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Andersen HK, Vardakas DG, Lamothe JA, Perault TEA, Walsh KB, Laprairie RB. Comparing CB1 receptor GIRK channel responses to receptor internalization using a kinetic imaging assay. Sci Rep 2024; 14:18314. [PMID: 39112591 PMCID: PMC11306342 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-68451-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The type 1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1R) mediates neurotransmitter release and synaptic plasticity in the central nervous system. Endogenous, plant-derived, synthetic cannabinoids bind to CB1R, initiating the inhibitory G-protein (Gi) and the β-arrestin signaling pathways. Within the Gi signaling pathway, CB1R activates G protein-gated, inwardly-rectifying potassium (GIRK) channels. The β-arrestin pathway reduces CB1R expression on the cell surface through receptor internalization. Because of their association with analgesia and drug tolerance, GIRK channels and receptor internalization are of interest to the development of pharmaceuticals. This research used immortalized mouse pituitary gland cells transduced with a pH-sensitive, fluorescently-tagged human CB1R (AtT20-SEPCB1) to measure GIRK channel activity and CB1R internalization. Cannabinoid-induced GIRK channel activity is measured by using a fluorescent membrane-potential sensitive dye. We developed a kinetic imaging assay that visualizes and measures CB1R internalization. All cannabinoids stimulated a GIRK channel response with a rank order potency of WIN55,212-2 > (±)CP55,940 > Δ9-THC > AEA. Efficacy was expressed relative to (±)CP55,940 with a rank order efficacy of (±)CP55,940 > WIN55, 212-2 > AEA > Δ9-THC. All cannabinoids stimulated CB1R internalization with a rank order potency of (±)CP55,940 > WIN55, 212-2 > AEA > Δ9-THC. Internalization efficacy was normalized to (±)CP55,940 with a rank order efficacy of WIN55,212-2 > AEA > (±)CP55,940 > Δ9-THC. (±)CP55,940 was significantly more potent and efficacious than AEA and Δ9-THC at stimulating a GIRK channel response; no significant differences between potency and efficacy were observed with CB1R internalization. No significant differences were found when comparing a cannabinoid's GIRK channel and CB1R internalization response. In conclusion, AtT20-SEPCB1 cells can be used to assess cannabinoid-induced CB1R internalization. While cannabinoids display differential Gi signaling when compared to each other, this did not extend to CB1R internalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haley K Andersen
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Duncan G Vardakas
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Julie A Lamothe
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Tannis E A Perault
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Kenneth B Walsh
- Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience, School of Medicine Columbia, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Robert B Laprairie
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.
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Manning JJ, Finlay DB, Glass M. GPCR kinase subtype requirements for arrestin-2 and -3 translocation to the cannabinoid CB 1 receptor and the consequences on G protein signalling. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 224:116190. [PMID: 38604257 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116190] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Arrestins are key negative regulators of G Protein-Coupled Receptors (GPCRs) through mediation of G protein desensitisation and receptor internalisation. Arrestins can also contribute to signal transduction by scaffolding downstream signalling effectors for activation. GPCR kinase (GRK) enzymes phosphorylate the intracellular C-terminal domain, or intracellular loop regions of GPCRs to promote arrestin interaction. There are seven different GRK subtypes, which may uniquely phosphorylate the C-terminal tail in a type of 'phosphorylation barcode,' potentially differentially contributing to arrestin translocation and arrestin-dependent signalling. Such contributions may be exploited to develop arrestin-biased ligands. Here, we examine the effect of different GRK subtypes on the ability to promote translocation of arrestin-2 and arrestin-3 to the cannabinoid CB1 receptor (CB1) with a range of ligands. We find that most GRK subtypes (including visual GRK1) can enhance arrestin-2 and -3 translocation to CB1, and that GRK-dependent changes in arrestin-2 and arrestin-3 translocation were broadly shared for most agonists tested. GRK2/3 generally enhanced arrestin translocation more than the other GRK subtypes, with some small differences between ligands. We also explore the interplay between G protein activity and GRK2/3-dependent arrestin translocation, highlighting that high-efficacy G protein agonists will cause GRK2/3 dependent arrestin translocation. This study supports the hypothesis that arrestin-biased ligands for CB1 must engage GRK5/6 rather than GRK2/3, and G protein-biased ligands must have inherently low efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie J Manning
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - David B Finlay
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.
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3
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Bo Y, Zhao X, Li L. Cardiotoxic effects of common and emerging drugs: role of cannabinoid receptors. Clin Sci (Lond) 2024; 138:413-434. [PMID: 38505994 DOI: 10.1042/cs20231156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Drug-induced cardiotoxicity has become one of the most common and detrimental health concerns, which causes significant loss to public health and drug resources. Cannabinoid receptors (CBRs) have recently achieved great attention for their vital roles in the regulation of heart health and disease, with mounting evidence linking CBRs with the pathogenesis and progression of drug-induced cardiotoxicity. This review aims to summarize fundamental characteristics of two well-documented CBRs (CB1R and CB2R) from aspects of molecular structure, signaling and their functions in cardiovascular physiology and pathophysiology. Moreover, we describe the roles of CB1R and CB2R in the occurrence of cardiotoxicity induced by common drugs such as antipsychotics, anti-cancer drugs, marijuana, and some emerging synthetic cannabinoids. We highlight the 'yin-yang' relationship between CB1R and CB2R in drug-induced cardiotoxicity and propose future perspectives for CBR-based translational medicine toward cardiotoxicity curation and clinical monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiming Bo
- Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xin Zhao
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Liliang Li
- Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
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4
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Singh S, Sarroza D, English A, McGrory M, Dong A, Zweifel L, Land BB, Li Y, Bruchas MR, Stella N. Pharmacological Characterization of the Endocannabinoid Sensor GRAB eCB2.0. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2023. [PMID: 38064488 DOI: 10.1089/can.2023.0036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The endocannabinoids (eCBs), 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and arachidonoyl ethanolamine (AEA), are produced by separate enzymatic pathways, activate cannabinoid (CB) receptors with distinct pharmacological profiles, and differentially regulate pathophysiological processes. The genetically encoded sensor, GRABeCB2.0, detects real-time changes in eCB levels in cells in culture and preclinical model systems; however, its activation by eCB analogues produced by cells and by phyto-CBs remains uncharacterized, a current limitation when interpreting changes in its response. This information could provide additional utility for the tool in in vivo pharmacology studies of phyto-CB action. Materials and Methods: GRABeCB2.0 was expressed in cultured HEK293 cells. Live cell confocal microscopy and high-throughput fluorescent signal measurements. Results: 2-AG increased GRABeCB2.0 fluorescent signal (EC50=85 nM), and the cannabinoid 1 receptor (CB1R) antagonist, SR141716 (SR1), decreased GRABeCB2.0 signal (IC50=3.3 nM), responses that mirror their known potencies at the CB1R. GRABeCB2.0 fluorescent signal also increased in response to AEA (EC50=815 nM), the eCB analogues 2-linoleoylglycerol and 2-oleoylglycerol (EC50=632 and 868 nM, respectively), Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), and Δ8-THC (EC50=1.6 and 2.0 μM, respectively), and the artificial CB1R agonist, CP55,940 (CP; EC50=82 nM); however their potencies were less than what has been described at CB1R. Cannabidiol (CBD) did not affect basal GRABeCB2.0 fluorescent signal and yet reduced the 2-AG stimulated GRABeCB2.0 responses (IC50=9.7 nM). Conclusions: 2-AG and SR1 modulate the GRABeCB2.0 fluorescent signal with EC50 values that mirror their potencies at CB1R, whereas AEA, eCB analogues, THC, and CP increase GRABeCB2.0 fluorescent signal with EC50 values significantly lower than their potencies at CB1R. CBD reduces the 2-AG response without affecting basal signal, suggesting that GRABeCB2.0 retains the negative allosteric modulator (NAM) property of CBD at CB1R. This study describes the pharmacological profile of GRABeCB2.0 to improve interpretation of changes in fluorescent signal in response to a series of known eCBs and CB1R ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simar Singh
- Department of Pharmacology, Pain, and Emotion, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Center for Cannabis Research, Pain, and Emotion, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Center for the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Dennis Sarroza
- Department of Pharmacology, Pain, and Emotion, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Anthony English
- Department of Pharmacology, Pain, and Emotion, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Center for Cannabis Research, Pain, and Emotion, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Center for the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Maya McGrory
- Department of Pharmacology, Pain, and Emotion, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Ao Dong
- Peking University School of Life Sciences, PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Larry Zweifel
- Department of Pharmacology, Pain, and Emotion, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Center for Cannabis Research, Pain, and Emotion, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Center for the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Benjamin B Land
- Department of Pharmacology, Pain, and Emotion, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Center for Cannabis Research, Pain, and Emotion, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Center for the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Yulong Li
- Peking University School of Life Sciences, PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Michael R Bruchas
- Department of Pharmacology, Pain, and Emotion, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Center for Cannabis Research, Pain, and Emotion, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Center for the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Nephi Stella
- Department of Pharmacology, Pain, and Emotion, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Center for Cannabis Research, Pain, and Emotion, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Center for the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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5
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Hassan FU, Liu C, Mehboob M, Bilal RM, Arain MA, Siddique F, Chen F, Li Y, Zhang J, Shi P, Lv B, Lin Q. Potential of dietary hemp and cannabinoids to modulate immune response to enhance health and performance in animals: opportunities and challenges. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1285052. [PMID: 38111585 PMCID: PMC10726122 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1285052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids are a group of bioactive compounds abundantly present in Cannabis sativa plant. The active components of cannabis with therapeutic potential are known as cannabinoids. Cannabinoids are divided into three groups: plant-derived cannabinoids (phytocannabinoids), endogenous cannabinoids (endocannabinoids), and synthetic cannabinoids. These compounds play a crucial role in the regulation various physiological processes including the immune modulation by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (A complex cell-signaling system). Cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) stimulates the binding of orexigenic peptides and inhibits the attachment of anorexigenic proteins to hypothalamic neurons in mammals, increasing food intake. Digestibility is unaffected by the presence of any cannabinoids in hemp stubble. Endogenous cannabinoids are also important for the peripheral control of lipid processing in adipose tissue, in addition to their role in the hypothalamus regulation of food intake. Regardless of the kind of synaptic connection or the length of the transmission, endocannabinoids play a crucial role in inhibiting synaptic transmission through a number of mechanisms. Cannabidiol (CBD) mainly influences redox equilibrium through intrinsic mechanisms. Useful effects of cannabinoids in animals have been mentioned e.g., for disorders of the cardiovascular system, pain treatment, disorders of the respiratory system or metabolic disorders. Dietary supplementation of cannabinoids has shown positive effects on health, growth and production performance of small and large animals. Animal fed diet supplemented with hemp seeds (180 g/day) or hemp seed cake (143 g/kg DM) had achieved batter performance without any detrimental effects. But the higher level of hemp or cannabinoid supplementation suppress immune functions and reduce productive performance. With an emphasis on the poultry and ruminants, this review aims to highlight the properties of cannabinoids and their derivatives as well as their significance as a potential feed additive in their diets to improve the immune status and health performance of animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faiz-ul Hassan
- Institute of Bast Fiber Crops, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha, China
- Faculty of Animal Production and Technology, Cholistan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Bahawalpur, Pakistan
| | - Chunjie Liu
- Institute of Bast Fiber Crops, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha, China
| | - Maryam Mehboob
- Department of Zoology, Wildlife and Fisheries, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Rana Muhammad Bilal
- Faculty of Animal Production and Technology, Cholistan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Bahawalpur, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Asif Arain
- Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lasbela University of Agriculture, Water and Marine Sciences, Uthal, Balochistan, Pakistan
| | - Faisal Siddique
- Faculty of Animal Production and Technology, Cholistan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Bahawalpur, Pakistan
| | - Fengming Chen
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of the TCM Agricultural Biogenomics, Changsha Medical University, Changsha, China
| | - Yuying Li
- Institute of Bast Fiber Crops, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha, China
| | - Jingmeng Zhang
- Institute of Bast Fiber Crops, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha, China
| | - Pengjun Shi
- Institute of Bast Fiber Crops, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha, China
| | - Biguang Lv
- Institute of Bast Fiber Crops, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha, China
| | - Qian Lin
- Institute of Bast Fiber Crops, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha, China
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6
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Leo LM, Al-Zoubi R, Hurst DP, Stephan AP, Zhao P, Tilley DG, Miess E, Schulz S, Abood ME, Reggio PH. The NPXXY Motif Regulates β-Arrestin Recruitment by the CB1 Cannabinoid Receptor. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2023; 8:731-748. [PMID: 35792570 PMCID: PMC10589503 DOI: 10.1089/can.2021.0223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Activation of signaling effectors by G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) depends on different molecular mechanisms triggered by conserved amino acid residues. Although studies have focused on the G-protein signaling state, the mechanism for β-arrestin signaling by CB1 is not yet well defined. Studies have indicated that transmembrane helix 7 (TMH7) and the highly conserved NPXXY motif can be subject to different conformational changes in response to biased ligands and could therefore participate in a molecular mechanism to trigger β-arrestin recruitment. Objective: To investigate the effect of mutations in the NPXXY motif on different signaling pathways activated by the CB1 receptor. Materials and Methods: Point mutations of the NPXXY motif and associated residues were generated in the CB1 receptor using site-directed mutagenesis and transfection into HEK-293 cells. Signaling by wild-type and mutant receptors was analyzed by quantifying inhibition of cAMP, and by β-arrestin recruitment assays. Results: We found that N7.49 and Y7.53 are essential for β-arrestin recruitment by CB1. N7.49A and Y7.53F impair β-arrestin signaling, with no effect on G-protein signaling. We found a regulatory role for residue I2.43; I2.43 interacts with Y7.53, affecting its positioning. Reducing steric bulk at I2.43 (I2.43A) enhances β-arrestin1 recruitment, while introducing a polar residue (I2.43T) reduces β-arrestin recruitment. Conclusions: These findings point to a novel mechanism for β-arrestin recruitment, implicating amino acids in the NPXXY motif as critical for the putative β-arrestin biased conformational state of Class A GPCRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana M. Leo
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Rufaida Al-Zoubi
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science & Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Dow P. Hurst
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, UNC Greensboro, Greensboro, North Carolina, USA
| | - Anna P. Stephan
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Pingwei Zhao
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Douglas G. Tilley
- Center for Translational Medicine, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Elke Miess
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jena University Hospital-Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Stefan Schulz
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jena University Hospital-Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Mary E. Abood
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Patricia H. Reggio
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, UNC Greensboro, Greensboro, North Carolina, USA
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7
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Piscura MK, Sepulveda DE, Maulik M, Guindon J, Henderson-Redmond AN, Morgan DJ. Cannabinoid Tolerance in S426A/S430A x β-Arrestin 2 Knockout Double-Mutant Mice. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2023; 385:17-34. [PMID: 36669876 PMCID: PMC10029824 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.122.001367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Tolerance to compounds that target G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), such as the cannabinoid type-1 receptor (CB1R), is in part facilitated by receptor desensitization. Processes that mediate CB1R desensitization include phosphorylation of CB1R residues S426 and S430 by a GPCR kinase and subsequent recruitment of the β-arrestin2 scaffolding protein. Tolerance to cannabinoid drugs is reduced in S426A/S430A mutant mice and β-arrestin2 knockout (KO) mice according to previous work in vivo. However, the presence of additional phosphorylatable residues on the CB1R C-terminus made it unclear as to whether recruitment to S426 and S430 accounted for all desensitization and tolerance by β-arrestin2. Therefore, we assessed acute response and tolerance to the cannabinoids delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) and CP55,940 in S426A/S430A x β-arrestin2 KO double-mutant mice. We observed both delayed tolerance and increased sensitivity to the antinociceptive and hypothermic effects of CP55,940 in male S426A/S430A single- and double-mutant mice compared with wild-type littermates, but not with Δ9-THC. Female S426A/S430A single- and double-mutant mice were more sensitive to acute antinociception (CP55,940 and Δ9-THC) and hypothermia (CP55,940 only) exclusively after chronic dosing and did not differ in the development of tolerance. These results indicate that phosphorylation of S426 and S430 are likely responsible for β-arrestin2-mediated desensitization as double-mutant mice did not differ from the S426A/S430A single-mutant model in respect to cannabinoid tolerance and sensitivity. We also found antinociceptive and hypothermic effects from cannabinoid treatment demonstrated by sex-, agonist-, and duration-dependent features. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in tolerance will improve the therapeutic potential of cannabinoid drugs. This study determined that further deletion of β-arrestin2 does not enhance the delay in cannabinoid tolerance observed in CB1R S426A/S430A mutant mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary K Piscura
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia (M.K.P., M.M., A.N.H.-R., D.J.M.); Department of Pharmacology (D.E.S.) and Graduate Program in Anatomy (M.K.P.), Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania; and Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience (J.G.) and Center of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics (J.G.), Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas
| | - Diana E Sepulveda
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia (M.K.P., M.M., A.N.H.-R., D.J.M.); Department of Pharmacology (D.E.S.) and Graduate Program in Anatomy (M.K.P.), Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania; and Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience (J.G.) and Center of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics (J.G.), Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas
| | - Malabika Maulik
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia (M.K.P., M.M., A.N.H.-R., D.J.M.); Department of Pharmacology (D.E.S.) and Graduate Program in Anatomy (M.K.P.), Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania; and Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience (J.G.) and Center of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics (J.G.), Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas
| | - Josée Guindon
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia (M.K.P., M.M., A.N.H.-R., D.J.M.); Department of Pharmacology (D.E.S.) and Graduate Program in Anatomy (M.K.P.), Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania; and Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience (J.G.) and Center of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics (J.G.), Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas
| | - Angela N Henderson-Redmond
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia (M.K.P., M.M., A.N.H.-R., D.J.M.); Department of Pharmacology (D.E.S.) and Graduate Program in Anatomy (M.K.P.), Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania; and Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience (J.G.) and Center of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics (J.G.), Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas
| | - Daniel J Morgan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia (M.K.P., M.M., A.N.H.-R., D.J.M.); Department of Pharmacology (D.E.S.) and Graduate Program in Anatomy (M.K.P.), Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania; and Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience (J.G.) and Center of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics (J.G.), Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas
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8
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Scheyer A, Yasmin F, Naskar S, Patel S. Endocannabinoids at the synapse and beyond: implications for neuropsychiatric disease pathophysiology and treatment. Neuropsychopharmacology 2023; 48:37-53. [PMID: 36100658 PMCID: PMC9700791 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-022-01438-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Endocannabinoids (eCBs) are lipid neuromodulators that suppress neurotransmitter release, reduce postsynaptic excitability, activate astrocyte signaling, and control cellular respiration. Here, we describe canonical and emerging eCB signaling modes and aim to link adaptations in these signaling systems to pathological states. Adaptations in eCB signaling systems have been identified in a variety of biobehavioral and physiological process relevant to neuropsychiatric disease states including stress-related disorders, epilepsy, developmental disorders, obesity, and substance use disorders. These insights have enhanced our understanding of the pathophysiology of neurological and psychiatric disorders and are contributing to the ongoing development of eCB-targeting therapeutics. We suggest future studies aimed at illuminating how adaptations in canonical as well as emerging cellular and synaptic modes of eCB signaling contribute to disease pathophysiology or resilience could further advance these novel treatment approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Farhana Yasmin
- Northwestern Center for Psychiatric Neuroscience, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Saptarnab Naskar
- Northwestern Center for Psychiatric Neuroscience, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Sachin Patel
- Northwestern Center for Psychiatric Neuroscience, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
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9
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Golosova D, Levchenko V, Kravtsova O, Palygin O, Staruschenko A. Acute and long-term effects of cannabinoids on hypertension and kidney injury. Sci Rep 2022; 12:6080. [PMID: 35413977 PMCID: PMC9005691 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-09902-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids and their endogenous and synthetic analogs impact blood pressure and contribute to the incidence of hypertension. It was previously reported that the endocannabinoid system plays an important role in developing hypertension; however, it was also shown that cannabinoids elicit profound hypotension associated with hemorrhagic, cardiogenic, and endotoxic shock. This study aimed to test acute and chronic effects of an endogenous ligand of cannabinoid receptor anandamide (AEA) on blood pressure and kidney injury in vivo in conscious Dahl salt-sensitive (SS) rats. We demonstrated that acute i.v. bolus administration of a low or a high doses (0.05 or 3 mg/kg) of AEA did not affect blood pressure for 2 h after the injection in Dahl SS rats fed a normal salt diet (0.4% NaCl). Neither low nor high doses of AEA had any beneficial effects on blood pressure or kidney function. Furthermore, hypertensive rats fed a HS diet (8% NaCl) and chronically treated with 3 mg/kg of AEA exhibited a significant increase in blood pressure accompanied by increased renal interstitial fibrosis and glomerular damage at the late stage of hypertension. Western blot analyses revealed increased expression of Smad3 protein levels in the kidney cortex in response to chronic treatment with a high AEA dose. Therefore, TGF-β1/Smad3 signaling pathway may play a crucial role in kidney injury in SS hypertension during chronic treatment with AEA. Collectively, these data indicate that prolonged stimulation of cannabinoid receptors may result in aggravation of hypertension and kidney damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria Golosova
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, USA.
| | - Vladislav Levchenko
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, University of South Florida, 560 Channelside Dr., Tampa, FL, 33602, USA
| | - Olha Kravtsova
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, University of South Florida, 560 Channelside Dr., Tampa, FL, 33602, USA
| | - Oleg Palygin
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, USA.,Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Alexander Staruschenko
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, USA. .,Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, University of South Florida, 560 Channelside Dr., Tampa, FL, 33602, USA. .,Hypertension and Kidney Research Center, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33602, USA. .,Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center, Milwaukee, WI, 53295, USA.
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10
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Abidi AH, Alghamdi SS, Derefinko K. A critical review of cannabis in medicine and dentistry: A look back and the path forward. Clin Exp Dent Res 2022; 8:613-631. [PMID: 35362240 PMCID: PMC9209799 DOI: 10.1002/cre2.564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction In the last two decades, our understanding of the therapeutic utility and medicinal properties of cannabis has greatly changed. This change has been accompanied by widespread cannabis use in various communities and different age groups, especially within the United States. With this increase, we should consider the potential effects of cannabis–hemp on general public health and how they could alter therapeutic outcomes. Material and Methods The present investigation examined cannabis use for recreational and therapeutic use and a review of pertinent indexed literature was performed. The focused question evaluates “how cannabis or hemp products impact health parameters and do they provide potential therapeutic value in dentistry, and how do they interact with conventional medicines (drugs).” Indexed databases (PubMed/Medline, EMBASE) were searched without any time restrictions but language was restricted to English. Results The review highlights dental concerns of cannabis usage, the need to understand the endocannabinoid system (ECS), cannabinoid receptor system, its endogenous ligands, pharmacology, metabolism, current oral health, and medical dilemma to ascertain the detrimental or beneficial effects of using cannabis–hemp products. The pharmacological effects of pure cannabidiol (CBD) have been studied extensively while cannabis extracts can vary significantly and lack empirical studies. Several metabolic pathways are affected by cannabis use and could pose a potential drug interaction. The chronic use of cannabis is associated with health issues, but the therapeutic potential is multifold since there is a regulatory role of ECS in many pathologies. Conclusion Current shortcomings in understanding the benefits of cannabis or hemp products are limited due to pharmacological and clinical effects not being predictable, while marketed products vary greatly in phytocompounds warrant further empirical investigation. Given the healthcare challenges to manage acute and chronic pain, this review highlights both cannabis and CBD‐hemp extracts to help identify the therapeutic application for patient populations suffering from anxiety, inflammation, and dental pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ammaar H Abidi
- College of Dentistry, Department of Bioscience Research, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA.,College of Dentistry, Department of General Dentistry, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Sahar S Alghamdi
- Department of Phamaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (KAIMRC), Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Karen Derefinko
- College of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, Addiction Science, and Toxicology, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA.,College of Medicine, Department of Preventive Medicine, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
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11
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Abdel Mageed SS, Ammar RM, Nassar NN, Moawad H, Kamel AS. Role of PI3K/Akt axis in mitigating hippocampal ischemia-reperfusion injury via CB1 receptor stimulation by paracetamol and FAAH inhibitor in rat. Neuropharmacology 2021; 207:108935. [PMID: 34968475 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Acetaminophen or paracetamol (PAR), the recommended antipyretic in COVID-19 and clinically used to alleviate stroke-associated hyperthermia interestingly activates cannabinoid receptor (CB1) through its AM404 metabolite, however, to date, no study reports the in vivo activation of PAR/AM404/CB1 axis in stroke. The current study deciphers the neuroprotective effect of PAR in cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (IR) rat model and unmasks its link with AM404/CB1/PI3K/Akt axis. MATERIALS AND METHODS Animals were allocated into 5 groups: (I) sham-operated (SO), (II) IR, (III) IR + PAR (100 mg/kg), (IV) IR + PAR (100 mg/kg) + URB597; anandamide degradation inhibitor (0.3 mg/kg) and (V) IR + PAR (100 mg/kg) + AM4113; CB1 Blocker (5 mg/kg). All drugs were intraperitoneally administered at the inception of the reperfusion period. KEY FINDINGS PAR administration alleviated the cognitive impairment in the Morris Water Maze as well as hippocampal histopathological and immunohistochemical examination of GFAP. The PAR signaling was associated with elevation of anandamide level, CB1 receptor expression and survival proteins as pS473-Akt. P(tyr202/thr204)-ERK1/2 and pS9-GSK3β. Simultaneously, PAR increased hippocampal BDNF and ß-arrestin1 levels and decreased glutamate level. PAR restores the deranged redox milieu induced by IR Injury, by reducing lipid peroxides, myeloperoxidase activity and NF-κB and increasing NPSH, total antioxidant capacity, nitric oxide and Nrf2 levels. The pre-administration of AM4113 reversed PAR effects, while URB597 potentiated them. SIGNIFICANCE PAR poses a significant neuroprotective effect which may be mediated, at least in part, via activation of anandamide/CB1/PI3K/Akt pathway in the IR rat model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherif S Abdel Mageed
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Ramy M Ammar
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kafrelsheikh University, Egypt.
| | - Noha N Nassar
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Egypt.
| | - Helmy Moawad
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Egypt.
| | - Ahmed S Kamel
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Egypt.
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12
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Tahtouh T, Durieu E, Villiers B, Bruyère C, Nguyen TL, Fant X, Ahn KH, Khurana L, Deau E, Lindberg MF, Sévère E, Miege F, Roche D, Limanton E, L'Helgoual'ch JM, Burgy G, Guiheneuf S, Herault Y, Kendall DA, Carreaux F, Bazureau JP, Meijer L. Structure-Activity Relationship in the Leucettine Family of Kinase Inhibitors. J Med Chem 2021; 65:1396-1417. [PMID: 34928152 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The protein kinase DYRK1A is involved in Alzheimer's disease, Down syndrome, diabetes, viral infections, and leukemia. Leucettines, a family of 2-aminoimidazolin-4-ones derived from the marine sponge alkaloid Leucettamine B, have been developed as pharmacological inhibitors of DYRKs (dual specificity, tyrosine phosphorylation regulated kinases) and CLKs (cdc2-like kinases). We report here on the synthesis and structure-activity relationship (SAR) of 68 Leucettines. Leucettines were tested on 11 purified kinases and in 5 cellular assays: (1) CLK1 pre-mRNA splicing, (2) Threonine-212-Tau phosphorylation, (3) glutamate-induced cell death, (4) autophagy and (5) antagonism of ligand-activated cannabinoid receptor CB1. The Leucettine SAR observed for DYRK1A is essentially identical for CLK1, CLK4, DYRK1B, and DYRK2. DYRK3 and CLK3 are less sensitive to Leucettines. In contrast, the cellular SAR highlights correlations between inhibition of specific kinase targets and some but not all cellular effects. Leucettines deserve further development as potential therapeutics against various diseases on the basis of their molecular targets and cellular effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Tahtouh
- Manros Therapeutics & Perha Pharmaceuticals, Perharidy Research Center, 29680 Roscoff, Bretagne, France.,CNRS, 'Protein Phosphorylation and Human Disease' Group, Station Biologique De Roscoff, Place G. Teissier, Bp 74, 29682 Roscoff, Bretagne, France.,College Of Health Sciences, Abu Dhabi University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Emilie Durieu
- Manros Therapeutics & Perha Pharmaceuticals, Perharidy Research Center, 29680 Roscoff, Bretagne, France.,CNRS, 'Protein Phosphorylation and Human Disease' Group, Station Biologique De Roscoff, Place G. Teissier, Bp 74, 29682 Roscoff, Bretagne, France
| | - Benoît Villiers
- Manros Therapeutics & Perha Pharmaceuticals, Perharidy Research Center, 29680 Roscoff, Bretagne, France
| | - Céline Bruyère
- Manros Therapeutics & Perha Pharmaceuticals, Perharidy Research Center, 29680 Roscoff, Bretagne, France
| | - Thu Lan Nguyen
- Manros Therapeutics & Perha Pharmaceuticals, Perharidy Research Center, 29680 Roscoff, Bretagne, France.,Institut De Génétique Et De Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Department of Translational Medicine and Neurogenetics, Université de Strasbourg, CNRS UMR7104 & INSERM U964, 67400 Illkirch, France.,Laboratory of Molecular & Cellular Neuroscience, The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Avenue, New York, New York 10021-6399, United States
| | - Xavier Fant
- CNRS, 'Protein Phosphorylation and Human Disease' Group, Station Biologique De Roscoff, Place G. Teissier, Bp 74, 29682 Roscoff, Bretagne, France
| | - Kwang H Ahn
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, 69 N Eagleville Rd, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States
| | - Leepakshi Khurana
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, 69 N Eagleville Rd, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States
| | - Emmanuel Deau
- Manros Therapeutics & Perha Pharmaceuticals, Perharidy Research Center, 29680 Roscoff, Bretagne, France
| | - Mattias F Lindberg
- Manros Therapeutics & Perha Pharmaceuticals, Perharidy Research Center, 29680 Roscoff, Bretagne, France
| | - Elodie Sévère
- Manros Therapeutics & Perha Pharmaceuticals, Perharidy Research Center, 29680 Roscoff, Bretagne, France
| | - Frédéric Miege
- Edelris, Bâtiment Bioserra 1, 60 avenue Rockefeller, 69008 Lyon, France
| | - Didier Roche
- Edelris, Bâtiment Bioserra 1, 60 avenue Rockefeller, 69008 Lyon, France
| | - Emmanuelle Limanton
- Institut des Sciences Chimiques de Rennes ISCR-UMR CNRS 6226, Université de Rennes 1, Campus de Beaulieu, Bât. 10A, CS 74205, 263 Avenue du Général Leclerc, 35042 Rennes Cedex, France
| | - Jean-Martial L'Helgoual'ch
- Institut des Sciences Chimiques de Rennes ISCR-UMR CNRS 6226, Université de Rennes 1, Campus de Beaulieu, Bât. 10A, CS 74205, 263 Avenue du Général Leclerc, 35042 Rennes Cedex, France
| | - Guillaume Burgy
- Manros Therapeutics & Perha Pharmaceuticals, Perharidy Research Center, 29680 Roscoff, Bretagne, France.,Institut des Sciences Chimiques de Rennes ISCR-UMR CNRS 6226, Université de Rennes 1, Campus de Beaulieu, Bât. 10A, CS 74205, 263 Avenue du Général Leclerc, 35042 Rennes Cedex, France
| | - Solène Guiheneuf
- Institut des Sciences Chimiques de Rennes ISCR-UMR CNRS 6226, Université de Rennes 1, Campus de Beaulieu, Bât. 10A, CS 74205, 263 Avenue du Général Leclerc, 35042 Rennes Cedex, France
| | - Yann Herault
- Institut De Génétique Et De Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Department of Translational Medicine and Neurogenetics, Université de Strasbourg, CNRS UMR7104 & INSERM U964, 67400 Illkirch, France
| | - Debra A Kendall
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, 69 N Eagleville Rd, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States
| | - François Carreaux
- Institut des Sciences Chimiques de Rennes ISCR-UMR CNRS 6226, Université de Rennes 1, Campus de Beaulieu, Bât. 10A, CS 74205, 263 Avenue du Général Leclerc, 35042 Rennes Cedex, France
| | - Jean-Pierre Bazureau
- Institut des Sciences Chimiques de Rennes ISCR-UMR CNRS 6226, Université de Rennes 1, Campus de Beaulieu, Bât. 10A, CS 74205, 263 Avenue du Général Leclerc, 35042 Rennes Cedex, France
| | - Laurent Meijer
- Manros Therapeutics & Perha Pharmaceuticals, Perharidy Research Center, 29680 Roscoff, Bretagne, France
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13
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Walsh KB, McKinney AE, Holmes AE. Minor Cannabinoids: Biosynthesis, Molecular Pharmacology and Potential Therapeutic Uses. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:777804. [PMID: 34916950 PMCID: PMC8669157 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.777804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The medicinal use of Cannabis sativa L. can be traced back thousands of years to ancient China and Egypt. While marijuana has recently shown promise in managing chronic pain and nausea, scientific investigation of cannabis has been restricted due its classification as a schedule 1 controlled substance. A major breakthrough in understanding the pharmacology of cannabis came with the isolation and characterization of the phytocannabinoids trans-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). This was followed by the cloning of the cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors in the 1990s and the subsequent discovery of the endocannabinoid system. In addition to the major phytocannabinoids, Δ9-THC and CBD, cannabis produces over 120 other cannabinoids that are referred to as minor and/or rare cannabinoids. These cannabinoids are produced in smaller amounts in the plant and are derived along with Δ9-THC and CBD from the parent cannabinoid cannabigerolic acid (CBGA). While our current knowledge of minor cannabinoid pharmacology is incomplete, studies demonstrate that they act as agonists and antagonists at multiple targets including CB1 and CB2 receptors, transient receptor potential (TRP) channels, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), serotonin 5-HT1a receptors and others. The resulting activation of multiple cell signaling pathways, combined with their putative synergistic activity, provides a mechanistic basis for their therapeutic actions. Initial clinical reports suggest that these cannabinoids may have potential benefits in the treatment of neuropathic pain, neurodegenerative diseases, epilepsy, cancer and skin disorders. This review focuses on the molecular pharmacology of the minor cannabinoids and highlights some important therapeutic uses of the compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth B Walsh
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Amanda E McKinney
- Institute for Human and Planetary Health, Crete, NE, United States.,School of Integrative Learning, Doane University, Crete, NE, United States
| | - Andrea E Holmes
- School of Integrative Learning, Doane University, Crete, NE, United States.,Precision Plant Molecules, Denver, CO, United States
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14
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Leo LM, Abood ME. CB1 Cannabinoid Receptor Signaling and Biased Signaling. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26175413. [PMID: 34500853 PMCID: PMC8433814 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26175413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The CB1 cannabinoid receptor is a G-protein coupled receptor highly expressed throughout the central nervous system that is a promising target for the treatment of various disorders, including anxiety, pain, and neurodegeneration. Despite the wide therapeutic potential of CB1, the development of drug candidates is hindered by adverse effects, rapid tolerance development, and abuse potential. Ligands that produce biased signaling—the preferential activation of a signaling transducer in detriment of another—have been proposed as a strategy to dissociate therapeutic and adverse effects for a variety of G-protein coupled receptors. However, biased signaling at the CB1 receptor is poorly understood due to a lack of strongly biased agonists. Here, we review studies that have investigated the biased signaling profile of classical cannabinoid agonists and allosteric ligands, searching for a potential therapeutic advantage of CB1 biased signaling in different pathological states. Agonist and antagonist bound structures of CB1 and proposed mechanisms of action of biased allosteric modulators are used to discuss a putative molecular mechanism for CB1 receptor activation and biased signaling. Current studies suggest that allosteric binding sites on CB1 can be explored to yield biased ligands that favor or hinder conformational changes important for biased signaling.
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15
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Ramesh K, Rosenbaum DM. Molecular basis for ligand modulation of the cannabinoid CB 1 receptor. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 179:3487-3495. [PMID: 34265078 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The cannabinoid CB1 receptor is the most abundant G protein coupled receptor (GPCR) in the central nervous system, which mediates the functional response to endocannabinoids and Cannabis compounds. A variety of ligands for CB1 receptors have been developed as promising drug candidates for the treatment of neurological disorders. New high-resolution structures of CB1 receptor in different functional states have significantly improved our molecular understanding of CB1 ligand interactions, selectivity, receptor activation and allosteric modulation. These advances have paved the way for development of novel ligands for different therapeutic applications. In this review, we describe the structural determinants for modulation of CB1 receptors by different types of ligands, as well as the differences between CB1 and its homologous, the CB2 receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karthik Ramesh
- Department of Biophysics, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Daniel M Rosenbaum
- Department of Biophysics, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
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16
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Morris G, Walder K, Kloiber S, Amminger P, Berk M, Bortolasci CC, Maes M, Puri BK, Carvalho AF. The endocannabinoidome in neuropsychiatry: Opportunities and potential risks. Pharmacol Res 2021; 170:105729. [PMID: 34119623 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) comprises two cognate endocannabinoid receptors referred to as CB1R and CB2R. ECS dysregulation is apparent in neurodegenerative/neuro-psychiatric disorders including but not limited to schizophrenia, major depressive disorder and potentially bipolar disorder. The aim of this paper is to review mechanisms whereby both receptors may interact with neuro-immune and neuro-oxidative pathways, which play a pathophysiological role in these disorders. CB1R is located in the presynaptic terminals of GABAergic, glutamatergic, cholinergic, noradrenergic and serotonergic neurons where it regulates the retrograde suppression of neurotransmission. CB1R plays a key role in long-term depression, and, to a lesser extent, long-term potentiation, thereby modulating synaptic transmission and mediating learning and memory. Optimal CB1R activity plays an essential neuroprotective role by providing a defense against the development of glutamate-mediated excitotoxicity, which is achieved, at least in part, by impeding AMPA-mediated increase in intracellular calcium overload and oxidative stress. Moreover, CB1R activity enables optimal neuron-glial communication and the function of the neurovascular unit. CB2R receptors are detected in peripheral immune cells and also in central nervous system regions including the striatum, basal ganglia, frontal cortex, hippocampus, amygdala as well as the ventral tegmental area. CB2R upregulation inhibits the presynaptic release of glutamate in several brain regions. CB2R activation also decreases neuroinflammation partly by mediating the transition from a predominantly neurotoxic "M1" microglial phenotype to a more neuroprotective "M2" phenotype. CB1R and CB2R are thus novel drug targets for the treatment of neuro-immune and neuro-oxidative disorders including schizophrenia and affective disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerwyn Morris
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - Ken Walder
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia; Deakin University, Centre for Molecular and Medical Research, School of Medicine, Geelong, Australia
| | - Stefan Kloiber
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Ursula Franklin Street, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Paul Amminger
- Orygen, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael Berk
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia; Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Centre for Youth Mental Health, Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health and the Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Chiara C Bortolasci
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - Michael Maes
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia; Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand; Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | | | - Andre F Carvalho
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia.
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17
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Manning JJ, Green HM, Glass M, Finlay DB. Pharmacological selection of cannabinoid receptor effectors: Signalling, allosteric modulation and bias. Neuropharmacology 2021; 193:108611. [PMID: 34000272 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The type-1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1) is a promising drug target for a wide range of diseases. However, many existing and novel candidate ligands for CB1 have shown only limited therapeutic potential. Indeed, no ligands are currently approved for the clinic except formulations of the phytocannabinoids Δ9-THC and CBD and a small number of analogues. A key limitation of many promising CB1 ligands are their on-target adverse effects, notably including psychoactivity (agonists) and depression/suicidal ideation (inverse agonists). Recent drug development attempts have therefore focussed on altering CB1 signalling profiles in two ways. Firstly, with compounds that enhance or reduce the signalling of endogenous (endo-) cannabinoids, namely allosteric modulators. Secondly, with compounds that probe the capability of selectively targeting specific cellular signalling pathways that may mediate therapeutic effects using biased ligands. This review will summarise the current paradigm of CB1 signalling in terms of the intracellular transduction pathways acted on by the receptor. The development of compounds that selectively activate CB1 signalling pathways, whether allosterically or via orthosteric agonist bias, will also be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie J Manning
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand, PO Box 56, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand
| | - Hayley M Green
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand, PO Box 56, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand, PO Box 56, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand
| | - David B Finlay
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand, PO Box 56, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand.
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18
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Slosky LM, Caron MG, Barak LS. Biased Allosteric Modulators: New Frontiers in GPCR Drug Discovery. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2021; 42:283-299. [PMID: 33581873 PMCID: PMC9797227 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2020.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the largest class of cell surface receptors in the genome and the most successful family of targets of FDA-approved drugs. New frontiers in GPCR drug discovery remain, however, as achieving receptor subtype selectivity and controlling off- and on-target side effects are not always possible with classic agonist and antagonist ligands. These challenges may be overcome by focusing development efforts on allosteric ligands that confer signaling bias. Biased allosteric modulators (BAMs) are an emerging class of GPCR ligands that engage less well-conserved regulatory motifs outside the orthosteric pocket and exert pathway-specific effects on receptor signaling. The unique ways that BAMs texturize receptor signaling present opportunities to fine-tune physiology and develop safer, more selective therapeutics. Here, we provide a conceptual framework for understanding the pharmacology of BAMs, explore their therapeutic potential, and discuss strategies for their discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren M. Slosky
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Marc G. Caron
- Departments of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA,Correspondence: (L.S.B.); (M.G.C.)
| | - Lawrence S. Barak
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA,Correspondence: (L.S.B.); (M.G.C.)
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19
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Aderibigbe AO, Pandey P, Doerksen RJ. Negative allosteric modulators of cannabinoid receptor 1: Ternary complexes including CB1, orthosteric CP55940 and allosteric ORG27569. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2021; 40:5729-5747. [PMID: 33480332 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2021.1873187] [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: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
In October 2019, the first X-ray crystal structure of a ternary cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) complex (PDB ID: 6KQI) was published, including the well-known orthosteric agonist, CP55940, and the well-studied negative allosteric modulator, ORG27569. Prior to the release of 6KQI, we applied binding pocket analysis and molecular docking to carefully prepared computational models of the ternary CB1 complex, in order to predict the binding site for ORG27569 with the CP55940-bound CB1 receptor. We carefully studied the binding pose of agonist ligands in the CB1 orthosteric pocket, including CP55940. Our computational studies identified the most favorable binding site for ORG27569, in the CP55940-CB1 complex, to be at the intracellular end of the receptor. However, in the 6KQI structure, ORG27569 was found at an extrahelical, intramembrane site on the complex, a site that partially overlaps with the site predicted in our calculations to be second-best. We performed molecular dynamics simulations of the CP55940-bound CB1 complex with ORG27569 at different binding sites. Our analysis of the simulations indicated that ORG27569 bound favorably and stably in each simulation, but, as in the earlier calculations, bound best at the intracellular site, which is different than that found in the crystal structure. These results suggest that the intracellular site might serve as an alternative binding site in CB1. Our studies show that the computational techniques we used are valuable in identifying ligand-binding pockets in proteins, and could be useful for the study of the interaction mode of other allosteric modulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- AyoOluwa O Aderibigbe
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, Division of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS, USA
| | - Pankaj Pandey
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, Division of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS, USA.,National Center for Natural Products Research, University of Mississippi, University, Mississippi, USA
| | - Robert J Doerksen
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, Division of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS, USA.,Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS, USA
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20
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Horváth VB, Soltész-Katona E, Wisniewski É, Rajki A, Halász E, Enyedi B, Hunyady L, Tóth AD, Szanda G. Optimization of the Heterologous Expression of the Cannabinoid Type-1 (CB 1) Receptor. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:740913. [PMID: 34745007 PMCID: PMC8564136 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.740913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The G protein-coupled type 1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1R) mediates virtually all classic cannabinoid effects, and both its agonists and antagonists hold major therapeutic potential. Heterologous expression of receptors is vital for pharmacological research, however, overexpression of these proteins may fundamentally alter their localization pattern, change the signalling partner preference and may also spark artificial clustering. Additionally, recombinant CB1Rs are prone to intense proteasomal degradation, which may necessitate substantial modifications, such as N-terminal truncation or signal sequence insertion, for acceptable cell surface expression. We report here that tuning down the expression intensity of the full-length CB1R reduces proteasomal degradation and offers receptor levels that are comparable to those of endogenous CB1 receptors. As opposed to high-efficiency expression with conventional promoters, weak promoter-driven CB1R expression provides ERK 1/2 and p38 MAPK signalling that closely resemble the activity of endogenous CB1Rs. Moreover, weakly expressed CB1R variants exhibit plasma membrane localization, preserve canonical Gi-signalling but prevent CB1R-Gs coupling observed with high-expression variants. Based on these findings, we propose that lowering the expression level of G protein-coupled receptors should always be considered in heterologous expression systems in order to reduce the pressure on the proteasomal machinery and to avoid potential signalling artefacts.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eszter Soltész-Katona
- Department of Physiology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-SE Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Eötvös Loránd Research Network, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Éva Wisniewski
- Department of Physiology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Anikó Rajki
- Department of Physiology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-SE Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Eötvös Loránd Research Network, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Eszter Halász
- Department of Physiology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-SE Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Eötvös Loránd Research Network, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Balázs Enyedi
- Department of Physiology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-SE Lendület Tissue Damage Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences and Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- HCEMM-SE Inflammatory Signaling Research Group, Department of Physiology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - László Hunyady
- Department of Physiology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-SE Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Eötvös Loránd Research Network, Budapest, Hungary
| | - András Dávid Tóth
- MTA-SE Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Eötvös Loránd Research Network, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Internal Medicine and Haematology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gergő Szanda
- Department of Physiology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-SE Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Eötvös Loránd Research Network, Budapest, Hungary
- *Correspondence: Gergő Szanda,
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21
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Vecchini Rodríguez CM, Escalona Meléndez Y, Flores-Otero J. Cannabinoid Receptors and Ligands: Lessons from CNS Disorders and the Quest for Novel Treatment Venues. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1297:43-64. [PMID: 33537936 PMCID: PMC8502072 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-61663-2_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
The potential use of cannabinoids for therapeutic purposes is at the forefront of cannabinoid research which aims to develop innovative strategies to prevent, manage and treat a broad spectrum of human diseases. This chapter briefly reviews the pivotal role of the endocannabinoid system in modulating the central nervous system and its roles on neurodegenerative diseases and brain disorders. Ligand-induced modulation of cannabinoid 1 and 2 receptors to modulate immune response, decrease neurodegeneration and pain are aspects that are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara M Vecchini Rodríguez
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine, San Juan, PR, USA
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, PR, USA
| | | | - Jacqueline Flores-Otero
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine, San Juan, PR, USA.
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, PR, USA.
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22
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Patel M, Finlay DB, Glass M. Biased agonism at the cannabinoid receptors - Evidence from synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists. Cell Signal 2020; 78:109865. [PMID: 33259937 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2020.109865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The type 1 and type 2 cannabinoid receptors are G protein-coupled receptors implicated in a variety of physiological processes and diseases. Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) were originally developed to explore the therapeutic benefits of cannabinoid receptor activation, although more recently, these compounds have been diverted to the recreational drug market and are increasingly associated with incidences of toxicity. A prominent concept in contemporary pharmacology is functional selectivity or biased agonism, which describes the ability of ligands to elicit differential activation of signalling pathways through stabilisation of distinct receptor conformations. Biased agonists may maximise drug effectiveness by reducing on-target adverse effects if they are mediated by signalling pathways distinct from those that drive the therapeutic effects. For the cannabinoid receptors, it remains unclear as to which signalling pathways mediate desirable and adverse effects. However, given their structural diversity and potential to induce a plethora of signalling effects, SCRAs provide the most promising prospect for detecting and studying bias at the cannabinoid receptors. This review summarises the emerging evidence of SCRA bias at the cannabinoid receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Patel
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - David B Finlay
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.
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23
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Zhou S, Wu Q, Lin X, Ling X, Miao J, Liu X, Hu C, Zhang Y, Jia N, Hou FF, Liu Y, Zhou L. Cannabinoid receptor type 2 promotes kidney fibrosis through orchestrating β-catenin signaling. Kidney Int 2020; 99:364-381. [PMID: 33152447 DOI: 10.1016/j.kint.2020.09.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system has multiple effects. Through interacting with cannabinoid receptor type 1 and type 2, this system can greatly affect disease progression. Previously, we showed that activated cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2) mediated kidney fibrosis. However, the underlying mechanisms remain underdetermined. Here, we report that CB2 was upregulated predominantly in kidney tubular epithelial cells in unilateral urinary obstruction and ischemia-reperfusion injury models in mice, and in patients with a variety of kidney diseases. CB2 expression was closely correlated with the progression of kidney fibrosis and accompanied by the activation of β-catenin. Furthermore, CB2 induced the formation of a β-arrestin 1/Src/β-catenin complex, which further triggered the nuclear translocation of β-catenin and caused fibrotic injury. Incubation with XL-001, an inverse agonist to CB2, or knockdown of β-arrestin 1 inhibited CB2-triggered activation of β-catenin and fibrotic injury. Notably, CB2 potentiated Wnt1-induced β-arrestin 1/β-catenin activation and augmented the pathogenesis of kidney fibrosis in mice with unilateral ischemia-reperfusion injury or folic acid-induced nephropathy. Knockdown of β-arrestin 1 inhibited the CB2 agonist AM1241-induced β-catenin activation and kidney fibrosis. By promoter sequence analysis, putative transcription factor binding sites for T-cell factor/lymphoid enhancer factor were found in the promoter regions of the CB2 gene regardless of the species. Overexpression of β-catenin induced the binding of T-cell factor/lymphoid enhancer factor-1 to these sites, promoted the expression of CB2, β-arrestin 1, and the proto-oncogene Src, and triggered their accumulation. Thus, the CB2/β-catenin pathway appears to create a reciprocal activation feedback loop that plays a central role in the pathogenesis of kidney fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Disease, Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qinyu Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Disease, Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xu Lin
- Department of Nephrology, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, Guangxi, China
| | - Xian Ling
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Disease, Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jinhua Miao
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Disease, Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Disease, Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chengxiao Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Disease, Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yunfang Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Huadu District People's Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Nan Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Disease, Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fan Fan Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Disease, Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Youhua Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Disease, Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China; Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Lili Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Disease, Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China; Bioland Laboratory (Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health, Guangdong Laboratory), Guangzhou, China.
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24
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Haspula D, Clark MA. Cannabinoid Receptors: An Update on Cell Signaling, Pathophysiological Roles and Therapeutic Opportunities in Neurological, Cardiovascular, and Inflammatory Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E7693. [PMID: 33080916 PMCID: PMC7590033 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21207693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Revised: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The identification of the human cannabinoid receptors and their roles in health and disease, has been one of the most significant biochemical and pharmacological advancements to have occurred in the past few decades. In spite of the major strides made in furthering endocannabinoid research, therapeutic exploitation of the endocannabinoid system has often been a challenging task. An impaired endocannabinoid tone often manifests as changes in expression and/or functions of type 1 and/or type 2 cannabinoid receptors. It becomes important to understand how alterations in cannabinoid receptor cellular signaling can lead to disruptions in major physiological and biological functions, as they are often associated with the pathogenesis of several neurological, cardiovascular, metabolic, and inflammatory diseases. This review focusses mostly on the pathophysiological roles of type 1 and type 2 cannabinoid receptors, and it attempts to integrate both cellular and physiological functions of the cannabinoid receptors. Apart from an updated review of pre-clinical and clinical studies, the adequacy/inadequacy of cannabinoid-based therapeutics in various pathological conditions is also highlighted. Finally, alternative strategies to modulate endocannabinoid tone, and future directions are also emphasized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhanush Haspula
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA;
| | - Michelle A. Clark
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314, USA
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25
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Walsh KB, Andersen HK. Molecular Pharmacology of Synthetic Cannabinoids: Delineating CB1 Receptor-Mediated Cell Signaling. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E6115. [PMID: 32854313 PMCID: PMC7503917 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) are a class of new psychoactive substances (NPSs) that exhibit high affinity binding to the cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors and display a pharmacological profile similar to the phytocannabinoid (-)-trans-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). SCs are marketed under brand names such as K2 and Spice and are popular drugs of abuse among male teenagers and young adults. Since their introduction in the early 2000s, SCs have grown in number and evolved in structural diversity to evade forensic detection and drug scheduling. In addition to their desirable euphoric and antinociceptive effects, SCs can cause severe toxicity including seizures, respiratory depression, cardiac arrhythmias, stroke and psychosis. Binding of SCs to the CB1 receptor, expressed in the central and peripheral nervous systems, stimulates pertussis toxin-sensitive G proteins (Gi/Go) resulting in the inhibition of adenylyl cyclase, a decreased opening of N-type Ca2+ channels and the activation of G protein-gated inward rectifier (GIRK) channels. This combination of signaling effects dampens neuronal activity in both CNS excitatory and inhibitory pathways by decreasing action potential formation and neurotransmitter release. Despite this knowledge, the relationship between the chemical structure of the SCs and their CB1 receptor-mediated molecular actions is not well understood. In addition, the potency and efficacy of newer SC structural groups has not been determined. To address these limitations, various cell-based assay technologies are being utilized to develop structure versus activity relationships (SAR) for the SCs and to explore the effects of these compounds on noncannabinoid receptor targets. This review focuses on describing and evaluating these assays and summarizes our current knowledge of SC molecular pharmacology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth B. Walsh
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Neuroscience, University of South Carolina, School of Medicine, Columbia, SC 29208, USA;
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26
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Kwon HJ, Kim DS, Kim W, Jung HY, Yu YH, Ju YI, Park DK, Hwang IK, Kim DW, Yoo DY. Tat-Cannabinoid Receptor Interacting Protein Reduces Ischemia-Induced Neuronal Damage and Its Possible Relationship with 14-3-3η. Cells 2020; 9:cells9081827. [PMID: 32756411 PMCID: PMC7465282 DOI: 10.3390/cells9081827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoid receptor-interacting protein 1a (CRIP1a) binds to the C-terminal domain of cannabinoid 1 receptor (CB1R) and regulates CB1R activities. In this study, we made Tat-CRIP1a fusion proteins to enhance CRIP1a penetration into neurons and brain and to evaluate the function of CRIP1a in neuroprotection following oxidative stress in HT22 hippocampal cells and transient forebrain ischemia in gerbils. Purified exogenous Tat-CRIP1a was penetrated into HT22 cells in a time and concentration-dependent manner and prevented H2O2-induced reactive oxygen species formation, DNA fragmentation, and cell damage. Tat-CRIP1a fusion protein also ameliorated the reduction of 14-3-3η expression by H2O2 treatment in HT22 cells. Ischemia–reperfusion damage caused motor hyperactivity in the open field test of gerbils; however, the treatment of Tat-CRIP1a significantly reduced hyperactivity 1 day after ischemia. Four days after ischemia, the administration of Tat-CRIP1a restored the loss of pyramidal neurons and decreased reactive astrocytosis and microgliosis induced by ischemic damage in the hippocampal cornu Ammonis (CA)1 region. Ischemic damage decreased 14-3-3η expression in all hippocampal sub-regions 4 days after ischemia; however, the treatment of Tat-CRIP1 ameliorated the reduction of 14-3-3η expression. These results suggest that Tat-CRIP1a attenuates neuronal damage and hyperactivity induced by ischemic damage, and it restores normal expression levels of 14-3-3η protein in the hippocampus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Jung Kwon
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Research Institute of Oral Sciences, College of Dentistry, Gangneung-Wonju National University, Gangneung 25457, Korea;
| | - Duk-Soo Kim
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan-Si 31151, Korea; (D.-S.K.); (Y.H.Y.); (Y.I.J.); (D.-K.P.)
| | - Woosuk Kim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Research Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Korea;
| | - Hyo Young Jung
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea; (H.Y.J.); (I.K.H.)
| | - Yeon Hee Yu
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan-Si 31151, Korea; (D.-S.K.); (Y.H.Y.); (Y.I.J.); (D.-K.P.)
| | - Young In Ju
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan-Si 31151, Korea; (D.-S.K.); (Y.H.Y.); (Y.I.J.); (D.-K.P.)
| | - Dae-Kyoon Park
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan-Si 31151, Korea; (D.-S.K.); (Y.H.Y.); (Y.I.J.); (D.-K.P.)
| | - In Koo Hwang
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea; (H.Y.J.); (I.K.H.)
| | - Dae Won Kim
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Research Institute of Oral Sciences, College of Dentistry, Gangneung-Wonju National University, Gangneung 25457, Korea;
- Correspondence: (D.W.K.); (D.Y.Y.); Tel.: +82-33-640-2229 (D.W.K.); +82-41-570-2472 (D.Y.Y.)
| | - Dae Young Yoo
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan-Si 31151, Korea; (D.-S.K.); (Y.H.Y.); (Y.I.J.); (D.-K.P.)
- Correspondence: (D.W.K.); (D.Y.Y.); Tel.: +82-33-640-2229 (D.W.K.); +82-41-570-2472 (D.Y.Y.)
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27
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Fletcher-Jones A, Hildick KL, Evans AJ, Nakamura Y, Henley JM, Wilkinson KA. Protein Interactors and Trafficking Pathways That Regulate the Cannabinoid Type 1 Receptor (CB1R). Front Mol Neurosci 2020; 13:108. [PMID: 32595453 PMCID: PMC7304349 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2020.00108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) acts as a negative feedback mechanism to suppress synaptic transmission and plays a major role in a diverse range of brain functions including, for example, the regulation of mood, energy balance, and learning and memory. The function and dysfunction of the ECS are strongly implicated in multiple psychiatric, neurological, and neurodegenerative diseases. Cannabinoid type 1 receptor (CB1R) is the most abundant G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) expressed in the brain and, as for any synaptic receptor, CB1R needs to be in the right place at the right time to respond appropriately to changing synaptic circumstances. While CB1R is found intracellularly throughout neurons, its surface expression is highly polarized to the axonal membrane, consistent with its functional expression at presynaptic sites. Surprisingly, despite the importance of CB1R, the interacting proteins and molecular mechanisms that regulate the highly polarized distribution and function of CB1R remain relatively poorly understood. Here we set out what is currently known about the trafficking pathways and protein interactions that underpin the surface expression and axonal polarity of CB1R, and highlight key questions that still need to be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Fletcher-Jones
- Centre for Synaptic Plasticity, School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Keri L Hildick
- Centre for Synaptic Plasticity, School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Ashley J Evans
- Centre for Synaptic Plasticity, School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Yasuko Nakamura
- Centre for Synaptic Plasticity, School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Jeremy M Henley
- Centre for Synaptic Plasticity, School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin A Wilkinson
- Centre for Synaptic Plasticity, School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
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28
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Allosteric modulators targeting cannabinoid cb1 and cb2 receptors: implications for drug discovery. Future Med Chem 2020; 11:2019-2037. [PMID: 31517528 DOI: 10.4155/fmc-2019-0005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Allosteric modulators of cannabinoid receptors hold great therapeutic potential, as they do not possess intrinsic efficacy, but instead enhance or diminish the receptor's response of orthosteric ligands allowing for the tempering of cannabinoid receptor signaling without the desensitization, tolerance and dependence. Allosteric modulators of cannabinoid receptors have numerous advantages over the orthosteric ligands such as higher receptor type selectivity, probe dependence and biased signaling, so they have a great potential to separate the therapeutic benefits from side effects own of orthosteric ligands. This review aims to give an overview of the CB1 and CB2 receptor allosteric modulators highlighting the structure-activity relationship and pharmacological profile of each classes, and their future promise.
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29
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Kovalchuk O, Kovalchuk I. Cannabinoids as anticancer therapeutic agents. Cell Cycle 2020; 19:961-989. [PMID: 32249682 PMCID: PMC7217364 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2020.1742952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2019] [Revised: 02/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The recent announcement of marijuana legalization in Canada spiked many discussions about potential health benefits of Cannabis sativa. Cannabinoids are active chemical compounds produced by cannabis, and their numerous effects on the human body are primarily exerted through interactions with cannabinoid receptor types 1 (CB1) and 2 (CB2). Cannabinoids are broadly classified as endo-, phyto-, and synthetic cannabinoids. In this review, we will describe the activity of cannabinoids on the cellular level, comprehensively summarize the activity of all groups of cannabinoids on various cancers and propose several potential mechanisms of action of cannabinoids on cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Kovalchuk
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
- Pathway Rx Inc., Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
| | - Igor Kovalchuk
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
- Pathway Rx Inc., Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
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30
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Stasiulewicz A, Znajdek K, Grudzień M, Pawiński T, Sulkowska JI. A Guide to Targeting the Endocannabinoid System in Drug Design. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21082778. [PMID: 32316328 PMCID: PMC7216112 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21082778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is one of the most crucial systems in the human organism, exhibiting multi-purpose regulatory character. It is engaged in a vast array of physiological processes, including nociception, mood regulation, cognitive functions, neurogenesis and neuroprotection, appetite, lipid metabolism, as well as cell growth and proliferation. Thus, ECS proteins, including cannabinoid receptors and their endogenous ligands’ synthesizing and degrading enzymes, are promising therapeutic targets. Their modulation has been employed in or extensively studied as a treatment of multiple diseases. However, due to a complex nature of ECS and its crosstalk with other biological systems, the development of novel drugs turned out to be a challenging task. In this review, we summarize potential therapeutic applications for ECS-targeting drugs, especially focusing on promising synthetic compounds and preclinical studies. We put emphasis on modulation of specific proteins of ECS in different pathophysiological areas. In addition, we stress possible difficulties and risks and highlight proposed solutions. By presenting this review, we point out information pivotal in the spotlight of ECS-targeting drug design, as well as provide an overview of the current state of knowledge on ECS-related pharmacodynamics and show possible directions for needed research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Stasiulewicz
- Department of Drug Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland; (M.G.); (T.P.)
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Biological Systems Modelling, Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland;
- Correspondence: (A.S.); (J.I.S.)
| | - Katarzyna Znajdek
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Biological Systems Modelling, Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland;
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Monika Grudzień
- Department of Drug Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland; (M.G.); (T.P.)
| | - Tomasz Pawiński
- Department of Drug Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland; (M.G.); (T.P.)
| | - Joanna I. Sulkowska
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Biological Systems Modelling, Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland;
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 1, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
- Materials and Process Simulation Center, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
- Correspondence: (A.S.); (J.I.S.)
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Ye L, Cao Z, Wang W, Zhou N. New Insights in Cannabinoid Receptor Structure and Signaling. Curr Mol Pharmacol 2020; 12:239-248. [PMID: 30767756 DOI: 10.2174/1874467212666190215112036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Revised: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabinoid has long been used for medicinal purposes. Cannabinoid signaling has been considered the therapeutic target for treating pain, addiction, obesity, inflammation, and other diseases. Recent studies have suggested that in addition to CB1 and CB2, there are non-CB1 and non-CB2 cannabinoid-related orphan GPCRs including GPR18, GPR55, and GPR119. In addition, CB1 and CB2 display allosteric binding and biased signaling, revealing correlations between biased signaling and functional outcomes. Interestingly, new investigations have indicated that CB1 is functionally present within the mitochondria of striated and heart muscles directly regulating intramitochondrial signaling and respiration. CONCLUSION In this review, we summarize the recent progress in cannabinoid-related orphan GPCRs, CB1/CB2 structure, Gi/Gs coupling, allosteric ligands and biased signaling, and mitochondria-localized CB1, and discuss the future promise of this research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingyan Ye
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Zijingang Campus, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zheng Cao
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Zijingang Campus, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Weiwei Wang
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Zijingang Campus, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Naiming Zhou
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Zijingang Campus, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Tan S, Liu H, Ke B, Jiang J, Wu B. The peripheral CB 1 receptor antagonist JD5037 attenuates liver fibrosis via a CB 1 receptor/β-arrestin1/Akt pathway. Br J Pharmacol 2020; 177:2830-2847. [PMID: 32017042 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2019] [Revised: 12/31/2019] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Liver fibrosis is a serious cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide and has no adequate treatment. Accumulating evidence suggests that cannabinoid CB1 receptors regulate a variety of physiological and pathological processes in the liver, and blockage of CB1 receptor signalling shows promise as a new therapy for several liver diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential therapeutic effects of CB1 receptors and a peripheral CB1 receptor antagonist JD5037 in liver fibrogenesis. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Liver samples from both humans and mouse models were investigated. The peripheral CB1 receptor antagonist JD5037, β-arr1 wild type (β-arr1-WT) and β-arr1 knockout (β-arr1-KO) littermate models, and primary hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) were also used. The mechanisms underlying CB1 receptor-regulated HSCs activation in fibrosis and the therapeutic potential of JD5037 were further analysed. KEY RESULTS CB1 receptors were induced in samples from patients with liver fibrosis and from mouse models. These receptors promoted activation of HSCs in liver fibrosis via recruiting β-arrestin1 and Akt signalling, while blockage of CB1 receptors with JD5037 attenuated CB1 receptor-regulated HSCs activation and liver fibrosis by suppressing β-arrestin1/Akt signalling. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS CB1 receptors promote the activation of HSCs and liver fibrosis via the β-arrestin1/Akt signalling pathway. The peripheral CB1 receptor antagonist JD5037 blocked this pathway, the activation of HSCs and liver fibrosis. This compound and the associated pathway may be a novel approach to the treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siwei Tan
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huiling Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bilun Ke
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jie Jiang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bin Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Guangzhou, China
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33
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Patel M, Manning JJ, Finlay DB, Javitch JA, Banister SD, Grimsey NL, Glass M. Signalling profiles of a structurally diverse panel of synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists. Biochem Pharmacol 2020; 175:113871. [PMID: 32088263 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2020.113871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) represent the most rapidly proliferating class of "designer drugs" or "new psychoactive substances". SCRAs offer unregulated alternatives to cannabis that evade routine drug tests, but their use is increasingly associated with severe toxicity and death worldwide. Little is currently known about SCRA molecular pharmacology, or the mechanisms underpinning their toxicity, although the effects are believed to be primarily mediated by the type 1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1). In this study, we aimed to characterise the signalling profiles of a structurally diverse panel of novel SCRAs at CB1. We compare SCRAs to traditional reference cannabinoids CP55,940, WIN55,212-2, and THC. The activity of the SCRAs was assessed in key receptor signalling and regulatory pathways, including cAMP production, translocation of β-arrestin 1 and 2, and receptor internalisation. The activity profiles of the ligands were also evaluated using operational analysis to identify ligand bias. Results revealed that SCRAs activities were relatively balanced in the pathways evaluated (compared to WIN55,212-2), although 5F-CUMYL-P7AICA and XLR-11 possessed partial efficacy in cAMP stimulation and β-arrestin translocation. Notably, the SCRAs showed distinct potency and efficacy profiles compared to THC. In particular, while the majority of SCRAs demonstrated robust β-arrestin translocation, cAMP stimulation, and internalisation, THC failed to elicit high efficacy responses in any of these assays. Further study is required to delineate if these pathways could contribute to SCRA toxicity in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Patel
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand; Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jamie J Manning
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - David B Finlay
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Jonathan A Javitch
- Department of Psychiatry and Pharmacology, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, United States; Division of Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, United States
| | - Samuel D Banister
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia; School of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Natasha L Grimsey
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.
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Alam RM, Keating JJ. Adding more "spice" to the pot: A review of the chemistry and pharmacology of newly emerging heterocyclic synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists. Drug Test Anal 2020; 12:297-315. [PMID: 31854124 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Revised: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) first appeared on the international recreational drug market in the early 2000s in the form of SCRA-containing herbal blends. Due to the cannabimimetic effects associated with the consumption of SCRAs, they have acquired an ill-informed reputation for being cheap, safe, and legal alternatives to illicit cannabis. Possessing high potency and affinity for the human cannabinoid receptor subtype-1 (CB1 ) and -2 (CB2 ), it is now understood that the recreational use of SCRAs can have severe adverse health consequences. The major public health problem arising from SCRA use has pressed legislators around the world to employ various control strategies to curb their recreational use. To circumvent legislative control measures, SCRA manufacturers have created a wide range of SCRA analogs that contain, more recently, previously unencountered azaindole, γ-carbolinone, or carbazole heterocyclic scaffolds. At present, little information is available regarding the chemical syntheses of these newly emerging classes of SCRA, from a clandestine perspective. When compared with previous generations of indole- and indazole-type SCRAs, current research suggests that many of these heterocyclic SCRA analogs maintain high affinity and efficacy at both CB1 and CB2 but largely evade legislative control. This review highlights the importance of continued research in the field of SCRA chemistry and pharmacology, as recreational SCRA use remains a global public health issue and represents a serious control challenge for law enforcement agencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan M Alam
- Analytical & Biological Chemistry Research Facility (ABCRF), University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.,School of Chemistry, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - John J Keating
- Analytical & Biological Chemistry Research Facility (ABCRF), University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.,School of Chemistry, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.,School of Pharmacy, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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35
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Schurman LD, Lu D, Kendall DA, Howlett AC, Lichtman AH. Molecular Mechanism and Cannabinoid Pharmacology. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2020; 258:323-353. [PMID: 32236882 PMCID: PMC8637936 DOI: 10.1007/164_2019_298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Since antiquity, Cannabis has provoked enormous intrigue for its potential medicinal properties as well as for its unique pharmacological effects. The elucidation of its major cannabinoid constituents, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), led to the synthesis of new cannabinoids (termed synthetic cannabinoids) to understand the mechanisms underlying the pharmacology of Cannabis. These pharmacological tools were instrumental in the ultimate discovery of the endogenous cannabinoid system, which consists of CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors and endogenously produced ligands (endocannabinoids), which bind and activate both cannabinoid receptors. CB1 receptors mediate the cannabimimetic effects of THC and are highly expressed on presynaptic neurons in the nervous system, where they modulate neurotransmitter release. In contrast, CB2 receptors are primarily expressed on immune cells. The endocannabinoids are tightly regulated by biosynthetic and hydrolytic enzymes. Accordingly, the endocannabinoid system plays a modulatory role in many physiological processes, thereby generating many promising therapeutic targets. An unintended consequence of this research was the emergence of synthetic cannabinoids sold for human consumption to circumvent federal laws banning Cannabis use. Here, we describe research that led to the discovery of the endogenous cannabinoid system and show how knowledge of this system benefitted as well as unintentionally harmed human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lesley D Schurman
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Dai Lu
- Rangel College of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Texas A&M University, Kingsville, TX, USA
| | - Debra A Kendall
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Allyn C Howlett
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Center for Research on Substance Use and Addiction, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Aron H Lichtman
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA.
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA.
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36
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Botta J, Appelhans J, McCormick PJ. Continuing challenges in targeting oligomeric GPCR-based drugs. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2020; 169:213-245. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2019.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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37
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Dopart R, Kendall DA. Allosteric modulators restore orthosteric agonist binding to mutated CB 1 receptors. J Pharm Pharmacol 2019; 72:84-91. [PMID: 31722122 DOI: 10.1111/jphp.13193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine if diminished orthosteric agonist binding due to mutations in extracellular loops 1 or 2 of the cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1 ) can be overcome by an allosteric modulator and restore agonist binding. METHODS Binding assays were performed using a range of concentrations of orthosteric compound, in the presence or absence of a set concentration of the allosteric modulator PSNCBAM-1 to determine the EC50 in its absence or presence. KEY FINDINGS Single mutations in extracellular loop 1 or 2 of CB1 showed weak or no binding of agonist CP55940 to the receptor. Interestingly, upon addition of the allosteric modulator PSNCBAM-1, this binding was restored typically to wild-type CB1 levels. In a few cases, the allosteric modulator ORG27569 was compared with PSNCBAM-1 for CP55940 binding and it also restored binding. Further, wild-type levels of inverse agonist bound the CB1 mutants in the absence of modulator, suggesting the mutants were originally folded like the wild type. CONCLUSIONS Based on our findings, we provide evidence of a therapeutic application for allosteric modulators in situations where a mutation in the receptor may hinder its function. By utilizing allosteric modulators, restoration of orthosteric binding may be possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Dopart
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Debra A Kendall
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
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38
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Structure of an allosteric modulator bound to the CB1 cannabinoid receptor. Nat Chem Biol 2019; 15:1199-1205. [PMID: 31659318 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-019-0387-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The CB1 receptor mediates the central nervous system response to cannabinoids, and is a drug target for pain, anxiety and seizures. CB1 also responds to allosteric modulators, which influence cannabinoid binding and efficacy. To understand the mechanism of these compounds, we solved the crystal structure of CB1 with the negative allosteric modulator (NAM) ORG27569 and the agonist CP55940. The structure reveals that the NAM binds to an extrahelical site within the inner leaflet of the membrane, which overlaps with a conserved site of cholesterol interaction in many G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). The ternary structure with ORG27569 and CP55940 captures an intermediate state of the receptor, in which aromatic residues at the base of the agonist-binding pocket adopt an inactive conformation despite the large contraction of the orthosteric pocket. The structure illustrates a potential strategy for drug modulation of CB1 and other class A GPCRs.
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39
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Finlay DB, Manning JJ, Ibsen MS, Macdonald CE, Patel M, Javitch JA, Banister SD, Glass M. Do Toxic Synthetic Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists Have Signature in Vitro Activity Profiles? A Case Study of AMB-FUBINACA. ACS Chem Neurosci 2019; 10:4350-4360. [PMID: 31513380 PMCID: PMC7365684 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.9b00429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Recreational consumption of synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) is a growing crisis in public health in many parts of the world. AMB-FUBINACA is a member of this class of drugs and is responsible for a large proportion of SCRA-related toxicity both in New Zealand and internationally. Strikingly, little is currently known about the mechanisms by which SCRAs exert toxic effects or whether their activity through the CB1 cannabinoid receptor (the mediator of cannabinoid-related psychoactivity) is sufficient to explain clinical observations. The current study therefore set out to perform a basic molecular pharmacology characterization of AMB-FUBINACA (in comparison to traditional research cannabinoids CP55,940, WIN55,212-2, and Δ9-THC) in fundamental pathways of receptor activity, including cAMP inhibition, pERK activation, ability to drive CB1 internalization, and ability to induce translocation of β-arrestins-1 and -2. Activity pathways were then compared by operational analysis to indicate whether AMB-FUBINACA may be a biased ligand. Results revealed that AMB-FUBINACA is highly efficacious and potent in all pathways assayed. However, surprisingly, bias analysis suggested that Δ9-THC, not AMB-FUBINACA, may be a biased ligand, with it being less active in both arrestin pathways than predicted by the activity of the other ligands tested. These data may help predict molecular characteristics of SCRAs. However, more research is required to determine whether these molecular effects manifest in toxicity at tissue/system level.
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Affiliation(s)
- David B. Finlay
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Jamie J. Manning
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Mikkel Søes Ibsen
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Christa E. Macdonald
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Monica Patel
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Jonathan A. Javitch
- Department of Psychiatry and Pharmacology, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York 10032, United States
- Division of Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York 10032, United States
| | - Samuel D. Banister
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Campterdown, NSW 2050, Australia
- School of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
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40
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Youssif BG, Mohamed AM, Osman EEA, Abou-Ghadir OF, Elnaggar DH, Abdelrahman MH, Treamblu L, Gomaa HA. 5-Chlorobenzofuran-2-carboxamides: From allosteric CB1 modulators to potential apoptotic antitumor agents. Eur J Med Chem 2019; 177:1-11. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2019.05.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Revised: 04/05/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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Banister SD, Krishna Kumar K, Kumar V, Kobilka BK, Malhotra SV. Selective modulation of the cannabinoid type 1 (CB 1) receptor as an emerging platform for the treatment of neuropathic pain. MEDCHEMCOMM 2019; 10:647-659. [PMID: 31191856 PMCID: PMC6533890 DOI: 10.1039/c8md00595h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2018] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Neuropathic pain is caused by a lesion or dysfunction in the nervous system, and it may arise from illness, be drug-induced or caused by toxin exposure. Since the discovery of two G-protein-coupled cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) nearly three decades ago, there has been a rapid expansion in our understanding of cannabinoid pharmacology. This is currently one of the most active fields of neuropharmacology, and interest has emerged in developing cannabinoids and other small molecule modulators of CB1 and CB2 as therapeutics for neuropathic pain. This short review article provides an overview of the chemotypes currently under investigation for the development of novel neuropathic pain treatments targeting CB1 receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel D Banister
- Department of Radiation Oncology , Stanford University School of Medicine , Stanford , CA 94305 , USA .
| | - Kaavya Krishna Kumar
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology , Stanford University School of Medicine , Stanford , CA 94305 , USA
| | - Vineet Kumar
- Department of Radiation Oncology , Stanford University School of Medicine , Stanford , CA 94305 , USA .
| | - Brian K Kobilka
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology , Stanford University School of Medicine , Stanford , CA 94305 , USA
| | - Sanjay V Malhotra
- Department of Radiation Oncology , Stanford University School of Medicine , Stanford , CA 94305 , USA .
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Al-Zoubi R, Morales P, Reggio PH. Structural Insights into CB1 Receptor Biased Signaling. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E1837. [PMID: 31013934 PMCID: PMC6515405 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20081837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Revised: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 04/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system has emerged as a promising target for the treatment of numerous diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and metabolic syndromes. Thus far, two cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2, have been discovered, which are found predominantly in the central nervous system (CB1) or the immune system (CB2), among other organs and tissues. CB1 receptor ligands have been shown to induce a complex pattern of intracellular effects. The binding of a ligand induces distinct conformational changes in the receptor, which will eventually translate into distinct intracellular signaling pathways through coupling to specific intracellular effector proteins. These proteins can mediate receptor desensitization, trafficking, or signaling. Ligand specificity and selectivity, complex cellular components, and the concomitant expression of other proteins (which either regulate the CB1 receptor or are regulated by the CB1 receptor) will affect the therapeutic outcome of its targeting. With an increased interest in G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) research, in-depth studies using mutations, biological assays, and spectroscopic techniques (such as NMR, EPR, MS, FRET, and X-ray crystallography), as well as computational modelling, have begun to reveal a set of concerted structural features in Class A GPCRs which relate to signaling pathways and the mechanisms of ligand-induced activation, deactivation, or activity modulation. This review will focus on the structural features of the CB1 receptor, mutations known to bias its signaling, and reported studies of CB1 receptor ligands to control its specific signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rufaida Al-Zoubi
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science & Technology, P.O.BOX 3030, Irbid 22110, Jordan.
| | - Paula Morales
- Departamento de Química-Física Biológica, Instituto de Química Física Rocasolano (IQFR-CSIC), Serrano 119, 28006 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Patricia H Reggio
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, UNC Greensboro, Greensboro, NC 27412, USA.
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Moreno E, Cavic M, Krivokuca A, Casadó V, Canela E. The Endocannabinoid System as a Target in Cancer Diseases: Are We There Yet? Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:339. [PMID: 31024307 PMCID: PMC6459931 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2018] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) has been placed in the anti-cancer spotlight in the last decade. The immense data load published on its dual role in both tumorigenesis and inhibition of tumor growth and metastatic spread has transformed the cannabinoid receptors CB1 (CB1R) and CB2 (CB2R), and other members of the endocannabinoid-like system, into attractive new targets for the treatment of various cancer subtypes. Although the clinical use of cannabinoids has been extensively documented in the palliative setting, clinical trials on their application as anti-cancer drugs are still ongoing. As drug repurposing is significantly faster and more economical than de novo introduction of a new drug into the clinic, there is hope that the existing pharmacokinetic and safety data on the ECS ligands will contribute to their successful translation into oncological healthcare. CB1R and CB2R are members of a large family of membrane proteins called G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR). GPCRs can form homodimers, heterodimers and higher order oligomers with other GPCRs or non-GPCRs. Currently, several CB1R and CB2R-containing heteromers have been reported and, in cancer cells, CB2R form heteromers with the G protein-coupled chemokine receptor CXCR4, the G protein-coupled receptor 55 (GPR55) and the tyrosine kinase receptor (TKR) human V-Erb-B2 Avian Erythroblastic Leukemia Viral Oncogene Homolog 2 (HER2). These protein complexes possess unique pharmacological and signaling properties, and their modulation might affect the antitumoral activity of the ECS. This review will explore the potential of the endocannabinoid network in the anti-cancer setting as well as the clinical and ethical pitfalls behind it, and will develop on the value of cannabinoid receptor heteromers as potential new targets for anti-cancer therapies and as prognostic biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estefanía Moreno
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Biomedicine (IBUB), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
| | - Milena Cavic
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute for Oncology and Radiology of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ana Krivokuca
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute for Oncology and Radiology of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Vicent Casadó
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Biomedicine (IBUB), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
| | - Enric Canela
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Biomedicine (IBUB), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
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Nealon CM, Henderson-Redmond AN, Hale DE, Morgan DJ. Tolerance to WIN55,212-2 is delayed in desensitization-resistant S426A/S430A mice. Neuropharmacology 2019; 148:151-159. [PMID: 30629988 PMCID: PMC6535342 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.12.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2018] [Revised: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Tolerance to cannabinoid agonists can develop through desensitization of the cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) following prolonged administration. Desensitization results from phosphorylation of CB1 by a G protein-coupled receptor kinase (GRK), and subsequent association of the receptor with arrestin. Mice expressing a mutant form of CB1, in which the serine residues at two putative phosphorylation sites necessary for desensitization have been replaced by non-phosphorylatable alanines (S426A/S430A), display reduced tolerance to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC). Tolerance to the antinociceptive effects of WIN55,212-2 was delayed in S426A/S430A mutants using the tail-flick and formalin tests. However, tolerance to the antinociceptive effects of once daily CP55,940 injections was not significantly delayed in S426A/S430A mutant mice using either of these tests. Interestingly, the dose response curve shifts for the hypothermic and antinociceptive effects of CP55,940 that were induced by chronic treatment with this agonist in wild-type mice were blocked in S426A/S430A mutant mice. Assessment of mechanical allodynia in mice exhibiting chronic cisplatin-evoked neuropathic pain found that tolerance to the anti-allodynic effects WIN55,212-2 but not CP55,940 was delayed in S426A/S430A mice compared to wild-type littermates. Despite these deficits in tolerance, S426A/S430A mutant mice eventually developed tolerance to both WIN55,212-2 and CP55,940 for all pain assays that were examined, suggesting that other mechanisms likely contribute to tolerance for these cannabinoid agonists. These findings suggest that GRK- and βarrestin2-mediated desensitization of CB1 may strongly contribute to the rate of tolerance to the antinociceptive effects of WIN55,212-2, and raises the possibility of agonist-specific mechanisms of cannabinoid tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin M Nealon
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA
| | - Angela N Henderson-Redmond
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA
| | - David E Hale
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA
| | - Daniel J Morgan
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA; Department of Pharmacology, Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA; Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA.
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Lu D, Immadi SS, Wu Z, Kendall DA. Translational potential of allosteric modulators targeting the cannabinoid CB 1 receptor. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2019; 40:324-335. [PMID: 30333554 PMCID: PMC6460365 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-018-0164-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2018] [Accepted: 08/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The cannabinoid type-1 (CB1) receptor, a G-protein-coupled receptor, is an attractive target for drug discovery due to its involvement in many physiological processes. Historically, drug discovery efforts targeting the CB1 receptor have focused on the development of orthosteric ligands that interact with the active site to which endogenous cannabinoids bind. Research performed over the last several decades has revealed substantial difficulties in translating CB1 orthosteric ligands into druggable candidates. The difficulty is mainly due to the adverse effects associated with orthosteric CB1 ligands. Recent discoveries of allosteric CB1 modulators provide tremendous opportunities to develop CB1 ligands with novel mechanisms of action; these ligands may potentially improve the pharmacological effects and enhance drug safety in treating the disorders by regulating the functions of the CB1 receptor. In this paper, we review and summarize the complex pharmacological profiles of each class of CB1 allosteric modulators, the development of new classes of CB1 allosteric modulators and the results from in vivo assessments of their therapeutic value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dai Lu
- Rangel College of Pharmacy, Texas A&M University, Kingsville, TX, 78363, USA.
| | - Sri Sujana Immadi
- Rangel College of Pharmacy, Texas A&M University, Kingsville, TX, 78363, USA
| | - Zhixing Wu
- Rangel College of Pharmacy, Texas A&M University, Kingsville, TX, 78363, USA
| | - Debra A Kendall
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, 06269, USA
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Coughlin Q, Hopper AT, Blanco MJ, Tirunagaru V, Robichaud AJ, Doller D. Allosteric Modalities for Membrane-Bound Receptors: Insights from Drug Hunting for Brain Diseases. J Med Chem 2019; 62:5979-6002. [PMID: 30721063 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.8b01651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Medicinal chemists are accountable for embedding the appropriate drug target profile into the molecular architecture of a clinical candidate. An accurate characterization of the functional effects following binding of a drug to its biological target is a fundamental step in the discovery of new medicines, informing the translation of preclinical efficacy and safety observations into human trials. Membrane-bound proteins, particularly ion channels and G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), are biological targets prone to allosteric modulation. Investigations using allosteric drug candidates and chemical tools suggest that their functional effects may be tailored with a high degree of translational alignment, making them molecular tools to correct pathophysiological functional tone and enable personalized medicine when a causative target-to-disease link is known. We present select examples of functional molecular fine-tuning of allosterism and discuss consequences relevant to drug design.
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Immadi SS, Dopart R, Wu Z, Fu B, Kendall DA, Lu D. Exploring 6-Azaindole and 7-Azaindole Rings for Developing Cannabinoid Receptor 1 Allosteric Modulators. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2018; 3:252-258. [PMID: 30547095 PMCID: PMC6290480 DOI: 10.1089/can.2018.0046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction and Objective: Org27569 is a prototypical allosteric modulator of the cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1). It belongs to the indole-2-carboxamide scaffold and has been intensively investigated in pharmacology and in structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies. Although azaindoles are rare in natural products and differ only by the presence of an extra ring nitrogen, they were demonstrated as valuable bioisosteres in many pharmacologically important molecules. To extend the SAR investigation of the indole-2-carboxamide class of CB1 allosteric modulators, azaindole (pyrrolopyridine) rings were used to replace the indole ring of Org27569 analogs to explore the potential of azaindole-2-carboxamides as CB1 allosteric modulators. Using 6- and 7-azaindole in lieu of the indole moiety within this class of CB1 allosteric modulators indeed improved the aqueous solubility. Materials and Methods: We synthesized 6- and 7-azaindole-2-carboxamides and their indole-2-carboxamide counterparts. The molecules were evaluated by [3H]CP55,940 binding and [35S]GTPγS binding assays for their allosteric modulation of the CB1 receptor. Results: The 7-azaindole-2-carboxamides lost the ability to bind to the CB1 receptor. The 6-azaindole-2-carboxamides (e.g., 3c and 3d) showed markedly reduced binding affinities to the CB1 receptor in comparison with their indole-2-carboxamide counterparts. However, they behaved similarly as indole-2-carboxamides in potentiating the orthosteric agonist binding and inhibiting the orthosteric agonist-induced G-protein coupling. The results indicated that some azaindole scaffolds (e.g., 6-azaindole) are worth further exploration, whereas the 7-azaindole ring is not a viable bioisostere of the indole ring in the Org27569 class of CB1 allosteric modulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sri Sujana Immadi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Rangel College of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Texas A&M University, Kingsville, Texas
| | - Rachel Dopart
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Zhixing Wu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Rangel College of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Texas A&M University, Kingsville, Texas
| | - Boqiao Fu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Rangel College of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Texas A&M University, Kingsville, Texas
| | - Debra A. Kendall
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Dai Lu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Rangel College of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Texas A&M University, Kingsville, Texas
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Jagla CAD, Scott CE, Tang Y, Qiao C, Mateo-Semidey GE, Yudowski GA, Lu D, Kendall DA. Pyrimidinyl Biphenylureas Act as Allosteric Modulators to Activate Cannabinoid Receptor 1 and Initiate β-Arrestin-Dependent Responses. Mol Pharmacol 2018; 95:1-10. [PMID: 30322873 DOI: 10.1124/mol.118.112854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2018] [Accepted: 10/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) is a G-protein-coupled receptor that is abundant in the central nervous system. It binds several compounds in its orthosteric site, including the endocannabinoids, arachidonoyl ethanolamide (anandamide) and 2-arachidonoyl glycerol, and the plant-derived Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, one of the main psychoactive components of marijuana. It primarily couples to Gi/o proteins to inhibit adenylate cyclase activity and typically induces downstream signaling that is Gi-dependent. Since this receptor is implicated in several maladies, such as obesity, pain, and neurodegenerative disorders, there is interest in developing therapeutics that selectively target this receptor. Allosteric modulators of CB1 offer one new approach that has tremendous therapeutic potential. Here, we reveal receptor- and cellular-level properties consistent with receptor activation by a series of pyrimidinyl biphenylureas (LDK1285, LDK1288, LDK1305, and PSNCBAM1), including promoting binding of the agonist CP55940 with positive cooperativity and inhibiting binding of the inverse agonist SR141716A with negative cooperativity, demonstrated via radioligand binding studies. Consistent with these findings, the allosteric modulators induced cellular internalization of the receptor and recruitment of β-arrestin 2 in human embryonic kidney cell line 293 cells monitored with confocal and total internal reflective fluorescence microscopy, respectively. These allosteric modulators, however, caused G-protein-independent but β-arrestin 1-dependent phosphorylation of the downstream kinases extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2, mitogen-activated protein kinase, and Src, shown by immunoblotting studies. These results are consistent with the involvement of β-arrestin and suggest that these allosteric modulators induce biased signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin A D Jagla
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut (C.A.D.J., C.E.S., Y.T., D.A.K.); Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology (G.E.M.-S., G.A.Y.) and Institute of Neurobiology (G.E.M.-S., G.A.Y.), University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Kingsville, Texas (C.Q., D.L.)
| | - Caitlin E Scott
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut (C.A.D.J., C.E.S., Y.T., D.A.K.); Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology (G.E.M.-S., G.A.Y.) and Institute of Neurobiology (G.E.M.-S., G.A.Y.), University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Kingsville, Texas (C.Q., D.L.)
| | - Yaliang Tang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut (C.A.D.J., C.E.S., Y.T., D.A.K.); Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology (G.E.M.-S., G.A.Y.) and Institute of Neurobiology (G.E.M.-S., G.A.Y.), University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Kingsville, Texas (C.Q., D.L.)
| | - Changjiang Qiao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut (C.A.D.J., C.E.S., Y.T., D.A.K.); Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology (G.E.M.-S., G.A.Y.) and Institute of Neurobiology (G.E.M.-S., G.A.Y.), University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Kingsville, Texas (C.Q., D.L.)
| | - Gabriel E Mateo-Semidey
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut (C.A.D.J., C.E.S., Y.T., D.A.K.); Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology (G.E.M.-S., G.A.Y.) and Institute of Neurobiology (G.E.M.-S., G.A.Y.), University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Kingsville, Texas (C.Q., D.L.)
| | - Guillermo A Yudowski
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut (C.A.D.J., C.E.S., Y.T., D.A.K.); Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology (G.E.M.-S., G.A.Y.) and Institute of Neurobiology (G.E.M.-S., G.A.Y.), University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Kingsville, Texas (C.Q., D.L.)
| | - Dai Lu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut (C.A.D.J., C.E.S., Y.T., D.A.K.); Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology (G.E.M.-S., G.A.Y.) and Institute of Neurobiology (G.E.M.-S., G.A.Y.), University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Kingsville, Texas (C.Q., D.L.)
| | - Debra A Kendall
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut (C.A.D.J., C.E.S., Y.T., D.A.K.); Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology (G.E.M.-S., G.A.Y.) and Institute of Neurobiology (G.E.M.-S., G.A.Y.), University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Kingsville, Texas (C.Q., D.L.)
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Tham M, Yilmaz O, Alaverdashvili M, Kelly MEM, Denovan-Wright EM, Laprairie RB. Allosteric and orthosteric pharmacology of cannabidiol and cannabidiol-dimethylheptyl at the type 1 and type 2 cannabinoid receptors. Br J Pharmacol 2018; 176:1455-1469. [PMID: 29981240 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 185] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2017] [Revised: 06/15/2018] [Accepted: 06/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE We sought to understand why (-)-cannabidiol (CBD) and (-)-cannabidiol-dimethylheptyl (CBD-DMH) exhibit distinct pharmacology, despite near identical structures. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH HEK293A cells expressing either human type 1 cannabinoid (CB1 ) receptors or CB2 receptors were treated with CBD or CBD-DMH with or without the CB1 and CB2 receptor agonist CP55,940, CB1 receptor allosteric modulator Org27569 or CB2 receptor inverse agonist SR144528. Ligand binding, cAMP levels and βarrestin1 recruitment were measured. CBD and CBD-DMH binding was simulated with models of human CB1 or CB2 receptors, based on the recently published crystal structures of agonist-bound (5XRA) or antagonist-bound (5TGZ) human CB1 receptors. KEY RESULTS At CB1 receptors, CBD was a negative allosteric modulator (NAM), and CBD-DMH was a mixed agonist/positive allosteric modulator. CBD and Org27569 shared multiple interacting residues in the antagonist-bound model of CB1 receptors (5TGZ) but shared a binding site with CP55,940 in the agonist-bound model of CB1 receptors (5XRA). The binding site for CBD-DMH in the CB1 receptor models overlapped with CP55,940 and Org27569. At CB2 receptors, CBD was a partial agonist, and CBD-DMH was a positive allosteric modulator of cAMP modulation but a NAM of βarrestin1 recruitment. CBD, CP55,940 and SR144528 shared a binding site in the CB2 receptor models that was separate from CBD-DMH. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS The pharmacological activity of CBD and CBD-DMH in HEK293A cells and their modelled binding sites at CB1 and CB2 receptors may explain their in vivo effects and illuminates the difficulties associated with the development of allosteric modulators for CB1 and CB2 receptors. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on 8th European Workshop on Cannabinoid Research. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v176.10/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mylyne Tham
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Orhan Yilmaz
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Mariam Alaverdashvili
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Melanie E M Kelly
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.,Department of Opthamology and Visual Sciences, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | | | - Robert B Laprairie
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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