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Basavarajappa BS, Subbanna S. Molecular Insights into Epigenetics and Cannabinoid Receptors. Biomolecules 2022; 12:1560. [PMID: 36358910 PMCID: PMC9687363 DOI: 10.3390/biom12111560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The actions of cannabis are mediated by G protein-coupled receptors that are part of an endogenous cannabinoid system (ECS). ECS consists of the naturally occurring ligands N-arachidonylethanolamine (anandamide) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), their biosynthetic and degradative enzymes, and the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors. Epigenetics are heritable changes that affect gene expression without changing the DNA sequence, transducing external stimuli in stable alterations of the DNA or chromatin structure. Cannabinoid receptors are crucial candidates for exploring their functions through epigenetic approaches due to their significant roles in health and diseases. Epigenetic changes usually promote alterations in the expression of genes and proteins that can be evaluated by various transcriptomic and proteomic analyses. Despite the exponential growth of new evidence on the critical functions of cannabinoid receptors, much is still unknown regarding the contribution of various genetic and epigenetic factors that regulate cannabinoid receptor gene expression. Recent studies have identified several immediate and long-lasting epigenetic changes, such as DNA methylation, DNA-associated histone proteins, and RNA regulatory networks, in cannabinoid receptor function. Thus, they can offer solutions to many cellular, molecular, and behavioral impairments found after modulation of cannabinoid receptor activities. In this review, we discuss the significant research advances in different epigenetic factors contributing to the regulation of cannabinoid receptors and their functions under both physiological and pathological conditions. Increasing our understanding of the epigenetics of cannabinoid receptors will significantly advance our knowledge and could lead to the identification of novel therapeutic targets and innovative treatment strategies for diseases associated with altered cannabinoid receptor functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Balapal S. Basavarajappa
- Center for Dementia Research, Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, NY 10962, USA
- Molecular Imaging and Neuropathology Area, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Shivakumar Subbanna
- Center for Dementia Research, Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, NY 10962, USA
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2
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Neuroplastic alterations in cannabinoid receptors type 1 (CB1) in animal models of epileptic seizures. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 137:104675. [PMID: 35460705 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Currently, there is an urgent need to better comprehend neuroplastic alterations in cannabinoid receptors type 1 (CB1) and to understand the biological meaning of these alterations in epileptic disorders. The present study reviewed neuroplastic changes in CB1 distribution, expression, and functionality in animal models of epileptic seizures. Neuroplastic alterations in CB1 were consistently observed in chemical, genetic, electrical, and febrile seizure models. Most studies assessed changes in hippocampal and cortical CB1, while thalamic, hypothalamic, and brainstem nuclei were rarely investigated. Additionally, the relationship between CB1 alteration and the control of brain excitability through modulation of specific neuronal networks, such as striatonigral, nigrotectal and thalamocortical pathways, and inhibitory projections to hippocampal pyramidal neurons, were all presented and discussed in the present review. Neuroplastic alterations in CB1 detected in animal models of epilepsy may reflect two different scenarios: (1) endogenous adaptations aimed to control neuronal hyperexcitability in epilepsy or (2) pathological alterations that facilitate neuronal hyperexcitability. Additionally, a better comprehension of neuroplastic and functional alterations in CB1 can improve pharmacological therapies for epilepsies and their comorbidities.
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Ortiz YT, McMahon LR, Wilkerson JL. Medicinal Cannabis and Central Nervous System Disorders. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:881810. [PMID: 35529444 PMCID: PMC9070567 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.881810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids, including those found in cannabis, have shown promise as potential therapeutics for numerous health issues, including pathological pain and diseases that produce an impact on neurological processing and function. Thus, cannabis use for medicinal purposes has become accepted by a growing majority. However, clinical trials yielding satisfactory endpoints and unequivocal proof that medicinal cannabis should be considered a frontline therapeutic for most examined central nervous system indications remains largely elusive. Although cannabis contains over 100 + compounds, most preclinical and clinical research with well-controlled dosing and delivery methods utilize the various formulations of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), the two most abundant compounds in cannabis. These controlled dosing and delivery methods are in stark contrast to most clinical studies using whole plant cannabis products, as few clinical studies using whole plant cannabis profile the exact composition, including percentages of all compounds present within the studied product. This review will examine both preclinical and clinical evidence that supports or refutes the therapeutic utility of medicinal cannabis for the treatment of pathological pain, neurodegeneration, substance use disorders, as well as anxiety-related disorders. We will predominately focus on purified THC and CBD, as well as other compounds isolated from cannabis for the aforementioned reasons but will also include discussion over those studies where whole plant cannabis has been used. In this review we also consider the current challenges associated with the advancement of medicinal cannabis and its derived potential therapeutics into clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuma T. Ortiz
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Lance R. McMahon
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, United States
| | - Jenny L. Wilkerson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, United States
- *Correspondence: Jenny L. Wilkerson,
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Abstract
Cannabinoids, including those found in cannabis, have shown promise as potential therapeutics for numerous health issues, including pathological pain and diseases that produce an impact on neurological processing and function. Thus, cannabis use for medicinal purposes has become accepted by a growing majority. However, clinical trials yielding satisfactory endpoints and unequivocal proof that medicinal cannabis should be considered a frontline therapeutic for most examined central nervous system indications remains largely elusive. Although cannabis contains over 100 + compounds, most preclinical and clinical research with well-controlled dosing and delivery methods utilize the various formulations of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), the two most abundant compounds in cannabis. These controlled dosing and delivery methods are in stark contrast to most clinical studies using whole plant cannabis products, as few clinical studies using whole plant cannabis profile the exact composition, including percentages of all compounds present within the studied product. This review will examine both preclinical and clinical evidence that supports or refutes the therapeutic utility of medicinal cannabis for the treatment of pathological pain, neurodegeneration, substance use disorders, as well as anxiety-related disorders. We will predominately focus on purified THC and CBD, as well as other compounds isolated from cannabis for the aforementioned reasons but will also include discussion over those studies where whole plant cannabis has been used. In this review we also consider the current challenges associated with the advancement of medicinal cannabis and its derived potential therapeutics into clinical applications.
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5
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Magham SV, Thaggikuppe Krishnamurthy P, Shaji N, Mani L, Balasubramanian S. Cannabinoid receptor 2 selective agonists and Alzheimer's disease: An insight into the therapeutic potentials. J Neurosci Res 2021; 99:2888-2905. [PMID: 34486749 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Endocannabinoid system has been extensively studied in recent decades, particularly the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2, due to their important role in neuroinflammation. Among these, CB2 has gained prominence due to its selective overexpression in glial cells during neuroinflammation. In contrast to CB1 agonists, CB2 agonists have no side effects such as ataxia, hypothermia, euphoria, psychological, or addiction liabilities. CB2 and its selective agonists' above-mentioned unique properties have become a research focus in neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). The review discusses the neuroprotective role of CB receptors, particularly CB2, in AD, as well as the significance and limitations of this research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sai Varshini Magham
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Ooty, India
| | | | - Neenu Shaji
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Ooty, India
| | - Lalithkumar Mani
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Ooty, India
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Wilkerson JL, Bilbrey JA, Felix JS, Makriyannis A, McMahon LR. Untapped endocannabinoid pharmacological targets: Pipe dream or pipeline? Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2021; 206:173192. [PMID: 33932409 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2021.173192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
It has been established that the endogenous cannabinoid (endocannabinoid) system plays key modulatory roles in a wide variety of pathological conditions. The endocannabinoid system comprises both cannabinoid receptors, their endogenous ligands including 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), N-arachidonylethanolamine (anandamide, AEA), and enzymes that regulate the synthesis and degradation of endogenous ligands which include diacylglycerol lipase alpha (DAGL-α), diacylglycerol lipase beta (DAGL-β), fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL), α/β hydrolase domain 6 (ABHD6). As the endocannabinoid system exerts considerable involvement in the regulation of homeostasis and disease, much effort has been made towards understanding endocannabinoid-related mechanisms of action at cellular, physiological, and pathological levels as well as harnessing the various components of the endocannabinoid system to produce novel therapeutics. However, drug discovery efforts within the cannabinoid field have been slower than anticipated to reach satisfactory clinical endpoints and raises an important question into the validity of developing novel ligands that therapeutically target the endocannabinoid system. To answer this, we will first examine evidence that supports the existence of an endocannabinoid system role within inflammatory diseases, neurodegeneration, pain, substance use disorders, mood disorders, as well as metabolic diseases. Next, this review will discuss recent clinical studies, within the last 5 years, of cannabinoid compounds in context to these diseases. We will also address some of the challenges and considerations within the cannabinoid field that may be important in the advancement of therapeutics into the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny L Wilkerson
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
| | - Joshua A Bilbrey
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Jasmine S Felix
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Alexandros Makriyannis
- Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Departments of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Lance R McMahon
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
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On the Role of Central Type-1 Cannabinoid Receptor Gene Regulation in Food Intake and Eating Behaviors. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22010398. [PMID: 33401515 PMCID: PMC7796374 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Different neuromodulatory systems are involved in long-term energy balance and body weight and, among these, evidence shows that the endocannabinoid system, in particular the activation of type-1 cannabinoid receptor, plays a key role. We here review current literature focusing on the role of the gene encoding type-1 cannabinoid receptors in the CNS and on the modulation of its expression by food intake and specific eating behaviors. We point out the importance to further investigate how environmental cues might have a role in the development of obesity as well as eating disorders through the transcriptional regulation of this gene in order to prevent or to treat these pathologies.
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Federspiel JD, Greco TM, Lum KK, Cristea IM. Hdac4 Interactions in Huntington's Disease Viewed Through the Prism of Multiomics. Mol Cell Proteomics 2019; 18:S92-S113. [PMID: 31040226 PMCID: PMC6692770 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.ra118.001253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2018] [Revised: 03/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is a monogenic disorder, driven by the expansion of a trinucleotide (CAG) repeat within the huntingtin (Htt) gene and culminating in neuronal degeneration in the brain, predominantly in the striatum and cortex. Histone deacetylase 4 (Hdac4) was previously found to contribute to the disease progression, providing a potential therapeutic target. Hdac4 knockdown reduced accumulation of misfolded Htt protein and improved HD phenotypes. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear, given its independence on deacetylase activity and the predominant cytoplasmic Hdac4 localization in the brain. Here, we undertook a multiomics approach to uncover the function of Hdac4 in the context of HD pathogenesis. We characterized the interactome of endogenous Hdac4 in brains of HD mouse models. Alterations in interactions were investigated in response to Htt polyQ length, comparing mice with normal (Q20) and disease (Q140) Htt, at both pre- and post-symptomatic ages (2 and 10 months, respectively). Parallel analyses for Hdac5, a related class IIa Hdac, highlighted the unique interaction network established by Hdac4. To validate and distinguish interactions specifically enhanced in an HD-vulnerable brain region, we next characterized endogenous Hdac4 interactions in dissected striata from this HD mouse series. Hdac4 associations were polyQ-dependent in the striatum, but not in the whole brain, particularly in symptomatic mice. Hdac5 interactions did not exhibit polyQ dependence. To identify which Hdac4 interactions and functions could participate in HD pathogenesis, we integrated our interactome with proteome and transcriptome data sets generated from the striata. We discovered an overlap in enriched functional classes with the Hdac4 interactome, particularly in vesicular trafficking and synaptic functions, and we further validated the Hdac4 interaction with the Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome Protein and SCAR Homolog (WASH) complex. This study expands the knowledge of Hdac4 regulation and functions in HD, adding to the understanding of the molecular underpinning of HD phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel D Federspiel
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08544
| | - Todd M Greco
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08544
| | - Krystal K Lum
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08544
| | - Ileana M Cristea
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08544.
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Abstract
Cannabinoid receptors, endocannabinoids and the enzymes responsible for their biosynthesis and degradation constitute the endocannabinoid system. In recent decades, the endocannabinoid system has attracted considerable interest as a potential therapeutic target in numerous pathological conditions. Its involvement in several physiological processes is well known, such as in energy balance, appetite stimulation, blood pressure, pain modulation, embryogenesis, nausea and vomiting control, memory, learning and immune response, among others, as well as in pathological conditions where it exerts a protective role in the development of certain disorders. As a result, it has been reported that changes in endocannabinoid levels may be related to neurological diseases such as Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, Alzheimer's disease and multiple sclerosis, as well as anorexia and irritable bowel syndrome. Alterations in the endocannabinoid system have also been associated with cancer, affecting the growth, migration and invasion of some tumours. Cannabinoids have been tested in several cancer types, including brain, breast and prostate cancers. Cannabinoids have shown promise as analgesics for the treatment of both inflammatory and neuropathic pain. There is also evidence for a role of the endocannabinoid system in the control of emotional states, and cannabinoids could prove useful in decreasing and palliating post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms and anxiolytic disorders. The role of the endocannabinoid system in addictions has also been examined, and cannabinoids have been postulated as alternative and co-adjuvant treatments in some abuse syndromes, mainly in ethanol and opioid abuses. The expression of the endocannabinoid system in the eye suggests that it could be a potential therapeutic target for eye diseases. Considering the importance of the endocannabinoid system and the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids in this vast number of medical conditions, several clinical studies with cannabinoid-based medications are ongoing. In addition, some cannabinoid-based medications have already been approved in various countries, including nabilone and dronabinol capsules for the treatment of nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy, dronabinol capsules for anorexia, an oral solution of dronabinol for both vomiting associated with chemotherapy and anorexia, a Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol/cannabidiol oromucosal spray for pain related to cancer and for spasticity and pain associated with multiple sclerosis, and an oral solution of cannabidiol for Dravet and Lennox-Gastaut syndromes. Here, we review the available efficacy, safety and tolerability data for cannabinoids in a range of medical conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Isabel Fraguas-Sánchez
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Food Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Plaza Ramón y Cajal s/n, 28040 , Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Isabel Torres-Suárez
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Food Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Plaza Ramón y Cajal s/n, 28040 , Madrid, Spain. .,Institute of Industrial Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 , Madrid, Spain.
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Antonazzo M, Botta M, Bengoetxea H, Ruiz-Ortega JÁ, Morera-Herreras T. Therapeutic potential of cannabinoids as neuroprotective agents for damaged cells conducing to movement disorders. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2019; 146:229-257. [PMID: 31349929 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2019.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The basal ganglia (BG), an organized network of nuclei that integrates cortical information, play a crucial role in controlling motor function. In fact, movement disorders such as Parkinson's disease (PD) and Huntington's disease (HD) are caused by the degeneration of specific structures within the BG. There is substantial evidence supporting the idea that cannabinoids may constitute novel promising compounds for the treatment of movement disorders as neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory agents. This potential therapeutic role of cannabinoids is based, among other qualities, on their capacity to reduce oxidative injury and excitotoxicity, control calcium influx and limit the toxicity of reactive microglia. The mechanisms involved in these effects are related to CB1 and CB2 receptor activation, although some of the effects are CB receptor independent. Thus, taking into account the aforementioned properties, compounds that act on the endocannabinoid system could be useful as a basis for developing disease-modifying therapies for PD and HD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Antonazzo
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, Spain; Neurodegenerative Diseases Group, BioCruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - María Botta
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Harkaitz Bengoetxea
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, Spain
| | - José Ángel Ruiz-Ortega
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, Spain; Neurodegenerative Diseases Group, BioCruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Bizkaia, Spain; Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Teresa Morera-Herreras
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, Spain; Neurodegenerative Diseases Group, BioCruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Bizkaia, Spain.
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Holley SM, Galvan L, Kamdjou T, Dong A, Levine MS, Cepeda C. Major Contribution of Somatostatin-Expressing Interneurons and Cannabinoid Receptors to Increased GABA Synaptic Activity in the Striatum of Huntington's Disease Mice. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2019; 11:14. [PMID: 31139071 PMCID: PMC6527892 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2019.00014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2019] [Accepted: 04/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Huntington’s disease (HD) is a heritable neurological disorder that affects cognitive and motor performance in patients carrying the mutated huntingtin (HTT) gene. In mouse models of HD, previous reports showed a significant increase in spontaneous GABAA receptor-mediated synaptic activity in striatal spiny projection neurons (SPNs). In this study, using optogenetics and slice electrophysiology, we examined the contribution of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-ergic parvalbumin (PV)- and somatostatin (SOM)-expressing interneurons to the increase in GABA neurotransmission using the Q175 (heterozygote) mouse model of HD. Patch clamp recordings in voltage-clamp mode were performed on SPNs from brain slices of presymptomatic (2 months) and symptomatic (8 and 12 months) Q175 mice and wildtype (WT) littermates. While inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs) evoked in SPNs following optical activation of PV- and SOM-expressing interneurons differed in amplitude, no genotype-dependent differences were observed at all ages from both interneuron types; however, responses evoked by either type were found to have faster kinetics in symptomatic mice. Since SOM-expressing interneurons are constitutively active in striatal brain slices, we then examined the effects of acutely silencing these neurons in symptomatic mice with enhanced Natronomonas pharaonis halorhodopsin (eNpHR). Optically silencing SOM-expressing interneurons resulted in a greater decrease in the frequency of spontaneous IPSCs (sIPSCs) in a subset of SPNs from Q175 mice compared to WTs, suggesting that SOM-expressing interneurons are the main contributors to the overall increased GABA synaptic activity in HD SPNs. Additionally, the effects of activating GABAB and cannabinoid (CB1) receptors were investigated to determine whether these receptors were involved in modulating interneuron-specific GABA synaptic transmission and if this modulation differed in HD mice. When selectively activating PV- and SOM-expressing interneurons in the presence of the CB1 receptor agonist WIN-55,212, the magnitudes of the evoked IPSCs in SPNs decreased for both interneuron types although this change was less prominent in symptomatic Q175 SPNs during SOM-expressing interneuron activation. Overall, these findings show that dysfunction of SOM-expressing interneurons contributes to the increased GABA synaptic activity found in HD mouse models and that dysregulation of the endocannabinoid system may contribute to this effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra M Holley
- Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Laurie Galvan
- Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Talia Kamdjou
- Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Ashley Dong
- Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Michael S Levine
- Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Carlos Cepeda
- Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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Ruiz-Calvo A, Bajo-Grañeras R, Maroto IB, Zian D, Grabner GF, García-Taboada E, Resel E, Zechner R, Zimmermann R, Ortega-Gutiérrez S, Galve-Roperh I, Bellocchio L, Guzmán M. Astroglial monoacylglycerol lipase controls mutant huntingtin-induced damage of striatal neurons. Neuropharmacology 2019; 150:134-144. [PMID: 30914306 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2019.03.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Revised: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoids exert neuroprotection in a wide array of preclinical models. A number of these studies has focused on cannabinoid CB1 receptors in striatal medium spiny neurons (MSNs) and the most characteristic MSN-degenerative disease, Huntington's disease (HD). Accruing evidence supports that astrocytes contribute to drive HD progression, and that they express CB1 receptors, degrade endocannabinoids, and modulate endocannabinergic transmission. However, the possible role of the astroglial endocannabinoid system in controlling MSN integrity remains unknown. Here, we show that JZL-184, a selective inhibitor of monoacylglycerol lipase (MGL), the key enzyme that deactivates the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol, prevented the mutant huntingtin-induced up-regulation of the pro-inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-α in primary mouse striatal astrocytes via CB1 receptors. To study the role of astroglial MGL in vivo, we injected stereotactically into the mouse dorsal striatum viral vectors that encode mutant or normal huntingtin under the control of the glial fibrillary acidic protein promoter. We observed that, in wild-type mice, pharmacological blockade of MGL with JZL-184 (8 mg/kg/day, i.p.) conferred neuroprotection against mutant huntingtin-induced striatal damage, as evidenced by the prevention of MSN loss, astrogliosis, and motor coordination impairment. We next found that conditional mutant mice bearing a genetic deletion of MGL selectively in astroglial cells (MGLfloxed/floxed;GFAP-Cre/+ mice) were resistant to mutant huntingtin-induced MSN loss, astrogliosis, and motor coordination impairment. Taken together, these data support that astroglial MGL controls the availability of a 2-arachidonoylglycerol pool that ensues protection of MSNs in the mouse striatum in vivo, thus providing a potential druggable target for reducing striatal neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Ruiz-Calvo
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN), Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS) and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Chemistry, Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Raquel Bajo-Grañeras
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN), Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS) and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Chemistry, Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Irene B Maroto
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN), Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS) and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Chemistry, Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Debora Zian
- Department of Organic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Gernot F Grabner
- Institute of Molecular Bioscience, University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Elena García-Taboada
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN), Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS) and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Chemistry, Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Eva Resel
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN), Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS) and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Chemistry, Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Rudolf Zechner
- Institute of Molecular Bioscience, University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Robert Zimmermann
- Institute of Molecular Bioscience, University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Silvia Ortega-Gutiérrez
- Department of Organic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ismael Galve-Roperh
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN), Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS) and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Chemistry, Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Luigi Bellocchio
- INSERM and University of Bordeaux, NeuroCentre Magendie, Physiopathologie de la Plasticité Neuronale, U1215, 33077 Bordeaux, France
| | - Manuel Guzmán
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN), Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS) and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Chemistry, Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
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13
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Aguareles J, Paraíso-Luna J, Palomares B, Bajo-Grañeras R, Navarrete C, Ruiz-Calvo A, García-Rincón D, García-Taboada E, Guzmán M, Muñoz E, Galve-Roperh I. Oral administration of the cannabigerol derivative VCE-003.2 promotes subventricular zone neurogenesis and protects against mutant huntingtin-induced neurodegeneration. Transl Neurodegener 2019; 8:9. [PMID: 30899454 PMCID: PMC6407204 DOI: 10.1186/s40035-019-0148-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2018] [Accepted: 02/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The administration of certain cannabinoids provides neuroprotection in models of neurodegenerative diseases by acting through various cellular and molecular mechanisms. Many cannabinoid actions in the nervous system are mediated by CB1 receptors, which can elicit psychotropic effects, but other targets devoid of psychotropic activity, including CB2 and nuclear PPARγ receptors, can also be the target of specific cannabinoids. METHODS We investigated the pro-neurogenic potential of the synthetic cannabigerol derivative, VCE-003.2, in striatal neurodegeneration by using adeno-associated viral expression of mutant huntingtin in vivo and mouse embryonic stem cell differentiation in vitro. RESULTS Oral administration of VCE-003.2 protected striatal medium spiny neurons from mutant huntingtin-induced damage, attenuated neuroinflammation and improved motor performance. VCE-003.2 bioavailability was characterized and the potential undesired side effects were evaluated by analyzing hepatotoxicity after chronic treatment. VCE-003.2 promoted subventricular zone progenitor mobilization, increased doublecortin-positive migrating neuroblasts towards the injured area, and enhanced effective neurogenesis. Moreover, we demonstrated the proneurogenic activity of VCE-003.2 in embryonic stem cells. VCE-003.2 was able to increase neuroblast formation and striatal-like CTIP2-mediated neurogenesis. CONCLUSIONS The cannabigerol derivative VCE-003.2 improves subventricular zone-derived neurogenesis in response to mutant huntingtin-induced neurodegeneration, and is neuroprotective by oral administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Aguareles
- Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Ctra. Colmenar Viejo, km, 9100 Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular and Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Paraíso-Luna
- Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Ctra. Colmenar Viejo, km, 9100 Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular and Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
| | - Belén Palomares
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Fisiología e Inmunología, Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
- Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Raquel Bajo-Grañeras
- Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Ctra. Colmenar Viejo, km, 9100 Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular and Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Andrea Ruiz-Calvo
- Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Ctra. Colmenar Viejo, km, 9100 Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular and Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
| | - Daniel García-Rincón
- Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Ctra. Colmenar Viejo, km, 9100 Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular and Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
| | - Elena García-Taboada
- Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Ctra. Colmenar Viejo, km, 9100 Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular and Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel Guzmán
- Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Ctra. Colmenar Viejo, km, 9100 Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular and Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
| | - Eduardo Muñoz
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Fisiología e Inmunología, Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
- Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Ismael Galve-Roperh
- Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Ctra. Colmenar Viejo, km, 9100 Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular and Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
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14
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Identification of novel mouse and rat CB1R isoforms and in silico modeling of human CB1R for peripheral cannabinoid therapeutics. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2019; 40:387-397. [PMID: 30202012 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-018-0152-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2018] [Accepted: 06/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Targeting peripheral CB1R is desirable for the treatment of metabolic syndromes without adverse neuropsychiatric effects. We previously reported a human hCB1b isoform that is selectively enriched in pancreatic beta-cells and hepatocytes, providing a potential peripheral therapeutic hCB1R target. It is unknown whether there are peripherally enriched mouse and rat CB1R (mCB1 and rCB1, respectively) isoforms. In this study, we found no evidence of peripherally enriched rodent CB1 isoforms; however, some mCB1R isoforms are absent in peripheral tissues. We show that the mouse Cnr1 gene contains six exons that are transcribed from a single promoter. We found that mCB1A is a spliced variant of extended exon 1 and protein-coding exon 6; mCB1B is a novel spliced variant containing unspliced exon 1, intron 1, and exon 2, which is then spliced to exon 6; and mCB1C is a spliced variant including all 6 exons. Using RNAscope in situ hybridization, we show that the isoforms mCB1A and mCB1B are expressed at a cellular level and colocalized in GABAergic neurons in the hippocampus and cortex. RT-qPCR reveals that mCB1A and mCB1B are enriched in the brain, while mCB1B is not expressed in the pancreas or the liver. Rat rCB1R isoforms are differentially expressed in primary cultured neurons, astrocytes, and microglia. We also investigated modulation of Cnr1 expression by insulin in vivo and carried out in silico modeling of CB1R with JD5037, a peripherally restricted CB1R inverse agonist, using the published crystal structure of hCB1R. The results provide models for future CB1R peripheral targeting.
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15
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Ruiz-Calvo A, Maroto IB, Bajo-Grañeras R, Chiarlone A, Gaudioso Á, Ferrero JJ, Resel E, Sánchez-Prieto J, Rodríguez-Navarro JA, Marsicano G, Galve-Roperh I, Bellocchio L, Guzmán M. Pathway-Specific Control of Striatal Neuron Vulnerability by Corticostriatal Cannabinoid CB1 Receptors. Cereb Cortex 2018; 28:307-322. [PMID: 29121220 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhx285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The vast majority of neurons within the striatum are GABAergic medium spiny neurons (MSNs), which receive glutamatergic input from the cortex and thalamus, and form two major efferent pathways: the direct pathway, expressing dopamine D1 receptor (D1R-MSNs), and the indirect pathway, expressing dopamine D2 receptor (D2R-MSNs). While molecular mechanisms of MSN degeneration have been identified in animal models of striatal damage, the molecular factors that dictate a selective vulnerability of D1R-MSNs or D2R-MSNs remain unknown. Here, we combined genetic, chemogenetic, and pharmacological strategies with behavioral and neurochemical analyses, and show that the pool of cannabinoid CB1 receptor (CB1R) located on corticostriatal terminals efficiently safeguards D1R-MSNs, but not D2R-MSNs, from different insults. This cell-specific response relies on the regulation of glutamatergic signaling, and is independent from the CB1R-dependent control of astroglial activity in the striatum. These findings define cortical CB1R as a pivotal synaptic player in dictating a differential vulnerability of D1R-MSNs versus D2R-MSNs, and increase our understanding of the role of coordinated cannabinergic-glutamatergic signaling in establishing corticostriatal circuits and its dysregulation in neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Ruiz-Calvo
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN) and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain.,Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Irene B Maroto
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN) and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain.,Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Raquel Bajo-Grañeras
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN) and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain.,Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Anna Chiarlone
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN) and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain.,Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ángel Gaudioso
- Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - José J Ferrero
- Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN) and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology IV, Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Eva Resel
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN) and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain.,Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - José Sánchez-Prieto
- Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN) and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology IV, Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Giovanni Marsicano
- INSERM and University of Bordeaux, NeuroCentre Magendie, Physiopathologie de la Plasticité Neuronale, U1215, 33077 Bordeaux, France
| | - Ismael Galve-Roperh
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN) and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain.,Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Luigi Bellocchio
- INSERM and University of Bordeaux, NeuroCentre Magendie, Physiopathologie de la Plasticité Neuronale, U1215, 33077 Bordeaux, France
| | - Manuel Guzmán
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN) and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain.,Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), 28034 Madrid, Spain
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16
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Ceccarini J, Ahmad R, Van de Vliet L, Casteels C, Vandenbulcke M, Vandenberghe W, Van Laere K. Behavioral Symptoms in Premanifest Huntington Disease Correlate with Reduced Frontal CB1R Levels. J Nucl Med 2018; 60:115-121. [DOI: 10.2967/jnumed.118.210393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2018] [Accepted: 05/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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17
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Laprairie RB, Petr GT, Sun Y, Fischer KD, Denovan-Wright EM, Rosenberg PA. Huntington's disease pattern of transcriptional dysregulation in the absence of mutant huntingtin is produced by knockout of neuronal GLT-1. Neurochem Int 2018; 123:85-94. [PMID: 29709465 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2018.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2018] [Revised: 04/02/2018] [Accepted: 04/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
GLT-1 is the major glutamate transporter in the brain, and is expressed in astrocytes and in axon terminals in the hippocampus, cortex, and striatum. Neuronal GLT-1 accounts for only 5-10% of total brain GLT-1 protein, and its function is uncertain. In HD, synaptic dysfunction of the corticostriate synapse is well-established. Transcriptional dysregulation is a key feature of HD. We hypothesized that deletion of neuronal GLT-1, because it is expressed in axon terminals in the striatum, might produce a synaptopathy similar to that present in HD. If true, then some of the gene expression changes observed in HD might also be observed in the neuronal GLT-1 knockout. In situ hybridization using 33P labeled oligonucleotide probes was carried out to assess localization and expression of a panel of genes known to be altered in expression in HD. We found changes in the expression of cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2, preproenkaphalin, and PDE10A in the striatum of mice in which the GLT-1 gene was inactivated in neurons by expression of synapsin-Cre, compared to wild-type littermates. These changes in expression were observed at 12 weeks of age but not at 6 weeks of age. No changes in DARPP-32, PDE1B, NGFIA, or β-actin expression were observed. In addition, we found widespread alteration in expression of the dynamin 1 gene. The changes in expression in the neuronal GLT-1 knockout of genes thought to exemplify HD transcriptional dysregulation suggest an overlap in the synaptopathy caused by neuronal GLT-1 deletion and HD. These data further suggest that specific changes in expression of cannabinoid receptors, preproenkephalin, and PDE10A, considered to be the hallmark of HD transcriptional dysregulation, may be produced by an abnormality of glutamate homeostasis under the regulation of neuronal GLT-1, or a synaptic disturbance caused by that abnormality, independently of mutation in huntingtin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert B Laprairie
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3M 4R2, Canada
| | - Geraldine T Petr
- Department of Neurology and the F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Yan Sun
- Department of Neurology and the F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Kathryn D Fischer
- Department of Neurology and the F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | | | - Paul A Rosenberg
- Department of Neurology and the F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Program in Neuroscience, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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18
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Moreno E, Chiarlone A, Medrano M, Puigdellívol M, Bibic L, Howell LA, Resel E, Puente N, Casarejos MJ, Perucho J, Botta J, Suelves N, Ciruela F, Ginés S, Galve-Roperh I, Casadó V, Grandes P, Lutz B, Monory K, Canela EI, Lluís C, McCormick PJ, Guzmán M. Singular Location and Signaling Profile of Adenosine A 2A-Cannabinoid CB 1 Receptor Heteromers in the Dorsal Striatum. Neuropsychopharmacology 2018; 43:964-977. [PMID: 28102227 PMCID: PMC5854787 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2017.12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2016] [Revised: 01/13/2017] [Accepted: 01/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The dorsal striatum is a key node for many neurobiological processes such as motor activity, cognitive functions, and affective processes. The proper functioning of striatal neurons relies critically on metabotropic receptors. Specifically, the main adenosine and endocannabinoid receptors present in the striatum, ie, adenosine A2A receptor (A2AR) and cannabinoid CB1 receptor (CB1R), are of pivotal importance in the control of neuronal excitability. Facilitatory and inhibitory functional interactions between striatal A2AR and CB1R have been reported, and evidence supports that this cross-talk may rely, at least in part, on the formation of A2AR-CB1R heteromeric complexes. However, the specific location and properties of these heteromers have remained largely unknown. Here, by using techniques that allowed a precise visualization of the heteromers in situ in combination with sophisticated genetically modified animal models, together with biochemical and pharmacological approaches, we provide a high-resolution expression map and a detailed functional characterization of A2AR-CB1R heteromers in the dorsal striatum. Specifically, our data unveil that the A2AR-CB1R heteromer (i) is essentially absent from corticostriatal projections and striatonigral neurons, and, instead, is largely present in striatopallidal neurons, (ii) displays a striking G protein-coupled signaling profile, where co-stimulation of both receptors leads to strongly reduced downstream signaling, and (iii) undergoes an unprecedented dysfunction in Huntington's disease, an archetypal disease that affects striatal neurons. Altogether, our findings may open a new conceptual framework to understand the role of coordinated adenosine-endocannabinoid signaling in the indirect striatal pathway, which may be relevant in motor function and neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estefanía Moreno
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Chiarlone
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain,Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain,Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mireia Medrano
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mar Puigdellívol
- School of Pharmacy, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - Lucka Bibic
- School of Pharmacy, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - Lesley A Howell
- School of Pharmacy, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK,School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, Queen Mary, University of London, London, UK
| | - Eva Resel
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain,Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain,Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Nagore Puente
- Department of Neurosciences, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain,Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Bizkaia Science and Technology Park, Zamudio, Spain
| | | | - Juan Perucho
- Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Joaquín Botta
- School of Pharmacy, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - Nuria Suelves
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain,Biomedical Science Department, School of Medicine; Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, and Neuroscience Institute, Barcelona University, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francisco Ciruela
- Pharmacology Unit, Department of Pathology and Experimental Therapeutics, IDIBELL, and Neuroscience Institute, Barcelona University, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Silvia Ginés
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain,Biomedical Science Department, School of Medicine; Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, and Neuroscience Institute, Barcelona University, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ismael Galve-Roperh
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain,Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain,Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Vicent Casadó
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pedro Grandes
- Department of Neurosciences, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain,Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Bizkaia Science and Technology Park, Zamudio, Spain
| | - Beat Lutz
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Krisztina Monory
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Enric I Canela
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carmen Lluís
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona 08028, Spain, Tel: +34 93 4021208, Fax: +34 93 4021559, E-mail:
| | - Peter J McCormick
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain,School of Pharmacy, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, UK,School of Veterinary Medicine Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Daphne Jackson Road, Guildford, Surrey, GU2 7AL, UK, Tel: +44 (0)1483 684399, Fax: +44 (0)1483 684399, E-mail:
| | - Manuel Guzmán
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain,Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain,Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria, Madrid, Spain,Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN) and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, School of Biology, Complutense University, Madrid 28040, Spain, Tel: +34 91 3944668, Fax: +34 91 3944672, E-mail:
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19
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Cao JK, Detloff PJ, Gardner RG, Stella N. Sex-dependent behavioral impairments in the HdhQ350/+ mouse line. Behav Brain Res 2018; 337:34-45. [PMID: 28927719 PMCID: PMC5659761 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2017.09.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2017] [Revised: 08/08/2017] [Accepted: 09/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Huntington's Disease (HD) is an autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disease characterized by gradual deterioration of motor and cognitive functions and development of psychiatric deficits. Animal models provide powerful means to study the pathological processes, molecular dysfunctions and symptoms associated with HD. We performed a longitudinal behavioral study of the newly developed HdhQ350/+ mouse line, a knock-in model that expresses a repeat of 350 glutamines. We found remarkable sex-dependent differences on symptom onset and severity. While both sexes lose weight and grip strength, only HdhQ350/+ males have impaired motor coordination as measured by the rotarod and alterations in gait as measured by the catwalk assay. While HdhQ350/+ females do not exhibit impairment in motor coordination, we found a reduction in dark phase locomotor activity. Male and female HdhQ350/+ mice do not show anxiety as measured by the elevated plus maze or changes in exploration as measured by the open field test. To investigate these sex-dependent differences, we performed western blot analyses of striatal tissue. We measured equal mutant huntingtin protein expression in both sexes and found evidence of aggregation. We found the expected decrease of DARPP-32 expression only in female HdhQ350/+ mice. Remarkably, we found no evidence of reduction in synaptophysin or CB1 receptors in HdhQ350/+ tissue of either sex. Our study indicates that male and female HdhQ350/+ mice differentially recapitulate select behavioral impairments commonly measured in other HD mouse models with limited sex-dependent changes in recognized histopathological markers. We conclude that expanded polyglutamine repeats influence HD pathogenesis in a sex-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica K Cao
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, United States
| | - Peter J Detloff
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35294, United States
| | - Richard G Gardner
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, United States
| | - Nephi Stella
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, United States; Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, United States.
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20
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Nadal X, del Río C, Casano S, Palomares B, Ferreiro‐Vera C, Navarrete C, Sánchez‐Carnerero C, Cantarero I, Bellido ML, Meyer S, Morello G, Appendino G, Muñoz E. Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid is a potent PPARγ agonist with neuroprotective activity. Br J Pharmacol 2017; 174:4263-4276. [PMID: 28853159 PMCID: PMC5731255 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2017] [Revised: 08/16/2017] [Accepted: 08/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Phytocannabinoids are produced in Cannabis sativa L. in acidic form and are decarboxylated upon heating, processing and storage. While the biological effects of decarboxylated cannabinoids such as Δ9 -tetrahydrocannabinol have been extensively investigated, the bioactivity of Δ9 -tetahydrocannabinol acid (Δ9 -THCA) is largely unknown, despite its occurrence in different Cannabis preparations. Here we have assessed possible neuroprotective actions of Δ9 -THCA through modulation of PPARγ pathways. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH The effects of six phytocannabinoids on PPARγ binding and transcriptional activity were investigated. The effect of Δ9 -THCA on mitochondrial biogenesis and PPARγ coactivator 1-α expression was investigated in Neuro-2a (N2a) cells. The neuroprotective effect was analysed in STHdhQ111/Q111 cells expressing a mutated form of the huntingtin protein and in N2a cells infected with an adenovirus carrying human huntingtin containing 94 polyQ repeats (mHtt-q94). The in vivo neuroprotective activity of Δ9 -THCA was investigated in mice intoxicated with the mitochondrial toxin 3-nitropropionic acid (3-NPA). KEY RESULTS Cannabinoid acids bind and activate PPARγ with higher potency than their decarboxylated products. Δ9 -THCA increased mitochondrial mass in neuroblastoma N2a cells and prevented cytotoxicity induced by serum deprivation in STHdhQ111/Q111 cells and by mutHtt-q94 in N2a cells. Δ9 -THCA, through a PPARγ-dependent pathway, was neuroprotective in mice treated with 3-NPA, improving motor deficits and preventing striatal degeneration. In addition, Δ9 -THCA attenuated microgliosis, astrogliosis and up-regulation of proinflammatory markers induced by 3-NPA. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Δ9 -THCA shows potent neuroprotective activity, which is worth considering for the treatment of Huntington's disease and possibly other neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carmen del Río
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba, Departamento de Biología Celular, Fisiología e InmunologíaHospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Universidad de CórdobaCórdobaSpain
| | | | - Belén Palomares
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba, Departamento de Biología Celular, Fisiología e InmunologíaHospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Universidad de CórdobaCórdobaSpain
| | | | | | | | - Irene Cantarero
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba, Departamento de Biología Celular, Fisiología e InmunologíaHospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Universidad de CórdobaCórdobaSpain
| | | | | | | | - Giovanni Appendino
- Dipartimento di Scienze del FarmacoUniversità del Piemonte OrientaleNovaraItaly
| | - Eduardo Muñoz
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba, Departamento de Biología Celular, Fisiología e InmunologíaHospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Universidad de CórdobaCórdobaSpain
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21
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Basavarajappa BS, Shivakumar M, Joshi V, Subbanna S. Endocannabinoid system in neurodegenerative disorders. J Neurochem 2017; 142:624-648. [PMID: 28608560 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.14098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2017] [Revised: 05/22/2017] [Accepted: 06/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Most neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs) are characterized by cognitive impairment and other neurological defects. The definite cause of and pathways underlying the progression of these NDDs are not well-defined. Several mechanisms have been proposed to contribute to the development of NDDs. These mechanisms may proceed concurrently or successively, and they differ among cell types at different developmental stages in distinct brain regions. The endocannabinoid system, which involves cannabinoid receptors type 1 (CB1R) and type 2 (CB2R), endogenous cannabinoids and the enzymes that catabolize these compounds, has been shown to contribute to the development of NDDs in several animal models and human studies. In this review, we discuss the functions of the endocannabinoid system in NDDs and converse the therapeutic efficacy of targeting the endocannabinoid system to rescue NDDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Balapal S Basavarajappa
- Division of Analytical Psychopharmacology, Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, New York, USA.,New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York City, New York, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, New York City, New York, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Madhu Shivakumar
- Division of Analytical Psychopharmacology, Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, New York, USA
| | - Vikram Joshi
- Division of Analytical Psychopharmacology, Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, New York, USA
| | - Shivakumar Subbanna
- Division of Analytical Psychopharmacology, Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, New York, USA
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22
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Kelly MEM, Lehmann C, Zhou J. The Endocannabinoid System in Local and Systemic Inflammation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.4199/c00151ed1v01y201702isp074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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23
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Kendall DA, Yudowski GA. Cannabinoid Receptors in the Central Nervous System: Their Signaling and Roles in Disease. Front Cell Neurosci 2017; 10:294. [PMID: 28101004 PMCID: PMC5209363 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2016.00294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 171] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2016] [Accepted: 12/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The identification and cloning of the two major cannabinoid (CB1 and CB2) receptors together with the discovery of their endogenous ligands in the late 80s and early 90s, resulted in a major effort aimed at understanding the mechanisms and physiological roles of the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Due to its expression and localization in the central nervous system (CNS), the CB1 receptor together with its endogenous ligands (endocannabinoids (eCB)) and the enzymes involved in their synthesis and degradation, has been implicated in multiple pathophysiological events ranging from memory deficits to neurodegenerative disorders among others. In this review, we will provide a general overview of the ECS with emphasis on the CB1 receptor in health and disease. We will describe our current understanding of the complex aspects of receptor signaling and trafficking, including the non-canonical signaling pathways such as those mediated by β-arrestins within the context of functional selectivity and ligand bias. Finally, we will highlight some of the disorders in which CB1 receptors have been implicated. Significant knowledge has been achieved over the last 30 years. However, much more research is still needed to fully understand the complex roles of the ECS, particularly in vivo and to unlock its true potential as a source of therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debra A Kendall
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Guillermo A Yudowski
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Puerto Rico, Medical Sciences CampusSan Juan, Puerto Rico; Institute of Neurobiology, University of Puerto RicoSan Juan, Puerto Rico
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24
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VCE-003.2, a novel cannabigerol derivative, enhances neuronal progenitor cell survival and alleviates symptomatology in murine models of Huntington's disease. Sci Rep 2016; 6:29789. [PMID: 27430371 PMCID: PMC4949444 DOI: 10.1038/srep29789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2016] [Accepted: 06/24/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids have shown to exert neuroprotective actions in animal models by acting at different targets including canonical cannabinoid receptors and PPARγ. We previously showed that VCE-003, a cannabigerol (CBG) quinone derivative, is a novel neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory cannabinoid acting through PPARγ. We have now generated a non-thiophilic VCE-003 derivative named VCE-003.2 that preserves the ability to activate PPARγ and analyzed its neuroprotective activity. This compound exerted a prosurvival action in progenitor cells during neuronal differentiation, which was prevented by a PPARγ antagonist, without affecting neural progenitor cell proliferation. In addition, VCE-003.2 attenuated quinolinic acid (QA)-induced cell death and caspase-3 activation and also reduced mutant huntingtin aggregates in striatal cells. The neuroprotective profile of VCE-003.2 was analyzed using in vivo models of striatal neurodegeneration induced by QA and 3-nitropropionic acid (3NP) administration. VCE-003.2 prevented medium spiny DARPP32+ neuronal loss in these Huntington’s-like disease mice models improving motor deficits, reactive astrogliosis and microglial activation. In the 3NP model VCE-003.2 inhibited the upregulation of proinflammatory markers and improved antioxidant defenses in the brain. These data lead us to consider VCE-003.2 to have high potential for the treatment of Huntington’s disease (HD) and other neurodegenerative diseases with neuroinflammatory traits.
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25
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Characterization of Behavioral, Neuropathological, Brain Metabolic and Key Molecular Changes in zQ175 Knock-In Mouse Model of Huntington's Disease. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0148839. [PMID: 26859386 PMCID: PMC4747517 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0148839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2015] [Accepted: 01/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Huntington’s disease (HD) is caused by an expansion of the trinucleotide poly (CAG) tract located in exon 1 of the huntingtin (Htt) gene leading to progressive neurodegeneration in selected brain regions, and associated functional impairments in motor, cognitive, and psychiatric domains. Since the discovery of the gene mutation that causes the disease, mouse models have been developed by different strategies. Recently, a new model, the zQ175 knock-in (KI) line, was developed in an attempt to have the Htt gene in a context and causing a phenotype that more closely mimics HD in humans. The behavioral phenotype was characterized across the independent laboratories and important features reminiscent of human HD are observed in zQ175 mice. In the current study, we characterized the zQ175 model housed in an academic laboratory under reversed dark-light cycle, including motor function, in vivo longitudinal structural MRI imaging for brain volume, MRS for striatal metabolites, neuropathology, as well as a panel of key disease marker proteins in the striatum at different ages. Our results suggest that homozygous zQ175 mice exhibited significant brain atrophy before the motor deficits and brain metabolite changes. Altered striatal medium spiny neuronal marker, postsynaptic marker protein and complement component C1qC also characterized zQ175 mice. Our results confirmed that the zQ175 KI model is valuable in understanding of HD-like pathophysiology and evaluation of potential therapeutics. Our data also provide suggestions to select appropriate outcome measurements in preclinical studies using the zQ175 mice.
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26
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Laprairie RB, Bagher AM, Kelly MEM, Denovan-Wright EM. Biased Type 1 Cannabinoid Receptor Signaling Influences Neuronal Viability in a Cell Culture Model of Huntington Disease. Mol Pharmacol 2015; 89:364-75. [PMID: 26700564 DOI: 10.1124/mol.115.101980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2015] [Accepted: 12/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Huntington disease (HD) is an inherited, autosomal dominant, neurodegenerative disorder with limited treatment options. Prior to motor symptom onset or neuronal cell loss in HD, levels of the type 1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1) decrease in the basal ganglia. Decreasing CB1 levels are strongly correlated with chorea and cognitive deficit. CB1 agonists are functionally selective (biased) for divergent signaling pathways. In this study, six cannabinoids were tested for signaling bias in in vitro models of medium spiny projection neurons expressing wild-type (STHdh(Q7/Q7)) or mutant huntingtin protein (STHdh(Q111/Q111)). Signaling bias was assessed using the Black and Leff operational model. Relative activity [ΔlogR (τ/KA)] and system bias (ΔΔlogR) were calculated relative to the reference compound WIN55,212-2 for Gαi/o, Gαs, Gαq, Gβγ, and β-arrestin1 signaling following treatment with 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), anandamide (AEA), CP55,940, Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), and THC+CBD (1:1), and compared between wild-type and HD cells. The Emax of Gαi/o-dependent extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling was 50% lower in HD cells compared with wild-type cells. 2-AG and AEA displayed Gαi/o/Gβγ bias and normalized CB1 protein levels and improved cell viability, whereas CP55,940 and THC displayed β-arrestin1 bias and reduced CB1 protein levels and cell viability in HD cells. CBD was not a CB1 agonist but inhibited THC-dependent signaling (THC+CBD). Therefore, enhancing Gαi/o-biased endocannabinoid signaling may be therapeutically beneficial in HD. In contrast, cannabinoids that are β-arrestin-biased--such as THC found at high levels in modern varieties of marijuana--may be detrimental to CB1 signaling, particularly in HD where CB1 levels are already reduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert B Laprairie
- Departments of Pharmacology and Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Amina M Bagher
- Departments of Pharmacology and Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Melanie E M Kelly
- Departments of Pharmacology and Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Eileen M Denovan-Wright
- Departments of Pharmacology and Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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27
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Blázquez C, Chiarlone A, Bellocchio L, Resel E, Pruunsild P, García-Rincón D, Sendtner M, Timmusk T, Lutz B, Galve-Roperh I, Guzmán M. The CB₁ cannabinoid receptor signals striatal neuroprotection via a PI3K/Akt/mTORC1/BDNF pathway. Cell Death Differ 2015; 22:1618-29. [PMID: 25698444 PMCID: PMC4563779 DOI: 10.1038/cdd.2015.11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2014] [Revised: 01/15/2015] [Accepted: 01/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The CB1 cannabinoid receptor, the main molecular target of endocannabinoids and cannabis active components, is the most abundant G protein-coupled receptor in the mammalian brain. In particular, the CB1 receptor is highly expressed in the basal ganglia, mostly on terminals of medium-sized spiny neurons, where it plays a key neuromodulatory function. The CB1 receptor also confers neuroprotection in various experimental models of striatal damage. However, the assessment of the physiological relevance and therapeutic potential of the CB1 receptor in basal ganglia-related diseases is hampered, at least in part, by the lack of knowledge of the precise mechanism of CB1 receptor neuroprotective activity. Here, by using an array of pharmacological, genetic and pharmacogenetic (designer receptor exclusively activated by designer drug) approaches, we show that (1) CB1 receptor engagement protects striatal cells from excitotoxic death via the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 pathway, which, in turn, (2) induces brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression through the selective activation of BDNF gene promoter IV, an effect that is mediated by multiple transcription factors. To assess the possible functional impact of the CB1/BDNF axis in a neurodegenerative-disease context in vivo, we conducted experiments in the R6/2 mouse, a well-established model of Huntington's disease, in which the CB1 receptor and BDNF are known to be severely downregulated in the dorsolateral striatum. Adeno-associated viral vector-enforced re-expression of the CB1 receptor in the dorsolateral striatum of R6/2 mice allowed the re-expression of BDNF and the concerted rescue of the neuropathological deficits in these animals. Collectively, these findings unravel a molecular link between CB1 receptor activation and BDNF expression, and support the relevance of the CB1/BDNF axis in promoting striatal neuron survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Blázquez
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED) and Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, School of Biology, Complutense University, and the Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN), Madrid, Spain
| | - A Chiarlone
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED) and Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, School of Biology, Complutense University, and the Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN), Madrid, Spain
| | - L Bellocchio
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED) and Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, School of Biology, Complutense University, and the Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN), Madrid, Spain
| | - E Resel
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED) and Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, School of Biology, Complutense University, and the Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN), Madrid, Spain
| | - P Pruunsild
- Institute of Gene Technology, Tallinn University of Technology, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - D García-Rincón
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED) and Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, School of Biology, Complutense University, and the Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN), Madrid, Spain
| | - M Sendtner
- Institute of Clinical Neurobiology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - T Timmusk
- Institute of Gene Technology, Tallinn University of Technology, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - B Lutz
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - I Galve-Roperh
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED) and Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, School of Biology, Complutense University, and the Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN), Madrid, Spain
| | - M Guzmán
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED) and Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, School of Biology, Complutense University, and the Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN), Madrid, Spain
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28
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Pietropaolo S, Bellocchio L, Ruiz-Calvo A, Cabanas M, Du Z, Guzmán M, Garret M, Cho YH. Chronic cannabinoid receptor stimulation selectively prevents motor impairments in a mouse model of Huntington's disease. Neuropharmacology 2015; 89:368-74. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2014.07.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2014] [Revised: 07/28/2014] [Accepted: 07/31/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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29
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Lazenka MF, David BG, Lichtman AH, Nestler EJ, Selley DE, Sim-Selley LJ. Delta FosB and AP-1-mediated transcription modulate cannabinoid CB₁ receptor signaling and desensitization in striatal and limbic brain regions. Biochem Pharmacol 2014; 91:380-9. [PMID: 25093286 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2014.07.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2014] [Revised: 07/23/2014] [Accepted: 07/24/2014] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Repeated Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) administration produces cannabinoid type 1 receptor (CB₁R) desensitization and downregulation, as well as tolerance to its in vivo pharmacological effects. However, the magnitude of CB₁R desensitization varies by brain region, with CB₁Rs in the striatum and its output nuclei undergoing less desensitization than other regions. A growing body of data indicates that regional differences in CB₁R desensitization are produced, in part, by THC-mediated induction of the stable transcription factor, ΔFosB, and subsequent regulation of CB₁Rs. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether THC-mediated induction of ΔFosB in the striatum inhibits CB₁R desensitization in the striatum and output nuclei. This hypothesis was tested using bitransgenic mice with inducible expression of ΔFosB or ΔcJun, a dominant negative inhibitor of AP-1-mediated transcription, in specific forebrain regions. Mice were treated repeatedly with escalating doses of THC or vehicle for 6.5 days, and CB₁R-mediated G-protein activation was assessed using CP55,940-stimulated [(35)S]GTPγS autoradiography. Overexpression of ΔFosB in striatal dopamine type 1 receptor-containing (D1R) medium spiny neurons (MSNs) attenuated CB₁R desensitization in the substantia nigra, ventral tegmental area (VTA) and amygdala. Expression of ΔcJun in striatal D1R- and dopamine type 2 receptor (D2R)-containing MSNs enhanced CB₁R desensitization in the caudate-putamen and attenuated desensitization in the hippocampus and VTA. THC-mediated in vivo pharmacological effects were then assessed in ΔcJun-expressing mice. Tolerance to THC-mediated hypomotility was enhanced in ΔcJun-expressing mice. These data reveal that ΔFosB and possibly other AP-1 binding proteins regulate CB₁R signaling and adaptation in the striatum and limbic system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew F Lazenka
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Institute for Drug and Alcohol Studies, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Bethany G David
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Institute for Drug and Alcohol Studies, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Aron H Lichtman
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Institute for Drug and Alcohol Studies, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Eric J Nestler
- Fishberg Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Dana E Selley
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Institute for Drug and Alcohol Studies, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Laura J Sim-Selley
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Institute for Drug and Alcohol Studies, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA.
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30
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Ooms M, Rietjens R, Rangarajan JR, Vunckx K, Valdeolivas S, Maes F, Himmelreich U, Fernandez-Ruiz J, Bormans G, Van Laere K, Casteels C. Early decrease of type 1 cannabinoid receptor binding and phosphodiesterase 10A activity in vivo in R6/2 Huntington mice. Neurobiol Aging 2014; 35:2858-2869. [PMID: 25018107 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2014.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2014] [Revised: 05/13/2014] [Accepted: 06/10/2014] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Several lines of evidence imply early alterations in endocannabinoid and phosphodiesterase 10A (PDE10A) signaling in Huntington disease (HD). Using [(18)F]MK-9470 and [(18)F]JNJ42259152 small-animal positron emission tomography (PET), we investigated for the first time cerebral changes in type 1 cannabinoid (CB1) receptor binding and PDE10A levels in vivo in presymptomatic, early symptomatic, and late symptomatic HD (R6/2) mice, in relation to glucose metabolism ([(18)F]FDG PET), brain morphology (magnetic resonance imaging) and motor function. Ten R6/2 and 16 wild-type (WT) mice were investigated at 3 different time points between the age of 4 and 13 weeks. Parametric CB1 receptor and PDE10A images were anatomically standardized to Paxinos space and analyzed voxelwise. Volumetric microMRI imaging was performed to assess HD pathology. In R6/2 mice, CB1 receptor binding was decreased in comparison with WT in a cluster comprising the bilateral caudate-putamen, globus pallidus, and thalamic nucleus at week 5 (-8.1% ± 2.6%, p = 1.7 × 10(-5)). Longitudinal follow-up showed further progressive decline compared with controls in a cluster comprising the bilateral hippocampus, caudate-putamen, globus pallidus, superior colliculus, thalamic nucleus, and cerebellum (late vs. presymptomatic age: -13.7% ± 3.1% for R6/2 and +1.5% ± 4.0% for WT, p = 1.9 × 10(-5)). In R6/2 mice, PDE10A binding potential also decreased over time to reach significance at early and late symptomatic HD (late vs. presymptomatic age: -79.1% ± 1.9% for R6/2 and +2.1% ± 2.7% for WT, p = 1.5 × 10(-4)). The observed changes in CB1 receptor and PDE10A binding were correlated to anomalies exhibited by R6/2 animals in motor function, whereas no correlation was found with magnetic resonance imaging-based striatal volume. Our findings point to early regional dysfunctions in endocannabinoid and PDE10A signaling, involving the caudate-putamen and lateral globus pallidus, which may play a role in the progression of the disease in R6/2 animals. PET quantification of in vivo CB1 and/or PDE10A binding may thus be useful early biomarkers for HD. Our results also provide evidence of subtle motor deficits at earlier stages than previously described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maarten Ooms
- Laboratory for Radiopharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; MoSAIC-Molecular Small Animal Imaging Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Roma Rietjens
- MoSAIC-Molecular Small Animal Imaging Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven and University Hospital Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Janaki Raman Rangarajan
- KU Leuven Medical Image Computing (ESAT/PSI), Department of Electrical Engineering & Medical Imaging Research Center, University Hospital Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kathleen Vunckx
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven and University Hospital Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sara Valdeolivas
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain; Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Frederik Maes
- KU Leuven Medical Image Computing (ESAT/PSI), Department of Electrical Engineering & Medical Imaging Research Center, University Hospital Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Uwe Himmelreich
- Biomedical NMR Unit, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Javier Fernandez-Ruiz
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain; Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Guy Bormans
- Laboratory for Radiopharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; MoSAIC-Molecular Small Animal Imaging Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Koen Van Laere
- MoSAIC-Molecular Small Animal Imaging Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven and University Hospital Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Cindy Casteels
- MoSAIC-Molecular Small Animal Imaging Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven and University Hospital Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
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A restricted population of CB1 cannabinoid receptors with neuroprotective activity. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2014; 111:8257-62. [PMID: 24843137 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1400988111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The CB1 cannabinoid receptor, the main molecular target of endocannabinoids and cannabis active components, is the most abundant G protein-coupled receptor in the mammalian brain. Of note, CB1 receptors are expressed at the synapses of two opposing (i.e., GABAergic/inhibitory and glutamatergic/excitatory) neuronal populations, so the activation of one and/or another receptor population may conceivably evoke different effects. Despite the widely reported neuroprotective activity of the CB1 receptor in animal models, the precise pathophysiological relevance of those two CB1 receptor pools in neurodegenerative processes is unknown. Here, we first induced excitotoxic damage in the mouse brain by (i) administering quinolinic acid to conditional mutant animals lacking CB1 receptors selectively in GABAergic or glutamatergic neurons, and (ii) manipulating corticostriatal glutamatergic projections remotely with a designer receptor exclusively activated by designer drug pharmacogenetic approach. We next examined the alterations that occur in the R6/2 mouse, a well-established model of Huntington disease, upon (i) fully knocking out CB1 receptors, and (ii) deleting CB1 receptors selectively in corticostriatal glutamatergic or striatal GABAergic neurons. The data unequivocally identify the restricted population of CB1 receptors located on glutamatergic terminals as an indispensable player in the neuroprotective activity of (endo)cannabinoids, therefore suggesting that this precise receptor pool constitutes a promising target for neuroprotective therapeutic strategies.
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The cytokine and endocannabinoid systems are co-regulated by NF-κB p65/RelA in cell culture and transgenic mouse models of Huntington's disease and in striatal tissue from Huntington's disease patients. J Neuroimmunol 2013; 267:61-72. [PMID: 24360910 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2013.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2013] [Revised: 11/02/2013] [Accepted: 12/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Transcriptional dysregulation is a major pathological feature of Huntington's disease (HD). The goal of this study was to understand how p65/RelA co-regulated genes, specifically those of the cytokine and endocannabinoid systems, were affected in HD. p65/RelA levels were lower in human HD tissue and R6/2 HD mice, as were the levels of the type 1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1), IL-1β, IL-8, CCL5, GM-CSF, MIP-1β, and TNFα, all of which may be regulated by p65/RelA. Activation of p65/RelA restored CB1 and CCL5 expression in STHdh cell models of HD. Therefore, p65/RelA activation may normalize the expression of some genes in HD.
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33
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Chiang YC, Lo YN, Chen JC. Crosstalk between Dopamine D2
receptors and cannabinoid CB1
receptors regulates CNR
1
promoter activity via ERK1/2 signaling. J Neurochem 2013; 127:163-76. [DOI: 10.1111/jnc.12399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2013] [Revised: 08/08/2013] [Accepted: 08/12/2013] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yao-Chang Chiang
- Center for Drug Abuse and Addiction; China Medical University Hospital; Taichung Taiwan
- China Medical University; Taichung Taiwan
| | - Yan-Ni Lo
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology; Chang-Gung University; Tao-Yuan Taiwan
| | - Jin-Chung Chen
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology; Chang-Gung University; Tao-Yuan Taiwan
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34
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Laprairie RB, Kelly MEM, Denovan-Wright EM. Cannabinoids increase type 1 cannabinoid receptor expression in a cell culture model of striatal neurons: implications for Huntington's disease. Neuropharmacology 2013; 72:47-57. [PMID: 23602984 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2013.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2013] [Revised: 03/14/2013] [Accepted: 04/02/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The type 1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1) is a G protein-coupled receptor that is expressed at high levels in the striatum. Activation of CB1 increases expression of neuronal trophic factors and inhibits neurotransmitter release from GABA-ergic striatal neurons. CB1 mRNA levels can be elevated by treatment with cannabinoids in non-neuronal cells. We wanted to determine whether cannabinoid treatment could induce CB1 expression in a cell culture model of striatal neurons and, if possible, determine the molecular mechanism by which this occurred. We found that treatment of STHdh(7/7) cells with the cannabinoids ACEA, mAEA, and AEA produced a CB1receptor-dependent increase in CB1 promoter activity, mRNA, and protein expression. This response was Akt- and NF-κB-dependent. Because decreased CB1 expression is thought to contribute to the pathogenesis of Huntington's disease (HD), we wanted to determine whether cannabinoids could increase CB1 expression in STHdh(7/111) and (111/111) cells expressing the mutant huntingtin protein. We observed that cannabinoid treatment increased CB1 mRNA levels approximately 10-fold in STHdh(7/111) and (111/111) cells, compared to vehicle treatment. Importantly, cannabinoid treatment improved ATP production, increased the expression of the trophic factor BDNF-2, and the mitochondrial regulator PGC1α, and reduced spontaneous GABA release, in HD cells. Therefore, cannabinoid-mediated increases in CB1 levels could reduce the severity of some molecular pathologies observed in HD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert B Laprairie
- Rm 6E Sir Charles Tupper Medical Bldg, Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, 5850 College St., Halifax, NS, Canada B3H 4R2.
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35
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Cachope R. Functional diversity on synaptic plasticity mediated by endocannabinoids. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2013; 367:3242-53. [PMID: 23108543 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2011.0386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Endocannabinoids (eCBs) act as modulators of synaptic transmission through activation of a number of receptors, including, but not limited to, cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1). eCBs share CB1 receptors as a common target with Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive ingredient in marijuana. Although THC has been used for recreational and medicinal purposes for thousands of years, little was known about its effects at the cellular level or on neuronal circuits. Identification of CB1 receptors and the subsequent development of its specific ligands has therefore enhanced our ability to study and bring together a substantial amount of knowledge regarding how marijuana and eCBs modify interneuronal communication. To date, the eCB system, composed of cannabinoid receptors, ligands and the relevant enzymes, is recognized as the best-described retrograde signalling system in the brain. Its impact on synaptic transmission is widespread and more diverse than initially thought. The aim of this review is to succinctly present the most common forms of eCB-mediated modulation of synaptic transmission, while also illustrating the multiplicity of effects resulting from specializations of this signalling system at the circuital level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger Cachope
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.
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36
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Comprehensive behavioral and molecular characterization of a new knock-in mouse model of Huntington's disease: zQ175. PLoS One 2012; 7:e49838. [PMID: 23284626 PMCID: PMC3527464 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0049838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 307] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2012] [Accepted: 10/12/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Huntington’s disease (HD) is an autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor, cognitive and psychiatric manifestations. Since the mutation responsible for the disease was identified as an unstable expansion of CAG repeats in the gene encoding the huntingtin protein in 1993, numerous mouse models of HD have been generated to study disease pathogenesis and evaluate potential therapeutic approaches. Of these, knock-in models best mimic the human condition from a genetic perspective since they express the mutation in the appropriate genetic and protein context. Behaviorally, however, while some abnormal phenotypes have been detected in knock-in mouse models, a model with an earlier and more robust phenotype than the existing models is required. We describe here for the first time a new mouse line, the zQ175 knock-in mouse, derived from a spontaneous expansion of the CAG copy number in our CAG 140 knock-in colony [1]. Given the inverse relationship typically observed between age of HD onset and length of CAG repeat, since this new mouse line carries a significantly higher CAG repeat length it was expected to be more significantly impaired than the parent line. Using a battery of behavioral tests we evaluated both heterozygous and homozygous zQ175 mice. Homozygous mice showed motor and grip strength abnormalities with an early onset (8 and 4 weeks of age, respectively), which were followed by deficits in rotarod and climbing activity at 30 weeks of age and by cognitive deficits at around 1 year of age. Of particular interest for translational work, we also found clear behavioral deficits in heterozygous mice from around 4.5 months of age, especially in the dark phase of the diurnal cycle. Decreased body weight was observed in both heterozygotes and homozygotes, along with significantly reduced survival in the homozygotes. In addition, we detected an early and significant decrease of striatal gene markers from 12 weeks of age. These data suggest that the zQ175 knock-in line could be a suitable model for the evaluation of therapeutic approaches and early events in the pathogenesis of HD.
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37
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Kaplan BLF. The role of CB1 in immune modulation by cannabinoids. Pharmacol Ther 2012; 137:365-74. [PMID: 23261520 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2012.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2012] [Accepted: 11/29/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
There is clear evidence that CB(2), historically referred to as the peripheral cannabinoid receptor, mediates many of the immune modulatory effects of cannabinoids. However, cannabinoid receptors cannot be classified simply as central or peripheral since CB(2) has been shown to play a role in the central nervous system (CNS) and CB(1) mediates many immune system effects. Although Cnr1 mRNA and CB(1) protein expression is lower than Cnr2 mRNA or CB(2) protein expression in cells of the immune system, several studies have shown direct modulation of immune function via CB(1) by endogenous and exogenous cannabinoids in T cells, innate cells, and to a lesser extent, B cells. In addition, indirect, but CB(1)-dependent, mechanisms of immune modulation exist. In fact, the mechanism by which cannabinoids attenuate neuroinflammation via CB(1) is likely a combination of immune suppression and neuroprotection. Although many studies demonstrate that agonists for CB(1) are immune suppressive and anti-inflammatory, CB(1) antagonists also exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. Overall, the data demonstrate that many of the immune modulatory effects of cannabinoids are mediated via CB(1).
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara L F Kaplan
- Center for Integrative Toxicology, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, and Neuroscience Program, Michigan State University, 1129 Farm Lane, Room 313, East Lansing, MI 48824-1630, United States.
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38
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Laprairie RB, Kelly MEM, Denovan-Wright EM. The dynamic nature of type 1 cannabinoid receptor (CB(1) ) gene transcription. Br J Pharmacol 2012; 167:1583-95. [PMID: 22924606 PMCID: PMC3525862 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2012.02175.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2012] [Revised: 07/16/2012] [Accepted: 08/03/2012] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED The type 1 cannabinoid receptor (CB(1) ) is an integral component of the endocannabinoid system that modulates several functions in the CNS and periphery. The majority of our knowledge of the endocannabinoid system involves ligand-receptor binding, mechanisms of signal transduction, and protein-protein interactions. In contrast, comparatively little is known about regulation of CB(1) gene expression. The levels and anatomical distribution of CB(1) mRNA and protein are developmental stage-specific and are dysregulated in several pathological conditions. Moreover, exposure to a variety of drugs, including cannabinoids themselves, alters CB(1) gene expression and mRNA levels. As such, alterations in CB(1) gene expression are likely to affect the optimal response to cannabinoid-based therapies, which are being developed to treat a growing number of conditions. Here, we will examine the regulation of CB(1) mRNA levels and the therapeutic potential inherent in manipulating expression of this gene. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Cannabinoids. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2012.167.issue-8.
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Affiliation(s)
- R B Laprairie
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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39
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Horne EA, Coy J, Swinney K, Fung S, Cherry AET, Marrs WR, Naydenov AV, Lin YH, Sun X, Keene CD, Grouzmann E, Muchowski P, Bates GP, Mackie K, Stella N. Downregulation of cannabinoid receptor 1 from neuropeptide Y interneurons in the basal ganglia of patients with Huntington's disease and mouse models. Eur J Neurosci 2012; 37:429-40. [PMID: 23167744 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.12045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2012] [Revised: 09/20/2012] [Accepted: 10/01/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB(1) receptor) controls several neuronal functions, including neurotransmitter release, synaptic plasticity, gene expression and neuronal viability. Downregulation of CB(1) expression in the basal ganglia of patients with Huntington's disease (HD) and animal models represents one of the earliest molecular events induced by mutant huntingtin (mHtt). This early disruption of neuronal CB(1) signaling is thought to contribute to HD symptoms and neurodegeneration. Here we determined whether CB(1) downregulation measured in patients with HD and mouse models was ubiquitous or restricted to specific striatal neuronal subpopulations. Using unbiased semi-quantitative immunohistochemistry, we confirmed previous studies showing that CB(1) expression is downregulated in medium spiny neurons of the indirect pathway, and found that CB(1) is also downregulated in neuropeptide Y (NPY)/neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS)-expressing interneurons while remaining unchanged in parvalbumin- and calretinin-expressing interneurons. CB(1) downregulation in striatal NPY/nNOS-expressing interneurons occurs in R6/2 mice, Hdh(Q150/Q150) mice and the caudate nucleus of patients with HD. In R6/2 mice, CB(1) downregulation in NPY/nNOS-expressing interneurons correlates with diffuse expression of mHtt in the soma. This downregulation also occludes the ability of cannabinoid agonists to activate the pro-survival signaling molecule cAMP response element-binding protein in NPY/nNOS-expressing interneurons. Loss of CB(1) signaling in NPY/nNOS-expressing interneurons could contribute to the impairment of basal ganglia functions linked to HD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric A Horne
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, 1959 N.E. Pacific St., Seattle, WA 98195-7280, USA
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40
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Ghiglieri V, Bagetta V, Calabresi P, Picconi B. Functional interactions within striatal microcircuit in animal models of Huntington's disease. Neuroscience 2012; 211:165-84. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2011.06.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2011] [Revised: 06/25/2011] [Accepted: 06/28/2011] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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41
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Unbalance of CB1 receptors expressed in GABAergic and glutamatergic neurons in a transgenic mouse model of Huntington's disease. Neurobiol Dis 2012; 45:983-91. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2011.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2011] [Revised: 11/11/2011] [Accepted: 12/04/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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42
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Miller LK, Devi LA. The highs and lows of cannabinoid receptor expression in disease: mechanisms and their therapeutic implications. Pharmacol Rev 2011; 63:461-70. [PMID: 21752875 DOI: 10.1124/pr.110.003491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Alterations in the endogenous cannabinoid system have been described in almost every category of disease. These changes can alternatively be protective or maladaptive, such as producing antinociception in neuropathic pain or fibrogenesis in liver disease, making the system an attractive therapeutic target. However, the challenge remains to selectively target the site of disease while sparing other areas, particularly mood and cognitive centers of the brain. Identifying regional changes in cannabinoid receptor-1 and -2 (CB(1)R and CB(2)R) expression is particularly important when considering endocannabinoid system-based therapies, because regional increases in cannabinoid receptor expression have been shown to increase potency and efficacy of exogenous agonists at sites of disease. Although there have been extensive descriptive studies of cannabinoid receptor expression changes in disease, the underlying mechanisms are only just beginning to unfold. Understanding these mechanisms is important and potentially relevant to therapeutics. In diseases for which cannabinoid receptors are protective, knowledge of the mechanisms of receptor up-regulation could be used to design therapies to regionally increase receptor expression and thus increase efficacy of an agonist. Alternatively, inhibition of harmful cannabinoid up-regulation could be an attractive alternative to global antagonism of the system. Here we review current findings on the mechanisms of cannabinoid receptor regulation in disease and discuss their therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lydia K Miller
- Department of Pharmacology and Systems Therapeutics, Box 1603, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, One Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY 10029, USA
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43
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Casteels C, Vandeputte C, Rangarajan JR, Dresselaers T, Riess O, Bormans G, Maes F, Himmelreich U, Nguyen H, Van Laere K. Metabolic and type 1 cannabinoid receptor imaging of a transgenic rat model in the early phase of Huntington disease. Exp Neurol 2011; 229:440-9. [PMID: 21459091 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2011.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2011] [Revised: 03/11/2011] [Accepted: 03/21/2011] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Several lines of evidence imply early alterations in metabolic and endocannabinoid neurotransmission in Huntington disease (HD). Using [(18)F]MK-9470 and small animal PET, we investigated for the first time cerebral changes in type 1 cannabinoid (CB1) receptor binding in vivo in pre-symptomatic and early symptomatic rats of HD (tgHD), in relation to glucose metabolism, morphology and behavioral testing for motor and cognitive function. Twenty-three Sprague-Dawley rats (14 tgHD and 9 wild-types) were investigated between the age of 2 and 11 months. Relative glucose metabolism and parametric CB1 receptor images were anatomically standardized to Paxinos space and analyzed voxel-wise. Volumetric microMRI imaging was performed to assess HD neuropathology. Within the first 10 months, bilateral volumes of caudate-putamen and lateral ventricles did not significantly differ between genotypes. Longitudinal- and genotype evolution showed that relative [(18)F]MK-9470 binding progressively decreased in the caudate-putamen and lateral globus pallidus of tgHD rats (-8.3%, p≤1.1×10(-5) at 5 months vs. -10.9%, p<1.5×10(-5) at 10 months). In addition, relative glucose metabolism increased in the bilateral sensorimotor cortex of 2-month-old tgHD rats (+8.1%, p≤1.5×10(-5)), where it was positively correlated to motor function at that time point. TgHD rats developed cognitive deficits at 6 and 11 months of age. Our findings point to early regional dysfunctions in endocannabinoid signalling, involving the lateral globus pallidus and caudate-putamen. In vivo CB1 receptor measurements using [(18)F]MK-9470 may thus be a useful early biomarker for HD. Our results also provide evidence of subtle motor and cognitive deficits at earlier stages than previously described.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Casteels
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, KU Leuven and University Hospital Leuven, Belgium.
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44
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Eidelberg D, Surmeier DJ. Brain networks in Huntington disease. J Clin Invest 2011; 121:484-92. [PMID: 21285521 DOI: 10.1172/jci45646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have focused on understanding the neural mechanisms underlying the emergence of clinical signs and symptoms in early stage Huntington disease (HD). Although cell-based assays have focused on cell autonomous effects of mutant huntingtin, animal HD models have revealed alterations in the function of neuronal networks, particularly those linking the cerebral cortex and striatum. These findings are complemented by metabolic imaging studies of disease progression in premanifest subjects. Quantifying metabolic progression at the systems level may identify network biomarkers to aid in the objective assessment of new disease-modifying therapies and identify new regions that merit mechanistic study in HD models.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Eidelberg
- Center for Neurosciences, The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, New York 11030, USA.
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45
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Rising AC, Xu J, Carlson A, Napoli VV, Denovan-Wright EM, Mandel RJ. Longitudinal behavioral, cross-sectional transcriptional and histopathological characterization of a knock-in mouse model of Huntington's disease with 140 CAG repeats. Exp Neurol 2010; 228:173-82. [PMID: 21192926 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2010.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2010] [Revised: 11/30/2010] [Accepted: 12/17/2010] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The discovery of the gene mutation responsible for Huntington's disease (HD), huntingtin, in 1993 allowed for a better understanding of the pathology of and enabled the development of animal models. HD is caused by the expansion of a polyglutamine repeat region in the N-terminal of the huntingtin protein. Here we examine the behavioral, transcriptional, histopathological and anatomical characteristics of a knock-in HD mouse model with a 140 polyglutamine expansion in the huntingtin protein. This CAG 140 model contains a portion of the human exon 1 with 140 CAG repeats knocked into the mouse huntingtin gene. We have longitudinally examined the rearing behavior, accelerating rotarod, constant speed rotarod and gait for age-matched heterozygote, homozygote and non-transgenic mice and have found a significant difference in the afflicted mice. However, while there were significant differences between the non-transgenic and the knock-in mice, these behaviors were not progressive. As in HD, we show that the CAG 140 mice also have a significant decrease in striatally enriched mRNA transcripts. In addition, striatal neuronal intranuclear inclusion density increases with age. Lastly these CAG 140 mice show slight cortical thinning compared to non-transgenic mice, similarly to the cortical thinning recently reported in HD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron C Rising
- Department of Neuroscience, Powell Gene Therapy Center, McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida College of Medicine, PO Box 100244, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
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46
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Ribeiro FM, Pires RGW, Ferguson SSG. Huntington's disease and Group I metabotropic glutamate receptors. Mol Neurobiol 2010; 43:1-11. [PMID: 21153060 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-010-8153-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2010] [Accepted: 11/15/2010] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is an autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disorder characterized by involuntary body movement, cognitive impairment and psychiatric disturbance. A polyglutamine expansion in the amino-terminal region of the huntingtin (htt) protein is the genetic cause of HD. Htt protein interacts with a wide variety of proteins, and htt mutation causes cell signaling alterations in various neurotransmitter systems, including dopaminergic, glutamatergic, and cannabinoid systems, as well as trophic factor systems. This review will overview recent findings concerning htt-promoted alterations in cell signaling that involve different neurotransmitters and trophic factor systems, especially involving mGluR1/5, as glutamate plays a crucial role in neuronal cell death. The neuronal cell death that takes place in the striatum and cortex of HD patients is the most important factor underlying HD progression. Metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluR1 and mGluR5) have a very controversial role in neuronal cell death and it is not clear whether mGluR1/5 activation either protects or exacerbates neuronal death. Thus, understanding how mutant htt protein affects glutamatergic receptor signaling will be essential to further establish a role for glutamate receptors in HD and develop therapeutic strategies to treat HD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiola M Ribeiro
- Departamento de Bioquimica e Imunologia, ICB, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
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47
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Scotter EL, Abood ME, Glass M. The endocannabinoid system as a target for the treatment of neurodegenerative disease. Br J Pharmacol 2010; 160:480-98. [PMID: 20590559 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2010.00735.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The Cannabis sativa plant has been exploited for medicinal, agricultural and spiritual purposes in diverse cultures over thousands of years. Cannabis has been used recreationally for its psychotropic properties, while effects such as stimulation of appetite, analgesia and anti-emesis have lead to the medicinal application of cannabis. Indeed, reports of medicinal efficacy of cannabis can been traced back as far as 2700 BC, and even at that time reports also suggested a neuroprotective effect of the cultivar. The discovery of the psychoactive component of cannabis resin, Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta(9)-THC) occurred long before the serendipitous identification of a G-protein coupled receptor at which Delta(9)-THC is active in the brain. The subsequent finding of endogenous cannabinoid compounds, the synthesis of which is directed by neuronal excitability and which in turn served to regulate that excitability, further widened the range of potential drug targets through which the endocannabinoid system can be manipulated. As a result of this, alterations in the endocannabinoid system have been extensively investigated in a range of neurodegenerative disorders. In this review we examine the evidence implicating the endocannabinoid system in the cause, symptomatology or treatment of neurodegenerative disease. We examine data from human patients and compare and contrast this with evidence from animal models of these diseases. On the basis of this evidence we discuss the likely efficacy of endocannabinoid-based therapies in each disease context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma L Scotter
- Centre for Brain Research and Department of Pharmacology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Blázquez C, Chiarlone A, Sagredo O, Aguado T, Pazos MR, Resel E, Palazuelos J, Julien B, Salazar M, Börner C, Benito C, Carrasco C, Diez-Zaera M, Paoletti P, Díaz-Hernández M, Ruiz C, Sendtner M, Lucas JJ, de Yébenes JG, Marsicano G, Monory K, Lutz B, Romero J, Alberch J, Ginés S, Kraus J, Fernández-Ruiz J, Galve-Roperh I, Guzmán M. Loss of striatal type 1 cannabinoid receptors is a key pathogenic factor in Huntington's disease. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 134:119-36. [PMID: 20929960 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awq278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Endocannabinoids act as neuromodulatory and neuroprotective cues by engaging type 1 cannabinoid receptors. These receptors are highly abundant in the basal ganglia and play a pivotal role in the control of motor behaviour. An early downregulation of type 1 cannabinoid receptors has been documented in the basal ganglia of patients with Huntington's disease and animal models. However, the pathophysiological impact of this loss of receptors in Huntington's disease is as yet unknown. Here, we generated a double-mutant mouse model that expresses human mutant huntingtin exon 1 in a type 1 cannabinoid receptor-null background, and found that receptor deletion aggravates the symptoms, neuropathology and molecular pathology of the disease. Moreover, pharmacological administration of the cannabinoid Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol to mice expressing human mutant huntingtin exon 1 exerted a therapeutic effect and ameliorated those parameters. Experiments conducted in striatal cells show that the mutant huntingtin-dependent downregulation of the receptors involves the control of the type 1 cannabinoid receptor gene promoter by repressor element 1 silencing transcription factor and sensitizes cells to excitotoxic damage. We also provide in vitro and in vivo evidence that supports type 1 cannabinoid receptor control of striatal brain-derived neurotrophic factor expression and the decrease in brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels concomitant with type 1 cannabinoid receptor loss, which may contribute significantly to striatal damage in Huntington's disease. Altogether, these results support the notion that downregulation of type 1 cannabinoid receptors is a key pathogenic event in Huntington's disease, and suggest that activation of these receptors in patients with Huntington's disease may attenuate disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Blázquez
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Huntington’s Disease and Ataxias Collaborative Project, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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Walther S, Halpern M. Cannabinoids and Dementia: A Review of Clinical and Preclinical Data. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2010; 3:2689-2708. [PMID: 27713372 PMCID: PMC4033945 DOI: 10.3390/ph3082689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2010] [Revised: 08/05/2010] [Accepted: 08/16/2010] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system has been shown to be associated with neurodegenerative diseases and dementia. We review the preclinical and clinical data on cannabinoids and four neurodegenerative diseases: Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Huntington’s disease (HD), Parkinson’s disease (PD) and vascular dementia (VD). Numerous studies have demonstrated an involvement of the cannabinoid system in neurotransmission, neuropathology and neurobiology of dementias. In addition, several candidate compounds have demonstrated efficacy in vitro. However, some of the substances produced inconclusive results in vivo. Therefore, only few trials have aimed to replicate the effects seen in animal studies in patients. Indeed, the literature on cannabinoid administration in patients is scarce. While preclinical findings suggest causal treatment strategies involving cannabinoids, clinical trials have only assessed the suitability of cannabinoid receptor agonists, antagonists and cannabidiol for the symptomatic treatment of dementia. Further research is needed, including in vivo models of dementia and human studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Walther
- University Hospital of Psychiatry, Bolligenstrasse 111, 3000 Bern 60, Switzerland;.
| | - Michael Halpern
- University Hospital of Psychiatry, Bolligenstrasse 111, 3000 Bern 60, Switzerland;.
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Casteels C, Martinez E, Bormans G, Camon L, de Vera N, Baekelandt V, Planas AM, Van Laere K. Type 1 cannabinoid receptor mapping with [18F]MK-9470 PET in the rat brain after quinolinic acid lesion: a comparison to dopamine receptors and glucose metabolism. Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging 2010; 37:2354-63. [PMID: 20680268 DOI: 10.1007/s00259-010-1574-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2010] [Accepted: 07/15/2010] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Several lines of evidence imply early alterations in metabolic, dopaminergic and endocannabinoid neurotransmission in Huntington's disease (HD). Using [18F]MK-9470 and small animal PET, we investigated cerebral changes in type 1 cannabinoid (CB1) receptor binding in the quinolinic acid (QA) rat model of HD in relation to glucose metabolism, dopamine D2 receptor availability and amphetamine-induced turning behaviour. METHODS Twenty-one Wistar rats (11 QA and 10 shams) were investigated. Small animal PET acquisitions were conducted on a Focus 220 with approximately 18 MBq of [18F]MK-9470, [18F]FDG and [11C]raclopride. Relative glucose metabolism and parametric CB1 receptor and D2 binding images were anatomically standardized to Paxinos space and analysed voxel-wise using Statistical Parametric Mapping (SPM2). RESULTS In the QA model, [18F]MK-9470 uptake, glucose metabolism and D2 receptor binding were reduced in the ipsilateral caudate-putamen by 7, 35 and 77%, respectively (all p<2.10(-5)), while an increase for these markers was observed on the contralateral side (>5%, all p<7.10(-4)). [18F]MK-9470 binding was also increased in the cerebellum (p=2.10(-5)), where it was inversely correlated to the number of ipsiversive turnings (p=7.10(-6)), suggesting that CB1 receptor upregulation in the cerebellum is related to a better functional outcome. Additionally, glucose metabolism was relatively increased in the contralateral hippocampus, thalamus and sensorimotor cortex (p=1.10(-6)). CONCLUSION These data point to in vivo changes in endocannabinoid transmission, specifically for CB1 receptors in the QA model, with involvement of the caudate-putamen, but also distant regions of the motor circuitry, including the cerebellum. These data also indicate the occurrence of functional plasticity on metabolism, D2 and CB1 neurotransmission in the contralateral hemisphere.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy Casteels
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, KU Leuven and University Hospital Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
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