Science, University of Navarra, Pamplona 31008, Spain
| | - María S Aymerich
- Program of Neurosciences, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, Pamplona 31008, Spain; Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, School of Science, University of Navarra, Pamplona 31008, Spain; IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona 31008, Spain
| | - Wendy K Adams
- Department of Psychology, Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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Weiss SRB, Howlett KD, Baler RD. Building smart cannabis policy from the science up. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2017; 42:39-49. [PMID: 28189459 PMCID: PMC5404989 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2017.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2016] [Revised: 12/21/2016] [Accepted: 01/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Social attitudes and cultural norms around the issue of substance abuse are shifting rapidly around the world, leading to complex and unpredictable consequences. On the positive side, efforts to more intensely disseminate the scientific evidence for the many connections between chronic substance use and the emergence of measurable and discrete brain dysfunctions, has ushered in an evolving climate of acceptance and a new era of improved access to more effective interventions, at least in the United States. On the negative side, there has been a steady erosion in the public perception of the harms associated with the use of popular drugs, especially cannabis. This worrisome trend has sprouted at the convergence of several forces that have combined, more or less fortuitously, to effectively change long-standing policies away from prohibition and toward decriminalization or legalization. These forces include the outsized popularity of the cannabis plant among recreational users, the unflagging campaign by corporate lobbyists and patient advocates to mainstream its medicinal use, and the honest realization in some quarters of the deleterious impact of the drug war and its draconian cannabis laws, in particular, on society's most vulnerable populations. Updating drug policies is a desirable goal, and significant changes may indeed be warranted. However, there is a real concern when policy changes are hurriedly implemented without the required input from the medical, scientific, or policy research communities. Regardless of how well intentioned, such initiatives are bound to magnify the potential for unintended adverse consequences in the form of far ranging health and social costs. To minimize this risk, science must be front and center in this important policy debate. Here, we review the state of the science on cannabis and cannabinoid health effects, both adverse and therapeutic. We focus on the prevalence of use in different populations, the mechanisms by which cannabis exerts its effects (i.e., via the endocannabinoid system), and the double-edged potential of this system to inspire new medications, on one hand, and to cause short and long term harmful effects on the other. By providing knowledge of cannabis' broad ranging effects, we hope to enable better decision making regarding cannabis legislation and policy implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan R B Weiss
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, United States.
| | - Katia D Howlett
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, United States
| | - Ruben D Baler
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, United States
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Cannabinoid receptors on peripheral leukocytes from patients with schizophrenia: Evidence for defective immunomodulatory mechanisms. J Psychiatr Res 2017; 87:44-52. [PMID: 28011441 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2016.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2016] [Revised: 10/20/2016] [Accepted: 12/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES to evaluate cannabinoid receptors (CBRs) expression on peripheral immune cells, i.e., blood monocytes, neutrophils, lymphocytes, and NK cells, and their relationship to a wide range of serum cytokine levels in subjects with schizophrenia and controls. METHODS A sample of 55 people with chronic schizophrenia and 48 controls were enrolled in the study. The expression of the cannabinoid receptors CB1R and CB2R was evaluated in peripheral blood leukocytes by flow cytometry. Serum levels of cytokines/chemokines were simultaneously analyzed by cytometric bead array. RESULTS We found higher expression of cannabinoid receptors on cells of the innate immune system in subjects with schizophrenia when compared with controls. Serum levels of interleukin-4 (IL-4), IL-6, IL-10, IL-17, interferon (IFN-γ), and (C-X-C motif) ligand 10/interferon gamma-induced protein 10 (CXCL10/IP10) were decreased, while levels of the chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2/monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (CCL2/MCP-1) were increased in the schizophrenia group in comparison with controls. Patients with schizophrenia showed simpler correlation network between cytokines and CBRs expression than controls. CONCLUSION Patients with schizophrenia showed increased CBRs expression in cells of the innate immune system and simpler correlation network between cytokines and CBRs expression when compared with controls. These results suggest a defective endocannabinoid system-mediated immunomodulation in patients with schizophrenia.
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Volkow ND, Hampson AJ, Baler RD. Don't Worry, Be Happy: Endocannabinoids and Cannabis at the Intersection of Stress and Reward. Annu Rev Pharmacol Toxicol 2017; 57:285-308. [DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pharmtox-010716-104615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nora D. Volkow
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892;
| | - Aidan J. Hampson
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892;
| | - Ruben D. Baler
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892;
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Chase KA, Feiner B, Rosen C, Gavin DP, Sharma RP. Characterization of peripheral cannabinoid receptor expression and clinical correlates in schizophrenia. Psychiatry Res 2016; 245:346-353. [PMID: 27591408 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2016.08.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2016] [Revised: 08/16/2016] [Accepted: 08/19/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The relationship between cannabinoid receptor signaling and psychosis vulnerability requires further exploration. The endocannabinoid signaling system is extensive, with receptors exerting regulatory functions in both immune and central nervous systems. In the brain, cannabinoid receptors (CBR) directly modulate neurotransmitter systems. In the peripheral lymphocyte, CBRs mediate cytokine release, with dysregulated cytokine levels demonstrated in schizophrenia. mRNA levels of CBRs were measured in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) obtained from 70 participants (35 non-clinical controls, 35 participants with schizophrenia), who were recruited for the absence of marijuana use/abuse by self-report. Changes in mRNA expression were measured using qRT-PCR. Clinical measurements collected included the MATRICS Cognitive Battery and the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale. Levels of CB1R and CB2R mRNA in PBMCs were significantly higher in participants with schizophrenia compared to the non-clinical controls. Additionally, CB1R and CB2R mRNA levels correlated with impairments in cognitive processing and clinical symptom severity in multiple domains. These results continue to support dysregulation of particular aspects of the endocannabinoid signaling system in participants with schizophrenia selected for the self-reported absence of marijuana abuse/dependence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayla A Chase
- The Psychiatric Institute, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1601 W. Taylor St, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; University of California, Department of Psychiatry, 9500 Gilman Drive, MC 8505, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037, USA
| | - Benjamin Feiner
- The Psychiatric Institute, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1601 W. Taylor St, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Cherise Rosen
- The Psychiatric Institute, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1601 W. Taylor St, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - David P Gavin
- The Psychiatric Institute, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1601 W. Taylor St, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; Jesse Brown Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 820 South Damen Avenue (M/C 151), Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Rajiv P Sharma
- The Psychiatric Institute, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1601 W. Taylor St, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; Jesse Brown Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 820 South Damen Avenue (M/C 151), Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
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Ranganathan M, Cortes-Briones J, Radhakrishnan R, Thurnauer H, Planeta B, Skosnik P, Gao H, Labaree D, Neumeister A, Pittman B, Surti T, Huang Y, Carson RE, D'Souza DC. Reduced Brain Cannabinoid Receptor Availability in Schizophrenia. Biol Psychiatry 2016; 79:997-1005. [PMID: 26432420 PMCID: PMC4884543 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2015.08.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2015] [Revised: 07/31/2015] [Accepted: 08/02/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several lines of evidence suggest the presence of abnormalities in the endocannabinoid (eCB) system in schizophrenia (SCZ). However, there are limited in vivo measures of the eCB system in SCZ. METHODS Twenty five male SCZ subjects (SCZs) (18 antipsychotic treated and 7 antipsychotic free) were compared with 18 age-matched male healthy control subjects (HCs). Subjects underwent one positron emission tomography scan each with the cannabinoid receptor-1 (CB1R) selective radiotracer [(11)C]OMAR on the high resolution research tomography scanner. Regional volume of distribution (VT) values were determined using kinetic modeling of positron emission tomography data as a measure of CB1R availability. Group differences in mean composite [(11)C]OMAR VT values were compared between SCZs and HCs. Exploratory comparisons of CB1R availability within 15 brain regions were also conducted. All analyses were covaried for age and body mass index. RESULTS SCZs showed significantly (p = .02) lower composite [(11)C]OMAR VT relative to HCs (~12% difference, effect size d = .73). [(11)C]OMAR VT was significantly (all ps < .05) lower in SCZs in the amygdala, caudate, posterior cingulate cortex, hippocampus, hypothalamus, and insula. Composite [11]OMAR VT was HCs > antipsychotic treated SZCs > antipsychotic free SZCs. Furthermore, composite [(11)C]OMAR VT was greater in HCs than SCZ smokers (n = 11) and SCZ nonsmokers (n = 14). CONCLUSIONS CB1R availability is lower in male SCZ subjects compared with HCs. Furthermore, antipsychotics and tobacco use may increase CB1R availability in this population. The findings of the study provide further evidence supporting the hypothesis that alterations in the eCB system might contribute to the pathophysiology of SCZ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohini Ranganathan
- Schizophrenia and Neuropharmacology Research Group, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven; Abraham Ribicoff Research Facilities, Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven; Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.
| | - Jose Cortes-Briones
- Schizophrenia and Neuropharmacology Research Group, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven; Abraham Ribicoff Research Facilities, Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven; Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Rajiv Radhakrishnan
- Schizophrenia and Neuropharmacology Research Group, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven; Abraham Ribicoff Research Facilities, Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven; Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Halle Thurnauer
- Schizophrenia and Neuropharmacology Research Group, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven; Abraham Ribicoff Research Facilities, Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven; Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Beata Planeta
- Abraham Ribicoff Research Facilities, Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven; Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; Positron Emission Tomography Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Patrick Skosnik
- Schizophrenia and Neuropharmacology Research Group, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven; Abraham Ribicoff Research Facilities, Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven; Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Hong Gao
- Positron Emission Tomography Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - David Labaree
- Positron Emission Tomography Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Alexander Neumeister
- Molecular Imaging Program for Mood and Anxiety Disorders, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Brian Pittman
- Abraham Ribicoff Research Facilities, Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven; Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; Positron Emission Tomography Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Toral Surti
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Yiyun Huang
- Positron Emission Tomography Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Richard E Carson
- Positron Emission Tomography Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Deepak Cyril D'Souza
- Schizophrenia and Neuropharmacology Research Group, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven; Abraham Ribicoff Research Facilities, Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven; Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
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Bioque M, Cabrera B, García-Bueno B, Mac-Dowell KS, Torrent C, Saiz PA, Parellada M, González-Pinto A, Lobo A, Leza JC, Bernardo M. Dysregulated peripheral endocannabinoid system signaling is associated with cognitive deficits in first-episode psychosis. J Psychiatr Res 2016; 75:14-21. [PMID: 26783729 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2016.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2015] [Revised: 12/02/2015] [Accepted: 01/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Among etiological explanations for psychosis, several hypotheses involving alterations on the immune/inflammatory system have been proposed. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is an endogenous neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory system that modulates cognitive processes. Its altered expression has been associated with psychotic disorders. 73 patients with a first episode of psychoses (FEP) and 67 healthy controls were recruited in 5 university centers in Spain. The protein expression of the main peripheral ECS components was determined in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. The cognition function was assessed following the MATRICS consensus. After controlling for potential confounding factors, working memory statistically correlated to the peripheral N-acyl phosphatidylethanolamine phospholipase expression (p = 0.039). The short-term verbal memory correlated to the Diacylglycerol lipase (p = 0.043) and the fatty acid amide hydrolase (p = 0.026) expression. Finally, attention measures correlated to the Monoacylglycerol lipase expression, by means of the CPT-II commissions (p = 0.036) and detectability (p = 0.026) scores. The ECS may regulate the activation of key mediators in immune and inflammatory responses that may be involved in the primary neuronal stress phenomenon that occurs from the onset of psychotic illness. This study points a relationship between the ECS and the cognitive function in early psychosis and suggests the use of some of the ECS elements as biomarkers and/or pharmacological targets for FEP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miquel Bioque
- Barcelona Clínic Schizophrenia Unit, Neuroscience Institute, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Bibiana Cabrera
- Barcelona Clínic Schizophrenia Unit, Neuroscience Institute, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Borja García-Bueno
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación, Hospital 12 de Octubre (i+12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Karina S Mac-Dowell
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación, Hospital 12 de Octubre (i+12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Carla Torrent
- Barcelona Bipolar Disorder Program, Neuroscience Institute, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pilar A Saiz
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oviedo, Instituto Universitario de Neurociencias del Principado de Asturias (INEUROPA), Oviedo, Spain
| | - Mara Parellada
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, IIS Gregorio Marañón, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana González-Pinto
- Hospital Universitario de Álava (sede Santiago), Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia, Vitoria, Spain
| | - Antonio Lobo
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Zaragoza and Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Aragón, Spain
| | - Juan C Leza
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación, Hospital 12 de Octubre (i+12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel Bernardo
- Barcelona Clínic Schizophrenia Unit, Neuroscience Institute, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Department of Psychiatry and Clinical Psycobiology, University of Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
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Abstract
Cannabis use has been reported to increase the risk of developing schizophrenia and to worsen symptoms of the illness. Both of these outcomes might be attributable to the disruption by cannabis of the endogenous cannabinoid system's spatiotemporal regulation of the inhibitory circuitry in the prefrontal cortex that is essential for core cognitive processes, such as working memory, which are impaired in schizophrenia. In the healthy brain, the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonylglycerol 1) is synthesized by diacylglycerol lipase in pyramidal neurons; 2) travels retrogradely to nearby inhibitory axon terminals that express the primary type 1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1R); 3) binds to CB1R, which inhibits gamma-aminobutyric acid release from the cholecystokinin-containing population of interneurons; and 4) is metabolized by either monoglyceride lipase, which is located in the inhibitory axon terminal, or by α-β-hydrolase domain 6, which is co-localized presynaptically with diacylglycerol lipase. Investigations of the endogenous cannabinoid system in the prefrontal cortex of subjects with schizophrenia have found evidence of higher metabolism of 2-arachidonylglycerol, as well as both greater CB1R receptor binding and lower levels of CB1R messenger RNA and protein. Current views on the potential pathogenesis of these alterations, including disturbances in the development of the endogenous cannabinoid system, are discussed. In addition, how interactions between these alterations in the endocannabinoid system and those in other inhibitory neurons in the prefrontal cortex in subjects with schizophrenia might increase the liability to adverse outcomes with cannabis use is considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- David W. Volk
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
| | - David A. Lewis
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213,Department of Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
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42
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Therapeutic Potential of Cannabinoids in Psychosis. Biol Psychiatry 2016; 79:604-12. [PMID: 26852073 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2015.11.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2015] [Revised: 11/24/2015] [Accepted: 11/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Over recent years, the interest in the endocannabinoid system (ECS) as a new target for the treatment of schizophrenia has evolved. The ECS represents one of the most relevant neurotransmitter systems in the brain and mainly fulfills a homeostatic role in terms of neurotransmission but also with respect to inflammatory processes. Two main approaches to the modulation of endocannabinoid functioning have been chosen so far. First, the selective blockade or inverse agonism of the type 1 cannabinoid receptor has been tested for the improvement of acute psychotic symptoms, as well as for the improvement of cognitive functions in schizophrenia. This was not effective in either case. Second, the modulation of endocannabinoid levels by use of the phytocannabinoid cannabidiol and selective fatty acid amide hydrolase inhibitors has been proposed, and the antipsychotic properties of cannabidiol are currently being investigated in humans. Unfortunately, for most of these trials that have focused on psychopathological and cognitive effects of cannabidiol, no published data are available. However, there is first evidence that cannabidiol may ameliorate psychotic symptoms with a superior side-effect profile compared with established antipsychotics. In conclusion, several clinical trials targeting the ECS in acute schizophrenia have either been completed or are underway. Although publicly available results are currently limited, preliminary data indicate that selected compounds modulating the ECS may be effective in acute schizophrenia. Nevertheless, so far, sample sizes of patients investigated are not sufficient to come to a final judgment, and no maintenance studies are available to ensure long-term efficacy and safety.
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Abstract
Interest in the relationship between cannabis use and psychosis has increased dramatically in recent years, in part because of concerns related to the growing availability of cannabis and potential risks to health and human functioning. There now exists a plethora of scientific articles addressing this issue, but few provide a clear verdict about the causal nature of the cannabis-psychosis association. Here, we review recent research reports on cannabis and psychosis, giving particular attention to how each report provides evidence relating to two hypotheses: (1) cannabis as a contributing cause and (2) shared vulnerability. Two primary kinds of data are brought to bear on this issue: studies done with schizophrenic patients and studies of first-episode psychosis. Evidence reviewed here suggests that cannabis does not in itself cause a psychosis disorder. Rather, the evidence leads us to conclude that both early use and heavy use of cannabis are more likely in individuals with a vulnerability to psychosis. The role of early and heavy cannabis use as a prodromal sign merits further examination, along with a variety of other problem behaviors (e.g., early or heavy use of cigarettes or alcohol and poor school performance). Future research studies that focus exclusively on the cannabis-psychosis association will therefore be of little value in our quest to better understand psychosis and how and why it occurs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Ksir
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience Program, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA
| | - Carl L Hart
- Division on Substance Abuse, New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University, 1051 Riverside Dr., Unit 120, New York, NY, 10032, USA. .,Department of Psychology, Columbia College, 1190 Amsterdam Ave, Schermerhorn #406, New York, NY, 10027, USA. .,Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, 1051 Riverside Dr., Unit 120, New York, NY, 10032, USA. .,Brocher Foundation, Geneva, Switzerland.
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Appiah-Kusi E, Leyden E, Parmar S, Mondelli V, McGuire P, Bhattacharyya S. Abnormalities in neuroendocrine stress response in psychosis: the role of endocannabinoids. Psychol Med 2016; 46:27-45. [PMID: 26370602 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291715001786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this article is to summarize current evidence regarding alterations in the neuroendocrine stress response system and endocannabinoid system and their relationship in psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia. Exposure to stress is linked to the development of a number of psychiatric disorders including psychosis. However, the precise role of stress in the development of psychosis and the possible mechanisms that might underlie this are not well understood. Recently the cannabinoid hypothesis of schizophrenia has emerged as a potential line of enquiry. Endocannabinoid levels are increased in patients with psychosis compared with healthy volunteers; furthermore, they increase in response to stress, which suggests another potential mechanism for how stress might be a causal factor in the development of psychosis. However, research regarding the links between stress and the endocannabinoid system is in its infancy. Evidence summarized here points to an alteration in the baseline tone and reactivity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis as well as in various components of the endocannabinoid system in patients with psychosis. Moreover, the precise nature of the inter-relationship between these two systems is unclear in man, especially their biological relevance in the context of psychosis. Future studies need to simultaneously investigate HPA axis and endocannabinoid alterations both at baseline and following experimental perturbation in healthy individuals and those with psychosis to understand how they interact with each other in health and disease and obtain mechanistic insight as to their relevance to the pathophysiology of schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Appiah-Kusi
- Department of Psychosis Studies,King's College London,Institute of Psychiatry,Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN),PO Box 63,De Crespigny Park,Denmark Hill,London SE5 8AF,UK
| | - E Leyden
- Department of Psychosis Studies,King's College London,Institute of Psychiatry,Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN),PO Box 63,De Crespigny Park,Denmark Hill,London SE5 8AF,UK
| | - S Parmar
- Department of Psychosis Studies,King's College London,Institute of Psychiatry,Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN),PO Box 63,De Crespigny Park,Denmark Hill,London SE5 8AF,UK
| | - V Mondelli
- Department of Psychological Medicine,King's College London,Institute of Psychiatry,Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN),PO Box 92,De Crespigny Park,Denmark Hill,London SE5 8AF,UK
| | - P McGuire
- Department of Psychosis Studies,King's College London,Institute of Psychiatry,Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN),PO Box 63,De Crespigny Park,Denmark Hill,London SE5 8AF,UK
| | - S Bhattacharyya
- Department of Psychosis Studies,King's College London,Institute of Psychiatry,Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN),PO Box 63,De Crespigny Park,Denmark Hill,London SE5 8AF,UK
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Xie J, Gizatullin R, Vukojevic V, Leopardi R. The CCDC55 couples cannabinoid receptor CNR1 to a putative DISC1 schizophrenia pathway. Neuroscience 2015; 310:723-30. [PMID: 26475744 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2015.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2015] [Revised: 10/08/2015] [Accepted: 10/08/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Our previous study suggested that the coiled coil domain-containing 55 gene (CCDC55), also named as NSRP1 (nuclear speckle splicing regulatory protein 1 (NSRP1)), was encompassed in a haplotype block spanning over the serotonin transporter (5-HTT) gene in patients with schizophrenia (SCZ). However, the neurobiological function of CCDC55 gene remains unknown. This study aims to uncover the potential role of CCDC55 in SCZ-associated molecular pathways. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Using molecular cloning, sequencing and immune blotting to identify basic properties, yeast two-hybrid screening and glutathione S-transferase (GST) pull-down assay to test protein-protein interaction, and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CSLM) to show intracellular interaction of proteins. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS (i) CCDC55 is expressed as a nuclear protein in human neuronal cells; (ii) Protein-protein interaction analyses showed CCDC55 physically interacted with Ran binding protein 9 (RanBP9) and disrupted in schizophrenia 1 (DISC1); (iii) CCDC55 and RanBP9 co-localized in the nucleus of human neuronal cells; (iv) CCDC55 also interacted with the cannabinoid receptor 1 (CNR1), and with the brain cannabinoid receptor-interacting protein 1a (CNRIP1a); (v) CNR1 activation in differentiated human neuronal cells resulted in an altered RanBP9 localization. CONCLUSION CCDC55 may be involved in a functional bridging between the CNR1 activation and the DISC1/RanBP9-associated pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Xie
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - R Gizatullin
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - V Vukojevic
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - R Leopardi
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
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46
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Abstract
Preclinical and clinical data fully support the involvement of the endocannabinoid system in the etiopathogenesis of several mental diseases. In this review we will briefly summarize the most common alterations in the endocannabinoid system, in terms of cannabinoid receptors and endocannabinoid levels, present in mood disorders (anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, bipolar disorder, and suicidality) as well as psychosis (schizophrenia) and autism. The arising picture for each pathology is not always straightforward; however, both animal and human studies seem to suggest that pharmacological modulation of this system might represent a novel approach for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Rubino
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences and Neuroscience Centre, University of Insubria, Via Manara 7, 21052, Busto Arsizio, VA, Italy
| | - Erica Zamberletti
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences and Neuroscience Centre, University of Insubria, Via Manara 7, 21052, Busto Arsizio, VA, Italy
- Fondazione Zardi Gori, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniela Parolaro
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences and Neuroscience Centre, University of Insubria, Via Manara 7, 21052, Busto Arsizio, VA, Italy.
- Fondazione Zardi Gori, Milan, Italy.
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