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Malík M, Doskočil I, Pavlík J, Ulman M, Praus L, Kouřimský P, Lampová B, Kuklina A, Tlustoš P. Selective Cytotoxicity of Medical Cannabis ( Cannabis sativa L.) Extracts Across the Whole Vegetation Cycle Under Various Hydroponic and Nutritional Treatments. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2024; 9:409-420. [PMID: 36459627 DOI: 10.1089/can.2022.0243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The use of Cannabis sativa L. in health care requires stringent care for the optimal production of the bioactive compounds. However, plant phenotypes and the content of secondary metabolites, such as phytocannabinoids, are strongly influenced by external factors, such as nutrient availability. It has been shown that phytocannabinoids can exhibit selective cytotoxicity against various cancer cell lines while protecting healthy tissue from apoptosis. Research Aim: This study aimed to clarify the cytotoxic effect of cannabis extracts on colorectal cell lines by identifying the main active compounds and determining their abundance and activity across all developmental stages of medical cannabis plants cultivated under hydroponic conditions. Materials and Methods: Dimethyl sulfoxide extracts of medical cannabis plants bearing the genotype classified as chemotype I were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography, and their cytotoxic activity was determined by measuring cell viability by methylthiazolyldiphenyl-tetrazolium bromide assay on the human colon cancer cell lines, Caco-2 and HT-29, and the normal human epithelial cell line, CCD 841 CoN. Results: The most abundant phytocannabinoid in cannabis extracts was tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA). Its maximum concentrations were reached from the 7th to the 13th plant vegetation week, depending on the nutritional cycle and treatment. Almost all extracts were cytotoxic to the human colorectal cancer (CRC) cell line HT-29 at lower concentrations than the other cell lines. The phytocannabinoids that most affected the cytotoxicity of individual extracts on HT-29 were cannabigerol, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol, cannabigerolic acid, and THCA. The tested model showed almost 70% influence of these cannabinoids. However, THCA alone influenced the cytotoxicity of individual extracts by nearly 65%. Conclusions: Phytocannabinoid extracts from plants of the THCA-dominant chemotype interacted synergistically and showed selective cytotoxicity against the CRC cell line, HT-29. This positive extract response indicates possible therapeutic value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matěj Malík
- Department of Agroenvironmental Chemistry and Plant Nutrition, Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Praha, Czech Republic
| | - Ivo Doskočil
- Department of Microbiology, Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Praha, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Pavlík
- Department of Information Technologies, Faculty of Economics and Management, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Praha, Czech Republic
| | - Miloš Ulman
- Department of Information Technologies, Faculty of Economics and Management, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Praha, Czech Republic
| | - Lukáš Praus
- Department of Agroenvironmental Chemistry and Plant Nutrition, Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Praha, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Kouřimský
- Department of Microbiology, Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Praha, Czech Republic
| | - Barbora Lampová
- Department of Microbiology, Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Praha, Czech Republic
| | - Alexandra Kuklina
- Department of Agroenvironmental Chemistry and Plant Nutrition, Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Praha, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Tlustoš
- Department of Agroenvironmental Chemistry and Plant Nutrition, Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Praha, Czech Republic
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2
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Delgado-Sequera A, Garcia-Mompo C, Gonzalez-Pinto A, Hidalgo-Figueroa M, Berrocoso E. A Systematic Review of the Molecular and Cellular Alterations Induced by Cannabis That May Serve as Risk Factors for Bipolar Disorder. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2024; 27:pyae002. [PMID: 38175142 PMCID: PMC10863486 DOI: 10.1093/ijnp/pyae002] [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: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis use is a risk factor of psychiatric illness, such as bipolar disorder type-I (BDI). Indeed, cannabis use strongly influences the onset and clinical course of BDI, although the biological mechanisms underlying this interaction remain unknown. Therefore, we have reviewed the biological mechanisms affected by cannabis use that may trigger BD. METHODS A systematic review was carried out of articles in which gene expression was studied in cannabis users or human-derived cells exposed to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or cannabidiol (CBD). A second systematic review was then performed to identify articles in which gene expression was studied in BDI samples, highlighting those that described alterations to the same molecular and cellular mechanisms affected by cannabis/THC/CBD. RESULTS The initial search identified 82 studies on cannabis and 962 on BDI. After removing duplicates and applying the inclusion/exclusion criteria, 9 studies into cannabis and 228 on BDI were retained. The molecular and cellular mechanisms altered by cannabis use or THC/CBD exposure were then identified, including neural development and function, cytoskeletal function, cell adhesion, mitochondrial biology, inflammatory related pathways, lipid metabolism, the endocannabinoid system, the hypocretin/orexin system, and apoptosis. Alterations to those activities were also described in 19 of 228 focused on BDI. CONCLUSIONS The biological mechanisms described in this study may be good candidates to the search for diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for BDI. Because cannabis use can trigger the onset of BD, further studies would be of interest to determine whether they are involved in the early development of the disorder, prompting early treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra Delgado-Sequera
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Institute of Cadiz (INiBICA), Research Unit, Puerta del Mar University Hospital, Cádiz, Spain
- Neuropsychopharmacology and Psychobiology Research Group, Universidad de Cádiz, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Clara Garcia-Mompo
- Department of Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Universitat Jaume I, Castellón de la Plana, Spain
| | - Ana Gonzalez-Pinto
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital Universitario de Alava, BIOARABA, UPV/EHU, CIBERSAM, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Maria Hidalgo-Figueroa
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Institute of Cadiz (INiBICA), Research Unit, Puerta del Mar University Hospital, Cádiz, Spain
- Neuropsychopharmacology and Psychobiology Research Group, Universidad de Cádiz, Cádiz, Spain
- Department of Psychology, Universidad de Cádiz, Puerto Real (Cádiz), Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - Esther Berrocoso
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Institute of Cadiz (INiBICA), Research Unit, Puerta del Mar University Hospital, Cádiz, Spain
- Neuropsychopharmacology and Psychobiology Research Group, Universidad de Cádiz, Cádiz, Spain
- Department of Neuroscience, Universidad de Cádiz, Cádiz, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
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3
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Bachari A, Nassar N, Schanknecht E, Telukutla S, Piva TJ, Mantri N. Rationalizing a prospective coupling effect of cannabinoids with the current pharmacotherapy for melanoma treatment. WIREs Mech Dis 2024; 16:e1633. [PMID: 37920964 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Melanoma is one of the leading fatal forms of cancer, yet from a treatment perspective, we have minimal control over its reoccurrence and resistance to current pharmacotherapies. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) has recently been accepted as a multifaceted homeostatic regulator, influencing various physiological processes across different biological compartments, including the skin. This review presents an overview of the pathophysiology of melanoma, current pharmacotherapy used for treatment, and the challenges associated with the different pharmacological approaches. Furthermore, it highlights the utility of cannabinoids as an additive remedy for melanoma by restoring the balance between downregulated immunomodulatory pathways and elevated inflammatory cytokines during chronic skin conditions as one of the suggested critical approaches in treating this immunogenic tumor. This article is categorized under: Cancer > Molecular and Cellular Physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ava Bachari
- The Pangenomics Lab, School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nazim Nassar
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ellen Schanknecht
- The Pangenomics Lab, School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Terrence Jerald Piva
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nitin Mantri
- The Pangenomics Lab, School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
- The UWA Institute of Agriculture, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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4
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Woerdenbag HJ, Olinga P, Kok EA, Brugman DAP, van Ark UF, Ramcharan AS, Lebbink PW, Hoogwater FJH, Knapen DG, de Groot DJA, Nijkamp MW. Potential, Limitations and Risks of Cannabis-Derived Products in Cancer Treatment. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15072119. [PMID: 37046779 PMCID: PMC10093248 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15072119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The application of cannabis products in oncology receives interest, especially from patients. Despite the plethora of research data available, the added value in curative or palliative cancer care and the possible risks involved are insufficiently proven and therefore a matter of debate. We aim to give a recommendation on the position of cannabis products in clinical oncology by assessing recent literature. Various types of cannabis products, characteristics, quality and pharmacology are discussed. Standardisation is essential for reliable and reproducible quality. The oromucosal/sublingual route of administration is preferred over inhalation and drinking tea. Cannabinoids may inhibit efflux transporters and drug-metabolising enzymes, possibly inducing pharmacokinetic interactions with anticancer drugs being substrates for these proteins. This may enhance the cytostatic effect and/or drug-related adverse effects. Reversely, it may enable dose reduction. Similar interactions are likely with drugs used for symptom management treating pain, nausea, vomiting and anorexia. Cannabis products are usually well tolerated and may improve the quality of life of patients with cancer (although not unambiguously proven). The combination with immunotherapy seems undesirable because of the immunosuppressive action of cannabinoids. Further clinical research is warranted to scientifically support (refraining from) using cannabis products in patients with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Herman J. Woerdenbag
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Peter Olinga
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Ellen A. Kok
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Donald A. P. Brugman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Ulrike F. van Ark
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Paul W. Lebbink
- Transvaal Apotheek, Kempstraat 113, 2572 GC Den Haag, The Netherlands
| | - Frederik J. H. Hoogwater
- Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Daan G. Knapen
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Derk Jan A. de Groot
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten W. Nijkamp
- Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
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5
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Motadi LR, Jantjies ZE, Moleya B. Cannabidiol and Cannabis Sativa as a potential treatment in vitro prostate cancer cells silenced with RBBp6 and PC3 xenograft. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:4039-4047. [PMID: 36853473 PMCID: PMC10147767 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-08197-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prostate cancer is the second most frequently occurring carcinoma in males worldwide and one of the leading causes of death in men around the world. Recent studies estimate that over 1.4 million males are diagnosed with prostate cancer on an annual basis, with approximately 375,000 succumbing to the disease annually. With current treatments continuing to show severe side effects, there is a need for new treatments. In this study we looked at the effect of cannabis sativa extract, cannabidiol and cisplatin on prostate cancer cells, PC3. METHODS In addressing the above questions, we employed the MTT assay to measure the antiproliferative effect on PC3 cells following treatment with varying concentrations of Cannabis sativa extract, cisplatin and cannabidiol. xCELLigence was also used to confirm the IC50 activity in which cells were grown in a 16 well plate coated with gold and monitor cell attachment. Caspase 3/7 activity was also measured using 96 well-plate following treatment. Western-blot and qRT-PCR was also used to measure the gene expression of tumour suppressor genes, p53, Bax and Bcl2. Animal studies were employed to measure the growth of PC3-mouse derived cancer to evaluate the effect of compounds in vivo. RESULTS From the treatment with varying concentrations of Cannabis sativa extract, cannabidiol and cisplatin, we have observed that the three compounds induced antiproliferation of PC3 cancer cell lines through the activation of caspase 3/7 activity. We also observed induction of apoptosis in these cells following silencing of retinoblastoma binding protein 6 (RBBP6), with upregulation of p53 and bax mRNA expression, and a reduction in Bcl2 gene expression. The growth of tumours in the mouse models were reduced following treatment with cisplatin and cannabidiol. CONCLUSION We demonstrated that cannabidiol is a viable therapy to treat prostate cancer cells, in combination with silencing of RBBP6. This suggests that cannabidiol rather Cannabis sativa extract may play an important role in reducing cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lesetja R Motadi
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park Campus, Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - Zodwa E Jantjies
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park Campus, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Boitumelo Moleya
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park Campus, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Reddy TS, Zomer R, Mantri N. Nanoformulations as a strategy to overcome the delivery limitations of cannabinoids. Phytother Res 2023; 37:1526-1538. [PMID: 36748949 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Medical cannabis has received significant interest in recent years due to its promising benefits in the management of pain, anxiety, depression and neurological and movement disorders. Specifically, the major phytocannabinoids derived from the cannabis plant such as (-) trans-Δ9 -tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), have been shown to be responsible for the pharmacological and therapeutic properties. Recently, these phytocannabinoids have also attracted special attention in cancer treatment due to their well-known palliative benefits in chemotherapy-induced nausea, vomiting, pain and loss of appetite along with their anticancer activities. Despite the enormous pharmacological benefits, the low aqueous solubility, high instability (susceptibility to extensive first pass metabolism) and poor systemic bioavailability restrict their utilization at clinical perspective. Therefore, drug delivery strategies based on nanotechnology are emerging to improve pharmacokinetic profile and bioavailability of cannabinoids as well as enhance their targeted delivery. Here, we critically review the nano-formulation systems engineered for overcoming the delivery limitations of native phytocannabinoids including polymeric and lipid-based nanoparticles (lipid nano capsules (LNCs), nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), nanoemulsions (NE) and self-emulsifying drug delivery systems (SEDDS)), ethosomes and cyclodextrins as well as their therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Srinivasa Reddy
- The Pangenomics Group, Biosciences and Food Technology, School of Science, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Roby Zomer
- MGC Pharmaceuticals Limited, West Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Nitin Mantri
- The Pangenomics Group, Biosciences and Food Technology, School of Science, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,The UWA Institute of Agriculture, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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7
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Cannabinoids Transmogrify Cancer Metabolic Phenotype via Epigenetic Reprogramming and a Novel CBD Biased G Protein-Coupled Receptor Signaling Platform. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15041030. [PMID: 36831374 PMCID: PMC9954791 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15041030] [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: 01/07/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The concept of epigenetic reprogramming predicts long-term functional health effects. This reprogramming can be activated by exogenous or endogenous insults, leading to altered healthy and different disease states. The exogenous or endogenous changes that involve developing a roadmap of epigenetic networking, such as drug components on epigenetic imprinting and restoring epigenome patterns laid down during embryonic development, are paramount to establishing youthful cell type and health. This epigenetic landscape is considered one of the hallmarks of cancer. The initiation and progression of cancer are considered to involve epigenetic abnormalities and genetic alterations. Cancer epigenetics have shown extensive reprogramming of every component of the epigenetic machinery in cancer development, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, nucleosome positioning, non-coding RNAs, and microRNA expression. Endocannabinoids are natural lipid molecules whose levels are regulated by specific biosynthetic and degradative enzymes. They bind to and activate two primary cannabinoid receptors, type 1 (CB1) and type 2 (CB2), and together with their metabolizing enzymes, form the endocannabinoid system. This review focuses on the role of cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 signaling in activating numerous receptor tyrosine kinases and Toll-like receptors in the induction of epigenetic landscape alterations in cancer cells, which might transmogrify cancer metabolism and epigenetic reprogramming to a metastatic phenotype. Strategies applied from conception could represent an innovative epigenetic target for preventing and treating human cancer. Here, we describe novel cannabinoid-biased G protein-coupled receptor signaling platforms (GPCR), highlighting putative future perspectives in this field.
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8
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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.
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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.
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9
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Tajik T, Baghaei K, Moghadam VE, Farrokhi N, Salami SA. Extracellular vesicles of cannabis with high CBD content induce anticancer signaling in human hepatocellular carcinoma. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 152:113209. [PMID: 35667235 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Plant-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been the topic of interest in recent years due to their proven therapeutic properties. Intact or manipulated plant EVs have shown antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancerous activities as a result of containing bioactive metabolites and other endogenous molecules. Less is known about the EV efficacy with high levels of bioactive secondary metabolites derived from medicinal or non-edible plants. Numerous data suggest the functionality of Cannabis sativa extract and its phytocannabinoids in cancer treatment. Here, two chemotypes of cannabis with different levels of D-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) were selected. EVs were isolated from each chemotype via differential ultracentrifugation. HPLC analysis was illustrative of the absence of THC in EVs derived from both plants. Therefore, two types of EVs were classified according to their CBD content into high- (H.C-EVs) and low-CBD EVs (L.C-EVs). Electron microscopy and DLS showed both cannabis-derived EVs (CDEVs) can be considered as exosome-like nanovesicles. Cytotoxicity assay showed that H.C-EVs strongly decreased the viability of two hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell lines, HepG2 and Huh-7, in a dose and time-dependent manner compared with L.C-EVs. H.C-EVs had no significant effect on HUVECs normal cell growth. The finding showed that the H.C-EVs arrested the G0/G1 phase in the cell cycle and significantly induced cell death by activating mitochondrial-dependent apoptosis signaling pathways in both HCC cell lines. Altogether, the current study highlights that CDEVs can be an ideal natural vehicle for bioactive phytocannabinoids and a promising strategy in cancer management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahereh Tajik
- Faculty of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran; Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1985717413, Iran
| | - Kaveh Baghaei
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1985717413, Iran; Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1985717413, Iran.
| | - Vahid Erfani Moghadam
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran; Food, Drug, Natural Products Health Research Centre, Golestan University of Medical Science, Gorgan, Iran.
| | - Naser Farrokhi
- Faculty of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Seyed Alireza Salami
- Department of Horticultural Science, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Engineering, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran; Industrial and Medical Cannabis Research Institute (IMCRI), Tehran 14176-14411, Iran
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10
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Schloss J, Lacey J, Sinclair J, Steel A, Sughrue M, Sibbritt D, Teo C. A Phase 2 Randomised Clinical Trial Assessing the Tolerability of Two Different Ratios of Medicinal Cannabis in Patients With High Grade Gliomas. Front Oncol 2021; 11:649555. [PMID: 34094937 PMCID: PMC8176855 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.649555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cannabis for cancer is very topical and, given the use of illicit cannabis preparations used in this vulnerable population, research investigating standardised, quality-assured medicinal cannabis is critical to inform clinicians and assist patient safety. Methods A randomized trial involving adult patients diagnosed with a high-grade glioma, no history of substance abuse, liver or kidney damage or myocardial infarction were eligible for inclusion in a tolerability study on two different ratios of medicinal cannabis. Baseline screening of brain morphology, blood pathology, functional status, and cognition was conducted. A retrospective control group was used for comparison for secondary outcomes. Results Participants (n=88) were on average 53.3 years old. A paired t-test assessed the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy for Brain Cancer (FACT-Br) between groups from baseline to week 12 found that the 1:1 ratio favoured both physical (p=0.025) and functional (p=0.014) capacity and improved sleep (p=0.009). Analysis of changes from baseline to week 12 also found 11% of 61 participants had a reduction in disease, 34% were stable, 16% had slight enhancement, and 10% had progressive disease. No serious adverse events occurred. Side effects included dry mouth, tiredness at night, dizziness, drowsiness. Conclusion This study demonstrated that a single nightly dose of THC-containing medicinal cannabis was safe, had no serious adverse effects and was well tolerated in patients. Medicinal cannabis significantly improved sleep, functional wellbeing, and quality of life. Clinical Trial Registration Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR) http://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=373556&isReview=true, identifier ACTRN12617001287325.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet Schloss
- National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW, Australia.,Office of Research, Endeavour College of Natural Health, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Judith Lacey
- National Institute of Complementary Medicine (NICM) Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Supportive Care, Chris O'Brien Lifehouse Cancer Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Clinical School of Medicine, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Justin Sinclair
- National Institute of Complementary Medicine (NICM) Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Amie Steel
- Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Michael Sughrue
- Prince of Wales Private Hospital, Centre for Minimally Invasive Neurosurgery, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - David Sibbritt
- Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Charles Teo
- Prince of Wales Private Hospital, Centre for Minimally Invasive Neurosurgery, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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11
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Boyacıoğlu Ö, Bilgiç E, Varan C, Bilensoy E, Nemutlu E, Sevim D, Kocaefe Ç, Korkusuz P. ACPA decreases non-small cell lung cancer line growth through Akt/PI3K and JNK pathways in vitro. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:56. [PMID: 33431819 PMCID: PMC7801394 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-03274-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Therapeutic agents used for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) have limited curative efficacy and may trigger serious adverse effects. Cannabinoid ligands exert antiproliferative effect and induce apoptosis on numerous epithelial cancers. We confirmed that CB1 receptor (CB1R) is expressed in NSCLC cells in this study. Arachidonoylcyclopropylamide (ACPA) as a synthetic, CB1R-specific ligand decreased proliferation rate in NSCLC cells by WST-1 analysis and real-time proliferation assay (RTCA). The half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) dose of ACPA was calculated as 1.39 × 10-12 M. CB1 antagonist AM281 inhibited the antiproliferative effect of ACPA. Flow cytometry and ultrastructural analyzes revealed significant early and late apoptosis with diminished cell viability. Nano-immunoassay and metabolomics data on activation status of CB1R-mediated pro-apoptotic pathways found that ACPA inhibited Akt/PI3K pathway, glycolysis, TCA cycle, amino acid biosynthesis, and urea cycle and activated JNK pathway. ACPA lost its chemical stability after 24 hours tested by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) assay. A novel ACPA-PCL nanoparticle system was developed by nanoprecipitation method and characterized. Sustained release of ACPA-PCL nanoparticles also reduced proliferation of NSCLC cells. Our results demonstrated that low dose ACPA and ACPA-PCL nanoparticle system harbor opportunities to be developed as a novel therapy in NSCLC patients that require further in vivo studies beforehand to validate its anticancer effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Özge Boyacıoğlu
- Hacettepe University, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Department of Bioengineering, 06800, Beytepe, Ankara, Turkey
- Atılım University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biochemistry, 06830, Gölbaşı, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Elif Bilgiç
- Hacettepe University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, 06100, Sıhhiye, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Cem Varan
- Hacettepe University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, 06100, Sıhhiye, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Erem Bilensoy
- Hacettepe University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, 06100, Sıhhiye, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Emirhan Nemutlu
- Hacettepe University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Analytical Chemistry, 06100, Sıhhiye, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Duygu Sevim
- Hacettepe University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biology, 06100, Sıhhiye, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Çetin Kocaefe
- Hacettepe University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biology, 06100, Sıhhiye, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Petek Korkusuz
- Hacettepe University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, 06100, Sıhhiye, Ankara, Turkey.
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Famiglietti A, Memoli JW, Khaitan PG. Therapeutic Application of Cannabis in Medicine and Its Relevance to Thoracic Surgery. Ann Thorac Surg 2020; 112:665-671. [PMID: 33248994 DOI: 10.1016/j.athoracsur.2020.08.105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 07/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/22/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis is the most commonly used illicit substance in the United States. As cannabis use rises in popularity and its legalization continues to expand, the scientific community must address the controversy between beneficial and adverse effects of cannabis consumption. METHODS We performed a comprehensive literature review to study the medicinal and pathologic effects of cannabis use, with emphasis on its association with cancer pathophysiology and thoracic surgery. RESULTS We found evidence that cannabis products often contain carcinogenic materials and that their use is associated with the development of certain head and neck cancers, but not lung cancer. Indeed, several in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated that cannabis may have a therapeutic role in cancer given the antiproliferative effects of its active compounds such as δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol. Cannabis-derived products have also been shown to be effective treatments for chronic pain, neuropathy, spasticity, and as antiemetics. CONCLUSIONS We acknowledge that additional studies are required to elucidate the long-term effects of cannabis products and that many potential biases and limitations exist in the literature due to self-reporting and limited survey studies. Appropriate stewardship over cannabis use among our patient population will likely determine its full implications in both oncologic and perioperative outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber Famiglietti
- Department of Surgery, Georgetown University School of Medicine, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC
| | - Jessica Wang Memoli
- Division of Interventional Pulmonology, Georgetown University School of Medicine, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC
| | - Puja Gaur Khaitan
- Department of Surgery, Georgetown University School of Medicine, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC; Division of Thoracic and Esophageal Surgery, Georgetown University School of Medicine, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC.
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13
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Cannabinoids and Prostate Cancer: A Systematic Review of Animal Studies. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21176265. [PMID: 32872551 PMCID: PMC7503992 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer is a major cause of death among men worldwide. Recent preclinical evidence implicates cannabinoids as powerful regulators of cell growth and differentiation, as well as potential anti-cancer agents. The aim of this review was to evaluate the effect of cannabinoids on in vivo prostate cancer models. The databases searched included PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science from inception to August 2020. Articles reporting on the effect of cannabinoids on prostate cancer were deemed eligible. We identified six studies that were all found to be based on in vivo/xenograft animal models. Results: In PC3 and DU145 xenografts, WIN55,212-2 reduced cell proliferation in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, in LNCaP xenografts, WIN55,212-2 reduced cell proliferation by 66-69%. PM49, which is a synthetic cannabinoid quinone, was also found to result in a significant inhibition of tumor growth of up to 90% in xenograft models of LNCaP and 40% in xenograft models of PC3 cells, respectively. All studies have reported that the treatment of prostate cancers in in vivo/xenograft models with various cannabinoids decreased the size of the tumor, the outcomes of which depended on the dose and length of treatment. Within the limitation of these identified studies, cannabinoids were shown to reduce the size of prostate cancer tumors in animal models. However, further well-designed and controlled animal studies are warranted to confirm these findings.
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Cytotoxic Effects of Cannabinoids on Human HT-29 Colorectal Adenocarcinoma Cells: Different Mechanisms of THC, CBD, and CB83. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21155533. [PMID: 32752303 PMCID: PMC7432098 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21155533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we investigated the effects of exposition to IC50 dose for 24 h of a new synthetic cannabinoid (CB83) and of phytocannabinoids Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) on HT-29 colorectal carcinoma cells. Cell viability and proliferative activity evaluated using the MTT, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and CyQUANT assays showed that cell viability was significantly affected when CB83, THC, and CBD were administered to cells. The results obtained showed that the reduced glutathione/oxidized glutathione ratio was significantly reduced in the cells exposed to CBD and significantly increased in the cells treated with the CB83 when compared to the controls. CBD treatment causes a significant increase in malondialdehyde content. The catalase activity was significantly reduced in HT-29 cells after incubation with CB83, THC, and CBD. The activities of glutathione reductase and glutathione peroxidase were significantly increased in cells exposed to THC and significantly decreased in those treated with CBD. The ascorbic acid content was significantly reduced in cells exposed to CB83, THC, and CBD. The ultrastructural investigation by TEM highlighted a significantly increased percentage of cells apoptotic and necrotic after CB83 exposition. The Annexin V-Propidium Iodide assay showed a significantly increased percentage of cells apoptotic after CB83 exposition and necrotic cells after CBD and THC exposition. Our results proved that only CBD induced oxidative stress in HT-29 colorectal carcinoma cells via CB receptor-independent mechanisms and that CB83 caused a mainly CB2 receptor-mediated antiproliferative effect comparable to 5-Fuorouracil, which is still the mainstay drug in protocols for colorectal cancer.
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15
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Effects of the synthetic cannabinoid XLR-11 on the viability and migration rates of human brain microvascular endothelial cells in a clinically-relevant model. Pharmacol Rep 2020; 72:1717-1724. [PMID: 32632915 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-020-00123-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) are a group of newly-developed drugs that bind and activate endocannabinoid system receptors. Angiogenesis is a biological process in which new blood vessels are formed from preexistent blood vessels. It plays a vital role in tissue growth, wound healing, and embryogenesis. This study aims to investigate the effects of the synthetic cannabinoid XLR-11 on specific cellular functions such as viability and angiogenesis in vitro. METHODS Human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMECs) were cultured in DMEM/F12 medium supplemented with an endothelial cell growth kit. The MTT assay was used to investigate the viability of endothelial cells. An endothelial cell migration assay was used to investigate migration ability, while a tube formation assay was used to investigate the angiogenic capacity of the endothelial cells. RESULTS XLR-11 was found to enhance the viability of HBMECs. Moreover, the migration rate and angiogenic capacity significantly increased in the presence of various concentrations of XLR-11 compared to the control. CONCLUSION The current study shows that XLR-11 increases the viability of human brain microvascular endothelial cells and enhances angiogenesis in the brain in vitro, suggesting that XLR-11 could potentially be used as a therapeutic angiogenic drug in human brain injury treatment.
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16
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Pauli CS, Conroy M, Vanden Heuvel BD, Park SH. Cannabidiol Drugs Clinical Trial Outcomes and Adverse Effects. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:63. [PMID: 32161538 PMCID: PMC7053164 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
This review aims to present completed clinical trial data surrounding the medicinal benefits and potential side effects of the increasingly popular cannabidiol (CBD)-based drug products, specifically Epidiolex. The article is divided into two sections based on if the ailment being treated by this cannabinoid is classified as either physiological or neurological conditions. In addition to describing the current status, we also examined the different primary and secondary outcomes recorded for each study, which varies greatly depending on the funding source of the clinical trial. With the recent FDA-approval of Epidiolex, this review mainly focused on trials involving this specific formulation since it is the only CBD-based drug currently available to clinicians, although all other clinically trialed CBD(A) drugs were also examined. We hope this review will help guide future research and clinical trials by providing the various outcomes measured in a single review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher S Pauli
- Institute of Cannabis Research, Colorado State University-Pueblo, Pueblo, CO, United States
| | - Matthieu Conroy
- Institute of Cannabis Research, Colorado State University-Pueblo, Pueblo, CO, United States
| | | | - Sang-Hyuck Park
- Institute of Cannabis Research, Colorado State University-Pueblo, Pueblo, CO, United States.,Department of Biology, Colorado State University-Pueblo, Pueblo, CO, United States
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17
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Exploring cancer survivors’ attitudes, perceptions, and concerns about using medical cannabis for symptom and side effect management: A qualitative focus group study. Complement Ther Med 2019; 47:102204. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2019.102204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2019] [Revised: 08/24/2019] [Accepted: 09/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
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Abd-Elsalam WH, Alsherbiny MA, Kung JY, Pate DW, Löbenberg R. LC–MS/MS quantitation of phytocannabinoids and their metabolites in biological matrices. Talanta 2019; 204:846-867. [PMID: 31357374 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2019.06.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2019] [Revised: 06/09/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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19
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Tutino V, Caruso MG, De Nunzio V, Lorusso D, Veronese N, Gigante I, Notarnicola M, Giannelli G. Down-Regulation of Cannabinoid Type 1 (CB1) Receptor and its Downstream Signaling Pathways in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11050708. [PMID: 31121931 PMCID: PMC6562552 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11050708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Revised: 05/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Changes in the regulation of endocannabinoid production, together with an altered expression of their receptors are hallmarks of cancer, including colorectal cancer (CRC). Although several studies have been conducted to understand the biological role of the CB1 receptor in cancer, little is known about its involvement in the metastatic process of CRC. The aim of this study was to investigate the possible link between CB1 receptor expression and the presence of metastasis in patients with CRC, investigating the main signaling pathways elicited downstream of CB1 receptor in colon cancer. Fifty-nine consecutive patients, with histologically proven colorectal cancer, were enrolled in the study, of which 30 patients with synchronous metastasis, at first diagnosis and 29 without metastasis. A low expression of CB1 receptor were detected in primary tumor tissue of CRC patients with metastasis and consequently, we observed an alteration of CB1 receptor downstream signaling. These signaling routes were also altered in intestinal normal mucosa, suggesting that, normal mucosa surrounding the tumor provides a realistic picture of the molecules involved in tissue malignant transformation. These observations contribute to the idea that drugs able to induce CB1 receptor expression can be helpful in order to set new anticancer therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Tutino
- Laboratory of Nutritional Biochemistry, National Institute of Gastroenterology "S. de Bellis", Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy.
| | - Maria Gabriella Caruso
- Ambulatory of Clinical Nutrition, National Institute of Gastroenterology "S. de Bellis", Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy.
| | - Valentina De Nunzio
- Laboratory of Nutritional Biochemistry, National Institute of Gastroenterology "S. de Bellis", Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy.
| | - Dionigi Lorusso
- Surgery Unit, National Institute of Gastroenterology "S. de Bellis", Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy.
| | - Nicola Veronese
- Ambulatory of Clinical Nutrition, National Institute of Gastroenterology "S. de Bellis", Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy.
| | - Isabella Gigante
- Laboratory of Nutritional Biochemistry, National Institute of Gastroenterology "S. de Bellis", Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy.
| | - Maria Notarnicola
- Laboratory of Nutritional Biochemistry, National Institute of Gastroenterology "S. de Bellis", Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy.
| | - Gianluigi Giannelli
- Scientific Direction, National Institute of Gastroenterology "S. de Bellis", Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy.
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20
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Walker OLS, Holloway AC, Raha S. The role of the endocannabinoid system in female reproductive tissues. J Ovarian Res 2019; 12:3. [PMID: 30646937 PMCID: PMC6332911 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-018-0478-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
There has been increasing interest in the role of endocannabinoids as critical modulators of the female reproductive processes. Endocannabinoids are natural ligands of cannabinoid, vanilloid, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors. Together with their receptors, enzymes and downstream signaling targets, they form the endocannabinoid system (ECS). While the ECS is known to modulate pain and neurodevelopment, it is also known to impact the female reproductive system where it affects folliculogenesis, oocyte maturation, and ovarian endocrine secretion. In addition, the ECS affects oviductal embryo transport, implantation, uterine decidualization and placentation. There is a complex interplay between the ECS and the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, and an intricate crosstalk between the ECS and steroid hormone production and secretion. Exogenous cannabinoids, derived from plants such as Cannabis sativa, are also ligands for cannabinoid receptors. These have been shown to have clinical outcomes related to ECS dysregulation, including multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, along with adverse effects on female reproduction. The aim of this review is to describe and discuss data from human, animal, and in vitro studies that support the important role of the endocannabinoid system in female reproductive tissues and processes. In particular, we will discuss some of the mechanisms by which endocannabinoid signaling can affect ovarian function in both physiological and pathophysiological states.
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Affiliation(s)
- O’ Llenecia S. Walker
- Department of Pediatrics, and the Graduate Program in Medical Sciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, HSC 3N11H, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1 Canada
| | - Alison C. Holloway
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the Graduate Program in Medical Sciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, HSC 3N52A, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1 Canada
| | - Sandeep Raha
- Department of Pediatrics, and the Graduate Program in Medical Sciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, HSC 3N11H, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1 Canada
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Conceição MIG, Ventura CA. PERCEPTION OF RISKS AND BENEFITS ASSOCIATED WITH THE USE OF CANNABIS AMONG STUDENTS IN BRASILIA, BRAZIL. TEXTO & CONTEXTO ENFERMAGEM 2019. [DOI: 10.1590/1980-265x-tce-cicad-14-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Objectives: to analyze the perception of data on and benefits of cannabis, and its association with the use among Brazilian students in public high schools between the ages of 15 and 17, as well as to analyze the intention of these adolescents to use cannabis in the hypothetical context of regulatory changes in Brazil. Method: a quantitative cross-sectional study involving 268 students aged 15 to 17. The instruments of data collection were: Inter-American Drug Use Data System Secondary Students School Survey; Monitoring the Future; Benthin Risk Perception Measure; and an item on intent to use cannabis in the context of regulatory changes. Data were analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: 23.5% of the students use cannabis. The average age they started using was 14 years old (SD=1.802); 56.3% perceive a high risk of using cannabis regularly, 58.6% consider the risk to be greater than the benefit; and most of them have no intention of using cannabis. Conclusion: Prevention strategies that focus exclusively on the harmful effects of drugs are not effective, and a more realistic approach focused on health promotion is more likely to show positive results. Conclusion: The intention to use cannabis in case of regulatory change showed that the scenario would not change significantly, since the proportion of those who would use it is very similar to the one that has already used the drug.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND With increasing popularity of marijuana, consumers are likely turning to the internet for information regarding medical marijuana. Accuracy of medical marijuana claims is a significant concern because consumers change their medication management based on information from a single website. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to evaluate the accuracy and quality of medical marijuana claims on popular websites. Methods : Commonly used websites containing claims regarding medical marijuana were selected by utilizing three online marketing tools that rank websites based on number of views, number of visitors, and visitor engagement. Once the top ten most popular websites were selected, medical claims regarding marijuana were reviewed for accuracy and quality using evidence-based tools. RESULTS Seventy-six percent of claims made by websites were inaccurate and were based on low-quality evidence. Of the medical marijuana claims reviewed, 10% of websites made appropriate cause and effect conclusions. Furthermore, approximately 3% of the medical marijuana claims were written by a healthcare professional. CONCLUSION The findings show there is misleading and inaccurate information readily available to consumers online.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Morgan L Sperry
- UMKC School of Pharmacy, Drug Information Center, Kansas City, MO, USA
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Alsherbiny MA, Li CG. Medicinal Cannabis-Potential Drug Interactions. MEDICINES 2018; 6:medicines6010003. [PMID: 30583596 PMCID: PMC6473892 DOI: 10.3390/medicines6010003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Revised: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoids system (ECS) has garnered considerable interest as a potential therapeutic target in various carcinomas and cancer-related conditions alongside neurodegenerative diseases. Cannabinoids are implemented in several physiological processes such as appetite stimulation, energy balance, pain modulation and the control of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). However, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics interactions could be perceived in drug combinations, so in this short review we tried to shed light on the potential drug interactions of medicinal cannabis. Hitherto, few data have been provided to the healthcare practitioners about the drug–drug interactions of cannabinoids with other prescription medications. In general, cannabinoids are usually well tolerated, but bidirectional effects may be expected with concomitant administered agents via affected membrane transporters (Glycoprotein p, breast cancer resistance proteins, and multidrug resistance proteins) and metabolizing enzymes (Cytochrome P450 and UDP-glucuronosyltransferases). Caution should be undertaken to closely monitor the responses of cannabis users with certain drugs to guard their safety, especially for the elderly and people with chronic diseases or kidney and liver conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad A Alsherbiny
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia.
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo 11562, Egypt.
| | - Chun Guang Li
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia.
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Fraguas‐Sánchez AI, Martín‐Sabroso C, Torres‐Suárez AI. Insights into the effects of the endocannabinoid system in cancer: a review. Br J Pharmacol 2018; 175:2566-2580. [PMID: 29663308 PMCID: PMC6003657 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2017] [Revised: 03/15/2018] [Accepted: 03/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last few decades, the endocannabinoid system has attracted a great deal of interest in terms of its applications to clinical medicine. In particular, its applications in cancer probably represent one of the therapeutic areas with most promise. On the one hand, expression of the endocannabinoid system is altered in numerous types of tumours, compared to healthy tissue, and this aberrant expression has been related to cancer prognosis and disease outcome, suggesting a role of this system in tumour growth and progression that depends on cancer type. On the other hand, cannabinoids exert an anticancer activity by inhibiting the proliferation, migration and/or invasion of cancer cells and also tumour angiogenesis. However, some cannabinoids, at lower concentrations, may increase tumour proliferation, inducing cancer growth. Enough data has been provided to consider the endocannabinoid system as a new therapeutic target in cancer, although further studies to fully establish the effect of cannabinoids on tumour progression are still needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Isabel Fraguas‐Sánchez
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of PharmacyComplutense University of MadridMadrid28040Spain
| | - Cristina Martín‐Sabroso
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of PharmacyComplutense University of MadridMadrid28040Spain
| | - Ana Isabel Torres‐Suárez
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of PharmacyComplutense University of MadridMadrid28040Spain
- Institute of Industrial PharmacyComplutense University of MadridMadrid28040Spain
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Zebec Z, Scrutton NS. Genome Editing for the Production of Natural Products inEscherichia coli. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.1002/adbi.201800056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ziga Zebec
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology and School of Chemistry; The University of Manchester; Manchester M1 7DN UK
| | - Nigel S. Scrutton
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology and School of Chemistry; The University of Manchester; Manchester M1 7DN UK
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