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Greco R, Demartini C, Francavilla M, Zanaboni AM, Facchetti S, Palmisani M, Franco V, Tassorelli C. Effects of the Dual FAAH/MAGL Inhibitor AKU-005 on Trigeminal Hyperalgesia in Male Rats. Cells 2024; 13:830. [PMID: 38786051 PMCID: PMC11119298 DOI: 10.3390/cells13100830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The inhibition of endocannabinoid hydrolysis by enzymatic inhibitors may interfere with mechanisms underlying migraine-related pain. The dual FAAH/MAGL inhibitor AKU-005 shows potent inhibitory activity in vitro. Here, we assessed the effect of AKU-005 in a migraine animal model based on nitroglycerin (NTG) administration. Male rats were treated with AKU-005 (0.5 mg/kg, i.p.) or vehicle 3 h after receiving NTG (10 mg/kg, i.p.) or NTG vehicle. One hour later, rats were subjected to the open field test followed by the orofacial formalin test. At the end of the test, we collected serum samples for assessing calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) levels as well as meninges, trigeminal ganglia, and brain areas to assess mRNA levels of CGRP and pro-inflammatory cytokines, and endocannabinoid and related lipid levels. AKU-005 reduced NTG-induced hyperalgesia during the orofacial formalin test but did not influence NTG-induced changes in the open field test. It significantly reduced serum levels of CGRP, CGRP, and pro-inflammatory cytokine mRNA levels in the meninges, trigeminal ganglia, and central areas. Surprisingly, AKU-005 caused no change in endocannabinoids and related lipids in the regions evaluated. The present findings suggest that AKU-005 may have anti-migraine effects by reducing CGRP synthesis and release and the associated inflammatory events. This effect, however, does not seem mediated via an interference with the endocannabinoid pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosaria Greco
- Section of Translational Neurovascular Research, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (C.D.); (M.F.); (A.M.Z.); (S.F.); (M.P.); (V.F.); (C.T.)
| | - Chiara Demartini
- Section of Translational Neurovascular Research, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (C.D.); (M.F.); (A.M.Z.); (S.F.); (M.P.); (V.F.); (C.T.)
| | - Miriam Francavilla
- Section of Translational Neurovascular Research, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (C.D.); (M.F.); (A.M.Z.); (S.F.); (M.P.); (V.F.); (C.T.)
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Via Bassi 21, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Zanaboni
- Section of Translational Neurovascular Research, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (C.D.); (M.F.); (A.M.Z.); (S.F.); (M.P.); (V.F.); (C.T.)
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Via Bassi 21, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Sara Facchetti
- Section of Translational Neurovascular Research, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (C.D.); (M.F.); (A.M.Z.); (S.F.); (M.P.); (V.F.); (C.T.)
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Via Bassi 21, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Michela Palmisani
- Section of Translational Neurovascular Research, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (C.D.); (M.F.); (A.M.Z.); (S.F.); (M.P.); (V.F.); (C.T.)
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology Unit, University of Pavia, Viale Golgi 19, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Valentina Franco
- Section of Translational Neurovascular Research, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (C.D.); (M.F.); (A.M.Z.); (S.F.); (M.P.); (V.F.); (C.T.)
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology Unit, University of Pavia, Viale Golgi 19, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Cristina Tassorelli
- Section of Translational Neurovascular Research, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (C.D.); (M.F.); (A.M.Z.); (S.F.); (M.P.); (V.F.); (C.T.)
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Via Bassi 21, 27100 Pavia, Italy
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Kang K, Chen SH, Wang DP, Chen F. Inhibition of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Improves Chronic Ischemic Hippocampal Damage Associated with Suppression of IRE1α/TRAF2/ASK1/JNK-Dependent Apoptosis. Inflammation 2024:10.1007/s10753-024-01989-5. [PMID: 38401021 DOI: 10.1007/s10753-024-01989-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Chronic cerebral ischemia is a complex form of stress, of which the most common hemodynamic characteristic is chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH). Lasting endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress can drive neurological disorders. Targeting ER stress shows potential neuroprotective effects against stroke. However, the role of ER stress in CCH pathological processes and the effects of targeting ER stress on brain ischemia are unclear. Here, a CCH rat model was established by bilateral common carotid artery occlusion. Rats were treated with 4-PBA, URB597, or both for 4 weeks. Neuronal morphological damage was detected using hematoxylin-eosin staining. The expression levels of the ER stress-ASK1 cascade-related proteins GRP78, IRE1α, TRAF2, CHOP, Caspase-12, ASK1, p-ASK1, JNK, and p-JNK were assessed by Western blot. The mRNA levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, and iNOS were assessed by RT-PCR. For oxygen-glucose deprivation experiments, mouse hippocampal HT22 neurons were used. Apoptosis of the hippocampus and HT22 cells was detected by TUNEL staining and Annexin V-FITC analysis, respectively. CCH evoked ER stress with increased expression of GRP78, IRE1α, TRAF2, CHOP, and Caspase-12. Co-immunoprecipitation experiments confirmed the interaction between TRAF2 and ASK1. ASK1/JNK signaling, inflammatory cytokines, and neuronal apoptosis were enhanced, accompanied by persistent ER stress; these were reversed by 4-PBA and URB597. Furthermore, the ASK1 inhibitor GS4997 and 4-PBA displayed synergistic anti-apoptotic effects in cells with oxygen-glucose deprivation. In summary, ER stress-induced apoptosis in CCH is associated with the IRE1α/TRAF2/ASK1/JNK signaling pathway. Targeting the ER stress-ASK1 cascade could be a novel therapeutic approach for ischemic cerebrovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Kang
- School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Research and Surveillance Evaluation, Shanghai Municipal Center for Health Promotion, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Shu-Hui Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research, Jiangxi Cancer Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Jiangxi Cancer Institute, Nanchang, 330029, Jiangxi, China
| | - Da-Peng Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center of Pituitary Tumor, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China.
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tong Ji Hospital, Tong Ji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200065, China.
| | - Feng Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tong Ji Hospital, Tong Ji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200065, China.
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Chen I, Murdaugh LB, Miliano C, Dong Y, Gregus AM, Buczynski MW. NAPE-PLD regulates specific baseline affective behaviors but is dispensable for inflammatory hyperalgesia. NEUROBIOLOGY OF PAIN (CAMBRIDGE, MASS.) 2023; 14:100135. [PMID: 38099275 PMCID: PMC10719515 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynpai.2023.100135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
N-acyl-ethanolamine (NAEs) serve as key endogenous lipid mediators as revealed by manipulation of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), the primary enzyme responsible for metabolizing NAEs. Preclinical studies focused on FAAH or NAE receptors indicate an important role for NAE signaling in nociception and affective behaviors. However, there is limited information on the role of NAE biosynthesis in these same behavioral paradigms. Biosynthesis of NAEs has been attributed largely to the enzyme N-acylphosphatidylethanolamine Phospholipase D (NAPE-PLD), one of three pathways capable of producing these bioactive lipids in the brain. In this report, we demonstrate that Nape-pld knockout (KO) mice displayed reduced sucrose preference and consumption, but other baseline anxiety-like or depression-like behaviors were unaltered. Additionally, we observed sex-dependent responses in thermal nociception and other baseline measures in wildtype (WT) mice that were absent in Nape-pld KO mice. In the Complete Freund's Adjuvant (CFA) model of inflammatory arthritis, WT mice exhibited sex-dependent changes in paw edema that were lost in Nape-pld KO mice. However, there was no effect of Nape-pld deletion on arthritic pain-like behaviors (grip force deficit and tactile allodynia) in either sex, indicating that while NAPE-PLD may alter local inflammation, it does not contribute to pain-like behaviors associated with inflammatory arthritis. Collectively, these findings indicate that chronic and systemic NAPE-PLD inactivation will likely be well-tolerated, warranting further pharmacological evaluation of this target in other disease indications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Chen
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Laura B. Murdaugh
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
- Translational Biology, Medicine, and Health, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Cristina Miliano
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Yuyang Dong
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Ann M. Gregus
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Matthew W. Buczynski
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
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Lee MT, Mackie K, Chiou LC. Alternative pain management via endocannabinoids in the time of the opioid epidemic: Peripheral neuromodulation and pharmacological interventions. Br J Pharmacol 2023; 180:894-909. [PMID: 34877650 PMCID: PMC9170838 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of opioids in pain management is hampered by the emergence of analgesic tolerance, which leads to increased dosing and side effects, both of which have contributed to the opioid epidemic. One promising potential approach to limit opioid analgesic tolerance is activating the endocannabinoid system in the CNS, via activation of CB1 receptors in the descending pain inhibitory pathway. In this review, we first discuss preclinical and clinical evidence revealing the potential of pharmacological activation of CB1 receptors in modulating opioid tolerance, including activation by phytocannabinoids, synthetic CB1 receptor agonists, endocannabinoid degradation enzyme inhibitors, and recently discovered positive allosteric modulators of CB1 receptors. On the other hand, as non-pharmacological pain relief is advocated by the US-NIH to combat the opioid epidemic, we also discuss contributions of peripheral neuromodulation, involving the electrostimulation of peripheral nerves, in addressing chronic pain and opioid tolerance. The involvement of supraspinal endocannabinoid systems in peripheral neuromodulation-induced analgesia is also discussed. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue on Advances in Opioid Pharmacology at the Time of the Opioid Epidemic. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v180.7/issuetoc.
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Grants
- MOST 108-2321-B-002-005 Ministry of Science and Technology, Taiwan
- MOST 107-2811-B-002-008 Ministry of Science and Technology, Taiwan
- R01 DA041229 NIDA NIH HHS
- MOST 107-2321-B-002-010 Ministry of Science and Technology, Taiwan
- R01 DA047858 NIDA NIH HHS
- 107M4022-3 Ministry of Education, Taiwan
- MOST 106-2321-B-002-019 Ministry of Science and Technology, Taiwan
- NHRI-EX111-11114NI National Health Research Institutes, Taiwan
- FRGS/1/2021/WAB13/UCSI/02/1 Ministry of Higher Education, Malaysia
- R21 DA042584 NIDA NIH HHS
- REIG-FPS-2020/065 UCSI University Research Excellence and Innovation Grant, Malaysia
- NHRI-EX109-10733NI National Health Research Institutes, Taiwan
- MOST 104-2745-B-002-004 Ministry of Science and Technology, Taiwan
- MOST 109-2320-B-002-042-MY3 Ministry of Science and Technology, Taiwan
- MOST 107-2811-B-002 -008 Ministry of Science and Technology, Taiwan
- MOST 108-2320-B-002-029-MY3 Ministry of Science and Technology, Taiwan
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Tatt Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10051, Taiwan
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UCSI University, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Ken Mackie
- Gill Center for Biomolecular Research, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana 47405, USA
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana 47405, USA
| | - Lih-Chu Chiou
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10051, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10051, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
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Kędziora M, Boccella S, Marabese I, Mlost J, Infantino R, Maione S, Starowicz K. Inhibition of anandamide breakdown reduces pain and restores LTP and monoamine levels in the rat hippocampus via the CB 1 receptor following osteoarthritis. Neuropharmacology 2023; 222:109304. [PMID: 36341807 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2022.109304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Chronic pain is a persistent, complex condition that contributes to impaired mood, anxiety and emotional problems. Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the major causes of chronic pain in adults and elderly people. A substantial body of evidence demonstrate that hippocampal neural circuits, especially monoamine dopamine and serotonin levels, contributes to negative affect and avoidance motivation experienced during pain. Current pharmacological strategies for OA patients are unsatisfying and the endocannabinoid system modulation might represent an alternative for the treatment of OA-related pain. In the present study, we used a rat model of osteoarthritis induced by intra-articular injection of sodium monoiodoacetate to assess, 28 days post-induction, the contribution of endocannabinoid system on the possible alteration in pain perception and affective behavior, in LTP and monoamine levels in the lateral entorhinal cortex-dentate gyrus pathway. The results show that OA-related chronic pain induces working memory impairment and depressive-like behavior appearance, diminishes LTP, decreases dopamine levels and increases serotonin levels in the rat dentate gyrus. URB597 administration (i.p., 1 mg/kg) reduces hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia, improves recognition memory and depressive-live behavior, restores LTP and normalizes monoamine levels in the hippocampus. The effect was observed 60-120 min post-treatment and was blocked by AM251, which proves the action of URB597 via the CB1 receptor. Therefore, our study confirms the role of anandamide in OA-related chronic pain management at the behavioral and hippocampal levels. This article is part of the Special Issue on 'Advances in mechanisms and therapeutic targets relevant to pain'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Kędziora
- Department of Neurochemistry, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Cracow, Poland
| | - Serena Boccella
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Ida Marabese
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Jakub Mlost
- Department of Neurochemistry, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Cracow, Poland
| | - Rosmara Infantino
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Sabatino Maione
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy; IRCSS, Neuromed, Pozzilli (IS), 86077, Italy; ERG, Endocannabinoid Research Group, CNR, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Katarzyna Starowicz
- Department of Neurochemistry, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Cracow, Poland.
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Expression and Kinetics of Endogenous Cannabinoids in the Brain and Spinal Cord of a Spare Nerve Injury (SNI) Model of Neuropathic Pain. Cells 2022; 11:cells11244130. [PMID: 36552893 PMCID: PMC9776457 DOI: 10.3390/cells11244130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of endogenous cannabinoids in neuropathic pain has been actively studied, among which 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG) has received the most attention. However, owing to its chemical properties, direct detection of 2-AG distribution in tissues is difficult. Moreover, although desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry imaging (DESI-MSI) has enabled the detection of 2-AG, its distribution in the brain and spinal cord of neuropathic pain models has not been reported. In this study, the expression and distribution of 2-AG in the brain and spinal cord of a spare nerve injury (SNI) mice model of neuropathic pain was examined using DESI-MSI. The brain and lumbar spinal cord were collected and analyzed on days 3, 7, and 21 after treatment. On days 3 and 7 after treatment, 2-AG expression in the SNI model was decreased in the hypothalamus, midbrain, and especially in the periaqueductal gray (PAG) region but increased in the lumbar spinal cord. On day 21, the SNI model showed decreased 2-AG expression in the hypothalamus, but the difference from the control was not significant. Furthermore, there were no differences in 2-AG expression between the lumbar spinal cord, midbrain, or PAG. These data suggest that 2-AG might be involved in pain control.
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Greco R, Demartini C, Zanaboni AM, Francavilla M, Reggiani A, Realini N, Scarpelli R, Piomelli D, Tassorelli C. Potentiation of endocannabinoids and other lipid amides prevents hyperalgesia and inflammation in a pre-clinical model of migraine. J Headache Pain 2022; 23:79. [PMID: 35799128 PMCID: PMC9264488 DOI: 10.1186/s10194-022-01449-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Targeting fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) is a promising therapeutic strategy to combat certain forms of pain, including migraine headache. FAAH inhibitors, such as the O-biphenyl-3-yl carbamate URB597, have been shown to produce anti-hyperalgesic effects in animal models of migraine. The objective of this study was to investigate the behavioral and biochemical effects of compounds ARN14633 and ARN14280, two URB597 analogs with improved solubility and bioavailability, in a migraine-specific rat model in which trigeminal hyperalgesia is induced by nitroglycerin (NTG) administration. ARN14633 (1 mg/kg, i.p.) and ARN14280 (3 mg/kg, i.p.) were administered to adult male Sprague-Dawley rats 3 hours after NTG injection. One hour after the administration of either compound, rats were subjected to the orofacial formalin test. ARN14633 and ARN14280 attenuated NTG-induced nocifensive behavior and reduced transcription of genes encoding neuronal nitric oxide synthase, pain mediators peptides (calcitonin gene-related peptide, substance P) and pro-inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-1beta and 6) in the trigeminal ganglion, cervical spinal cord and medulla. Finally, both compounds strongly elevated levels of endocannabinoids and/or other FAAH substrates in cervical spinal cord and medulla, and, to a lesser extent, in the trigeminal ganglia. The results indicate that the novel global FAAH inhibitors ARN14633 and ARN14280 elicit significant anti-hyperalgesic effects in a migraine-specific animal model and inhibit the associated peptidergic-inflammatory response. Although the precise mechanism underlying these effects remains to be elucidated, our results support further investigational studies of FAAH blockade as a potential therapeutic strategy to treat migraine conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosaria Greco
- Unit of Translational Neurovascular Research, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Chiara Demartini
- Unit of Translational Neurovascular Research, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Zanaboni
- Unit of Translational Neurovascular Research, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Miriam Francavilla
- Unit of Translational Neurovascular Research, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Angelo Reggiani
- Drug Discovery and Development (D3)-Validation, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
| | - Natalia Realini
- Drug Discovery and Development (D3)-Validation, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
| | - Rita Scarpelli
- Drug Discovery and Development (D3)-Validation, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Cristina Tassorelli
- Unit of Translational Neurovascular Research, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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Fearby N, Penman S, Thanos P. Effects of Δ9-Tetrahydrocannibinol (THC) on Obesity at Different Stages of Life: A Literature Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19063174. [PMID: 35328862 PMCID: PMC8951828 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19063174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The Cannabis sativa plant has historically been used for both recreational and medical purposes. With the recent surge in recreational use of cannabis among adolescents and adults in particular, there is an increased obligation to determine the short- and long-term effects that consuming this plant may have on several aspects of the human psyche and body. The goal of this article was to examine the negative effects of obesity, and how the use of Δ9-tetrahydrocannibinol (THC) or cannabidiol (CBD) can impact rates of this global pandemic at different timepoints of life. Conflicting studies have been reported between adult and adolescents, as there are reports of THC use leading to increased weight due to elevated appetite and consumption of food, while others observed a decrease in overall body weight due to the regulation of omega-6/omega-3 endocannabinoid precursors and a decrease in energy expenditure. Studies supported a positive correlation between prenatal cannabis use and obesity rates in the children as they matured. The data did not indicate a direct connection between prenatal THC levels in cannabis and obesity rates, but that this development may occur due to prenatal THC consumption leading to low birthweight, and subsequent obesity. There are few studies using animal models that directly measure the effects that prenatal THC administration on obesity risks among offspring. Thus, this is a critical area for future studies using a developmental framework to examine potential changes in risk across development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Fearby
- Department of Biological Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA;
- Behavioral Neuropharmacology and Neuroimaging Laboratory on Addictions, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Clinical Research Institute on Addictions, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biosciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA;
| | - Samantha Penman
- Behavioral Neuropharmacology and Neuroimaging Laboratory on Addictions, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Clinical Research Institute on Addictions, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biosciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA;
| | - Panayotis Thanos
- Behavioral Neuropharmacology and Neuroimaging Laboratory on Addictions, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Clinical Research Institute on Addictions, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biosciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA;
- Department of Psychology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(716)-881-7520
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Lee MT, Chen YH, Mackie K, Chiou LC. Median Nerve Stimulation as a Nonpharmacological Approach to Bypass Analgesic Tolerance to Morphine: A Proof-of-Concept Study in Mice. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2020; 22:300-312. [PMID: 33069869 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2020.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Analgesic tolerance to opioids contributes to the opioid crisis by increasing the quantity of opioids prescribed and consumed. Thus, there is a need to develop non-opioid-based pain-relieving regimens as well as strategies to circumvent opioid tolerance. Previously, we revealed a non-opioid analgesic mechanism induced by median nerve electrostimulation at the overlaying PC6 (Neiguan) acupoint (MNS-PC6). Here, we further examined the efficacy of MNS-PC6 in morphine-tolerant mice with neuropathic pain induced by chronic constriction injury (CCI) of the sciatic nerve. Daily treatments of MNS-PC6 (2 Hz, 2 mA), but not electrostimulation at a nonmedian nerve-innervated location, for a week post-CCI induction significantly suppressed established mechanical allodynia in CCI-mice in an orexin-1 (OX1) and cannabinoid-1 (CB1) receptor-dependent fashion. This antiallodynic effect induced by repeated MNS-PC6 was comparable to that induced by repeated gabapentin (50 mg/kg, i.p.) or single morphine (10 mg/kg, i.p.) treatments, but without tolerance, unlike repeated morphine-induced analgesia. Furthermore, single and repeated MNS-PC6 treatments remained fully effective in morphine-tolerant CCI-mice, also in an OX1 and CB1 receptor-dependent fashion. In CCI-mice receiving escalating doses of morphine for 21 days (10, 20 and 50 mg/kg), single and repeated MNS-PC6 treatments remained fully effective. Therefore, repeated MNS-PC6 treatments induce analgesia without tolerance, and retain efficacy in opioid-tolerant mice via a mechanism that involves OX1 and CB1 receptors. This study suggests that MNS-PC6 is an alternative pain management strategy that maybe useful for combatting the opioid epidemic, and opioid-tolerant patients receiving palliative care. PERSPECTIVE: Median nerve stimulation relieves neuropathic pain in mice without tolerance and retains efficacy even in mice with analgesic tolerance to escalating doses of morphine, via an opioid-independent, orexin-endocannabinoid-mediated mechanism. This study provides a proof of concept for utilizing peripheral nerve stimulating devices for pain management in opioid-tolerant patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Tatt Lee
- Graduate Institute of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan; Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UCSI University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yi-Hung Chen
- Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan; Chinese Medicine Research Center, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ken Mackie
- Gill Center for Biomolecular Research, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana; Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana
| | - Lih-Chu Chiou
- Graduate Institute of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.
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10
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Okine BN, Mc Laughlin G, Gaspar JC, Harhen B, Roche M, Finn DP. Antinociceptive Effects of the GPR55 Antagonist CID16020046 Injected into the Rat Anterior Cingulate Cortex. Neuroscience 2020; 443:19-29. [PMID: 32673629 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2020.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2019] [Revised: 07/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The G-protein coupled receptor, GPR55, modulates nociceptive processing. Given the expression of GPR55 in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), a key brain region involved in the cognitive and affective dimensions of pain, the present study tested the hypothesis that GPR55 signalling in the ACC facilitates inflammatory pain behaviour in rats. The expression of GPR55 in the ACC was confirmed by both western blotting and immunostaining, with evidence for neuronal localisation. Microinjection of the selective GPR55 antagonist CID16020046 into the ACC of adult male Sprague-Dawley rats significantly reduced second phase formalin-evoked nociceptive behaviour compared with vehicle-treated controls. CID16020046 administration was associated with a reduction in phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), a downstream target of GPR55 activation, in the ACC. Intra-ACC administration of CID16020046 prevented the formalin-induced increases in expression of mRNA coding for the immediate early gene and marker of neuronal activity, c-Fos, in the ipsilateral dorsal horn of the spinal cord. Intra-plantar injection of formalin reduced tissue levels of the endogenous GPR55 ligand 2-arachidonoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoinositol (2-AGPI) in the ACC, likely reflecting its increased release/utilisation. These data suggest that endogenous activation of GPR55 signalling and increased ERK phosphorylation in the ACC facilitates inflammatory pain via top-down modulation of descending pain control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bright N Okine
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics, NCBES, National University of Ireland, Galway, University Road, Galway, Ireland; Galway Neuroscience Centre and Centre for Pain Research, NCBES, National University of Ireland, Galway, University Road, Galway, Ireland
| | - Gemma Mc Laughlin
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics, NCBES, National University of Ireland, Galway, University Road, Galway, Ireland
| | - Jessica C Gaspar
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics, NCBES, National University of Ireland, Galway, University Road, Galway, Ireland; Galway Neuroscience Centre and Centre for Pain Research, NCBES, National University of Ireland, Galway, University Road, Galway, Ireland
| | - Brendan Harhen
- Galway Neuroscience Centre and Centre for Pain Research, NCBES, National University of Ireland, Galway, University Road, Galway, Ireland
| | - Michelle Roche
- Physiology, School of Medicine, NCBES, National University of Ireland, Galway, University Road, Galway, Ireland; Galway Neuroscience Centre and Centre for Pain Research, NCBES, National University of Ireland, Galway, University Road, Galway, Ireland
| | - David P Finn
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics, NCBES, National University of Ireland, Galway, University Road, Galway, Ireland; Galway Neuroscience Centre and Centre for Pain Research, NCBES, National University of Ireland, Galway, University Road, Galway, Ireland.
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11
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Wu HF, Lu TY, Chu MC, Chen PS, Lee CW, Lin HC. Targeting the inhibition of fatty acid amide hydrolase ameliorate the endocannabinoid-mediated synaptic dysfunction in a valproic acid-induced rat model of Autism. Neuropharmacology 2020; 162:107736. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2019.107736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Revised: 08/02/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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12
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Greco R, Demartini C, Zanaboni AM, Tumelero E, Reggiani A, Misto A, Piomelli D, Tassorelli C. FAAH inhibition as a preventive treatment for migraine: A pre-clinical study. Neurobiol Dis 2019; 134:104624. [PMID: 31629892 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2019.104624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Revised: 09/02/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fatty-acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) is an intracellular serine hydrolase that catalyzes the cleavage of endogenous fatty-acid amides, including the endocannabinoid anandamide (AEA). We previously reported that the peripherally restricted FAAH inhibitor URB937, which selectively increases AEA levels outside the central nervous system, reduces hyperalgesia and c-Fos expression in the trigeminal nucleus caudalis (TNC) and the locus coeruleus in an animal model of migraine based on nitroglycerin (NTG) administration. AIM To further investigate the relevance of FAAH inhibition in the NTG animal model of migraine by testing the effects of the globally active FAAH inhibitor URB597. METHODS Our experimental approach involved mapping neuronal c-Fos protein expression, measurement of AEA levels in brain areas and in trigeminal ganglia, evaluation of pain-related behavior and quantification of molecular mediators in rats that received URB597 (2 mg/kg i.p.) either before or after NTG administration (10 mg/kg, i.p.). RESULTS Pre-treatment with URB597 significantly reduced c-Fos immunoreactivity in the TNC and inhibited NTG-induced hyperalgesia in the orofacial formalin test. This behavioral response was associated with a decrease in neuronal nitric oxide synthase, calcitonin gene-related peptide and cytokine gene expression levels in central and peripheral structures. Administration of URB597 after NTG had no such effect. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that global FAAH inhibition may offer a therapeutic approach to the prevention, but not the abortive treatment, of migraine attacks. Further studies are needed to elucidate the exact cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the protective effects of FAAH inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosaria Greco
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology of Integrative Autonomic Systems, Headache Science Centre, IRCCS Mondino Foundation Pavia, Italy.
| | - Chiara Demartini
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology of Integrative Autonomic Systems, Headache Science Centre, IRCCS Mondino Foundation Pavia, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Zanaboni
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology of Integrative Autonomic Systems, Headache Science Centre, IRCCS Mondino Foundation Pavia, Italy; Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Italy
| | - Elena Tumelero
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology of Integrative Autonomic Systems, Headache Science Centre, IRCCS Mondino Foundation Pavia, Italy
| | - Angelo Reggiani
- Dept. of Drug Discovery and Development, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | - Alessandra Misto
- Dept. of Drug Discovery and Development, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Cristina Tassorelli
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology of Integrative Autonomic Systems, Headache Science Centre, IRCCS Mondino Foundation Pavia, Italy; Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Italy
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13
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Buisseret B, Alhouayek M, Guillemot-Legris O, Muccioli GG. Endocannabinoid and Prostanoid Crosstalk in Pain. Trends Mol Med 2019; 25:882-896. [PMID: 31160168 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2019.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Revised: 04/18/2019] [Accepted: 04/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Interfering with endocannabinoid (eCB) metabolism to increase their levels is a proven anti-nociception strategy. However, because the eCB and prostanoid systems are intertwined, interfering with eCB metabolism will affect the prostanoid system and inversely. Key to this connection is the production of the cyclooxygenase (COX) substrate arachidonic acid upon eCB hydrolysis as well as the ability of COX to metabolize the eCBs anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) into prostaglandin-ethanolamides (PG-EA) and prostaglandin-glycerol esters (PG-G), respectively. Recent studies shed light on the role of PG-Gs and PG-EAs in nociception and inflammation. Here, we discuss the role of these complex systems in nociception and new opportunities to alleviate pain by interacting with them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baptiste Buisseret
- Bioanalysis and Pharmacology of Bioactive Lipids Research Group, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - Mireille Alhouayek
- Bioanalysis and Pharmacology of Bioactive Lipids Research Group, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - Owein Guillemot-Legris
- Bioanalysis and Pharmacology of Bioactive Lipids Research Group, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - Giulio G Muccioli
- Bioanalysis and Pharmacology of Bioactive Lipids Research Group, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Bruxelles, Belgium.
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14
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Bonsale R, Seyed Sharifi R, Dirandeh E, Hedayat N, Mojtahedin A, Ghorbanalinia M, Abolghasemi A. Endocannabinoids as endometrial inflammatory markers in lactating Holstein cows. Reprod Domest Anim 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.13169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- R Bonsale
- Department of Animal Sciences; College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources; University of Mohaghegh Ardabili; Ardabil Iran
| | - R Seyed Sharifi
- Department of Animal Sciences; College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources; University of Mohaghegh Ardabili; Ardabil Iran
| | - E Dirandeh
- Department of Animal Sciences; Sari Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University; Sari Iran
| | - N Hedayat
- Department of Animal Sciences; College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources; University of Mohaghegh Ardabili; Ardabil Iran
| | - A Mojtahedin
- Department of Animal Sciences; College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources; University of Mohaghegh Ardabili; Ardabil Iran
| | - M Ghorbanalinia
- Department of Animal Sciences; Sari Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University; Sari Iran
| | - A Abolghasemi
- Section of Physiology; Department of Biomedical Sciences; University of Cagliari; Cagliari Sardegna Italy
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15
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Liput DJ, Pauly JR, Stinchcomb AL, Nixon K. Binge Alcohol Exposure Transiently Changes the Endocannabinoid System: A Potential Target to Prevent Alcohol-Induced Neurodegeneration. Brain Sci 2017; 7:brainsci7120158. [PMID: 29186065 PMCID: PMC5742761 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci7120158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2017] [Revised: 11/20/2017] [Accepted: 11/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Excessive alcohol consumption leads to neurodegeneration, which contributes to cognitive decline that is associated with alcohol use disorders (AUDs). The endocannabinoid system has been implicated in the development of AUDs, but little is known about how the neurotoxic effects of alcohol impact the endocannabinoid system. Therefore, the current study investigated the effects of neurotoxic, binge-like alcohol exposure on components of the endocannabinoid system and related N-acylethanolamines (NAEs), and then evaluated the efficacy of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibition on attenuating alcohol-induced neurodegeneration. Male rats were administered alcohol according to a binge model, which resulted in a transient decrease in [³H]-CP-55,940 binding in the entorhinal cortex and hippocampus following two days, but not four days, of treatment. Furthermore, binge alcohol treatment did not change the tissue content of the three NAEs quantified, including the endocannabinoid and anandamide. In a separate study, the FAAH inhibitor, URB597 was administered to rats during alcohol treatment and neuroprotection was assessed by FluoroJade B (FJB) staining. The administration of URB597 during binge treatment did not significantly reduce FJB+ cells in the entorhinal cortex or hippocampus, however, a follow up "target engagement" study found that NAE augmentation by URB597 was impaired in alcohol intoxicated rats. Thus, potential alcohol induced alterations in URB597 pharmacodynamics may have contributed to the lack of neuroprotection by FAAH inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Liput
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA.
| | - James R Pauly
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA.
| | - Audra L Stinchcomb
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA.
| | - Kimberly Nixon
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA.
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16
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Peng X, Studholme K, Kanjiya MP, Luk J, Bogdan D, Elmes MW, Carbonetti G, Tong S, Gary Teng YH, Rizzo RC, Li H, Deutsch DG, Ojima I, Rebecchi MJ, Puopolo M, Kaczocha M. Fatty-acid-binding protein inhibition produces analgesic effects through peripheral and central mechanisms. Mol Pain 2017; 13:1744806917697007. [PMID: 28326944 PMCID: PMC5407663 DOI: 10.1177/1744806917697007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Fatty-acid-binding proteins (FABPs) are intracellular carriers for endocannabinoids, N-acylethanolamines, and related lipids. Previous work indicates that systemically administered FABP5 inhibitors produce analgesia in models of inflammatory pain. It is currently not known whether FABP inhibitors exert their effects through peripheral or central mechanisms. Here, we examined FABP5 distribution in dorsal root ganglia and spinal cord and examined the analgesic effects of peripherally and centrally administered FABP5 inhibitors. Results Immunofluorescence revealed robust expression of FABP5 in lumbar dorsal root ganglia. FABP5 was distributed in peptidergic calcitonin gene-related peptide-expressing dorsal root ganglia and non-peptidergic isolectin B4-expressing dorsal root ganglia. In addition, the majority of dorsal root ganglia expressing FABP5 also expressed transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) and peripherin, a marker of nociceptive fibers. Intraplantar administration of FABP5 inhibitors reduced thermal and mechanical hyperalgesia in the complete Freund’s adjuvant model of chronic inflammatory pain. In contrast to its robust expression in dorsal root ganglia, FABP5 was sparsely distributed in the lumbar spinal cord and intrathecal administration of FABP inhibitor did not confer analgesic effects. Administration of FABP inhibitor via the intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) route reduced thermal hyperalgesia. Antagonists of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha blocked the analgesic effects of peripherally and i.c.v. administered FABP inhibitor while antagonism of cannabinoid receptor 1 blocked the effects of peripheral FABP inhibition and a TRPV1 antagonist blocked the effects of i.c.v. administered inhibitor. Although FABP5 and TRPV1 were co-expressed in the periaqueductal gray region of the brain, which is known to modulate pain, knockdown of FABP5 in the periaqueductal gray using adeno-associated viruses and pharmacological FABP5 inhibition did not produce analgesic effects. Conclusions This study demonstrates that FABP5 is highly expressed in nociceptive dorsal root ganglia neurons and FABP inhibitors exert peripheral and supraspinal analgesic effects. This indicates that peripherally restricted FABP inhibitors may serve as a new class of analgesic and anti-inflammatory agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxue Peng
- 1 Department of Anesthesiology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Keith Studholme
- 1 Department of Anesthesiology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Martha P Kanjiya
- 1 Department of Anesthesiology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Jennifer Luk
- 1 Department of Anesthesiology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Diane Bogdan
- 1 Department of Anesthesiology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Matthew W Elmes
- 2 Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Gregory Carbonetti
- 2 Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Simon Tong
- 3 Department of Chemistry, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA.,4 Institute of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Yu-Han Gary Teng
- 3 Department of Chemistry, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA.,4 Institute of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Robert C Rizzo
- 4 Institute of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA.,5 Department of Applied Mathematics and Statistics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Huilin Li
- 2 Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA.,4 Institute of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Dale G Deutsch
- 2 Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA.,4 Institute of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Iwao Ojima
- 3 Department of Chemistry, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA.,4 Institute of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Mario J Rebecchi
- 1 Department of Anesthesiology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Michelino Puopolo
- 1 Department of Anesthesiology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Martin Kaczocha
- 1 Department of Anesthesiology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA.,2 Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA.,4 Institute of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
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17
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Woodhams SG, Chapman V, Finn DP, Hohmann AG, Neugebauer V. The cannabinoid system and pain. Neuropharmacology 2017; 124:105-120. [PMID: 28625720 PMCID: PMC5785108 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 176] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2017] [Revised: 05/31/2017] [Accepted: 06/14/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Chronic pain states are highly prevalent and yet poorly controlled by currently available analgesics, representing an enormous clinical, societal, and economic burden. Existing pain medications have significant limitations and adverse effects including tolerance, dependence, gastrointestinal dysfunction, cognitive impairment, and a narrow therapeutic window, making the search for novel analgesics ever more important. In this article, we review the role of an important endogenous pain control system, the endocannabinoid (EC) system, in the sensory, emotional, and cognitive aspects of pain. Herein, we briefly cover the discovery of the EC system and its role in pain processing pathways, before concentrating on three areas of current major interest in EC pain research; 1. Pharmacological enhancement of endocannabinoid activity (via blockade of EC metabolism or allosteric modulation of CB1receptors); 2. The EC System and stress-induced modulation of pain; and 3. The EC system & medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) dysfunction in pain states. Whilst we focus predominantly on the preclinical data, we also include extensive discussion of recent clinical failures of endocannabinoid-related therapies, the future potential of these approaches, and important directions for future research on the EC system and pain. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled "A New Dawn in Cannabinoid Neurobiology".
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen G Woodhams
- Arthritis UK Pain Centre, School of Life Sciences, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom.
| | - Victoria Chapman
- Arthritis UK Pain Centre, School of Life Sciences, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - David P Finn
- Pharmacology & Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Galway Neuroscience Centre and Centre for Pain Research, NCBES, National University of Ireland Galway, University Road, Galway, Ireland
| | - Andrea G Hohmann
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA; Program in Neuroscience, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA; Interdisciplinary Biochemistry Graduate Program, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA; Gill Center for Biomolecular Science, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Volker Neugebauer
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Center of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
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18
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Pędzińska-Betiuk A, Weresa J, Toczek M, Baranowska-Kuczko M, Kasacka I, Harasim-Symbor E, Malinowska B. Chronic inhibition of fatty acid amide hydrolase by URB597 produces differential effects on cardiac performance in normotensive and hypertensive rats. Br J Pharmacol 2017; 174:2114-2129. [PMID: 28437860 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2017] [Revised: 03/27/2017] [Accepted: 04/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitors are postulated to possess anti-hypertensive potential, because their acute injection decreases BP in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), partly through normalization of cardiac contractile function. Here, we examined whether the potential hypotensive effect of chronic FAAH inhibition by URB597 in hypertensive rats correlated with changes in cardiac performance. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Experiments were performed using perfused hearts and left atria isolated from 8- to 10-week-old SHR, age-matched deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA)-salt rats and normotensive controls chronically treated with URB597 (1 mg·kg-1 ) or vehicle. KEY RESULTS URB597 decreased BP only in the DOCA-salt rats, along with a reduction of ventricular hypertrophy and diastolic stiffness, determined in hypertension. We also observed normalization of the negative inotropic atrial response to the cannabinoid receptor agonist CP55940. In the SHR model, URB597 normalized (atria) and enhanced (hearts) the positive ino- and chronotropic effects of the β-adrenoceptor agonist isoprenaline respectively. Ventricular CB1 and CB2 receptor expression was decreased only in the DOCA-salt model, whereas FAAH expression was reduced in both models. URB597 caused translocation of CB1 receptor immunoreactivity to the intercalated discs in the hearts of SHR. URB597 increased cardiac diastolic stiffness and modified the ino- and lusitropic effects of isoprenaline in normotensive rats. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Hypotensive effect of chronic FAAH inhibition depend on the model of hypertension and partly correlate with improved cardiac performance. In normotensive rats, chronic FAAH inhibition produced several side-effects. Thus, the therapeutic potential of these agents should be interpreted cautiously.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Pędzińska-Betiuk
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Jolanta Weresa
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Marek Toczek
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Marta Baranowska-Kuczko
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Irena Kasacka
- Department of Histology and Cytophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Ewa Harasim-Symbor
- Department of Physiology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Barbara Malinowska
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, Bialystok, Poland
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19
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Burston JJ, Mapp PI, Sarmad S, Barrett DA, Niphakis MJ, Cravatt BF, Walsh DA, Chapman V. Robust anti-nociceptive effects of monoacylglycerol lipase inhibition in a model of osteoarthritis pain. Br J Pharmacol 2016; 173:3134-3144. [PMID: 27501482 PMCID: PMC5056226 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2015] [Revised: 07/19/2016] [Accepted: 07/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Purpose Chronic pain is often a symptom of knee osteoarthritis (OA) for which current analgesics are either inadequate or are associated with serious side effects. The endocannabinoid system may offer alternative targets for pain relief. We evaluated the effects of a potent and selective monoacylglycerol (MAG) lipase inhibitor (MJN110) on OA pain behaviour, spinal mechanisms of action and joint histopathology in the rat. Experimental Approach Intra‐articular injection of monosodium iodoacetate (MIA) models OA pain and mimics clinical joint pathology. Effects of MJN110 on MIA‐induced weight‐bearing asymmetry and lowered paw withdrawal thresholds (PWTs), changes in spinal gene expression and brain levels of relevant lipids were determined. Key Results Acute MJN110 (5 mg·kg−1) significantly reversed MIA‐induced weight‐bearing asymmetry (MIA/vehicle: 68 ± 6 g; MIA/MJN110: 35 ± 4 g) and lowered ipsilateral PWTs (MIA/vehicle: 7 ± 0.8 g; MIA/MJN110: 11 ± 0.6 g), via both CB1 and CB2 receptors. Repeated treatment with MJN110 (5 mg·kg−1) resulted in anti‐nociceptive tolerance. A lower dose of MJN110 (1 mg·kg−1) acutely inhibited pain behaviour, which was maintained for 1 week of repeated administration but had no effect on joint histology. MJN110 significantly inhibited expression of membrane‐associated PGE synthase‐1 in the ipsilateral dorsal horn of the spinal cord of MIA rats, compared with vehicle‐treated MIA rats. Both doses of MJN110 significantly elevated brain levels of the endocannabinoid 2‐arachidonoylglycerol. Conclusions and Implications Our data support further assessment of the therapeutic potential of MAG lipase inhibitors for the treatment of OA pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- James J Burston
- Arthritis Research UK Pain Centre, University of Nottingham, Medical School, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK. .,School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Medical School, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK.
| | - Paul I Mapp
- Arthritis Research UK Pain Centre, University of Nottingham, Medical School, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK
| | - Sarir Sarmad
- Centre for Analytical Bioscience, School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - David A Barrett
- Centre for Analytical Bioscience, School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Micah J Niphakis
- The Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology and Department of Chemical Physiology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA.,Committee of Neurobiology of Addictive Disorders, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Benjamin F Cravatt
- The Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology and Department of Chemical Physiology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA.,Committee of Neurobiology of Addictive Disorders, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - David A Walsh
- Arthritis Research UK Pain Centre, University of Nottingham, Medical School, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK
| | - Victoria Chapman
- Arthritis Research UK Pain Centre, University of Nottingham, Medical School, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK. .,School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Medical School, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK.
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20
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Liu S, Tang SQ, Cui HJ, Yin S, Yin M, Zhao H, Meng LH, Wang ZJ, Lu Y. Dipotassium N-stearoyltyrosinate ameliorated pathological injuries in triple-transgenic mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. J Pharmacol Sci 2016; 132:92-99. [PMID: 27671351 DOI: 10.1016/j.jphs.2016.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2016] [Revised: 08/07/2016] [Accepted: 08/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, anandamide (AEA) analogues have been well recognized for its potent neuroprotective effects in counteracting the deterioration of Alzheimer's disease (AD) brains through multiple pathological processes. In our previous studies, dipotassium N-stearoyltyrosinate (NSTK), an AEA analogue synthesized by our laboratory was reported to exert significant efficacy through multiple interventions. Within this study, the amyloid precursor protein (APP)SWE/presenilin-1 (PS1)M146V/TauP301L mouse (3×Tg-AD) model was used to explore further the neuroprotective effects of NSTK and its underlying mechanisms. NSTK could increase spontaneous locomotor activity in the open field and low anxiety-like behavior in the elevated plus maze, and improve the spatial memory deficits in the Morris water maze. The biochemical analysis suggested that NSTK could decrease Aβ42 deposition, abnormal tau aggregation, and the expressions of p-APP Thr668, PS1 and p-tau Ser202/Thr205 in the hippocampus of 3×Tg-AD mice. Consistently, NSTK could reduce the level of malondialdehyde, increase the activity of superoxide dismutase and catalase. Up-regulation of Bcl-2, and down-regulation of BAX, caspase-3 and inflammatory cytokines also occurred in the hippocampus of 3×Tg-AD mice after treatment with NSTK. Thus, NSTK could intervene in multiple pathological processes of AD and would be a drug candidate against AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sha Liu
- Institute of Medical Science, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 280 South Chongqing Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuang-Qi Tang
- Institute of Medical Science, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 280 South Chongqing Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Heng-Jing Cui
- Institute of Medical Science, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 280 South Chongqing Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Sha Yin
- Institute of Medical Science, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 280 South Chongqing Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Ming Yin
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Ling-Hua Meng
- Institute of Medical Science, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 280 South Chongqing Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Ze-Jian Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yang Lu
- Institute of Medical Science, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 280 South Chongqing Road, Shanghai, China.
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Meesawatsom P, Burston J, Hathway G, Bennett A, Chapman V. Inhibitory effects of aspirin-triggered resolvin D1 on spinal nociceptive processing in rat pain models. J Neuroinflammation 2016; 13:233. [PMID: 27589850 PMCID: PMC5010669 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-016-0676-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2016] [Accepted: 08/17/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Harnessing the actions of the resolvin pathways has the potential for the treatment of a wide range of conditions associated with overt inflammatory signalling. Aspirin-triggered resolvin D1 (AT-RvD1) has robust analgesic effects in behavioural models of pain; however, the potential underlying spinal neurophysiological mechanisms contributing to these inhibitory effects in vivo are yet to be determined. This study investigated the acute effects of spinal AT-RvD1 on evoked responses of spinal neurones in vivo in a model of acute inflammatory pain and chronic osteoarthritic (OA) pain and the relevance of alterations in spinal gene expression to these neurophysiological effects. Methods Pain behaviour was assessed in rats with established carrageenan-induced inflammatory or monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced OA pain, and changes in spinal gene expression of resolvin receptors and relevant enzymatic pathways were examined. At timepoints of established pain behaviour, responses of deep dorsal horn wide dynamic range (WDR) neurones to transcutaneous electrical stimulation of the hind paw were recorded pre- and post direct spinal administration of AT-RvD1 (15 and 150 ng/50 μl). Results AT-RvD1 (15 ng/50 μl) significantly inhibited WDR neurone responses to electrical stimuli at C- (29 % inhibition) and Aδ-fibre (27 % inhibition) intensities. Both wind-up (53 %) and post-discharge (46 %) responses of WDR neurones in carrageenan-treated animals were significantly inhibited by AT-RvD1, compared to pre-drug response (p < 0.05). These effects were abolished by spinal pre-administration of a formyl peptide receptor 2 (FPR2/ALX) antagonist, butoxy carbonyl-Phe-Leu-Phe-Leu-Phe (BOC-2) (50 μg/50 μl). AT-RvD1 did not alter evoked WDR neurone responses in non-inflamed or MIA-treated rats. Electrophysiological effects in carrageenan-inflamed rats were accompanied by a significant increase in messenger RNA (mRNA) for chemerin (ChemR23) receptor and 5-lipoxygenase-activating protein (FLAP) and a decrease in 15-lipoxygenase (15-LOX) mRNA in the ipsilateral spinal cord of the carrageenan group, compared to controls. Conclusions Our data suggest that peripheral inflammation-mediated changes in spinal FLAP expression may contribute to the novel inhibitory effects of spinal AT-RvD1 on WDR neuronal excitability, which are mediated by FPR2/ALX receptors. Inflammatory-driven changes in this pathway may offer novel targets for inflammatory pain treatment. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12974-016-0676-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pongsatorn Meesawatsom
- Arthritis Research UK Pain Centre, Queen's Medical Centre, School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
| | - James Burston
- Arthritis Research UK Pain Centre, Queen's Medical Centre, School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Gareth Hathway
- Arthritis Research UK Pain Centre, Queen's Medical Centre, School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Andrew Bennett
- FRAME Alternatives Laboratory, Queen's Medical Centre, School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Victoria Chapman
- Arthritis Research UK Pain Centre, Queen's Medical Centre, School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK.
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Malek N, Starowicz K. Dual-Acting Compounds Targeting Endocannabinoid and Endovanilloid Systems-A Novel Treatment Option for Chronic Pain Management. Front Pharmacol 2016; 7:257. [PMID: 27582708 PMCID: PMC4987369 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2016.00257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2016] [Accepted: 08/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Compared with acute pain that arises suddenly in response to a specific injury and is usually treatable, chronic pain persists over time, and is often resistant to medical treatment. Because of the heterogeneity of chronic pain origins, satisfactory therapies for its treatment are lacking, leading to an urgent need for the development of new treatments. The leading approach in drug design is selective compounds, though they are often less effective and require chronic dosing with many side effects. Herein, we review novel approaches to drug design for the treatment of chronic pain represented by dual-acting compounds, which operate at more than one biological target. A number of studies suggest the involvement of the cannabinoid and vanilloid receptors in pain. Interestingly cannabinoid system is in interrelation with other systems that comprise lipid mediators: prostaglandins, produced by COX enzyme. Therefore, in the present review, we summarize the role of dual-acting molecules (FAAH/TRPV1 and FAAH/COX-2 inhibitors) that interact with endocannabinoid and endovanillinoid systems and act as analgesics by elevating the endogenously produced endocannabinoids and dampening the production of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins. The plasticity of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and the ability of a single chemical entity to exert an activity on two receptor systems has been developed and extensively investigated. Here, we review up-to-date pharmacological studies on compounds interacting with FAAH enzyme together with TRPV1 receptor or COX-2 enzyme respectively. Multi-target pharmacological intervention for treating pain may lead to the development of original and efficient treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Malek
- Laboratory of Pain Pathophysiology, Department of Pain Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences Krakow, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Starowicz
- Laboratory of Pain Pathophysiology, Department of Pain Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences Krakow, Poland
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Iannotti FA, Di Marzo V, Petrosino S. Endocannabinoids and endocannabinoid-related mediators: Targets, metabolism and role in neurological disorders. Prog Lipid Res 2016; 62:107-28. [DOI: 10.1016/j.plipres.2016.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 235] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2015] [Revised: 01/25/2016] [Accepted: 02/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Age-specific influences of chronic administration of the fatty acid amide hydrolase inhibitor URB597 on cardiovascular parameters and organ hypertrophy in DOCA-salt hypertensive rats. Pharmacol Rep 2016; 68:363-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharep.2015.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2015] [Revised: 10/08/2015] [Accepted: 10/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Baranowska-Kuczko M, Kozłowska H, Kloza M, Karpińska O, Toczek M, Harasim E, Kasacka I, Malinowska B. Protective role of cannabinoid CB1 receptors and vascular effects of chronic administration of FAAH inhibitor URB597 in DOCA-salt hypertensive rats. Life Sci 2016; 151:288-299. [PMID: 26969765 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2016.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2015] [Revised: 03/04/2016] [Accepted: 03/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
AIMS This study examined whether the fall in blood pressure (BP) induced by the chronic inhibition of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) by URB597 in deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA-salt) hypertensive rats correlates with endocannabinoid-mediated vascular changes. MAIN METHODS Functional studies were performed in isolated endothelium-intact aortas and small mesenteric arteries (sMAs) using organ bath technique and wire myography, respectively. KEY FINDINGS In the DOCA-salt rats, methanandamide-stimulated relaxation was enhanced in sMAs or diminished in aortas. Its vasorelaxant effect in sMAs was sensitive to the antagonist of the Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid type 1 (TRPV1), capsazepine, in normo- and hypertensive animals and to the antagonist of the cannabinoid CB1 receptors, AM6545, only in DOCA-salt rats. Cannabinoid CB1 receptors were up-regulated merely in DOCA-salt sMAs. URB597 decreased elevated BP in DOCA-salt rats, medial hypertrophy in DOCA-salt aortas. In sMAs it reduced FAAH expression and restored the augmented phenylephrine-induced contraction in the DOCA-salt rats to the level obtained in normotensive controls. In normotensive rats it diminished endothelium-dependent relaxation and increased phenylephrine-induced contraction. SIGNIFICANCE The study showed the protective role of cannabinoid CB1 receptors in DOCA-salt sMAs. Reduction in BP after chronic administration of the FAAH inhibitor URB597 in DOCA-salt hypertensive rats only partially correlates with structural and functional changes in conductance and resistance vessels, respectively. Caution should be taken in studying cannabinoids and FAAH inhibitors as potential therapeutics, because of their vessel- and model-specific activities, and side effects connected with off-target response and activation of alternative pathways of anandamide metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Baranowska-Kuczko
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, ul. Mickiewicza 2A, 15-222 Białystok, Poland; Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Medical University of Białystok, ul. Mickiewicza 2A, 15-222 Białystok, Poland.
| | - Hanna Kozłowska
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, ul. Mickiewicza 2A, 15-222 Białystok, Poland
| | - Monika Kloza
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, ul. Mickiewicza 2A, 15-222 Białystok, Poland
| | - Olga Karpińska
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, ul. Mickiewicza 2A, 15-222 Białystok, Poland
| | - Marek Toczek
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, ul. Mickiewicza 2A, 15-222 Białystok, Poland
| | - Ewa Harasim
- Department of Physiology, Medical University of Białystok, ul. Mickiewicza 2C, 15-222 Białystok, Poland
| | - Irena Kasacka
- Department of Histology and Cytophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, ul. Mickiewicza 2C, 15-222 Białystok, Poland
| | - Barbara Malinowska
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, ul. Mickiewicza 2A, 15-222 Białystok, Poland
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Abstract
In this review, I will consider the dual nature of Cannabis and cannabinoids. The duality arises from the potential and actuality of cannabinoids in the laboratory and clinic and the 'abuse' of Cannabis outside the clinic. The therapeutic areas currently best associated with exploitation of Cannabis-related medicines include pain, epilepsy, feeding disorders, multiple sclerosis and glaucoma. As with every other medicinal drug of course, the 'trick' will be to maximise the benefit and minimise the cost. After millennia of proximity and exploitation of the Cannabis plant, we are still playing catch up with an understanding of its potential influence for medicinal benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen P H Alexander
- Life Sciences, University of Nottingham Medical School, Nottingham NG7 2UH, England, United Kingdom.
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Okine BN, Spicer C, Millns P, Bennett A, Chapman V. Systemic administration of WY-14643, a selective synthetic agonist of peroxisome proliferator activator receptor-alpha, alters spinal neuronal firing in a rodent model of neuropathic pain. Scand J Pain 2015; 9:42-48. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sjpain.2015.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2015] [Accepted: 06/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background and aims
The clinical management of chronic neuropathic pain remains a global health challenge. Current treatments are either ineffective, or associated with unwanted side-effects. The development of effective, safe therapies requires the identification of novel therapeutic targets using clinically relevant animal models of neuropathic pain.
Peroxisome proliferator activated receptor alpha (PPARα), is a member of the nuclear hormone family of transcription factors, which is widely distributed in the peripheral and central nervous systems. Pharmacological studies report antinociceptive effects of PPARα agonists following systemic administration in rodent models of neuropathic pain, however the neuronal mechanisms and sites of action mediating these effects are unclear.
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of systemic administration of the synthetic PPARα agonist, WY-14643 on mechanically-evoked responses of spinal cord dorsal horn wide dynamic range (WDR) neurones in the spinal nerve ligated (SNL) model of neuropathic pain in rats. In addition, comparative molecular analysis of mRNA coding for PPARα and PPARα protein expression in the spinal cord of sham-operated and neuropathic rats was performed.
Methods
Lumbar L5–L6 spinal nerve ligation was performed in male Sprague–Dawley rats (110–130 g) under isoflurane anaesthesia. Sham controls underwent similar surgical conditions, but without ligation of the L5–L6 spinal nerves. Hindpaw withdrawal thresholds were measured on the day of surgery -day 0, and on days- 2, 4, 7, 10 and 14 post-surgery. At day 14 extracellular single-unit recordings of spinal (WDR) dorsal horn neurons were performed in both sham and SNL neuropathic rats under anaesthesia. The effects of intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of WY-14643 (15 and 30 mg/kg) or vehicle on evoked responses of WDR neurons to punctate mechanical stimulation of the peripheral receptive field of varying bending force (8–60 g) were recorded. In a separate cohort of SNL and sham neuropathic rats, the expression of mRNA coding for PPARα and protein expression in the ipsilateral and contralateral spinal cord was determined using quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blotting techniques respectively.
Results
WY-14643 (15 and 30mg/kg i.p.) rapidly attenuated mechanically evoked (8, 10 and 15g) responses of spinal WDR neurones in SNL, but not sham-operated rats. Molecular analysis revealed significantly increased PPARα protein, but not mRNA, expression in the ipsilateral spinal cord of SNL, compared to the contralateral side in SNL rats. There were no changes in PPARα mRNA or protein expression in the sham controls.
Conclusion
The observation that levels of PPARα protein were increased in ipsilateral spinal cord of neuropathic rats supports a contribution of spinal sites of action mediating the effects of systemic WY-14643. Our data suggests that the inhibitory effects of a PPARα agonist on spinal neuronal responses may account, at least in part, for their analgesic effects of in neuropathic pain.
Implication
Selective activation of PPARα in the spinal cord may be therapeutically relevant for the treatment of neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bright N. Okine
- School of Life Sciences , University of Nottingham Medical School , Queens Medical Centre, NG7 2UH , Nottingham , UK
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine , National University of Ireland Galway , University Road , Galway , Ireland
| | - Clare Spicer
- School of Life Sciences , University of Nottingham Medical School , Queens Medical Centre, NG7 2UH , Nottingham , UK
| | - Paul Millns
- School of Life Sciences , University of Nottingham Medical School , Queens Medical Centre, NG7 2UH , Nottingham , UK
| | - Andrew Bennett
- School of Life Sciences , University of Nottingham Medical School , Queens Medical Centre, NG7 2UH , Nottingham , UK
| | - Victoria Chapman
- School of Life Sciences , University of Nottingham Medical School , Queens Medical Centre, NG7 2UH , Nottingham , UK
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Fatty acids, endocannabinoids and inflammation. Eur J Pharmacol 2015; 785:96-107. [PMID: 26325095 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2015.08.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2015] [Revised: 07/01/2015] [Accepted: 08/26/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
From their phylogenetic and pharmacological classification it might be inferred that cannabinoid receptors and their endogenous ligands constitute a rather specialised and biologically distinct signalling system. However, the opposite is true and accumulating data underline how much the endocannabinoid system is intertwined with other lipid and non-lipid signalling systems. Endocannabinoids per se have many structural congeners, and these molecules exist in dynamic equilibria with different other lipid-derived mediators, including eicosanoids and prostamides. With multiple crossroads and shared targets, this creates a versatile system involved in fine-tuning different physiological and metabolic processes, including inflammation. A key feature of this 'expanded' endocannabinoid system, or 'endocannabinoidome', is its subtle orchestration based on interactions between a relatively small number of receptors and multiple ligands with different but partly overlapping activities. Following an update on the role of the 'endocannabinoidome' in inflammatory processes, this review continues with possible targets for intervention at the level of receptors or enzymes involved in formation or breakdown of endocannabinoids and their congeners. Although its pleiotropic character poses scientific challenges, the 'expanded' endocannabinoid system offers several opportunities for prevention and therapy of chronic diseases. In this respect, successes are more likely to come from 'multiple-target' than from 'single-target' strategies.
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Zheng Y, Reid P, Smith PF. Cannabinoid CB1 Receptor Agonists Do Not Decrease, but may Increase Acoustic Trauma-Induced Tinnitus in Rats. Front Neurol 2015; 6:60. [PMID: 25852639 PMCID: PMC4364172 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2015.00060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2014] [Accepted: 03/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Tinnitus has been suggested to arise from neuronal hyperactivity in auditory areas of the brain, and anti-epileptic drugs are sometimes used to provide relief from tinnitus. Recently, the anti-epileptic properties of the cannabinoid drugs have gained increasing interest; however, the use of cannabinoids as a form of treatment for tinnitus is controversial. In this study, we tested whether a combination of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-9-THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), delivered in a 1:1 ratio, could affect tinnitus perception in a rat model of acoustic trauma-induced tinnitus. Following sham treatment or acoustic trauma, the animals were divided into the following groups: (1) sham (i.e., no acoustic trauma) with vehicle treatment; (2) sham with drug treatment (i.e., delta-9-THC + CBD); (3) acoustic trauma-exposed exhibiting tinnitus, with drug treatment; and (4) acoustic trauma-exposed exhibiting no tinnitus, with drug treatment. The animals received either the vehicle or the cannabinoid drugs every day, 30 min before the tinnitus behavioral testing. Acoustic trauma caused a significant increase in the auditory brainstem response (ABR) thresholds in the exposed animals, indicating hearing loss; however, there was a partial recovery over 6 months. Acoustic trauma did not always result in tinnitus; however, among those that did exhibit tinnitus, some of them had tinnitus at multiple frequencies while others had it only at a single frequency. The cannabinoids significantly increased the number of tinnitus animals in the exposed-tinnitus group, but not in the sham group. The results suggest that cannabinoids may promote the development of tinnitus, especially when there is pre-existing hearing damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiwen Zheng
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Otago , Dunedin , New Zealand ; Brain Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, University of Otago , Dunedin , New Zealand
| | - Peter Reid
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Otago , Dunedin , New Zealand ; Brain Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, University of Otago , Dunedin , New Zealand
| | - Paul F Smith
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Otago , Dunedin , New Zealand ; Brain Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, University of Otago , Dunedin , New Zealand
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The Potential of Inhibitors of Endocannabinoid Metabolism for Drug Development: A Critical Review. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2015; 231:95-128. [PMID: 26408159 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-20825-1_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoids anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol are metabolised by both hydrolytic enzymes (primarily fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MGL)) and oxygenating enzymes (e.g. cyclooxygenase-2, COX-2). In the present article, the in vivo data for compounds inhibiting endocannabinoid metabolism have been reviewed, focussing on inflammation and pain. Potential reasons for the failure of an FAAH inhibitor in a clinical trial in patients with osteoarthritic pain are discussed. It is concluded that there is a continued potential for compounds inhibiting endocannabinoid metabolism in terms of drug development, but that it is wise not to be unrealistic in terms of expectations of success.
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Nasirinezhad F, Jergova S, Pearson JP, Sagen J. Attenuation of persistent pain-related behavior by fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitors in a rat model of HIV sensory neuropathy. Neuropharmacology 2014; 95:100-9. [PMID: 25486617 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2014.11.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2014] [Revised: 11/23/2014] [Accepted: 11/26/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Distal sensory neuropathies are a hallmark of HIV infections and can result in persistent and disabling pain despite advances in antiretroviral therapies. HIV-sensory neuropathic (HIV-SN) pain may be amenable to cannabinoid treatment, but currently available agonist treatments are limited by untoward side effects and potential for abuse in this patient population. Fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitors may offer an alternative approach by inhibiting the degradation of endocannabinoids with purportedly fewer untoward CNS side effects. In order to evaluate this potential approach in the management of HIV-SN pain, the recombinant HIV envelope protein gp120 was applied epineurally to the rat sciatic nerve to induce an HIV-SN-like pain syndrome. Two distinct FAAH inhibitory compounds, URB597 and PF-3845 were tested, and contrasted with standard antinociceptive gabapentin or vehicle treatment, for attenuation of tactile allodynia, cold allodynia, and mechanical hyperalgesia. Both FAAH inhibitors markedly reduced cold and tactile allodynia with limited anti-hyperalgesic effects. Peak antinociceptive effects produced by both agents were more modest than gabapentin in reducing tactile allodynia with similar potency ranges. URB597 produced comparable cold anti-allodynic effects to gabapentin, and the effects of both FAAH inhibitors were longer lasting than gabapentin. To assess the contribution of cannabinoid receptors in these antinociceptive effects, CB1 antagonist AM251 or CB2 antagonist SR144528 were tested in conjunction with FAAH inhibitors. Results suggested a contribution of both CB1- and CB2-mediated effects, particularly in reducing tactile allodynia. In summary, these findings support inhibition of endocannabinoid degradation as a promising target for management of disabling persistent HIV-SN pain syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farinaz Nasirinezhad
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Stanislava Jergova
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | | | - Jacqueline Sagen
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
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Okine BN, Rea K, Olango WM, Price J, Herdman S, Madasu MK, Roche M, Finn DP. A role for PPARα in the medial prefrontal cortex in formalin-evoked nociceptive responding in rats. Br J Pharmacol 2014; 171:1462-71. [PMID: 24303983 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2013] [Revised: 10/02/2013] [Accepted: 10/27/2013] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The nuclear hormone receptor, PPARα, and its endogenous ligands, are involved in pain modulation. PPARα is expressed in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), a key brain region involved in both the cognitive-affective component of pain and in descending modulation of pain. However, the role of PPARα in the mPFC in pain responding has not been investigated. Here, we investigated the effects of pharmacological modulation of PPARα in the rat mPFC on formalin-evoked nociceptive behaviour and the impact of formalin-induced nociception on components of PPARα signalling in the mPFC. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH The effects of intra-mPFC microinjection of a PPARα agonist (GW7647) or a PPARα antagonist (GW6471) on formalin-evoked nociceptive behaviour in rats were studied. Quantitative real-time PCR and LC-MS/MS were used to study the effects of intraplantar injection of formalin on PPARα mRNA expression and levels of endogenous ligands, respectively, in the mPFC. KEY RESULTS Intra-mPFC administration of GW6471, but not GW7647, resulted in delayed onset of the early second phase of formalin-evoked nociceptive behaviour. Furthermore, formalin-evoked nociceptive behaviour was associated with significant reductions in mPFC levels of endogenous PPARα ligands (N-palmitoylethanolamide and N-oleoylethanolamide) and a 70% reduction in PPARα mRNA but not protein expression. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS These data suggest that endogenous ligands may act at PPARα in the mPFC to play a facilitatory/permissive role in second phase formalin-evoked nociceptive behaviour in rats. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Cannabinoids 2013. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2014.171.issue-6.
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Affiliation(s)
- B N Okine
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland; Galway Neuroscience Centre and Centre for Pain Research, NCBES, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
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Spicarova D, Nerandzic V, Palecek J. Update on the role of spinal cord TRPV1 receptors in pain modulation. Physiol Res 2014; 63:S225-36. [PMID: 24564662 DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.932713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The structure, expression and function of the transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) receptor were intensively studied since the cloning in 1997 and TRPV1 receptors are now considered to act as transducers and molecular integrators of nociceptive stimuli in the periphery. In contrast, spinal TRPV1 receptors were studied less extensively and their role in pain modulation is still not fully understood. This short review is a follow up on our previous summary in this area (Spicarova and Palecek 2008). The aim was to review preferentially the most recent findings concerning the role of the spinal TRPV1 receptors, published within the last five years. The update is given on the expression and function of the spinal TRPV1 receptors, their activation by endogenous agonists, interaction between the endocannabinoid and endovanillod system and possible role of the spinal TRPV1 receptors in pathological pain states. There is now mounting evidence that TRPV1 receptors may be an important element in modulation of nociceptive information at the spinal cord level and represent an interesting target for analgesic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Spicarova
- Department of Functional Morphology, Institute of Physiology Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Prague, Czech Republic.
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Alterations in the anandamide metabolism in the development of neuropathic pain. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:686908. [PMID: 25276812 PMCID: PMC4167645 DOI: 10.1155/2014/686908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2014] [Revised: 07/04/2014] [Accepted: 07/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Endocannabinoids (EC), particularly anandamide (AEA), released constitutively in pain pathways might be accountable for the inhibitory effect on nociceptors. Pathogenesis of neuropathic pain may reflect complex remodeling of the dorsal root ganglia (DRGs) and spinal cord EC system. Multiple pathways involved both in the biosynthesis and degradation of AEA have been suggested. We investigated the local synthesis and degradation features of AEA in DRGs and spinal cord during the development and maintenance of pain in a model of chronic constriction injury (CCI). All AEA synthesis and degradation enzymes are present on the mRNA level in DRGs and lumbar spinal cord of intact as well as CCI-treated animals. Deregulation of EC system components was consistent with development of pain phenotype at days 3, 7, and 14 after CCI. The expression levels of enzymes involved in AEA degradation was significantly upregulated ipsilateral in DRGs and spinal cord at different time points. Expression of enzymes of the alternative, sPLA2-dependent and PLC-dependent, AEA synthesis pathways was elevated in both of the analyzed structures at all time points. Our data have shown an alteration of alternative AEA synthesis and degradation pathways, which might contribute to the variation of AEA levels and neuropathic pain development.
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Kleberg K, Hassing HA, Hansen HS. Classical endocannabinoid-like compounds and their regulation by nutrients. Biofactors 2014; 40:363-72. [PMID: 24677570 DOI: 10.1002/biof.1158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2014] [Accepted: 01/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Endocannabinoid-like compounds are structurally related to the true endocannabinoids but do not contain highly unsaturated fatty acids, and they do not bind the cannabinoid receptors. The classical endocannabinoid-like compounds include N-acylethanolamines and 2-monoacylglycerols, and their structural resemblance to the endocannabinoids makes them players in the endocannabinoid system, where they can interfere with the actions of the true endocannabinoids, because they in several cases engage the same synthesizing and degrading enzymes. In addition they have pharmacological actions of their own, which are particularly interesting in a nutritional and metabolic context. Exogenously supplied oleoylethanolamide, palmitoylethanolamide, and linoleoylethanolamide have anorexic effects, and the endogenous formation of these N-acylethanolamines in the small intestine may serve an important role in regulating food intake, through signaling via PPARα and the vagus nerve to the brain appetite center. A chronic high-fat diet will decrease intestinal levels of these anorectic N-acylethanolamines and this may contribute to the hyperphagic effect of high-fat diet; 2-monoacylglycerols mediate endocrine responses in the small intestine; probably trough activation of GPR119 on enteroendocrine cells, and diet-derived 2-monoacylglycerols, for example, 2-oleoylglycerol and 2-palmitoylglycerol might be important for intestinal fat sensing. Whether these 2-monoacylglycerols have signaling functions in other tissues is unclear at present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Kleberg
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
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Alhouayek M, Muccioli GG. Harnessing the anti-inflammatory potential of palmitoylethanolamide. Drug Discov Today 2014; 19:1632-9. [PMID: 24952959 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2014.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2014] [Revised: 04/18/2014] [Accepted: 06/10/2014] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPAR-α) ligand that exerts anti-inflammatory, analgesic and neuroprotective actions. PEA is synthetized from phospholipids through the sequential actions of N-acyltransferase and N-acylphosphatidylethanolamine-preferring phospholipase D (NAPE-PLD), and its actions are terminated by its hydrolysis by two enzymes, fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and N-acylethanolamine-hydrolysing acid amidase (NAAA). Here, we review the impact of PEA administration in inflammatory and neurodegenerative settings and the differential role of FAAH and NAAA in controlling PEA levels. Recent studies with NAAA inhibitors put forth this enzyme as capable of increasing PEA levels in vivo in inflammatory processes, and identified it as an interesting target for drug discovery research. Thus, PEA hydrolysis inhibitors could constitute potential therapeutic alternatives in chronic inflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mireille Alhouayek
- Bioanalysis and Pharmacology of Bioactive Lipids Research Group, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Université catholique de Louvain, Av. E. Mounier 72, B1.72.01, B-1200 Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - Giulio G Muccioli
- Bioanalysis and Pharmacology of Bioactive Lipids Research Group, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Université catholique de Louvain, Av. E. Mounier 72, B1.72.01, B-1200 Bruxelles, Belgium.
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Ignatowska-Jankowska BM, Ghosh S, Crowe MS, Kinsey SG, Niphakis MJ, Abdullah RA, Tao Q, O' Neal ST, Walentiny DM, Wiley JL, Cravatt BF, Lichtman AH. In vivo characterization of the highly selective monoacylglycerol lipase inhibitor KML29: antinociceptive activity without cannabimimetic side effects. Br J Pharmacol 2014; 171:1392-407. [PMID: 23848221 PMCID: PMC3954480 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2013] [Revised: 06/14/2013] [Accepted: 07/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Since monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) has been firmly established as the predominant catabolic enzyme of the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), a great need has emerged for the development of highly selective MAGL inhibitors. Here, we tested the in vivo effects of one such compound, KML29 (1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoropropan-2-yl 4-(bis(benzo[d][1,3]dioxol-5-yl)(hydroxy)methyl)piperidine-1-carboxylate). EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH In the present study, we tested KML29 in murine inflammatory (i.e. carrageenan) and sciatic nerve injury pain models, as well as the diclofenac-induced gastric haemorrhage model. KML29 was also evaluated for cannabimimetic effects, including measurements of locomotor activity, body temperature, catalepsy, and cannabinoid interoceptive effects in the drug discrimination paradigm. KEY RESULTS KML29 attenuated carrageenan-induced paw oedema and completely reversed carrageenan-induced mechanical allodynia. These effects underwent tolerance after repeated administration of high-dose KML29, which were accompanied by cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1 ) receptor desensitization. Acute or repeated KML29 administration increased 2-AG levels and concomitantly reduced arachidonic acid levels, but without elevating anandamide (AEA) levels in the whole brain. Furthermore, KML29 partially reversed allodynia in the sciatic nerve injury model and completely prevented diclofenac-induced gastric haemorrhages. CB1 and CB2 receptors played differential roles in these pharmacological effects of KML29. In contrast, KML29 did not elicit cannabimimetic effects, including catalepsy, hypothermia and hypomotility. Although KML29 did not substitute for Δ(9) -tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in C57BL/6J mice, it fully and dose-dependantly substituted for AEA in fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) (-/-) mice, consistent with previous work showing that dual FAAH and MAGL inhibition produces THC-like subjective effects. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS These results indicate that KML29, a highly selective MAGL inhibitor, reduces inflammatory and neuropathic nociceptive behaviour without occurrence of cannabimimetic side effects. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Cannabinoids 2013. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2014.171.issue-6.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - S Ghosh
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmond, VA, USA
| | - M S Crowe
- Department of Psychology, West Virginia UniversityMorgantown, WV, USA
| | - S G Kinsey
- Department of Psychology, West Virginia UniversityMorgantown, WV, USA
| | - M J Niphakis
- The Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology and Department of Chemical Physiology, The Scripps Research InstituteLa Jolla, CA, USA
| | - R A Abdullah
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmond, VA, USA
| | - Q Tao
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmond, VA, USA
| | - S T O' Neal
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmond, VA, USA
| | - D M Walentiny
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmond, VA, USA
| | - J L Wiley
- Research Triangle InstituteResearch Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - B F Cravatt
- The Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology and Department of Chemical Physiology, The Scripps Research InstituteLa Jolla, CA, USA
| | - A H Lichtman
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmond, VA, USA
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The purpose of this review is to illustrate the expanding view of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in relation to its roles in inflammation. RECENT FINDINGS According to the formal classification, the ECS consists of two cannabinoid receptors, their endogenous fatty acid-derived ligands, and a number of enzymes involved in their synthesis and breakdown. However, many endogenous congeners of classical endocannabinoids have now been discovered, together with a set of receptors structurally or functionally related to the cannabinoid receptors. Endocannabinoids per se behave 'promiscuously' with regard to their receptor interactions. It is increasingly recognized how tightly this expanded ECS is intertwined with key processes involved in inflammation. A continuous dynamic exchange of substrates and metabolites exists between ECS and eicosanoid pathways. Endocannabinoids can also be oxygenated by cyclooxygenase and other enzymes to biologically active 'hybrid' structures. Diet is among the main factors determining synthesis and release of endocannabinoids and related mediators. SUMMARY The complexity of what may be called the 'endocannabinoidome' requires approaches that take into account its dynamics and interconnections with other regulatory systems. This endocannabinoidome continues to offer possibilities for prevention and intervention, but multiple target approaches will probably provide the only keys to success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renger Witkamp
- Wageningen University, Division of Human Nutrition, Wageningen, the Netherlands
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Sousa-Valente J, Varga A, Ananthan K, Khajuria A, Nagy I. Anandamide in primary sensory neurons: too much of a good thing? Eur J Neurosci 2014; 39:409-18. [DOI: 10.1111/ejn.12467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2013] [Revised: 11/22/2013] [Accepted: 12/02/2013] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- João Sousa-Valente
- Section of Anaesthetics, Pain Medicine and Intensive Care; Department of Surgery and Cancer; Imperial College London; 369 Fulham Road London SW10 9NH UK
| | - Angelika Varga
- Section of Anaesthetics, Pain Medicine and Intensive Care; Department of Surgery and Cancer; Imperial College London; 369 Fulham Road London SW10 9NH UK
| | - Kajaluxy Ananthan
- Section of Anaesthetics, Pain Medicine and Intensive Care; Department of Surgery and Cancer; Imperial College London; 369 Fulham Road London SW10 9NH UK
| | - Ankur Khajuria
- Section of Anaesthetics, Pain Medicine and Intensive Care; Department of Surgery and Cancer; Imperial College London; 369 Fulham Road London SW10 9NH UK
| | - Istvan Nagy
- Section of Anaesthetics, Pain Medicine and Intensive Care; Department of Surgery and Cancer; Imperial College London; 369 Fulham Road London SW10 9NH UK
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A systems pharmacology perspective on the clinical development of Fatty Acid amide hydrolase inhibitors for pain. CPT-PHARMACOMETRICS & SYSTEMS PHARMACOLOGY 2014; 3:e91. [PMID: 24429592 PMCID: PMC3910012 DOI: 10.1038/psp.2013.72] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2013] [Accepted: 10/21/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The level of the endocannabinoid anandamide is controlled by fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). In 2011, PF-04457845, an irreversible inhibitor of FAAH, was progressed to phase II clinical trials for osteoarthritic pain. This article discusses a prospective, integrated systems pharmacology model evaluation of FAAH as a target for pain in humans, using physiologically based pharmacokinetic and systems biology approaches. The model integrated physiological compartments; endocannabinoid production, degradation, and disposition data; PF-04457845 pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, and cannabinoid receptor CB1-binding kinetics. The modeling identified clear gaps in our understanding and highlighted key risks going forward, in particular relating to whether methods are in place to demonstrate target engagement and pharmacological effect. The value of this modeling exercise will be discussed in detail and in the context of the clinical phase II data, together with recommendations to enable optimal future evaluation of FAAH inhibitors.CPT: Pharmacometrics Systems Pharmacology (2014) 3, e91; doi:10.1038/psp.2013.72; published online 15 January 2014.
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Rea K, Olango WM, Okine BN, Madasu MK, McGuire IC, Coyle K, Harhen B, Roche M, Finn DP. Impaired endocannabinoid signalling in the rostral ventromedial medulla underpins genotype-dependent hyper-responsivity to noxious stimuli. Pain 2014; 155:69-79. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pain.2013.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2013] [Revised: 08/18/2013] [Accepted: 09/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Burston JJ, Sagar DR, Shao P, Bai M, King E, Brailsford L, Turner JM, Hathway GJ, Bennett AJ, Walsh DA, Kendall DA, Lichtman A, Chapman V. Cannabinoid CB2 receptors regulate central sensitization and pain responses associated with osteoarthritis of the knee joint. PLoS One 2013; 8:e80440. [PMID: 24282543 PMCID: PMC3840025 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0080440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2013] [Accepted: 10/02/2013] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) of the joint is a prevalent disease accompanied by chronic, debilitating pain. Recent clinical evidence has demonstrated that central sensitization contributes to OA pain. An improved understanding of how OA joint pathology impacts upon the central processing of pain is crucial for the identification of novel analgesic targets/new therapeutic strategies. Inhibitory cannabinoid 2 (CB2) receptors attenuate peripheral immune cell function and modulate central neuro-immune responses in models of neurodegeneration. Systemic administration of the CB2 receptor agonist JWH133 attenuated OA-induced pain behaviour, and the changes in circulating pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines exhibited in this model. Electrophysiological studies revealed that spinal administration of JWH133 inhibited noxious-evoked responses of spinal neurones in the model of OA pain, but not in control rats, indicating a novel spinal role of this target. We further demonstrate dynamic changes in spinal CB2 receptor mRNA and protein expression in an OA pain model. The expression of CB2 receptor protein by both neurones and microglia in the spinal cord was significantly increased in the model of OA. Hallmarks of central sensitization, significant spinal astrogliosis and increases in activity of metalloproteases MMP-2 and MMP-9 in the spinal cord were evident in the model of OA pain. Systemic administration of JWH133 attenuated these markers of central sensitization, providing a neurobiological basis for analgesic effects of the CB2 receptor in this model of OA pain. Analysis of human spinal cord revealed a negative correlation between spinal cord CB2 receptor mRNA and macroscopic knee chondropathy. These data provide new clinically relevant evidence that joint damage and spinal CB2 receptor expression are correlated combined with converging pre-clinical evidence that activation of CB2 receptors inhibits central sensitization and its contribution to the manifestation of chronic OA pain. These findings suggest that targeting CB2 receptors may have therapeutic potential for treating OA pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- James J. Burston
- Arthritis Research UK Pain Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Devi Rani Sagar
- Arthritis Research UK Pain Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Pin Shao
- Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Mingfeng Bai
- Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Emma King
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Louis Brailsford
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Jenna M. Turner
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Gareth J. Hathway
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew J. Bennett
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - David A. Walsh
- Arthritis Research UK Pain Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - David A. Kendall
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Aron Lichtman
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Victoria Chapman
- Arthritis Research UK Pain Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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Abstract
The endocannabinoid (EC) system consists of two main receptors: cannabinoid type 1 receptor cannabinoid receptors are found in both the central nervous system (CNS) and periphery, whereas the cannabinoid type 2 receptor cannabinoid receptor is found principally in the immune system and to a lesser extent in the CNS. The EC family consists of two classes of well characterised ligands; the N-acyl ethanolamines, such as N-arachidonoyl ethanolamide or anandamide (AEA), and the monoacylglycerols, such as 2-arachidonoyl glycerol. The various synthetic and catabolic pathways for these enzymes have been (with the exception of AEA synthesis) elucidated. To date, much work has examined the role of EC in nociceptive processing and the potential of targeting the EC system to produce analgesia. Cannabinoid receptors and ligands are found at almost every level of the pain pathway from peripheral sites, such as peripheral nerves and immune cells, to central integration sites such as the spinal cord, and higher brain regions such as the periaqueductal grey and the rostral ventrolateral medulla associated with descending control of pain. EC have been shown to induce analgesia in preclinical models of acute nociception and chronic pain states. The purpose of this review is to critically evaluate the evidence for the role of EC in the pain pathway and the therapeutic potential of EC to produce analgesia. We also review the present clinical work conducted with EC, and examine whether targeting the EC system might offer a novel target for analgesics, and also potentially disease-modifying interventions for pathophysiological pain states.
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Elevating endocannabinoid levels: pharmacological strategies and potential therapeutic applications. Proc Nutr Soc 2013; 73:96-105. [DOI: 10.1017/s0029665113003649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system consists of cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors, of endogenous agonists for these receptors known as ‘endocannabinoids’, and of processes responsible for endocannabinoid biosynthesis, cellular uptake and metabolism. There is strong evidence first, that this system up-regulates in certain disorders as indicated by an increased release of endocannabinoids onto their receptors and/or by increases in the expression levels or coupling efficiency of these receptors, and second, that this up-regulation often appears to reduce or abolish unwanted effects of these disorders or to slow their progression. This discovery has raised the possibility of developing a medicine that enhances up-regulation of the endocannabinoid system associated with these disorders by inhibiting the cellular uptake or intracellular metabolism of an endocannabinoid following its ‘autoprotective’ endogenous release. For inhibition of endocannabinoid metabolism, research has focused particularly on two highly investigated endocannabinoids, anandamide and 2-arachidonoyl glycerol, and hence on inhibitors of the main anandamide-metabolising enzyme, fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), and of the main 2-arachidonoyl glycerol-metabolising enzyme, monoacylglycerol (MAG) lipase. The resulting data have provided strong preclinical evidence that selective FAAH and MAG lipase inhibitors would ameliorate the unwanted effects of several disorders, when administered alone or with a cyclooxygenase inhibitor, and that the benefit-to-risk ratio of a FAAH inhibitor would exceed that of a MAG lipase inhibitor or dual inhibitor of FAAH and MAG lipase. Promising preclinical data have also been obtained with inhibitors of endocannabinoid cellular uptake. There is now an urgent need for clinical research with these enzyme and uptake inhibitors.
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Woodhams SG, Wong A, Barrett DA, Bennett AJ, Chapman V, Alexander SPH. Spinal administration of the monoacylglycerol lipase inhibitor JZL184 produces robust inhibitory effects on nociceptive processing and the development of central sensitization in the rat. Br J Pharmacol 2013; 167:1609-19. [PMID: 22924700 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2012.02179.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2012] [Revised: 08/07/2012] [Accepted: 08/13/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The cannabinoid receptor-mediated analgesic effects of 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) are limited by monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL). 4-nitrophenyl 4-[bis (1,3-benzodioxol-5-yl) (hydroxy) methyl] piperidine-1-carboxylate (JZL184) is a potent inhibitor of MAGL in the mouse, though potency is reportedly reduced in the rat. Here we have assessed the effects of spinal inhibition of MAGL with JZL184 on nociceptive processing in rats. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH In vivo spinal electrophysiological assays in anaesthetized rats were used to determine the effects of spinal administration of JZL184 on spinal nociceptive processing in the presence and absence of hindpaw inflammation. Contributions of CB(1) receptors to these effects was assessed with AM251. Inhibition of 2-oleoylglycerol hydrolytic activity and alterations of 2-AG in the spinal cord after JZL 184 were also assessed. KEY RESULTS Spinal JZL184 dose-dependently inhibited mechanically evoked responses of wide dynamic range (WDR) neurones in naïve anaesthetized rats, in part via the CB(1) receptor. A single spinal administration of JZL184 abolished inflammation-induced expansion of the receptive fields of spinal WDR neurones. However, neither spinal nor systemic JZL184 altered levels of 2-AG, or 2-oleoylglycerol hydrolytic activity in the spinal cord, although JZL184 displayed robust inhibition of MAGL when incubated with spinal cord tissue in vitro. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS JZL184 exerted robust anti-nociceptive effects at the level of the spinal cord in vivo and inhibited rat spinal cord MAGL activity in vitro. The discordance between in vivo and in vitro assays suggests that localized sites of action of JZL184 produce these profound functional inhibitory effects. 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)
- S G Woodhams
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Nottingham Medical School, Nottingham, UK
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Pryce G, Cabranes A, Fernández-Ruiz J, Bisogno T, Di Marzo V, Long JZ, Cravatt BF, Giovannoni G, Baker D. Control of experimental spasticity by targeting the degradation of endocannabinoids using selective fatty acid amide hydrolase inhibitors. Mult Scler 2013; 19:1896-904. [PMID: 23625705 DOI: 10.1177/1352458513485982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It has been previously shown that CB1 cannabinoid receptor agonism using cannabis extracts alleviates spasticity in both a mouse experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model and multiple sclerosis (MS) in humans. However, this action can be associated with dose-limiting side effects. OBJECTIVE We hypothesised that blockade of anandamide (endocannabinoid) degradation would inhibit spasticity, whilst avoiding overt cannabimimetic effects. METHODS Spasticity eventually developed following the induction of EAE in either wild-type or congenic fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH)-deficient Biozzi ABH mice. These animals were treated with a variety of different FAAH inhibitors and the effect on the degree of limb stiffness was assessed using a strain gauge. RESULTS Control of spasticity was achieved using FAAH inhibitors CAY100400, CAY100402 and URB597, which was sustained following repeated administrations. Therapeutic activity occurred in the absence of overt cannabimimetic effects. Importantly, the therapeutic value of the target could be definitively validated as the treatment activity was lost in FAAH-deficient mice. Spasticity was also controlled by a selective monoacyl glycerol lipase inhibitor, JZL184. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates definitively that FAAH inhibitors provide a new class of anti-spastic agents that may have utility in treating spasticity in MS and avoid the dose-limiting side effects associated with cannabis use.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Pryce
- Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, UK
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Rani Sagar D, Burston JJ, Woodhams SG, Chapman V. Dynamic changes to the endocannabinoid system in models of chronic pain. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2013; 367:3300-11. [PMID: 23108548 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2011.0390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The analgesic effects of cannabinoid ligands, mediated by CB1 receptors are well established. However, the side-effect profile of CB1 receptor ligands has necessitated the search for alternative cannabinoid-based approaches to analgesia. Herein, we review the current literature describing the impact of chronic pain states on the key components of the endocannabinoid receptor system, in terms of regionally restricted changes in receptor expression and levels of key metabolic enzymes that influence the local levels of the endocannabinoids. The evidence that spinal CB2 receptors have a novel role in the modulation of nociceptive processing in models of neuropathic pain, as well as in models of cancer pain and arthritis is discussed. Recent advances in our understanding of the spinal location of the key enzymes that regulate the levels of the endocannabinoid 2-AG are discussed alongside the outcomes of recent studies of the effects of inhibiting the catabolism of 2-AG in models of pain. The complexities of the enzymes capable of metabolizing both anandamide (AEA) and 2-AG have become increasingly apparent. More recently, it has come to light that some of the metabolites of AEA and 2-AG generated by cyclooxygenase-2, lipoxygenases and cytochrome P450 are biologically active and can either exacerbate or inhibit nociceptive signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devi Rani Sagar
- Arthritis Research UK Pain Centre, University of Nottingham, School of Biomedical Sciences, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
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Involvement of the opioid and cannabinoid systems in pain control: new insights from knockout studies. Eur J Pharmacol 2013; 716:142-57. [PMID: 23523475 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2013.01.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2012] [Revised: 01/24/2013] [Accepted: 01/29/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The endogenous opioid and cannabinoid systems are involved in the physiological inhibitory control of pain and are of particular interest for the development of therapeutic approaches for pain management. The involvement of these endogenous systems in pain control has been studied from decades by the use of compounds with different affinities for each cannabinoid and opioid receptor or for the different enzymes involved in endocannabinoid and endogenous opioid metabolism. However, the selectivity of these pharmacological tools in vivo has represented an important limitation for these studies. The generation of genetically modified mice with selective mutations in specific components of the endocannabinoid and endogenous opioid system has provided important advances in the identification of the specific contribution of each component of these endogenous systems in the perception of noxious stimuli and the development of pathological pain states. Different lines of constitutive and conditional knockout mice deficient in specific cannabinoid and opioid receptors, specific precursors of the endogenous opioid peptides and the main enzymes involved in endocannabinoid and endogenous opioid degradation are now available. These knockout mice have also been used to evaluate the contribution of each component of the endocannabinoid and opioid system in the antinociceptive effects of cannabinoid and opioid agonists, including those currently used to treat pain in humans. This review summarizes the main advances provided in the last 15 years by the use of these genetic tools in the knowledge of the physiological control of pain and the pharmacology of cannabinoid and opioid compounds for pain management.
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Starowicz K, Di Marzo V. Non-psychotropic analgesic drugs from the endocannabinoid system: "magic bullet" or "multiple-target" strategies? Eur J Pharmacol 2013; 716:41-53. [PMID: 23500197 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2013.01.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2012] [Revised: 01/21/2013] [Accepted: 01/29/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The exploitation of preparations of Cannabis sativa to combat pain seems to date back to time immemorial, although their psychotropic effects, which are at the bases of their recreational use and limit their therapeutic use, are at least as ancient. Indeed, it has always been different to tease apart the unwanted central effects from the therapeutic benefits of Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychotropic component of cannabis. The discovery of the cannabinoid receptors and of their endogenous ligands, the endocannabinoids, which, unlike THC, play a pro-homeostatic function in a tissue- and time-selective manner, offered the opportunity to develop new analgesics from synthetic inhibitors of endocannabinoid inactivation. The advantages of this approach over direct activation of cannabinoid receptors as a therapeutic strategy against neuropathic and inflammatory pain are discussed here along with its potential complications. These latter have been such that clinical success has been achieved so far more rapidly with naturally occurring THC or endocannabinoid structural analogues acting at a plethora of cannabinoid-related and -unrelated molecular targets, than with selective inhibitors of endocannabinoid enzymatic hydrolysis, thus leading to revisit the potential usefulness of "multi-target" versus "magic bullet" compounds as new analgesics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Starowicz
- Department of Pain Pharmacolgy, Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smetna str, 31-343 Krakow, Poland.
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