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Sobieraj J, Strzelecka K, Sobczak M, Oledzka E. How Biodegradable Polymers Can be Effective Drug Delivery Systems for Cannabinoids? Prospectives and Challenges. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:4607-4649. [PMID: 38799700 PMCID: PMC11128233 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s458907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids are compounds found in and derived from the Cannabis plants that have become increasingly recognised as significant modulating factors of physiological mechanisms and inflammatory reactions of the organism, thus inevitably affecting maintenance of homeostasis. Medical Cannabis popularity has surged since its legal regulation growing around the world. Numerous promising discoveries bring more data on cannabinoids' pharmacological characteristics and therapeutic applications. Given the current surge in interest in the medical use of cannabinoids, there is an urgent need for an effective method of their administration. Surpassing low bioavailability, low water solubility, and instability became an important milestone in the advancement of cannabinoids in pharmaceutical applications. The numerous uses of cannabinoids in clinical practice remain restricted by limited administration alternatives, but there is hope when biodegradable polymers are taken into account. The primary objective of this review is to highlight the wide range of indications for which cannabinoids may be used, as well as the polymeric carriers that enhance their effectiveness. The current review described a wide range of therapeutic applications of cannabinoids, including pain management, neurological and sleep disorders, anxiety, and cancer treatment. The use of these compounds was further examined in the area of dermatology and cosmetology. Finally, with the use of biodegradable polymer-based drug delivery systems (DDSs), it was demonstrated that cannabinoids can be delivered specifically to the intended site while also improving the drug's physicochemical properties, emphasizing their utility. Nevertheless, additional clinical trials on novel cannabinoids' formulations are required, as their full spectrum therapeutical potential is yet to be unravelled.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Sobieraj
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Biomaterials, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, 02-097, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Strzelecka
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Biomaterials, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, 02-097, Poland
| | - Marcin Sobczak
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Biomaterials, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, 02-097, Poland
| | - Ewa Oledzka
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Biomaterials, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, 02-097, Poland
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2
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Girella A, Di Bartolomeo M, Dainese E, Buzzelli V, Trezza V, D'Addario C. Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase and Cannabinoid Receptor Type 1 Genes Regulation is Modulated by Social Isolation in Rats. Neurochem Res 2024; 49:1278-1290. [PMID: 38368587 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-024-04117-9] [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: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
Social isolation is a state of lack of social connections, involving the modulation of different molecular signalling cascades and associated with high risk of mental health issues. To investigate if and how gene expression is modulated by social experience at the central level, we analyzed the effects of 5 weeks of social isolation in rats focusing on endocannabinoid system genes transcription in key brain regions involved in emotional control. We observed selective reduction in mRNA levels for fatty acid amide hydrolase (Faah) and cannabinoid receptor type 1 (Cnr1) genes in the amygdala complex and of Cnr1 in the prefrontal cortex of socially isolated rats when compared to controls, and these changes appear to be partially driven by trimethylation of Lysine 27 and acetylation of Lysine 9 at Histone 3. The alterations of Cnr1 transcriptional regulation result also directly correlated with those of oxytocin receptor gene. We here suggest that to counteract the effects of SI, it is of relevance to restore the endocannabinoid system homeostasis via the use of environmental triggers able to revert those epigenetic mechanisms accounting for the alterations observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Girella
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via Renato Balzarini, 1, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Martina Di Bartolomeo
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via Renato Balzarini, 1, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Enrico Dainese
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via Renato Balzarini, 1, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | | | - Viviana Trezza
- Department of Science, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
- Neuroendocrinology, Metabolism and Neuropharmacology Unit, IRCSS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio D'Addario
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via Renato Balzarini, 1, 64100, Teramo, Italy.
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Moore CF, Davis CM, Sempio C, Klawitter J, Christians U, Weerts EM. Δ 9-Tetrahydrocannabinol Vapor Exposure Produces Conditioned Place Preference in Male and Female Rats. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2024; 9:111-120. [PMID: 36179013 PMCID: PMC10874829 DOI: 10.1089/can.2022.0175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The use of place conditioning procedures and drug vapor exposure models can increase our understanding of the rewarding and aversive effects of vaped cannabis products. Currently there are limited data on the conditioned rewarding effects of vaporized Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive constituent of cannabis in rats, and no studies to date examining sex differences. Methods: Male and female Sprague-Dawley rats (N=96; 12 per sex/group) underwent place conditioning sessions immediately after exposure to THC or vehicle (propylene glycol [PG]) vapor. Locomotor activity was measured by beam breaks during conditioning sessions. THC vapor-conditioned rats received one of three THC vapor exposure amounts (low: 5 puffs of 100 mg/mL THC, medium: 5 puffs of 200 mg/mL THC, or high: 10 puffs of 200 mg/mL THC) and matched vehicle vapor (PG) exposure on alternate days for 16 daily sessions. A "no THC" control group of vehicle-conditioned rats received only PG vapor exposure each day. After the 8th and 16th conditioning sessions, untreated rats were tested for conditioned place preference (CPP) or aversion (CPA). Next, extinction tests and a THC vapor-primed reinstatement test were conducted. Results: THC vapor produced CPP and locomotor effects in an exposure dependent manner, and some sex differences were observed. Low THC vapor exposure did not produce CPP in males or females. Medium THC vapor exposure produced CPP in males, but not females. High THC vapor exposure produced CPP in both males and females. Medium and high THC vapor exposure amounts produced hyperactivity in female rats, but not male rats. CPP was more resistant to extinction in females than males. THC vapor reexposure (i.e., drug-prime) after extinction did not result in reinstatement of CPP for either sex. Conclusion: This study demonstrates conditioned rewarding effects of THC vapor in both male and female rats and provides evidence for sex differences in amounts of THC vapor that produce CPP and in time to extinction. CPA was not observed at any of the THC vapor exposure amounts tested. These data provide a foundation for future exploration of the conditioned effects of cannabis constituents and extracts using vapor exposure models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine F. Moore
- Division of Behavioral Biology, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Catherine M. Davis
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Cristina Sempio
- iC42 Clinical Research and Development, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Jost Klawitter
- iC42 Clinical Research and Development, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Uwe Christians
- iC42 Clinical Research and Development, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Elise M. Weerts
- Division of Behavioral Biology, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Sallam NA, Peterson CS, Baglot SL, Kohro Y, Trang T, Hill MN, Borgland SL. Sex Differences in Plasma, Adipose Tissue, and Central Accumulation of Cannabinoids, and Behavioral Effects of Oral Cannabis Consumption in Male and Female C57BL/6 Mice. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2023; 26:773-783. [PMID: 37715955 PMCID: PMC10674081 DOI: 10.1093/ijnp/pyad055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis edibles are an increasingly popular form of cannabis consumption. Oral consumption of cannabis has distinct physiological and behavioral effects compared with injection or inhalation. An animal model is needed to understand the pharmacokinetics and physiological effects of oral cannabis consumption in rodents as a model for human cannabis edible use. METHODS Adult male and female C57BL/6 mice received a single dose of commercially available cannabis oil (5 mg/kg Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol [THC]) by oral gavage. At 0.5, 1, 2, 3, and 6 hours post exposure, plasma, hippocampus, and adipose tissue were collected for THC, 11-OH-THC, and THC-COOH measures. RESULTS We report delayed time to peak THC and 11-OH-THC concentrations in plasma, brain, and adipose tissue, which is consistent with human pharmacokinetics studies. We also found sex differences in the cannabis tetrad: (1) female mice had a delayed hypothermic effect 6 hours post consumption, which was not present in males; (2) females had stronger catalepsy than males; (3) males were less mobile following cannabis exposure, whereas female mice showed no difference in locomotion but an anxiogenic effect at 3 hours post exposure; and (4) male mice displayed a longer-lasting antinociceptive effect of oral cannabis. CONCLUSIONS Oral cannabis consumption is a translationally relevant form of administration that produces similar physiological effects as injection or vaping administration and thus should be considered as a viable approach for examining the physiological effects of cannabis moving forward. Furthermore, given the strong sex differences in metabolism of oral cannabis, these factors should be carefully considered when designing animal studies on the effects of cannabis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nada A Sallam
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, The University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Colleen S Peterson
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, The University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Samantha L Baglot
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, The University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Yuta Kohro
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, The University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
- Department of Molecular and System Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Tuan Trang
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, The University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Matthew N Hill
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, The University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada (Dr Hill and Ms Baglot)
| | - Stephanie L Borgland
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, The University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
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Rezayof A, Ghasemzadeh Z, Sahafi OH. Addictive drugs modify neurogenesis, synaptogenesis and synaptic plasticity to impair memory formation through neurotransmitter imbalances and signaling dysfunction. Neurochem Int 2023; 169:105572. [PMID: 37423274 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2023.105572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Drug abuse changes neurophysiological functions at multiple cellular and molecular levels in the addicted brain. Well-supported scientific evidence suggests that drugs negatively affect memory formation, decision-making and inhibition, and emotional and cognitive behaviors. The mesocorticolimbic brain regions are involved in reward-related learning and habitual drug-seeking/taking behaviors to develop physiological and psychological dependence on the drugs. This review highlights the importance of specific drug-induced chemical imbalances resulting in memory impairment through various neurotransmitter receptor-mediated signaling pathways. The mesocorticolimbic modifications in the expression levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and the cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB) impair reward-related memory formation following drug abuse. The contributions of protein kinases and microRNAs (miRNAs), along with the transcriptional and epigenetic regulation have also been considered in memory impairment underlying drug addiction. Overall, we integrate the research on various types of drug-induced memory impairment in distinguished brain regions and provide a comprehensive review with clinical implications addressing the upcoming studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ameneh Rezayof
- Department of Animal Biology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Zahra Ghasemzadeh
- Department of Animal Biology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Oveis Hosseinzadeh Sahafi
- Department of Neurophysiology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
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Christensen C, Rose M, Cornett C, Allesø M. Decoding the Postulated Entourage Effect of Medicinal Cannabis: What It Is and What It Isn't. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2323. [PMID: 37626819 PMCID: PMC10452568 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11082323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The 'entourage effect' term was originally coined in a pre-clinical study observing endogenous bio-inactive metabolites potentiating the activity of a bioactive endocannabinoid. As a hypothetical afterthought, this was proposed to hold general relevance to the usage of products based on Cannabis sativa L. The term was later juxtaposed to polypharmacy pertaining to full-spectrum medicinal Cannabis products exerting an overall higher effect than the single compounds. Since the emergence of the term, a discussion of its pharmacological foundation and relevance has been ongoing. Advocates suggest that the 'entourage effect' is the reason many patients experience an overall better effect from full-spectrum products. Critics state that the term is unfounded and used primarily for marketing purposes in the Cannabis industry. This scoping review aims to segregate the primary research claiming as well as disputing the existence of the 'entourage effect' from a pharmacological perspective. The literature on this topic is in its infancy. Existing pre-clinical and clinical studies are in general based on simplistic methodologies and show contradictory findings, with the clinical data mostly relying on anecdotal and real-world evidence. We propose that the 'entourage effect' is explained by traditional pharmacological terms pertaining to other plant-based medicinal products and polypharmacy in general (e.g., synergistic interactions and bioenhancement).
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Affiliation(s)
- Catalina Christensen
- Tetra Pharm Technologies ApS, Rugmarken 10, DK-3650 Ølstykke, Denmark; (M.R.); (M.A.)
| | - Martin Rose
- Tetra Pharm Technologies ApS, Rugmarken 10, DK-3650 Ølstykke, Denmark; (M.R.); (M.A.)
| | - Claus Cornett
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark;
| | - Morten Allesø
- Tetra Pharm Technologies ApS, Rugmarken 10, DK-3650 Ølstykke, Denmark; (M.R.); (M.A.)
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Creanga-Murariu I, Filipiuc LE, Cuciureanu M, Tamba BI, Alexa-Stratulat T. Should oncologists trust cannabinoids? Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1211506. [PMID: 37521486 PMCID: PMC10373070 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1211506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis enjoyed a "golden age" as a medicinal product in the late 19th, early 20th century, but the increased risk of overdose and abuse led to its criminalization. However, the 21st century have witnessed a resurgence of interest and a large body of literature regarding the benefits of cannabinoids have emerged. As legalization and decriminalization have spread around the world, cancer patients are increasingly interested in the potential utility of cannabinoids. Although eager to discuss cannabis use with their oncologist, patients often find them to be reluctant, mainly because clinicians are still not convinced by the existing evidence-based data to guide their treatment plans. Physicians should prescribe cannabis only if a careful explanation can be provided and follow up response evaluation ensured, making it mandatory for them to be up to date with the positive and also negative aspects of the cannabis in the case of cancer patients. Consequently, this article aims to bring some clarifications to clinicians regarding the sometimes-confusing various nomenclature under which this plant is mentioned, current legislation and the existing evidence (both preclinical and clinical) for the utility of cannabinoids in cancer patients, for either palliation of the associated symptoms or even the potential antitumor effects that cannabinoids may have.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioana Creanga-Murariu
- Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine (CEMEX), “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
- Oncology Department, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
| | - Leontina Elena Filipiuc
- Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine (CEMEX), “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
| | - Magda Cuciureanu
- Pharmacology Department, Clinical Pharmacology and Algesiology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
| | - Bogdan-Ionel Tamba
- Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine (CEMEX), “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
- Pharmacology Department, Clinical Pharmacology and Algesiology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
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Borges-Assis AB, Uliana DL, Hott SC, Guimarães FS, Lisboa SF, Resstel LBM. Bed nucleus of the stria terminalis CB1 receptors and the FAAH enzyme modulate anxiety behavior depending on previous stress exposure. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2023; 125:110739. [PMID: 36870468 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2023.110739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid (eCB) anandamide (AEA) is synthesized on-demand in the post-synaptic terminal and can act on presynaptic cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) receptors, decreasing the release of neurotransmitters, including glutamate. AEA action is ended through enzymatic hydrolysis via FAAH (fatty acid amid hydrolase) in the post-synaptic neuron. eCB system molecules are widely expressed in brain areas involved in the modulation of fear and anxiety responses, including the Bed Nucleus of the Stria Terminalis (BNST), which is involved in the integration of autonomic, neuroendocrine, and behavioral regulation. The presence of the CB1 and FAAH was described in the BNST; however, their role in the modulation of defensive reactions is not fully comprehended. In the present work we aimed at investigating the role of AEA and CB1 receptors in the BNST in modulating anxiety-related behaviors. Adult male Wistar rats received local BNST injections of the CB1 receptor antagonist AM251 (0.1-0.6 nmol) and/or the FAAH inhibitor (URB597; 0.001-0.1 nmol) and were evaluated in the elevated plus maze (EPM) test, with or without previous acute restraint stress (2 h) exposure, or in the contextual fear conditioning. We observed that although AM251 and URB597 had no effects on the EPM, they increased and decreased, respectively, the conditioned fear response. Supporting a possible influence of stress in these differences, URB597 was able to prevent the restraint stress-induced anxiogenic effect in the EPM. The present data, therefore, suggest that eCB signaling in the BNST is recruited during more aversive situations to counteract the stress effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Bárbara Borges-Assis
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Daniela Lescano Uliana
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil; Departments of Neuroscience, Psychiatry and Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, USA
| | - Sara Cristina Hott
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Francisco Silveira Guimarães
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sabrina Francesca Lisboa
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Leonardo Barbosa Moraes Resstel
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil.
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9
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Iglesias LP, Bedeschi L, Aguiar DC, Asth L, Moreira FA. Effects of Δ 9-THC and Type-1 Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists in the Elevated Plus Maze Test of Anxiety: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2023; 8:24-33. [PMID: 35984927 DOI: 10.1089/can.2022.0078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Δ9-THC (the main active compound from Cannabis sativa) and related cannabinoids have been used as drugs of abuse and as medications. They induce a complex set of emotional responses in humans and experimental animals, consisting of either anxiolysis or heightened anxiety. These discrepant effects pose a major challenge for data reproducibility and for developing new cannabinoid-based medicines. In this study, we review and analyze previous data on cannabinoids and anxiety-like behavior in experimental animals. Systematic review and meta-analysis on the effects of type-1 cannabinoid receptor agonists (full or partial, selective or not) in rodents exposed to the elevated plus maze, a widely used test of anxiety-like behavior. Cannabinoids tend to reduce anxiety-like behavior if administered at low doses. THC effects are moderated by the dose factor, with anxiolytic- and anxiogenic-like effects occurring at low-dose (0.075-1 mg/kg) and high-dose (1-10 mg/kg) ranges, respectively. However, some studies report no effect at all regardless of the dose tested. Finally, motor impairment represents a potential confounding factor when high doses are administered. The present analysis may contribute to elucidate the experimental factors underlying cannabinoid effects on anxiety-like behavior and facilitate data reproducibility in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lia P Iglesias
- Graduate School in Neuroscience; Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- Department of Pharmacology; Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Lucas Bedeschi
- Department of Pharmacology; Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Daniele C Aguiar
- Graduate School in Neuroscience; Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- Department of Pharmacology; Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- Graduate School in Physiology and Pharmacology; Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Laila Asth
- Graduate School in Neuroscience; Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- Graduate School in Physiology and Pharmacology; Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Fabrício A Moreira
- Graduate School in Neuroscience; Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- Department of Pharmacology; Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- Graduate School in Physiology and Pharmacology; Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
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10
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Cannabinoid CB1 Receptors Are Expressed in a Subset of Dopamine Neurons and Underlie Cannabinoid-Induced Aversion, Hypoactivity, and Anxiolytic Effects in Mice. J Neurosci 2023; 43:373-385. [PMID: 36517243 PMCID: PMC9864584 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1493-22.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids modulate dopamine (DA) transmission and DA-related behavior, which has been thought to be mediated initially by activation of cannabinoid CB1 receptors (CB1Rs) on GABA neurons. However, there is no behavioral evidence supporting it. In contrast, here we report that CB1Rs are also expressed in a subset of DA neurons and functionally underlie cannabinoid action in male and female mice. RNAscope in situ hybridization (ISH) assays demonstrated CB1 mRNA in tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)-positive DA neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and glutamate decarboxylase 1 (GAD1)-positive GABA neurons. The CB1R-expressing DA neurons were located mainly in the middle portion of the VTA with the number of CB1-TH colocalization progressively decreasing from the medial to the lateral VTA. Triple-staining assays indicated CB1R mRNA colocalization with both TH and vesicular glutamate transporter 2 (VgluT2, a glutamate neuronal marker) in the medial VTA close to the midline of the brain. Optogenetic activation of this population of DA neurons was rewarding as assessed by optical intracranial self-stimulation. Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) or ACEA (a selective CB1R agonist) dose-dependently inhibited optical intracranial self-stimulation in DAT-Cre control mice, but not in conditional knockout mice with the CB1R gene absent in DA neurons. In addition, deletion of CB1Rs from DA neurons attenuated Δ9-THC-induced reduction in DA release in the NAc, locomotion, and anxiety. Together, these findings indicate that CB1Rs are expressed in a subset of DA neurons that corelease DA and glutamate, and functionally underlie cannabinoid modulation of DA release and DA-related behavior.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Cannabinoids produce a series of psychoactive effects, such as aversion, anxiety, and locomotor inhibition in rodents. However, the cellular and receptor mechanisms underlying these actions are not fully understood. Here we report that CB1 receptors are expressed not only in GABA neurons but also in a subset of dopamine neurons, which are located mainly in the medial VTA close to the midline of the midbrain and corelease dopamine and glutamate. Optogenetic activation of these dopamine neurons is rewarding, which is dose-dependently inhibited by cannabinoids. Selective deletion of CB1 receptor from dopamine neurons blocked cannabinoid-induced aversion, hypoactivity, and anxiolytic effects. These findings demonstrate that dopaminergic CB1 receptors play an important role in mediating cannabinoid action.
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11
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Glazer J, Murray CH, Nusslock R, Lee R, de Wit H. Low doses of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) increase reward-related brain activity. Neuropsychopharmacology 2023; 48:418-426. [PMID: 36284231 PMCID: PMC9751270 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-022-01479-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Renewed interest in classic psychedelics as treatments for psychiatric disorders warrants a deeper understanding of their neural mechanisms. Single, high doses of psychedelic drugs have shown promise in treating depressive disorders, perhaps by reversing deficits in reward processing in the brain. In addition, there are anecdotal reports that repeated ingestion of low doses of LSD, or "microdosing", improve mood, cognition, and feelings of wellbeing. However, the effects of low doses of classic psychedelics on reward processing have not been studied. The current study examined the effects of two single, low doses of LSD compared to placebo on measures of reward processing. Eighteen healthy adults completed three sessions in which they received placebo (LSD-0), 13 μg LSD (LSD-13) and 26 μg LSD (LSD-26) in a within-subject, double-blind design. Neural activity was recorded while participants completed the electrophysiological monetary incentive delay task. Event-related potentials were measured during feedback processing (Reward-Positivity: RewP, Feedback-P3: FB-P3, and Late-Positive Potential: LPP). Compared to placebo, LSD-13 increased RewP and LPP amplitudes for reward (vs. neutral) feedback, and LSD-13 and LSD-26 increased FB-P3 amplitudes for positive (vs. negative) feedback. These effects were unassociated with most subjective measures of drug effects. Thus, single, low doses of LSD (vs. placebo) increased three reward-related ERP components reflecting increased hedonic (RewP), motivational (FB-P3), and affective processing of feedback (LPP). These results constitute the first evidence that low doses of LSD increase reward-related brain activity in humans. These findings may have important implications for the treatment of depressive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Glazer
- Department of Psychology, Northwestern University, 2029 Sheridan Road Evanston, Chicago, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Conor H Murray
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Chicago, 5841 S Maryland Ave, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Robin Nusslock
- Department of Psychology, Northwestern University, 2029 Sheridan Road Evanston, Chicago, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Royce Lee
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Chicago, 5841 S Maryland Ave, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Harriet de Wit
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Chicago, 5841 S Maryland Ave, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
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12
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Penman SL, Berthold EC, Mihalkovic A, Hammond N, McCurdy CR, Blum K, Eiden RD, Sharma A, Thanos PK. Vaporized Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol Inhalation in Female Sprague Dawley Rats: A Pharmacokinetic and Behavioral Assessment. Curr Pharm Des 2023; 29:2149-2160. [PMID: 37114788 PMCID: PMC10979821 DOI: 10.2174/1381612829666230419093809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the main psychoactive component of cannabis. Historically, rodent studies examining the effects of THC have used intraperitoneal injection as the route of administration, heavily focusing on male subjects. However, human cannabis use is often through inhalation rather than injection. OBJECTIVE We sought to characterize the pharmacokinetic and phenotypic profile of acutely inhaled THC in female rats, compared to intraperitoneal injection, to identify any differences in exposure of THC between routes of administration. METHODS Adult female rats were administered THC via inhalation or intraperitoneal injection. Serum samples from multiple time points were analyzed for THC and metabolites 11-hydroxy-delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol and 11-nor-9-carboxy-delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Rats were similarly treated for locomotor activity analysis. RESULTS Rats treated with 2 mg/kg THC intraperitoneally reached a maximum serum THC concentration of 107.7 ± 21.9 ng/mL. Multiple THC inhalation doses were also examined (0.25 mL of 40 or 160 mg/mL THC), achieving maximum concentrations of 43.3 ± 7.2 and 71.6 ± 22.5 ng/mL THC in serum, respectively. Significantly reduced vertical locomotor activity was observed in the lower inhaled dose of THC and the intraperitoneal injected THC dose compared to vehicle treatment. CONCLUSION This study established a simple rodent model of inhaled THC, demonstrating the pharmacokinetic and locomotor profile of acute THC inhalation, compared to an i.p. injected THC dose in female subjects. These results will help support future inhalation THC rat research which is especially important when researching behavior and neurochemical effects of inhaled THC as a model of human cannabis use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha L. Penman
- Behavioral Neuropharmacology and Neuroimaging Laboratory on Addictions (BNNLA), Clinical Research Institute on Addictions, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo. Buffalo, NY USA
| | - Erin C. Berthold
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida. Gainesville, FL USA
| | - Abrianna Mihalkovic
- Behavioral Neuropharmacology and Neuroimaging Laboratory on Addictions (BNNLA), Clinical Research Institute on Addictions, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo. Buffalo, NY USA
| | - Nikki Hammond
- Behavioral Neuropharmacology and Neuroimaging Laboratory on Addictions (BNNLA), Clinical Research Institute on Addictions, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo. Buffalo, NY USA
| | - Christopher R. McCurdy
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida. Gainesville, FL USA
- Translational Drug Development Core, Clinical and Translational Science Institute, University of Florida. Gainesville, FL USA
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Florida. Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Kenneth Blum
- Division of Addiction Research & Education, Center for Mental Health & Sports, Exercise and Global Mental Health, Western University Health Sciences, Pomona, CA 91766, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA
| | - Rina D. Eiden
- Department of Psychology, Pennsylvania State University. State College, PA USA
| | - Abhisheak Sharma
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida. Gainesville, FL USA
- Translational Drug Development Core, Clinical and Translational Science Institute, University of Florida. Gainesville, FL USA
| | - Panayotis K. Thanos
- Behavioral Neuropharmacology and Neuroimaging Laboratory on Addictions (BNNLA), Clinical Research Institute on Addictions, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo. Buffalo, NY USA
- Department of Psychology, University at Buffalo. Buffalo, NY, USA
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13
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Vanegas SO, Reck AM, Rodriguez CE, Marusich JA, Yassin O, Sotzing G, Wiley JL, Kinsey SG. Assessment of dependence potential and abuse liability of Δ 8-tetrahydrocannabinol in mice. Drug Alcohol Depend 2022; 240:109640. [PMID: 36179506 PMCID: PMC10288383 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2022.109640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ8-THC) is a psychotropic cannabinoid produced in low quantities in the cannabis plant. Refinements in production techniques, paired with the availability of inexpensive cannabidiol substrate, have resulted in Δ8-THC being widely marketed as a quasi-legal, purportedly milder alternative to Δ9-THC. Yet, little research has probed the behavioral and physiological effects of repeated Δ8-THC use. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of acute and repeated exposure to Δ8-THC. We hypothesized that Δ8-THC produces effects similar to Δ9-THC, including signs of drug tolerance and dependence. Adult male and female C57BL/6J mice were treated acutely with Δ8-THC (6.25-100 mg/kg, i.p.) or vehicle and tested in the tetrad battery to quantify cannabimimetic effects (i.e., catalepsy, antinociception, hypothermia, immobility) as compared with a non-selective synthetic cannabinoid (WIN 55,212-2) and Δ9-THC. As previously reported, Δ8-THC (≥12.5 mg/kg) induced cannabimimetic effects. Pretreatment with the CB1 receptor-selective antagonist rimonabant (3 mg/kg, i.p.) blocked each of these effects. In addition, repeated administration of Δ8-THC (50 mg/kg, s.c.) produced tolerance, as well as cross-tolerance to WIN 55,212-2 (10 mg/kg, s.c.) in tetrad, consistent with downregulated CB1 receptor function. Behavioral signs of physical dependence in the somatic signs, tail suspension, and marble burying assays were also observed following rimonabant-precipitated withdrawal from Δ8-THC (≥10 mg/kg BID for 6 days). Lastly, Δ8-THC produced Δ9-THC-like discriminative stimulus effects in both male and female mice. Together, these findings demonstrate that Δ8-THC produces qualitatively similar effects to Δ9-THC, including risk of drug dependence and abuse liability.
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Affiliation(s)
- S O Vanegas
- School of Nursing, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA; Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - A M Reck
- School of Nursing, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA; Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - C E Rodriguez
- School of Nursing, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA; Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - J A Marusich
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | | | - G Sotzing
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA; 3BC, Inc., Farmington, CT, USA
| | - J L Wiley
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - S G Kinsey
- School of Nursing, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA; Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA.
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14
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Cannabinoid Type 1 Receptors in the Basolateral Amygdala Regulate ACPA-Induced Place Preference and Anxiolytic-Like Behaviors. Neurochem Res 2022; 47:2899-2908. [PMID: 35984590 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-022-03708-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
The number of cannabis users is increasing in the world. However, the mechanisms involved in the psychiatric effects and addiction formation remain unclear. Medical treatments against cannabis addiction have not yet been established. Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main active substance in cannabis, binds and affects cannabinoid type 1 receptors (CB1R) in the brain. The mice were intraperitoneally (i.p.) administered arachidonylcyclopropylamide (ACPA), a CB1R-selective agonist, and then two behavioral experiments on anxiety and addiction were performed. Administration of ACPA caused anxiolytic-like behavior in the elevated plus maze test. In addition, ACPA increased place preference in a conditioned place preference (CPP) test. The basolateral amygdala (BLA), which is the focus of this study, is involved in anxiety-like behavior and reward and is reported to express high levels of CB1R. We aimed to reveal the role of CB1R in BLA for ACPA-induced behavior. AM251, a CB1R selective antagonist, was administered intra-BLA before i.p. administration of ACPA. Intra-BLA administration of AM251 inhibited ACPA-induced anxiolytic-like behavior and place preference. These results suggest that CB1R in the BLA contributes to behavior disorders caused by the acute or chronic use of cannabis.
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15
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Murkar A, Kendzerska T, Shlik J, Quilty L, Saad M, Robillard R. Increased cannabis intake during the COVID-19 pandemic is associated with worsening of depression symptoms in people with PTSD. BMC Psychiatry 2022; 22:554. [PMID: 35978287 PMCID: PMC9382626 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-022-04185-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Some evidence suggests substance use affects clinical outcomes in people with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, more work is required to examine links between mental health and cannabis use in PTSD during exposure to external stressors such as the COVID-19 pandemic. This study assessed mental health factors in individuals with self-reported PTSD to: (a) determine whether stress, anxiety, and depression symptoms were associated with changes in cannabis consumption across the pandemic, and (b) to contrast the degree to which clinically significant perceived symptom worsening was associated with changes in cannabis intake. METHOD Data were obtained as part of a larger web-based population survey from April 3rd to June 24th 2020 (i.e., first wave of the pandemic in Canada). Participants (N = 462) with self-reported PTSD completed questionnaires to assess mental health symptoms and answered questions pertaining to their cannabis intake. Participants were categorized according to whether they were using cannabis or not, and if using, whether their use frequency increased, decreased, or remained unchanged during the pandemic. RESULTS Findings indicated an overall perceived worsening of stress, anxiety, and depression symptoms across all groups. A higher-than-expected proportion of individuals who increased their cannabis consumption reached threshold for minimal clinically important worsening of depression, X2(3) = 10.795, p = 0.013 (Cramer's V = 0.166). CONCLUSION Overall, those who increased cannabis use during the pandemic were more prone to undergo meaningful perceived worsening of depression symptoms. Prospective investigations will be critical next steps to determine the directionality of the relationship between cannabis and depressive symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Murkar
- grid.28046.380000 0001 2182 2255University of Ottawa Institute of Mental Health Research at The Royal, Sleep Research Unit, 1145 Carling Ave, ON K1Z 7K4 Ottawa, Canada
| | - T. Kendzerska
- grid.412687.e0000 0000 9606 5108The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON Canada
| | - J. Shlik
- grid.414622.70000 0001 1503 7525The Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre, Ottawa, ON Canada
| | - L. Quilty
- grid.155956.b0000 0000 8793 5925Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON Canada ,grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
| | - M. Saad
- grid.28046.380000 0001 2182 2255University of Ottawa Institute of Mental Health Research at The Royal, Sleep Research Unit, 1145 Carling Ave, ON K1Z 7K4 Ottawa, Canada
| | - R. Robillard
- grid.28046.380000 0001 2182 2255University of Ottawa Institute of Mental Health Research at The Royal, Sleep Research Unit, 1145 Carling Ave, ON K1Z 7K4 Ottawa, Canada ,grid.28046.380000 0001 2182 2255University of Ottawa School of Psychology, ON Ottawa, Canada
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16
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Effects of endocannabinoid system modulation on social behaviour: A systematic review of animal studies. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 138:104680. [PMID: 35513169 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
There is a clear link between psychiatric disorders and social behaviour, and evidence suggests the involvement of the endocannabinoid system (ECS). A systematic review of preclinical literature was conducted using MEDLINE (PubMed) and PsychINFO databases to examine whether pharmacological and/or genetic manipulations of the ECS alter social behaviours in wildtype (WT) animals or models of social impairment (SIM). Eighty studies were included. Risk of bias (RoB) was assessed using SYRCLE's RoB tool. While some variability was evident, studies most consistently found that direct cannabinoid receptor (CBR) agonism decreased social behaviours in WT animals, while indirect CBR activation via enzyme inhibition or gene-knockout increased social behaviours. Direct and, more consistently, indirect CBR activation reversed social deficits in SIM. These CBR-mediated effects were often sex- and developmental-phase-dependent and blocked by CBR antagonism. Overall, ECS enzyme inhibition may improve social behaviour in SIM, suggesting the potential usefulness of ECS enzyme inhibition as a therapeutic approach for social deficits. Future research should endeavour to elucidate ECS status in neuropsychiatric disorders characterized by social deficits.
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17
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Anxiety and cognitive-related effects of Δ 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are differentially mediated through distinct GSK-3 vs. Akt-mTOR pathways in the nucleus accumbens of male rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2022; 239:509-524. [PMID: 34860284 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-021-06029-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis and is responsible for cannabis-related neuropsychiatric side effects, including abnormal affective processing, cognitive and sensory filtering deficits and memory impairments. A critical neural region linked to the psychotropic effects of THC is the nucleus accumbens shell (NASh), an integrative mesocorticolimbic structure that sends and receives inputs from multiple brain areas known to be dysregulated in various disorders, including schizophrenia and anxiety-related disorders. Considerable evidence demonstrates functional differences between posterior vs. anterior NASh sub-regions in the processing of affective and cognitive behaviours influenced by THC. Nevertheless, the neuroanatomical regions and local molecular pathways responsible for these psychotropic effects are not currently understood. OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study were to characterize the effects of intra-accumbens THC in the anterior vs. posterior regions of the NASh during emotional memory formation, sensorimotor gating and anxiety-related behaviours. METHODS We performed an integrative series of translational behavioural pharmacological studies examining anxiety, sensorimotor gating and fear-related associative memory formation combined with regionally specific molecular signalling analyses in male Sprague Dawley rats. RESULTS We report that THC in the posterior NASh causes distortions in emotional salience attribution, impaired sensory filtering and memory retention and heightened anxiety, through a glycogen-synthase-kinase-3 (GSK-3)-β-catenin dependent signalling pathway. In contrast, THC in the anterior NASh produces anxiolytic effects via modulation of protein kinase B (Akt) phosphorylation states. CONCLUSIONS These findings reveal critical new insights into the neuroanatomical and molecular mechanisms associated with the differential neuropsychiatric side effects of THC in dissociable nucleus accumbens sub-regions.
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18
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Hempel B, Xi ZX. Receptor mechanisms underlying the CNS effects of cannabinoids: CB 1 receptor and beyond. ADVANCES IN PHARMACOLOGY (SAN DIEGO, CALIF.) 2021; 93:275-333. [PMID: 35341569 PMCID: PMC10709991 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apha.2021.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis legalization continues to progress in many US states and other countries. Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) is the major psychoactive constituent in cannabis underlying both its abuse potential and the majority of therapeutic applications. However, the neural mechanisms underlying cannabis action are not fully understood. In this chapter, we first review recent progress in cannabinoid receptor research, and then examine the acute CNS effects of Δ9-THC or other cannabinoids (WIN55212-2) with a focus on their receptor mechanisms. In experimental animals, Δ9-THC or WIN55212-2 produces classical pharmacological effects (analgesia, catalepsy, hypothermia, hypolocomotion), biphasic changes in affect (reward vs. aversion, anxiety vs. anxiety relief), and cognitive deficits (spatial learning and memory, short-term memory). Accumulating evidence indicates that activation of CB1Rs underlies the majority of Δ9-THC or WIN55121-2's pharmacological and behavioral effects. Unexpectedly, glutamatergic CB1Rs preferentially underlie cannabis action relative to GABAergic CB1Rs. Functional roles for CB1Rs expressed on astrocytes and mitochondria have also been uncovered. In addition, Δ9-THC or WIN55212-2 is an agonist at CB2R, GPR55 and PPARγ receptors and recent studies implicate these receptors in a number of their CNS effects. Other receptors (such as serotonin, opioid, and adenosine receptors) also modulate Δ9-THC's actions and their contributions are detailed. This chapter describes the neural mechanisms underlying cannabis action, which may lead to new discoveries in cannabis-based medication development for the treatment of cannabis use disorder and other human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Briana Hempel
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Zheng-Xiong Xi
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, MD, United States.
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19
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Glodosky NC, Cuttler C, McLaughlin RJ. A review of the effects of acute and chronic cannabinoid exposure on the stress response. Front Neuroendocrinol 2021; 63:100945. [PMID: 34461155 PMCID: PMC8605997 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2021.100945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
While cannabis has been used for centuries for its stress-alleviating properties, the effects of acute and chronic cannabinoid exposure on responses to stress remain poorly understood. This review provides an overview of studies that measured stress-related endpoints following acute or chronic cannabinoid exposure in humans and animals. Acute cannabinoid exposure increases basal concentrations of stress hormones in rodents and humans and has dose-dependent effects on stress reactivity in humans and anxiety-like behavior in rodents. Chronic cannabis exposure is associated with dampened stress reactivity, a blunted cortisol awakening response (CAR), and flattened diurnal cortisol slope in humans. Sex differences in these effects remain underexamined, with limited evidence for sex differences in effects of cannabinoids on stress reactivity in rodents. Future research is needed to better understand sex differences in the effects of cannabis on the stress response, as well as downstream impacts on mental health and stress-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carrie Cuttler
- Department of Psychology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA.
| | - Ryan J McLaughlin
- Department of Psychology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA; Department of Integrative Physiology and Neuroscience, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
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20
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Murkar A, De Koninck J, Merali Z. Cannabinoids: Revealing their complexity and role in central networks of fear and anxiety. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 131:30-46. [PMID: 34487746 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The first aim of the present review is to provide an in-depth description of the cannabinoids and their known effects at various neuronal receptors. It reveals that cannabinoids are highly diverse, and recent work has highlighted that their effects on the central nervous system (CNS) are surprisingly more complex than previously recognized. Cannabinoid-sensitive receptors are widely distributed throughout the CNS where they act as primary modulators of neurotransmission. Secondly, we examine the role of cannabinoid receptors at key brain sites in the control of fear and anxiety. While our understanding of how cannabinoids specifically modulate these networks is mired by their complex interactions and diversity, a plausible framework(s) for their effects is proposed. Finally, we highlight some important knowledge gaps in our understanding of the mechanism(s) responsible for their effects on fear and anxiety in animal models and their use as therapeutic targets in humans. This is particularly important for our understanding of the phytocannabinoids used as novel clinical interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Murkar
- University of Ottawa Institute of Mental Health Research (IMHR), Ottawa, ON, Canada; School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
| | - Joseph De Koninck
- University of Ottawa Institute of Mental Health Research (IMHR), Ottawa, ON, Canada; School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Zul Merali
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Brain and Mind Institute, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya; Carleton University, Neuroscience Department, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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21
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Kozak K, Smith PH, Lowe DJ, Weinberger AH, Cooper ZD, Rabin RA, George TP. A systematic review and meta-analysis of sex differences in cannabis use disorder amongst people with comorbid mental illness. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE 2021; 47:535-547. [PMID: 34280058 PMCID: PMC9144491 DOI: 10.1080/00952990.2021.1946071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While males are more likely diagnosed with cannabis use disorder (CUD), females are more susceptible to developing and maintaining CUD. Yet, for both sexes, CUD is associated with high rates of comorbid mental illness (MI). OBJECTIVES To identify and compare sex differences in the prevalence of comorbid CUD amongst individuals with/without MIs. METHODS This systematic review generated pooled odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) from 37 studies (including clinical trials, cohort, and case-control studies) among individuals with and without MIs, quantifying sex differences in rates of comorbid CUD. A meta-analysis was also completed. RESULTS In the CUD-only group, males were twice as likely to have CUD than females (OR = 2.0, CI = 1.9-2.1). Among MIs, males were more likely than females to have CUD comorbid with schizophrenia (OR ~2.6, CI = 2.5-2.7) and other psychotic, mood, and substance use disorders (1> OR <2.2, CI = 0.7-2.6). The reverse association (females > males) was observed for anxiety disorders and antisocial personality disorder (OR = 0.8, CI = 0.7-1.0). Among females, MIs increased the likelihood of having CUD, except for psychotic disorders and depression. A meta-analysis was inconclusive due to high heterogeneity across studies. Thus, comparisons across MI groups were not possible. CONCLUSION While males are more likely to be diagnosed with CUD, there are important sex differences in the prevalence of CUD across MI diagnoses that should be taken into account when approaching CUD prevention and determining treatment efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Kozak
- Institute of Medical Science (IMS), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Addictions Division, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Philip H. Smith
- Department of Kinesiology and Health, Miami University, Oxford, Ohio, USA
| | - Darby J.E Lowe
- Institute of Medical Science (IMS), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Addictions Division, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrea H. Weinberger
- Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, Yeshiva University and the Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Ziva D Cooper
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Science, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, California, USA
- UCLA Cannabis Research Initiative, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Rachel A. Rabin
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University and the Douglas Mental Health Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Tony P. George
- Institute of Medical Science (IMS), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Addictions Division, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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22
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Ahmed M, Boileau I, Le Foll B, Carvalho AF, Kloiber S. The endocannabinoid system in social anxiety disorder: from pathophysiology to novel therapeutics. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 44:81-93. [PMID: 34468550 PMCID: PMC8827369 DOI: 10.1590/1516-4446-2021-1926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Social anxiety disorder (SAD) is a highly prevalent psychiatric disorder that presents with an early age of onset, chronic disease course, and increased risk of psychiatric comorbidity. Current treatment options for SAD are associated with low response rates, suboptimal efficacy, and possible risk of adverse effects. Investigation of new neurobiological mechanisms may aid in the identification of more specific therapeutic targets for the treatment of this disorder. Emerging evidence suggests that the endogenous cannabinoid system, also referred to as the endocannabinoid system (ECS), could play a potential role in the pathophysiology of SAD. This review discusses the known pathophysiological mechanisms of SAD, the potential role of the ECS in this disorder, current drugs targeting the ECS, and the potential of these novel compounds to enhance the therapeutic armamentarium for SAD. Further investigational efforts, specifically in human populations, are warranted to improve our knowledge of the ECS in SAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mashal Ahmed
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Brain Health Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Isabelle Boileau
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Brain Health Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, ON, Canada.,Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, CAMH, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Bernard Le Foll
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, CAMH, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Andre F Carvalho
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, CAMH, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Innovation in Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Treatment (IMPACT) Strategic Research Centre, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia, 3216
| | - Stefan Kloiber
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, CAMH, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Salviato BZ, Raymundi AM, Rodrigues da Silva T, Salemme BW, Batista Sohn JM, Araújo FS, Guimarães FS, Bertoglio LJ, Stern CA. Female but not male rats show biphasic effects of low doses of Δ 9-tetrahydrocannabinol on anxiety: can cannabidiol interfere with these effects? Neuropharmacology 2021; 196:108684. [PMID: 34181978 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2021] [Revised: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the main phytocannabinoid present in the Cannabis sativa. It can produce dose-dependent anxiolytic or anxiogenic effects in males. THC effects on anxiety have scarcely been studied in females, despite their higher prevalence of anxiety disorders. Cannabidiol, another phytocannabinoid, has been reported to attenuate anxiety and some THC-induced effects. The present study aimed to investigate the behavioral and neurochemical effects of THC administered alone or combined with CBD in naturally cycling female rats tested in the elevated plus-maze. Systemically administered THC produced biphasic effects in females, anxiolytic at low doses (0.075 or 0.1 mg/kg) and anxiogenic at a higher dose (1.0 mg/kg). No anxiety changes were observed in males treated with the same THC dose range. The anxiogenic effect of THC was prevented by co-administration of CBD (1.0 or 3.0 mg/kg). CBD (3.0 mg/kg) caused an anxiolytic effect. At a lower dose (1.0 mg/kg), it facilitated the anxiolytic effect of the low THC dose. The anxiogenic effect of THC was accompanied by increased dopamine levels in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and nucleus accumbens (NAc). In contrast, its anxiolytic effect was associated with increased mPFC serotonin concentrations. The anxiolytic effect of CBD was accompanied by increased mPFC serotonin turnover. Together, these results indicate that female rats are susceptible to the biphasic effects of low THC doses on anxiety. These effects could depend on mPFC and NAc dopaminergic and serotoninergic neurotransmissions. CBD could minimize potential THC high-dose side effects whereas enhancing the anxiolytic action of its low doses in females.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ana Maria Raymundi
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Parana, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Leandro José Bertoglio
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianopolis, SC, Brazil
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Petrie GN, Nastase AS, Aukema RJ, Hill MN. Endocannabinoids, cannabinoids and the regulation of anxiety. Neuropharmacology 2021; 195:108626. [PMID: 34116110 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis has been used for hundreds of years, with its ability to dampen feelings of anxiety often reported as a primary reason for use. Only recently has the specific role cannabinoids play in anxiety been thoroughly investigated. Here we discuss the body of evidence describing how endocannabinoids and exogenous cannabinoids are capable of regulating the generation and termination of anxiety states. Disruption of the endogenous cannabinoid (eCB) system following genetic manipulation, pharmacological intervention or stress exposure reliably leads to the generation of an anxiety state. On the other hand, upregulation of eCB signaling is capable of alleviating anxiety-like behaviors in multiple paradigms. When considering exogenous cannabinoid administration, cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) agonists have a biphasic, dose-dependent effect on anxiety such that low doses are anxiolytic while high doses are anxiogenic, a phenomenon that is evident in both rodent models and humans. Translational studies investigating a loss of function mutation in the gene for fatty acid amide hydrolase, the enzyme responsible for metabolizing AEA, have also shown that AEA signaling regulates anxiety in humans. Taken together, evidence reviewed here has outlined a convincing argument for cannabinoids being powerful regulators of both the manifestation and amelioration of anxiety symptoms, and highlights the therapeutic potential of targeting the eCB system for the development of novel classes of anxiolytics. This article is part of the special issue on 'Cannabinoids'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gavin N Petrie
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute and the Mathison Centre for Mental Health Education and Research, Departments of Cell Biology and Anatomy & Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Andrei S Nastase
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute and the Mathison Centre for Mental Health Education and Research, Departments of Cell Biology and Anatomy & Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Robert J Aukema
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute and the Mathison Centre for Mental Health Education and Research, Departments of Cell Biology and Anatomy & Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Matthew N Hill
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute and the Mathison Centre for Mental Health Education and Research, Departments of Cell Biology and Anatomy & Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada.
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Li X, Hempel BJ, Yang HJ, Han X, Bi GH, Gardner EL, Xi ZX. Dissecting the role of CB 1 and CB 2 receptors in cannabinoid reward versus aversion using transgenic CB 1- and CB 2-knockout mice. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2021; 43:38-51. [PMID: 33334652 PMCID: PMC7854511 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2020.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoids produce both rewarding and aversive effects in humans and experimental animals. However, the mechanisms underlying these conflicting findings are unclear. Here we examined the potential involvement of CB1 and CB2 receptors in cannabinoid action using transgenic CB1-knockout (CB1-KO) and CB2-knockout (CB2-KO) mice. We found that Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) induced conditioned place preference at a low dose (1 mg/kg) in WT mice that was attenuated by deletion of the CB1 receptor. At 5 mg/kg, no subjective effects of Δ9-THC were detected in WT mice, but CB1-KO mice exhibited a trend towards place aversion and CB2-KO mice developed significant place preferences. This data suggests that activation of the CB1 receptor is rewarding, while CB2R activation is aversive. We then examined the nucleus accumbens (NAc) dopamine (DA) response to Δ9-THC using in vivo microdialysis. Unexpectedly, Δ9-THC produced a dose-dependent decrease in extracellular DA in WT mice, that was potentiated in CB1-KO mice. However, in CB2-KO mice Δ9-THC produced a dose-dependent increase in extracellular DA, suggesting that activation of the CB2R inhibits DA release in the NAc. In contrast, Δ9-THC, when administered systemically or locally into the NAc, failed to alter extracellular DA in rats. Lastly, we examined the locomotor response to Δ9-THC. Both CB1 and CB2 receptor mechanisms were shown to underlie Δ9-THC-induced hypolocomotion. These findings indicate that Δ9-THC's variable subjective effects reflect differential activation of cannabinoid receptors. Specifically, the opposing actions of CB1 and CB2 receptors regulate cannabis reward and aversion, with CB2-mediated effects predominant in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Li
- Molecular Targets and Medication Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, 251 Bayview Blvd, NIDA IRP, BRC Suite 200, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA; Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Briana J Hempel
- Molecular Targets and Medication Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, 251 Bayview Blvd, NIDA IRP, BRC Suite 200, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Hong-Ju Yang
- Molecular Targets and Medication Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, 251 Bayview Blvd, NIDA IRP, BRC Suite 200, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Xiao Han
- Molecular Targets and Medication Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, 251 Bayview Blvd, NIDA IRP, BRC Suite 200, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Guo-Hua Bi
- Molecular Targets and Medication Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, 251 Bayview Blvd, NIDA IRP, BRC Suite 200, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Eliot L Gardner
- Molecular Targets and Medication Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, 251 Bayview Blvd, NIDA IRP, BRC Suite 200, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Zheng-Xiong Xi
- Molecular Targets and Medication Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, 251 Bayview Blvd, NIDA IRP, BRC Suite 200, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA.
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Sorkhou M, Bedder RH, George TP. The Behavioral Sequelae of Cannabis Use in Healthy People: A Systematic Review. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:630247. [PMID: 33664685 PMCID: PMC7920961 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.630247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Cannabis is known to have a broad range of effects on behavior, including experiencing a "high" and tranquility/relaxation. However, there are several adverse behavioral sequalae that can arise from cannabis use, depending on frequency of use, potency (e.g., THC content), age of onset, and cumulative exposure. This systematic review examined evidence for cannabis-related adverse behavioral sequalae in otherwise healthy human subjects. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic review of cross-sectional and longitudinal studies from 1990 to 2020 that identified cannabis-related adverse behavioral outcomes in subjects without psychiatric and medical co-morbidities from PubMed and PsychInfo searches. Key search terms included "cannabis" OR "tetrahydrocannabinol" OR "cannabidiol" OR "marijuana" AND "anxiety" OR "depression" OR "psychosis" OR "schizophrenia" "OR "IQ" OR "memory" OR "attention" OR "impulsivity" OR "cognition" OR "education" OR "occupation". Results: Our search detected a total of 2,870 studies, from which we extracted 124 relevant studies from the literature on cannabis effects in the non-clinical population. Effects of cannabis on several behavioral sequelae including cognition, motivation, impulsivity, mood, anxiety, psychosis intelligence, and psychosocial functioning were identified. The preponderance of the evidence suggests that frequency of cannabis use, THC (but not CBD) content, age of onset, and cumulative cannabis exposure can all contribute to these adverse outcomes in individuals without a pre-existing medical condition or psychiatric disorder. The strongest evidence for the negative effects of cannabis are for psychosis and psychosocial functioning. Conclusions: Although more research is needed to determine risk factors for development of adverse behavioral sequelae of cannabis use, these findings underline the importance of understanding vulnerability to the adverse effects of cannabis, which has implications for prevention and treatment of problematic cannabis use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Sorkhou
- Addictions Division, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Rachel H Bedder
- Department of Psychology, Ryerson University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Tony P George
- Addictions Division, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Spechler PA, Chaarani B, Orr C, Albaugh MD, Fontaine NR, Higgins ST, Banaschewski T, Bokde ALW, Quinlan EB, Desrivières S, Flor H, Grigis A, Gowland P, Heinz A, Ittermann B, Artiges E, Martinot MLP, Nees F, Orfanos DP, Paus T, Poustka L, Hohmann S, Fröhner JH, Smolka MN, Walter H, Whelan R, Schumann G, Garavan H. Longitudinal associations between amygdala reactivity and cannabis use in a large sample of adolescents. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2020; 237:3447-3458. [PMID: 32772145 PMCID: PMC7572697 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-020-05624-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE The amygdala is a key brain structure to study in relation to cannabis use as reflected by its high-density of cannabinoid receptors and functional reactivity to processes relevant to drug use. Previously, we identified a correlation between cannabis use in early adolescence and amygdala hyper-reactivity to angry faces (Spechler et al. 2015). OBJECTIVES Here, we leveraged the longitudinal aspect of the same dataset (the IMAGEN study) to determine (1) if amygdala hyper-reactivity predicts future cannabis use and (2) if amygdala reactivity is affected by prolonged cannabis exposure during adolescence. METHODS First, linear regressions predicted the level of cannabis use by age 19 using amygdala reactivity to angry faces measured at age 14 prior to cannabis exposure in a sample of 1119 participants. Next, we evaluated the time course of amygdala functional development from age 14 to 19 for angry face processing and how it might be associated with protracted cannabis use throughout this developmental window. We compared the sample from Spechler et al. 2015, the majority of whom escalated their use over the 5-year interval, to a matched sample of non-users. RESULTS Right amygdala reactivity to angry faces significantly predicted cannabis use 5 years later in a dose-response fashion. Cannabis-naïve adolescents demonstrated the lowest levels of amygdala reactivity. No such predictive relationship was identified for alcohol or cigarette use. Next, follow-up analyses indicated a significant group-by-time interaction for the right amygdala. CONCLUSIONS (1) Right amygdala hyper-reactivity is predictive of future cannabis use, and (2) protracted cannabis exposure during adolescence may alter the rate of neurotypical functional development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip A Spechler
- Vermont Center on Behavior and Health, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, 05401, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, 05401, USA.
| | - Bader Chaarani
- Vermont Center on Behavior and Health, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, 05401, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, 05401, USA
| | - Catherine Orr
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, 05401, USA
| | - Matthew D Albaugh
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, 05401, USA
| | - Nicholas R Fontaine
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, 05401, USA
| | - Stephen T Higgins
- Vermont Center on Behavior and Health, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, 05401, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, 05401, USA
| | - Tobias Banaschewski
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Arun L W Bokde
- Discipline of Psychiatry, School of Medicine and Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Erin Burke Quinlan
- Centre for Population Neuroscience and Stratified Medicine (PONS) and MRC-SGDP Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Sylvane Desrivières
- Centre for Population Neuroscience and Stratified Medicine (PONS) and MRC-SGDP Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Herta Flor
- Department of Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
- Department of Psychology, School of Social Sciences, University of Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Antoine Grigis
- NeuroSpin, CEA, Université Paris-Saclay, F-91191, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Penny Gowland
- Sir Peter Mansfield Imaging Centre School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, UK
| | - Andreas Heinz
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Campus Charité Mitte, Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, Berlin, Germany
| | - Bernd Ittermann
- Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB), Braunschweig-Berlin, Germany
| | - Eric Artiges
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, INSERM U A10 "Trajectoires développementales en psychiatrie", Université Paris-Saclay, Ecole Normale supérieure Paris-Saclay, CNRS, Centre Borelli; and Psychiatry Department 91G16, Orsay Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Marie-Laure Paillère Martinot
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, INSERM U A10 "Trajectoires développementales en psychiatrie", Université Paris-Saclay, Ecole Normale supérieure Paris-Saclay, CNRS, Centre Borelli; and AP-HP.Sorbonne Université, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Frauke Nees
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
- Department of Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | | | - Tomáš Paus
- Bloorview Research Institute, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital and Departments of Psychology and Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Paris, France
| | - Luise Poustka
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Centre Göttingen, von-Siebold-Str. 5, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Sarah Hohmann
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Juliane H Fröhner
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroimaging Center, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Michael N Smolka
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Centre Göttingen, von-Siebold-Str. 5, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Henrik Walter
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Campus Charité Mitte, Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, Berlin, Germany
| | - Robert Whelan
- School of Psychology and Global Brain Health Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Gunter Schumann
- Centre for Population Neuroscience and Stratified Medicine (PONS) and MRC-SGDP Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Hugh Garavan
- Vermont Center on Behavior and Health, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, 05401, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, 05401, USA
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Sharpe L, Sinclair J, Kramer A, de Manincor M, Sarris J. Cannabis, a cause for anxiety? A critical appraisal of the anxiogenic and anxiolytic properties. J Transl Med 2020; 18:374. [PMID: 33008420 PMCID: PMC7531079 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-020-02518-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis has been documented for use in alleviating anxiety. However, certain research has also shown that it can produce feelings of anxiety, panic, paranoia and psychosis. In humans, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) has been associated with an anxiogenic response, while anxiolytic activity has been attributed mainly to cannabidiol (CBD). In animal studies, the effects of THC are highly dose-dependent, and biphasic effects of cannabinoids on anxiety-related responses have been extensively documented. A more precise assessment is required of both the anxiolytic and anxiogenic potentials of phytocannabinoids, with an aim towards the development of the 'holy grail' in cannabis research, a medicinally-active formulation which may assist in the treatment of anxiety or mood disorders without eliciting any anxiogenic effects. OBJECTIVES To systematically review studies assessing cannabinoid interventions (e.g. THC or CBD or whole cannabis interventions) both in animals and humans, as well as recent epidemiological studies reporting on anxiolytic or anxiogenic effects from cannabis consumption. METHOD The articles selected for this review were identified up to January 2020 through searches in the electronic databases OVID MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PubMed, and PsycINFO. RESULTS Acute doses of CBD were found to reduce anxiety both in animals and humans, without having an anxiogenic effect at higher doses. Epidemiological studies tend to support an anxiolytic effect from the consumption of either CBD or THC, as well as whole plant cannabis. Conversely, the available human clinical studies demonstrate a common anxiogenic response to THC (especially at higher doses). CONCLUSION Based on current data, cannabinoid therapies (containing primarily CBD) may provide a more suitable treatment for people with pre-existing anxiety or as a potential adjunctive role in managing anxiety or stress-related disorders. However, further research is needed to explore other cannabinoids and phytochemical constituents present in cannabis (e.g. terpenes) as anxiolytic interventions. Future clinical trials involving patients with anxiety disorders are warranted due to the small number of available human studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Sharpe
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia
| | - Justin Sinclair
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia
| | - Andrew Kramer
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia
| | - Michael de Manincor
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia
| | - Jerome Sarris
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia.
- Department of Psychiatry, The Melbourne Clinic, Professorial Unit, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.
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Effects of ∆ 9-tetrahydrocannabinol on aversive memories and anxiety: a review from human studies. BMC Psychiatry 2020; 20:420. [PMID: 32842985 PMCID: PMC7448997 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-020-02813-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may stem from the formation of aberrant and enduring aversive memories. Some PTSD patients have recreationally used Cannabis, probably aiming at relieving their symptomatology. However, it is still largely unknown whether and how Cannabis or its psychotomimetic compound Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) attenuates the aversive/traumatic memory outcomes. Here, we seek to review and discuss the effects of THC on aversive memory extinction and anxiety in healthy humans and PTSD patients. METHODS Medline, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Central Register for Controlled Trials databases were searched to identify peer-reviewed published studies and randomized controlled trials in humans published in English between 1974 and July 2020, including those using only THC and THC combined with cannabidiol (CBD). The effect size of the experimental intervention under investigation was calculated. RESULTS At low doses, THC can enhance the extinction rate and reduce anxiety responses. Both effects involve the activation of cannabinoid type-1 receptors in discrete components of the corticolimbic circuitry, which could couterbalance the low "endocannabinoid tonus" reported in PTSD patients. The advantage of associating CBD with THC to attenuate anxiety while minimizing the potential psychotic or anxiogenic effect produced by high doses of THC has been reported. The effects of THC either alone or combined with CBD on aversive memory reconsolidation, however, are still unknown. CONCLUSIONS Current evidence from healthy humans and PTSD patients supports the THC value to suppress anxiety and aversive memory expression without producing significant adverse effects if used in low doses or when associated with CBD. Future studies are guaranteed to address open questions related to their dose ratios, administration routes, pharmacokinetic interactions, sex-dependent differences, and prolonged efficacy.
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30
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Seillier A, Martinez AA, Giuffrida A. Differential effects of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol dosing on correlates of schizophrenia in the sub-chronic PCP rat model. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0230238. [PMID: 32163506 PMCID: PMC7067407 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0230238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Social withdrawal in the sub-chronic phencyclidine (PCP) rat model, a behavioral correlate of the negative symptoms of schizophrenia, results from deficits in brain endocannabinoid transmission. As cannabis intake has been shown to affect negatively the course and expression of psychosis, we tested whether the beneficial effects of endocannabinoid-mediated CB1 activation on social withdrawal in PCP-treated rats (5 mg/kg, twice daily for 7 days)also occurred after administration of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC; 0.1, 0.3, 1.0 mg/kg, i.p.). In addition, we assessed whether THC affected two correlates of positive symptoms: 1) motor activity induced by d-amphetamine (0.5 mg/kg, i.p.), and 2) dopamine neuron population activity in the ventral tegmental area (VTA). After the motor activity test, the brains from d-amphetamine-treated animals were collected and processed for measurements of endocannabinoids and activation of Akt/GSK3β, two molecular markers involved in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. In control rats, THC dose-dependently produced social interaction deficits and aberrant VTA dopamine neuron population activity similar to those observed in PCP-treated animals. In PCP-treated rats, only the lowest dose of THC reversed PCP-induced deficits, as well as PCP-induced elevation of the endocannabinoid anandamide (AEA) in the nucleus accumbens. Last, THC activated the Akt/GSK3β pathway dose-dependently in both control and PCP-treated animals. Taken together, these data suggest that only low doses of THC have beneficial effects on behavioral, neurochemical and electrophysiological correlates of schizophrenia symptoms. This observation may shed some light on the controversial hypothesis of marijuana use as self-medication in schizophrenic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Seillier
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Alex A. Martinez
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Andrea Giuffrida
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
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Navarrete F, García-Gutiérrez MS, Jurado-Barba R, Rubio G, Gasparyan A, Austrich-Olivares A, Manzanares J. Endocannabinoid System Components as Potential Biomarkers in Psychiatry. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:315. [PMID: 32395111 PMCID: PMC7197485 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The high heterogeneity of psychiatric disorders leads to a lack of diagnostic precision. Therefore, the search of biomarkers is a fundamental aspect in psychiatry to reach a more personalized medicine. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) has gained increasing interest due to its involvement in many different functional processes in the brain, including the regulation of emotions, motivation, and cognition. This article reviews the role of the main components of the ECS as biomarkers in certain psychiatric disorders. Studies carried out in rodents evaluating the effects of pharmacological and genetic manipulation of cannabinoid receptors or endocannabinoids (eCBs) degrading enzymes were included. Likewise, the ECS-related alterations occurring at the molecular level in animal models reproducing some behavioral and/or neuropathological aspects of psychiatric disorders were reviewed. Furthermore, clinical studies evaluating gene or protein alterations in post-mortem brain tissue or in vivo blood, plasma, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples were analyzed. Also, the results from neuroimaging studies using positron emission tomography (PET) or functional magnetic resonance (fMRI) were included. This review shows the close involvement of cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1r) in stress regulation and the development of mood disorders [anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder (BD)], in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as in the etiopathogenesis of schizophrenia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or eating disorders (i.e. anorexia and bulimia nervosa). On the other hand, recent results reveal the potential therapeutic action of the endocannabinoid tone manipulation by inhibition of eCBs degrading enzymes, as well as by the modulation of cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2r) activity on anxiolytic, antidepressive, or antipsychotic associated effects. Further clinical research studies are needed; however, current evidence suggests that the components of the ECS may become promising biomarkers in psychiatry to improve, at least in part, the diagnosis and pharmacological treatment of psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Navarrete
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Alicante, Spain.,Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Salud García-Gutiérrez
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Alicante, Spain.,Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rosa Jurado-Barba
- Instituto de Investigación i+12, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain.,Servicio de Psiquiatría, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain.,Departamento de Psicología, Facultad de Educación y Salud, Universidad Camilo José Cela, Madrid, Spain
| | - Gabriel Rubio
- Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación i+12, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain.,Servicio de Psiquiatría, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Psychiatry, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ani Gasparyan
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Alicante, Spain.,Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Jorge Manzanares
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Alicante, Spain.,Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
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Effects of the synthetic cannabinoid 5F-AMB on anxiety and recognition memory in mice. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2019; 236:2235-2242. [PMID: 30868181 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-019-05222-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2018] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE N-[[1-(5-fluoropentyl)-1H-indazol-3-yl]carbonyl]-L-valine methyl ester (5F-AMB) is a synthetic cannabinoid that has been distributed recently. Although inhalation of 5F-AMB produces adverse effects, such as impaired memory and disturbed consciousness, in humans, the psychopharmacological effects of 5F-AMB in rodents have not been investigated. OBJECTIVES We first examined the effects of intraperitoneal and intracerebroventricular injections of 5F-AMB on anxiety-like behavior and locomotor activity in the open field (OF) test and recognition memory in the novel object recognition test (NOR) in C57BL/6J mice. We also examined whether a cannabinoid 1 (CB1) receptor antagonist AM251 blocks the effects of 5F-AMB. We next examined the effects of 5F-AMB infusion into the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), a brain region associated with anxiety and memory, on these tests. RESULTS Intraperitoneal injection of 5F-AMB (0.3 mg/kg) dramatically decreased locomotor activity in the OF, and this effect was partially reversed by AM251 (3 mg/kg). Intracerebroventricular infusion of 5F-AMB (10 nmol) produced an anxiolytic effect in the OF and impaired acquisition, but not retrieval, of recognition memory in the NOR, and these effects were blocked by co-infusion of AM251 (1.8 nmol). Bilateral intra-mPFC infusion of 5F-AMB (10 pmol/side) similarly produced impaired recognition memory acquisition, but no anxiolytic effect. CONCLUSIONS The results demonstrate that centrally administered 5F-AMB produces anxiolytic effect and impaired recognition memory acquisition via activation of CB1 receptors, while systemic 5F-AMB severely impaired locomotor activity. The mPFC is involved in 5F-AMB-induced impairment of recognition memory acquisition. However, other brain region(s) may contribute to the 5F-AMB-induced anxiolytic effect.
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Ebrahimi-Ghiri M, Nasehi M, Zarrindast MR. Anxiolytic and antidepressant effects of ACPA and harmaline co-treatment. Behav Brain Res 2019; 364:296-302. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2019.02.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Revised: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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Torrence RD, Rojas DC, Troup LJ. Awareness of Emotional Expressions in Cannabis Users: An Event-Related Potential Study. Front Psychol 2019; 10:69. [PMID: 30774608 PMCID: PMC6367265 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabis use has been associated with anxiogenic effects when used in low frequency for a short duration, but cannabis can also have anxiogenic effects when used heavily for a long duration. Animal studies have indicated the neurobiological mechanisms related to cannabis and anxiety; however, research has been limited on the related neurocognitive mechanisms. Previous research has indicated that cannabis use is associated with alterations in event-related potentials (ERPs). The purpose of the current study was to examine anxiety related attentional processing of emotional expressions using ERP methods. We used a backward masking paradigm to restrict awareness of facial expressions (i.e., fearful, happy, and neutral). The results indicated that cannabis use was associated with differences in emotional processing. Specifically, the results suggested cannabis users had increased P1 amplitudes toward happy facial expressions compared to fearful and neutral. Additionally, cannabis users seemed to have reduced N170 hemisphere lateralization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert D Torrence
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, United States
| | - Donald C Rojas
- Department of Psychology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
| | - Lucy J Troup
- Strategic Hub for Psychology, Social Work, Health Behaviours and Addictions, University of the West of Scotland, Paisley, Scotland
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Potential Mechanisms Underlying the Deleterious Effects of Synthetic Cannabinoids Found in Spice/K2 Products. Brain Sci 2019; 9:brainsci9010014. [PMID: 30654473 PMCID: PMC6357179 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci9010014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2018] [Revised: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The chief psychoactive constituent of many bioactive phytocannabinoids (Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, Δ9-THC) found in hemp, cannabis or marijuana plants are scientifically denoted by the Latin term, Cannabis sativa, acts on cell surface receptors. These receptors are ubiquitously expressed. To date, two cannabinoid receptors have been cloned and characterized. Cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1R) is found to serve as the archetype for cannabinoid action in the brain. They have attracted wide interest as the mediator of all psychoactive properties of exogenous and endogenous cannabinoids and they are abundantly expressed on most inhibitory and excitatory neurons. Recent evidence established that cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2R) is also expressed in the neurons at both presynaptic and postsynaptic terminals and are involved in neuropsychiatric effects. Distinct types of cells in many regions in the brain express CB2Rs and the cellular origin of CB2Rs that induce specific behavioral effects are emerging. To mimic the bliss effects of marijuana, synthetic cannabinoids (SCBs) have been sprayed onto plant material, and this plant material has been consequently packaged and sold under brand name “Spice” or “K2”. These SCBs have been shown to maintain their affinity and functional activity for CB1R and CB2R and have been shown to cause severe harmful effects when compared to the effects of Δ9-THC. The present review discusses the potential brain mechanisms that are involved in the deleterious effects of SCBs.
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Kamal BS, Kamal F, Lantela DE. Cannabis and the Anxiety of Fragmentation-A Systems Approach for Finding an Anxiolytic Cannabis Chemotype. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:730. [PMID: 30405331 PMCID: PMC6204402 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2018] [Accepted: 09/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis sativa is a medicinal herb with a diverse range of chemotypes that can exert both anxiolytic and anxiogenic effects on humans. Medical cannabis patients receiving organically grown cannabis from a single source were surveyed about the effectiveness of cannabis for treating anxiety. Patients rated cannabis as highly effective overall for treating anxiety with an average score of 8.03 on a Likert scale of 0 to 10 (0 = not effective, 10 = extremely effective). Patients also identified which strains they found the most or least effective for relieving their symptoms of anxiety. To find correlations between anxiolytic activity and chemotype, the top four strains voted most and least effective were analyzed by HPLC-MS/MS to quantify cannabinoids and GC-MS to quantify terpenes. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and trans-nerolidol have statistically significant correlations with increased anxiolytic activity. Guiaol, eucalyptol, γ-terpinene, α-phellandrene, 3-carene, and sabinene hydrate all have significant correlations with decreased anxiolytic activity. Further studies are needed to better elucidate the entourage effects that contribute to the anxiolytic properties of cannabis varieties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brishna S Kamal
- Whistler Therapeutics, Whistler, BC, Canada.,Whistler Medical Marijuana, Whistler, BC, Canada
| | | | - Daniel E Lantela
- Whistler Therapeutics, Whistler, BC, Canada.,Whistler Medical Marijuana, Whistler, BC, Canada
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37
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Residual effects of cannabis use on attentional bias towards fearful faces. Neuropsychologia 2018; 119:482-488. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2018.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2018] [Revised: 08/30/2018] [Accepted: 09/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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38
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Sex-specific differences in cannabinoid-induced extracellular-signal-regulated kinase phosphorylation in the cingulate cortex, prefrontal cortex, and nucleus accumbens of Lister Hooded rats. Behav Pharmacol 2018; 29:473-481. [DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0000000000000395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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39
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Pandey P, Chaurasiya ND, Tekwani BL, Doerksen RJ. Interactions of endocannabinoid virodhamine and related analogs with human monoamine oxidase-A and -B. Biochem Pharmacol 2018; 155:82-91. [PMID: 29958841 PMCID: PMC6298601 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2018.06.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2018] [Accepted: 06/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system plays an important role in the pathophysiology of various neurological disorders, such as anxiety, depression, neurodegenerative diseases, and schizophrenia; however, little information is available on the coupling of the endocannabinoid system with the monoaminergic systems in the brain. In the present study, we tested four endocannabinoids and two anandamide analogs for inhibition of recombinant human MAO-A and -B (monoamine oxidase). Virodhamine inhibited both MAO-A and -B (IC50 values of 38.70 and 0.71 μM, respectively) with ∼55-fold greater inhibition of MAO-B. Two other endocannabinoids (noladin ether and anandamide) also showed good inhibition of MAO-B with IC50 values of 18.18 and 39.98 μM, respectively. Virodhamine was further evaluated for kinetic characteristics and mechanism of inhibition of human MAO-B. Virodhamine inhibited MAO-B (Ki value of 0.258 ± 0.037 μM) through a mixed mechanism/irreversible binding and showed a time-dependent irreversible mechanism. Treatment of Neuroscreen-1 (NS-1) cells with virodhamine produced significant inhibition of MAO activity. This observation confirms potential uptake of virodhamine by neuronal cells. A molecular modeling study of virodhamine with MAO-B and its cofactor flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) predicted virodhamine's terminal -NH2 group to be positioned near the N5 position of FAD, but for docking to MAO-A, virodhamine's terminal -NH2 group was far away (∼6.52 Å) from the N5 position of FAD, and encountered bad contacts with nearby water molecules. This difference could explain virodhamine's higher potency and preference for MAO-B. The binding free energies for the computationally-predicted poses also showed that virodhamine was selective for MAO-B. These findings suggest potential therapeutic applications of virodhamine for the treatment of neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pankaj Pandey
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences and National Center for Natural Products Research, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, United States
| | - Narayan D Chaurasiya
- National Center for Natural Products Research, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, United States
| | - Babu L Tekwani
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences and National Center for Natural Products Research, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, United States; National Center for Natural Products Research, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, United States.
| | - Robert J Doerksen
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences and National Center for Natural Products Research, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, United States; National Center for Natural Products Research, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, United States.
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40
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Möller M, Fourie J, Harvey BH. Efavirenz exposure, alone and in combination with known drugs of abuse, engenders addictive-like bio-behavioural changes in rats. Sci Rep 2018; 8:12837. [PMID: 30150782 PMCID: PMC6110861 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-29978-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 07/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Efavirenz is abused in a cannabis-containing mixture known as Nyaope. The addictive-like effects of efavirenz (5, 10 and 20 mg/kg) was explored using conditioned place preference (CPP) in rats following sub-acute exposure vs. methamphetamine (MA; 1 mg/kg) and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC; 0.75 mg/kg). The most addictive dose of efavirenz was then compared to THC alone and THC plus efavirenz following sub-chronic exposure using multiple behavioural measures, viz. CPP, sucrose preference test (SPT) and locomotor activity. Peripheral superoxide dismutase (SOD), regional brain lipid peroxidation and monoamines were also determined. Sub-acute efavirenz (5 mg/kg) had a significant rewarding effect in the CPP comparable to MA and THC. Sub-chronic efavirenz (5 mg/kg) and THC + efavirenz were equally rewarding using CPP, with increased cortico-striatal dopamine (DA), and increased lipid peroxidation and SOD. Sub-chronic THC did not produce CPP but significantly increased SOD and decreased hippocampal DA. Sub-chronic THC + efavirenz was hedonic in the SPT and superior to THC alone regarding cortico-striatal lipid peroxidation and sucrose preference. THC + efavirenz increased cortico-striatal DA and decreased serotonin (5-HT). Concluding, efavirenz has dose-dependent rewarding effects, increases oxidative stress and alters regional brain monoamines. Efavirenz is hedonic when combined with THC, highlighting its abuse potential when combined with THC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisa Möller
- Center of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, North West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
| | - Jaco Fourie
- Center of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, North West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Brian H Harvey
- Center of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, North West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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Moreno-Rius J. The cerebellum in fear and anxiety-related disorders. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2018; 85:23-32. [PMID: 29627508 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2018.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2017] [Revised: 03/29/2018] [Accepted: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Fear and anxiety-related disorders are highly prevalent psychiatric conditions characterized by avoidant and fearful reactions towards specific stimuli or situations, which are disproportionate given the real threat such stimuli entail. These conditions comprise the most common mental disorder group. There are a high proportion of patients who fail to achieve remission and the presence of high relapse rates indicate the therapeutic options available are far from being fully efficient. Despite an increased understanding the neural circuits underlying fear and anxiety-related behaviors in the last decades, a factor that could be partially contributing to the lack of adequate therapies may be an insufficient understanding of the core features of the disorders and their associated neurobiology. Interestingly, the cerebellum shows connections with fear and anxiety-related brain areas and functional involvement in such processes, but explanations for its role in anxiety disorders are lacking. Therefore, the aims of this review are to provide an overview of the neural circuitry of fear and anxiety and its connections to the cerebellum, and of the animal studies that directly assess an involvement of the cerebellum in these processes. Then, the studies performed in patients suffering from anxiety disorders that explore the cerebellum will be discussed. Finally, we'll propose a function for the cerebellum in these disorders, which could guide future experimental approaches to the topic and lead to a better understanding of the neurobiology of anxiety-related disorders, ultimately helping to develop more effective treatments for these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josep Moreno-Rius
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria.
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42
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Epigenetic mechanisms associated with addiction-related behavioural effects of nicotine and/or cocaine: implication of the endocannabinoid system. Behav Pharmacol 2018; 28:493-511. [PMID: 28704272 DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0000000000000326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The addictive use of nicotine (NC) and cocaine (COC) continues to be a major public health problem, and their combined use has been reported, particularly during adolescence. In neural plasticity, commonly induced by NC and COC, as well as behavioural plasticity related to the use of these two drugs, the involvement of epigenetic mechanisms, in which the reversible regulation of gene expression occurs independently of the DNA sequence, has recently been reported. Furthermore, on the basis of intense interactions with the target neurotransmitter systems, the endocannabinoid (ECB) system has been considered pivotal for eliciting the effects of NC or COC. The combined use of marijuana with NC and/or COC has also been reported. This article presents the addiction-related behavioural effects of NC and/or COC, based on the common behavioural/neural plasticity and combined use of NC/COC, and reviews the interacting role of the ECB system. The epigenetic processes inseparable from the effects of NC and/or COC (i.e. DNA methylation, histone modifications and alterations in microRNAs) and the putative therapeutic involvement of the ECB system at the epigenetic level are also discussed.
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43
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Integrating Endocannabinoid Signaling and Cannabinoids into the Biology and Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. Neuropsychopharmacology 2018; 43:80-102. [PMID: 28745306 PMCID: PMC5719095 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2017.162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2017] [Revised: 07/17/2017] [Accepted: 07/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to stress is an undeniable, but in most cases surmountable, part of life. However, in certain individuals, exposure to severe or cumulative stressors can lead to an array of pathological conditions including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), characterized by debilitating trauma-related intrusive thoughts, avoidance behaviors, hyperarousal, as well as depressed mood and anxiety. In the context of the rapidly changing political and legal landscape surrounding use of cannabis products in the USA, there has been a surge of public and research interest in the role of cannabinoids in the regulation of stress-related biological processes and in their potential therapeutic application for stress-related psychopathology. Here we review the current state of knowledge regarding the effects of cannabis and cannabinoids in PTSD and the preclinical and clinical literature on the effects of cannabinoids and endogenous cannabinoid signaling systems in the regulation of biological processes related to the pathogenesis of PTSD. Potential therapeutic implications of the reviewed literature are also discussed. Finally, we propose that a state of endocannabinoid deficiency could represent a stress susceptibility endophenotype predisposing to the development of trauma-related psychopathology and provide biologically plausible support for the self-medication hypotheses used to explain high rates of cannabis use in patients with trauma-related disorders.
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Cooper ZD, Craft RM. Sex-Dependent Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids: A Translational Perspective. Neuropsychopharmacology 2018; 43:34-51. [PMID: 28811670 PMCID: PMC5719093 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2017.140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 201] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2017] [Revised: 06/14/2017] [Accepted: 06/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Recent policy changes have led to significant increases in the use of cannabis for both medical and recreational purposes. Although men are more likely to endorse past month cannabis use and are more frequently diagnosed with Cannabis Use Disorder relative to women, a growing proportion of medical cannabis users are reported to be women. The increased popularity of cannabis for medical purposes and the narrowing gap in prevalence of use between men and women raises questions regarding sex-dependent effects related to therapeutic efficacy and negative health effects of cannabis and cannabinoids. The objective of this review is to provide a translational perspective on the sex-dependent effects of cannabis and cannabinoids by synthesizing findings from preclinical and clinical studies focused on sex comparisons of their therapeutic potential and abuse liability, two specific areas that are of significant public health relevance. Hormonal and pharmacological mechanisms that may underlie sex differences in the effects of cannabis and cannabinoids are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziva D Cooper
- Division on Substance Abuse, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rebecca M Craft
- Department of Psychology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
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45
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Kasten CR, Zhang Y, Boehm SL. Acute and long-term effects of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol on object recognition and anxiety-like activity are age- and strain-dependent in mice. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2017; 163:9-19. [PMID: 29107728 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2017.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2016] [Revised: 10/25/2017] [Accepted: 10/27/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Use of exogenous cannabinoids disrupts the fine-tuned endocannabinoid receptor system, possibly leading to alterations in cognition, memory, and emotional processes that endure long after cannabinoid use has stopped. Long-term adolescent use may uniquely disrupt these behaviors when compared to adult use. The current study explored the acute and long-term behavioral effects of six 10mg/kg Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) injections across the adolescent or early adult period in male inbred C57Bl/6J and DBA/2J mice. The acute and prolonged effects of THC on object memory using the novel object recognition task, unconditioned anxiety in the elevated plus maze and open field, and sedative effects in the open field were examined. Acute THC treatment resulted in anxiogenic activity in both strains, but only caused sedation in B6 mice. Repeated THC treatment resulted in a protracted effect on object recognition, but not unconditioned anxiety, assessed 4weeks later. In both strains, an adolescent history of THC treatment disrupted later object recognition. Interestingly, in B6 mice an adult history of THC exposure appeared to rescue a deficit in object recognition observed in vehicle-treated adults. Repeated THC administration also produced a protracted effected on CB1R protein expression. Animals treated with THC in adolescence maintained increased levels of CB1R protein expression compared to their adult THC-treated counterparts at five weeks following the last injection. These results indicate that THC use may have long-lasting effects with adolescence being a unique period of susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- C R Kasten
- Department of Psychology, Indiana University - Purdue University - Indianapolis, 402 N Blackford St, LD 124, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States.
| | - Y Zhang
- Department of Psychology, Indiana University - Purdue University - Indianapolis, 402 N Blackford St, LD 124, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
| | - S L Boehm
- Department of Psychology, Indiana University - Purdue University - Indianapolis, 402 N Blackford St, LD 124, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States; Indiana Alcohol Research Center, 545 Barnhill Drive EH 317, Indianapolis, IN, United States.
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Fedotova J, Kubatka P, Büsselberg D, Shleikin AG, Caprnda M, Dragasek J, Rodrigo L, Pohanka M, Gasparova I, Nosal V, Opatrilova R, Qaradakhi T, Zulli A, Kruzliak P. Therapeutical strategies for anxiety and anxiety-like disorders using plant-derived natural compounds and plant extracts. Biomed Pharmacother 2017; 95:437-446. [PMID: 28863384 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.08.107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Revised: 08/13/2017] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Anxiety and anxiety-like disorders describe many mental disorders, yet fear is a common overwhelming symptom often leading to depression. Currently two basic strategies are discussed to treat anxiety: pharmacotherapy or psychotherapy. In the pharmacotherapeutical clinical approach, several conventional synthetic anxiolytic drugs are being used with several adverse effects. Therefore, studies to find suitable safe medicines from natural sources are being sought by researchers. The results of a plethora experimental studies demonstrated that dietary phytochemicals like alkaloids, terpenes, flavonoids, phenolic acids, lignans, cinnamates, and saponins or various plant extracts with the mixture of different phytochemicals possess anxiolytic effects in a wide range of animal models of anxiety. The involved mechanisms of anxiolytics action include interaction with γ-aminobutyric acid A receptors at benzodiazepine (BZD) and non-BZD sites with various affinity to different subunits, serotonergic 5-hydrodytryptamine receptors, noradrenergic and dopaminergic systems, glutamate receptors, and cannabinoid receptors. This review focuses on the use of both plant-derived natural compounds and plant extracts with anxiolytic effects, describing their biological effects and clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Fedotova
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, I.P. Pavlov Institute of Physiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia; Laboratory of Comparative Somnology and Neuroendocrinology, I.M. Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia; Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, ITMO University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Peter Kubatka
- Department of Medical Biology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia; Division of Oncology, Biomedical Center Martin, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | | | - Alexander G Shleikin
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, ITMO University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Martin Caprnda
- 2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Jozef Dragasek
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Safarik University and University Hospital, Kosice, Slovakia
| | - Luis Rodrigo
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Oviedo, Central University Hospital of Asturia (HUCA), Oviedo, Spain
| | - Miroslav Pohanka
- Facultpy of Military Health Sciences, University of Defence, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Iveta Gasparova
- Institute of Biology, Genetics and Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University and University Hospital, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Vladimir Nosal
- Clinic of Neurology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University and University Hospital in Martin, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Radka Opatrilova
- Department of Chemical Drugs, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Tawar Qaradakhi
- The Centre for Chronic Disease, College of Health & Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne, Werribee Campus, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anthony Zulli
- The Centre for Chronic Disease, College of Health & Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne, Werribee Campus, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter Kruzliak
- Department of Chemical Drugs, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic.
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Lazenka MF, Kang M, De DD, Selley DE, Sim-Selley LJ. Δ 9-Tetrahydrocannabinol Experience Influences ΔFosB and Downstream Gene Expression in Prefrontal Cortex. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2017; 2:224-234. [PMID: 29082320 PMCID: PMC5628572 DOI: 10.1089/can.2017.0022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Repeated administration of abused drugs, including Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), induces the stable transcription factor ΔFosB in dopaminergic terminal field regions of the mesolimbic system. These studies investigated the effect of prior repeated THC treatment on THC-induced ΔFosB expression and regulation of downstream targets in the forebrain. Methods: Mice received THC (10 mg/kg) or vehicle twice daily for 13 days, and then half of each group received a single injection of THC or vehicle 45 min before brain collection. ΔFosB messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein were measured by polymerase chain reaction and immunoblotting, respectively. Potential downstream targets of ΔFosB induction were measured by immunoblot. Results: THC injection in mice with a history of repeated THC treatment enhanced ΔFosB expression as compared with vehicle in the prefrontal cortex (PFC), nucleus accumbens (NAc), and amygdala. This change occurred concomitantly with an increase in ΔFosB mRNA in the PFC and NAc. THC injection in mice with a history of repeated THC treatment increased expression of cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (Cdk5) and its regulatory protein p35 only in the PFC. This increase in Cdk5 and p35 expression in PFC was also found in mice that had only received repeated THC administration, suggesting that this effect might be due to induction of ΔFosB. Extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation was increased in PFC after THC injection in repeated THC-treated mice. Phosphorylation of glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK3β), a Cdk5 target, was reduced in PFC after repeated THC treatment regardless of THC history, and phosphorylation of dopamine- and cAMP-regulated phosphoprotein of 32 kDa (DARPP-32) at the Cdk5-regulated threonine 75 site was unchanged. Conclusion: These results suggest that a history of repeated THC administration primes THC-mediated induction of ΔFosB in the NAc and PFC, and that expression of both downstream targets of ΔFosB (e.g., Cdk5 and p35) and upstream activators (e.g., pERK) in the PFC is dependent on THC history, which might have functional implications in addiction and neuropsychiatric disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew F Lazenka
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Minho Kang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Dipanjana Datta De
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Dana E Selley
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Laura J Sim-Selley
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia
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Effect of prior foot shock stress and Δ 9-tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiolic acid, and cannabidiol on anxiety-like responding in the light-dark emergence test in rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2017; 234:2207-2217. [PMID: 28424834 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-017-4626-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2017] [Accepted: 04/02/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Cannabis is commonly used by humans to relieve stress. OBJECTIVES AND METHODS Here, we evaluate the potential of intraperitoneally (i.p.) administered Δ9-tetrahydrocannabiol (THC) and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA, the precursor of cannabidiol [CBD]) to produce dose-dependent effects on anxiety-like responding in the light-dark (LD) emergence test of anxiety-like responding in rats, when administered acutely or chronically (21 days). As well, we evaluate the potential of THC, CBDA, and CBD to reduce anxiogenic responding produced by foot shock (FS) stress 24 h prior to the LD test. RESULTS In the absence of the explicit FS stressor, THC (1 and 10 mg/kg) produced anxiogenic-like responding when administered acutely or chronically, but CBDA produced neither anxiogenic- nor anxiolytic-like responding. Administration of FS stress 24 h prior to the LD test enhanced anxiogenic-like responding (reduced time spent and increased latency to enter the light compartment) in rats pretreated with either vehicle (VEH) or THC (1 mg/kg); however, administration of CBDA (0.1-100 μg/kg) or CBD (5 mg/kg) prevented the FS-induced anxiogenic-like responding (an anxiolytic-like effect). The 5-hydroxytryptamine 1A (5-HT1A) receptor antagonist, WAY100635, reversed CBDA's anxiolytic effect (1 μg/kg). Combining an anxiolytic dose of CBDA (1 μg/kg) or CBD (5 mg/kg) with an anxiogenic dose of THC (1 mg/kg) did not modify THC's anxiogenic effect. CONCLUSION These results suggest the anxiolytic effects of CBDA and CBD may require the presence of a specific stressor.
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Cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors differentially modulate L- and T-type Ca 2+ channels in rat retinal ganglion cells. Neuropharmacology 2017; 124:143-156. [PMID: 28431968 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.04.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2016] [Revised: 03/15/2017] [Accepted: 04/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Endocannabinoid signaling system is involved in regulating multiple neuronal functions in the central nervous system by activating G-protein coupled cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors (CB1Rs and CB2Rs). Growing evidence has shown that CB1Rs and CB2Rs are extensively expressed in retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Here, modulation of L- and T-types Ca2+ channels by activating CB1Rs and CB2Rs in RGCs was investigated. Triple immunofluorescent staining showed that L-type subunit CaV1.2 was co-localized with T-type subunits (CaV3.1, CaV3.2 and CaV3.3) in rat RGCs. In acutely isolated rat RGCs, the CB1R agonist WIN55212-2 suppressed both peak and steady-state Ca2+ currents in a dose-dependent manner, with IC50 being 9.6 μM and 8.4 μM, respectively. It was further shown that activation of CB1Rs by WIN55212-2 or ACEA, another CB1R agonist, significantly suppressed both L- and T-type Ca2+ currents, and shifted inactivation curve of T-type one toward hyperpolarization direction. While the effect on L-type Ca2+ channels was mediated by intracellular cAMP/protein kinase A (PKA), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) signaling pathways, only CaMKII signaling pathway was involved in the effect on T-type Ca2+ channels. Furthermore, CB65 and HU308, two specific CB2R agonists, significantly suppressed T-type Ca2+ channels, which was mediated by intracellular cAMP/PKA and CaMKII signaling pathways, but had no effect on L-type channels. These results imply that endogenous cannabinoids may modulate the excitability and the output of RGCs by differentially suppressing the activity of L- and T-type Ca2+ channels through activation of CB1Rs and CB2Rs. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled "A New Dawn in Cannabinoid Neurobiology".
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