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Crowley K, Kiraga Ł, Miszczuk E, Skiba S, Banach J, Latek U, Mendel M, Chłopecka M. Effects of Cannabinoids on Intestinal Motility, Barrier Permeability, and Therapeutic Potential in Gastrointestinal Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6682. [PMID: 38928387 PMCID: PMC11203611 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126682] [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: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids and their receptors play a significant role in the regulation of gastrointestinal (GIT) peristalsis and intestinal barrier permeability. This review critically evaluates current knowledge about the mechanisms of action and biological effects of endocannabinoids and phytocannabinoids on GIT functions and the potential therapeutic applications of these compounds. The results of ex vivo and in vivo preclinical data indicate that cannabinoids can both inhibit and stimulate gut peristalsis, depending on various factors. Endocannabinoids affect peristalsis in a cannabinoid (CB) receptor-specific manner; however, there is also an important interaction between them and the transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1) system. Phytocannabinoids such as Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) impact gut motility mainly through the CB1 receptor. They were also found to improve intestinal barrier integrity, mainly through CB1 receptor stimulation but also via protein kinase A (PKA), mitogen-associated protein kinase (MAPK), and adenylyl cyclase signaling pathways, as well as by influencing the expression of tight junction (TJ) proteins. The anti-inflammatory effects of cannabinoids in GIT disorders are postulated to occur by the lowering of inflammatory factors such as myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and regulation of cytokine levels. In conclusion, there is a prospect of utilizing cannabinoids as components of therapy for GIT disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kijan Crowley
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Preclinical Sciences, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences—SGGW, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (K.C.); (E.M.); (U.L.); (M.M.)
| | - Łukasz Kiraga
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Preclinical Sciences, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences—SGGW, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (K.C.); (E.M.); (U.L.); (M.M.)
| | - Edyta Miszczuk
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Preclinical Sciences, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences—SGGW, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (K.C.); (E.M.); (U.L.); (M.M.)
| | - Sergiusz Skiba
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Preclinical Sciences, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences—SGGW, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (K.C.); (E.M.); (U.L.); (M.M.)
| | - Joanna Banach
- Department of Research and Processing Seed, Institute of Natural Fibers and Medicinal Plants—National Research Institute, Wojska Polskiego 71b, 60-630 Poznan, Poland;
| | - Urszula Latek
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Preclinical Sciences, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences—SGGW, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (K.C.); (E.M.); (U.L.); (M.M.)
| | - Marta Mendel
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Preclinical Sciences, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences—SGGW, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (K.C.); (E.M.); (U.L.); (M.M.)
| | - Magdalena Chłopecka
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Preclinical Sciences, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences—SGGW, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (K.C.); (E.M.); (U.L.); (M.M.)
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Alshaarawy O, Balasubramanian G, Venkatesan T. Cannabis use in the United States and its impact on gastrointestinal health. Nutr Clin Pract 2024; 39:281-292. [PMID: 38142306 DOI: 10.1002/ncp.11111] [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: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the legalization and social acceptability of cannabis use have increased in the United States. Concurrently, the prevalence of cannabis use has continued to rise, and cannabis products have diversified. There are growing concerns regarding the health effects of regular and high-potency cannabis use, and new research has shed light on its potentially negative effects. Here, we review evidence of the gastrointestinal (GI) effects of cannabis and cannabinoids. Dysregulation of the endocannabinoid system might contribute to various GI disorders, including irritable bowel syndrome and cyclic vomiting syndrome, and endocannabinoids have been found to regulate visceral sensation, nausea, vomiting, and the gut microbiome. Cannabis has been shown to have antiemetic properties, and the US Food and Drug Administration has approved cannabis-based medications for treating chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. Yet, chronic heavy cannabis use has been linked to recurrent episodes of severe nausea and intractable vomiting (cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome). Given the considerable heterogeneity in the scientific literature, it is unclear if cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome is truly a distinct entity or a subtype of cyclic vomiting that is unmasked by heavy cannabis use and the associated dysregulation of the endocannabinoid system. The changes in cannabis legalization, availability, and public risk perceptions have outpaced research in this area and there is a need for robust, prospective, large-scale studies to understand the effects of cannabis use on GI health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omayma Alshaarawy
- Department of Family Medicine, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Gokulakrishnan Balasubramanian
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Thangam Venkatesan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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Silva HH, Tavares V, Neto BV, Cerqueira F, Medeiros R, Silva MRG. FAAH rs324420 Polymorphism: Biological Pathways, Impact on Elite Athletic Performance and Insights for Sport Medicine. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1946. [PMID: 37895295 PMCID: PMC10606937 DOI: 10.3390/genes14101946] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene variation linked to physiological functions is recognised to affect elite athletic performance by modulating training and competition-enabling behaviour. The fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) has been investigated as a good candidate for drug targeting, and recently, its single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs324420 was reported to be associated with athletic performance. Given the implications, the biological pathways of this genetic polymorphism linked to elite athletic performance, considering sport type, psychological traits and sports injuries, need to be dissected. Thus, a narrative review of the literature concerning the biological mechanisms of this SNP was undertaken. In addition to its role in athletic performance, FAAH rs324420 is also involved in important mechanisms underlying human psychopathologies, including substance abuse and neural dysfunctions. However, cumulative evidence concerning the C385A variant is inconsistent. Therefore, validation studies considering homogeneous sports modalities are required to better define the role of this SNP in elite athletic performance and its impact on stress coping, pain regulation and inflammation control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo-Henrique Silva
- ICBAS-Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Portuguese Ministry of Education, 1399-025 Lisbon, Portugal
- Leixões Sport Clube, Senior Female Volleyball Team, 4450-277 Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - Valéria Tavares
- ICBAS-Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; (B.V.N.); (F.C.)
- FMUP-Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
| | - Beatriz Vieira Neto
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; (B.V.N.); (F.C.)
- LPCC, Research Department-Portuguese League Against Cancer (LPPC-NRN), 4200-172 Porto, Portugal
| | - Fátima Cerqueira
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; (B.V.N.); (F.C.)
- FP-I3ID, FP-BHS, CEBIMED and Faculty of Health Sciences, University Fernando Pessoa, 4200-150 Porto, Portugal;
- CIIMAR/CIMAR, Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, 4450-208 Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - Rui Medeiros
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; (B.V.N.); (F.C.)
- FMUP-Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
- LPCC, Research Department-Portuguese League Against Cancer (LPPC-NRN), 4200-172 Porto, Portugal
- FP-I3ID, FP-BHS, CEBIMED and Faculty of Health Sciences, University Fernando Pessoa, 4200-150 Porto, Portugal;
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Department, Clinical Pathology SVIPO Porto Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria-Raquel G. Silva
- FP-I3ID, FP-BHS, CEBIMED and Faculty of Health Sciences, University Fernando Pessoa, 4200-150 Porto, Portugal;
- CIAS-Research Centre for Anthropology and Health-Human Biology, Health and Society, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
- CHRC-Comprehensive Health Research Centre, Nova Medical School, Nova University of Lisbon, 1150-090 Lisboa, Portugal
- Scientific Committee of the Gymnastics Federation of Portugal, 1600-159 Lisboa, Portugal
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4
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Story G, Briere CE, McClements DJ, Sela DA. Cannabidiol and Intestinal Motility: a Systematic Review. Curr Dev Nutr 2023; 7:101972. [PMID: 37786751 PMCID: PMC10541995 DOI: 10.1016/j.cdnut.2023.101972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid extracted from the cannabis plant that is used for medicinal purposes. Ingestion of CBD is claimed to address several pathologies, including gastrointestinal disorders, although limited evidence has been generated thus far to substantiate many of its health claims. Nevertheless, CBD usage as an over-the-counter treatment for gastrointestinal disorders is likely to expand in response to increasing commercial availability, permissive legal status, and acceptance by consumers. This systematic review critically evaluates the knowledge boundaries of the published research on CBD, intestinal motility, and intestinal motility disorders. Research on CBD and intestinal motility is currently limited but does support the safety and efficacy of CBD for several therapeutic applications, including seizure disorders, inflammatory responses, and upper gastrointestinal dysfunction (i.e., nausea and vomiting). CBD, therefore, may have therapeutic potential for addressing functional gastrointestinal disorders. The results of this review show promising in vitro and preclinical data supporting a role of CBD in intestinal motility. This includes improved gastrointestinal-related outcomes in murine models of colitis. These studies, however, vary by dose, delivery method, and CBD-extract composition. Clinical trials have yet to find a conclusive benefit of CBD on intestinal motility disorders, but these trials have been limited in scope. In addition, critical factors such as CBD dosing parameters have not yet been established. Further research will establish the efficacy of CBD in applications to address intestinal motility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Galaxie Story
- Department of Food Science, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, United States
| | - Carrie-Ellen Briere
- Elaine Marieb College of Nursing, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, United States
| | - D. Julian McClements
- Department of Food Science, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, United States
| | - David A. Sela
- Department of Food Science, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, United States
- Department of Nutrition, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, United States
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
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5
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Thapa D, Warne LN, Falasca M. Pharmacohistory of Cannabis Use-A New Possibility in Future Drug Development for Gastrointestinal Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14677. [PMID: 37834122 PMCID: PMC10572150 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914677] [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: 08/19/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Humans have employed cannabis for multiple uses including medicine, recreation, food, and fibre. The various components such as roots, flowers, seeds, and leaves have been utilized to alleviate pain, inflammation, anxiety, and gastrointestinal disorders like nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). It has occupied a significant space in ethnomedicines across cultures and religions. Despite multi-dimensional uses, the global prohibition of cannabis by the USA through the introduction of the Marijuana Tax Act in 1937 led to prejudice about the perceived risks of cannabis, overshadowing its medicinal potential. Nevertheless, the discovery of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, and the endocannabinoid system renewed scientific interest in understanding the role of cannabis in modulating different conditions, including gastrointestinal disorders. Preparations combining cannabidiol and THC have shown promise in mitigating gut symptoms through anti-inflammatory and motility-enhancing effects. This review revisits the ethnomedicinal use of cannabis in gastrointestinal diseases and emphasizes the need for further research to determine optimal dosages, formulations, and safety profiles of cannabis-based medicines. It also underscores the future potential of cannabinoid-based therapies by leveraging the role of the expanded endocannabinoid system, an endocannabinoidome, in the modulation of gastrointestinal ailments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinesh Thapa
- Metabolic Signalling Group, Curtin Medical School, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6102, Australia; (D.T.); (L.N.W.)
| | - Leon N. Warne
- Metabolic Signalling Group, Curtin Medical School, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6102, Australia; (D.T.); (L.N.W.)
- Little Green Pharma, West Perth, WA 6872, Australia
| | - Marco Falasca
- Metabolic Signalling Group, Curtin Medical School, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6102, Australia; (D.T.); (L.N.W.)
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Samuel S, Michael M, Tadros M. Should gastroenterologists prescribe cannabis? The highs, the lows and the unknowns. World J Clin Cases 2023; 11:4210-4230. [PMID: 37449231 PMCID: PMC10336994 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v11.i18.4210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis, commonly known as marijuana, is a drug extracted from the Cannabis plant known for its psychotropic and medicinal properties. It has been used for healing purposes during ancient times, although its psychoactive components led to its restricted use in medicine. Nonetheless, cannabis is found to have modulatory effects on the endocannabinoid system exhibiting its medicinal role in the gastrointestinal (GI) system. Emerging animal and human studies demonstrate the influential effects of cannabis on a variety of GI diseases including inflammatory bowel disease, motility disorders and GI malignancies. It also has a regulatory role in GI symptoms including nausea and vomiting, anorexia, weight gain, abdominal pain, among others. However, both its acute and chronic use can lead to undesirable side effects such as dependency and addiction, cognitive impairment and cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome. We will discuss the role of cannabis in the GI system as well as dosing strategies to help guide gastroenterologists to assess its efficacy and provide patient counseling before prescription of medical marijuana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Samuel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY 12208, United States
| | - Mark Michael
- Department of Internal Medicine, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY 12208, United States
| | - Micheal Tadros
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY 12208, United States
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Barbara G, Cremon C, Bellini M, Corsetti M, Di Nardo G, Falangone F, Fuccio L, Galeazzi F, Iovino P, Sarnelli G, Savarino EV, Stanghellini V, Staiano A, Stasi C, Tosetti C, Turco R, Ubaldi E, Zagari RM, Zenzeri L, Marasco G. Italian guidelines for the management of irritable bowel syndrome: Joint Consensus from the Italian Societies of: Gastroenterology and Endoscopy (SIGE), Neurogastroenterology and Motility (SINGEM), Hospital Gastroenterologists and Endoscopists (AIGO), Digestive Endoscopy (SIED), General Medicine (SIMG), Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Pediatric Nutrition (SIGENP) and Pediatrics (SIP). Dig Liver Dis 2023; 55:187-207. [PMID: 36517261 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2022.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic disorder of gut-brain interaction. IBS is still associated with areas of uncertainties, especially regarding the optimal diagnostic work-up and the more appropriate management. Experts from 7 Italian Societies conducted a Delphi consensus with literature summary and voting process on 27 statements. Recommendations and quality of evidence were evaluated using the grading of recommendations, assessment, development, and evaluation (GRADE) criteria. Consensus was defined as >80% agreement and reached for all statements. In terms of diagnosis, the consensus supports a positive diagnostic strategy with a symptom-based approach, including the psychological comorbidities assessment and the exclusion of alarm symptoms, together with the digital rectal examination, full blood count, C-reactive protein, serology for coeliac disease, and fecal calprotectin assessment. Colonoscopy should be recommended in patients with alarm features. Regarding treatment, the consensus strongly supports a dietary approach for patients with IBS, the use of soluble fiber, secretagogues, tricyclic antidepressants, psychologically directed therapies and, only in specific IBS subtypes, rifaximin. A conditional recommendation was achieved for probiotics, polyethylene glycol, antispasmodics, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and, only in specific IBS subtypes, 5-HT3 antagonists, 5-HT4 agonists, bile acid sequestrants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Barbara
- IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy.
| | - Cesare Cremon
- IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Massimo Bellini
- Gastrointestinal Unit, Department of Translational Sciences and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56010 Pisa, Italy
| | - Maura Corsetti
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre (BRC), Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham Digestive Diseases Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Giovanni Di Nardo
- NESMOS Department, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Falangone
- Medical-Surgical Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Fuccio
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; Gastroenterology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesca Galeazzi
- Gastroenterology Unit, Azienda Ospedale Università di Padova, 35128 Padua, Italy
| | - Paola Iovino
- Gastrointestinal Unit Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy
| | - Giovanni Sarnelli
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131 Naples, Italy
| | | | - Vincenzo Stanghellini
- IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Annamaria Staiano
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences-Section of Pediatric, University Federico II, 80100 Naples, Italy
| | - Cristina Stasi
- Internal Medicine and Liver Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Rossella Turco
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences-Section of Pediatric, University Federico II, 80100 Naples, Italy
| | - Enzo Ubaldi
- Primary Care, Health Care Agency of Ascoli Piceno, Ascoli Piceno, Italy
| | - Rocco Maurizio Zagari
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; Gastroenterology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Letizia Zenzeri
- NESMOS Department, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Marasco
- IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
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8
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Santoso AD, De Ridder D. Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase: An Integrative Clinical Perspective. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2023; 8:56-76. [PMID: 35900294 DOI: 10.1089/can.2021.0237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) is one of the main terminating enzymes of the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Since being discovered in 1996, the modulation of FAAH has been viewed as a compelling alternative strategy to obtain the beneficial effect of the ECS. With a considerable amount of FAAH-related publication over time, the next step would be to comprehend the proximity of this evidence for clinical application. Objective: This review intends to highlight the rationale of FAAH modulation and provide the latest evidence from clinical studies. Methods: Publication searches were conducted to gather information focused on FAAH-related clinical evidence with an extension to the experimental research to understand the biological plausibility. The subtopics were selected to be multidisciplinary to offer more perspective on the current state of the arts. Discussion: Experimental and clinical studies have demonstrated that FAAH was highly expressed not only in the central nervous system but also in the peripheral tissues. As the key regulator of endocannabinoid signaling, it would appear that FAAH plays a role in the modulation of mood and emotional response, reward system, pain perception, energy metabolism and appetite regulation, inflammation, and other biological processes. Genetic variants may be associated with some conditions such as substance/alcohol use disorders, obesity, and eating disorder. The advancement of functional neuroimaging has enabled the evaluation of the neurochemistry of FAAH in brain tissues and this can be incorporated into clinical trials. Intriguingly, the application of FAAH inhibitors in clinical trials seems to provide less striking results in comparison with the animal models, although some potential still can be seen. Conclusion: Modulation of FAAH has an immense potential to be a new therapeutic candidate for several disorders. Further exploration, however, is still needed to ensure who is the best candidate for the treatment strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anugrah D Santoso
- Laboratory of Experimental Urology, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Airlangga, Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Dirk De Ridder
- Laboratory of Experimental Urology, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Brierley SM, Greenwood-Van Meerveld B, Sarnelli G, Sharkey KA, Storr M, Tack J. Targeting the endocannabinoid system for the treatment of abdominal pain in irritable bowel syndrome. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 20:5-25. [PMID: 36168049 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-022-00682-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The management of visceral pain in patients with disorders of gut-brain interaction, notably irritable bowel syndrome, presents a considerable clinical challenge, with few available treatment options. Patients are increasingly using cannabis and cannabinoids to control abdominal pain. Cannabis acts on receptors of the endocannabinoid system, an endogenous system of lipid mediators that regulates gastrointestinal function and pain processing pathways in health and disease. The endocannabinoid system represents a logical molecular therapeutic target for the treatment of pain in irritable bowel syndrome. Here, we review the physiological and pathophysiological functions of the endocannabinoid system with a focus on the peripheral and central regulation of gastrointestinal function and visceral nociception. We address the use of cannabinoids in pain management, comparing them to other treatment modalities, including opioids and neuromodulators. Finally, we discuss emerging therapeutic candidates targeting the endocannabinoid system for the treatment of pain in irritable bowel syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stuart M Brierley
- Visceral Pain Research Group, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia.,Hopwood Centre for Neurobiology, Lifelong Health, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | | | - Giovanni Sarnelli
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Keith A Sharkey
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada. .,Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada. .,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
| | - Martin Storr
- Department of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany.,Zentrum für Endoskopie, Starnberg, Germany
| | - Jan Tack
- Translational Research Center for Gastrointestinal Disorders, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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10
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Bourke SL, Schlag AK, O'Sullivan SE, Nutt DJ, Finn DP. Cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system in fibromyalgia: A review of preclinical and clinical research. Pharmacol Ther 2022; 240:108216. [PMID: 35609718 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2022.108216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Characterised by chronic widespread musculoskeletal pain, generalised hyperalgesia, and psychological distress, fibromyalgia (FM) is a significant unmet clinical need. The endogenous cannabinoid system plays an important role in modulating both pain and the stress response. Here, we appraise the evidence, from preclinical and clinical studies, for a role of the endocannabinoid system in FM and the therapeutic potential of targeting the endocannabinoid system. While many animal models have been used to study FM, the reserpine-induced myalgia model has emerged as perhaps the most translatable to the clinical phenotype. Inhibition of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) has shown promise in preclinical studies, ameliorating pain- and anxiety-related behaviour . Clinically, there is evidence for alterations in the endocannabinoid system in patients with FM, including single nucleotide polymorphisms and increased levels of circulating endocannabinoids and related N-acylethanolamines. Single entity cannabinoids, cannabis, and cannabis-based medicines in patients with FM show promise therapeutically but limitations in methodology and lack of longitudinal studies to assess efficacy and tolerability preclude the current recommendation for their use in patients with FM. Gaps in the literature that warrant further investigation are discussed, particularly the need for further development of animal models with high validity for the multifaceted nature of FM, balanced studies to eliminate sex-bias in preclinical research, and ultimately, better translation between preclinical and clinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie L Bourke
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Centre for Pain Research and Galway Neuroscience Centre, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Anne Katrin Schlag
- Drug Science, St. Peters House, Wood Street, London, UK; Faculty of Medicine, Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, UK
| | | | - David J Nutt
- Drug Science, St. Peters House, Wood Street, London, UK; Faculty of Medicine, Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, UK
| | - David P Finn
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Centre for Pain Research and Galway Neuroscience Centre, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland.
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11
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Bilbao A, Spanagel R. Medical cannabinoids: a pharmacology-based systematic review and meta-analysis for all relevant medical indications. BMC Med 2022; 20:259. [PMID: 35982439 PMCID: PMC9389720 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-022-02459-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medical cannabinoids differ in their pharmacology and may have different treatment effects. We aimed to conduct a pharmacology-based systematic review (SR) and meta-analyses of medical cannabinoids for efficacy, retention and adverse events. METHODS We systematically reviewed (registered at PROSPERO: CRD42021229932) eight databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of dronabinol, nabilone, cannabidiol and nabiximols for chronic pain, spasticity, nausea /vomiting, appetite, ALS, irritable bowel syndrome, MS, Chorea Huntington, epilepsy, dystonia, Parkinsonism, glaucoma, ADHD, anorexia nervosa, anxiety, dementia, depression, schizophrenia, PTSD, sleeping disorders, SUD and Tourette. Main outcomes and measures included patient-relevant/disease-specific outcomes, retention and adverse events. Data were calculated as standardized mean difference (SMD) and ORs with confidence intervals (CI) via random effects. Evidence quality was assessed by the Cochrane Risk of Bias and GRADE tools. RESULTS In total, 152 RCTs (12,123 participants) were analysed according to the type of the cannabinoid, outcome and comparator used, resulting in 84 comparisons. Significant therapeutic effects of medical cannabinoids show a large variability in the grade of evidence that depends on the type of cannabinoid. CBD has a significant therapeutic effect for epilepsy (SMD - 0.5[CI - 0.62, - 0.38] high grade) and Parkinsonism (- 0.41[CI - 0.75, - 0.08] moderate grade). There is moderate evidence for dronabinol for chronic pain (- 0.31[CI - 0.46, - 0.15]), appetite (- 0.51[CI - 0.87, - 0.15]) and Tourette (- 1.01[CI - 1.58, - 0.44]) and moderate evidence for nabiximols on chronic pain (- 0.25[- 0.37, - 0.14]), spasticity (- 0.36[CI - 0.54, - 0.19]), sleep (- 0.24[CI - 0.35, - 0.14]) and SUDs (- 0.48[CI - 0.92, - 0.04]). All other significant therapeutic effects have either low, very low, or even no grade of evidence. Cannabinoids produce different adverse events, and there is low to moderate grade of evidence for this conclusion depending on the type of cannabinoid. CONCLUSIONS Cannabinoids are effective therapeutics for several medical indications if their specific pharmacological properties are considered. We suggest that future systematic studies in the cannabinoid field should be based upon their specific pharmacology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ainhoa Bilbao
- Behavioral Genetics Research Group, Central Institute of Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.
| | - Rainer Spanagel
- Institute of Psychopharmacology, Central Institute of Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
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12
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Elwing JE, Atassi H, Rogers BD, Sayuk GS. Emerging therapies in the management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Expert Opin Emerg Drugs 2022; 27:55-73. [PMID: 35266839 DOI: 10.1080/14728214.2022.2052043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common, symptom-based disorder of chronic abdominal pain and altered bowel habits. The pathogenesis of IBS is multifactorial, leading to the potential for the development of multiple, diverse treatment strategies. This mechanistic heterogeneity also leads to the realization that available therapies are only effective in a subset of IBS suffers. Current US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved therapies for IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D) and IBS with constipation (IBS-C) are reviewed. Limited symptom responses and side effect experiences lead to considerable patient dissatisfaction with currently available IBS treatments. Only a small percentage of IBS patients are on prescription therapies underscoring the potential market and need for additional therapeutic options. AREAS COVERED : Expanding on currently available therapies, the serotonergic and endogenous opioid receptor systems continue to be a focus of future IBS treatment development. Additional novel emerging therapies include the endogenous cannabinoid system, bile acid secretion and sequestration, and exploit our enhanced understanding of visceral sensory signaling and intestinal secretomotor function. EXPERT OPINION While challenges remain for the future development of IBS therapies, the diverse etiologies underlying the disorder present an opportunity for novel therapies. Hence, great potential is anticipated for future IBS treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill E Elwing
- St. Louis Veterans Affairs Medical Center, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Hadi Atassi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Benjamin D Rogers
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA.,Division of Gastroenterology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Gregory S Sayuk
- St. Louis Veterans Affairs Medical Center, St. Louis, MO, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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13
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Bogale K, Raup-Konsavage W, Dalessio S, Vrana K, Coates MD. Cannabis and Cannabis Derivatives for Abdominal Pain Management in Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Med Cannabis Cannabinoids 2022; 4:97-106. [PMID: 35224429 DOI: 10.1159/000517425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
For centuries, cannabis and its components have been used to manage a wide variety of symptoms associated with many illnesses. Gastrointestinal (GI) diseases are no exception in this regard. Individuals suffering from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are among those who have sought out the ameliorating properties of this plant. As legal limitations of its use have eased, interest has grown from both patients and their providers regarding the potential of cannabis to be used in the clinical setting. Similarly, a growing number of animal and human studies have been undertaken to evaluate the impact of cannabis and cannabinoid signaling elements on the natural history of IBD and its associated complications. There is little clinical evidence supporting the ability of cannabis or related products to treat the GI inflammation underlying these disorders. However, 1 recurring theme from both animal and human studies is that these agents have a significant impact on several IBD-related symptoms, including abdominal pain. In this review, we discuss the role of cannabis and cannabinoid signaling in visceral pain perception, what is currently known regarding the efficacy of cannabis and its derivatives for managing pain, related symptoms and inflammation in IBD, and what work remains to effectively utilize cannabis and its derivatives in the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaleb Bogale
- Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Wesley Raup-Konsavage
- Department of Pharmacology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Shannon Dalessio
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Kent Vrana
- Department of Pharmacology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Matthew D Coates
- Department of Pharmacology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA.,Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
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14
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Choi C, Abougergi M, Peluso H, Weiss SH, Nasir U, Pyrsopoulos N. Cannabis Use is Associated With Reduced 30-Day All-cause Readmission Among Hospitalized Patients With Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Nationwide Analysis. J Clin Gastroenterol 2022; 56:257-265. [PMID: 33471483 DOI: 10.1097/mcg.0000000000001498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabinoid receptors are potential therapeutic targets in a variety of gastrointestinal tract disorders. The authors hypothesize that the use of cannabis use is associated with better control of symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). This study aimed to examine the utilization of inpatient services by patients with IBS who did and did not report the use of cannabis. METHODS This is a retrospective cohort study that utilized the 2016 Nationwide Readmissions Database. Inclusion criteria included a principal diagnosis of IBS. The primary outcome was 30-day hospital readmission rates for IBS-specific causes. Secondary outcomes included the 30-day hospital readmission rates for all causes, resource utilization, and the 5 most common principal diagnoses and independent risk factors associated with readmission. RESULTS Of the 7163 patients with IBS identified in the National Readmission Database, 357 reported the use of cannabis. The 30-day IBS-specific readmission rates were 1.5% in patients who reported cannabis use and 1.1% in those who did not report cannabis use (P=0.53). Among the cannabis users, none of the variables evaluated served as a significant predictor of IBS-specific readmission; median income was a predictor for readmission among those who did not report cannabis use (odds ratio, 2.77; 95% confidence interval, 1.15-6.67; P=0.02). The 30-day readmission rates for all causes were 8.1% and 12.7% for patients who did and did not report cannabis use, respectively. After adjusting for confounders, the odds of 30-day readmission for all causes were lower among patients who reported cannabis use compared with those who did not (adjusted odds ratio, 0.53; 95% confidence interval, 0.28-0.99; P=0.04). The 5 most frequent diagnoses at readmission among patients who did not report cannabis use were enterocolitis because of Clostridioides difficile, IBS without diarrhea, sepsis, noninfective gastroenteritis and colitis, and acute kidney failure. By contrast, the 5 most frequent readmission diagnoses for cannabis users were cyclical vomiting, IBS with diarrhea, endometriosis, right upper quadrant abdominal pain, and nausea with vomiting. A discharge disposition of "against medical advice" was identified as an independent risk factor for 30-day hospital readmission for all causes among patients who reported cannabis use. By contrast, higher comorbidity scores and discharges with home health care were independent predictors of 30-day hospital readmission for all causes among patients who did not report cannabis use. Private insurance was an independent factor associated with lower rates of readmission for all causes among those who did not report cannabis use. CONCLUSION Our review of the National Readmission Database revealed no statistically significant differences in 30-day readmission rates for IBS-specific causes when comparing patients who reported cannabis use with those who did not. However, the authors found that cannabis use was associated with reduced 30-day hospital readmission rates for all causes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marwan Abougergi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia
- Catalyst Medical Consulting, Simpsonville
| | - Heather Peluso
- Department of Surgery, Prisma Health Upstate, Greenville, SC
| | | | | | - Nikolaos Pyrsopoulos
- Department of Medicine
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ
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15
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Medical Therapies for Diarrhea-Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Gastroenterol Clin North Am 2021; 50:611-637. [PMID: 34304791 DOI: 10.1016/j.gtc.2021.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/21/2023]
Abstract
Diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder that manifests with abdominal pain and diarrheal bowel patterns, without structural explanation. Diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome is a heterogeneous condition resulting from diverse pathophysiologic processes. Treatment strategies with varied mechanisms of action are beneficial in its management. The clinician must become familiar with a multi-dimensional approach to irritable bowel syndrome. The 3 approved medications are central to disease management. Effective treatment uses off-label medications and emerging therapies and a growing number of over-the-counter and supplemental agents to optimize symptom improvement for the patient with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome.
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16
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Shapiro JM, Deutsch JK. Complementary and Alternative Medicine Therapies for Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Gastroenterol Clin North Am 2021; 50:671-688. [PMID: 34304794 DOI: 10.1016/j.gtc.2021.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is a term used to define a broad range of therapies, most commonly grouped into natural products, mind-body medicine, and traditional systems of medicine. Patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) commonly use CAM therapies, although there are many barriers that may keep patients and providers from talking about a patient's CAM use. Despite limited quantity and quality of evidence of CAM for IBS, providers can better counsel patients on CAM use by understanding pitfalls related to CAM use and by learning what is known about CAM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan M Shapiro
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Baylor College of Medicine, 7200 Cambridge Street, A8.172, MS:BCM901, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Jill K Deutsch
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Yale New Haven Hospital, 40 Temple Street, Suite 1A, New Haven, CT 06510, USA. https://twitter.com/GIJill
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17
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Gros M, Gros B, Mesonero JE, Latorre E. Neurotransmitter Dysfunction in Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Emerging Approaches for Management. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10153429. [PMID: 34362210 PMCID: PMC8347293 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10153429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder whose aetiology is still unknown. Most hypotheses point out the gut-brain axis as a key factor for IBS. The axis is composed of different anatomic and functional structures intercommunicated through neurotransmitters. However, the implications of key neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine, serotonin, glutamate, GABA or acetylcholine in IBS are poorly studied. The aim of this review is to evaluate the current evidence about neurotransmitter dysfunction in IBS and explore the potential therapeutic approaches. IBS patients with altered colorectal motility show augmented norepinephrine and acetylcholine levels in plasma and an increased sensitivity of central serotonin receptors. A decrease of colonic mucosal serotonin transporter and a downregulation of α2 adrenoceptors are also correlated with visceral hypersensitivity and an increase of 5-hydroxyindole acetic acid levels, enhanced expression of high affinity choline transporter and lower levels of GABA. Given these neurotransmitter dysfunctions, novel pharmacological approaches such as 5-HT3 receptor antagonists and 5-HT4 receptor agonists are being explored for IBS management, for their antiemetic and prokinetic effects. GABA-analogous medications are being considered to reduce visceral pain. Moreover, agonists and antagonists of muscarinic receptors are under clinical trials. Targeting neurotransmitter dysfunction could provide promising new approaches for IBS management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mónica Gros
- Centro de Salud Univérsitas, Hospital Clínico Universitario Lozano Blesa, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain;
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Aragón (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (B.G.); (J.E.M.)
| | - Belén Gros
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Aragón (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (B.G.); (J.E.M.)
- Servicio de Urgencias, Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - José Emilio Mesonero
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Aragón (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (B.G.); (J.E.M.)
- Departamento de Farmacología, Fisiología y Medicina Legal y Forense, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón—IA2—(Universidad de Zaragoza—CITA), 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Eva Latorre
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Aragón (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (B.G.); (J.E.M.)
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón—IA2—(Universidad de Zaragoza—CITA), 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Celular, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Correspondence:
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18
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Rim D, Kaye A, Ranpura A, Verma S. Cannabis Use Is Associated With an Increased Risk of Intestinal Obstruction in Patients Hospitalized With Diverticulitis. Cureus 2021; 13:e16768. [PMID: 34354893 PMCID: PMC8328842 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.16768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Diverticulitis is a common cause of hospitalization. The use of substances such as tobacco and alcohol can predispose patients to diverticulitis, and smoking is also associated with an increased risk of diverticulitis complications. Cannabis availability is growing in the United States, but there is a lack of data on the effects of cannabis use on the outcomes of diverticulitis. Thus, we investigated the effects of cannabis use on diverticulitis outcomes. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted using 2014 data from the National Inpatient Sample. Patient demographics and outcomes of diverticulitis were compared between the groups with and without a history of cannabis use. The outcomes of interest were inpatient mortality, length of stay, total hospital charge, intestinal obstruction, shock/hypotension, colectomy, intestinal abscess, intestinal fistula, and intestinal perforation. Results Among 48,214 patients with diverticulitis, 447 patients had a history of cannabis use. Patients with a history of cannabis use were younger, more likely to be male, less likely to be White, had a lower Charlson Comorbidity Index, and had shorter hospital stays. There were no significant differences in inpatient mortality and total hospital charge. After adjusting for age, sex, race, and the Charlson Comorbidity Index, cannabis use was an independent risk factor for intestinal obstruction in patients hospitalized with diverticulitis. There were no statistically significant differences in other outcomes. Conclusions This study indicates that patients hospitalized with diverticulitis with a history of cannabis use are more likely to have an intestinal obstruction. Inhibition of gastrointestinal motility by cannabis in the setting of diverticular inflammation may explain this finding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Rim
- Internal Medicine, Rutgers University, Newark, USA
| | | | | | - Siddharth Verma
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, East Orange, USA
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19
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Watanabe AH, Navaravong L, Sirilak T, Prasitwarachot R, Nathisuwan S, Page RL, Chaiyakunapruk N. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials of cardiovascular toxicity of medical cannabinoids. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2021; 61:e1-e13. [PMID: 33952424 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2021.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several systematic reviews (SRs) have summarized the potential effectiveness of medical cannabinoids, but it is unclear to what extent safety-related outcomes were incorporated. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to evaluate the cardiovascular toxicity associated with medical use of cannabinoids. METHODS A 2-stage systematic review (SR) approach was undertaken to assess the current evidence on cannabinoid-associated cardiovascular events reported among randomized controlled trials (RCTs). First, we searched for SRs in multiple sources until June 2019. Second, RCTs identified from the SRs were included if they assessed medical cannabis and reported cardiovascular events. The outcomes of interest were all types of cardiovascular events. Data were extracted by 2 independent reviewers. Study quality was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias. A statistical test of heterogeneity was performed. The summary risk ratios (RRs) and 95% CIs were calculated using a random-effects model. RESULTS A total of 47 studies involving 2800 patients were included. The median duration of cannabinoid use was 15.8 days (range 1 to 322), and 45% of the studies excluded patients with underlying cardiovascular diseases. Cannabinoid use was significantly associated with increased risks of orthostatic hypotension (RR 3.16 [95% CI 2.27-4.40], I2 = 2.3%) and hypotension (3.55 [1.45-8.71], I2 = 31.8%), with a trend of increased risk of tachycardia (1.94 [0.81-4.64], I2 = 48.6%). No study reported serious cardiovascular events. CONCLUSIONS Cannabinoid use was associated with tachycardia, hypotension, and orthostatic hypotension. There is a paucity of data for other cardiovascular events among medical cannabis users. More data, especially regarding long-term effects among patients with existing cardiovascular diseases, are needed.
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20
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Okada M, Taniguchi S, Takeshima C, Taniguchi H, Kitakoji H, Itoh K, Takahashi T, Imai K. Using a radiopaque marker with radiography for evaluating colonic transit by geometric center in conscious rats: A novel method. Auton Neurosci 2020; 230:102760. [PMID: 33340814 DOI: 10.1016/j.autneu.2020.102760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
This study developed a new method using radiopaque markers under X-ray to measure rat colonic transit by geometric center repeatedly and/or over a time series in the same individually. Additionally, the utility of this method was shown by elucidating the innervation of the autonomic nerve on colonic transit in detail with a pharmacological technique in conscious rats. An in-dwelling silastic cannula was inserted into the cecum and the proximal part was moved through the abdominal wall, where it was fixed to the posterior neck skin. Twenty markers were administered from the cannula to the proximal colon with saline on the fifth day after surgery. The markers were observed with soft X-ray before required repeated short anesthesia. Experimentation 1: Rats were measured colonic transit twice over 2 days with no administration. Experimentation 2: Rats were administered saline on the first day and pharmacology on the second day intraperitoneally before measurement. Experimentation 1: The markers administrated from the cannula and transited from proximal colon to distal colon over a time series. It showed no significant difference in complication rates between 2 days. Experimentation 2: The colonic transit was increasingly accelerated by neostigmine and phentolamine but not propranolol. Significant changes in 1.0 mg/kg atropine were noted although no differences were found between control and 0.05 mg/kg atropine and between each other's. We have presented the method using radiopaque markers under X-ray with short anesthesia for evaluating the colonic transit. The methods could show rat colonic transit changes in detail with a pharmacological technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Misaki Okada
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Meiji University of Integrative Medicine, Honoda, Hiyoshi-cho, Nantan-shi, Kyoto 629-0392, Japan
| | - Sazu Taniguchi
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Meiji University of Integrative Medicine, Honoda, Hiyoshi-cho, Nantan-shi, Kyoto 629-0392, Japan; The Japan School of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Physiotherapy, 20-1 Sakuragaoka-cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0031, Japan
| | - Chiaki Takeshima
- Graduate School of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Meiji University of Integrative Medicine, Honoda, Hiyoshi-cho, Nantan-shi, Kyoto 629-0392, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Taniguchi
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Meiji University of Integrative Medicine, Honoda, Hiyoshi-cho, Nantan-shi, Kyoto 629-0392, Japan; Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tokyo Ariake University of Medical and Health Sciences, 2-9-1 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-0063, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kitakoji
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Meiji University of Integrative Medicine, Honoda, Hiyoshi-cho, Nantan-shi, Kyoto 629-0392, Japan; Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Takarazuka University of Medical and Health Care, 1 Hanayashikimidorigaoka, Takarazuka-shi, Hyogo 666-0162, Japan
| | - Kazunori Itoh
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Meiji University of Integrative Medicine, Honoda, Hiyoshi-cho, Nantan-shi, Kyoto 629-0392, Japan
| | - Toku Takahashi
- Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 W Watertown Plank Rd, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Kenji Imai
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Meiji University of Integrative Medicine, Honoda, Hiyoshi-cho, Nantan-shi, Kyoto 629-0392, Japan; Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Faculty of Health Science, Teikyo Heisei University, 2-51-4 Higashi-ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo 170-8445, Japan.
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21
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Nasser Y, Woo M, Andrews CN. Cannabis in Gastroenterology: Watch Your Head! A Review of Use in Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Functional Gut Disorders, and Gut-Related Adverse Effects. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 18:519-530. [PMID: 33250629 PMCID: PMC7680210 DOI: 10.1007/s11938-020-00323-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of review To review recent clinical evidence surrounding the use of cannabinoids and cannabis in gastrointestinal diseases, particularly inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and functional gut disorders. A second aim is to evaluate the current status of gastrointestinal related adverse effects which have been linked to cannabis use, specifically cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) and acute pancreatitis. Recent findings Observational and prospective studies suggest that cannabinoids improve IBD symptoms. Small prospective clinical trials have not shown any effects on objective inflammatory findings, other than one recent paper in ulcerative colitis, in abstract form only, which suggests endoscopic improvement. Short duration mechanistic studies in functional gut disorders suggest cannabinoids may attenuate gastric emptying and slow colonic motility but appear to have less effect on sensory thresholds in the gut. Summary In general, while mostly uncontrolled data suggests cannabis may improve symptoms in IBD (and to a lesser degree functional gut disorders), this is not likely due to any substantial anti-inflammatory effect. Much remains unknown about CHS etiology and complete abstinence from cannabinoids remains the generally accepted treatment strategy. Population-based studies do not suggest that cannabis use is related to acute pancreatitis. Further research is certainly warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmin Nasser
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta Canada
| | - Matthew Woo
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta Canada
| | - Christopher N. Andrews
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta Canada
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Abstract
Cannabinoids have been known as the primary component of cannabis for decades, but the characterization of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the 1990s opened the doors for cannabis' use in modern medicine. The 2 main receptors of this system, cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2, are found on cells of various tissues, with significant expression in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The characterization of the ECS also heralded the understanding of endocannabinoids, naturally occurring compounds synthesized in the human body. Via secondary signaling pathways acting on vagal nerves, nociceptors, and immune cells, cannabinoids have been shown to have both palliative and detrimental effects on the pathophysiology of GI disorders. Although research on the effects of both endogenous and exogenous cannabinoids has been slow due to the complicated legal history of cannabis, discoveries of cannabinoids' treatment potential have been found in various fields of medicine, including the GI world. Medical cannabis has since been offered as a treatment for a myriad of conditions and malignancies, including cancer, human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, multiple sclerosis, chronic pain, nausea, posttraumatic stress disorder, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, cachexia, glaucoma, and epilepsy. This article hopes to create an overview of current research on cannabinoids and the ECS, detail the potential advantages and pitfalls of their use in GI diseases, and explore possible future developments in this field.
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Gotfried J, Naftali T, Schey R. Role of Cannabis and Its Derivatives in Gastrointestinal and Hepatic Disease. Gastroenterology 2020; 159:62-80. [PMID: 32333910 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2020.03.087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Revised: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Medical and recreational cannabis use has increased dramatically over the last decade, resulting from mainstream cultural acceptance and legalization in several countries worldwide. Cannabis and its derivatives affect many gastrointestinal processes via the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS influences gastrointestinal homeostasis through anti-inflammatory, anti-nociceptive, and anti-secretory effects. Some gastrointestinal disorders might therefore be treated with cannabinoids. Despite numerous studies in cell lines and animals, few human studies have evaluated the therapeutic effects of cannabinoids. Cannabis' schedule 1 drug status has limited its availability in research; cannabis has been legalized only recently, in some states, for medicinal and/or recreational use. Cannabinoids can alleviate chemotherapy-induced nausea and emesis and chronic pain. Studies have demonstrated the important roles of the ECS in metabolism, obesity, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and the anti-inflammatory effects of cannabis have been investigated in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases. Despite its potential benefits, undesired or even detrimental effects of cannabis can limit its use. Side effects such as cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome affect some users. We review the ECS and the effects of cannabis and its derivatives on gastrointestinal and hepatic function in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Gotfried
- Section of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Timna Naftali
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Meir Medical Center, affiliated with the Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ron Schey
- Division of Gastroenterology/Hepatology Department of Internal Medicine, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, Florida.
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Martínez V, Iriondo De-Hond A, Borrelli F, Capasso R, del Castillo MD, Abalo R. Cannabidiol and Other Non-Psychoactive Cannabinoids for Prevention and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Disorders: Useful Nutraceuticals? Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E3067. [PMID: 32357565 PMCID: PMC7246936 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21093067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis sativa is an aromatic annual flowering plant with several botanical varieties, used for different purposes, like the production of fibers, the production of oil from the seeds, and especially for recreational or medical purposes. Phytocannabinoids (terpenophenolic compounds derived from the plant), include the well-known psychoactive cannabinoid Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, and many non-psychoactive cannabinoids, like cannabidiol. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) comprises of endocannabinoid ligands, enzymes for synthesis and degradation of such ligands, and receptors. This system is widely distributed in the gastrointestinal tract, where phytocannabinoids exert potent effects, particularly under pathological (i.e., inflammatory) conditions. Herein, we will first look at the hemp plant as a possible source of new functional food ingredients and nutraceuticals that might be eventually useful to treat or even prevent gastrointestinal conditions. Subsequently, we will briefly describe the ECS and the general pharmacology of phytocannabinoids. Finally, we will revise the available data showing that non-psychoactive phytocannabinoids, particularly cannabidiol, may be useful to treat different disorders and diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. With the increasing interest in the development of functional foods for a healthy life, the non-psychoactive phytocannabinoids are hoped to find a place as nutraceuticals and food ingredients also for a healthy gastrointestinal tract function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vicente Martínez
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Neurosciences Institute, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain;
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Amaia Iriondo De-Hond
- Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias de la Alimentación (CIAL) (UAM-CSIC), C/Nicolás Cabrera, 9, Campus de la Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (A.I.D.-H.); (M.D.d.C.)
| | - Francesca Borrelli
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Raffaele Capasso
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Università 100, 80055 Portici (NA), Italy
| | - María Dolores del Castillo
- Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias de la Alimentación (CIAL) (UAM-CSIC), C/Nicolás Cabrera, 9, Campus de la Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (A.I.D.-H.); (M.D.d.C.)
| | - Raquel Abalo
- High Performance Research Group in Physiopathology and Pharmacology of the Digestive System NeuGut-URJC, Department of Basic Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos (URJC), Campus de Alcorcón, Avda. de Atenas s/n, 28022 Madrid, Spain
- Unidad Asociada I+D+i del Instituto de Química Médica (IQM), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain;
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25
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Brugnatelli V, Turco F, Freo U, Zanette G. Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Manipulating the Endocannabinoid System as First-Line Treatment. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:371. [PMID: 32372912 PMCID: PMC7186328 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Fabio Turco
- Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Lab, Department of Neurogastroentherology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Ulderico Freo
- Department of Medicine, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Gastone Zanette
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
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26
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Cannabis use and risk of Clostridioides difficile infection: Analysis of 59,824 hospitalizations. Anaerobe 2020; 61:102095. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anaerobe.2019.102095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Revised: 08/24/2019] [Accepted: 09/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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27
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Adherence to Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) Guidelines for Reporting Safety Outcomes in Trials of Medical Cannabis and Cannabis-based Medicines for Chronic Noncancer Pain. Clin J Pain 2020; 36:302-319. [DOI: 10.1097/ajp.0000000000000807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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28
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Patel RS, Goyal H, Satodiya R, Tankersley WE. Relationship of Cannabis Use Disorder and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): An Analysis of 6.8 Million Hospitalizations in the United States. Subst Use Misuse 2020; 55:281-290. [PMID: 31573379 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2019.1664591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Background: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic multifactorial gastrointestinal condition that substantially affects the quality of life. Research have suggested an increasing trend in cannabis use to alleviate IBS-related psychiatric symptoms. Objectives: We aim to investigate the association of psychiatric comorbidities and cannabis use disorders (CUD) in hospitalized IBS patients. Methods: We analyzed 31,272 IBS hospitalizations in patients (aged 15-54 years) from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS). We utilized logistic regression to evaluate the adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of CUD and psychiatric comorbidities. Results: Anxiety (26.3%) and depressive (24.8%) disorders were prevalent and increased the odds for IBS-hospitalization by 2.5 and 1.8 times respectively. Tobacco use disorder was most prevalent (24.5%) followed by CUD (3.7%). After controlling for demographics, psychiatric and medical comorbidities, and other substance use disorders, CUD had higher odds for IBS hospitalizations (aOR 1.407, 95% CI 1.32-1.50). IBS hospitalizations with CUD increased by 32.8% from 2010 to 2014. CUD patients were younger (15-24 years, aOR 5.4, 95% CI 4.27-6.77), males (aOR 1.8, 95% CI 1.59-2.09) and African Americans (aOR 2.8, 95% CI 1.45-2.23) and from low-income families (aOR 1.9, 95% CI 1.58-2.39). Conclusions: We found that patients with CUD have 40.7% higher odds for IBS-hospitalizations with a rising trend of CUD and related psychiatric comorbidities which may further worsen IBS and health quality of life. With limited evidence of efficacy and safety of cannabis in IBS, larger, randomized controlled studies are required to examine its therapeutic efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rikinkumar S Patel
- Department of Psychiatry, Griffin Memorial Hospital and Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse (Odmhas), Norman, OK, USA
| | - Hemant Goyal
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, The Wright Center of Graduate Medical Education, Scranton, PA, USA
| | - Ritvij Satodiya
- Department of Psychiatry, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - William E Tankersley
- Department of Psychiatry, Griffin Memorial Hospital and Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse (Odmhas), Norman, OK, USA
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29
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Munjal A, Dedania B, Cash BD. Current and emerging pharmacological approaches for treating diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2019; 21:63-71. [PMID: 31738621 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2019.1691524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D) is among the most common functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorders and is associated with impaired quality of life, increased health-care utilization, and significant costs to patients and society. The treatment of IBS is typically hierarchal with initial therapies consisting of dietary and lifestyle modifications. Pharmacotherapy with over-the-counter and prescription medications is also commonly used for symptomatic control in the course of therapy.Areas covered: Three medications are approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for IBS-D, with all of them demonstrating efficacy in randomized, placebo-controlled trials. In this review, the authors discuss the clinical trial data applicable to the current FDA approved IBS-D therapies as well as review data related to new and emerging therapies for this condition.Expert opinion: Clinicians should be familiar with emerging therapies for IBS-D as they may provide benefit to some IBS-D patients. The exact mechanisms of action of many of the emerging agents for IBS-D remain unknown. Despite substantial differences and limitations in the design and quality of supporting studies, there is an increasing body of evidence suggesting that emerging agents may promote meaningful symptom improvement in patients with IBS-D.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akhil Munjal
- Division of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, McGovern Medical School, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Bhavtosh Dedania
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Texas Health Science Center, McGovern Medical School, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Brooks D Cash
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Texas Health Science Center, McGovern Medical School, Houston, TX, USA
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30
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Pandey S, Kashif S, Youssef M, Sarwal S, Zraik H, Singh R, Rutkofsky IH. Endocannabinoid system in irritable bowel syndrome and cannabis as a therapy. Complement Ther Med 2019; 48:102242. [PMID: 31987224 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2019.102242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Revised: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) global burden is underestimated despite its high prevalence. It's a gastrointestinal disease having obscure pathophysiology with multiple therapies yet unsatisfactory remedies. The Endocannabinoid system (ECS) of our body plays a key role in maintaining normal physiology of the gastrointestinal tract as well as involves abnormalities including functional diseases like IBS. This review highlights the importance of the Endocannabinoid system, its connections with the normal gastrointestinal functions and abnormalities like IBS. It also discusses the role of cannabis as medical therapy in IBS patients. A literature search for articles related to endocannabinoids in IBS and medical cannabis in PubMed and Google Scholar was conducted. The studies highlighted the significant participation of ECS in IBS. However, the breach in obtaining the promising therapeutic model for IBS needed further investigation in ECS and uncover other treatments for IBS. This review summarizes ECS, highlights the relationship of ECS with IBS and explores cannabis as a potential therapy to treat IBS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samiksha Pandey
- California Institute of Behavioural Neurosciences and Psychology, CA, USA.
| | - Saima Kashif
- California Institute of Behavioural Neurosciences and Psychology, CA, USA
| | - Mina Youssef
- California Institute of Behavioural Neurosciences and Psychology, CA, USA
| | - Somia Sarwal
- California Institute of Behavioural Neurosciences and Psychology, CA, USA
| | - Hala Zraik
- California Institute of Behavioural Neurosciences and Psychology, CA, USA
| | - Ripudaman Singh
- California Institute of Behavioural Neurosciences and Psychology, CA, USA
| | - Ian H Rutkofsky
- California Institute of Behavioural Neurosciences and Psychology, CA, USA
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31
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Higher odds of irritable bowel syndrome among hospitalized patients using cannabis: a propensity-matched analysis. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2019; 31:756-765. [PMID: 30807448 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0000000000001382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The endogenous cannabinoid system modulates many brain-gut and gut-brain physiologic pathways, which are postulated to be dysfunctional in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Herein, we examine the relationship between cannabis use disorder (CUD) and having IBS. PATIENTS AND METHODS After selecting patients aged 18 years and above from the 2014 Nationwide Inpatient Survey, we used the International Classification of Diseases, 9th ed. codes to identify individuals with CUD, IBS, and the established risk factors for IBS. We then estimated the crude and adjusted odds ratios of having a diagnosis of IBS with CUD and assessed for the interactions of CUD with other risk factors (SAS 9.4). We confirmed our findings in two ways: conducting a similar analysis on a previous Nationwide Inpatient Survey data (2012); and using a greedy algorithm to design a propensity-scored case-control (1 : 10) study, approximating a pseudorandomized clinical trial. RESULTS Out of 4 709 043 patients evaluated, 0.03% had a primary admission for IBS and 1.32% had CUD. CUD was associated with increased odds of IBS [adjusted odds ratio: 2.03; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.53-2.71]. CUD was related to higher odds for IBS among males compared with females (3.48; 1.98-6.12 vs. 1.48; 0.88-2.50), and Hispanics and Caucasians compared with Blacks (5.28; 1.77-15.76, 1.80; 1.02-3.18 vs. 1.80; 0.65-5.03). On propensity-matching, CUD was associated with 80% increased odds for IBS (1.82; 1.27-2.60). CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that CUD is significantly associated with IBS among the general population. Males, Caucasians, and Hispanics might be more impacted by CUD associated IBS. Additional biomedical studies are required to elucidate this relationship.
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32
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Pi S, Rosenfeld G, Enns R, Bressler B, Wong A, Enns C, MacDonnell C, Leung Y. Patterns and motivations of
Cannabis
use amongst patients with inflammatory bowel disease. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/ygh2.338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Steven Pi
- Department of Medicine University of British Columbia Vancouver British Columbia Canada
| | - Greg Rosenfeld
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine University of British Columbia, St. Paul’s Hospital Vancouver British Columbia Canada
| | - Robert Enns
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine University of British Columbia, St. Paul’s Hospital Vancouver British Columbia Canada
| | - Brian Bressler
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine University of British Columbia, St. Paul’s Hospital Vancouver British Columbia Canada
| | - Amy Wong
- Pacific Gastroenterology Associates Vancouver British Columbia Canada
| | - Chasyn Enns
- Pacific Gastroenterology Associates Vancouver British Columbia Canada
| | - Chris MacDonnell
- Pacific Gastroenterology Associates Vancouver British Columbia Canada
| | - Yvette Leung
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine University of British Columbia, St. Paul’s Hospital Vancouver British Columbia Canada
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33
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Fifi AC, Axelrod CH, Chakraborty P, Saps M. Herbs and Spices in the Treatment of Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders: A Review of Clinical Trials. Nutrients 2018; 10:nu10111715. [PMID: 30423929 PMCID: PMC6266883 DOI: 10.3390/nu10111715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2018] [Revised: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 11/01/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
More than fifty percent of all new patient visits to pediatric gastroenterology clinics consult for functional abdominal pain disorders (FAPDs). In 2005, a technical report of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the North American Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition society (NASPGHAN) found limited or inconclusive evidence for most therapeutic interventions for this group of disorders. The report did not include studies on herbs and spices. Since then, there has been an increasing interest in the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) for the treatment of chronic pain disorders in children. About 40% of parents of pediatric gastroenterology patients have utilized CAM. This review evaluated the published literature on the effectiveness of CAM, specifically the use of herbs and spices, for the treatment of FAPDs. We found little evidence for most of the commonly used herbs and spices. Despite its common use, research on the efficacy, safety, and optimal dosage remains limited. There is evidence to suggest the benefit of peppermint oil and STW 5 for the treatment of FAPDs in children. The paucity of data on most therapies underscores the need for large clinical trials to assess their efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda C Fifi
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33137, USA.
| | - Cara Hannah Axelrod
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33137, USA.
| | - Partha Chakraborty
- Jackson Memorial Pediatric Residency Program/University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA.
| | - Miguel Saps
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33137, USA.
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Camilleri M. Cannabinoids and gastrointestinal motility: Pharmacology, clinical effects, and potential therapeutics in humans. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2018; 30:e13370. [PMID: 29745439 PMCID: PMC6150799 DOI: 10.1111/nmo.13370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2018] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabinoid agents and cannabis are frequently used for relief of diverse gastrointestinal symptoms. PURPOSE The objective of this article is to increase the awareness of gastroenterologists to the effects of cannabinoids on gastrointestinal motility, as gastroenterologists are likely to encounter patients who are taking cannabinoids, or those with dysmotility that may be associated with cannabinoid mechanisms. The non-selective cannabinoid agonist, dronabinol, retards gastric emptying and inhibits colonic tone and phasic pressure activity. In addition to the well-recognized manifestations of cannabinoid hyperemesis, cannabinoid mechanisms result in human and animal models of gastrointestinal and colonic dysmotility. Decreased enteric FAAH activity is associated with colonic inertia in slow transit constipation and, conversely, the orphan G protein-coupled receptor, GPR55, is overexpressed in streptozotocin-induced gastroparesis, suggesting it is involved in inhibition of antral motility. Experimental therapies in gastrointestinal motility and functional disorders are focused predominantly on pain relief mediated through cannabinoid 2 receptors or inhibition of DAGLα to normalize colonic transit. In summary, cannabinoid mechanisms and pharmacology are relevant to the current and future practice of clinical gastroenterology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Camilleri
- Clinical Enteric Neuroscience Translational and Epidemiological Research (C.E.N.T.E.R.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
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35
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Salaga M, Binienda A, Tichkule RB, Thakur GA, Makriyannis A, Storr M, Fichna J. The novel peripherally active cannabinoid type 1 and serotonin type 3 receptor agonist AM9405 inhibits gastrointestinal motility and reduces abdominal pain in mouse models mimicking irritable bowel syndrome. Eur J Pharmacol 2018; 836:34-43. [PMID: 30121173 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2018.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Revised: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a crucial role in numerous physiological processes in the central and peripheral nervous systems. In the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, selective cannabinoid (CB) receptor agonists exert potent inhibitory actions on motility and pain signalling. In the present study, we used mouse models of diarrhea, hypermotility, and abdominal pain to examine whether a novel synthetic CB1 receptor agonist AM9405 [(2-(2,6-dihydroxy-4-(2-methyloctan-2-yl)phenyl)-1,3-dimethyl-1H-benzo[d]imidazol-3-ium bromide); also known as GAT379] exhibits effects of potential therapeutic relevance. AM9405 significantly slowed mouse intestinal motility in physiological conditions. Moreover, AM9405 reversed hypermotility and reduced pain in mouse models mimicking symptoms of functional GI disorders, such as stress-induced diarrhea and writhing test. Interestingly, some of the effects of AM9405 were blocked by a 5-HT3 antagonist suggesting interaction with 5-HT3 receptors. In our study we show that combining CB1 agonism with 5-HT3 agonism may alter physiological functions and experimental pathophysiologies in a manner that make such compounds promising drugs for the future treatment of functional GI disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maciej Salaga
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Agata Binienda
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Ritesh B Tichkule
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Ganesh A Thakur
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Alexandros Makriyannis
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Martin Storr
- Center of Endoscopy, Starnberg, Germany and Department of Medicine 2, Ludwig-Maximilian University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Jakub Fichna
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland.
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36
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Bouquié R, Deslandes G, Mazaré H, Cogné M, Mahé J, Grégoire M, Jolliet P. Cannabis and anticancer drugs: societal usage and expected pharmacological interactions - a review. Fundam Clin Pharmacol 2018; 32:462-484. [DOI: 10.1111/fcp.12373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2017] [Revised: 04/03/2018] [Accepted: 04/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Régis Bouquié
- Laboratoire de Biologie Médicale; Centre Hospitalier Léon-Jean Grégory; avenue du Roussillon 66330 Thuir France
- Clinical Pharmacology Department; Nantes University Hospital; institut de biologie; 9 quai Moncousu 44093 Nantes Cedex 1 France
- EA 4275 Biostatistique; Pharmacoépidémiologie et Mesures Subjectives en Santé; Nantes University Hospital; Nantes France
| | - Guillaume Deslandes
- Clinical Pharmacology Department; Nantes University Hospital; institut de biologie; 9 quai Moncousu 44093 Nantes Cedex 1 France
| | - Hélène Mazaré
- Clinical Pharmacology Department; Nantes University Hospital; institut de biologie; 9 quai Moncousu 44093 Nantes Cedex 1 France
| | - Marion Cogné
- Clinical Pharmacology Department; Nantes University Hospital; institut de biologie; 9 quai Moncousu 44093 Nantes Cedex 1 France
| | - Julien Mahé
- Clinical Pharmacology Department; Nantes University Hospital; institut de biologie; 9 quai Moncousu 44093 Nantes Cedex 1 France
| | - Matthieu Grégoire
- Clinical Pharmacology Department; Nantes University Hospital; institut de biologie; 9 quai Moncousu 44093 Nantes Cedex 1 France
- EA 3826 Thérapeutiques Cliniques et Expérimentales des Infections; Nantes University Hospital; Nantes France
| | - Pascale Jolliet
- Clinical Pharmacology Department; Nantes University Hospital; institut de biologie; 9 quai Moncousu 44093 Nantes Cedex 1 France
- EA 4275 Biostatistique; Pharmacoépidémiologie et Mesures Subjectives en Santé; Nantes University Hospital; Nantes France
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37
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Cannabis and cannabinoids for the treatment of people with chronic noncancer pain conditions: a systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled and observational studies. Pain 2018; 159:1932-1954. [DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000001293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 248] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Dothel G, Barbaro MR, Raschi E, Barbara G, De Ponti F. Advancements in drug development for diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2018; 27:251-263. [PMID: 29451407 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2018.1442434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D) is a common disorder characterized by a complex pathophysiology hampering optimal targeted drug development. Recent advances in our understanding of key underlying mechanisms prompted novel therapeutics including novel pharmacological approaches. AREAS COVERED This review summarizes the latest advancements in the pipeline of IBS-D drugs focusing on new pharmacological targets, efficacy and safety of medicinal products considering the recent harmonization of regulatory requirements by the FDA and the EMA. EXPERT OPINION The new 5-HT3 receptor antagonist ramosetron appears a promising therapeutic approach devoid of significant adverse events, although it is presently unavailable in Western countries, most likely because of the precautionary approach taken by regulatory agencies with this drug class. New pharmacological concepts on full agonists/antagonists, mixed-receptor activity and novel drug targets may streamline the present drug pipeline along with the adherence on new regulatory guidelines on outcome measures. Eluxadoline can be taken as an example of this paradigm shift. It has now been granted marketing authorization for IBS-D on both sides of the Atlantic, but it is still considered as a second-line agent by the NICE. There is still much work to be done to fully cover clinical needs of patients with IBS-D.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Dothel
- a Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences , University of Bologna , Bologna , Italy
| | | | - Emanuel Raschi
- a Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences , University of Bologna , Bologna , Italy
| | - Giovanni Barbara
- a Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences , University of Bologna , Bologna , Italy
| | - Fabrizio De Ponti
- a Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences , University of Bologna , Bologna , Italy
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Pesce M, D'Alessandro A, Borrelli O, Gigli S, Seguella L, Cuomo R, Esposito G, Sarnelli G. Endocannabinoid-related compounds in gastrointestinal diseases. J Cell Mol Med 2017; 22:706-715. [PMID: 28990365 PMCID: PMC5783846 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.13359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2017] [Accepted: 07/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is an endogenous signalling pathway involved in the control of several gastrointestinal (GI) functions at both peripheral and central levels. In recent years, it has become apparent that the ECS is pivotal in the regulation of GI motility, secretion and sensitivity, but endocannabinoids (ECs) are also involved in the regulation of intestinal inflammation and mucosal barrier permeability, suggesting their role in the pathophysiology of both functional and organic GI disorders. Genetic studies in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease have indeed shown significant associations with polymorphisms or mutation in genes encoding for cannabinoid receptor or enzyme responsible for their catabolism, respectively. Furthermore, ongoing clinical trials are testing EC agonists/antagonists in the achievement of symptomatic relief from a number of GI symptoms. Despite this evidence, there is a lack of supportive RCTs and relevant data in human beings, and hence, the possible therapeutic application of these compounds is raising ethical, political and economic concerns. More recently, the identification of several EC-like compounds able to modulate ECS function without the typical central side effects of cannabino-mimetics has paved the way for emerging peripherally acting drugs. This review summarizes the possible mechanisms linking the ECS to GI disorders and describes the most recent advances in the manipulation of the ECS in the treatment of GI diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcella Pesce
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, 'Federico II' University of Naples, Naples, Italy.,Division of Neurogastroenterology & Motility, Great Ormond Street Hospital and University of College (UCL), London, UK
| | - Alessandra D'Alessandro
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, 'Federico II' University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Osvaldo Borrelli
- Division of Neurogastroenterology & Motility, Great Ormond Street Hospital and University of College (UCL), London, UK
| | - Stefano Gigli
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology 'Vittorio Erspamer', La Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Luisa Seguella
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology 'Vittorio Erspamer', La Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Rosario Cuomo
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, 'Federico II' University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Esposito
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology 'Vittorio Erspamer', La Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Sarnelli
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, 'Federico II' University of Naples, Naples, Italy
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Gioacchini G, Rossi G, Carnevali O. Host-probiotic interaction: new insight into the role of the endocannabinoid system by in vivo and ex vivo approaches. Sci Rep 2017; 7:1261. [PMID: 28455493 PMCID: PMC5430882 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-01322-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2016] [Accepted: 03/29/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system plays an important role in regulating inflammation in several chronic or anomalous gut inflammatory diseases. In vivo and ex vivo studies showed that 30 days treatment with a probiotic mix activated the endocannabinoid system in zebrafish. These results highlight the potential of this probiotic mixture to regulate immune cell function, by inducing gene expression of toll-like receptors and other immune related molecules. Furthermore, TUNEL assay showed a decrease in the number of apoptotic cells, and this finding was supported by a reduction in pro-apoptotic factors and an increase in anti-apoptotic molecules. The results presented here strengthen the molecular mechanisms activated by probiotic mix controlling immune response and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Gioacchini
- Dipartimento Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131, Ancona, Italy
| | - Giacomo Rossi
- Scuola di Bioscienze e Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Camerino, Via Fidanza 15, 62024, Matelica, MC, Italy
| | - Oliana Carnevali
- Dipartimento Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131, Ancona, Italy. .,INBB Consorzio Interuniversitario di Biosistemi e Biostrutture, 00136, Roma, Italy.
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Cremon C, Stanghellini V, Barbaro MR, Cogliandro RF, Bellacosa L, Santos J, Vicario M, Pigrau M, Alonso Cotoner C, Lobo B, Azpiroz F, Bruley des Varannes S, Neunlist M, DeFilippis D, Iuvone T, Petrosino S, Di Marzo V, Barbara G. Randomised clinical trial: the analgesic properties of dietary supplementation with palmitoylethanolamide and polydatin in irritable bowel syndrome. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2017; 45:909-922. [PMID: 28164346 DOI: 10.1111/apt.13958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2016] [Revised: 09/02/2016] [Accepted: 01/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intestinal immune activation is involved in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) pathophysiology. While most dietary approaches in IBS involve food avoidance, there are fewer indications on food supplementation. Palmithoylethanolamide, structurally related to the endocannabinoid anandamide, and polydatin are dietary compounds which act synergistically to reduce mast cell activation. AIM To assess the effect on mast cell count and the efficacy of palmithoylethanolamide/polydatin in patients with IBS. METHODS We conducted a pilot, 12-week, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicentre study assessing the effect of palmithoylethanolamide/polydatin 200 mg/20 mg or placebo b.d. on low-grade immune activation, endocannabinoid system and symptoms in IBS patients. Biopsy samples, obtained at screening visit and at the end of the study, were analysed by immunohistochemistry, enzyme-linked immunoassay, liquid chromatography and Western blot. RESULTS A total of 54 patients with IBS and 12 healthy controls were enrolled from five European centres. Compared with controls, IBS patients showed higher mucosal mast cell counts (3.2 ± 1.3 vs. 5.3 ± 2.7%, P = 0.013), reduced fatty acid amide oleoylethanolamide (12.7 ± 9.8 vs. 45.8 ± 55.6 pmol/mg, P = 0.002) and increased expression of cannabinoid receptor 2 (0.7 ± 0.1 vs. 1.0 ± 0.8, P = 0.012). The treatment did not significantly modify IBS biological profile, including mast cell count. Compared with placebo, palmithoylethanolamide/polydatin markedly improved abdominal pain severity (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS The marked effect of the dietary supplement palmithoylethanolamide/polydatin on abdominal pain in patients with IBS suggests that this is a promising natural approach for pain management in this condition. Further studies are now required to elucidate the mechanism of action of palmithoylethanolamide/polydatin in IBS. ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01370720.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Cremon
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Centre for Applied Biomedical Research, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - V Stanghellini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Centre for Applied Biomedical Research, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - M R Barbaro
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Centre for Applied Biomedical Research, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - R F Cogliandro
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Centre for Applied Biomedical Research, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - L Bellacosa
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Centre for Applied Biomedical Research, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - J Santos
- Digestive System Research Unit, Departments of Gastroenterology, Institut de Recerca Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (Departamento de Medicina) Barcelona and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Barcelona, Spain
| | - M Vicario
- Digestive System Research Unit, Departments of Gastroenterology, Institut de Recerca Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (Departamento de Medicina) Barcelona and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Barcelona, Spain
| | - M Pigrau
- Digestive System Research Unit, Departments of Gastroenterology, Institut de Recerca Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (Departamento de Medicina) Barcelona and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Barcelona, Spain
| | - C Alonso Cotoner
- Digestive System Research Unit, Departments of Gastroenterology, Institut de Recerca Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (Departamento de Medicina) Barcelona and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Barcelona, Spain
| | - B Lobo
- Digestive System Research Unit, Departments of Gastroenterology, Institut de Recerca Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (Departamento de Medicina) Barcelona and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Barcelona, Spain
| | - F Azpiroz
- Digestive System Research Unit, Departments of Gastroenterology, Institut de Recerca Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (Departamento de Medicina) Barcelona and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - M Neunlist
- Institut des Maladies de l'Appareil Digestif, Hotel Dieu, Nantes, France
| | - D DeFilippis
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - T Iuvone
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - S Petrosino
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Pozzuoli, Italy.,Epitech Group SpA, Saccolongo, Italy
| | - V Di Marzo
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - G Barbara
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Centre for Applied Biomedical Research, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Abalo R, Uranga JA, Pérez-García I, de Andrés R, Girón R, Vera G, López-Pérez AE, Martín-Fontelles MI. May cannabinoids prevent the development of chemotherapy-induced diarrhea and intestinal mucositis? Experimental study in the rat. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2017; 29. [PMID: 27686064 DOI: 10.1111/nmo.12952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2016] [Accepted: 08/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The antineoplastic drug 5-fluoruracil (5-FU) is a pirimidine analog, which frequently induces potentially fatal diarrhea and mucositis. Cannabinoids reduce gastrointestinal motility and secretion and might prevent 5-FU-induced gut adverse effects. Here, we asked whether cannabinoids may prevent diarrhea and mucositis induced by 5-FU in the rat. METHODS Male Wistar rats received vehicle or the non-selective cannabinoid agonist WIN 55,212-2 (WIN; 0.5 mg kg-1 injection-1 , 1 injection day-1 , 4 consecutive days) by intraperitoneal (ip) route; on the first 2 days, animals received also saline or 5-FU (150 mg kg-1 injection-1 , cumulative dose of 300 mg kg-1 ). Gastrointestinal motor function was radiographically studied after barium contrast intragastric administration on experimental days 1 and 4. Structural alterations of the stomach, small intestine and colon were histologically studied on day 4. PAS staining and immunohistochemistry for Ki67, chromogranin A and CD163 were used to detect secretory, proliferating, and endocrine cells, and activated macrophages respectively. KEY RESULTS As shown radiographically, 5-FU induced significant gastric emptying delay (on days 1 and 4) and diarrhea (on day 4). WIN did not significantly alter the motility curves obtained for either control or 5-FU-treated animals but tended to reduce the severity of 5-FU-induced diarrhea and increased permanence of barium from day 1 to the beginning of day 4 in 5-FU-treated animals. 5-FU-induced mucositis was severe and not counteracted by WIN. CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES 5-FU-induced diarrhea, but not mucositis, was partly prevented by WIN at a low dose. Cannabinoids might be useful to prevent chemotherapy-induced diarrhea.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Abalo
- Departamento de Ciencias Básicas de la Salud, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Madrid, Alcorcón, Spain.,Unidad Asociada I+D+i al Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias de la Alimentación, CIAL (CSIC), Madrid, Spain.,Unidad Asociada I+D+i al Instituto de Química Médica, IQM (CSIC), Madrid, Spain.,Grupo de Excelencia Investigadora URJC-Banco de Santander-Grupo Multidisciplinar de Investigación y Tratamiento del Dolor (i+DOL), Madrid, Spain
| | - J A Uranga
- Departamento de Ciencias Básicas de la Salud, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Madrid, Alcorcón, Spain.,Unidad Asociada I+D+i al Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias de la Alimentación, CIAL (CSIC), Madrid, Spain.,Grupo de Excelencia Investigadora URJC-Banco de Santander-Grupo Multidisciplinar de Investigación y Tratamiento del Dolor (i+DOL), Madrid, Spain
| | - I Pérez-García
- Departamento de Ciencias Básicas de la Salud, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Madrid, Alcorcón, Spain
| | - R de Andrés
- Departamento de Ciencias Básicas de la Salud, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Madrid, Alcorcón, Spain
| | - R Girón
- Departamento de Ciencias Básicas de la Salud, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Madrid, Alcorcón, Spain.,Unidad Asociada I+D+i al Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias de la Alimentación, CIAL (CSIC), Madrid, Spain.,Unidad Asociada I+D+i al Instituto de Química Médica, IQM (CSIC), Madrid, Spain.,Grupo de Excelencia Investigadora URJC-Banco de Santander-Grupo Multidisciplinar de Investigación y Tratamiento del Dolor (i+DOL), Madrid, Spain
| | - G Vera
- Departamento de Ciencias Básicas de la Salud, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Madrid, Alcorcón, Spain.,Unidad Asociada I+D+i al Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias de la Alimentación, CIAL (CSIC), Madrid, Spain.,Unidad Asociada I+D+i al Instituto de Química Médica, IQM (CSIC), Madrid, Spain.,Grupo de Excelencia Investigadora URJC-Banco de Santander-Grupo Multidisciplinar de Investigación y Tratamiento del Dolor (i+DOL), Madrid, Spain
| | - A E López-Pérez
- Grupo de Excelencia Investigadora URJC-Banco de Santander-Grupo Multidisciplinar de Investigación y Tratamiento del Dolor (i+DOL), Madrid, Spain.,Unidad del Dolor, Servicio de Anestesiología, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón (HGUGM), Madrid, Spain
| | - M I Martín-Fontelles
- Departamento de Ciencias Básicas de la Salud, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Madrid, Alcorcón, Spain.,Unidad Asociada I+D+i al Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias de la Alimentación, CIAL (CSIC), Madrid, Spain.,Unidad Asociada I+D+i al Instituto de Química Médica, IQM (CSIC), Madrid, Spain.,Grupo de Excelencia Investigadora URJC-Banco de Santander-Grupo Multidisciplinar de Investigación y Tratamiento del Dolor (i+DOL), Madrid, Spain
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Abstract
Cannabis sativa, a subspecies of the Cannabis plant, contains aromatic hydrocarbon compounds called cannabinoids. [INCREMENT]-Tetrahydrocannabinol is the most abundant cannabinoid and is the main psychotropic constituent. Cannabinoids activate two types of G-protein-coupled cannabinoid receptors: cannabinoid type 1 receptor and cannabinoid type 2 receptor. There has been ongoing interest and development in research to explore the therapeutic potential of cannabis. [INCREMENT]-Tetrahydrocannabinol exerts biological functions on the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Cannabis has been used for the treatment of GI disorders such as abdominal pain and diarrhea. The endocannabinoid system (i.e. endogenous circulating cannabinoids) performs protective activities in the GI tract and presents a promising therapeutic target against various GI conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (especially Crohn's disease), irritable bowel syndrome, and secretion and motility-related disorders. The present review sheds light on the role of cannabis in the gut, liver, and pancreas and also on other GI symptoms, such as nausea and vomiting, cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, anorexia, weight loss, and chronic abdominal pain. Although the current literature supports the use of marijuana for the treatment of digestive disorders, the clinical efficacy of cannabis and its constituents for various GI disorders remains unclear.
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Hasenoehrl C, Taschler U, Storr M, Schicho R. The gastrointestinal tract - a central organ of cannabinoid signaling in health and disease. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2016; 28:1765-1780. [PMID: 27561826 PMCID: PMC5130148 DOI: 10.1111/nmo.12931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2016] [Accepted: 08/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In ancient medicine, extracts of the marijuana plant Cannabis sativa were used against diseases of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Today, our knowledge of the ingredients of the Cannabis plant has remarkably advanced enabling us to use a variety of herbal and synthetic cannabinoid (CB) compounds to study the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a physiologic entity that controls tissue homeostasis with the help of endogenously produced CBs and their receptors. After many anecdotal reports suggested beneficial effects of Cannabis in GI disorders, it was not surprising to discover that the GI tract accommodates and expresses all the components of the ECS. Cannabinoid receptors and their endogenous ligands, the endocannabinoids, participate in the regulation of GI motility, secretion, and the maintenance of the epithelial barrier integrity. In addition, other receptors, such as the transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1), the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα) and the G-protein coupled receptor 55 (GPR55), are important participants in the actions of CBs in the gut and critically determine the course of bowel inflammation and colon cancer. PURPOSE The following review summarizes important and recent findings on the role of CB receptors and their ligands in the GI tract with emphasis on GI disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, and colon cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina Hasenoehrl
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Ulrike Taschler
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Martin Storr
- Department of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany and Zentrum für Endoskopie, Starnberg, Germany
| | - Rudolf Schicho
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
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McQuade RM, Stojanovska V, Abalo R, Bornstein JC, Nurgali K. Chemotherapy-Induced Constipation and Diarrhea: Pathophysiology, Current and Emerging Treatments. Front Pharmacol 2016; 7:414. [PMID: 27857691 PMCID: PMC5093116 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2016.00414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2016] [Accepted: 10/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) side-effects of chemotherapy are a debilitating and often overlooked clinical hurdle in cancer management. Chemotherapy-induced constipation (CIC) and Diarrhea (CID) present a constant challenge in the efficient and tolerable treatment of cancer and are amongst the primary contributors to dose reductions, delays and cessation of treatment. Although prevalence of CIC is hard to estimate, it is believed to affect approximately 16% of cancer patients, whilst incidence of CID has been estimated to be as high as 80%. Despite this, the underlying mechanisms of both CID and CIC remain unclear, but are believed to result from a combination of intersecting mechanisms including inflammation, secretory dysfunctions, GI dysmotility and alterations in GI innervation. Current treatments for CIC and CID aim to reduce the severity of symptoms rather than combating the pathophysiological mechanisms of dysfunction, and often result in worsening of already chronic GI symptoms or trigger the onset of a plethora of other side-effects including respiratory depression, uneven heartbeat, seizures, and neurotoxicity. Emerging treatments including those targeting the enteric nervous system present promising avenues to alleviate CID and CIC. Identification of potential targets for novel therapies to alleviate chemotherapy-induced toxicity is essential to improve clinical outcomes and quality of life amongst cancer sufferers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel M McQuade
- Centre for Chronic Disease, College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne VIC, Australia
| | - Vanesa Stojanovska
- Centre for Chronic Disease, College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne VIC, Australia
| | - Raquel Abalo
- Área de Farmacología y Nutrición, Universidad Rey Juan CarlosMadrid, Spain; Grupo de Excelencia Investigadora URJC, Banco de Santander Grupo Multidisciplinar de Investigación y Tratamiento del Dolor, Universidad Rey Juan CarlosMadrid, Spain; Unidad Asociada al Instituto de Química Médica del Consejo Superior de Investigaciones CientíficasMadrid, Spain; Unidad Asociada al Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias de la Alimentación del Consejo Superior de Investigaciones CientíficasMadrid, Spain
| | - Joel C Bornstein
- Department of Physiology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne VIC, Australia
| | - Kulmira Nurgali
- Centre for Chronic Disease, College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne VIC, Australia
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Abstract
OPINION STATEMENT Despite the political and social controversy affiliated with it, the medical community must come to the realization that cannabinoids exist as a ubiquitous signaling system in many organ systems. Our understanding of cannabinoids and how they relate not only to homeostasis but also in disease states must be furthered through research, both clinically and in the laboratory. The identification of the cannabinoid receptors in the early 1990s have provided us with the perfect target of translational research. Already, much has been done with cannabinoids and the nervous system. Here, we explore the implications it has for the gastrointestinal tract. Most therapeutics currently on the market presently target only one aspect of the cannabinoid system. Our main purpose here is to highlight areas of research and potential avenues of discovery that the cannabinoid system has yet to reveal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary Wilmer Reichenbach
- Center for Substance Abuse Research (CSAR), Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Section of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ron Schey
- Section of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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Lee Y, Jo J, Chung HY, Pothoulakis C, Im E. Endocannabinoids in the gastrointestinal tract. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2016; 311:G655-G666. [PMID: 27538961 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00294.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2015] [Accepted: 08/13/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system mainly consists of endogenously produced cannabinoids (endocannabinoids) and two G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2 (CB1 and CB2). This system also includes enzymes responsible for the synthesis and degradation of endocannabinoids and molecules required for the uptake and transport of endocannabinoids. In addition, endocannabinoid-related lipid mediators and other putative endocannabinoid receptors, such as transient receptor potential channels and other GPCRs, have been identified. Accumulating evidence indicates that the endocannabinoid system is a key modulator of gastrointestinal physiology, influencing satiety, emesis, immune function, mucosal integrity, motility, secretion, and visceral sensation. In light of therapeutic benefits of herbal and synthetic cannabinoids, the vast potential of the endocannabinoid system for the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases has been demonstrated. This review focuses on the role of the endocannabinoid system in gut homeostasis and in the pathogenesis of intestinal disorders associated with intestinal motility, inflammation, and cancer. Finally, links between gut microorganisms and the endocannabinoid system are briefly discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunna Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Pusan National University, Busan, Korea; and
| | - Jeongbin Jo
- College of Pharmacy, Pusan National University, Busan, Korea; and
| | - Hae Young Chung
- College of Pharmacy, Pusan National University, Busan, Korea; and
| | - Charalabos Pothoulakis
- Section of Inflammatory Bowel Disease & Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center, Division of Digestive Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Eunok Im
- College of Pharmacy, Pusan National University, Busan, Korea; and
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Gubatan J, Staller K, Barshop K, Kuo B. Cannabis Abuse Is Increasing and Associated with Increased Emergency Department Utilization in Gastroenterology Patients. Dig Dis Sci 2016; 61:1844-52. [PMID: 26935430 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-016-4090-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2015] [Accepted: 02/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of cannabinoids in gastrointestinal diseases is controversial and of great interest, yet their use in patients has not been critically examined. AIM To determine the prevalence and effects of cannabis abuse on healthcare utilization, as measured by emergency department (ED) visits, in a large, tertiary gastroenterology practice. METHODS All patients seen in the gastroenterology clinic at a tertiary care center during a 27-year period (1986-2013) were included in our study to determine the overall prevalence of cannabis abuse. We matched cannabis abusers 1:2 with non-abusing controls to determine the effect of cannabis on ED utilization, our primary outcome. We used multivariate linear regression to adjust for confounders and define the independent effect of cannabis abuse on ED utilization. RESULTS Our prevalence study cohort included 190,303 GI clinic patients with an overall cannabis abuse prevalence of 0.80 % (1520 patients). From 1986 to 2012, the prevalence of cannabis abuse in this clinic increased by 0.73 % (0.03 %/year) (p < 0.0001). From the 1520 cannabis abusers identified, 467 patients were randomly selected as cases and were matched to 934 controls. From this retrospective cohort, the median ED visits/year for cannabis abusers was 1.88 versus 0.89 for non-abusers (p < 0.0001). After multivariate adjustment, cannabis abuse was associated with a 1.47-fold increase (95 % CI 1.23-1.76, p < 0.0001) in median ED visits/year. CONCLUSIONS Reported cannabis abuse in GI clinic patients is less prevalent than in the adult US population, but is increasing. Cannabis abuse among gastroenterology patients is associated with increased ED visits.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Gubatan
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 330 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.
| | - Kyle Staller
- Division of Gastroenterology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Center for Neurointestinal Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kenneth Barshop
- Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Braden Kuo
- Division of Gastroenterology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Center for Neurointestinal Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
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49
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Abstract
Cannabis has been used medicinally for centuries to treat a variety of disorders, including those associated with the gastrointestinal tract. The discovery of our bodies' own "cannabis-like molecules" and associated receptors and metabolic machinery - collectively called the endocannabinoid system - enabled investigations into the physiological relevance for the system, and provided the field with evidence of a critical function for this endogenous signaling pathway in health and disease. Recent investigations yield insight into a significant participation for the endocannabinoid system in the normal physiology of gastrointestinal function, and its possible dysfunction in gastrointestinal pathology. Many gaps, however, remain in our understanding of the precise neural and molecular mechanisms across tissue departments that are under the regulatory control of the endocannabinoid system. This review highlights research that reveals an important - and at times surprising - role for the endocannabinoid system in the control of a variety of gastrointestinal functions, including motility, gut-brain mediated fat intake and hunger signaling, inflammation and gut permeability, and dynamic interactions with gut microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas V. DiPatrizio
- Address correspondence to: Nicholas V. DiPatrizio, PhD, Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, 900 University Ave., Riverside, CA 92521, E-mail:
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50
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Abstract
IBS is the most prevalent functional gastrointestinal disorder and phenotypically characterized by chronic abdominal discomfort, pain and altered defecation patterns. The pathophysiology of IBS is multifactorial, albeit with a substantial genetic component. To date, studies using various methodologies, ranging from family and twin studies to candidate gene approaches and genome-wide association studies, have identified several genetic variants in the context of IBS. Yet, despite enlarged sample sizes, increased statistical power and meta-analyses in the past 7 years, positive associations are still scarce and/or have not been reproduced. In addition, epigenetic and pharmacogenetic approaches remain in their infancy. A major hurdle is the lack of large homogenized case-control cohorts recruited according to standardized and harmonized criteria. The COST Action BM1106 GENIEUR (GENes in Irritable Bowel Syndrome Research Network EURope) has been established to address these obstacles. In this Review, the (epi)genetic working group of GENIEUR reports on the current state-of-the-art in the field, highlights fundamental flaws and pitfalls in current IBS (epi)genetic research and provides a vision on how to address and improve (epi)genetic approaches in this complex disorder in the future.
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