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Roberts A, Christian M, Dilone LN, Nelson N, Endrino MJ, Kneebone A, Embaby S, Fernandez J, Liu QR, Onaivi ES, Kibret BG. Alcohol induced behavioral and immune perturbations are attenuated by activation of CB2 cannabinoid receptors. ADVANCES IN DRUG AND ALCOHOL RESEARCH 2023; 3:11602. [PMID: 38389814 PMCID: PMC10880753 DOI: 10.3389/adar.2023.11602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
The endocannabinoidome (eCBome) is the expanded endocannabinoid system (ECS) and studies show that there is a link between this system and how it modulates alcohol induced neuroinflammation. Using conditional knockout (cKO) mice with selective deletion of cannabinoid type 2 receptors (CB2Rs) in dopamine neurons (DAT-Cnr2) and in microglia (Cx3Cr1-Cnr2), we investigated how CB2Rs modulate behavioral and neuroinflammation induced by alcohol. Behavioral tests including locomotor and wheel running activity, rotarod performance test, and alcohol preference tests were used to evaluate behavioral changes induced by alcohol. Using ELISA assay, we investigated the level of pro-inflammatory cytokines, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1α (IL-1α), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) in the hippocampus of mice. The findings demonstrated that locomotor activity, wheel running, and rotarod performance activities were significantly affected by cell-type specific deletion of CB2Rs in dopamine neurons and microglia. The non-selective CB2R agonist, WIN 55,212-2, reduced alcohol preference in the wild type and cell-type specific CB2R cKO mice. In addition, the result showed that cell-type specific deletion of CB2Rs per se and administration of alcohol to CB2R cKO mice increased the expression of proinflammatory cytokines in the hippocampus. These findings suggest the involvement of CB2Rs in modulating behavioral and immune alterations induced by alcohol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaliyah Roberts
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Health, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ, United States
| | - Mahli Christian
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Health, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ, United States
| | - Lizbeth Nivar Dilone
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Health, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ, United States
| | - Natania Nelson
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Health, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ, United States
| | - Mark Joseph Endrino
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Health, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ, United States
| | - Adam Kneebone
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Health, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ, United States
| | - Shymaa Embaby
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Health, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ, United States
| | - Justin Fernandez
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Health, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ, United States
| | - Qing-Rong Liu
- Laboratory of Clinical Investigation, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Emmanuel S. Onaivi
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Health, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ, United States
| | - Berhanu Geresu Kibret
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Health, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ, United States
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Kibret BG, Roberts A, Kneebone A, Embaby S, Fernandez J, Liu QR, Onaivi ES. Cannabinoid CB2 receptors modulate alcohol induced behavior, and neuro-immune dysregulation in mice. Behav Brain Res 2023; 448:114439. [PMID: 37061199 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2023.114439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2023]
Abstract
The identification of additional lipid mediators, enzymes, and receptors revealed an expanded endocannabinoid system (ECS) called the endocannabinoidome (eCBome). Furthermore, eCBome research using wild type and genetically modified mice indicate the involvement of this system in modulating alcohol induced neuroinflammatory alterations associated with behavioral impairments and the release of proinflammatory cytokines. We investigated the role of cannabinoid type 2 receptors (CB2Rs) in modulating behavioral and neuro-immune changes induced by alcohol using conditional knockout (cKO) mice with selective deletion of CB2Rs in dopamine neurons (DAT-Cnr2) and in microglia (Cx3Cr1-Cnr2) cKO mice. We used a battery of behavioral tests including locomotor and wheel running activity, rotarod performance test, and alcohol preference tests to evaluate behavioral changes induced by alcohol. ELISA assay was used, to detect alterations in IL-6, IL-1α, and IL-1β in the prefrontal cortex, striatum, and hippocampal regions of mice to investigate the role of CB2Rs in neuroinflammation induced by alcohol in the brain. The involvement of cannabinoid receptors in alcohol-induced behavior was also evaluated using the non-selective cannabinoid receptor mixed agonist WIN 55,212-2. The results showed that cell-type specific deletion of CB2Rs in dopamine neurons and microglia significantly and differentially altered locomotor activity and rotarod performance activities. The result also revealed that cell-type specific deletion of CB2Rs enhanced alcohol-induced inflammation, and WIN significantly reduced alcohol preference in all genotypes compared to the vehicle controls. These findings suggest that the involvement of CB2Rs in modulating behavioral and neuroinflammatory alterations induced by alcohol may be potential therapeutic targets in the treatment of alcohol use disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berhanu Geresu Kibret
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Health, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ 07470, USA.
| | - Aaliyah Roberts
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Health, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ 07470, USA
| | - Adam Kneebone
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Health, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ 07470, USA
| | - Shymaa Embaby
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Health, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ 07470, USA
| | - Justin Fernandez
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Health, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ 07470, USA
| | - Qing-Rong Liu
- Laboratory of Clinical Investigation, national Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Emmanuel S Onaivi
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Health, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ 07470, USA.
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3
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Kibret BG, Canseco-Alba A, Onaivi ES, Engidawork E. Crosstalk between the endocannabinoid and mid-brain dopaminergic systems: Implication in dopamine dysregulation. Front Behav Neurosci 2023; 17:1137957. [PMID: 37009000 PMCID: PMC10061032 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2023.1137957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Endocannabinoids (eCBs) and the expanded endocannabinoid system (ECS)-"endocannabinoidome", consists of the endogenous ligands, eCBs, their canonical and non-canonical receptor subtypes, and their synthesizing and metabolizing enzymes. This system modulates a wide range of body functions and acts as a retrograde signaling system within the central nervous system (CNS) by inhibition of classical transmitters, and plays a vital modulatory function on dopamine, a major neurotransmitter in the CNS. Dopamine is involved in different behavioral processes and contributes to different brain disorders-including Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, and drug addiction. After synthesis in the neuronal cytosol, dopamine is packaged into synaptic vesicles until released by extracellular signals. Calcium dependent neuronal activation results in the vesicular release of dopamine and interacts with different neurotransmitter systems. The ECS, among others, is involved in the regulation of dopamine release and the interaction occurs either through direct or indirect mechanisms. The cross-talk between the ECS and the dopaminergic system has important influence in various dopamine-related neurobiological and pathologic conditions and investigating this interaction might help identify therapeutic targets and options in disorders of the CNS associated with dopamine dysregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berhanu Geresu Kibret
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Health, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ, United States
| | - Ana Canseco-Alba
- Direction de Investigacion, Instituto Nacional de Neurologia y Neurocircirugia “Manuel Velasco Suarez”, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Emmanuel S. Onaivi
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Health, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ, United States
| | - Ephrem Engidawork
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Kline T, Xu C, Kreitzer FR, Hurst DP, Eldeeb KM, Wager-Miller J, Olivas K, Hepburn SA, Huffman JW, Mackie K, Howlett AC, Reggio P, Stella N. Design, synthesis, and evaluation of substituted alkylindoles that activate G protein-coupled receptors distinct from the cannabinoid CB 1 and CB 2 receptors. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 249:115123. [PMID: 36708677 PMCID: PMC10917149 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The alkylindole (AI), WIN55212-2, modulates the activity of several proteins, including cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2 (CB1R, CB2R), and at least additional G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that remains uncharacterized with respect to its molecular identity and pharmacological profile. Evidence suggests that such AI-sensitive GPCRs are expressed by the human kidney cell line HEK293. We synthesized fourteen novel AI analogues and evaluated their activities at AI-sensitive GPCRs using [35S]GTPγS and [3H]WIN55212-2 binding in HEK293 cell membranes, and performed in silico pharmacophore modeling to identify characteristics that favor binding to AI-sensitive GPCRs versus CB1R/CB2R. Compounds 10 and 12 stimulated [35S]GTPγS binding (EC50s = 3.5 and 1.1 nM, respectively), and this response was pertussis toxin-sensitive, indicating that AI-sensitive GPCRs couple to Gi/o proteins. Five AI analogues reliably distinguished two binding sites that correspond to the high and low affinity state of AI-sensitive GPCRs coupled or not to G proteins. In silico pharmacophore modeling suggest 3 characteristics that favor binding to AI-sensitive GPCRs versus CB1R/CB2R: 1) an s-cis orientation of the two aromatic rings in AI analogues, 2) a narrow dihedral angle between the carbonyl group and the indole ring plane [i.e., O-C(carbonyl)-C3-C2] and 3) the presence of a carbonyl oxygen. The substituted alkylindoles reported here represent novel chemical tools to study AI-sensitive GPCRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toni Kline
- Department of Microbiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Cong Xu
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Faith R Kreitzer
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Dow P Hurst
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of North Carolina, Greensboro, NC, 27412, USA
| | - Khalil M Eldeeb
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University, School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - Jim Wager-Miller
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences and the Gill Center, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, USA
| | - Kathleen Olivas
- Department of Microbiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Seon A Hepburn
- Howard L. Hunter Laboratory, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
| | - John W Huffman
- Howard L. Hunter Laboratory, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
| | - Ken Mackie
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences and the Gill Center, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, USA
| | - Allyn C Howlett
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University, School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - Patricia Reggio
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of North Carolina, Greensboro, NC, 27412, USA
| | - Nephi Stella
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA; Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA.
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Ishiguro H, Kibret BG, Horiuchi Y, Onaivi ES. Potential Role of Cannabinoid Type 2 Receptors in Neuropsychiatric and Neurodegenerative Disorders. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:828895. [PMID: 35774086 PMCID: PMC9237241 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.828895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is composed of the two canonical receptor subtypes; type-1 cannabinoid (CB1R) and type 2 receptor (CB2R), endocannabinoids (eCBs) and enzymes responsible for the synthesis and degradation of eCBs. Recently, with the identification of additional lipid mediators, enzymes and receptors, the expanded ECS called the endocannabinoidome (eCBome) has been identified and recognized. Activation of CB1R is associated with a plethora of physiological effects and some central nervous system (CNS) side effects, whereas, CB2R activation is devoid of such effects and hence CB2Rs might be utilized as potential new targets for the treatment of different disorders including neuropsychiatric disorders. Previous studies suggested that CB2Rs were absent in the brain and they were considered as peripheral receptors, however, recent studies confirmed the presence of CB2Rs in different brain regions. Several studies have now focused on the characterization of its physiological and pathological roles. Studies done on the role of CB2Rs as a therapeutic target for treating different disorders revealed important putative role of CB2R in neuropsychiatric disorders that requires further clinical validation. Here we provide current insights and knowledge on the potential role of targeting CB2Rs in neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. Its non-psychoactive effect makes the CB2R a potential target for treating CNS disorders; however, a better understanding of the fundamental pharmacology of CB2R activation is essential for the design of novel therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Ishiguro
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Graduate School of Medical Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu, Japan
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medical Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu, Japan
| | - Berhanu Geresu Kibret
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Health, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ, United States
| | - Yasue Horiuchi
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Emmanuel S. Onaivi
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Health, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ, United States
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Liddle I, Glass M, Tyndall JDA, Vernall AJ. Covalent cannabinoid receptor ligands - structural insight and selectivity challenges. RSC Med Chem 2022; 13:497-510. [PMID: 35694688 PMCID: PMC9132230 DOI: 10.1039/d2md00006g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
X-ray crystallography and cryogenic electronic microscopy have provided significant advancement in the knowledge of GPCR structure and have allowed the rational design of GPCR ligands. The class A GPCRs cannabinoid receptor type 1 and type 2 are implicated in many pathophysiological processes and thus rational design of drug and tool compounds is of great interest. Recent structural insight into cannabinoid receptors has already led to a greater understanding of ligand binding sites and receptor residues that likely contribute to ligand selectivity. Herein, classes of heterocyclic covalent cannabinoid receptor ligands are reviewed in light of the recent advances in structural knowledge of cannabinoid receptors, with particular discussion regarding covalent ligand selectivity and rationale design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian Liddle
- Department of Chemistry, University of Otago Dunedin New Zealand +64 3 479 5214
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago Dunedin New Zealand
| | | | - Andrea J Vernall
- Department of Chemistry, University of Otago Dunedin New Zealand +64 3 479 5214
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Evidence-based Potential Therapeutic Applications of Cannabinoids in Wound Management. Adv Skin Wound Care 2022; 35:447-453. [PMID: 35588193 DOI: 10.1097/01.asw.0000831920.15801.25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although wound management is a major component of all domains of healthcare, conventional therapeutics have numerous limitations. The endocannabinoid system of the skin, one of the major endogenous systems, has recently been connected to wound healing. Cannabinoids and their interactions with the endogenous chemical signaling system may be a promising therapeutic option because they address some of the fundamental pathways for physiologic derangement that underpin chronic integumentary wounds. RECENT ADVANCES The therapeutic applications of cannabinoids are increasing because of their legalization and resulting market expansion. Recently, their immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory properties have been explored for the treatment of wounds that are not effectively managed by conventional medicines. CRITICAL ISSUES Failure to manage wounds effectively is associated with reduced quality of life, disability, mortality, and increased healthcare expenditures. Therapeutic options that can manage wounds effectively and efficiently are needed. In this review, the authors summarize recent advances on the use of cannabinoids to treat skin disorders with an emphasis on wound management. FUTURE DIRECTIONS Effective wound management requires medicines with good therapeutic outcomes and minimal adverse effects. Despite the promising results of cannabinoids in wound management, further controlled clinical studies are required to establish the definitive role of these compounds in the pathophysiology of wounds and their usefulness in the clinical setting.
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Kibret BG, Ishiguro H, Horiuchi Y, Onaivi ES. New Insights and Potential Therapeutic Targeting of CB2 Cannabinoid Receptors in CNS Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:975. [PMID: 35055161 PMCID: PMC8778243 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23020975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is ubiquitous in most human tissues, and involved in the regulation of mental health. Consequently, its dysregulation is associated with neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. Together, the ECS and the expanded endocannabinoidome (eCBome) are composed of genes coding for CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors (CB1R, CB2R), endocannabinoids (eCBs), and the metabolic enzyme machinery for their synthesis and catabolism. The activation of CB1R is associated with adverse effects on the central nervous system (CNS), which has limited the therapeutic use of drugs that bind this receptor. The discovery of the functional neuronal CB2R raised new possibilities for the potential and safe targeting of the ECS for the treatment of CNS disorders. Previous studies were not able to detect CB2R mRNA transcripts in brain tissue and suggested that CB2Rs were absent in the brain and were considered peripheral receptors. Studies done on the role of CB2Rs as a potential therapeutic target for treating different disorders revealed the important putative role of CB2Rs in certain CNS disorders, which requires further clinical validation. This review addresses recent advances on the role of CB2Rs in neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders, including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, Parkinson's disease (PD), Alzheimer's disease (AD), Huntington's disease (HD) and addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berhanu Geresu Kibret
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Health, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ 07470, USA
| | - Hiroki Ishiguro
- Department of Neuropsychiatry and Clinical Ethics, Graduate School of Medical Science, University of Yamanashi, Chuo, Yamanashi 409-3898, Japan;
| | - Yasue Horiuchi
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo 156-8506, Japan;
| | - Emmanuel S. Onaivi
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Health, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ 07470, USA
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Paudel P, Ross S, Li XC. Molecular Targets of Cannabinoids Associated with Depression. Curr Med Chem 2021; 29:1827-1850. [PMID: 34165403 DOI: 10.2174/0929867328666210623144658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Novel therapeutic strategies are needed to address depression, a major neurological disorder affecting hundreds of millions of people worldwide. Cannabinoids and their synthetic derivatives have demonstrated numerous neurological activities and may potentially be developed into new treatments for depression. This review highlights cannabinoid (CB) receptors, monoamine oxidase (MAO), N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor, and cholecystokinin (CCK) receptor as key molecular targets of cannabinoids that are associated with depression. The anti-depressant activity of cannabinoids and their binding modes with cannabinoid receptors are discussed, providing insights into rational design and discovery of new cannabinoids or cannabimimetic agents with improved druggable properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pradeep Paudel
- National Center for Natural Products Research, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Mississippi, University, Mississippi 38677, United States
| | - Samir Ross
- National Center for Natural Products Research, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Mississippi, University, Mississippi 38677, United States
| | - Xing-Cong Li
- National Center for Natural Products Research, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Mississippi, University, Mississippi 38677, United States
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Sezer Y, Jannuzzi AT, Huestis MA, Alpertunga B. In vitro assessment of the cytotoxic, genotoxic and oxidative stress effects of the synthetic cannabinoid JWH-018 in human SH-SY5Y neuronal cells. Toxicol Res (Camb) 2020; 9:734-740. [PMID: 33447358 DOI: 10.1093/toxres/tfaa078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND JWH-018 was the first synthetic cannabinoid introduced as a legal high and the first of the new generation of novel psychoactive substances that flooded worldwide drug markets. JWH-018 was marketed as "spice," "herbal incense," or "herbal blend," as a popular and legal (at the time) alternative to cannabis (marijuana). JWH-018 is a potent synthetic cannabinoid with considerable toxicity associated with its use. JWH-018 has qualitatively similar but quantitatively greater pharmacological effects than cannabis, leading to intoxications and even deaths. The mechanisms of action of the drug's toxicity require research, and thus, the aim of the present study was to investigate the toxicological profile of JWH-018 in human SH-SY5Y neuronal cells. METHODS SH-SY5Y neuronal cells were exposed to increasing concentrations from 5 to 150 μM JWH-018 over 24 h. Cytotoxicity, DNA damage, the apoptotic/necrotic rate, and oxidative stress were assessed following SH-SY5Y exposure. RESULTS JWH-018 did not produce a significant decrease in SH-SY5Y cell viability, did not alter apoptotic/necrotic rate, and did not cause genotoxicity in SH-SY5Y cells with 24-h exposure. Glutathione reductase and catalase activities were significantly reduced; however, there was no significant change in glutathione peroxidase activity. Also, JWH-018 treatment significantly decreased glutathione concentrations, significantly increased protein carbonylation, and significantly increased malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations. For significance, all P < 0.05. DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION JWH-018 produced oxidative stress in SH-SY5Y cells that could be an underlying mechanism of JWH-018 neurotoxicity. Additional in vivo animal and human-based studies are needed to confirm our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yigit Sezer
- Council of Forensic Medicine, Ministry of Justice, Istanbul 34197, Turkey
| | - Ayse Tarbin Jannuzzi
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Istanbul University, Istanbul 34126, Turkey
| | - Marilyn A Huestis
- Institute of Emerging Health Professions, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Buket Alpertunga
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Istanbul University, Istanbul 34126, Turkey
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Cooray R, Gupta V, Suphioglu C. Current Aspects of the Endocannabinoid System and Targeted THC and CBD Phytocannabinoids as Potential Therapeutics for Parkinson's and Alzheimer's Diseases: a Review. Mol Neurobiol 2020; 57:4878-4890. [PMID: 32813239 PMCID: PMC7515854 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-020-02054-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegeneration leading to Parkinson's disease (PD) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) has become a major health burden globally. Current treatments mainly target controlling symptoms and there are no therapeutics available in clinical practice to preventing the neurodegeneration or inducing neuronal repairing. Thus, the demand of novel research for the two disorders is imperative. This literature review aims to provide a collection of published work on PD and AD and current uses of endocannabinoid system (ECS) as a potential drug target for neurodegeneration. PD is frequently treated with L-DOPA and deep brain stimulation. Recent gene modification and remodelling techniques, such as CRISPR through human embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells, have shown promising strategy for personalised medicine. AD characterised by extracellular deposits of amyloid β-senile plaques and neurofibrillary tangles of tau protein commonly uses choline acetyltransferase enhancers as therapeutics. The ECS is currently being studied as PD and AD drug targets where overexpression of ECS receptors exerted neuroprotection against PD and reduced neuroinflammation in AD. The delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinoid (Δ9-THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) cannabinoids of plant Cannabis sativa have shown neuroprotection upon PD and AD animal models yet triggered toxic effects on patients when administered directly. Therefore, understanding the precise molecular cascade following cannabinoid treatment is suggested, focusing especially on gene expression to identify drug targets for preventing and repairing neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Cooray
- Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria, 3216, Australia.
- Faculty of Health, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria, 3216, Australia.
- Section of Genetics, Institute for Research & Development in Health & Social Care, Colombo, Sri Lanka.
| | - V Gupta
- Faculty of Health, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria, 3216, Australia
| | - C Suphioglu
- Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria, 3216, Australia
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Páez JA, Campillo NE. Innovative Therapeutic Potential of Cannabinoid Receptors as Targets in Alzheimer’s Disease and Less Well-Known Diseases. Curr Med Chem 2019; 26:3300-3340. [DOI: 10.2174/0929867325666180226095132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Revised: 02/08/2018] [Accepted: 02/15/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
:
The discovery of cannabinoid receptors at the beginning of the 1990s, CB1 cloned
in 1990 and CB2 cloned in 1993, and the availability of selective and potent cannabimimetics
could only be justified by the existence of endogenous ligands that are capable of binding to
them. Thus, the characterisation and cloning of the first cannabinoid receptor (CB1) led to the
isolation and characterisation of the first endocannabinoid, arachidonoylethanolamide (AEA),
two years later and the subsequent identification of a family of lipid transmitters known as the
fatty acid ester 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG).
:
The endogenous cannabinoid system is a complex signalling system that comprises transmembrane
endocannabinoid receptors, their endogenous ligands (the endocannabinoids), the
specific uptake mechanisms and the enzymatic systems related to their biosynthesis and degradation.
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The endocannabinoid system has been implicated in a wide diversity of biological processes,
in both the central and peripheral nervous systems, including memory, learning, neuronal development,
stress and emotions, food intake, energy regulation, peripheral metabolism, and
the regulation of hormonal balance through the endocrine system.
:
In this context, this article will review the current knowledge of the therapeutic potential of
cannabinoid receptor as a target in Alzheimer’s disease and other less well-known diseases
that include, among others, multiple sclerosis, bone metabolism, and Fragile X syndrome.
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The therapeutic applications will be addressed through the study of cannabinoid agonists acting
as single drugs and multi-target drugs highlighting the CB2 receptor agonist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan A. Páez
- Instituto de Quimica Medica (IQM-CSIC). C/ Juan de la Cierva, 3, 28006, Madrid, Spain
| | - Nuria E. Campillo
- Centro de Investigaciones Biologicas (CIB-CSIC). C/ Ramiro de Maeztu, 9, 28040, Madrid, Spain
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13
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Spectroscopic differentiation and chromatographic separation of regioisomeric indole aldehydes: Synthetic cannabinoids precursors. Forensic Chem 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forc.2018.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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14
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Giorgi PD, Liautard V, Pucheault M, Antoniotti S. Biomimetic Cannabinoid Synthesis Revisited: Batch and Flow All-Catalytic Synthesis of (±)-ortho
-Tetrahydrocannabinols and Analogues from Natural Feedstocks. European J Org Chem 2018. [DOI: 10.1002/ejoc.201800064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Pascal D. Giorgi
- Institut de Chimie de Nice; CNRS; Université Cote d'Azur; Parc Valrose 06108 Nice cedex 2 France
| | - Virginie Liautard
- Institut des Sciences Moléculaires; UMR 5255 CNRS - Université de Bordeaux; 351 cours de la libération 33405 Talence cedex France
| | - Mathieu Pucheault
- Institut des Sciences Moléculaires; UMR 5255 CNRS - Université de Bordeaux; 351 cours de la libération 33405 Talence cedex France
| | - Sylvain Antoniotti
- Institut de Chimie de Nice; CNRS; Université Cote d'Azur; Parc Valrose 06108 Nice cedex 2 France
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15
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Mallipeddi S, Kreimer S, Zvonok N, Vemuri K, Karger BL, Ivanov AR, Makriyannis A. Binding Site Characterization of AM1336, a Novel Covalent Inverse Agonist at Human Cannabinoid 2 Receptor, Using Mass Spectrometric Analysis. J Proteome Res 2017; 16:2419-2428. [PMID: 28374590 PMCID: PMC11208095 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.7b00023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoid 2 receptor (CB2R), a Class-A G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR), is a promising drug target under a wide array of pathological conditions. Rational drug design has been hindered due to our poor understanding of the structural features involved in ligand binding. Binding of a high-affinity biarylpyrazole inverse agonist AM1336 to a library of the human CB2 receptor (hCB2R) cysteine-substituted mutants provided indirect evidence that two cysteines in transmembrane helix-7 (H7) were critical for the covalent attachment. We used proteomics analysis of the hCB2R with bound AM1336 to directly identify peptides with covalently attached ligand and applied in silico modeling for visualization of the ligand-receptor interactions. The hCB2R, with affinity tags (FlaghCB2His6), was produced in a baculovirus-insect cell expression system and purified as a functional receptor using immunoaffinity chromatography. Using mass spectrometry-based bottom-up proteomic analysis of the hCB2R-AM1336, we identified a peptide with AM1336 attached to the cysteine C284(7.38) in H7. The hCB2R homology model in lipid bilayer accommodated covalent attachment of AM1336 to C284(7.38), supporting both biochemical and mass spectrometric data. This work consolidates proteomics data and in silico modeling and integrates with our ligand-assisted protein structure (LAPS) experimental paradigm to assist in structure-based design of cannabinoid antagonist/inverse agonists.
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MESH Headings
- Amino Acid Motifs
- Animals
- Baculoviridae/genetics
- Baculoviridae/metabolism
- Binding Sites
- Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists/chemistry
- Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists/metabolism
- Cloning, Molecular
- Cysteine/chemistry
- Cysteine/metabolism
- Gene Expression
- Humans
- Ligands
- Mass Spectrometry
- Models, Molecular
- Mutation
- Protein Binding
- Protein Conformation, alpha-Helical
- Protein Interaction Domains and Motifs
- Pyrazoles/chemistry
- Pyrazoles/metabolism
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/agonists
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/chemistry
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/genetics
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/metabolism
- Recombinant Proteins/chemistry
- Recombinant Proteins/genetics
- Recombinant Proteins/metabolism
- Spodoptera
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Affiliation(s)
- Srikrishnan Mallipeddi
- Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Simion Kreimer
- Barnett Institute, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Nikolai Zvonok
- Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Kiran Vemuri
- Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Barry L. Karger
- Barnett Institute, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Alexander R. Ivanov
- Barnett Institute, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Alexandros Makriyannis
- Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Barnett Institute, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
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16
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Zhou H, Peng Y, Halikhedkar A, Fan P, Janero DR, Thakur GA, Mercier RW, Sun X, Ma X, Makriyannis A. Human Cannabinoid Receptor 2 Ligand-Interaction Motif: Transmembrane Helix 2 Cysteine, C2.59(89), as Determinant of Classical Cannabinoid Agonist Activity and Binding Pose. ACS Chem Neurosci 2017; 8:1338-1347. [PMID: 28220706 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.7b00003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2R)-dependent signaling is implicated in neuronal physiology and immune surveillance by brain microglia. Selective CB2R agonists hold therapeutic promise for inflammatory and other neurological disorders. Information on human CB2R (hCB2R) ligand-binding and functional domains is needed to inform the rational design and optimization of candidate druglike hCB2R agonists. Prior demonstration that hCB2R transmembrane helix 2 (TMH2) cysteine C2.59(89) reacts with small-molecule methanethiosulfonates showed that this cysteine residue is accessible to sulfhydryl derivatization reagents. We now report the design and application of two novel, pharmacologically active, high-affinity molecular probes, AM4073 and AM4099, as chemical reporters to interrogate directly the interaction of classical cannabinoid agonists with hCB2R cysteine residues. AM4073 has one electrophilic isothiocyanate (NCS) functionality at the C9 position of its cyclohexenyl C-ring, whereas AM4099 has NCS groups at that position and at the terminus of its aromatic A-ring C3 side chain. Pretreatment of wild-type hCB2R with either probe reduced subsequent [3H]CP55,940 specific binding by ∼60%. Conservative serine substitution of any hCB2R TMH cysteine residue except C2.59(89) did not affect the reduction of [3H]CP55,940 specific binding by either probe, suggesting that AM4073 and AM4099 interact irreversibly with this TMH2 cysteine. In contrast, AM841, an exceptionally potent hCB2R megagonist and direct AM4073/4099 congener bearing a single electrophilic NCS group at the terminus of its C3 side chain, had been demonstrated to bind covalently to TMH6 cysteine C6.47(257) and not C2.59(89). Molecular modeling indicates that the AM4073-hCB2R* interaction at C2.59(89) orients this classical cannabinoid away from TMH6 and toward the TMH2-TMH3 interface in the receptor's hydrophobic binding pocket, whereas the AM841-hCB2R* interaction at C6.47(257) favors agonist orientation toward TMH6/7. These data constitute initial evidence that TMH2 cysteine C2.59(89) is a component of the hCB2R binding pocket for classical cannabinoids. The results further demonstrate how interactions between classical cannabinoids and specific amino acids within the hCB2R* ligand-binding domain act as determinants of agonist pharmacological properties and the architecture of the agonist-hCB2R* conformational ensemble, allowing the receptor to adopt distinct activity states, such that interaction of classical cannabinoids with TMH6 cysteine C6.47(257) favors a binding pose more advantageous for agonist potency than does their interaction with TMH2 cysteine C2.59(89).
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Zhou
- Center for Drug Discovery and Departments of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Bioengineering; College of Science, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, and College of Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115-5000, United States
| | - Yan Peng
- Center for Drug Discovery and Departments of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Bioengineering; College of Science, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, and College of Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115-5000, United States
| | - Aneetha Halikhedkar
- Center for Drug Discovery and Departments of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Bioengineering; College of Science, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, and College of Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115-5000, United States
| | - Pusheng Fan
- Center for Drug Discovery and Departments of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Bioengineering; College of Science, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, and College of Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115-5000, United States
| | - David R. Janero
- Center for Drug Discovery and Departments of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Bioengineering; College of Science, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, and College of Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115-5000, United States
| | - Ganesh A. Thakur
- Center for Drug Discovery and Departments of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Bioengineering; College of Science, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, and College of Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115-5000, United States
| | - Richard W. Mercier
- Center for Drug Discovery and Departments of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Bioengineering; College of Science, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, and College of Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115-5000, United States
| | - Xin Sun
- Center for Drug Discovery and Departments of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Bioengineering; College of Science, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, and College of Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115-5000, United States
| | - Xiaoyu Ma
- Center for Drug Discovery and Departments of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Bioengineering; College of Science, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, and College of Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115-5000, United States
| | - Alexandros Makriyannis
- Center for Drug Discovery and Departments of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Bioengineering; College of Science, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, and College of Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115-5000, United States
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17
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Wiley JL, Marusich JA, Thomas BF. Combination Chemistry: Structure-Activity Relationships of Novel Psychoactive Cannabinoids. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2017; 32:231-248. [PMID: 27753007 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2016_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Originally developed as research tools for use in structure-activity relationship studies, synthetic cannabinoids contributed to significant scientific advances in the cannabinoid field. Unfortunately, a subset of these compounds was diverted for recreational use beginning in the early 2000s. As these compounds were banned, they were replaced with additional synthetic cannabinoids with increasingly diverse chemical structures. This chapter focuses on integration of recent results with those covered in previous reviews. Whereas most of the early compounds were derived from the prototypic naphthoylindole JWH-018, currently popular synthetic cannabinoids include tetramethylcyclopropyl ketones and indazole-derived cannabinoids (e.g., AB-PINACA, AB-CHMINACA). Despite their structural differences, psychoactive synthetic cannabinoids bind with high affinity to CB1 receptors in the brain and, when tested, have been shown to activate these receptors and to produce a characteristic profile of effects, including suppression of locomotor activity, antinociception, hypothermia, and catalepsy, as well as Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)-like discriminative stimulus effects in mice. When they have been tested, synthetic cannabinoids are often found to be more efficacious at activation of the CB1 receptor and more potent in vivo. Further, their chemical alteration by thermolysis during use and their uncertain stability and purity may result in exposure to degradants that differ from the parent compound contained in the original product. Consequently, while their intoxicant effects may be similar to those of THC, use of synthetic cannabinoids may be accompanied by unpredicted, and sometimes harmful, effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny L Wiley
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709-2194, USA.
| | - Julie A Marusich
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709-2194, USA
| | - Brian F Thomas
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709-2194, USA
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18
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Khedr AIM, Ibrahim SRM, Mohamed GA, Ahmed HEA, Ahmad AS, Ramadan MA, El-Baky AEA, Yamada K, Ross SA. New ursane triterpenoids from Ficus pandurata and their binding affinity for human cannabinoid and opioid receptors. Arch Pharm Res 2016; 39:897-911. [PMID: 27350550 PMCID: PMC5590819 DOI: 10.1007/s12272-016-0784-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2016] [Accepted: 06/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Phytochemical investigation of Ficus pandurata Hance (Moraceae) fruits has led to the isolation of two new triterpenoids, ficupanduratin A [1β-hydroxy-3β-acetoxy-11α-methoxy-urs-12-ene] (11) and ficupanduratin B [21α-hydroxy-3β-acetoxy-11α-methoxy-urs-12-ene] (17), along with 20 known compounds: α-amyrin acetate (1), α-amyrin (2), 3β-acetoxy-20-taraxasten-22-one (3), 3β-acetoxy-11α-methoxy-olean-12-ene (4), 3β-acetoxy-11α-methoxy-12-ursene (5), 11-oxo-α-amyrin acetate (6), 11-oxo-β-amyrin acetate (7), palmitic acid (8), stigmast-4,22-diene-3,6-dione (9), stigmast-4-ene-3,6-dione (10), stigmasterol (12), β-sitosterol (13), stigmast-22-ene-3,6-dione (14), stigmastane-3,6-dione (15), 3β,21β-dihydroxy-11α-methoxy-olean-12-ene (16), 3β-hydroxy-11α-methoxyurs-12-ene (18), 6-hydroxystigmast-4,22-diene-3-one (19), 6-hydroxystigmast-4-ene-3-one (20), 11α,21α-dihydroxy-3β-acetoxy-urs-12-ene (21), and β-sitosterol-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (22). Compound 21 is reported for the first time from a natural source. The structures of the 20 compounds were elucidated on the basis of IR, 1D ((1)H and (13)C), 2D ((1)H-(1)H COSY, HSQC, HMBC and NOESY) NMR and MS spectroscopic data, in addition to comparison with literature data. The isolated compounds were evaluated for their anti-microbial, anti-malarial, anti-leishmanial, and cytotoxic activities. In addition, their radioligand displacement affinity on opioid and cannabinoid receptors was assessed. Compounds 4, 11, and 15 exhibited good affinity towards the CB2 receptor, with displacement values of 69.7, 62.5 and 86.5 %, respectively. Furthermore, the binding mode of the active compounds in the active site of the CB2 cannabinoid receptors was investigated through molecular modelling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amgad I M Khedr
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Port Said University, Port Said, 42526, Egypt
| | - Sabrin R M Ibrahim
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Taibah University, Al Madinah Al Munawarah, 30078, Saudi Arabia.
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Assuit University, Assuit, 71526, Egypt.
| | - Gamal A Mohamed
- Department of Natural Products and Alternative Medicine, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assuit Branch, Assuit, 71524, Egypt
| | - Hany E A Ahmed
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Taibah University, Al Madinah Al Munawarah, 30078, Saudi Arabia
- Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Amany S Ahmad
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Assuit University, Assuit, 71526, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud A Ramadan
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Assuit University, Assuit, 71526, Egypt
| | - Atef E Abd El-Baky
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Port Said University, Port Said, 42526, Egypt
| | - Koji Yamada
- Garden for Medicinal Plants, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, Bunkyo-machi 1-14, Nagasaki, 852-8521, Japan
| | - Samir A Ross
- National Center for Natural Products Research, and Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS, 38677, USA
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19
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Hu J, Feng Z, Ma S, Zhang Y, Tong Q, Alqarni MH, Gou X, Xie XQ. Difference and Influence of Inactive and Active States of Cannabinoid Receptor Subtype CB2: From Conformation to Drug Discovery. J Chem Inf Model 2016; 56:1152-63. [PMID: 27186994 PMCID: PMC5395206 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.5b00739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2), a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR), is a promising target for the treatment of neuropathic pain, osteoporosis, immune system, cancer, and drug abuse. The lack of an experimental three-dimensional CB2 structure has hindered not only the development of studies of conformational differences between the inactive and active CB2 but also the rational discovery of novel functional compounds targeting CB2. In this work, we constructed models of both inactive and active CB2 by homology modeling. Then we conducted two comparative 100 ns molecular dynamics (MD) simulations on the two systems-the active CB2 bound with both the agonist and G protein and the inactive CB2 bound with inverse agonist-to analyze the conformational difference of CB2 proteins and the key residues involved in molecular recognition. Our results showed that the inactive CB2 and the inverse agonist remained stable during the MD simulation. However, during the MD simulations, we observed dynamical details about the breakdown of the "ionic lock" between R131(3.50) and D240(6.30) as well as the outward/inward movements of transmembrane domains of the active CB2 that bind with G proteins and agonist (TM5, TM6, and TM7). All of these results are congruent with the experimental data and recent reports. Moreover, our results indicate that W258(6.48) in TM6 and residues in TM4 (V164(4.56)-L169(4.61)) contribute greatly to the binding of the agonist on the basis of the binding energy decomposition, while residues S180-F183 in extracellular loop 2 (ECL2) may be of importance in recognition of the inverse agonist. Furthermore, pharmacophore modeling and virtual screening were carried out for the inactive and active CB2 models in parallel. Among all 10 hits, two compounds exhibited novel scaffolds and can be used as novel chemical probes for future studies of CB2. Importantly, our studies show that the hits obtained from the inactive CB2 model mainly act as inverse agonist(s) or neutral antagonist(s) at low concentration. Moreover, the hit from the active CB2 model also behaves as a neutral antagonist at low concentration. Our studies provide new insight leading to a better understanding of the structural and conformational differences between two states of CB2 and illuminate the effects of structure on virtual screening and drug design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianping Hu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, School of Pharmacy, NIH National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research, Drug Discovery Institute, and Department of Computational Biology and Structural Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, United States
- College of Chemistry, Leshan Normal University, Leshan, Sichuan 614004, China
- School of Pharmacy and Bioengineering; Key Laboratory of Medicinal and Edible Plants Resources Development, Chengdu University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610106, China
| | - Zhiwei Feng
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, School of Pharmacy, NIH National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research, Drug Discovery Institute, and Department of Computational Biology and Structural Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, United States
| | - Shifan Ma
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, School of Pharmacy, NIH National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research, Drug Discovery Institute, and Department of Computational Biology and Structural Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, United States
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, School of Pharmacy, NIH National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research, Drug Discovery Institute, and Department of Computational Biology and Structural Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, United States
| | - Qin Tong
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, School of Pharmacy, NIH National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research, Drug Discovery Institute, and Department of Computational Biology and Structural Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, United States
| | - Mohammed Hamed Alqarni
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, School of Pharmacy, NIH National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research, Drug Discovery Institute, and Department of Computational Biology and Structural Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, United States
| | - Xiaojun Gou
- School of Pharmacy and Bioengineering; Key Laboratory of Medicinal and Edible Plants Resources Development, Chengdu University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610106, China
| | - Xiang-Qun Xie
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, School of Pharmacy, NIH National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research, Drug Discovery Institute, and Department of Computational Biology and Structural Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, United States
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20
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Molecular mechanisms of target recognition by lipid GPCRs: relevance for cancer. Oncogene 2015; 35:4021-35. [DOI: 10.1038/onc.2015.467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2015] [Revised: 11/02/2015] [Accepted: 11/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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21
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Kozela E, Haj C, Hanuš L, Chourasia M, Shurki A, Juknat A, Kaushansky N, Mechoulam R, Vogel Z. HU-446 and HU-465, Derivatives of the Non-psychoactive Cannabinoid Cannabidiol, Decrease the Activation of Encephalitogenic T Cells. Chem Biol Drug Des 2015; 87:143-53. [PMID: 26259697 DOI: 10.1111/cbdd.12637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2015] [Revised: 07/27/2015] [Accepted: 08/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD), the non-psychoactive cannabinoid, has been previously shown by us to decrease peripheral inflammation and neuroinflammation in mouse experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model of multiple sclerosis (MS). Here we have studied the anti-inflammatory effects of newly synthesized derivatives of natural (-)-CBD ((-)-8,9-dihydro-7-hydroxy-CBD; HU-446) and of synthetic (+)-CBD ((+)-8,9-dihydro-7-hydroxy-CBD; HU-465) on activated myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG)35-55-specific mouse encephalitogenic T cells (T(MOG) ) driving EAE/MS-like pathologies. Binding assays followed by molecular modeling revealed that HU-446 has negligible affinity toward the cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors while HU-465 binds to both CB1 and CB2 receptors at the high nanomolar concentrations (Ki = 76.7 ± 5.8 nm and 12.1 ± 2.3 nm, respectively). Both, HU-446 and HU-465, at 5 and 10 μm (but not at 0.1 and 1 μm), inhibited the MOG35-55-induced proliferation of autoreactive T(MOG) cells via CB1/CB2 receptor independent mechanisms. Moreover, both HU-446 and HU-465, at 5 and 10 μm, inhibited the release of IL-17, a key autoimmune cytokine, from MOG35-55-stimulated T(MOG) cells. These results suggest that HU-446 and HU-465 have anti-inflammatory potential in inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Kozela
- The Dr Miriam and Sheldon G. Adelson Center for the Biology of Addictive Diseases, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 69978, Israel
| | - Christeene Haj
- Institute for Drug Research, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 91120, Israel
| | - Lumir Hanuš
- Institute for Drug Research, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 91120, Israel
| | - Mukesh Chourasia
- Department of Pharmacoinformatics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hajipur, 844102, Bihar 844102, India
| | - Avital Shurki
- Institute for Drug Research, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 91120, Israel
| | - Ana Juknat
- The Dr Miriam and Sheldon G. Adelson Center for the Biology of Addictive Diseases, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 69978, Israel
| | - Nathali Kaushansky
- Neurobiology Department, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, 76100, Israel
| | - Raphael Mechoulam
- Institute for Drug Research, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 91120, Israel
| | - Zvi Vogel
- The Dr Miriam and Sheldon G. Adelson Center for the Biology of Addictive Diseases, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 69978, Israel.,Neurobiology Department, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, 76100, Israel
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22
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CB2 cannabinoid receptor agonist enantiomers HU-433 and HU-308: An inverse relationship between binding affinity and biological potency. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2015; 112:8774-9. [PMID: 26124120 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1503395112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Activation of the CB2 receptor is apparently an endogenous protective mechanism. Thus, it restrains inflammation and protects the skeleton against age-related bone loss. However, the endogenous cannabinoids, as well as Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol, the main plant psychoactive constituent, activate both cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2. HU-308 was among the first synthetic, selective CB2 agonists. HU-308 is antiosteoporotic and antiinflammatory. Here we show that the HU-308 enantiomer, designated HU-433, is 3-4 orders of magnitude more potent in osteoblast proliferation and osteoclast differentiation culture systems, as well as in mouse models, for the rescue of ovariectomy-induced bone loss and ear inflammation. HU-433 retains the HU-308 specificity for CB2, as shown by its failure to bind to the CB1 cannabinoid receptor, and has no activity in CB2-deficient cells and animals. Surprisingly, the CB2 binding affinity of HU-433 in terms of [(3)H]CP55,940 displacement and its effect on [(35)S]GTPγS accumulation is substantially lower compared with HU-308. A molecular-modeling analysis suggests that HU-433 and -308 have two different binding conformations within CB2, with one of them possibly responsible for the affinity difference, involving [(35)S]GTPγS and cAMP synthesis. Hence, different ligands may have different orientations relative to the same binding site. This situation questions the usefulness of universal radioligands for comparative binding studies. Moreover, orientation-targeted ligands have promising potential for the pharmacological activation of distinct processes.
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Thaxton A, Belal TS, Smith F, DeRuiter J, Abdel-Hay KM, Clark CR. Mass spectral studies on 1-n-pentyl-3-(1-naphthoyl)indole (JWH-018), three deuterium-labeled analogues and the inverse isomer 1-naphthoyl-3-n-pentylindole. RAPID COMMUNICATIONS IN MASS SPECTROMETRY : RCM 2015; 29:871-877. [PMID: 26377015 DOI: 10.1002/rcm.7171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2014] [Revised: 01/23/2015] [Accepted: 02/13/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE A number of synthetic cannabinoids such as the 1-alkyl-3-acylindoles are the target of significant designer drug activity. One of the first waves of these compounds identified in clandestine samples was 1-n-pentyl-3-(1-naphthoyl)indole, JWH-018. These totally synthetic molecules can be prepared in a number of regioisomeric forms. METHODS The electron ionization mass spectrometric (EI-MS) fragmentation of the 1-n-pentyl-3-(1-naphthoyl)indole is compared to its inverse isomer 1-naphthoyl-3-n-pentylindole. These two substances are directly available from indole using identical precursor reagents and similar reaction conditions. Stable isotope deuterium labeling of the three major regions of the JWH-018 molecule allows confirmation of the structures of the major fragment ions. The spectra for the 1-n-pentyl-3-(1-naphthoyl)-d(5) -indole, 1-n-pentyl-3-(1-d(7) -naphthoyl)indole and 1-d(11) -n-pentyl-3-(1-naphthoyl)indole provide significant assistance in elucidating the structures for the major fragment ions in JWH-018. RESULTS The EI mass spectra for these isomers show a number of unique ions which allow for the differentiation of the 1-alkyl-3-acylindole compounds from the inverse regioisomeric 1-acyl-3-alkylindoles. The fragment ion [M-17](+) at m/z 324 for JWH-018 was formed by the elimination of a hydroxyl radical and the spectra of the three deuterium-labeled derivatives indicated the loss of hydrogen from the naphthalene ring. Further structural analogues suggest the hydrogen to come from the 8-position of the naphthalene ring. CONCLUSIONS The three deuterium-labeled analogues provide significant assistance in confirming the structures for the major fragment ions in the mass spectrum of the traditional synthetic cannabinoid compound, 1-n-pentyl-3-(1-naphthoyl)indole, JWH-018. The 1-naphthoyl-3-n-pentylindole inverse regioisomer can be easily differentiated from the traditional synthetic cannabinoid compound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber Thaxton
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Tarek S Belal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, 21521, Egypt
| | - Forrest Smith
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Jack DeRuiter
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Karim M Abdel-Hay
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, 21521, Egypt
| | - C Randall Clark
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
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Abdel-Hay KM, DeRuiter J, Smith F, Belal TS, Clark CR. GC-MS analysis of the regioisomeric methoxy- and methyl-benzoyl-1-pentylindoles: Isomeric synthetic cannabinoids. Sci Justice 2015; 55:291-8. [PMID: 26385710 DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2015.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2014] [Revised: 02/20/2015] [Accepted: 02/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The regioisomeric 1-n-pentyl-3-(methoxybenzoyl)indoles and the 1-n-pentyl-3-(methylbenzoyl)indoles represent potential designer modifications in the synthetic cannabinoid drug category. These six compounds were prepared by a two-step synthetic method. The analytical properties and methods of regioisomeric differentiation were developed in this study. The molecular ion represents the base peak in the EI mass spectra for most of the compounds in this group. The meta- and para-isomers in each series display fragment ions at equivalent masses with some differences in relative abundance of these ions. The ortho-substituted isomers for both the methoxybenzoyl and methylbenzoyl series show a unique fragment ion occurring at M-17. Deuterium labeling for the methoxy group in the ortho-methoxybenzoyl isomer (ortho-OCD3) confirmed the ortho-substituent as the source of the hydrogen in OH (M-17) elimination. The two sets of regioisomers were well resolved by capillary gas chromatography and the elution order reflected increasing molecular linearity. In both sets of compounds the ortho-isomer eluted first and the para-isomer showed the highest retention time. The HPLC separation showed the ortho-isomer eluting first and the meta-isomer eluting last in both sets of regioisomers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karim M Abdel-Hay
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA; Dept. of Pharmaceutical Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21521, Egypt
| | - Jack DeRuiter
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Forrest Smith
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Tarek S Belal
- Dept. of Pharmaceutical Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21521, Egypt
| | - C Randall Clark
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA.
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25
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Bertini S, Parkkari T, Savinainen JR, Arena C, Saccomanni G, Saguto S, Ligresti A, Allarà M, Bruno A, Marinelli L, Di Marzo V, Novellino E, Manera C, Macchia M. Synthesis, biological activity and molecular modeling of new biphenylic carboxamides as potent and selective CB2 receptor ligands. Eur J Med Chem 2015; 90:526-36. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2014.11.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2014] [Revised: 07/24/2014] [Accepted: 11/30/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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26
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Smith FT, DeRuiter J, Abdel-Hay K, Randall Clark C. GC–MS and FTIR evaluation of the six benzoyl-substituted-1-pentylindoles: Isomeric synthetic cannabinoids. Talanta 2014; 129:171-82. [DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2014.05.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2014] [Revised: 05/14/2014] [Accepted: 05/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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27
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Feng Z, Alqarni MH, Yang P, Tong Q, Chowdhury A, Wang L, Xie XQ. Modeling, molecular dynamics simulation, and mutation validation for structure of cannabinoid receptor 2 based on known crystal structures of GPCRs. J Chem Inf Model 2014; 54:2483-99. [PMID: 25141027 PMCID: PMC4170816 DOI: 10.1021/ci5002718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) plays an important role in the immune system. Although a few of GPCRs crystallographic structures have been reported, it is still challenging to obtain functional transmembrane proteins and high resolution X-ray crystal structures, such as for the CB2 receptor. In the present work, we used 10 reported crystal structures of GPCRs which had high sequence identities with CB2 to construct homology-based comparative CB2 models. We applied these 10 models to perform a prescreen by using a training set consisting of 20 CB2 active compounds and 980 compounds randomly selected from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) database. We then utilized the known 170 cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) or CB2 selective compounds for further validation. Based on the docking results, we selected one CB2 model (constructed by β1AR) that was most consistent with the known experimental data, revealing that the defined binding pocket in our CB2 model was well-correlated with the training and testing data studies. Importantly, we identified a potential allosteric binding pocket adjacent to the orthosteric ligand-binding site, which is similar to the reported allosteric pocket for sodium ion Na(+) in the A2AAR and the δ-opioid receptor. Our studies in correlation of our data with others suggested that sodium may reduce the binding affinities of endogenous agonists or its analogs to CB2. We performed a series of docking studies to compare the important residues in the binding pockets of CB2 with CB1, including antagonist, agonist, and our CB2 neutral compound (neutral antagonist) XIE35-1001. Then, we carried out 50 ns molecular dynamics (MD) simulations for the CB2 docked with SR144528 and CP55940, respectively. We found that the conformational changes of CB2 upon antagonist/agonist binding were congruent with recent reports of those for other GPCRs. Based on these results, we further examined one known residue, Val113(3.32), and predicted two new residues, Phe183 in ECL2 and Phe281(7.35), that were important for SR144528 and CP55940 binding to CB2. We then performed site-directed mutation experimental study for these residues and validated the predictions by radiometric binding affinity assay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiwei Feng
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Computational Chemical
Genomics Screening Center, School of Pharmacy, Computational Drug Abuse Research
Center, Drug Discovery Institute, and Department of Computational Biology and Department
of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States
| | - Mohammed Hamed Alqarni
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Computational Chemical
Genomics Screening Center, School of Pharmacy, Computational Drug Abuse Research
Center, Drug Discovery Institute, and Department of Computational Biology and Department
of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States
| | - Peng Yang
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Computational Chemical
Genomics Screening Center, School of Pharmacy, Computational Drug Abuse Research
Center, Drug Discovery Institute, and Department of Computational Biology and Department
of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States
| | - Qin Tong
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Computational Chemical
Genomics Screening Center, School of Pharmacy, Computational Drug Abuse Research
Center, Drug Discovery Institute, and Department of Computational Biology and Department
of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States
| | - Ananda Chowdhury
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Computational Chemical
Genomics Screening Center, School of Pharmacy, Computational Drug Abuse Research
Center, Drug Discovery Institute, and Department of Computational Biology and Department
of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States
| | - Lirong Wang
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Computational Chemical
Genomics Screening Center, School of Pharmacy, Computational Drug Abuse Research
Center, Drug Discovery Institute, and Department of Computational Biology and Department
of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States
| | - Xiang-Qun Xie
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Computational Chemical
Genomics Screening Center, School of Pharmacy, Computational Drug Abuse Research
Center, Drug Discovery Institute, and Department of Computational Biology and Department
of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States
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Rosati O, Messina F, Pelosi A, Curini M, Petrucci V, Gertsch J, Chicca A. One-pot heterogeneous synthesis of Δ(3)-tetrahydrocannabinol analogues and xanthenes showing differential binding to CB(1) and CB(2) receptors. Eur J Med Chem 2014; 85:77-86. [PMID: 25072877 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2014.07.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2014] [Revised: 07/18/2014] [Accepted: 07/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ(9)-THC) is the major psychoactive cannabinoid in hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) and responsible for many of the pharmacological effects mediated via cannabinoid receptors. Despite being the major cannabinoid scaffold in nature, Δ(9)-THC double bond isomers remain poorly studied. The chemical scaffold of tetrahydrocannabinol can be assembled from the condensation of distinctly substituted phenols and monoterpenes. Here we explored a microwave-assisted one pot heterogeneous synthesis of Δ(3)-THC from orcinol (1a) and pulegone (2). Four Δ(3)-THC analogues and corresponding Δ(4a)-tetrahydroxanthenes (Δ(4a)-THXs) were synthesized regioselectively and showed differential binding affinities for CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors. Here we report for the first time the CB1 receptor binding of Δ(3)-THC, revealing a more potent receptor binding affinity for the (S)-(-) isomer (hCB1Ki = 5 nM) compared to the (R)-(+) isomer (hCB1Ki = 29 nM). Like Δ(9)-THC, also Δ(3)-THC analogues are partial agonists at CB receptors as indicated by [(35)S]GTPγS binding assays. Interestingly, the THC structural isomers Δ(4a)-THXs showed selective binding and partial agonism at CB2 receptors, revealing a simple non-natural natural product-derived scaffold for novel CB2 ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ornelio Rosati
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, Via del Liceo, 1, 06128 Perugia, Italy.
| | - Federica Messina
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, Via del Liceo, 1, 06128 Perugia, Italy
| | - Azzurra Pelosi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, Via del Liceo, 1, 06128 Perugia, Italy
| | - Massimo Curini
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, Via del Liceo, 1, 06128 Perugia, Italy
| | - Vanessa Petrucci
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Bern, Bühlstrasse, 28, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Jürg Gertsch
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Bern, Bühlstrasse, 28, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Chicca
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Bern, Bühlstrasse, 28, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland.
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29
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DeRuiter J, Smith FT, Abdel-Hay K, Clark CR. Analytical differentiation of 1-alkyl-3-acylindoles and 1-acyl-3-alkylindoles: isomeric synthetic cannabinoids. Anal Chem 2014; 86:3801-8. [PMID: 24611491 DOI: 10.1021/ac500316x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The 1-alkyl-3-acylindoles and the inverse regioisomeric 1-acyl-3-alkylindoles can be prepared directly from a common set of precursor materials and using similar synthetic strategies. The EI mass spectra for these isomers show a number of unique ions which allow for the differentiation of the 1-alkyl-3-acylindole compounds from the inverse regioisomeric 1-acyl-3-alkylindoles. The base peak at m/z 214 in the 1-n-pentyl-3-benzoylindole represents the M-77 cation fragment resulting from the loss of the phenyl group, and this ion is not observed in the inverse isomer. The 1-benzoyl-3-n-pentylindole inverse regioisomer shows a base peak at m/z 105 for the benzoyl cation. Thus, these two base peaks are the result of fragmentation initiated at the carbonyl-oxygen for both isomers. The 1-pentyl-3-benzoylindole is characterized by the strong intensity carbonyl band at 1703 cm(-1), while the amide carbonyl appears as a strong band of equal intensity at 1681 cm(-1) in the 1-benzoyl-3-pentyl regioisomer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack DeRuiter
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development Harrison, School of Pharmacy, Auburn University , Auburn, AL 36849, United States
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30
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González-Naranjo P, Pérez-Macias N, Campillo NE, Pérez C, Arán VJ, Girón R, Sánchez-Robles E, Martín MI, Gómez-Cañas M, García-Arencibia M, Fernández-Ruiz J, Páez JA. Cannabinoid agonists showing BuChE inhibition as potential therapeutic agents for Alzheimer's disease. Eur J Med Chem 2014; 73:56-72. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2013.11.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2013] [Revised: 11/08/2013] [Accepted: 11/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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31
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Yang P, Myint KZ, Tong Q, Feng R, Cao H, Almehizia AA, Alqarni MH, Wang L, Bartlow P, Gao Y, Gertsch J, Teramachi J, Kurihara N, Roodman GD, Cheng T, Xie XQ. Lead discovery, chemistry optimization, and biological evaluation studies of novel biamide derivatives as CB2 receptor inverse agonists and osteoclast inhibitors. J Med Chem 2012; 55:9973-87. [PMID: 23072339 DOI: 10.1021/jm301212u] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
N,N'-((4-(Dimethylamino)phenyl)methylene)bis(2-phenylacetamide) was discovered by using 3D pharmacophore database searches and was biologically confirmed as a new class of CB(2) inverse agonists. Subsequently, 52 derivatives were designed and synthesized through lead chemistry optimization by modifying the rings A-C and the core structure in further SAR studies. Five compounds were developed and also confirmed as CB(2) inverse agonists with the highest CB(2) binding affinity (CB(2)K(i) of 22-85 nM, EC(50) of 4-28 nM) and best selectivity (CB(1)/CB(2) of 235- to 909-fold). Furthermore, osteoclastogenesis bioassay indicated that PAM compounds showed great inhibition of osteoclast formation. Especially, compound 26 showed 72% inhibition activity even at the low concentration of 0.1 μM. The cytotoxicity assay suggested that the inhibition of PAM compounds on osteoclastogenesis did not result from its cytotoxicity. Therefore, these PAM derivatives could be used as potential leads for the development of a new type of antiosteoporosis agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Yang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, USA
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Rühl T, Deuther-Conrad W, Fischer S, Günther R, Hennig L, Krautscheid H, Brust P. Cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2)-selective N-aryl-oxadiazolyl-propionamides: synthesis, radiolabelling, molecular modelling and biological evaluation. Org Med Chem Lett 2012; 2:32. [PMID: 23067874 PMCID: PMC3598492 DOI: 10.1186/2191-2858-2-32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2012] [Accepted: 09/21/2012] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The endocannabinoid system is involved in many physiological and pathological processes. Two receptors (cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) and type 2 (CB2)) are known so far. Many unwanted psychotic side effects of inhibitors of this system can be addressed to the interaction with CB1. While CB1 is one of the most abundant neuroreceptors, CB2 is expressed in the brain only at very low levels. Thus, highly potent and selective compounds for CB2 are desired. N-aryl-((hetero)aromatic)-oxadiazolyl-propionamides represent a promising class of such selective ligands for the human CB2. Here, a library of various derivatives is studied for suitable routes for labelling with 18F. Such 18F-labelled compounds can then be employed as CB2-selective radiotracers for molecular imaging studies employing positron emission tomography (PET). Results By varying the N-arylamide substructure, we explored the binding pocket of the human CB2 receptor and identified 9-ethyl-9H-carbazole amide as the group with optimal size. Radioligand replacement experiments revealed that the modification of the (hetero)aromatic moiety in 3-position of the 1,2,4-oxadiazoles shows only moderate impact on affinity to CB2 but high impact on selectivity towards CB2 with respect to CB1. Further, we could show by autoradiography studies that the most promising compounds bind selectively on CB2 receptors in mouse spleen tissue. Molecular docking studies based on a novel three-dimensional structural model of the human CB2 receptor in its activated form indicate that the compounds bind with the N-arylamide substructure in the binding pocket. 18F labelling at the (hetero)aromatic moiety at the opposite site of the compounds via radiochemistry was carried out. Conclusions The synthesized CB2-selective compounds have high affinity towards CB2 and good selectivity against CB1. The introduction of labelling groups at the (hetero)aromatic moiety shows only moderate impact on CB2 affinity, indicating the introduction of potential labelling groups at this position as a promising approach to develop CB2-selective ligands suitable for molecular imaging with PET. The high affinity for human CB2 and selectivity against human CB1 of the herein presented compounds renders them as suitable candidates for molecular imaging studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Rühl
- Department of Neuroradiopharmaceuticals, Institute of Radiopharmacy, Research Site Leipzig, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf e,V,, Permoserstr, 15, Leipzig, 04318, Germany.
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Rosenbaum CD, Carreiro SP, Babu KM. Here today, gone tomorrow…and back again? A review of herbal marijuana alternatives (K2, Spice), synthetic cathinones (bath salts), kratom, Salvia divinorum, methoxetamine, and piperazines. J Med Toxicol 2012; 8:15-32. [PMID: 22271566 DOI: 10.1007/s13181-011-0202-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 236] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite their widespread Internet availability and use, many of the new drugs of abuse remain unfamiliar to health care providers. The herbal marijuana alternatives, like K2 or Spice, are a group of herbal blends that contain a mixture of plant matter in addition to chemical grade synthetic cannabinoids. The synthetic cathinones, commonly called "bath salts," have resulted in nationwide emergency department visits for severe agitation, sympathomimetic toxicity, and death. Kratom, a plant product derived from Mitragyna speciosa Korth, has opioid-like effects, and has been used for the treatment of chronic pain and amelioration of opioid-withdrawal symptoms. Salvia divinorum is a hallucinogen with unique pharmacology that has therapeutic potential but has been banned in many states due to concerns regarding its psychiatric effects. Methoxetamine has recently become available via the Internet and is marked as "legal ketamine." Moreover, the piperazine derivatives, a class of amphetamine-like compounds that includes BZP and TMFPP, are making a resurgence as "legal Ecstasy." These psychoactives are available via the Internet, frequently legal, and often perceived as safe by the public. Unfortunately, these drugs often have adverse effects, which range from minimal to life-threatening. Health care providers must be familiar with these important new classes of drugs. This paper discusses the background, pharmacology, clinical effects, detection, and management of synthetic cannabinoid, synthetic cathinone, methoxetamine, and piperazine exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher D Rosenbaum
- Division of Medical Toxicology, Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Massachusetts, Worcester, MA, USA
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Murineddu G, Asproni B, Ruiu S, Deligia F, Falzoi M, Pau A, Thomas BF, Zhang Y, Pinna GA, Pani L, Lazzari P. Tricyclic Pyrazoles. Part 5. Novel 1,4-Dihydroindeno[1,2-c]pyrazole CB2 Ligands Using Molecular Hybridization Based on Scaffold Hopping. THE OPEN MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY JOURNAL 2012; 6:1-14. [PMID: 22876271 PMCID: PMC3406267 DOI: 10.2174/1874104501206010001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2011] [Revised: 03/07/2012] [Accepted: 03/22/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
In search of new selective CB2 ligands, the synthesis and preliminary biological evaluation of novel 1,4-dihydroindeno[1,2-c]pyrazole hybrids of the highly potent prototypicals 5-(4-chloro-3-methylphenyl)-1-(4-methylbenzyl)-N-fenchyl-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxamide 1 and 1-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)-6-methyl-N-(piperidin-1-yl)-1,4-dihydroindeno[1,2-c]pyrazole-3-carboxamide 2 are detailed. We postulated that the introduction of those pharmacophoric elements essential for activity of 1 in the tricyclic core of 2 might provide CB2 ligands with further improved receptor selectivity and biological activity. Among the compounds, 6-chloro-7-methyl-1-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)-N-fenchyl-1,4-dihydroindeno[1,2-c]pyrazole-3-carboxamide (22) exhibited low two digit nanomolar affinity for the cannabinoid CB2R and maintained a high level of CB2-selectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Murineddu
- Dipartimento di Chimica e Farmacia, Università di Sassari, Via F. Muroni 23/A, 07100 Sassari, Italy
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35
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Fanelli F, De Benedetti PG. Update 1 of: computational modeling approaches to structure-function analysis of G protein-coupled receptors. Chem Rev 2011; 111:PR438-535. [PMID: 22165845 DOI: 10.1021/cr100437t] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Fanelli
- Dulbecco Telethon Institute, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, via Campi 183, 41125 Modena, Italy.
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Järbe TUC, Deng H, Vadivel SK, Makriyannis A. Cannabinergic aminoalkylindoles, including AM678=JWH018 found in 'Spice', examined using drug (Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol) discrimination for rats. Behav Pharmacol 2011; 22:498-507. [PMID: 21836461 DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0b013e328349fbd5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
We examined four different cannabinergic aminoalkylindole ligands, including one drug (AM678=JWH018) found in herbal 'Spice' concoctions, for their ability to substitute for Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and the ability of the cannabinoid receptor 1-selective antagonist/inverse agonist rimonabant to block the substitution, 30 and 90 min after intraperitoneal injection. Rats trained to discriminate the effects of vehicle from those produced by 3 mg/kg of THC were used. The order of potency was: AM5983≥AM678>AM2233>WIN55212-2 at both test intervals. AM5983 and AM678 appeared eight times more potent than THC, followed by AM2233 (about twice as potent as THC), and WIN55212-2 approximately THC at the 30-min test interval. The aminoalkylindoles showed reduced potency (i.e. an increased ED50 value) at the longer injection-to-test interval of 90 min compared with testing at 30 min. The rightward shifts by coadministration of rimonabant were approximately 8-fold to 12-fold for AM5983 and AM678, compared with an approximately 3-fold rightward shift for the WIN55212-2 curve. AM2233 (1.8 mg/kg) substitution was also blocked by 1 mg/kg of rimonabant. In conclusion, AM5983 and AM678=JWH018 are potent cannabimimetics derived from an aminoalkylindole template. WIN55212-2 seemed to interact differently with rimonabant, compared with either AM5983 or AM678, indicating potential differences in the mechanism(s) of action among cannabinergic aminoalkylindoles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Torbjörn U C Järbe
- Department of Psychology, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
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Elsebai MF, Rempel V, Schnakenburg G, Kehraus S, Müller CE, König GM. Identification of a Potent and Selective Cannabinoid CB1 Receptor Antagonist from Auxarthron reticulatum. ACS Med Chem Lett 2011; 2:866-9. [PMID: 24900275 DOI: 10.1021/ml200183z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2011] [Accepted: 09/17/2011] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The fungus Auxarthron reticulatum derived from the marine sponge Ircinia variabilis produced the diketopiperazine alkaloid amauromine (1) and the quinolinone methyl-penicinoline (2). Compound 2 is identical to the reported methyl-marinamide, whose structure is herewith revised. In radioligand binding studies at human cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors recombinantly expressed in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells, amauromine (1) was found to exhibit high affinity and selectivity for the CB1 receptor (K i = 178 nM). The compound was shown to be a neutral CB1 antagonist with a K b value of 66.6 nM determined in cAMP assays. Compound 2 exhibited only weak or no effects at CB receptors. To the best of our knowledge, compound 1 is the first fungal natural product that shows affinity for cannabinoid CB1 receptors. Because of its high antagonistic potency and selectivity, it may have potential for use as a drug and/or serve as a lead structure for drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud Fahmi Elsebai
- Institute for Pharmaceutical Biology, University of Bonn, 53115 Bonn, Germany
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Egypt
| | - Viktor Rempel
- Pharma Center Bonn, Pharmaceutical Institute, Pharmaceutical Chemistry I, University of Bonn, 53121 Bonn, Germany
| | - Gregor Schnakenburg
- Institute of Inorganic Chemistry, Department of X-ray Crystallography, University of Bonn, 53121 Bonn, Germany
| | - Stefan Kehraus
- Institute for Pharmaceutical Biology, University of Bonn, 53115 Bonn, Germany
| | - Christa E. Müller
- Pharma Center Bonn, Pharmaceutical Institute, Pharmaceutical Chemistry I, University of Bonn, 53121 Bonn, Germany
| | - Gabriele M. König
- Institute for Pharmaceutical Biology, University of Bonn, 53115 Bonn, Germany
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Szymanski DW, Papanastasiou M, Melchior K, Zvonok N, Mercier RW, Janero DR, Thakur GA, Cha S, Wu B, Karger B, Makriyannis A. Mass spectrometry-based proteomics of human cannabinoid receptor 2: covalent cysteine 6.47(257)-ligand interaction affording megagonist receptor activation. J Proteome Res 2011; 10:4789-98. [PMID: 21861534 DOI: 10.1021/pr2005583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The lack of experimental characterization of the structures and ligand-binding motifs of therapeutic G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) hampers rational drug discovery. The human cannabinoid receptor 2 (hCB2R) is a class-A GPCR and promising therapeutic target for small-molecule cannabinergic agonists as medicines. Prior mutational and modeling data constitute provisional evidence that AM-841, a high-affinity classical cannabinoid, interacts with cysteine C6.47(257) in hCB2R transmembrane helix 6 (TMH6) to afford improved hCB2R selectivity and unprecedented agonist potency. We now apply bottom-up mass spectrometry (MS)-based proteomics to define directly the hCB2R-AM-841 interaction at the amino-acid level. Recombinant hCB2R, overexpressed as an N-terminal FLAG-tagged/C-terminal 6His-tagged protein (FLAG-hCB2R-6His) with a baculovirus system, was solubilized and purified by immunochromatography as functional receptor. A multiplex multiple reaction monitoring (MRM)-MS method was developed that allowed us to observe unambiguously all seven discrete TMH peptides in the tryptic digest of purified FLAG-hCB2R-6His and demonstrate that AM-841 modifies hCB2R TMH6 exclusively. High-resolution mass spectra of the TMH6 tryptic peptide obtained by Q-TOF MS/MS analysis demonstrated that AM-841 covalently and selectively modifies hCB2R at TMH6 cysteine C6.47(257). These data demonstrate how integration of MS-based proteomics into a ligand-assisted protein structure (LAPS) experimental paradigm can offer guidance to structure-enabled GPCR agonist design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis W Szymanski
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, College of Science, Northeastern University , Boston, Massachusetts 02115-5000, United States
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Kapeller DC, Bräse S. Versatile solid-phase synthesis of chromenes resembling classical cannabinoids. ACS COMBINATORIAL SCIENCE 2011; 13:554-61. [PMID: 21815661 DOI: 10.1021/co200107s] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
A novel solid-phase approach toward classical cannabinoids is described. The desired tricyclic natural product analogues are assembled in only four atom economic steps: domino oxa-Michael-aldol condensation, Wittig reaction/enol-ether formation, Diels-Alder cycloaddition and cleavage. The synthesis is designed to allow combinatorial chemistry at several stages of the sequence. The variation of commercially available reagents at three of the reactions (enals/enones, Wittig salts, and dienophiles) allows the introduction of various diversity points. As proof of concept, a small library of 20 members has been synthesized with overall yields ranging from 10% to 60%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dagmar C. Kapeller
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Campus North, ComPlat, Hermann-von-Helmholtz Platz 1, 76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany
| | - Stefan Bräse
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Campus North, ComPlat, Hermann-von-Helmholtz Platz 1, 76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Campus South, Institute of Organic Chemistry, Fritz-Haber-Weg 6, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany
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Sanders MPA, Fleuren WWM, Verhoeven S, van den Beld S, Alkema W, de Vlieg J, Klomp JPG. ss-TEA: Entropy based identification of receptor specific ligand binding residues from a multiple sequence alignment of class A GPCRs. BMC Bioinformatics 2011; 12:332. [PMID: 21831265 PMCID: PMC3162937 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2105-12-332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2010] [Accepted: 08/10/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) are involved in many different physiological processes and their function can be modulated by small molecules which bind in the transmembrane (TM) domain. Because of their structural and sequence conservation, the TM domains are often used in bioinformatics approaches to first create a multiple sequence alignment (MSA) and subsequently identify ligand binding positions. So far methods have been developed to predict the common ligand binding residue positions for class A GPCRs. RESULTS Here we present 1) ss-TEA, a method to identify specific ligand binding residue positions for any receptor, predicated on high quality sequence information. 2) The largest MSA of class A non olfactory GPCRs in the public domain consisting of 13324 sequences covering most of the species homologues of the human set of GPCRs. A set of ligand binding residue positions extracted from literature of 10 different receptors shows that our method has the best ligand binding residue prediction for 9 of these 10 receptors compared to another state-of-the-art method. CONCLUSIONS The combination of the large multi species alignment and the newly introduced residue selection method ss-TEA can be used to rapidly identify subfamily specific ligand binding residues. This approach can aid the design of site directed mutagenesis experiments, explain receptor function and improve modelling. The method is also available online via GPCRDB at http://www.gpcr.org/7tm/.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marijn P A Sanders
- Computational Drug Discovery Group, Radboud University NijmegenMedical Centre, Geert Grooteplein, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Zhang Y, Xie Z, Wang L, Schreiter B, Lazo JS, Gertsch J, Xie XQ. Mutagenesis and computer modeling studies of a GPCR conserved residue W5.43(194) in ligand recognition and signal transduction for CB2 receptor. Int Immunopharmacol 2011; 11:1303-10. [PMID: 21539938 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2011.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2010] [Revised: 04/15/2011] [Accepted: 04/18/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
W5.43(194), a conserved tryptophan residue among G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) and cannabinoid receptors (CB), was examined in the present report for its significance in CB2 receptor ligand binding and adenylyl cyclase (AC) activity. Computer modeling postulates that this site in CB2 may be involved in the affinity of WIN55212-2 and SR144528 through aromatic contacts. In the present study, we reported that a CB2 receptor mutant, W5.43(194)Y, which had a tyrosine (Y) substitution for tryptophan (W), retained the binding affinity for CB agonist CP55940, but reduced binding affinity for CB2 agonist WIN55212-2 and inverse agonist SR144528 by 8-fold and 5-fold, respectively; the CB2 W5.43(194)F and W5.43(194)A mutations significantly affect the binding activities of CP55940, WIN55212-2 and SR144528. Furthermore, we found that agonist-mediated inhibition of the forskolin-induced cAMP production was dramatically diminished in the CB2 mutant W5.43(194)Y, whereas W5.43(194)F and W5.43(194)A mutants resulted in complete elimination of downstream signaling, suggesting that W5.43(194) was essential for the full activation of CB2. These results indicate that both aromatic interaction and hydrogen bonding are involved in ligand binding for the residue W5.43(194), and the mutations of this tryptophan site may affect the conformation of the ligand binding pocket and therefore control the active conformation of the wild type CB2 receptor. W5.43(194)Y/F/A mutations also displayed noticeable enhancement of the constitutive activation probably attributed to the receptor conformational changes resulted from the mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxun Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
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42
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Modeling of ligand binding to G protein coupled receptors: cannabinoid CB1, CB2 and adrenergic β 2 AR. J Mol Model 2011; 17:2353-66. [PMID: 21365223 DOI: 10.1007/s00894-011-0986-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2010] [Accepted: 01/24/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoid and adrenergic receptors belong to the class A (similar to rhodopsin) G protein coupled receptors. Docking of agonists and antagonists to CB(1) and CB(2) cannabinoid receptors revealed the importance of a centrally located rotamer toggle switch and its possible participation in the mechanism of agonist/antagonist recognition. The switch is composed of two residues, F3.36 and W6.48, located on opposite transmembrane helices TM3 and TM6 in the central part of the membranous domain of cannabinoid receptors. The CB(1) and CB(2) receptor models were constructed based on the adenosine A(2A) receptor template. The two best scored conformations of each receptor were used for the docking procedure. In all poses (ligand-receptor conformations) characterized by the lowest ligand-receptor intermolecular energy and free energy of binding the ligand type matched the state of the rotamer toggle switch: antagonists maintained an inactive state of the switch, whereas agonists changed it. In case of agonists of β(2)AR, the (R,R) and (S,S) stereoisomers of fenoterol, the molecular dynamics simulations provided evidence of different binding modes while preserving the same average position of ligands in the binding site. The (S,S) isomer was much more labile in the binding site and only one stable hydrogen bond was created. Such dynamical binding modes may also be valid for ligands of cannabinoid receptors because of the hydrophobic nature of their ligand-receptor interactions. However, only very long molecular dynamics simulations could verify the validity of such binding modes and how they affect the process of activation.
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Mercier RW, Pei Y, Pandarinathan L, Janero DR, Zhang J, Makriyannis A. hCB2 ligand-interaction landscape: cysteine residues critical to biarylpyrazole antagonist binding motif and receptor modulation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 17:1132-42. [PMID: 21035736 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2010.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2010] [Revised: 08/09/2010] [Accepted: 08/12/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The human cannabinoid 2 GPCR (hCB2) is a prime therapeutic target. To define potential cysteine-related binding motifs critical to hCB2-ligand interaction, a library of hCB2 cysteine-substitution mutants and a novel, high-affinity biarylpyrazole hCB2 antagonist/inverse agonist (AM1336) functionalized to serve as a covalent affinity probe to target cysteine residues within (or in the microenvironment of) its hCB2 binding pocket were generated. The data provide direct experimental demonstration that both hCB2 TMH7 cysteines [i.e., C7.38(284) and C7.42(288)] are critical to optimal hCB2-AM1336 binding interaction and AM1336 pharmacological activity in a cell-based functional assay (cAMP formation). Elongating the AM1336 aliphatic side chain generated another novel hCB2 inverse agonist that binds covalently and selectively to C7.42(288) only. Identification of specific cysteine residues critical to hCB2 ligand interaction and function informs the structure-based design of hCB2-targeted medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard W Mercier
- School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
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Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoid-induced toxicity is increasing in frequency across the US, with more than 1057 reported cases as of August 2010. There is a paucity of literature on synthetic cannabinoid toxicity; however, there are various reports of adverse effects including tachycardia, hypertension, tachypnea, chest pain, heart palpitations, hallucinations, racing thoughts, and seizures. While reports suggest that toxic symptoms last no longer than 3-4 hours, with no residual adverse effects in many cases, there is concern about serious acute and long-term toxicities. This article reviews the development, abuse, toxicity, treatment, and legal status of synthetic cannabinoids. It is important for health-care professionals to recognize and appropriately treat synthetic cannabinoid-induced toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daina L Wells
- Psychiatry, Department of Mental Health, Wm. Jennings Bryan Dorn VA Medical Center, Columbia, SC
| | - Carol A Ott
- College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, Indianapolis, IN; Clinical Pharmacy Specialist, Psychiatry, Wishard Health Services
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45
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El Bakali J, Muccioli GG, Renault N, Pradal D, Body-Malapel M, Djouina M, Hamtiaux L, Andrzejak V, Desreumaux P, Chavatte P, Lambert DM, Millet R. 4-Oxo-1,4-dihydropyridines as selective CB2 cannabinoid receptor ligands: structural insights into the design of a novel inverse agonist series. J Med Chem 2010; 53:7918-31. [PMID: 20979417 DOI: 10.1021/jm100286k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Growing evidence shows that CB(2) receptor is an attractive therapeutic target. Starting from a series of 4-oxo-1,4-dihydroquinoline-3-carboxamide as selective CB(2) agonists, we describe here the medicinal chemistry approach leading to the development of CB(2) receptor inverse agonists with a 4-oxo-1,4-dihydropyridine scaffold. The compounds reported here show high affinity and potency at the CB(2) receptor while showing only modest affinity for the centrally expressed CB(1) cannabinoid receptor. Further, we found that the functionality of this series is controlled by its C-6 substituent because agonists bear a methyl or a tert-butyl group and inverse agonists, a phenyl or 4-chlorophenyl group, respectively. Finally, in silico studies suggest that the C-6 substituent could modulate the conformation of W6.48 known to be critical in GPCR activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamal El Bakali
- Université Lille-Nord de France, Institut de Chimie Pharmaceutique Albert Lespagnol, EA 2692, IFR 114, 3 Rue du Professeur Laguesse, BP 83, 59006 Lille Cedex, France
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46
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Lange JH, van der Neut MA, Wals HC, Kuil GD, Borst AJ, Mulder A, den Hartog AP, Zilaout H, Goutier W, van Stuivenberg HH, van Vliet BJ. Synthesis and SAR of novel imidazoles as potent and selective cannabinoid CB2 receptor antagonists with high binding efficiencies. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2010; 20:1084-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2009.12.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2009] [Revised: 12/04/2009] [Accepted: 12/06/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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47
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Diaz P, Phatak SS, Xu J, Fronczek FR, Astruc-Diaz F, Thompson CM, Cavasotto CN, Naguib M. 2,3-Dihydro-1-benzofuran derivatives as a series of potent selective cannabinoid receptor 2 agonists: design, synthesis, and binding mode prediction through ligand-steered modeling. ChemMedChem 2009; 4:1615-29. [PMID: 19637157 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.200900226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
We recently discovered and reported a series of N-alkyl-isatin acylhydrazone derivatives that are potent cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB(2)) agonists. In an effort to improve the druglike properties of these compounds and to better understand and improve the treatment of neuropathic pain, we designed and synthesized a new series of 2,3-dihydro-1-benzofuran derivatives bearing an asymmetric carbon atom that behave as potent selective CB(2) agonists. We used a multidisciplinary medicinal chemistry approach with binding mode prediction through ligand-steered modeling. Enantiomer separation and configuration assignment were carried out for the racemic mixture for the most selective compound, MDA7 (compound 18). It appeared that the S enantiomer, compound MDA104 (compound 33), was the active enantiomer. Compounds MDA42 (compound 19) and MDA39 (compound 30) were the most potent at CB(2). MDA42 was tested in a model of neuropathic pain and exhibited activity in the same range as that of MDA7. Preliminary ADMET studies for MDA7 were performed and did not reveal any problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Diaz
- Core Laboratory for Neuromolecular Production, Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Montana, 32 Campus Drive, Missoula, MT 59812 (USA)
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Synthesis of quinolinyl and isoquinolinyl phenyl ketones as novel agonists for the cannabinoid CB2 receptor. Bioorg Med Chem 2009; 17:4441-7. [PMID: 19477133 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2009.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2009] [Revised: 05/04/2009] [Accepted: 05/07/2009] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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49
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Tiburu EK, Bowman AL, Struppe JO, Janero DR, Avraham HK, Makriyannis A. Solid-state NMR and molecular dynamics characterization of cannabinoid receptor-1 (CB1) helix 7 conformational plasticity in model membranes. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA 2009; 1788:1159-67. [PMID: 19366584 PMCID: PMC3712639 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2009.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2008] [Revised: 01/30/2009] [Accepted: 02/02/2009] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Little direct information is available regarding the influence of membrane environment on transmembrane (TM) G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) conformation and dynamics. The human CB1 cannabinoid receptor (hCB1) is a prominent GPCR pharmacotherapeutic target in which helix 7 appears critical to ligand recognition. We have chemically synthesized a hCB1 peptide corresponding to a segment of TM helix 7 and the entire contiguous helix 8 domain (fourth cytoplasmic loop) and reconstituted it in defined phospholipid-bilayer model membranes. Using an NMR-based strategy combined with molecular dynamics simulations, we provide the first direct experimental description of the orientation of hCB1 helix 7 in phospholipid membranes of varying thickness and the mechanism by which helix-7 conformation adjusts to avoid hydrophobic mismatch. Solid-state (15)N NMR data show that hCB1 helices 7 and 8 reconstituted into phospholipid bilayers are oriented in a TM and in-plane (i.e., parallel to the phospholipid membrane surface) fashion, respectively. TM helix orientation is influenced by the thickness of the hydrophobic membrane bilayer as well as the interaction of helix 8 with phospholipid polar headgroups. Molecular dynamics simulations show that a decrease in phospholipid chain-length induces a kink at P394 in TM helix 7 to avoid hydrophobic mismatch. Thus, the NP(X)nY motif found in hCB1 and highly conserved throughout the GPCR superfamily is important for flexing helix 7 to accommodate bilayer thickness. Dynamic modulation of hCB1-receptor TM helix conformation by its membrane environment may have general relevance to GPCR structure and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elvis K. Tiburu
- Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Anna L. Bowman
- Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | | | - David R. Janero
- Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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50
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Pei Y, Mercier RW, Anday JK, Thakur GA, Zvonok AM, Hurst D, Reggio PH, Janero DR, Makriyannis A. Ligand-binding architecture of human CB2 cannabinoid receptor: evidence for receptor subtype-specific binding motif and modeling GPCR activation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 15:1207-19. [PMID: 19022181 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2008.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2008] [Revised: 09/17/2008] [Accepted: 10/02/2008] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The extensive physiological influence of transmission through the CB2 cannabinoid receptor makes this G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) a promising therapeutic target for treating neuropathic pain, inflammation, and immune disorders. However, there is little direct structural information pertaining to either GPCR or CB2-receptor ligand recognition and activation. The present work helps characterize experimentally the ligand-binding interactions of the human CB2 (hCB2) receptor. This study illustrates how our overall experimental approach, "ligand-assisted protein structure" (LAPS), affords direct determination of the requirements for ligand binding to the hCB2 receptor and discrimination among the binding motifs for ligands that activate therapeutically relevant GPCRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Pei
- School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
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