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Stonberg A, Beber SA, Drugge E, Frishman WH. The Risk of Ventricular Septal Defects Associated With Prenatal Marijuana Exposure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Cardiol Rev 2024:00045415-990000000-00277. [PMID: 38814089 DOI: 10.1097/crd.0000000000000720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
With the recent legalization of marijuana across the United States, its usage in pregnant women has increased. The aim of this meta-analysis was to determine if prenatal marijuana use increases the likelihood of ventricular septal defects. The analysis was performed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. The search strategy identified 4 case-control studies that were ultimately included in the analysis with a combined 381,621 infant records. Quantitative analysis demonstrated prenatal marijuana usage significantly increases the likelihood of ventricular septal defects (odds ratio = 2.39, 95% confidence interval = 1.11-5.18).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariel Stonberg
- From the Department of Medicine, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY
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2
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Chen Z, Zheng L, Chen G. 2-Arachidonoylglycerol Attenuates Myocardial Fibrosis in Diabetic Mice Via the TGF-β1/Smad Pathway. Cardiovasc Drugs Ther 2023; 37:647-654. [PMID: 35305183 PMCID: PMC10397148 DOI: 10.1007/s10557-021-07307-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DM) is the cause of late cardiac dysfunction in diabetic patients. Myocardial fibrosis is the main pathological mechanism, and it is associated with transforming growth factor-β1(TGF-β1) expression up-regulation. 2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) is an endogenous cannabinoid that can effectively improve myocardial cell energy metabolism and cardiac function. Here, we evaluated the protective effect of 2-AG on diabetic cardiomyopathy. METHODS Male C57BL/6 mice were injected with 2-AG intraperitoneally for 4 weeks (10 micro g/kg/day) after 12 weeks of diabetic modeling. After 4 weeks, heart function was evaluated by echocardiography. Heart structure was assessed by hematoxylin and eosin staining. Cardiac fibrosis was analyzed using immunohistochemistry, Sirius red stain, and western blot. RESULTS After modeling in diabetic mice, cardiac ultrasonography showed decreased cardiac function and pathological findings showed myocardial fibrosis. 2-AG could effectively inhibit the up-regulation of TGF-β1 and Smad2/3, reduce myocardial fibrosis, and ultimately improve cardiac function in diabetic mice. CONCLUSION 2-AG reduces cardiac fibrosis via the TGF-β1/Smad2/3 pathway and is a potential pathway for the treatment of cardiac dysfunction in diabetic mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengjie Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Zhejiang, 310016 Hangzhou China
| | - Liangyu Zheng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Zhejiang, 310016 Hangzhou China
| | - Gang Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Zhejiang, 310016 Hangzhou China
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Monitoring Perfusion Index in Patients Presenting to the Emergency Department Due to Drug Use. J Pers Med 2023; 13:jpm13020372. [PMID: 36836606 PMCID: PMC9963239 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13020372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: The perfusion index (PI) represents the ratio between pulsatile blood flow and non-pulsatile blood flow in the peripheral tissue. (2) We aimed to investigate the blood pressure perfusion of tissues and organs in ethnobotanical, synthetic cannabinoid and cannabis derivative consumers through the value of perfusion index. (3) Results: The patients enrolled were divided into two groups: group A, which included all patients who presented in the ED within the first three hours after consumption, and group B, which included those patients who presented more than three hours and up to 12 h after drug consumption. The average values of the PI in the case of group A/group B were 1.51 ± 1.07/4.55 ± 3.66. Statistically significant correlations in both groups were recorded between the drug intake ED admission, respiratory rate, peripheral blood oxygen saturation and tissue perfusion index (p < 0.001). The average value of the PI measured in group A was significantly lower compared to that measured in patients in group B. Therefore, we concluded that the perfusion of peripheral organs and tissues was lower in the first 3 h after drug administration. (4) Conclusions: PI plays an important role in the early detection of impaired organ perfusion and in monitoring tissue hypoxia. A decreased PI value may be an early indication of decreased perfusion organ damage.
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4
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Hosseinzadeh Anvar L, Ahmadalipour A. Fatty acid amide hydrolase C385A polymorphism affects susceptibility to various diseases. Biofactors 2023; 49:62-78. [PMID: 36300805 DOI: 10.1002/biof.1911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid (eCB) system is an important neuromodulatory system with its extensive network of receptors throughout the human body that has complex actions in the nervous system, immune system, and all of the body's other organs. Fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) is an important membrane-bound homodimeric degrading enzyme that controls the biological activity of N-arachidonoylethanolamide (AEA) in the eCB system and other relevant bioactive lipids. It has been shown that several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of FAAH are associated with various phenotypes and diseases including cardiovascular, endocrine, drug abuse, and neuropsychiatric disorders. A common functional and most studied polymorphism of this gene is C385A (rs324420), which results in the replacement of a conserved proline to threonine in the FAAH enzyme structure, leads to a reduction of the activity and expression of FAAH, compromises the inactivation of AEA and causes higher synaptic concentrations of AEA that can be associated with several various phenotypes. The focus of this review is on evidence-based studies on the associations of the FAAH C385A polymorphism and the various diseases or traits. Although there was variability in the results of these reports, the overall consensus is that the FAAH C385A genotype can affect susceptibility to some multifactorial disorders and can be considered a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Hosseinzadeh Anvar
- Research Center of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ali Ahmadalipour
- Research Center of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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5
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Datta S, Ramamurthy PC, Anand U, Singh S, Singh A, Dhanjal DS, Dhaka V, Kumar S, Kapoor D, Nandy S, Kumar M, Koshy EP, Dey A, Proćków J, Singh J. Wonder or evil?: Multifaceted health hazards and health benefits of Cannabis sativa and its phytochemicals. Saudi J Biol Sci 2021; 28:7290-7313. [PMID: 34867033 PMCID: PMC8626265 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2021.08.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabis sativa, widely known as 'Marijuana' poses a dilemma for being a blend of both good and bad medicinal effects. The historical use of Cannabis for both medicinal and recreational purposes suggests it to be a friendly plant. However, whether the misuse of Cannabis and the cannabinoids derived from it can hamper normal body physiology is a focus of ongoing research. On the one hand, there is enough evidence to suggest that misuse of marijuana can cause deleterious effects on various organs like the lungs, immune system, cardiovascular system, etc. and also influence fertility and cause teratogenic effects. However, on the other hand, marijuana has been found to offer a magical cure for anorexia, chronic pain, muscle spasticity, nausea, and disturbed sleep. Indeed, most recently, the United Nations has given its verdict in favour of Cannabis declaring it as a non-dangerous narcotic. This review provides insights into the various health effects of Cannabis and its specialized metabolites and indicates how wise steps can be taken to promote good use and prevent misuse of the metabolites derived from this plant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivika Datta
- Department of Zoology, Doaba College, Jalandhar, Punjab 144001, India
| | - Praveen C. Ramamurthy
- Interdisciplinary Centre for Water Research (ICWaR), Indian Institute of Sciences, Bangalore 560012, Karnataka, India
| | - Uttpal Anand
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Engineering, Jacob Institute of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj 211007, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Simranjeet Singh
- Interdisciplinary Centre for Water Research (ICWaR), Indian Institute of Sciences, Bangalore 560012, Karnataka, India
| | - Amritpal Singh
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Indira Gandhi Government Dental College and Hospital, Amphala, Jammu 180012, India
| | - Daljeet Singh Dhanjal
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab 144411, India
| | - Vaishali Dhaka
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab 144411, India
| | - Sanjay Kumar
- Institute of Multidisciplinary Research for Advanced Materials, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi 980-8577, Japan
| | - Dhriti Kapoor
- Department of Botany, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab 144411, India
| | - Samapika Nandy
- Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, Kolkata 700073, West Bengal, India
| | - Manoj Kumar
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Natural Science, Central University of Jharkhand, Brambe, Ratu-Lohardaga Road Ranchi, Jharkhand 835205, India
| | - Eapen P. Koshy
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Engineering, Jacob Institute of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj 211007, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Abhijit Dey
- Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, Kolkata 700073, West Bengal, India
| | - Jarosław Proćków
- Department of Plant Biology, Institute of Environmental Biology, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Kożuchowska 5b, 51-631 Wrocław, Poland
| | - Joginder Singh
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab 144411, India
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Kwok CS, Alraies MC, Mohamed M, Rashid M, Shoaib A, Nolan J, Ratib K, Khoo CW, Kontopantelis E, Mamas MA. Rates, predictors and the impact of cannabis misuse on in-hospital outcomes among patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (from the National Inpatient Sample). Int J Clin Pract 2020; 74:e13477. [PMID: 31922638 DOI: 10.1111/ijcp.13477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Revised: 12/29/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Whether cannabis use worsens outcomes in coronary heart disease is unknown and no previous study has evaluated the outcomes for patients who undergo percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) according to cannabis use. METHODS We analysed patients in the National Inpatient Sample between 2004 and 2014 who underwent PCI and evaluated rates, predictors and outcomes of patients according to cannabis misuse defined by cannabis abuse or dependence. RESULTS A total of 7 306 012 patients were included and 32 765 cannabis misusers (0.4%). Cannabis misusers were younger (49.5 vs 64.6 years, P < .001) and were more likely to be male (82.7% vs 66.3%, P < .001). There was also a greater proportion of patients who were of black ethnicity in the cannabis misuse group (27.7% vs 7.9%, P < .001) and fewer elective admissions (7.8% vs 27.6%, P < .001). There was no difference in in-hospital mortality (OR 1.06 95% CI 0.80-1.40, P = .67), bleeding (OR 0.94 95% CI 0.77-1.15, P = .55) and stroke/transient ischaemic attack (OR 1.19 95% CI 0.98-1.45, P = .084) compared with non-cannabis misusers. Cannabis misusers had significantly lower odds of in-hospital vascular complications (OR 0.73 95% CI 0.58-0.90, P = .004). CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that cannabis misusers are more likely to be male, of black ethnicity and from the lowest quartile of income, but there was no evidence that cannabis misuse is associated with worse periprocedural outcomes following PCI when controlling for key proxies of health status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun Shing Kwok
- Keele Cardiovascular Research Group, Keele University, Stoke-on-Trent, UK
- Department of Cardiology, Royal Stoke University Hospital, Stoke-on-Trent, UK
| | - M Chadi Alraies
- Detroit Medical Center, Detroit Heart Hospital, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Mohamed Mohamed
- Keele Cardiovascular Research Group, Keele University, Stoke-on-Trent, UK
- Department of Cardiology, Royal Stoke University Hospital, Stoke-on-Trent, UK
| | - Muhammad Rashid
- Keele Cardiovascular Research Group, Keele University, Stoke-on-Trent, UK
- Department of Cardiology, Royal Stoke University Hospital, Stoke-on-Trent, UK
| | - Ahmad Shoaib
- Keele Cardiovascular Research Group, Keele University, Stoke-on-Trent, UK
- Department of Cardiology, Royal Stoke University Hospital, Stoke-on-Trent, UK
| | - James Nolan
- Keele Cardiovascular Research Group, Keele University, Stoke-on-Trent, UK
- Department of Cardiology, Royal Stoke University Hospital, Stoke-on-Trent, UK
| | - Karim Ratib
- Keele Cardiovascular Research Group, Keele University, Stoke-on-Trent, UK
- Department of Cardiology, Royal Stoke University Hospital, Stoke-on-Trent, UK
| | - Chee W Khoo
- Keele Cardiovascular Research Group, Keele University, Stoke-on-Trent, UK
- Department of Cardiology, Royal Stoke University Hospital, Stoke-on-Trent, UK
| | | | - Mamas A Mamas
- Keele Cardiovascular Research Group, Keele University, Stoke-on-Trent, UK
- Department of Cardiology, Royal Stoke University Hospital, Stoke-on-Trent, UK
- University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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7
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Yeniocak S. Perfusion Index Analysis in Patients Presenting to the Emergency Department Due to Synthetic Cannabinoid Use. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 55:medicina55120752. [PMID: 31756995 PMCID: PMC6955657 DOI: 10.3390/medicina55120752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2019] [Revised: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The perfusion index (PI) indicates the ratio of pulsatile blood flow in peripheral tissue to non-pulsatile blood flow. This study was performed to examine the blood perfusion status of tissues and organs of patients using synthetic cannabinoids (SCs). Materials and Methods: The records of patients aged 17 or over presenting to the adult emergency department due to SC use between 1 January 2016 and 31 December 2017 were examined in this single-center, retrospective, cross-sectional study. Examined factors included time from consumption of SC to presentation to the emergency department, as well as simultaneously determined systolic and diastolic blood pressures, heart rate (beats per min), Glasgow Coma Score (GCS), and PI values. Patients were divided into two groups, A and B, depending on the amount of time that had elapsed between SC consumption and presentation to the emergency department, and statistical data were compared. Results: The mean PI value in Group A was lower than that in Group B. Therefore, we concluded that peripheral tissue and organ blood perfusion is lower in the first 2 h following SC consumption than after 2 h. Systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial blood pressure and mean GCS values were also statistically significantly lower in Group A than in Group B. Conclusions: A decreased PI value may be an early sign of reduced-perfusion organ damage. PI is a practical and useful parameter in the early diagnosis of impaired organ perfusion and in monitoring tissue hypoxia leading to organ failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selman Yeniocak
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Haseki Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul 34130, Turkey
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8
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Keresztes A, Streicher JM. Synergistic interaction of the cannabinoid and death receptor systems - a potential target for future cancer therapies? FEBS Lett 2017; 591:3235-3251. [PMID: 28948607 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.12863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2017] [Revised: 09/12/2017] [Accepted: 09/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Cannabinoid receptors have been shown to interact with other receptors, including tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily (TNFRS) members, to induce cancer cell death. When cannabinoids and death-inducing ligands (including TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand) are administered together, they have been shown to synergize and demonstrate enhanced antitumor activity in vitro. Certain cannabinoid ligands have been shown to sensitize cancer cells and synergistically interact with members of the TNFRS, thus suggesting that the combination of cannabinoids with death receptor (DR) ligands induces additive or synergistic tumor cell death. This review summarizes recent findings on the interaction of the cannabinoid and DR systems and suggests possible clinical co-application of cannabinoids and DR ligands in the treatment of various malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Attila Keresztes
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - John M Streicher
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
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9
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Abstract
The growing popularity of medical and recreational consumption of cannabis, especially among the youth, raises immediate concerns regarding its safety and long-terms effects. The cardiovascular effects of cannabis are not well known. Cannabis consumption has been shown to cause arrhythmia including ventricular tachycardia, and potentially sudden death, and to increase the risk of myocardial infarction (MI). These effects appear to be compounded by cigarette smoking and precipitated by excessive physical activity, especially during the first few hours of consumption. Cannabinoids, or the active compounds of cannabis, have been shown to have heterogeneous effects on central and peripheral circulation. Acute cannabis consumption has been shown to cause an increase in blood pressure, specifically systolic blood pressure (SBP), and orthostatic hypotension. Cannabis use has been reported to increase risk of ischemic stroke, particularly in the healthy young patients. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is currently considered as a promising therapeutic target in the management of several disease conditions. Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) are being increasingly investigated for their therapeutic effects; however, the value of their benefits over possible complications remains controversial. Despite the considerable research in this field, the benefits of cannabis and its synthetic derivatives remains questionable even in the face of an increasingly tolerating attitude towards recreational consumption and promotion of the therapeutic complications. More efforts are needed to increase awareness among the public, especially youth, about the cardiovascular risks associated with cannabis use and to disseminate the accumulated knowledge regarding its ill effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hemant Goyal
- Department of Internal Medicine, Mercer University School of Medicine, Macon, GA, USA
| | - Hamza H Awad
- Department of community Medicine/Internal Medicine, Mercer University School of Medicine, Macon, GA, USA
| | - Jalal K Ghali
- Division of Cardiology, Mercer University School of Medicine, Macon, GA, USA
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10
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Reece AS, Norman A, Hulse GK. Cannabis exposure as an interactive cardiovascular risk factor and accelerant of organismal ageing: a longitudinal study. BMJ Open 2016; 6:e011891. [PMID: 27821595 PMCID: PMC5129004 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2016-011891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Many reports exist of the cardiovascular toxicity of smoked cannabis but none of arterial stiffness measures or vascular age (VA). In view of its diverse toxicology, the possibility that cannabis-exposed patients may be ageing more quickly requires investigation. DESIGN Cross-sectional and longitudinal, observational. Prospective. SETTING Single primary care addiction clinic in Brisbane, Australia. PARTICIPANTS 11 cannabis-only smokers, 504 tobacco-only smokers, 114 tobacco and cannabis smokers and 534 non-smokers. EXCLUSIONS known cardiovascular disease or therapy or acute exposure to alcohol, amphetamine, heroin or methadone. INTERVENTION Radial arterial pulse wave tonometry (AtCor, SphygmoCor, Sydney) performed opportunistically and sequentially on patients between 2006 and 2011. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Algorithmically calculated VA. SECONDARY OUTCOMES other central haemodynamic variables. RESULTS Differences between group chronological ages (CA, 30.47±0.48 to 40.36±2.44, mean±SEM) were controlled with linear regression. Between-group sex differences were controlled by single-sex analysis. Mean cannabis exposure among patients was 37.67±7.16 g-years. In regression models controlling for CA, Body Mass Index (BMI), time and inhalant group, the effect of cannabis use on VA was significant in males (p=0.0156) and females (p=0.0084). The effect size in males was 11.84%. A dose-response relationship was demonstrated with lifetime exposure (p<0.002) additional to that of tobacco and opioids. In both sexes, the effect of cannabis was robust to adjustment and was unrelated to its acute effects. Significant power interactions between cannabis exposure and the square and cube of CA were demonstrated (from p<0.002). CONCLUSIONS Cannabis is an interactive cardiovascular risk factor (additional to tobacco and opioids), shows a prominent dose-response effect and is robust to adjustment. Cannabis use is associated with an acceleration of the cardiovascular age, which is a powerful surrogate for the organismal-biological age. This likely underlies and bi-directionally interacts with its diverse toxicological profile and is of considerable public health and regulatory importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Stuart Reece
- School of Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Amanda Norman
- School of Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Gary Kenneth Hulse
- School of Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
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Ligresti A, De Petrocellis L, Di Marzo V. From Phytocannabinoids to Cannabinoid Receptors and Endocannabinoids: Pleiotropic Physiological and Pathological Roles Through Complex Pharmacology. Physiol Rev 2016; 96:1593-659. [DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00002.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 253] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Apart from having been used and misused for at least four millennia for, among others, recreational and medicinal purposes, the cannabis plant and its most peculiar chemical components, the plant cannabinoids (phytocannabinoids), have the merit to have led humanity to discover one of the most intriguing and pleiotropic endogenous signaling systems, the endocannabinoid system (ECS). This review article aims to describe and critically discuss, in the most comprehensive possible manner, the multifaceted aspects of 1) the pharmacology and potential impact on mammalian physiology of all major phytocannabinoids, and not only of the most famous one Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, and 2) the adaptive pro-homeostatic physiological, or maladaptive pathological, roles of the ECS in mammalian cells, tissues, and organs. In doing so, we have respected the chronological order of the milestones of the millennial route from medicinal/recreational cannabis to the ECS and beyond, as it is now clear that some of the early steps in this long path, which were originally neglected, are becoming important again. The emerging picture is rather complex, but still supports the belief that more important discoveries on human physiology, and new therapies, might come in the future from new knowledge in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Ligresti
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Comprensorio Olivetti, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Luciano De Petrocellis
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Comprensorio Olivetti, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Di Marzo
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Comprensorio Olivetti, Pozzuoli, Italy
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12
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Clark BC, Georgekutty J, Berul CI. Myocardial Ischemia Secondary to Synthetic Cannabinoid (K2) Use in Pediatric Patients. J Pediatr 2015; 167:757-61.e1. [PMID: 26165442 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2015.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2015] [Revised: 05/01/2015] [Accepted: 06/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
K2 is a synthetic cannabinoid that has potential cardiovascular side effects, including myocardial ischemia, myocardial infarction, and arrhythmias. Cardiac testing of pediatric patients is often not performed owing to a lack of symptomatology. We report a series of pediatric patients with concern for myocardial ischemia temporally associated with K2 exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bradley C Clark
- Division of Cardiology, Children's National Health System, Washington, DC; Department of Pediatrics, George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC.
| | - Justin Georgekutty
- Division of Cardiology, Children's National Health System, Washington, DC; Department of Pediatrics, George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC
| | - Charles I Berul
- Division of Cardiology, Children's National Health System, Washington, DC; Department of Pediatrics, George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC
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13
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Rahmatollahi M, Baram SM, Rahimian R, Saeedi Saravi SS, Dehpour AR. Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor-α Inhibition Protects Against Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity in Mice. Cardiovasc Toxicol 2015; 16:244-50. [DOI: 10.1007/s12012-015-9332-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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14
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AlSuleimani YM, Hiley CR. The GPR55 agonist lysophosphatidylinositol relaxes rat mesenteric resistance artery and induces Ca(2+) release in rat mesenteric artery endothelial cells. Br J Pharmacol 2015; 172:3043-57. [PMID: 25652040 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2014] [Revised: 01/11/2015] [Accepted: 02/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Lysophosphatidylinositol (LPI), a lipid signalling molecule, activates GPR55 and elevates intracellular Ca(2+). Here, we examine the actions of LPI in the rat resistance mesenteric artery and Ca(2+) responses in endothelial cells isolated from the artery. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Vascular responses were studied using wire myographs. Single-cell fluorescence imaging was performed using a MetaFluor system. Hypotensive effects of LPI were assessed using a Biopac system. KEY RESULTS In isolated arteries, LPI-induced vasorelaxation was concentration- and endothelium-dependent and inhibited by CID 16020046, a GPR55 antagonist. The CB1 receptor antagonist AM 251 had no effect, whereas rimonabant and O-1918 significantly potentiated LPI responses. Vasorelaxation was reduced by charybdotoxin and iberiotoxin, alone or combined. LPI decreased systemic arterial pressure. GPR55 is expressed in rat mesenteric artery. LPI caused biphasic elevations of endothelial cell intracellular Ca(2+). Pretreatment with thapsigargin or 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate abolished both phases. The PLC inhibitor U73122 attenuated the initial phase and enhanced the second phase, whereas the Rho-associated kinase inhibitor Y-27632 abolished the late phase but not the early phase. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS LPI is an endothelium-dependent vasodilator in the rat small mesenteric artery and a hypotensive agent. The vascular response involves activation of Ca(2+)-sensitive K(+) channels and is not mediated by CB1 receptors, but unexpectedly enhanced by antagonists of the 'endothelial anandamide' receptor. In endothelial cells, LPI utilizes PLC-IP3 and perhaps ROCK-RhoA pathways to elevate intracellular Ca(2+). Overall, these findings support an endothelial site of action for LPI and suggest a possible role for GPR55 in vasculature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y M AlSuleimani
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.,Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Alkoudh, Sultanate of Oman
| | - C R Hiley
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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Ostadhadi S, Rahmatollahi M, Dehpour AR, Rahimian R. Therapeutic Potential of Cannabinoids in Counteracting Chemotherapy-induced Adverse Effects: An Exploratory Review. Phytother Res 2014; 29:332-8. [DOI: 10.1002/ptr.5265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2014] [Revised: 11/09/2014] [Accepted: 11/12/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sattar Ostadhadi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine; Tehran University of Medical Sciences; Tehran Iran
| | - Mahdieh Rahmatollahi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine; Tehran University of Medical Sciences; Tehran Iran
| | - Ahmad-Reza Dehpour
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine; Tehran University of Medical Sciences; Tehran Iran
- Experimental Medicine Research Center; Tehran University of Medical Sciences; Tehran Iran
| | - Reza Rahimian
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine; Tehran University of Medical Sciences; Tehran Iran
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Experimental colitis in mice is attenuated by changes in the levels of endocannabinoid metabolites induced by selective inhibition of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). J Crohns Colitis 2014; 8:998-1009. [PMID: 24530133 PMCID: PMC4136976 DOI: 10.1016/j.crohns.2014.01.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2013] [Revised: 01/29/2014] [Accepted: 01/29/2014] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Pharmacological treatment and/or maintenance of remission in inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) is currently one of the biggest challenge in the field of gastroenterology. Available therapies are mostly limited to overcoming the symptoms, but not the cause of the disease. Recently, the endocannabinoid system has been proposed as a novel target in the treatment of IBD. Here we aimed to assess the anti-inflammatory action of the novel fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitor PF-3845 and its effect on the endocannabinoid and related lipid metabolism during the course of experimental colitis. METHODS We used two models of experimental colitis in mice (TNBS- and DSS-induced) and additionally, we employed LC/MS/MS spectrometry to determine the changes in biolipid levels in the mouse colon during inflammation. RESULTS We showed that the FAAH inhibitor PF-3845 reduced experimental TNBS-induced colitis in mice and its anti-inflammatory action is associated with altering the levels of selected biolipids (arachidonic and oleic acid derivatives, prostaglandins and biolipids containing glycine in the mouse colon). CONCLUSIONS We show that FAAH is a promising pharmacological target and the FAAH-dependent biolipids play a major role in colitis. Our results highlight and promote therapeutic strategy based on targeting FAAH-dependent metabolic pathways in order to alleviate intestinal inflammation.
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Chmelikova M, Pacal L, Spinarova L, Vasku A. Association of polymorphisms in the endocannabinoid system genes with myocardial infarction and plasma cholesterol levels. Biomed Pap Med Fac Univ Palacky Olomouc Czech Repub 2014; 159:535-9. [PMID: 25270105 DOI: 10.5507/bp.2014.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2014] [Accepted: 07/11/2014] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between selected symptoms of chronic heart failure (myocardial infarction, plasma cholesterol level) and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the FAAH and CNR1 genes. METHODS A case - control study involving 155 patients with chronic heart failure and 169 age- and sex-matched healthy subjects. We detected SNPs 385 C/A (rs324420) in the FAAH and 1359 G/A (rs1049353) in the CNR1 genes using the polymerase chain reaction and restriction analysis. Genotype and allele frequencies were compared between patients and controls as well as between patients with and without myocardial infarction. RESULTS No significant differences in genotype or allelic frequencies between patients and controls were found (P > 0.05). Carriers of the FAAH A allele had a 2.37-fold increase in the risk of myocardial infarction (odds ratio 2.37, 95% confidence interval 1.36-6.93, P = 0.01). Homozygous carriers of genotype AA of CNR1 SNP 1359 had significantly higher plasma cholesterol levels than carriers of GG and GA genotypes in patients (P = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS The study results suggest a role for allele A of the FAAH 385 variant as a risk factor for myocardial infarction. Genotype AA of CNR1 1359 variant probably affects plasma cholesterol levels. Pharmacological intervention in this system could modify the therapeutic approach to certain cardiovascular disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Chmelikova
- Department of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Lukas Pacal
- Department of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Lenka Spinarova
- Department of Cardioangiology, St. Anne´s University Hospital in Brno
| | - Anna Vasku
- Department of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
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Scerif M, Füzesi T, Thomas JD, Kola B, Grossman AB, Fekete C, Korbonits M. CB1 receptor mediates the effects of glucocorticoids on AMPK activity in the hypothalamus. J Endocrinol 2013; 219:79-88. [PMID: 23884964 DOI: 10.1530/joe-13-0192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a regulator of cellular and systemic energy homeostasis, can be influenced by several hormones. Tissue-specific alteration of AMPK activity by glucocorticoids may explain the increase in appetite, the accumulation of lipids in adipose tissues, and the detrimental cardiac effects of Cushing's syndrome. Endocannabinoids are known to mediate the effects of various hormones and to influence AMPK activity. Cannabinoids have central orexigenic and direct peripheral metabolic effects via the cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1). In our preliminary experiments, WT mice received implants of a corticosterone-containing pellet to establish a mouse model of Cushing's syndrome. Subsequently, WT and Cb1 (Cnr1)-knockout (CB1-KO) littermates were treated with corticosterone and AMPK activity in the hypothalamus, various adipose tissues, liver and cardiac tissue was measured. Corticosterone-treated CB1-KO mice showed a lack of weight gain and of increase in hypothalamic and hepatic AMPK activity. In adipose tissues, baseline AMPK activity was higher in CB1-KO mice, but a glucocorticoid-induced drop was observed, similar to that observed in WT mice. Cardiac AMPK levels were reduced in CB1-KO mice, but while WT mice showed significantly reduced AMPK activity following glucocorticoid treatment, CB1-KO mice showed a paradoxical increase. Our findings indicate the importance of the CB1 receptor in the central orexigenic effect of glucocorticoid-induced activation of hypothalamic AMPK activity. In the periphery adipose tissues, changes may occur independently of the CB1 receptor, but the receptor appears to alter the responsiveness of the liver and myocardial tissues to glucocorticoids. In conclusion, our data suggest that an intact cannabinoid pathway is required for the full metabolic effects of chronic glucocorticoid excess.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miski Scerif
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, UK Department of Endocrine Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest 1083, Hungary Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Tupper Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts 02111, USA Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Li Q, Cui N, Du Y, Ma H, Zhang Y. Anandamide reduces intracellular Ca2+ concentration through suppression of Na+/Ca2+ exchanger current in rat cardiac myocytes. PLoS One 2013; 8:e63386. [PMID: 23667607 PMCID: PMC3646750 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0063386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2013] [Accepted: 04/03/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Anandamide, one of the endocannabinoids, has been reported to exhibit cardioprotective properties, particularly in its ability to limit the damage produced by ischemia reperfusion injury. However, the mechanisms underlying the effect are not well known. This study is to investigate whether anandamide alter Na+/Ca2+ exchanger and the intracellular free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i). Methods Na+/Ca2+ exchanger current (INCX) was recorded and analysed by using whole-cell patch-clamp technique and [Ca2+]i was measured by loading myocytes with the fluorescent Ca2+ indicator Fura-2/AM. Results We found that INCX was enhanced significantly after perfusion with simulated ischemic external solution; [Ca2+]i was also significantly increased by simulated ischemic solution. The reversal potential of INCX was shifted to negative potentials in simulated ischemic external solution. Anandamide (1–100 nM) failed to affect INCX and [Ca2+]i in normal solution. However, anandamide (1–100 nM) suppressed the increase in INCX in simulated ischemic external solution concentration-dependently and normalized INCX reversal potential. Furthermore, anandamide (100 nM) significantly attenuated the increase in [Ca2+]i in simulated ischemic solution. Blocking CB1 receptors with the specific antagonist AM251 (500 nM) failed to affect the effects of anandamide on INCX and [Ca2+]i in simulated ischemic solution. CB2 receptor antagonist AM630 (100 nM) eliminated the effects of anandamide on INCX and [Ca2+]i in simulated ischemic solution, and CB2 receptor agonist JWH133 (100 nM) simulated the effects of anandamide that suppressed the increase in INCX and [Ca2+]i in simulated ischemic solution. In addition, pretreatment with the Gi/o-specific inhibitor pertussis toxin (PTX, 500 ng/ml) eliminated the effects of anandamide and JWH133 on INCX in simulated ischemic solution. Conclusions Collectively, these findings suggest that anandamide suppresses calcium overload through inhibition of INCX during perfusion with simulated ischemic solution; the effects may be mediated by CB2 receptor via PTX-sensitive Gi/o proteins. This mechanism is importantly involved in the anti-ischemia injury caused by endocannabinoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Li
- Department of Physiology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Na Cui
- Department of Reproduction, Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Yuanjie Du
- Department of Reproduction, Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Huijie Ma
- Department of Physiology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Physiology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- * E-mail:
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At the heart of the matter: the endocannabinoid system in cardiovascular function and dysfunction. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2012; 33:331-40. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2012.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2012] [Revised: 02/22/2012] [Accepted: 03/05/2012] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Liao Y, Bin J, Asakura M, Xuan W, Chen B, Huang Q, Xu D, Ledent C, Takashima S, Kitakaze M. Deficiency of type 1 cannabinoid receptors worsens acute heart failure induced by pressure overload in mice. Eur Heart J 2011; 33:3124-33. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehr246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Cannabis, collaterals, and coronary occlusion. Case Rep Cardiol 2011; 2011:469850. [PMID: 24987532 PMCID: PMC4008128 DOI: 10.1155/2011/469850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2011] [Accepted: 06/22/2011] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
A 51-year-old gentleman, who regularly smoked cannabis, presented with chest pain and diaphoresis. He was haemodynamically stable. ECG showed ST depression, inferiorly, and 1 mm ST elevation in lead aVR. Emergent coronary angiography showed thrombotic occlusion of the left main coronary artery (LMCA), the dominant RCA provided Rentrop grade II collaterals to the LAD. The LMCA was successfully reopened by deployment of a bare-metal stent. Animal heart models suggest that endogenous cannibinoids may cause ischaemic preconditioning. This case suggests that the severity of ischaemia, and hence ECG changes and haemodynamic consequences following an acute occlusion of the LMCA, can be ameliorated by coronary collateralisation and possibly by preconditioning of the myocardium.
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Sussman MA, Völkers M, Fischer K, Bailey B, Cottage CT, Din S, Gude N, Avitabile D, Alvarez R, Sundararaman B, Quijada P, Mason M, Konstandin MH, Malhowski A, Cheng Z, Khan M, McGregor M. Myocardial AKT: the omnipresent nexus. Physiol Rev 2011; 91:1023-70. [PMID: 21742795 PMCID: PMC3674828 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00024.2010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 180] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the greatest examples of integrated signal transduction is revealed by examination of effects mediated by AKT kinase in myocardial biology. Positioned at the intersection of multiple afferent and efferent signals, AKT exemplifies a molecular sensing node that coordinates dynamic responses of the cell in literally every aspect of biological responses. The balanced and nuanced nature of homeostatic signaling is particularly essential within the myocardial context, where regulation of survival, energy production, contractility, and response to pathological stress all flow through the nexus of AKT activation or repression. Equally important, the loss of regulated AKT activity is primarily the cause or consequence of pathological conditions leading to remodeling of the heart and eventual decompensation. This review presents an overview compendium of the complex world of myocardial AKT biology gleaned from more than a decade of research. Summarization of the widespread influence that AKT exerts upon myocardial responses leaves no doubt that the participation of AKT in molecular signaling will need to be reckoned with as a seemingly omnipresent regulator of myocardial molecular biological responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Sussman
- Department of Biology, San Diego State University, SDSU Heart Institute, San Diego, California 92182, USA.
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Shechter M, Hammerman H, Boyko V, Hod H, Behar S, Matetzky S. The obesity paradox in hospitalized acute coronary syndrome patients in Israel: A national survey. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cvdpc.2010.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Substantially altered expression pattern of cannabinoid receptor 2 and activated endocannabinoid system in patients with severe heart failure. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2010; 48:1187-93. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2009.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2009] [Revised: 10/27/2009] [Accepted: 10/27/2009] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Li Q, Ma HJ, Zhang H, Qi Z, Guan Y, Zhang Y. Electrophysiological effects of anandamide on rat myocardium. Br J Pharmacol 2010; 158:2022-9. [PMID: 20050190 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2009.00518.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The endocannabinoid, anandamide, has anti-arrhythmic effects. The aim of the present study was to explore the electrophysiological effects of anandamide on rat myocardium. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Evoked action potentials (APs) were recorded using intracellular recording technique in rat cardiac papillary muscles. In addition, L-type Ca2+ current was measured and analysed using whole-cell patch-clamp recording technique in isolated rat cardiac ventricular myocytes. KEY RESULTS In cardiac papillary muscles, anandamide (1, 10, 100 nM) decreased AP duration in a concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, 100 nM anandamide decreased AP amplitude, overshoot and Vmax in partially depolarized papillary muscles. These effects were abolished by AM251 (100 nM), a selective antagonist for CB1 receptors, but not AM630 (100 nM), a CB2 receptor antagonist. Furthermore, an agonist of L-type Ca2+ channels, Bay K 8644 (0.5 microM), a K+ channel blocker tetraethylammonium chloride (20 mM) and the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor L-NAME (1 mM) had no effect on anandamide-induced decrease in AP duration. In isolated ventricular myocytes, anandamide (1, 10, 100 nM) decreased L-type Ca2+ current concentration-dependently, and shifted the current-voltage relationship curve of the Ca2+ current. Anandamide (100 nM) shifted the steady-state inactivation curve to the left and the recovery curve to the right. Blockade of CB1 receptors with AM251 (100 nM), but not CB2 receptors with AM630 (100 nM), eliminated the effect of anandamide on L-type Ca2+ currents. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS These data suggest that anandamide suppressed AP and L-type Ca2+ current in cardiac myocytes through CB1 receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Li
- Department of Physiology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
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Abstract
Endocannabinoids, such as anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol, are synthesized from membrane phospholipids in the heart and other cardiovascular tissues. They activate cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors, transient receptor potential V1 (TRPV1), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors, and perhaps a novel vascular G-protein-coupled receptor. Inactivation is by cellular uptake and fatty acid amide hydrolase. Endocannabinoids relax coronary and other arteries and decrease cardiac work but seem not to be involved in tonic regulation of cardiovascular function. They act as a stress response system, which is activated, for example, in myocardial infarction and circulatory shock. Endocannabinoids are largely protective; they decrease tissue damage and arrhythmia in myocardial infarction and may reduce progression of atherosclerosis (CB2 receptor stimulation inhibits lesion progression), and fatty acid amide hydrolase knockout mice (which have enhanced endocannabinoid levels) show decreased cardiac dysfunction with age compared with wild types. However, endocannabinoids may mediate doxorubicin-induced cardiac dysfunction. Their signaling pathways are not fully elucidated but they can lead to changed expression of a variety of genes, including those involved in inflammatory responses. There is potential for therapeutic targeting of endocannabinoids and their receptors, but their apparent involvement in both protective and deleterious actions on the heart means that careful risk assessment is needed before any treatment can be introduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Robin Hiley
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom.
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Kopczyńska B. Role of VR1 and CB1 receptors in modelling of cardio-respiratory response to arvanil, an endocannabinoid and vanilloid hybrid, in rats. Life Sci 2008; 83:85-91. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2008.04.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2007] [Revised: 04/04/2008] [Accepted: 04/04/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Identification of the vasodilatory endothelial cannabinoid receptor in the human pulmonary artery. J Hypertens 2008; 25:2240-8. [PMID: 17921818 DOI: 10.1097/hjh.0b013e3282ef7a0a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The endocannabinoid anandamide is implicated in the pathogenesis of hypotension in haemorrhagic, endotoxic, and cardiogenic shock. It has been demonstrated in animal, but not in human, vessels that the vasodilatory effects of anandamide and abnormal cannabidiol are partially mediated by an as yet unidentified endothelial cannabinoid receptor. Our study was performed to examine the influence of abnormal cannabidiol on the human pulmonary artery. METHODS Isolated human pulmonary arteries were obtained from patients without clinical evidence of pulmonary hypertension during resection of lung carcinoma. Vasodilatory effects of abnormal cannabidiol were examined on endothelium-intact vessels preconstricted with serotonin or potassium chloride. RESULTS Anandamide and abnormal cannabidiol relaxed serotonin-preconstricted vessels concentration-dependently. The effect of abnormal cannabidiol was reduced by endothelium denudation, pertussis toxin and two antagonists of the novel endothelial receptor, cannabidiol and O-1918, but not by the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor L-NAME given together with the cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin. It was also diminished by blockade of calcium-activated potassium channels by the nonselective blocker tetraethylammonium or by combination of selective blockers of small (apamin) and intermediate and large (charybdotoxin) conductance calcium-activated potassium channels. The potency of abnormal cannabidiol to relax vessels was lower in potassium chloride than in serotonin-preconstriced preparations. CONCLUSIONS Abnormal cannabidiol relaxes human pulmonary arteries in an endothelium-independent and endothelium-dependent manner. The latter component is probably mediated via the putative endothelial cannabinoid receptor, activation of which may release endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor, which in turn acts via calcium-activated potassium channels. Abnormal cannabidiol is behaviourally inactive; it may have a therapeutic implication in vascular diseases, especially in the treatment of pulmonary hypertension.
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Endocannabinoids and cannabinoid receptors in ischaemia-reperfusion injury and preconditioning. Br J Pharmacol 2007; 153:252-62. [PMID: 18026124 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjp.0707582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 168] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ischaemia-reperfusion (I/R) is a pivotal mechanism of organ injury during stroke, myocardial infarction, organ transplantation and vascular surgeries. Ischaemic preconditioning (IPC) is a potent endogenous form of tissue protection against I/R injury. On the one hand, endocannabinoids have been implicated in the protective effects of IPC through cannabinoid CB1/CB2 receptor-dependent and -independent mechanisms. However, there is evidence suggesting that endocannabinoids are overproduced during various forms of I/R, such as myocardial infarction or whole body I/R associated with circulatory shock, and may contribute to the cardiovascular depressive state associated with these pathologies. Previous studies using synthetic CB1 receptor agonists or knockout mice demonstrated CB1 receptor-dependent protection against cerebral I/R injury in various animal models. In contrast, several follow-up reports have shown protection afforded by CB1 receptor antagonists, but not agonists. Excitedly, emerging studies using potent CB2 receptor agonists and/or knockout mice have provided compelling evidence that CB2 receptor activation is protective against myocardial, cerebral and hepatic I/R injuries by decreasing the endothelial cell activation/inflammatory response (for example, expression of adhesion molecules, secretion of chemokines, and so on), and by attenuating the leukocyte chemotaxis, rolling, adhesion to endothelium, activation and transendothelial migration, and interrelated oxidative/nitrosative damage. This review is aimed to discuss the role of endocannabinoids and CB receptors in various forms of I/R injury (myocardial, cerebral, hepatic and circulatory shock) and preconditioning, and to delineate the evidence supporting the therapeutic utility of selective CB2 receptor agonists, which are devoid of psychoactive effects, as a promising new approach to limit I/R-induced tissue damage.
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Kilaru A, Blancaflor EB, Venables BJ, Tripathy S, Mysore KS, Chapman KD. TheN-Acylethanolamine-Mediated Regulatory Pathway in Plants. Chem Biodivers 2007; 4:1933-55. [PMID: 17712835 DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.200790161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
While cannabinoids are secondary metabolites synthesized by just a few plant species, N-acylethanolamines (NAEs) are distributed widely in the plant kingdom, and are recovered in measurable, bioactive quantities in many plant-derived products. NAEs in higher plants are ethanolamides of fatty acids with acyl-chain lenghts of C12-C(18) and zero to three C=C bonds. Generally, the most-abundant NAEs found in plants and vertebrates are similar, including NAE 16 : 0, 18 : 1, 18 : 2, and 18 : 3. Like in animal systems, NAEs are formed in plants from N-acylphosphatidylethanolamines (NAPEs), and they are hydrolyzed by an amidase to yield ethanolamine and free fatty acids (FFA). Recently, a homologue of the mammalian fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH-1) was identified in Arabidopsis thaliana and several other plant species. Overexpression of Arabidopsis FAAH (AtFAAH) resulted in plants that grew faster, but were more sensitive to biotic and abiotic insults, suggesting that the metabolism of NAEs in plants resides at the balance between growth and responses to environmental stresses. Similar to animal systems, exogenously applied NAEs have potent and varied effects on plant cells. Recent pharmacological approaches combined with molecular-genetic experiments revealed that NAEs may act in certain plant tissues via specific membrane-associated proteins or by interacting with phospholipase D-alpha, although other, direct targets for NAE action in plants are likely to be discovered. Polyunsaturated NAEs can be oxidized via the lipoxygenase pathway in plants, producing an array of oxylipin products that have received little attention so far. Overall, the conservation of NAE occurrence and metabolic machinery in plants, coupled with the profound physiological effects of elevating NAE content or perturbing endogenous NAE metabolism, suggest that an NAE-mediated regulatory pathway, sharing similarities with the mammalian endocannabinoid pathway, indeed exists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aruna Kilaru
- University of North Texas, Department of Biological Sciences, Center for Plant Lipid Research, P.O. Box 305220, Denton, TX 76203-5220, USA
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Mendizábal VE, Adler-Graschinsky E. Cannabinoids as therapeutic agents in cardiovascular disease: a tale of passions and illusions. Br J Pharmacol 2007; 151:427-40. [PMID: 17450170 PMCID: PMC2013961 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjp.0707261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
In addition to their classical known effects, such as analgesia, impairment of cognition and learning and appetite enhancement, cannabinoids have also been related to the regulation of cardiovascular responses and implicated in cardiovascular pathology. Elevated levels of endocannabinoids have been related to the extreme hypotension associated with various forms of shock as well as to the cardiovascular abnormalities that accompany cirrhosis. In contrast, cannabinoids have also been associated with beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system, such as a protective role in atherosclerosis progression and in cerebral and myocardial ischaemia. In addition, it has also been suggested that the pharmacological manipulation of the endocannabinoid system may offer a novel approach to antihypertensive therapy. During the last decades, the tremendous increase in the understanding of the molecular basis of cannabinoid activity has encouraged many pharmaceutical companies to develop more potent synthetic cannabinoid analogues and antagonists, leading to an explosion of basic research and clinical trials. Consequently. not only the synthetic THC dronabinol (Marinol) and the synthetic THC analogue nabilone (Cesamet) have been approved in the United States, but also the standardized cannabis extract (Sativex) in Canada. At least three strategies can be foreseen in the future clinical use of cannabinoid-based drugs: (a) the use of CB(1) receptor antagonists, such as the recently approved rimonabant (b) the use of CB(2)-selective agonists, and (c) the use of inhibitors of endocannabinoid degradation. In this context, the present review examines the effects of cannabinoids and of the pharmacological manipulation of the endocannabinoid system, in cardiovascular pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- V E Mendizábal
- Instituto de Investigaciones Farmacológicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Kopczyńska B. The contribution of VR1 and CB1 receptors and the role of the afferent vagal pathway in modelling of cardio-respiratory effects of anandamide in rats. Life Sci 2007; 80:1738-45. [PMID: 17379256 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2007.01.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2006] [Revised: 01/19/2007] [Accepted: 01/24/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Anaesthetized and spontaneously breathing rats were used to study the cardio-respiratory effects of intravenous anandamide administration. To investigate the role of particular levels of the afferent pathway in this response rats were challenged with bolus injection of anandamide (1 mg kg(-1)) into the femoral vein while intact, following bilateral superior laryngeal nerves (SLNs) section and after midcervical vagotomy. To test the hypothesis that the activation of the vanilloid receptors (VR1) as well as cannabinoid receptors (CB1) contributes to the anandamide-induced response administrations of anandamide were preceded by nonselective VR1 antagonist ruthenium red or selective CB1 antagonist AM281. Anandamide evoked apnoea of mean duration of 4.84+/-0.75 s in all animals while intact which was shortened by subsequent neurotomies, after SLNs section to 3.3+/-0.57 s (P<0.05) and after midcervical vagi section to 1.99+/-0.24 s (P<0.01). In post-apnoeic breathing tidal volume (V(T)) was reduced in all neural states. Anandamide evoked hypotension in the intact and SLNs neurotomized rats. Midcervical vagotomy reduced this fall in blood pressure. Both antagonists ruthenium red and AM281 eliminated post-anandamide apnoea and hypotension but had no effect on post-apnoeic depression of V(T). Subsequent SLNs and cervical vagi sections did not eliminate but only reduced post-anandamide depression of breathing. Midcervical vagotomy lessened anandamide-induced hypotension. Apnoeic and hypotensive response to anandamide was mediated by both VR1 and CB1 receptors. Post-anandamide decline of V(T) might depend on different type of receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beata Kopczyńska
- Laboratory of Respiratory Reflexes, PAS Medical Research Center, 5 Pawińskiego St., 02-106 Warsaw, Poland.
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Drolet B, Simard C, Poirier P. Impact of weight-loss medications on the cardiovascular system: focus on current and future anti-obesity drugs. Am J Cardiovasc Drugs 2007; 7:273-88. [PMID: 17696568 DOI: 10.2165/00129784-200707040-00005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Overweight and obesity have been rising dramatically worldwide and are associated with numerous co-morbidities such as cardiovascular disease (CVD), type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, certain cancers, and sleep apnea. In fact, obesity is an independent risk factor for CVD and CVD risks have also been documented in obese children. The majority of overweight and obese patients who achieve a significant short-term weight loss do not maintain their lower bodyweight in the long term. This may be due to a lack of intensive counseling and support from a facilitating environment including dedicated healthcare professionals such as nutritionists, kinesiologists, and behavior specialists. As a result, there has been a considerable focus on the role of adjunctive therapy such as pharmacotherapy for long-term weight loss and weight maintenance. Beyond an unfavorable risk factor profile, overweight and obesity also impact upon heart structure and function. Since the beginning, the quest for weight loss drugs has encountered warnings from regulatory agencies and the withdrawal from the market of efficient but unsafe medications. Fenfluramine was withdrawn from the market because of unacceptable pulmonary and cardiac adverse effects. Nevertheless, there is extensive research directed at the development of new anti-obesity compounds. The effect of these molecules on CVD risk factors has been studied and reported but information regarding their impact on the cardiovascular system is sparse. Thus, instead of looking at the benefit of weight loss on metabolism and risk factor management, this article discusses the impact of weight loss medications on the cardiovascular system. The potential interaction of available and potential new weight loss drugs with heart function and structure is reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benoit Drolet
- Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie, Laval Hospital, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
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Pacher P, Bátkai S, Kunos G. The endocannabinoid system as an emerging target of pharmacotherapy. Pharmacol Rev 2006; 58:389-462. [PMID: 16968947 PMCID: PMC2241751 DOI: 10.1124/pr.58.3.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1473] [Impact Index Per Article: 81.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The recent identification of cannabinoid receptors and their endogenous lipid ligands has triggered an exponential growth of studies exploring the endocannabinoid system and its regulatory functions in health and disease. Such studies have been greatly facilitated by the introduction of selective cannabinoid receptor antagonists and inhibitors of endocannabinoid metabolism and transport, as well as mice deficient in cannabinoid receptors or the endocannabinoid-degrading enzyme fatty acid amidohydrolase. In the past decade, the endocannabinoid system has been implicated in a growing number of physiological functions, both in the central and peripheral nervous systems and in peripheral organs. More importantly, modulating the activity of the endocannabinoid system turned out to hold therapeutic promise in a wide range of disparate diseases and pathological conditions, ranging from mood and anxiety disorders, movement disorders such as Parkinson's and Huntington's disease, neuropathic pain, multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injury, to cancer, atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, stroke, hypertension, glaucoma, obesity/metabolic syndrome, and osteoporosis, to name just a few. An impediment to the development of cannabinoid medications has been the socially unacceptable psychoactive properties of plant-derived or synthetic agonists, mediated by CB(1) receptors. However, this problem does not arise when the therapeutic aim is achieved by treatment with a CB(1) receptor antagonist, such as in obesity, and may also be absent when the action of endocannabinoids is enhanced indirectly through blocking their metabolism or transport. The use of selective CB(2) receptor agonists, which lack psychoactive properties, could represent another promising avenue for certain conditions. The abuse potential of plant-derived cannabinoids may also be limited through the use of preparations with controlled composition and the careful selection of dose and route of administration. The growing number of preclinical studies and clinical trials with compounds that modulate the endocannabinoid system will probably result in novel therapeutic approaches in a number of diseases for which current treatments do not fully address the patients' need. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview on the current state of knowledge of the endocannabinoid system as a target of pharmacotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pál Pacher
- Laboratory of Physiological Studies, National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, 5625 Fishers Lane, Room 2S-24, Bethesda, MD 20892-9413, USA
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Hoi PM, Hiley CR. Vasorelaxant effects of oleamide in rat small mesenteric artery indicate action at a novel cannabinoid receptor. Br J Pharmacol 2006; 147:560-8. [PMID: 16415907 PMCID: PMC1616976 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjp.0706643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Oleamide (cis-9-octadecenoamide) exhibits some cannabimimetic responses despite its low affinities at the currently known cannabinoid receptors. Here we have investigated whether or not it is a vasorelaxant in rat small mesenteric arteries. Oleamide elicited vasorelaxation (EC50=1.2+/-0.2 microM, Rmax=99.1+/-3.9%, n=8) which was reduced by endothelial removal. Nitric oxide synthase inhibition reduced the response (EC50=5.3+/-1.6 microM, Rmax=59.2+/-7.7%, n=7; P<0.01) as did blockade of Ca2+-sensitive K+ channels (KCa) with apamin plus charybdotoxin (both 50 nM) (EC50=2.1+/-0.2 microM, Rmax=58.4+/-1.9%, n=5; P<0.05). Desensitisation of vanilloid receptors with capsaicin (10 microM for 30 min) shifted the oleamide concentration-response curve approximately 30-fold to the right (n=7; P<0.01). Pertussis toxin (400 ng ml-1 for 2 h) caused a two-fold shift in the response curve (EC50=2.2+/-0.4 microM, Rmax=66.8+/-4.5%, n=6; P<0.01). Rimonabant (CB1 cannabinoid receptor antagonist; SR141716A; 3 microM) significantly inhibited relaxation induced by oleamide (EC50=3.5+/-0.3 microM, Rmax=75.1+/-1.9%; n=8; P<0.05). In contrast, neither the more selective CB1 receptor antagonist, AM251 (1 microM), nor the CB2 antagonist, SR144528 (1 microM), had significant effects. O-1918 (10 microM), a putative antagonist at a novel endothelial cannabinoid receptor (abnormal-cannabidiol site), markedly reduced the relaxation to oleamide (n=7; P<0.01). It is concluded that oleamide responses in the rat isolated small mesenteric artery are partly dependent on the presence of the endothelium, activation of Ca2+-sensitive K+ channels (KC)) and involve capsaicin-sensitive sensory nerves. Oleamide may share a receptor (sensitive to rimonabant and O-1918, and coupled to KC) and Gi/o) with anandamide in this vessel. This might be distinct from both of the known cannabinoid receptors and the novel abnormal-cannabidiol site.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pui Man Hoi
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1PD
| | - C Robin Hiley
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1PD
- Author for correspondence:
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Milman G, Maor Y, Abu-Lafi S, Horowitz M, Gallily R, Batkai S, Mo FM, Offertaler L, Pacher P, Kunos G, Mechoulam R. N-arachidonoyl L-serine, an endocannabinoid-like brain constituent with vasodilatory properties. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2006; 103:2428-33. [PMID: 16467152 PMCID: PMC1413724 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0510676103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid N-arachidonoyl ethanolamine (anandamide), found both in the CNS and in the periphery, plays a role in numerous physiological systems. One might expect that the chemically related N-arachidonoyl-L-serine (ARA-S) could also be formed alongside anandamide. We have now isolated ARA-S from bovine brain and elucidated its structure by comparison with synthetic ARA-S. Contrary to anandamide, ARA-S binds very weakly to cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 or vanilloid TRPV1 (transient receptor potential vanilloid 1) receptors. However, it produces endothelium-dependent vasodilation of rat isolated mesenteric arteries and abdominal aorta and stimulates phosphorylation of p44/42 mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase and protein kinase B/Akt in cultured endothelial cells. ARA-S also suppresses LPS-induced formation of TNF-alpha in a murine macrophage cell line and in wild-type mice, as well as in mice deficient in CB1 or CB2 receptors. Many of these effects parallel those reported for abnormal cannabidiol (Abn-CBD), a synthetic agonist of a putative novel cannabinoid-type receptor. Hence, ARA-S may represent an endogenous agonist for this receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garry Milman
- Departments of *Medicinal Chemistry and Natural Products and
| | - Yehoshua Maor
- Departments of *Medicinal Chemistry and Natural Products and
| | - Saleh Abu-Lafi
- Chemistry and Chemical Technology Department, Al-Quds University, Abu-Deis, Palestinian Authority; and
| | - Michal Horowitz
- Laboratory of Environmental Physiology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Hebrew University, Jerusalem 91120, Israel
| | | | - Sandor Batkai
- Laboratory of Physiologic Studies, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Fong-Ming Mo
- Laboratory of Physiologic Studies, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Laszlo Offertaler
- Laboratory of Physiologic Studies, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Pal Pacher
- Laboratory of Physiologic Studies, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - George Kunos
- Laboratory of Physiologic Studies, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
- **To whom correspondence may be addressed. E-mail:
or
| | - Raphael Mechoulam
- Departments of *Medicinal Chemistry and Natural Products and
- **To whom correspondence may be addressed. E-mail:
or
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Grant I, Cahn BR. Cannabis and endocannabinoid modulators: Therapeutic promises and challenges. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005; 5:185-199. [PMID: 18806886 DOI: 10.1016/j.cnr.2005.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The discovery that botanical cannabinoids such as delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol exert some of their effect through binding specific cannabinoid receptor sites has led to the discovery of an endocannabinoid signaling system, which in turn has spurred research into the mechanisms of action and addiction potential of cannabis on the one hand, while opening the possibility of developing novel therapeutic agents on the other. This paper reviews current understanding of CB1, CB2, and other possible cannabinoid receptors, their arachidonic acid derived ligands (e.g. anandamide; 2 arachidonoyl glycerol), and their possible physiological roles. CB1 is heavily represented in the central nervous system, but is found in other tissues as well; CB2 tends to be localized to immune cells. Activation of the endocannabinoid system can result in enhanced or dampened activity in various neural circuits depending on their own state of activation. This suggests that one function of the endocannabinoid system may be to maintain steady state. The therapeutic action of botanical cannabis or of synthetic molecules that are agonists, antagonists, or which may otherwise modify endocannabinoid metabolism and activity indicates they may have promise as neuroprotectants, and may be of value in the treatment of certain types of pain, epilepsy, spasticity, eating disorders, inflammation, and possibly blood pressure control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor Grant
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, Center for Medicinal Cannabis Research, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093-0680, USA
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Kwolek G, Zakrzeska A, Schlicker E, Göthert M, Godlewski G, Malinowska B. Central and peripheral components of the pressor effect of anandamide in urethane-anaesthetized rats. Br J Pharmacol 2005; 145:567-75. [PMID: 15834445 PMCID: PMC1576172 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjp.0706195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
1. We wanted to search for the mechanism(s) responsible for the brief pressor response induced by anandamide in urethane-anaesthetized rats. 2. The anandamide-induced pressor effect was not modified by the antagonists of cannabinoid CB(1) and vanilloid TRPV(1) receptors, SR 141716A (3 micromol kg(-1)) and capsazepine (1 micromol kg(-1)), respectively, by bilateral vagotomy and by pithing. Replacement of urethane by pentobarbitone virtually abolished the pressor effect of anandamide, both in pithed and vagotomized and in 'intact' rats (i.e. not treated in this manner). 3. The pressor effect of anandamide was reduced by the nonselective TRPV family inhibitor ruthenium red (3 micromol kg(-1)) and by the blocker of L-type calcium channels nifedipine (1 micromol kg(-1)), both in pithed urethane-anaesthetized rats and in 'intact' urethane-anaesthetized rats. The nonselective beta-adrenoceptor antagonist propranolol (0.1 or 0.3 micromol kg(-1)) and the nonselective NMDA receptor antagonist MK-801 (1 micromol kg(-1)) diminished the anandamide-induced vasopressor response in 'intact' but not in pithed rats. The inhibitory effect of propranolol in 'intact' rats was mimicked by the beta(2)-adrenoceptor antagonist ICI 118551 (1 micromol kg(-1)), but not by the beta(1)-adrenoceptor antagonist CGP 20712 (1 micromol kg(-1)). 4. The present study revealed that two mechanisms may be responsible for the anandamide-induced pressor response in urethane-anaesthetized rats. The first involves the central nervous system (probably the medulla oblongata) and is sensitive to propranolol and MK-801. The second, which is located peripherally (most probably in blood vessels), is sensitive to nifedipine, ruthenium red and pentobarbitone and, hence, probably represents a Ca(2+)-dependent mode of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grzegorz Kwolek
- Zakład Fizjologii Doświadczalnej, Akademia Medyczna w Białymstoku, ul. Mickiewicza 2A, 15-089 Białystok 8, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Zakrzeska
- Zakład Fizjologii Doświadczalnej, Akademia Medyczna w Białymstoku, ul. Mickiewicza 2A, 15-089 Białystok 8, Poland
| | - Eberhard Schlicker
- Institut für Pharmakologie und Toxikologie, Universität Bonn, Reuterstrasse 2b, 53113 Bonn, Germany
| | - Manfred Göthert
- Institut für Pharmakologie und Toxikologie, Universität Bonn, Reuterstrasse 2b, 53113 Bonn, Germany
| | - Grzegorz Godlewski
- Zakład Fizjologii Doświadczalnej, Akademia Medyczna w Białymstoku, ul. Mickiewicza 2A, 15-089 Białystok 8, Poland
| | - Barbara Malinowska
- Zakład Fizjologii Doświadczalnej, Akademia Medyczna w Białymstoku, ul. Mickiewicza 2A, 15-089 Białystok 8, Poland
- Author for correspondence:
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Abstract
Cannabinoid agonists such as Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) produce a wide range of pharmacological effects both in the central nervous system and in the periphery. One of the most striking features of cannabinoids such as THC is the magnitude to tolerance that can be produced upon repetitive administration of this substance to animals. Relatively modest dosing regimens are capable of producing significant tolerance, whereas greater than 100-fold tolerance can be obtained with aggressive treatments. While cannabinoid tolerance has been studied quite extensively to establish its relevance to the health consequences of marijuana use, it has also proven to be a valuable strategy in understanding the mechanism of action of cannabinoids. The discovery of the endocannabinoid system that contains two receptor subtypes, CB1 and CB2, associated signaling pathways, endocannabinoids (anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol) and their synthetic and degradative pathways has provided a means of systematically evaluating the mechanism of cannabinoid tolerance. It is well known that the CB1 cannabinoid receptor is down-regulated in states of cannabinoid tolerance along with uncoupling from its second messenger systems. Endocannabinoid levels are also altered in selected brain regions during the development of tolerance. While it is reasonable to speculate that a likely relationship exists between receptor and endocannabinoid levels, at present, little is known regarding the biological signal that leads to alterations in endocannabinoid levels. It is also unknown to what degree synthetic and degradative pathways for the endocannabinoids are altered in states of tolerance. The discovery that the brain is abundant in fatty acid amides and glycerols raises the question as to what roles these lipids contribute to the endocannabinoid system. Some of these lipids also utilize the endocannabinoid metabolic pathways, produce similar pharmacological effects, and are capable of modulating the actions of anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol. In addition, there are dopamine, glycine, and serotonin conjugates of arachidonic acid that may also contribute to the actions of endocannabinoids. A systematic examination of these lipids in cannabinoid tolerance might shed light on their physiological relevance to the endocannabinoid system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Billy R Martin
- Louis and Ruth Harris Professor and Chair, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, P.O. Box 980613, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA.
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Kola B, Hubina E, Tucci SA, Kirkham TC, Garcia EA, Mitchell SE, Williams LM, Hawley SA, Hardie DG, Grossman AB, Korbonits M. Cannabinoids and Ghrelin Have Both Central and Peripheral Metabolic and Cardiac Effects via AMP-activated Protein Kinase. J Biol Chem 2005; 280:25196-201. [PMID: 15899896 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.c500175200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 345] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocannabinoids and ghrelin are potent appetite stimulators and are known to interact at a hypothalamic level. However, both also have important peripheral actions, including beneficial effects on the ischemic heart and increasing adipose tissue deposition, while ghrelin has direct effects on carbohydrate metabolism. The AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a heterotrimeric enzyme that functions as a fuel sensor to regulate energy balance at both cellular and whole body levels, and it may mediate the action of anti-diabetic drugs such as metformin and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma agonists. Here we show that both cannabinoids and ghrelin stimulate AMPK activity in the hypothalamus and the heart, while inhibiting AMPK in liver and adipose tissue. These novel effects of cannabinoids on AMPK provide a mechanism for a number of their known actions, such as the reduction in infarct size in the myocardium, an increase in adipose tissue, and stimulation of appetite. The beneficial effects of ghrelin on heart function, including reduction of myocyte apoptosis, and its effects on lipogenesis and carbohydrate metabolism, can also be explained by its ability to activate AMPK. Our data demonstrate that AMPK not only links the orexigenic effects of endocannabinoids and ghrelin in the hypothalamus but also their effects on the metabolism of peripheral tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blerina Kola
- Department of Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London Medical School, London EC1M 6BQ, United Kingdom
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Sterin-Borda L, Del Zar CF, Borda E. Differential CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptor-inotropic response of rat isolated atria: Endogenous signal transduction pathways. Biochem Pharmacol 2005; 69:1705-13. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2005.03.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2005] [Revised: 03/11/2005] [Accepted: 03/11/2005] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Pacher P, Bátkai S, Kunos G. Blood pressure regulation by endocannabinoids and their receptors. Neuropharmacology 2005; 48:1130-8. [PMID: 15910888 PMCID: PMC2225528 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2004.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2004] [Accepted: 12/10/2004] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoids and their endogenous and synthetic analogs exert powerful hypotensive and cardiodepressor effects by complex mechanisms involving direct and indirect effects on myocardium and vasculature. On the one hand, endocannabinoids and cannabinoid receptors have been implicated in the hypotensive state associated with hemorrhagic, endotoxic and cardiogenic shock, and advanced liver cirrhosis. On the other hand, there is emerging evidence suggesting that the endocannabinergic system plays an important role in the cardiovascular regulation in hypertension. This review is aimed to discuss the in vivo hypotensive and cardiodepressant effects of cannabinoids mediated by cannabinoid and TRPV(1) receptors, and focuses on the novel therapeutical strategies offered by targeting the endocannabinoid system in the treatment of hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pál Pacher
- * Corresponding authors. Tel./fax: +1-301-443-2069. E-mail addresses: (P. Pacher), (G. Kunos)
| | | | - George Kunos
- * Corresponding authors. Tel./fax: +1-301-443-2069. E-mail addresses: (P. Pacher), (G. Kunos)
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Di Marzo V, De Petrocellis L, Bisogno T. The biosynthesis, fate and pharmacological properties of endocannabinoids. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2005:147-85. [PMID: 16596774 DOI: 10.1007/3-540-26573-2_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The finding of endogenous ligands for cannabinoid receptors, the endocannabinoids, opened a new era in cannabinoid research. It meant that the biological role of cannabinoid signalling could be finally studied by investigating not only the pharmacological actions subsequent to stimulation of cannabinoid receptors by their agonists, but also how the activity of these receptors was regulated under physiological and pathological conditions by varying levels of the endocannabinoids. This in turn meant that the enzymes catalysing endocannabinoid biosynthesis and inactivation had to be identified and characterized, and that selective inhibitors of these enzymes had to be developed to be used as (1) probes to confirm endocannabinoid involvement in health and disease, and (2) templates for the design of new therapeutic drugs. This chapter summarizes the progress achieved in this direction during the 12 years following the discovery of the first endocannabinoid.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Di Marzo
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Istituto di Chimica Biomolecolare, Via Campi Flegrei 34, Comprensorio Olivetti, Fabbricato 70, 80078 Pozzuoli (Napoli), Italy.
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Abstract
Cannabinoids and their synthetic and endogenous analogs affect a broad range of physiological functions, including cardiovascular variables, the most important component of their effect being profound hypotension. The mechanisms of the cardiovascular effects of cannabinoids in vivo are complex and may involve modulation of autonomic outflow in both the central and peripheral nervous systems as well as direct effects on the myocardium and vasculature. Although several lines of evidence indicate that the cardiovascular depressive effects of cannabinoids are mediated by peripherally localized CB1 receptors, recent studies provide strong support for the existence of as-yet-undefined endothelial and cardiac receptor(s) that mediate certain endocannabinoid-induced cardiovascular effects. The endogenous cannabinoid system has been recently implicated in the mechanism of hypotension associated with hemorrhagic, endotoxic, and cardiogenic shock, and advanced liver cirrhosis. Furthermore, cannabinoids have been considered as novel antihypertensive agents. A protective role of endocannabinoids in myocardial ischemia has also been documented. In this chapter, we summarize current information on the cardiovascular effects of cannabinoids and highlight the importance of these effects in a variety of pathophysiological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Pacher
- Laboratory of Physiologic Studies, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-9413, USA.
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Rodríguez de Fonseca F, Del Arco I, Bermudez-Silva FJ, Bilbao A, Cippitelli A, Navarro M. THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM: PHYSIOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY. Alcohol Alcohol 2004; 40:2-14. [PMID: 15550444 DOI: 10.1093/alcalc/agh110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 236] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The endogenous cannabinoid system is an ubiquitous lipid signalling system that appeared early in evolution and which has important regulatory functions throughout the body in all vertebrates. The main endocannabinoids (endogenous cannabis-like substances) are small molecules derived from arachidonic acid, anandamide (arachidonoylethanolamide) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol. They bind to a family of G-protein-coupled receptors, of which the cannabinoid CB(1) receptor is densely distributed in areas of the brain related to motor control, cognition, emotional responses, motivated behaviour and homeostasis. Outside the brain, the endocannabinoid system is one of the crucial modulators of the autonomic nervous system, the immune system and microcirculation. Endocannabinoids are released upon demand from lipid precursors in a receptor-dependent manner and serve as retrograde signalling messengers in GABAergic and glutamatergic synapses, as well as modulators of postsynaptic transmission, interacting with other neurotransmitters, including dopamine. Endocannabinoids are transported into cells by a specific uptake system and degraded by two well-characterized enzymes, the fatty acid amide hydrolase and the monoacylglycerol lipase. Recent pharmacological advances have led to the synthesis of cannabinoid receptor agonists and antagonists, anandamide uptake blockers and potent, selective inhibitors of endocannabinoid degradation. These new tools have enabled the study of the physiological roles played by the endocannabinoids and have opened up new strategies in the treatment of pain, obesity, neurological diseases including multiple sclerosis, emotional disturbances such as anxiety and other psychiatric disorders including drug addiction. Recent advances have specifically linked the endogenous cannabinoid system to alcoholism, and cannabinoid receptor antagonism now emerges as a promising therapeutic alternative for alcohol dependence and relapse.
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Ho WSV, Hiley CR. Vasorelaxant activities of the putative endocannabinoid virodhamine in rat isolated small mesenteric artery. J Pharm Pharmacol 2004; 56:869-75. [PMID: 15233865 DOI: 10.1211/0022357023682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
Virodhamine is a recently identified novel endocannabinoid. Cannabinoids may evoke vasorelaxation through novel receptors in the vasculature and/or through release of vasodilator peptides from sensory nerve endings. Virodhamine induced endothelium-dependent relaxation in the rat isolated small mesenteric artery mounted in a myograph and precontracted with methoxamine. Desensitization of vanilloid receptors by capsaicin did not affect relaxation responses to virodhamine. The CB(1) receptor antagonist SR 141716A (3 microM), but not the more CB(1)-selective blocker AM 251 (1 microM), attenuated the response, while two CB(2) receptor antagonists, SR 144528 (1 microM) and AM 630 (10 microM), had no effect. The novel antagonist for the putative endothelial 'abnormal-cannabidiol receptor', O-1918 (30 microM), inhibited virodhamine relaxations. Hence virodhamine may activate this novel receptor, which might also recognize SR 141716A. Inhibition of nitric oxide synthase (L-NAME 300 microM) did not affect relaxation to virodhamine but the responses were markedly reduced when tone was induced with 60 mM KCl, suggesting a role for the activation of K(+) channels. The Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channel (K(Ca)) blockers, apamin (50 nM) and charybdotoxin (50 nM), inhibited virodhamine vasorelaxation. Combination of these blockers with SR 141716A (3 microM) caused no further inhibition. It was concluded that virodhamine relaxes the rat small mesenteric artery by endothelium-dependent activation of K(Ca), perhaps via the putative abnormal-cannabidiol receptor.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Arachidonic Acids/pharmacology
- Arachidonic Acids/physiology
- Cannabinoid Receptor Modulators/pharmacology
- Cannabinoid Receptor Modulators/physiology
- Cannabinoids
- Endocannabinoids
- Endothelium, Vascular/physiology
- In Vitro Techniques
- Male
- Mesenteric Arteries/metabolism
- Mesenteric Arteries/physiology
- Nitric Oxide Synthase/antagonists & inhibitors
- Potassium Channel Blockers/pharmacology
- Potassium Channels/agonists
- Rats
- Rats, Wistar
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/agonists
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/agonists
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptors, Drug/agonists
- Vasodilation/drug effects
- Vasodilation/physiology
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Affiliation(s)
- W-S Vanessa Ho
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
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