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Hempel B, Crissman M, Pari S, Klein B, Bi GH, Alton H, Xi ZX. PPARα and PPARγ are expressed in midbrain dopamine neurons and modulate dopamine- and cannabinoid-mediated behavior in mice. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:4203-4214. [PMID: 37479780 PMCID: PMC10799974 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02182-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are a family of nuclear receptors that regulate gene expression. Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) is a PPARγ agonist and some endocannabinoids are natural activators of PPARα and PPARγ. However, little is known regarding their cellular distributions in the brain and functional roles in cannabinoid action. Here, we first used RNAscope in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry assays to examine the cellular distributions of PPARα and PPARγ expression in the mouse brain. We found that PPARα and PPARγ are expressed in ~70% of midbrain dopamine (DA) neurons. In the amygdala, PPARα is expressed in ~60% of glutamatergic neurons, while PPARγ is expressed in ~60% of GABA neurons. However, no PPARα/γ signal was detected in GABA neurons in the nucleus accumbens. We then used a series of behavioral assays to determine the functional roles of PPARα/γ in the CNS effects of Δ9-THC. We found that optogenetic stimulation of midbrain DA neurons was rewarding as assessed by optical intracranial self-stimulation (oICSS) in DAT-cre mice. Δ9-THC and a PPARγ (but not PPARα) agonist dose-dependently inhibited oICSS. Pretreatment with PPARα or PPARγ antagonists attenuated the Δ9-THC-induced reduction in oICSS and Δ9-THC-induced anxiogenic effects. In addition, a PPARγ agonist increased, while PPARα or PPARγ antagonists decreased open-field locomotion. Pretreatment with PPARα or PPARγ antagonists potentiated Δ9-THC-induced hypoactivity and catalepsy but failed to alter Δ9-THC-induced analgesia, hypothermia and immobility. These findings provide the first anatomical and functional evidence supporting an important role of PPARα/γ in DA-dependent behavior and cannabinoid action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Briana Hempel
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Medication Development Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Madeline Crissman
- Neuropsychopharmacology Section, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sruti Pari
- Neuropsychopharmacology Section, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Benjamin Klein
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Medication Development Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Guo-Hua Bi
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Medication Development Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Hannah Alton
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Medication Development Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Zheng-Xiong Xi
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Cohen G, Gover O, Schwartz B. Phytocannabinoids Reduce Inflammation of Primed Macrophages and Enteric Glial Cells: An In Vitro Study. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14628. [PMID: 37834076 PMCID: PMC10572654 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914628] [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: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Intestinal inflammation is mediated by a subset of cells populating the intestine, such as enteric glial cells (EGC) and macrophages. Different studies indicate that phytocannabinoids could play a possible role in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) by relieving the symptoms involved in the disease. Phytocannabinoids act through the endocannabinoid system, which is distributed throughout the mammalian body in the cells of the immune system and in the intestinal cells. Our in vitro study analyzed the putative anti-inflammatory effect of nine selected pure cannabinoids in J774A1 macrophage cells and EGCs triggered to undergo inflammation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The anti-inflammatory effect of several phytocannabinoids was measured by their ability to reduce TNFα transcription and translation in J774A1 macrophages and to diminish S100B and GFAP secretion and transcription in EGCs. Our results demonstrate that THC at the lower concentrations tested exerted the most effective anti-inflammatory effect in both J774A1 macrophages and EGCs compared to the other phytocannabinoids tested herein. We then performed RNA-seq analysis of EGCs exposed to LPS in the presence or absence of THC or THC-COOH. Transcriptomic analysis of these EGCs revealed 23 differentially expressed genes (DEG) compared to the treatment with only LPS. Pretreatment with THC resulted in 26 DEG, and pretreatment with THC-COOH resulted in 25 DEG. To evaluate which biological pathways were affected by the different phytocannabinoid treatments, we used the Ingenuity platform. We show that THC treatment affects the mTOR and RAR signaling pathway, while THC-COOH mainly affects the IL6 signaling pathway.
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Grabon W, Rheims S, Smith J, Bodennec J, Belmeguenai A, Bezin L. CB2 receptor in the CNS: from immune and neuronal modulation to behavior. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 150:105226. [PMID: 37164044 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105226] [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: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Despite low levels of cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2R) expression in the central nervous system in human and rodents, a growing body of evidence shows CB2R involvement in many processes at the behavioral level, through both immune and neuronal modulations. Recent in vitro and in vivo evidence have highlighted the complex role of CB2R under physiological and inflammatory conditions. Under neuroinflammatory states, its activation seems to protect the brain and its functions, making it a promising target in a wide range of neurological disorders. Here, we provide a complete and updated overview of CB2R function in the central nervous system of rodents, spanning from modulation of immune function in microglia but also in other cell types, to behavior and neuronal activity, in both physiological and neuroinflammatory contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanda Grabon
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Neurosciences de Lyon, U10208 UMR5292, TIGER Team - F-69500 Bron, France; Epilepsy Institute IDEE, 59 boulevard Pinel - F-69500 Bron, France.
| | - Sylvain Rheims
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Neurosciences de Lyon, U10208 UMR5292, TIGER Team - F-69500 Bron, France; Epilepsy Institute IDEE, 59 boulevard Pinel - F-69500 Bron, France; Department of Functional Neurology and Epileptology, Hospices Civils de Lyon - France
| | - Jonathon Smith
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Neurosciences de Lyon, U10208 UMR5292, TIGER Team - F-69500 Bron, France; Epilepsy Institute IDEE, 59 boulevard Pinel - F-69500 Bron, France
| | - Jacques Bodennec
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Neurosciences de Lyon, U10208 UMR5292, TIGER Team - F-69500 Bron, France; Epilepsy Institute IDEE, 59 boulevard Pinel - F-69500 Bron, France
| | - Amor Belmeguenai
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Neurosciences de Lyon, U10208 UMR5292, TIGER Team - F-69500 Bron, France; Epilepsy Institute IDEE, 59 boulevard Pinel - F-69500 Bron, France
| | - Laurent Bezin
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Neurosciences de Lyon, U10208 UMR5292, TIGER Team - F-69500 Bron, France.
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Xi ZX, Hempel B, Crissman M, Pari S, Klein B, Bi GH, Alton H. PPARα and PPARγ are expressed in midbrain dopamine neurons and modulate dopamine- and cannabinoid-mediated behavior in mice. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-2614714. [PMID: 36909477 PMCID: PMC10002816 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2614714/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are a family of nuclear receptors that regulate gene expression. Δ 9 -tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ 9 -THC) is a PPARg agonist and some endocannabinoids are natural activators of PPAR a and PPARg. Therefore, both the receptors are putative cannabinoid receptors. However, little is known regarding their cellular distributions in the brain and functional roles in cannabinoid action. Here we first used RNAscope in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry assays to examine the cellular distributions of PPARα and PPARγ expression in the mouse brain. We found that PPARα and PPARγ are highly expressed in ~70% midbrain dopamine (DA) neurons and in ~50% GABAergic and ~50% glutamatergic neurons in the amygdala. However, no PPARα/γ signal was detected in GABAergic neurons in the nucleus accumbens. We then used a series of behavioral assays to determine the functional roles of PPARα/γ in the CNS effects of Δ 9 -THC. We found that optogenetic stimulation of midbrain DA neurons was rewarding as assessed by optical intracranial self-stimulation (oICSS) in DAT-cre mice. Δ 9 -THC and a PPARγ (but not PPARα) agonist dose-dependently inhibited oICSS, suggesting that dopaminergic PPARγ modulates DA-dependent behavior. Surprisingly, pretreatment with PPARα or PPARγ antagonists dose-dependently attenuated the Δ 9 -THC-induced reduction in oICSS and anxiogenic effects. In addition, a PPARγ agonist increased, while PPARa or PPARγ antagonists decreased open-field locomotion. Pretreatment with PPARa or PPARγ antagonists potentiated Δ 9 -THC-induced hypoactivity and catalepsy but failed to alter Δ 9 -THC-induced analgesia, hypothermia and immobility. These findings provide the first anatomical and functional evidence supporting an important role of PPARa/g in DA-dependent behavior and cannabinoid action.
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Cannabinoid CB1 Receptors Are Expressed in a Subset of Dopamine Neurons and Underlie Cannabinoid-Induced Aversion, Hypoactivity, and Anxiolytic Effects in Mice. J Neurosci 2023; 43:373-385. [PMID: 36517243 PMCID: PMC9864584 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1493-22.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids modulate dopamine (DA) transmission and DA-related behavior, which has been thought to be mediated initially by activation of cannabinoid CB1 receptors (CB1Rs) on GABA neurons. However, there is no behavioral evidence supporting it. In contrast, here we report that CB1Rs are also expressed in a subset of DA neurons and functionally underlie cannabinoid action in male and female mice. RNAscope in situ hybridization (ISH) assays demonstrated CB1 mRNA in tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)-positive DA neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and glutamate decarboxylase 1 (GAD1)-positive GABA neurons. The CB1R-expressing DA neurons were located mainly in the middle portion of the VTA with the number of CB1-TH colocalization progressively decreasing from the medial to the lateral VTA. Triple-staining assays indicated CB1R mRNA colocalization with both TH and vesicular glutamate transporter 2 (VgluT2, a glutamate neuronal marker) in the medial VTA close to the midline of the brain. Optogenetic activation of this population of DA neurons was rewarding as assessed by optical intracranial self-stimulation. Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) or ACEA (a selective CB1R agonist) dose-dependently inhibited optical intracranial self-stimulation in DAT-Cre control mice, but not in conditional knockout mice with the CB1R gene absent in DA neurons. In addition, deletion of CB1Rs from DA neurons attenuated Δ9-THC-induced reduction in DA release in the NAc, locomotion, and anxiety. Together, these findings indicate that CB1Rs are expressed in a subset of DA neurons that corelease DA and glutamate, and functionally underlie cannabinoid modulation of DA release and DA-related behavior.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Cannabinoids produce a series of psychoactive effects, such as aversion, anxiety, and locomotor inhibition in rodents. However, the cellular and receptor mechanisms underlying these actions are not fully understood. Here we report that CB1 receptors are expressed not only in GABA neurons but also in a subset of dopamine neurons, which are located mainly in the medial VTA close to the midline of the midbrain and corelease dopamine and glutamate. Optogenetic activation of these dopamine neurons is rewarding, which is dose-dependently inhibited by cannabinoids. Selective deletion of CB1 receptor from dopamine neurons blocked cannabinoid-induced aversion, hypoactivity, and anxiolytic effects. These findings demonstrate that dopaminergic CB1 receptors play an important role in mediating cannabinoid action.
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Dos Santos Barbosa LA, Dutra RC, Moreira ELG, de Carvalho CR. β-caryophyllene, a cannabinoid receptor 2 agonist, decreases the motivational salience and conditioning place preference for palatable food in female mice. Addict Biol 2023; 28:e13249. [PMID: 36577722 DOI: 10.1111/adb.13249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
β-caryophyllene (BCP) is a cannabinoid receptor CB2 agonist plant-derived terpenoid found in different essential oil plants, including rosemary, black pepper, copaiba and cannabis. It has GRAS (generally recognized as safe) status and is approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) for food use. BCP displays agonist activity on the CB2 receptor and is a potential therapeutic target in several neuropsychiatric disorders, including anxiety and drug addiction. Unlike CB1 receptors, activation of the CB2 receptors is devoid of psychotomimetic and addictive properties. In this regard, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of BCP on incentive salience ("wanting") performance and motivational properties elicited by sweetened palatable foods in female Swiss mice. After 9 days of training for incentive salience performance for a sweet reward (hazelnut cream with chocolate), food-restricted mice received a systemic injection of BCP (50 and 100 mg/kg) before testing over 3 days. Moreover, independent groups of female mice were tested on sweet reward-induced conditioned place preference (CPP) for 22 consecutive days. To evaluate BCP effects on the expression of seeking behaviour for sweetened food, mice received a single intraperitoneal injection of BCP (50 mg/kg) 30 min before testing on the CPP task. BCP significantly decreased the incentive performance for a sweet reward compared with the control group in a CB2 receptor-dependent manner. Also, BCP suppressed the expression of sweet reward-CPP. Altogether, these preclinical data demonstrate the potential role of BCP in treating disorders associated with food addiction-like behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rafael Cypriano Dutra
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Neurociências, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (UFSC), Florianópolis, Brazil.,Laboratório de Autoimunidade e Imunofarmacologia (LAIF), Departamento de Ciências da Saúde, Campus Araranguá, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Araranguá, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Luiz Gasnhar Moreira
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Neurociências, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (UFSC), Florianópolis, Brazil.,Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Brazil
| | - Cristiane Ribeiro de Carvalho
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Neurociências, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (UFSC), Florianópolis, Brazil.,Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Brazil
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Neutral CB1 Receptor Antagonists as Pharmacotherapies for Substance Use Disorders: Rationale, Evidence, and Challenge. Cells 2022; 11:cells11203262. [PMID: 36291128 PMCID: PMC9600259 DOI: 10.3390/cells11203262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1R) has been one of the major targets in medication development for treating substance use disorders (SUDs). Early studies indicated that rimonabant, a selective CB1R antagonist with an inverse agonist profile, was highly promising as a therapeutic for SUDs. However, its adverse side effects, such as depression and suicidality, led to its withdrawal from clinical trials worldwide in 2008. Consequently, much research interest shifted to developing neutral CB1R antagonists based on the recognition that rimonabant’s side effects may be related to its inverse agonist profile. In this article, we first review rimonabant’s research background as a potential pharmacotherapy for SUDs. Then, we discuss the possible mechanisms underlying its therapeutic anti-addictive effects versus its adverse effects. Lastly, we discuss the rationale for developing neutral CB1R antagonists as potential treatments for SUDs, the supporting evidence in recent research, and the challenges of this strategy. We conclude that developing neutral CB1R antagonists without inverse agonist profile may represent attractive strategies for the treatment of SUDs.
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Abstract
While substance experimentation typically begins in adolescence, substance use disorders (SUDs) usually develop in late teens or early adulthood, often in individuals who are vulnerable because of biological and socioeconomic risk factors. Severe SUDs-synonymous with addiction-involve changes in limbic and prefrontal brain areas after chronic drug exposure. These changes involve learned associations between drug reward and cues that trigger the anticipation of that reward (known as incentive salience), as well as heightened dysphoria during withdrawal and weakened prefrontal circuits needed for inhibiting habitual responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilson M Compton
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, 301 North Stonestreet Avenue, MSC 6025, Bethesda, MD 20892-6025, USA.
| | - Eric M Wargo
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, 301 North Stonestreet Avenue, MSC 6025, Bethesda, MD 20892-6025, USA
| | - Nora D Volkow
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, 301 North Stonestreet Avenue, MSC 6025, Bethesda, MD 20892-6025, USA
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Tagen M, Klumpers LE. Review of delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ 8 -THC): Comparative pharmacology with Δ 9 -THC. Br J Pharmacol 2022; 179:3915-3933. [PMID: 35523678 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of the intoxicating cannabinoid delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ8 -THC) has grown rapidly over the last several years. There have been dozens of Δ8 -THC studies dating back over many decades, yet no review articles have comprehensively covered these findings. In this review, we summarize the pharmacological studies of Δ8 -THC, including receptor binding, cell signalling, in vivo cannabimimetic activity, clinical activity and pharmacokinetics. We give special focus to studies that directly compared Δ8 -THC to its more commonly studied isomer, Δ9 -THC. Overall, the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of Δ8 -THC and Δ9 -THC are very similar. Δ8 -THC is a partial agonist of the cannabinoid CB1 receptor and has cannabimimetic activity in both animals and humans. The reduced potency of Δ8 -THC in clinical studies compared with Δ9 -THC can be explained by weaker cannabinoid CB1 receptor affinity, although there are other plausible mechanisms that may contribute. We highlight the gaps in our knowledge of Δ8 -THC pharmacology where further studies are needed, particularly in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Linda E Klumpers
- Verdient Science LLC, Denver, Colorado.,Tomori Pharmacology Inc., Denver, Colorado, USA.,Department of Pharmacology, Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, USA.,Anebulo Pharmaceuticals Inc., Austin, Texas, USA
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Therapeutic potential of PIMSR, a novel CB1 receptor neutral antagonist, for cocaine use disorder: evidence from preclinical research. Transl Psychiatry 2022; 12:286. [PMID: 35851573 PMCID: PMC9293959 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-022-02059-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoid CB1 receptors (CB1Rs) have been major targets in medication development for the treatment of substance use disorders. However, clinical trials with rimonabant, a CB1R antagonist/inverse agonist, failed due to severe side effects. Here, we evaluated the therapeutic potential of PIMSR, a neutral CB1R antagonist lacking an inverse agonist profile, against cocaine's behavioral effects in experimental animals. We found that systemic administration of PIMSR dose-dependently inhibited cocaine self-administration under fixed-ratio (FR5), but not FR1, reinforcement, shifted the cocaine self-administration dose-response curve downward, decreased incentive motivation to seek cocaine under progressive-ratio reinforcement, and reduced cue-induced reinstatement of cocaine seeking. PIMSR also inhibited oral sucrose self-administration. Importantly, PIMSR alone is neither rewarding nor aversive as assessed by place conditioning. We then used intracranial self-stimulation (ICSS) to explore the possible involvement of the mesolimbic dopamine system in PIMSR's action. We found that PIMSR dose-dependently attenuated cocaine-enhanced ICSS maintained by electrical stimulation of the medial forebrain bundle in rats. PIMSR itself failed to alter electrical ICSS, but dose-dependently inhibited ICSS maintained by optical stimulation of midbrain dopamine neurons in transgenic DAT-Cre mice, suggesting the involvement of dopamine-dependent mechanisms. Lastly, we examined the CB1R mechanisms underlying PIMSR's action. We found that PIMSR pretreatment attenuated Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC)- or ACEA (a selective CB1R agonist)-induced reduction in optical ICSS. Together, our findings suggest that the neutral CB1R antagonist PIMSR deserves further research as a promising pharmacotherapeutic for cocaine use disorder.
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Hasbi A, Madras BK, George SR. Daily THC and withdrawal increase dopamine D1-D2 receptor heteromer to mediate anhedonia and anxiogenic-like behavior through a dynorphin and kappa opioid receptor mechanism. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY GLOBAL OPEN SCIENCE 2022. [PMID: 37519471 PMCID: PMC10382712 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsgos.2022.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Frequent cannabis use is associated with a higher risk of developing cannabis use disorder and other adverse consequences. However, rodent models studying the underlying mechanisms of the reinforcing and withdrawal effects of the primary constituent of cannabis, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), have been limited. Methods This study investigated the effects of daily THC (1 mg/kg, intraperitoneal, 9 days) and spontaneous withdrawal (7 days) on hedonic and aversion-like behaviors in male rats. In parallel, underlying neuroadaptive changes in dopaminergic, opioidergic, and cannabinoid signaling in the nucleus accumbens were evaluated, along with a candidate peptide designed to reverse altered signaling. Results Chronic THC administration induced anhedonic- and anxiogenic-like behaviors not attributable to altered locomotor activity. These effects persisted after drug cessation. In the nucleus accumbens, THC treatment and withdrawal catalyzed increased cannabinoid CB1 receptor activity without modifying receptor expression. Dopamine D1-D2 receptor heteromer expression rose steeply with THC, accompanied by increased calcium-linked signaling, activation of BDNF/TrkB (brain-derived neurotrophic factor/tropomyosin receptor kinase B) pathway, dynorphin expression, and kappa opioid receptor signaling. Disruption of the D1-D2 heteromer by an interfering peptide during withdrawal reversed the anxiogenic-like and anhedonic-like behaviors as well as the neurochemical changes. Conclusions Chronic THC increases nucleus accumbens dopamine D1-D2 receptor heteromer expression and function, which results in increased dynorphin expression and kappa opioid receptor activation. These changes plausibly reduce dopamine release to trigger anxiogenic- and anhedonic-like behaviors after daily THC administration that persist for at least 7 days after drug cessation. These findings conceivably provide a therapeutic strategy to alleviate negative symptoms associated with cannabis use and withdrawal.
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Amini M, Abdolmaleki Z. The Effect of Cannabidiol Coated by Nano-Chitosan on Learning and Memory, Hippocampal CB1 and CB2 Levels, and Amyloid Plaques in an Alzheimer's Disease Rat Model. Neuropsychobiology 2022; 81:171-183. [PMID: 34727550 DOI: 10.1159/000519534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Using nanoparticle (NP) drugs can have better effects on the target tissue in various diseases. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the degenerative neurological diseases that due to its high prevalence, requires the use of more appropriate treatments. Therefore, the aim of this study was consideration of the effect of cannabidiol (CBD) coated by nano-chitosan on learning and memory, hippocampal cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) and cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB2) levels, and amyloid plaques in an AD rat model. MATERIAL AND METHODS Thirty-five male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 5 groups (n = 7 in each): control, Alzheimer's disease model that received the beta-amyloid (Aβ) peptide (Alz), Alz + nano-chitosan (NP) Alz + CBD, and Alz + NP + CBD. Alz was induced by injection of the Aβ1-42 peptide into the hippocampal area cornu ammonis1. After confirmation of Alz, 1 μL of CBD and NP + CBD were administered by oral gavage daily in rats for 1 month. The Morris water maze (MWM) test was used to assess learning and memory of animals. Cresyl violet staining was used for consideration of dead cells. Gene and protein expression of CB1 and CB2 was performed by real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry methods. RESULTS Induction of Alz significantly increased Aβ plaques and dead cells compared to the control group (p < 0.001). Results of MWM in the day test show that Alz + NP + CBD significantly decrease escape latency (p < 0.01), travelled distance (p < 0.001), and significantly increased spending time (p < 0.001) compared to the Alz group. Protein expression of CB1 and CB2 significantly increased in Alz + CBD and Alz + NP + CBD compared to the Alz group (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION It seems that CBD coated by nano-chitosan has good potential for reducing Aβ plaques, increasing brain CB1 and levels CB2, and improving learning and memory in Alz rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammadali Amini
- Department of Pharmacology, Karaj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran
| | - Zohreh Abdolmaleki
- Department of Pharmacology, Karaj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran
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Gonçalves MR, da Conceição MS, Jesus CHA, Gasparin AT, Rosa ES, da Cunha JM. Spinal cannabinoid CB1 or CB2 receptors activation attenuates mechanical allodynia in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Behav Pharmacol 2022; 33:158-164. [PMID: 32804775 DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0000000000000580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Diabetes is a chronic disease associated with a high number of complications such as peripheral neuropathy, which causes sensorial disturbances and may lead to the development of diabetic neuropathic pain (DNP). The current treatment for DNP is just palliative and the drugs may cause severe adverse effects, leading to discontinuation of treatment. Thus, new therapeutic targets need to be urgently investigated. Studies have shown that cannabinoids have promising effects in the treatment of several pathological conditions, including chronic pain. Thus, we aimed to investigate the acute effect of the intrathecal injection of CB1 or CB2 cannabinoid receptor agonists N-(2-chloroethyl)-5Z, 8Z, 11Z, 14Z-eicosatetraenamide (ACEA) or JWH 133, respectively (10, 30 or 100 μg/rat) on the mechanical allodynia associated with experimental diabetes induced by streptozotocin (60 mg/kg; intraperitoneal) in rats. Cannabinoid receptor antagonists CB1 AM251 or CB2 AM630 (1 mg/kg) were given before treatment with respective agonists to confirm the involvement of cannabinoid CB1 or CB2 receptors. Rats with diabetes exhibited a significant reduction on the paw mechanical threshold 2 weeks after diabetes induction, having the maximum effect observed 4 weeks after the streptozotocin injection. This mechanical allodynia was significantly improved by intrathecal treatment with ACEA or JWH 133 (only at the higher dose of 100 μg). Pre-treatment with AM251 or AM630 significantly reverted the anti-allodynic effect of the ACEA or JWH 133, respectively. Considering the clinical challenge that the treatment of DPN represents, this study showed for the first time, that the intrathecal cannabinoid receptors agonists may represent an alternative for the treatment of DNP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryna Rodrigues Gonçalves
- Department of Pharmacology, Biological Science Sector, Federal University of Parana, Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
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14
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Simone JJ, Green MR, McCormick CM. Endocannabinoid system contributions to sex-specific adolescent neurodevelopment. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2022; 113:110438. [PMID: 34534603 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2021.110438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
With an increasing number of countries and states adopting legislation permitting the use of cannabis for medical purposes, there is a growing interest among health and research professionals into the system through which cannabinoids principally act, the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Much of the seminal research into the ECS dates back only 30 years and, although there has been tremendous development within the field during this time, many questions remain. More recently, investigations have emerged examining the contributions of the ECS to normative development and the effect of altering this system during important critical periods. One such period is adolescence, a unique period during which brain and behaviours are maturing and reorganizing in preparation for adulthood, including shifts in endocannabinoid biology. The purpose of this review is to discuss findings to date regarding the maturation of the ECS during adolescence and the consequences of manipulations of the ECS during this period to normative neurodevelopmental processes, as well as highlight sex differences in ECS function, important technical considerations, and future directions. Because most of what we know is derived from preclinical studies on rodents, we provide relevant background of this model and some commentary on the translational relevance of the research in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan J Simone
- Department of Biological Sciences, 1812 Sir Isaac Brock Way, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada; Centre for Neuroscience, 1812 Sir Isaac Brock Way, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada; Huxley Health Inc., 8820 Jane St., Concord, ON, L4K 2M9, Canada; eCB Consulting Inc., PO Box 652, 3 Cameron St. W., Cannington, ON L0E 1E0, Canada; Medical Cannabis Canada, 601-3500 Lakeshore Rd. W., Oakville, ON L6L 0B4, Canada.
| | - Matthew R Green
- eCB Consulting Inc., PO Box 652, 3 Cameron St. W., Cannington, ON L0E 1E0, Canada; Medical Cannabis Canada, 601-3500 Lakeshore Rd. W., Oakville, ON L6L 0B4, Canada.
| | - Cheryl M McCormick
- Department of Biological Sciences, 1812 Sir Isaac Brock Way, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada; Centre for Neuroscience, 1812 Sir Isaac Brock Way, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada; Department of Psychology, 1812 Sir Isaac Brock Way, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada.
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15
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Laudanski K, Wain J. Considerations for Cannabinoids in Perioperative Care by Anesthesiologists. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11030558. [PMID: 35160010 PMCID: PMC8836924 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11030558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Increased usage of recreational and medically indicated cannabinoid compounds has been an undeniable reality for anesthesiologists in recent years. These compounds’ complicated pharmacology, composition, and biological effects result in challenging issues for anesthesiologists during different phases of perioperative care. Here, we review the existing formulation of cannabinoids and their biological activity to put them into the context of the anesthesia plan execution. Perioperative considerations should include a way to gauge the patient’s intake of cannabinoids, the ability to gain consent properly, and vigilance to the increased risk of pulmonary and airway problems. Intraoperative management in individuals with cannabinoid use is complicated by the effects cannabinoids have on general anesthetics and depth of anesthesia monitoring while simultaneously increasing the potential occurrence of intraoperative hemodynamic instability. Postoperative planning should involve higher vigilance to the risk of postoperative strokes and acute coronary syndromes. However, most of the data are not up to date, rending definite conclusions on the importance of perioperative cannabinoid intake on anesthesia management difficult.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krzysztof Laudanski
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Correspondence: (K.L.); (J.W.)
| | - Justin Wain
- School of Osteopathic Medicine, Campbell University, Buies Creek, NC 27506, USA
- Correspondence: (K.L.); (J.W.)
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16
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Hempel B, Xi ZX. Receptor mechanisms underlying the CNS effects of cannabinoids: CB 1 receptor and beyond. ADVANCES IN PHARMACOLOGY (SAN DIEGO, CALIF.) 2021; 93:275-333. [PMID: 35341569 PMCID: PMC10709991 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apha.2021.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis legalization continues to progress in many US states and other countries. Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) is the major psychoactive constituent in cannabis underlying both its abuse potential and the majority of therapeutic applications. However, the neural mechanisms underlying cannabis action are not fully understood. In this chapter, we first review recent progress in cannabinoid receptor research, and then examine the acute CNS effects of Δ9-THC or other cannabinoids (WIN55212-2) with a focus on their receptor mechanisms. In experimental animals, Δ9-THC or WIN55212-2 produces classical pharmacological effects (analgesia, catalepsy, hypothermia, hypolocomotion), biphasic changes in affect (reward vs. aversion, anxiety vs. anxiety relief), and cognitive deficits (spatial learning and memory, short-term memory). Accumulating evidence indicates that activation of CB1Rs underlies the majority of Δ9-THC or WIN55121-2's pharmacological and behavioral effects. Unexpectedly, glutamatergic CB1Rs preferentially underlie cannabis action relative to GABAergic CB1Rs. Functional roles for CB1Rs expressed on astrocytes and mitochondria have also been uncovered. In addition, Δ9-THC or WIN55212-2 is an agonist at CB2R, GPR55 and PPARγ receptors and recent studies implicate these receptors in a number of their CNS effects. Other receptors (such as serotonin, opioid, and adenosine receptors) also modulate Δ9-THC's actions and their contributions are detailed. This chapter describes the neural mechanisms underlying cannabis action, which may lead to new discoveries in cannabis-based medication development for the treatment of cannabis use disorder and other human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Briana Hempel
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Zheng-Xiong Xi
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, MD, United States.
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17
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Cong J, Lu K, Zou W, Li Z, Guo Z, Tong X, Zheng J, Zhu J, Li S, Zhang W, Guo Y, Gao TM, Chen R. Astroglial CB1 Cannabinoid Receptors Mediate CP 55,940-Induced Conditioned Place Aversion Through Cyclooxygenase-2 Signaling in Mice. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:772549. [PMID: 34887729 PMCID: PMC8650095 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.772549] [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: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids (CBs), such as phytocannabinoids, synthetic CBs, and endogenous CBs, can be neuroprotective, rewarding, or aversive. The aversive effects of CBs may hinder their medical and recreational applications. It is unknown which type of CB receptors mediates the direct aversive effects of synthetic CB CP 55,940 which is an analog of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, the major psychoactive component of marijuana. In this study, we address this question by taking the advantage of systematic type 1 CB receptor (CB1R) knockout mice and conditional reinstatement of this receptor only in astrocytes. We show that CP 55,940 at a concentration of 1 mg/kg induces conditioned place aversion (CPA) and the CPA effect of CP 55,940 is mediated by the astroglial CB1Rs. Inhibiting cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) eliminates CP 55,940-induced CPA in mice that only express CB1Rs in astrocytes. These findings conclude that CPA effect of CP 55,940 is mediated by the astroglial CB1Rs through COX-2 signaling, suggesting that selective COX-2 inhibition or precise isolation of astroglial CB1R activity may be the strategy for treating aversive response of medical and recreational administrations of marijuana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Cong
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Psychiatric Disorders, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kangrong Lu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenjie Zou
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Psychiatric Disorders, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ziming Li
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Psychiatric Disorders, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhipeng Guo
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Psychiatric Disorders, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiangzhen Tong
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Psychiatric Disorders, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiawei Zheng
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Psychiatric Disorders, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,The National Key Clinic Specialty, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory on Brain Function Repair and Regeneration, Department of Neurosurgery, The Engineering Technology Research Center of Education Ministry of China, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianping Zhu
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Psychiatric Disorders, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shuji Li
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Psychiatric Disorders, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wangming Zhang
- The National Key Clinic Specialty, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory on Brain Function Repair and Regeneration, Department of Neurosurgery, The Engineering Technology Research Center of Education Ministry of China, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanwu Guo
- The National Key Clinic Specialty, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory on Brain Function Repair and Regeneration, Department of Neurosurgery, The Engineering Technology Research Center of Education Ministry of China, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tian-Ming Gao
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Psychiatric Disorders, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Mental Health of the Ministry of Education, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rongqing Chen
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Psychiatric Disorders, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,The National Key Clinic Specialty, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory on Brain Function Repair and Regeneration, Department of Neurosurgery, The Engineering Technology Research Center of Education Ministry of China, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Mental Health of the Ministry of Education, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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18
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Fowler C. The Use of Marijuana Derivatives in Primary Care: An Evidence-Based Approach to Cannabidiol. J Nurse Pract 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nurpra.2021.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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19
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Landucci E, Mazzantini C, Lana D, Davolio PL, Giovannini MG, Pellegrini-Giampietro DE. Neuroprotective Effects of Cannabidiol but Not Δ 9-Tetrahydrocannabinol in Rat Hippocampal Slices Exposed to Oxygen-Glucose Deprivation: Studies with Cannabis Extracts and Selected Cannabinoids. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22189773. [PMID: 34575932 PMCID: PMC8468213 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22189773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Over the past 10 years, a number of scientific studies have demonstrated the therapeutic potential of cannabinoid compounds present in the Cannabis Sativa and Indica plants. However, their role in mechanisms leading to neurodegeneration following cerebral ischemia is yet unclear. (2) Methods: We investigated the effects of Cannabis extracts (Bedrocan, FM2) or selected cannabinoids (Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), and cannabigerol) in rat organotypic hippocampal slices exposed to oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD), an in vitro model of forebrain global ischemia. Cell death in the CA1 subregion of slices was quantified by propidium iodide fluorescence, and morphological analysis and tissue organization were examined by immunohistochemistry and confocal microscopy. (3) Results: Incubation with the Bedrocan extract or THC exacerbated, whereas incubation with the FM2 extract or cannabidiol attenuated CA1 injury induced by OGD. Δ9-THC toxicity was prevented by CB1 receptor antagonists, the neuroprotective effect of cannabidiol was blocked by TRPV2, 5-HT1A, and PPARγ antagonists. Confocal microscopy confirmed that CBD, but not THC, had a significant protective effect toward neuronal damage and tissue disorganization caused by OGD in organotypic hippocampal slices. (4) Conclusions: Our results suggest that cannabinoids play different roles in the mechanisms of post-ischemic neuronal death. In particular, appropriate concentrations of CBD or CBD/THC ratios may represent a valid therapeutic intervention in the treatment of post-ischemic neuronal death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Landucci
- Department of Health Sciences, Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy; (C.M.); (D.L.); (M.G.G.); (D.E.P.-G.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-055-2758378
| | - Costanza Mazzantini
- Department of Health Sciences, Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy; (C.M.); (D.L.); (M.G.G.); (D.E.P.-G.)
| | - Daniele Lana
- Department of Health Sciences, Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy; (C.M.); (D.L.); (M.G.G.); (D.E.P.-G.)
| | | | - Maria Grazia Giovannini
- Department of Health Sciences, Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy; (C.M.); (D.L.); (M.G.G.); (D.E.P.-G.)
| | - Domenico E. Pellegrini-Giampietro
- Department of Health Sciences, Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy; (C.M.); (D.L.); (M.G.G.); (D.E.P.-G.)
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20
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Cabañero D, Martín-García E, Maldonado R. The CB2 cannabinoid receptor as a therapeutic target in the central nervous system. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2021; 25:659-676. [PMID: 34424117 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2021.1971196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Targeting CB2 cannabinoid receptor (CB2r) represents a promising approach for the treatment of central nervous system disorders. These receptors were identified in peripheral tissues, but also in neurons in the central nervous system. New findings have highlighted the interest to target these central receptors to obtain therapeutic effects devoid of the classical cannabinoid side-effects. AREAS COVERED In this review, we searched PubMed (January 1991-May 2021), ClinicalTrials.gov and Cochrane Library databases for articles, reviews and clinical trials. We first introduce the relevance of CB2r as a key component of the endocannabinoid system. We discuss CB2r interest as a possible novel target in the treatment of pain. This receptor has raised interest as a potential target for neurodegenerative disorders treatment, as we then discussed. Finally, we underline studies revealing a novel potential CB2r interest in mental disorders treatment. EXPERT OPINION In spite of the interest of targeting CB2r for pain, clinical trials evaluating CB2r agonist analgesic efficacy have currently failed. The preferential involvement of CB2r in preventing the development of chronic pain could influence the failure of clinical trials designed for the treatment of already established pain syndromes. Specific trials should be designed to target the prevention of chronic pain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Cabañero
- Institute of Research, Development and Innovation in Healthcare Biotechnology of Elche (IDiBE), Universidad Miguel Hernández. Elche, Alicante, Spain
| | - Elena Martín-García
- Neuropharmacology Laboratory, Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Pompeu Fabra University, Barcelona, Spain.,IMIM (Hospital Del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rafael Maldonado
- Neuropharmacology Laboratory, Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Pompeu Fabra University, Barcelona, Spain.,IMIM (Hospital Del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain
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21
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Humburg BA, Jordan CJ, Zhang H, Shen H, Han X, Bi G, Hempel B, Galaj E, Baumann MH, Xi Z. Optogenetic brain-stimulation reward: A new procedure to re-evaluate the rewarding versus aversive effects of cannabinoids in dopamine transporter-Cre mice. Addict Biol 2021; 26:e13005. [PMID: 33538103 DOI: 10.1111/adb.13005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Despite extensive research, the rewarding effects of cannabinoids are still debated. Here, we used a newly established animal procedure called optogenetic intracranial self-stimulation (ICSS) (oICSS) to re-examine the abuse potential of cannabinoids in mice. A specific adeno-associated viral vector carrying a channelrhodopsin gene was microinjected into the ventral tegmental area (VTA) to express light-sensitive channelrhodopsin in dopamine (DA) neurons of transgenic dopamine transporter (DAT)-Cre mice. Optogenetic stimulation of VTA DA neurons was highly reinforcing and produced a classical "sigmoidal"-shaped stimulation-response curve dependent upon the laser pulse frequency. Systemic administration of cocaine dose-dependently enhanced oICSS and shifted stimulation-response curves upward, in a way similar to previously observed effects of cocaine on electrical ICSS. In contrast, Δ9 -tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9 -THC), but not cannabidiol, dose-dependently decreased oICSS responding and shifted oICSS curves downward. WIN55,212-2 and ACEA, two synthetic cannabinoids often used in laboratory settings, also produced dose-dependent reductions in oICSS. We then examined several new synthetic cannabinoids, which are used recreationally. XLR-11 produced a cocaine-like increase, AM-2201 produced a Δ9 -THC-like reduction, while 5F-AMB had no effect on oICSS responding. Immunohistochemistry and RNAscope in situ hybridization assays indicated that CB1 Rs are expressed mainly in VTA GABA and glutamate neurons, while CB2 Rs are expressed mainly in VTA DA neurons. Together, these findings suggest that most cannabinoids are not reward enhancing, but rather reward attenuating or aversive in mice. Activation of CB1 R and/or CB2 R in different populations of neurons in the brain may underlie the observed actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bree A. Humburg
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery, Intramural Research Program National Institute on Drug Abuse Baltimore Maryland USA
| | - Chloe J. Jordan
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery, Intramural Research Program National Institute on Drug Abuse Baltimore Maryland USA
| | - Hai‐Ying Zhang
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery, Intramural Research Program National Institute on Drug Abuse Baltimore Maryland USA
| | - Hui Shen
- Synaptic Plasticity Section, Intramural Research Program National Institute on Drug Abuse Baltimore Maryland USA
| | - Xiao Han
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery, Intramural Research Program National Institute on Drug Abuse Baltimore Maryland USA
| | - Guo‐Hua Bi
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery, Intramural Research Program National Institute on Drug Abuse Baltimore Maryland USA
| | - Briana Hempel
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery, Intramural Research Program National Institute on Drug Abuse Baltimore Maryland USA
| | - Ewa Galaj
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery, Intramural Research Program National Institute on Drug Abuse Baltimore Maryland USA
| | - Michael H. Baumann
- Designer Drug Research Unit, Intramural Research Program National Institute on Drug Abuse Baltimore Maryland USA
| | - Zheng‐Xiong Xi
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery, Intramural Research Program National Institute on Drug Abuse Baltimore Maryland USA
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22
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Sallam NA, Borgland SL. Insulin and endocannabinoids in the mesolimbic system. J Neuroendocrinol 2021; 33:e12965. [PMID: 33856071 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Easy access to palatable food and an abundance of food-related cues exacerbate non-homeostatic feeding. The metabolic and economical sequelae of non-homeostatic feeding outweigh those of homeostatic feeding and contribute significantly to the global obesity pandemic. The mesolimbic dopamine system is the primary central circuit that governs the motivation to consume food. Insulin and endocannabinoids (eCBs) are two major, presumably opposing, players in regulating homeostatic and non-homeostatic feeding centrally and peripherally. Insulin is generally regarded as a postprandial satiety signal, whereas eCBs mainly function as pre-prandial orexinergic signals. In this review, we discuss the effects of insulin and eCB-mediated actions within the mesolimbic pathways. We propose that insulin and eCBs have regional- and time course-dependent roles. We discuss their mechanisms of actions in the ventral tegmental area and nucleus accumbens, as well as how their mechanisms converge to finely tune dopaminergic activity and food intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nada A Sallam
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Stephanie L Borgland
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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23
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Kichloo A, Albosta M, Aljadah M, El-Amir Z, Goldar G, Khan MZ, Dahiya DS, Vallabhaneni S, Wani F, Singh J. Marijuana: A systems-based primer of adverse effects associated with use and an overview of its therapeutic utility. SAGE Open Med 2021; 9:20503121211000909. [PMID: 33786179 PMCID: PMC7958160 DOI: 10.1177/20503121211000909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Marijuana use is on the rise in the United States. By the end of 2019, 33 states have legalized marijuana use and marijuana byproduct use for medical purposes. However, marijuana use does not come without side effects. This manuscript reviews the increasing usage of marijuana and the different forms (natural and synthetic) that patients may use when presenting to clinicians. It also addresses the biochemical and behavioral changes observed with marijuana use, including the location and changes associated with cannabinoid receptors (abbreviated CB1 and CB2). These two topics lead into an extensive review of the side effects of marijuana use. This manuscript discusses gastrointestinal side-effects, such as Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome, pancreatitis, and hepatotoxicity. It also briefly reviews cardiovascular, neurologic, and pulmonary side effects. This article provides an overview of therapeutic effects of marijuana including the antiemetic effect, its medical utility as an appetite stimulant, and usefulness in cancer patients post-chemotherapy. A thorough social history pertaining to marijuana use is an important consideration for clinicians in patients presenting with a variety of symptoms, including those effecting the gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, pulmonary, or neurologic systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asim Kichloo
- Department of Internal Medicine,
Central Michigan University College of Medicine, Saginaw, MI, USA
| | - Michael Albosta
- Department of Internal Medicine,
Central Michigan University College of Medicine, Saginaw, MI, USA
| | - Michael Aljadah
- Department of Internal Medicine,
Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Zain El-Amir
- Department of Internal Medicine,
Central Michigan University College of Medicine, Saginaw, MI, USA
| | - Ghazaleh Goldar
- Department of Internal Medicine,
Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Muhammed Zatmar Khan
- Department of Internal Medicine,
Central Michigan University College of Medicine, Saginaw, MI, USA
| | - Dushyant Singh Dahiya
- Department of Internal Medicine,
Central Michigan University College of Medicine, Saginaw, MI, USA
| | | | - Farah Wani
- Department of Family Medicine,
Samaritan Medical Center, Watertown, NY, USA
| | - Jagmeet Singh
- Department of Nephrology, Guthrie
Robert Packer Hospital, Sayre, PA, USA
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24
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Cannabinoid-Induced Conditioned Place Preference, Intravenous Self-Administration, and Behavioral Stimulation Influenced by Ghrelin Receptor Antagonism in Rats. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22052397. [PMID: 33673659 PMCID: PMC7957642 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabis/cannabinoids are widely used for recreational and therapy purposes, but their risks are largely disregarded. However, cannabinoid-associated use disorders and dependence are alarmingly increasing and an effective treatment is lacking. Recently, the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR1A) antagonism was proposed as a promising mechanism for drug addiction therapy. However, the role of GHS-R1A and its endogenous ligand ghrelin in cannabinoid abuse remains unclear. Therefore, the aim of our study was to investigate whether the GHS-R1A antagonist JMV2959 could reduce the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)-induced conditioned place preference (CPP) and behavioral stimulation, the WIN55,212-2 intravenous self-administration (IVSA), and the tendency to relapse. Following an ongoing WIN55,212-2 self-administration, JMV2959 3 mg/kg was administered intraperitoneally 20 min before three consequent daily 120-min IVSA sessions under a fixed ratio FR1, which significantly reduced the number of the active lever-pressing, the number of infusions, and the cannabinoid intake. Pretreatment with JMV2959 suggested reduction of the WIN55,212-2-seeking/relapse-like behavior tested in rats on the twelfth day of the forced abstinence period. On the contrary, pretreatment with ghrelin significantly increased the cannabinoid IVSA as well as enhanced the relapse-like behavior. Co-administration of ghrelin with JMV2959 abolished/reduced the significant efficacy of the GHS-R1A antagonist in the cannabinoid IVSA. Pretreatment with JMV2959 significantly and dose-dependently reduced the manifestation of THC-induced CPP. The THC-CPP development was reduced after the simultaneous administration of JMV2959 with THC during conditioning. JMV2959 also significantly reduced the THC-induced behavioral stimulation in the LABORAS cage. Our findings suggest that GHS-R1A importantly participates in the rewarding/reinforcing effects of cannabinoids.
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Martín-Sánchez A, García-Baos A, Castro-Zavala A, Alegre-Zurano L, Valverde O. Early-life stress exacerbates the effects of WIN55,212-2 and modulates the cannabinoid receptor type 1 expression. Neuropharmacology 2021; 184:108416. [PMID: 33271186 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.108416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Early-life stress induces an abnormal brain development and increases the risk of psychiatric diseases, including depression, anxiety and substance use disorders. We have developed a reliable model for maternal neglect, named maternal separation with early weaning (MSEW) in CD1 mice. In the present study, we evaluated the long-term effects on anxiety-like behaviours, nociception as well as the Iba1-positive microglial cells in this model in comparison to standard nest (SN) mice. Moreover, we investigated whether MSEW alters the cannabinoid agonist WIN55,212-2 effects regarding reward, spatial and emotional memories, tolerance to different cannabinoid responses, and physical dependence. Adult male offspring of MSEW group showed impaired responses on spatial and emotional memories after a repeated WIN55,212-2 treatment. These behavioural impairments were associated with an increase in basolateral amygdala and hippocampal CB1-expressing fibres and higher number of CB1-containing cells in cerebellum. Additionally, MSEW promotes a higher number of Iba1-positive microglial cells in basolateral amygdala and cerebellum. As for the cannabinoid-induced effects, rearing conditions did not influence the rewarding effects of WIN55,212-2 in the conditioned place preference paradigm. However, MSEW mice showed a delay in the development of tolerance to the cannabinoid effects. Moreover, CB1-positive fibres were reduced in limbic areas in MSEW mice after cannabinoid withdrawal precipitated with the CB1 antagonist SR141617A. These findings support that early-life stress promotes behavioural and molecular changes in the sensitivity to cannabinoids, which are mediated by alterations in CB1 signalling in limbic areas and it induces an increased Iba1-microglial marker which could interfere in emotional memories formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Martín-Sánchez
- Neurobiology of Behaviour Research Group (GReNeC-NeuroBio), Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain; Neuroscience Research Program, IMIM-Hospital Del Mar Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alba García-Baos
- Neurobiology of Behaviour Research Group (GReNeC-NeuroBio), Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Adriana Castro-Zavala
- Neurobiology of Behaviour Research Group (GReNeC-NeuroBio), Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laia Alegre-Zurano
- Neurobiology of Behaviour Research Group (GReNeC-NeuroBio), Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Olga Valverde
- Neurobiology of Behaviour Research Group (GReNeC-NeuroBio), Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain; Neuroscience Research Program, IMIM-Hospital Del Mar Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain.
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Tomczyk M, Tomaszewska-Zaremba D, Bochenek J, Herman A, Herman AP. Anandamide Influences Interleukin-1β Synthesis and IL-1 System Gene Expressions in the Ovine Hypothalamus during Endo-Toxin-Induced Inflammation. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11020484. [PMID: 33673103 PMCID: PMC7918765 DOI: 10.3390/ani11020484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Pro-inflammatory cytokines are considered to be one of the most important mediators affecting the function of central nervous system during an immune/inflammatory challenge. It was found that in acting on different hypothalamic nuclei, pro-inflammatory cytokines influence the centrally regulated processes including reproduction. Recently, it has been shown that the endocannabinoid system and endogenous cannabinoids may attenuate the inflammatory response. Therefore, in our study we examined the influence of anandamide, one of the earliest known endocannabinoids, on the synthesis of interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-1 system gene expressions in the hypothalamic structures involved in gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)-ergic activity, and thus the central control of reproduction, during immune stress induced by endotoxin injection. It was found that anandamide inhibited lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated synthesis of IL-1β in the hypothalamus, likely affecting posttranscriptional levels of this cytokine synthesis. Anti-inflammatory effect of anandamide at the level of central nervous system might also result from its stimulating action on IL-1 antagonist and IL-1 type II receptor gene expression. This study suggests the potential of endocannabinoids and/or their metabolites in the inhibition of inflammatory process at the level of the central nervous system, as well as their usefulness in the therapy of inflammation-induced neuroendocrine disorders, but further detailed research is required to investigate this issue. Abstract This study evaluated the effect of anandamide (AEA) on interleukin (IL)-1β synthesis and gene expression of IL-1β, its type I (IL-1R1) and II (IL-1R2) receptors, and IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RN) in the hypothalamic structures, involved in the central control of reproduction, during inflammation. Animals were intravenously (i.v.) injected with bacterial endotoxin-lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (400 ng/kg) or saline, and two hours after LPS administration., a third group received i.v. injection of AEA (10 μg/kg). Ewes were euthanized one hour later. AEA injection (p < 0.05) suppressed LPS-induced expression of IL-1β protein in the hypothalamus. The gene expression of IL-1β, IL-1RN, and IL-1R2 in the hypothalamic structures was higher (p < 0.05) in animals treated with both LPS and AEA in comparison to other experimental groups. AEA administration did not influence LPS-stimulated IL-1R1 gene expression. Our study shows that AEA suppressed IL-1β synthesis in the hypothalamus, likely affecting posttranscriptional levels of this cytokine synthesis. However, anti-inflammatory effect of AEA might also result from its stimulating action on IL-1RN and IL-1R2 gene expression. These results indicate the potential of endocannabinoids and/or their metabolites in the inhibition of inflammatory process at the level of central nervous system, and therefore their usefulness in the therapy of inflammation-induced neuroendocrine disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Tomczyk
- Department of Genetic Engineering, The Kielanowski Institute of Animal Physiology and Nutrition, Polish Academy of Sciences, 05-110 Jabłonna, Poland; (M.T.); (J.B.)
| | - Dorota Tomaszewska-Zaremba
- Department of Animal Physiology, The Kielanowski Institute of Animal Physiology and Nutrition, Polish Academy of Sciences, 05-110 Jabłonna, Poland;
| | - Joanna Bochenek
- Department of Genetic Engineering, The Kielanowski Institute of Animal Physiology and Nutrition, Polish Academy of Sciences, 05-110 Jabłonna, Poland; (M.T.); (J.B.)
| | - Anna Herman
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Warsaw School of Engineering and Health, 02-366 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Andrzej P. Herman
- Department of Genetic Engineering, The Kielanowski Institute of Animal Physiology and Nutrition, Polish Academy of Sciences, 05-110 Jabłonna, Poland; (M.T.); (J.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +45-22-7653300
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Li X, Hempel BJ, Yang HJ, Han X, Bi GH, Gardner EL, Xi ZX. Dissecting the role of CB 1 and CB 2 receptors in cannabinoid reward versus aversion using transgenic CB 1- and CB 2-knockout mice. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2021; 43:38-51. [PMID: 33334652 PMCID: PMC7854511 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2020.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoids produce both rewarding and aversive effects in humans and experimental animals. However, the mechanisms underlying these conflicting findings are unclear. Here we examined the potential involvement of CB1 and CB2 receptors in cannabinoid action using transgenic CB1-knockout (CB1-KO) and CB2-knockout (CB2-KO) mice. We found that Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) induced conditioned place preference at a low dose (1 mg/kg) in WT mice that was attenuated by deletion of the CB1 receptor. At 5 mg/kg, no subjective effects of Δ9-THC were detected in WT mice, but CB1-KO mice exhibited a trend towards place aversion and CB2-KO mice developed significant place preferences. This data suggests that activation of the CB1 receptor is rewarding, while CB2R activation is aversive. We then examined the nucleus accumbens (NAc) dopamine (DA) response to Δ9-THC using in vivo microdialysis. Unexpectedly, Δ9-THC produced a dose-dependent decrease in extracellular DA in WT mice, that was potentiated in CB1-KO mice. However, in CB2-KO mice Δ9-THC produced a dose-dependent increase in extracellular DA, suggesting that activation of the CB2R inhibits DA release in the NAc. In contrast, Δ9-THC, when administered systemically or locally into the NAc, failed to alter extracellular DA in rats. Lastly, we examined the locomotor response to Δ9-THC. Both CB1 and CB2 receptor mechanisms were shown to underlie Δ9-THC-induced hypolocomotion. These findings indicate that Δ9-THC's variable subjective effects reflect differential activation of cannabinoid receptors. Specifically, the opposing actions of CB1 and CB2 receptors regulate cannabis reward and aversion, with CB2-mediated effects predominant in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Li
- Molecular Targets and Medication Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, 251 Bayview Blvd, NIDA IRP, BRC Suite 200, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA; Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Briana J Hempel
- Molecular Targets and Medication Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, 251 Bayview Blvd, NIDA IRP, BRC Suite 200, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Hong-Ju Yang
- Molecular Targets and Medication Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, 251 Bayview Blvd, NIDA IRP, BRC Suite 200, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Xiao Han
- Molecular Targets and Medication Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, 251 Bayview Blvd, NIDA IRP, BRC Suite 200, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Guo-Hua Bi
- Molecular Targets and Medication Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, 251 Bayview Blvd, NIDA IRP, BRC Suite 200, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Eliot L Gardner
- Molecular Targets and Medication Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, 251 Bayview Blvd, NIDA IRP, BRC Suite 200, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Zheng-Xiong Xi
- Molecular Targets and Medication Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, 251 Bayview Blvd, NIDA IRP, BRC Suite 200, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA.
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Charalambous C, Lapka M, Havlickova T, Syslova K, Sustkova-Fiserova M. Alterations in Rat Accumbens Dopamine, Endocannabinoids and GABA Content During WIN55,212-2 Treatment: The Role of Ghrelin. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 22:ijms22010210. [PMID: 33379212 PMCID: PMC7795825 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid/CB1R system as well as the central ghrelin signalling with its growth hormone secretagogoue receptors (GHS-R1A) are importantly involved in food intake and reward/reinforcement processing and show distinct overlaps in distribution within the relevant brain regions including the hypothalamus (food intake), the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and the nucleus accumbens (NAC) (reward/reinforcement). The significant mutual interaction between these systems in food intake has been documented; however, the possible role of ghrelin/GHS-R1A in the cannabinoid reinforcement effects and addiction remain unclear. Therefore, the principal aim of the present study was to investigate whether pretreatment with GHS-R1A antagonist/JMV2959 could reduce the CB1R agonist/WIN55,212-2–induced dopamine efflux in the nucleus accumbens shell (NACSh), which is considered a crucial trigger impulse of the addiction process. The synthetic aminoalklylindol cannabinoid WIN55,212-2 administration into the posterior VTA induced significant accumbens dopamine release, which was significantly reduced by the 3 mg/kg i.p. JMV2959 pretreatment. Simultaneously, the cannabinoid-increased accumbens dopamine metabolic turnover was significantly augmented by the JMV2959 pretreament. The intracerebral WIN55,212-2 administration also increased the endocannabinoid arachidonoylethanolamide/anandamide and the 2-arachidonoylglycerol/2-AG extracellular levels in the NACSh, which was moderately but significantly attenuated by the JMV2959 pretreatment. Moreover, the cannabinoid-induced decrease in accumbens γ-aminobutyric acid/gamma-aminobutyric acid levels was reversed by the JMV2959 pretreatment. The behavioural study in the LABORAS cage showed that 3 mg/kg JMV2959 pretreatment also significantly reduced the systemic WIN55,212-2-induced behavioural stimulation. Our results demonstrate that the ghrelin/GHS-R1A system significantly participates in the rewarding/reinforcing effects of the cannabinoid/CB1 agonist that are involved in cannabinoid addiction processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chrysostomos Charalambous
- Department of Addictology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Apolinarska 4, 128 00 Prague 2, Czech Republic;
| | - Marek Lapka
- Department of Pharmacology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Ruska 87, 100 34 Prague 10, Czech Republic; (M.L.); (T.H.)
| | - Tereza Havlickova
- Department of Pharmacology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Ruska 87, 100 34 Prague 10, Czech Republic; (M.L.); (T.H.)
| | - Kamila Syslova
- Laboratory of Medicinal Diagnostics, Department of Organic Technology, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technicka 5, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic;
| | - Magdalena Sustkova-Fiserova
- Department of Pharmacology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Ruska 87, 100 34 Prague 10, Czech Republic; (M.L.); (T.H.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +420-267-102-450; Fax: +420-267-102-461
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Mohammadkhani A, Borgland SL. Cellular and behavioral basis of cannabinioid and opioid interactions: Implications for opioid dependence and withdrawal. J Neurosci Res 2020; 100:278-296. [PMID: 33352618 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The brain's endogenous opioid and endocannabinoid systems are neuromodulatory of synaptic transmission, and play key roles in pain, memory, reward, and addiction. Recent clinical and pre-clinical evidence suggests that opioid use may be reduced with cannabinoid intake. This suggests the presence of a functional interaction between these two systems. Emerging research indicates that cannabinoids and opioids can functionally interact at different levels. At the cellular level, opioid and cannabinoids can have direct receptor associations, alterations in endogenous opioid peptide or cannabinoid release, or post-receptor activation interactions via shared signal transduction pathways. At the systems level, the nature of cannabinoid and opioid interaction might differ in brain circuits underlying different behavioral phenomenon, including reward-seeking or antinociception. Given the rising use of opioid and cannabinoid drugs, a better understanding of how these endogenous signaling systems interact in the brain is of significant interest. This review focuses on the potential relationship of these neural systems in addiction-related processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aida Mohammadkhani
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, The University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Stephanie L Borgland
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, The University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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Abstract
Addiction is commonly identified with habitual nonmedical self-administration of drugs. It is usually defined by characteristics of intoxication or by characteristics of withdrawal symptoms. Such addictions can also be defined in terms of the brain mechanisms they activate; most addictive drugs cause elevations in extracellular levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Animals unable to synthesize or use dopamine lack the conditioned reflexes discussed by Pavlov or the appetitive behavior discussed by Craig; they have only unconditioned consummatory reflexes. Burst discharges (phasic firing) of dopamine-containing neurons are necessary to establish long-term memories associating predictive stimuli with rewards and punishers. Independent discharges of dopamine neurons (tonic or pacemaker firing) determine the motivation to respond to such cues. As a result of habitual intake of addictive drugs, dopamine receptors expressed in the brain are decreased, thereby reducing interest in activities not already stamped in by habitual rewards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roy A Wise
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA; .,Behavioral Genetics Laboratory, McLean Hospital, Belmont, Massachusetts 02478, USA;
| | - Mykel A Robble
- Behavioral Genetics Laboratory, McLean Hospital, Belmont, Massachusetts 02478, USA;
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Jordan CJ, Feng ZW, Galaj E, Bi GH, Xue Y, Liang Y, McGuire T, Xie XQ, Xi ZX. Xie2-64, a novel CB 2 receptor inverse agonist, reduces cocaine abuse-related behaviors in rodents. Neuropharmacology 2020; 176:108241. [PMID: 32712273 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.108241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Revised: 06/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cocaine abuse remains a public health threat around the world. There are no pharmacological treatments approved for cocaine use disorder. Cannabis has received growing attention as a treatment for many conditions, including addiction. Most cannabis-based medication development has focused on cannabinoid CB1 receptor (CB1R) antagonists (and also inverse agonists) such as rimonabant, but clinical trials with rimonabant have failed due to its significant side-effects. Here we sought to determine whether a novel and selective CB2R inverse agonist, Xie2-64, has similar therapeutic potential for cocaine use disorder. Computational modeling indicated that Xie2-64 binds to CB2R in a way similar to SR144528, another well-characterized but less selective CB2R antagonist/inverse agonist, suggesting that Xie2-64 may also have CB2R antagonist profiles. Unexpectedly, systemic administration of Xie2-64 or SR144528 dose-dependently inhibited intravenous cocaine self-administration and shifted cocaine dose-response curves downward in rats and wild-type, but not in CB2R-knockout, mice. Xie2-64 also dose-dependently attenuated cocaine-enhanced brain-stimulation reward maintained by optical stimulation of ventral tegmental area dopamine (DA) neurons in DAT-Cre mice, while Xie2-64 or SR144528 alone inhibited optical brain-stimulation reward. In vivo microdialysis revealed that systemic or local administration of Xie2-64 into the nucleus accumbens reduced extracellular dopamine levels in a dose-dependent manner in rats. Together, these results suggest that Xie2-64 has significant anti-cocaine reward effects likely through a dopamine-dependent mechanism, and therefore, deserves further study as a new pharmacotherapy for cocaine use disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe J Jordan
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Zhi-Wei Feng
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Computational Chemical Genomics Screen (CCGS) Center and Dept of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy; NIDA National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research (CDAR), University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Ewa Galaj
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Guo-Hua Bi
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Ying Xue
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Computational Chemical Genomics Screen (CCGS) Center and Dept of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy; NIDA National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research (CDAR), University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Ying Liang
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Terence McGuire
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Computational Chemical Genomics Screen (CCGS) Center and Dept of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy; NIDA National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research (CDAR), University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Xiang-Qun Xie
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Computational Chemical Genomics Screen (CCGS) Center and Dept of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy; NIDA National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research (CDAR), University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA; Drug Discovery Institute; Departments of Computational Biology and of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA.
| | - Zheng-Xiong Xi
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA.
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Lu HC, Mackie K. Review of the Endocannabinoid System. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY: COGNITIVE NEUROSCIENCE AND NEUROIMAGING 2020; 6:607-615. [PMID: 32980261 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsc.2020.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a widespread neuromodulatory network involved in the developing central nervous system as well as playing a major role in tuning many cognitive and physiological processes. The ECS is composed of endogenous cannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors, and the enzymes responsible for the synthesis and degradation of endocannabinoids. In addition to its endogenous roles, cannabinoid receptors are the primary target of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, the intoxicating component of cannabis. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of the ECS. We start with a description of ECS components and their role in synaptic plasticity and neurodevelopment, and then discuss how phytocannabinoids and other exogenous compounds may perturb the ECS, emphasizing examples relevant to psychosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Chen Lu
- Gill Center for Biomolecular Science and the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, Indiana
| | - Ken Mackie
- Gill Center for Biomolecular Science and the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, Indiana.
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Hodges EL, Marshall JP, Ashpole NM. Age-dependent hormesis-like effects of the synthetic cannabinoid CP55940 in C57BL/6 mice. NPJ Aging Mech Dis 2020; 6:7. [PMID: 32655880 PMCID: PMC7338393 DOI: 10.1038/s41514-020-0045-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Use of cannabis and cannabinoid-containing substances is increasing among geriatric patients, despite relatively sparse preclinical evidence in aged models. To better understand the effects of exogenous cannabinoids on aging male and female rodents, we compared the age- and dose-dependent physiological and behavioral effects of the synthetic cannabinoid CP55940 in young-adult and aged C57BL/6 mice. Locomotion, body temperature, thermal nociception, and fecal output were measured following CP55940 administration. Our findings indicate that CP55940 is more potent and efficacious in older mice, evidenced by exaggerated antinociception and locomotor inhibition when compared to younger adult mice. In addition, we report that low doses of CP55940 paradoxically stimulate locomotion in young-adult (4 m) mice; however, this hormesis-like response is not as evident in aged animals (21-24 m). These bidirectional effects appear to be mediated via the endocannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik L. Hodges
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, Pharmacology Division, University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy, University, Oxford, MS USA
| | - Jessica P. Marshall
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, Pharmacology Division, University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy, University, Oxford, MS USA
| | - Nicole M. Ashpole
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, Pharmacology Division, University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy, University, Oxford, MS USA
- Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy, University, Oxford, MS USA
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Bi GH, Galaj E, He Y, Xi ZX. Cannabidiol inhibits sucrose self-administration by CB1 and CB2 receptor mechanisms in rodents. Addict Biol 2020; 25:e12783. [PMID: 31215752 PMCID: PMC6920611 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2019] [Revised: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
A growing number of studies suggest therapeutic applications of cannabidiol (CBD), a recently U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved medication for epilepsy, in treatment of many other neuropsychological disorders. However, pharmacological action and the mechanisms by which CBD exerts its effects are not fully understood. Here, we examined the effects of CBD on oral sucrose self-administration in rodents and explored the receptor mechanisms underlying CBD-induced behavioral effects using pharmacological and transgenic approaches. Systemic administration of CBD (10, 20, and 40 mg/kg, ip) produced a dose-dependent reduction in sucrose self-administration in rats and in wild-type (WT) and CB1-/- mice but not in CB2-/- mice. CBD appeared to be more efficacious in CB1-/- mice than in WT mice. Similarly, pretreatment with AM251, a CB1R antagonist, potentiated, while AM630, a selective CB2R antagonist, blocked CBD-induced reduction in sucrose self-administration, suggesting the involvement of CB1 and CB2 receptors. Furthermore, systemic administration of JWH133, a selective CB2R agonist, also produced a dose-dependent reduction in sucrose self-administration in WT and CB1-/- mice, but not in CB2-/- mice. Pretreatment with AM251 enhanced, while AM630 blocked JWH133-induced reduction in sucrose self-administration in WT mice, suggesting that CBD inhibits sucrose self-administration likely by CB1 receptor antagonism and CB2 receptor agonism. Taken together, the present findings suggest that CBD may have therapeutic potential in reducing binge eating and the development of obesity.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Behavior, Animal/drug effects
- Cannabidiol/pharmacology
- Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists/pharmacology
- Cannabinoid Receptor Antagonists/pharmacology
- Cannabinoids/pharmacology
- Feeding Behavior/drug effects
- Indoles/pharmacology
- Mice
- Mice, Knockout
- Piperidines/pharmacology
- Pyrazoles/pharmacology
- Rats
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/genetics
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/metabolism
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/genetics
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/metabolism
- Self Administration
- Sucrose/administration & dosage
- Sweetening Agents/administration & dosage
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Affiliation(s)
- Guo-Hua Bi
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medication Discoveries Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Ewa Galaj
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medication Discoveries Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Yi He
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medication Discoveries Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Zheng-Xiong Xi
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medication Discoveries Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, Maryland
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Galaj E, Bi GH, Yang HJ, Xi ZX. Cannabidiol attenuates the rewarding effects of cocaine in rats by CB2, 5-HT 1A and TRPV1 receptor mechanisms. Neuropharmacology 2020; 167:107740. [PMID: 31437433 PMCID: PMC7493134 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2019.107740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Revised: 07/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cocaine abuse continues to be a serious health problem worldwide. Despite intense research there is currently no FDA-approved medication to treat cocaine use disorder. The recent search has been focused on agents targeting primarily the dopamine system, while limited success has been achieved at the clinical level. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a U.S. FDA-approved cannabinoid for the treatment of epilepsy and recently was reported to have therapeutic potential for other disorders. Here we systemically evaluated its potential utility for the treatment of cocaine use disorder and explored the underlying receptor mechanisms in experimental animals. Systemic administration (10-40 mg/kg) of CBD dose-dependently inhibited cocaine self-administration, shifted a cocaine dose-response curve downward, and lowered break-points for cocaine self-administration under a progressive-ratio schedule of reinforcement. CBD inhibited cocaine self-administration maintained by low, but not high, doses of cocaine. In addition, CBD (3-20 mg/kg) dose-dependently attenuated cocaine-enhanced brain-stimulation reward (BSR) in rats. Strikingly, this reduction in both cocaine self-administration and BSR was blocked by AM630 (a cannabinoid CB2 receptor antagonist), WAY100135 (a 5-HT1A receptor antagonist), or capsazepine (a TRPV1 channel blocker), but not by AM251 (a CB1 receptor antagonist), CID16020046 (a GPR55 antagonist), or naloxone (an opioid receptor antagonist), suggesting the involvement of CB2, 5-HT1A, and TRPV1 receptors in CBD action. In vivo microdialysis indicated that pretreatment with CBD (10-20 mg/kg) attenuated cocaine-induced increases in extracellular dopamine (DA) in the nucleus accumbens, while CBD alone failed to alter extracellular DA. These findings suggest that CBD may have certain therapeutic utility by blunting the acute rewarding effects of cocaine via a DA-dependent mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Galaj
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medication Discovery Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Guo-Hua Bi
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medication Discovery Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Hong-Ju Yang
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medication Discovery Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Zheng-Xiong Xi
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medication Discovery Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA.
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He Y, Galaj E, Bi GH, Wang XF, Gardner E, Xi ZX. β-Caryophyllene, a dietary terpenoid, inhibits nicotine taking and nicotine seeking in rodents. Br J Pharmacol 2020; 177:2058-2072. [PMID: 31883107 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Revised: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE β-Caryophyllene (BCP) is a plant-derived terpenoid used as a food additive for many decades. Recent studies indicate that BCP is a cannabinoid CB2 receptor agonist with medical benefits for a number of human diseases. However, little is known about its therapeutic potential for drug abuse and addiction. EXPERIMENT APPROACH We used pharmacological, transgenic, and optogenetic approaches to systematically evaluate the effects of BCP on nicotine-taking and nicotine-seeking behaviour in animal models of drug self-administration, electrical, and optical brain-stimulation reward. KEY RESULTS Systemic administration of BCP dose-dependently inhibited nicotine self-administration and motivation for nicotine seeking in rats and mice. The reduction in nicotine self-administration was blocked by AM630, a selective CB2 receptor antagonist, but not by AM251, a selective CB1 receptor antagonist, suggesting involvement of a CB2 receptor mechanism. Genetic deletion of CB2 receptors in mice blocked the reduction in nicotine self-administration produced only by low doses, but not by high doses, of BCP, suggesting involvement of both CB2 and non-CB2 receptor mechanisms. Furthermore, in the intracranial self-stimulation paradigm, BCP attenuated electrical brain-stimulation reward and nicotine-enhanced brain-stimulation reward in rats. Lastly, BCP also attenuated brain-stimulation reward maintained by optogenetic stimulation of dopaminergic neurons in the ventral tegmental area in DAT-cre mice, suggesting the involvement of a dopamine-dependent mechanism in BCP's action. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS The present findings suggest that BCP has significant anti-nicotine effects via both CB2 and non-CB2 receptor mechanisms and, therefore, deserves further study as a potential new pharmacotherapy for cigarette smoking cessation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi He
- Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Ewa Galaj
- Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Guo-Hua Bi
- Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Xiao-Fei Wang
- Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Eliot Gardner
- Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Zheng-Xiong Xi
- Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, Maryland
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Wang XF, Galaj E, Bi GH, Zhang C, He Y, Zhan J, Bauman MH, Gardner EL, Xi ZX. Different receptor mechanisms underlying phytocannabinoid- versus synthetic cannabinoid-induced tetrad effects: Opposite roles of CB 1 /CB 2 versus GPR55 receptors. Br J Pharmacol 2020; 177:1865-1880. [PMID: 31877572 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Cannabis or cannabinoids produce characteristic tetrad effects-analgesia, hypothermia, catalepsy and suppressed locomotion, which are believed to be mediated by the activation of cannabinoid CB1 receptors. Given recent findings of CB2 and GPR55 receptors in the brain, we examined whether these receptors are also involved in cannabinoid action. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH We compared Δ9 -tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9 -THC)-, WIN55212-2-, or XLR11-induced tetrad effects between wild-type (WT) and each genotype of CB1 -, CB2 - or GPR55-knockout (KO) mice and then observed the effects of antagonists of these receptors on these tetrad effects in WT mice. KEY RESULTS Systemic administration of Δ9 -THC, WIN55212-2 or XLR11 produced dose-dependent tetrad effects in WT mice. Genetic deletion or pharmacological blockade of CB1 receptors abolished the tetrad effects produced by all three cannabinoids. Unexpectedly, genetic deletion of CB2 receptor abolished analgesia and catalepsy produced by Δ9 -THC or WIN55212-2, but not by XLR11. Microinjections of Δ9 -THC into the lateral ventricles also produced tetrad effects in WT, but not in CB1 -KO mice. CB2 -KO mice displayed a reduction in intraventricular Δ9 -THC-induced analgesia and catalepsy. In contrast to CB1 and CB2 receptors, genetic deletion of GPR55 receptors caused enhanced responses to Δ9 -THC or WIN55212-2. Antagonisim of CB1 , CB2 or GPR55 receptors produced alterations similar to those observed in each genotype mouse line. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS These findings suggest that in addition to CB1 , both CB2 and GPR55 receptors are also involved in some pharmacological effects produced by cannabinoids. CB1 /CB2 , in contrast to GPR55, receptors appears to play opposite roles in cannabinoid action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Fei Wang
- Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Ewa Galaj
- Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Guo-Hua Bi
- Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Cindy Zhang
- Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Yi He
- Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Jia Zhan
- Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Michael H Bauman
- Designer Drug Research Unit, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Eliot L Gardner
- Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Zheng-Xiong Xi
- Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, Maryland
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Abstract
Substance use disorder (SUD) is a major public health crisis worldwide, and effective treatment options are limited. During the past 2 decades, researchers have investigated the impact of a variety of pharmacological approaches to treat SUD, one of which is the use of medical cannabis or cannabinoids. Significant progress was made with the discovery of rimonabant, a selective CB1 receptor (CB1R) antagonist (also an inverse agonist), as a promising therapeutic for SUDs and obesity. However, serious adverse effects such as depression and suicidality led to the withdrawal of rimonabant (and almost all other CB1R antagonists/inverse agonists) from clinical trials worldwide in 2008. Since then, much research interest has shifted to other cannabinoid-based strategies, such as peripheral CB1R antagonists/inverse agonists, neutral CB1R antagonists, allosteric CB1R modulators, CB2R agonists, fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitors, monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) inhibitors, fatty acid binding protein (FABP) inhibitors, or nonaddictive phytocannabinoids with CB1R or CB2R-binding profiles, as new therapeutics for SUDs. In this article, we first review recent progress in research regarding the endocannabinoid systems, cannabis reward versus aversion, and the underlying receptor mechanisms. We then review recent progress in cannabinoid-based medication development for the treatment of SUDs. As evidence continues to accumulate, neutral CB1R antagonists (such as AM4113), CB2R agonists (JWH133, Xie2-64), and nonselective phytocannabinoids (cannabidiol, β-caryophyllene, ∆9-tetrahydrocannabivarin) have shown great therapeutic potential for SUDs, as shown in experimental animals. Several cannabinoid-based medications (e.g., dronabinol, nabilone, PF-04457845) that entered clinical trials have shown promising results in reducing withdrawal symptoms in cannabis and opioid users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Galaj
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medication Discoveries Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Zheng-Xiong Xi
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medication Discoveries Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA.
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The Endocannabinoid/Endovanilloid System in Bone: From Osteoporosis to Osteosarcoma. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20081919. [PMID: 31003519 PMCID: PMC6514542 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20081919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Revised: 04/16/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone is a dynamic tissue, whose homeostasis is maintained by a fine balance between osteoclast (OC) and osteoblast (OB) activity. The endocannabinoid/endovanilloid (EC/EV) system’s receptors are the cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1), the cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2), and the transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1). Their stimulation modulates bone formation and bone resorption. Bone diseases are very common worldwide. Osteoporosis is the principal cause of bone loss and it can be caused by several factors such as postmenopausal estrogen decrease, glucocorticoid (GC) treatments, iron overload, and chemotherapies. Studies have demonstrated that CB1 and TRPV1 stimulation exerts osteoclastogenic effects, whereas CB2 stimulation has an anti-osteoclastogenic role. Moreover, the EC/EV system has been demonstrated to have a role in cancer, favoring apoptosis and inhibiting cell proliferation. In particular, in bone cancer, the modulation of the EC/EV system not only reduces cell growth and enhances apoptosis but it also reduces cell invasion and bone pain in mouse models. Therefore, EC/EV receptors may be a useful pharmacological target in the prevention and treatment of bone diseases. More studies to better investigate the biochemical mechanisms underlining the EC/EV system effects in bone are needed, but the synthesis of hybrid molecules, targeting these receptors and capable of oppositely regulating bone homeostasis, seems to be a promising and encouraging prospective in bone disease management.
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Spiller KJ, Bi GH, He Y, Galaj E, Gardner EL, Xi ZX. Cannabinoid CB 1 and CB 2 receptor mechanisms underlie cannabis reward and aversion in rats. Br J Pharmacol 2019; 176:1268-1281. [PMID: 30767215 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2018] [Revised: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Endocannabinoids are critically involved in brain reward functions, mediated by activation of CB1 receptors, reflecting their high density in the brain. However, the recent discovery of CB2 receptors in the brain, particularly in the midbrain dopamine neurons, has challenged this view and inspired us to re-examine the roles of both CB1 and CB2 receptors in the effects of cannabis. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH In the present study, we used the electrical intracranial self-stimulation paradigm to evaluate the effects of various cannabinoid drugs on brain reward in laboratory rats and the roles of CB1 and CB2 receptors activation in brain reward function(s). KEY RESULTS Two mixed CB1 / CB2 receptor agonists, Δ9 -tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9 -THC) and WIN55,212-2, produced biphasic effects-mild enhancement of brain-stimulation reward (BSR) at low doses but inhibition at higher doses. Pretreatment with a CB1 receptor antagonist (AM251) attenuated the low dose-enhanced BSR, while a CB2 receptor antagonist (AM630) attenuated high dose-inhibited BSR. To confirm these opposing effects, rats were treated with selective CB1 and CB2 receptor agonists. These compounds produced significant BSR enhancement and inhibition, respectively. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS CB1 receptor activation produced reinforcing effects, whereas CB2 receptor activation was aversive. The subjective effects of cannabis depend on the balance of these opposing effects. These findings not only explain previous conflicting results in animal models of addiction but also explain why cannabis can be either rewarding or aversive in humans, as expression of CB1 and CB2 receptors may differ in the brains of different subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krista J Spiller
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Guo-Hua Bi
- Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Yi He
- Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ewa Galaj
- Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Eliot L Gardner
- Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Zheng-Xiong Xi
- Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Jordan CJ, Xi ZX. Progress in brain cannabinoid CB 2 receptor research: From genes to behavior. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2019; 98:208-220. [PMID: 30611802 PMCID: PMC6401261 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2018.12.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Revised: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The type 2 cannabinoid receptor (CB2R) was initially regarded as a peripheral cannabinoid receptor. However, recent technological advances in gene detection, alongside the availability of transgenic mouse lines, indicate that CB2Rs are expressed in both neurons and glial cells in the brain under physiological and pathological conditions, and are involved in multiple functions at cellular and behavioral levels. Brain CB2Rs are inducible and neuroprotective via up-regulation in response to various insults, but display species differences in gene and receptor structures, CB2R expression, and receptor responses to various CB2R ligands. CB2R transcripts also differ between the brain and spleen. In the brain, CB2A is the major transcript isoform, while CB2A and CB2B transcripts are present at higher levels in the spleen. These new findings regarding brain versus spleen CB2R isoforms may in part explain why early studies failed to detect brain CB2R gene expression. Here, we review evidence supporting the expression and function of brain CB2R from gene and receptor levels to cellular functioning, neural circuitry, and animal behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe J Jordan
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Zheng-Xiong Xi
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA.
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Joshi N, Onaivi ES. Endocannabinoid System Components: Overview and Tissue Distribution. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1162:1-12. [PMID: 31332731 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-21737-2_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/06/2022]
Abstract
Marijuana/cannabinoid research has been transformed into mainstream science during the last half-century. Evidence based research and remarkable biotechnological advances demonstrate that phytocannabinoids and endocannabinoid (eCBs) acting on cannabinoid receptors (CBRs) regulate various aspects of human physiological, behavioral, immunological and metabolic functions. The distribution and function of the components of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the central nervous system (CNS) and immune processes have garnished significant research focus with major milestones. With these advances in biotechnology, rapid extension of the ECS research in the periphery has gained momentum. In this chapter, we review the components and tissue distribution of this previously unknown but ubiquitous and complex ECS that is involved in almost all aspects of mammalian physiology and pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neal Joshi
- Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, NJ, USA
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