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Socha J, Grochecki P, Marszalek-Grabska M, Skrok A, Smaga I, Slowik T, Prazmo W, Kotlinski R, Filip M, Kotlinska JH. Cannabidiol Protects against the Reinstatement of Oxycodone-Induced Conditioned Place Preference in Adolescent Male but Not Female Rats: The Role of MOR and CB1R. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6651. [PMID: 38928357 PMCID: PMC11204276 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126651] [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: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD), a phytocannabinoid, appeared to satisfy several criteria for a safe approach to preventing drug-taking behavior, including opioids. However, most successful preclinical and clinical results come from studies in adult males. We examined whether systemic injections of CBD (10 mg/kg, i.p.) during extinction of oxycodone (OXY, 3 mg/kg, i.p.) induced conditioned place preference (CPP) could attenuate the reinstatement of CPP brought about by OXY (1.5 mg/kg, i.p.) priming in adolescent rats of both sexes, and whether this effect is sex dependent. Accordingly, a priming dose of OXY produced reinstatement of the previously extinguished CPP in males and females. In both sexes, this effect was linked to locomotor sensitization that was blunted by CBD pretreatments. However, CBD was able to prevent the reinstatement of OXY-induced CPP only in adolescent males and this outcome was associated with an increased cannabinoid 1 receptor (CB1R) and a decreased mu opioid receptor (MOR) expression in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). The reinstatement of CCP in females was associated with a decreased MOR expression, but no changes were detected in CB1R in the hippocampus (HIP). Moreover, CBD administration during extinction significantly potentialized the reduced MOR expression in the PFC of males and showed a tendency to potentiate the reduced MOR in the HIP of females. Additionally, CBD reversed OXY-induced deficits of recognition memory only in males. These results suggest that CBD could reduce reinstatement to OXY seeking after a period of abstinence in adolescent male but not female rats. However, more investigation is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Socha
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacodynamics, Medical University of Lublin, Chodzki 4a, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (J.S.); (P.G.); (A.S.)
| | - Pawel Grochecki
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacodynamics, Medical University of Lublin, Chodzki 4a, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (J.S.); (P.G.); (A.S.)
| | - Marta Marszalek-Grabska
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University, Jaczewskiego 8b, 20-090 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Aleksandra Skrok
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacodynamics, Medical University of Lublin, Chodzki 4a, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (J.S.); (P.G.); (A.S.)
| | - Irena Smaga
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smetna 12, 31-343 Krakow, Poland; (I.S.); (M.F.)
| | - Tymoteusz Slowik
- Experimental Medicine Center, Medical University, Jaczewskiego 8, 20-090 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Wojciech Prazmo
- Breast Surgery Department, Provincial Specialist Hospital, Al. Krasnicka 100, 20-718 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Robert Kotlinski
- Clinical Department of Cardiac Surgery, University of Rzeszow, Lwowska 60, 35-301 Rzeszow, Poland;
| | - Malgorzata Filip
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smetna 12, 31-343 Krakow, Poland; (I.S.); (M.F.)
| | - Jolanta H. Kotlinska
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacodynamics, Medical University of Lublin, Chodzki 4a, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (J.S.); (P.G.); (A.S.)
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Corli G, Roda E, Tirri M, Bilel S, De Luca F, Strano-Rossi S, Gaudio RM, De-Giorgio F, Fattore L, Locatelli CA, Marti M. Sex-specific behavioural, metabolic, and immunohistochemical changes after repeated administration of the synthetic cannabinoid AKB48 in mice. Br J Pharmacol 2024; 181:1361-1382. [PMID: 38148741 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16311] [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: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE AKB48 is a synthetic cannabinoid illegally sold for its psychoactive cannabis-like effects that have been associated with acute intoxication and whose effects are poorly known. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Using a behavioural, neurochemical, and immunohistochemical approach, we investigated the pharmaco-toxicological effects, pharmacokinetics, and neuroplasticity at cannabinoid CB1 receptors in the cerebellum and cortex induced by repeated AKB48 administration in male and female mice. KEY RESULTS The effects of AKB48 varied significantly depending on sex and treatment duration. The first injection impaired sensorimotor responses and reduced body temperature, analgesia, and breath rate to a greater extent in females than in males; the second injection induced stronger effects in males while the third injection of AKB48 induced weaker responses in both sexes, suggesting emergence of tolerance. The CB1 receptor antagonist NESS-0327 prevented the effects induced by repeated AKB48, confirming a CB1 receptor-mediated action. Blood AKB48 levels were higher in females than in males and repeated administration caused a progressive rise of AKB48 levels in both sexes, suggesting an inhibitory effect on cytochrome activity. Finally, immunohistochemical analysis revealed higher expression of CB1 receptors in the cerebellum and cortex of females, and a rapid CB1 receptor down-regulation in cerebellar and cortical areas following repeated AKB48 injections, with neuroadaptation occurring generally more rapidly in females than in males. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS We have shown for the first time that AKB48 effects significantly vary with prolonged use and that sex affects the pharmacodynamic/pharmacokinetic responses to repeated administration, suggesting a sex-tailored approach in managing AKB48-induced intoxication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Corli
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elisa Roda
- Laboratory of Clinical & Experimental Toxicology, Pavia Poison Centre, National Toxicology Information Centre, Toxicology Unit, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, IRCCS, Pavia, Italy
| | - Micaela Tirri
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Sabrine Bilel
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fabrizio De Luca
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (DIVAS), University of Milan, Lodi, Italy
| | - Sabina Strano-Rossi
- Institute of Public Health, Section of Legal Medicine, Catholic University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Rosa Maria Gaudio
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- University Center of Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fabio De-Giorgio
- Department of Health Care Surveillance and Bioethics, Section of Legal Medicine, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Liana Fattore
- National Research Council, CNR Institute of Neuroscience-Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Carlo Alessandro Locatelli
- Laboratory of Clinical & Experimental Toxicology, Pavia Poison Centre, National Toxicology Information Centre, Toxicology Unit, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, IRCCS, Pavia, Italy
| | - Matteo Marti
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Department of Anti-Drug Policies, Presidency of the Council of Ministers, Collaborative Center for the Italian National Early Warning System, Rome, Italy
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Bilel S, Zamberletti E, Caffino L, Tirri M, Mottarlini F, Arfè R, Barbieri M, Beggiato S, Boccuto F, Bernardi T, Casati S, Brini AT, Parolaro D, Rubino T, Ferraro L, Fumagalli F, Marti M. Cognitive dysfunction and impaired neuroplasticity following repeated exposure to the synthetic cannabinoid JWH-018 in male mice. Br J Pharmacol 2023; 180:2777-2801. [PMID: 37311647 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16164] [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: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Psychotic disorders have been reported in long-term users of synthetic cannabinoids. This study aims at investigating the long-lasting effects of repeated JWH-018 exposure. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Male CD-1 mice were injected with vehicle, JWH-018 (6 mg·kg-1 ), the CB1 -antagonist NESS-0327 (1 mg·kg-1 ) or co-administration of NESS-0327 and JWH-018, every day for 7 days. After 15 or 16 days washout, we investigated the effects of JWH-018 on motor function, memory, social dominance and prepulse inhibition (PPI). We also evaluated glutamate levels in dialysates from dorsal striatum, striatal dopamine content and striatal/hippocampal neuroplasticity focusing on the NMDA receptor complex and the neurotrophin BDNF. These measurements were accompanied by in vitro electrophysiological evaluations in hippocampal preparations. Finally, we investigated the density of CB1 receptors and levels of the endocannabinoid anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and their main synthetic and degrading enzymes in the striatum and hippocampus. KEY RESULTS The repeated treatment with JWH-018 induced psychomotor agitation while reducing social dominance, recognition memory and PPI in mice. JWH-018 disrupted hippocampal LTP and decreased BDNF expression, reduced the synaptic levels of NMDA receptor subunits and decreased the expression of PSD95. Repeated exposure to JWH-018, reduced hippocampal CB1 receptor density and induced a long-term alteration in AEA and 2-AG levels and their degrading enzymes, FAAH and MAGL, in the striatum. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Our findings suggest that repeated administration of a high dose of JWH-018 leads to the manifestation of psychotic-like symptoms accompanied by alterations in neuroplasticity and change in the endocannabinoid system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrine Bilel
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Erica Zamberletti
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV) and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Italy
| | - Lucia Caffino
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, 'Rodolfo Paoletti', Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Micaela Tirri
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Francesca Mottarlini
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, 'Rodolfo Paoletti', Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Raffaella Arfè
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mario Barbieri
- Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Sarah Beggiato
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology (SVeB), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Federica Boccuto
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Tatiana Bernardi
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Prevention, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Sara Casati
- Department of Biomedical Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna T Brini
- Department of Biomedical Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- IRCCS Galeazzi Orthopedic Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniela Parolaro
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV) and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Italy
- Zardi-Gori Foundation, Milan, Italy
| | - Tiziana Rubino
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV) and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Italy
| | - Luca Ferraro
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology (SVeB), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Laboratory for the Technology of Advanced Therapies (LTTA Centre), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fabio Fumagalli
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, 'Rodolfo Paoletti', Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Marti
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Collaborative Center for the Italian National Early Warning System, Department of Anti-Drug Policies, Presidency of the Council of Ministers, Rome, Italy
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Bouchet CA, McPherson KB, Coutens B, Janowsky A, Ingram SL. Monoacylglycerol Lipase Protects the Presynaptic Cannabinoid 1 Receptor from Desensitization by Endocannabinoids after Persistent Inflammation. J Neurosci 2023; 43:5458-5467. [PMID: 37414560 PMCID: PMC10376933 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0037-23.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoid-targeted pain therapies are increasing with the expansion of cannabis legalization, however, their efficacy may be limited by pain-induced adaptations in the cannabinoid system. Cannabinoid receptor subtype 1 (CB1R) inhibition of spontaneous, GABAergic miniature IPSCs (mIPSCs) and evoked IPSCs (eIPSCs) in the ventrolateral periaqueductal gray (vlPAG) were compared in slices from naive and inflamed male and female Sprague Dawley rats. Complete Freund's Adjuvant (CFA) injections into the hindpaw induced persistent inflammation. In naive rats, exogenous cannabinoid agonists robustly reduce both eIPSCs and mIPSCs. After 5-7 d of inflammation, the effects of exogenous cannabinoids are significantly reduced because of CB1R desensitization via GRK2/3, as function is recovered in the presence of the GRK2/3 inhibitor, Compound 101 (Cmp101). Inhibition of GABA release by presynaptic μ-opioid receptors in the vlPAG does not desensitize with persistent inflammation. Unexpectedly, while CB1R desensitization significantly reduces the inhibition produced by exogenous agonists, depolarization-induced suppression of inhibition protocols that promote 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) synthesis exhibit prolonged CB1R activation after inflammation. 2-AG tone is detected in slices from CFA-treated rats when GRK2/3 is blocked, suggesting an increase in 2-AG synthesis after persistent inflammation. Inhibiting 2-AG degradation with the monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) inhibitor JZL184 during inflammation results in the desensitization of CB1Rs by endocannabinoids that is reversed with Cmp101. Collectively, these data indicate that persistent inflammation primes CB1Rs for desensitization, and MAGL degradation of 2-AG protects CB1Rs from desensitization in inflamed rats. These adaptations with inflammation have important implications for the development of cannabinoid-based pain therapeutics targeting MAGL and CB1Rs.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Presynaptic G-protein-coupled receptors are resistant to desensitization. Here we find that persistent inflammation increases endocannabinoid levels, priming presynaptic cannabinoid 1 receptors for desensitization on subsequent addition of exogenous agonists. Despite the reduced efficacy of exogenous agonists, endocannabinoids have prolonged efficacy after persistent inflammation. Endocannabinoids readily induce cannabinoid 1 receptor desensitization if their degradation is blocked, indicating that endocannabinoid concentrations are maintained at subdesensitizing levels and that degradation is critical for maintaining endocannabinoid regulation of presynaptic GABA release in the ventrolateral periaqueductal gray during inflammatory states. These adaptations with inflammation have important implications for the development of cannabinoid-based pain therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney A Bouchet
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Vollum Institute, Portland, Oregon 97239
| | - Kylie B McPherson
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045
| | - Basile Coutens
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045
| | - Aaron Janowsky
- Research Service, VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, Oregon 97239
- Departments of Psychiatry, and Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239
| | - Susan L Ingram
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045
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Augustin SM, Lovinger DM. Synaptic changes induced by cannabinoid drugs and cannabis use disorder. Neurobiol Dis 2022; 167:105670. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2022.105670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
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Kesner AJ, Lovinger DM. Cannabis use, abuse, and withdrawal: Cannabinergic mechanisms, clinical, and preclinical findings. J Neurochem 2021; 157:1674-1696. [PMID: 33891706 PMCID: PMC9291571 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis sativa is the most widely used illicit drug in the world. Its main psychoactive component is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), one of over 100 phytocannabinoid compounds produced by the cannabis plant. THC is the primary compound that drives cannabis abuse potential and is also used and prescribed medically for therapeutic qualities. Despite its therapeutic potential, a significant subpopulation of frequent cannabis or THC users will develop a drug use syndrome termed cannabis use disorder. Individuals suffering from cannabis use disorder exhibit many of the hallmarks of classical addictions including cravings, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms. Currently, there are no efficacious treatments for cannabis use disorder or withdrawal symptoms. This makes both clinical and preclinical research on the neurobiological mechanisms of these syndromes ever more pertinent. Indeed, basic research using animal models has provided valuable evidence of the neural molecular and cellular actions of cannabis that mediate its behavioral effects. One of the main components being central action on the cannabinoid type-one receptor and downstream intracellular signaling related to the endogenous cannabinoid system. Back-translational studies have provided insight linking preclinical basic and behavioral biology research to better understand symptoms observed at the clinical level. This narrative review aims to summarize major research elucidating the molecular, cellular, and behavioral manifestations of cannabis/THC use that play a role in cannabis use disorder and withdrawal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J. Kesner
- Laboratory for Integrative NeuroscienceNational Institute on Alcohol Abuse and AlcoholismCenter on Compulsive BehaviorsNational Institutes of HealthBethesdaMDUSA
| | - David M. Lovinger
- Laboratory for Integrative NeuroscienceNational Institute on Alcohol Abuse and AlcoholismCenter on Compulsive BehaviorsNational Institutes of HealthBethesdaMDUSA
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Endocannabinoid-Epigenetic Cross-Talk: A Bridge toward Stress Coping. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21176252. [PMID: 32872402 PMCID: PMC7504015 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
There is no argument with regard to the physical and psychological stress-related nature of neuropsychiatric disorders. Yet, the mechanisms that facilitate disease onset starting from molecular stress responses are elusive. Environmental stress challenges individuals’ equilibrium, enhancing homeostatic request in the attempt to steer down arousal-instrumental molecular pathways that underlie hypervigilance and anxiety. A relevant homeostatic pathway is the endocannabinoid system (ECS). In this review, we summarize recent discoveries unambiguously listing ECS as a stress coping mechanism. As stress evokes huge excitatory responses in emotional-relevant limbic areas, the ECS limits glutamate release via 2-arachydonilglycerol (2-AG) stress-induced synthesis and retrograde cannabinoid 1 (CB1)-receptor activation at the synapse. However, ECS shows intrinsic vulnerability as 2-AG overstimulation by chronic stress rapidly leads to CB1-receptor desensitization. In this review, we emphasize the protective role of 2-AG in stress-response termination and stress resiliency. Interestingly, we discuss ECS regulation with a further nuclear homeostatic system whose nature is exquisitely epigenetic, orchestrated by Lysine Specific Demethylase 1. We here emphasize a remarkable example of stress-coping network where transcriptional homeostasis subserves synaptic and behavioral adaptation, aiming at reducing psychiatric effects of traumatic experiences.
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Papadogkonaki S, Theodorakis Κ, Thermos K. Endogenous and synthetic cannabinoids induce the downregulation of cannabinoid CB1 receptor in retina. Exp Eye Res 2019; 185:107694. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2019.107694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2019] [Revised: 05/20/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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9
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Zamberletti E, Piscitelli F, De Castro V, Murru E, Gabaglio M, Colucci P, Fanali C, Prini P, Bisogno T, Maccarrone M, Campolongo P, Banni S, Rubino T, Parolaro D. Lifelong imbalanced LA/ALA intake impairs emotional and cognitive behavior via changes in brain endocannabinoid system. J Lipid Res 2016; 58:301-316. [PMID: 27903595 DOI: 10.1194/jlr.m068387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2016] [Revised: 11/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Imbalanced dietary n-3 and n-6 PUFA content has been associated with a number of neurological conditions. Endocannabinoids are n-6 PUFA derivatives, whose brain concentrations are sensitive to modifications of fatty acid composition of the diet and play a central role in the regulation of mood and cognition. As such, the endocannabinoid system appears to be an ideal candidate for mediating the effects of dietary fatty acids on mood and cognition. Lifelong administration of isocaloric α-linolenic acid (ALA)-deficient and -enriched diets induced short-term memory deficits, whereas only dietary ALA enrichment altered emotional reactivity in adult male rats compared with animals fed a standard diet that was balanced in ALA/linoleic acid (LA) ratio. In the prefrontal cortex, both diets reduced 2-AG levels and increased MAG lipase expression, whereas only the enriched diet reduced AEA levels, simultaneously increasing FAAH expression. In the hippocampus, an ALA-enriched diet decreased AEA content and NAPE-PLD expression, and reduced 2-AG content while increasing MAG lipase expression. These findings highlight the importance of a diet balanced in fatty acid content for normal brain functions and to support a link between dietary ALA, the brain endocannabinoid system, and behavior, which indicates that dietary ALA intake is a sufficient condition for altering the endocannabinoid system in brain regions modulating mood and cognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Zamberletti
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV), University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy
| | - Fabiana Piscitelli
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Pozzuoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Valentina De Castro
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Murru
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Marina Gabaglio
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV), University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy
| | - Paola Colucci
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Fanali
- Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Pamela Prini
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV), University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy
| | - Tiziana Bisogno
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Pozzuoli, Naples, Italy.,Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Mauro Maccarrone
- Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Rome, Italy.,European Center for Brain Research/IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Patrizia Campolongo
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Banni
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Tiziana Rubino
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV), University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy
| | - Daniela Parolaro
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV), University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy .,Zardi Gori Foundation, Milan, Italy
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10
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Grim TW, Samano KL, Ignatowska-Jankowska B, Tao Q, Sim-Selly LJ, Selley DE, Wise LE, Poklis A, Lichtman AH. Pharmacological characterization of repeated administration of the first generation abused synthetic cannabinoid CP47,497. J Basic Clin Physiol Pharmacol 2016; 27:217-28. [PMID: 27149200 PMCID: PMC5644386 DOI: 10.1515/jbcpp-2015-0118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2015] [Accepted: 12/30/2015] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
A series of in vivo and in vitro assays were conducted to characterize the pharmacological effects of the first generation abused synthetic cannabinoid CP47,497, a racemic bicyclic cannabinoid that is similar in structure to the potent, high-efficacy synthetic cannabinoid CP55,940. CP47,497 was less efficacious than CP55,940 in activating G-proteins and dose-dependently produced common CB1 receptor-dependent pharmacological effects (i.e. catalepsy, hypothermia, antinociception, and hypolocomotion). CP47,497 also substituted for Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in the mouse drug discrimination, indicating that both drugs elicited a similar interceptive stimulus. The pharmacological effects of CP47,497 underwent tolerance following repeated administration and showed cross-tolerance following repeated THC administration, further suggesting a common cannabimimetic mechanism of action. Finally, the CB1 receptor antagonist rimonabant precipitated similar magnitudes of somatic withdrawal responses in mice treated repeatedly with THC or CP47,497. Taken together, these data verify the acute cannabimimetic effects of CP47,497, and indicate tolerance and dependence following repeated administration. The assays used here provide a straightforward approach to characterize the emerging next generation of abused synthetic cannabinoids.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Qing Tao
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Laura J. Sim-Selly
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Dana E. Selley
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Laura E. Wise
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Alphonse Poklis
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA; Department of Pathology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA; and Department of Forensic Science, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
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Winsauer PJ, Filipeanu CM, Weed PF, Sutton JL. Hormonal status and age differentially affect tolerance to the disruptive effects of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ(9)-THC) on learning in female rats. Front Pharmacol 2015; 6:133. [PMID: 26191005 PMCID: PMC4488627 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2015.00133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2015] [Accepted: 06/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The effects of hormone status and age on the development of tolerance to Δ(9)-THC were assessed in sham-operated (intact) or ovariectomized (OVX) female rats that received either intraperitoneal saline or 5.6 mg/kg of Δ(9)-THC daily from postnatal day (PD) 75-180 (early adulthood onward) or PD 35-140 (adolescence onward). During this time, the four groups for each age (i.e., intact/saline, intact/THC, OVX/saline, and OVX/THC) were trained in a learning and performance procedure and dose-effect curves were established for Δ(9)-THC (0.56-56 mg/kg) and the cannabinoid type-1 receptor (CB1R) antagonist rimonabant (0.32-10 mg/kg). Despite the persistence of small rate-decreasing and error-increasing effects in intact and OVX females from both ages during chronic Δ(9)-THC, all of the Δ(9)-THC groups developed tolerance. However, the magnitude of tolerance, as well as the effect of hormone status, varied with the age at which chronic Δ(9)-THC was initiated. There was no evidence of dependence in any of the groups. Hippocampal protein expression of CB1R, AHA1 (a co-chaperone of CB1R) and HSP90β (a molecular chaperone modulated by AHA-1) was affected more by OVX than chronic Δ(9)-THC; striatal protein expression was not consistently affected by either manipulation. Hippocampal brain-derived neurotrophic factor expression varied with age, hormone status, and chronic treatment. Thus, hormonal status differentially affects the development of tolerance to the disruptive effects of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ(9)-THC) on learning and performance behavior in adolescent, but not adult, female rats. These factors and their interactions also differentially affect cannabinoid signaling proteins in the hippocampus and striatum, and ultimately, neural plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J. Winsauer
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center New OrleansNew Orleans, LA, USA
- Alcohol and Drug Abuse Center of Excellence, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center New OrleansNew Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Catalin M. Filipeanu
- Department of Pharmacology, Howard University College of MedicineWashington, DC, USA
| | - Peter F. Weed
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center New OrleansNew Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Jessie L. Sutton
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center New OrleansNew Orleans, LA, USA
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Deng L, Cornett BL, Mackie K, Hohmann AG. CB1 Knockout Mice Unveil Sustained CB2-Mediated Antiallodynic Effects of the Mixed CB1/CB2 Agonist CP55,940 in a Mouse Model of Paclitaxel-Induced Neuropathic Pain. Mol Pharmacol 2015; 88:64-74. [PMID: 25904556 DOI: 10.1124/mol.115.098483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2015] [Accepted: 04/22/2015] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids suppress neuropathic pain through activation of cannabinoid CB1 and/or CB2 receptors; however, unwanted CB1-mediated cannabimimetic effects limit clinical use. We asked whether CP55,940 [(-)-3-[2-hydroxy-4-(1,1-dimethylheptyl)phenyl]-4-(3-hydroxypropyl)cyclohexanol], a potent cannabinoid that binds with similar affinity to CB1 and CB2 in vitro, produces functionally separable CB1- and CB2-mediated pharmacological effects in vivo. We evaluated antiallodynic effects, possible tolerance, and cannabimimetic effects (e.g., hypothermia, catalepsy, CB1-dependent withdrawal signs) after systemic CP55,940 treatment in a mouse model of toxic neuropathy produced by a chemotherapeutic agent, paclitaxel. The contribution of CB1 and CB2 receptors to in vivo actions of CP55,940 was evaluated using CB1 knockout (KO), CB2KO, and wild-type (WT) mice. Low-dose CP55,940 (0.3 mg/kg daily, i.p. ) suppressed paclitaxel-induced allodynia in WT and CB2KO mice, but not CB1KO mice. Low-dose CP55,940 also produced hypothermia and rimonabant-precipitated withdrawal in WT, but not CB1KO, mice. In WT mice, tolerance developed to CB1-mediated hypothermic effects of CP55,940 earlier than to antiallodynic effects. High-dose CP55,940 (10 mg/kg daily, i.p.) produced catalepsy in WT mice, which precluded determination of antiallodynic efficacy but produced sustained CB2-mediated suppression of paclitaxel-induced allodynia in CB1KO mice; these antiallodynic effects were blocked by the CB2 antagonist 6-iodopravadoline (AM630). High-dose CP55,940 did not produce hypothermia or rimonabant-precipitated withdrawal in CB1KO mice. Our results using the mixed CB1/CB2 agonist CP55,940 document that CB1 and CB2 receptor activations produce mechanistically distinct suppression of neuropathic pain. Our study highlights the therapeutic potential of targeting cannabinoid CB2 receptors to bypass unwanted central effects associated with CB1 receptor activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liting Deng
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry (L.D.), Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences (L.D., B.L.C., K.M., A.G.H.), The Linda and Jack Gill Center for Biomolecular Science (L.D., B.L.C., K.M., A.G.H.), Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana
| | - Benjamin L Cornett
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry (L.D.), Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences (L.D., B.L.C., K.M., A.G.H.), The Linda and Jack Gill Center for Biomolecular Science (L.D., B.L.C., K.M., A.G.H.), Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana
| | - Ken Mackie
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry (L.D.), Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences (L.D., B.L.C., K.M., A.G.H.), The Linda and Jack Gill Center for Biomolecular Science (L.D., B.L.C., K.M., A.G.H.), Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana
| | - Andrea G Hohmann
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry (L.D.), Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences (L.D., B.L.C., K.M., A.G.H.), The Linda and Jack Gill Center for Biomolecular Science (L.D., B.L.C., K.M., A.G.H.), Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana
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Breivogel CS, Vaghela MS. The effects of beta-arrestin1 deletion on acute cannabinoid activity, brain cannabinoid receptors and tolerance to cannabinoids in mice. J Recept Signal Transduct Res 2015; 35:98-106. [PMID: 25779032 DOI: 10.3109/10799893.2014.1003659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Previous studies have indicated a role for beta-arrestin2 in the regulation of brain cannabinoid effects and cannabinoid CB1 receptors, but whether beta-arrestin1 has a role has not been investigated. OBJECTIVE To determine the role of beta-arrestin1 in cannabinoid activity. MATERIALS AND METHODS Beta-arrestin1 -/- mice and their wild-type (+/+) counterparts were assayed for antinociceptive and temperature-decreasing effects of two ligands, Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and CP55940, after both single and repeated administration. In vitro assays examined the effects of deletion on CB1 receptor density, agonist-binding and G-protein activation. RESULTS Deletion of beta-arrestin1 diminished the effects of CP55940 in both antinociception (latency to tail withdrawal) and temperature-depression assays in mice. However, deleting beta-arrestin1 had no effect on the actions of THC in either assay. Antagonist radioligand ([(3)H]SR141716A) saturation binding indicated no difference between beta-arrestin1 +/+ and -/- mice in the density or affinity for cannabinoid CB1 receptors in brain membranes. CP55940 agonist binding in brain membranes from beta-arrestin1 +/+ mice exhibited high- and intermediate-affinity sites, but beta-arrestin1 -/- membranes exhibited an additional site with low affinity. CP55940 produced greater stimulation of [(35)S]GTPγS binding to membranes from whole brain of beta-arrestin1 -/- than +/+ mice. The rates of the development of tolerance to chronic THC or CP55940 administration did not appear to be affected by genotype. DISCUSSION Beta-arrestin1 appeared to mediate the actions of CP55940, but did not affect the activity of THC. CONCLUSION Beta-arrestin1 regulates cannabinoid CB1 receptor sensitivity in an agonist-selective manner, but may not be the primary mediator of tolerance to cannabinoid agonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris S Breivogel
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Campbell University College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences , Buies Creek, NC , USA
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Dar MS. Functional interaction and cross-tolerance between ethanol and Δ9-THC: Possible modulation by mouse cerebellar adenosinergic A1/GABAergic-A receptors. Behav Brain Res 2014; 270:287-94. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2014.05.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2014] [Revised: 05/13/2014] [Accepted: 05/19/2014] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Zamberletti E, Piscitelli F, Cadeddu F, Rubino T, Fratta W, Fadda P, Di Marzo V, Parolaro D. Chronic blockade of CB(1) receptors reverses startle gating deficits and associated neurochemical alterations in rats reared in isolation. Br J Pharmacol 2013; 167:1652-64. [PMID: 22762735 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2012.02095.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Pharmacological interventions aimed at restoring the endocannabinoid system functionality have been proposed as potential tools in the treatment of schizophrenia. Based on our previous results suggesting a potential antipsychotic-like profile of the CB(1) receptor inverse agonist/antagonist, AM251, here we further investigated the effect of chronic AM251 administration on the alteration of the sensorimotor gating functions and endocannabinoid levels induced by isolation rearing in rats. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Using the post-weaning social isolation rearing model, we studied its influence on sensorimotor gating functions through the PPI paradigm. The presence of alterations in the endocannabinoid levels as well as in dopamine and glutamate receptor densities was explored in specific brain regions following isolation rearing. The effect of chronic AM251 administration on PPI response and the associated biochemical alterations was assessed. KEY RESULTS The disrupted PPI response in isolation-reared rats was paralleled by significant alterations in 2-AG content and dopamine and glutamate receptor densities in specific brain regions. Chronic AM251 completely restored normal PPI response in isolated rats. This behavioural recovery was paralleled by the normalization of 2-AG levels in all the brain areas analysed. Furthermore, AM251 partially antagonized isolation-induced changes in dopamine and glutamate receptors. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS These results demonstrate the efficacy of chronic AM251 treatment in the recovery of isolation-induced disruption of PPI. Moreover, AM251 counteracted the imbalances in the endocannabinoid content, specifically 2-AG levels, and partially reversed the alterations in dopamine and glutamate systems associated with the disrupted behaviour. Together, these findings support the potential antipsychotic-like activity of CB(1) receptor blockade. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Cannabinoids. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2012.167.issue-8.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Zamberletti
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, Biomedical Division and Center of Neuroscience, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy
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Panlilio LV, Justinova Z, Goldberg SR. Inhibition of FAAH and activation of PPAR: new approaches to the treatment of cognitive dysfunction and drug addiction. Pharmacol Ther 2013; 138:84-102. [PMID: 23333350 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2013.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2012] [Accepted: 12/21/2012] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Enhancing the effects of endogenously-released cannabinoid ligands in the brain might provide therapeutic effects more safely and effectively than administering drugs that act directly at the cannabinoid receptor. Inhibitors of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) prevent the breakdown of endogenous ligands for cannabinoid receptors and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR), prolonging and enhancing the effects of these ligands when they are naturally released. This review considers recent research on the effects of FAAH inhibitors and PPAR activators in animal models of addiction and cognition (specifically learning and memory). These studies show that FAAH inhibitors can produce potentially therapeutic effects, some through cannabinoid receptors and some through PPAR. These effects include enhancing certain forms of learning, counteracting the rewarding effects of nicotine and alcohol, relieving symptoms of withdrawal from cannabis and other drugs, and protecting against relapse-like reinstatement of drug self-administration. Since FAAH inhibition might have a wide range of therapeutic actions but might also share some of the adverse effects of cannabis, it is noteworthy that at least one FAAH-inhibiting drug (URB597) has been found to have potentially beneficial effects but no indication of liability for abuse or dependence. Although these areas of research are new, the preliminary evidence indicates that they might lead to improved therapeutic interventions and a better understanding of the brain mechanisms underlying addiction and memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leigh V Panlilio
- Preclinical Pharmacology Section, Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
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Franklin JM, Carrasco GA. Cannabinoid receptor agonists upregulate and enhance serotonin 2A (5-HT(2A)) receptor activity via ERK1/2 signaling. Synapse 2012; 67:145-59. [PMID: 23151877 DOI: 10.1002/syn.21626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2012] [Accepted: 11/06/2012] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Recent behavioral studies suggest that nonselective agonists of cannabinoid receptors may regulate serotonin 2A (5-HT(2A)) receptor neurotransmission. Two cannabinoids receptors are found in brain, CB1 and CB2 receptors, but the molecular mechanism by which cannabinoid receptors would regulate 5-HT(2A) receptor neurotransmission remains unknown. Interestingly, we have recently found that certain cannabinoid receptor agonists can specifically upregulate 5-HT(2A) receptors. Here, we present experimental evidence that rats treated with a nonselective cannabinoid receptor agonist (CP 55,940, 50 µg/kg, 7 days) showed increases in 5-HT(2A) receptor protein levels, 5-HT(2A) receptor mRNA levels, and 5-HT(2A) receptor-mediated phospholipase C beta (PLCβ) activity in prefrontal cortex (PFCx). Similar effects were found in neuronal cultured cells treated with CP 55,940 but these effects were prevented by selective CB2, but not selective CB1, receptor antagonists. CB2 receptors couple to the extracellular kinase (ERK) signaling pathway by Gα(i/o) class of G-proteins. Noteworthy, GP 1a (selective CB2 receptor agonist) produced a strong upregulation of 5-HT(2A) receptor mRNA and protein, an effect that was prevented by selective CB2 receptor antagonists and by an ERK1/2 inhibitor, PD 198306. In summary, our results identified a strong cannabinoid-induced upregulation of 5-HT(2A) receptor signaling in rat PFCx. Our cultured cell studies suggest that selective CB2 receptor agonists upregulate 5-HT(2A) receptor signaling by activation of the ERK1/2 signaling pathway. Activity of cortical 5-HT(2A) receptors has been associated with several physiological functions and neuropsychiatric disorders such as stress response, anxiety and depression, and schizophrenia. Therefore, these results may provide a molecular mechanism by which activation of cannabinoid receptors might be relevant to the pathophysiology of some cognitive and mood disorders in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jade M Franklin
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas 66045, USA
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Cannabinoid agonists increase the interaction between β-Arrestin 2 and ERK1/2 and upregulate β-Arrestin 2 and 5-HT(2A) receptors. Pharmacol Res 2012; 68:46-58. [PMID: 23174265 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2012.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2012] [Revised: 11/08/2012] [Accepted: 11/08/2012] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
We have recently reported that selective cannabinoid 2 (CB(2)) receptor agonists upregulate 5-HT(2A) receptors by enhancing ERK1/2 signaling in prefrontal cortex (PFCx). Increased activity of cortical 5-HT(2A) receptors has been associated with several neuropsychiatric disorders such as anxiety and schizophrenia. Here we examine the mechanisms involved in this enhanced ERK1/2 activation in rat PFCx and in a neuronal cell model. Sprague-Dawley rats treated with a non-selective cannabinoid agonist (CP55940, 50μg/kg, 7 days, i.p.) showed enhanced co-immunoprecipitation of β-Arrestin 2 and ERK1/2, enhanced pERK protein levels, and enhanced expression of β-Arrestin 2 mRNA and protein levels in PFCx. In a neuronal cell line, we found that selective CB(2) receptor agonists upregulate β-Arrestin 2, an effect that was prevented by selective CB(2) receptor antagonist JTE-907 and CB(2) shRNA lentiviral particles. Additionally, inhibition of clathrin-mediated endocytosis, ERK1/2, and the AP-1 transcription factor also prevented the cannabinoid receptor-induced upregulation of β-Arrestin 2. Our results suggest that sustained activation of CB(2) receptors would enhance β-Arrestin 2 expression possibly contributing to its increased interaction with ERK1/2, thereby driving the upregulation of 5-HT(2A) receptors. The CB(2) receptor-mediated upregulation of β-Arrestin 2 would be mediated, at least in part, by an ERK1/2-dependent activation of AP-1. These data could provide the rationale for some of the adverse effects associated with repeated cannabinoid exposure and shed light on some CB(2) receptor agonists that could represent an alternative therapeutic because of their minimal effect on serotonergic neurotransmission.
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Long-lasting recovery of psychotic-like symptoms in isolation-reared rats after chronic but not acute treatment with the cannabinoid antagonist AM251. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2012; 15:267-80. [PMID: 20923599 DOI: 10.1017/s1461145710001185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In this work we investigated the ability of AM251 to reverse schizophrenia-like symptoms produced by a neurodevelopmental animal model based on a social isolation procedure. First, we assessed the validity of our isolation-rearing protocol and, as expected, isolation-reared rats showed hyperlocomotion in a novel environment, cognitive impairment in the novel object recognition (NOR) test and a significant increase in the number of aggressive behaviours in the social interaction test compared to group-housed controls. This behavioural picture was associated with a reduction in CB₁ receptor/G protein coupling in specific brain areas as well as reduced c-Fos immunoreactivity in the prefrontal cortex and caudate putamen. In this model, chronic but not acute treatment with the CB₁ receptor antagonist AM251 counteracted isolation-induced cognitive impairment in the NOR test and aggressive behaviours in the social interaction test. This behavioural recovery was accompanied by the rescue of CB₁ receptor functionality and c-Fos levels in all brain regions altered in isolation-reared rats. Moreover, chronic AM251 also increased c-Fos immunoreactivity in the nucleus accumbens, as previously demonstrated for antipsychotic drugs. Interestingly, the behavioural recovery due to chronic AM251 administration persisted until 10 d after discontinuing the treatment, indicating a long-lasting effect of the cannabinoid antagonist on psychotic-like symptoms.
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Gender-dependent behavioral and biochemical effects of adolescent delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol in adult maternally deprived rats. Neuroscience 2012; 204:245-57. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2011.11.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2011] [Revised: 11/15/2011] [Accepted: 11/17/2011] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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Chadwick B, Saylor AJ, López HH. Adolescent cannabinoid exposure attenuates adult female sexual motivation but does not alter adulthood CB1R expression or estrous cyclicity. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2011; 100:157-64. [PMID: 21777606 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2011.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2011] [Revised: 06/24/2011] [Accepted: 07/07/2011] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Adolescence is a developmental period characterized by neuronal remodeling and the maturation of adult emotionality, reproductive behavior and social behavior. We examined whether chronic cannabinoid exposure in adolescent rats alters female sexual motivation, estrous cyclicity, sucrose preference, and CB(1)R expression in adulthood. Female rats were administered with the synthetic cannabinoid agonist, CP-55,940 (0.4 mg/kg, intraperitoneal), daily during adolescent development (PND 35-45). In a subset of subjects, socio-sexual motivation was investigated in adulthood (PND 75-86) using a runway apparatus. Estrous cyclicity was tracked in adulthood via vaginal cytology and a single-mount test. A two-bottle sucrose preference test was also conducted to determine whether predicted changes in socio-sexual motivation might be linked to alterations in hedonic processing. CB(1)R expression was examined in two separate subsets of subjects, one sacrificed following drug treatment (PND 46) and one before behavioral testing (PND 74). Drug treatment significantly decreased adult preference for a male conspecific (sexual motivation), as assessed by both Run Time and Proximity Time, but did not affect estrous cyclicity or sucrose preference. CP-55,940 treatment also induced immediate, but transient, decreases in CB(1)R expression in the ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus and amygdala. Drug treatment did not affect CB(1)R expression in the nucleus accumbens (core or shell) or globus pallidus at either time point. We suggest that the endocannabinoid system may play a role in the maturation of neuroendocrine axes and adult female reproductive behavior, and that chronic exposure to cannabinoids during adolescence disrupts these neurodevelopmental processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Chadwick
- Department of Psychology, Neuroscience Program, Skidmore College, 815 N. Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866, USA
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El Rawas R, Thiriet N, Nader J, Lardeux V, Jaber M, Solinas M. Early exposure to environmental enrichment alters the expression of genes of the endocannabinoid system. Brain Res 2011; 1390:80-9. [PMID: 21419109 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2011.03.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2011] [Revised: 03/03/2011] [Accepted: 03/09/2011] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Early environmental enrichment (EE) produces several changes in gene expression in the brain and confers protection against the behavioral, neurochemical and molecular effects of repeated administration of drugs of abuse. Because the endogenous cannabinoid system (ECS) is known to play an important role in the rewarding effects of drugs, we investigated whether the positive effects of early exposure to EE are associated with changes in the expression of genes encoding for proteins that belong to the ECS in C57 mice. Using in situ hybridization, we compared the expression of the cannabinoid receptor CB1, fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MGL) enzymes in brain regions involved in drug addiction in mice reared in either EE or standard environments (SE) from weaning until adulthood. We found that EE increases CB1 mRNA levels in the hypothalamus and in the basolateral amygdala but decreased them in the basomedial amygdala. Similarly, we found that FAAH mRNA levels are higher in the hypothalamus and the basolateral amygdala of EE mice compared to SE mice, with no change in the basomedial amygdala. In contrast, MGL mRNA levels were not affected by EE in any of the areas analyzed. The regional selectivity of EE-induced changes may indicate that early exposure to EE induces changes in the ECS that could result in reduced responses to stress, as confirmed in EE mice in a novelty-induced suppression of feeding test, and, ultimately, in resistance to addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rana El Rawas
- Institut de Physiologie et Biologie Cellulaires, University of Poitiers, CNRS, 1 rue Georges Bonnet, Poitiers, F-86022, France
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Timofeeva E, Baraboi ED, Poulin AM, Richard D. Palatable high-energy diet decreases the expression of cannabinoid type 1 receptor messenger RNA in specific brain regions in the rat. J Neuroendocrinol 2009; 21:982-92. [PMID: 19807847 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2826.2009.01921.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
In laboratory rodents, a palatable high-energy diet (PHED) is usually consumed in a higher quantity than a standard laboratory diet, leading to the development of an obese phenotype. The central effects of PHED are not fully understood. Nonetheless, the long-term consumption of PHED can decrease cannabinoid type 1 receptor (CB1R) protein density in particular brain regions. However, little is known about the diet-dependent regulation of the brain expression of CB1R mRNA. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of the long-term consumption of PHED and short-term (12 h) food deprivation on the brain expression of CB1R mRNA. For 13 weeks, rats were fed a standard laboratory chow or PHED presented as a free choice of chow, shortcake biscuits and pork spread. In total, the food intake of PHED rats was higher than that of chow-fed animals. Expectedly, PHED rats demonstrated higher body weight than chow-fed animals. The difference in body weight between PHED- and chow-fed rats was as result of the fat but not the lean mass. PHED-fed rats had significantly higher plasma levels of leptin and insulin and significantly higher levels of expression of suppressor of cytokine signalling 3 (SOCS-3) in the arcuate hypothalamic nucleus. The long-term consumption of PHED significantly decreased the levels of CB1R mRNA expression in the cingulate (Cg) cortex, ventromedial hypothalamic nucleus and the descending/autonomic divisions of the parvocellular hypothalamic nucleus (PVH), the ventrolateral parvocellular PVH and, to a lesser extent, the dorsomedial parvocellular PVH. Acute food deprivation decreased the levels of CB1R transcript in the Cg and ventrolateral parvocellular PVH. Altogether, the present results demonstrate that long-term PHED leads to an increase in the hypothalamic expression of SOCS-3 mRNA and a decrease in expression of CB1R mRNA in the Cg cortex and specific hypothalamic regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Timofeeva
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, l'Université Laval, Québec, Canada.
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Fan N, Yang H, Zhang J, Chen C. Reduced expression of glutamate receptors and phosphorylation of CREB are responsible for in vivo Delta9-THC exposure-impaired hippocampal synaptic plasticity. J Neurochem 2009; 112:691-702. [PMID: 19912468 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2009.06489.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Chronic use of marijuana impairs synaptic plasticity and cognitive function. However, the molecular mechanisms by which marijuana alters long-term synaptic plasticity are largely unknown. Here, we show that repeated in vivo exposures to Delta9-THC for 7 consecutive days significantly impaired hippocampal long-term potentiation (LTP) of excitatory glutamatergic synaptic transmission. The Delta9-THC exposure-induced decrease in LTP was prevented by pharmacological inhibition or deletion of the cannabinoid 1 receptor (CB1R). To determine the molecular mechanisms underlying Delta9-THC-altered LTP, we targeted expression and function of the glutamate receptors (GluR) and phosphorylation status of cAMP-response element-binding protein (CREB). Chronic in vivo exposure to Delta9-THC produced CB1R-dependent decreases in expression of hippocampal GluR1, NR2A, and NR2B, the ratio of alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazole-4-propionate (AMPA)/NMDA receptor-gated currents, and phosphorylation of CREB. Our results suggest that reduced expression and function of the GluR subunits and phosphorylation of CREB may underlie the impaired long-term synaptic plasticity induced by repeated in vivo exposure to Delta9-THC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ni Fan
- Neuroscience Center of Excellence, School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana 70112, USA
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Marco EM, Rubino T, Adriani W, Viveros MP, Parolaro D, Laviola G. Long-term consequences of URB597 administration during adolescence on cannabinoid CB1 receptor binding in brain areas. Brain Res 2009; 1257:25-31. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2008.12.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2008] [Revised: 12/11/2008] [Accepted: 12/14/2008] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Dalton VS, Wang H, Zavitsanou K. HU210-induced downregulation in cannabinoid CB1 receptor binding strongly correlates with body weight loss in the adult rat. Neurochem Res 2009; 34:1343-53. [PMID: 19169813 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-009-9914-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/06/2009] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
In vitro autoradiography was used to examine changes in cannabinoid CB1 receptors (targeted with [(3)H] CP55,940) in rats treated with the potent cannabinoid agonist HU210. Animals were administered with HU210 (25, 50, 100 microg/kg) for 4 or 14 days or received a single 100 microg/kg injection of HU210 and sacrificed 24 h later. The acute dose resulted in a decrease in binding in the caudate putamen and hippocampus. A dose dependent, region-specific reduction (P < 0.0001) in [(3)H] CP55,940 binding was seen in all brain regions examined after 4 and 14 days treatment. A decrease in body weight was recorded during the first 4 days of treatment but after this animals began to gain weight. Correlations (0.865 < r < 0.659, P < 0.0001) between body weight on day four and CB1 receptor binding were found in all brain regions examined suggesting that downregulation of CB1 receptors may contribute to the induction of tolerance to body weight loss induced by HU210.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria S Dalton
- Radiopharmaceuticals Research Institute, Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, PMB 1 Menai, Sydney, NSW, 2234, Australia
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Abstract
Many drugs of abuse, including cannabinoids, opioids, alcohol and nicotine, can alter the levels of endocannabinoids in the brain. Recent studies show that release of endocannabinoids in the ventral tegmental area can modulate the reward-related effects of dopamine and might therefore be an important neurobiological mechanism underlying drug addiction. There is strong evidence that the endocannabinoid system is involved in drug-seeking behavior (especially behavior that is reinforced by drug-related cues), as well as in the mechanisms that underlie relapse to drug use. The cannabinoid CB(1) antagonist/inverse agonist rimonabant has been shown to reduce the behavioral effects of stimuli associated with drugs of abuse, including nicotine, alcohol, cocaine, and marijuana. Thus, the endocannabinoid system represents a promising target for development of new treatments for drug addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuzana Justinova
- Department of Health and Human Services, Preclinical Pharmacology Section, Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
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South T, Huang XF. Temporal and site-specific brain alterations in CB1 receptor binding in high fat diet-induced obesity in C57Bl/6 mice. J Neuroendocrinol 2008; 20:1288-94. [PMID: 18752650 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2826.2008.01785.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The cannabinoid CB1 receptor has been implicated in the regulation of appetite and the consumption of palatable foods. This experiment aimed to explore the involvement of the CB1 receptor in the early and late stages of high fat diet-induced obesity in C57BL/6 mice. The C57Bl/6 mice were placed on a high fat (HF) or low fat/high carbohydrate (LF) diet for 3 or 20 weeks. Quantitative autoradiography revealed that binding of [3H] CP-55,940 (CB1 receptor ligand) was elevated following 3 weeks of HF feeding in areas including the medial/ventral anterior olfactory nucleus (22.1%), agranular insular cortex (24.0%) and the hypothalamus (31.5%) compared to LF controls. This increased level of binding was correlated with an increase in plasma leptin in the hypothalamus, raising the possibility that this hormone may exert inhibitory control over endocannabinoid signalling at this stage of obesity. Mice fed a HF diet for 20 weeks were obese, hyperphagic and had decreased CB1 receptor binding levels in the substantia nigra (12.8%) and ventral tegmental area (17.1%) compared to LF controls. The low [3H] CP-55,940 binding density seen in these reward-related areas in the late stage of obesity may be indicative of increased endocannabinoid release due to the chronic HF diet consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- T South
- Centre for Translational Neuroscience, School of Health Sciences, University of Wollongong, Northfield Avenue, New South Wales, Australia
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30
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Eggan SM, Hashimoto T, Lewis DA. Reduced cortical cannabinoid 1 receptor messenger RNA and protein expression in schizophrenia. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008; 65:772-84. [PMID: 18606950 DOI: 10.1001/archpsyc.65.7.772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 187] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Cannabis use is associated with both impaired cognitive functions, including working memory, and an increased risk of schizophrenia. Schizophrenia is characterized by impairments in working memory that are associated with reduced gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmission in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. The cannabinoid 1 receptor (CB1R) is highly expressed in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, is contained in the axon terminals of a subpopulation of perisomatic-targeting GABA neurons, and, when activated, suppresses the release of GABA. OBJECTIVE To determine the potential relationship between CB1R signaling and altered GABA neurotransmission in schizophrenia by evaluating CB1R messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. DESIGN In situ hybridization and immunocytochemistry techniques were used to examine the cortical levels of CB1R mRNA and protein, respectively. SETTING Brain specimens were obtained from autopsies conducted at the Allegheny County Medical Examiner's Office, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. PARTICIPANTS Postmortem brain specimens from 23 pairs of subjects with schizophrenia and age-, sex-, and postmortem interval-matched comparison subjects, as well as brain specimens from 18 macaque monkeys with long-term exposure to haloperidol, olanzapine, or placebo. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Optical density measures of CB1R mRNA expression and protein levels and correlations with previously reported glutamic acid decarboxylase 67 and cholecystokinin mRNA measures. RESULTS Levels of CB1R mRNA were significantly lower by 14.8% in the subjects with schizophrenia. Similarly, CB1R protein levels, assessed by radioimmunocytochemistry and standard immunocytochemistry, were significantly decreased by 11.6% and 13.9%, respectively. Group differences in CB1R mRNA levels were significantly correlated with those in glutamic acid decarboxylase 67 and cholecystokinin mRNA levels. Expression of CB1R mRNA was not changed in antipsychotic-exposed monkeys, and neither CB1R mRNA levels nor protein levels were affected by potential confounding factors in the subjects with schizophrenia. CONCLUSIONS This combination of findings suggests the testable hypothesis that reduced CB1R mRNA and protein levels in schizophrenia represent a compensatory mechanism to increase GABA transmission from perisomatic-targeting cholecystokinin interneurons with impaired GABA synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen M Eggan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, 3811 O'Hara St, W1651 BST, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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31
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D’Souza DC, Ranganathan M, Braley G, Gueorguieva R, Zimolo Z, Cooper T, Perry E, Krystal J. Blunted psychotomimetic and amnestic effects of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol in frequent users of cannabis. Neuropsychopharmacology 2008; 33:2505-16. [PMID: 18185500 PMCID: PMC3799954 DOI: 10.1038/sj.npp.1301643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 189] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis is one of the most widely used illicit substances and there is growing interest in the association between cannabis use and psychosis. Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-9-THC) the principal active ingredient of cannabis has been shown to induce psychotomimetic and amnestic effects in healthy individuals. Whether people who frequently use cannabis are either protected from or are tolerant to these effects of Delta-9-THC has not been established. In a 3-day, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study, the dose-related effects of 0, 2.5, and 5 mg intravenous Delta-9-THC were studied in 30 frequent users of cannabis and compared to 22 healthy controls. Delta-9-THC (1) produced transient psychotomimetic effects and perceptual alterations; (2) impaired memory and attention; (3) increased subjective effects of 'high'; (4) produced tachycardia; and (5) increased serum cortisol in both groups. However, relative to controls, frequent users showed blunted responses to the psychotomimetic, perceptual altering, cognitive impairing, anxiogenic, and cortisol increasing effects of Delta-9-THC but not to its euphoric effects. Frequent users also had lower prolactin levels. These data suggest that frequent users of cannabis are either inherently blunted in their response to, and/or develop tolerance to the psychotomimetic, perceptual altering, amnestic, endocrine, and other effects of cannabinoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepak Cyril D’Souza
- Schizophrenia Biological Research Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT
,Abraham Ribicoff Research Facilities, Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven, CT
,Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Mohini Ranganathan
- Schizophrenia Biological Research Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT
,Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Gabriel Braley
- Schizophrenia Biological Research Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT
,Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Ralitza Gueorguieva
- Abraham Ribicoff Research Facilities, Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven, CT
,Division of Biostatistics, Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Yale University, New Haven CT
| | - Zoran Zimolo
- Schizophrenia Biological Research Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT
,Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Thomas Cooper
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York and the Nathan Kline Institute, Orangeburg New York
| | - Edward Perry
- Schizophrenia Biological Research Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT
,Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - John Krystal
- Schizophrenia Biological Research Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT
,Abraham Ribicoff Research Facilities, Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven, CT
,Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
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The endocannabinoid system as a target for the treatment of cannabis dependence. Neuropharmacology 2008; 56 Suppl 1:235-43. [PMID: 18691603 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2008.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2008] [Revised: 07/02/2008] [Accepted: 07/07/2008] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system modulates neurotransmission at inhibitory and excitatory synapses in brain regions relevant to the regulation of pain, emotion, motivation, and cognition. This signaling system is engaged by the active component of cannabis, Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta9-THC), which exerts its pharmacological effects by activation of G protein-coupled type-1 (CB1) and type-2 (CB2) cannabinoid receptors. During frequent cannabis use a series of poorly understood neuroplastic changes occur, which lead to the development of dependence. Abstinence in cannabinoid-dependent individuals elicits withdrawal symptoms that promote relapse into drug use, suggesting that pharmacological strategies aimed at alleviating cannabis withdrawal might prevent relapse and reduce dependence. Cannabinoid replacement therapy and CB1 receptor antagonism are two potential treatments for cannabis dependence that are currently under investigation. However, abuse liability and adverse side-effects may limit the scope of each of these approaches. A potential alternative stems from the recognition that (i) frequent cannabis use may cause an adaptive down-regulation of brain endocannabinoid signaling, and (ii) that genetic traits that favor hyperactivity of the endocannabinoid system in humans may decrease susceptibility to cannabis dependence. These findings suggest in turn that pharmacological agents that elevate brain levels of the endocannabinoid neurotransmitters, anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), might alleviate cannabis withdrawal and dependence. One such agent, the fatty-acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitor URB597, selectively increases anandamide levels in the brain of rodents and primates. Preclinical studies show that URB597 produces analgesic, anxiolytic-like and antidepressant-like effects in rodents, which are not accompanied by overt signs of abuse liability. In this article, we review evidence suggesting that (i) cannabis influences brain endocannabinoid signaling and (ii) FAAH inhibitors such as URB597 might offer a possible therapeutic avenue for the treatment of cannabis withdrawal.
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McDougall JJ, Yu V, Thomson J. In vivo effects of CB2 receptor-selective cannabinoids on the vasculature of normal and arthritic rat knee joints. Br J Pharmacol 2007; 153:358-66. [PMID: 17982474 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjp.0707565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Cannabinoids (CBs) are known to be vasoactive and to regulate tissue inflammation. The present study examined the in vivo vasomotor effects of the CB2 receptor agonists JWH015 and JWH133 in rat knee joints. The effect of acute and chronic joint inflammation on CB2 receptor-mediated responses was also tested. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Blood flow was assessed in rat knee joints by laser Doppler imaging both before and following topical administration of CB2 receptor agonists. Vasoactivity was measured in normal, acute kaolin/carrageenan inflamed and Freund's complete adjuvant chronically inflamed knees. KEY RESULTS In normal animals, JWH015 and JWH133 caused a concentration-dependent increase in synovial blood flow which in the case of JWH133 was blocked by the selective CB2 receptor antagonist AM630 as well as the transient receptor potential vanilloid-1 (TRPV1) antagonist SB366791. The vasodilator effect of JWH133 was significantly attenuated in both acute and chronically inflamed knees. Given alone, AM630 had no effect on joint blood flow. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS In normal joints, the cannabinomimetic JWH133 causes hyperaemia via a CB2 and TRPV1 receptor mechanism. During acute and chronic inflammation, however, this vasodilatatory response is significantly attenuated.
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Affiliation(s)
- J J McDougall
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
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34
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Touriño C, Maldonado R, Valverde O. MDMA attenuates THC withdrawal syndrome in mice. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2007; 193:75-84. [PMID: 17387458 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-007-0772-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2006] [Accepted: 03/10/2007] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION 3, 4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and cannabis are widely abused illicit drugs that are frequently consumed in combination. Interactions between these two drugs have been reported in several pharmacological responses observed in animals, such as body temperature, anxiety, cognition, and reward. However, the interaction between MDMA and cannabis in addictive processes such as physical dependence has not been elucidated yet. DISCUSSION In this study, the effects of acute and chronic MDMA were evaluated on the behavioral manifestations of Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) abstinence in mice. THC withdrawal syndrome was precipitated by injecting the cannabinoid antagonist rimonabant (10 mg/kg, i.p.) in mice chronically treated with THC and receiving MDMA (2.5, 5 and 10 mg/kg i.p.) or saline just before the withdrawal induction or chronically after the THC administration. RESULTS Both chronic and acute MDMA decreased in a dose-dependent manner the severity of THC withdrawal. In vivo microdialysis experiments showed that acute MDMA (5 mg/kg, i.p.) administration increased extracellular serotonin levels in the prefrontal cortex, but not dopamine levels in the nucleus accumbens. Our results also indicate that the attenuation of THC abstinence symptoms was not due to a direct interaction between rimonabant and MDMA nor to the result of the locomotor stimulating effects of MDMA. CONCLUSION The modulation of the cannabinoid withdrawal syndrome by acute or chronic MDMA suggests a possible mechanism to explain the associated consumption of these two drugs in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Touriño
- Grup de Recerca de Neurobiologia del Comportament, Departament de Ciències Experimentals i de la Salut, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, PRBB, C/ Dr. Aiguader 80, 08003, Barcelona, Spain
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35
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Fattore L, Viganò D, Fadda P, Rubino T, Fratta W, Parolaro D. Bidirectional regulation of mu-opioid and CB1-cannabinoid receptor in rats self-administering heroin or WIN 55,212-2. Eur J Neurosci 2007; 25:2191-200. [PMID: 17419755 DOI: 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2007.05470.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
This study examines the effect of intravenous self-administration (SA) of either heroin or the cannabinoid receptor agonist WIN 55,212-2 on levels and functionality of mu-opioid (MOR) and CB1-cannabinoid receptors (CB1R) in reward-related brain areas, such as the prefrontal cortex (PFC), nucleus accumbens (NAc), caudate putamen (CP), hippocampus (Hippo), amygdala (Amy), hypothalamus (Hypo) and ventral tegmental area (VTA). [3H]DAMGO and [3H]CP-55,940 autoradiography and agonist-stimulated [35S]GTPgammaS binding were performed on brain sections of rats firmly self-administering heroin or WIN 55,212-2. Animals failing to acquire heroin or cannabinoid SA behaviour as well as drug-naïve animals never exposed to experimental apparatus or procedure (home-control group) were used as controls. With respect to control groups, which displayed very similar values, rats SA heroin showed increased MOR binding in the NAc (+174%), CP (+165%), Hippo (+121%), VTA (+175%), an enhanced CB1R density localized in the Amy (+147%) and VTA (+37%), and a widespread increased CB1 receptor functionality in the PFC (+95%), NAc (+313%), CP (+265%), Hippo (+38%), Amy (+221%). In turn, cannabinoid SA differently modulates CB1R binding in the Amy (+47%), Hypo (+94%), Hippo (-23%), VTA (-15%), and increases MOR levels (PFC: +124%; NAc: +68%; CP: +80%; Hippo: +73%; Amy: +99%) and efficiency (Hippo: +518%; Amy: +173%; Hypo: +188%). These findings suggest that voluntary chronic intake of opioids or cannabinoids induces reciprocal but differential regulation of MORs and CB1Rs density and activity in brain structures underlying drug-taking and drug-seeking behaviour, which could represent long-term neuroadaptations contributing to the development of drug addiction and dependence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liana Fattore
- Institute of Neuroscience, National Research Council CNR, Section of Cagliari, Italy
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36
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Agarwal N, Pacher P, Tegeder I, Amaya F, Constantin CE, Brenner GJ, Rubino T, Michalski CW, Marsicano G, Monory K, Mackie K, Marian C, Batkai S, Parolaro D, Fischer MJ, Reeh P, Kunos G, Kress M, Lutz B, Woolf CJ, Kuner R. Cannabinoids mediate analgesia largely via peripheral type 1 cannabinoid receptors in nociceptors. Nat Neurosci 2007; 10:870-9. [PMID: 17558404 PMCID: PMC2234438 DOI: 10.1038/nn1916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 425] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2007] [Accepted: 05/07/2007] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Although endocannabinoids constitute one of the first lines of defense against pain, the anatomical locus and the precise receptor mechanisms underlying cannabinergic modulation of pain are uncertain. Clinical exploitation of the system is severely hindered by the cognitive deficits, memory impairment, motor disturbances and psychotropic effects resulting from the central actions of cannabinoids. We deleted the type 1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1) specifically in nociceptive neurons localized in the peripheral nervous system of mice, preserving its expression in the CNS, and analyzed these genetically modified mice in preclinical models of inflammatory and neuropathic pain. The nociceptor-specific loss of CB1 substantially reduced the analgesia produced by local and systemic, but not intrathecal, delivery of cannabinoids. We conclude that the contribution of CB1-type receptors expressed on the peripheral terminals of nociceptors to cannabinoid-induced analgesia is paramount, which should enable the development of peripherally acting CB1 analgesic agonists without any central side effects.
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MESH Headings
- Alleles
- Analgesia
- Animals
- Cannabinoid Receptor Modulators/physiology
- Cannabinoids/pharmacology
- Central Nervous System/drug effects
- DNA Primers
- Electrophysiology
- Ganglia, Spinal/cytology
- Ganglia, Spinal/physiology
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Knockout
- Nerve Fibers, Unmyelinated/drug effects
- Nerve Fibers, Unmyelinated/physiology
- Neurons, Afferent/physiology
- Nociceptors/drug effects
- Peripheral Nervous System/drug effects
- Peripheral Nervous System Diseases/pathology
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/drug effects
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/genetics
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Affiliation(s)
- Nitin Agarwal
- Institute for Pharmacology, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld, Heidelberg, 69120 Germany
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37
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Hayakawa K, Mishima K, Nozako M, Hazekawa M, Irie K, Fujioka M, Orito K, Abe K, Hasebe N, Egashira N, Iwasaki K, Fujiwara M. Delayed treatment with cannabidiol has a cerebroprotective action via a cannabinoid receptor-independent myeloperoxidase-inhibiting mechanism. J Neurochem 2007; 102:1488-1496. [PMID: 17437545 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2007.04565.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
We examined the neuroprotective mechanism of cannabidiol, non-psychoactive component of marijuana, on the infarction in a 4 h mouse middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusion model in comparison with Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta(9)-THC). Release of glutamate in the cortex was measured at 2 h after MCA occlusion. Myeloperoxidase (MPO) and cerebral blood flow were measured at 1 h after reperfusion. In addition, infarct size and MPO were determined at 24 and 72 h after MCA occlusion. The neuroprotective effect of cannabidiol was not inhibited by either SR141716 or AM630. Both pre- and post-ischemic treatment with cannabidiol resulted in potent and long-lasting neuroprotection, whereas only pre-ischemic treatment with Delta(9)-THC reduced the infarction. Unlike Delta(9)-THC, cannabidiol did not affect the excess release of glutamate in the cortex after occlusion. Cannabidiol suppressed the decrease in cerebral blood flow by the failure of cerebral microcirculation after reperfusion and inhibited MPO activity in neutrophils. Furthermore, the number of MPO-immunopositive cells was reduced in the ipsilateral hemisphere in cannabidiol-treated group. Cannabidiol provides potent and long-lasting neuroprotection through an anti-inflammatory CB(1) receptor-independent mechanism, suggesting that cannabidiol will have a palliative action and open new therapeutic possibilities for treating cerebrovascular disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuhide Hayakawa
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical SciencesAdvanced Materials Institute, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, JapanDepartment of Drug Safety Evaluation, Developmental Research Laboratories, Toyonaka, Osaka, JapanDepartment of Veterinary Pharmacology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Fuchinobe Sagamihara Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Kenichi Mishima
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical SciencesAdvanced Materials Institute, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, JapanDepartment of Drug Safety Evaluation, Developmental Research Laboratories, Toyonaka, Osaka, JapanDepartment of Veterinary Pharmacology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Fuchinobe Sagamihara Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Masanori Nozako
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical SciencesAdvanced Materials Institute, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, JapanDepartment of Drug Safety Evaluation, Developmental Research Laboratories, Toyonaka, Osaka, JapanDepartment of Veterinary Pharmacology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Fuchinobe Sagamihara Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Mai Hazekawa
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical SciencesAdvanced Materials Institute, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, JapanDepartment of Drug Safety Evaluation, Developmental Research Laboratories, Toyonaka, Osaka, JapanDepartment of Veterinary Pharmacology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Fuchinobe Sagamihara Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Keiichi Irie
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical SciencesAdvanced Materials Institute, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, JapanDepartment of Drug Safety Evaluation, Developmental Research Laboratories, Toyonaka, Osaka, JapanDepartment of Veterinary Pharmacology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Fuchinobe Sagamihara Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Masayuki Fujioka
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical SciencesAdvanced Materials Institute, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, JapanDepartment of Drug Safety Evaluation, Developmental Research Laboratories, Toyonaka, Osaka, JapanDepartment of Veterinary Pharmacology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Fuchinobe Sagamihara Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Kensuke Orito
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical SciencesAdvanced Materials Institute, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, JapanDepartment of Drug Safety Evaluation, Developmental Research Laboratories, Toyonaka, Osaka, JapanDepartment of Veterinary Pharmacology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Fuchinobe Sagamihara Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Kohji Abe
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical SciencesAdvanced Materials Institute, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, JapanDepartment of Drug Safety Evaluation, Developmental Research Laboratories, Toyonaka, Osaka, JapanDepartment of Veterinary Pharmacology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Fuchinobe Sagamihara Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Nobuyoshi Hasebe
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical SciencesAdvanced Materials Institute, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, JapanDepartment of Drug Safety Evaluation, Developmental Research Laboratories, Toyonaka, Osaka, JapanDepartment of Veterinary Pharmacology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Fuchinobe Sagamihara Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Nobuaki Egashira
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical SciencesAdvanced Materials Institute, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, JapanDepartment of Drug Safety Evaluation, Developmental Research Laboratories, Toyonaka, Osaka, JapanDepartment of Veterinary Pharmacology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Fuchinobe Sagamihara Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Katsunori Iwasaki
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical SciencesAdvanced Materials Institute, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, JapanDepartment of Drug Safety Evaluation, Developmental Research Laboratories, Toyonaka, Osaka, JapanDepartment of Veterinary Pharmacology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Fuchinobe Sagamihara Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Michihiro Fujiwara
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical SciencesAdvanced Materials Institute, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, JapanDepartment of Drug Safety Evaluation, Developmental Research Laboratories, Toyonaka, Osaka, JapanDepartment of Veterinary Pharmacology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Fuchinobe Sagamihara Kanagawa, Japan
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38
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Villares J. Chronic use of marijuana decreases cannabinoid receptor binding and mRNA expression in the human brain. Neuroscience 2007; 145:323-34. [PMID: 17222515 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2006.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2006] [Revised: 11/07/2006] [Accepted: 11/08/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Chronic exposure to Cannabis sativa (marijuana) produced a significant down-regulation of cannabinoid receptor in the postmortem human brain. The significant decrease in maximal binding capacity was not accompanied by changes in the affinity constant. [3H]SR141716A binding was reduced in the caudate nucleus, putamen and in the accumbens nucleus. A significant decrease of binding sites was seen in the globus pallidus. Also in the ventral tegmental area and substantia nigra pars reticulata quantitative analysis of the density of receptors shows a significant reduction in [3H]SR141716A binding. In Cannabis sativa user brains, compared with normal brains [3H]SR141716A binding was reduced only in the hippocampus. The density of cannabinoid receptor 1 mRNA-positive neurons was significantly lower in Cannabis sativa users than in control brains for the caudate nucleus, putamen, accumbens nucleus and hippocampal region (CA1-CA4, areas of Ammon's horn). No hybridization was seen in the mesencephalon and globus pallidus.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Villares
- Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Aging and Neurodegenerative Diseases Brain Bank Laboratory, Department of Psychobiology, Rua Botucatu n. 862, Biological Science Building, São Paulo SP, Brazil, CEP 04023-062.
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Hayakawa K, Mishima K, Nozako M, Ogata A, Hazekawa M, Liu AX, Fujioka M, Abe K, Hasebe N, Egashira N, Iwasaki K, Fujiwara M. Repeated treatment with cannabidiol but not Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol has a neuroprotective effect without the development of tolerance. Neuropharmacology 2007; 52:1079-87. [PMID: 17320118 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2006.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2006] [Revised: 11/15/2006] [Accepted: 11/16/2006] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Both Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta(9)-THC) and cannabidiol are known to have a neuroprotective effect against cerebral ischemia. We examined whether repeated treatment with both drugs led to tolerance of their neuroprotective effects in mice subjected to 4h-middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusion. The neuroprotective effect of Delta(9)-THC but not cannabidiol was inhibited by SR141716, cannabinoid CB(1) receptor antagonist. Fourteen-day repeated treatment with Delta(9)-THC, but not cannabidiol, led to tolerance of the neuroprotective and hypothermic effects. In addition, repeated treatment with Delta(9)-THC reversed the increase in cerebral blood flow (CBF), while cannabidiol did not reverse that effect. Repeated treatment with Delta(9)-THC caused CB(1) receptor desensitization and down-regulation in MCA occluded mice. On the contrary, cannabidiol did not influence these effects. Moreover, the neuroprotective effect and an increase in CBF induced by repeated treatment with cannabidiol were in part inhibited by WAY100135, serotonin 5-HT(1A) receptor antagonist. Cannabidiol exhibited stronger antioxidative power than Delta(9)-THC in an in vitro study using the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryhydrazyl (DPPH) radical. Thus, cannabidiol is a potent antioxidant agent without developing tolerance to its neuroprotective effect, acting through a CB(1) receptor-independent mechanism. It is to be hoped that cannabidiol will have a palliative action and open new therapeutic possibilities for treating cerebrovascular disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuhide Hayakawa
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Fukuoka University, Nanakuma 8-19-1, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka 814-0180, Japan
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40
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Marco EM, Granstrem O, Moreno E, Llorente R, Adriani W, Laviola G, Viveros MP. Subchronic nicotine exposure in adolescence induces long-term effects on hippocampal and striatal cannabinoid-CB1 and mu-opioid receptors in rats. Eur J Pharmacol 2007; 557:37-43. [PMID: 17174300 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2006.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2006] [Revised: 10/31/2006] [Accepted: 11/06/2006] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
There is evidence for the existence of functional interactions between nicotine and cannabinoids and opioid compounds in adult experimental animals. However, there is scarce information about these relationships in young animals. In the present study we evaluated short and long-term effects of a subchronic nicotine treatment [0.4 mg/kg daily i.p. injections from postnatal day (PND) 34 to PND 43], upon hippocampal and striatal cannabinoid-CB(1) and mu-opioid receptors in Wistar rats of both genders. Rats were sacrificed 2 h after the last nicotine injection (short-term effects, PND 43) or one month later (long-term effects, PND 75). Hippocampal and striatal cannabinoid CB(1) and mu-opioid receptors were quantified by Western blotting. The subchronic nicotine treatment induced a region-dependent long-lasting effect in cannabinoid CB(1) receptor: a significant increase in hippocampal cannabinoid CB(1) receptors and a significant decrease in striatal cannabinoid CB(1) receptors, with these effects being similar in males and females. With respect to mu-opioid receptors, subchronic nicotine induced a significant down-regulation in hippocampal and striatal mu-opioid receptors in the long-term, and within the striatum the effects were more marked in adult males than in females. The present results indicate that juvenile nicotine taking may have implications for the endocannabinoid and endogenous opioid function and for the behaviors served by those systems, this includes possible modification of the response of adults to different psychotropic drugs, i.e. cannabis and morphine/heroin when taken later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva M Marco
- Dept. Fisiología (Fisiología Animal II), Facultad de Biología, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
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41
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Nowak KL, Vinod KY, Hungund BL. Pharmacological manipulation of CB1 receptor function alters development of tolerance to alcohol. Alcohol Alcohol 2005; 41:24-32. [PMID: 16216824 DOI: 10.1093/alcalc/agh217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS The current study investigated the efficacy of CB1 receptor-targeted drugs on the development and expression of tolerance to alcohol (EtOH). METHODS An EtOH-inhalation model was used to induce tolerance, as measured by EtOH-induced sedation and hypothermia after a 24 h withdrawal period. Two drug treatment procedures, (i) co-treatment with EtOH and (ii) acute drug administration following chronic EtOH treatment, were used to test the efficacy of CB1 receptor manipulations on EtOH tolerance. RESULTS The effects of the CB1 receptor agonist CP-55,940 varied depending on paradigm and behavioural measure. Chronic CP-55,940 co-treatment blocked tolerance to EtOH-induced hypothermia but not to the sedative effect (sleep time) in EtOH-exposed mice. However, chronic CP-55,940 administration alone resulted in tolerance to the sedative effect of a challenge dose of EtOH in control mice. Acute CP-55,940 administration after chronic alcoholization blocked the development of tolerance to EtOH-induced sedation compared to the EtOH alone exposed group, but induced tolerance to the hypothermic effects of EtOH in control mice. Chronic blockade of CB1 receptor function by SR141716A resulted in tolerance to both the sedative and hypothermic effects of EtOH in control mice, but had no effect on EtOH-exposed mice. CONCLUSIONS The data support a role for the endocannabinoid (EC) system in EtOH tolerance/dependence and suggest that drugs targeted against EC system could be therapeutically useful in treating alcohol-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen L Nowak
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
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42
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Rubino T, Forlani G, Viganò D, Zippel R, Parolaro D. Ras/ERK signalling in cannabinoid tolerance: from behaviour to cellular aspects. J Neurochem 2005; 93:984-91. [PMID: 15857401 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2005.03101.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the role of the Ras/extracellular-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway in the development of tolerance to Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)-induced reduction in spontaneous locomotor activity by a genetic (Ras-specific guanine nucleotide exchange factor (Ras-GRF1) knock-out mice) and pharmacological approach. Pre-treatment of wild-type mice with SL327 (50 mg/kg i.p.), a specific inhibitor of mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK), the upstream kinase of ERK, fully prevented the development of tolerance to THC-induced hypolocomotion. We investigated the impact of the inhibition of ERK activation on the biological processes involved in cannabinoid tolerance (receptor down-regulation and desensitization), by autoradiographic cannabinoid CB1 receptor and cannabinoid-stimulated [(35)S]GTPgammaS binding studies in subchronically treated mice (THC, 10 mg/kg s.c., twice a day for 5 days). In the caudate putamen and cerebellum of Ras-GRF1 knock-out mice and SL327 pre-treated wild-type mice, CB1 receptor down-regulation and desensitization did not occur, suggesting that ERK activation might account for CB1 receptor plasticity involved in the development of tolerance to THC hypolocomotor effect. In contrast, the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex showed CB1 receptor adaptations regardless of the genetic or pharmacological inhibition of the ERK pathway, suggesting regional variability in the cellular events underlying the altered CB1 receptor function. These findings suggest that at least in the caudate putamen and cerebellum, the Ras/ERK pathway is essential for triggering the alteration in CB1 receptor function responsible for tolerance to THC-induced hypomotility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Rubino
- DBSF, Pharmacology Section, and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Italy.
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43
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Martin BR, Sim-Selley LJ, Selley DE. Signaling pathways involved in the development of cannabinoid tolerance. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2004; 25:325-30. [PMID: 15165748 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2004.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Considerable plasticity exists in the endogenous cannabinoid system, as evidenced by the high degree of tolerance that develops following repetitive exposure to exogenously administered cannabinoid receptor agonists. This tolerance development is accompanied by cannabinoid CB(1) receptor downregulation and attenuation of G-protein activation. The biological processes responsible for CB(1) receptor downregulation remain to be fully understood. However, recent evidence suggests that several protein kinases participate in the development of cannabinoid tolerance. These observations implicate a role for protein kinases in cannabinoid signaling pathways. It remains to be established whether these protein kinases are directly involved in CB(1) receptor regulation or whether they contribute to tolerance by modulating additional signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Billy R Martin
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Institute for Drug and Alcohol Studies, Medical College of Virginia Campus, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA.
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González S, Fernández-Ruiz J, Di Marzo V, Hernández M, Arévalo C, Nicanor C, Cascio MG, Ambrosio E, Ramos JA. Behavioral and molecular changes elicited by acute administration of SR141716 to Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol-tolerant rats: an experimental model of cannabinoid abstinence. Drug Alcohol Depend 2004; 74:159-70. [PMID: 15099659 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2003.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2003] [Revised: 11/27/2003] [Accepted: 12/02/2003] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Whether chronic cannabinoid consumption produces a dependent state comparable to that occurring with other drugs (e.g. the appearance of withdrawal signs when consumption is interrupted), and whether chronic cannabinoid consumption increases the risk of consuming other drugs of greater addictive power, are probably the two questions relating to cannabinoid addiction that provoke the most controversy. The present study was designed to further explore these two questions in laboratory animals. Firstly, we examined the effects of an acute challenge with SR141716 (an antagonist for the cannabinoid CB(1) receptor) in Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta(9)-THC)-tolerant rats. This antagonist has been reported to precipitate a cannabinoid withdrawal syndrome. Thus, the administration of SR141716 to Delta(9)-THC-tolerant rats reduced inactivity in the open-field test and enhanced responses as tremor, turning and retropulsion-these responses that were only slightly enhanced in control rats. The administration of SR141716 increased the plasma prolactin and the corticosterone concentration in controls, but these increases were much lesser in Delta(9)-THC-tolerant rats. In addition, CRF-mRNA levels in the paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus, while reduced in SR141716-treated controls, were significantly increased in Delta(9)-THC-tolerant rats. The analysis of endocannabinoids also revealed that the administration of SR141716, which was mostly inactive in control rats, was able to reverse the changes in anandamide or 2-arachidonoylglycerol concentrations found in Delta(9)-THC-tolerant rats, in the striatum, limbic forebrain, diencephalon, cerebellum and brainstem, but not in the midbrain and hippocampus. As a second objective, we evaluated whether Delta(9)-THC-tolerant rats were more vulnerable to morphine in a self-administration paradigm. The Delta(9)-THC-tolerant and control rats self-administered morphine to a similar extent, in concordance with the similar values of dopaminergic activity in limbic and motor regions. In summary, our data indicate that Delta(9)-THC-tolerant rats were not more vulnerable to the reinforcing properties of morphine. However, they responded to the blockade of CB(1) receptors by exhibiting slightly but possibly relevant differences in behavioral, endocrine and molecular parameters compared to the response in non-tolerant rats. This is indicative of the existence of a withdrawal syndrome in cannabinoid-tolerant rats that is mild compared with abstinence in opioid-dependent rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara González
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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Rubino T, Forlani G, Viganò D, Zippel R, Parolaro D. Modulation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases cascade by chronic Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol treatment. Mol Cell Neurosci 2004; 25:355-62. [PMID: 15033164 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2003.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2003] [Revised: 10/01/2003] [Accepted: 11/10/2003] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) injection increased ERK pathway (ERK, pCREB, and c-fos) mostly in the caudate putamen and cerebellum. This effect underwent to homeostatic adaptation after chronic treatment. Moreover, chronic THC exposure induced increases in the ERK cascade (ERK, pCREB, and Fos B) in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus, suggesting that different neuronal circuits seem to be involved in the early phase and late phase of exposure. The involvement of ERK pathway in cannabinoid chronic exposure was also confirmed in Ras-GRF1 knock out mice, a useful model where cannabinoid-induced ERK activation is lost. In fact, Ras-GRF1 ko mice did not develop tolerance to THC analgesic and hypolocomotor effect. Our data suggest that ERK cascade could play a pivotal role in the induction of synaptic plasticity due to cannabinoid chronic exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Rubino
- DBSF, Pharmacology Unit and Center of Neuroscience, University of Insubria, 21052 Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy
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Oliva JM, Ortiz S, Palomo T, Manzanares J. Spontaneous cannabinoid withdrawal produces a differential time-related responsiveness in cannabinoid CB1 receptor gene expression in the mouse brain. J Psychopharmacol 2004; 18:59-65. [PMID: 15107186 DOI: 10.1177/0269881104040238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to examine the behavioural and neurochemical (cannabinoid CB1 receptor gene expression) changes induced by spontaneous cannabinoid withdrawal in mice. Tolerance was assessed by measuring rectal temperature and motor activity in the open-field test after CP-55, 940 administration. Cannabinoid withdrawal symptoms were determined by measuring motor activity and behavioural signs of abstinence. Cessation of CP-55, 940 treatment in tolerant mice induced a spontaneous time-dependent behavioural withdrawal syndrome consisting of marked increases (140%) in motor activity, number of rearings (170%), decreases in grooming (57%), wet dog shakes (73%) and rubbing behaviours (74%) on day 1, progressively reaching values similar to vehicle-treated mice on day 3. Interestingly, this spontaneous cannabinoid withdrawal resulted in CB1 gene expression upregulation (20-30%) in caudate-putamen, ventromedial hypothalamic nucleus, central amygdaloid nucleus and CA1, whereas in the CA3 field of hippocampus, a significant decrease (15-20%) was detected. Taken together, the results of this study suggest that cessation of CP-55, 940 administration in tolerant mice produces a behavioural cannabinoid withdrawal syndrome and a selective and differential responsiveness in CB1 receptor gene expression in several brain regions of the mice. These findings further suggest a time and regional differential role for cannabinoid receptors in short- and long-term neuroadaptations that occur after exposure to cannabis derivatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- José M Oliva
- Servicio de Psiquiatría y Unidad de Investigación, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
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47
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48
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Abstract
Drug addiction includes complex neurobiological and behavioural processes. Acute reinforcing effects of drugs of abuse are responsible for the initiation of drug addiction, whereas the negative consequences of drug abstinence have a crucial motivational significance for relapse and maintenance of the addictive process. The mesocorticolimbic system represents a common neuronal substrate for the reinforcing properties of drugs of abuse. Both dopamine and opioid transmission play a crucial role in this reward pathway. Common neuronal changes have also been reported during the abstinence to different drugs of abuse that could underlie the negative motivational effects of withdrawal. These changes include decreased dopaminergic activity in the mesolimbic system and a recruitment of the brain stress pathways. All drugs of abuse interact with these brain circuits by acting on different molecular and neurochemical mechanisms. The existence of bidirectional interactions between different drugs of abuse, such as opioids and cannabinoids, provides further findings to support this common neurobiological substrate for drug addictive processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Maldonado
- Laboratori de Neurofarmacologia, Facultat de Ciències de la Salut i de la Vida, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain.
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Maldonado R, Valverde O. Participation of the opioid system in cannabinoid-induced antinociception and emotional-like responses. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2003; 13:401-10. [PMID: 14636956 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2003.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Several anatomical, biochemical and pharmacological evidence support the existence of bidirectional interactions between cannabinoid and opioid systems. The present review is focused on the participation of the endogenous opioid system in the antinociceptive and emotional-like responses induced by cannabinoids, and the development of tolerance to cannabinoid pharmacological effects. Cannabinoid and opioid agonists produce antinociception by acting on similar structures within the central nervous system, and a peripheral mechanism has been also proposed for both compounds. Pharmacological studies have suggested that the endogenous opioid system could be involved in cannabinoid antinociception and the development of cannabinoid tolerance. Recent studies using knockout mice have also demonstrated the role of the opioid system in cannabinoid antinociception and tolerance, although some discrepancies with the previous pharmacological results have been reported when using knockout mice. On the other hand, cannabinoid administration can induce anxiolytic-like responses that are mediated at least in part by an endogenous opioid activity on micro- and delta-opioid receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Maldonado
- Laboratori de Neurofarmacologia, Departament de Ciènces Experimentals i de la Salut, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, C/Doctor Aiguader, s/n. 08003, Barcelona, Spain.
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Abstract
Agonist-induced regulation of cannabinoid CB1 receptors was examined in HEK-293 cells transfected with CB1 receptors and in neuroblastoma N18TG2 cells that naturally express CB1 receptors. In HEK-293 cells, CB1 receptors internalization proceeded, in parallel, via clathrin-coated pits and caveolae. Simultaneous disruption of both pathways induced compensatory endocytic mechanism(s). In N18TG2 cells, endocytosis was not mediated by caveolae-like membrane domains. Heterologous, opioid-induced, downregulation of CB1 receptors was evident in HEK-293 but not N18TG2 cells. The data demonstrate the existence of multiple pathways of CB1 receptors regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ora Keren
- The Mauerberger Chair in Neuropharmacology, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 69978, Israel
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