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Schiavi S, Manduca A, Carbone E, Buzzelli V, Rava A, Feo A, Ascone F, Morena M, Campolongo P, Hill MN, Trezza V. Anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol differentially modulate autistic-like traits in a genetic model of autism based on FMR1 deletion in rats. Neuropsychopharmacology 2023; 48:897-907. [PMID: 36114286 PMCID: PMC10156791 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-022-01454-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has a multifactorial etiology. Major efforts are underway to understand the neurobiological bases of ASD and to develop efficacious treatment strategies. Recently, the use of cannabinoid compounds in children with neurodevelopmental disorders including ASD has received increasing attention. Beyond anecdotal reports of efficacy, however, there is limited current evidence supporting such an intervention and the clinical studies currently available have intrinsic limitations that make the interpretation of the findings challenging. Furthermore, as the mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of cannabinoid compounds in neurodevelopmental disorders are still largely unknown, the use of drugs targeting the endocannabinoid system remains controversial. Here, we studied the role of endocannabinoid neurotransmission in the autistic-like traits displayed by the recently validated Fmr1-Δexon 8 rat model of autism. Fmr1-Δexon 8 rats showed reduced anandamide levels in the hippocampus and increased 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) content in the amygdala. Systemic and intra-hippocampal potentiation of anandamide tone through administration of the anandamide hydrolysis inhibitor URB597 ameliorated the cognitive deficits displayed by Fmr1-Δexon 8 rats along development, as assessed through the novel object and social discrimination tasks. Moreover, blockade of amygdalar 2-AG signaling through intra-amygdala administration of the CB1 receptor antagonist SR141716A prevented the altered sociability displayed by Fmr1-Δexon 8 rats. These findings demonstrate that anandamide and 2-AG differentially modulate specific autistic-like traits in Fmr1-Δexon 8 rats in a brain region-specific manner, suggesting that fine changes in endocannabinoid mechanisms contribute to ASD-related behavioral phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Schiavi
- Department of Science, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonia Manduca
- Department of Science, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
- Neuroendocrinology, Metabolism and Neuropharmacology Unit, IRCSS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Maria Morena
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Neuropsychopharmacology Unit, IRCSS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
- Departments of Cell Biology and Anatomy & Psychiatry, Hotchkiss Brain Institute and Mathison Center for Mental Health Research and Education, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Patrizia Campolongo
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Neuropsychopharmacology Unit, IRCSS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
| | - Matthew N Hill
- Departments of Cell Biology and Anatomy & Psychiatry, Hotchkiss Brain Institute and Mathison Center for Mental Health Research and Education, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Viviana Trezza
- Department of Science, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy.
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Pellegrini G, Carmagnola D, Toma M, Rasperini G, Orioli M, Dellavia C. Involvement of the endocannabinoid system in current and recurrent periodontitis: A human study. J Periodontal Res 2023; 58:422-432. [PMID: 36727611 DOI: 10.1111/jre.13103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the present study was to assess if the endocannabinoid system is involved differently in patients with recurrent and non-recurrent periodontal disease and if in sites that have a predisposition for reactivation, levels of anandamide (AEA) change after periodontal therapy. BACKGROUND Periodontal disease (PD) may be due to a dysregulation of the endocannabinoid system. METHODS Periodontal patients were recruited, treated for PD and monitored. Gingival samples from these patients with recurrent (n = 10) and non-recurrent (n = 10) periodontal disease were harvested before and after treatment and compared to those of periodontally healthy (n = 10) subjects. Levels of CB1 and CB2, AEA and CBs receptor activation were assessed in healthy and inflamed samples using immunohistochemistry, chromatography and autoradiography. In healed sites, AEA levels were also assessed. RESULTS The number of CBs in inflamed sites of recurrent patients was significantly higher than in those with non-recurrent disease and also higher than those in healthy subjects. Inflamed sites of recurrent patients had significantly lower CBs receptor activation than those of healthy subjects. Levels of AEA in inflamed sites of non-recurrent patients were significantly higher than those found both in inflamed recurrent sites and in healthy sites. Otherwise, the amount of AEA in healthy subjects and recurrent inflamed sites was similar. After periodontal therapy, levels of AEA were significantly lower in both periodontal groups. In recurrent sites, they resulted significantly lower than in non-recurrent and even in healthy subjects. CONCLUSIONS The endocannabinoid system seems involved differently in subjects with recurrent and non-recurrent periodontal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaia Pellegrini
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniela Carmagnola
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Marilisa Toma
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulio Rasperini
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Marica Orioli
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Claudia Dellavia
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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Bio-behavioural changes in treatment-resistant socially isolated FSL rats show variable or improved response to combined fluoxetine-olanzapine versus olanzapine treatment. IBRO Neurosci Rep 2022; 13:284-298. [PMID: 36204253 PMCID: PMC9529672 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibneur.2022.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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The Therapeutic Potential of the Endocannabinoid System in Age-Related Diseases. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10102492. [PMID: 36289755 PMCID: PMC9599275 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10102492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2022] [Revised: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) dynamically regulates many aspects of mammalian physiology. ECS has gained substantial interest since growing evidence suggests that it also plays a major role in several pathophysiological conditions due to its ability to modulate various underlying mechanisms. Furthermore, cannabinoids, as components of the cannabinoid system (CS), have proven beneficial effects such as anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, neuromodulatory, antioxidative, and cardioprotective effects. In this comprehensive review, we aimed to describe the complex interaction between CS and most common age-related diseases such as neuro-degenerative, oncological, skeletal, and cardiovascular disorders, together with the potential of various cannabinoids to ameliorate the progression of these disorders. Since chronic inflammation is postulated as the pillar of all the above-mentioned medical conditions, we also discuss in this paper the potential of CS to ameliorate aging-associated immune system dysregulation.
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Colangeli R, Teskey GC, Di Giovanni G. Endocannabinoid-serotonin systems interaction in health and disease. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2021; 259:83-134. [PMID: 33541682 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2021.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Endocannabinoid (eCB) and serotonin (5-HT) neuromodulatory systems work both independently and together to finely orchestrate neuronal activity throughout the brain to strongly sculpt behavioral functions. Surprising parallelism between the behavioral effects of 5-HT and eCB activity has been widely reported, including the regulation of emotional states, stress homeostasis, cognitive functions, food intake and sleep. The distribution pattern of the 5-HT system and the eCB molecular elements in the brain display a strong overlap and several studies report a functional interplay and even a tight interdependence between eCB/5-HT signaling. In this review, we examine the available evidence of the interaction between the eCB and 5-HT systems. We first introduce the eCB system, then we describe the eCB/5-HT crosstalk at the neuronal and synaptic levels. Finally, we explore the potential eCB/5-HT interaction at the behavioral level with the implication for psychiatric and neurological disorders. The precise elucidation of how this neuromodulatory interaction dynamically regulates biological functions may lead to the development of more targeted therapeutic strategies for the treatment of depressive and anxiety disorders, psychosis and epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Colangeli
- Section of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy; Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
| | - G Campbell Teskey
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Giuseppe Di Giovanni
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology, Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta, Msida, Malta; Neuroscience Division, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
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Rodrigues da Silva N, Gomes FV, Sonego AB, Silva NRD, Guimarães FS. Cannabidiol attenuates behavioral changes in a rodent model of schizophrenia through 5-HT1A, but not CB1 and CB2 receptors. Pharmacol Res 2020; 156:104749. [PMID: 32151683 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.104749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Preclinical and clinical data indicate that cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychotomimetic compound from the Cannabis sativa plant, can induce antipsychotic-like effects. In an animal model of schizophrenia based on the antagonism of NMDA receptors, the behavioral and molecular changes induced by repeated treatment with the NMDA receptor antagonist MK-801 were prevented when CBD was co-administered with MK-801. It is unknown, however, if CBD would reverse these changes once they have been established. Thus, in the present study we used male C57BL/6J mice, 6 weeks old, to evaluate whether daily CBD injection for seven days, starting after the end of the repeated treatment with MK-801 for 14 days, would reverse MK-801-induced deficits in the social interaction (SI) and novel object recognition (NOR) tests, which have been used to investigate the negative and cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia, respectively. We also assessed whether CBD effects would be blocked by pretreatment with AM251, a CB1 receptor antagonist, AM630, a CB2 receptor antagonist, or WAY100635, a 5-HT1A receptor antagonist. CBD and the second-generation antipsychotic clozapine, used as a positive control, attenuated the impairments in the SI and NOR tests induced by repeated administered MK-801. CBD effects were blocked by WAY100635, but not by AM251 or AM630. These data suggest that CBD induces antipsychotic-like effects by activating 5-HT1A receptors and indicate that this compound could be an interesting alternative for the treatment of negative and cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naielly Rodrigues da Silva
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil.
| | - Felipe Villela Gomes
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
| | - Andreza Buzolin Sonego
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
| | - Nicole Rodrigues da Silva
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
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Hurel I, Redon B, Scocard A, Malezieux M, Marsicano G, Chaouloff F. Beyond the Activity-Based Anorexia Model: Reinforcing Values of Exercise and Feeding Examined in Stressed Adolescent Male and Female Mice. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:587. [PMID: 31164828 PMCID: PMC6534096 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Anorexia nervosa (AN), mostly observed in female adolescents, is the most fatal mental illness. Its core is a motivational imbalance between exercise and feeding in favor of the former. The most privileged animal model of AN is the "activity-based anorexia" (ABA) model wherein partly starved rodents housed with running wheels exercise at the expense of feeding. However, the ABA model bears face and construct validity limits, including its inability to specifically assess running motivation and feeding motivation. As infant/adolescent trauma is a precipitating factor in AN, this study first analyzed post-weaning isolation rearing (PWIR) impacts on body weights and wheel-running performances in female mice exposed to an ABA protocol. Next, we studied through operant conditioning protocols i) whether food restriction affects in a sex-dependent manner running motivation before ii) investigating how PWIR and sex affect running and feeding drives under ad libitum fed conditions and food restriction. Besides amplifying ABA-elicited body weight reductions, PWIR stimulated wheel-running activities in anticipation of feeding in female mice, suggesting increased running motivation. To confirm this hypothesis, we used a cued-reward motivated instrumental task wherein wheel-running was conditioned by prior nose poke responses. It was first observed that food restriction increased running motivation in male, but not female, mice. When fed grouped and PWIR mice were tested for their running and palatable feeding drives, all mice, excepted PWIR males, displayed increased nose poke responses for running over feeding. This was true when rewards were proposed alone or within a concurrent test. The increased preference for running over feeding in fed females did not extend to running performances (time, distance) during each rewarded sequence, confirming that motivation for, and performance during, running are independent entities. With food restriction, mice displayed a sex-independent increase in their preference for feeding over running in both group-housed and PWIR conditions. This study shows that the ABA model does not specifically capture running and feeding drives, i.e. components known to be affected in AN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imane Hurel
- Endocannabinoids and NeuroAdaptation, NeuroCentre INSERM U1215, Bordeaux, France.,University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Bastien Redon
- Endocannabinoids and NeuroAdaptation, NeuroCentre INSERM U1215, Bordeaux, France.,University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Amandine Scocard
- Endocannabinoids and NeuroAdaptation, NeuroCentre INSERM U1215, Bordeaux, France.,University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Meryl Malezieux
- Endocannabinoids and NeuroAdaptation, NeuroCentre INSERM U1215, Bordeaux, France.,University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Giovanni Marsicano
- Endocannabinoids and NeuroAdaptation, NeuroCentre INSERM U1215, Bordeaux, France.,University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Francis Chaouloff
- Endocannabinoids and NeuroAdaptation, NeuroCentre INSERM U1215, Bordeaux, France.,University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
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8
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Drazanova E, Ruda-Kucerova J, Kratka L, Stark T, Kuchar M, Maryska M, Drago F, Starcuk Z, Micale V. Different effects of prenatal MAM vs. perinatal THC exposure on regional cerebral blood perfusion detected by Arterial Spin Labelling MRI in rats. Sci Rep 2019; 9:6062. [PMID: 30988364 PMCID: PMC6465353 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-42532-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2018] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Clinical studies consistently report structural impairments (i.e.: ventricular enlargement, decreased volume of anterior cingulate cortex or hippocampus) and functional abnormalities including changes in regional cerebral blood flow in individuals suffering from schizophrenia, which can be evaluated by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques. The aim of this study was to assess cerebral blood perfusion in several schizophrenia-related brain regions using Arterial Spin Labelling MRI (ASL MRI, 9.4 T Bruker BioSpec 94/30USR scanner) in rats. In this study, prenatal exposure to methylazoxymethanol acetate (MAM, 22 mg/kg) at gestational day (GD) 17 and the perinatal treatment with Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC, 5 mg/kg) from GD15 to postnatal day 9 elicited behavioral deficits consistent with schizophrenia-like phenotype, which is in agreement with the neurodevelopmental hypothesis of schizophrenia. In MAM exposed rats a significant enlargement of lateral ventricles and perfusion changes (i.e.: increased blood perfusion in the circle of Willis and sensorimotor cortex and decreased perfusion in hippocampus) were detected. On the other hand, the THC perinatally exposed rats did not show differences in the cerebral blood perfusion in any region of interest. These results suggest that although both pre/perinatal insults showed some of the schizophrenia-like deficits, these are not strictly related to distinct hemodynamic features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Drazanova
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic.
- Institute of Scientific Instruments of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Jana Ruda-Kucerova
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Lucie Kratka
- Institute of Scientific Instruments of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Communication, University of Technology, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Tibor Stark
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Kuchar
- Forensic Laboratory of Biologically Active Substances, Department of Chemistry of Natural Compounds, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Michal Maryska
- Forensic Laboratory of Biologically Active Substances, Department of Chemistry of Natural Compounds, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Zenon Starcuk
- Institute of Scientific Instruments of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Vincenzo Micale
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czech Republic
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9
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Stark T, Ruda-Kucerova J, Iannotti FA, D'Addario C, Di Marco R, Pekarik V, Drazanova E, Piscitelli F, Bari M, Babinska Z, Giurdanella G, Di Bartolomeo M, Salomone S, Sulcova A, Maccarrone M, Wotjak CT, Starcuk Z, Drago F, Mechoulam R, Di Marzo V, Micale V. Peripubertal cannabidiol treatment rescues behavioral and neurochemical abnormalities in the MAM model of schizophrenia. Neuropharmacology 2019; 146:212-221. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.11.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2018] [Revised: 11/14/2018] [Accepted: 11/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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10
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Famitafreshi H, Karimian M. Social Isolation Rearing Induces Neuropsychiatric Diseases: Updated Overview. MOLECULAR NEUROPSYCHIATRY 2019; 4:190-195. [PMID: 30815454 DOI: 10.1159/000495659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Neuropsychiatric and neurologic diseases cause a great burden for individuals, families, and societies. Social isolation rearing can trigger a variety of psychiatric diseases. New advances suggest that epigenetic factors along with other neurochemical changes can be an important topic in neuropsychiatric diseases. It is thought that the prevention of social isolation rearing that occurs around birth can reduce the occurrence of neuropsychiatric diseases. It has been suggested that the environment can induce epigenetic alternation. So, for the diagnosis of a proportion of neuropsychiatric diseases, assessing epigenetic factors may be helpful. Also, apart from epigenetic factors, new advances have been made about new mechanisms of and treatments for such a disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamidreza Famitafreshi
- Physiology Department, Tehran University of Medical Sciences - International Campus, Tehran, Iran
| | - Morteza Karimian
- Physiology Department, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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11
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Schiavone S, Trabace L. The use of antioxidant compounds in the treatment of first psychotic episode: Highlights from preclinical studies. CNS Neurosci Ther 2018. [PMID: 29542255 DOI: 10.1111/cns.12847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent evidence highlighted a pathogenetic link between redox dysregulation and the early stages of psychosis. Indeed, an increasing number of studies have pointed toward an association between oxidative stress, both at central and peripheral levels, and first psychotic episode. Moreover, basal low antioxidant capacity has been shown to directly correlate with cognitive impairment in the early onset of psychosis. In this context, the possibility to use antioxidant compounds in first psychotic episode, especially as supplementation to antipsychotic therapy, has become the focus of numerous investigations on rodents with the aim to translate data on the possible effects of antioxidant therapies to large populations of patients, with a diagnosis of the first psychotic episode. In this review, we will discuss studies, published from January 1st, 2007 to July 31st, 2017, investigating the effects of antioxidant compounds on neuropathological alterations observed in different rodent models characterized by a cluster of psychotic-like symptoms reminiscent of what observed in human first psychotic episode. A final focus on the effective possibility to directly translate data obtained on rodents to humans will be also provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Schiavone
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Luigia Trabace
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
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12
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Characterization of Behavioral, Signaling and Cytokine Alterations in a Rat Neurodevelopmental Model for Schizophrenia, and Their Reversal by the 5-HT 6 Receptor Antagonist SB-399885. Mol Neurobiol 2018; 55:7413-7430. [PMID: 29423817 PMCID: PMC6096968 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-018-0940-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 01/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Post-weaning social isolation of rats produces neuroanatomical, neurochemical and behavioral alterations resembling some core features of schizophrenia. This study examined the ability of the 5-HT6 receptor antagonist SB-399885 to reverse isolation-induced cognitive deficits, then investigated alterations in hippocampal cell proliferation and hippocampal and frontal cortical expression of selected intracellular signaling molecules and cytokines. Male Lister hooded rats (weaned on post-natal days 21-24 and housed individually or in groups of 3-4) received six i.p. injections of vehicle (1% Tween 80, 1 mL/kg) or SB-399885 (5 or 10 mg/kg) over a 2-week period starting 40 days post-weaning, on the days that locomotor activity, novel object discrimination (NOD), pre-pulse inhibition of acoustic startle and acquisition, retention and extinction of a conditioned freezing response (CFR) were assessed. Tissue was collected 24 h after the final injection for immunohistochemistry, reverse-phase protein microarray and western blotting. Isolation rearing impaired NOD and cue-mediated CFR, decreased cell proliferation within the dentate gyrus, and elevated hippocampal TNFα levels and Cdc42 expression. SB-399885 reversed the NOD deficit and partially normalized CFR and cell proliferation. These effects were accompanied by altered expression of several members of the c-Jun N-terminal Kinase (JNK) and p38 MAPK signaling pathways (including TAK1, MKK4 and STAT3). Although JNK and p38 themselves were unaltered at this time point hippocampal TAK1 expression and phosphorylation correlated with visual recognition memory in the NOD task. Continued use of this neurodevelopmental model could further elucidate the neurobiology of schizophrenia and aid assessment of novel therapies for drug-resistant cognitive symptoms.
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13
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Večeřa J, Bártová E, Krejčí J, Legartová S, Komůrková D, Rudá-Kučerová J, Štark T, Dražanová E, Kašpárek T, Šulcová A, Dekker FJ, Szymanski W, Seiser C, Weitzer G, Mechoulam R, Micale V, Kozubek S. HDAC1 and HDAC3 underlie dynamic H3K9 acetylation during embryonic neurogenesis and in schizophrenia-like animals. J Cell Physiol 2018; 233:530-548. [PMID: 28300292 PMCID: PMC7615847 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.25914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2016] [Accepted: 03/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Although histone acetylation is one of the most widely studied epigenetic modifications, there is still a lack of information regarding how the acetylome is regulated during brain development and pathophysiological processes. We demonstrate that the embryonic brain (E15) is characterized by an increase in H3K9 acetylation as well as decreases in the levels of HDAC1 and HDAC3. Moreover, experimental induction of H3K9 hyperacetylation led to the overexpression of NCAM in the embryonic cortex and depletion of Sox2 in the subventricular ependyma, which mimicked the differentiation processes. Inducing differentiation in HDAC1-deficient mouse ESCs resulted in early H3K9 deacetylation, Sox2 downregulation, and enhanced astrogliogenesis, whereas neuro-differentiation was almost suppressed. Neuro-differentiation of (wt) ESCs was characterized by H3K9 hyperacetylation that was associated with HDAC1 and HDAC3 depletion. Conversely, the hippocampi of schizophrenia-like animals showed H3K9 deacetylation that was regulated by an increase in both HDAC1 and HDAC3. The hippocampi of schizophrenia-like brains that were treated with the cannabinoid receptor-1 inverse antagonist AM251 expressed H3K9ac at the level observed in normal brains. Together, the results indicate that co-regulation of H3K9ac by HDAC1 and HDAC3 is important to both embryonic brain development and neuro-differentiation as well as the pathophysiology of a schizophrenia-like phenotype.
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MESH Headings
- Acetylation
- Animals
- Antipsychotic Agents/pharmacology
- Brain/drug effects
- Brain/embryology
- Brain/enzymology
- Brain/pathology
- Cannabinoid Receptor Antagonists/pharmacology
- Disease Models, Animal
- Epigenesis, Genetic
- Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental
- Gestational Age
- Histone Deacetylase 1/antagonists & inhibitors
- Histone Deacetylase 1/genetics
- Histone Deacetylase 1/metabolism
- Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors/pharmacology
- Histone Deacetylases/genetics
- Histone Deacetylases/metabolism
- Histones/metabolism
- Methylazoxymethanol Acetate
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Neural Cell Adhesion Molecules/genetics
- Neural Cell Adhesion Molecules/metabolism
- Neurogenesis/drug effects
- Neurons/drug effects
- Neurons/enzymology
- Neurons/pathology
- Protein Processing, Post-Translational
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/metabolism
- SOXB1 Transcription Factors/genetics
- SOXB1 Transcription Factors/metabolism
- Schizophrenia/chemically induced
- Schizophrenia/drug therapy
- Schizophrenia/enzymology
- Schizophrenia/genetics
- Signal Transduction
- Time Factors
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Affiliation(s)
- Josef Večeřa
- Faculty of Science, Department of Experimental Biology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Eva Bártová
- Institute of Biophysics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, v.v.i., Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Krejčí
- Institute of Biophysics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, v.v.i., Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Soňa Legartová
- Institute of Biophysics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, v.v.i., Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Denisa Komůrková
- Institute of Biophysics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, v.v.i., Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Rudá-Kučerová
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Tibor Štark
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Eva Dražanová
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
- Institute of Scientific Instruments of the Czech Academy of Sciences, v.v.i., Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Tomáš Kašpárek
- Behavioral and Social Neuroscience Group, CEITEC—Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Alexandra Šulcová
- Behavioral and Social Neuroscience Group, CEITEC—Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Frank J. Dekker
- Chemical and Pharmaceutical Biology, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Wiktor Szymanski
- Department of Radiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Christian Seiser
- Max F. Perutz Laboratories, Vienna Biocenter (VBC), Vienna, Austria
| | - Georg Weitzer
- Max F. Perutz Laboratories, Vienna Biocenter (VBC), Vienna, Austria
| | - Raphael Mechoulam
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute for Drug Research, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Vincenzo Micale
- Behavioral and Social Neuroscience Group, CEITEC—Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Stanislav Kozubek
- Faculty of Science, Department of Experimental Biology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
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Cannabinoid Modulation of Object Recognition and Location Memory—A Preclinical Assessment. HANDBOOK OF OBJECT NOVELTY RECOGNITION 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-812012-5.00031-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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15
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Delis F, Rosko L, Shroff A, Leonard KE, Thanos PK. Oral haloperidol or olanzapine intake produces distinct and region-specific increase in cannabinoid receptor levels that is prevented by high fat diet. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2017; 79:268-280. [PMID: 28619471 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2017.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2017] [Revised: 06/02/2017] [Accepted: 06/12/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Clinical studies show higher levels of cannabinoid CB1 receptors (CB1R) in the brain of schizophrenic patients while preclinical studies report a significant functional interaction between dopamine D2 receptors and CB1Rs as well as an upregulation of CB1Rs after antipsychotic treatment. These findings prompted us to study the effects of chronic oral intake of a first and a second generation antipsychotic, haloperidol and olanzapine, on the levels and distribution of CB1Rs in the rat brain. Rats consumed either regular chow or high-fat food and drank water, haloperidol drinking solution (1.5mg/kg), or olanzapine drinking solution (10mg/kg) for four weeks. Motor and cognitive functions were tested at the end of treatment week 3 and upon drug discontinuation. Two days after drug discontinuation, rats were euthanized and brains were processed for in vitro receptor autoradiography. In chow-fed animals, haloperidol and olanzapine increased CB1R levels in the basal ganglia and the hippocampus, in a similar, but not identical pattern. In addition, olanzapine had unique effects in CB1R upregulation in higher order cognitive areas, in the secondary somatosensory cortex, in the visual and auditory cortices and the geniculate nuclei, as well as in the hypothalamus. High fat food consumption prevented antipsychotic-induced increase in CB1R levels in all regions examined, with one exception, the globus pallidus, in which they were higher in haloperidol-treated rats. The results point towards the hypothesis that increased CB1R levels could be a confounding effect of antipsychotic medication in schizophrenia that is circumveneted by high fat feeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Foteini Delis
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Ioannina, 45110, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Lauren Rosko
- Georgetown University Medical Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, 20007, USA
| | - Aditya Shroff
- Behavioral Neuropharmacology and Neuroimaging Laboratory on Addictions, Research Institute on Addictions, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, 14203, USA
| | - Kenneth E Leonard
- Behavioral Neuropharmacology and Neuroimaging Laboratory on Addictions, Research Institute on Addictions, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, 14203, USA
| | - Panayotis K Thanos
- Behavioral Neuropharmacology and Neuroimaging Laboratory on Addictions, Research Institute on Addictions, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, 14203, USA.
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16
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D'Addario C, Micale V, Di Bartolomeo M, Stark T, Pucci M, Sulcova A, Palazzo M, Babinska Z, Cremaschi L, Drago F, Carlo Altamura A, Maccarrone M, Dell'Osso B. A preliminary study of endocannabinoid system regulation in psychosis: Distinct alterations of CNR1 promoter DNA methylation in patients with schizophrenia. Schizophr Res 2017; 188:132-140. [PMID: 28108228 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2017.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2016] [Revised: 01/10/2017] [Accepted: 01/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Compelling evidence supports the involvement of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in psychosis vulnerability. We here evaluated the transcriptional regulation of ECS components in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) obtained from subjects suffering from bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder and schizophrenia, focusing in particular on the effects of DNA methylation. We observed selective alterations of DNA methylation at the promoter of CNR1, the gene coding for the type-1 cannabinoid receptor, in schizophrenic patients (N=25) with no changes in any other disorder. We confirmed the regulation of CNR1 in a well-validated animal model of schizophrenia, induced by prenatal methylazoxymethanol (MAM) acetate exposure (N=7 per group) where we found, in the prefrontal cortex, a significant increase in CNR1 expression and a consistent reduction in DNA methylation at specific CpG sites of gene promoter. Overall, our findings suggest a selective dysregulation of ECS in psychosis, and highlight the evaluation of CNR1 DNA methylation levels in PBMCs as a potential biomarker for schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio D'Addario
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Italy; Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Vincenzo Micale
- CEITEC/Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic; Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Martina Di Bartolomeo
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Italy
| | - Tibor Stark
- Masaryk University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Mariangela Pucci
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Italy
| | | | - Mariacarlotta Palazzo
- Centro Sant'Ambrogio, Ordine Ospedaliero San Giovanni di Dio-Fatebenefratelli, Cernusco sul Naviglio, Italy
| | - Zuzana Babinska
- Masaryk University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Laura Cremaschi
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Milan, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - A Carlo Altamura
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Milan, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Mauro Maccarrone
- Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Rome, Italy; European Center for Brain Research, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Bernardo Dell'Osso
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Milan, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Bipolar Disorders Clinic, Stanford University, CA, USA.
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17
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Haj-Mirzaian A, Amini-Khoei H, Haj-Mirzaian A, Amiri S, Ghesmati M, Zahir M, Shafaroodi H, Dehpour AR. Activation of cannabinoid receptors elicits antidepressant-like effects in a mouse model of social isolation stress. Brain Res Bull 2017; 130:200-210. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2017.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2016] [Revised: 01/24/2017] [Accepted: 01/25/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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18
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Schneider P, Bindila L, Schmahl C, Bohus M, Meyer-Lindenberg A, Lutz B, Spanagel R, Schneider M. Adverse Social Experiences in Adolescent Rats Result in Enduring Effects on Social Competence, Pain Sensitivity and Endocannabinoid Signaling. Front Behav Neurosci 2016; 10:203. [PMID: 27812328 PMCID: PMC5071316 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2016.00203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2016] [Accepted: 10/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Social affiliation is essential for many species and gains significant importance during adolescence. Disturbances in social affiliation, in particular social rejection experiences during adolescence, affect an individual’s well-being and are involved in the emergence of psychiatric disorders. The underlying mechanisms are still unknown, partly because of a lack of valid animal models. By using a novel animal model for social peer-rejection, which compromises adolescent rats in their ability to appropriately engage in playful activities, here we report on persistent impairments in social behavior and dysregulations in the endocannabinoid (eCB) system. From postnatal day (pd) 21 to pd 50 adolescent female Wistar rats were either reared with same-strain partners (control) or within a group of Fischer 344 rats (inadequate social rearing, ISR), previously shown to serve as inadequate play partners for the Wistar strain. Adult ISR animals showed pronounced deficits in social interaction, social memory, processing of socially transmitted information, and decreased pain sensitivity. Molecular analysis revealed increased CB1 receptor (CB1R) protein levels and CP55, 940 stimulated [35S]GTPγS binding activity specifically in the amygdala and thalamus in previously peer-rejected rats. Along with these changes, increased levels of the eCB anandamide (AEA) and a corresponding decrease of its degrading enzyme fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) were seen in the amygdala. Our data indicate lasting consequences in social behavior and pain sensitivity following peer-rejection in adolescent female rats. These behavioral impairments are accompanied by persistent alterations in CB1R signaling. Finally, we provide a novel translational approach to characterize neurobiological processes underlying social peer-rejection in adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peggy Schneider
- Research Group Developmental Neuropsychopharmacology, Institute of Psychopharmacology, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of HeidelbergMannheim, Germany; Institute of Psychopharmacology, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of HeidelbergMannheim, Germany
| | - Laura Bindila
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz Mainz, Germany
| | - Christian Schmahl
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg Mannheim, Germany
| | - Martin Bohus
- Institute for Psychiatric and Psychosomatic Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of HeidelbergMannheim, Germany; Faculty of Health, University of AntwerpAntwerp, Belgium
| | - Andreas Meyer-Lindenberg
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg Mannheim, Germany
| | - Beat Lutz
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz Mainz, Germany
| | - Rainer Spanagel
- Institute of Psychopharmacology, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg Mannheim, Germany
| | - Miriam Schneider
- Research Group Developmental Neuropsychopharmacology, Institute of Psychopharmacology, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of HeidelbergMannheim, Germany; Institute of Psychopharmacology, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of HeidelbergMannheim, Germany
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19
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Boyajyan AS, Atshemyan SA, Zakharyan RV. Association of schizophrenia with variants of genes that encode transcription factors. Mol Biol 2015. [DOI: 10.1134/s0026893315060035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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20
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Lee TTY, Hill MN, Hillard CJ, Gorzalka BB. Disruption of peri-adolescent endocannabinoid signaling modulates adult neuroendocrine and behavioral responses to stress in male rats. Neuropharmacology 2015; 99:89-97. [PMID: 26192544 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2015.07.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2015] [Revised: 07/14/2015] [Accepted: 07/16/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid (eCB) system is known to regulate neural, endocrine and behavioral responses to stress in adults; however there is little knowledge regarding how this system governs the development and maturation of these responses. Previous work has reported dynamic and time-specific changes in CB1 receptor expression, N-arachidonylethanolamine (AEA) content and fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) activity within corticolimbic structures throughout the peri-adolescent period. To examine whether fluctuations in adolescent eCB activity contribute to the development of adult stress responsivity and emotionality, we treated male Sprague-Dawley rats daily with the CB1R antagonist, AM-251 (5 mg/kg), or vehicle between post-natal days (PND) 35-45. Following this treatment, emotional behavior, HPA axis stress reactivity and habituation to repeated restraint stress, as well as corticolimbic eCB content were examined in adulthood (PND 75). Behaviorally, AM-251-treated males exhibited more active stress-coping behavior in the forced swim test, greater risk assessment behavior in the elevated plus maze and no significant differences in general motor activity. Peri-adolescent AM-251 treatment modified corticosterone habituation to repeated restraint exposure compared to vehicle. Peri-adolescent CB1R antagonism induced moderate changes in adult corticolimbic eCB signaling, with a significant decrease in amygdalar AEA, an increase in hypothalamic AEA and an increase in prefrontal cortical CB1R expression. Together, these data indicate that peri-adolescent endocannabinoid signaling contributes to the maturation of adult neurobehavioral responses to stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany T-Y Lee
- Dept. of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Matthew N Hill
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Dept. of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Cecilia J Hillard
- Dept. of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Neuroscience Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Boris B Gorzalka
- Dept. of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6T 1Z4, Canada.
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21
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Abstract
Since its inception cannabis has been observed to be associated with various psycho-pathology. In this paper, the authors have reviewed the advancement made in this area over the last decade. The association between cannabis and schizophrenia has been researched more intensively. The controversy regarding the reliability, clinical utility, and the existence of a cannabis withdrawal syndrome has also been settled. Recent studies also buttressed the possibility of acute and chronic effect of cannabis on various cognitive functions. There has been a plethora of research regarding the treatment for cannabis use disorders. But the new and most interesting area of research is concentrated on the endocannabinoid system and its contribution in various psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Ghosh
- Department of Psychiatry, Drug De-addiction and Treatment Centre, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Debasish Basu
- Department of Psychiatry, Drug De-addiction and Treatment Centre, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
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22
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Abstract
Preclinical and clinical data fully support the involvement of the endocannabinoid system in the etiopathogenesis of several mental diseases. In this review we will briefly summarize the most common alterations in the endocannabinoid system, in terms of cannabinoid receptors and endocannabinoid levels, present in mood disorders (anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, bipolar disorder, and suicidality) as well as psychosis (schizophrenia) and autism. The arising picture for each pathology is not always straightforward; however, both animal and human studies seem to suggest that pharmacological modulation of this system might represent a novel approach for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Rubino
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences and Neuroscience Centre, University of Insubria, Via Manara 7, 21052, Busto Arsizio, VA, Italy
| | - Erica Zamberletti
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences and Neuroscience Centre, University of Insubria, Via Manara 7, 21052, Busto Arsizio, VA, Italy
- Fondazione Zardi Gori, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniela Parolaro
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences and Neuroscience Centre, University of Insubria, Via Manara 7, 21052, Busto Arsizio, VA, Italy.
- Fondazione Zardi Gori, Milan, Italy.
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23
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CB2 receptor agonism reverses MK-801-induced disruptions of prepulse inhibition in mice. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2014; 231:3071-87. [PMID: 24705902 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-014-3481-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2013] [Accepted: 01/30/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Whilst cannabinoid CB2 receptors were thought to exist predominantly in immune cells in the periphery, the recent discovery of CB2 receptors in the brain has led to an increased interest in the role of these central CB2 receptors. Several studies have reported an association with CB2 receptors and schizophrenia. Sensorimotor gating deficits occur in schizophrenia patients and can be induced in animals using psychotomimetic drugs such as N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonists. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of CB2 ligands on sensorimotor gating, either alone, or on sensorimotor gating deficits induced by the NMDA receptor antagonist MK-801 in mice. METHOD The effects of CB2 receptor ligands on prepulse inhibition (PPI), an operational measure of sensorimotor gating, alone or when administrated in combination with MK-801, in Balb-C mice were evaluated. RESULTS The CB2 receptor agonist JWH015 had no significant effect on PPI alone but reversed disruptions in PPI induced by MK-801. This effect was blocked by co-administration of the CB2 receptor antagonist AM630, but not by co-administration of the CB1 receptor antagonist AM251, indicating a CB2-mediated effect. The mixed CB1/CB2 receptor agonist JWH203 was partially able to reverse MK-801-induced PPI disruptions. Neither the CB2 receptor antagonist AM630 nor the CB1 receptor antagonist AM251 had any significant effect alone or on MK-801-induced disruptions in PPI. CONCLUSIONS CB2 receptor agonism reversed MK-801 disruptions in sensorimotor gating deficits in mice, indicating that CB2 agonism may have a protective effect against aspects of drug-induced psychosis.
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24
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Moser P. Evaluating negative-symptom-like behavioural changes in developmental models of schizophrenia. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2014; 24:774-87. [PMID: 24332891 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2013.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2013] [Revised: 10/18/2013] [Accepted: 11/17/2013] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Many lines of evidence suggest that schizophrenia has a major developmental component and that environmental factors that disrupt key stages of development, such as maternal stress during pregnancy as a result of infection or malnutrition, can increase the risk of developing schizophrenia in later life. This review examines how non-clinical neurodevelopmental models pertinent to schizophrenia have been evaluated for their ability to reproduce behavioural deficits related to the negative symptoms of schizophrenia. The more frequently used are the prenatal application of the mitotoxic agent methylazoxymethanol, prenatal immune challenge and the neonatal ventral hippocampus lesion model. In general they have been extensively evaluated in models considered relevant to positive symptoms of schizophrenia. In contrast, very few studies have examined tests related to negative symptoms and, when they have, it has almost exclusively been a social interaction model. Other aspects related to negative symptoms such as anhedonia, affective flattening and avolition have almost never been studied. Further studies examining other components of negative symptomatology are needed to more clearly associate these deficits with a schizophrenia-like profile as social withdrawal is a hallmark of many disorders. Although there are no truly effective treatments for negative symptoms, better characterisation with a broader range of drugs used in schizophrenia will be necessary to better evaluate the utility of these models. In summary, developmental models of schizophrenia have been extensively studied as models of positive symptoms but, given the unmet need in the clinic, the same effort now needs to be made with regard to negative symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Moser
- Centre de Recherche Pierre Fabre 17, Avenue Jean Moulin, 81106 Castres Cédex, France.
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25
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Abstract
Psychosis is an abnormal mental state characterized by disorganization, delusions and hallucinations. Animal models have become an increasingly important research tool in the effort to understand both the underlying pathophysiology and treatment of psychosis. There are multiple animal models for psychosis, with each formed by the coupling of a manipulation and a measurement. In this manuscript we do not address the diseases of which psychosis is a prominent comorbidity. Instead, we summarize the current state of affairs and future directions for animal models of psychosis. To accomplish this, our manuscript will first discuss relevant behavioral and electrophysiological measurements. We then provide an overview of the different manipulations that are combined with these measurements to produce animal models. The strengths and limitations of each model will be addressed in order to evaluate its cross-species comparability.
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26
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Levin R, Peres FF, Almeida V, Calzavara MB, Zuardi AW, Hallak JEC, Crippa JAS, Abílio VC. Effects of cannabinoid drugs on the deficit of prepulse inhibition of startle in an animal model of schizophrenia: the SHR strain. Front Pharmacol 2014; 5:10. [PMID: 24567721 PMCID: PMC3915876 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2014.00010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2013] [Accepted: 01/17/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Clinical and neurobiological findings suggest that the cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system may be implicated in the pathophysiology and treatment of schizophrenia. We described that the spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) strain presents a schizophrenia behavioral phenotype that is specifically attenuated by antipsychotic drugs, and potentiated by proschizophrenia manipulations. Based on these findings, we have suggested this strain as an animal model of schizophrenia. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of cannabinoid drugs on the deficit of prepulse inhibition (PPI) of startle, the main paradigm used to study sensorimotor gating impairment related to schizophrenia, presented by the SHR strain. The following drugs were used: (1) WIN55212,2 (cannabinoid agonist), (2) rimonabant (CB1 antagonist), (3) AM404 (anandamide uptake inhibitor), and (4) cannabidiol (CBD; indirect CB1/CB2 receptor antagonist, among other effects). Wistar rats (WRs) and SHRs were treated with vehicle (VEH) or different doses of WIN55212 (0.3, 1, or 3 mg/kg), rimonabant (0.75, 1.5, or 3 mg/kg), AM404 (1, 5, or 10 mg/kg), or CBD (15, 30, or 60 mg/kg). VEH-treated SHRs showed a decreased PPI when compared to WRs. This PPI deficit was reversed by 1 mg/kg WIN and 30 mg/kg CBD. Conversely, 0.75 mg/kg rimonabant decreased PPI in SHR strain, whereas AM404 did not modify it. Our results reinforce the role of the endocannabinoid system in the sensorimotor gating impairment related to schizophrenia, and point to cannabinoid drugs as potential therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Levin
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil
- Laboratório Interdisciplinar de Neurociãncias Clínicas, Department of Psychiatry, Federal University of São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fernanda F. Peres
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil
- Laboratório Interdisciplinar de Neurociãncias Clínicas, Department of Psychiatry, Federal University of São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil
| | - Valéria Almeida
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil
- Laboratório Interdisciplinar de Neurociãncias Clínicas, Department of Psychiatry, Federal University of São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mariana B. Calzavara
- Laboratório Interdisciplinar de Neurociãncias Clínicas, Department of Psychiatry, Federal University of São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil
| | - Antonio W. Zuardi
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, University of São PauloRibeirão Preto, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology in Translational Medicine, National Council for Scientific and Technological DevelopmentRibeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Jaime E. C. Hallak
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, University of São PauloRibeirão Preto, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology in Translational Medicine, National Council for Scientific and Technological DevelopmentRibeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - José Alexandre S. Crippa
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, University of São PauloRibeirão Preto, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology in Translational Medicine, National Council for Scientific and Technological DevelopmentRibeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Vanessa C. Abílio
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil
- Laboratório Interdisciplinar de Neurociãncias Clínicas, Department of Psychiatry, Federal University of São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil
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27
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Leading compounds for the validation of animal models of psychopathology. Cell Tissue Res 2013; 354:309-30. [DOI: 10.1007/s00441-013-1692-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2013] [Accepted: 07/01/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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28
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Llorente-Berzal A, Assis MA, Rubino T, Zamberletti E, Marco EM, Parolaro D, Ambrosio E, Viveros MP. Sex-dependent changes in brain CB1R expression and functionality and immune CB2R expression as a consequence of maternal deprivation and adolescent cocaine exposure. Pharmacol Res 2013; 74:23-33. [PMID: 23680694 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2013.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2012] [Revised: 05/06/2013] [Accepted: 05/07/2013] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Early life stress has been associated with several psychiatric disorders, including drug addiction. Actually, maternal deprivation (MD) alters the endocannabinoid system, which participates in motivation and reward for drugs, including cocaine. At youth, the rate of cocaine abuse is alarmingly increasing. Herein, we have investigated the consequences of MD and/or adolescent cocaine exposure in brain CB1Rs and CB2Rs in immune tissues. Control and maternally deprived (24h on postnatal day, pnd, 9) male and female Wistar rats were administered cocaine (8mg/kg/day) or saline during adolescence (pnd 28-42). At adulthood, [(3)H]-CP-55,940 autoradiographic binding was employed for the analysis of CB1R density and CP-55,940-stimulated [(35)S]-GTPgammaS binding for CB1R functionality; CB2R expression was analyzed by Western blotting. Sex differences in CB1R expression and functionality were found, and MD induced important and enduring sex-dependent changes. In addition, the plastic changes induced by adolescent cocaine administration in brain CB1Rs were differentially influenced by early life events. MD increased spleen CB2R expression while adolescent cocaine administration attenuated this effect; cocaine exposure also diminished CB2R expression in bone marrow. Present findings provide evidence for changes in brain CB1R expression and functionality and immune CB2R expression as a consequence of early life stress and adolescent cocaine exposure, and indicate functional interactions between both treatments, which in many regions differ between males and females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alvaro Llorente-Berzal
- Departamento de Fisiología (Fisiología Animal II), Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
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Zamberletti E, Piscitelli F, Cadeddu F, Rubino T, Fratta W, Fadda P, Di Marzo V, Parolaro D. Chronic blockade of CB(1) receptors reverses startle gating deficits and associated neurochemical alterations in rats reared in isolation. Br J Pharmacol 2013; 167:1652-64. [PMID: 22762735 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2012.02095.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Pharmacological interventions aimed at restoring the endocannabinoid system functionality have been proposed as potential tools in the treatment of schizophrenia. Based on our previous results suggesting a potential antipsychotic-like profile of the CB(1) receptor inverse agonist/antagonist, AM251, here we further investigated the effect of chronic AM251 administration on the alteration of the sensorimotor gating functions and endocannabinoid levels induced by isolation rearing in rats. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Using the post-weaning social isolation rearing model, we studied its influence on sensorimotor gating functions through the PPI paradigm. The presence of alterations in the endocannabinoid levels as well as in dopamine and glutamate receptor densities was explored in specific brain regions following isolation rearing. The effect of chronic AM251 administration on PPI response and the associated biochemical alterations was assessed. KEY RESULTS The disrupted PPI response in isolation-reared rats was paralleled by significant alterations in 2-AG content and dopamine and glutamate receptor densities in specific brain regions. Chronic AM251 completely restored normal PPI response in isolated rats. This behavioural recovery was paralleled by the normalization of 2-AG levels in all the brain areas analysed. Furthermore, AM251 partially antagonized isolation-induced changes in dopamine and glutamate receptors. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS These results demonstrate the efficacy of chronic AM251 treatment in the recovery of isolation-induced disruption of PPI. Moreover, AM251 counteracted the imbalances in the endocannabinoid content, specifically 2-AG levels, and partially reversed the alterations in dopamine and glutamate systems associated with the disrupted behaviour. Together, these findings support the potential antipsychotic-like activity of CB(1) receptor blockade. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Cannabinoids. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2012.167.issue-8.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Zamberletti
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, Biomedical Division and Center of Neuroscience, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy
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Fitzgerald ML, Mackie K, Pickel VM. The impact of adolescent social isolation on dopamine D2 and cannabinoid CB1 receptors in the adult rat prefrontal cortex. Neuroscience 2013; 235:40-50. [PMID: 23333674 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2013.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2012] [Revised: 01/02/2013] [Accepted: 01/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Adolescent experiences of social deprivation result in profound and enduring perturbations in adult behavior, including impaired sensorimotor gating. The behavioral deficits induced by adolescent social isolation in rats can be ameliorated by antipsychotic drugs blocking dopamine D2 receptors in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) or by chronic administration of a cannabinoid CB1 receptor antagonist. The patterning and abundance of D2 receptors in the PFC evolves concurrently with CB1 receptors through the period of adolescence. This evidence suggests that mature expression and/or surface distribution of D2 and CB1 receptors may be influenced by the adolescent social environment. We tested this hypothesis using electron microscopic immunolabeling to compare the distribution of CB1 and D2 receptors in the PFC of adult male Sprague-Dawley rats that were isolated or socially reared throughout the adolescent transition period. Prepulse inhibition (PPI) of acoustic startle was assessed as a measure of sensorimotor gating. Social isolation reduced PPI and selectively decreased dendritic D2 immunogold labeling in the PFC. However, the decrease was only evident in dendrites that were not contacted by axon terminals containing CB1. There was no apparent change in the expression of CB1 or D2 receptors in presynaptic terminals. The D2 deficit therefore may be tempered by local CB1-mediated retrograde signaling. This suggests a biological mechanism whereby the adolescent social environment can persistently influence cortical dopaminergic activity and resultant behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- M L Fitzgerald
- Department of Neuroscience, Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medical College, 407 East 61st Street, New York, NY 10065, United States
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Marco EM, García-Gutiérrez MS, Bermúdez-Silva FJ, Moreira FA, Guimarães F, Manzanares J, Viveros MP. Endocannabinoid system and psychiatry: in search of a neurobiological basis for detrimental and potential therapeutic effects. Front Behav Neurosci 2011; 5:63. [PMID: 22007164 PMCID: PMC3186912 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2011.00063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2011] [Accepted: 09/09/2011] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Public concern on mental health has noticeably increased given the high prevalence of neuropsychiatric disorders. Cognition and emotionality are the most affected functions in neuropsychiatric disorders, i.e., anxiety disorders, depression, and schizophrenia. In this review, most relevant literature on the role of the endocannabinoid (eCB) system in neuropsychiatric disorders will be presented. Evidence from clinical and animal studies is provided for the participation of CB1 and CB2 receptors (CB1R and CB2R) in the above mentioned neuropsychiatric disorders. CBRs are crucial in some of the emotional and cognitive impairments reported, although more research is required to understand the specific role of the eCB system in neuropsychiatric disorders. Cannabidiol (CBD), the main non-psychotropic component of the Cannabis sativa plant, has shown therapeutic potential in several neuropsychiatric disorders. Although further studies are needed, recent studies indicate that CBD therapeutic effects may partially depend on facilitation of eCB-mediated neurotransmission. Last but not least, this review includes recent findings on the role of the eCB system in eating disorders. A deregulation of the eCB system has been proposed to be in the bases of several neuropsychiatric disorders, including eating disorders. Cannabis consumption has been related to the appearance of psychotic symptoms and schizophrenia. In contrast, the pharmacological manipulation of this eCB system has been proposed as a potential strategy for the treatment of anxiety disorders, depression, and anorexia nervosa. In conclusion, the eCB system plays a critical role in psychiatry; however, detrimental consequences of manipulating this endogenous system cannot be underestimated over the potential and promising perspectives of its therapeutic manipulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva M. Marco
- Departamento de Fisiología (Fisiología Animal II), Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Complutense de MadridMadrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San CarlosMadrid, Spain
| | - María S. García-Gutiérrez
- Instituto de Neurociencias de Alicante, Universidad Miguel Hernández – CSICSan Juan de Alicante, Spain
| | - Francisco-Javier Bermúdez-Silva
- Laboratorio de Medicina Regenerativa, Hospital Carlos Haya de Malaga, Fundacion IMABISMalaga, Spain
- Neurocentre Magendie, INSERM, Université Bordeaux 2Bordeaux, France
| | - Fabricio A. Moreira
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas GeraisBelo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Francisco Guimarães
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São PauloRibeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Jorge Manzanares
- Instituto de Neurociencias de Alicante, Universidad Miguel Hernández – CSICSan Juan de Alicante, Spain
| | - María-Paz Viveros
- Departamento de Fisiología (Fisiología Animal II), Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Complutense de MadridMadrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San CarlosMadrid, Spain
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