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McCormick ET, Draganski A, Chalmers S, Zahn J, Garcia S, Nussbaum D, Friedman A, Putterman C, Friedman J. Nano-encapsulated anandamide reduces inflammatory cytokines in vitro and lesion severity in a murine model of cutaneous lupus erythematosus. Exp Dermatol 2023; 32:2072-2083. [PMID: 37726950 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14935] [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: 11/25/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) is a heterogeneous autoimmune skin disease which occurs independently and in conjunction with systemic lupus erythematosus. Drug development for CLE is severely lacking. Anandamide (AEA) is a primary endocannabinoid which exhibits immunomodulatory effects through mixed cannabinoid receptor agonism. We evaluated AEA as topical treatment for CLE and assessed benefits of nanoparticle encapsulation (AEA-NP) on cutaneous drug penetration, delivery and biological activity. Compared to untreated controls, AEA-NP decreased IL-6 and MCP-1 in UVB-stimulated keratinocytes (p < 0.05) in vitro. In BALB/c mice, AEA-NP displayed improved cutaneous penetration, extended release and persistence of AEA in the follicular unit extending to the base after 24 h. Utilizing the MRL-lpr lupus murine model, twice weekly treatment of lesions with topical AEA-NP for 10 weeks led to decreased clinical and histologic lesion scores compared to unencapsulated AEA and untreated controls (p < 0.05). Prophylactic application of AEA-NP to commonly involved areas on MRL-lpr mice similarly resulted in decreased clinical and histologic scores when compared to controls (p < 0.05), and reduced C3 and IBA-1 in lesional tissue (p < 0.05). The demonstrated clinical and immunomodulatory effects of treatment with AEA support its potential as therapy for CLE. This work also suggests that encapsulation of AEA improves penetration and treatment efficacy. Future studies will be conducted to assess full therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika T McCormick
- George Washington University Department of Dermatology, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Samantha Chalmers
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, Bronx, USA
| | - Joseph Zahn
- George Washington University Department of Dermatology, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Sayra Garcia
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, Bronx, USA
| | - Dillon Nussbaum
- George Washington University Department of Dermatology, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Adam Friedman
- George Washington University Department of Dermatology, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Chaim Putterman
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, Bronx, USA
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine of Bar-Ilan University, Zefat, Israel
- Research Institute, Galilee Medical Center, Nahariya, Israel
| | - Joel Friedman
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, Bronx, USA
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Lowe H, Toyang N, Steele B, Bryant J, Ngwa W. The Endocannabinoid System: A Potential Target for the Treatment of Various Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:9472. [PMID: 34502379 PMCID: PMC8430969 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is primarily responsible for maintaining homeostasis, a balance in internal environment (temperature, mood, and immune system) and energy input and output in living, biological systems. In addition to regulating physiological processes, the ECS directly influences anxiety, feeding behaviour/appetite, emotional behaviour, depression, nervous functions, neurogenesis, neuroprotection, reward, cognition, learning, memory, pain sensation, fertility, pregnancy, and pre-and post-natal development. The ECS is also involved in several pathophysiological diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases. In recent years, genetic and pharmacological manipulation of the ECS has gained significant interest in medicine, research, and drug discovery and development. The distribution of the components of the ECS system throughout the body, and the physiological/pathophysiological role of the ECS-signalling pathways in many diseases, all offer promising opportunities for the development of novel cannabinergic, cannabimimetic, and cannabinoid-based therapeutic drugs that genetically or pharmacologically modulate the ECS via inhibition of metabolic pathways and/or agonism or antagonism of the receptors of the ECS. This modulation results in the differential expression/activity of the components of the ECS that may be beneficial in the treatment of a number of diseases. This manuscript in-depth review will investigate the potential of the ECS in the treatment of various diseases, and to put forth the suggestion that many of these secondary metabolites of Cannabis sativa L. (hereafter referred to as "C. sativa L." or "medical cannabis"), may also have potential as lead compounds in the development of cannabinoid-based pharmaceuticals for a variety of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry Lowe
- Biotech R & D Institute, University of the West Indies, Mona 99999, Jamaica; (H.L.); (J.B.)
- Vilotos Pharmaceuticals Inc., Baltimore, MD 21202, USA;
- Flavocure Biotech Inc., Baltimore, MD 21202, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland Medical School, Baltimore, MD 21202, USA
| | - Ngeh Toyang
- Vilotos Pharmaceuticals Inc., Baltimore, MD 21202, USA;
- Flavocure Biotech Inc., Baltimore, MD 21202, USA
| | - Blair Steele
- Biotech R & D Institute, University of the West Indies, Mona 99999, Jamaica; (H.L.); (J.B.)
| | - Joseph Bryant
- Biotech R & D Institute, University of the West Indies, Mona 99999, Jamaica; (H.L.); (J.B.)
| | - Wilfred Ngwa
- Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA;
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
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Boczek T, Zylinska L. Receptor-Dependent and Independent Regulation of Voltage-Gated Ca 2+ Channels and Ca 2+-Permeable Channels by Endocannabinoids in the Brain. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22158168. [PMID: 34360934 PMCID: PMC8348342 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22158168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The activity of specific populations of neurons in different brain areas makes decisions regarding proper synaptic transmission, the ability to make adaptations in response to different external signals, as well as the triggering of specific regulatory pathways to sustain neural function. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) appears to be a very important, highly expressed, and active system of control in the central nervous system (CNS). Functionally, it allows the cells to respond quickly to processes that occur during synaptic transmission, but can also induce long-term changes. The endocannabinoids (eCBs) belong to a large family of bioactive lipid mediators that includes amides, esters, and ethers of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. They are produced “on demand” from the precursors located in the membranes, exhibit a short half-life, and play a key role as retrograde messengers. eCBs act mainly through two receptors, CB1R and CB2R, which belong to the G-protein coupled receptor superfamily (GPCRs), but can also exert their action via multiple non-receptor pathways. The action of eCBs depends on Ca2+, but eCBs can also regulate downstream Ca2+ signaling. In this short review, we focus on the regulation of neuronal calcium channels by the most effective members of eCBs-2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), anandamide (AEA) and originating from AEA-N-arachidonoylglycine (NAGly), to better understand the contribution of ECS to brain function under physiological conditions.
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4
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Function and therapeutic potential of N-acyl amino acids. Chem Phys Lipids 2021; 239:105114. [PMID: 34217720 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemphyslip.2021.105114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 06/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
N-acyl amino acids (NAAs) are amphiphilic molecules, with different potential fatty acid and head group moieties. NAAs are the largest family of anandamide congener lipids discovered to date. In recent years, several NAAs have been identified as potential ligands, engaging novel binding sites and mechanisms for modulation of membrane proteins such as G-protein coupled receptors (GPRs), nuclear receptors, ion channels, and transporters. NAAs play a key role in a variety of physiological functions as lipid signaling molecules. Understanding the structure, function roles, and pharmacological potential of these NAAs is still in its infancy, and the biochemical roles are also mostly unknown. This review will provide a summary of the literature on NAAs and emphasize their therapeutic potential.
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Lower brain fatty acid amide hydrolase in treatment-seeking patients with alcohol use disorder: a positron emission tomography study with [C-11]CURB. Neuropsychopharmacology 2020; 45:1289-1296. [PMID: 31910433 PMCID: PMC7298050 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-020-0606-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Revised: 12/31/2019] [Accepted: 12/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid enzyme, fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), has been proposed as a therapeutic target for alcohol use disorder (AUD) and co-morbid psychiatric illnesses. Investigating this target in the living human brain and its relationship to clinical outcome is a critical step of informed drug development. Our objective was to establish whether brain FAAH levels are low in individuals with AUD and related to drinking behavior. In this pilot study, treatment-seeking patients with AUD completed two PET scans with the FAAH radiotracer [C-11]CURB after 3-7 days (n = 14) and 2-4 weeks (n = 9) of monitored abstinence. Healthy controls (n = 25) completed one scan. FAAH genetic polymorphism (rs324420) and blood concentrations of anandamide and other N-acylethanolamines metabolized by FAAH were determined and AUD symptoms assessed. In AUD, brain FAAH levels were globally lower than controls during early abstinence (F(1,36) = 5.447; p = 0.025)) and FAAH substrates (anandamide, oleoylethanolamide, and N-docosahexaenoylethanolamide) were significantly elevated (30-67%). No significant differences in FAAH or FAAH substrates were noted after 2-4 weeks abstinence. FAAH levels negatively correlated with drinks per week (r = -0.57, p = 0.032) and plasma concentrations of the three FAAH substrates (r > 0.57; p < 0.04)). Our findings suggest that early abstinence from alcohol in AUD is associated with transiently low brain FAAH levels, which are inversely related to heavier alcohol use and elevated plasma levels of FAAH substrates. Whether low FAAH is an adaptive beneficial response to chronic alcohol is unknown. Therapeutic strategies focusing on FAAH inhibition should consider the possibility that low FAAH during early abstinence may be related to drinking.
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Mostyn SN, Rawling T, Mohammadi S, Shimmon S, Frangos ZJ, Sarker S, Yousuf A, Vetter I, Ryan RM, Christie MJ, Vandenberg RJ. Development of an N-Acyl Amino Acid That Selectively Inhibits the Glycine Transporter 2 To Produce Analgesia in a Rat Model of Chronic Pain. J Med Chem 2019; 62:2466-2484. [PMID: 30714733 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.8b01775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Inhibitors that target the glycine transporter 2, GlyT2, show promise as analgesics, but may be limited by their toxicity through complete or irreversible binding. Acyl-glycine inhibitors, however, are selective for GlyT2 and have been shown to provide analgesia in animal models of pain with minimal side effects, but are comparatively weak GlyT2 inhibitors. Here, we modify the simple acyl-glycine by synthesizing lipid analogues with a range of amino acid head groups in both l- and d-configurations, to produce nanomolar affinity, selective GlyT2 inhibitors. The potent inhibitor oleoyl-d-lysine (33) is also resistant to degradation in both human and rat plasma and liver microsomes, and is rapidly absorbed following an intraperitoneal injection to rats and readily crosses the blood-brain barrier. We demonstrate that 33 provides greater analgesia at lower doses, and does not possess the severe side effects of the very slowly reversible GlyT2 inhibitor, ORG25543 (2).
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon N Mostyn
- Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences , University of Sydney , Sydney , NSW 2006 , Australia
| | - Tristan Rawling
- School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Faculty of Science , The University of Technology Sydney , Sydney , NSW 2007 , Australia
| | - Sarasa Mohammadi
- Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences , University of Sydney , Sydney , NSW 2006 , Australia
| | - Susan Shimmon
- School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Faculty of Science , The University of Technology Sydney , Sydney , NSW 2007 , Australia
| | - Zachary J Frangos
- Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences , University of Sydney , Sydney , NSW 2006 , Australia
| | - Subhodeep Sarker
- Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences , University of Sydney , Sydney , NSW 2006 , Australia
| | - Arsalan Yousuf
- Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences , University of Sydney , Sydney , NSW 2006 , Australia
| | - Irina Vetter
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience & School of Pharmacy , The University of Queensland , Brisbane , Qld 4072 , Australia
| | - Renae M Ryan
- Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences , University of Sydney , Sydney , NSW 2006 , Australia
| | - Macdonald J Christie
- Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences , University of Sydney , Sydney , NSW 2006 , Australia
| | - Robert J Vandenberg
- Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences , University of Sydney , Sydney , NSW 2006 , Australia
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Burstein SH. N-Acyl Amino Acids (Elmiric Acids): Endogenous Signaling Molecules with Therapeutic Potential. Mol Pharmacol 2017; 93:228-238. [PMID: 29138268 DOI: 10.1124/mol.117.110841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2017] [Accepted: 11/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The subject of N-acyl amino acid conjugates has been rapidly growing in recent years, especially with regard to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory actions. The field comprises a large family of lipid signaling molecules whose importance is only now being fully realized. The most widely studied member is N-arachidonoyl glycine (NAGly), which differs structurally from the endocannabinoid anandamide (N-arachidonoyl ethanolamide) by a single oxygen atom even as the two are metabolically related. Topics that are covered in this minireview are: biosynthetic pathways for N-acyl amino acids, receptors for N-acyl amino acids, physiologic actions of N-acyl amino acids, pharmacological effects of N-acyl amino acids, and molecular mechanisms believed to be responsible for their effects. On the subject of mechanisms, we propose several possibilities whose basis is the currently available information. Four putative pathways can be suggested: 1) inhibition of fatty acid amide hydrolase-induced increases in anandamide or 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG) levels, resulting in analgesic activity; 2) binding to GPR18, initiating the production of anti-inflammatory eicosanoids (specifically, the data suggest roles for 15-deoxy-Δ12,14-prostaglandin-J2 and lipoxin A4, both of which are potent inflammation-resolving molecules); 3) inactivation of T-type Cav3 channels; and 4) inhibition of the GLYT2 glycine transporter. Each pathway would produce analgesic effects. Also, the N-acyl amino acids do not bind to either cannabinoid or opioid receptors, thus reducing adverse actions and making them good templates for novel drug candidate molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumner H Burstein
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
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8
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Endocannabinoids as Guardians of Metastasis. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:230. [PMID: 26875980 PMCID: PMC4783962 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17020230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2015] [Revised: 12/24/2015] [Accepted: 02/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Endocannabinoids including anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol are involved in cancer pathophysiology in several ways, including tumor growth and progression, peritumoral inflammation, nausea and cancer pain. Recently we showed that the endocannabinoid profiles are deranged during cancer to an extent that this manifests in alterations of plasma endocannabinoids in cancer patients, which was mimicked by similar changes in rodent models of local and metastatic cancer. The present topical review summarizes the complexity of endocannabinoid signaling in the context of tumor growth and metastasis.
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Abstract
The endocannabinoid system is currently defined as the ensemble of the two 7-transmembrane-domain and G protein-coupled receptors for Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (but not for most other plant cannabinoids or phytocannabinoids)-cannabinoid receptor type-1 (CB1R) and cannabinoid receptor type-2 (CB2R); their two most studied endogenous ligands, the "endocannabinoids" N-arachidonoylethanolamine (anandamide) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG); and the enzymes responsible for endocannabinoid metabolism. However, anandamide and 2-AG, and also the phytocannabinoids, have more molecular targets than just CB1R and CB2R. Furthermore, the endocannabinoids, like most other lipid mediators, have more than just one set of biosynthetic and degrading pathways and enzymes, which they often share with "endocannabinoid-like" mediators that may or may not interact with the same proteins as Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol and other phytocannabinoids. In some cases, these degrading pathways and enzymes lead to molecules that are not inactive and instead interact with other receptors. Finally, some of the metabolic enzymes may also participate in the chemical modification of molecules that have very little to do with endocannabinoid and cannabinoid targets. Here, we review the whole world of ligands, receptors, and enzymes, a true "endocannabinoidome", discovered after the cloning of CB1R and CB2R and the identification of anandamide and 2-AG, and its interactions with phytocannabinoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Di Marzo
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Campi Flegrei 34, Comprensorio Olivetti, 80078, Pozzuoli, NA, Italy.
| | - Fabiana Piscitelli
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Campi Flegrei 34, Comprensorio Olivetti, 80078, Pozzuoli, NA, Italy
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Burstein SH. The cannabinoid acids, analogs and endogenous counterparts. Bioorg Med Chem 2014; 22:2830-43. [PMID: 24731541 PMCID: PMC4351512 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2014.03.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2014] [Revised: 03/15/2014] [Accepted: 03/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The cannabinoid acids are a structurally heterogeneous group of compounds some of which are endogenous molecules and others that are metabolites of phytocannabinoids. The prototypic endogenous substance is N-arachidonoyl glycine (NAgly) that is closely related in structure to the cannabinoid agonist anandamide. The most studied phytocannabinoid is Δ(9)-THC-11-oic acid, the principal metabolite of Δ(9)-THC. Both types of acids have in common several biological actions such as low affinity for CB1 anti-inflammatory activity and analgesic properties. This suggests that there may be similarities in their mechanism of action, a point that is discussed in this review. Also presented are reports on analogs of the acids that provide opportunities for the development of novel therapeutic agents, such as ajulemic acid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumner H Burstein
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, The University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA.
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11
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Penumarti A, Abdel-Rahman AA. The novel endocannabinoid receptor GPR18 is expressed in the rostral ventrolateral medulla and exerts tonic restraining influence on blood pressure. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2014; 349:29-38. [PMID: 24431468 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.113.209213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic administration of the G-protein-coupled receptor 18 (GPR18) agonist abnormal cannabidiol (Abn CBD) lowers blood pressure (BP). Whether GPR18 is expressed in the central nervous system (CNS) and plays a role in BP control is not known despite the abundance of the GPR18 ligand N-arachidonoyl glycine (NAGly) in the CNS. Therefore, we first determined whether GPR18 is expressed in the presympathetic tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) immunoreactive (ir) neurons of the brainstem cardiovascular regulatory nuclei. Second, we investigated the impact of GPR18 activation and blockade on BP and heart rate (HR) and neurochemical modulators of sympathetic activity and BP. Immunofluorescence findings revealed GPR18 expression in TH-ir neurons in the rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM). Intra-RVLM GPR18 activation (Abn CBD) and blockade (O-1918, 1,3-dimethoxy-5-methyl-2-[(1R,6R)-3-methyl-6-(1-methylethenyl)-2-,cyclohexen-1-yl]benzene) elicited dose-dependent reductions and elevations in BP, respectively, along with respective increases and decreases in HR in conscious male Sprague-Dawley rats. RVLM GPR18 activation increased neuronal adiponectin (ADN) and NO and reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and GPR18 blockade reduced neuronal ADN and increased oxidative stress (i.e., ROS) in the RVLM. Finally, we hypothesized that the negligible hypotensive effect caused by the endogenous GPR18 ligand NAGly could be due to concurrent activation of CB(1)R in the RVLM. Our findings support this hypothesis because NAGly-evoked hypotension was doubled after RVLM CB(1)R blockade (SR141716, rimonabant). These findings are the first to demonstrate GPR18 expression in the RVLM and to suggest a sympathoinhibitory role for this receptor. The findings yield new insight into the role of a novel cannabinoid receptor (GPR18) in central BP control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anusha Penumarti
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina
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12
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Endogenous cannabinoids revisited: A biochemistry perspective. Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat 2013; 102-103:13-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.prostaglandins.2013.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2012] [Revised: 02/20/2013] [Accepted: 02/21/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Kattamuri PV, Salmonsen R, McQuain C, Burstein S, Sun H, Li G. Asymmetric synthesis of novel N-(1-phenyl-2,3-dihydroxypropyl)arachidonylamides and evaluation of their anti-inflammatory activity. Life Sci 2013; 92:506-11. [PMID: 22820546 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2012.06.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2012] [Revised: 06/25/2012] [Accepted: 06/27/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To design and synthesize novel N-(1-phenyl-2,3-dihydroxypropyl)arachidonylamides and evaluate their analgesic and anti-inflammatory potential. MAIN METHODS The murine macrophage cell line RAW 264.7 has been widely used as a model for inflammatory responses in vitro. Our model consists of cultured monolayers of RAW 264.7 cells in which media concentrations of 15-deoxy-Δ(13,14)-PGJ2 (PGJ) are measured by ELISA following LPS (10ng/ml) stimulation and treatment with 0.1, 0.3, 1.0, 3.0 and 10μM concentrations of the compounds. KEY FINDINGS Our data indicate that several of our compounds have the capacity to increase production of PGJ and may also increase the occurrence of programmed cell death (apoptosis). SIGNIFICANCE Thus these agents are potential candidates for the therapy of conditions characterized by ongoing (chronic) inflammation and its associated pain.
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Lu VB, Puhl HL, Ikeda SR. N-Arachidonyl glycine does not activate G protein-coupled receptor 18 signaling via canonical pathways. Mol Pharmacol 2012; 83:267-82. [PMID: 23104136 DOI: 10.1124/mol.112.081182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent studies propose that N-arachidonyl glycine (NAGly), a carboxylic analogue of anandamide, is an endogenous ligand of the Gα(i/o) protein-coupled receptor 18 (GPR18). However, a high-throughput β-arrestin-based screen failed to detect activation of GPR18 by NAGly (Yin et al., 2009; JBC, 18:12328). To address this inconsistency, this study investigated GPR18 coupling in a native neuronal system with endogenous signaling pathways and effectors. GPR18 was heterologously expressed in rat sympathetic neurons, and the modulation of N-type (Ca(v)2.2) calcium channels was examined. Proper expression and trafficking of receptor were confirmed by the "rim-like" fluorescence of fluorescently tagged receptor and the positive staining of external hemagglutinin-tagged GPR18-expressing cells. Application of NAGly on GPR18-expressing neurons did not inhibit calcium currents but instead potentiated currents in a voltage-dependent manner, similar to what has previously been reported (Guo et al., 2008; J Neurophysiol, 100:1147). Other proposed agonists of GPR18, including anandamide and abnormal cannabidiol, also failed to induce inhibition of calcium currents. Mutants of GPR18, designed to constitutively activate receptors, did not tonically inhibit calcium currents, indicating a lack of GPR18 activation or coupling to endogenous G proteins. Other downstream effectors of Gα(i/o)-coupled receptors, G protein-coupled inwardly rectifying potassium channels and adenylate cyclase, were not modulated by GPR18 signaling. Furthermore, GPR18 did not couple to other G proteins tested: Gα(s), Gα(z), and Gα(15). These results suggest NAGly is not an agonist for GPR18 or that GPR18 signaling involves noncanonical pathways not examined in these studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Van B Lu
- Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, National Institutes of Health/National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, 5625 Fishers Lane, Room TS-11, MSC 9411, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
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Abstract
The study of endocannabinoid pharmacology has proceeded from the discovery of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, the main psychoactive compound in Cannabis sativa, to the identification of an endogenous endocannabinoid system that is essential for physiological modulation of neuronal functions. We have not yet achieved a complete understanding of the various roles of the endocannabinoids, but this is one of the fastest-growing fields in psychopharmacology. This review starts with a brief historical description of the discovery of the endocannabinoids and then focuses on recent pharmacological advances and recently discovered endocannabinoid mechanisms of action (e.g. functional selectivity, allosterism, and receptor trafficking). Finally, we will discuss the contention that the existence of evidence-based therapeutic applications for cannabinoids and the wide range of physiological functions affected by endocannabinoids suggests that the careful study of the endocannabinoid system may lead to the development of novel therapeutic drugs with higher societal acceptability and lower side effects profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- F A Pamplona
- Laboratory of Psychopharmacology, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (UFSC), Florianópolis, Brazil.
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Connor M, Vaughan CW, Vandenberg RJ. N-acyl amino acids and N-acyl neurotransmitter conjugates: neuromodulators and probes for new drug targets. Br J Pharmacol 2010; 160:1857-71. [PMID: 20649585 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2010.00862.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The myriad functions of lipids as signalling molecules is one of the most interesting fields in contemporary pharmacology, with a host of compounds recognized as mediators of communication within and between cells. The N-acyl conjugates of amino acids and neurotransmitters (NAANs) have recently come to prominence because of their potential roles in the nervous system, vasculature and the immune system. NAAN are compounds such as glycine, GABA or dopamine conjugated with long chain fatty acids. More than 70 endogenous NAAN have been reported although their physiological role remains uncertain, with various NAAN interacting with a low affinity at G protein coupled receptors (GPCR) and ion channels. Regardless of their potential physiological function, NAAN are of great interest to pharmacologists because of their potential as flexible tools to probe new sites on GPCRs, transporters and ion channels. NAANs are amphipathic molecules, with a wide variety of potential fatty acid and headgroup moieties, a combination which provides a rich source of potential ligands engaging novel binding sites and mechanisms for modulation of membrane proteins such as GPCRs, ion channels and transporters. The unique actions of subsets of NAAN on voltage-gated calcium channels and glycine transporters indicate that the wide variety of NAAN may provide a readily exploitable resource for defining new pharmacological targets. Investigation of the physiological roles and pharmacological potential of these simple lipid conjugates is in its infancy, and we believe that there is much to be learnt from their careful study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Connor
- Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.
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17
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Ezzili C, Otrubova K, Boger DL. Fatty acid amide signaling molecules. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2010; 20:5959-68. [PMID: 20817522 PMCID: PMC2942981 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2010.08.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2010] [Revised: 08/06/2010] [Accepted: 08/10/2010] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Key studies leading to the discovery and definition of the role of endogenous fatty acid amide signaling molecules are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cyrine Ezzili
- Department of Chemistry and the Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
| | - Katerina Otrubova
- Department of Chemistry and the Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
| | - Dale L. Boger
- Department of Chemistry and the Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
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18
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Lin Q, Hai J, Yao LY, Lu Y. Neuroprotective effects of NSTyr on cognitive function and neuronal plasticity in rats of chronic cerebral hypoperfusion. Brain Res 2010; 1325:183-90. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2010.02.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2009] [Revised: 02/07/2010] [Accepted: 02/08/2010] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
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Parmar N, Ho WSV. N-arachidonoyl glycine, an endogenous lipid that acts as a vasorelaxant via nitric oxide and large conductance calcium-activated potassium channels. Br J Pharmacol 2010; 160:594-603. [PMID: 20136843 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2009.00622.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE N-arachidonoyl glycine (NAGly) is an endogenous lipid that is structurally similar to the endocannabinoid, N-arachidonoyl ethanolamide (anandamide). While NAGly does not activate cannabinoid receptors, it exerts cannabimimetic effects in pain regulation. Here, we have determined if NAGly, like anandamide, modulates vascular tone. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH In rat isolated small mesenteric arteries, the relaxant responses to NAGly were characterized. Effects of N-arachidonoyl serine and N-arachidonoyl gamma-aminobutyric acid were also examined. KEY RESULTS In endothelium-intact arteries, NAGly-induced relaxation (pEC(50%)= 5.7 +/- 0.2; relaxation at 30 microM = 98 +/- 1%) was attenuated by l-NAME (a nitric oxide synthase inhibitor) or iberiotoxin [selective blocker of large conductance Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels (BK(Ca))], and abolished by high extracellular K(+) concentration. Endothelial removal reduced the potency of NAGly, and the resultant relaxation was inhibited by iberiotoxin, but not l-NAME. NAGly responses were sensitive to the novel cannabinoid receptor antagonist O-1918 independently of endothelial integrity, whereas pertussis toxin, which uncouples G(i/o) proteins, attenuated NAGly relaxation only in endothelium-intact arteries. Treatments with antagonists for CB(1), CB(2) and TRPV1 receptors, or inhibitors of fatty acid amide hydrolase and COX had no effect. The two other arachidonoyl amino acids also induced iberiotoxin- and L-NAME-sensitive relaxations. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS NAGly acts as a vasorelaxant predominantly via activation of BK(Ca) in rat small mesenteric arteries. We suggest that NAGly activates an unknown G(i/o)-coupled receptor, stimulating endothelial release of nitric oxide which in turn activates BK(Ca) in the smooth muscle. In addition, NAGly might also activate BK(Ca) through G(i/o)- and nitric oxide-independent mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neelam Parmar
- Division of Basic Medical Sciences, St George's University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London, UK
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20
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Thakur GA, Tichkule R, Bajaj S, Makriyannis A. Latest advances in cannabinoid receptor agonists. Expert Opin Ther Pat 2010; 19:1647-73. [PMID: 19939187 DOI: 10.1517/13543770903436505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the discovery of cannabinoid receptors and their endogenous ligands in early 1990s, the endocannabinoid system has been shown to play a vital role in several pathophysiological processes. It has been targeted for the treatment of several diseases including neurodegenerative diseases (Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease and MS), cancer, obesity, inflammatory bowel disease, neuropathic and inflammatory pain. The last decade has witnessed remarkable advances in the development of cannabinergic ligands displaying high selectivity and potency towards two subtypes of cannabinoid receptors, namely CB1 and CB2. OBJECTIVE In this review, we highlight the latest advances made in the development of cannabinoid agonists and summarize recently disclosed, novel chemical scaffolds as CB-selective agonists in patents that appeared during January 2008 - June 2009. METHODS Data presented here are obtained through the search of PubMed for research articles and reviews, and the website of European patents (http://ep.espacenet.com), SciFinder Scholar and US patents (www.uspto.gov). CONCLUSIONS Our analysis reveals prolific patenting activity mainly in the CB2 selective agonist area. Limiting the BBB penetrability, thereby, leading to peripherally restricted CB1/CB2 agonists and enhancing CB2-selectivity emerge as likely prerequisites for avoidance of adverse central CB1 mediated side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ganesh A Thakur
- Northeastern University, Center for Drug Discovery, 116 Mugar Hall, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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21
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T-type calcium channel inhibition underlies the analgesic effects of the endogenous lipoamino acids. J Neurosci 2009; 29:13106-14. [PMID: 19846698 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2919-09.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Lipoamino acids are anandamide-related endogenous molecules that induce analgesia via unresolved mechanisms. Here, we provide evidence that the T-type/Cav3 calcium channels are important pharmacological targets underlying their physiological effects. Various lipoamino acids, including N-arachidonoyl glycine (NAGly), reversibly inhibited Cav3.1, Cav3.2, and Cav3.3 currents, with potent effects on Cav3.2 [EC(50) approximately 200 nm for N-arachidonoyl 3-OH-gamma-aminobutyric acid (NAGABA-OH)]. This inhibition involved a large shift in the Cav3.2 steady-state inactivation and persisted during fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibition as well as in cell-free outside-out patch. In contrast, lipoamino acids had weak effects on high-voltage-activated (HVA) Cav1.2 and Cav2.2 calcium currents, on Nav1.7 and Nav1.8 sodium currents, and on anandamide-sensitive TRPV1 and TASK1 currents. Accordingly, lipoamino acids strongly inhibited native Cav3.2 currents in sensory neurons with small effects on sodium and HVA calcium currents. In addition, we demonstrate here that lipoamino acids NAGly and NAGABA-OH produced a strong thermal analgesia and that these effects (but not those of morphine) were abolished in Cav3.2 knock-out mice. Collectively, our data revealed lipoamino acids as a family of endogenous T-type channel inhibitors, suggesting that these ligands can modulate multiple cell functions via this newly evidenced regulation.
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22
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Neuroprotective effects of N-stearoyltyrosine on transient global cerebral ischemia in gerbils. Brain Res 2009; 1287:146-56. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2009.06.070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2009] [Revised: 06/20/2009] [Accepted: 06/23/2009] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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McCue JM, Driscoll WJ, Mueller GP. In vitro synthesis of arachidonoyl amino acids by cytochrome c. Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat 2009; 90:42-8. [PMID: 19683594 DOI: 10.1016/j.prostaglandins.2009.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2009] [Revised: 07/29/2009] [Accepted: 08/07/2009] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Arachidonoyl amino acids are a class of endogenous lipid messengers that are expressed in the mammalian central nervous system and peripherally. While several of their prominent pharmacologic effects have been documented, the mechanism by which arachidonoyl amino acids are biosynthesized has not been defined. We have previously observed that the mitochondrial protein, cytochrome c, is capable of catalyzing the formation of the prototypic arachidonoyl amino acid, arachidonoyl glycine, utilizing arachidonoyl CoA and glycine as substrates, in the presence of hydrogen peroxide. Here we report that cytochrome c is similarly able to catalyze the formation of N-arachidonoyl serine, N-arachidonoyl alanine, and N-arachidonoyl gamma aminobutyric acid from arachidonoyl CoA and the respective amino acids. The identities of the arachidonoyl amino acid products were verified by mass spectral fragmentation pattern analysis. The synthetic reactions exhibited Michaelis-Menten kinetics and continued favorably at physiologic temperature and pH. Spectral data indicate that both cytochrome c protein structure and a +3 heme iron oxidation state are required for the reaction mechanism to proceed optimally. Reactions designed to catalyze the formation of N-arachidonoyl dopamine were not efficient due to the rapid oxidation of dopamine substrate by hydrogen peroxide, consuming both reactants. Finally, under standard assay conditions, arachidonoyl CoA and ethanolamine were found to react spontaneously to form anandamide, independent of cytochrome c and hydrogen peroxide. Accordingly, it was not possible to demonstrate a potential role for cytochrome c in the biosynthetic mechanism for either arachidonoyl dopamine or anandamide. However, the ability of cytochrome c to effectively catalyze the formation of N-arachidonoyl serine, N-arachidonoyl alanine, and N-arachidonoyl gamma aminobutyric acid in vitro highlights its potential role for the generation of these lipid messengers in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey M McCue
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, F. Edward Herbert School of Medicine, 4301 Jones Bridge Road, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
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24
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Bradshaw HB, Rimmerman N, Hu SSJ, Benton VM, Stuart JM, Masuda K, Cravatt BF, O'Dell DK, Walker JM. The endocannabinoid anandamide is a precursor for the signaling lipid N-arachidonoyl glycine by two distinct pathways. BMC BIOCHEMISTRY 2009; 10:14. [PMID: 19460156 PMCID: PMC2689249 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2091-10-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2009] [Accepted: 05/21/2009] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND N-arachidonoyl glycine (NAGly) is an endogenous signaling lipid with a wide variety of biological activity whose biosynthesis is poorly understood. Two primary biosynthetic pathways have been proposed. One suggests that NAGly is formed via an enzymatically regulated conjugation of arachidonic acid (AA) and glycine. The other suggests that NAGly is an oxidative metabolite of the endogenous cannabinoid, anandamide (AEA), through an alcohol dehydrogenase. Here using both in vitro and in vivo assays measuring metabolites with LC/MS/MS we test the hypothesis that both pathways are present in mammalian cells. RESULTS The metabolic products of deuterium-labeled AEA, D4AEA (deuterium on ethanolamine), indicated that NAGly is formed by the oxidation of the ethanolamine creating a D2NAGly product in both RAW 264.7 and C6 glioma cells. Significantly, D4AEA produced a D0NAGly product only in C6 glioma cells suggesting that the hydrolysis of AEA yielded AA that was used preferentially in a conjugation reaction. Addition of the fatty acid amide (FAAH) inhibitor URB 597 blocked the production of D0NAGly in these cells. Incubation with D8AA in C6 glioma cells likewise produced D8NAGly; however, with significantly less efficacy leading to the hypothesis that FAAH-initiated AEA-released AA conjugation with glycine predominates in these cells. Furthermore, the levels of AEA in the brain were significantly increased, whereas those of NAGly were significantly decreased after systemic injection of URB 597 in rats and in FAAH KO mice further supporting a role for FAAH in endogenous NAGly biosynthesis. Incubations of NAGly and recombinant FAAH demonstrated that NAGly is a significantly less efficacious substrate for FAAH with only ~50% hydrolysis at 30 minutes compared to 100% hydrolysis of AEA. Co-incubations of AEA and glycine with recombinant FAAH did not, however, produce NAGly. CONCLUSION These data support the hypothesis that the signaling lipid NAGly is a metabolic product of AEA by both oxidative metabolism of the AEA ethanolamine moiety and through the conjugation of glycine to AA that is released during AEA hydrolysis by FAAH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather B Bradshaw
- The Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA.
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25
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Bradshaw HB, Lee SH, McHugh D. Orphan endogenous lipids and orphan GPCRs: a good match. Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat 2009; 89:131-4. [PMID: 19379823 DOI: 10.1016/j.prostaglandins.2009.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2009] [Revised: 04/09/2009] [Accepted: 04/09/2009] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
A large and growing family of over 70 endogenous lipids of the basic structure N-acyl amide has been identified during the last 10 years. Only a few of these lipids have been characterized for biological activity, however, those that have shown a wide-range of activity may act at G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs). Like orphan GPCRs that are identified as being in the genome and expressed in tissue, the majority of these endogenous lipids many produced throughout the body, some predominately in nervous tissue, remain orphaned. Here, we give a brief history of these orphan lipids and highlight the activity of N-arachidonoyl glycine, and farnesyl pyrophosphate at the orphan receptors GPR18 and GPR92, respectively, as well as summarizing the biological and pharmacological data for the recently identified N-palmitoyl glycine that suggests activity at a novel GPCR. Working to deorphanize both lipids and GPCRs together provides a unique opportunity for a greater understanding of cellular signaling and a challenge to find them all a home.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather B Bradshaw
- The Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA.
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26
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Williams JR, Khandoga AL, Goyal P, Fells JI, Perygin DH, Siess W, Parrill AL, Tigyi G, Fujiwara Y. Unique ligand selectivity of the GPR92/LPA5 lysophosphatidate receptor indicates role in human platelet activation. J Biol Chem 2009; 284:17304-17319. [PMID: 19366702 PMCID: PMC2719366 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m109.003194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is a ligand for LPA(1-3) of the endothelial differentiation gene family G-protein-coupled receptors, and LPA(4-8) is related to the purinergic family G-protein-coupled receptor. Because the structure-activity relationship (SAR) of GPR92/LPA(5) is limited and whether LPA is its preferred endogenous ligand has been questioned in the literature, in this study we applied a combination of computational and experimental site-directed mutagenesis of LPA(5) residues predicted to interact with the headgroup of LPA. Four residues involved in ligand recognition in LPA(5) were identified as follows: R2.60N mutant abolished receptor activation, whereas H4.64E, R6.62A, and R7.32A greatly reduced receptor activation. We also investigated the SAR of LPA(5) using LPA analogs and other non-lysophospholipid ligands. SAR revealed that the rank order of agonists is alkyl glycerol phosphate > LPA > farnesyl phosphates >> N-arachidonoylglycine. These results confirm LPA(5) to be a bona fide lysophospholipid receptor. We also evaluated several compounds with previously established selectivity for the endothelial differentiation gene receptors and found several that are LPA(5) agonists. A pharmacophore model of LPA(5) binding requirements was developed for in silico screening, which identified two non-lipid LPA(5) antagonists. Because LPA(5) transcripts are abundant in human platelets, we tested its antagonists on platelet activation and found that these non-lipid LPA(5) antagonists inhibit platelet activation. The present results suggest that selective inhibition of LPA(5) may provide a basis for future anti-thrombotic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesica R Williams
- From the Department of Chemistry and Computational Research on Materials Institute, University of Memphis, Memphis, Tennessee 38152
| | - Anna L Khandoga
- Institute for Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases, Medical Faculty, University of Munich, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Pankaj Goyal
- Institute for Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases, Medical Faculty, University of Munich, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - James I Fells
- From the Department of Chemistry and Computational Research on Materials Institute, University of Memphis, Memphis, Tennessee 38152
| | - Donna H Perygin
- From the Department of Chemistry and Computational Research on Materials Institute, University of Memphis, Memphis, Tennessee 38152
| | - Wolfgang Siess
- Institute for Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases, Medical Faculty, University of Munich, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Abby L Parrill
- From the Department of Chemistry and Computational Research on Materials Institute, University of Memphis, Memphis, Tennessee 38152
| | - Gabor Tigyi
- Department of Physiology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163
| | - Yuko Fujiwara
- Department of Physiology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163.
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27
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Bisogno T, Piscitelli F, Di Marzo V. Lipidomic methodologies applicable to the study of endocannabinoids and related compounds: Endocannabinoidomics. EUR J LIPID SCI TECH 2009. [DOI: 10.1002/ejlt.200800233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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28
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Bradshaw HB, Rimmerman N, Hu SSJ, Burstein S, Walker JM. Novel endogenous N-acyl glycines identification and characterization. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2009; 81:191-205. [PMID: 19647113 DOI: 10.1016/s0083-6729(09)81008-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Discovery of the endogenous cannabinoid and N-acyl amide, anandamide (N-arachidonoyl ethanolamine), paved the way for lipidomics discoveries in the growing family of N-acyl amides. Lipidomics is a field that is broadening our view of the molecular world to include a wide variety of endogenous lipid signaling molecules. Many of these lipids will undoubtedly provide new insights into old questions while others will provide broad platforms for new questions. J Michael Walker's last 8 years were dedicated to this search and he lived long enough to see 54 novel lipids isolated from biological tissues in his laboratory. Here, we summarize the biosynthesis, metabolism and biological activity of two of the family of N-acyl glycines, N-arachidonoyl glycine and N-palmitoyl glycine, and introduce four additional members: N-stearoyl glycine, N-linoleoyl glycine, N-oleoyl glycine, and N-docosahexaenoyl glycine. Each of these compounds is found throughout the body at differing levels suggesting region-specific functionality and at least four of the N-acyl glycines are regulated by the enzyme fatty acid amide hydrolase. The family of N-acyl glycines presented here is merely a sampling of what is to come in the continuing discovery of novel endogenous lipids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather B Bradshaw
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
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29
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Oh DY, Yoon JM, Moon MJ, Hwang JI, Choe H, Lee JY, Kim JI, Kim S, Rhim H, O'Dell DK, Walker JM, Na HS, Lee MG, Kwon HB, Kim K, Seong JY. Identification of farnesyl pyrophosphate and N-arachidonylglycine as endogenous ligands for GPR92. J Biol Chem 2008; 283:21054-64. [PMID: 18499677 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m708908200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
A series of small compounds acting at the orphan G protein-coupled receptor GPR92 were screened using a signaling pathway-specific reporter assay system. Lipid-derived molecules including farnesyl pyrophosphate (FPP), N-arachidonylglycine (NAG), and lysophosphatidic acid were found to activate GPR92. FPP and lysophosphatidic acid were able to activate both G(q/11)- and G(s)-mediated signaling pathways, whereas NAG activated only the G(q/11)-mediated signaling pathway. Computer-simulated modeling combined with site-directed mutagenesis of GPR92 indicated that Thr(97), Gly(98), Phe(101), and Arg(267) of GPR92 are responsible for the interaction of GPR92 with FPP and NAG. Reverse transcription-PCR analysis revealed that GPR92 mRNA is highly expressed in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) but faint in other brain regions. Peripheral tissues including, spleen, stomach, small intestine, and kidney also expressed GPR92 mRNA. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that GPR92 is largely co-localized with TRPV1, a nonspecific cation channel that responds to noxious heat, in mouse and human DRG. FPP and NAG increased intracellular Ca(2+) levels in cultured DRG neurons. These results suggest that FPP and NAG play a role in the sensory nervous system through activation of GPR92.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da Young Oh
- Laboratory of G Protein-Coupled Receptors and Department of Physiology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Palmer JA, Higuera ES, Chang L, Chaplan SR. Fatty acid amide hydrolase inhibition enhances the anti-allodynic actions of endocannabinoids in a model of acute pain adapted for the mouse. Neuroscience 2008; 154:1554-61. [PMID: 18541380 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2008.04.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2007] [Revised: 04/19/2008] [Accepted: 04/24/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoid ligands have been shown to be anti-nociceptive in animal models of acute and chronic pain by acting at the two known cannabinoid receptors, cannabinoid-1 receptor (CB-1) and cannabinoid-2 receptor (CB-2). A major concern with the use of cannabinoids for pain relief is that they activate receptors at sites other than those involved in the transmission of nociceptive stimuli. An alternative approach is to target the naturally occurring endocannabinoids, such as anandamide (AEA), 2-arachidonylglycerol (2-AG) and N-arachidonylglycine (N-AG). However in vivo results obtained with these compounds appear to be weak, most probably due to their rapid degradation and subsequent short half-life. The predominant enzyme responsible for the hydrolysis of anandamide (and some other endocannabinoids) in the brain is fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). Recently, the alpha-ketoheterocycle OL135 has been synthesized and shown to be a highly potent and selective inhibitor of FAAH with efficacy in pain models in vivo. In the present study, we have adapted the mild thermal injury (MTI) model of acute pain for the mouse and pharmacologically characterized this model by showing significant reversal of the tactile allodynia by morphine (3, 5 and 10 mg kg(-1) s.c.), gabapentin (100 and 300 mg kg(-1) i.p.), ibuprofen (100 mg kg(-1) i.p.) and OL135 (10, 30 and 100 mg kg(-1) i.p.). Furthermore we have demonstrated, using this model, that a subtherapeutic dose of OL135 can enable the endocannabinoids AEA and 2-AG, but not N-AG to be active at doses where they are otherwise nonanalgesic (20 mg kg(-1) i.p.). The implications of this model in the study of pain in mice, and the therapeutic potential of FAAH inhibition to provide analgesia without the undesirable side effects of direct agonism of cannabinoid receptors are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Palmer
- Pain and Related Disorders, Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Research and Development, LLC, San Diego, CA 92121, USA.
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31
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Fezza F, De Simone C, Amadio D, Maccarrone M. Fatty acid amide hydrolase: a gate-keeper of the endocannabinoid system. Subcell Biochem 2008; 49:101-132. [PMID: 18751909 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4020-8831-5_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
The family of endocannabinoids contains several polyunsaturated fatty acid amides such as anandamide (AEA), but also esters such as 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG). These compounds are the main endogenous agonists of cannabinoid receptors, able to mimic several pharmacological effects of Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta9-THC), the active principle of Cannabis sativa preparations like hashish and marijuana. The activity of AEA at its receptors is limited by cellular uptake, through a putative membrane transporter, followed by intracellular degradation by fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). Growing evidence demonstrates that FAAH is the critical regulator of the endogenous levels of AEA, suggesting that it may serve as an attractive therapeutic target for the treatment of human disorders. In particular, FAAH inhibitors may be next generation therapeutics of potential value for the treatment of pathologies of the central nervous system, and of peripheral tissues. Investigations into the structure and function of FAAH, its biological and therapeutic implications, as well as a description of different families of FAAH inhibitors, are the topic of this chapter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filomena Fezza
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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32
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Di Marzo V, Bisogno T, De Petrocellis L. Endocannabinoids and related compounds: walking back and forth between plant natural products and animal physiology. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 14:741-56. [PMID: 17656311 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2007.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2007] [Revised: 05/30/2007] [Accepted: 05/30/2007] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis sativa has been known, used, and misused by mankind for centuries, and yet only over the last two decades has research stemming from the chemical constituents specific to this plant, the cannabinoids, started to provide fundamental insights into animal physiology and pathology, resulting in the development of new therapeutics. The discovery of the endocannabinoid system, and its targeting with two new pharmaceutical preparations now on the market in several countries, represent the most recent example of how studies on medicinal plants and on the mechanism of their biological effects can reveal, through a chain of breakthroughs, new systems of endogenous signals and physiological phenomena that can become the source of novel strategies for unmet therapeutic challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Di Marzo
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli (NA), Italy.
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Burstein S. The elmiric acids: biologically active anandamide analogs. Neuropharmacology 2007; 55:1259-64. [PMID: 18187165 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2007.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2007] [Revised: 08/20/2007] [Accepted: 11/19/2007] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
As chemical entities, lipoamino acids have been known for some time. However, more recently their occurrence and importance in mammalian species has been discovered. They appear to have close relationships with the endocannabinoids not only structurally but also in terms of biological actions. The latter include analgesia, anti-inflammatory effects, inhibition of cell proliferation and calcium ion mobilization. To date about 40 naturally occurring members of this family have been identified and, additionally, several synthetic analogs have been prepared and studied. To facilitate their identity, a nomenclature system has been suggested based on the name elmiric acid (EMA). The prototypic example, N-arachidonoyl glycine, does not bind to CB1, however it does inhibit the glycine transporter GLYT2a and also appears to be a ligand for the orphan G-protein-coupled receptor GPR18. It may also have a role in regulating tissue levels of anandamide by virtue of its inhibitory effect on FAAH the enzyme that mediates inactivation of anandamide. Its concentration in rat brain is several-fold higher than anandamide supporting its possible role as a physiological mediator. Future studies should be aimed at elucidating the actions of all of the members of this interesting family of molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumner Burstein
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Pharmacology, The University of Massachusetts Medical School Worcester, MA 01605, USA.
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McCue JM, Driscoll WJ, Mueller GP. Cytochrome c catalyzes the in vitro synthesis of arachidonoyl glycine. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2007; 365:322-7. [PMID: 17986381 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2007.10.175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2007] [Accepted: 10/28/2007] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Long chain fatty acyl glycines are an emerging class of biologically active molecules that occur naturally and produce a wide array of physiological effects. Their biosynthetic pathway, however, remains unknown. Here we report that cytochrome c catalyzes the synthesis of N-arachidonoyl glycine (NAGly) from arachidonoyl coenzyme A and glycine in the presence of hydrogen peroxide. The identity of the NAGly product was verified by isotope labeling and mass analysis. Other heme-containing proteins, hemoglobin and myoglobin, were considerably less effective in generating arachidonoyl glycine as compared to cytochrome c. The reaction catalyzed by cytochrome c in vitro points to its potential role in the formation of NAGly and other long chain fatty acyl glycines in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey M McCue
- Department of Anatomy Physiology and Genetics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, F. Edward Herbert School of Medicine, 4301 Jones Bridge Road, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
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Succar R, Mitchell VA, Vaughan CW. Actions of N-arachidonyl-glycine in a rat inflammatory pain model. Mol Pain 2007; 3:24. [PMID: 17727733 PMCID: PMC2042976 DOI: 10.1186/1744-8069-3-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2007] [Accepted: 08/30/2007] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background While cannabinoid receptor agonists have analgesic activity in inflammatory pain states they produce a range of side effects. Recently, it has been demonstrated that the arachidonic acid-amino acid conjugate, N-arachidonyl-glycine (NA-glycine) is effective in acute pain models. Results In the present study we examined the effect of NA-glycine in a rat model of inflammatory pain. Intrathecal administration of NA-glycine (70 – 700 nmol) and the pan-cannabinoid receptor agonist HU-210 (10 nmol) reduced the mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia induced by intraplantar injection of Freund's complete adjuvant (FCA). The actions of HU-210, but not NA-glycine were reduced by the cannabinoid CB1 receptor antagonist AM251. The cannabinoid CB2 receptor antagonist SR144528 also had no effect on the actions of NA-glycine. In contrast, N-arachidonyl-GABA (NA-GABA, 700 nmol) and N-arachidonyl-alanine (NA-alanine, 700 nmol) had no effect on allodynia and hyperalgesia. HU-210, but not NA-glycine produced a reduction in rotarod latency. Conclusion These findings suggest that NA-glycine may provide a novel non-cannabinoid receptor mediated approach to alleviate inflammatory pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Succar
- Pain Management Research Institute, Northern Clinical School, The University of Sydney at Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, 2065, NSW, Australia
| | - Vanessa A Mitchell
- Pain Management Research Institute, Northern Clinical School, The University of Sydney at Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, 2065, NSW, Australia
| | - Christopher W Vaughan
- Pain Management Research Institute, Northern Clinical School, The University of Sydney at Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, 2065, NSW, Australia
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Vuong LAQ, Mitchell VA, Vaughan CW. Actions of N-arachidonyl-glycine in a rat neuropathic pain model. Neuropharmacology 2007; 54:189-93. [PMID: 17588618 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2007.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2007] [Revised: 05/07/2007] [Accepted: 05/09/2007] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
While cannabinoid receptor agonists reduce the abnormal pain sensations associated with animal models of neuropathic pain states they also produce CB(1) receptor mediated side effects. Recently, a number of arachidonic acid-amino acid conjugates, including N-arachidonyl-glycine (NAGly), have been identified which are structurally related to the endocannabinoid arachidonyl ethanolamide (anandamide). In the present study we examined the effect of NAGly in a rat model of neuropathic pain. Intrathecal administration of NAGly (700 nmol) and the pan-cannabinoid receptor agonist HU-210 (30 nmol) reduced the mechanical allodynia induced by partial ligation of the sciatic nerve. The NAGly induced anti-allodynia was dose dependent and, unlike HU-210, was unaffected by the cannabinoid CB(1) and CB(2) receptor antagonists, AM251 and SR144528 (30 nmol). The NAGly degradation products, arachidonic acid and glycine (700 nmol), did not reduce allodynia. HU-210, but not NAGly produced a reduction in rotarod latency. These findings suggest that NAGly may provide a novel analgesic approach to alleviate neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leeza A Q Vuong
- Pain Management Research Institute, Kolling Institute, Northern Clinical School, The University of Sydney at Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW 2065, Australia
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Burstein SH, Adams JK, Bradshaw HB, Fraioli C, Rossetti RG, Salmonsen RA, Shaw JW, Walker JM, Zipkin RE, Zurier RB. Potential anti-inflammatory actions of the elmiric (lipoamino) acids. Bioorg Med Chem 2007; 15:3345-55. [PMID: 17383881 PMCID: PMC1896102 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2007.03.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2007] [Revised: 02/23/2007] [Accepted: 03/08/2007] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
A library of amino acid-fatty acid conjugates (elmiric acids) was synthesized and evaluated for activity as potential anti-inflammatory agents. The compounds were tested in vitro for their effects on cell proliferation and prostaglandin production, and compared with their effects on in vivo models of inflammation. LPS stimulated RAW 267.4 mouse macrophage cells were the in vitro model and phorbol ester-induced mouse ear edema served as the principal in vivo model. The prostaglandin responses were found to be strongly dependent on the nature of the fatty acid part of the molecule. Polyunsaturated acid conjugates produced a marked increase in media levels of i15-deoxy-PGJ(2) with minimal effects on PGE production. It is reported in the literature that prostaglandin ratios in which the J series predominates over the E series promote the resolution of inflammatory conditions. Several of the elmiric acids tested here produced such favorable ratios suggesting that their potential anti-inflammatory activity occurs via a novel mechanism of action. The ear edema assay results were generally in agreement with the prostaglandin assay findings indicating a connection between them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumner H Burstein
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Pharmacology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA.
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Chaturvedi S, Driscoll WJ, Elliot BM, Faraday MM, Grunberg NE, Mueller GP. In vivo evidence that N-oleoylglycine acts independently of its conversion to oleamide. Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat 2006; 81:136-49. [PMID: 17085322 PMCID: PMC1712674 DOI: 10.1016/j.prostaglandins.2006.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2006] [Revised: 09/01/2006] [Accepted: 09/02/2006] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Oleamide (cis-9-octadecenamide) is a member of an emerging class of lipid-signaling molecules, the primary fatty acid amides. A growing body of evidence indicates that oleamide mediates fundamental neurochemical processes including sleep, thermoregulation, and nociception. Nevertheless, the mechanism for oleamide biosynthesis remains unknown. The leading hypothesis holds that oleamide is synthesized from oleoylglycine via the actions of the peptide amidating enzyme, peptidylglycine alpha-amidating monooxygenase (PAM). The present study investigated this hypothesis using pharmacologic treatments, physiologic assessments, and measurements of serum oleamide levels using a newly developed enzyme-linked immunosorbant assay (ELISA). Oleamide and oleoylglycine both induced profound hypothermia and decreased locomotion, over equivalent dose ranges and time courses, whereas, closely related compounds, stearamide and oleic acid, were essentially without effect. While the biologic actions of oleamide and oleoylglycine were equivalent, the two compounds differed dramatically with respect to their effects on serum levels of oleamide. Oleamide administration (80mg/kg) elevated blood-borne oleamide by eight-fold, whereas, the same dose of oleoylglycine had no effect on circulating oleamide levels. In addition, pretreatment with the established PAM inhibitor, disulfiram, produced modest reductions in the hypothermic responses to both oleoylglycine and oleamide, suggesting that the effects of disulfiram were not mediated through inhibition of PAM and a resulting decrease in the formation of oleamide from oleoylglycine. Collectively, these findings raise the possibilities that: (1) oleoylglycine possesses biologic activity that is independent of its conversion to oleamide and (2) the increased availability of oleoylglycine as a potential substrate does not drive the biosynthesis of oleamide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shalini Chaturvedi
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, F. Edward Hebert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, 4301 Jones Bridge Road, Bethesda, Maryland 20814-4799
| | - William J. Driscoll
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, F. Edward Hebert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, 4301 Jones Bridge Road, Bethesda, Maryland 20814-4799
| | - Brenda M. Elliot
- Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, F. Edward Hebert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, 4301 Jones Bridge Road, Bethesda, Maryland 20814-4799
| | - Martha M. Faraday
- Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, F. Edward Hebert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, 4301 Jones Bridge Road, Bethesda, Maryland 20814-4799
| | - Neil E. Grunberg
- Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, F. Edward Hebert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, 4301 Jones Bridge Road, Bethesda, Maryland 20814-4799
| | - Gregory P. Mueller
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, F. Edward Hebert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, 4301 Jones Bridge Road, Bethesda, Maryland 20814-4799
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Bezuglov VV, Gretskaia NM, Blazhenova AV, Adrianova EL, Akimov AV, Bobrov MI, Nazimov IV, Kisel' MI, Sharko OL, Novikov AV, Krasnov NV, Shevchenko VP, V'iunova TV, Miasoedova NF. [Arachidonoyl amino acids and arachidonoyl peptides: synthesis and properties]. RUSSIAN JOURNAL OF BIOORGANIC CHEMISTRY 2006; 32:258-67. [PMID: 16808168 DOI: 10.1134/s1068162006030046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
N-Arachidonoyl (AA) derivatives of amino acids (glycine, phenylalanine, proline, valine, gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA), dihydroxyphenylalanine, tyrosine, tryptophan, and alanine) and peptides (Semax, MEHFPGP, and PGP) were synthesized in order to study the biological properties of acylamino acids. The mass spectra of all the compounds at atmospheric pressure electrospray ionization display the most intense peaks of protonated molecular ions; the detection limits for these compounds are 10 fmol per sample. AA-Gly showed the highest inhibitory activity toward fatty acid amide hydrolase from rat brain (IC50 6.5 microM) among all the acylamino acids studied. AA-Phe, AA-Tyr, and AA-GABA exhibited a weak but detectable inhibitory effect (IC50 55, 60, and 50 microM, respectively). The acylated amino acids themselves, except for AA-Gly, were stable to the hydrolysis by this enzyme. All the arachidonoylamino acids inhibited cabbage phospholipase D to various degrees; AA-GABA and AA-Phe proved to be the most active (IC50 20 and 27 microM, respectively). Attempts to detect the biosynthesis of AA-Tyr in homogenates of rat liver and nerve tissue showed no formation in vitro of either this acylamino acid or AA-dopamine and AA-Phe, the products of its metabolism. The highest contents of these metabolites were detected in liver homogenate and in the brain homogenate, respectively. Acylamino acids exert no cytotoxic effect toward the glioma C6 cells. It was shown that N-acylation of Semax with arachidonic acid results in enhancement of its hydrolytic stability and increases its affinity for the sites of specific binding in rat cerebellum membranes. The English version of the paper: Russian Journal of Bioorganic Chemistry, 2006, vol. 32, no. 3; see also http://www.maik.ru.
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Kohno M, Hasegawa H, Inoue A, Muraoka M, Miyazaki T, Oka K, Yasukawa M. Identification of N-arachidonylglycine as the endogenous ligand for orphan G-protein-coupled receptor GPR18. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2006; 347:827-32. [PMID: 16844083 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2006.06.175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 187] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2006] [Accepted: 06/29/2006] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
An orphan G-protein-coupled receptor, GPR18, was cloned on the basis of degenerate-oligonucleotide PCR analysis of HUT 102 cells using primers designed from the conservative regions of the human chemokine receptor. GPR18 was expressed significantly in lymphoid cell lines, but not in non-lymphoid hematopoietic cell lines. Moreover, the expression of the GPR18 gene was higher in peripheral lymphocyte subsets (CD4(+), CD4(+)CD45RA(+), CD4(+)CD45RO(+), CD8(+), and CD19(+)) than in monocytes and lymphoid cell lines, and was increased after stimulation with phytohemagglutinin. By screening using a lipid library, N-arachidonylglycine (NAGly) induced an increase in intracellular Ca(2+) concentration in GPR18-transfected cells, which was significantly greater than that in mock-transfected cells. NAGly also inhibited forskolin-induced cAMP production in a pertussis toxin-sensitive manner in the GPR18-transfected CHO cells. This is the first study to demonstrate that NAGly is a natural ligand for GPR18.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masashi Kohno
- Department of Bioregulatory Medicine, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon, Japan
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Ho WSV, Hillard CJ. Modulators of endocannabinoid enzymic hydrolysis and membrane transport. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2005:187-207. [PMID: 16596775 DOI: 10.1007/3-540-26573-2_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Tissue concentrations of the endocannabinoids N-arachidonoylethanolamine (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) are regulated by both synthesis and inactivation. The purpose of this review is to compile available data regarding three inactivation processes: fatty acid amide hydrolase, monoacylglycerol lipase, and cellular membrane transport. In particular, we have focused on mechanisms by which these processes are modulated. We describe the in vitro and in vivo effects of inhibitors of these processes as well as available evidence regarding their modulation by other factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- W S V Ho
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
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Pertwee RG. The therapeutic potential of drugs that target cannabinoid receptors or modulate the tissue levels or actions of endocannabinoids. AAPS J 2005; 7:E625-54. [PMID: 16353941 PMCID: PMC2751266 DOI: 10.1208/aapsj070364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 159] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2005] [Accepted: 07/21/2005] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
There are at least 2 types of cannabinoid receptor, CB(1) and CB(2), both G protein coupled. CB(1) receptors are expressed predominantly at nerve terminals and mediate inhibition of transmitter release, whereas CB(2) receptors are found mainly on immune cells, their roles including the modulation of cytokine release and of immune cell migration. Endogenous agonists for cannabinoid receptors also exist. These "endocannabinoids" are synthesized on demand and removed from their sites of action by cellular uptake and intracellular enzymic hydrolysis. Endocannabinoids and their receptors together constitute the endocannabinoid system. This review summarizes evidence that there are certain central and peripheral disorders in which increases take place in the release of endocannabinoids onto their receptors and/or in the density or coupling efficiency of these receptors and that this upregulation is protective in some disorders but can have undesirable consequences in others. It also considers therapeutic strategies by which this upregulation might be modulated to clinical advantage. These strategies include the administration of (1) a CB(1) and/or CB(2) receptor agonist or antagonist that does or does not readily cross the blood brain barrier; (2) a CB(1) and/or CB(2) receptor agonist intrathecally or directly to some other site outside the brain; (3) a partial CB(1) and/or CB(2) receptor agonist rather than a full agonist; (4) a CB(1) and/or CB(2) receptor agonist together with a noncannabinoid, for example, morphine or codeine; (5) an inhibitor or activator of endocannabinoid biosynthesis, cellular uptake, or metabolism; (6) an allosteric modulator of the CB(1) receptor; and (7) a CB(2) receptor inverse agonist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger G Pertwee
- School of Medical Sciences, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, Scotland, UK.
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Abstract
Cannabinoid agonists such as Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) produce a wide range of pharmacological effects both in the central nervous system and in the periphery. One of the most striking features of cannabinoids such as THC is the magnitude to tolerance that can be produced upon repetitive administration of this substance to animals. Relatively modest dosing regimens are capable of producing significant tolerance, whereas greater than 100-fold tolerance can be obtained with aggressive treatments. While cannabinoid tolerance has been studied quite extensively to establish its relevance to the health consequences of marijuana use, it has also proven to be a valuable strategy in understanding the mechanism of action of cannabinoids. The discovery of the endocannabinoid system that contains two receptor subtypes, CB1 and CB2, associated signaling pathways, endocannabinoids (anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol) and their synthetic and degradative pathways has provided a means of systematically evaluating the mechanism of cannabinoid tolerance. It is well known that the CB1 cannabinoid receptor is down-regulated in states of cannabinoid tolerance along with uncoupling from its second messenger systems. Endocannabinoid levels are also altered in selected brain regions during the development of tolerance. While it is reasonable to speculate that a likely relationship exists between receptor and endocannabinoid levels, at present, little is known regarding the biological signal that leads to alterations in endocannabinoid levels. It is also unknown to what degree synthetic and degradative pathways for the endocannabinoids are altered in states of tolerance. The discovery that the brain is abundant in fatty acid amides and glycerols raises the question as to what roles these lipids contribute to the endocannabinoid system. Some of these lipids also utilize the endocannabinoid metabolic pathways, produce similar pharmacological effects, and are capable of modulating the actions of anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol. In addition, there are dopamine, glycine, and serotonin conjugates of arachidonic acid that may also contribute to the actions of endocannabinoids. A systematic examination of these lipids in cannabinoid tolerance might shed light on their physiological relevance to the endocannabinoid system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Billy R Martin
- Louis and Ruth Harris Professor and Chair, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, P.O. Box 980613, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA.
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Lambert DM, Fowler CJ. The Endocannabinoid System: Drug Targets, Lead Compounds, and Potential Therapeutic Applications. J Med Chem 2005; 48:5059-87. [PMID: 16078824 DOI: 10.1021/jm058183t] [Citation(s) in RCA: 256] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Didier M Lambert
- Unité de Chimie Pharmaceutique et de Radiopharmacie, Université Catholique de Louvain, 73 Avenue Mounier, UCL-CMFA 73.40, B-1200 Brussels, Belgium.
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Abstract
The discovery of the endogenous cannabimimetic lipid mediators, anandamide and 2-arachidonoyl glycerol, opened the door to the discovery of other endogenous lipid mediators similar in structure and function. The majority of these compounds do not bind appreciably to known cannabinoid receptors; yet some of them produce cannabimimetic effects while others exert actions through novel mechanisms that remain to be elucidated. This review explores the growing diversity of recently discovered putative lipid mediators and their relationship to the endogenous cannabinoid system. The possibility that there remain many unidentified signalling lipids coupled with the evidence that many of these yield bioactive metabolites due to actions of known enzymes (e.g. cyclooxygenases, lipoxygenases, cytochrome P450s) suggests the existence of a large and complex family of lipid mediators about which only little is known at this time. The elucidation of the biochemistry and pharmacology of these compounds may provide therapeutic targets for a variety of conditions including sleep dysfunction, eating disorders, cardiovascular disease, as well as inflammation and pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather B Bradshaw
- Department of Psychology, Indiana University, 1101 E. 10th St., Bloomington, IN 47405, U.S.A
| | - J Michael Walker
- Department of Psychology, Indiana University, 1101 E. 10th St., Bloomington, IN 47405, U.S.A
- Author for correspondence:
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Grazia Cascio M, Minassi A, Ligresti A, Appendino G, Burstein S, Di Marzo V. A structure-activity relationship study on N-arachidonoyl-amino acids as possible endogenous inhibitors of fatty acid amide hydrolase. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2004; 314:192-6. [PMID: 14715265 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2003.12.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
N-arachidonoyl-glycine (NAGly) has been recently identified in rodent tissues and found to exhibit analgesic activity in vivo. NAGly is a potent inhibitor of the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), the enzyme primarily responsible for the degradation of the endocannabinoid N-arachidonoyl-ethanolamine (anandamide), and was shown recently to elevate the blood levels of the this analgesic compound. We have synthesized several N-arachidonoyl-amino acids of potential natural occurrence, as well as the D- and L-isomers of N-arachidonoyl-alanine, and have tested their activity on FAAH preparations from mouse, rat, and human cell lines, and from mouse or rat brain. The results indicate that the relative potency and enantioselectivity of N-arachidonoyl-amino acids as FAAH inhibitors depend on the animal species. Thus, whilst NAGly is the most potent compound on the rat and mouse enzymes, N-arachidonoyl-isoleucine is active only on human FAAH and N-arachidonoyl-alanine enantiomers show a varying degree of potency. Taken together, these data support the view that an enhancement of endogenous anandamide levels underlies in part the analgesic effects of NAGly in rodents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Grazia Cascio
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Istituto di Chimica Biomolecolare, CNR, Via Campi Flegrei 34, Comprensorio A. Olivetti, Building 70, 80078 Pozzuoli (NA), Italy
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Matias I, Chen J, De Petrocellis L, Bisogno T, Ligresti A, Fezza F, Krauss AHP, Shi L, Protzman CE, Li C, Liang Y, Nieves AL, Kedzie KM, Burk RM, Di Marzo V, Woodward DF. Prostaglandin ethanolamides (prostamides): in vitro pharmacology and metabolism. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2004; 309:745-57. [PMID: 14757851 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.103.061705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated whether prostaglandin ethanolamides (prostamides) E(2), F(2alpha), and D(2) exert some of their effects by 1) activating prostanoid receptors either per se or after conversion into the corresponding prostaglandins; 2) interacting with proteins for the inactivation of the endocannabinoid N-arachidonoylethanolamide (AEA), for example fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), thereby enhancing AEA endogenous levels; or 3) activating the vanilloid receptor type-1 (TRPV1). Prostamides potently stimulated cat iris contraction with potency approaching that of the corresponding prostaglandins. However, prostamides D(2), E(2), and F(2alpha) exhibited no meaningful interaction with the cat recombinant FP receptor, nor with human recombinant DP, EP(1-4), FP, IP, and TP prostanoid receptors. Prostamide F(2alpha) was also very weak or inactive in a panel of bioassays specific for the various prostanoid receptors. None of the prostamides inhibited AEA enzymatic hydrolysis by FAAH in cell homogenates, or AEA cellular uptake in intact cells. Furthermore, less than 3% of the compounds were hydrolyzed to the corresponding prostaglandins when incubated for 4 h with homogenates of rat brain, lung, or liver, and cat iris or ciliary body. Very little temperature-dependent uptake of prostamides was observed after incubation with rat brain synaptosomes or RBL-2H3 cells. We suggest that prostamides' most prominent pharmacological actions are not due to transformation into prostaglandins, activation of prostanoid receptors, enhancement of AEA levels, or gating of TRPV1 receptors, but possibly to interaction with novel receptors that seem to be functional in the cat iris.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Matias
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Napoli, Italy
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48
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Anderle P, Farmer P, Berger A, Roberts MA. Nutrigenomic approach to understanding the mechanisms by which dietary long-chain fatty acids induce gene signals and control mechanisms involved in carcinogenesis. Nutrition 2004; 20:103-8. [PMID: 14698023 DOI: 10.1016/j.nut.2003.09.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Pascale Anderle
- Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, Lausanne, Switzerland
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49
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Abstract
The endocannabinoid anandamide is of lipid nature and may thus bind to albumin in the vascular system, as do fatty acids. The knowledge of the free water-phase concentration of anandamide is essential for the investigations of its transfer from the binding protein to cellular membranes, because a water-phase shuttle of monomers mediates such transfers. We have used our method based upon the use of albumin-filled red cell ghosts as a dispersed biological "reference binder" to measure the water-phase concentrations of anandamide. These concentrations were measured in buffer (pH 7.3) in equilibrium with anandamide bound to BSA inside resealed human red cell membranes at low molar ratios below one. Data were obtained at 0 degrees C, 10 degrees C, 23 degrees C, and 37 degrees C. The equilibrium dissociation constant (Kd) increases with temperature from 6.87 +/- 0.53 nM at 0 degrees C to 54.92 +/- 1.91 nM at 37 degrees C. Regression analyses of the data suggest that BSA has one high-affinity binding site for anandamide at all four temperatures. The free energy of anandamide binding (DeltaG0) is calculated to -43.05 kJ mol-1 with a large enthalpy (DeltaH0) contribution of -42.09 kJ mol-1. Anandamide has vasodilator activity, and the binding to albumin may mediate its transport in aqueous compartments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inge N Bojesen
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Genetics, Lab. B., University of Copenhagen, The Panum Institute, Blegdamsvej 3, DK-2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark.
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50
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Walker JM, Krey JF, Chu CJ, Huang SM. Endocannabinoids and related fatty acid derivatives in pain modulation. Chem Phys Lipids 2002; 121:159-72. [PMID: 12505698 DOI: 10.1016/s0009-3084(02)00152-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The brain produces at least five compounds that possess sub-micromolar affinity for cannabinoid receptors: anandamide, 2-arachidonoylglycerol, noladin ether, virodhamine, and N-arachidonoyldopamine (NADA). One function of these and/or related compounds is to suppress pain sensitivity. Much evidence supports a role of endocannabinoids in pain modulation in general, and some evidence points to the role of particular endocannabinoids. Related endogenous fatty acid derivatives such as oleamide, palmitoylethanolamide, 2-lineoylglycerol, 2-palmitoylglycerol, and a family of arachidonoyl amino acids may interact with endocannabinoids in the modulation of pain sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Michael Walker
- Departments of Psychology and Neuroscience, Brown University, 89 Waterman Street, PO Box 1853, Providence, RI 02912, USA.
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