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Carrascosa AJ, García-Gutiérrez MS, Saldaña R, Manzanares J. Additive antinociceptive action of intrathecal anandamide reuptake inhibitor and morphine in the management of post-incisional pain in rats. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 177:117054. [PMID: 38943991 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.117054] [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: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Spinal opioids have mixed efficacy and their adverse effects force treatment cessation of postoperative pain. Consequently, there is an ongoing search for new therapeutic strategies. Here, we evaluated the analgesic efficacy of intrathecal UCM707, an anandamide reuptake inhibitor, and morphine combination. Firstly, we assessed the effects of morphine (1, 5 and 10 μg), UCM707 (75 μg) and its combination in the hot plate. Then, morphine + UCM707 at sub-effective doses was evaluated in a rat post-incisional pain model. In addition, μ-, CB1r-, CB2r- and TRPV1-antagonists were pre-administered before the combination. Activation of μ-opioid and CB1r, and Cnr1, Cnr2, Oprm1 and TRPV1 expressions were evaluated in the lumbar sacra and periaqueductal grey by [35 S]-GTPγS binding autoradiography and qPCR studies. In the hot plate, morphine (1 μg) and UCM707 (75 μg) induced a more robust analgesic effect than each drug alone. Morphine plus UCM707 did not modify μ-opioid nor CB1 receptor function in the PAG or LS. Cnr1 and TRPV1 expression increased in the lumbar sacra (LS). Morphine plus UCM707 significantly reduced post-incisional pain at 1 and 4 days after surgery. Cnr1, Cnr2 and TRPV1 expressions increased in the LS. Blockade of μ-opioid receptor reduced combination effects on days 1 and 4. CB1r- and CB2r-antagonism reduced morphine + UCM707 effects on days 1 and 4, respectively. CB1r and TRPV1-antagonism improved their antinociceptive effects on day 4. These results revealed a synergistic/additive analgesic effect of UCM707 and morphine combination controlling postincisional pain. CB1r, CB2r and TRPV1 contribute differently as central sensitization occurs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio J Carrascosa
- Department of Anesthesiology, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - María S García-Gutiérrez
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Campus de San Juan, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, San Juan de Alicante, Alicante, Spain; Red de Investigación en Atención Primaria de Adicciones, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL), Alicante, Spain
| | - Raquel Saldaña
- Department of Anesthesiology, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jorge Manzanares
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Campus de San Juan, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, San Juan de Alicante, Alicante, Spain; Red de Investigación en Atención Primaria de Adicciones, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL), Alicante, Spain.
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Carrascosa AJ, Navarrete F, Saldaña R, García-Gutiérrez MS, Montalbán B, Navarro D, Gómez-Guijarro FM, Gasparyan A, Murcia-Sánchez E, Torregrosa AB, Pérez-Doblado P, Gutiérrez L, Manzanares J. Cannabinoid Analgesia in Postoperative Pain Management: From Molecular Mechanisms to Clinical Reality. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6268. [PMID: 38892456 PMCID: PMC11172912 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25116268] [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: 04/26/2024] [Revised: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Postoperative pain (POP) is a challenging clinical phenomenon that affects the majority of surgical patients and demands effective management to mitigate adverse outcomes such as persistent pain. The primary goal of POP management is to alleviate suffering and facilitate a seamless return to normal function for the patient. Despite compelling evidence of its drawbacks, opioid analgesia remains the basis of POP treatment. Novel therapeutic approaches rely on multimodal analgesia, integrating different pharmacological strategies to optimize efficacy while minimizing adverse effects. The recognition of the imperative role of the endocannabinoid system in pain regulation has prompted the investigation of cannabinoid compounds as a new therapeutic avenue. Cannabinoids may serve as adjuvants, enhancing the analgesic effects of other drugs and potentially replacing or at least reducing the dependence on other long-term analgesics in pain management. This narrative review succinctly summarizes pertinent information on the molecular mechanisms, clinical therapeutic benefits, and considerations associated with the plausible use of various cannabinoid compounds in treating POP. According to the available evidence, cannabinoid compounds modulate specific molecular mechanisms intimately involved in POP. However, only two of the eleven clinical trials that evaluated the efficacy of different cannabinoid interventions showed positive results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio J. Carrascosa
- Servicio de Anestesiologia y Reanimación, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Avda. Córdoba s/n, 28041 Madrid, Spain; (A.J.C.); (R.S.); (B.M.); (F.M.G.-G.); (E.M.-S.); (P.P.-D.)
| | - Francisco Navarrete
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Avda de Ramón y Cajal s/n, San Juan de Alicante, 03550 Alicante, Spain; (F.N.); (M.S.G.-G.); (D.N.); (A.G.); (A.B.T.); (L.G.)
- Redes de Investigación Cooperativa Orientada a Resultados en Salud (RICORS), Red de Investigación en Atención Primaria de Adicciones (RIAPAd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL), 03010 Alicante, Spain
| | - Raquel Saldaña
- Servicio de Anestesiologia y Reanimación, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Avda. Córdoba s/n, 28041 Madrid, Spain; (A.J.C.); (R.S.); (B.M.); (F.M.G.-G.); (E.M.-S.); (P.P.-D.)
| | - María S. García-Gutiérrez
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Avda de Ramón y Cajal s/n, San Juan de Alicante, 03550 Alicante, Spain; (F.N.); (M.S.G.-G.); (D.N.); (A.G.); (A.B.T.); (L.G.)
- Redes de Investigación Cooperativa Orientada a Resultados en Salud (RICORS), Red de Investigación en Atención Primaria de Adicciones (RIAPAd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL), 03010 Alicante, Spain
| | - Belinda Montalbán
- Servicio de Anestesiologia y Reanimación, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Avda. Córdoba s/n, 28041 Madrid, Spain; (A.J.C.); (R.S.); (B.M.); (F.M.G.-G.); (E.M.-S.); (P.P.-D.)
| | - Daniela Navarro
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Avda de Ramón y Cajal s/n, San Juan de Alicante, 03550 Alicante, Spain; (F.N.); (M.S.G.-G.); (D.N.); (A.G.); (A.B.T.); (L.G.)
- Redes de Investigación Cooperativa Orientada a Resultados en Salud (RICORS), Red de Investigación en Atención Primaria de Adicciones (RIAPAd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL), 03010 Alicante, Spain
| | - Fernando M. Gómez-Guijarro
- Servicio de Anestesiologia y Reanimación, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Avda. Córdoba s/n, 28041 Madrid, Spain; (A.J.C.); (R.S.); (B.M.); (F.M.G.-G.); (E.M.-S.); (P.P.-D.)
| | - Ani Gasparyan
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Avda de Ramón y Cajal s/n, San Juan de Alicante, 03550 Alicante, Spain; (F.N.); (M.S.G.-G.); (D.N.); (A.G.); (A.B.T.); (L.G.)
- Redes de Investigación Cooperativa Orientada a Resultados en Salud (RICORS), Red de Investigación en Atención Primaria de Adicciones (RIAPAd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL), 03010 Alicante, Spain
| | - Elena Murcia-Sánchez
- Servicio de Anestesiologia y Reanimación, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Avda. Córdoba s/n, 28041 Madrid, Spain; (A.J.C.); (R.S.); (B.M.); (F.M.G.-G.); (E.M.-S.); (P.P.-D.)
| | - Abraham B. Torregrosa
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Avda de Ramón y Cajal s/n, San Juan de Alicante, 03550 Alicante, Spain; (F.N.); (M.S.G.-G.); (D.N.); (A.G.); (A.B.T.); (L.G.)
- Redes de Investigación Cooperativa Orientada a Resultados en Salud (RICORS), Red de Investigación en Atención Primaria de Adicciones (RIAPAd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL), 03010 Alicante, Spain
| | - Paloma Pérez-Doblado
- Servicio de Anestesiologia y Reanimación, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Avda. Córdoba s/n, 28041 Madrid, Spain; (A.J.C.); (R.S.); (B.M.); (F.M.G.-G.); (E.M.-S.); (P.P.-D.)
| | - Luisa Gutiérrez
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Avda de Ramón y Cajal s/n, San Juan de Alicante, 03550 Alicante, Spain; (F.N.); (M.S.G.-G.); (D.N.); (A.G.); (A.B.T.); (L.G.)
- Redes de Investigación Cooperativa Orientada a Resultados en Salud (RICORS), Red de Investigación en Atención Primaria de Adicciones (RIAPAd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL), 03010 Alicante, Spain
| | - Jorge Manzanares
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Avda de Ramón y Cajal s/n, San Juan de Alicante, 03550 Alicante, Spain; (F.N.); (M.S.G.-G.); (D.N.); (A.G.); (A.B.T.); (L.G.)
- Redes de Investigación Cooperativa Orientada a Resultados en Salud (RICORS), Red de Investigación en Atención Primaria de Adicciones (RIAPAd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL), 03010 Alicante, Spain
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Kouznetsov VV. Exploring acetaminophen prodrugs and hybrids: a review. RSC Adv 2024; 14:9691-9715. [PMID: 38525062 PMCID: PMC10958773 DOI: 10.1039/d4ra00365a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
This critical review highlights the advances in developing new molecules for treating pain syndrome, an important issue for human health. Acetaminophen (APAP, known as paracetamol) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used in clinical practice despite their adverse effects. Research is being conducted to develop innovative drugs with improved pharmaceutical properties to mitigate these effects. A more practical way to achieve that is to study well-known and time-tested drugs in their molecular combinations. Accordingly, the present work explores APAP and their combined chemical entities, i.e., prodrugs (soft drugs), codrugs (mutual prodrugs), and hybrids. Due to their molecular structure, APAP prodrugs or codrugs could be considered merged or conjugated hybrids; all these names are very fluid terms. This article proposed a structural classification of these entities to better analyze their advances. So, the following: carrier-linked O-modified APAP, -linked N-modified APAP derivatives (prodrugs), and direct- and spacer-N,O-linked APAP hybrids (codrugs) are the central parts of this review and are examined, especially ester and amide NSAID-APAP molecules. The C-linked APAP and nitric oxide (NO)-releasing APAP hybrids were also briefly discussed. Prime examples of APAP-based drugs such as propacetamol, benorylate, acetaminosalol, nitroparacetamol, and agent JNJ-10450232 weave well into this classification. The proposed classification is the first and original, giving a better understanding of the SAR studies for new pain relievers research and the design development for the analgesic APAP-(or NSAID)-based compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir V Kouznetsov
- Laboratorio de Química Orgánica y Biomolecular, Escuela de Química, Universidad Industrial de Santander Cl. 9 # Cra 27 A.A. 680006 Bucaramanga Colombia
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Demartini C, Greco R, Zanaboni AM, Francavilla M, Facchetti S, Tassorelli C. URB937 Prevents the Development of Mechanical Allodynia in Male Rats with Trigeminal Neuralgia. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1626. [PMID: 38004491 PMCID: PMC10675761 DOI: 10.3390/ph16111626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids are proposed for alleviating neuropathic pain, but their use is limited by cannabimimetic side effects. The inhibition of the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), the degrading enzyme of the endocannabinoid anandamide, has received attention as an alternative to cannabinoids in the treatment of neuropathic pain. Here, we investigated the effect of URB937, a blood-brain barrier impermeant FAAH inhibitor, on experimentally induced mechanical allodynia in an animal model of trigeminal neuralgia. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to chronic constriction injury of the infraorbital nerve (IoN-CCI); operated animals were treated sub-chronically with URB937 (1 mg/kg, i.p.) or vehicle before or after trigeminal mechanical allodynia establishment. We also assayed mRNA expression levels of the pain neuropeptide calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and cytokines in the medulla, cervical spinal cord, and trigeminal ganglion ipsilateral to IoN-CCI using rt-PCR. URB937 treatment prevented the development of mechanical allodynia and IoN-CCI-induced changes in mRNA expression levels of CGRP and cytokines in the evaluated areas. When administered after allodynia development, URB937 prevented IoN-CCI-induced changes in CGRP and cytokine gene expression; this was not associated with a significant abrogation of the mechanical allodynia. These findings suggest that URB937 may counteract, but not reverse, the development of allodynia in trigeminal neuralgia. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Demartini
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Via Bassi 21, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (A.M.Z.); (M.F.); (C.T.)
- Section of Translational Neurovascular Research, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (R.G.); (S.F.)
| | - Rosaria Greco
- Section of Translational Neurovascular Research, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (R.G.); (S.F.)
| | - Anna Maria Zanaboni
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Via Bassi 21, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (A.M.Z.); (M.F.); (C.T.)
- Section of Translational Neurovascular Research, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (R.G.); (S.F.)
| | - Miriam Francavilla
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Via Bassi 21, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (A.M.Z.); (M.F.); (C.T.)
- Section of Translational Neurovascular Research, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (R.G.); (S.F.)
| | - Sara Facchetti
- Section of Translational Neurovascular Research, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (R.G.); (S.F.)
| | - Cristina Tassorelli
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Via Bassi 21, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (A.M.Z.); (M.F.); (C.T.)
- Section of Translational Neurovascular Research, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (R.G.); (S.F.)
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Cannabinoids Transmogrify Cancer Metabolic Phenotype via Epigenetic Reprogramming and a Novel CBD Biased G Protein-Coupled Receptor Signaling Platform. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15041030. [PMID: 36831374 PMCID: PMC9954791 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15041030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The concept of epigenetic reprogramming predicts long-term functional health effects. This reprogramming can be activated by exogenous or endogenous insults, leading to altered healthy and different disease states. The exogenous or endogenous changes that involve developing a roadmap of epigenetic networking, such as drug components on epigenetic imprinting and restoring epigenome patterns laid down during embryonic development, are paramount to establishing youthful cell type and health. This epigenetic landscape is considered one of the hallmarks of cancer. The initiation and progression of cancer are considered to involve epigenetic abnormalities and genetic alterations. Cancer epigenetics have shown extensive reprogramming of every component of the epigenetic machinery in cancer development, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, nucleosome positioning, non-coding RNAs, and microRNA expression. Endocannabinoids are natural lipid molecules whose levels are regulated by specific biosynthetic and degradative enzymes. They bind to and activate two primary cannabinoid receptors, type 1 (CB1) and type 2 (CB2), and together with their metabolizing enzymes, form the endocannabinoid system. This review focuses on the role of cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 signaling in activating numerous receptor tyrosine kinases and Toll-like receptors in the induction of epigenetic landscape alterations in cancer cells, which might transmogrify cancer metabolism and epigenetic reprogramming to a metastatic phenotype. Strategies applied from conception could represent an innovative epigenetic target for preventing and treating human cancer. Here, we describe novel cannabinoid-biased G protein-coupled receptor signaling platforms (GPCR), highlighting putative future perspectives in this field.
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On the Biomedical Properties of Endocannabinoid Degradation and Reuptake Inhibitors: Pre-clinical and Clinical Evidence. Neurotox Res 2021; 39:2072-2097. [PMID: 34741755 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-021-00424-z] [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: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is composed of endogenous cannabinoids; components involved in their synthesis, transport, and degradation; and an expansive variety of cannabinoid receptors. Hypofunction or deregulation of the ECS is related to pathological conditions. Consequently, endogenous enhancement of endocannabinoid levels and/or regulation of their metabolism represent promising therapeutic approaches. Several major strategies have been suggested for the modulation of the ECS: (1) blocking endocannabinoids degradation, (2) inhibition of endocannabinoid cellular uptake, and (3) pharmacological modulation of cannabinoid receptors as potential therapeutic targets. Here, we focused in this review on degradation/reuptake inhibitors over cannabinoid receptor modulators in order to provide an updated synopsis of contemporary evidence advancing mechanisms of endocannabinoids as pharmacological tools with therapeutic properties for the treatment of several disorders. For this purpose, we revisited the available literature and reported the latest advances regarding the biomedical properties of fatty acid amide hydrolase and monoacylglycerol lipase inhibitors in pre-clinical and clinical studies. We also highlighted anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol reuptake inhibitors with promising results in pre-clinical studies using in vitro and animal models as an outlook for future research in clinical trials.
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Hashiesh HM, Sharma C, Goyal SN, Sadek B, Jha NK, Kaabi JA, Ojha S. A focused review on CB2 receptor-selective pharmacological properties and therapeutic potential of β-caryophyllene, a dietary cannabinoid. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 140:111639. [PMID: 34091179 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111639] [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: 12/24/2020] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS), a conserved physiological system emerged as a novel pharmacological target for its significant role and potential therapeutic benefits ranging from neurological diseases to cancer. Among both, CB1 and CB2R types, CB2R have received attention for its pharmacological effects as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and antiapoptotic that can be achieved without causing psychotropic adverse effects through CB1R. The ligands activate CB2R are of endogenous, synthetic and plant origin. In recent years, β-caryophyllene (BCP), a natural bicyclic sesquiterpene in cannabis as well as non-cannabis plants, has received attention due to its selective agonist property on CB2R. BCP has been well studied in a variety of pathological conditions mediating CB2R selective agonist property. The focus of the present manuscript is to represent the CB2R selective agonist mediated pharmacological mechanisms and therapeutic potential of BCP. The present narrative review summarizes insights into the CB2R-selective pharmacological properties and therapeutic potential of BCP such as cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, nephroprotective, gastroprotective, chemopreventive, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulator. The available evidences suggest that BCP, can be an important candidate of plant origin endowed with CB2R selective properties that may provide a pharmacological rationale for its pharmacotherapeutic application and pharmaceutical development like a drug. Additionally, given the wide availability in edible plants and dietary use, with safety, and no toxicity, BCP can be promoted as a nutraceutical and functional food for general health and well-being. Further, studies are needed to explore pharmacological and pharmaceutical opportunities for therapeutic and preventive applications of use of BCP in human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hebaallah Mamdouh Hashiesh
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, P.O. Box 17666, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Charu Sharma
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, P.O. Box 17666, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Sameer N Goyal
- Shri Vile Parle Kelvani Mandal's Institute of Pharmacy, Dhule 424001, Maharashtra, India
| | - Bassem Sadek
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, P.O. Box 17666, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Niraj Kumar Jha
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Engineering & Technology, Sharda University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh 201310, India
| | - Juma Al Kaabi
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, P.O. Box 17666, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shreesh Ojha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, P.O. Box 17666, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates; Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, P.O. Box 17666, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates.
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Inhibitory effect of intrathecally administered AM404, an endocannabinoid reuptake inhibitor, on neuropathic pain in a rat chronic constriction injury model. Pharmacol Rep 2021; 73:820-827. [PMID: 33783763 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-021-00250-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The endocannabinoid system modulates a wide variety of pain conditions. Systemically administered AM404, an endocannabinoid reuptake inhibitor, exerts antinociceptive effects via activation of the endocannabinoid system. However, the mechanism and site of AM404 action are not fully understood. Here, we explored the effect of AM404 on neuropathic pain at the site of the spinal cord. METHODS Male Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to chronic constriction injury (CCI) of the sciatic nerve. The effects of intrathecal administration of AM404 on mechanical and cold hyperalgesia were examined using the electronic von Frey test and cold plate test, respectively. Motor coordination was assessed using the rotarod test. To understand the mechanisms underlying the action of AM404, we tested the effects of pretreatment with the cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) receptor antagonist AM251, CB2 receptor antagonist AM630, and transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 (TRPV1) antagonist capsazepine. RESULTS AM404 attenuated mechanical and cold hyperalgesia with minimal effects on motor coordination. AM251 significantly inhibited the antihyperalgesic action of AM404, whereas capsazepine showed a potentiating effect. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that AM404 exerts antihyperalgesic effects primarily via CB1, but not CB2, receptor activation at the site of the spinal cord. TRPV1 receptors appear to play a pronociceptive role in CCI rats. The endocannabinoid reuptake inhibitor may be a promising candidate treatment for neuropathic pain.
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Ayoub SS. Paracetamol (acetaminophen): A familiar drug with an unexplained mechanism of action. Temperature (Austin) 2021; 8:351-371. [PMID: 34901318 PMCID: PMC8654482 DOI: 10.1080/23328940.2021.1886392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Paracetamol (acetaminophen) is undoubtedly one of the most widely used drugs worldwide. As an over-the-counter medication, paracetamol is the standard and first-line treatment for fever and acute pain and is believed to remain so for many years to come. Despite being in clinical use for over a century, the precise mechanism of action of this familiar drug remains a mystery. The oldest and most prevailing theory on the mechanism of analgesic and antipyretic actions of paracetamol relates to the inhibition of CNS cyclooxygenase (COX) enzyme activities, with conflicting views on the COX isoenzyme/variant targeted by paracetamol and on the nature of the molecular interactions with these enzymes. Paracetamol has been proposed to selectively inhibit COX-2 by working as a reducing agent, despite the fact that in vitro screens demonstrate low potency on the inhibition of COX-1 and COX-2. In vivo data from COX-1 transgenic mice suggest that paracetamol works through inhibition of a COX-1 variant enzyme to mediate its analgesic and particularly thermoregulatory actions (antipyresis and hypothermia). A separate line of research provides evidence on potentiation of the descending inhibitory serotonergic pathway to mediate the analgesic action of paracetamol, but with no evidence of binding to serotonergic molecules. AM404 as a metabolite for paracetamol has been proposed to activate the endocannabinoid and the transient receptor potential vanilloid-1 (TRPV1) systems. The current review gives an update and in some cases challenges the different theories on the pharmacology of paracetamol and raises questions on some of the inadequately explored actions of paracetamol. List of Abbreviations: AM404, N-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-arachidonamide; CB1R, Cannabinoid receptor-1; Cmax, Maximum concentration; CNS, Central nervous system; COX, Cyclooxygenase; CSF, Cerebrospinal fluid; ED50, 50% of maximal effective dose; FAAH, Fatty acid amidohydrolase; IC50, 50% of the maximal inhibitor concentration; LPS, Lipopolysaccharide; NSAIDs, Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; PGE2, Prostaglandin E2; TRPV1, Transient receptor potential vanilloid-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samir S Ayoub
- School of Health, Sport and Bioscience, Medicines Research Group, University of East London, London, UK
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Eibach L, Scheffel S, Cardebring M, Lettau M, Özgür Celik M, Morguet A, Roehle R, Stein C. Cannabidivarin for HIV-Associated Neuropathic Pain: A Randomized, Blinded, Controlled Clinical Trial. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2020; 109:1055-1062. [PMID: 32770831 DOI: 10.1002/cpt.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
HIV remains a major burden to the health care system and neuropathic pain is the most common neurological complication of HIV infection. Because current treatment strategies often lack satisfying pain relief, cannabinoids (CBs) are discussed as a new option. We investigated cannabidivarin (CBDV) as treatment for HIV-associated neuropathic pain. We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study. Patients underwent two successive treatment phases (4 weeks each) and were treated with CBDV (400 mg/day) or placebo in a randomized order. A 3-week washout phase was designed to eliminate potential carry-over effects. Patients were followed up for 3 weeks after the end of the second treatment phase. The primary end point was pain intensity on an 11-point numeric rating scale, recorded in a diary. Secondary end points were additional pain medication, pain characteristics, and quality of life. We included 32 patients. The mean pain intensity under CBDV was 0.62 points higher compared with placebo (P = 0.16, 95% confidence interval -0.27 to 1.51). CBDV did not influence the amount of additional pain medication, pain characteristics, or quality of life. The incidence of adverse events was similar during both treatments. No suspected unexpected adverse reactions occurred during either treatment. CBDV was safe but failed to reduce neuropathic pain in patients with HIV. This may be explained by a lack of CB receptor activation, as indicated by preclinical experiments. Although a larger patient number might be desirable, we would not expect a change in the conclusions because the present differences are far from statistical significance. Therefore, we would currently not consider CBDV as a clinically meaningful treatment option for neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Eibach
- Department of Anesthesiology, Charité Universitätsmedizin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Simone Scheffel
- Department of Anesthesiology, Charité Universitätsmedizin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany.,SteriPharm Pharmazeutische Produkte, Berlin, Germany
| | - Madeleine Cardebring
- Department of Anesthesiology, Charité Universitätsmedizin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany.,Vivantes Klinikum Kaulsdorf, Berlin, Germany
| | - Marie Lettau
- Department of Anesthesiology, Charité Universitätsmedizin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
| | - M Özgür Celik
- Department of Anesthesiology, Charité Universitätsmedizin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas Morguet
- Department of Cardiology, Charité Universitätsmedizin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Robert Roehle
- Institute of Biometry and Clinical Epidemiology, Coordinating Center for Clinical Studies, Berlin Institute of Health, Charité Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christoph Stein
- Department of Anesthesiology, Charité Universitätsmedizin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
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11
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Repurposing Antibacterial AM404 as a Potential Anticancer Drug for Targeting Colorectal Cancer Stem-Like Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 12:cancers12010106. [PMID: 31906201 PMCID: PMC7017077 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12010106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2019] [Revised: 12/22/2019] [Accepted: 12/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumour-promoting inflammation is involved in colorectal cancer (CRC) development and therapeutic resistance. However, the antibiotics and antibacterial drugs and signalling that regulate the potency of anticancer treatment upon forced differentiation of cancer stem-like cell (CSC) are not fully defined yet. We screened an NIH-clinical collection of the small-molecule compound library of antibacterial/anti-inflammatory agents that identified potential candidate drugs targeting CRC-SC for differentiation. Selected compounds were validated in both in vitro organoids and ex vivo colon explant models for their differentiation induction, impediment on neoplastic cell growth, and to elucidate the mechanism of their anticancer activity. We initially focused on AM404, an anandamide uptake inhibitor. AM404 is a metabolite of acetaminophen with antibacterial activity, which showed high potential in preventing CRC-SC features, such as stemness/de-differentiation, migration and drug-resistance. Furthermore, AM404 suppressed the expression of FBXL5 E3-ligase, where AM404 sensitivity was mimicked by FBXL5-knockout. This study uncovers a new molecular mechanism for AM404-altering FBXL5 oncogene which mediates chemo-resistance and CRC invasion, thereby proposes to repurpose antibacterial AM404 as an anticancer agent.
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12
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Assessment of anti-nociceptive effect of allopurinol in a neuropathic pain model. Brain Res 2019; 1720:146238. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2019.04.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2018] [Revised: 04/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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13
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Scherma M, Masia P, Satta V, Fratta W, Fadda P, Tanda G. Brain activity of anandamide: a rewarding bliss? Acta Pharmacol Sin 2019; 40:309-323. [PMID: 30050084 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-018-0075-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2018] [Accepted: 05/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Anandamide is a lipid mediator that acts as an endogenous ligand of CB1 receptors. These receptors are also the primary molecular target responsible for the pharmacological effects of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, the psychoactive ingredient in Cannabis sativa. Several studies demonstrate that anandamide exerts an overall modulatory effect on the brain reward circuitry. Several reports suggest its involvement in the addiction-producing actions of other abused drugs, and it can also act as a behavioral reinforcer in animal models of drug abuse. Importantly, all these effects of anandamide appear to be potentiated by pharmacological inhibition of its metabolic degradation. Enhanced brain levels of anandamide after treatment with inhibitors of fatty acid amide hydrolase, the main enzyme responsible for its degradation, seem to affect the rewarding and reinforcing actions of many drugs of abuse. In this review, we will provide an overview from a preclinical perspective of the current state of knowledge regarding the behavioral pharmacology of anandamide, with a particular emphasis on its motivational/reinforcing properties. We will also discuss how modulation of anandamide levels through inhibition of enzymatic metabolic pathways could provide a basis for developing new pharmaco-therapeutic tools for the treatment of substance use disorders.
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14
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Aitken P, Stanescu I, Playne R, Zhang J, Frampton CMA, Atkinson HC. An integrated safety analysis of combined acetaminophen and ibuprofen (Maxigesic ® /Combogesic ®) in adults. J Pain Res 2019; 12:621-634. [PMID: 30804681 PMCID: PMC6371943 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s189605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Acetaminophen (APAP) and ibuprofen (IBP) are two analgesic compounds with a long history of use. Both are considered safe at recommended over-the-counter daily doses. Chronic use, high doses, or concomitant medication can produce safety risks for both drugs. APAP is associated with increased risk of hepatic injury, while IBP can produce gastric bleeding and thromboembolic events. Using a combination of APAP and IBP provides superior analgesia without transgressing daily dose limits of each individual drug. METHODS The present study aimed to determine if treatment with a fixed-dose combination (FDC) containing APAP and IBP results in any unexpected adverse events (AEs) and/or changes in the safety profiles of its two ingredients compared to monotherapy. The analysis will examine clinical safety data obtained from either single dose trials, multiple dose trials, a long-term exposure trial, and post-marketing surveillance data of APAP/IBP FDC tablets (Maxigesic®/Combogesic®, AFT Pharmaceuticals Ltd). The largest dataset was obtained by pooling the four randomized-controlled, multiple-dose clinical studies with either APAP 325 mg + IBP 97.5 mg (FDC 325/97.5, three tablets per dose) or APAP 500 mg + IBP 150 mg (FDC 500/150, two tablets per dose). At maximum doses, the two FDCs are bioequivalent, permitting the pooling of data for the analysis of safety. RESULTS A safety population of 922 patients who received full doses of either FDC, APAP alone, IBP alone, or placebo was compiled from the four studies. A total of 521 AEs were experienced with the incidence of FDC AEs similar to or below either monotherapy group or placebo. The FDC did not alter the incidence and percentage of the most common AEs, including gastrointestinal events and postoperative bleeding. CONCLUSION Overall, the FDC is well tolerated and has a strong safety profile at single and multiple doses with improved efficacy over monotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phillip Aitken
- Drug Development, AFT Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Auckland, New Zealand,
| | - Ioana Stanescu
- Drug Development, AFT Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Auckland, New Zealand,
| | - Rebecca Playne
- Drug Development, AFT Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Auckland, New Zealand,
| | - Jennifer Zhang
- Drug Development, AFT Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Auckland, New Zealand,
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Coleman RA, Muli CS, Zhao Y, Bhardwaj A, Newhouse TR, Trader DJ. Analysis of chain length, substitution patterns, and unsaturation of AM-404 derivatives as 20S proteasome stimulators. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2019; 29:420-423. [PMID: 30587447 PMCID: PMC6348054 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2018.12.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Revised: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 12/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Proteasome-mediated degradation of proteins is a vital cellular process and is performed by the ubiquitin-dependent proteasome system (UPS) and the ubiquitin-independent proteasome system (UIPS). While both systems are necessary to maintain healthy cell function, many disease states are characterized by reduced activity of the UPS, and the UIPS cannot by itself maintain proper protein levels. It has been suggested that the 20S core particle (20S CP), the isoform of the proteasome in the UIPS that can degrade proteins without a ubiquitin tag, can be stimulated with a small molecule to assist the 20S CP to accept and hydrolyze substrates more rapidly. Several small molecule stimulators of the 20S CP have since been discovered, including AM-404, an arachidonic acid derivative. AM-404 has previously been shown to inhibit fatty acid amide hydrolase activity. We wished to evaluate what structural components of AM-404 are required to stimulate the 20S CP with the long-term goal of using this information to design a stimulator with better drug-like qualities. We synthesized numerous derivatives of AM-404, varying the chain length, substitutions, and degree of unsaturation. Through this endeavor, we obtained several molecules capable of stimulating the 20S CP to various degrees. We discovered that though chain length is important, the presence of a cis-alkene in a specific location in the aliphatic chain has the greatest impact on the ability to stimulate the 20S CP. Two of the derivatives maintain modest stimulatory activity, and have improved toxicity over AM-404.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel A Coleman
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, 575 W. Stadium Ave, West Lafayette, IN 47907, United States
| | - Christine S Muli
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, 575 W. Stadium Ave, West Lafayette, IN 47907, United States
| | - Yizhou Zhao
- Department of Chemistry, Yale University, 225 Prospect Street, New Haven, CT 06520-8107, United States
| | - Atul Bhardwaj
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, 575 W. Stadium Ave, West Lafayette, IN 47907, United States
| | - Timothy R Newhouse
- Department of Chemistry, Yale University, 225 Prospect Street, New Haven, CT 06520-8107, United States
| | - Darci J Trader
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, 575 W. Stadium Ave, West Lafayette, IN 47907, United States.
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16
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Donertas B, Unel CC, Erol K. Cannabinoids and agmatine as potential therapeutic alternatives for cisplatin-induced peripheral neuropathy. J Exp Pharmacol 2018; 10:19-28. [PMID: 29950907 PMCID: PMC6018893 DOI: 10.2147/jep.s162059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cisplatin is a widely used antineoplastic agent in the treatment of various cancers. Peripheral neuropathy is a well-known side effect of cisplatin and has the potential to result in limiting and/or reducing the dose, decreasing the quality of life. Unfortunately, the mechanism for cisplatin-induced neuropathy has not been completely elucidated. Currently, available treatments for neuropathic pain (NP) are mostly symptomatic, insufficient and are often linked with several detrimental side effects; thus, effective treatments are needed. Cannabinoids and agmatine are endogenous modulators that are implicated in painful states. This review explains the cisplatin-induced neuropathy and antinociceptive effects of cannabinoids and agmatine in animal models of NP and their putative therapeutic potential in cisplatin-induced neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basak Donertas
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Eskisehir Osmangazi University, Eskisehir, Turkey
| | - Cigdem Cengelli Unel
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Eskisehir Osmangazi University, Eskisehir, Turkey
| | - Kevser Erol
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Eskisehir Osmangazi University, Eskisehir, Turkey
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17
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Enhanced endocannabinoid tone as a potential target of pharmacotherapy. Life Sci 2018; 204:20-45. [PMID: 29729263 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2018.04.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2018] [Revised: 04/19/2018] [Accepted: 04/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system is up-regulated in numerous pathophysiological states such as inflammatory, neurodegenerative, gastrointestinal, metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, pain, and cancer. It has been suggested that this phenomenon primarily serves an autoprotective role in inhibiting disease progression and/or diminishing signs and symptoms. Accordingly, enhancement of endogenous endocannabinoid tone by inhibition of endocannabinoid degradation represents a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of many diseases. Importantly, this allows for the avoidance of unwanted psychotropic side effects that accompany exogenously administered cannabinoids. The effects of endocannabinoid metabolic pathway modulation are complex, as endocannabinoids can exert their actions directly or via numerous metabolites. The two main strategies for blocking endocannabinoid degradation are inhibition of endocannabinoid-degrading enzymes and inhibition of endocannabinoid cellular uptake. To date, the most investigated compounds are inhibitors of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), an enzyme that degrades the endocannabinoid anandamide. However, application of FAAH inhibitors (and consequently other endocannabinoid degradation inhibitors) in medicine became questionable due to a lack of therapeutic efficacy in clinical trials and serious adverse effects evoked by one specific compound. In this paper, we discuss multiple pathways of endocannabinoid metabolism, changes in endocannabinoid levels across numerous human diseases and corresponding experimental models, pharmacological strategies for enhancing endocannabinoid tone and potential therapeutic applications including multi-target drugs with additional targets outside of the endocannabinoid system (cyclooxygenase-2, cholinesterase, TRPV1, and PGF2α-EA receptors), and currently used medicines or medicinal herbs that additionally enhance endocannabinoid levels. Ultimately, further clinical and preclinical studies are warranted to develop medicines for enhancing endocannabinoid tone.
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18
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Saliba SW, Marcotegui AR, Fortwängler E, Ditrich J, Perazzo JC, Muñoz E, de Oliveira ACP, Fiebich BL. AM404, paracetamol metabolite, prevents prostaglandin synthesis in activated microglia by inhibiting COX activity. J Neuroinflammation 2017; 14:246. [PMID: 29237478 PMCID: PMC5729401 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-017-1014-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background N-arachidonoylphenolamine (AM404), a paracetamol metabolite, is a potent agonist of the transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 (TRPV1) and low-affinity ligand of the cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1). There is evidence that AM404 exerts its pharmacological effects in immune cells. However, the effect of AM404 on the production of inflammatory mediators of the arachidonic acid pathway in activated microglia is still not fully elucidated. Method In the present study, we investigated the effects of AM404 on the eicosanoid production induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in organotypic hippocampal slices culture (OHSC) and primary microglia cultures using Western blot, immunohistochemistry, and ELISA. Results Our results show that AM404 inhibited LPS-mediated prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production in OHSC, and LPS-stimulated PGE2 release was totally abolished in OHSC if microglial cells were removed. In primary microglia cultures, AM404 led to a significant dose-dependent decrease in the release of PGE2, independent of TRPV1 or CB1 receptors. Moreover, AM404 also inhibited the production of PGD2 and the formation of reactive oxygen species (8-iso-PGF2 alpha) with a reversible reduction of COX-1- and COX-2 activity. Also, it slightly decreased the levels of LPS-induced COX-2 protein, although no effect was observed on LPS-induced mPGES-1 protein synthesis. Conclusions This study provides new significant insights about the potential anti-inflammatory role of AM404 and new mechanisms of action of paracetamol on the modulation of prostaglandin production by activated microglia. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12974-017-1014-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soraya Wilke Saliba
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Laboratory of Translational Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Hauptstr. 5, 79104, Freiburg, Germany. .,Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Ariel R Marcotegui
- Laboratory of Hepatic Encephalopathy and Portal Hypertension, Center of Applied and Experimental Pathology, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ellen Fortwängler
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Laboratory of Translational Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Hauptstr. 5, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Johannes Ditrich
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Laboratory of Translational Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Hauptstr. 5, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Juan Carlos Perazzo
- Laboratory of Hepatic Encephalopathy and Portal Hypertension, Center of Applied and Experimental Pathology, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Eduardo Muñoz
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba, Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Fisiología e Inmunología, Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | | | - Bernd L Fiebich
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Laboratory of Translational Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Hauptstr. 5, 79104, Freiburg, Germany.
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19
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Sharma CV, Long JH, Shah S, Rahman J, Perrett D, Ayoub SS, Mehta V. First evidence of the conversion of paracetamol to AM404 in human cerebrospinal fluid. J Pain Res 2017; 10:2703-2709. [PMID: 29238213 PMCID: PMC5716395 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s143500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Paracetamol is arguably the most commonly used analgesic and antipyretic drug worldwide, however its mechanism of action is still not fully established. It has been shown to exert effects through multiple pathways, some actions suggested to be mediated via N-arachidonoylphenolamine (AM404). AM404, formed through conjugation of paracetamol-derived p-aminophenol with arachidonic acid in the brain, is an activator of the capsaicin receptor, TRPV1, and inhibits the reuptake of the endocannabinoid, anandamide, into postsynaptic neurons, as well as inhibiting synthesis of PGE2 by COX-2. However, the presence of AM404 in the central nervous system following administration of paracetamol has not yet been demonstrated in humans. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and blood were collected from 26 adult male patients between 10 and 211 minutes following intravenous administration of 1 g of paracetamol. Paracetamol was measured by high-performance liquid chromatography with UV detection. AM404 was measured by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. AM404 was detected in 17 of the 26 evaluable CSF samples at 5–40 nmol⋅L−1. Paracetamol was measurable in CSF within 10 minutes, with a maximum measured concentration of 60 μmol⋅L−1 at 206 minutes. This study is the first to report on the presence of AM404 in human CSF following paracetamol administration. This may represent an important finding in our understanding of paracetamol’s mechanism of action, although measured concentrations were far below the previously documented IC50 for this metabolite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chhaya V Sharma
- Pain & Anaesthesia Research Centre, St Bartholomew's and The Royal London Hospitals, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Jamie H Long
- Barts & The London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Seema Shah
- Pain & Anaesthesia Research Centre, St Bartholomew's and The Royal London Hospitals, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Junia Rahman
- Pain & Anaesthesia Research Centre, St Bartholomew's and The Royal London Hospitals, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - David Perrett
- BioAnalytical Science, Barts & The London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Samir S Ayoub
- School of Health, Sport and Bioscience, Medicines Research Group, University of East London, London, UK
| | - Vivek Mehta
- Pain & Anaesthesia Research Centre, St Bartholomew's and The Royal London Hospitals, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK
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20
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Lötsch J, Weyer-Menkhoff I, Tegeder I. Current evidence of cannabinoid-based analgesia obtained in preclinical and human experimental settings. Eur J Pain 2017; 22:471-484. [PMID: 29160600 DOI: 10.1002/ejp.1148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoids have a long record of recreational and medical use and become increasingly approved for pain therapy. This development is based on preclinical and human experimental research summarized in this review. Cannabinoid CB1 receptors are widely expressed throughout the nociceptive system. Their activation by endogenous or exogenous cannabinoids modulates the release of neurotransmitters. This is reflected in antinociceptive effects of cannabinoids in preclinical models of inflammatory, cancer and neuropathic pain, and by nociceptive hypersensitivity of cannabinoid receptor-deficient mice. Cannabis-based medications available for humans mainly comprise Δ9 -tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD) and nabilone. During the last 10 years, six controlled studies assessing analgesic effects of cannabinoid-based drugs in human experimental settings were reported. An effect on nociceptive processing could be translated to the human setting in functional magnetic resonance imaging studies that pointed at a reduced connectivity within the pain matrix of the brain. However, cannabinoid-based drugs heterogeneously influenced the perception of experimentally induced pain including a reduction in only the affective but not the sensory perception of pain, only moderate analgesic effects, or occasional hyperalgesic effects. This extends to the clinical setting. While controlled studies showed a lack of robust analgesic effects, cannabis was nearly always associated with analgesia in open-label or retrospective reports, possibly indicating an effect on well-being or mood, rather than on sensory pain. Thus, while preclinical evidence supports cannabinoid-based analgesics, human evidence presently provides only reluctant support for a broad clinical use of cannabinoid-based medications in pain therapy. SIGNIFICANCE Cannabinoids consistently produced antinociceptive effects in preclinical models, whereas they heterogeneously influenced the perception of experimentally induced pain in humans and did not provide robust clinical analgesia, which jeopardizes the translation of preclinical research on cannabinoid-mediated antinociception into the human setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Lötsch
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Goethe - University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology IME, Project Group Translational Medicine and Pharmacology TMP, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - I Weyer-Menkhoff
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Goethe - University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - I Tegeder
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Goethe - University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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21
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Amin B, Noorani R, Marjan Razavi B, Hosseinzadeh H. The Effect of Ethanolic Extract of Lippia Citriodora on Rats with Chronic Constriction Injury of Neuropathic pain. CELL JOURNAL 2017; 19:528-536. [PMID: 29105386 PMCID: PMC5672090 DOI: 10.22074/cellj.2018.4481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2016] [Accepted: 10/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Objective We examined the protective effects of ethanolic extract of Lippia citriodora (L. citriodora) on rats subjected
to chronic constriction injury (CCI) of sciatic nerve and possible mechanisms of actions.
Materials and Methods In this experimental study, the extract was administered 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg, Intraperitoneally
(I.P) from the surgery time for 14 consecutive days. The changes in the spinal cord levels of apoptotic factors, microglia
and astroglia markers during the time course of study were assessed by western blotting on days 3, 7 and 14 post-CCI.
Results CCI rats developed neuropathy evident from a marked mechanical allodynia, cold allodynia and thermal
hyperalgesia on days 3, 5, 7, 10 and 14 post-CCI. A significant increase in the levels of Iba (a marker of microglia
activation) and Bax (a proapoptotic factor) was observed three days after nerve injury. The levels of Iba remained high
on day 7. In contrast, there was no difference in glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) contents between sham and CCI
animals. Treatment with the extract significantly attenuated behavioral changes associated with neuropathy. Bax/Bcl-2
and Iba1 were decreased in CCI animals treated with the extract.
Conclusion The results support the evidence that microglial activation and apoptosis are correlated with pain
behaviors. It is suggested that anti-allodynic and anti-hyperalgesic effects, elicited by L. citriodora, might have some
degrees of association with the inhibition of microglia activation and apoptotic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahareh Amin
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar, Iran
| | - Reyhaneh Noorani
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, Pharmaceutical Research Center, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Bibi Marjan Razavi
- Targeted Drug Delivery Research Center, Department of Pharmacodynamy and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hossein Hosseinzadeh
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, Pharmaceutical Research Center, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran. Electronic Address:
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22
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Reynoso-Moreno I, Najar-Guerrero I, Escareño N, Flores-Soto ME, Gertsch J, Viveros-Paredes JM. An Endocannabinoid Uptake Inhibitor from Black Pepper Exerts Pronounced Anti-Inflammatory Effects in Mice. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2017; 65:9435-9442. [PMID: 28942644 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.7b02979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Guineensine is a dietary N-isobutylamide widely present in black and long pepper (Piper nigrum and Piper longum) previously shown to inhibit cellular endocannabinoid uptake. Given the role of endocannabinoids in inflammation and pain reduction, here we evaluated guineensine in mouse models of acute and inflammatory pain and endotoxemia. Significant dose-dependent anti-inflammatory effects (95.6 ± 3.1% inhibition of inflammatory pain at 2.5 mg/kg ip and 50.0 ± 15.9% inhibition of edema formation at 5 mg/kg ip) and acute analgesia (66.1 ± 28.1% inhibition at 5.0 mg/kg ip) were observed. Moreover, guineensine inhibited proinflammatory cytokine production in endotoxemia. Intriguingly, guineensine and LPS independently induced catalepsy, but in combination this effect was abolished. Both hypothermia and analgesia were blocked by the CB1 receptor inverse agonist rimonabant, but the pronounced hypolocomotion was CB1 receptor-independent. A subsequent screen of 45 CNS-related receptors, ion channels, and transporters revealed apparent interactions of guineensine with the dopamine transporter DAT, 5HT2A, and sigma receptors, uncovering its prospective polypharmacology. The described potent pharmacological effects of guineensine might relate to the reported anti-inflammatory effects of pepper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inés Reynoso-Moreno
- Departamento de Farmacología, Centro Universitario de Ciencias Exactas e Ingenierías, Universidad de Guadalajara , 44430 Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Bern , CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Israel Najar-Guerrero
- Departamento de Farmacología, Centro Universitario de Ciencias Exactas e Ingenierías, Universidad de Guadalajara , 44430 Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Noé Escareño
- Departamento de Farmacología, Centro Universitario de Ciencias Exactas e Ingenierías, Universidad de Guadalajara , 44430 Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Mario Eduardo Flores-Soto
- Departamento de Farmacología, Centro Universitario de Ciencias Exactas e Ingenierías, Universidad de Guadalajara , 44430 Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, División de Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación Biomédica de Occidente, Instituto Mexicano del Segura Social , 44340 Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Jürg Gertsch
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Bern , CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Juan Manuel Viveros-Paredes
- Departamento de Farmacología, Centro Universitario de Ciencias Exactas e Ingenierías, Universidad de Guadalajara , 44430 Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
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Forouzanfar F, Amin B, Ghorbani A, Ghazavi H, Ghasemi F, Sadri K, Mehri S, Sadeghnia HR, Hosseinzadeh H. New approach for the treatment of neuropathic pain: Fibroblast growth factor 1 gene-transfected adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells. Eur J Pain 2017; 22:295-310. [PMID: 28949091 DOI: 10.1002/ejp.1119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuropathic pain triggered by peripheral nerve lesion is extremely difficult to manage with current approaches, hence the importance of exploring therapeutic alternatives. METHODS We have analysed adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD-MSCs) and fibroblast growth factor 1 gene-transfected adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD-MSCs FGF1 ) on chronic constriction injury (CCI). The mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity were assessed using the von Frey filament, radiant heat and acetone drop tests. Histopathological and apoptotic changes and the level of FGF1, GFAP and TNFα proteins were assessed in the lumbar portion (L4-L6). Moreover, AD-MSCs FGF1 were labelled with 99m Tc -HMPAO and isolated organ counting were performed upon AD-MSCs FGF1 administration. RESULTS Administration of AD-MSCs FGF1 attenuated the CCI-induced mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity. Spinal structural alterations and apoptosis were decreased in the AD-MSCs FGF1 group. The injection of either phosphate-buffered saline or normal NIH3T3 fibroblasts could not attenuate the behavioural symptoms of neuropathic pain. Increased genetically engineered cells were counted in the injured sciatic nerve and the elevated levels of FGF1 were detected in the spinal tissue. Stem cell therapy lead to decrement the level of the CCI-induced TNF-α and GFAP expression. CONCLUSION The intravenous administration of AD-MSCs FGF1 could be considered as a potential remedy for the management of neuropathic pain. SIGNIFICANCE AD-MSCs FGF1 attenuated the CCI-induced mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity. Spinal structural alterations and apoptosis were significantly decreased in the AD-MSCs FGF1 group. Elevated levels of FGF1 were detected in the spinal tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Forouzanfar
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - B Amin
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar, Iran
| | - A Ghorbani
- Pharmacological Research Center of Medicinal Plants, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - H Ghazavi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - F Ghasemi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Arak University of Medical Science, Arak, Iran
| | - K Sadri
- Nuclear Medicine Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - S Mehri
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmacodynamy and Toxicology Department, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - H R Sadeghnia
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Division of Neurocognitive Sciences, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - H Hosseinzadeh
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmacodynamy and Toxicology Department, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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24
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Endocannabinod Signal Dysregulation in Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Correlation Link between Inflammatory State and Neuro-Immune Alterations. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18071425. [PMID: 28671614 PMCID: PMC5535916 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18071425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2017] [Revised: 06/23/2017] [Accepted: 06/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Several studies highlight a key involvement of endocannabinoid (EC) system in autism pathophysiology. The EC system is a complex network of lipid signaling pathways comprised of arachidonic acid-derived compounds (anandamide, AEA) and 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG), their G-protein-coupled receptors (cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2) and the associated enzymes. In addition to autism, the EC system is also involved in several other psychiatric disorders (i.e., anxiety, major depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia). This system is a key regulator of metabolic and cellular pathways involved in autism, such as food intake, energy metabolism and immune system control. Early studies in autism animal models have demonstrated alterations in the brain's EC system. Autism is also characterized by immune system dysregulation. This alteration includes differential monocyte and macrophage responses, and abnormal cytokine and T cell levels. EC system dysfunction in a monocyte and macrophagic cellular model of autism has been demonstrated by showing that the mRNA and protein for CB2 receptor and EC enzymes were significantly dysregulated, further indicating the involvement of the EC system in autism-associated immunological disruptions. Taken together, these new findings offer a novel perspective in autism research and indicate that the EC system could represent a novel target option for autism pharmacotherapy.
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25
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Lin CH, Hsieh YS, Wu YR, Hsu CJ, Chen HC, Huang WH, Chang KH, Hsieh-Li HM, Su MT, Sun YC, Lee GC, Lee-Chen GJ. Identifying GSK-3β kinase inhibitors of Alzheimer's disease: Virtual screening, enzyme, and cell assays. Eur J Pharm Sci 2016; 89:11-9. [PMID: 27094783 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2016.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2015] [Revised: 04/04/2016] [Accepted: 04/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK-3β) is widely known as a critical target protein for treating Alzheimer's disease (AD). We utilized virtual screening to search databases for compounds with the potential to be used in drugs targeting GSK-3β kinase, and kinase as well as cell assays to investigate top-scored, selected compounds. Virtual screening of >1.1 million compounds in the ZINC and in-house databases was conducted using an optimized computational protocol in the docking program GOLD. Of the top-ranked compounds, 16 underwent a luminescent kinase assay and a cell assay using HEK293 cells expressing DsRed-tagged ΔK280 in the repeat domain of tau (tauRD). The compounds VB-003 (a potent GSK-3β inhibitor) and VB-008 (AM404, an anandamide transport inhibitor), with determined IC50 values of 0.25 and 5.4μM, respectively, were identified as reducing tau aggregation. Both compounds increased expression of phospho-GSK-3β (Ser9) and reduced endogenous tau phosphorylation at the sites of Ser202, Thr231, and Ser396. In the ∆K280 tauRD-DsRed SH-SY5Y cells, VB-008, but not VB-003, enhanced HSPB1 and GRP78 expression, increased ∆K280 tauRD-DsRed solubility, and promoted neurite outgrowth. Thus VB-008 performed best to the end of the present study. The identified compound VB-008 may guide the identification and synthesis of potential inhibitors analogous to this compound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Hsin Lin
- Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University, Taipei 10507, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Shao Hsieh
- Department of Chemistry, National Taiwan Normal University, 88, Ting Chow Road Section 4, Taipei 11677, Taiwan
| | - Yih-Ru Wu
- Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University, Taipei 10507, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Jen Hsu
- Department of Chemistry, National Taiwan Normal University, 88, Ting Chow Road Section 4, Taipei 11677, Taiwan
| | - Hsuan-Chiang Chen
- Department of Life Science, National Taiwan Normal University, 88, Ting Chow Road Section 4, Taipei 11677, Taiwan
| | - Wun-Han Huang
- Department of Life Science, National Taiwan Normal University, 88, Ting Chow Road Section 4, Taipei 11677, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Hsuan Chang
- Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University, Taipei 10507, Taiwan
| | - Hsiu Mei Hsieh-Li
- Department of Life Science, National Taiwan Normal University, 88, Ting Chow Road Section 4, Taipei 11677, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Tsan Su
- Department of Life Science, National Taiwan Normal University, 88, Ting Chow Road Section 4, Taipei 11677, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Chieh Sun
- Department of Chemistry, National Taiwan Normal University, 88, Ting Chow Road Section 4, Taipei 11677, Taiwan.
| | - Guan-Chiun Lee
- Department of Life Science, National Taiwan Normal University, 88, Ting Chow Road Section 4, Taipei 11677, Taiwan.
| | - Guey-Jen Lee-Chen
- Department of Life Science, National Taiwan Normal University, 88, Ting Chow Road Section 4, Taipei 11677, Taiwan.
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26
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Jahanabadi S, Hadian MR, Shamsaee J, Tavangar SM, Abdollahi A, Dehpour A, Mehr SE. The effect of spinally administered WIN 55,212-2, a cannabinoid agonist, on thermal pain sensitivity in diabetic rats. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES 2016; 19:394-401. [PMID: 27279983 PMCID: PMC4887712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Diabetic neuropathy (DN) is a common complication of diabetes that leads to allodynia, impaired nerve conduction, and progressive sensory loss. The aim of this study was to observe the effect of a high-affinity cannabinoid receptors agonist, WIN 55,212-2, on thermal hyperalgesia, nerve conduction velocity and sciatic nerve histopathology in diabetic rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS Diabetes was induced in rats using a single dose of streptozotocin (45 mg/kg IP). RESULTS Intrathecal (IT) administration of WIN55, 212-2 (1, 10, 100 µg/10 µl, IT), produced antinociceptive effects in the hot plate test and also improved nerve conduction velocity (100 µg/10 µl, IT) and sciatic nerve histology. CONCLUSION These data show that cannabinoids have potent antinociceptive effects through direct actions in the spinal dorsal horn of nociceptive pathway. This suggests that intrathecally administered cannabinoids may offer hopeful strategies for the treatment of diabetic neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samane Jahanabadi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Faculty of Pharmacy, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Mohamad Reza Hadian
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Javad Shamsaee
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Mohammad Tavangar
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Abdollahi
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmadreza Dehpour
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Experimental Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahram Ejtemaei Mehr
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Experimental Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Corresponding author: Shahram Ejtemaei Mehr. Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. Experimental Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. Fax: +98-21-6640-2569;
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Benyó Z, Ruisanchez É, Leszl-Ishiguro M, Sándor P, Pacher P. Endocannabinoids in cerebrovascular regulation. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2016; 310:H785-801. [PMID: 26825517 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00571.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2015] [Accepted: 01/25/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The cerebral blood flow is tightly regulated by myogenic, endothelial, metabolic, and neural mechanisms under physiological conditions, and a large body of recent evidence indicates that inflammatory pathways have a major influence on the cerebral blood perfusion in certain central nervous system disorders, like hemorrhagic and ischemic stroke, traumatic brain injury, and vascular dementia. All major cell types involved in cerebrovascular control pathways (i.e., smooth muscle, endothelium, neurons, astrocytes, pericytes, microglia, and leukocytes) are capable of synthesizing endocannabinoids and/or express some or several of their target proteins [i.e., the cannabinoid 1 and 2 (CB1 and CB2) receptors and the transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 ion channel]. Therefore, the endocannabinoid system may importantly modulate the regulation of cerebral circulation under physiological and pathophysiological conditions in a very complex manner. Experimental data accumulated since the late 1990s indicate that the direct effect of cannabinoids on cerebral vessels is vasodilation mediated, at least in part, by CB1 receptors. Cannabinoid-induced cerebrovascular relaxation involves both a direct inhibition of smooth muscle contractility and a release of vasodilator mediator(s) from the endothelium. However, under stress conditions (e.g., in conscious restrained animals or during hypoxia and hypercapnia), cannabinoid receptor activation was shown to induce a reduction of the cerebral blood flow, probably via inhibition of the electrical and/or metabolic activity of neurons. Finally, in certain cerebrovascular pathologies (e.g., subarachnoid hemorrhage, as well as traumatic and ischemic brain injury), activation of CB2 (and probably yet unidentified non-CB1/non-CB2) receptors appear to improve the blood perfusion of the brain via attenuating vascular inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoltán Benyó
- Institute of Clinical Experimental Research, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; and
| | - Éva Ruisanchez
- Institute of Clinical Experimental Research, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; and
| | - Miriam Leszl-Ishiguro
- Institute of Clinical Experimental Research, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; and
| | - Péter Sándor
- Institute of Clinical Experimental Research, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; and
| | - Pál Pacher
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Physiology and Tissue Injury, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
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28
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Amin B, Poureshagh E, Hosseinzadeh H. The Effect of Verbascoside in Neuropathic Pain Induced by Chronic Constriction Injury in Rats. Phytother Res 2015; 30:128-35. [DOI: 10.1002/ptr.5512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2015] [Revised: 10/13/2015] [Accepted: 10/13/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Bahareh Amin
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology; Faculty of Medicine, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences
| | - Ehsan Poureshagh
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, School of Pharmacy; Mashhad University of Medical Sciences; Mashhad Iran
| | - Hossein Hosseinzadeh
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy; Mashhad University of Medical Sciences; Mashhad IR Iran
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29
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Ibeas Bih C, Chen T, Nunn AVW, Bazelot M, Dallas M, Whalley BJ. Molecular Targets of Cannabidiol in Neurological Disorders. Neurotherapeutics 2015; 12:699-730. [PMID: 26264914 PMCID: PMC4604182 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-015-0377-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 370] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabis has a long history of anecdotal medicinal use and limited licensed medicinal use. Until recently, alleged clinical effects from anecdotal reports and the use of licensed cannabinoid medicines are most likely mediated by tetrahydrocannabinol by virtue of: 1) this cannabinoid being present in the most significant quantities in these preparations; and b) the proportion:potency relationship between tetrahydrocannabinol and other plant cannabinoids derived from cannabis. However, there has recently been considerable interest in the therapeutic potential for the plant cannabinoid, cannabidiol (CBD), in neurological disorders but the current evidence suggests that CBD does not directly interact with the endocannabinoid system except in vitro at supraphysiological concentrations. Thus, as further evidence for CBD's beneficial effects in neurological disease emerges, there remains an urgent need to establish the molecular targets through which it exerts its therapeutic effects. Here, we conducted a systematic search of the extant literature for original articles describing the molecular pharmacology of CBD. We critically appraised the results for the validity of the molecular targets proposed. Thereafter, we considered whether the molecular targets of CBD identified hold therapeutic potential in relevant neurological diseases. The molecular targets identified include numerous classical ion channels, receptors, transporters, and enzymes. Some CBD effects at these targets in in vitro assays only manifest at high concentrations, which may be difficult to achieve in vivo, particularly given CBD's relatively poor bioavailability. Moreover, several targets were asserted through experimental designs that demonstrate only correlation with a given target rather than a causal proof. When the molecular targets of CBD that were physiologically plausible were considered for their potential for exploitation in neurological therapeutics, the results were variable. In some cases, the targets identified had little or no established link to the diseases considered. In others, molecular targets of CBD were entirely consistent with those already actively exploited in relevant, clinically used, neurological treatments. Finally, CBD was found to act upon a number of targets that are linked to neurological therapeutics but that its actions were not consistent withmodulation of such targets that would derive a therapeutically beneficial outcome. Overall, we find that while >65 discrete molecular targets have been reported in the literature for CBD, a relatively limited number represent plausible targets for the drug's action in neurological disorders when judged by the criteria we set. We conclude that CBD is very unlikely to exert effects in neurological diseases through modulation of the endocannabinoid system. Moreover, a number of other molecular targets of CBD reported in the literature are unlikely to be of relevance owing to effects only being observed at supraphysiological concentrations. Of interest and after excluding unlikely and implausible targets, the remaining molecular targets of CBD with plausible evidence for involvement in therapeutic effects in neurological disorders (e.g., voltage-dependent anion channel 1, G protein-coupled receptor 55, CaV3.x, etc.) are associated with either the regulation of, or responses to changes in, intracellular calcium levels. While no causal proof yet exists for CBD's effects at these targets, they represent the most probable for such investigations and should be prioritized in further studies of CBD's therapeutic mechanism of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clementino Ibeas Bih
- School of Chemistry, Food and Nutritional Sciences, and Pharmacy, University of Reading, Whiteknights, Reading, RG6 6AP, UK
| | - Tong Chen
- School of Chemistry, Food and Nutritional Sciences, and Pharmacy, University of Reading, Whiteknights, Reading, RG6 6AP, UK
| | | | - Michaël Bazelot
- School of Chemistry, Food and Nutritional Sciences, and Pharmacy, University of Reading, Whiteknights, Reading, RG6 6AP, UK
- GW Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Sovereign House, Vision Park, Chivers Way, Histon, Cambridge, CB24 9BZ, UK
| | - Mark Dallas
- School of Chemistry, Food and Nutritional Sciences, and Pharmacy, University of Reading, Whiteknights, Reading, RG6 6AP, UK
| | - Benjamin J Whalley
- School of Chemistry, Food and Nutritional Sciences, and Pharmacy, University of Reading, Whiteknights, Reading, RG6 6AP, UK.
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30
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The Potential of Inhibitors of Endocannabinoid Metabolism for Drug Development: A Critical Review. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2015; 231:95-128. [PMID: 26408159 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-20825-1_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoids anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol are metabolised by both hydrolytic enzymes (primarily fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MGL)) and oxygenating enzymes (e.g. cyclooxygenase-2, COX-2). In the present article, the in vivo data for compounds inhibiting endocannabinoid metabolism have been reviewed, focussing on inflammation and pain. Potential reasons for the failure of an FAAH inhibitor in a clinical trial in patients with osteoarthritic pain are discussed. It is concluded that there is a continued potential for compounds inhibiting endocannabinoid metabolism in terms of drug development, but that it is wise not to be unrealistic in terms of expectations of success.
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31
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AMIN BAHAREH, ABNOUS KHALIL, MOTAMEDSHARIATY VAHIDEH, HOSSEINZADEH HOSSEIN. Attenuation of oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis by ethanolic and aqueous extracts of Crocus sativus L. stigma after chronic constriction injury of rats. AN ACAD BRAS CIENC 2014; 86:1821-32. [DOI: 10.1590/0001-3765201420140067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2014] [Accepted: 06/30/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In our previous study, the ethanolic and aqueous extracts of Crocus sativus elicited antinociceptive effects in the chronic constriction injury (CCI) model of neuropathic pain. In this study, we explored anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and anti-apoptotic effects of such extracts in CCI animals. A total of 72 animals were divided as vehicle-treated CCI rats, sham group, CCI animals treated with the effective dose of aqueous and ethanolic extracts (200 mg/kg, i.p.). The lumbar spinal cord levels of proinflammatory cytokines including tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin 6 (IL-6), were evaluated at days 3 and 7 after CCI (n=3, for each group). The apoptotic protein changes were evaluated at days 3 and 7 by western blotting. Oxidative stress markers including malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione reduced (GSH), were measured on day 7 after CCI. Inflammatory cytokines levels increased in CCI animals on days 3 and 7, which were suppressed by both extracts. The ratio of Bax/ Bcl2 was elevated on day 3 but not on day 7, in CCI animals as compared to sham operated animals and decreased following treatment with both extracts at this time. Both extracts attenuated MDA and increased GSH levels in CCI animals. It may be concluded that saffron alleviates neuropathic pain, at least in part, through attenuation of proinflammatory cytokines, antioxidant activity and apoptotic pathways.
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32
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Hofmann NA, Barth S, Waldeck-Weiermair M, Klec C, Strunk D, Malli R, Graier WF. TRPV1 mediates cellular uptake of anandamide and thus promotes endothelial cell proliferation and network-formation. Biol Open 2014; 3:1164-72. [PMID: 25395667 PMCID: PMC4265754 DOI: 10.1242/bio.20149571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Anandamide (N-arachidonyl ethanolamide, AEA) is an endogenous cannabinoid that is involved in various pathological conditions, including cardiovascular diseases and tumor-angiogenesis. Herein, we tested the involvement of classical cannabinoid receptors (CBRs) and the Ca(2+)-channel transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) on cellular AEA uptake and its effect on endothelial cell proliferation and network-formation. Uptake of the fluorescence-labeled anandamide (SKM4-45-1) was monitored in human endothelial colony-forming cells (ECFCs) and a human endothelial-vein cell line (EA.hy926). Involvement of the receptors during AEA translocation was determined by selective pharmacological inhibition (AM251, SR144528, CID16020046, SB366791) and molecular interference by TRPV1-selective siRNA-mediated knock-down and TRPV1 overexpression. We show that exclusively TRPV1 contributes essentially to AEA transport into endothelial cells in a Ca(2+)-independent manner. This TRPV1 function is a prerequisite for AEA-induced endothelial cell proliferation and network-formation. Our findings point to a so far unknown moonlighting function of TRPV1 as Ca(2+)-independent contributor/regulator of AEA uptake. We propose TRPV1 as representing a promising target for development of pharmacological therapies against AEA-triggered endothelial cell functions, including their stimulatory effect on tumor-angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole A Hofmann
- Institute for Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Medical University of Graz, A-8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Sonja Barth
- Institute for Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Medical University of Graz, A-8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Markus Waldeck-Weiermair
- Institute for Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Medical University of Graz, A-8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Christiane Klec
- Institute for Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Medical University of Graz, A-8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Dirk Strunk
- Experimental and Clinical Cell Therapy Institute, Paracelsus Medical University, A-5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Roland Malli
- Institute for Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Medical University of Graz, A-8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Wolfgang F Graier
- Institute for Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Medical University of Graz, A-8010 Graz, Austria
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Huang ZZ, Li D, Liu CC, Cui Y, Zhu HQ, Zhang WW, Li YY, Xin WJ. CX3CL1-mediated macrophage activation contributed to paclitaxel-induced DRG neuronal apoptosis and painful peripheral neuropathy. Brain Behav Immun 2014; 40:155-65. [PMID: 24681252 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2014.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2013] [Revised: 03/17/2014] [Accepted: 03/20/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Painful peripheral neuropathy is a dose-limiting side effect of paclitaxel therapy, which hampers the optimal clinical management of chemotherapy in cancer patients. Currently the underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. Here we showed that the clinically relevant dose of paclitaxel (3×8mg/kg, cumulative dose 24mg/kg) induced significant upregulation of the chemokine CX3CL1 in the A-fiber primary sensory neurons in vivo and in vitro and infiltration of macrophages into the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) in rats. Paclitaxel treatment also increased cleaved caspase-3 expression, induced the loss of primary afferent terminal fibers and decreased sciatic-evoked A-fiber responses in the spinal dorsal horn, indicating DRG neuronal apoptosis induced by paclitaxel. In addition, the paclitaxel-induced DRG neuronal apoptosis occurred exclusively in the presence of macrophage in vitro study. Intrathecal or systemic injection of CX3CL1 neutralizing antibody blocked paclitaxel-induced macrophage recruitment and neuronal apoptosis in the DRG, and also attenuated paclitaxel-induced allodynia. Furthermore, depletion of macrophage by systemic administration of clodronate inhibited paclitaxel-induced allodynia. Blocking CX3CL1 decreased activation of p38 MAPK in the macrophage, and inhibition of p38 MAPK activity blocked the neuronal apoptosis and development of mechanical allodynia induced by paclitaxel. These findings provide novel evidence that CX3CL1-recruited macrophage contributed to paclitaxel-induced DRG neuronal apoptosis and painful peripheral neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-Zhen Huang
- Department of Physiology and Pain Research Center, Zhongshan Medical School, Sun Yat-Sen University, 74 Zhongshan Rd. 2, 510080, China
| | - Dai Li
- Department of Physiology and Pain Research Center, Zhongshan Medical School, Sun Yat-Sen University, 74 Zhongshan Rd. 2, 510080, China
| | - Cui-Cui Liu
- Department of Physiology and Pain Research Center, Zhongshan Medical School, Sun Yat-Sen University, 74 Zhongshan Rd. 2, 510080, China
| | - Yu Cui
- Department of Physiology and Pain Research Center, Zhongshan Medical School, Sun Yat-Sen University, 74 Zhongshan Rd. 2, 510080, China
| | - He-Quan Zhu
- Department of Physiology and Pain Research Center, Zhongshan Medical School, Sun Yat-Sen University, 74 Zhongshan Rd. 2, 510080, China
| | - Wen-Wen Zhang
- Department of Physiology and Pain Research Center, Zhongshan Medical School, Sun Yat-Sen University, 74 Zhongshan Rd. 2, 510080, China
| | - Yong-Yong Li
- Department of Physiology and Pain Research Center, Zhongshan Medical School, Sun Yat-Sen University, 74 Zhongshan Rd. 2, 510080, China
| | - Wen-Jun Xin
- Department of Physiology and Pain Research Center, Zhongshan Medical School, Sun Yat-Sen University, 74 Zhongshan Rd. 2, 510080, China.
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Ceftriaxone, a beta-lactam antibiotic, modulates apoptosis pathways and oxidative stress in a rat model of neuropathic pain. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:937568. [PMID: 25028668 PMCID: PMC4084648 DOI: 10.1155/2014/937568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2014] [Revised: 05/13/2014] [Accepted: 05/13/2014] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Purpose. In our previous study, ceftriaxone, a beta-lactam antibiotic, elicited antinociceptive effects in the chronic constriction injury (CCI) of neuropathic pain. In this study, we assessed apoptosis and oxidative stress in the spinal cord of neuropathic rats treated with ceftriaxone. Methods. 45 male Wistar rats were divided as naïve, sham, normal saline-treated CCI rats, and CCI animals treated with the effective dose of ceftriaxone. Involvement of Bax, Bcl2, and caspases 3 and 9, important contributors of programmed cell death (apoptosis), was determined using western blotting at days 3 and 7. The markers of oxidative stress including malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH) were measured on days 3 and 7. Results. Increased Bax/Bcl2 ratio and cleaved active forms of caspases 3 and 9 were observed in the spinal cord of CCI rats on day 3. Ceftriaxone attenuated the increased levels of Bax and cleaved forms of caspases 3 and 9, while it increased Bcl2 levels. Bax and active forms of caspases declined by day 7. Consequently, comparison among groups showed no difference at this time. CCI enhanced MDA and decreased GSH on days 3 and 7, while ceftriaxone protected against the CCI-induced oxidative stress. Conclusion. Our results suggest that ceftriaxone, an upregulator/activator of GLT1, could concomitantly reduce oxidative stress and apoptosis and producing its new analogs lacking antimicrobial activity may represent a novel approach for neuropathic pain treatment.
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Paula-Freire LIG, Andersen ML, Gama VS, Molska GR, Carlini ELA. The oral administration of trans-caryophyllene attenuates acute and chronic pain in mice. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2014; 21:356-62. [PMID: 24055516 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2013.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2013] [Accepted: 08/09/2013] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Trans-caryophyllene is a sesquiterpene present in many medicinal plants' essential oils, such as Ocimum gratissimum and Cannabis sativa. In this study, we evaluated the antinociceptive activity of trans-caryophyllene in murine models of acute and chronic pain and the involvement of trans-caryophyllene in the opioid and endocannabinoid systems. Acute pain was determined using the hot plate test (thermal nociception) and the formalin test (inflammatory pain). The chronic constriction injury (CCI) of the sciatic nerve induced hypernociception was measured by the hot plate and von Frey tests. To elucidate the mechanism of action, mice were pre-treated with naloxone or AM630 30 min before the trans-caryophyllene treatment. Afterwards, thermal nociception was evaluated. The levels of IL-1β were measured in CCI-mice by ELISA. Trans-caryophyllene administration significantly minimized the pain in both the acute and chronic pain models. The antinociceptive effect observed during the hot plate test was reversed by naloxone and AM630, indicating the participation of both the opioid and endocannabinoid system. Trans-caryophyllene treatment also decreased the IL-1β levels. These results demonstrate that trans-caryophyllene reduced both acute and chronic pain in mice, which may be mediated through the opioid and endocannabinoid systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- L I G Paula-Freire
- Departamento de Psicobiologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - M L Andersen
- Departamento de Psicobiologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Brazil
| | - V S Gama
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade São Judas Tadeu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - G R Molska
- Departamento de Psicobiologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Brazil
| | - E L A Carlini
- Departamento de Medicina Preventiva, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Brazil
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Komaki A, Abdollahzadeh F, Sarihi A, Shahidi S, Salehi I. Interaction between Antagonist of Cannabinoid Receptor and Antagonist of Adrenergic Receptor on Anxiety in Male Rat. Basic Clin Neurosci 2014; 5:218-24. [PMID: 25337383 PMCID: PMC4202541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2013] [Revised: 01/10/2014] [Accepted: 03/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Anxiety is among the most common and treatable mental disorders. Adrenergic and cannabinoid systems have an important role in the neurobiology of anxiety. The elevated plus-maze (EPM) has broadly been used to investigate anxiolytic and anxiogenic compounds. The present study investigated the effects of intraperitoneal (IP) injection of cannabinoid CB1 receptor antagonist (AM251) in the presence of alpha-1 adrenergic antagonist (Prazosin) on rat behavior in the EPM. METHODS In this study, the data were obtained from male Wistar rat, which weighing 200- 250 g. Animal behavior in EPM were videotaped and saved in computer for 10 min after IP injection of saline, AM251 (0.3 mg/kg), Prazosin (0.3 mg/kg) and AM251 + Prazosin, subsequently scored for conventional indices of anxiety. During the test period, the number of open and closed arms entries, the percentage of entries into the open arms of the EPM, and the spent time in open and closed arms were recorded. Diazepam was considered as a positive control drug with anxiolytic effect (0.3, 0.6, 1.2 mg/kg). RESULTS Diazepam increased the number of open arm entries and the percentage of spent time on the open arms. IP injection of AM251 before EPM trial decreased open arms exploration and open arm entry. Whereas, Prazosin increased open arms exploration and open arm entry. This study showed that both substances in simultaneous injection have conflicting effects on the responses of each of these two compounds in a single injection. DISCUSSION Injection of CB1 receptor antagonist may have an anxiogenic profile in rat, whereas adrenergic antagonist has an anxiolytic effect. Further investigations are essential for better understanding of anxiolytic and anxiogenic properties and neurobiological mechanisms of action and probable interactions of the two systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Komaki
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences,
Hamadan, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Abdollahzadeh
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences,
Hamadan, Iran,Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Science, Islamic Azad University,
Hamadan, Iran,Corresponding Author: Fatemeh Abdolahzadeh, Pharm.D., Neurophysiology Research
Center, Department of Physiology, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Shahid Fahmideh
Street, Hamadan, Iran. Tel: (+98) 811-8380462-4 / Fax: (+98) 811-8380208. E-mail:
| | - Abdolrahman Sarihi
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences,
Hamadan, Iran
| | - Siamak Shahidi
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences,
Hamadan, Iran
| | - Iraj Salehi
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences,
Hamadan, Iran
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Petho G, Reeh PW. Sensory and signaling mechanisms of bradykinin, eicosanoids, platelet-activating factor, and nitric oxide in peripheral nociceptors. Physiol Rev 2013; 92:1699-775. [PMID: 23073630 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00048.2010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 191] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Peripheral mediators can contribute to the development and maintenance of inflammatory and neuropathic pain and its concomitants (hyperalgesia and allodynia) via two mechanisms. Activation or excitation by these substances of nociceptive nerve endings or fibers implicates generation of action potentials which then travel to the central nervous system and may induce pain sensation. Sensitization of nociceptors refers to their increased responsiveness to either thermal, mechanical, or chemical stimuli that may be translated to corresponding hyperalgesias. This review aims to give an account of the excitatory and sensitizing actions of inflammatory mediators including bradykinin, prostaglandins, thromboxanes, leukotrienes, platelet-activating factor, and nitric oxide on nociceptive primary afferent neurons. Manifestations, receptor molecules, and intracellular signaling mechanisms of the effects of these mediators are discussed in detail. With regard to signaling, most data reported have been obtained from transfected nonneuronal cells and somata of cultured sensory neurons as these structures are more accessible to direct study of sensory and signal transduction. The peripheral processes of sensory neurons, where painful stimuli actually affect the nociceptors in vivo, show marked differences with respect to biophysics, ultrastructure, and equipment with receptors and ion channels compared with cellular models. Therefore, an effort was made to highlight signaling mechanisms for which supporting data from molecular, cellular, and behavioral models are consistent with findings that reflect properties of peripheral nociceptive nerve endings. Identified molecular elements of these signaling pathways may serve as validated targets for development of novel types of analgesic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gábor Petho
- Pharmacodynamics Unit, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
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Iring A, Ruisanchez É, Leszl-Ishiguro M, Horváth B, Benkő R, Lacza Z, Járai Z, Sándor P, Di Marzo V, Pacher P, Benyó Z. Role of endocannabinoids and cannabinoid-1 receptors in cerebrocortical blood flow regulation. PLoS One 2013; 8:e53390. [PMID: 23308211 PMCID: PMC3537620 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0053390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2012] [Accepted: 11/27/2012] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Endocannabinoids are among the most intensively studied lipid mediators of cardiovascular functions. In the present study the effects of decreased and increased activity of the endocannabinoid system (achieved by cannabinoid-1 (CB1) receptor blockade and inhibition of cannabinoid reuptake, respectively) on the systemic and cerebral circulation were analyzed under steady-state physiological conditions and during hypoxia and hypercapnia (H/H). Methodology/Principal Findings In anesthetized spontaneously ventilating rats the CB1-receptor antagonist/inverse agonist AM-251 (10 mg/kg, i.v.) failed to influence blood pressure (BP), cerebrocortical blood flow (CoBF, measured by laser-Doppler flowmetry) or arterial blood gas levels. In contrast, the putative cannabinoid reuptake inhibitor AM-404 (10 mg/kg, i.v.) induced triphasic responses, some of which could be blocked by AM-251. Hypertension during phase I was resistant to AM-251, whereas the concomitant CoBF-increase was attenuated. In contrast, hypotension during phase III was sensitive to AM-251, whereas the concomitant CoBF-decrease was not. Therefore, CoBF autoregulation appeared to shift towards higher BP levels after CB1-blockade. During phase II H/H developed due to respiratory depression, which could be inhibited by AM-251. Interestingly, however, the concomitant rise in CoBF remained unchanged after AM-251, indicating that CB1-blockade potentially enhanced the reactivity of the CoBF to H/H. In accordance with this hypothesis, AM-251 induced a significant enhancement of the CoBF responses during controlled stepwise H/H. Conclusion/Significance Under resting physiological conditions CB1-receptor mediated mechanisms appear to have limited influence on systemic or cerebral circulation. Enhancement of endocannabinoid levels, however, induces transient CB1-independent hypertension and sustained CB1-mediated hypotension. Furthermore, enhanced endocannabinoid activity results in respiratory depression in a CB1-dependent manner. Finally, our data indicate for the first time the involvement of the endocannabinoid system and CB1-receptors in the regulation of the cerebral circulation during H/H and also raise the possibility of their contribution to the autoregulation of CoBF.
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Affiliation(s)
- András Iring
- Institute of Human Physiology and Clinical Experimental Research, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Éva Ruisanchez
- Institute of Human Physiology and Clinical Experimental Research, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Miriam Leszl-Ishiguro
- Institute of Human Physiology and Clinical Experimental Research, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Béla Horváth
- Institute of Human Physiology and Clinical Experimental Research, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Rita Benkő
- Institute of Human Physiology and Clinical Experimental Research, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zsombor Lacza
- Institute of Human Physiology and Clinical Experimental Research, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Járai
- Department of Cardiology, St. Imre Teaching Hospital, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Péter Sándor
- Institute of Human Physiology and Clinical Experimental Research, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Vincenzo Di Marzo
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, Italy
| | - Pál Pacher
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Zoltán Benyó
- Institute of Human Physiology and Clinical Experimental Research, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- * E-mail:
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Zogopoulos P, Vasileiou I, Patsouris E, Theocharis SE. The role of endocannabinoids in pain modulation. Fundam Clin Pharmacol 2013; 27:64-80. [PMID: 23278562 DOI: 10.1111/fcp.12008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2011] [Revised: 09/03/2012] [Accepted: 09/21/2012] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ES) is comprised of cannabinoid (CB) receptors, their endogenous ligands (endocannabinoids), and proteins responsible for their metabolism. Endocannabinoids serve as retrograde signaling messengers in GABAergic and glutamatergic synapses, as well as modulators of postsynaptic transmission, that interact with other neurotransmitters. Physiological stimuli and pathological conditions lead to differential increases in brain endocannabinoids that regulate distinct biological functions. Furthermore, endocannabinoids modulate neuronal, glial, and endothelial cell function and exert neuromodulatory, anti-excitotoxic, anti-inflammatory, and vasodilatory effects. Analgesia is one of the principal therapeutic targets of cannabinoids. Cannabinoid analgesia is based on the suppression of spinal and thalamic nociceptive neurons, but peripheral sites of action have also been identified. The chronic pain that occasionally follows peripheral nerve injury differs fundamentally from inflammatory pain and is an area of considerable unmet therapeutic need. Over the last years, considerable progress has been made in understanding the role of the ES in the modulation of pain. Endocannabinoids have been shown to behave as analgesics in models of both acute nociception and clinical pain such as inflammation and painful neuropathy. The framework for such analgesic effects exists in the CB receptors, which are found in areas of the nervous system important for pain processing and in immune cells that regulate the neuro-immune interactions that mediate the inflammatory hyperalgesia. The purpose of this review is to present the available research and clinical data, up to date, regarding the ES and its role in pain modulation, as well as its possible therapeutic perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Zogopoulos
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, University of Athens, Goudi, Athens, Greece
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Chicca A, Marazzi J, Nicolussi S, Gertsch J. Evidence for bidirectional endocannabinoid transport across cell membranes. J Biol Chem 2012; 287:34660-82. [PMID: 22879589 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m112.373241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite extensive research on the trafficking of anandamide (AEA) across cell membranes, little is known about the membrane transport of other endocannabinoids, such as 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG). Previous studies have provided data both in favor and against a cell membrane carrier-mediated transport of endocannabinoids, using different methodological approaches. Because AEA and 2-AG undergo rapid and almost complete intracellular hydrolysis, we employed a combination of radioligand assays and absolute quantification of cellular and extracellular endocannabinoid levels. In human U937 leukemia cells, 100 nm AEA and 1 μm 2-AG were taken up through a fast and saturable process, reaching a plateau after 5 min. Employing differential pharmacological blockage of endocannabinoid uptake, breakdown, and interaction with intracellular binding proteins, we show that eicosanoid endocannabinoids harboring an arachidonoyl chain compete for a common membrane target that regulates their transport, whereas other N-acylethanolamines did not interfere with AEA and 2-AG uptake. By combining fatty acid amide hydrolase or monoacyl glycerol lipase inhibitors with hydrolase-inactive concentrations of the AEA transport inhibitors UCM707 (1 μm) and OMDM-2 (5 μm), a functional synergism on cellular AEA and 2-AG uptake was observed. Intriguingly, structurally unrelated AEA uptake inhibitors also blocked the cellular release of AEA and 2-AG. We show, for the first time, that UCM707 and OMDM-2 inhibit the bidirectional movement of AEA and 2-AG across cell membranes. Our findings suggest that a putative endocannabinoid cell membrane transporter controls the cellular AEA and 2-AG trafficking and metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Chicca
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, National Center of Competence in Research TransCure, University of Bern, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland
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Alcohol and cannabis use and mortality in people with schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders. J Psychiatr Res 2012; 46:987-93. [PMID: 22595870 PMCID: PMC3392453 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2012.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2012] [Revised: 04/20/2012] [Accepted: 04/23/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The impact of co-morbid substance use on mortality is not well studied in psychotic disorders. The objective of this study was to examine the impact of substance use on mortality in people with psychotic disorders and alcohol and/or drug use. We examined the rate of substance use and the risk of substance use on mortality risk over a 4-10 year period in 762 people with psychotic disorders. Deceased patients were identified from the Social Security Death Index and the Maryland Division of Vital Records. Substance use was defined as regular and heavy use or abuse or dependence. Seventy seven percent had co-morbid lifetime substance use, with co-morbid cannabis and alcohol use occurring most commonly. Out of 762 subjects, 62 died during follow up. In a Cox model, predicted mortality risk was higher in age group 35-55 compared to <35 years and in males, but reduced in cannabis users. Overall five- (3.1% vs 7.5%) and ten-year mortality risk (5.5% vs. 13.6%) was lower in cannabis users than in non-users with psychotic disorders (p = 0.005) in a survival model. Alcohol use was not predictive of mortality. We observed a lower mortality risk in cannabis-using psychotic disorder patients compared to cannabis non-users despite subjects having similar symptoms and treatments. Future research is warranted to replicate these findings and to shed light on the anti-inflammatory properties of the endocannabinoid system and its role in decreased mortality in people with psychotic disorders.
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Miller LL, Picker MJ, Umberger MD, Schmidt KT, Dykstra LA. Effects of alterations in cannabinoid signaling, alone and in combination with morphine, on pain-elicited and pain-suppressed behavior in mice. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2012; 342:177-87. [PMID: 22514333 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.112.191478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Inhibitors of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and anandamide (AEA) uptake, which limit the degradation of endogenous cannabinoids, have received interest as potential therapeutics for pain. There is also evidence that endogenous cannabinoids mediate the antinociceptive effects of opioids. Assays of pain-elicited and pain-suppressed behavior have been used to differentiate the effects of drugs that specifically alter nociception from drugs that alter nociception caused by nonspecific effects such as catalepsy or a general suppression of activity. Using such procedures, this study examines the effects of the direct cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) agonist (-)-cis-3-[2-hydroxy-4-(1,1-dimethylheptyl)phenyl]-trans-4-(3-hydroxypropyl)cyclohexanol (CP55940), the FAAH inhibitor cyclohexylcarbamic acid 3'-carbamoylbiphenyl-3-yl ester (URB597), and the AEA uptake inhibitor N-(4-hydroxyphenyl) arachidonylamide (AM404). Additional experiments examined these compounds in combination with morphine. CP55940 produced antinociception in assays of pain-elicited, but not pain-suppressed, behavior and disrupted responding in an assay of schedule-controlled behavior. URB597 and AM404 produced antinociception in assays of pain-elicited and pain-suppressed behavior in which acetic acid was the noxious stimulus, but had no effect on the hotplate and schedule-controlled responding. CP55940 in combination with morphine resulted in effects greater than those of morphine alone in assays of pain-elicited and scheduled-controlled behavior but not pain-suppressed behavior. URB597 in combination with morphine resulted in enhanced morphine effects in assays of pain-elicited and pain-suppressed behavior in which diluted acetic acid was the noxious stimulus, but did not alter morphine's effects on the hotplate or schedule-controlled responding. These studies suggest that, compared with direct CB1 agonists, manipulations of endogenous cannabinoid signaling have enhanced clinical potential; however, their effects depend on the type of noxious stimulus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurence L Miller
- Department of Psychology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.
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Fowler CJ. Anandamide uptake explained? Trends Pharmacol Sci 2012; 33:181-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2012.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2011] [Revised: 01/03/2012] [Accepted: 01/04/2012] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Tyagi P, Tyagi V, Yoshimura N, Chancellor M. Functional role of cannabinoid receptors in urinary bladder. Indian J Urol 2011; 26:26-35. [PMID: 20535281 PMCID: PMC2878434 DOI: 10.4103/0970-1591.60440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids, the active components of Cannabis sativa (maijuana), and their derivatives produce a wide spectrum of central and peripheral effects, some of which may have clinical applications. The discovery of specific cannabinoid receptors and a family of endogenous ligands of those receptors has attracted much attention to the general cannabinoid pharmacology. In recent years, studies on the functional role of cannabinoid receptors in bladder have been motivated by the therapeutic effects of cannabinoids on voiding dysfunction in multiple sclerosis patients. In this review, we shall summarize the literature on the expression of cannabinoid receptors in urinary bladder and the peripheral influence of locally and systemically administered cannabinoids in the bladder. The ongoing search for cannabinoid-based therapeutic strategies devoid of psychotropic effects can be complemented with local delivery into bladder by the intravesical route. A greater understanding of the role of the peripheral CB1 and CB2 receptor system in lower urinary tract is necessary to allow the development of new treatment for pelvic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pradeep Tyagi
- Departments of Urology, William Beaumont Hospital, MI, USA
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Karst M, Wippermann S, Ahrens J. Role of cannabinoids in the treatment of pain and (painful) spasticity. Drugs 2011; 70:2409-38. [PMID: 21142261 DOI: 10.2165/11585260-000000000-00000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Both the discovery of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and its role in the control of pain and habituation to stress, as well as the significant analgesic and antihyperalgesic effects in animal studies, suggest the usefulness of cannabinoids in pain conditions. However, in human experimental or clinical trials, no convincing reduction of acute pain, which may be caused by a pronociceptive, ECS-triggered mechanism on the level of the spinal cord, has been demonstrated. In contrast, in chronic pain and (painful) spasticity, an increasing number of randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies have shown the efficacy of cannabinoids, which is combined with a narrow therapeutic index. Patients with unsatisfactory response to other methods of pain therapy and who were characterized by failed stress adaptation particularly benefited from treatment with cannabinoids. None of the attempts to overcome the disadvantage of the narrow therapeutic index, either by changing the route of application or by formulating balanced cannabinoid preparations, have resulted in a major breakthrough. Therefore, different methods of administration and other types of cannabinoids, such as endocannabinoid modulators, should be tested in future trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Karst
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Pain Clinic, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.
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Effects of multiple intrathecal administration of L-arginine with different doses on formalin-induced nociceptive behavioral responses in rats. Neurosci Bull 2010; 26:211-8. [PMID: 20502499 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-010-0127-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effects of nitric oxide (NO) with different doses on modulation of inflammatory pain, and its possible mechanisms. METHODS NO precursor L-arginine (L-Arg) was intrathecally administered in rats at a dose of 10 microg per day (low dose group) or 250 microg per day (high dose group) for a succession of 4 d. Normal saline was applied as a control. Then the rats were subcutaneously injected with formalin (100 microL, 2%) into the right hind paw, and the nociceptive behavioral responses within 1 h were observed. At 4 h after formalin injection, neuronal NO synthase (nNOS) and c-Fos expression in spinal dorsal horn was examined with immunocytochemistry method. RESULTS The subcutaneous injection of formalin evoked biphasic behaviors of licking or biting the injected paw. There was no difference in acute phase of formalin test among the 3 groups, while in tonic phase, the licking and biting time, and the protein levels of nNOS and c-Fos in spinal dorsal horn were significantly decreased in low dose group and increased in high dose group, compared with those in control group. CONCLUSION These results suggest that multiple administration of NO with different doses may produce different effects. On one hand, the low dose of NO can induce antinociception. On the other hand, the high dose of NO can induce pronociception.
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Mallet C, Barrière DA, Ermund A, Jönsson BAG, Eschalier A, Zygmunt PM, Högestätt ED. TRPV1 in brain is involved in acetaminophen-induced antinociception. PLoS One 2010; 5. [PMID: 20862299 PMCID: PMC2941447 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0012748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2010] [Accepted: 08/23/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acetaminophen, the major active metabolite of acetanilide in man, has become one of the most popular over-the-counter analgesic and antipyretic agents, consumed by millions of people daily. However, its mechanism of action is still a matter of debate. We have previously shown that acetaminophen is further metabolized to N-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-5Z,8Z,11Z,14Z -eicosatetraenamide (AM404) by fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) in the rat and mouse brain and that this metabolite is a potent activator of transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV(1)) in vitro. Pharmacological activation of TRPV(1) in the midbrain periaqueductal gray elicits antinociception in rats. It is therefore possible that activation of TRPV(1) in the brain contributes to the analgesic effect of acetaminophen. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Here we show that the antinociceptive effect of acetaminophen at an oral dose lacking hypolocomotor activity is absent in FAAH and TRPV(1) knockout mice in the formalin, tail immersion and von Frey tests. This dose of acetaminophen did not affect the global brain contents of prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) and endocannabinoids. Intracerebroventricular injection of AM404 produced a TRPV(1)-mediated antinociceptive effect in the mouse formalin test. Pharmacological inhibition of TRPV(1) in the brain by intracerebroventricular capsazepine injection abolished the antinociceptive effect of oral acetaminophen in the same test. CONCLUSIONS This study shows that TRPV(1) in brain is involved in the antinociceptive action of acetaminophen and provides a strategy for developing central nervous system active oral analgesics based on the coexpression of FAAH and TRPV(1) in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christophe Mallet
- Clermont Université, Université d'Auvergne, Pharmacologie fondamentale et clinique de la douleur, Clermont-Ferrand, France
- Inserm, U 766, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - David A. Barrière
- Clermont Université, Université d'Auvergne, Pharmacologie fondamentale et clinique de la douleur, Clermont-Ferrand, France
- Inserm, U 766, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Anna Ermund
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, Lund University and Lund University Pain Research Centre, Lund, Sweden
| | - Bo A. G. Jönsson
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Alain Eschalier
- Clermont Université, Université d'Auvergne, Pharmacologie fondamentale et clinique de la douleur, Clermont-Ferrand, France
- Inserm, U 766, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Peter M. Zygmunt
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, Lund University and Lund University Pain Research Centre, Lund, Sweden
- * E-mail:
| | - Edward D. Högestätt
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, Lund University and Lund University Pain Research Centre, Lund, Sweden
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Alkaitis MS, Solorzano C, Landry RP, Piomelli D, DeLeo JA, Romero-Sandoval EA. Evidence for a role of endocannabinoids, astrocytes and p38 phosphorylation in the resolution of postoperative pain. PLoS One 2010; 5:e10891. [PMID: 20531936 PMCID: PMC2878341 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0010891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2010] [Accepted: 05/05/2010] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND An alarming portion of patients develop persistent or chronic pain following surgical procedures, but the mechanisms underlying the transition from acute to chronic pain states are not fully understood. In general, endocannabinoids (ECBs) inhibit nociceptive processing by stimulating cannabinoid receptors type 1 (CB(1)) and type 2 (CB(2)). We have previously shown that intrathecal administration of a CB(2) receptor agonist reverses both surgical incision-induced behavioral hypersensitivity and associated over-expression of spinal glial markers. We therefore hypothesized that endocannabinoid signaling promotes the resolution of acute postoperative pain by modulating pro-inflammatory signaling in spinal cord glial cells. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS To test this hypothesis, rats receiving paw incision surgery were used as a model of acute postoperative pain that spontaneously resolves. We first characterized the concentration of ECBs and localization of CB(1) and CB(2) receptors in the spinal cord following paw incision. We then administered concomitant CB(1) and CB(2) receptor antagonists/inverse agonists (AM281 and AM630, 1 mg x kg(-1) each, i.p.) during the acute phase of paw incision-induced mechanical allodynia and evaluated the expression of glial cell markers and phosphorylated p38 (a MAPK associated with inflammation) in the lumbar dorsal horn. Dual blockade of CB(1) and CB(2) receptor signaling prevented the resolution of postoperative allodynia and resulted in persistent over-expression of spinal Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein (GFAP, an astrocytic marker) and phospho-p38 in astrocytes. We provide evidence for the functional significance of these astrocytic changes by demonstrating that intrathecal administration of propentofylline (50 microg, i.t.) attenuated both persistent behavioral hypersensitivity and over-expression of GFAP and phospho-p38 in antagonist-treated animals. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Our results demonstrate that endocannabinoid signaling via CB(1) and CB(2) receptors is necessary for the resolution of paw incision-induced behavioral hypersensitivity and for the limitation of pro-inflammatory signaling in astrocytes following surgical insult. Our findings suggest that therapeutic strategies designed to enhance endocannabinoid signaling may prevent patients from developing persistent or chronic pain states following surgery.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Astrocytes/drug effects
- Astrocytes/metabolism
- Astrocytes/pathology
- Behavior, Animal/drug effects
- Biomarkers/metabolism
- Calcium-Binding Proteins/metabolism
- Cannabinoid Receptor Modulators/metabolism
- Endocannabinoids
- Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein/metabolism
- Male
- Microfilament Proteins
- Neuroglia/drug effects
- Neuroglia/metabolism
- Pain, Postoperative/enzymology
- Pain, Postoperative/pathology
- Phosphorylation/drug effects
- Rats
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/metabolism
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/metabolism
- Spinal Cord/metabolism
- Spinal Cord/pathology
- Xanthines/pharmacology
- p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew S. Alkaitis
- Neuroscience Center at Dartmouth, Dartmouth Medical School, Lebanon, New Hampshire, United States of America
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Carlos Solorzano
- Departments of Pharmacology and Biological Chemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, United States of America
| | - Russell P. Landry
- Neuroscience Center at Dartmouth, Dartmouth Medical School, Lebanon, New Hampshire, United States of America
- Department of Anesthesiology, Dartmouth Medical School, Lebanon, New Hampshire, United States of America
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Departments of Pharmacology and Biological Chemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, United States of America
| | - Joyce A. DeLeo
- Neuroscience Center at Dartmouth, Dartmouth Medical School, Lebanon, New Hampshire, United States of America
- Department of Anesthesiology, Dartmouth Medical School, Lebanon, New Hampshire, United States of America
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Dartmouth Medical School, Lebanon, New Hampshire, United States of America
| | - E. Alfonso Romero-Sandoval
- Neuroscience Center at Dartmouth, Dartmouth Medical School, Lebanon, New Hampshire, United States of America
- Department of Anesthesiology, Dartmouth Medical School, Lebanon, New Hampshire, United States of America
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Dartmouth Medical School, Lebanon, New Hampshire, United States of America
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Sagar DR, Jhaveri MD, Richardson D, Gray RA, de Lago E, Fernández-Ruiz J, Barrett DA, Kendall DA, Chapman V. Endocannabinoid regulation of spinal nociceptive processing in a model of neuropathic pain. Eur J Neurosci 2010; 31:1414-22. [PMID: 20384778 DOI: 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2010.07162.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Models of neuropathic pain are associated with elevated spinal levels of endocannabinoids (ECs) and altered expression of cannabinoid receptors on primary sensory afferents and post-synaptic cells in the spinal cord. We investigated the impact of these changes on the spinal processing of sensory inputs in a model of neuropathic pain. Extracellular single-unit recordings of spinal neurones were made in anaesthetized neuropathic and sham-operated rats. The effects of spinal administration of the cannabinoid CB(1) receptor antagonist N-(piperidin-1-yl)-5-(4-iodophenyl)-1-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)-4-methyl-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxamide (AM251) and the cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB(2)) receptor antagonist N-[(1S)-endo-1,3,3-trimethylbicycloheptan-2-yl]-5-(4-chloro-3-methylphenyl)-1-(4-methylbenzyl)-pyrazole-3-carboxamide (SR144528) on mechanically-evoked responses of spinal neurones were determined. The effects of spinal administration of (5Z,8Z11Z,14Z)-N-(3-furanylmethyl)-5,8,11,14-eicosatetraenamide (UCM707), which binds to CB(2) receptors and alters transport of ECs, on evoked responses of spinal neurones and spinal levels of ECs were also determined. The cannabinoid CB(1) receptor antagonist AM251, but not the CB(2) receptor antagonist, significantly facilitated 10-g-evoked responses of spinal neurones in neuropathic, but not sham-operated, rats. Spinal administration of UCM707 did not alter spinal levels of ECs but did significantly inhibit mechanically-evoked responses of neurones in neuropathic, but not sham-operated, rats. Pharmacological studies indicated that the selective inhibitory effects of spinal UCM707 in neuropathic rats were mediated by activation of spinal CB(2) receptors, as well as a contribution from transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) channels. This work demonstrates that changes in the EC receptor system in the spinal cord of neuropathic rats influence the processing of sensory inputs, in particular low-weight inputs that drive allodynia, and indicates novel effects of drugs acting via multiple elements of this receptor system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devi Rani Sagar
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Nottingham, Medical School, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK.
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