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Lafzi A, Demirci T, Yüce N, Annaç E, Çiçek M, Şişman T. A study on the possible neurotoxic effects of CUMYL-4CN-BINACA in Sprague Dawley rats. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2024; 67:102389. [PMID: 38185093 DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2023.102389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Substances such as Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol cross the blood-brain barrier. Detecting the damage of these substances in the brain provides important data in drug abuse studies. The aim of the study is to define the neurotoxicity of a novel synthetic cannabinoid (CUMYL-4CN-BINACA) in the Sprague-Dawley rats. Histopathological, immunohistochemical, behavioral, and biochemical examinations were performed to determine the acute and subacute toxicity of the cannabinoid. Three cannabinoid doses were administered for 2 days in the acute exposure groups and 14 days in the subacute exposure groups. Observations were made for 14 days and various changes such as mortality, injury, and illness were recorded daily. No mortality was determined. Serious pathological changes such as neurodegeneration, focal plague formation, vacuolation, edema, congestion, and fibrosis were observed in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus of the brain in a dose-dependent manner. Brain tissue caspase-3 activity showed that the cannabinoid triggered apoptosis in the rat brain. The detected cellular oxidative stress (higher lipid peroxidation and lower antioxidant enzyme activity) also supported neurotoxicity. Significant behavioral abnormalities were also observed in the acute groups, while no behavioral changes were detected in the subacute groups. This study showed for the first time that CUMYL-4CN-BINACA adversely affects the rat brain. It can be estimated that the abuse of the cannabinoid may harm human health in the same way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayşe Lafzi
- Department of Criminalistics, Graduate School of Natural and Applied Science, Atatürk University, 25240 Erzurum, Turkey.
| | - Tuba Demirci
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medicine Faculty, Atatürk University, 25240 Erzurum, Turkey.
| | - Neslihan Yüce
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medicine Faculty, Atatürk University, 25240 Erzurum, Turkey.
| | - Ebru Annaç
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medicine Faculty, Adıyaman University, 02040 Adıyaman, Turkey.
| | - Mustafa Çiçek
- Department of Medical Biology and Genetics, Medicine Faculty, Kahramanmaraş Sütçü İmam University, 46050 Kahramanmaraş, Turkey.
| | - Turgay Şişman
- Department of Criminalistics, Graduate School of Natural and Applied Science, Atatürk University, 25240 Erzurum, Turkey; Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Science Faculty, Atatürk University, 25240 Erzurum, Turkey.
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2
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Zhou F, Wang X, Tan S, Shi Y, Xie B, Xiang P, Cong B, Ma C, Wen D. Differential cannabinoid-like effects and pharmacokinetics of ADB-BICA, ADB-BINACA, ADB-4en-PINACA and MDMB-4en-PINACA in mice: A comparative study. Addict Biol 2024; 29:e13372. [PMID: 38380735 PMCID: PMC10898835 DOI: 10.1111/adb.13372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Despite synthetic cannabinoids' (SCs) prevalent use among humans, these substances often lack comprehensive pharmacological data, primarily due to their rapid emergence in the market. This study aimed to discern differences and causal factors among four SCs (ADB-BICA, ADB-BINACA, ADB-4en-PINACA and MDMB-4en-PINACA), with respect to locomotor activity, body temperature and nociception threshold. Adult male C57BL/6 mice received intraperitoneal injections of varying doses (0.5, 0.1 and 0.02 mg/kg) of these compounds. Three substances (including ADB-BINACA, ADB-4en-PINACA and MDMB-4en-PINACA) demonstrated dose- and time-dependent hypolocomotive and hypothermic effects. Notably, 0.1 mg/kg MDMB-4en-PINACA exhibited analgesic properties. However, ADB-BICA did not cause any effects. MDMB-4en-PINACA manifested the most potent and sustained effects, followed by ADB-4en-PINACA, ADB-BINACA and ADB-BICA. Additionally, the cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1R) antagonist AM251 suppressed the effects induced by acute administration of the substances. Analysis of molecular binding configurations revealed that the four SCs adopted a congruent C-shaped geometry, with shared linker binding pockets conducive to robust steric interaction with CB1R. Essential residues PHE268 , PHE200 and SER173 within CB1R were identified as pivotal contributors to enhancing receptor-ligand associations. During LC-MS/MS analysis, 0.5 mg/kg MDMB-4en-PINACA exhibited the highest plasma concentration and most prolonged detection window post-administration. The study of SCs' pharmacological and pharmacokinetic profiles is crucial for better understanding the main mechanisms of cannabinoid-like effects induced by SCs, interpreting clinical findings related to SC uses and enhancing SCs risk awareness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fenghua Zhou
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Research Unit of Digestive Tract Microecosystem Pharmacology and ToxicologyChinese Academy of Medical SciencesShijiazhuangHebei ProvinceChina
| | - Xiaoli Wang
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Research Unit of Digestive Tract Microecosystem Pharmacology and ToxicologyChinese Academy of Medical SciencesShijiazhuangHebei ProvinceChina
| | - Sujun Tan
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Research Unit of Digestive Tract Microecosystem Pharmacology and ToxicologyChinese Academy of Medical SciencesShijiazhuangHebei ProvinceChina
| | - Yan Shi
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Science Platform, Key Laboratory of Judicial Expertise, Department of Forensic ToxicologyAcademy of Forensic Science, Ministry of JusticeShanghaiChina
| | - Bing Xie
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Research Unit of Digestive Tract Microecosystem Pharmacology and ToxicologyChinese Academy of Medical SciencesShijiazhuangHebei ProvinceChina
| | - Ping Xiang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Science Platform, Key Laboratory of Judicial Expertise, Department of Forensic ToxicologyAcademy of Forensic Science, Ministry of JusticeShanghaiChina
| | - Bin Cong
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Research Unit of Digestive Tract Microecosystem Pharmacology and ToxicologyChinese Academy of Medical SciencesShijiazhuangHebei ProvinceChina
| | - Chunling Ma
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Research Unit of Digestive Tract Microecosystem Pharmacology and ToxicologyChinese Academy of Medical SciencesShijiazhuangHebei ProvinceChina
- Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular BiologyMinistry of EducationShijiazhuangHebei ProvinceChina
| | - Di Wen
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Research Unit of Digestive Tract Microecosystem Pharmacology and ToxicologyChinese Academy of Medical SciencesShijiazhuangHebei ProvinceChina
- Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular BiologyMinistry of EducationShijiazhuangHebei ProvinceChina
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3
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Markham J, Sparkes E, Boyd R, Chen S, Manning JJ, Finlay D, Lai F, McGregor E, Maloney CJ, Gerona RR, Connor M, McGregor IS, Hibbs DE, Glass M, Kevin RC, Banister SD. Defining Steric Requirements at CB 1 and CB 2 Cannabinoid Receptors Using Synthetic Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists 5F-AB-PINACA, 5F-ADB-PINACA, PX-1, PX-2, NNL-1, and Their Analogues. ACS Chem Neurosci 2022; 13:1281-1295. [PMID: 35404067 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.2c00034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) are a diverse class of new psychoactive substances (NPS). They commonly comprise N-alkylated indole, indazole, or 7-azaindole scaffolds with amide-linked pendant amino acid groups. To explore the contribution of the amino acid side chain to the cannabinoid pharmacology of SCRA NPS, a systematic library of side chain-modified SCRAs was prepared based on the recent detections of amino acid derivatives 17 (5F-AB-PINACA), 18 (5F-ADB-PINACA), 15 (PX-1), 19 (PX-2), and 20 (NNL-1). In vitro binding affinities and functional activities at cannabinoid type 1 and 2 receptors (CB1 and CB2, respectively) were determined for all the library members using radioligand competition experiments and a fluorescence-based membrane potential assay. Binding affinities and functional activities varied widely across compounds (Ki = 0.32 to >10 000 nM, EC50 = 0.24-1259 nM), with several clear structure-activity relationships (SARs) emerging. Affinity and potency at CB1 changed as a function of the heterocyclic core (indazole > indole > 7-azaindole) and the pendant amino acid side chain (tert-butyl > iso-propyl > iso-butyl > benzyl > ethyl > methyl > hydrogen). Ensemble docking at CB1 revealed a clear steric basis for observed SAR trends. Interestingly, although 15 (PX-1) and 19 (PX-2) have been detected in recreational drug markets, they failed to induce centrally CB1-mediated effects (e.g., hypothermia) in mice using radiobiotelemetry. Together, these data provide insights regarding structural contributions to the cannabimimetic profiles of 17 (5F-AB-PINACA), 18 (5F-ADB-PINACA), 15 (PX-1), 19 (PX-2), 20 (NNL-1), and other SCRA NPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Markham
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2050, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Eric Sparkes
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2050, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rochelle Boyd
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2050, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Shuli Chen
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
| | - Jamie J. Manning
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
| | - David Finlay
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
| | - Felcia Lai
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Eila McGregor
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2050, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2005, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Callan J. Maloney
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2050, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Roy R. Gerona
- Clinical Toxicology and Environmental Biomonitoring Laboratory, University of California, San Francisco, California 94143, United States
| | - Mark Connor
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney 2109, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Iain S. McGregor
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2050, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2005, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David E. Hibbs
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
| | - Richard C. Kevin
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2050, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Samuel D. Banister
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2050, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, New South Wales, Australia
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4
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Abstract
Newly emerging synthetic cannabinoid compounds continue to be found in the designer drug market. They are often targeted as a 'legal high' alternative to traditional cannabinoids via 'darknet' markets and their increased potency and efficacy are becoming a growing concern internationally. The purpose of this study was to determine whether 4-CN-CUMYL-BUTINACA, 4F-MDMB-BINACA, 5F-AEB, 5F-CUMYL-P7AICA and EMB-FUBINACA exhibited similar behavioral effects as Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC). Locomotor activity was assessed in an open-field assay using Swiss-Webster mice. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were trained to discriminate between intraperitoneal injections of Δ9-THC (3 mg/kg) and vehicle. Following successful training, substitution tests for 4-CN-CUMYL-BUTINACA, 4F-MDMB-BINACA, 5F-AEB, 5F-CUMYL-P7AICA and EMB-FUBINACA were conducted. All of the test compounds decreased locomotor activity. 4-CN-CUMYL-BUTINACA (ED50 = 0.26 mg/kg), 4F-MDMB-BINACA (ED50 = 0.019 mg/kg), 5F-CUMYL-P7AICA (ED50 = 0.13 mg/kg) and EMB-FUBINACA (ED50 = 0.13 mg/kg) each fully substituted for the discriminative stimulus effects of the training dose of Δ9-THC, whereas 5F-AEB produced only a maximum of 67% drug-appropriate responding at 0.5 mg/kg. Higher doses produced piloerection, exophthalmos and convulsions. 4-CN-CUMYL-BUTINACA, 4F-MDMB-BINACA, 5F-CUMYL-P7AICA and EMB-FUBINACA are likely to produce similar subjective effects in humans as those produced by abused synthetic cannabinoids, and may therefore share similar abuse liability. In contrast, 5F-AEB may have a reduced abuse liability given its weaker THC-like discriminative stimulus effects but maybe more dangerous due to the adverse effects observed at doses needed to produce discriminative stimulus effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael B Gatch
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Center for Neuroscience Discovery, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas, USA
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5
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Sparkes E, Boyd R, Chen S, Markham JW, Luo JL, Foyzun T, Zaman H, Fletcher C, Ellison R, McGregor IS, Santiago MJ, Lai F, Gerona RR, Connor M, Hibbs DE, Cairns EA, Glass M, Ametovski A, Banister SD. Synthesis and pharmacological evaluation of newly detected synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists AB-4CN-BUTICA, MMB-4CN-BUTINACA, MDMB-4F-BUTICA, MDMB-4F-BUTINACA and their analogs. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:1010501. [PMID: 36245876 PMCID: PMC9558907 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.1010501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) continue to make up a significant portion new psychoactive substances (NPS) detected and seized worldwide. Due to their often potent activation of central cannabinoid receptors in vivo, use of SCRAs can result in severe intoxication, in addition to other adverse health effects. Recent detections of AB-4CN-BUTICA, MMB-4CN-BUTINACA, MDMB-4F-BUTICA and MDMB-4F-BUTINACA mark a continuation in the appearance of SCRAs bearing novel tail substituents. The proactive characterization campaign described here has facilitated the detection of several new SCRAs in toxicological case work. Here we detail the synthesis, characterization, and pharmacological evaluation of recently detected SCRAs, as well as a systematic library of 32 compounds bearing head, tail, and core group combinations likely to appear in future. In vitro radioligand binding assays revealed most compounds showed moderate to high affinity at both CB1 (pK i = < 5 to 8.89 ± 0.09 M) and CB2 (pK i = 5.49 ± 0.03 to 9.92 ± 0.09 M) receptors. In vitro functional evaluation using a fluorescence-based membrane potential assay showed that most compounds were sub-micromolar to sub-nanomolar agonists at CB1 (pEC50 = < 5 to 9.48 ± 0.14 M) and CB2 (pEC50 = 5.92 ± 0.16 to 8.64 ± 0.15 M) receptors. An in silico receptor-ligand docking approach was utilized to rationalize binding trends for CB2 with respect to the tail substituent, and indicated that rigidity in this region (i.e., 4-cyanobutyl) was detrimental to affinity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Sparkes
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Science, School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Rochelle Boyd
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Science, School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Shuli Chen
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Jack W Markham
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Science, School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Pharmacy, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jia Lin Luo
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Science, School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Tahira Foyzun
- Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Humayra Zaman
- Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Charlotte Fletcher
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Science, School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Ross Ellison
- Clinical Toxicology and Environmental Biomonitoring Laboratory, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Iain S McGregor
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Science, School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Marina J Santiago
- Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Felcia Lai
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Pharmacy, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Roy R Gerona
- Clinical Toxicology and Environmental Biomonitoring Laboratory, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Mark Connor
- Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - David E Hibbs
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Pharmacy, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Elizabeth A Cairns
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Science, School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Adam Ametovski
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Science, School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Samuel D Banister
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Science, School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Ahmed I, Rehman SU, Shahmohamadnejad S, Zia MA, Ahmad M, Saeed MM, Akram Z, Iqbal HMN, Liu Q. Therapeutic Attributes of Endocannabinoid System against Neuro-Inflammatory Autoimmune Disorders. Molecules 2021; 26:3389. [PMID: 34205169 PMCID: PMC8199938 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26113389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
In humans, various sites like cannabinoid receptors (CBR) having a binding affinity with cannabinoids are distributed on the surface of different cell types, where endocannabinoids (ECs) and derivatives of fatty acid can bind. The binding of these substance(s) triggers the activation of specific receptors required for various physiological functions, including pain sensation, memory, and appetite. The ECs and CBR perform multiple functions via the cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1); cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2), having a key effect in restraining neurotransmitters and the arrangement of cytokines. The role of cannabinoids in the immune system is illustrated because of their immunosuppressive characteristics. These characteristics include inhibition of leucocyte proliferation, T cells apoptosis, and induction of macrophages along with reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines secretion. The review seeks to discuss the functional relationship between the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and anti-tumor characteristics of cannabinoids in various cancers. The therapeutic potential of cannabinoids for cancer-both in vivo and in vitro clinical trials-has also been highlighted and reported to be effective in mice models in arthritis for the inflammation reduction, neuropathic pain, positive effect in multiple sclerosis and type-1 diabetes mellitus, and found beneficial for treating in various cancers. In human models, such studies are limited; thereby, further research is indispensable in this field to get a conclusive outcome. Therefore, in autoimmune disorders, therapeutic cannabinoids can serve as promising immunosuppressive and anti-fibrotic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishtiaq Ahmed
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning 530005, China;
- School of Medical Science, Gold Coast Campus, Griffith University, Southport, QLD 4222, Australia;
| | - Saif Ur Rehman
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning 530005, China;
| | - Shiva Shahmohamadnejad
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 14176-13151, Iran;
| | - Muhammad Anjum Zia
- Enzyme Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38040, Pakistan; (M.A.Z.); (M.M.S.)
| | - Muhammad Ahmad
- Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (SBBUVAS), Sakrand 67210, Pakistan;
| | - Muhammad Muzammal Saeed
- Enzyme Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38040, Pakistan; (M.A.Z.); (M.M.S.)
| | - Zain Akram
- School of Medical Science, Gold Coast Campus, Griffith University, Southport, QLD 4222, Australia;
| | - Hafiz M. N. Iqbal
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, 64849 Monterrey, Mexico;
| | - Qingyou Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning 530005, China;
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7
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Hur KH, Ma SX, Lee BR, Ko YH, Seo JY, Ryu HW, Kim HJ, Yoon S, Lee YS, Lee SY, Jang CG. Abuse Potential of Synthetic Cannabinoids: AM-1248, CB-13, and PB-22. Biomol Ther (Seoul) 2021; 29:384-391. [PMID: 33935046 PMCID: PMC8255142 DOI: 10.4062/biomolther.2020.212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, the expanding recreational use of synthetic cannabinoids (SCBs) threatens public health. SCBs produce psychoactive effects similar to those of tetrahydrocannabinol, the main component of cannabis, and additionally induce unexpected pharmacological side effects. SCBs are falsely advertised as legal and safe, but in reality, SCB abuse has been reported to cause acute intoxication and addictive disorders. However, because of the lack of scientific evidence to elucidate their dangerous pharmacological effects, SCBs are weakly regulated and continue to circulate in illegal drug markets. In the present study, the intravenous self-administration (IVSA) paradigm was used to evaluate the abuse potential of three SCBs (AM-1248, CB-13, and PB-22) in rats. All three SCBs maintained IVSA with a large number of infusions and active lever presses, demonstrating their reinforcing effects. The increase of active lever presses was particularly significant during the early IVSA sessions, indicating the reinforcementenhancing effects of the SCBs (AM-1248 and CB-13). The number of inactive lever presses was significantly higher in the SCB groups (AM-1248 and CB-13) than that in the vehicle group, indicating their impulsive effects. In summary, these results demonstrated that SCBs have distinct pharmacological properties and abuse potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwang-Hyun Hur
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Shi-Xun Ma
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Bo-Ram Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Hyun Ko
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Jee-Yeon Seo
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Won Ryu
- Medicinal Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy & Department of Life and Nanopharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Jin Kim
- Medicinal Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy & Department of Life and Nanopharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Seolmin Yoon
- Medicinal Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Fundamental Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Sup Lee
- Medicinal Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy & Department of Life and Nanopharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Seok-Yong Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Choon-Gon Jang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
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8
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Oliveira da Cruz JF, Ioannidou C, Pagano Zottola AC, Muguruza C, Gomez‐Sotres P, Fernandez M, Callado LF, Marsicano G, Busquets‐Garcia A. Sex-dependent pharmacological profiles of the synthetic cannabinoid MMB-Fubinaca. Addict Biol 2021; 26:e12940. [PMID: 32744799 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids have emerged as novel psychoactive substances with damaging consequences for public health. They exhibit high affinity at the cannabinoid type-1 (CB1 ) receptor and produce similar and often more potent effects as other CB1 receptor agonists. However, we are still far from a complete pharmacological understanding of these compounds. In this study, by using behavioral, molecular, pharmacological, and electrophysiological approaches, we aimed at characterizing several in vitro and in vivo pharmacological effects of the synthetic cannabinoid MMB-Fubinaca (also known as AMB-Fubinaca or FUB-AMB), a particular synthetic cannabinoid. MMB-Fubinaca stimulates CB1 receptor-mediated functional coupling to G-proteins in mouse and human brain preparations in a similar manner as the CB1 receptor agonist WIN55,512-2 but with a much greater potency. Both drugs similarly activate the CB1 receptor-dependent extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway. Notably, in vivo administration of MMB-Fubinaca in mice induced greater behavioral and electrophysiological effects in male than in female mice in a CB1 receptor-dependent manner. Overall, these data provide a solid pharmacological profiling of the effects of MMB-Fubinaca and important information about the mechanisms of action underlying its harmful impact in humans. At the same time, they reinforce the significant sexual dimorphism of cannabinoid actions, which will have to be taken into account in future animal and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- José F. Oliveira da Cruz
- INSERM, U1215 NeuroCentre Magendie Bordeaux France
- University of Bordeaux Bordeaux France
- Center for Neural Science New York University New York New York USA
| | - Christina Ioannidou
- INSERM, U1215 NeuroCentre Magendie Bordeaux France
- University of Bordeaux Bordeaux France
| | | | - Carolina Muguruza
- Department of Pharmacology University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU Leioa Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental, CIBERSAM Spain
| | - Paula Gomez‐Sotres
- INSERM, U1215 NeuroCentre Magendie Bordeaux France
- University of Bordeaux Bordeaux France
| | - Monica Fernandez
- INSERM, U1215 NeuroCentre Magendie Bordeaux France
- University of Bordeaux Bordeaux France
| | - Luis F. Callado
- Department of Pharmacology University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU Leioa Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental, CIBERSAM Spain
| | - Giovanni Marsicano
- INSERM, U1215 NeuroCentre Magendie Bordeaux France
- University of Bordeaux Bordeaux France
| | - Arnau Busquets‐Garcia
- INSERM, U1215 NeuroCentre Magendie Bordeaux France
- University of Bordeaux Bordeaux France
- Integrative Pharmacology and Systems Neuroscience Research Group, Neurosciences Research Program IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute) Barcelona Spain
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9
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Trexler KR, Vanegas SO, Poklis JL, Kinsey SG. The short-acting synthetic cannabinoid AB-FUBINACA induces physical dependence in mice. Drug Alcohol Depend 2020; 214:108179. [PMID: 32688070 PMCID: PMC7461724 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2020.108179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent years have seen a rise in the diversity and use of synthetic cannabinoids. The present study evaluated the behavioral effects of the third-generation indazole-3-carboxamide-type synthetic cannabinoid, AB-FUBINACA. METHODS Adult male and female C57BL/6J mice were treated with AB-FUBINACA (0-3 mg/kg, i.p.) and tested repeatedly in the tetrad battery measuring catalepsy, antinociception, hypothermia, and locomotor activity. Mice treated with AB-FUBINACA (≥2 mg/kg, i.p.) displayed classic cannabinoid effects in the tetrad that were blocked by the CB1 receptor selective antagonist rimonabant. To address tolerance and withdrawal effects, a second group of mice was injected with AB-FUBINACA (3 mg/kg, s.c.) or vehicle consisting of 5% ethanol, 5% Kolliphor EL, and 90 % saline every 12 h and tested daily in modified tetrad over the course of 5 days. On the 6th day, withdrawal was precipitated using rimonabant (3 mg/kg, s.c.), and somatic signs of withdrawal (i.e., head twitches and paw tremors) were quantified. RESULTS Although mice did not develop tolerance to AB-FUBINACA or cross-tolerance to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC; 50 mg/kg, i.p.), somatic precipitated withdrawal signs were observed. Repeated tetrad testing up to 48 h post injection indicated that AB-FUBINACA effects are relatively short-lived, as compared with THC. Brain levels of AB-FUBINACA, as quantified by UHPLC-MS/MS, were undetectable 4 h post injection. CONCLUSIONS These data indicate that the cannabinoid effects of AB-FUBINACA are relatively short-lived, yet sufficient to induce dependence in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen R. Trexler
- Department of Psychology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, United States
| | - S. Olivia Vanegas
- Department of Psychology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, United States,Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States,School of Nursing, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
| | - Justin L. Poklis
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Steven G. Kinsey
- Department of Psychology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, United States,School of Nursing, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States,Corresponding author at: 231 Glenbrook Rd., Unit 4026, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, 06269-3237, United States. (S.G. Kinsey)
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10
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Abstract
IMPORTANCE Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs), commonly known as K2, spice, or fake weed, are cheap, artificially manufactured recreational drugs that have emerged as a major public health threat in various regions of the US. OBJECTIVE To describe the clinical manifestations of SC intoxication. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This case series assessed adults admitted to the intensive care unit from 2014 to 2016 with acute life-threatening complications of SC use. Data analysis was completed in October 2016. EXPOSURES Use of SCs such as K2, spice, or other synthetic versions of cannabinoids. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Data collected included patient demographic data, medical history, presenting symptoms, physical findings, laboratory and imaging data, and intensive care unit and hospital course. RESULTS Thirty patients (mean age, 41 years [range, 21-59 years]; 24 men [80%]) with SC ingestion were admitted to the intensive care unit over a 2-year period. Thirteen patients were undomiciled. The majority had a history of polysubstance abuse, psychiatric illness, or personality disorder. The admission diagnoses were coma (10 patients [33%]), agitation (10 patients [33%]), and seizure (6 patients [20%]). Eighteen patients (60%) had acute respiratory failure, and tracheal intubation was required in 21 patients (70%) for either airway protection or acute respiratory failure. Rhabdomyolysis was noted in 8 patients (26%). A man developed transient cerebral edema with loss of gray-white differentiation but had complete recovery. A woman with history of asthma died of acute respiratory distress syndrome. All patients underwent routine toxicology testing, which was unrevealing in 16 cases and revealed coingestion in the remainder. Sixteen patients (53%) left the hospital against medical advice. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Ingestion of SCs can lead to life-threatening complications, including severe toxic encephalopathy, acute respiratory failure, and death. Synthetic cannabinoids are undetectable in routine serum and urine toxicology testing but can be suspected on the basis of history and clinical presentation, which may include extreme agitation or coma. Frontline clinicians must be aware of the presentation and be vigilant in suspecting SC intoxication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ismini Kourouni
- Department of Medicine, Mount Sinai Morningside and Mount Sinai West Hospitals, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
- Now at Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, MetroHealth Hospital Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Bashar Mourad
- Department of Medicine, Mount Sinai Morningside and Mount Sinai West Hospitals, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
- Now at Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, New York University, New York, New York
| | - Hassan Khouli
- Department of Medicine, Mount Sinai Morningside and Mount Sinai West Hospitals, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
- Now at Department of Critical Care Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Janet M. Shapiro
- Department of Medicine, Mount Sinai Morningside and Mount Sinai West Hospitals, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
- Now at Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Mount Sinai Morningside and Mount Sinai West Hospitals, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Joseph P. Mathew
- Department of Medicine, Mount Sinai Morningside and Mount Sinai West Hospitals, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
- Now at Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Mount Sinai Morningside and Mount Sinai West Hospitals, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
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11
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Bilel S, Tirri M, Arfè R, Stopponi S, Soverchia L, Ciccocioppo R, Frisoni P, Strano-Rossi S, Miliano C, De-Giorgio F, Serpelloni G, Fantinati A, De Luca MA, Neri M, Marti M. Pharmacological and Behavioral Effects of the Synthetic Cannabinoid AKB48 in Rats. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:1163. [PMID: 31736697 PMCID: PMC6831561 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.01163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
AKB48 is a designer drug belonging to the indazole synthetic cannabinoids class, illegally sold as herbal blend, incense, or research chemicals for their psychoactive cannabis-like effects. In the present study, we investigated the in vivo pharmacological and behavioral effects of AKB48 in male rats and measured the pharmacodynamic effects of AKB48 and simultaneously determined its plasma pharmacokinetic. AKB48 at low doses preferentially stimulated dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens shell (0.25 mg/kg) and impaired visual sensorimotor responses (0.3 mg/kg) without affecting acoustic and tactile reflexes, which are reduced only to the highest dose tested (3 mg/kg). Increasing doses (0.5 mg/kg) of AKB48 impaired place preference and induced hypolocomotion in rats. At the highest dose (3 mg/kg), AKB48 induced hypothermia, analgesia, and catalepsy; inhibited the startle/pre-pulse inhibition test; and caused cardiorespiratory changes characterized by bradycardia and mild bradipnea and SpO2 reduction. All behavioral and neurochemical effects were fully prevented by the selective CB1 receptor antagonist/inverse agonist AM251. AKB48 plasma concentrations rose linearly with increasing dose and were correlated with changes in the somatosensory, hypothermic, analgesic, and cataleptic responses in rats. For the first time, this study shows the pharmacological and behavioral effects of AKB48 in rats, correlating them to the plasma levels of the synthetic cannabinoid. Chemical Compound Studied in This Article: AKB48 (PubChem CID: 57404063); AM251 (PubChem CID: 2125).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrine Bilel
- Department of Morphology, Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Section of Legal Medicine and Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA) Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Micaela Tirri
- Department of Morphology, Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Section of Legal Medicine and Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA) Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Raffaella Arfè
- Department of Morphology, Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Section of Legal Medicine and Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA) Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Section of Legal Medicine, Institute of Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Serena Stopponi
- Pharmacology Unit, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Laura Soverchia
- Pharmacology Unit, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Roberto Ciccocioppo
- Pharmacology Unit, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Paolo Frisoni
- Department of Morphology, Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Section of Legal Medicine and Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA) Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Sabina Strano-Rossi
- Section of Legal Medicine, Institute of Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina Miliano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Fabio De-Giorgio
- Section of Legal Medicine, Institute of Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Serpelloni
- Department of Psychiatry in the College of Medicine, Drug Policy Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Anna Fantinati
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Margherita Neri
- Department of Morphology, Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Section of Legal Medicine and Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA) Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Matteo Marti
- Department of Morphology, Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Section of Legal Medicine and Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA) Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Department of Anti-Drug Policies, Presidency of the Council of Ministers, Collaborative Center for the Italian National Early Warning System, Ferrara, Italy
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12
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Banister SD, Kevin RC, Martin L, Adams A, Macdonald C, Manning JJ, Boyd R, Cunningham M, Stevens MY, McGregor IS, Glass M, Connor M, Gerona RR. The chemistry and pharmacology of putative synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist (SCRA) new psychoactive substances (NPS) 5F‐PY‐PICA, 5F‐PY‐PINACA, and their analogs. Drug Test Anal 2019; 11:976-989. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.2583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2018] [Revised: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Samuel D. Banister
- School of ChemistryThe University of Sydney NSW Australia
- Department of PathologyStanford University CA USA
| | - Richard C. Kevin
- School of PsychologyThe University of Sydney Camperdown NSW Australia
| | - Lewis Martin
- School of PsychologyThe University of Sydney Camperdown NSW Australia
| | - Axel Adams
- Clinical Toxicology and Environmental Biomonitoring LaboratoryUniversity of California San Francisco CA USA
| | - Christa Macdonald
- School of Medical SciencesThe University of Auckland Auckland New Zealand
| | - Jamie J. Manning
- School of Medical SciencesThe University of Auckland Auckland New Zealand
| | - Rochelle Boyd
- Faculty of Medicine and Health SciencesMacquarie University NSW Australia
| | - Michael Cunningham
- Division of Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, School of PharmacyThe University of Mississippi MS USA
| | | | - Iain S. McGregor
- School of PsychologyThe University of Sydney Camperdown NSW Australia
| | - Michelle Glass
- School of Medical SciencesThe University of Auckland Auckland New Zealand
| | - Mark Connor
- Faculty of Medicine and Health SciencesMacquarie University NSW Australia
| | - Roy R. Gerona
- Clinical Toxicology and Environmental Biomonitoring LaboratoryUniversity of California San Francisco CA USA
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13
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14
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Schreiber S, Bader M, Lenchinski T, Meningher I, Rubovitch V, Katz Y, Cohen E, Gabet Y, Rotenberg M, Wolf E(U, Pick CG. Functional effects of synthetic cannabinoids versus Δ 9 -THC in mice on body temperature, nociceptive threshold, anxiety, cognition, locomotor/exploratory parameters and depression. Addict Biol 2019; 24:414-425. [PMID: 29423994 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2017] [Revised: 12/07/2017] [Accepted: 01/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids are psychoactive substances designed to mimic the euphorigenic effects of the natural cannabis. Novel unregulated compounds appear once older compounds become illegal. It has been previously reported that synthetic cannabinoids are different than Δ9 -tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9 -THC) as they have chemical structures unrelated to Δ9 -THC, different metabolism and, often, greater toxicity. This study aimed to investigate the effects of three novel synthetic cannabinoids and pure Δ9 -THC on body temperature, nociceptive threshold, anxiety, memory function, locomotor and exploratory parameters, and depression. We performed a battery of behavioural and motor tests starting 50 minutes post i.p. injection of each drug to adult ICR mice. The synthetic cannabinoids that were used are AB-FUBINACA, AB-CHMINACA and PB-22. All synthetic cannabinoids and Δ9 -THC caused hypothermia, but only Δ9 -THC induced a clear antinociceptive effect. All synthetic cannabinoids and Δ9 -THC caused decreased anxiety levels, spatial memory deficits and decreased exploratory behaviour as measured in the elevated plus maze, Y-maze and staircase paradigm, respectively. However, all synthetic cannabinoids but not Δ9 -THC demonstrated decreased locomotor activity in the staircase test. Moreover, only AB-FUBINACA and Δ9 -THC affected the gait balance and grip strength of the mice as was assessed by the latency time to fall from a rod. In the forced swimming test, PB-22 caused elevated depression-like behaviour while AB-FUBINACA induced a reversed effect. These results suggest varied effects among different synthetic cannabinoids and Δ9 -THC. Further studies are needed to characterize the overall effects and differences between these synthetic cannabinoids and Δ9 -THC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaul Schreiber
- Department of Psychiatry, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical CenterTel Aviv University Sackler Faculty of Medicine Israel
- Sagol School of NeuroscienceTel‐Aviv University Israel
| | - Miaad Bader
- Department of Anatomy and AnthropologyTel‐Aviv University Sackler Faculty of Medicine Israel
| | - Tatiana Lenchinski
- Sagol School of NeuroscienceTel‐Aviv University Israel
- Department of Anatomy and AnthropologyTel‐Aviv University Sackler Faculty of Medicine Israel
| | | | - Vardit Rubovitch
- Department of Anatomy and AnthropologyTel‐Aviv University Sackler Faculty of Medicine Israel
| | - Yiffat Katz
- Analytical LaboratoryDivision of Identification and Forensic Science Israel
| | - Etia Cohen
- Analytical LaboratoryDivision of Identification and Forensic Science Israel
| | - Yankel Gabet
- Sagol School of NeuroscienceTel‐Aviv University Israel
- Department of Anatomy and AnthropologyTel‐Aviv University Sackler Faculty of Medicine Israel
| | - Michal Rotenberg
- Laboratory of Clinical Toxicology and PharmacologySheba Medical Center Israel
| | - Ehud (Udi) Wolf
- Analytical LaboratoryDivision of Identification and Forensic Science Israel
| | - Chaim G. Pick
- Sagol School of NeuroscienceTel‐Aviv University Israel
- Department of Anatomy and AnthropologyTel‐Aviv University Sackler Faculty of Medicine Israel
- The Dr. Miriam and Sheldon G. Adelson Chair and Center for the Biology of Addictive DiseasesTel‐Aviv University Israel
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15
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Potential Mechanisms Underlying the Deleterious Effects of Synthetic Cannabinoids Found in Spice/K2 Products. Brain Sci 2019; 9:brainsci9010014. [PMID: 30654473 PMCID: PMC6357179 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci9010014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2018] [Revised: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The chief psychoactive constituent of many bioactive phytocannabinoids (Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, Δ9-THC) found in hemp, cannabis or marijuana plants are scientifically denoted by the Latin term, Cannabis sativa, acts on cell surface receptors. These receptors are ubiquitously expressed. To date, two cannabinoid receptors have been cloned and characterized. Cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1R) is found to serve as the archetype for cannabinoid action in the brain. They have attracted wide interest as the mediator of all psychoactive properties of exogenous and endogenous cannabinoids and they are abundantly expressed on most inhibitory and excitatory neurons. Recent evidence established that cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2R) is also expressed in the neurons at both presynaptic and postsynaptic terminals and are involved in neuropsychiatric effects. Distinct types of cells in many regions in the brain express CB2Rs and the cellular origin of CB2Rs that induce specific behavioral effects are emerging. To mimic the bliss effects of marijuana, synthetic cannabinoids (SCBs) have been sprayed onto plant material, and this plant material has been consequently packaged and sold under brand name “Spice” or “K2”. These SCBs have been shown to maintain their affinity and functional activity for CB1R and CB2R and have been shown to cause severe harmful effects when compared to the effects of Δ9-THC. The present review discusses the potential brain mechanisms that are involved in the deleterious effects of SCBs.
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16
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Cannabinoid-like effects of five novel carboxamide synthetic cannabinoids. Neurotoxicology 2018; 70:72-79. [PMID: 30439379 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2018.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Revised: 11/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
A new generation of novel cannabinoid compounds have been developed as marijuana substitutes to avoid drug control laws and cannabinoid blood tests. 5F-MDMB-PINACA (also known as 5F-ADB, 5F-ADB-PINACA), MDMB-CHIMICA, MDMB-FUBINACA, ADB-FUBINACA, and AMB-FUBINACA (also known as FUB-AMB, MMB-FUBINACA) were tested for in vivo cannabinoid-like effects to assess their abuse liability. Locomotor activity in mice was tested to screen for locomotor depressant effects and to identify behaviorally-active dose ranges and times of peak effect. Discriminative stimulus effects were tested in rats trained to discriminate Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (3 mg/kg, 30-min pretreatment). 5F-MDMB-PINACA (ED50 = 1.1 mg/kg) and MDMB-CHIMICA (ED50 = 0.024 mg/kg) produced short-acting (30 min) depression of locomotor activity. ADB-FUBINACA (ED50 = 0.19 mg/kg), and AMB- FUBINACA (ED50 = 0.19 mg/kg) depressed locomotor activity for 60-90 min; whereas MDMB-FUBINACA (ED50 = 0.04 mg/kg) depressed locomotor activity for 150 min. AMB-FUBINACA produced tremors at the highest dose tested. 5F-MDMB-PINACA (ED50 = 0.07), MDMB-CHIMICA (ED50 = 0.01 mg/kg), MDMB-FUBINACA (ED50 = 0.051 mg/kg), ADB-FUBINACA (ED50 = 0.075 mg/kg) and AMB-FUBINACA (ED50 = 0.029) fully substituted for the discriminative stimulus effects of Δ9-THC following 15-min pretreatment. All 5 compounds decreased locomotor activity and produced discriminative stimulus effects similar to those of Δ9-THC, which suggests they may have abuse liability similar to that of Δ9-THC. AMB-FUBINACA may have an increased risk of toxicities in recreational users.
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17
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Gamage TF, Farquhar CE, Lefever TW, Marusich JA, Kevin RC, McGregor IS, Wiley JL, Thomas BF. Molecular and Behavioral Pharmacological Characterization of Abused Synthetic Cannabinoids MMB- and MDMB-FUBINACA, MN-18, NNEI, CUMYL-PICA, and 5-Fluoro-CUMYL-PICA. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2018; 365:437-446. [PMID: 29549157 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.117.246983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2017] [Accepted: 03/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids are a class of novel psychoactive substances that exhibit high affinity at the cannabinoid type-1 (CB1) receptor and produce effects similar to those of Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive constituent of cannabis. Illicit drug manufacturers are continually circumventing laws banning the sale of synthetic cannabinoids by synthesizing novel structures and doing so with little regard for the potential impact on pharmacological and toxicological effects. Synthetic cannabinoids produce a wide range of effects that include cardiotoxicity, seizure activity, and kidney damage, and they can cause death. Six synthetic cannabinoids, recently detected in illicit preparations, MMB-FUBINACA, MDMB-FUBINACA, CUMYL-PICA, 5F-CUMYL-PICA, NNEI, and MN-18 were assessed for: 1) receptor binding affinity at the human CB1 and human CB2 receptors, 2) function in [35S]GTPγS and cAMP signaling, and 3) THC-like effects in a mouse drug discrimination assay. All six synthetic cannabinoids exhibited high affinity for human cannabinoid receptors type-1 and type-2 and produced greater maximal effects than THC in [35S]GTPγS and cAMP signaling. Additionally, all six synthetic cannabinoids substituted for THC in drug discrimination, suggesting they probably possess subjective effects similar to those of cannabis. Notably, MDMB-FUBINACA, a methylated analog of MMB-FUBINACA, had higher affinity for CB1 than the parent, showing that minor structural modifications being introduced can have a large impact on the pharmacological properties of these drugs. This study demonstrates that novel structures being sold and used illicitly as substitutes for cannabis are retaining high affinity at the CB1 receptor, exhibiting greater efficacy than THC, and producing THC-like effects in models relevant to subjective effects in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Jenny L Wiley
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Brian F Thomas
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina;
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18
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Gatch MB, Forster MJ. Δ 9-Tetrahydrocannabinol-like discriminative stimulus effects of five novel synthetic cannabinoids in rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2018; 235:673-680. [PMID: 29138877 PMCID: PMC5823726 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-017-4783-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2017] [Accepted: 11/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES Novel synthetic cannabinoid compounds continue to appear in the market advertised as legal alternatives to marijuana and the older synthetic cannabinoid compounds which are now controlled substances. Most of these newer compounds have been found to act at CB1 receptors, so the purpose of this study was to study the abuse liability of these compounds. METHODS Five of these compounds (BB-22, FUB-PB-22, 5F-AMB, NM2201, and MAB-CHMINACA) were tested for their ability to produce discriminative stimulus effects similar to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) in rats. The ability of the CB1 receptor inverse agonist rimonabant to antagonize the discriminative stimulus effects of the five test compounds was also tested. RESULTS All five of the test compounds fully substituted for the discriminative stimulus effects of Δ9-THC at some dose, although MAB-CHMINACA produced an inverted U-shaped dose effect. Rimonabant fully antagonized the Δ9-THC-like discriminative stimulus effects of BB-22, 5F-AMB, NM2201, and MAB-CHMINACA but only reduced the effects of FUB-PB-22 to 40-50 % of Δ9-THC-appropriate responding. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that all five of the test compounds produced Δ9-THC-like effects and will likely have abuse liability similar to that of the controlled cannabinoid compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael B Gatch
- Department of Pharmacology & Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, 3500 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth, TX, 76107-2699, USA.
| | - Michael J Forster
- Department of Pharmacology & Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, 3500 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth, TX, 76107-2699, USA
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19
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Fantegrossi WE, Wilson CD, Berquist MD. Pro-psychotic effects of synthetic cannabinoids: interactions with central dopamine, serotonin, and glutamate systems. Drug Metab Rev 2018; 50:65-73. [PMID: 29385930 PMCID: PMC6419500 DOI: 10.1080/03602532.2018.1428343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
An association between marijuana use and schizophrenia has been noted for decades, and the recent emergence of high-efficacy synthetic cannabinoids (SCBs) as drugs of abuse has lead to a growing number of clinical reports of persistent psychotic effects in users of these substances. The mechanisms underlying SCB-elicited pro-psychotic effects is unknown, but given the ubiquitous neuromodulatory functions of the endocannabinoid system, it seems likely that agonist actions at cannabinoid type-1 receptors (CB1Rs) might modulate the functions of other neurotransmitter systems known to be involved in schizophrenia. The present review surveys what is currently known about the interactions of CB1Rs with dopamine, serotonin, and glutamate systems, because all three of those neurotransmitters are well-established in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia and psychosis. Identification of molecular mechanisms underlying the pro-psychotic effects of SCB drugs of abuse may establish certain classes of these substances as particularly dangerous, guiding regulations to control availability of these drugs. Likewise, an understanding of the pharmacological interactions which lead to schizophrenia and psychosis subsequent to SCB exposure might guide the development of novel therapies to treat afflicted users.
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Affiliation(s)
- William E Fantegrossi
- a Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology , University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, College of Medicine , Little Rock , AR , USA
| | - Catheryn D Wilson
- a Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology , University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, College of Medicine , Little Rock , AR , USA
| | - Michael D Berquist
- a Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology , University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, College of Medicine , Little Rock , AR , USA
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20
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Tresa Zanda
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Liana Fattore
- Institute of Neuroscience-Cagliari, National Research Council of Italy, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, Monserrato, Italy
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21
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Wiley JL, Owens RA, Lichtman AH. Discriminative Stimulus Properties of Phytocannabinoids, Endocannabinoids, and Synthetic Cannabinoids. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2018; 39:153-173. [PMID: 27278640 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2016_24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Psychoactive cannabinoids from the marijuana plant (phytocannabinoids), from the body (endocannabinoids), and from the research lab (synthetic cannabinoids) produce their discriminative stimulus effects by stimulation of CB1 receptors in the brain. Early discrimination work with phytocannabinoids confirmed that Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) is the primary psychoactive constituent of the marijuana plant, with more recent work focusing on characterization of the contribution of the major endocannabinoids, anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), to Δ9-THC-like internal states. Collectively, these latter studies suggest that endogenous increases in both anandamide and 2-AG seem to be optimal for mimicking Δ9-THC's discriminative stimulus effects, although suprathreshold concentrations of anandamide also appear to be Δ9-THC-like in discrimination assays. Recently, increased abuse of synthetic cannabinoids (e.g., "fake marijuana") has spurred discrimination studies to inform regulatory authorities by predicting which of the many synthetic compounds on the illicit market are most likely to share Δ9-THC's abuse liability. In the absence of a reliable model of cannabinoid self-administration (specifically, Δ9-THC self-administration), cannabinoid discrimination represents the most validated and pharmacologically selective animal model of an abuse-related property of cannabinoids - i.e., marijuana's subjective effects. The influx of recent papers in which cannabinoid discrimination is highlighted attests to its continued relevance as a valuable method for scientific study of cannabinoid use and abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny L Wiley
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA.
| | - R Allen Owens
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Box 980613, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Aron H Lichtman
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Box 980613, Richmond, VA, USA
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22
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Banister SD, Connor M. The Chemistry and Pharmacology of Synthetic Cannabinoid Receptor Agonist New Psychoactive Substances: Evolution. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2018; 252:191-226. [PMID: 30105473 DOI: 10.1007/164_2018_144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) are the largest and most structurally diverse class of new psychoactive substances (NPS). Although the earliest SCRA NPS were simply repurposed from historical academic manuscripts or pharmaceutical patents describing cannabinoid ligands, recent examples bear hallmarks of rational design. SCRA NPS manufacturers have applied traditional medicinal chemistry strategies (such as molecular hybridization, bioisosteric replacement, and scaffold hopping) to existing cannabinoid templates in order to generate new molecules that circumvent structure-based legislation. Most SCRAs potently activate cannabinoid type 1 and type 2 receptors (CB1 and CB2, respectively), with the former contributing to the psychoactivity of these substances. SCRAs are generally more toxic than the Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) found in cannabis, and this may be due to ligand bias, metabolism, or off-target activity. This chapter will chart the evolution of recently identified SCRA NPS chemotypes, as well as their putative manufacturing by-products and thermolytic degradants, and describe structure-activity relationships within each class.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel D Banister
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Mark Connor
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Three fatalities associated with the synthetic cannabinoids 5F-ADB, 5F-PB-22, and AB-CHMINACA. Forensic Sci Int 2017; 281:e9-e15. [PMID: 29133010 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2017.10.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2017] [Revised: 10/28/2017] [Accepted: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The use of synthetic cannabinoids (SC) has been widespread in certain groups of drug users for many years. In the scientific literature many intoxication cases and a number of fatalities after the use of synthetic cannabinoids were reported. In this paper three death cases are described with involvement of the synthetic cannabinoids 5F-PB-22, AB-CHMINACA, and 5F-ADB. The three cases occurred in the eastern region of Germany, which is known as a region of high methamphetamine abuse. All decedents were male, between 25 and 41 years old, and had a known history of drug use. Femoral blood concentrations of the synthetic cannabinoids were measured using a validated LC-MS/MS method. The concentration of 5F-PB-22 in the first case was 0.37ng/mL, the concentration of AB-CHMINACA in the second case was approximately 4.1ng/mL (extrapolated) and the 5F-ADB concentration in the third case was 0.38ng/mL. Compared to other published cases the concentrations in the here presented cases seem to be in the lower range. However, taking into account the scene of death, the results of the forensic autopsy and the full toxicological analysis, the deaths can be explained as a direct consequence of consumption of synthetic cannabinoids, although in case one and two relevant amounts of ethanol were found, and in case three trimipramine and olanzapine were present in non-toxic concentrations. It has to be noted that concentrations of synthetic cannabinoids in femoral blood cannot directly be judged as toxic or lethal due to the possibility of postmortem redistribution and the development of tolerance after frequent use. Therefore, all available information has to be considered carefully before stating SC use as the cause of death.
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Longworth M, Banister SD, Boyd R, Kevin RC, Connor M, McGregor IS, Kassiou M. Pharmacology of Cumyl-Carboxamide Synthetic Cannabinoid New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) CUMYL-BICA, CUMYL-PICA, CUMYL-5F-PICA, CUMYL-5F-PINACA, and Their Analogues. ACS Chem Neurosci 2017; 8:2159-2167. [PMID: 28792725 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.7b00267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids (SC) are the largest class of new psychoactive substances (NPS), and are increasingly associated with serious adverse effects. The majority of SC NPS are 1,3-disubstituted indoles and indazoles featuring a diversity of subunits at the 1- and 3-positions. Most recently, cumyl-derived indole- and indazole-3-carboxamides have been detected by law enforcement agencies and by emergency departments. Herein we describe the synthesis, characterization, and pharmacology of SCs CUMYL-BICA, CUMYL-PICA, CUMYL-5F-PICA, CUMYL-PINACA, CUMYL-5F-PINACA, and related analogues. All cumyl-derived SCs were potent, efficacious agonists at CB1 (EC50 = 0.43-12.3 nM) and CB2 (EC50 = 11.3-122 nM) receptors in a fluorometric assay of membrane potential, with selectivity for CB1 activation (3.1-53 times over CB2). CUMYL-PICA and CUMYL-5F-PICA were evaluated in rats using biotelemetry, and induced hypothermia and bradycardia at doses of 1 mg/kg. Hypothermia was reversed by pretreatment with a CB1, but not CB2, antagonist, confirming that cumyl-derived SCs are cannabimimetic in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell Longworth
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Samuel D. Banister
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Rochelle Boyd
- Department
of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Richard C. Kevin
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Mark Connor
- Department
of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Iain S. McGregor
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Michael Kassiou
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
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Longworth M, Connor M, Banister SD, Kassiou M. Synthesis and Pharmacological Profiling of the Metabolites of Synthetic Cannabinoid Drugs APICA, STS-135, ADB-PINACA, and 5F-ADB-PINACA. ACS Chem Neurosci 2017; 8:1673-1680. [PMID: 28574245 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.7b00116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) containing a 1-pentyl-1-H substituted indole or indazole are abused around the world and are associated with an array of serious side effects. These compounds undergo extensive phase 1 metabolism after ingestion with little understanding whether these metabolites are contributing to the cannabimimetic activity of the drugs. This work presents the synthesis and pharmacological characterization of the major metabolites of two high concern SCs; APICA and ADB-PINACA. In a fluorometric assay of membrane potential, all metabolites that did not contain a carboxylic acid functionality retained potent activity at both the CB1 (EC50 = 14-787 nM) and CB2 (EC50 = 5.5-291 nM) receptors regardless of heterocyclic core or 3-carboxamide substituent. Of note were the 5-hydroxypentyl and 4-pentanone metabolites which showed significant increases in CB2 functional selectivity. These results suggest that the metabolites of SCs potentially contribute to the overall pharmacological profile of these drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell Longworth
- School
of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Mark Connor
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Samuel D. Banister
- Department
of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Michael Kassiou
- School
of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia
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26
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Canazza I, Ossato A, Vincenzi F, Gregori A, Di Rosa F, Nigro F, Rimessi A, Pinton P, Varani K, Borea PA, Marti M. Pharmaco-toxicological effects of the novel third-generation fluorinate synthetic cannabinoids, 5F-ADBINACA, AB-FUBINACA, and STS-135 in mice. In vitro and in vivo studies. Hum Psychopharmacol 2017; 32. [PMID: 28597570 DOI: 10.1002/hup.2601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2016] [Revised: 04/10/2017] [Accepted: 04/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION 5F-ADBINACA, AB-FUBINACA, and STS-135 are 3 novel third-generation fluorinate synthetic cannabinoids that are illegally marketed as incense, herbal preparations, or research chemicals for their psychoactive cannabis-like effects. METHODS The present study aims at investigating the in vitro and in vivo pharmacological activity of 5F-ADBINACA, AB-FUBINACA, and STS-135 in male CD-1 mice, comparing their in vivo effects with those caused by the administration of Δ9 -THC and JWH-018. In vitro competition binding experiments revealed a nanomolar affinity and potency of the 5F-ADBINACA, AB-FUBINACA, and STS-135 on mouse and human CB1 and CB2 receptors. Moreover, these synthetic cannabinoids induced neurotoxicity in murine neuro-2a cells. RESULTS In vivo studies showed that 5F-ADBINACA, AB-FUBINACA, and STS-135 induced hypothermia; increased pain threshold to both noxious mechanical and thermal stimuli; caused catalepsy; reduced motor activity; impaired sensorimotor responses (visual, acoustic, and tactile); caused seizures, myoclonia, and hyperreflexia; and promoted aggressiveness in mice. Behavioral and neurological effects were fully prevented by the selective CB1 receptor antagonist/inverse agonist AM 251. Differently, the visual sensory response induced by STS-135 was only partly prevented by the AM 251, suggesting a CB1 -independent mechanism. CONCLUSIONS For the first time, the present study demonstrates the pharmaco-toxicological effects induced by the administration of 5F-ADBINACA, AB-FUBINACA, and STS-135 in mice and suggests their possible detrimental effects on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Canazza
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology (SVeB), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Institute of Public Health, Section of Legal Medicine, Catholic University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Ossato
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology (SVeB), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Institute of Public Health, Section of Legal Medicine, Catholic University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Vincenzi
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Adolfo Gregori
- Carabinieri, Department of Scientific Investigation (RIS), Rome, Italy
| | - Fabiana Di Rosa
- Carabinieri, Department of Scientific Investigation (RIS), Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Nigro
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessandro Rimessi
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Paolo Pinton
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Katia Varani
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Pier Andrea Borea
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Matteo Marti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology (SVeB), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Center for Neuroscience and Istituto Nazionale di Neuroscienze, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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Wallgren J, Vikingsson S, Johansson A, Josefsson M, Green H, Dahlén J, Wu X, Konradsson P. Synthesis and identification of an important metabolite of AKB-48 with a secondary hydroxyl group on the adamantyl ring. Tetrahedron Lett 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tetlet.2017.02.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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28
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Thomas BF, Lefever TW, Cortes RA, Grabenauer M, Kovach AL, Cox AO, Patel PR, Pollard GT, Marusich JA, Kevin RC, Gamage TF, Wiley JL. Thermolytic Degradation of Synthetic Cannabinoids: Chemical Exposures and Pharmacological Consequences. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2017; 361:162-171. [PMID: 28087785 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.116.238717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2016] [Accepted: 01/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids are manufactured clandestinely with little quality control and are distributed as herbal "spice" for smoking or as bulk compound for mixing with a solvent and inhalation via electronic vaporizers. Intoxication with synthetic cannabinoids has been associated with seizure, excited delirium, coma, kidney damage, and other disorders. The chemical alterations produced by heating these structurally novel compounds for consumption are largely unknown. Here, we show that heating synthetic cannabinoids containing tetramethylcyclopropyl-ring substituents produced thermal degradants with pharmacological activity that varied considerably from their parent compounds. Moreover, these degradants were formed under conditions simulating smoking. Some products of combustion retained high affinity at the cannabinoid 1 (CB1) and CB2 receptors, were more efficacious than (-)-cis-3-[2-hydroxy-4-(1,1-dimethylheptyl)phenyl]-trans-4-(3-hydroxypropyl)cyclohexanol (CP55,940) in stimulating CB1 receptor-mediated guanosine 5'-O-(3-thiotriphosphate) (GTPγS) binding, and were potent in producing Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol-like effects in laboratory animals, whereas other compounds had low affinity and efficacy and were devoid of cannabimimetic activity. Degradants that retained affinity and efficacy also substituted in drug discrimination tests for the prototypical synthetic cannabinoid 1-pentyl-3-(1-naphthoyl)indole (JWH-018), and are likely to produce psychotropic effects in humans. Hence, it is important to take into consideration the actual chemical exposures that occur during use of synthetic cannabinoid formulations to better comprehend the relationships between dose and effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian F Thomas
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (B.F.T., T.W.L., R.A.C., M.G., A.L.K., A.O.C, P.R.P, J.A.M, T.F.G, J.L.W.); Howard Associates, LLC, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (G.T.P.); and School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia (R.C.K.)
| | - Timothy W Lefever
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (B.F.T., T.W.L., R.A.C., M.G., A.L.K., A.O.C, P.R.P, J.A.M, T.F.G, J.L.W.); Howard Associates, LLC, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (G.T.P.); and School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia (R.C.K.)
| | - Ricardo A Cortes
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (B.F.T., T.W.L., R.A.C., M.G., A.L.K., A.O.C, P.R.P, J.A.M, T.F.G, J.L.W.); Howard Associates, LLC, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (G.T.P.); and School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia (R.C.K.)
| | - Megan Grabenauer
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (B.F.T., T.W.L., R.A.C., M.G., A.L.K., A.O.C, P.R.P, J.A.M, T.F.G, J.L.W.); Howard Associates, LLC, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (G.T.P.); and School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia (R.C.K.)
| | - Alexander L Kovach
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (B.F.T., T.W.L., R.A.C., M.G., A.L.K., A.O.C, P.R.P, J.A.M, T.F.G, J.L.W.); Howard Associates, LLC, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (G.T.P.); and School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia (R.C.K.)
| | - Anderson O Cox
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (B.F.T., T.W.L., R.A.C., M.G., A.L.K., A.O.C, P.R.P, J.A.M, T.F.G, J.L.W.); Howard Associates, LLC, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (G.T.P.); and School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia (R.C.K.)
| | - Purvi R Patel
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (B.F.T., T.W.L., R.A.C., M.G., A.L.K., A.O.C, P.R.P, J.A.M, T.F.G, J.L.W.); Howard Associates, LLC, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (G.T.P.); and School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia (R.C.K.)
| | - Gerald T Pollard
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (B.F.T., T.W.L., R.A.C., M.G., A.L.K., A.O.C, P.R.P, J.A.M, T.F.G, J.L.W.); Howard Associates, LLC, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (G.T.P.); and School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia (R.C.K.)
| | - Julie A Marusich
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (B.F.T., T.W.L., R.A.C., M.G., A.L.K., A.O.C, P.R.P, J.A.M, T.F.G, J.L.W.); Howard Associates, LLC, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (G.T.P.); and School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia (R.C.K.)
| | - Richard C Kevin
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (B.F.T., T.W.L., R.A.C., M.G., A.L.K., A.O.C, P.R.P, J.A.M, T.F.G, J.L.W.); Howard Associates, LLC, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (G.T.P.); and School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia (R.C.K.)
| | - Thomas F Gamage
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (B.F.T., T.W.L., R.A.C., M.G., A.L.K., A.O.C, P.R.P, J.A.M, T.F.G, J.L.W.); Howard Associates, LLC, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (G.T.P.); and School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia (R.C.K.)
| | - Jenny L Wiley
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (B.F.T., T.W.L., R.A.C., M.G., A.L.K., A.O.C, P.R.P, J.A.M, T.F.G, J.L.W.); Howard Associates, LLC, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina (G.T.P.); and School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia (R.C.K.)
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Järbe TUC, Raghav JG. Tripping with Synthetic Cannabinoids ("Spice"): Anecdotal and Experimental Observations in Animals and Man. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2017; 32:263-281. [PMID: 27753006 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2016_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The phenomenon of consuming synthetic cannabinoids ("Spice") for recreational purposes is a fairly recent trend. However, consumption of cannabis dates back millennia, with numerous accounts written on the experience of its consumption, and thousands of scientific reports published on the effects of its constituents in laboratory animals and humans. Here, we focus on consolidating the scientific literature on the effects of "Spice" compounds in various behavioral assays, including assessing abuse liability, tolerance, dependence, withdrawal, and potential toxicity. In most cases, the behavioral effects of "Spice" compounds are compared with those of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol. Methodological aspects, such as modes of administration and other logistical issues, are also discussed. As the original "Spice" molecules never were intended for human consumption, scientifically based information about potential toxicity and short- and long-term behavioral effects are very limited. Consequently, preclinical behavioral studies with "Spice" compounds are still in a nascent stage. Research is needed to address the addiction potential and other effects, including propensity for producing tissue/organ toxicity, of these synthetic cannabimimetic "Spice" compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Torbjörn U C Järbe
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Center for Drug Discovery (CDD), Northeastern University, 116 Mugar Hall, 360 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| | - Jimit Girish Raghav
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Center for Drug Discovery (CDD), Northeastern University, 116 Mugar Hall, 360 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
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30
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Kaizaki-Mitsumoto A, Hataoka K, Funada M, Odanaka Y, Kumamoto H, Numazawa S. Pyrolysis of UR-144, a synthetic cannabinoid, augments an affinity to human CB 1 receptor and cannabimimetic effects in mice. J Toxicol Sci 2017; 42:335-341. [DOI: 10.2131/jts.42.335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Asuka Kaizaki-Mitsumoto
- Division of Toxicology, Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutics, Showa University School of Pharmacy
| | - Kyoko Hataoka
- Division of Toxicology, Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutics, Showa University School of Pharmacy
| | - Masahiko Funada
- National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry
| | - Yuki Odanaka
- Center for Instrumental Analysis, Showa University School of Pharmacy
| | - Hiroki Kumamoto
- Department of Medicinal and Industrial Chemistry, Showa University School of Pharmacy
| | - Satoshi Numazawa
- Division of Toxicology, Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutics, Showa University School of Pharmacy
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31
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Weinstein AM, Rosca P, Fattore L, London ED. Synthetic Cathinone and Cannabinoid Designer Drugs Pose a Major Risk for Public Health. Front Psychiatry 2017; 8:156. [PMID: 28878698 PMCID: PMC5572353 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2017.00156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2017] [Accepted: 08/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
As part of an increasing worldwide use of designer drugs, recent use of compounds containing cathinones and synthetic cannabinoids is especially prevalent. Here, we reviewed current literature on the prevalence, epidemiology, bio-behavioral effects, and detection of these compounds. Gender differences and clinical effects will also be examined. Chronic use of synthetic cathinone compounds can have major effects on the central nervous system and can induce acute psychosis, hypomania, paranoid ideation, and delusions, similar to the effects of other better-known amphetamine-type stimulants. Synthetic cannabinoid products have effects that are somewhat similar to those of natural cannabis but more potent and long-lasting than THC. Some of these compounds are potent and dangerous, having been linked to psychosis, mania, and suicidal ideation. Novel compounds are developed rapidly and new screening techniques are needed to detect them as well as a rigorous regulation and legislation reinforcement to prevent their distribution and use. Given the rapid increase in the use of synthetic cathinones and cannabinoid designer drugs, their potential for dependence and abuse, and harmful medical and psychiatric effects, there is a need for research and education in the areas of prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aviv M Weinstein
- Department of Behavioral Science, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Paola Rosca
- Department for the Treatment of Substance Abuse, Ministry of Health, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Liana Fattore
- Institute of Neuroscience-Cagliari, National Research Council of Italy, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Edythe D London
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Brain Research Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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32
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White CM. The Pharmacologic and Clinical Effects of Illicit Synthetic Cannabinoids. J Clin Pharmacol 2016; 57:297-304. [PMID: 27610597 DOI: 10.1002/jcph.827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2016] [Accepted: 09/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
This article presents information on illicitly used synthetic cannabinoids. Synthetic cannabinoids are structurally heterogeneous and commonly used drugs of abuse that act as full agonists of the cannabinoid type-1 receptor but have a variety of additional pharmacologic effects. There are numerous cases of patient harm and death in the United States, Europe, and Australia with many psychological, neurological, cardiovascular, pulmonary, and renal adverse events. Although most users prefer using cannabis, there are convenience, legal, and cost reasons driving the utilization of synthetic cannabinoids. Clinicians should be aware of pharmacologic and clinical similarities and differences between synthetic cannabinoid and cannabis use, the limited ability to detect synthetic cannabinoids in the urine or serum, and guidance to treat adverse events.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Michael White
- University of Connecticut School of Pharmacy & Hartford Hospital Department of Pharmacy, Storrs, CT, USA
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Canazza I, Ossato A, Trapella C, Fantinati A, De Luca MA, Margiani G, Vincenzi F, Rimondo C, Di Rosa F, Gregori A, Varani K, Borea PA, Serpelloni G, Marti M. Effect of the novel synthetic cannabinoids AKB48 and 5F-AKB48 on "tetrad", sensorimotor, neurological and neurochemical responses in mice. In vitro and in vivo pharmacological studies. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2016; 233:3685-3709. [PMID: 27527584 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-016-4402-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2016] [Accepted: 08/01/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE AKB48 and its fluorinate derivate 5F-AKB48 are two novel synthetic cannabinoids belonging to a structural class with an indazole core structure. They are marketed as incense, herbal preparations or chemical supply for their psychoactive Cannabis-like effects. OBJECTIVES The present study was aimed at investigating the in vitro and in vivo pharmacological activity of AKB48 and 5F-AKB48 in male CD-1 mice and comparing their in vivo effects with those caused by the administration of Δ9-THC and JWH-018. RESULTS In vitro competition binding experiments performed on mouse and human CB1 and CB2 receptors revealed a nanomolar affinity and potency of the AKB48 and 5F-AKB48. In vivo studies showed that AKB48 and 5F-AKB48, induced hypothermia, increased pain threshold to both noxious mechanical and thermal stimuli, caused catalepsy, reduced motor activity, impaired sensorimotor responses (visual, acoustic and tactile), caused seizures, myoclonia, hyperreflexia and promoted aggressiveness in mice. Moreover, microdialysis study in freely moving mice showed that systemic administration of AKB48 and 5F-AKB48 stimulated dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens. Behavioural, neurological and neurochemical effects were fully prevented by the selective CB1 receptor antagonist/inverse agonist AM 251. CONCLUSIONS For the first time, the present study demonstrates the overall pharmacological effects induced by the administration of AKB48 and 5F-AKB48 in mice and suggests that the fluorination can increase the power and/or effectiveness of SCBs. Furthermore, this study outlines the potential detrimental effects of SCBs on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Canazza
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology (SVeB), University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Andrea Ossato
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology (SVeB), University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Claudio Trapella
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Anna Fantinati
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Giulia Margiani
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Vincenzi
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Claudia Rimondo
- Department of Diagnostic and Public Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Fabiana Di Rosa
- Department of Scientific Investigation (RIS), Carabinieri, 00191, Rome, Italy
| | - Adolfo Gregori
- Department of Scientific Investigation (RIS), Carabinieri, 00191, Rome, Italy
| | - Katia Varani
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Pier Andrea Borea
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giovanni Serpelloni
- U.R.I.To.N., Forensic Toxicology Unit, Department of Health Science, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Matteo Marti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology (SVeB), University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121, Ferrara, Italy. .,Center for Neuroscience and Istituto Nazionale di Neuroscienze, ᅟ, Italy.
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Abouchedid R, Ho JH, Hudson S, Dines A, Archer JRH, Wood DM, Dargan PI. Acute Toxicity Associated with Use of 5F-Derivations of Synthetic Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists with Analytical Confirmation. J Med Toxicol 2016; 12:396-401. [PMID: 27456262 DOI: 10.1007/s13181-016-0571-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2016] [Revised: 06/25/2016] [Accepted: 07/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Synthetic Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists (SCRAs) are the largest group of new psychoactive substances reported to the European Warning System and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime to date. The heterogeneous nature and speed of diversification of these compounds make it challenging to accurately characterise and predict harms of these compounds in pre-clinical studies, ahead of their appearance. CASE REPORT We report the case of a 19-year-old female who purchased three products from a headshop: two new psychoactive substances (sachets of "cannabis tea" and "mushroom tea") as well as two LSD blotters. After the "cannabis tea" was smoked and the two LSD blotters and "mushroom tea" were ingested, the patient became tachycardic (HR 128), developed seizures, agitation, visual hallucinations as well as suspected serotonergic toxicity (sustained ankle clonus 20-30 beats) 1-2 hours after use. She was treated with 1 mg of intravenous midazolam. Symptoms/signs resolved within 13 hours. No further supportive care was required. Plasma, blood, and urine samples confirmed the presence of two SCRAs: 5FAKB-48 and 5F-PB-22. The patient also reported therapeutic use of both fluoxetine and citalopram for depression. DISCUSSION To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report of non-fatal intoxication with 5F-AKB-48 with analytical confirmation and exposure times. It also highlights the difficulties in understanding the pattern of toxicity of certain SCRAs in the context of psychotropic medications/co-morbid mental illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachelle Abouchedid
- Department of Clinical Toxicology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust and King's Health Partners, London, UK.
- Emergency Department, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust and King's Health Partners, London, UK.
| | - James H Ho
- Department of Clinical Toxicology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust and King's Health Partners, London, UK
- Emergency Department, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust and King's Health Partners, London, UK
| | | | - Alison Dines
- Department of Clinical Toxicology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust and King's Health Partners, London, UK
| | - John R H Archer
- Department of Clinical Toxicology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust and King's Health Partners, London, UK
- Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - David M Wood
- Department of Clinical Toxicology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust and King's Health Partners, London, UK
- Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Paul I Dargan
- Department of Clinical Toxicology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust and King's Health Partners, London, UK
- Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
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35
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Frinculescu A, Lyall CL, Ramsey J, Miserez B. Variation in commercial smoking mixtures containing third-generation synthetic cannabinoids. Drug Test Anal 2016; 9:327-333. [PMID: 27161591 DOI: 10.1002/dta.1975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2015] [Revised: 03/06/2016] [Accepted: 03/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Variation in ingredients (qualitative variation) and in quantity of active compounds (quantitative variation) in herbal smoking mixtures containing synthetic cannabinoids has been shown for older products. This can be dangerous to the user, as accurate and reproducible dosing is impossible. In this study, 69 packages containing third-generation cannabinoids of seven brands on the UK market in 2014 were analyzed both qualitatively and quantitatively for variation. When comparing the labels to actual active ingredients identified in the sample, only one brand was shown to be correctly labelled. The other six brands contained less, more, or ingredients other than those listed on the label. Only two brands were inconsistent, containing different active ingredients in different samples. Quantitative variation was assessed both within one package and between several packages. Within-package variation was within a 10% range for five of the seven brands, but two brands showed larger variation, up to 25% (Relative Standard Deviation). Variation between packages was significantly higher, with variation up to 38% and maximum concentration up to 2.7 times higher than the minimum concentration. Both qualitative and quantitative variation are common in smoking mixtures and endanger the user, as it is impossible to estimate the dose or to know the compound consumed when smoking commercial mixtures. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anca Frinculescu
- TICTAC Communications Ltd, St George's University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, United Kingdom
| | | | - John Ramsey
- TICTAC Communications Ltd, St George's University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, United Kingdom
| | - Bram Miserez
- TICTAC Communications Ltd, St George's University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, United Kingdom
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36
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Gatch MB, Forster MJ. Δ(9)-Tetrahydrocannabinol-like effects of novel synthetic cannabinoids in mice and rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2016; 233:1901-10. [PMID: 26875756 PMCID: PMC4846470 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-016-4237-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2015] [Accepted: 02/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Novel cannabinoid compounds continue to be marketed as "legal" marijuana substitutes, even though little is known about their molecular and behavioral effects. OBJECTIVES Six of these compounds (ADBICA, ADB-PINACA, THJ-2201, RCS-4, JWH-122, JWH-210) were tested for in vitro and in vivo cannabinoid-like effects to determine their abuse liability. METHODS Binding to and functional activity at CB1 cannabinoid receptors was tested. Locomotor activity in mice was tested to screen for behavioral activity and to identify behaviorally active dose ranges and times of peak effect. Discriminative stimulus effects of the six compounds were tested in rats trained to discriminate Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ(9)-THC). RESULTS ADBICA, ADB-PINACA, THJ-2201, RCS-4, JWH-122, and JWH-210 showed high affinity binding at the CB1 receptor at nanomolar affinities (0.59 to 22.5 nM), and all acted as full agonists with nanomolar potencies (0.024 to 111 nM) when compared to the CB1 receptor full agonist CP 55940. All compounds depressed locomotor activity below 50 % of vehicle responding, with depressant effects lasting 1.5 to nearly 4 h. All compounds fully substituted (<80 % Δ(9)-THC-appropriate responding) for the discriminative stimulus effects of Δ(9)-THC. 3,4-Methylenedioxy-methamphetamine (MDMA) was tested as a negative control and did not substitute for Δ(9)-THC (11 % Δ(9)-THC-appropriate responding). CONCLUSIONS All six of the compounds acted at the CB1 receptor and produced behavioral effects common to abused cannabinoid compounds, which suggest that these compounds have substantial abuse liability common to controlled synthetic cannabinoid compounds.
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37
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Longworth M, Banister SD, Mack JBC, Glass M, Connor M, Kassiou M. The 2-alkyl-2 H-indazole regioisomers of synthetic cannabinoids AB-CHMINACA, AB-FUBINACA, AB-PINACA, and 5F-AB-PINACA are possible manufacturing impurities with cannabimimetic activities. Forensic Toxicol 2016; 34:286-303. [PMID: 27547266 PMCID: PMC4971050 DOI: 10.1007/s11419-016-0316-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2016] [Accepted: 04/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Indazole-derived synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) featuring an alkyl substituent at the 1-position and l-valinamide at the 3-carboxamide position (e.g., AB-CHMINACA) have been identified by forensic chemists around the world, and are associated with serious adverse health effects. Regioisomerism is possible for indazole SCs, with the 2-alkyl-2H-indazole regioisomer of AB-CHMINACA recently identified in SC products in Japan. It is unknown whether this regiosiomer represents a manufacturing impurity arising as a synthetic byproduct, or was intentionally synthesized as a cannabimimetic agent. This study reports the synthesis, analytical characterization, and pharmacological evaluation of commonly encountered indazole SCs AB-CHMINACA, AB-FUBINACA, AB-PINACA, 5F-AB-PINACA and their corresponding 2-alkyl-2H-indazole regioisomers. Both regioisomers of each SC were prepared from a common precursor, and the physical properties, 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy of all SC compounds are described. Additionally, AB-CHMINACA, AB-FUBINACA, AB-PINACA, and 5F-AB-PINACA were found to act as high potency agonists at CB1 (EC50 = 2.1-11.6 nM) and CB2 (EC50 = 5.6-21.1 nM) receptors in fluorometric assays, while the corresponding 2-alkyl-2H-indazole regioisomers demonstrated low potency (micromolar) agonist activities at both receptors. Taken together, these data suggest that 2-alkyl-2H-indazole regioisomers of AB-CHMINACA, AB-FUBINACA, AB-PINACA, and 5F-AB-PINACA are likely to be encountered by forensic chemists and toxicologists as the result of improper purification during the clandestine synthesis of 1-alkyl-1H-indazole regioisomers, and can be distinguished by differences in gas chromatography-mass spectrometry fragmentation pattern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell Longworth
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Samuel D Banister
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA USA
| | - James B C Mack
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA USA
| | - Michelle Glass
- School of Medical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Mark Connor
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Michael Kassiou
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia.,Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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38
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Miliano C, Serpelloni G, Rimondo C, Mereu M, Marti M, De Luca MA. Neuropharmacology of New Psychoactive Substances (NPS): Focus on the Rewarding and Reinforcing Properties of Cannabimimetics and Amphetamine-Like Stimulants. Front Neurosci 2016; 10:153. [PMID: 27147945 PMCID: PMC4835722 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2016.00153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2015] [Accepted: 03/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
New psychoactive substances (NPS) are a heterogeneous and rapidly evolving class of molecules available on the global illicit drug market (e.g smart shops, internet, “dark net”) as a substitute for controlled substances. The use of NPS, mainly consumed along with other drugs of abuse and/or alcohol, has resulted in a significantly growing number of mortality and emergency admissions for overdoses, as reported by several poison centers from all over the world. The fact that the number of NPS have more than doubled over the last 10 years, is a critical challenge to governments, the scientific community, and civil society [EMCDDA (European Drug Report), 2014; UNODC, 2014b; Trends and developments]. The chemical structure (phenethylamines, piperazines, cathinones, tryptamines, synthetic cannabinoids) of NPS and their pharmacological and clinical effects (hallucinogenic, anesthetic, dissociative, depressant) help classify them into different categories. In the recent past, 50% of newly identified NPS have been classified as synthetic cannabinoids followed by new phenethylamines (17%) (UNODC, 2014b). Besides peripheral toxicological effects, many NPS seem to have addictive properties. Behavioral, neurochemical, and electrophysiological evidence can help in detecting them. This manuscript will review existing literature about the addictive and rewarding properties of the most popular NPS classes: cannabimimetics (JWH, HU, CP series) and amphetamine-like stimulants (amphetamine, methamphetamine, methcathinone, and MDMA analogs). Moreover, the review will include recent data from our lab which links JWH-018, a CB1 and CB2 agonist more potent than Δ9-THC, to other cannabinoids with known abuse potential, and to other classes of abused drugs that increase dopamine signaling in the Nucleus Accumbens (NAc) shell. Thus the neurochemical mechanisms that produce the rewarding properties of JWH-018, which most likely contributes to the greater incidence of dependence associated with “Spice” use, will be described (De Luca et al., 2015a). Considering the growing evidence of a widespread use of NPS, this review will be useful to understand the new trends in the field of drug reward and drug addiction by revealing the rewarding properties of NPS, and will be helpful to gather reliable data regarding the abuse potential of these compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Miliano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giovanni Serpelloni
- Advisory and Steering Group, URITo.N. - Unit for Research and Innovation on Forensic Toxicology, Neuroscience of Addiction and New Drugs. FT-DSS University of Florence Florence, Italy
| | - Claudia Rimondo
- Department of Diagnostic and Public Health, University of Verona Verona, Italy
| | - Maddalena Mereu
- Departmentof Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua Padua, Italy
| | - Matteo Marti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara Ferrara, Italy
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Shanks KG, Clark W, Behonick G. Death Associated With the Use of the Synthetic Cannabinoid ADB-FUBINACA. J Anal Toxicol 2016; 40:236-9. [PMID: 26755539 DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkv142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids have been found in herbal incense products for the last several years. We report the rapid death of an individual that was certified as synthetic cannabinoid-associated. The autopsy blood specimen was extracted by a liquid-liquid extraction at pH 10.2 into a hexane-ethyl acetate mixture and analyzed by a generalized synthetic cannabinoid LC-MS-MS method. For this case report, we briefly describe the instrumental analysis and extraction methods for the detection of ADB-FUBINACA in postmortem blood, toxicological results for the postmortem blood specimen (ADB-FUBINACA, 7.3 ng/mL; THC, 1.1 ng/mL; THC-COOH, 4.7 ng/mL), case information and circumstances and pertinent findings at autopsy. The cause of death was certified as coronary arterial thrombosis in combination with synthetic cannabinoid use. Manner of death was accident.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - William Clark
- East Baton Rouge Parish Coroner's Office, Baton Rouge, LA 70807, USA
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40
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Next generation of novel psychoactive substances on the horizon - A complex problem to face. Drug Alcohol Depend 2015; 157:1-17. [PMID: 26482089 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2015.09.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2015] [Revised: 09/30/2015] [Accepted: 09/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The last decade has seen a rapid and continuous growth in the availability and use of novel psychoactive substances (NPS) across the world. Although various products are labeled with warnings "not for human consumption", they are intended to mimic psychoactive effects of illicit drugs of abuse. Once some compounds become regulated, new analogues appear in order to satisfy consumers' demands and at the same time to avoid criminalization. This review presents updated information on the second generation of NPS, introduced as replacements of the already banned substances from this class, focusing on their pharmacological properties and metabolism, routes of administration, and effects in humans. METHODS Literature search, covering years 2013-2015, was performed using the following keywords alone or in combination: "novel psychoactive substances", "cathinones", "synthetic cannabinoids", "benzofurans", "phenethylamines", "2C-drugs", "NBOMe", "methoxetamine", "opioids", "toxicity", and "metabolism". RESULTS More than 400 NPS have been reported in Europe, with 255 detected in 2012-2014. The most popular are synthetic cannabimimetics and psychostimulant cathinones; use of psychedelics and opioids is less common. Accumulating experimental and clinical data indicate that potential harms associated with the use of second generation NPS could be even more serious than those described for the already banned drugs. CONCLUSIONS NPS are constantly emerging on the illicit drug market and represent an important health problem. A significant amount of research is needed in order to fully quantify both the short and long term effects of the second generation NPS, and their interaction with other drugs of abuse.
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McLaughlin G, Morris N, Kavanagh PV, Power JD, Twamley B, O'Brien J, Talbot B, Dowling G, Brandt SD. The synthesis and characterization of the ‘research chemical’N-(1-amino-3-methyl-1-oxobutan-2-yl)-1-(cyclohexylmethyl)-3-(4-fluorophenyl)-1H-pyrazole-5-carboxamide (3,5-AB-CHMFUPPYCA) and differentiation from its 5,3-regioisomer. Drug Test Anal 2015; 8:920-9. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.1864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2015] [Revised: 08/04/2015] [Accepted: 08/04/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gavin McLaughlin
- Department of Life and Physical Sciences, School of Science; Athlone Institute of Technology; Dublin Road Athlone Co. Westmeath Ireland
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics; School of Medicine, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, St James's Hospital; Dublin 8 Ireland
| | - Noreen Morris
- Department of Life and Physical Sciences, School of Science; Athlone Institute of Technology; Dublin Road Athlone Co. Westmeath Ireland
| | - Pierce V. Kavanagh
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics; School of Medicine, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, St James's Hospital; Dublin 8 Ireland
| | - John D. Power
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics; School of Medicine, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, St James's Hospital; Dublin 8 Ireland
- Forensic Science Laboratory; Garda HQ; Dublin 8 Ireland
| | - Brendan Twamley
- School of Chemistry; Trinity College Dublin; Dublin 2 Ireland
| | - John O'Brien
- School of Chemistry; Trinity College Dublin; Dublin 2 Ireland
| | - Brian Talbot
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences; Trinity College Dublin; Dublin 2 Ireland
| | - Geraldine Dowling
- The State Laboratory; Backweston Laboratory Complex, Young's Cross; Celbridge Co. Kildare Ireland
| | - Simon D. Brandt
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences; Liverpool John Moores University; Byrom Street Liverpool L3 3AF UK
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