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Rautio T, Obrist R, Krebs L, Klingstedt T, Dahlén J, Wu X, Gréen H. In vitro metabolism study of ADB-P-5Br-INACA and ADB-4en-P-5Br-INACA using human hepatocytes, liver microsomes, and in-house synthesized references. Drug Test Anal 2024. [PMID: 39039949 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) remain a major public health concern, as they continuously are linked to severe intoxications and drug-related deaths worldwide. As new SCs continue to emerge on the illicit drug market, an understanding of SC metabolism is needed to identify formed metabolites that may serve as biomarkers in forensic toxicology screening and for understanding the pharmacokinetics of the drugs. In this work, the metabolism of ADB-4en-P-5Br-INACA and ADB-P-5Br-INACA ((S)-N-(1-amino-3,3-dimethyl-1-oxobutan-2-yl)-5-bromo-1-(pent-4-en-1-yl)-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide, (S)-N-(1-amino-3,3-dimethyl-1-oxobutan-2-yl)-5-bromo-1-pentyl-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide respectively) were investigated using human hepatocytes in vitro and in-house synthesized references. Both SCs were incubated with pooled human hepatocytes over 3 h, with the aim to identify unique and abundant metabolites using liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF-MS). In total nine metabolites were identified for ADB-4en-P-5Br-INACA and 10 metabolites for ADB-P-5Br-INACA. The observed biotransformations included dihydrodiol formation, terminal amide hydrolysis, hydroxylation, dehydrogenation, carbonyl formation, glucuronidation, and combinations thereof. The major metabolites were confirmed by in-house synthesized references. Recommended biomarkers for ADB-P-5Br-INACA and ADB-4en-P-5Br-INACA are the terminal hydroxy and dihydrodiol metabolite respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Rautio
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Robin Obrist
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- University of Applied Sciences Northwestern, Windisch, Switzerland
| | - Lucas Krebs
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- University of Applied Sciences Northwestern, Windisch, Switzerland
| | - Therése Klingstedt
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Johan Dahlén
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Xiongyu Wu
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Henrik Gréen
- Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Toxicology, National Board of Forensic Medicine, Linköping, Sweden
- Division of Drug Research, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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2
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Norman C, Deventer MH, Dremann O, Reid R, Van Uytfanghe K, Guillou C, Vinckier IMJ, Nic Daéid N, Krotulski A, Stove CP. In vitro cannabinoid receptor activity, metabolism, and detection in seized samples of CH-PIATA, a new indole-3-acetamide synthetic cannabinoid. Drug Test Anal 2024; 16:380-391. [PMID: 37491777 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
The rapidly evolving synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist (SCRA) market poses significant challenges for forensic scientists. Since the enactment of a generic ban in China, a variety of new compounds have emerged capable of evading the legislation by carrying new structural features. One recent example of a SCRA with new linker and head moieties is CH-PIATA (CH-PIACA, CHX-PIATA, CHX-PIACA). CH-PIATA bears an additional methylene spacer in the linker moiety between the indole core and the traditional carbonyl component of the linker. This study describes detections in 2022 of this new SCRA in the United States, Belgium, and Scottish prisons. CH-PIATA was detected once in a seized powder by Belgian customs and 12 times in Scottish prisons in infused papers or resin. The metabolites of CH-PIATA were investigated via in vitro human liver microsome (HLM) incubations and eight metabolites were identified, dominated by oxidative biotransformations. A blood sample from the United States was confirmed to contain a mixture of SCRAs including CH-PIATA via presence of the parent and at least five of the metabolites identified from HLM incubations. Furthermore, this paper evaluates the intrinsic in vitro cannabinoid 1 and 2 (CB1 and CB2) receptor activation potential of CH-PIATA reference material and the powder seized by Belgian customs by means of β-arrestin 2 recruitment assays. Both the reference and the seized powder showed a weak activity at both CB receptors with signs of antagonism found. Based on these results, the expected harm potential of this newly emerging substance remains limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlyn Norman
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Marie H Deventer
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Olivia Dremann
- College of Arts and Sciences, Arcadia University, Glenside, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Robert Reid
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Katleen Van Uytfanghe
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Claude Guillou
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Ispra, Italy
| | | | - Niamh Nic Daéid
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Alex Krotulski
- Center for Forensic Science Research and Education, Frederic Rieders Family Foundation, Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Christophe P Stove
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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3
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Azuma Y, Doi T, Asada A, Tanaka M, Tagami T. Synthesis and structure determination of a synthetic cannabinoid CUMYL-THPINACA metabolite with differentiation between the ortho-, meta-, and para-hydroxyl positions of the cumyl moiety. Drug Test Anal 2024; 16:348-358. [PMID: 37485784 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids, a type of new psychoactive substances, are likely to be rapidly metabolized; thus, the detection of their metabolites, rather than the parent compound, is a common method used to prove drug consumption. Although the analysis of metabolites is generally performed by mass spectrometry, it is limited to structural estimation because of few commercially available standards. In particular, distinguishing between positional isomers is difficult. Synthetic cannabinoids with a cumyl moiety can be hydroxylated at the cumyl moiety during metabolism, but it remains unclear whether the hydroxylation occurs at the ortho, meta, or para position. This study determined the structures of a metabolite formed by mono-hydroxylation at the cumyl moiety of the synthetic cannabinoid CUMYL-THPINACA, used as a model compound. Chemical synthesis was performed to create possible metabolites with one hydroxyl group at the ortho, meta, or para positions of the cumyl moiety. Using the synthesized metabolites and liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry, the metabolite detected in the microsomal reaction of CUMYL-THPINACA was identified as a compound mono-hydroxylated at the para position based on retention time and product ion spectra. Moreover, the rapid metabolism of CUMYL-THPINACA was demonstrated with an in vitro half-life of 4.9 min and the identified metabolite could be detected for a relatively long time in vitro. The synthesized metabolite may be utilized as a good reference standard for proof of CUMYL-THPINACA consumption. These findings have potential applications in the synthesis of metabolites of other synthetic cannabinoids bearing a cumyl moiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Azuma
- Division of Hygienic Chemistry, Osaka Institute of Public Health, Higashinari-ku, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takahiro Doi
- Division of Hygienic Chemistry, Osaka Institute of Public Health, Higashinari-ku, Osaka, Japan
| | - Akiko Asada
- Division of Hygienic Chemistry, Osaka Institute of Public Health, Higashinari-ku, Osaka, Japan
| | - Misa Tanaka
- Division of Hygienic Chemistry, Osaka Institute of Public Health, Higashinari-ku, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takaomi Tagami
- Division of Hygienic Chemistry, Osaka Institute of Public Health, Higashinari-ku, Osaka, Japan
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4
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Lea Houston M, Morgan J, Kelso C. Narrative Review of the Pharmacodynamics, Pharmacokinetics, and Toxicities of Illicit Synthetic Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists. Mini Rev Med Chem 2024; 24:92-109. [PMID: 37190813 DOI: 10.2174/1389557523666230515163107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) are the most diverse class of new psychoactive substances worldwide, with approximately 300 unique SCRAs identified to date. While the use of this class of drug is not particularly prevalent, SCRAs are associated with several deaths every year due to their severe toxicity. METHODS A thorough examination of the literature identified 15 new SCRAs with a significant clinical impact between 2015 and 2021. RESULTS These 15 SCRAs have been implicated in 154 hospitalizations and 209 deaths across the US, Europe, Asia, and Australasia during this time period. CONCLUSION This narrative review provides pharmacodynamic, pharmacokinetic, and toxicologic data for SCRAs as a drug class, including an in-depth review of known pharmacological properties of 15 recently identified and emerging SCRAs for the benefit of researchers, policy makers, and clinicians who wish to be informed of developments in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matilda Lea Houston
- Griffith Institute for Drug Discovery, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jody Morgan
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Celine Kelso
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
- Molecular Horizons Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
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5
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Graziano G, Delre P, Carofiglio F, Brea J, Ligresti A, Kostrzewa M, Riganti C, Gioè-Gallo C, Majellaro M, Nicolotti O, Colabufo NA, Abate C, Loza MI, Sotelo E, Mangiatordi GF, Contino M, Stefanachi A, Leonetti F. N-adamantyl-anthranil amide derivatives: New selective ligands for the cannabinoid receptor subtype 2 (CB2R). Eur J Med Chem 2023; 248:115109. [PMID: 36657299 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Cannabinoid type 2 receptor (CB2R) is a G-protein-coupled receptor that, together with Cannabinoid type 1 receptor (CB1R), endogenous cannabinoids and enzymes responsible for their synthesis and degradation, forms the EndoCannabinoid System (ECS). In the last decade, several studies have shown that CB2R is overexpressed in activated central nervous system (CNS) microglia cells, in disorders based on an inflammatory state, such as neurodegenerative diseases, neuropathic pain, and cancer. For this reason, the anti-inflammatory and immune-modulatory potentials of CB2R ligands are emerging as a novel therapeutic approach. The design of selective ligands is however hampered by the high sequence homology of transmembrane domains of CB1R and CB2R. Based on a recent three-arm pharmacophore hypothesis and latest CB2R crystal structures, we designed, synthesized, and evaluated a series of new N-adamantyl-anthranil amide derivatives as CB2R selective ligands. Interestingly, this new class of compounds displayed a high affinity for human CB2R along with an excellent selectivity respect to CB1R. In this respect, compounds exhibiting the best pharmacodynamic profile in terms of CB2R affinity were also evaluated for the functional behavior and molecular docking simulations provided a sound rationale by highlighting the relevance of the arm 1 substitution to prompt CB2R action. Moreover, the modulation of the pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines production was also investigated to exert the ability of the best compounds to modulate the inflammatory cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Graziano
- Department of Pharmacy-Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of the Studies of Bari "Aldo Moro", Via E.Orabona 4, 70125, Bari, Italy
| | - Pietro Delre
- CNR - Institute of Crystallography, Via Giovanni Amendola, 122/O, 70126, Bari, Italy
| | - Francesca Carofiglio
- Department of Pharmacy-Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of the Studies of Bari "Aldo Moro", Via E.Orabona 4, 70125, Bari, Italy
| | - Josè Brea
- Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CIMUS), University of Santiago de Compostela, Av. Barcelona, 15782, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Alessia Ligresti
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council of Italy, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078, Pozzuoli, NA, Italy
| | - Magdalena Kostrzewa
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council of Italy, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078, Pozzuoli, NA, Italy
| | - Chiara Riganti
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Claudia Gioè-Gallo
- Centro Singular de Investigación en Química Biolóxica e Materiais Moleculares (CiQUS), Departamento de Química Orgánica, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Spain
| | - Maria Majellaro
- Centro Singular de Investigación en Química Biolóxica e Materiais Moleculares (CiQUS), Departamento de Química Orgánica, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Spain
| | - Orazio Nicolotti
- Department of Pharmacy-Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of the Studies of Bari "Aldo Moro", Via E.Orabona 4, 70125, Bari, Italy
| | - Nicola Antonio Colabufo
- Department of Pharmacy-Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of the Studies of Bari "Aldo Moro", Via E.Orabona 4, 70125, Bari, Italy
| | - Carmen Abate
- Department of Pharmacy-Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of the Studies of Bari "Aldo Moro", Via E.Orabona 4, 70125, Bari, Italy; CNR - Institute of Crystallography, Via Giovanni Amendola, 122/O, 70126, Bari, Italy
| | - Maria Isabel Loza
- Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CIMUS), University of Santiago de Compostela, Av. Barcelona, 15782, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Eddy Sotelo
- Centro Singular de Investigación en Química Biolóxica e Materiais Moleculares (CiQUS), Departamento de Química Orgánica, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Spain
| | | | - Marialessandra Contino
- Department of Pharmacy-Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of the Studies of Bari "Aldo Moro", Via E.Orabona 4, 70125, Bari, Italy.
| | - Angela Stefanachi
- Department of Pharmacy-Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of the Studies of Bari "Aldo Moro", Via E.Orabona 4, 70125, Bari, Italy.
| | - Francesco Leonetti
- Department of Pharmacy-Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of the Studies of Bari "Aldo Moro", Via E.Orabona 4, 70125, Bari, Italy
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6
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Wilson CD, Zheng F, Fantegrossi WE. Convulsant doses of abused synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists AB-PINACA, 5F-AB-PINACA, 5F-ADB-PINACA and JWH-018 do not elicit electroencephalographic (EEG) seizures in male mice. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2022; 239:3237-3248. [PMID: 35933518 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-022-06205-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) are found in illicit smoking products, such as "K2" or "Spice." Convulsions are commonly reported adverse effects of SCRAs but are poorly understood. OBJECTIVES We determined convulsant effects of SCRAs AB-PINACA, and 5F-ADB-PINACA in adult male NIH Swiss mice, and then determined if convulsant effects of AB-PINACA, 5F-AB-PINACA, 5F-ADB-PINACA, and JWH-018 elicited seizure-like effects using EEG. METHODS Mice were administered SCRAs or pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) and placed in observation chambers where convulsant effects were scored. The capacity of the CB1R antagonist rimonabant, the benzodiazepine diazepam, or the non-specific CYP450 inhibitor 1-aminobenzotriazole (1-ABT) to attenuate convulsant effects was determined. Other mice were prepared with EEG headmounts to ascertain whether observed convulsions occurred concurrently with seizure-like effects by assessing root-mean-square (RMS) power, high amplitude EEG spike analysis, and videography. RESULTS Mice receiving AB-PINACA or 5F-ADB-PINACA exhibited dose-dependent convulsant effects that were blocked by 10 mg/kg rimonabant pretreatment but not by pretreatment with 10 mg/kg diazepam; these convulsant effects were not altered in the presence of 100 mg/kg 1-ABT. Repeated administration of 10 mg/kg AB-PINACA and 3 mg/kg 5F-ADB-PINACA produced partial tolerance to convulsant effects but did not lead to cross-tolerance to PTZ-induced convulsions. In EEG studies, convulsant doses of AB-PINACA, 5F-AB-PINACA, 5F-ADB-PINACA, and JWH-018 did not produce seizures concomitantly with convulsions. CONCLUSIONS These data extend previous findings of convulsant effects of SCRAs and suggest that convulsant effects of AB-PINACA, 5F-AB-PINACA, 5F-ADB-PINACA, and JWH-018 are CB1R-mediated but are not associated with electroencephalographic seizures. These results further suggest that benzodiazepines may not effectively treat convulsions elicited by SCRA use in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catheryn D Wilson
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 West Markham Street, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Fang Zheng
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 West Markham Street, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - William E Fantegrossi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 West Markham Street, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA.
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7
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Tirri M, Arfè R, Bilel S, Corli G, Marchetti B, Fantinati A, Vincenzi F, De-Giorgio F, Camuto C, Mazzarino M, Barbieri M, Gaudio RM, Varani K, Borea PA, Botrè F, Marti M. In Vivo Bio-Activation of JWH-175 to JWH-018: Pharmacodynamic and Pharmacokinetic Studies in Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23148030. [PMID: 35887377 PMCID: PMC9318133 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23148030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
3-(1-Naphthalenylmethyl)-1-pentyl-1H-indole (JWH-175) is a synthetic cannabinoid illegally marketed for its psychoactive cannabis-like effects. This study aimed to investigate and compare in vitro and in vivo pharmacodynamic activity of JWH-175 with that of 1-naphthalenyl (1-pentyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-methanone (JWH-018), as well as evaluate the in vitro (human liver microsomes) and in vivo (urine and plasma of CD-1 male mice) metabolic profile of JWH-175. In vitro binding studies showed that JWH-175 is a cannabinoid receptor agonist less potent than JWH-018 on mouse and human CB1 and CB2 receptors. In agreement with in vitro data, JWH-175 reduced the fESPS in brain hippocampal slices of mice less effectively than JWH-018. Similarly, in vivo behavioral studies showed that JWH-175 impaired sensorimotor responses, reduced breath rate and motor activity, and increased pain threshold to mechanical stimuli less potently than JWH-018. Metabolic studies demonstrated that JWH-175 is rapidly bioactivated to JWH-018 in mice blood, suggesting that in vivo effects of JWH-175 are also due to JWH-018 formation. The pharmaco-toxicological profile of JWH-175 was characterized for the first time, proving its in vivo bio-activation to the more potent agonist JWH-018. Thus, it highlighted the great importance of investigating the in vivo metabolism of synthetic cannabinoids for both clinical toxicology and forensic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micaela Tirri
- Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.T.); (R.A.); (S.B.); (G.C.); (B.M.); (F.V.); (R.M.G.); (K.V.); (P.A.B.)
| | - Raffaella Arfè
- Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.T.); (R.A.); (S.B.); (G.C.); (B.M.); (F.V.); (R.M.G.); (K.V.); (P.A.B.)
| | - Sabrine Bilel
- Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.T.); (R.A.); (S.B.); (G.C.); (B.M.); (F.V.); (R.M.G.); (K.V.); (P.A.B.)
| | - Giorgia Corli
- Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.T.); (R.A.); (S.B.); (G.C.); (B.M.); (F.V.); (R.M.G.); (K.V.); (P.A.B.)
| | - Beatrice Marchetti
- Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.T.); (R.A.); (S.B.); (G.C.); (B.M.); (F.V.); (R.M.G.); (K.V.); (P.A.B.)
| | - Anna Fantinati
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Fabrizio Vincenzi
- Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.T.); (R.A.); (S.B.); (G.C.); (B.M.); (F.V.); (R.M.G.); (K.V.); (P.A.B.)
| | - Fabio De-Giorgio
- Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Health Care Surveillance and Bioetics, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy;
- A. Gemelli University Polyclinic Foundation IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Cristian Camuto
- Laboratorio Antidoping FMSI, Largo Giulio Onesti 1, 00197 Rome, Italy; (C.C.); (M.M.); (F.B.)
| | - Monica Mazzarino
- Laboratorio Antidoping FMSI, Largo Giulio Onesti 1, 00197 Rome, Italy; (C.C.); (M.M.); (F.B.)
| | - Mario Barbieri
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Rosa Maria Gaudio
- Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.T.); (R.A.); (S.B.); (G.C.); (B.M.); (F.V.); (R.M.G.); (K.V.); (P.A.B.)
- University Center of Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Katia Varani
- Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.T.); (R.A.); (S.B.); (G.C.); (B.M.); (F.V.); (R.M.G.); (K.V.); (P.A.B.)
| | - Pier Andrea Borea
- Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.T.); (R.A.); (S.B.); (G.C.); (B.M.); (F.V.); (R.M.G.); (K.V.); (P.A.B.)
| | - Francesco Botrè
- Laboratorio Antidoping FMSI, Largo Giulio Onesti 1, 00197 Rome, Italy; (C.C.); (M.M.); (F.B.)
- Institute of Sport Science, University of Lausanne (ISSUL), Synathlon, CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Matteo Marti
- Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.T.); (R.A.); (S.B.); (G.C.); (B.M.); (F.V.); (R.M.G.); (K.V.); (P.A.B.)
- University Center of Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Collaborative Center for the Italian National Early Warning System, Department of Anti-Drug Policies, Presidency of the Council of Ministers, 00186 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence:
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8
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Gilbert N, Costello A, Ellison JR, Khan U, Knight M, Linnell MJ, Ralphs R, Mewis RE, Sutcliffe OB. Synthesis, characterisation, detection and quantification of a novel hexyl-substituted synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist: (S)-N-(1-amino-3,3-dimethyl-1-oxobutan-2-yl)-1-hexyl-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide (ADB-HINACA). Forensic Chem 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forc.2021.100354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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9
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Ametovski A, Cairns EA, Grafinger KE, Cannaert A, Deventer MH, Chen S, Wu X, Shepperson CE, Lai F, Ellison R, Gerona R, Blakey K, Kevin R, McGregor IS, Hibbs DE, Glass M, Stove C, Auwärter V, Banister SD. NNL-3: A Synthetic Intermediate or a New Class of Hydroxybenzotriazole Esters with Cannabinoid Receptor Activity? ACS Chem Neurosci 2021; 12:4020-4036. [PMID: 34676751 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.1c00348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) remain a prolific class of new psychoactive substances (NPS) and continue to expand rapidly. Despite the recent identification of hydroxybenzotriazole (HOBt) containing SCRAs in synthetic cannabis samples, there is currently no information regarding the pharmacological profile of these NPS with respect to human CB1 and CB2 receptors. In the current study, a series consisting of seven HOBt indole-, indazole-, and 7-azaindole-carboxylates bearing a range of N-alkyl substituents were synthesized and pharmacologically evaluated. Competitive binding assays at CB1 and CB2 demonstrated that all analogues except a 2-methyl-substituted derivative had low affinity for CB1 (Ki = 3.80-43.7 μM) and CB2 (Ki = 2.75-18.2 μM). A fluorometric functional assay revealed that 2-methylindole- and indole-derived HOBt carboxylates were potent and efficacious agonists of CB1 (EC50 = 12.0 and 63.7 nM; Emax = 118 and 120%) and CB2 (EC50 = 10.9 and 321 nM; Emax = 91 and 126%). All other analogues incorporating indazole and 7-azaindole cores and bearing a range of N1-substituents showed relatively low potency for CB1 and CB2. Additionally, a reporter assay monitoring β-arrestin 2 (βarr2) recruitment to the receptor revealed that the 2-methylindole example was the most potent and efficacious at CB1 (EC50 = 131 nM; Emax = 724%) and the most potent at CB2 (EC50 = 38.2 nM; Emax = 51%). As with the membrane potential assay, the indazole and other indole HOBt carboxylates were considerably less potent at both receptors, and analogues comprising a 7-azaindole core showed little activity. Taken together, these data suggest that NNL-3 demonstrates little CB1 receptor activity and is unlikely to be psychoactive in humans. NNL-3 is likely an unintended SCRA manufacturing byproduct. However, the synthesis of NNL-3 analogues proved simple and general, and some of these showed potent cannabimetic profiles in vitro, indicating that HOBt esters of this type may represent an emerging class of SCRA NPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Ametovski
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Elizabeth A. Cairns
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Katharina Elisabeth Grafinger
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology, Medical Center University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Annelies Cannaert
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Marie H. Deventer
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Shuli Chen
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
| | - Xinyi Wu
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Caitlin E. Shepperson
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Felcia Lai
- Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2050, Australia
| | - Ross Ellison
- Clinical Toxicology and Environmental Biomonitoring Laboratory, University of California, San Francisco, California 94143, United States
| | - Roy Gerona
- Clinical Toxicology and Environmental Biomonitoring Laboratory, University of California, San Francisco, California 94143, United States
| | - Karen Blakey
- Illicit Drug Group, Forensic Chemistry, QHFSS, Queensland Health, Coopers Plains, Brisbane, QLD 4108, Australia
| | - Richard Kevin
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Iain S. McGregor
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - David E. Hibbs
- Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2050, Australia
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
| | - Christophe Stove
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Volker Auwärter
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology, Medical Center University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Samuel D. Banister
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
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10
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Alam RM, Keating JJ. "Walking the nitrogen around the ring": Chemical synthesis and spectroscopic characterization of novel 4-, 5-, 6-, and 7-azaindazole analogs of the synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist MDMB-PINACA. Drug Test Anal 2021; 14:277-297. [PMID: 34654062 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Over the past decade, synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) have rapidly evolved to encompass a wide range of structurally diverse new psychoactive substances (NPS), including derivatives that incorporate indole, indazole, 7-azaindole, γ-carbolinone, or carbazole heterocyclic scaffolds. The introduction of legislative measures seeking to control the availability of NPS on the recreational drug scene has likely contributed to the continued emergence of novel SCRA analogs, which often evade regulatory control. However, the detection and/or identification of azaindazole-type SCRAs in seized material has not yet been reported (September, 2021). It is plausible that SCRAs bearing a 1,3-disubstituted azaindazole scaffold may possess cannabimimetic activity, given their structural similarity with known indole, indazole, and azaindole SCRAs. In view of these antecedents, a set of four novel isomeric 4-, 5-, 6-, and 7-azaindazole analogs of the known potent indazole SCRA, MDMB-PINACA, were synthesized using a Pd-catalyzed aminocarbonylation strategy. The complementary use of ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) spectroscopy, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), high resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS), 1D- and 2D-nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) has permitted the spectroscopic differentiation, unambiguous structural assignment, and rapid separation of novel isomeric 4-, 5-, 6-, and 7-azaindazole analogs of the indazole SCRA, MDMB-PINACA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan M Alam
- Analytical and Biological Chemistry Research Facility (ABCRF), University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.,School of Chemistry, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - John J Keating
- Analytical and Biological Chemistry Research Facility (ABCRF), University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.,School of Chemistry, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.,School of Pharmacy, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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11
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Andersen HK, Walsh KB. Molecular signaling of synthetic cannabinoids: Comparison of CB1 receptor and TRPV1 channel activation. Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 907:174301. [PMID: 34224700 PMCID: PMC8374946 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.174301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Recreational use of synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) is associated with desirable euphoric and relaxation effects as well as adverse effects including anxiety, agitation and psychosis. These SC-mediated actions represent a combination of potentiated cannabinoid receptor signaling and "off-target" receptor activity. The goal of this study was to compare the efficacy of various classes of SCs in stimulating CB1 receptors and activating "off-target" transient receptor potential (TRP) channels. Cannabinoid-type 1 (CB1) receptor activity was determined by measuring SC activation of G protein-gated inward rectifier K+ (GIRK) channels using a membrane potential-sensitive fluorescent dye assay. SC opening of vanilloid type-1 (TRPV1) channels was measured by recording intracellular Ca2+ transients. All of the SCs tested activated the GIRK channel with an efficacy of 4-fluoro MDMB-BUTINACA > 5-fluoro MDMB-PICA > MDMB-4en-PINACA ≈ WIN 55,212-2 > AB-FUBINACA > AM1220 ≈ JWH-122 N-(5-chloropentyl) > AM1248 > JWH-018 ≈ XLR-11 ≈ UR-144. The potency of the SCs at the CB1 receptor was 5-fluoro MDMB-PICA ≈ 4-fluoro MDMB-BUTINACA > AB-FUBINACA ≈ MDMB-4en-PINACA > JWH-018 > AM1220 > XLR-11 > JWH-122 N-(5-chloropentyl) > WIN 55,212-2 ≈ UR-144 > AM1248. In contrast, when tested at a SC concentration that produced a maximal effect on the Gi/GIRK channel, only XLR-11, UR-144 and AM1220 caused a significant activation of the TRPV1 channels. The TRPV1 channel/Ca2+ signal measured during application of 10 μM XLR-11 was similar to the signal induced by the endocannabinoid N-arachidonoylethanolamine (AEA). Thus, while various SCs share the ability to stimulate CB1 receptor/Gi signaling, they display limited efficacy in opening TRPV1 channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haley K Andersen
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, & Neuroscience, University of South Carolina, School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Kenneth B Walsh
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, & Neuroscience, University of South Carolina, School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA.
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12
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'Synthetic cannabis': A dangerous misnomer. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2021; 98:103396. [PMID: 34343944 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2021.103396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The term 'synthetic cannabis' has been widely used in public discourse to refer to a group of cannabinoid receptor agonists. In this paper we detail the characteristics of these drugs, and present the case that the term is a misnomer. We describe the pharmacodynamics of these drugs, their epidemiology, mechanisms of action, physiological effects and how these differ substantially from delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). We argue that not only is the term a misnomer, but it is one with negative clinical and public health implications. Rather, the substances referred to as 'synthetic cannabis' in public discourse should instead be referred to consistently as synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs), a drug class distinct from plant-derived cannabinoids. SCRAs have greater potency and efficacy, and psychostimulant-like properties. While such terminology may be used in the scientific community, it is not widely used amongst the media, general public, people who use these drugs or may potentially do so. A new terminology has the potential to reduce the confusion and harms that result from the misnomer 'synthetic cannabis'. The constant evolution of this distinct drug class necessitates a range of distinct policy responses relating to terminology, harm reduction, epidemiology, treatment, and legal status.
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13
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Zagzoog A, Brandt AL, Black T, Kim ED, Burkart R, Patel M, Jin Z, Nikolaeva M, Laprairie RB. Assessment of select synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist bias and selectivity between the type 1 and type 2 cannabinoid receptor. Sci Rep 2021; 11:10611. [PMID: 34012003 PMCID: PMC8134483 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-90167-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The first synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) were designed as tool compounds to study the endocannabinoid system's two predominant cannabinoid receptors, CB1R and CB2R. Unfortunately, novel SCRAs now represent the most rapidly proliferating novel psychoactive substances (NPS) of abuse globally. Unlike ∆9-tetrahydrocannabinol, the CB1R and CB2R partial agonist and the intoxicating constituent of Cannabis, many SCRAs characterized to date are full agonists of CB1R. Gaining additional insight into the pharmacological activity of these SCRAs is critical to assess and regulate NPSs as they enter the marketplace. The purpose of this study was to assess select SCRAs recently identified by Canadian police, border service agency, private companies and the illicit market as potential CB1R and CB2R agonists. To this end, fifteen SCRAs were screened for in vitro activity and in silico interactions at CB1R and CB2R. Several SCRAs were identified as being highly biased for cAMP inhibition or βarrestin2 recruitment and receptor subtype selectivity between CB1R and CB2R. The indazole ring and halogen-substituted butyl or pentyl moieties were identified as two structural features that may direct βarrestin2 bias. Two highly-biased SCRAs-JWH-018 2'-napthyl-N-(3-methylbutyl) isomer (biased toward cAMP inhibition) and 4-fluoro MDMB-BINACA (biased toward βarrestin2 recruitment) displayed unique and differential in vivo activity in mice. These data provide initial insight into the correlations between structure, signalling bias, and in vivo activity of the SCRAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayat Zagzoog
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 3B36, Health Sciences Building, 104 Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Asher L Brandt
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 3B36, Health Sciences Building, 104 Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Tallan Black
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 3B36, Health Sciences Building, 104 Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Eunhyun D Kim
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 3B36, Health Sciences Building, 104 Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Riley Burkart
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 3B36, Health Sciences Building, 104 Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Robert B Laprairie
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 3B36, Health Sciences Building, 104 Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada.
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.
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14
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Molecular Mechanisms of Action of Novel Psychoactive Substances (NPS). A New Threat for Young Drug Users with Forensic-Toxicological Implications. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11050440. [PMID: 34068903 PMCID: PMC8156937 DOI: 10.3390/life11050440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Novel psychoactive substances (NPS) represent a severe health risk for drug users. Even though the phenomenon has been growing since the early 2000s, the mechanisms of action of NPS at the receptors and beyond them are still scarcely understood. The aim of the present study was to provide a systematic review of the updated knowledge regarding the molecular mechanisms underlying the toxicity of synthetic opioids, cannabinoids, cathinones, and stimulants. The study was conducted on the PubMed database. Study eligibility criteria included relevance to the topic, English language, and time of publication (2010–2020). A combined Mesh and free-text protocols search was performed. Study selection was performed on the title/abstract and, in doubtful cases, on the full texts of papers. Of the 580 records identified through PubMed searching and reference checking, 307 were excluded by title/abstract and 78 additional papers were excluded after full-text reading, leaving a total of 155 included papers. Molecular mechanisms of synthetic opioids, synthetic cannabinoids, stimulants, psychedelics, and hallucinogens were reviewed and mostly involved both a receptor-mediated and non-receptor mediated cellular modulation with multiple neurotransmitters interactions. The molecular mechanisms underlying the action of NPS are more complex than expected, with a wide range of overlap among activated receptors and neurotransmitter systems. The peculiar action profile of single compounds does not necessarily reflect that of the structural class to which they belong, accounting for possible unexpected toxic reactions.
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15
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Fulo HF, Shoeib A, Cabanlong CV, Williams AH, Zhan CG, Prather PL, Dudley GB. Synthesis, Molecular Pharmacology, and Structure-Activity Relationships of 3-(Indanoyl)indoles as Selective Cannabinoid Type 2 Receptor Antagonists. J Med Chem 2021; 64:6381-6396. [PMID: 33887913 PMCID: PMC8683641 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c00442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic indole cannabinoids characterized by a 2',2'-dimethylindan-5'-oyl group at the indole C3 position constitute a new class of ligands possessing high affinity for human CB2 receptors at a nanomolar concentration and a good selectivity index. Starting from the neutral antagonist 4, the effects of indole core modification on the pharmacodynamic profile of the ligands were investigated. Several N1 side chains afforded potent and CB2-selective neutral antagonists, notably derivatives 26 (R1 = n-propyl, R2 = H) and 35 (R1 = 4-pentynyl, R2 = H). Addition of a methyl group at C2 improved the selectivity for the CB2 receptor. Moreover, C2 indole substitution may control the CB2 activity as shown by the functionality switch in 35 (antagonist) and 49 (R1 = 4-pentynyl, R2 = CH3, partial agonist).
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Affiliation(s)
- Harvey F Fulo
- C. Eugene Bennett Department of Chemistry, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia 26506, United States
| | - Amal Shoeib
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205, United States
| | - Christian V Cabanlong
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205, United States
| | - Alexander H Williams
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, United States
| | - Chang-Guo Zhan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, United States
| | - Paul L Prather
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205, United States
| | - Gregory B Dudley
- C. Eugene Bennett Department of Chemistry, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia 26506, United States
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16
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Bladen C, Mirlohi S, Santiago M, Longworth M, Kassiou M, Banister S, Connor M. Modulation of human T-type calcium channels by synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists in vitro. Neuropharmacology 2021; 187:108478. [PMID: 33600843 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Consumption of Synthetic Cannabinoid Receptor agonists (SCRAs) is associated with severe adverse reactions including seizures, arrhythmias and death, but the molecular mechanisms surrounding SCRA toxicity are not yet established. These disease-like symptoms are also synonymous with altered T-type calcium channel activity which controls rhythmicity in the heart and brain. This study examined whether SCRAs alter T-type activity and whether this represents a possible mechanism of toxicity. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Fluorescence-based and electrophysiology assays were used to screen 16 structurally related synthetic cannabinoids for their ability to inhibit human T-type calcium channels expressed in HEK293 cells. The most potent compounds were then further examined using patch clamp electrophysiology. KEY RESULTS MDMB-CHMICA and AMB-CHMINACA potently blocked Cav3.2 with IC50 values of 1.5 and 0.74 μM respectively. Current inhibition increased from 47 to 80% and 45-87% respectively when the channel was in slow-inactivated state. Both SCRAs had little effect on steady state inactivation, however MDMB-CHMICA significantly shifted the half activation potential by -7mV. Neither drug produced frequency dependent block, in contrast to the phytocannabinoid Δ9-THC. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS SCRAs are potent agonists of CB1 receptors and can be extremely toxic, but observed toxicity also resembles symptoms associated with altered Cav3.2 activity. Many SCRAs tested were potent modulators of Cav3.2, raising the possibility that SC toxicity may be due in part to Cav3.2 modulation. This potent T-type channel modulation suggests the possibility of SCRAs as a new drug class with potential to treat diseases associated with altered T-type channel activity. This article is part of the special issue on 'Cannabinoids'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris Bladen
- Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Somayeh Mirlohi
- Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Marina Santiago
- Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Michael Kassiou
- School of Chemistry, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Sam Banister
- School of Chemistry, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia; The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Mark Connor
- Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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17
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Jiang BE, Jiang X, Zhang Q, Liang Q, Qiu ZL, Sun XB, Yang JJ, Chen S, Yi C, Chai X, Liu M, Yu LF, Lu W, Zhang HK. From a Designer Drug to the Discovery of Selective Cannabinoid Type 2 Receptor Agonists with Favorable Pharmacokinetic Profiles for the Treatment of Systemic Sclerosis. J Med Chem 2020; 64:385-403. [PMID: 33382613 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids, as exemplified by SDB-001 (1), bind to both CB1 and CB2 receptors and exert cannabimimetic effects similar to (-)-trans-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, the main psychoactive component present in the cannabis plant. As CB1 receptor ligands were found to have severe adverse psychiatric effects, increased attention was turned to exploiting the potential therapeutic value of the CB2 receptor. In our efforts to discover novel and selective CB2 receptor agonists, 1 was selected as a starting point for hit molecule identification and a class of 1H-pyrazole-3-carboxamide derivatives were thus designed, synthesized, and biologically evaluated. Systematic structure-activity relationship investigations resulted in the identification of the most promising compound 66 as a selective CB2 receptor agonist with favorable pharmacokinetic profiles. Especially, 66 treatment significantly attenuated dermal inflammation and fibrosis in a bleomycin-induced mouse model of systemic sclerosis, supporting that CB2 receptor agonists might serve as potential therapeutics for treating systemic sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bei-Er Jiang
- Drug Discovery Unit, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, P. R. China.,Navy Medical Research Institute, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P. R. China
| | - Xingwu Jiang
- Drug Discovery Unit, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, P. R. China.,Department of Materials Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, P. R. China
| | - Qiansen Zhang
- Drug Discovery Unit, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, P. R. China
| | - Qiuwen Liang
- Drug Discovery Unit, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, P. R. China
| | - Zi-Liang Qiu
- Drug Discovery Unit, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, P. R. China
| | - Xiang-Bai Sun
- Drug Discovery Unit, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, P. R. China
| | - Jun-Jie Yang
- Drug Discovery Unit, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, P. R. China
| | - Si Chen
- Drug Discovery Unit, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, P. R. China
| | - Chunyang Yi
- Drug Discovery Unit, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, P. R. China
| | - Xiaolei Chai
- Drug Discovery Unit, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, P. R. China
| | - Mingyao Liu
- Drug Discovery Unit, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, P. R. China
| | - Li-Fang Yu
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, 3663 North Zhongshan Road, Shanghai 200062, P. R. China
| | - Weiqiang Lu
- Drug Discovery Unit, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, P. R. China
| | - Han-Kun Zhang
- Drug Discovery Unit, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, P. R. China
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18
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Wu X, Bopp D, Wallgren J, Dahlén J, Konradsson P. Synthesis of nine potential synthetic cannabinoid metabolites with a 5F-4OH pentyl side chain from a scalable key intermediate. SYNTHETIC COMMUN 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/00397911.2020.1854786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiongyu Wu
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Daniel Bopp
- School of Life Sciences, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, Muttenz, Switzerland
| | - Jakob Wallgren
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Johan Dahlén
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Peter Konradsson
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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19
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Patel M, Finlay DB, Glass M. Biased agonism at the cannabinoid receptors - Evidence from synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists. Cell Signal 2020; 78:109865. [PMID: 33259937 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2020.109865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The type 1 and type 2 cannabinoid receptors are G protein-coupled receptors implicated in a variety of physiological processes and diseases. Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) were originally developed to explore the therapeutic benefits of cannabinoid receptor activation, although more recently, these compounds have been diverted to the recreational drug market and are increasingly associated with incidences of toxicity. A prominent concept in contemporary pharmacology is functional selectivity or biased agonism, which describes the ability of ligands to elicit differential activation of signalling pathways through stabilisation of distinct receptor conformations. Biased agonists may maximise drug effectiveness by reducing on-target adverse effects if they are mediated by signalling pathways distinct from those that drive the therapeutic effects. For the cannabinoid receptors, it remains unclear as to which signalling pathways mediate desirable and adverse effects. However, given their structural diversity and potential to induce a plethora of signalling effects, SCRAs provide the most promising prospect for detecting and studying bias at the cannabinoid receptors. This review summarises the emerging evidence of SCRA bias at the cannabinoid receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Patel
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - David B Finlay
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.
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Walsh KB, Andersen HK. Molecular Pharmacology of Synthetic Cannabinoids: Delineating CB1 Receptor-Mediated Cell Signaling. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E6115. [PMID: 32854313 PMCID: PMC7503917 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) are a class of new psychoactive substances (NPSs) that exhibit high affinity binding to the cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors and display a pharmacological profile similar to the phytocannabinoid (-)-trans-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). SCs are marketed under brand names such as K2 and Spice and are popular drugs of abuse among male teenagers and young adults. Since their introduction in the early 2000s, SCs have grown in number and evolved in structural diversity to evade forensic detection and drug scheduling. In addition to their desirable euphoric and antinociceptive effects, SCs can cause severe toxicity including seizures, respiratory depression, cardiac arrhythmias, stroke and psychosis. Binding of SCs to the CB1 receptor, expressed in the central and peripheral nervous systems, stimulates pertussis toxin-sensitive G proteins (Gi/Go) resulting in the inhibition of adenylyl cyclase, a decreased opening of N-type Ca2+ channels and the activation of G protein-gated inward rectifier (GIRK) channels. This combination of signaling effects dampens neuronal activity in both CNS excitatory and inhibitory pathways by decreasing action potential formation and neurotransmitter release. Despite this knowledge, the relationship between the chemical structure of the SCs and their CB1 receptor-mediated molecular actions is not well understood. In addition, the potency and efficacy of newer SC structural groups has not been determined. To address these limitations, various cell-based assay technologies are being utilized to develop structure versus activity relationships (SAR) for the SCs and to explore the effects of these compounds on noncannabinoid receptor targets. This review focuses on describing and evaluating these assays and summarizes our current knowledge of SC molecular pharmacology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth B. Walsh
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Neuroscience, University of South Carolina, School of Medicine, Columbia, SC 29208, USA;
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Luethi D, Liechti ME. Designer drugs: mechanism of action and adverse effects. Arch Toxicol 2020; 94:1085-1133. [PMID: 32249347 PMCID: PMC7225206 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-020-02693-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Psychoactive substances with chemical structures or pharmacological profiles that are similar to traditional drugs of abuse continue to emerge on the recreational drug market. Internet vendors may at least temporarily sell these so-called designer drugs without adhering to legal statutes or facing legal consequences. Overall, the mechanism of action and adverse effects of designer drugs are similar to traditional drugs of abuse. Stimulants, such as amphetamines and cathinones, primarily interact with monoamine transporters and mostly induce sympathomimetic adverse effects. Agonism at μ-opioid receptors and γ-aminobutyric acid-A (GABAA) or GABAB receptors mediates the pharmacological effects of sedatives, which may induce cardiorespiratory depression. Dissociative designer drugs primarily act as N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonists and pose similar health risks as the medically approved dissociative anesthetic ketamine. The cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) receptor is thought to drive the psychoactive effects of synthetic cannabinoids, which are associated with a less desirable effect profile and more severe adverse effects compared with cannabis. Serotonergic 5-hydroxytryptamine-2A (5-HT2A) receptors mediate alterations of perception and cognition that are induced by serotonergic psychedelics. Because of their novelty, designer drugs may remain undetected by routine drug screening, thus hampering evaluations of adverse effects. Intoxication reports suggest that several designer drugs are used concurrently, posing a high risk for severe adverse effects and even death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dino Luethi
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Strasse 13a, 1090, Vienna, Austria.
- Institute of Applied Physics, Vienna University of Technology, Getreidemarkt 9, 1060, Vienna, Austria.
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Schanzenstrasse 55, 4056, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Matthias E Liechti
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Schanzenstrasse 55, 4056, Basel, Switzerland.
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Presley BC, Logan BK, Jansen-Varnum SA. Phase I metabolism of synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist PX-1 (5F-APP-PICA) via incubation with human liver microsomes and UHPLC-HRMS. Biomed Chromatogr 2020; 34:e4786. [PMID: 31863591 DOI: 10.1002/bmc.4786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2019] [Revised: 11/22/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Studies of the metabolic and pharmacological profiles of indole carboxamide synthetic cannabinoids (a prevalent class of new psychoactive substances) are critical in ensuring that their use can be detected through bioanalytical testing. We have determined the in vitro Phase I metabolism of one such compound, PX-1 (5F-APP-PICA), and appropriate markers to demonstrate human consumption. PX-1 was incubated with human liver microsomes, followed by analysis of the extracts via high-resolution mass spectrometry. A total of 10 metabolites were identified, with simultaneous defluorination and monohydroxylation of the pentyl side chain as the primary biotransformation product (M1). Additional metabolites formed were hydroxylation products of the indole and benzyl moieties, distal amide hydrolysis, N-desfluoropentyl, and carboxypentyl metabolites. Three monohydroxylated metabolites specific to PX-1 were identified and are reported for the first time in this study. The primary metabolite, M1, was further oxidized to M5, a carboxypentyl metabolite. M8 is PX-1 specific, possessing an intact fluoropentyl side chain. These three metabolites are the most suitable for implementation into bioanalytical assays for demonstrating PX-1 consumption. The findings of this study can be used by analytical scientists and medical professionals to determine PX-1 ingestion and predict the metabolites of synthetic cannabinoids sharing structural elements.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Barry K Logan
- The Center for Forensic Science Research and Education at the Fredric Rieders Family Foundation, Willow Grove, PA, USA
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Lin H, Zeng X, Wang Q, Li Y, Sun B, Wang Y, Wang H. Identification and imaging of indole-3-carboxamide cannabinoids in hair using matrix-assisted laser-desorption/ionization mass spectrometry. Forensic Toxicol 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s11419-019-00510-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Ong RS, Kappatos DC, Russell SG, Poulsen HA, Banister SD, Gerona RR, Glass M, Johnson CS, McCarthy M. Simultaneous analysis of 29 synthetic cannabinoids and metabolites, amphetamines, and cannabinoids in human whole blood by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry – A New Zealand perspective of use in 2018. Drug Test Anal 2019; 12:195-214. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.2697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2019] [Revised: 09/10/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Rui Shen Ong
- Forensic Toxicology LaboratoryInstitute of Environmental Science and Research Limited (ESR) Porirua New Zealand
| | - Diana C. Kappatos
- Forensic Toxicology LaboratoryInstitute of Environmental Science and Research Limited (ESR) Porirua New Zealand
| | - Sarah G.G. Russell
- Forensic Toxicology LaboratoryInstitute of Environmental Science and Research Limited (ESR) Porirua New Zealand
| | - Helen A. Poulsen
- Forensic Toxicology LaboratoryInstitute of Environmental Science and Research Limited (ESR) Porirua New Zealand
| | - Samuel D. Banister
- Faculty of Science and School of ChemistryThe University of Sydney NSW Australia
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind CentreThe University of Sydney NSW Australia
| | - Roy R. Gerona
- Clinical Toxicology and Environmental Biomonitoring LaboratoryUniversity of California San Francisco CA USA
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology and ToxicologyUniversity of Otago Dunedin New Zealand
| | - Cameron S. Johnson
- Drug Chemistry LaboratoryInstitute of Environmental Science and Research Limited (ESR) Auckland New Zealand
| | - Mary‐Jane McCarthy
- Forensic Toxicology LaboratoryInstitute of Environmental Science and Research Limited (ESR) Porirua New Zealand
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Wouters E, Walraed J, Banister SD, Stove CP. Insights into biased signaling at cannabinoid receptors: synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists. Biochem Pharmacol 2019; 169:113623. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2019.08.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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Moir M, Lane S, Lai F, Connor M, Hibbs DE, Kassiou M. Strategies to develop selective CB2 receptor agonists from indole carboxamide synthetic cannabinoids. Eur J Med Chem 2019; 180:291-309. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2019.07.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Revised: 07/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Sachdev S, Boyd R, Grimsey NL, Santiago M, Connor M. Brodifacoum does not modulate human cannabinoid receptor-mediated hyperpolarization of AtT20 cells or inhibition of adenylyl cyclase in HEK 293 cells. PeerJ 2019; 7:e7733. [PMID: 31579608 PMCID: PMC6765355 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.7733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Synthetic cannabinoids are a commonly used class of recreational drugs that can have significant adverse effects. There have been sporadic reports of co-consumption of illicit drugs with rodenticides such as warfarin and brodifacoum (BFC) over the past 20 years but recently, hundreds of people have been reported to have been poisoned with a mixture of synthetic cannabinoids and BFC. We have sought to establish whether BFC directly affects cannabinoid receptors, or their activation by the synthetic cannabinoid CP55940 or the phytocannabinoid Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC). Methods The effects of BFC on the hyperpolarization of wild type AtT20 cells, or AtT20 cells stably expressing human CB1- or CB2- receptors, were studied using a fluorescent assay of membrane potential. The effect of BFC on CB1- and CB2-mediated inhibition of forskolin-stimulated adenylyl cyclase (AC) activation was measured using a BRET assay of cAMP levels in HEK 293 cells stably expressing human CB1 or CB2. Results BFC did not activate CB1 or CB2 receptors, or affect the hyperpolarization of wild type AtT20 cells produced by somatostatin. BFC (1 µM) did not affect the hyperpolarization of AtT20-CB1 or AtT20-CB2 cells produced by CP55940 or Δ9-THC. BFC (1 µM) did not affect the inhibition of forskolin-stimulated AC activity by CP55940 in HEK 293 cells expressing CB1 or CB2. BFC (1 µM) also failed to affect the desensitization of CB1 and CB2 signaling produced by prolonged (30 min) application of CP55940 or Δ9-THC to AtT20 cells. Discussion BFC is not a cannabinoid receptor agonist, and appeared not to affect cannabinoid receptor activation. Our data suggests there is no pharmacodynamic rationale for mixing BFC with synthetic cannabinoids; however, it does not speak to whether BFC may affect synthetic cannabinoid metabolism or biodistribution. The reasons underlying the mixing of BFC with synthetic cannabinoids are unknown, and it remains to be established whether the “contamination” was deliberate or accidental. However, the consequences for people who ingested the mixture were often serious, and sometimes fatal, but this seems unlikely to be due to BFC action at cannabinoid receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivani Sachdev
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rochelle Boyd
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Cancer Research Unit, Children's Medical Research Institute, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Natasha L Grimsey
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, and Centre for Brain Research School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Marina Santiago
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mark Connor
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Wouters E, Mogler L, Cannaert A, Auwärter V, Stove C. Functional evaluation of carboxy metabolites of synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists featuring scaffolds based on L‐valine or L‐
tert
‐leucine. Drug Test Anal 2019; 11:1183-1191. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.2607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2019] [Revised: 04/20/2019] [Accepted: 04/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Elise Wouters
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical SciencesGhent University Ottergemsesteenweg 460 9000 Ghent Belgium
| | - Lukas Mogler
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology, Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of Freiburg Albertstr. 9 79104 Freiburg Germany
| | - Annelies Cannaert
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical SciencesGhent University Ottergemsesteenweg 460 9000 Ghent Belgium
| | - Volker Auwärter
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Forensic Toxicology, Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of Freiburg Albertstr. 9 79104 Freiburg Germany
| | - Christophe Stove
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical SciencesGhent University Ottergemsesteenweg 460 9000 Ghent Belgium
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Presley BC, Logan BK, Jansen-Varnum SA. In vitro Phase I metabolism of indazole carboxamide synthetic cannabinoid MDMB-CHMINACA via human liver microsome incubation and high-resolution mass spectrometry. Drug Test Anal 2019; 11:1264-1276. [PMID: 31108568 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2019] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids have proliferated over the last decade and have become a major public health and analytical challenge, critically impacting the clinical and forensic communities. Indazole carboxamide class synthetic cannabinoids have been particularly rampant, and exhibit severe toxic effects upon consumption due to their high binding affinity and potency at the cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2 ). MDMB-CHMINACA, methyl 2-[1-(cyclohexylmethyl)-1H-indazole-3-carboxamido]-3,3-dimethylbutanoate, a compound of this chemical class, has been identified in forensic casework and is structurally related to several other synthetic cannabinoids. This study presents the first extensive report on the Phase I metabolic profile of MDMB-CHMINACA, a potent synthetic cannabinoid. The in vitro metabolism of MDMB-CHMINACA was determined via incubation with human liver microsomes and high-resolution mass spectrometry. The accurate masses of precursor and fragments, mass error (ppm), and chemical formula were obtained for each metabolite. Twenty-seven metabolites were identified, encompassing twelve metabolite types. The major biotransformations observed were hydroxylation and ester hydrolysis. Hydroxylations were located predominantly on the cyclohexylmethyl (CHM) moiety. Ester hydrolysis was followed by additional biotransformations, including dehydrogenation; mono- and dihydroxylation and ketone formation, each with dehydrogenation. Minor metabolites were identified and reported. The authors propose that CHM-monohydroxylated metabolites specific to MDMB-CHMINACA are the most suitable candidates for implementation into bioanalytical assays to demonstrate consumption of this synthetic cannabinoid. Due to the structural similarity of MDMB-CHMINACA and currently trending synthetic cannabinoids whose metabolic profiles have not been reported, the results of this study can be used as a guide to predict their metabolic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon C Presley
- Temple University Department of Chemistry, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Barry K Logan
- The Center for Forensic Science Research and Education at the Fredric Rieders Family Foundation, Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Susan A Jansen-Varnum
- Temple University Department of Chemistry, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
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Kallinen A, Boyd R, Lane S, Bhalla R, Mardon K, Stimson DHR, Werry EL, Fulton R, Connor M, Kassiou M. Synthesis and in vitro evaluation of fluorine-18 benzimidazole sulfones as CB2 PET-radioligands. Org Biomol Chem 2019; 17:5086-5098. [PMID: 31070218 DOI: 10.1039/c9ob00656g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoid type 2 receptor (CB2) is up-regulated on activated microglial cells and can potentially be used as a biomarker for PET-imaging of neuroinflammation. In this study the synthesis and pharmacological evaluation of novel fluorinated pyridyl and ethyl sulfone analogues of 2-(tert-butyl)-5-((2-fluoropyridin-4-yl)sulfonyl)-1-(2-methylpentyl)-1H-benzo[d]imidazole (rac-1a) are described. In general, the ligands showed low nanomolar potency (CB2 EC50 < 10 nM) and excellent selectivity over the CB1 subtype (>10 000×). Selected ligands 1d, 1e, 1g and 3l showing high CB2 binding affinity (Ki < 10 nM) were radiolabelled with fluorine-18 from chloropyridyl and alkyl tosylate precursors with good to high isolated radioactive yields (25-44%, non-decay corrected, at the end of synthesis). CB2-specific binding of the radioligand candidates [18F]-1d and [18F]-3l was assessed on rat spleen cryosections using in vitro autoradiography. The results warrant further in vivo evaluation of the tracer candidates as prospective CB2 PET-imaging agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annukka Kallinen
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia.
| | - Rochelle Boyd
- Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Samuel Lane
- Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia
| | - Rajiv Bhalla
- The Centre for Advanced Imaging, The University of Queensland, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Karine Mardon
- The Centre for Advanced Imaging, The University of Queensland, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Damion H R Stimson
- The Centre for Advanced Imaging, The University of Queensland, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Eryn L Werry
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia.
| | - Roger Fulton
- Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia
| | - Mark Connor
- Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Michael Kassiou
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia.
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Cannaert A, Vandeputte M, Wille SMR, Stove CP. Activity-based reporter assays for the screening of abused substances in biological matrices. Crit Rev Toxicol 2019; 49:95-109. [DOI: 10.1080/10408444.2019.1576588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Annelies Cannaert
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Toxicology, National Institute of Criminalistics and Criminology, Federal Public Service Justice, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marthe Vandeputte
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Sarah M. R. Wille
- Department of Toxicology, National Institute of Criminalistics and Criminology, Federal Public Service Justice, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Christophe P. Stove
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Gamage TF, Farquhar CE, McKinnie RJ, Kevin RC, McGregor IS, Trudell ML, Wiley JL, Thomas BF. Synthetic Cannabinoid Hydroxypentyl Metabolites Retain Efficacy at Human Cannabinoid Receptors. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2019; 368:414-422. [PMID: 30552295 PMCID: PMC6374541 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.118.254425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 12/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) are novel psychoactive substances that are easily acquired, widely abused as a substitute for cannabis, and associated with cardiotoxicity and seizures. Although the structural bases of these compounds are scaffolds with known affinity and efficacy at the human cannabinoid type-1 receptor (hCB1), upon ingestion or inhalation they can be metabolized to multiple chemical entities of unknown pharmacological activity. A large proportion of these metabolites are hydroxylated on the pentyl chain, a key substituent that determines receptor affinity and selectivity. Thus, the pharmacology of SC metabolites may be an important component in understanding the in vivo effects of SCs. We examined nine SCs (AB-PINACA, 5F-AB-PINACA, ADB/MDMB-PINACA, 5F-ADB, 5F-CUMYL-PINACA, AMB-PINACA, 5F-AMB, APINACA, and 5F-APINACA) and their hydroxypentyl (either 4-OH or 5-OH) metabolites in [3H]CP55,940 receptor binding and the [35S]GTPγS functional assay to determine the extent to which these metabolites retain activity at cannabinoid receptors. All of the SCs tested exhibited high affinity (<10 nM) and efficacy for hCB1 and hCB2 The majority of the hydroxypentyl metabolites retained full efficacy at hCB1 and hCB2, albeit with reduced affinity and potency, and exhibited greater binding selectivity for hCB2 These data suggest that phase I metabolites may be contributing to the in vivo pharmacology and toxicology of abused SCs. Considering this and previous reports demonstrating that metabolites retain efficacy at the hCB1 receptor, the full pharmacokinetic profiles of the parent compounds and their metabolites need to be considered in terms of the pharmacological effects and time course associated with these drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas F Gamage
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (T.F.G., C.E.F., J.L.W., B.F.T.); Department of Chemistry, University of New Orleans, New Orleans, Louisiana (R.J.M., M.L.T.); and School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia (R.C.K., I.S.M.)
| | - Charlotte E Farquhar
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (T.F.G., C.E.F., J.L.W., B.F.T.); Department of Chemistry, University of New Orleans, New Orleans, Louisiana (R.J.M., M.L.T.); and School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia (R.C.K., I.S.M.)
| | - Ryan J McKinnie
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (T.F.G., C.E.F., J.L.W., B.F.T.); Department of Chemistry, University of New Orleans, New Orleans, Louisiana (R.J.M., M.L.T.); and School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia (R.C.K., I.S.M.)
| | - Richard C Kevin
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (T.F.G., C.E.F., J.L.W., B.F.T.); Department of Chemistry, University of New Orleans, New Orleans, Louisiana (R.J.M., M.L.T.); and School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia (R.C.K., I.S.M.)
| | - Iain S McGregor
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (T.F.G., C.E.F., J.L.W., B.F.T.); Department of Chemistry, University of New Orleans, New Orleans, Louisiana (R.J.M., M.L.T.); and School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia (R.C.K., I.S.M.)
| | - Mark L Trudell
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (T.F.G., C.E.F., J.L.W., B.F.T.); Department of Chemistry, University of New Orleans, New Orleans, Louisiana (R.J.M., M.L.T.); and School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia (R.C.K., I.S.M.)
| | - Jenny L Wiley
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (T.F.G., C.E.F., J.L.W., B.F.T.); Department of Chemistry, University of New Orleans, New Orleans, Louisiana (R.J.M., M.L.T.); and School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia (R.C.K., I.S.M.)
| | - Brian F Thomas
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (T.F.G., C.E.F., J.L.W., B.F.T.); Department of Chemistry, University of New Orleans, New Orleans, Louisiana (R.J.M., M.L.T.); and School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia (R.C.K., I.S.M.)
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Longworth M, Reekie TA, Blakey K, Boyd R, Connor M, Kassiou M. New-generation azaindole-adamantyl-derived synthetic cannabinoids. Forensic Toxicol 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s11419-019-00466-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Noble C, Cannaert A, Linnet K, Stove CP. Application of an activity‐based receptor bioassay to investigate the in vitro activity of selected indole‐ and indazole‐3‐carboxamide‐based synthetic cannabinoids at CB1 and CB2 receptors. Drug Test Anal 2018; 11:501-511. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.2517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2018] [Revised: 09/27/2018] [Accepted: 09/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Noble
- Section of Forensic Chemistry, Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical SciencesUniversity of Copenhagen Frederik V's Vej 11 2100 Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Annelies Cannaert
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical SciencesGhent University Ottergemsesteenweg 460 9000 Ghent Belgium
- Laboratory of ToxicologyNational Institute of Criminalistics and Criminology Vilvoordsesteenweg 100 1120 Brussels Belgium
| | - Kristian Linnet
- Section of Forensic Chemistry, Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical SciencesUniversity of Copenhagen Frederik V's Vej 11 2100 Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Christophe P. Stove
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical SciencesGhent University Ottergemsesteenweg 460 9000 Ghent Belgium
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Cordeiro SK, Daro RC, Seung H, Klein-Schwartz W, Kim HK. Evolution of clinical characteristics and outcomes of synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist exposure in the United States: analysis of National Poison Data System data from 2010 to 2015. Addiction 2018; 113:1850-1861. [PMID: 29806885 DOI: 10.1111/add.14281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2017] [Revised: 01/22/2018] [Accepted: 05/23/2018] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS New synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) are synthesized each year to evade US governmental regulation and sold for recreational use. Our aim was to estimate the changes in the clinical effects and patient disposition associated with SCRA exposure from 2010 to 2015. DESIGN A retrospective observational cohort study. SETTING National Poison Data System that collects data on reports of poisonings from US poison centers. PARTICIPANTS A total of 19 388 isolated SCRA cases between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2015 were identified. The mean age was 24.6 years and 77.8% were male. MEASUREMENTS Primary outcome was the change in the trend of patient disposition, i.e. treated and released versus hospitalization (e.g. non-critical care, critical care unit or psychiatry) between 2010 and 2015. Secondary outcomes included the trends in the clinical effects and their duration, and therapeutic interventions nationally and regionally. FINDINGS Reports of SCRA exposure peaked in 2011 (n = 5305) and 2015 (n = 5475). The majority of patients required supportive care and were treated and released from an emergency department. Hospitalization increased by annual percentage change in the log odds (APCO) of 21.0% (P < 0.0001) during the 6 years, with significant increases in admissions to critical care units and non-critical care units. Overall, tachycardia (32.1%), agitation/irritation (25.6%) and drowsiness/lethargy (20.4%) were the most frequently reported clinical effects from SCRA exposure. Clinical effects resolved within 2-8 hours in 52.8% of cases, but their duration increased markedly by 2015. Regionally, the largest number of SCRA cases was reported in the South (n = 9374, 48.6%). SCRA cases in the Northeast were hospitalized more frequently (27.4%), with cases in the Midwest being admitted more frequently to critical care units (15.3%). However, there were no significant differences in clinical toxicity or disposition among the regions. CONCLUSION Hospitalization resulting from toxicity from synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists exposure in the United States increased significantly between 2010 and 2015.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel K Cordeiro
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ryan C Daro
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Hyunuk Seung
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Wendy Klein-Schwartz
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Maryland Poison Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Hong K Kim
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Maryland Poison Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Banister SD, Connor M. The Chemistry and Pharmacology of Synthetic Cannabinoid Receptor Agonist New Psychoactive Substances: Evolution. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2018; 252:191-226. [PMID: 30105473 DOI: 10.1007/164_2018_144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) are the largest and most structurally diverse class of new psychoactive substances (NPS). Although the earliest SCRA NPS were simply repurposed from historical academic manuscripts or pharmaceutical patents describing cannabinoid ligands, recent examples bear hallmarks of rational design. SCRA NPS manufacturers have applied traditional medicinal chemistry strategies (such as molecular hybridization, bioisosteric replacement, and scaffold hopping) to existing cannabinoid templates in order to generate new molecules that circumvent structure-based legislation. Most SCRAs potently activate cannabinoid type 1 and type 2 receptors (CB1 and CB2, respectively), with the former contributing to the psychoactivity of these substances. SCRAs are generally more toxic than the Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) found in cannabis, and this may be due to ligand bias, metabolism, or off-target activity. This chapter will chart the evolution of recently identified SCRA NPS chemotypes, as well as their putative manufacturing by-products and thermolytic degradants, and describe structure-activity relationships within each class.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel D Banister
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Mark Connor
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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