1
|
Gabarin A, Yarmolinsky L, Budovsky A, Khalfin B, Ben-Shabat S. Cannabis as a Source of Approved Drugs: A New Look at an Old Problem. Molecules 2023; 28:7686. [PMID: 38067416 PMCID: PMC10707504 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28237686] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis plants have been used in medicine since ancient times. They are well known for their anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, anti-cancer, anti-oxidative, anti-microbial, anti-viral, and anti-fungal activities. A growing body of evidence indicates that targeting the endocannabinoid system and various other receptors with cannabinoid compounds holds great promise for addressing multiple medical conditions. There are two distinct avenues in the development of cannabinoid-based drugs. The first involves creating treatments directly based on the components of the cannabis plant. The second involves a singular molecule strategy, in which specific phytocannabinoids or newly discovered cannabinoids with therapeutic promise are pinpointed and synthesized for future pharmaceutical development and validation. Although the therapeutic potential of cannabis is enormous, few cannabis-related approved drugs exist, and this avenue warrants further investigation. With this in mind, we review here the medicinal properties of cannabis, its phytochemicals, approved drugs of natural and synthetic origin, pitfalls on the way to the widespread clinical use of cannabis, and additional applications of cannabis-related products.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adi Gabarin
- The Department of Clinical Biochemistry & Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel; (A.G.); (L.Y.); (B.K.)
| | - Ludmila Yarmolinsky
- The Department of Clinical Biochemistry & Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel; (A.G.); (L.Y.); (B.K.)
| | - Arie Budovsky
- Research and Development Authority, Barzilai University Medical Center, Ashkelon 7830604, Israel;
| | - Boris Khalfin
- The Department of Clinical Biochemistry & Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel; (A.G.); (L.Y.); (B.K.)
| | - Shimon Ben-Shabat
- The Department of Clinical Biochemistry & Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel; (A.G.); (L.Y.); (B.K.)
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Yuan J, Yang B, Hou G, Xie XQ, Feng Z. Targeting the endocannabinoid system: Structural determinants and molecular mechanism of allosteric modulation. Drug Discov Today 2023; 28:103615. [PMID: 37172889 PMCID: PMC10330941 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2023.103615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Although drugs targeting the orthosteric binding site of cannabinoid receptors (CBRs) have several therapeutic effects on human physiological and pathological conditions, they can also cause serious adverse effects. Only a few orthosteric ligands have successfully passed clinical trials. Recently, allosteric modulation has become a novel option for drug discovery, with fewer adverse effects and the potential to avoid drug overdose. In this review, we highlight novel findings related to the drug discovery of allosteric modulators (AMs) targeting CBRs. We summarize newly synthesized AMs and the reported/predicted allosteric binding sites. We also discuss the structural determinants of the AMs binding as well as the molecular mechanism of CBR allostery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiayi Yuan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, and Pharmacometrics & System Pharmacology PharmacoAnalytics, School of Pharmacy; National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research; Drug Discovery Institute; Departments of Computational Biology and Structural Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States
| | - Bo Yang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, and Pharmacometrics & System Pharmacology PharmacoAnalytics, School of Pharmacy; National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research; Drug Discovery Institute; Departments of Computational Biology and Structural Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States
| | - Guanyu Hou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, and Pharmacometrics & System Pharmacology PharmacoAnalytics, School of Pharmacy; National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research; Drug Discovery Institute; Departments of Computational Biology and Structural Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States
| | - Xiang-Qun Xie
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, and Pharmacometrics & System Pharmacology PharmacoAnalytics, School of Pharmacy; National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research; Drug Discovery Institute; Departments of Computational Biology and Structural Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States
| | - Zhiwei Feng
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, and Pharmacometrics & System Pharmacology PharmacoAnalytics, School of Pharmacy; National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research; Drug Discovery Institute; Departments of Computational Biology and Structural Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Dvorácskó S, Dimmito MP, Sebastiani J, La Regina G, Silvestri R, Pieretti S, Stefanucci A, Tömböly C, Mollica A. Rimonabant-Based Compounds Bearing Hydrophobic Amino Acid Derivatives as Cannabinoid Receptor Subtype 1 Ligands. ACS Med Chem Lett 2023; 14:479-486. [PMID: 37077391 PMCID: PMC10108392 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.3c00024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, 1H-pyrazole-3-carboxylic acids related to the cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) receptor antagonist rimonabant were amidated with valine or tert-leucine, and the resulting acids were further diversified as methyl esters, amides, and N-methyl amides. In vitro receptor binding and functional assays demonstrated a wide series of activities related to the CB1 receptors (CB1Rs). Compound 34 showed a high CB1R binding affinity (K i = 6.9 nM) and agonist activity (EC50 = 46 nM; E max = 135%). Radioligand binding and [35S]GTPγS binding assays also demonstrated its selectivity and specificity to CB1Rs. Moreover, in vivo experiments revealed that 34 was slightly more effective than the CB1 agonist WIN55,212-2 in the early phase of the formalin test, indicating a short duration of the analgesic effect. Interestingly, in a mouse model of zymosan-induced hindlimb edema, 34 was able to maintain the percentage of paw volume below 75% for 24 h following subcutaneous injection. After intraperitoneal administration, 34 increased the food intake of mice, suggesting potential activity on CB1Rs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Szabolcs Dvorácskó
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Institute of Biochemistry, Biological Research Centre, Temesvári krt. 62, 6726 Szeged, Hungary
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Szeged, 6720 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Marilisa Pia Dimmito
- Department of Pharmacy, University “G. d’Annunzio” Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Jessica Sebastiani
- Laboratory Affiliated with the Institute Pasteur Italy - Cenci Bolognetti Foundation, Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe La Regina
- Laboratory Affiliated with the Institute Pasteur Italy - Cenci Bolognetti Foundation, Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Romano Silvestri
- Laboratory Affiliated with the Institute Pasteur Italy - Cenci Bolognetti Foundation, Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Pieretti
- National Centre for Drug Research and Evaluation, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Azzurra Stefanucci
- Department of Pharmacy, University “G. d’Annunzio” Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Csaba Tömböly
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Institute of Biochemistry, Biological Research Centre, Temesvári krt. 62, 6726 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Adriano Mollica
- Department of Pharmacy, University “G. d’Annunzio” Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Pérez-Arancibia R, Cisternas-Olmedo M, Sepúlveda D, Troncoso-Escudero P, Vidal RL. Small molecules to perform big roles: The search for Parkinson's and Huntington's disease therapeutics. Front Neurosci 2023; 16:1084493. [PMID: 36699535 PMCID: PMC9868863 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.1084493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurological motor disorders (NMDs) such as Parkinson's disease and Huntington's disease are characterized by the accumulation and aggregation of misfolded proteins that trigger cell death of specific neuronal populations in the central nervous system. Differential neuronal loss initiates the impaired motor control and cognitive function in the affected patients. Although major advances have been carried out to understand the molecular basis of these diseases, to date there are no treatments that can prevent, cure, or significantly delay the progression of the disease. In this context, strategies such as gene editing, cellular therapy, among others, have gained attention as they effectively reduce the load of toxic protein aggregates in different models of neurodegeneration. Nevertheless, these strategies are expensive and difficult to deliver into the patients' nervous system. Thus, small molecules and natural products that reduce protein aggregation levels are highly sought after. Numerous drug discovery efforts have analyzed large libraries of synthetic compounds for the treatment of different NMDs, with a few candidates reaching clinical trials. Moreover, the recognition of new druggable targets for NMDs has allowed the discovery of new small molecules that have demonstrated their efficacy in pre-clinical studies. It is also important to recognize the contribution of natural products to the discovery of new candidates that can prevent or cure NMDs. Additionally, the repurposing of drugs for the treatment of NMDs has gained huge attention as they have already been through clinical trials confirming their safety in humans, which can accelerate the development of new treatment. In this review, we will focus on the new advances in the discovery of small molecules for the treatment of Parkinson's and Huntington's disease. We will begin by discussing the available pharmacological treatments to modulate the progression of neurodegeneration and to alleviate the motor symptoms in these diseases. Then, we will analyze those small molecules that have reached or are currently under clinical trials, including natural products and repurposed drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Pérez-Arancibia
- Center for Integrative Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile,Departamento de Ciencias Básicas, Faculty of Medicine and Science, Universidad San Sebastián, Santiago, Chile
| | - Marisol Cisternas-Olmedo
- Center for Integrative Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile,Biomedical Neuroscience Institute, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile,Center for Geroscience, Brain Health and Metabolism, Santiago, Chile
| | - Denisse Sepúlveda
- Center for Integrative Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile,Biomedical Neuroscience Institute, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile,Center for Geroscience, Brain Health and Metabolism, Santiago, Chile
| | - Paulina Troncoso-Escudero
- Molecular Diagnostic and Biomarkers Laboratory, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
| | - Rene L. Vidal
- Center for Integrative Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile,Biomedical Neuroscience Institute, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile,Center for Geroscience, Brain Health and Metabolism, Santiago, Chile,*Correspondence: Rene L. Vidal ✉
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Boyacıoğlu Ö, Korkusuz P. Cannabinoids as Prospective Anti-Cancer Drugs: Mechanism of Action in Healthy and Cancer Cells. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1410:145-169. [PMID: 36396926 DOI: 10.1007/5584_2022_748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Endogenous and exogenous cannabinoids modulate many physiological and pathological processes by binding classical cannabinoid receptors 1 (CB1) or 2 (CB2) or non-cannabinoid receptors. Cannabinoids are known to exert antiproliferative, apoptotic, anti-migratory and anti-invasive effect on cancer cells by inducing or inhibiting various signaling cascades. In this chapter, we specifically emphasize the latest research works about the alterations in endocannabinoid system (ECS) components in malignancies and cancer cell proliferation, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, autophagy, and death by cannabinoid administration, emphasizing their mechanism of action, and give a future perspective for clinical use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Özge Boyacıoğlu
- Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Atılım University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Petek Korkusuz
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Zada W, VanRyzin JW, Perez-Pouchoulen M, Baglot SL, Hill MN, Abbas G, Clark SM, Rashid U, McCarthy MM, Mannan A. Fatty acid amide hydrolase inhibition and N-arachidonoylethanolamine modulation by isoflavonoids: A novel target for upcoming antidepressants. Pharmacol Res Perspect 2022; 10:e00999. [PMID: 36029006 PMCID: PMC9418665 DOI: 10.1002/prp2.999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Modulation of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a novel putative target for therapeutic intervention in depressive disorders. Altering concentrations of one of the principal endocannabinoids, N‐arachidonoylethanolamine, also known as anandamide (AEA) can affect depressive‐like behaviors through several mechanisms including anti‐inflammatory, hormonal, and neural circuit alterations. Recently, isoflavonoids, a class of plant‐derived compounds, have been of therapeutic interest given their ability to modulate the metabolism of the endogenous ligands of the ECS. To determine the therapeutic potential of isoflavonoids, we screened several candidate compounds (Genistein, Biochanin‐A, and 7‐hydroxyflavone) in silico to determine their binding properties with fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), the primary degrative enzyme for AEA. We further validated the ability of these compounds to inhibit FAAH and determined their effects on depressive‐like and locomotor behaviors in the forced swim test (FST) and open field test in male and female mice. We found that while genistein was the most potent FAAH inhibitor, 7‐hydroxyflavone was most effective at reducing immobility time in the forced swim test. Finally, we measured blood corticosterone and prefrontal cortex AEA concentrations following the forced swim test and found that all tested compounds decreased corticosterone and increased AEA, demonstrating that isoflavonoids are promising therapeutic targets as FAAH inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wahid Zada
- Department of Pharmacy, COMSATS University Islamabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.,Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jonathan W VanRyzin
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Miguel Perez-Pouchoulen
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Samantha L Baglot
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute and Mathison Center for Mental Health Research and Education, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Matthew N Hill
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute and Mathison Center for Mental Health Research and Education, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy & Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ghulam Abbas
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ziauddin University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Sarah M Clark
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Umer Rashid
- Department of Chemistry, COMSATS University Islamabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Margaret M McCarthy
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Abdul Mannan
- Department of Pharmacy, COMSATS University Islamabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Activating cannabinoid receptor 2 preserves axonal health through GSK-3β/NRF2 axis in adrenoleukodystrophy. Acta Neuropathol 2022; 144:241-258. [PMID: 35778568 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-022-02451-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Aberrant endocannabinoid signaling accompanies several neurodegenerative disorders, including multiple sclerosis. Here, we report altered endocannabinoid signaling in X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD), a rare neurometabolic demyelinating syndrome caused by malfunction of the peroxisomal ABCD1 transporter, resulting in the accumulation of very long-chain fatty acids (VLCFAs). We found abnormal levels of cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2r) and related endocannabinoid enzymes in the brain and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of X-ALD patients and in the spinal cord of a murine model of X-ALD. Preclinical treatment with a selective agonist of CB2r (JWH133) halted axonal degeneration and associated locomotor deficits, along with normalization of microgliosis. Moreover, the drug improved the main metabolic disturbances underlying this model, particularly in redox and lipid homeostatic pathways, including increased lipid droplets in motor neurons, through the modulation of the GSK-3β/NRF2 axis. JWH133 inhibited Reactive Oxygen Species elicited by excess VLCFAs in primary microglial cultures of Abcd1-null mice. Furthermore, we uncovered intertwined redox and CB2r signaling in the murine spinal cords and in patient PBMC samples obtained from a phase II clinical trial with antioxidants (NCT01495260). These findings highlight CB2r signaling as a potential therapeutic target for X-ALD and perhaps other neurodegenerative disorders that present with dysregulated redox and lipid homeostasis.
Collapse
|
8
|
Liddle I, Glass M, Tyndall JDA, Vernall AJ. Covalent cannabinoid receptor ligands - structural insight and selectivity challenges. RSC Med Chem 2022; 13:497-510. [PMID: 35694688 PMCID: PMC9132230 DOI: 10.1039/d2md00006g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
X-ray crystallography and cryogenic electronic microscopy have provided significant advancement in the knowledge of GPCR structure and have allowed the rational design of GPCR ligands. The class A GPCRs cannabinoid receptor type 1 and type 2 are implicated in many pathophysiological processes and thus rational design of drug and tool compounds is of great interest. Recent structural insight into cannabinoid receptors has already led to a greater understanding of ligand binding sites and receptor residues that likely contribute to ligand selectivity. Herein, classes of heterocyclic covalent cannabinoid receptor ligands are reviewed in light of the recent advances in structural knowledge of cannabinoid receptors, with particular discussion regarding covalent ligand selectivity and rationale design.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ian Liddle
- Department of Chemistry, University of Otago Dunedin New Zealand +64 3 479 5214
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago Dunedin New Zealand
| | | | - Andrea J Vernall
- Department of Chemistry, University of Otago Dunedin New Zealand +64 3 479 5214
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Zubrzycki M, Zubrzycka M, Wysiadecki G, Szemraj J, Jerczynska H, Stasiolek M. Effect of Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase Inhibitor URB597 on Orofacial Pain Perception in Rats. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:4665. [PMID: 35563056 PMCID: PMC9100922 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocannabinoids act as analgesic agents in a number of headache models. However, their effectiveness varies with the route of administration and the type of pain. In this study, we assessed the role of the fatty acid amide hydrolase inhibitor URB597 in an animal model of orofacial pain based on tooth pulp stimulation. More specifically, we assessed the effects of intracerbroventricular (i.c.v.) and intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of URB597 on the amplitude of evoked tongue jerks (ETJ) in rats. The levels of the investigated mediators anandamide (AEA), 2-arachidonyl glycerol (2-AG), Substance P (SP), calcitonin-gene-related peptide (CGRP), endomorphin-2 (EM-2) and fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitor by URB597 and receptors cannabinoid type-1 receptors (CB1R), cannabinoid type-2 receptors (CB2R) and µ-opioid receptors (MOR) were determined in the mesencephalon, thalamus and hypothalamus tissues. We have shown that increasing endocannabinoid AEA levels by both central and peripheral inhibition of FAAH inhibitor by URB597 has an antinociceptive effect on the trigemino-hypoglossal reflex mediated by CB1R and influences the activation of the brain areas studied. On the other hand, URB597 had no effect on the concentration of 2-AG in the examined brain structures and caused a significant decrease in CB2R mRNA expression in the hypothalamus only. Tooth pulp stimulation caused in a significant increase in SP, CGRP and EM-2 gene expression in the midbrain, thalamus and hypothalamus. In contrast, URB597 administered peripherally one hour before stimulation decreased the mRNA level of these endogenous neuropeptides in comparison with the control and stimulation in all examined brain structures. Our results show that centrally and peripherally administered URB597 is effective at preventing orofacial pain by inhibiting AEA catabolism and reducing the level of CGRP, SP and EM-2 gene expression and that AEA and 2-AG have different species and model-specific regulatory mechanisms. The data presented in this study may represent a new promising therapeutic target in the treatment of orofacial pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marek Zubrzycki
- Department of Cardiac Surgery and Transplantology, The Cardinal Stefan Wyszynski Institute of Cardiology, Alpejska 42, 04-628 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Maria Zubrzycka
- Department of Clinical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, Mazowiecka 6/8, 92-215 Lodz, Poland;
| | - Grzegorz Wysiadecki
- Department of Normal and Clinical Anatomy, Chair of Anatomy and Histology, Medical University of Lodz, Żeligowskiego 7/9, 90-752 Lodz, Poland;
| | - Janusz Szemraj
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medical University of Lodz, Mazowiecka 6/8, 92-215 Lodz, Poland;
| | - Hanna Jerczynska
- Central Scientific Laboratory (CoreLab), Medical University of Lodz, Mazowiecka 6/8, 92-215 Lodz, Poland;
| | - Mariusz Stasiolek
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Lodz, Kopcinskiego 22, 90-153 Lodz, Poland;
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Hurley EN, Ellaway CJ, Johnson AM, Truong L, Gordon R, Galettis P, Martin JH, Lawson JA. The efficacy and safety of cannabidivarin treatment on epilepsy in girls with Rett syndrome: A phase I clinical trial. Epilepsia 2022; 63:1736-1747. [PMID: 35364618 PMCID: PMC9544893 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Objective Rett syndrome (RTT), commonly caused by methyl‐CpG‐binding protein 2 (MECP2) pathogenic variants, has many comorbidities. Fifty to ninety percent of children with RTT have epilepsy, which is often drug‐resistant. Cannabidivarin (CBDV), a non‐hallucinogenic phytocannabinoid, has shown benefit in MECP2 animal models. This phase 1 trial assessed the safety and tolerability of CBDV in female children with RTT and drug‐resistant epilepsy, as well as the effect on mean monthly seizure frequency (MMSF), the electroencephalogram (EEG), and non‐epilepsy comorbid symptoms. Methods Five female children with drug‐resistant epilepsy and a pathogenic MECP2 variant were enrolled. Baseline clinical and laboratory assessments, including monthly seizure frequency, were recorded. CBDV oral solution (50 mg/ml) was prescribed and titrated to 10 mg/kg/day. Data collected included pharmacokinetics, seizure type and frequency, adverse events, EEG, and responses to the Rett Syndrome Behaviour Questionnaire and Rett Syndrome Symptom Severity Index, and were compared to baseline data. Results All five children reached the maximum CBDV dose of 10 mg/kg/day and had a reduction in MMSF (median = 79% reduction). Three children had MMSF reduction > 75%. This corresponded to an overall reduction in seizure frequency from 32 to 7.2 seizures per month. Ninety‐one percent of adverse events were mild or moderate, and none required drug withdrawal. Sixty‐two percent were judged to be unrelated to CBDV. Thirty‐one percent of adverse events were identified as possibly related, of which nearly all were mild, and the remainder were later assessed as RTT symptoms. Hypersomnolence and drooling were identified as related to CBDV. No serious adverse events reported were related to CBDV. No significant change was noted in EEG or non‐epilepsy‐related symptoms of RTT. Significance A dose of 10 mg/kg/day of CBDV is safe and well tolerated in a pediatric RTT cohort and suggests improved seizure control in children with MECP2‐related RTT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ellen N Hurley
- Department of Neurology, Sydney Children's Hospital Randwick, NSW, Australia.,School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, NSW, Australia
| | - Carolyn J Ellaway
- Genetic Metabolic Disorders Service, Sydney Children's Hospital Network, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Disciplines of Child and Adolescent Health and Genomic Medicine, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Alexandra M Johnson
- Department of Neurology, Sydney Children's Hospital Randwick, NSW, Australia.,School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, NSW, Australia
| | - Linda Truong
- Department of Neurology, Sydney Children's Hospital Randwick, NSW, Australia.,School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, NSW, Australia.,NHMRC Australian Centre for Cannabinoid Clinical and Research Excellence, University of Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Rebecca Gordon
- NHMRC Australian Centre for Cannabinoid Clinical and Research Excellence, University of Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,Centre for Drug Repurposing and Medicines Research, School of Medicine & Public Health, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights 2305, Australia
| | - Peter Galettis
- NHMRC Australian Centre for Cannabinoid Clinical and Research Excellence, University of Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,Centre for Drug Repurposing and Medicines Research, School of Medicine & Public Health, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights 2305, Australia
| | - Jennifer H Martin
- NHMRC Australian Centre for Cannabinoid Clinical and Research Excellence, University of Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,Centre for Drug Repurposing and Medicines Research, School of Medicine & Public Health, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights 2305, Australia
| | - John A Lawson
- Department of Neurology, Sydney Children's Hospital Randwick, NSW, Australia.,School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, NSW, Australia.,NHMRC Australian Centre for Cannabinoid Clinical and Research Excellence, University of Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Greco R, Demartini C, Zanaboni AM, Francavilla M, De Icco R, Ahmad L, Tassorelli C. The endocannabinoid system and related lipids as potential targets for the treatment of migraine-related pain. Headache 2022; 62:227-240. [PMID: 35179780 DOI: 10.1111/head.14267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Migraine is a complex and highly disabling neurological disease whose treatment remains challenging in many patients, even after the recent advent of the first specific-preventive drugs, namely monoclonal antibodies that target calcitonin gene-related peptide. For this reason, headache researchers are actively searching for new therapeutic targets. Cannabis has been proposed for migraine treatment, but controlled clinical studies are lacking. A major advance in cannabinoid research has been the discovery of the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which consists of receptors CB1 and CB2; their endogenous ligands, such as N-arachidonoylethanolamine; and the enzymes that catalyze endocannabinoid biosynthesis or degradation. Preclinical and clinical findings suggest a possible role for endocannabinoids and related lipids, such as palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), in migraine-related pain treatment. In animal models of migraine-related pain, endocannabinoid tone modulation via inhibition of endocannabinoid-catabolizing enzymes has been a particular focus of research. METHODS To conduct a narrative review of available data on the possible effects of cannabis, endocannabinoids, and other lipids in migraine-related pain, relevant key words were used to search the PubMed/MEDLINE database for basic and clinical studies. RESULTS Endocannabinoids and PEA seem to reduce trigeminal nociception by interacting with many pathways associated with migraine, suggesting a potential synergistic or similar effect. CONCLUSIONS Modulation of the metabolic pathways of the ECS may be a basis for new migraine treatments. The multiplicity of options and the wealth of data already obtained in animal models underscore the importance of further advancing research in this area. Multiple molecules related to the ECS or to allosteric modulation of CB1 receptors have emerged as potential therapeutic targets in migraine-related pain. The complexity of the ECS calls for accurate biochemical and pharmacological characterization of any new compounds undergoing testing and development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosaria Greco
- Headache Science & Neurorehabilitation Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Chiara Demartini
- Headache Science & Neurorehabilitation Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Zanaboni
- Headache Science & Neurorehabilitation Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Miriam Francavilla
- Headache Science & Neurorehabilitation Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Roberto De Icco
- Headache Science & Neurorehabilitation Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Lara Ahmad
- Headache Science & Neurorehabilitation Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Cristina Tassorelli
- Headache Science & Neurorehabilitation Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
De Prá MAA, Vardanega R, Loss CG. Lipid-based formulations to increase cannabidiol bioavailability: In vitro digestion tests, pre-clinical assessment and clinical trial. Int J Pharm 2021; 609:121159. [PMID: 34624443 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2021.121159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Herein, medium-chain triglycerides (MCT), glyceryl monolinoleate (GML), and a self-emulsifying drug delivery system (SEDDS) for cannabidiol (CBD) delivery were compared using in vitro and in vivo (mouse and human) studies. In vitro digestion tests showed that SEDDS yielded the highest CBD recovery in the aqueous phase (86 ± 2%), followed by GML (13 ± 2%) and MCT (5.6% ± 0.8%). In vivo tests (mouse) revealed that SEDDS promoted the highest CBD exposure, exhibiting an area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC0-6h) 1.48 times greater than GML and 3.97 times greater than that of the MCT formulation. A single-dose, open-label, crossover study performed in 11 volunteers showed that SEDDS increased CBD AUC0-12h by 1.12 and 1.48 times in relation to GML and MCT, respectively. The in vitro-in vivo correlation was r2 0.75 for mice and r2 0.66 for humans. The AUC correlation between mice and humans was 0.98. Collectively, these results indicate that the lipid profile substantially influences CBD delivery and highlights the potential of the SEDDS and GML formulations as candidate solutions for increasing CBD AUC and bioavailability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manuel A A De Prá
- Entourage Phytolab, R. Tabapuã 111, 04533-010 São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Renata Vardanega
- Entourage Phytolab, R. Tabapuã 111, 04533-010 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Carla G Loss
- Entourage Phytolab, R. Tabapuã 111, 04533-010 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Salamone S, Appendino G, Khalili A, Pollastro F, Munoz E, Unciti-Broceta JD. Agathadiol, a labdane diterpenoid from juniper berries, is a positive allosteric modulator of CB 1R. Fitoterapia 2021; 155:105059. [PMID: 34637886 DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2021.105059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The neutral fraction of a juniper (Juniperus communis L.) berries acetone extract could positively modulate the activity of type 1 - cannabinoid receptor (CB1R). Bioactivity-directed fractionation identified the labdane diterpenoid agathadiol (4) as a positive allosteric modulator of CB1R, while closely related analogues were inactive. Agathadiol (4) is a minor constituent of juniper, but could be more conveniently obtained by semisynthesis from agathic acid (8), a major constituent of Manila copal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Salamone
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Largo Donegani 2, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Giovanni Appendino
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Largo Donegani 2, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Adil Khalili
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Largo Donegani 2, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Federica Pollastro
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Largo Donegani 2, 28100 Novara, Italy; PlantaChem Srls, via Amico Canobio 4/6, 28100 Novara, Italy.
| | - Eduardo Munoz
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba, av. de Menéndez Pidal, 14004 Córdoba, Spain; Departamento de Biología Celular, Fisiología e Inmunología, Campus de Menéndez Pidal, Universidad de Córdoba, 14071 Spain Córdoba, Spain; Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, av. de Menéndez Pidal, s/n, 14004 Córdoba, Spain.
| | - Juan D Unciti-Broceta
- Emerald Health Biotechnology, Parque Científico Tecnológico Rabanales 21, Calle Cecilia Payne, 14014 Córdoba, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Rocha JF, Santos A, Gama H, Moser P, Falcão A, Pressman P, Wallace Hayes A, Soares-da-Silva P. Safety, Tolerability, and Pharmacokinetics of FAAH Inhibitor BIA 10-2474: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study in Healthy Volunteers. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2021; 111:391-403. [PMID: 33998672 PMCID: PMC9292215 DOI: 10.1002/cpt.2290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
This study evaluated the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of BIA 10‐2474, a fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitor, after first administration to healthy male and female participants. Participants (n = 116) were recruited into this phase I, double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled, single ascending dose and multiple ascending dose (10‐day) study. The primary outcome was the safety and tolerability of BIA 10‐2474. Secondary outcomes were pharmacokinetics of BIA 10‐2474 and pharmacodynamics, considering plasma concentrations of anandamide and three other fatty acid amides (FAAs) and leukocyte FAAH activity. Single oral doses of 0.25–100 mg and repeated oral doses of 2.5–50 mg were evaluated. BIA 10‐2474 was well tolerated up to 100 mg as a single dose and up to 20 mg once daily for 10 days. In the cohort receiving repeated administrations of 50 mg, there were central nervous system adverse events in five of six participants, one with fatal outcome, which led to early termination of the study. BIA 10‐2474 showed a linear relationship between dose and area under plasma concentration‐time curve (AUC) across the entire dose range and reached steady state within 5–6 days of administration, with an accumulation ratio, based on AUC0–24h, of <2 on Day 10. BIA 10‐2474 was rapidly absorbed with a mean terminal elimination half‐life of 8–10 hours (Day 10). BIA 10‐2474 caused reversible, dose‐related increases in plasma FAAs. In conclusion, we propose that these data, as well as the additional data generated since the clinical trial was stopped, do not provide a complete mechanistic explanation for the tragic fatality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- José-Francisco Rocha
- Research & Development Division, BIAL - Portela & Cª - S.A., Mamede do Coronado, Portugal
| | - Ana Santos
- Research & Development Division, BIAL - Portela & Cª - S.A., Mamede do Coronado, Portugal
| | - Helena Gama
- Research & Development Division, BIAL - Portela & Cª - S.A., Mamede do Coronado, Portugal
| | - Paul Moser
- Research & Development Division, BIAL - Portela & Cª - S.A., Mamede do Coronado, Portugal
| | - Amílcar Falcão
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Peter Pressman
- The Daedalus Institute, The Daedalus Foundation, San Clemente, California, USA
| | - A Wallace Hayes
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Patricio Soares-da-Silva
- Research & Development Division, BIAL - Portela & Cª - S.A., Mamede do Coronado, Portugal.,Dept. Biomedicine, Pharmacology & Therapeutics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University Porto, Porto, Portugal.,MedInUP - Center for Drug Discovery and Innovative Medicines, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Allosteric Modulation of the CB1 Cannabinoid Receptor by Cannabidiol-A Molecular Modeling Study of the N-Terminal Domain and the Allosteric-Orthosteric Coupling. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26092456. [PMID: 33922473 PMCID: PMC8122825 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26092456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Revised: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The CB1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1R) contains one of the longest N termini among class A G protein-coupled receptors. Mutagenesis studies suggest that the allosteric binding site of cannabidiol (CBD) involves residues from the N terminal domain. In order to study the allosteric binding of CBD to CB1R we modeled the whole N-terminus of this receptor using the replica exchange molecular dynamics with solute tempering (REST2) approach. Then, the obtained structures of CB1R with the N terminus were used for ligand docking. A natural cannabinoid receptor agonist, Δ9-THC, was docked to the orthosteric site and a negative allosteric modulator, CBD, to the allosteric site positioned between extracellular ends of helices TM1 and TM2. The molecular dynamics simulations were then performed for CB1R with ligands: (i) CBD together with THC, and (ii) THC-only. Analyses of the differences in the residue-residue interaction patterns between those two cases allowed us to elucidate the allosteric network responsible for the modulation of the CB1R by CBD. In addition, we identified the changes in the orthosteric binding mode of Δ9-THC, as well as the changes in its binding energy, caused by the CBD allosteric binding. We have also found that the presence of a complete N-terminal domain is essential for a stable binding of CBD in the allosteric site of CB1R as well as for the allosteric-orthosteric coupling mechanism.
Collapse
|
16
|
Oultram JMJ, Pegler JL, Bowser TA, Ney LJ, Eamens AL, Grof CPL. Cannabis sativa: Interdisciplinary Strategies and Avenues for Medical and Commercial Progression Outside of CBD and THC. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9030234. [PMID: 33652704 PMCID: PMC7996784 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9030234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabis sativa (Cannabis) is one of the world’s most well-known, yet maligned plant species. However, significant recent research is starting to unveil the potential of Cannabis to produce secondary compounds that may offer a suite of medical benefits, elevating this unique plant species from its illicit narcotic status into a genuine biopharmaceutical. This review summarises the lengthy history of Cannabis and details the molecular pathways that underpin the production of key secondary metabolites that may confer medical efficacy. We also provide an up-to-date summary of the molecular targets and potential of the relatively unknown minor compounds offered by the Cannabis plant. Furthermore, we detail the recent advances in plant science, as well as synthetic biology, and the pharmacology surrounding Cannabis. Given the relative infancy of Cannabis research, we go on to highlight the parallels to previous research conducted in another medically relevant and versatile plant, Papaver somniferum (opium poppy), as an indicator of the possible future direction of Cannabis plant biology. Overall, this review highlights the future directions of cannabis research outside of the medical biology aspects of its well-characterised constituents and explores additional avenues for the potential improvement of the medical potential of the Cannabis plant.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jackson M. J. Oultram
- Centre for Plant Science, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; (J.M.J.O.); (J.L.P.); (A.L.E.)
| | - Joseph L. Pegler
- Centre for Plant Science, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; (J.M.J.O.); (J.L.P.); (A.L.E.)
| | - Timothy A. Bowser
- CannaPacific Pty Ltd., 109 Ocean Street, Dudley, NSW 2290, Australia;
| | - Luke J. Ney
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005, Australia;
| | - Andrew L. Eamens
- Centre for Plant Science, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; (J.M.J.O.); (J.L.P.); (A.L.E.)
| | - Christopher P. L. Grof
- Centre for Plant Science, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; (J.M.J.O.); (J.L.P.); (A.L.E.)
- CannaPacific Pty Ltd., 109 Ocean Street, Dudley, NSW 2290, Australia;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +612-4921-5858
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Lago-Fernandez A, Zarzo-Arias S, Jagerovic N, Morales P. Relevance of Peroxisome Proliferator Activated Receptors in Multitarget Paradigm Associated with the Endocannabinoid System. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:1001. [PMID: 33498245 PMCID: PMC7863932 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22031001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids have shown to exert their therapeutic actions through a variety of targets. These include not only the canonical cannabinoid receptors CB1R and CB2R but also related orphan G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), ligand-gated ion channels, transient receptor potential (TRP) channels, metabolic enzymes, and nuclear receptors. In this review, we aim to summarize reported compounds exhibiting their therapeutic effects upon the modulation of CB1R and/or CB2R and the nuclear peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs). Concomitant actions at CBRs and PPARα or PPARγ subtypes have shown to mediate antiobesity, analgesic, antitumoral, or neuroprotective properties of a variety of phytogenic, endogenous, and synthetic cannabinoids. The relevance of this multitargeting mechanism of action has been analyzed in the context of diverse pathologies. Synergistic effects triggered by combinatorial treatment with ligands that modulate the aforementioned targets have also been considered. This literature overview provides structural and pharmacological insights for the further development of dual cannabinoids for specific disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nadine Jagerovic
- Medicinal Chemistry Institute, Spanish Research Council, Juan de la Cierva 3, 28006 Madrid, Spain; (A.L.-F.); (S.Z.-A.)
| | - Paula Morales
- Medicinal Chemistry Institute, Spanish Research Council, Juan de la Cierva 3, 28006 Madrid, Spain; (A.L.-F.); (S.Z.-A.)
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Emerging Roles of Cannabinoids and Synthetic Cannabinoids in Clinical Experimental Models. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1264:47-65. [PMID: 33332003 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-57369-0_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, an increasing number of investigations has demonstrated the therapeutic potential of molecules targeting the endocannabinoid system. Cannabinoids of endogenous, phytogenic, and synthetic nature have been assessed in a wide variety of disease models ranging from neurological to metabolic disorders. Even though very few compounds of this type have already reached the market, numerous preclinical and clinical studies suggest that cannabinoids are suitable drugs for the clinical management of diverse pathologies.In this chapter, we will provide an overview of the endocannabinoid system under certain physiopathological conditions, with a focus on neurological, oncologic, and metabolic disorders. Cannabinoids evaluated as potential therapeutic agents in experimental models with an emphasis in the most successful chemical entities and their perspectives towards the clinic will be discussed.
Collapse
|
20
|
Structural Insights into β-arrestin/CB1 Receptor Interaction: NMR and CD Studies on Model Peptides. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21218111. [PMID: 33143110 PMCID: PMC7662265 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Activation of the cannabinoid CB1 receptor induces different cellular signaling cascades through coupling to different effector proteins (G-proteins and β-arrestins), triggering numerous therapeutic effects. Conformational changes and rearrangements at the intracellular domain of this GPCR receptor that accompany ligand binding dictate the signaling pathways. The GPCR-binding interface for G proteins has been extensively studied, whereas β-arrestin/GPCR complexes are still poorly understood. To gain knowledge in this direction, we designed peptides that mimic the motifs involved in the putative interacting region: β-arrestin1 finger loop and the transmembrane helix 7-helix 8 (TMH7-H8) elbow located at the intracellular side of the CB1 receptor. According to circular dichroism and NMR data, these peptides form a native-like, helical conformation and interact with each other in aqueous solution, in the presence of trifluoroethanol, and using zwitterionic detergent micelles as membrane mimics. These results increase our understanding of the binding mode of β-arrestin and CB1 receptor and validate minimalist approaches to structurally comprehend complex protein systems.
Collapse
|
21
|
Maramai S, Brindisi M. Targeting Endocannabinoid Metabolism: an Arrow with Multiple Tips Against Multiple Sclerosis. ChemMedChem 2020; 15:1985-2003. [PMID: 32762071 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202000310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, immune-mediated disease of the central nervous system. At present, there is no definitive cure, and the few available disease-modifying options display either poor efficacy or life-threatening side effects. There is clear evidence that relapsing-remitting clinical attacks in MS are driven by inflammatory demyelination and that the subsequent disease steps, being irresponsive to immunotherapy, result from neurodegeneration. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) stands halfway between three key pathomechanisms underlying MS, namely inflammation, neurodegeneration and oxidative stress, thus representing a kingpin for the identification of novel therapeutic targets in MS. This review summarizes the current state of the art in the field of endocannabinoid metabolism modulators and their in vivo effects on relevant animal models. We also highlight key molecular underpinnings of their therapeutic efficacy as well as the potential to turn them into promising clinical candidates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samuele Maramai
- Department of Excellence of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via A. Moro, 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Margherita Brindisi
- Department of Excellence of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via D. Montesano, 49, 80131, Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Basagni F, Rosini M, Decker M. Functionalized Cannabinoid Subtype 2 Receptor Ligands: Fluorescent, PET, Photochromic and Covalent Molecular Probes. ChemMedChem 2020; 15:1374-1389. [PMID: 32578963 PMCID: PMC7497013 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202000298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Cannabinoid subtype 2 receptors (CB2 Rs) are G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) belonging to the endocannabinoid system, a complex network of signalling pathways leading to the regulation of key physiological processes. Interestingly, CB2 Rs are strongly up-regulated in pathological conditions correlated with the onset of inflammatory events like cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, CB2 Rs represent an important biological target for therapeutic as well as diagnostic purposes. No CB2 R-selective drugs are yet on the market, thus underlining a that deeper comprehension of CB2 Rs' complex activation pathways and their role in the regulation of diseases is needed. Herein, we report an overview of pharmacological and imaging tools such as fluorescent, positron emission tomography (PET), photochromic and covalent selective CB2 R ligands. These molecular probes can be used in vitro as well as in vivo to investigate and explore the unravelled role(s) of CB2 Rs, and they can help to design suitable CB2 R-targeted drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Basagni
- Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry Institute of Pharmacy and Food ChemistryJulius Maximilian University of WürzburgAm Hubland97074WürzburgGermany
- Department of Pharmacy and BiotechnologyUniversity of BolognaVia Belmeloro 640126BolognaItaly
| | - Michela Rosini
- Department of Pharmacy and BiotechnologyUniversity of BolognaVia Belmeloro 640126BolognaItaly
| | - Michael Decker
- Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry Institute of Pharmacy and Food ChemistryJulius Maximilian University of WürzburgAm Hubland97074WürzburgGermany
| |
Collapse
|