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Jones JD, Arout CA, Luba R, Murugesan D, Madera G, Gorsuch L, Schusterman R, Martinez S. The influence of drug class on reward in substance use disorders. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2024; 240:173771. [PMID: 38670466 PMCID: PMC11162950 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2024.173771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
In the United States, the societal costs associated with drug use surpass $500 billion annually. The rewarding and reinforcing properties that drive the use of these addictive substances are typically examined concerning the neurobiological effects responsible for their abuse potential. In this review, terms such as "abuse potential," "drug," and "addictive properties" are used due to their relevance to the methodological, theoretical, and conceptual framework for understanding the phenomenon of drug-taking behavior and the associated body of preclinical and clinical literature. The use of these terms is not intended to cast aspersions on individuals with substance use disorders (SUD). Understanding what motivates substance use has been a focus of SUD research for decades. Much of this corpus of work has focused on the shared effects of each drug class to increase dopaminergic transmission within the central reward pathways of the brain, or the "reward center." However, the precise influence of each drug class on dopamine signaling, and the extent thereof, differs considerably. Furthermore, the aforementioned substances have effects on several neurobiological targets that mediate and modulate their addictive properties. The current manuscript sought to review the influence of drug class on the rewarding effects of each of the major pharmacological classes of addictive drugs (i.e., psychostimulants, opioids, nicotine, alcohol, and cannabinoids). Our review suggests that even subtle differences in drug effects can result in significant variability in the subjective experience of the drug, altering rewarding and other reinforcing effects. Additionally, this review will argue that reward (i.e., the attractive and motivational property of a stimulus) alone is not sufficient to explain the abuse liability of these substances. Instead, abuse potential is best examined as a function of both positive and negative reinforcing drug effects (i.e., stimuli that the subject will work to attain and stimuli that the subject will work to end or avoid, respectively). Though reward is central to drug use, the factors that motivate and maintain drug taking are varied and complex, with much to be elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jermaine D Jones
- Division on Substance Use Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032, USA.
| | - Caroline A Arout
- Division on Substance Use Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Rachel Luba
- Division on Substance Use Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Dillon Murugesan
- CUNY School of Medicine, 160 Convent Avenue, New York, NY 10031, USA
| | - Gabriela Madera
- Division on Substance Use Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Liam Gorsuch
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of British Columbia, 430-5950 University Blvd., Vancouver V6T 1Z3, BC, Canada
| | - Rebecca Schusterman
- Division on Substance Use Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Suky Martinez
- Division on Substance Use Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032, USA
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Branković M, Gmizić T, Dukić M, Zdravković M, Daskalović B, Mrda D, Nikolić N, Brajković M, Gojgić M, Lalatović J, Kralj Đ, Pantić I, Vojnović M, Milovanović T, Đurašević S, Todorović Z. Therapeutic Potential of Palmitoylethanolamide in Gastrointestinal Disorders. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:600. [PMID: 38790705 PMCID: PMC11117950 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13050600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is an endocannabinoid-like bioactive lipid mediator belonging to the family of N-acylethanolamines, most abundantly found in peanuts and egg yolk. When the gastrointestinal (GI) effects of PEA are discussed, it must be pointed out that it affects intestinal motility but also modulates gut microbiota. This is due to anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory features. Additionally, PEA has shown beneficial effects in several GI diseases, particularly irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel diseases, as various studies have shown, and it is important to emphasize its relative lack of toxicity, even at high dosages. Unfortunately, there is not enough endogenous PEA to treat disturbed gut homeostasis, even though it is produced in the GI tract in response to inflammatory stimuli, so exogenous intake is mandatory to achieve homeostasis. Intake of PEA could be through animal and/or vegetable food, but bearing in mind that a high dosage is needed to achieve a therapeutic effect, it must be compensated through dietary supplements. There are still open questions pending to be answered, so further studies investigating PEA's effects and mechanisms of action, especially in humans, are crucial to implementing PEA in everyday clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marija Branković
- University Hospital Medical Center Bežanijska Kosa, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (T.G.); (M.D.); (M.Z.); (D.M.); (N.N.); (M.B.); (J.L.); (Z.T.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Tijana Gmizić
- University Hospital Medical Center Bežanijska Kosa, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (T.G.); (M.D.); (M.Z.); (D.M.); (N.N.); (M.B.); (J.L.); (Z.T.)
| | - Marija Dukić
- University Hospital Medical Center Bežanijska Kosa, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (T.G.); (M.D.); (M.Z.); (D.M.); (N.N.); (M.B.); (J.L.); (Z.T.)
| | - Marija Zdravković
- University Hospital Medical Center Bežanijska Kosa, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (T.G.); (M.D.); (M.Z.); (D.M.); (N.N.); (M.B.); (J.L.); (Z.T.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | | | - Davor Mrda
- University Hospital Medical Center Bežanijska Kosa, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (T.G.); (M.D.); (M.Z.); (D.M.); (N.N.); (M.B.); (J.L.); (Z.T.)
| | - Novica Nikolić
- University Hospital Medical Center Bežanijska Kosa, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (T.G.); (M.D.); (M.Z.); (D.M.); (N.N.); (M.B.); (J.L.); (Z.T.)
| | - Milica Brajković
- University Hospital Medical Center Bežanijska Kosa, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (T.G.); (M.D.); (M.Z.); (D.M.); (N.N.); (M.B.); (J.L.); (Z.T.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Milan Gojgić
- University Hospital Medical Center Bežanijska Kosa, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (T.G.); (M.D.); (M.Z.); (D.M.); (N.N.); (M.B.); (J.L.); (Z.T.)
| | - Jovana Lalatović
- University Hospital Medical Center Bežanijska Kosa, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (T.G.); (M.D.); (M.Z.); (D.M.); (N.N.); (M.B.); (J.L.); (Z.T.)
| | - Đorđe Kralj
- University Hospital Medical Center Zvezdara, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Ivana Pantić
- Clinic of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Clinical Center of Serbia, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (I.P.); (M.V.)
| | - Marko Vojnović
- Clinic of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Clinical Center of Serbia, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (I.P.); (M.V.)
| | - Tamara Milovanović
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
- Clinic of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Clinical Center of Serbia, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (I.P.); (M.V.)
| | - Siniša Đurašević
- Department for Comparative Physiology and Ecophysiology, Institute for Physiology and Biochemistry Ivan Đaja, Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Zoran Todorović
- University Hospital Medical Center Bežanijska Kosa, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (T.G.); (M.D.); (M.Z.); (D.M.); (N.N.); (M.B.); (J.L.); (Z.T.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
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Ottria R, Porta MD, Xynomilakis O, Casati S, Cazzola R, Ciuffreda P. Lipids and lipid signaling molecules in human milk and infant formula, a chemical characterization of relevant biochemical components. J Nutr Biochem 2024; 126:109580. [PMID: 38272323 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2024.109580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Breastfeeding is the gold standard in infant nutrition and continuous researches aim to optimize infant formula composition as the best alternative available. Human milk lipid content provides more than 50% of energy requirements for infants together with essential vitamins, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and other bioactive components. While fatty acids and vitamins human milk content has been extensively studied and, when needed those have been added to infant formulas, less is known about polyunsaturated fatty acids functional derivatives and other bioactive components. Here we describe the comparison of lipid compositions in breast milk from 22 healthy volunteers breastfeeding mothers and the six most common infant formula devoting particular attention to two families of signaling lipids, endocannabinoids, and eicosanoids. The main differences between breast milk and formulas lie in a variety of saturated fatty and unsaturated fatty acids, in the total amount (45-95% less in infant formula) and a variety of endocannabinoids and eicosanoids (2-AG, 5(s)HETE, 15(S)-HETE and 14,15-EET).
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Ottria
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Cliniche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano 20157, Italy.
| | - Matteo Della Porta
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Cliniche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano 20157, Italy
| | - Ornella Xynomilakis
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Cliniche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano 20157, Italy
| | - Sara Casati
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Chirurgiche ed Odontoiatriche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberta Cazzola
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Cliniche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano 20157, Italy
| | - Pierangela Ciuffreda
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Cliniche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano 20157, Italy
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Kwee CMB, Leen NA, Van der Kamp RC, Van Lissa CJ, Cath DC, Groenink L, Baas JMP. Anxiolytic effects of endocannabinoid enhancing compounds: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2023; 72:79-94. [PMID: 37094409 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2023.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system is a promising candidate for anxiolytic therapy, but translation to the clinic has been lagging. We meta-analyzed the evidence for anxiety-reduction by compounds that facilitate endocannabinoid signaling in humans and animals. To identify areas of specific potential, effects of moderators were assessed. Literature was searched in Pubmed and Embase up to May 2021. A placebo/vehicle-control group was required and in human studies, randomization. We excluded studies that co-administered other substances. Risk of bias was assessed with SYRCLE's RoB tool and Cochrane RoB 2.0. We conducted three-level random effects meta-analyses and explored sources of heterogeneity using Bayesian regularized meta-regression (BRMA). The systematic review yielded 134 studies. We analyzed 120 studies (114 animal, 6 human) that investigated cannabidiol (CBD, 61), URB597 (39), PF-3845 (6) and AM404 (14). Pooled effects on conditioned and unconditioned anxiety in animals (with the exception of URB597 on unconditioned anxiety) and on experimentally induced anxiety in humans favored the investigational drugs over placebo/vehicle. Publication year was negatively associated with effects of CBD on unconditioned anxiety. Compared to approach avoidance tests, tests of repetitive-compulsive behavior were associated with larger effects of CBD and URB597, and the social interaction test with smaller effects of URB597. Larger effects of CBD on unconditioned anxiety were observed when anxiety pre-existed. Studies reported few side effects at therapeutic doses. The evidence quality was low with indications of publication bias. More clinical trials are needed to translate the overall positive results to clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline M B Kwee
- Department of Experimental Psychology and Helmholtz Institute, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Altrecht Academic Anxiety Center, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Nadia A Leen
- Department of Experimental Psychology and Helmholtz Institute, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Brain Research & Innovation Center, Ministry of Defence, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Department of Psychiatry, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Rian C Van der Kamp
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, VUmc medical faculty, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Caspar J Van Lissa
- Department of Methodology and Statistics, Tilburg University, Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | - Danielle C Cath
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands; GGZ Drenthe, Department of specialist trainings, Assen, the Netherlands
| | - Lucianne Groenink
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmacology, UIPS, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Johanna M P Baas
- Department of Experimental Psychology and Helmholtz Institute, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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Lins BR, Anyaegbu CC, Hellewell SC, Papini M, McGonigle T, De Prato L, Shales M, Fitzgerald M. Cannabinoids in traumatic brain injury and related neuropathologies: preclinical and clinical research on endogenous, plant-derived, and synthetic compounds. J Neuroinflammation 2023; 20:77. [PMID: 36935484 PMCID: PMC10026409 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-023-02734-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury is common, and often results in debilitating consequences. Even mild traumatic brain injury leaves approximately 20% of patients with symptoms that persist for months. Despite great clinical need there are currently no approved pharmaceutical interventions that improve outcomes after traumatic brain injury. Increased understanding of the endocannabinoid system in health and disease has accompanied growing evidence for therapeutic benefits of Cannabis sativa. This has driven research of Cannabis' active chemical constituents (phytocannabinoids), alongside endogenous and synthetic counterparts, collectively known as cannabinoids. Also of therapeutic interest are other Cannabis constituents, such as terpenes. Cannabinoids interact with neurons, microglia, and astrocytes, and exert anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects which are highly desirable for the management of traumatic brain injury. In this review, we comprehensively appraised the relevant scientific literature, where major and minor phytocannabinoids, terpenes, synthetic cannabinoids, and endogenous cannabinoids were assessed in TBI, or other neurological conditions with pathology and symptomology relevant to TBI, as well as recent studies in preclinical TBI models and clinical TBI populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittney R Lins
- Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Bentley, 6102, Australia.
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, 6009, Australia.
| | - Chidozie C Anyaegbu
- Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Bentley, 6102, Australia
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, 6009, Australia
| | - Sarah C Hellewell
- Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Bentley, 6102, Australia
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, 6009, Australia
| | - Melissa Papini
- Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Bentley, 6102, Australia
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, 6009, Australia
| | - Terence McGonigle
- Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Bentley, 6102, Australia
| | - Luca De Prato
- MediCann Health Aust Pty Ltd, Osborne Park, 6017, Australia
| | - Matthew Shales
- MediCann Health Aust Pty Ltd, Osborne Park, 6017, Australia
| | - Melinda Fitzgerald
- Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Bentley, 6102, Australia
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, 6009, Australia
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Corsato Alvarenga I, Panickar KS, Hess H, McGrath S. Scientific Validation of Cannabidiol for Management of Dog and Cat Diseases. Annu Rev Anim Biosci 2023; 11:227-246. [PMID: 36790884 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-animal-081122-070236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychotropic phytocannabinoid of the plant Cannabis sativa L. CBD is increasingly being explored as an alternative to conventional therapies to treat health disorders in dogs and cats. Mechanisms of action of CBD have been investigated mostly in rodents and in vitro and include modulation of CB1, CB2, 5-HT, GPR, and opioid receptors. In companion animals, CBD appears to have good bioavailability and safety profile with few side effects at physiological doses. Some dog studies have found CBD to improve clinical signs associated with osteoarthritis, pruritus, and epilepsy. However, further studies are needed to conclude a therapeutic action of CBD for each of these conditions, as well as for decreasing anxiety and aggression in dogs and cats. Herein, we summarize the available scientific evidence associated with the mechanisms of action of CBD, including pharmacokinetics, safety, regulation, and efficacy in ameliorating various health conditions in dogs and cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Corsato Alvarenga
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA;
| | - Kiran S Panickar
- Science & Technology Center, Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc., Topeka, Kansas, USA
| | - Hannah Hess
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA;
| | - Stephanie McGrath
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA;
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Ravi A, Srikanth G, Khanfar MA, Al-Qawasmeh RA, El-Gamal MI, Al-Tel TH. Blue Light-Driven [4+2]-Cycloaddition: Diastereoselective Synthesis of Chromeno[4,3- b]quinoline and Chromeno[4,3- b][1,8]naphthyridine Scaffolds. J Org Chem 2022; 87:16722-16735. [PMID: 36453755 DOI: 10.1021/acs.joc.2c02380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
A one-pot, metal-free, light-driven [4+2]-cycloaddition reaction is described by accessing a diverse collection of chromeno[4,3-b]quinoline and chromeno[4,3-b][1,8]naphthyridine scaffolds in a diastereoselective manner. This process delivered stereoisomers, which were challenging to produce by an inverse-demand Diels-Alder reaction. The tetracyclic products were provided in good yields, promoted by rose bengal and blue light in a single operation. The developed protocol proceeded efficiently without the need for expensive photosensitizers such as Ir or Ru complexes. The cascade is modular and step-economic, and the substrate scope is wide. Polycyclic architectures can be assembled from readily available aniline, aminoazine, indole, and salicylaldehyde derivatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anil Ravi
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, Sharjah27272, UAE
| | - Gourishetty Srikanth
- Department of Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, American University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 26666, Sharjah26666, UAE
| | - Monther A Khanfar
- College of Science, Department of Chemistry, Pure and Applied Chemistry Group, University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, Sharjah27272, UAE
| | - Raed A Al-Qawasmeh
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, Sharjah27272, UAE
| | - Mohammed I El-Gamal
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, Sharjah27272, UAE
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Huang J, Lv P, Lian Y, Zhang M, Ge X, Li S, Pan Y, Zhao J, Xu Y, Tang H, Li N, Zhang Z. Construction of machine learning tools to predict threatened miscarriage in the first trimester based on AEA, progesterone and β-hCG in China: a multicentre, observational, case-control study. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2022; 22:697. [PMID: 36085038 PMCID: PMC9461209 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-022-05025-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Endocannabinoid anandamide (AEA), progesterone (P4) and β-human chorionic gonadotrophin (β-hCG) are associated with the threatened miscarriage in the early stage. However, no study has investigated whether combing these three hormones could predict threatened miscarriage. Thus, we aim to establish machine learning models utilizing these three hormones to predict threatened miscarriage risk. Methods This is a multicentre, observational, case-control study involving 215 pregnant women. We recruited 119 normal pregnant women and 96 threatened miscarriage pregnant women including 58 women with ongoing pregnancy and 38 women with inevitable miscarriage. P4 and β-hCG levels were detected by chemiluminescence immunoassay assay. The level of AEA was tested by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Six predictive machine learning models were established and evaluated by the confusion matrix, area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC), accuracy and precision. Results The median concentration of AEA was significantly lower in the healthy pregnant women group than that in the threatened miscarriage group, while the median concentration of P4 was significantly higher in the normal pregnancy group than that in the threatened miscarriage group. Only the median level of P4 was significantly lower in the inevitable miscarriage group than that in the ongoing pregnancy group. Moreover, AEA is strongly positively correlated with threatened miscarriage, while P4 is negatively correlated with both threatened miscarriage and inevitable miscarriage. Interestingly, AEA and P4 are negatively correlated with each other. Among six models, logistic regression (LR), support vector machine (SVM) and multilayer perceptron (MLP) models obtained the AUC values of 0.75, 0.70 and 0.70, respectively; and their accuracy and precision were all above 0.60. Among these three models, the LR model showed the highest accuracy (0.65) and precision (0.70) to predict threatened miscarriage. Conclusions The LR model showed the highest overall predictive power, thus machine learning combined with the level of AEA, P4 and β-hCG might be a new approach to predict the threatened miscarriage risk in the near feature. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12884-022-05025-y.
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Brianis RC, Lima RC, Moreira FA, Aguiar DC. Anti-aversive effect of 2-arachidonoylglycerol in the dorsolateral periaqueductal gray of male rats in contextual fear conditioning and Vogel tests. Behav Pharmacol 2022; 33:213-221. [PMID: 34074811 DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0000000000000639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system modulates the stress coping strategies in the dorsolateral periaqueductal grey (dlPAG). The most relevant endocannabinoids, anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) exert inhibitory control over defensive reactions mediated by the dlPAG. However, the protective role of anandamide is limited by its lack of effect in higher concentrations. Thus, the 2-AG emerges as a complementary target for developing new anxiolytic compounds. Nevertheless, the role of 2-AG on stress responsivity may vary according to the nature of the stimulus. In this study, we verified whether the dlPAG injection of 2-AG or inhibitors of its hydrolysis induce anxiolytic-like effects in male Wistar rats exposed to behavioral models in which physical stress (mild electric shock) is a critical component, namely the contextual fear conditioning test (CFC) and the Vogel conflict test (VCT). We also investigated the contribution of cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) and type 2 (CB2) in such effects. The facilitation of 2-AG signaling in the dlPAG reduced contextual fear expression and exhibited an anxiolytic-like effect in the VCT in a mechanism dependent on activation of CB1 and CB2. However, the VCT required a higher dose than CFC. Further, the monoacylglycerol inhibitors, which inhibit the hydrolysis of 2-AG, were effective only in the CFC. In conclusion, we confirmed the anti-aversive properties of 2-AG in the dlPAG through CB1 and CB2 mechanisms. However, these effects could vary according to the type of stressor and the anxiety model employed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rayssa C Brianis
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
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Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Beta-Caryophyllene Mediated by the Involvement of TRPV1, BDNF and trkB in the Rat Cerebral Cortex after Hypoperfusion/Reperfusion. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073633. [PMID: 35408995 PMCID: PMC8998979 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
We have previously shown that bilateral common carotid artery occlusion followed by reperfusion (BCCAO/R) is a model to study early hypoperfusion/reperfusion-induced changes in biomarkers of the tissue physiological response to oxidative stress and inflammation. Thus in this study, we investigate with immunochemical assays if a single dose of beta-caryophyllene (BCP), administered before the BCCAO/R, can modulate the TRPV1, BDNF, and trkB receptor in the brain cortex; the glial markers GFAP and Iba1 were also examined. Frontal and temporal-occipital cortical regions were analyzed in two groups of male rats, sham-operated and submitted to BCCAO/R. Six hours before surgery, one group was gavage fed a dose of BCP (40 mg/per rat in 300 μL of sunflower oil), the other was pre-treated with the vehicle alone. Western blot analysis showed that, in the frontal cortex of vehicle-treated rats, the BCCAO/R caused a TRPV1 decrease, an increment of trkB and GFAP, no change in BDNF and Iba1. The BCP treatment caused a decrease of BDNF and an increase of trkB levels in both sham and BCCAO/R conditions while inducing opposite changes in the case of TRPV1, whose levels became higher in BCCAO/R and lower in sham conditions. Present results highlight the role of BCP in modulating early events of the cerebral inflammation triggered by the BCCAO/R through the regulation of TRPV1 and the BDNF-trkB system.
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Falasca V, Falasca M. Targeting the Endocannabinoidome in Pancreatic Cancer. Biomolecules 2022; 12:320. [PMID: 35204820 PMCID: PMC8869154 DOI: 10.3390/biom12020320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic Ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), the most common malignancy of the pancreas, is an aggressive and lethal form of cancer with a very high mortality rate. High heterogeneity, asymptomatic initial stages and a lack of specific diagnostic markers result in an end-stage diagnosis when the tumour has locally advanced or metastasised. PDAC is resistant to most of the available chemotherapy and radiation therapy treatments, making surgery the most potent curative treatment. The desmoplastic tumour microenvironment contributes to determining PDAC pathophysiology, immune response and therapeutic efficacy. The existing therapeutic approaches such as FDA-approved chemotherapeutics, gemcitabine, abraxane and folfirinox, prolong survival marginally and are accompanied by adverse effects. Several studies suggest the role of cannabinoids as anti-cancer agents. Cannabinoid receptors are known to be expressed in pancreatic cells, with a higher expression reported in pancreatic cancer patients. Therefore, pharmacological targeting of the endocannabinoid system might offer therapeutic benefits in pancreatic cancer. In addition, emerging data suggest that cannabinoids in combination with chemotherapy can increase survival in transgenic pancreatic cancer murine models. This review provides an overview of the regulation of the expanded endocannabinoid system, or endocannabinoidome, in PDAC and will explore the potential of targeting this system for novel anticancer approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerio Falasca
- School of Chemistry, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia;
| | - Marco Falasca
- Metabolic Signalling Group, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
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12
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Aguilera Vasquez N, Nielsen DE. The Endocannabinoid System and Eating Behaviours: a Review of the Current State of the Evidence. Curr Nutr Rep 2022; 11:665-674. [PMID: 35980538 PMCID: PMC9750929 DOI: 10.1007/s13668-022-00436-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW The endocannabinoid system (ENS) has emerged as an important factor in food intake and may have implications for nutrition research. The objective of the current report is to summarise the available evidence on the ENS and eating behaviour from both animal and human studies. RECENT FINDINGS The literature reviewed demonstrates a clear link between the ENS and eating behaviours. Overall, studies indicate that 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and N-arachidonoylethanolamine (AEA) via cannabinoid receptor-1 (CNR1) binding may stimulate hunger and food intake while oleylethanolamide (OEA) may inhibit hunger. Mechanisms of these associations are not yet well understood, although the evidence suggests that there may be interactions with other physiological systems to consider. Most studies have been conducted in animal models, with few human studies available. Additional research is warranted among human populations into the ENS and eating behaviour. Evaluation of relationships between variation in ENS genes and dietary outcomes is an important area for investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathaly Aguilera Vasquez
- grid.14709.3b0000 0004 1936 8649School of Human Nutrition, McGill University, Macdonald Campus, 21111 Lakeshore Rd, Ste. Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, H9X 3V9 Canada
| | - Daiva E. Nielsen
- grid.14709.3b0000 0004 1936 8649School of Human Nutrition, McGill University, Macdonald Campus, 21111 Lakeshore Rd, Ste. Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, H9X 3V9 Canada
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Pugazhendhi A, Suganthy N, Chau TP, Sharma A, Unpaprom Y, Ramaraj R, Karuppusamy I, Brindhadevi K. Cannabinoids as anticancer and neuroprotective drugs: Structural insights and pharmacological interactions—A review. Process Biochem 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.procbio.2021.08.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
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Beyond the Usual Suspects: Physiological Roles of the Arabidopsis Amidase Signature (AS) Superfamily Members in Plant Growth Processes and Stress Responses. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11081207. [PMID: 34439873 PMCID: PMC8393822 DOI: 10.3390/biom11081207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The diversification of land plants largely relies on their ability to cope with constant environmental fluctuations, which negatively impact their reproductive fitness and trigger adaptive responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. In this limiting landscape, cumulative research attention has centred on deepening the roles of major phytohormones, mostly auxins, together with brassinosteroids, jasmonates, and abscisic acid, despite the signaling networks orchestrating the crosstalk among them are so far only poorly understood. Accordingly, this review focuses on the Arabidopsis Amidase Signature (AS) superfamily members, with the aim of highlighting the hitherto relatively underappreciated functions of AMIDASE1 (AMI1) and FATTY ACID AMIDE HYDROLASE (FAAH), as comparable coordinators of the growth-defense trade-off, by balancing auxin and ABA homeostasis through the conversion of their likely bioactive substrates, indole-3-acetamide and N-acylethanolamine.
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15
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Hair-based biomarkers in women with major depressive disorder: Glucocorticoids, endocannabinoids, N-acylethanolamines, and testosterone. COMPREHENSIVE PSYCHONEUROENDOCRINOLOGY 2021; 7:100068. [PMID: 35757050 PMCID: PMC9216461 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpnec.2021.100068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Stress-related alterations in the regulation of several endocrine systems, including the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) and -gonadal (HPG) axes and the endocannabinoid system are proposed to be involved in the etiology of major depressive disorder (MDD). Therefore, this study examines whether altered concentrations of glucocorticoids, testosterone, endocannabinoids, and related N-acylethanolamines accumulated in hair are present in MDD. Methods Female participants (range: 19–59, Mdn = 30.5 years) were recruited, including n = 21 with a current MDD episode and n = 27 nondepressed controls without any current mental disorder. Weight-standardized samples of 3 cm hair segments were analyzed which equals to three months of retrospectively assessed biomarkers in hair. Concentrations of cortisol, cortisone, testosterone, endocannabinoids (i.e., anandamide [AEA], 2-arachidonylglycerol [2-AG]), and selected N-acylethanolamines (i.e., stearoylethanolamide [SEA], oleoylethanolamide [OEA], palmitoylethanolamide [PEA]) were measured using mass spectrometry. Results Female MDD patients exhibited lower cortisol and cortisone levels in hair than nondepressed controls, whereas the hair concentrations of endocannabinoids, N-acylethanolamines, and testosterone did not differ between the groups. Conclusions Our results add to the heterogeneous body of findings on alterations in hair-stored glucocorticoids and endocannabinoids in MDD. As in previous studies, there was no evidence of altered testosterone concentrations in the hair of MDD patients. Larger and longitudinal studies are needed to comprehensively explore the overall picture of endocrine alterations in MDD. Analysis of hair-based markers of endocrine alterations in female MDD outpatients. Lower hair cortisol and cortisone concentrations in mild to moderately severe MDD. No differences in endocannabinoid, N-acylethanolamine, and testosterone hair levels. Testosterone and cortisone levels were linked to higher stress/trauma exposure.
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Giorgi V, Marotto D, Batticciotto A, Atzeni F, Bongiovanni S, Sarzi-Puttini P. Cannabis and Autoimmunity: Possible Mechanisms of Action. Immunotargets Ther 2021; 10:261-271. [PMID: 34322454 PMCID: PMC8313508 DOI: 10.2147/itt.s267905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Medical cannabis (MC) describes the usually inhaled or ingested use of a cannabis plant or cannabis extract for medicinal purposes. The action of whole cannabis plants is extremely complex because their large number of active compounds not only bind to a plethora of different receptors but also interact with each other both synergistically and otherwise. Renewed interest in the medicinal properties of cannabis has led to increasing research into the practical uses of cannabis derivatives, and it has been found that the endocannabinoid system (particularly CB2 receptor activation) is a possible target for the treatment of inflammatory and the autoimmune diseases related to immune cell activation. However, in vivo findings still lack, creating difficulties in applying translational cannabinoid research to human immune functions. In this review, we summarized the main mechanisms of action of medical cannabis plant especially regarding the immune system and the endocannabinoid system, looking at preliminary clinical data in three most important autoimmune diseases of three different specialities: rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis and inflammatory bowel disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Giorgi
- Rheumatology Unit, Internal Medicine Department, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan University School of Medicine, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniela Marotto
- Rheumatology Unit, ATS Sardegna, P. Dettori Hospital, Tempio Pausania, Italy
| | - Alberto Batticciotto
- Rheumatology Unit, Internal Medicine Department, ASST Settelaghi, Ospedale Di Circolo - Fondazione Macchi, Varese, Italy
| | - Fabiola Atzeni
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Sara Bongiovanni
- Rheumatology Unit, Internal Medicine Department, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan University School of Medicine, Milan, Italy
| | - Piercarlo Sarzi-Puttini
- Rheumatology Unit, Internal Medicine Department, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan University School of Medicine, Milan, Italy
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The endocannabinoid system. Essays Biochem 2021; 64:485-499. [PMID: 32648908 DOI: 10.1042/ebc20190086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Thirty years ago, the discovery of a cannabinoid (CB) receptor that interacts with the psychoactive compound in Cannabis led to the identification of anandamide, an endogenous receptor ligand or endocannabinoid. Research on endocannabinoids has since exploded, and additional receptors along with their lipid mediators and signaling pathways continue to be revealed. Specifically, in humans, the release of endocannabinoids from membrane lipids occurs on demand and the signaling process is rapidly attenuated by the breakdown of the ligand suggesting a tight regulation of the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Additionally, the varying distribution of CB receptors between the central nervous system and other tissues allows for the ECS to participate in a wide range of cognitive and physiological processes. Select plant-derived 'phyto'cannabinoids such as Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) bind to the CB receptors and trigger the ECS, and in the case of Δ9-THC, while it has therapeutic value, can also produce detrimental effects. Current research is aimed at the identification of additional phytocannabinoids with minimal psychotropic effects with potential for therapeutic development. Although decades of research on the ECS and its components have expanded our understanding of the mechanisms and implications of endocannabinoid signaling in mammals, it continues to evolve. Here, we provide a brief overview of the ECS and its overlap with other related lipid-mediated signaling pathways.
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Charalambous C, Lapka M, Havlickova T, Syslova K, Sustkova-Fiserova M. Alterations in Rat Accumbens Dopamine, Endocannabinoids and GABA Content During WIN55,212-2 Treatment: The Role of Ghrelin. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 22:ijms22010210. [PMID: 33379212 PMCID: PMC7795825 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid/CB1R system as well as the central ghrelin signalling with its growth hormone secretagogoue receptors (GHS-R1A) are importantly involved in food intake and reward/reinforcement processing and show distinct overlaps in distribution within the relevant brain regions including the hypothalamus (food intake), the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and the nucleus accumbens (NAC) (reward/reinforcement). The significant mutual interaction between these systems in food intake has been documented; however, the possible role of ghrelin/GHS-R1A in the cannabinoid reinforcement effects and addiction remain unclear. Therefore, the principal aim of the present study was to investigate whether pretreatment with GHS-R1A antagonist/JMV2959 could reduce the CB1R agonist/WIN55,212-2–induced dopamine efflux in the nucleus accumbens shell (NACSh), which is considered a crucial trigger impulse of the addiction process. The synthetic aminoalklylindol cannabinoid WIN55,212-2 administration into the posterior VTA induced significant accumbens dopamine release, which was significantly reduced by the 3 mg/kg i.p. JMV2959 pretreatment. Simultaneously, the cannabinoid-increased accumbens dopamine metabolic turnover was significantly augmented by the JMV2959 pretreament. The intracerebral WIN55,212-2 administration also increased the endocannabinoid arachidonoylethanolamide/anandamide and the 2-arachidonoylglycerol/2-AG extracellular levels in the NACSh, which was moderately but significantly attenuated by the JMV2959 pretreatment. Moreover, the cannabinoid-induced decrease in accumbens γ-aminobutyric acid/gamma-aminobutyric acid levels was reversed by the JMV2959 pretreatment. The behavioural study in the LABORAS cage showed that 3 mg/kg JMV2959 pretreatment also significantly reduced the systemic WIN55,212-2-induced behavioural stimulation. Our results demonstrate that the ghrelin/GHS-R1A system significantly participates in the rewarding/reinforcing effects of the cannabinoid/CB1 agonist that are involved in cannabinoid addiction processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chrysostomos Charalambous
- Department of Addictology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Apolinarska 4, 128 00 Prague 2, Czech Republic;
| | - Marek Lapka
- Department of Pharmacology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Ruska 87, 100 34 Prague 10, Czech Republic; (M.L.); (T.H.)
| | - Tereza Havlickova
- Department of Pharmacology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Ruska 87, 100 34 Prague 10, Czech Republic; (M.L.); (T.H.)
| | - Kamila Syslova
- Laboratory of Medicinal Diagnostics, Department of Organic Technology, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technicka 5, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic;
| | - Magdalena Sustkova-Fiserova
- Department of Pharmacology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Ruska 87, 100 34 Prague 10, Czech Republic; (M.L.); (T.H.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +420-267-102-450; Fax: +420-267-102-461
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Mohammadkhani A, Borgland SL. Cellular and behavioral basis of cannabinioid and opioid interactions: Implications for opioid dependence and withdrawal. J Neurosci Res 2020; 100:278-296. [PMID: 33352618 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The brain's endogenous opioid and endocannabinoid systems are neuromodulatory of synaptic transmission, and play key roles in pain, memory, reward, and addiction. Recent clinical and pre-clinical evidence suggests that opioid use may be reduced with cannabinoid intake. This suggests the presence of a functional interaction between these two systems. Emerging research indicates that cannabinoids and opioids can functionally interact at different levels. At the cellular level, opioid and cannabinoids can have direct receptor associations, alterations in endogenous opioid peptide or cannabinoid release, or post-receptor activation interactions via shared signal transduction pathways. At the systems level, the nature of cannabinoid and opioid interaction might differ in brain circuits underlying different behavioral phenomenon, including reward-seeking or antinociception. Given the rising use of opioid and cannabinoid drugs, a better understanding of how these endogenous signaling systems interact in the brain is of significant interest. This review focuses on the potential relationship of these neural systems in addiction-related processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aida Mohammadkhani
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, The University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Stephanie L Borgland
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, The University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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20
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Baswan SM, Klosner AE, Glynn K, Rajgopal A, Malik K, Yim S, Stern N. Therapeutic Potential of Cannabidiol (CBD) for Skin Health and Disorders. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol 2020; 13:927-942. [PMID: 33335413 PMCID: PMC7736837 DOI: 10.2147/ccid.s286411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Though there is limited research confirming the purported topical benefits of cannabinoids, it is certain that cutaneous biology is modulated by the human endocannabinoid system (ECS). Receptors from the ECS have been identified in the skin and systemic abuse of synthetic cannabinoids, and their analogs, have also been associated with the manifestation of dermatological disorders, indicating the effects of the ECS on cutaneous biology. In particular, cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound from the cannabis plant, has garnered significant attention in recent years for its anecdotal therapeutic potential for various pathologies, including skin and cosmetic disorders. Though a body of preclinical evidence suggests topical application of CBD may be efficacious for some skin disorders, such as eczema, psoriasis, pruritis, and inflammatory conditions, confirmed clinical efficacy and elucidation of underlying molecular mechanisms have yet to be fully identified. This article provides an update on the advances in CBD research to date and the potential areas of future exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudhir M Baswan
- Innovation and Science, Amway Corporation, Ada, MI, 49355, USA
| | - Allison E Klosner
- Innovation and Science, Nutrilite Health Institute, Amway Corporation, Buena Park, CA, 90621, USA
| | - Kelly Glynn
- Innovation and Science, Amway Corporation, Ada, MI, 49355, USA
| | - Arun Rajgopal
- Innovation and Science, Amway Corporation, Ada, MI, 49355, USA
| | - Kausar Malik
- Innovation and Science, Amway Corporation, Ada, MI, 49355, USA
| | - Sunghan Yim
- Innovation and Science, Amway Corporation, Ada, MI, 49355, USA
| | - Nathan Stern
- Innovation and Science, Amway Corporation, Ada, MI, 49355, USA
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Brunt TM, Bossong MG. The neuropharmacology of cannabinoid receptor ligands in central signaling pathways. Eur J Neurosci 2020; 55:909-921. [PMID: 32974975 PMCID: PMC9291836 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system is a complex neuronal system involved in a number of biological functions, like attention, anxiety, mood, memory, appetite, reward, and immune responses. It is at the centre of scientific interest, which is driven by therapeutic promise of certain cannabinoid ligands and the changing legalization of herbal cannabis in many countries. The endocannabinoid system is a modulatory system, with endocannabinoids as retrograde neurotransmitters rather than direct neurotransmitters. Neuropharmacology of cannabinoid ligands in the brain can therefore be understood in terms of their modulatory actions through other neurotransmitter systems. The CB1 receptor is chiefly responsible for effects of endocannabinoids and analogous ligands in the brain. An overview of the neuropharmacology of several cannabinoid receptor ligands, including endocannabinoids, herbal cannabis and synthetic cannabinoid receptor ligands is given in this review. Their mechanism of action at the endocannabinoid system is described, mainly in the brain. In addition, effects of cannabinoid ligands on other neurotransmitter systems will also be described, such as dopamine, serotonin, glutamate, noradrenaline, opioid, and GABA. In light of this, therapeutic potential and adverse effects of cannabinoid receptor ligands will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tibor M. Brunt
- Department of Psychiatry Amsterdam Institute for Addiction ResearchAmsterdam UMCUniversity of Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Matthijs G. Bossong
- Department of Psychiatry University Medical Center Utrecht Brain CenterUtrecht University Utrecht The Netherlands
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22
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Behl T, Chadha S, Sachdeva M, Sehgal A, Kumar A, Dhruv, Venkatachalam T, Hafeez A, Aleya L, Arora S, Batiha GES, Nijhawan P, Bungau S. Understanding the possible role of endocannabinoid system in obesity. Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat 2020; 152:106520. [PMID: 33249225 DOI: 10.1016/j.prostaglandins.2020.106520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Maintenance of weight is essential for sustenance, well-being and to endorse prolonged life. The prevalence of obesity is increasing at an alarming rate globally, due to modern lifestyle and dietary habits. Endocannabinoids are fatty acid derivatives and numerous studies are carried out which focuses and targets their relationship with obesity, via multiple signals which have been recently known for exerting crucial role in regulating energy balance. PURPOSE This article aims at examining the prospects of endocannabinoids in obesity via directing the role of ECs in stimulating hunger. RESULT In last few years, irregular stimulation of endocannabinoid system has been suggested as a chief element in the progression of obesity-associated metabolic complications. Certainly, this cascade system comprises of cannabinoid type1 and 2 receptors (CB1R and CB2R) along with their endogenous lipid ligands which are responsible for enhanced feeding behavior as well as lipid metabolism. Significantly, inhibiting CB1R activity might reduce metabolic abnormality linked with obesity. CONCLUSION Conclusion withdrawn on the basis of supporting scientific data and evidences report that the blockade of cannabinoids can serve as a therapeutic potential for treatment of obesity. Future prospective aims at assessing molecular pathways which contributes towards ECS, elicited weight control and to evaluate how these mechanisms are presently relocated into the production of novel cannabinoid drugs exhibiting enriched care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tapan Behl
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India.
| | - Swati Chadha
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
| | - Monika Sachdeva
- Fatima College of Health Sciences, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Aayush Sehgal
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
| | - Arun Kumar
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
| | - Dhruv
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
| | | | - Abdul Hafeez
- Glocal School of Pharmacy, Glocal University, Mirzapur Pole, Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Lotfi Aleya
- Chrono-Environment Laboratory, Bourgogne Franche-Comté University, France
| | - Sandeep Arora
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
| | - Gaber El-Saber Batiha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Egypt
| | - Priya Nijhawan
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
| | - Simona Bungau
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, Oradea, Romania
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Narouze S. Antinociception mechanisms of action of cannabinoid-based medicine: an overview for anesthesiologists and pain physicians. Reg Anesth Pain Med 2020; 46:240-250. [PMID: 33239391 DOI: 10.1136/rapm-2020-102114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2020] [Revised: 10/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoid-based medications possess unique multimodal analgesic mechanisms of action, modulating diverse pain targets. Cannabinoids are classified based on their origin into three categories: endocannabinoids (present endogenously in human tissues), phytocannabinoids (plant derived) and synthetic cannabinoids (pharmaceutical). Cannabinoids exert an analgesic effect, peculiarly in hyperalgesia, neuropathic pain and inflammatory states. Endocannabinoids are released on demand from postsynaptic terminals and travels retrograde to stimulate cannabinoids receptors on presynaptic terminals, inhibiting the release of excitatory neurotransmitters. Cannabinoids (endogenous and phytocannabinoids) produce analgesia by interacting with cannabinoids receptors type 1 and 2 (CB1 and CB2), as well as putative non-CB1/CB2 receptors; G protein-coupled receptor 55, and transient receptor potential vanilloid type-1. Moreover, they modulate multiple peripheral, spinal and supraspinal nociception pathways. Cannabinoids-opioids cross-modulation and synergy contribute significantly to tolerance and antinociceptive effects of cannabinoids. This narrative review evaluates cannabinoids' diverse mechanisms of action as it pertains to nociception modulation relevant to the practice of anesthesiologists and pain medicine physicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samer Narouze
- Center for Pain Medicine, Western Reserve Hospital, Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, USA
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24
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Pennypacker SD, Romero-Sandoval EA. CBD and THC: Do They Complement Each Other Like Yin and Yang? Pharmacotherapy 2020; 40:1152-1165. [PMID: 33080058 DOI: 10.1002/phar.2469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Increased public access to cannabis calls for a deeper understanding of cannabis's constituents and how they interact to induce clinical effects. Whereas trans-Δ9 -tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is considered the main psychoactive component in cannabis, producing the associated "high" or "euphoria," various findings demonstrate medical potential for cannabidiol (CBD), from anxiolytic to antiepileptic implications. This has translated into a public optimism and given way to the popular opinion that CBD can provide countless other therapeutic benefits, including the potential to mitigate some of the adverse side effects of THC, such as intoxication, psychomotor impairment, anxiety, and psychotic symptoms. This is particularly relevant for patients seeking to garner therapeutic benefits from cannabis without experiencing the burden of a significant subjective high. Thus, this article analyzes the scientific evidence available to support or disprove the idea that presence of CBD is beneficial and can exude a protective effect against THC. A thorough review of relevant literature, a basis from which to interpret such evidence through a critical mechanistic discussion, and the implications for patients are presented in this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah D Pennypacker
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain Mechanisms Laboratory, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - E Alfonso Romero-Sandoval
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain Mechanisms Laboratory, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
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YÜCEL E, AKTUNA Z, KESKİL İ. Effects of Endocannabinoids in Pentilenetetrazole Induced Seizures In Mice. ACTA MEDICA ALANYA 2020. [DOI: 10.30565/medalanya.690410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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Salami SA, Martinelli F, Giovino A, Bachari A, Arad N, Mantri N. It Is Our Turn to Get Cannabis High: Put Cannabinoids in Food and Health Baskets. Molecules 2020; 25:E4036. [PMID: 32899626 PMCID: PMC7571138 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25184036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2020] [Revised: 08/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabis is an annual plant with a long history of use as food, feed, fiber, oil, medicine, and narcotics. Despite realizing its true value, it has not yet found its true place. Cannabis has had a long history with many ups and downs, and now it is our turn to promote it. Cannabis contains approximately 600 identified and many yet unidentified potentially useful compounds. Cannabinoids, phenolic compounds, terpenoids, and alkaloids are some of the secondary metabolites present in cannabis. However, among a plethora of unique chemical compounds found in this plant, the most important ones are phytocannabinoids (PCs). Over hundreds of 21-22-carbon compounds exclusively produce in cannabis glandular hairs through either polyketide and or deoxyxylulose phosphate/methylerythritol phosphate (DOXP/MEP) pathways. Trans-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are those that first come to mind while talking about cannabis. Nevertheless, despite the low concentration, cannabinol (CBN), cannabigerol (CBG), cannabichromene (CBC), tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), cannabidivarin (CBDV), cannabinodiol (CBND), and cannabinidiol (CBDL) may have potentially some medical effects. PCs and endocannabinoids (ECs) mediate their effects mainly through CB1 and CB2 receptors. Despite all concerns regarding cannabis, nobody can ignore the use of cannabinoids as promising tonic, analgesic, antipyretic, antiemetic, anti-inflammatory, anti-epileptic, anticancer agents, which are effective for pain relief, depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, nausea and vomiting, multiple sclerosis, cardiovascular disorders, and appetite stimulation. The scientific community and public society have now increasingly accepted cannabis specifically hemp as much more than a recreational drug. There are growing demands for cannabinoids, mainly CBD, with many diverse therapeutic and nutritional properties in veterinary or human medicine. The main objective of this review article is to historically summarize findings concerning cannabinoids, mainly THC and CBD, towards putting these valuable compounds into food, feed and health baskets and current and future trends in the consumption of products derived from cannabis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Alireza Salami
- Faculty of Agricultural Science and Engineering, University of Tehran, Karaj 31587, Iran
| | - Federico Martinelli
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, Via Madonna del Piano, 6, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019 Firenze, Italy;
| | - Antonio Giovino
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics (CREA), Research Centre for Plant Protection and Certification (CREA-DC), 90011 Bagheria (PA), Italy;
| | - Ava Bachari
- School of Science, RMIT University, Melbourne, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia; (A.B.); (N.M.)
| | - Neda Arad
- School of Plant Sciences, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA;
| | - Nitin Mantri
- School of Science, RMIT University, Melbourne, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia; (A.B.); (N.M.)
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Links between central CB1-receptor availability and peripheral endocannabinoids in patients with first episode psychosis. NPJ SCHIZOPHRENIA 2020; 6:21. [PMID: 32848142 PMCID: PMC7450081 DOI: 10.1038/s41537-020-00110-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
There is an established, link between psychosis and metabolic abnormalities, such as altered glucose metabolism and dyslipidemia, which often precede the initiation of antipsychotic treatment. It is known that obesity-associated metabolic disorders are promoted by activation of specific cannabinoid targets (endocannabinoid system (ECS)). Our recent data suggest that there is a change in the circulating lipidome at the onset of first episode psychosis (FEP). With the aim of characterizing the involvement of the central and peripheral ECSs, and their mutual associations; here, we performed a combined neuroimaging and metabolomic study in patients with FEP and healthy controls (HC). Regional brain cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1R) availability was quantified in two, independent samples of patients with FEP (n = 20 and n = 8) and HC (n = 20 and n = 10), by applying three-dimensional positron emission tomography, using two radiotracers, [11C]MePPEP and [18F]FMPEP-d2. Ten endogenous cannabinoids or related metabolites were quantified in serum, drawn from these individuals during the same imaging session. Circulating levels of arachidonic acid and oleoylethanolamide (OEA) were reduced in FEP individuals, but not in those who were predominantly medication free. In HC, there was an inverse association between levels of circulating arachidonoyl glycerol, anandamide, OEA, and palmitoyl ethanolamide, and CB1R availability in the posterior cingulate cortex. This phenomenon was, however, not observed in FEP patients. Our data thus provide evidence of cross talk, and dysregulation between peripheral endocannabinoids and central CB1R availability in FEP.
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Castel P, Barbier M, Poumerol E, Mandon-Pépin B, Tassistro V, Lepidi H, Pelissier-Alicot AL, Manzoni OJ, Courbiere B. Prenatal cannabinoid exposure alters the ovarian reserve in adult offspring of rats. Arch Toxicol 2020; 94:4131-4141. [PMID: 32833042 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-020-02877-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
In animals, research in the past two decades has demonstrated the strong involvement of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in numerous steps of the reproductive process, including ovarian physiology. Reproductive lifespan is closely related to the number of nongrowing ovarian follicles, called ovarian reserve (OR), which is definitively established during foetal life. Thus, OR damage may lead to poor reproductive outcomes and a shortened reproductive lifespan. We investigated whether prenatal ECS modulation had an effect on the OR at different ages in the rat offspring. Four groups of gestating female rats (F0) were exposed to the CB1-/CB2-receptor agonist WIN55212 (0.5 mg/kg), the CB1R inverse agonist SR141716 (3 mg/kg) or Δ9THC (5 mg/kg) and were compared to negative control groups. OR was histologically assessed at different postnatal timepoints (F1 individuals): postnatal day (PND) 6, PND40 and PND90. At PND6, prenatal exposure had no effect on OR. In the young adult group (PND90) exposed during gestation to WIN55212, we observed a CB1R-mediated delayed OR decrease, which was reversed by prenatal CB1R blockade by SR141716. Conversely, after prenatal SR141716 exposure, we observed higher OR counts at PND90. RT-PCR experiments also showed that prenatal ECS modulation perturbed the mRNA levels of ECS enzymes and OR regulation genes. Our findings support the role of the ECS in OR regulation during the foetal life of rats and highlight the need for further studies to elucidate its precise role in OR physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Castel
- Aix Marseille Univ, Avignon Université, CNRS, IRD, IMBE, Marseille, France. .,Aix Marseille Univ, IMBE, CHU Conception, Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique, Marseille, France.
| | - Magalie Barbier
- Aix Marseille Univ, Avignon Université, CNRS, IRD, IMBE, Marseille, France
| | - Elodie Poumerol
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, Jouy-en-Josas, 78350, France
| | | | - Virginie Tassistro
- Aix Marseille Univ, Avignon Université, CNRS, IRD, IMBE, Marseille, France
| | - Hubert Lepidi
- Aix Marseille Univ, APHM, Laboratoire d'anatomie pathologique, Marseille, France
| | - Anne-Laure Pelissier-Alicot
- INMED, INSERM U1249, Marseille, France.,Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France.,Cannalab Cannabinoids Neuroscience Research International Associated Laboratory, INSERM-Aix-Marseille University/Indiana University, Marseille, France.,Aix Marseille Univ, APHM, CHU Timone, Service de Medecine Legale, Marseille, France
| | - Olivier J Manzoni
- INMED, INSERM U1249, Marseille, France.,Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France.,Cannalab Cannabinoids Neuroscience Research International Associated Laboratory, INSERM-Aix-Marseille University/Indiana University, Marseille, France
| | - Blandine Courbiere
- Aix Marseille Univ, Avignon Université, CNRS, IRD, IMBE, Marseille, France.,Aix Marseille Univ, IMBE, CHU Conception, Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique, Marseille, France
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29
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Della Rocca G, Di Salvo A. Hemp in Veterinary Medicine: From Feed to Drug. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:387. [PMID: 32850997 PMCID: PMC7399642 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.00387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Hemp (Cannabis sativa) is an angiosperm plant belonging to the Cannabaceae family. Its cultivation dates back to centuries. It has always been cultivated due to the possibility of exploiting almost all the parts of the plant: paper, fabrics, ropes, bio-compounds with excellent insulating capacity, fuel, biodegradable plastic, antibacterial detergents, and food products, such as flour, oils, seeds, herbal teas, and beer, are indeed obtained from hemp. Hemp flowers have also always been used for their curative effects, as well as for recreational purposes due to their psychotropic effects. Cannabis contains almost 500 chemical compounds, such as phytocannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins, and macro-, and micro-elements, among others. When utilized as a food source, hemp shows excellent nutritional and health-promoting (nutraceutical) properties, mainly due to the high content in polyunsaturated fatty acids (especially those belonging to the ω-3 series), as well as in phenolic compounds, which seem effective in the prevention of common diseases such as gastrointestinal disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, and others. Moreover, hemp oil and other oils (i.e., olive oil and medium-chain triglyceride–MCT–oil) enriched in CBD, as well as extracts from hemp dried flowers (Cannabis extracts), are authorized in some countries for therapeutic purposes as a second-choice approach (when conventional therapies have failed) for a certain number of clinical conditions such as pain and inflammation, epilepsy, anxiety disorders, nausea, emesis, and anorexia, among others. The present review will synthetize the beneficial properties of hemp and hemp derivatives in animal nutrition and therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Della Rocca
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Centro di Ricerca sul Dolore Animale (CeRiDA), Università degli Studi di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Alessandra Di Salvo
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Centro di Ricerca sul Dolore Animale (CeRiDA), Università degli Studi di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
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30
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Müller CP. Drug instrumentalization. Behav Brain Res 2020; 390:112672. [PMID: 32442549 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2020.112672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Psychoactive drugs with addiction potential are widely used by people of virtually all cultures in a non-addictive way. In order to understand this behaviour, its population penetrance, and its persistence, drug instrumentalization was suggested as a driving force for this consumption. Drug instrumentalization theory holds that psychoactive drugs are consumed in a very systematic way in order to make other, non-drug-related behaviours more efficient. Here, we review the evolutionary origin of this behaviour and its psychological mechanisms and explore the neurobiological and neuropharmacological mechanisms underlying them. Instrumentalization goals are discussed, for which an environmentally selective and mental state-dependent consumption of psychoactive drugs can be learned and maintained in a non-addictive way. A small percentage of people who regularly instrumentalize psychoactive drugs make a transition to addiction, which often starts with qualitative and quantitative changes in the instrumentalization goals. As such, addiction is proposed to develop from previously established long-term drug instrumentalization. Thus, preventing and treating drug addiction in an individualized medicine approach may essentially require understanding and supporting personal instrumentalization goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian P Müller
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Schwabachanlage 6, 91054 Erlangen, Germany.
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31
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Sher L, Bierer LM, Flory J, Hill MN, Makotkine I, Yehuda R. Endogenous cannabinoid levels and suicidality in combat veterans. Psychiatry Res 2020; 287:112495. [PMID: 31375282 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2019.112495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2019] [Revised: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Combat veterans are at elevated suicide risk. The goal of this study was to test the hypothesis that combat veterans who have made a suicide attempt post-deployment can be distinguished from combat veterans who have never made a suicide attempt based on differences in psychological and biological variables. For the latter, we focused on endogenous cannabinoids, neuroendocrine markers that are associated with stress. Demographic and clinical parameters of suicide attempters and non-attempters were assessed. Blood samples were assayed for anandamide (AEA), 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), and cortisol. Suicide attempters had higher Scale for Suicidal Ideation (SSI) scores in comparison to non-attempters. Controlling for gender, 2-AG levels were higher among suicide attempters in comparison to non-attempters. Cortisol levels positively correlated with 2-AG levels and negatively correlated with SSI scores among non-attempters but not among attempters. AEA levels negatively correlated with SSI scores among attempters but not among non-attempters. Our results indicate that there are psychological and biological differences between combat veterans with or without a history of suicidal attempt. Our findings also suggest that clinically observed differences between the groups may have a neurobiological basis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leo Sher
- James J. Peters Veterans' Administration Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA; Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Linda M Bierer
- James J. Peters Veterans' Administration Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA; Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Janine Flory
- James J. Peters Veterans' Administration Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA; Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Iouri Makotkine
- James J. Peters Veterans' Administration Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA; Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rachel Yehuda
- James J. Peters Veterans' Administration Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA; Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
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32
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Ross JA, Van Bockstaele EJ. The role of catecholamines in modulating responses to stress: Sex-specific patterns, implications, and therapeutic potential for post-traumatic stress disorder and opiate withdrawal. Eur J Neurosci 2020; 52:2429-2465. [PMID: 32125035 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Emotional arousal is one of several factors that determine the strength of a memory and how efficiently it may be retrieved. The systems at play are multifaceted; on one hand, the dopaminergic mesocorticolimbic system evaluates the rewarding or reinforcing potential of a stimulus, while on the other, the noradrenergic stress response system evaluates the risk of threat, commanding attention, and engaging emotional and physical behavioral responses. Sex-specific patterns in the anatomy and function of the arousal system suggest that sexually divergent therapeutic approaches may be advantageous for neurological disorders involving arousal, learning, and memory. From the lens of the triple network model of psychopathology, we argue that post-traumatic stress disorder and opiate substance use disorder arise from maladaptive learning responses that are perpetuated by hyperarousal of the salience network. We present evidence that catecholamine-modulated learning and stress-responsive circuitry exerts substantial influence over the salience network and its dysfunction in stress-related psychiatric disorders, and between the sexes. We discuss the therapeutic potential of targeting the endogenous cannabinoid system; a ubiquitous neuromodulator that influences learning, memory, and responsivity to stress by influencing catecholamine, excitatory, and inhibitory synaptic transmission. Relevant preclinical data in male and female rodents are integrated with clinical data in men and women in an effort to understand how ideal treatment modalities between the sexes may be different.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A Ross
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, College of Medicine, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Elisabeth J Van Bockstaele
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, College of Medicine, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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33
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Ben-Ishay O, Bar-On O, Kluger Y. Smokeless consumption of medical cannabis pharmacokinetics, safety and feasibility of the CannaHALER© a phase 1a study. J Cannabis Res 2020; 2:15. [PMID: 33526119 PMCID: PMC7819331 DOI: 10.1186/s42238-020-00022-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Substantial advancements were achieved in the management of postoperative pain, however the need for further improvement remains. This study explores the pharmacokinetics and safety of the CannaHaler, a metered dose inhaler for plant material made by Kite-Systems situated in Tel-Aviv, Israel. METHODS The study was conducted on 12 healthy adult volunteers divided into four arms (each arm/group holds 3 volunteers) with the evaporated plant material being Alaska strain provided by "Tikun Olam". This strain is a hybrid of 70% Sativa and 30% Indika strains, consisting of 20-22% THC and 0% CBD. Each arm received a single dose and groups were divided in an ascending dose fashion: Group I-IV receiving 10, 15, 20, 25 mg of THC respectively. The volunteers inhaled a single dose of THC using the CannaHaler, device. Blood samples for Δ9 - Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and 9-THCCOOH were taken at base line and up to 30 min after dosing. Adverse events were monitored following the inhalation. Pharmacokinetics profile was obtained for each patient in all arms. RESULTS Ascending doses of THC produced a linear increase in the maximum concentration 10, 15, 20 and 25 mg of THC. (35.43 ± 5.97, 51.47 ± 13.79, 72.37 ± 15.93, 88.63 ± 14.75 respectively) with the same linear increase in the dimension of the AUC (441.59 ± 88.49, 624 ± 123.56, 698.35 ± 174.98, 971.36 ± 310.4 respectively) both with no change in the time needed to reach such concentration. No adverse events were recorded in all of study subjects. The CannaHaler achieved high Cmax (35.43-88.63 ng/mL) values and low coefficient of variations (16.64-26.79%) in comparison to both smoking and oral preparations, thus reaching the potential of a pharmaceutical grade device for inhaled substance. CONCLUSIONS The current study showed that the use of Kite-Systems CannaHaler as a smokeless medical cannabis inhalation device is feasible and efficient. The low coefficient of variation together with the high Cmax values, suggest the potential use of the CannaHaler device as a pharmaceutical cannabis dosing administrator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Offir Ben-Ishay
- Surgical oncology unit, Department of General Surgery, Rambam Health Care Campus and the Bruce and Ruth Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, 8 Ha'aliyah st., 35254, Haifa, Israel.
| | - Ortal Bar-On
- Surgical oncology unit, Department of General Surgery, Rambam Health Care Campus and the Bruce and Ruth Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, 8 Ha'aliyah st., 35254, Haifa, Israel
| | - Yoram Kluger
- Surgical oncology unit, Department of General Surgery, Rambam Health Care Campus and the Bruce and Ruth Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, 8 Ha'aliyah st., 35254, Haifa, Israel
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Aziz M, Chapman KD. Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolases: An Expanded Capacity for Chemical Communication? TRENDS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2020; 25:236-249. [PMID: 31919033 DOI: 10.1016/j.tplants.2019.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Revised: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) is an enzyme that belongs to the amidase signature (AS) superfamily and is widely distributed in multicellular eukaryotes. FAAH hydrolyzes lipid signaling molecules - namely, N-acylethanolamines (NAEs) - which terminates their actions. Recently, the crystal structure of Arabidopsis thaliana FAAH was solved and key residues were identified for substrate-specific interactions. Here, focusing on residues surrounding the substrate-binding pocket, a comprehensive analysis of FAAH sequences from angiosperms reveals a distinctly different family of FAAH-like enzymes. We hypothesize that FAAH, in addition to its role in seedling development, also acts in an N-acyl amide communication axis to facilitate plant-microbe interactions and that structural diversity provides for the flexible use of a wide range of small lipophilic signaling molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mina Aziz
- BioDiscovery Institute and Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, Denton, TX 76203, USA.
| | - Kent D Chapman
- BioDiscovery Institute and Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, Denton, TX 76203, USA.
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35
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Ahmed SH, Badiani A, Miczek KA, Müller CP. Non-pharmacological factors that determine drug use and addiction. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 110:3-27. [PMID: 30179633 PMCID: PMC6395570 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2018.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2018] [Revised: 07/26/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Based on their pharmacological properties, psychoactive drugs are supposed to take control of the natural reward system to finally drive compulsory drug seeking and consumption. However, psychoactive drugs are not used in an arbitrary way as pure pharmacological reinforcement would suggest, but rather in a highly specific manner depending on non-pharmacological factors. While pharmacological effects of psychoactive drugs are well studied, neurobiological mechanisms of non-pharmacological factors are less well understood. Here we review the emerging neurobiological mechanisms beyond pharmacological reinforcement which determine drug effects and use frequency. Important progress was made on the understanding of how the character of an environment and social stress determine drug self-administration. This is expanded by new evidence on how behavioral alternatives and opportunities for drug instrumentalization generate different patterns of drug choice. Emerging evidence suggests that the neurobiology of non-pharmacological factors strongly determines pharmacological and behavioral drug action and may, thus, give rise for an expanded system's approach of psychoactive drug use and addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serge H Ahmed
- Université de Bordeaux, Institut des Maladies Neurodégénératives, UMR 5293, 146 rue Léo-Saignat, F-33000 Bordeaux, France; CNRS, Institut des Maladies Neurodégénératives, UMR 5293, 146 rue Léo-Saignat, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Aldo Badiani
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; Sussex Addiction Research and Intervention Centre (SARIC), School of Psychology, University of Sussex, BN1 9RH Brighton, UK
| | - Klaus A Miczek
- Psychology Department, Tufts University, Bacon Hall, 530 Boston Avenue, Medford, MA 02155, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Christian P Müller
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Clinic, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Schwabachanlage 6, 91054 Erlangen, Germany.
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36
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Castel P, Simon P, Barbier M, Sunyach C, Tassistro V, Manzoni O, Pelissier AL, Courbiere B. [Focus on the endocannabinoid system and the reprotoxicity of marijuana in female users]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 48:384-392. [PMID: 32017991 DOI: 10.1016/j.gofs.2020.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Among recreative compounds, marijuana is the most used worldwide. Delta9THC binding on brain endocannabinoid receptors drives its psychotropic effects. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is an endogenous neurohormonal system essential for homeostasis composed of ligands, metabolic enzymes and at least 2 receptors discovered to date. In female reproduction, the ECS regulates the hypothalamic-pituitary axis and many steps of the reproduction process, such as ovulation, tubal transportation and trophoblast implantation. Delta9THC can cross the placental barrier and bind to the fetal endocannabinoid system. In humans, fetal and obstetrical consequences of marijuana use during pregnancy are intrauterine growth restriction and preterm delivery. In the light of legalization projects currently reviewed in several western countries, further research should be conducted to improve knowledge on maternal, fetal and reprotoxic consequences of marijuana use during reproductive age and pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Castel
- Aix-Marseille université, Avignon université, CNRS, IRD, IMBE, institut méditerranéen de biodiversité et d'écologie marine et continentale, équipe biomarqueurs, environnement et santé, site Timone, 27, boulevard Jean-Moulin, 13005 Marseille, France; Pôle femmes-parents-enfants, plateforme couple reproduction enfant : environnement & risques (CREER), hôpital de La Conception, hôpital Nord, AP-HM, Marseille, France.
| | - P Simon
- Pôle femmes-parents-enfants, plateforme couple reproduction enfant : environnement & risques (CREER), hôpital de La Conception, hôpital Nord, AP-HM, Marseille, France; Aix-Marseille université, Inserm, INMED, institut de neurobiologie de la méditerranée, 163, avenue de Luminy, 13009 Marseille, France
| | - M Barbier
- Aix-Marseille université, Avignon université, CNRS, IRD, IMBE, institut méditerranéen de biodiversité et d'écologie marine et continentale, équipe biomarqueurs, environnement et santé, site Timone, 27, boulevard Jean-Moulin, 13005 Marseille, France; Pôle femmes-parents-enfants, plateforme couple reproduction enfant : environnement & risques (CREER), hôpital de La Conception, hôpital Nord, AP-HM, Marseille, France
| | - C Sunyach
- Aix-Marseille université, Avignon université, CNRS, IRD, IMBE, institut méditerranéen de biodiversité et d'écologie marine et continentale, équipe biomarqueurs, environnement et santé, site Timone, 27, boulevard Jean-Moulin, 13005 Marseille, France; Pôle femmes-parents-enfants, plateforme couple reproduction enfant : environnement & risques (CREER), hôpital de La Conception, hôpital Nord, AP-HM, Marseille, France
| | - V Tassistro
- Aix-Marseille université, Avignon université, CNRS, IRD, IMBE, institut méditerranéen de biodiversité et d'écologie marine et continentale, équipe biomarqueurs, environnement et santé, site Timone, 27, boulevard Jean-Moulin, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - O Manzoni
- Aix-Marseille université, Inserm, INMED, institut de neurobiologie de la méditerranée, 163, avenue de Luminy, 13009 Marseille, France
| | - A-L Pelissier
- Aix-Marseille université, Inserm, INMED, institut de neurobiologie de la méditerranée, 163, avenue de Luminy, 13009 Marseille, France; Service de médecine légale, CHU Timone Adultes, AP-HM, Marseille, France
| | - B Courbiere
- Aix-Marseille université, Avignon université, CNRS, IRD, IMBE, institut méditerranéen de biodiversité et d'écologie marine et continentale, équipe biomarqueurs, environnement et santé, site Timone, 27, boulevard Jean-Moulin, 13005 Marseille, France; Pôle femmes-parents-enfants, plateforme couple reproduction enfant : environnement & risques (CREER), hôpital de La Conception, hôpital Nord, AP-HM, Marseille, France
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Perescis MFJ, Flipsen NAR, van Luijtelaar G, van Rijn CM. Altered SWD stopping mechanism in WAG/Rij rats subchronically treated with the cannabinoid agonist R(+)WIN55,212-2. Epilepsy Behav 2020; 102:106722. [PMID: 31855784 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2019.106722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Revised: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
A single injection of the cannabinoid agonist R(+)WIN55,212-2 (WIN) is known to cause an increase of the mean duration of spontaneously occurring spike-and-wave discharges (SWDs) in rats of the WAG/Rij strain, a genetic model for absence epilepsy. The aim of the present study was to establish whether repeated activation of CB1 receptors with WIN leads to tolerance in its effect on SWD parameters, spectral density, and behavior over time. Adult male WAG/Rij rats (n = 16) were treated with WIN (6 mg/kg) or vehicle (olive oil). Injections (s.c.) took place 3 times per week during 2 weeks. Electroencephalogram (EEG) recordings, each lasting 24 h, were made 3 times: immediately before the first injection (baseline), immediately after the first injection (acute treatment), and after 2 weeks of treatment (subchronic treatment). The recordings were analyzed regarding incidence, durations of SWDs, and hazard rates of the durations of SWDs, the latter to describe SWD stopping probabilities. Putative changes in the spectral content of the EEG before and after WIN during active and passive behaviors were additionally investigated. Spike-and-wave discharge incidence was not affected by the acute and subchronic treatments. The mean duration of the SWDs was significantly longer than controls in the acute WIN-treated animals [11.9-s standard error of the mean (SEM): 0.64 compared with 8.4-s SEM: 0.25] as well as in subchronically treated animals (11.5-s SEM: 1.00 compared with 8.4-s SEM: 0.25). Hazard rates were significantly lower for WIN-treated animals at SWD durations in the 5.04-20.16-s range on both occasions. No effects of WIN on the frequency spectrum of the ongoing EEG were found, neither acutely nor after repeated administration. Evidence for tolerance was not found. The results on the mean duration and hazard rates suggest that stimulating the endocannabinoid system affects the SWD stopping mechanism, resulting in more long SWDs. We speculate that this effect is likely to be a direct result of CB1 receptor agonism and a subsequent decrease in the availability of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the reticular thalamic nucleus, which further weakens, in WAG/Rij rats already disturbed, the stopping mechanism of the SWDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin F J Perescis
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, Montessorilaan 3, 6525 HR Nijmegen, the Netherlands; HAS University of Applied Sciences, Onderwijsboulevard 221, 5223 DE 's-Hertogenbosch, the Netherlands.
| | - Nienke A R Flipsen
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, Montessorilaan 3, 6525 HR Nijmegen, the Netherlands; HAS University of Applied Sciences, Onderwijsboulevard 221, 5223 DE 's-Hertogenbosch, the Netherlands
| | - Gilles van Luijtelaar
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, Montessorilaan 3, 6525 HR Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
| | - Clementina M van Rijn
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, Montessorilaan 3, 6525 HR Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
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Milosev LM, Psathakis N, Szejko N, Jakubovski E, Müller-Vahl KR. Treatment of Gilles de la Tourette Syndrome with Cannabis-Based Medicine: Results from a Retrospective Analysis and Online Survey. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2019; 4:265-274. [PMID: 31872061 DOI: 10.1089/can.2018.0050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Gilles de la Tourette syndrome (GTS) is a neuropsychiatric disorder that is characterized by motor and vocal tics and psychiatric comorbidities, including attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and obsessive-compulsive behavior/disorder (OCB/OCD). From anecdotal reports and preliminary controlled studies, it is suggested that cannabis-based medicine (CBM) may improve tics and comorbidities in adults with GTS. This study was designed to further investigate efficacy and safety of CBM in GTS and specifically compare effects of different CBM. Materials and Methods: First, we performed a retrospective data analysis including all those adult patients seen at our clinic, who had used CBM for the treatment of GTS at some time. All these patients were asked to complete an online survey (second study part) to receive more detailed data about treatment with CBM. Results: From medical records, we identified 98 patients who had used CBM (most often street cannabis followed by nabiximols, dronabinol, medicinal cannabis) for the treatment of GTS: Of the 38 patients who were able to judge, 66% preferred treatment with medicinal cannabis, 18% dronabinol, 11% nabiximols, and 5% street cannabis. Altogether, CBM resulted in a subjective improvement of tics (of about 60% in 85% of treated cases), comorbidities (55% of treated cases, most often OCB/OCD, ADHD, and sleeping disorders), and quality of life (93%). The effects of CBM appear to persist in the long term. Adverse events occurred in half of the patients, but they were rated as tolerable. Dosages of all CBM varied markedly. Patients assessed cannabis (with a preference for tetrahydrocannabinol [THC]-rich strains) as more effective and better tolerated compared with nabiximols and dronabinol. These data were confirmed by results obtained from the online survey (n=40). Conclusion: From our results, it is further supported that CBM might be effective and safe in the treatment of tics and comorbidities at least in a subgroup of adult patients with GTS. In our sample, patients favored THC-rich cannabis over dronabinol and nabiximols, which might be related to the entourage effect of cannabis. However, several limitations of the study have to be taken into considerations such as the open uncontrolled design and the retrospective data analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonie M Milosev
- Clinic of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Nikolas Psathakis
- Clinic of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Natalia Szejko
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warszawa, Poland.,Department of Bioethics, Medical University of Warsaw, Warszawa, Poland
| | - Ewgeni Jakubovski
- Clinic of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Kirsten R Müller-Vahl
- Clinic of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
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Dong C, Chen J, Harrington A, Vinod KY, Hegde ML, Hegde VL. Cannabinoid exposure during pregnancy and its impact on immune function. Cell Mol Life Sci 2019; 76:729-743. [PMID: 30374520 PMCID: PMC6632091 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-018-2955-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2018] [Revised: 10/10/2018] [Accepted: 10/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoids are the most commonly abused illicit drugs worldwide. While cannabis can be beneficial for certain heath conditions, abuse of potent synthetic cannabinoids has been on the rise. Exposure to cannabinoids is also prevalent in women of child-bearing age and pregnant women. These compounds can cross the placental barrier and directly affect the fetus. They mediate their effects primarily through G-protein coupled cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2. In addition to significant neurological effects, cannabinoids can trigger robust immunomodulation by altering cytokine levels, causing apoptosis of lymphoid cells and inducing suppressor cells of the immune system. Profound effects of cannabinoids on the immune system as discussed in this review, suggest that maternal exposure during pregnancy could lead to dysregulation of innate and adaptive immune system of developing fetus and offspring potentially leading to weakening of immune defenses against infections and cancer later in life. Emerging evidence also indicates the underlying role of epigenetic mechanisms causing long-lasting impact following cannabinoid exposure in utero.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Dong
- School of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, College of Arts and Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Jingwen Chen
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Amy Harrington
- School of Pharmacy, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, College of Arts and Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - K Yaragudri Vinod
- Division of Analytical Psychopharmacology, Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, NY, 10962, USA
- Emotional Brain Institute, Orangeburg, NY, 10962, USA
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, New York School of Medicine, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Muralidhar L Hegde
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Institute for Academic Medicine and Research Institute, The Houston Methodist Research Institute (HMRI), 6550 Fannin St, Smith 08-077, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Venkatesh L Hegde
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA.
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Institute for Academic Medicine and Research Institute, The Houston Methodist Research Institute (HMRI), 6550 Fannin St, Smith 08-077, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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Endocannabinoid System and Alcohol Abuse Disorders. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1162:89-127. [PMID: 31332736 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-21737-2_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), the primary active component in Cannabis sativa preparations such as hashish and marijuana, signals by binding to cell surface receptors. Two types of receptors have been cloned and characterized as cannabinoid (CB) receptors. CB1 receptors (CB1R) are ubiquitously present in the central nervous system (CNS) and are present in both inhibitory interneurons and excitatory neurons at the presynaptic terminal. CB2 receptors (CB2R) are demonstrated in microglial cells, astrocytes, and several neuron subpopulations and are present in both pre- and postsynaptic terminals. The majority of studies on these receptors have been conducted in the past two and half decades after the identification of the molecular constituents of the endocannabinoid (eCB) system that started with the characterization of CB1R. Subsequently, the seminal discovery was made, which suggested that alcohol (ethanol) alters the eCB system, thus establishing the contribution of the eCB system in the motivation to consume ethanol. Several preclinical studies have provided evidence that CB1R significantly contributes to the motivational and reinforcing properties of ethanol and that the chronic consumption of ethanol alters eCB transmitters and CB1R expression in the brain nuclei associated with addiction pathways. Additionally, recent seminal studies have further established the role of the eCB system in the development of ethanol-induced developmental disorders, such as fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). These results are augmented by in vitro and ex vivo studies, showing that acute and chronic treatment with ethanol produces physiologically relevant alterations in the function of the eCB system during development and in the adult stage. This chapter provides a current and comprehensive review of the literature concerning the role of the eCB system in alcohol abuse disorders (AUD).
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Bonini SA, Premoli M, Tambaro S, Kumar A, Maccarinelli G, Memo M, Mastinu A. Cannabis sativa: A comprehensive ethnopharmacological review of a medicinal plant with a long history. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2018; 227:300-315. [PMID: 30205181 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2018.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 274] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2018] [Revised: 09/02/2018] [Accepted: 09/03/2018] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Cannabis sativa L. (C. sativa) is an annual dioecious plant, which shares its origins with the inception of the first agricultural human societies in Asia. Over the course of time different parts of the plant have been utilized for therapeutic and recreational purposes, for instance, extraction of healing oils from seed, or the use of inflorescences for their psychoactive effects. The key psychoactive constituent in C. sativa is called Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (D9-THC). The endocannabinoid system seems to be phylogenetically ancient, as it was present in the most primitive vertebrates with a neuronal network. N-arachidonoylethanolamine (AEA) and 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG) are the main endocannabinoids ligands present in the animal kingdom, and the main endocannabinoid receptors are cannabinoid type-1 (CB1) receptor and cannabinoid type-2 (CB2) receptor. AIM OF THE STUDY The review aims to provide a critical and comprehensive evaluation, from the ancient times to our days, of the ethnological, botanical, chemical and pharmacological aspects of C. sativa, with a vision for promoting further pharmaceutical research to explore its complete potential as a therapeutic agent. MATERIALS AND METHODS This study was performed by reviewing in extensive details the studies on historical significance and ethnopharmacological applications of C. sativa by using international scientific databases, books, Master's and Ph.D. dissertations and government reports. In addition, we also try to gather relevant information from large regional as well as global unpublished resources. In addition, the plant taxonomy was validated using certified databases such as Medicinal Plant Names Services (MPNS) and The Plant List. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS A detailed comparative analysis of the available resources for C. sativa confirmed its origin and traditional spiritual, household and therapeutic uses and most importantly its popularity as a recreational drug. The result of several studies suggested a deeper involvement of phytocannabinoids (the key compounds in C. sativa) in several others central and peripheral pathophysiological mechanisms such as food intake, inflammation, pain, colitis, sleep disorders, neurological and psychiatric illness. However, despite their numerous medicinal benefits, they are still considered as a menace to the society and banned throughout the world, except for few countries. We believe that this review will help lay the foundation for promoting exhaustive pharmacological and pharmaceutical studies in order to better understand the clinical relevance and applications of non-psychoactive cannabinoids in the prevention and treatment of life-threatening diseases and help to improve the legal status of C. sativa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Anna Bonini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Marika Premoli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Simone Tambaro
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Center for Alzheimer Research, Division of Neurogeriatrics, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Amit Kumar
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Center for Alzheimer Research, Division of Clinical Geriatrics, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Giuseppina Maccarinelli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Maurizio Memo
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Andrea Mastinu
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.
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Endocannabinoid Metabolome Characterization of Transitional and Mature Human Milk. Nutrients 2018; 10:nu10091294. [PMID: 30213124 PMCID: PMC6165354 DOI: 10.3390/nu10091294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Revised: 09/08/2018] [Accepted: 09/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Recognized as the gold standard, human milk (HM) is an extremely complex yet fascinating biofluid tailored to meet an infant's nutritional requirements throughout development. Endocannabinoids and endocannabinoid-like compounds (endocannabinoid metabolome, ECM) are endogenous lipid mediators derived from long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids that have been identified in HM. Previous research has shown that arachidonoylglycerol might play a role in establishing the infant's suckling response during lactation by activating the type 1 cannabinoid receptor in the infant's brain. The mechanisms of action and the role of the ECM in HM are not fully understood. Transitional and mature milk samples were collected from lactating women (n = 24) for ECM characterization, quantification, and to evaluate differences among the two stages. HM samples were analyzed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Identified members of the ECM were: arachidonoylethanolamine, palmitoylethanolamine, oleoylethanolamine, docosahexaenoylethanolamine, eicoapentaenoylethanolamine, eicosenoylethanolamine, arachidonoylglycerol, palmitoyglycerol, oleoylglycerol, docosahexaenoylglycerol, eicosapentaenoylglycerol, eiconenooylglycerol, arachidonic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, and eicosapentaenoic acid. Only docosahexaenoylglycerol was different across transitional and mature milk (p ≤ 0.05). Data from this cohort suggest that bioactive constituents in HM may also play a role in infant health and development. Future studies can be developed based on this study's data to help elucidate specific roles for each ECM member in addition to understanding how the ECM modulates infant health.
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Gallelli CA, Calcagnini S, Romano A, Koczwara JB, de Ceglia M, Dante D, Villani R, Giudetti AM, Cassano T, Gaetani S. Modulation of the Oxidative Stress and Lipid Peroxidation by Endocannabinoids and Their Lipid Analogues. Antioxidants (Basel) 2018; 7:E93. [PMID: 30021985 PMCID: PMC6070960 DOI: 10.3390/antiox7070093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Revised: 07/10/2018] [Accepted: 07/13/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Growing evidence supports the pivotal role played by oxidative stress in tissue injury development, thus resulting in several pathologies including cardiovascular, renal, neuropsychiatric, and neurodegenerative disorders, all characterized by an altered oxidative status. Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species and lipid peroxidation-derived reactive aldehydes including acrolein, malondialdehyde, and 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal, among others, are the main responsible for cellular and tissue damages occurring in redox-dependent processes. In this scenario, a link between the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and redox homeostasis impairment appears to be crucial. Anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol, the best characterized endocannabinoids, are able to modulate the activity of several antioxidant enzymes through targeting the cannabinoid receptors type 1 and 2 as well as additional receptors such as the transient receptor potential vanilloid 1, the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha, and the orphan G protein-coupled receptors 18 and 55. Moreover, the endocannabinoids lipid analogues N-acylethanolamines showed to protect cell damage and death from reactive aldehydes-induced oxidative stress by restoring the intracellular oxidants-antioxidants balance. In this review, we will provide a better understanding of the main mechanisms triggered by the cross-talk between the oxidative stress and the ECS, focusing also on the enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants as scavengers of reactive aldehydes and their toxic bioactive adducts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Anna Gallelli
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Silvio Calcagnini
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Adele Romano
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Justyna Barbara Koczwara
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Marialuisa de Ceglia
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Donatella Dante
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Rosanna Villani
- C.U.R.E. University Centre for Liver Disease Research and Treatment, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Institute of Internal Medicine, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy.
| | - Anna Maria Giudetti
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies, University of Salento, Via Monteroni, 73100 Lecce, Italy.
| | - Tommaso Cassano
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Via Luigi Pinto, c/o Ospedali Riuniti, 71122 Foggia, Italy.
| | - Silvana Gaetani
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
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Circulating endocannabinoids and affect regulation in human subjects. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2018; 92:66-71. [PMID: 29627714 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2018.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2017] [Revised: 03/15/2018] [Accepted: 03/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid (EC) system influences a wide variety of neurobiological processes including affect and emotionality as well as other neuropsychiatric functions. In this study we examined the relationship of circulating endocannabinoids [anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG)] with affect and emotionality in 175 individuals with (n = 115) and without (n = 60) mood, anxiety, and/or personality disorders. Circulating AEA levels displayed a modest, though statistically significant, inverse relationship with a composite measure of affect regulation (β = - 0.264, p = 0.009), due to its relationship with affect intensity (β = - 0.225, p = 0.021) across all study participants. Neither AEA nor 2-AG level differed as a function of any syndromal/personality disorder and neither correlated significantly with state depression or state anxiety scores. These data suggest that circulating levels endocannabinoids may play a role in emotionality across individuals regardless of defined psychiatric disorder.
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Felton SJ, Kendall AC, Almaedani AFM, Urquhart P, Webb AR, Kift R, Vail A, Nicolaou A, Rhodes LE. Serum endocannabinoids and N-acyl ethanolamines and the influence of simulated solar UVR exposure in humans in vivo. Photochem Photobiol Sci 2018; 16:564-574. [PMID: 28138687 DOI: 10.1039/c6pp00337k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure of human skin has beneficial and harmful effects on health, including impact on immune function, inflammation and reportedly mood, but these are not fully elucidated. Since the endocannabinoid system is implicated in many activities including mood alteration, our objective was to (i) determine and quantify circulating levels of a wide range of endocannabinoid and N-acyl ethanolamine (NAE) species (ii) evaluate whether these are modulated by cutaneous UVR exposures, as attained through repeated low level summer sunlight exposure. Wearing goggles to prevent eye exposure, 16 healthy volunteers (23-59 y; 10 light skin, phototype II, and 6 dark skin, phototype V) received the same UVR exposures (1.3 SED, 95% UVA/5% UVB) thrice weekly for 6 weeks, whilst casually dressed to expose ∼35% skin surface area. Blood samples were taken at baseline, days 1, 3 and 5 of week one, then at weekly intervals, and analysed by LC-MS/MS. Eleven endocannabinoids and NAEs were detected and quantified at baseline, with N-palmitoyl ethanolamine the most abundant (30% of total). Levels did not vary according to phototype (p > 0.05), except for the NAE docosapentaenoyl ethanolamide, which was higher in phototype II than V (p = 0.0002). Level of the endocannabinoid, 2-AG, was elevated during the UVR exposure course (p < 0.05 vs. baseline for all subjects; p < 0.01 for each phototype group), with maximum levels reached by week 2-3, while NAE species did not significantly alter. These findings suggest differential involvement of the cutaneous endocannabinoid system in low dose solar UVR responses in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Felton
- Division of Musculoskeletal and Dermatological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK.
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Emer AA, Donatello NN, Batisti AP, Oliveira Belmonte LA, Santos ARS, Martins DF. The role of the endocannabinoid system in the antihyperalgesic effect of Cedrus atlantica essential oil inhalation in a mouse model of postoperative pain. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2018; 210:477-484. [PMID: 28917977 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2017.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2017] [Revised: 09/02/2017] [Accepted: 09/11/2017] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Cedar is part of the phylum of conifers, and it's essential oil has been used for therapeutic purposes since ancient times. In our previous study, we have demonstrated that the inhalation of the Cedrus atlantica essential oil (CaEO) induces an antihyperalgesic effect in a model of postoperative pain. But the mechanism that underlies this effect is not yet fully known. AIM OF THE STUDY This study investigates the involvement of the endocannabinoid system in the antihyperalgesic effect produced by the inhalation of CaEO in a post operative pain model. MATERIALS AND METHODS Male Swiss mice (25-35±2g) were subjected to plantar incision. To assess the involvement of the endocannabinoid system, two different approaches were made: (1) by administering antagonists to the CB1 and CB2 receptors in different sites (intraperitoneal [i.p.], intraplantar [i.pl.] and intrathecal [i.t.]) and (2) by assessing the synergic effect of the inhalation of sub-effective doses of CaEO, Fatty acid hydrolase (FAAH) and Monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL), and endocannabinoid degradation inhibitors (URB937 and JZL184, respectively). RESULTS The antihyperalgesic effect of CaEO inhalation was prevented by pretreatment with AM281 or AM630 given by i.p. and i.t., but not i.pl. Additionally, in mice pretreated with FAAH or the MAGL inhibitors, the antihyperalgesic effect of CaEO inhalation was significantly longer, which demonstrates the involvement of the endocannabinoid system in the antihyperalgesic effect of CaEO inhalation in a preclinical model of postoperative pain. CONCLUSIONS The present study shows that CaEO inhalation exerts an antihyperalgesic effect, possibly by the activation of the endocannabinoid system in a preclinical model of postoperative pain. It could be a new alternative to treat pain in a clinical environment.
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MESH Headings
- Administration, Inhalation
- Animals
- Cedrus/chemistry
- Disease Models, Animal
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Endocannabinoids/metabolism
- Hyperalgesia/drug therapy
- Hyperalgesia/physiopathology
- Male
- Mice
- Oils, Volatile/administration & dosage
- Oils, Volatile/isolation & purification
- Oils, Volatile/pharmacology
- Pain, Postoperative/drug therapy
- Pain, Postoperative/physiopathology
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/drug effects
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/metabolism
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/drug effects
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline Armiliato Emer
- Experimental Neuroscience Laboratory (LaNEx) and Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina, Santa Catarina, Brazil.
| | - Nathalia Nahas Donatello
- Experimental Neuroscience Laboratory (LaNEx) and Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina, Santa Catarina, Brazil.
| | - Ana Paula Batisti
- Experimental Neuroscience Laboratory (LaNEx) and Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina, Santa Catarina, Brazil.
| | - Luiz Augusto Oliveira Belmonte
- Experimental Neuroscience Laboratory (LaNEx) and Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina, Santa Catarina, Brazil.
| | - Adair R S Santos
- Laboratory of Neurobiology of Pain and Inflammation, Department of Physiological Sciences, Center of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil.
| | - Daniel F Martins
- Experimental Neuroscience Laboratory (LaNEx) and Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina, Santa Catarina, Brazil.
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Fulmer ML, Thewke DP. The Endocannabinoid System and Heart Disease: The Role of Cannabinoid Receptor Type 2. Cardiovasc Hematol Disord Drug Targets 2018; 18:34-51. [PMID: 29412125 PMCID: PMC6020134 DOI: 10.2174/1871529x18666180206161457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2017] [Revised: 01/01/2018] [Accepted: 01/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Decades of research has provided evidence for the role of the endocannabinoid system in human health and disease. This versatile system, consisting of two receptors (CB1 and CB2), their endogenous ligands (endocannabinoids), and metabolic enzymes has been implicated in a wide variety of disease states, ranging from neurological disorders to cancer. CB2 has gained much interest for its beneficial immunomodulatory role that can be obtained without eliciting psychotropic effects through CB1. Recent studies have shed light on a protective role of CB2 in cardiovascular disease, an ailment which currently takes more lives each year in Western countries than any other disease or injury. By use of CB2 knockout mice and CB2-selective ligands, knowledge of how CB2 signaling affects atherosclerosis and ischemia has been acquired, providing a major stepping stone between basic science and translational clinical research. Here, we summarize the current understanding of the endocannabinoid system in human pathologies and provide a review of the results from preclinical studies examining its function in cardiovascular disease, with a particular emphasis on possible CB2-targeted therapeutic interventions to alleviate atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makenzie L. Fulmer
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Center for Inflammation, Infectious Disease and Immunity, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - Douglas P. Thewke
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Center for Inflammation, Infectious Disease and Immunity, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
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Robinson JD, Cinciripini PM, Karam-Hage M, Aubin HJ, Dale LC, Niaura R, Anthenelli RM. Pooled analysis of three randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled trials with rimonabant for smoking cessation. Addict Biol 2018; 23:291-303. [PMID: 28429843 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2016] [Revised: 01/17/2017] [Accepted: 02/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Despite the withdrawal of CB1 antagonists, such as rimonabant, from the market and from active clinical development because of concerns about their side effect profiles, research suggests that the endocannabinoid system may play an important role in modulating nicotine's effects. We report the combined results, using a pooled analysis, of three previously unpublished trials assessing rimonabant as a smoking cessation pharmacotherapy conducted between 2002 and 2004. Smokers (n = 2097) motivated to quit were enrolled in three randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials, STRATUS EU, US, and META, which consisted of a 10-week treatment period with either rimonabant 20 mg (n = 789), 5 mg (n = 518; used in only two of the three studies), or placebo (n = 790), in conjunction with brief counseling. The impact of drug on prolonged abstinence and adverse events was examined at 8 weeks (end-of-treatment) and at 48 weeks (available for STRATUS EU and US) after the targeted quit date. Rimonabant 20 mg resulted in significantly higher abstinence at end-of-treatment and at 48 weeks post-targeted quit date compared with placebo, while rimonabant 5 mg and placebo did not differ. Serious AEs did not differ by drug group. The 20 mg rimonabant dose, compared with placebo, produced increased nausea, diarrhea, anxiety symptoms, hyporexia, and vomiting, and decreased headache, constipation, and cough. These results support rimonabant 20 mg as a modestly effective aid for smoking cessation. Although work on CB1 antagonists such as rimonabant has mostly been stopped because of unacceptable adverse events, these results may inform and spur the development of other endocannabinoids for smoking cessation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Maher Karam-Hage
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center; Houston TX USA
| | - Henri-Jean Aubin
- CESP; Université Paris-Sud, UVSQ, INSERM, Université Paris-Saclay, APHP, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris-Sud; Villejuif France
| | | | - Raymond Niaura
- Schroeder Institute for Tobacco Research and Policy Studies; Washington DC USA
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Sierra S, Luquin N, Navarro-Otano J. The endocannabinoid system in cardiovascular function: novel insights and clinical implications. Clin Auton Res 2017; 28:35-52. [PMID: 29222605 DOI: 10.1007/s10286-017-0488-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Cardiovascular disease is now recognized as the number one cause of death in the world, and the size of the population at risk continues to increase rapidly. The dysregulation of the endocannabinoid (eCB) system plays a central role in a wide variety of conditions including cardiovascular disorders. Cannabinoid receptors, their endogenous ligands, as well as enzymes conferring their synthesis and degradation, exhibit overlapping distributions in the cardiovascular system. Furthermore, the pharmacological manipulation of the eCB system has effects on blood pressure, cardiac contractility, and endothelial vasomotor control. Growing evidence from animal studies supports the significance of the eCB system in cardiovascular disorders. OBJECTIVE To summarize the literature surrounding the eCB system in cardiovascular function and disease and the new compounds that may potentially extend the range of available interventions. RESULTS Drugs targeting CB1R, CB2R, TRPV1 and PPARs are proven effective in animal models mimicking cardiovascular disorders such as hypertension, atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction. Despite the setback of two clinical trials that exhibited unexpected harmful side-effects, preclinical studies are accelerating the development of more selective drugs with promising results devoid of adverse effects. CONCLUSION Over the last years, increasing evidence from basic and clinical research supports the role of the eCB system in cardiovascular function. Whereas new discoveries are paving the way for the identification of novel drugs and therapeutic targets, the close cooperation of researchers, clinicians and pharmaceutical companies is needed to achieve successful outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvador Sierra
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA. .,Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Molecular Medicine Research Building, Virginia Commonwealth University, 1220 East Broad Street, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA.
| | - Natasha Luquin
- Department of Medical Genomics, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Judith Navarro-Otano
- Neurology Service, Electromyography, Motor Control and Neuropathic Pain Unit, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Brodie MJ, Ben-Menachem E. Cannabinoids for epilepsy: What do we know and where do we go? Epilepsia 2017; 59:291-296. [DOI: 10.1111/epi.13973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/14/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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