1
|
Yuan X, Ye W, Chen L, Luo D, Zhou L, Qiu Y, Zhuo R, Zhao Y, Peng L, Yang L, Jin X, Zhou Y. URB597 exerts neuroprotective effects against transient brain ischemia injury in mice by regulating autophagic flux and necroptosis. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 957:175982. [PMID: 37572942 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.175982] [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: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
Ischemic stroke is a leading cause of death and disability, and medical treatments for ischemic stroke are very limited. URB597 is a potent and selective inhibitor of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). However, the effect of URB597 on ischemic stroke and the underlying molecular mechanisms remain little known. In this study, focal cerebral ischemia was induced by transient middle cerebral artery occlusion in mice. Our results showed that URB597 dose-dependently improved neurological function and reduced brain infarct volume and brain edema 24 h after brain ischemia. The most effective dose was 1 mg/kg and the therapeutic time window was within 3 h after ischemic stroke. To further investigate the underlying mechanism, necroptosis and autophagy flux were detected by Western blot and/or immunofluorescence staining with or without chloroquine, an autophagic flux inhibitor. Our results showed that URB597 promoted autophagic flux and reduced neuronal necroptosis after brain ischemia and these effects could be abolished by chloroquine. In addition, we found that peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα) antagonist GW6471 partly abolished the effect of URB597 against brain ischemia and URB597 upregulated the expressions of PPARα. In conclusion, URB597 exerts a neuroprotective effect in a dose- and time-dependent manner, and this effect may be related to its restoration of autophagic flux and inhibition of neuronal necroptosis. PPARα is involved in the neuroprotective effect of URB597. This study provides novel evidence that URB597 may be a promising agent for the clinical treatment of ischemic stroke.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqian Yuan
- Department of Basic Medical Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China; Key Laboratory of Chiral Drugs, Xiamen, 361102, China.
| | - Wenxuan Ye
- Department of Basic Medical Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China; Key Laboratory of Chiral Drugs, Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Ling Chen
- Xiamen Cardiovascular Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China; Department of Basic Medical Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China; Key Laboratory of Chiral Drugs, Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Doudou Luo
- Department of Basic Medical Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China; Key Laboratory of Chiral Drugs, Xiamen, 361102, China; State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Li Zhou
- Department of Basic Medical Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Yan Qiu
- Key Laboratory of Chiral Drugs, Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Rengong Zhuo
- Xiamen Cardiovascular Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China; Department of Basic Medical Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China; Key Laboratory of Chiral Drugs, Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Yun Zhao
- Xiamen Cardiovascular Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China; Department of Basic Medical Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China; Key Laboratory of Chiral Drugs, Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Lu Peng
- Xiamen Cardiovascular Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China; Department of Basic Medical Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China; Key Laboratory of Chiral Drugs, Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Lichao Yang
- Xiamen Cardiovascular Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China; Department of Basic Medical Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China; Key Laboratory of Chiral Drugs, Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Xin Jin
- Department of Basic Medical Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China; Key Laboratory of Chiral Drugs, Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Yu Zhou
- Xiamen Cardiovascular Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China; Department of Basic Medical Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China; Key Laboratory of Chiral Drugs, Xiamen, 361102, China; State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Rodríguez-Manzo G, Canseco-Alba A. The endogenous cannabinoid system modulates male sexual behavior expression. Front Behav Neurosci 2023; 17:1198077. [PMID: 37324524 PMCID: PMC10264596 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2023.1198077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a key neuromodulatory role in the brain. Main features of endocannabinoids (eCBs) are that they are produced on demand, in response to enhanced neuronal activity, act as retrograde messengers, and participate in the induction of brain plasticity processes. Sexual activity is a motivated behavior and therefore, the mesolimbic dopaminergic system (MSL) plays a central role in the control of its appetitive component (drive to engage in copulation). In turn, copulation activates mesolimbic dopamine neurons and repeated copulation produces the continuous activation of the MSL system. Sustained sexual activity leads to the achievement of sexual satiety, which main outcome is the transient transformation of sexually active male rats into sexually inhibited animals. Thus, 24 h after copulation to satiety, the sexually satiated males exhibit a decreased sexual motivation and do not respond to the presence of a sexually receptive female with sexual activity. Interestingly, blockade of cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1R) during the copulation to satiety process, interferes with both the appearance of the long-lasting sexual inhibition and the decrease in sexual motivation in the sexually satiated males. This effect is reproduced when blocking CB1R at the ventral tegmental area evidencing the involvement of MSL eCBs in the induction of this sexual inhibitory state. Here we review the available evidence regarding the effects of cannabinoids, including exogenously administered eCBs, on male rodent sexual behavior of both sexually competent animals and rat sub populations spontaneously showing copulatory deficits, considered useful to model some human male sexual dysfunctions. We also include the effects of cannabis preparations on human male sexual activity. Finally, we review the role played by the ECS in the control of male sexual behavior expression with the aid of the sexual satiety phenomenon. Sexual satiety appears as a suitable model for the study of the relationship between eCB signaling, MSL synaptic plasticity and the modulation of male sexual motivation under physiological conditions that might be useful for the understanding of MSL functioning, eCB-mediated plasticity and their relationship with motivational processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Rodríguez-Manzo
- Departamento de Farmacobiología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados (Cinvestav-Sede Sur), Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Ana Canseco-Alba
- Laboratorio de Fisiología de la Formación Reticular, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Castillo-Arellano J, Canseco-Alba A, Cutler SJ, León F. The Polypharmacological Effects of Cannabidiol. Molecules 2023; 28:3271. [PMID: 37050032 PMCID: PMC10096752 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28073271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a major phytocannabinoid present in Cannabis sativa (Linneo, 1753). This naturally occurring secondary metabolite does not induce intoxication or exhibit the characteristic profile of drugs of abuse from cannabis like Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (∆9-THC) does. In contrast to ∆9-THC, our knowledge of the neuro-molecular mechanisms of CBD is limited, and its pharmacology, which appears to be complex, has not yet been fully elucidated. The study of the pharmacological effects of CBD has grown exponentially in recent years, making it necessary to generate frequently updated reports on this important metabolite. In this article, a rationalized integration of the mechanisms of action of CBD on molecular targets and pharmacological implications in animal models and human diseases, such as epilepsy, pain, neuropsychiatric disorders, Alzheimer's disease, and inflammatory diseases, are presented. We identify around 56 different molecular targets for CBD, including enzymes and ion channels/metabotropic receptors involved in neurologic conditions. Herein, we compiled the knowledge found in the scientific literature on the multiple mechanisms of actions of CBD. The in vitro and in vivo findings are essential for fully understanding the polypharmacological nature of this natural product.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Castillo-Arellano
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Ana Canseco-Alba
- Laboratory of Reticular Formation Physiology, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery of Mexico (INNN), Mexico City 14269, Mexico
| | - Stephen J. Cutler
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Francisco León
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Effects of endocannabinoid system modulation on social behaviour: A systematic review of animal studies. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 138:104680. [PMID: 35513169 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
There is a clear link between psychiatric disorders and social behaviour, and evidence suggests the involvement of the endocannabinoid system (ECS). A systematic review of preclinical literature was conducted using MEDLINE (PubMed) and PsychINFO databases to examine whether pharmacological and/or genetic manipulations of the ECS alter social behaviours in wildtype (WT) animals or models of social impairment (SIM). Eighty studies were included. Risk of bias (RoB) was assessed using SYRCLE's RoB tool. While some variability was evident, studies most consistently found that direct cannabinoid receptor (CBR) agonism decreased social behaviours in WT animals, while indirect CBR activation via enzyme inhibition or gene-knockout increased social behaviours. Direct and, more consistently, indirect CBR activation reversed social deficits in SIM. These CBR-mediated effects were often sex- and developmental-phase-dependent and blocked by CBR antagonism. Overall, ECS enzyme inhibition may improve social behaviour in SIM, suggesting the potential usefulness of ECS enzyme inhibition as a therapeutic approach for social deficits. Future research should endeavour to elucidate ECS status in neuropsychiatric disorders characterized by social deficits.
Collapse
|
5
|
Amini M, Saboory E, Derafshpour L, Fakhari A, Wu JC, Bruggeman R, Asgharzadeh F, Ahmadalipour A. The impact of sleep deprivation on sexual behaviors and FAAH expression in the prefrontal cortex of male rats. Neurosci Lett 2020; 735:135254. [PMID: 32682844 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2020.135254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 06/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Sleep deprivation (SD) causes alterations in the function of the endocannabinoid (EC) system and also results in alteration in many behaviors such as increased anxiety, deteriorated alertness, memory deficits, as well as sexual behaviors. Controversial data about the effects of SD on sexual response are provided. Fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), the enzymes involved in the degradation of the EC system play an important role in the function of the EC system. This study aimed to investigate the effect of REM SD (RSD) and total SD (TSD) on the sexual behaviors and FAAH expression in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) of male rats. RSD was carried out through the flower pot technique for 24 h and 48 h, and TSD also was induced by keeping awake the rats by gentle handling for 6 h. Immediately after RSD and TSD, sexual behaviors were recorded for 45 min. Sexual behaviors were reduced by both types of RSD and TSD. The deleterious effects of 24 h RSD were more severe compared with 6 h of TSD. Serum testosterone concentration was significantly higher after TSD but not RSD compared to the normal sleep (NS) group. FAAH expression in the PFC was significantly reduced after both RSD and TSD compared to the NS group. Given that the function of the EC system has been previously shown to change different behaviors such as sexual activity, our results could suggest that behavioral effects of both types of SD on sexual behavior may partially result from activation of this signaling pathway by the reduction of FAAH in the PFC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Amini
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Ehsan Saboory
- Zanjan Metabolic Diseases Research Center, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran.
| | - Leila Derafshpour
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Ali Fakhari
- Research Center of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Joseph C Wu
- UC Irvine Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Irvine, CA 92697, United States
| | - Richard Bruggeman
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Psychiatry, Rob Giel Research Center, the Netherlands
| | - Fatemeh Asgharzadeh
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Ali Ahmadalipour
- Research Center of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Wuyts E, De Neef N, Coppens V, Fransen E, Schellens E, Van Der Pol M, Morrens M. Between Pleasure and Pain: A Pilot Study on the Biological Mechanisms Associated With BDSM Interactions in Dominants and Submissives. J Sex Med 2020; 17:784-792. [PMID: 32044259 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2020.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Revised: 12/25/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND BDSM is an abbreviation used to reference the concepts of bondage and discipline, dominance and submission, sadism, and masochism, enacted by power exchanges between consensual partners. AIM To shed light upon the rewarding biological mechanisms associated with BDSM interactions. METHODS A group of 35 BDSM couples (dominant and submissive counterparts) were recruited and tested during a BDSM interaction, with an additional control group of 27 non-BDSM interested people tested in a normal social interaction. OUTCOMES We compared the evolution of the stress and reward hormone levels of cortisol, beta-endorphins, and endocannabinoids (2AG and anandamide) in a group of BDSM practitioners before and after an active BDSM interaction with the levels in control individuals. RESULTS We showed that submissives showed increases in cortisol and endocannabinoid levels due to the BDSM interaction, with dominants only showing increased endocannabinoid levels when the BDSM interaction was associated with power play. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS This study effectively provides a link between behavior that many think of as aberrant on one hand, and biological pleasure experience on the other, in the hope that it may relieve some of the stigma these practitioners still endure. STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS It is one of the first and largest studies of its kind, but is still limited in sample size and only represents a specific population of Flemish BDSM practitioners. CONCLUSION Even though this is one of the first studies of its kind, we can conclude that there is a clear indication for increased pleasure in submissives when looking at biological effects of a BDSM interaction, which was related to the increases in experienced stress. Wuyts E, De Neef N, Coppens V, et al. Between Pleasure and Pain: A Pilot Study on the Biological Mechanisms Associated With BDSM Interactions in Dominants and Submissives. J Sex Med 2020;17:784-792.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elise Wuyts
- Collaborative Antwerp Psychiatric Research Institute (CAPRI), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Campus Drie Eiken, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.
| | - Nele De Neef
- Europe Hospitals, Campus St Michel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Violette Coppens
- Collaborative Antwerp Psychiatric Research Institute (CAPRI), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Campus Drie Eiken, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium; University Department of Psychiatry, University Psychiatric Centre Duffel, Duffel, Belgium
| | | | - Eline Schellens
- Collaborative Antwerp Psychiatric Research Institute (CAPRI), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Campus Drie Eiken, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium; University Department of Psychiatry, University Psychiatric Centre Duffel, Duffel, Belgium
| | | | - Manuel Morrens
- Collaborative Antwerp Psychiatric Research Institute (CAPRI), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Campus Drie Eiken, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium; University Department of Psychiatry, University Psychiatric Centre Duffel, Duffel, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ventura-Aquino E, Paredes RG. Sexual behavior in rodents: Where do we go from here? Horm Behav 2020; 118:104678. [PMID: 31927024 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2020.104678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Hormones and Behavior was first published 50 years ago including some articles related to the hormonal regulation of sexual behavior in different species. Since then, this research field has produced outstanding discoveries that have contributed to our understanding of the control of sexual behavior. The refinement of classical techniques and the development of new experimental tools has opened the door to a new era of research that will allow us to understand different aspects of sexual behavior. It would also expand the possible extrapolation from animal models to understand human sexuality and its dysfunctions. In this review, we summarize some of the most recent findings about sexual behavior in both sexes including the refinement of classical methods of study with new approaches and questions as well as the development of new methods trying to explain mechanisms of action on motivational and consummatory elements of mating behavior. We also reviewed other aspects that modulate sexual behavior such as attractivity, olfactory signals and learning which model mate selection. Additionally, we described studies demonstrating that sexual behavior induces permanent brain modifications in neuronal circuits. Finally, we briefly describe recent contributions on animal models of human sexuality dysfunctions which, although with their own limitations, are under continuous refining.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Ventura-Aquino
- Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores, Unidad Juriquilla UNAM. Querétaro, Qro, Mexico
| | - Raúl G Paredes
- Instituto de Neurobiología, UNAM, Querétaro, Querétaro, Mexico; Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores, Unidad Juriquilla UNAM. Querétaro, Qro, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Canseco-Alba A, Rodríguez-Manzo G. Endocannabinoids Interact With the Dopaminergic System to Increase Sexual Motivation: Lessons From the Sexual Satiety Phenomenon. Front Behav Neurosci 2019; 13:184. [PMID: 31474840 PMCID: PMC6702338 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2019.00184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In male rats, copulation to satiety induces a long-lasting sexual inhibitory state, considered to rely on a decreased sexual motivation. Dopaminergic transmission at the mesolimbic system plays a central role in the regulation of male sexual motivation. Endocannabinoids (eCBs) modulate the activity of the mesolimbic system and both dopamine (DA) and cannabinoid receptor activation reverses the sexual inhibition that characterizes sexually satiated rats. The eCB anandamide reverses sexual satiety when systemically administered or infused into the ventral tegmental area (VTA), the region where the activity of mesolimbic dopaminergic neurons is regulated. Thus, it could be thought that sexual motivation is diminished during the long-lasting sexual inhibition of sexually satiated rats and that eCBs reverse that inhibition through the modulation of the dopaminergic system. To test this hypothesis, we assessed the motivational state of sexually satiated male rats and determined if 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), the most abundant eCB and a full cannabinoid receptor agonist, also reversed the sexual inhibitory state. To establish the possible interaction between 2-AG and anandamide with the dopaminergic system for the reversal of sexual satiety, we analyzed the effects of the co-administration of each eCB and DA receptor agonists or antagonists. Results showed that 24-h after copulation to satiety, when the sexual inhibition is well established, the males’ sexual motivation is diminished as measured in the sexual incentive motivation test. 2-AG, similarly to anandamide, reverses sexual satiety through the activation of CB1 receptors and both eCBs interact with the dopaminergic system to reverse the sexual inhibitory state. 2-AG effects are mediated by the modulation of the D2-like DA receptor family, whereas anandamide’s effects are clearly mediated by the modulation of the D1-like DA receptor family and the activation of D2-like DA receptors. Present results evidence that a reduced sexual motivation underlies the sexual inhibitory state of sexually satiated rats and support the notion that eCBs reverse sexual satiety by modulating dopaminergic transmission, presumably at the mesolimbic system. Anandamide and 2-AG have a different interaction with D1-like and D2-like DA receptor families. Altogether present data endorse the association of the eCB system with the regulation of the motivational tone at the mesolimbic system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Canseco-Alba
- Departamento de Farmacobiología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados (Cinvestav-Sede Sur), Ciudad de México, México
| | - Gabriela Rodríguez-Manzo
- Departamento de Farmacobiología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados (Cinvestav-Sede Sur), Ciudad de México, México
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Canseco-Alba A, Rodríguez-Manzo G. Sexual interaction is essential for the transformation of non-copulating rats into sexually active animals by the endocannabinoid anandamide. Behav Brain Res 2018; 359:418-427. [PMID: 30439451 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2018.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2018] [Revised: 11/07/2018] [Accepted: 11/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid anandamide (AEA) transforms half of the population of previously non-copulating (NC) rats into sexually active animals in a long-lasting manner. The aim of this work was to explore the nature of this transformation. We identified the dose range in which AEA induces mating behavior in previously NC rats, which evidenced a dose-based, biphasic profile for AEA to induce the transformation of NC rats. We demonstrate that the sexual interaction with a receptive female, involving at least an intromission, is essential for AEA to induce the transformation of NC rats. This AEA-induced conversion is centrally mediated and involves the activation of CB1 receptors. Results indicate that the sexual impairment of this population of NC rats relies on their incapacity to initiate sexual activity and that an unidentified brain inhibitory influence on sexual behavior expression is removed by AEA treatment, allowing previously NC rats to show copulatory behavior in a long-lasting manner. The inhibitory influence is not removed by AEA treatment when animals are not allowed to have sexual contact with the female immediately after AEA injection. The same result was found for the opioid receptor antagonist naloxone, the other treatment reported to induce copulation in rats classified as NC. These data suggest that sexual behavior expression could depend on two different neural mechanisms at two different moments: one involved in the display of the first copulatory response and another responsible for maintaining subsequent sexual behavior responding.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Canseco-Alba
- Departamento de Farmacobiología, CINVESTAV-Sede Sur, Calz. De los Tenorios 235, Col. Granjas Coapa, Ciudad de México 14330, Mexico.
| | - Gabriela Rodríguez-Manzo
- Departamento de Farmacobiología, CINVESTAV-Sede Sur, Calz. De los Tenorios 235, Col. Granjas Coapa, Ciudad de México 14330, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
The Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase Inhibitor URB937 Ameliorates Radiation-Induced Lung Injury in a Mouse Model. Inflammation 2018; 40:1254-1263. [PMID: 28478515 DOI: 10.1007/s10753-017-0568-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Radiation-induced lung injury (RILI) is a potentially life-threatening complication of radiotherapy. In the current study, we examined the potential protective effects of URB937, an inhibitor of fatty acid amide hydrolase using a mouse model of RILI. Briefly, male C57BL/6 mice received 16Gy irradiation to the thoracic region and then intraperitoneal injection of either URB937 (1 mg/kg) or vehicle every 2 days for 30 days. The extent of the lung injury was evaluated histologically at the end of the drug treatment as well as 3 months after the cessation of the treatment. The data showed URB937 attenuated radiation-induced lung injury and increased endocannabinoid concentration in lung tissue. Treatment with URB937 decreased leukocyte migration and inflammatory cytokines in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and plasma at day 30. Histopathological examination revealed URB937 could restore lung structure and restrain inflammatory cell and fibroblast accumulation caused by irradiation in lung tissue. URB937 also decreased radiation-induced pro-inflammatory (e.g., interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α) and pro-fibrotic cytokines (e.g., transforming growth factor-β1) level in lung tissue, as well as lipid peroxidation in the lungs. Mouse survival examined in a separate group of experimental subjects indicated that URB937 could prolong animal survival. Experiments using a mouse bearing Lewis lung carcinoma cells showed that URB937 does not affect irradiation-induced inhibition of tumor growth. These results suggest that inhibiting fatty acid amide hydrolase could ameliorate RILI without compromising the efficacy of irradiation on tumor control.
Collapse
|
11
|
Perescis MFJ, de Bruin N, Heijink L, Kruse C, Vinogradova L, Lüttjohann A, van Luijtelaar G, van Rijn CM. Cannabinoid antagonist SLV326 induces convulsive seizures and changes in the interictal EEG in rats. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0165363. [PMID: 28151935 PMCID: PMC5289424 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0165363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2016] [Accepted: 10/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoid CB1 antagonists have been investigated for possible treatment of e.g. obesity-related disorders. However, clinical application was halted due to their symptoms of anxiety and depression. In addition to these adverse effects, we have shown earlier that chronic treatment with the CB1 antagonist rimonabant may induce EEG-confirmed convulsive seizures. In a regulatory repeat-dose toxicity study violent episodes of “muscle spasms” were observed in Wistar rats, daily dosed with the CB1 receptor antagonist SLV326 during 5 months. The aim of the present follow-up study was to investigate whether these violent movements were of an epileptic origin. In selected SLV326-treated and control animals, EEG and behavior were monitored for 24 hours. 25% of SLV326 treated animals showed 1 to 21 EEG-confirmed generalized convulsive seizures, whereas controls were seizure-free. The behavioral seizures were typical for a limbic origin. Moreover, interictal spikes were found in 38% of treated animals. The frequency spectrum of the interictal EEG of the treated rats showed a lower theta peak frequency, as well as lower gamma power compared to the controls. These frequency changes were state-dependent: they were only found during high locomotor activity. It is concluded that long term blockade of the endogenous cannabinoid system can provoke limbic seizures in otherwise healthy rats. Additionally, SLV326 alters the frequency spectrum of the EEG when rats are highly active, suggesting effects on complex behavior and cognition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martin F. J. Perescis
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- HAS University of Applied Sciences, ‘s-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
| | - Natasja de Bruin
- Abbott Healthcare Products BV (formerly Solvay Pharmaceuticals), Weesp, The Netherlands
| | - Liesbeth Heijink
- Abbott Healthcare Products BV (formerly Solvay Pharmaceuticals), Weesp, The Netherlands
| | - Chris Kruse
- Abbott Healthcare Products BV (formerly Solvay Pharmaceuticals), Weesp, The Netherlands
| | - Lyudmila Vinogradova
- Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Annika Lüttjohann
- Institut für Physiologie I, Westfälische Wilhelms Universität Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Gilles van Luijtelaar
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Clementina M. van Rijn
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Androvicova R, Horacek J, Stark T, Drago F, Micale V. Endocannabinoid system in sexual motivational processes: Is it a novel therapeutic horizon? Pharmacol Res 2016; 115:200-208. [PMID: 27884725 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2016.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2016] [Revised: 11/20/2016] [Accepted: 11/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is composed of the cannabinoid receptors types 1 and 2 (CB1 and CB2) for marijuana's psychoactive ingredient Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), the endogenous ligands (AEA and 2-AG) and the enzymatic systems involved in their biosynthesis and degradation, recently emerged as important modulator of emotional and non-emotional behaviors. For centuries, in addition to its recreational actions, several contradictory claims regarding the effects of Cannabis use in sexual functioning and behavior (e.g. aphrodisiac vs anti-aphrodisiac) of both sexes have been accumulated. The identification of Δ9-THC and later on, the discovery of the ECS have opened a potential therapeutic target for sexual dysfunctions, given the partial efficacy of current pharmacological treatment. In agreement with the bidirectional modulation induced by cannabinoids on several behavioral responses, the endogenous cannabinoid AEA elicited biphasic effects on sexual behavior as well. The present article reviews current available knowledge on herbal, synthetic and endogenous cannabinoids with respect to the modulation of several aspects of sexuality in preclinical and human studies, highlighting their therapeutic potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renata Androvicova
- National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czech Republic; 3rd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Horacek
- National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czech Republic; 3rd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Tibor Stark
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Micale
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy; CEITEC-Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Canseco-Alba A, Rodríguez-Manzo G. Intra-VTA anandamide infusion produces dose-based biphasic effects on male rat sexual behavior expression. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2016; 150-151:182-189. [PMID: 27856203 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2016.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2016] [Revised: 11/10/2016] [Accepted: 11/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
|
14
|
DeVries MS, Cordes MA, Rodriguez JD, Stevenson SA, Riters LV. Neural endocannabinoid CB1 receptor expression, social status, and behavior in male European starlings. Brain Res 2016; 1644:240-8. [PMID: 27206544 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2016.05.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2016] [Revised: 05/11/2016] [Accepted: 05/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Many species modify behavior in response to changes in resource availability or social status; however, the neural mechanisms underlying these modifications are not well understood. Prior work in male starlings demonstrates that status-appropriate changes in behavior involve brain regions that regulate social behavior and vocal production. Endocannabinoids are ubiquitously distributed neuromodulators that are proposed to play a role in adjusting behavior to match social status. As an initial step to provide insight into this hypothesis we observed flocks of male starlings in outdoor aviaries during the breeding season. We used quantitative real-time PCR to measure expression of endocannabinoid CB1 receptors in brain regions involved in social behavior and motivation (lateral septum [LS], ventral tegmental area [VTA], medial preoptic nucleus [POM]) and vocal behavior (Area X and robust nucleus of the arcopallium; RA). Males with nesting sites sang to females and displaced other males more than males without nesting sites. They also had higher levels of CB1 receptor expression in LS and RA. CB1 expression in LS correlated positively with agonistic behaviors. CB1 expression in RA correlated positively with singing behavior. CB1 in VTA also correlated positively with singing when only singing birds were considered. These correlations nicely map onto the well-established role of LS in agonistic behavior and the known role of RA in song production and VTA in motivation and song production. Studies are now needed to precisely characterize the role of CB1 receptors in these regions in the production of status-appropriate social behaviors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Susan DeVries
- Department of Zoology, 428 Birge Hall, 430 Lincoln Drive, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706 USA
| | - Melissa A Cordes
- Department of Zoology, 428 Birge Hall, 430 Lincoln Drive, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706 USA
| | - Jonathan D Rodriguez
- Department of Zoology, 428 Birge Hall, 430 Lincoln Drive, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706 USA
| | - Sharon A Stevenson
- Department of Zoology, 428 Birge Hall, 430 Lincoln Drive, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706 USA
| | - Lauren V Riters
- Department of Zoology, 428 Birge Hall, 430 Lincoln Drive, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706 USA.
| |
Collapse
|