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Cao Z, Wang S, Qi M, Zhang J, Liu R, Ren X, Wu Q, Cui Z, Dong H. Exploring the induction of endometrial epithelial cell apoptosis in clinical-type endometritis in yaks through the cyt-c/caspase-3 signaling axis. Microb Pathog 2024; 186:106470. [PMID: 38043625 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2023.106470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Endometritis is a significant contributor to reduced productivity in yaks in Tibet, China. The Cyt-c/Caspase-3 signaling axis plays a crucial role in the mitochondrial pathway that triggers cell apoptosis due to endogenous factors. In this study, we examined the endometrial epithelial tissue of yaks with endometritis using pathological examination, immunohistochemical analysis, TUNEL staining, qRT-PCR, and Western blot. The results indicated significant changes in the apoptotic factors of the Cyt-c/Caspase-3 signaling axis. The expression levels of Bak1, Bax, Cyt-c, Apaf-1, Caspase-9, and Caspase-3 were significantly increased (P < 0.05), while the expression level of Bcl-2 was significantly decreased. Immunohistochemistry results revealed significant increase in Bak1, Bax, Cyt-c, Apaf-1, Caspase-9, and Caspase-3 expression in the cytoplasm compared to the healthy group, except for Bcl-2, which showed a significant decrease. Pathological section analysis demonstrated that clinical endometritis in yaks led to structural damage, bleeding, congestion, and inflammatory cell infiltration in the endometrial epithelium. Our study findings indicated that clinical endometritis in yaks can modulate apoptosis of endometrial epithelial cells via the Cyt-c/Caspase-3 signaling pathway, resulting in different levels of damage. This research is pioneering in exploring cell apoptosis induced by clinical endometritis in yaks, offering novel insights and potential strategies for the future prevention and treatment of endometritis in yaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhipeng Cao
- Animal Science College, Tibet Agriculture & Animal Husbandry University, Linzhi 860000, China
| | - Shuo Wang
- Animal Science College, Tibet Agriculture & Animal Husbandry University, Linzhi 860000, China
| | - Ming Qi
- Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Station of Linzhi Agricultural and Rural Bureau (Animal Disease Prevention and Control Center), Linzhi 860000, China
| | - Jingbo Zhang
- Animal Science College, Tibet Agriculture & Animal Husbandry University, Linzhi 860000, China
| | - Ruidong Liu
- Animal Science College, Tibet Agriculture & Animal Husbandry University, Linzhi 860000, China
| | - Xiaoli Ren
- Animal Science College, Tibet Agriculture & Animal Husbandry University, Linzhi 860000, China
| | - Qingxia Wu
- Animal Science College, Tibet Agriculture & Animal Husbandry University, Linzhi 860000, China
| | - Zhonghua Cui
- Animal Disease Prevention and Control Center, Lintong District, Xi'an 710600, China
| | - Hailong Dong
- Animal Science College, Tibet Agriculture & Animal Husbandry University, Linzhi 860000, China.
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2
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Taylor AH, Konje JC, Ayakannu T. Identification of Potentially Novel Molecular Targets of Endometrial Cancer Using a Non-Biased Proteomic Approach. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4665. [PMID: 37760635 PMCID: PMC10527058 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15184665] [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: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study was aimed at identifying novel proteins in endometrial cancer (EC), employing proteomic analysis of tissues obtained after surgery. A differential MS-based proteomic analysis was conducted from whole tissues dissected from biopsies from post-menopausal women, histologically confirmed as endometrial cancer (two endometrioid and two serous; n = 4) or normal atrophic endometrium (n = 4), providing 888 differentially expressed proteins with 246 of these previously documented elsewhere as expressed in EC and 372 proteins not previously demonstrated to be expressed in EC but associated with other types of cancer. Additionally, 33 proteins not recorded previously in PubMed as being expressed in any forms of cancer were also identified, with only 26 of these proteins having a publication associated with their expression patterns or putative functions. The putative functions of the 26 proteins (GRN, APP, HEXA, CST3, CAD, QARS, SIAE, WARS, MYH8, CLTB, GOLIM4, SCARB2, BOD1L1, C14orf142, C9orf142, CCDC13, CNPY4, FAM169A, HN1L, PIGT, PLCL1, PMFBP1, SARS2, SCPEP1, SLC25A24 and ZC3H4) in other tissues point towards and provide a basis for further investigation of these previously unrecognised novel EC proteins. The developmental biology, disease, extracellular matrix, homeostatic, immune, metabolic (both RNA and protein), programmed cell death, signal transduction, molecular transport, transcriptional networks and as yet uncharacterised pathways indicate that these proteins are potentially involved in endometrial carcinogenesis and thus may be important in EC diagnosis, prognostication and treatment and thus are worthy of further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony H. Taylor
- Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies & Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK; (A.H.T.); (J.C.K.)
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Justin C. Konje
- Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies & Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK; (A.H.T.); (J.C.K.)
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
- Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Al Rayyan, Doha P.O. Box 24144, Qatar
| | - Thangesweran Ayakannu
- Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies & Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK; (A.H.T.); (J.C.K.)
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Taylor’s University, Subang Jaya 47500, Selangor, Malaysia
- Sunway Medical Centre, Bandar Sunway, Subang Jaya 47500, Selangor, Malaysia
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3
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Osorio-Perez RM, Rodríguez-Manzo G, Espinosa-Riquer ZP, Cruz SL, González-Espinosa C. Endocannabinoid modulation of allergic responses: Focus on the control of FcεRI-mediated mast cell activation. Eur J Cell Biol 2023; 102:151324. [PMID: 37236045 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2023.151324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Allergic reactions are highly prevalent pathologies initiated by the production of IgE antibodies against harmless antigens (allergens) and the activation of the high-affinity IgE receptor (FcεRI) expressed in the surface of basophils and mast cells (MCs). Research on the mechanisms of negative control of those exacerbated inflammatory reactions has been intense in recent years. Endocannabinoids (eCBs) show important regulatory effects on MC-mediated immune responses, mainly inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators. However, the description of the molecular mechanisms involved in eCB control of MC activation is far from complete. In this review, we aim to summarize the available information regarding the role of eCBs in the modulation of FcεRI-dependent activation of that cell type, emphasizing the description of the eCB system and the existence of some of its elements in MCs. Unique characteristics of the eCB system and cannabinoid receptors (CBRs) localization and signaling in MCs are mentioned. The described and putative points of cross-talk between CBRs and FcεRI signaling cascades are also presented. Finally, we discuss some important considerations in the study of the effects of eCBs in MCs and the perspectives in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rubi Monserrat Osorio-Perez
- Departamento de Farmacobiología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Unidad Sede Sur, Calzada de los Tenorios No. 235, Col. Granjas Coapa, Tlalpan, CP 14330 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Gabriela Rodríguez-Manzo
- Departamento de Farmacobiología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Unidad Sede Sur, Calzada de los Tenorios No. 235, Col. Granjas Coapa, Tlalpan, CP 14330 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Zyanya P Espinosa-Riquer
- Departamento de Farmacobiología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Unidad Sede Sur, Calzada de los Tenorios No. 235, Col. Granjas Coapa, Tlalpan, CP 14330 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Silvia L Cruz
- Departamento de Farmacobiología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Unidad Sede Sur, Calzada de los Tenorios No. 235, Col. Granjas Coapa, Tlalpan, CP 14330 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Claudia González-Espinosa
- Departamento de Farmacobiología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Unidad Sede Sur, Calzada de los Tenorios No. 235, Col. Granjas Coapa, Tlalpan, CP 14330 Mexico City, Mexico.
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4
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The chronological evolution of fluorescent GPCR probes for bioimaging. Coord Chem Rev 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ccr.2023.215040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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5
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Role of the endocannabinoid system in the pathophysiology of endometriosis and therapeutic implications. J Cannabis Res 2022; 4:54. [PMID: 36207747 PMCID: PMC9540712 DOI: 10.1186/s42238-022-00163-8] [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: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis patients experience debilitating chronic pain, and the first-line treatment is ineffective at managing symptoms. Although surgical removal of the lesions provides temporary relief, more than 50% of the patients experience disease recurrence. Despite being a leading cause of hysterectomy, endometriosis lacks satisfactory treatments and a cure. Another challenge is the poor understanding of disease pathophysiology which adds to the delays in diagnosis and overall compromised quality of life. Endometriosis patients are in dire need of an effective therapeutic strategy that is both economical and effective in managing symptoms, while fertility is unaffected. Endocannabinoids and phytocannabinoids possess anti-inflammatory, anti-nociceptive, and anti-proliferative properties that may prove beneficial for endometriosis management, given that inflammation, vascularization, and pain are hallmark features of endometriosis. Endocannabinoids are a complex network of molecules that play a central role in physiological processes including homeostasis and tissue repair, but endocannabinoids have also been associated in the pathophysiology of several chronic inflammatory diseases including endometriosis and cancers. The lack of satisfactory treatment options combined with the recent legalization of recreational cannabinoids in some parts of the world has led to a rise in self-management strategies including the use of cannabinoids for endometriosis-related pain and other symptoms. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of endocannabinoids with a focus on their potential roles in the pathophysiology of endometriosis. We further provide evidence-driven perspectives on the current state of knowledge on endometriosis-associated pain, inflammation, and therapeutic avenues exploiting the endocannabinoid system for its management.
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Gene expression of the endocannabinoid system in endometrium through menstrual cycle. Sci Rep 2022; 12:9400. [PMID: 35672435 PMCID: PMC9174470 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-13488-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocannabinoids mediate cellular functions and their activity is controlled by a complex system of enzymes, membrane receptors and transport molecules. Endocannabinoids are present in endometrium, a cyclical regenerative tissue requiring tightly regulated cellular mechanisms for maturation. The objective of this study was to investigate the gene expression of key elements involved in the endocannabinoid system across the menstrual cycle. RNA was isolated from endometrial tissue and genome-wide gene expression datasets were generated using RNA-sequencing. An a priori set of 70 genes associated with endocannabinoid system were selected from published literature. Gene expression across the menstrual cycle was analyzed using a moderated t test, corrected for multiple testing with Bonferroni’s method. A total of 40 of the 70 genes were present in > 90% of the samples, and significant differential gene expression identified for 29 genes. We identified 4 distinct regulation patterns for synthesizing enzymes, as well as a distinct regulation pattern for degradations and transporting enzymes. This study charts the expression of endometrial endocannabinoid system genes across the menstrual cycle. Altered expression of genes that control endocannabinoid may allow fine control over endocannabinoid concentrations and their influence on cellular function, maturation and differentiation as the endometrium matures through the menstrual cycle.
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Simard M, Rakotoarivelo V, Di Marzo V, Flamand N. Expression and Functions of the CB 2 Receptor in Human Leukocytes. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:826400. [PMID: 35273503 PMCID: PMC8902156 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.826400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The cannabinoid CB2 receptor was cloned from the promyeloid cell line HL-60 and is notably expressed in most, if not all leukocyte types. This relatively restricted localization, combined to the absence of psychotropic effects following its activation, make it an attractive drug target for inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Therefore, there has been an increasing interest in the past decades to identify precisely which immune cells express the CB2 receptor and what are the consequences of such activation. Herein, we provide new data on the expression of both CB1 and CB2 receptors by human blood leukocytes and discuss the impact of CB2 receptor activation in human leukocytes. While the expression of the CB2 mRNA can be detected in eosinophils, neutrophils, monocytes, B and T lymphocytes, this receptor is most abundant in human eosinophils and B lymphocytes. We also review the evidence obtained from primary human leukocytes and immortalized cell lines regarding the regulation of their functions by the CB2 receptor, which underscore the urgent need to deepen our understanding of the CB2 receptor as an immunoregulator in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mélissa Simard
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Département of Médecine, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada.,Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health (CERC-MEND), Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - Volatiana Rakotoarivelo
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Département of Médecine, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada.,Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health (CERC-MEND), Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - Vincenzo Di Marzo
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Département of Médecine, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada.,Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health (CERC-MEND), Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada.,Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche (CNR), Pozzuoli, Italy.,Institut sur la Nutrition et les Aliments Fonctionnels, Centre NUTRISS, École de Nutrition, Faculté des Sciences de L'agriculture et de L'alimentation, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada.,Joint International Unit Between the Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche (Italy) and Université Laval (Canada) on Chemical and Biomolecular Research on the Microbiome and Its Impact on Metabolic Health and Nutrition (UMI-MicroMeNu), Naples, Italy
| | - Nicolas Flamand
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Département of Médecine, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada.,Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health (CERC-MEND), Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
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8
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Preventive effect of different citrus essential oils on primary dysmenorrhea: in vivo and in vitro study. FOOD BIOSCI 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fbio.2021.101135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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9
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Cannabinoids and chronic pelvic pain in women: Focus on endometriosis. JOURNAL OF ENDOMETRIOSIS AND PELVIC PAIN DISORDERS 2021. [DOI: 10.1177/22840265211011277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Chronic pelvic pain in women is common and frequently difficult to treat. Chronic pelvic pain often develops in the setting of endometriosis, interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome, and vulvodynia. Cannabinoids are a promising treatment modality for non-cancer chronic pain, but have not been studied in women with chronic pelvic pain nor in specific chronic pelvic pain conditions. This review focuses on the interaction of the endocannabinoid system with the menstrual cycles, with endometriotic lesions, and within the bladder. Furthermore, it provides a brief overview of existing literature of the effects of endocannabinoids on chronic pain generally, with a focus on neuropathic pain. Finally, it discusses limited data available regarding the use of cannabinoids in women with chronic pelvic pain conditions. In the opinion of the authors, cannabinoids are a reasonable treatment modality for refractory chronic pelvic pain, especially if a neuropathic component is suspected. Practitioners should expect a modest effect on pain levels with an acceptable safety profile.
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10
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Wang S, Li B, Shen X, Duan H, Guo Z, Li X, Sun F. The cannabinoid receptor CB1 affects the proliferation and apoptosis of adenomyotic human uterine smooth muscle cells of the junctional zone: a mechanism study. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2021; 19:16. [PMID: 33531043 PMCID: PMC7852156 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-020-00690-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The denomyotic junctional zone (JZ) plays an important role in the pathogenesis of adenomyosis. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) is an important nuclear marker of cell proliferation. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of the cannabinoid receptor CB1 on proliferation and apoptosis in the JZ in women with and without adenomyosis. METHODS JZ smooth muscle cells (JZSMCs) of the adenomyosis and control groups were collected and cultivated. Immunohistochemistry and immunoblotting were used for protein localization and expression detection of CB1 and PCNA. Additionally, qRT-PCR was used to quantitatively analyse the mRNA expression of the two. AM251 and ACEA were used to regulate the function of CB1 receptors, and CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry assay were used to verify the proliferation and apoptosis of JZSMCs after regulation. RESULTS We demonstrated that in normal JZSMCs CB1 and PCNA messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression was significantly higher in the proliferative phase of the menstrual cycle than in the secretory phase. CB1 and PCNA expression in JZSMCs from women with ADS was significantly higher than that in control women and did not significantly differ across the menstrual cycle. CB1 receptor antagonist AM251 inhibited the proliferation of adenomyotic JZSMCs in a dose-dependent manner. The CB1 receptor agonist ACEA significantly promoted the proliferation of adenomyotic JZSMCs. The apoptosis rate of adenomyotic JZSMCs treated with AM251 was significantly higher than that of JZSMCs from the untreated control group. The apoptosis rate was significantly decreased in the ACEA group compared with that in the untreated control group. Furthermore, AM251 suppressed the phosphorylation of AKT and Erk1/2 in adenomyotic JZSMCs. The CB1 agonist ACEA significantly promoted the phosphorylation of AKT and Erk1/2. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicated that the levels of CB1 and PCNA were increased in patients with adenomyosis and that cyclic changes were lost. CB1 may affect uterine JZ proliferation and apoptosis in adenomyosis by enhancing AKT and MAPK/Erk signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sha Wang
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, 100006, Beijing, China
| | - Bohan Li
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, 100006, Beijing, China
| | - Xue Shen
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, 100006, Beijing, China
| | - Hua Duan
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, 100006, Beijing, China.
| | - Zhengchen Guo
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, 100006, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao Li
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, 100006, Beijing, China
| | - Fuqing Sun
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, 100006, Beijing, China
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11
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Tanaka K, Mayne L, Khalil A, Baartz D, Eriksson L, Mortlock SA, Montgomery G, McKinnon B, Amoako AA. The role of the endocannabinoid system in aetiopathogenesis of endometriosis: A potential therapeutic target. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2019; 244:87-94. [PMID: 31785471 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2019.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Revised: 11/08/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis affects a large proportion of women during their reproductive years and is associated with pain and infertility, also affecting psychological wellbeing and quality of life. The pathogenesis of the disease remains unclear, although it is believed to be multifactorial. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) consists of a number of ligands, receptors and enzymes, and has gained interests in endometriosis research. This review aims to summarise all available evidence reporting the roles of the ECS in endometriosis. A literature search of the PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science electronic medical databases was performed. Original and review articles published in peer-reviewed journals were included. No publication date or publication status restrictions were imposed. Significant differences in the concentrations and expressions of the components of the ECS were reported in the eutopic and ectopic endometrium, and the systemic circulation of women with endometriosis compared to controls. Endometriosis appears to be associated with downregulation of CB1 receptors and upregulation of TRPV1 receptors. The role of CB1 and progesterone in anti-inflammatory action and the role of TRPV1 in inflammation and pain are of particular interests. Furthermore, the ECS has been reported to be involved in processes relevant to endometriosis, including cell migration, cell proliferation, apoptosis, inflammation, and interacts with sex steroid hormones. The ECS may play a role in disease establishment, progression, and pain in endometriosis. However, reports are based on studies of limited size and there are inconsistencies among the definition of their control groups. There are also conflicting reports regarding precise involvement of the ECS in endometriosis. Future research with larger numbers, strict inclusion and exclusion criteria and detailed clinical information is imperative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keisuke Tanaka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Leah Mayne
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Akram Khalil
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - David Baartz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Lars Eriksson
- The University of Queensland, UQ Library, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Sally-Anne Mortlock
- The Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Grant Montgomery
- The Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Brett McKinnon
- The Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital of Berne, Berne, Switzerland
| | - Akwasi A Amoako
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
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12
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Espinosa-Riquer ZP, Ibarra-Sánchez A, Vibhushan S, Bratti M, Charles N, Blank U, Rodríguez-Manzo G, González-Espinosa C. TLR4 Receptor Induces 2-AG-Dependent Tolerance to Lipopolysaccharide and Trafficking of CB2 Receptor in Mast Cells. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2019; 202:2360-2371. [PMID: 30814309 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1800997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Mast cells (MCs) contribute to the control of local inflammatory reactions and become hyporesponsive after prolonged TLR4 activation by bacterial LPS. The molecular mechanisms involved in endotoxin tolerance (ET) induction in MCs are not fully understood. In this study, we demonstrate that the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and its receptor, cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2), play a role in the establishment of ET in bone marrow-derived MCs from C57BL/6J mice. We found that CB2 antagonism prevented the development of ET and that bone marrow-derived MCs produce 2-AG in a TLR4-dependent fashion. Exogenous 2-AG induced ET similarly to LPS, blocking the phosphorylation of IKK and the p65 subunit of NF-κB and inducing the synthesis of molecular markers of ET. LPS caused CB2 receptor trafficking in Rab11-, Rab7-, and Lamp2-positive vesicles, indicating recycling and degradation of the receptor. 2-AG also prevented LPS-induced TNF secretion in vivo, in a MC-dependent model of endotoxemia, demonstrating that TLR4 engagement leads to 2-AG secretion, which contributes to the negative control of MCs activation. Our study uncovers a functional role for the endocannabinoid system in the inhibition of MC-dependent innate immune responses in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zyanya P Espinosa-Riquer
- Departamento de Farmacobiología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados, CP 14330 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Alfredo Ibarra-Sánchez
- Departamento de Farmacobiología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados, CP 14330 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Shamila Vibhushan
- INSERM U1149, Centre de Recherche sur l'Inflammation, 75018 Paris, France.,CNRS ERL8252, 75018 Paris, France; and.,Laboratoire d'Excellence Inflamex, Faculté de Médecine Xavier Bichat, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Université Paris Diderot, 75018 Paris, France
| | - Manuela Bratti
- INSERM U1149, Centre de Recherche sur l'Inflammation, 75018 Paris, France.,CNRS ERL8252, 75018 Paris, France; and.,Laboratoire d'Excellence Inflamex, Faculté de Médecine Xavier Bichat, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Université Paris Diderot, 75018 Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Charles
- INSERM U1149, Centre de Recherche sur l'Inflammation, 75018 Paris, France.,CNRS ERL8252, 75018 Paris, France; and.,Laboratoire d'Excellence Inflamex, Faculté de Médecine Xavier Bichat, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Université Paris Diderot, 75018 Paris, France
| | - Ulrich Blank
- INSERM U1149, Centre de Recherche sur l'Inflammation, 75018 Paris, France.,CNRS ERL8252, 75018 Paris, France; and.,Laboratoire d'Excellence Inflamex, Faculté de Médecine Xavier Bichat, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Université Paris Diderot, 75018 Paris, France
| | - Gabriela Rodríguez-Manzo
- Departamento de Farmacobiología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados, CP 14330 Mexico City, Mexico;
| | - Claudia González-Espinosa
- Departamento de Farmacobiología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados, CP 14330 Mexico City, Mexico;
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Decreased Expression of Cannabinoid Receptors in the Eutopic and Ectopic Endometrium of Patients with Adenomyosis. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 2019:5468954. [PMID: 30800671 PMCID: PMC6360557 DOI: 10.1155/2019/5468954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 01/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Objective Adenomyosis is a common gynecologic benign disease that may have a life-long negative impact on women. Previous studies have indicated that the endocannabinoid system may participate in the progress of endometriosis. Our research aims to analyze the expression patterns of the typical cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2), the main constituents of the endocannabinoid system, in endometrial samples derived from patients diagnosed as adenomyosis or not. Methods Eutopic and corresponding ectopic endometrium from 45 premenopausal women diagnosed as adenomyosis and normal endometrium from 34 age-matched women lacking evidence of adenomyosis were examined by immunohistochemistry and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) to determine the CB1 and CB2 expression levels. Results In either the proliferative or the secretory phase, CB1 and CB2 protein and mRNA levels were both significantly lower in the eutopic and ectopic endometrium of adenomyosis when compared with normal endometrium. For women with adenomyosis, CB1 and CB2 protein and mRNA levels were much lower in the ectopic endometrium than the eutopic in both phases of the cycle. Both CB1 and CB2 protein and mRNA levels were increased during the secretory phase in normal endometrium, while CB1 lost its cyclic variation in the eutopic and ectopic endometrium from patients diagnosed as adenomyosis. Conclusion The decreased expression of CB1 and CB2 in the eutopic and ectopic endometrium from patients diagnosed as adenomyosis suggests that cannabinoid receptors may participate in the pathogenesis of adenomyosis.
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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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Bouaziz J, Bar On A, Seidman DS, Soriano D. The Clinical Significance of Endocannabinoids in Endometriosis Pain Management. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2017; 2:72-80. [PMID: 28861506 PMCID: PMC5436335 DOI: 10.1089/can.2016.0035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Patients with endometriosis often suffer from diffuse and poorly localized severe pain. The current pain management strategies include medical and hormonal therapy, as well as surgery. Medical management of pain is often insufficient and is associated with high rate of recurrence. Better pain management is therefore of urgent need. Methods: Among the various candidates, the endocannabinoid system (ECS) has recently emerged as a relevant pharmacological target for the management of endometriosis-related pain. A computerized literature search was performed to identify relevant studies combining the keywords "endometriosis," "endocannabinoid," "cannabinoid receptor," "THC," and "pain mechanisms." Conclusions: This review describes the multiple and complex pain mechanisms associated with endometriosis. Current data and theories concerning the link between the ECS and pain management for endometriosis patients are presented. Finally, we will discuss which aspects of endometriosis-associated pain can be targeted by modulation of the ECS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerome Bouaziz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Ramat-Gan, Israel
- Department of Urology, The Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Ramat-Gan, Israel
| | - Alexandra Bar On
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Ramat-Gan, Israel
- Department of Urology, The Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Ramat-Gan, Israel
| | - Daniel S. Seidman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Ramat-Gan, Israel
- Department of Urology, The Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Ramat-Gan, Israel
| | - David Soriano
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Ramat-Gan, Israel
- Department of Urology, The Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Ramat-Gan, Israel
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16
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Ernst J, Grabiec U, Greither T, Fischer B, Dehghani F. The endocannabinoid system in the human granulosa cell line KGN. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2016; 423:67-76. [PMID: 26773729 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2016.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2015] [Revised: 12/01/2015] [Accepted: 01/06/2016] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian steroidogenesis is embedded in a sensitive network of regulatory mechanisms crucial for human fertility. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) represents an intrinsic modulating system involved in the regulation of endocrine functions. In the present study we characterized the ECS in the human granulosa cell line KGN and its impact on gonadotropin sensitivity and steroid hormone synthesis under basal and FSH-stimulated conditions. Expression studies were performed and estradiol was measured. CB1, CB2, DAGL, FAAH, GPR55, MAGL, NAPE-PLD and TRPV1 were expressed without FSH-dependent effects. Treatment with selective cannabinoid receptor agonists reduced basal but not FSH-stimulated estradiol and CYP19. Progesterone was not altered by ECS manipulation. CB1 agonist changed the expression of miRNAs associated with granulosa cell function, e.g. miR-23a, miR-24, miR-181a and miR-320a. Present data indicate a modulating role of the intrinsic ovarian ECS in the regulation of estradiol synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Ernst
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Grosse Steinstrasse 52, D-06097 Halle (Saale), Germany.
| | - Urszula Grabiec
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Grosse Steinstrasse 52, D-06097 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Thomas Greither
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Halle (Saale), Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Ernst-Grube-Strasse 40, D-06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Bernd Fischer
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Grosse Steinstrasse 52, D-06097 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Faramarz Dehghani
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Grosse Steinstrasse 52, D-06097 Halle (Saale), Germany
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17
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Javid FA, Phillips RM, Afshinjavid S, Verde R, Ligresti A. Cannabinoid pharmacology in cancer research: A new hope for cancer patients? Eur J Pharmacol 2016; 775:1-14. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2016.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2015] [Revised: 01/05/2016] [Accepted: 02/03/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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18
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Han S, Thoresen L, Zhu X, Narayanan S, Jung JK, Strah-Pleynet S, Decaire M, Choi K, Xiong Y, Yue D, Semple G, Thatte J, Solomon M, Fu L, Whelan K, Al-Shamma H, Gatlin J, Chen R, Dang H, Pride C, Gaidarov I, Unett DJ, Behan DP, Sadeque A, Usmani KA, Chen C, Edwards J, Morgan M, Jones RM. Discovery of 1a,2,5,5a-tetrahydro-1H-2,3-diaza-cyclopropa[a]pentalen-4-carboxamides as potent and selective CB2 receptor agonists. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2014; 25:322-6. [PMID: 25488844 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2014.11.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2014] [Revised: 11/11/2014] [Accepted: 11/13/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The design and synthesis of novel 1a,2,5,5a-tetrahydro-1H-2,3-diaza-cyclopropa[a]pentalen-4-carboxamide CB2 selective ligands for the potential treatment of pain is described. Compound (R,R)-25 has good balance between CB2 agonist potency and selectivity over CB1, and possesses overall favorable pharmaceutical properties. It also demonstrated robust in vivo efficacy mediated via CB2 activation in the rodent models of inflammatory and osteoarthritis pain after oral administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangdon Han
- Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6154 Nancy Ridge Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA.
| | - Lars Thoresen
- Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6154 Nancy Ridge Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Xiuwen Zhu
- Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6154 Nancy Ridge Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Sanju Narayanan
- Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6154 Nancy Ridge Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Jae-Kyu Jung
- Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6154 Nancy Ridge Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | | | - Marc Decaire
- Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6154 Nancy Ridge Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Karoline Choi
- Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6154 Nancy Ridge Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Yifeng Xiong
- Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6154 Nancy Ridge Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Dawei Yue
- Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6154 Nancy Ridge Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Graeme Semple
- Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6154 Nancy Ridge Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Jayant Thatte
- Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6154 Nancy Ridge Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Michelle Solomon
- Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6154 Nancy Ridge Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Lixia Fu
- Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6154 Nancy Ridge Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Kevin Whelan
- Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6154 Nancy Ridge Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Hussien Al-Shamma
- Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6154 Nancy Ridge Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Joel Gatlin
- Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6154 Nancy Ridge Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Ruoping Chen
- Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6154 Nancy Ridge Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Huong Dang
- Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6154 Nancy Ridge Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Cameron Pride
- Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6154 Nancy Ridge Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Ibragim Gaidarov
- Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6154 Nancy Ridge Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - David J Unett
- Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6154 Nancy Ridge Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Dominic P Behan
- Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6154 Nancy Ridge Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Abu Sadeque
- Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6154 Nancy Ridge Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Khawja A Usmani
- Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6154 Nancy Ridge Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Chuan Chen
- Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6154 Nancy Ridge Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Jeffrey Edwards
- Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6154 Nancy Ridge Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Michael Morgan
- Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6154 Nancy Ridge Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Robert M Jones
- Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6154 Nancy Ridge Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
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Wu Z, Shao P, Zhang S, Bai M. Targeted zwitterionic near infrared fluorescent probe for improved imaging of type 2 cannabinoid receptors. JOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL OPTICS 2014; 19:36006. [PMID: 24604536 PMCID: PMC4019425 DOI: 10.1117/1.jbo.19.3.036006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2013] [Accepted: 01/30/2014] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies indicate that the type 2 cannabinoid receptors (CB2R) have become an attractive target for treating a variety of pathologies, including cancers, neurodegenerative diseases, inflammation, pain, osteoporosis, immunological disorders and drug abuse. In addition, it appears that many of these diseases have up-regulated CB2R expression. However, the precise role of CB2R in the regulation of diseases remains unclear. The ability to specifically image CB2R would contribute to develop reliable CB2R-based therapeutic approaches with a better understanding of the mechanism of CB2R action in these diseases. We developed a CB2R-targeted zwitterionic near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent probe, ZW760-mbc94. When compared with a previously reported CB2R probe (NIR760-mbc94) with the same targeting moiety but a charged NIR fluorescent dye, ZW760-mbc94 showed improved binding specificity in vitro and ex vivo. Overall, ZW760-mbc94 appears to have great potential as a CB2R-targeted contrast agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyuan Wu
- University of Pittsburgh, Department of Radiology, Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15219
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, Department of Radiology, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Pin Shao
- University of Pittsburgh, Department of Radiology, Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15219
| | - Shaojuan Zhang
- University of Pittsburgh, Department of Radiology, Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15219
- Xi’an Jiaotong University, the First Hospital of Medical School, Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Mingfeng Bai
- University of Pittsburgh, Department of Radiology, Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15219
- University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15232
- Address all correspondence to: Mingfeng Bai, E-mail:
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20
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Rapino C, Battista N, Bari M, Maccarrone M. Endocannabinoids as biomarkers of human reproduction. Hum Reprod Update 2014; 20:501-16. [PMID: 24516083 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmu004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infertility is a condition of the reproductive system that affects ∼10-15% of couples attempting to conceive a baby. More than half of all cases of infertility are a result of female conditions, while the remaining cases can be attributed to male factors, or to a combination of both. The search for suitable biomarkers of pregnancy outcome is a challenging issue in human reproduction, aimed at identifying molecules with predictive significance of the reproductive potential of male and female gametes. Among the various candidates, endocannabinoids (eCBs), and in particular anandamide (AEA), represent potential biomarkers of human fertility disturbances. Any perturbation of the balance between synthesis and degradation of eCBs will result in local changes of their tone in human female and male reproductive tracts, which in turn regulates various pathophysiological processes, oocyte and sperm maturation included. METHODS PubMed and Web of Science databases were searched for papers using relevant keywords like 'biomarker', 'endocannabinoid', 'infertility', 'pregnancy' and 'reproduction'. RESULTS In this review, we discuss different studies on the measurements of AEA and related eCBs in human reproductive cells, tissues and fluids, where the local contribution of these bioactive lipids could be critical in ensuring normal sperm fertilizing ability and pregnancy. CONCLUSION Based on the available data, we suggest that the AEA tone has the potential to be exploited as a novel diagnostic biomarker of infertility, to be used in association with assays of conventional hormones (e.g. progesterone, β-chorionic gonadotrophin) and semen analysis. However further quantitative research of its predictive capacity is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cinzia Rapino
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy StemTeCh Group, Chieti, Italy
| | - Natalia Battista
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy European Center for Brain Research/IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Monica Bari
- European Center for Brain Research/IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy Department of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Mauro Maccarrone
- European Center for Brain Research/IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy Center of Integrated Research, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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21
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Han S, Thatte J, Buzard DJ, Jones RM. Therapeutic Utility of Cannabinoid Receptor Type 2 (CB2) Selective Agonists. J Med Chem 2013; 56:8224-56. [DOI: 10.1021/jm4005626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sangdon Han
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6166 Nancy Ridge Drive, San
Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Jayant Thatte
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6166 Nancy Ridge Drive, San
Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Daniel J. Buzard
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6166 Nancy Ridge Drive, San
Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Robert M. Jones
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Arena Pharmaceuticals, 6166 Nancy Ridge Drive, San
Diego, California 92121, United States
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22
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Evens N, Vandeputte C, Muccioli GG, Lambert DM, Baekelandt V, Verbruggen AM, Debyser Z, Van Laere K, Bormans GM. Synthesis, in vitro and in vivo evaluation of fluorine-18 labelled FE-GW405833 as a PET tracer for type 2 cannabinoid receptor imaging. Bioorg Med Chem 2011; 19:4499-505. [PMID: 21737287 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2011.06.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2011] [Revised: 06/06/2011] [Accepted: 06/09/2011] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The type 2 cannabinoid receptor (CB₂R) is part of the endocannabinoid system and is expressed in tissues related to the immune system. As the CB₂R has a very low brain expression in non-pathological conditions, but is upregulated in activated microglia, it is an interesting target for visualization of neuroinflammation using positron emission tomography with a suitable radiolabeled CB₂R ligand. In this study, we radiolabelled a fluoroethyl derivative of GW405833, a well known CB₂R partial agonist, with fluorine-18 (half-life 109.8 min) by alkylation of the phenol precursor with 1-bromo-2-[¹⁸F]fluoroethane. In vitro studies showed that FE-GW405833 behaved as a selective high affinity (27 nM) inverse agonist for hCB₂R. [¹⁸F]FE-GW405833 showed moderate initial brain uptake in mice and rats, but a slow washout from brain and plasma due to retention of a radiometabolite. Specific binding of the tracer to human CB₂R was demonstrated in vivo in a rat model with local CB₂R overexpression in the brain. Optimized derivatives of GW405833 that are less susceptible to metabolism will need to be developed in order to provide a useful tracer for CB₂R quantification with PET.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nele Evens
- Laboratory for Radiopharmacy, IMIR K.U. Leuven, O&N2, Herestraat 49, Bus 821, BE-3000 Leuven, Belgium
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23
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Is lipid signaling through cannabinoid 2 receptors part of a protective system? Prog Lipid Res 2011; 50:193-211. [PMID: 21295074 DOI: 10.1016/j.plipres.2011.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 311] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2010] [Revised: 01/26/2011] [Accepted: 01/26/2011] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The mammalian body has a highly developed immune system which guards against continuous invading protein attacks and aims at preventing, attenuating or repairing the inflicted damage. It is conceivable that through evolution analogous biological protective systems have been evolved against non-protein attacks. There is emerging evidence that lipid endocannabinoid signaling through cannabinoid 2 (CB₂) receptors may represent an example/part of such a protective system/armamentarium. Inflammation/tissue injury triggers rapid elevations in local endocannabinoid levels, which in turn regulate signaling responses in immune and other cells modulating their critical functions. Changes in endocannabinoid levels and/or CB₂ receptor expressions have been reported in almost all diseases affecting humans, ranging from cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, liver, kidney, neurodegenerative, psychiatric, bone, skin, autoimmune, lung disorders to pain and cancer, and modulating CB₂ receptor activity holds tremendous therapeutic potential in these pathologies. While CB₂ receptor activation in general mediates immunosuppressive effects, which limit inflammation and associated tissue injury in large number of pathological conditions, in some disease states activation of the CB₂ receptor may enhance or even trigger tissue damage, which will also be discussed alongside the protective actions of the CB₂ receptor stimulation with endocannabinoids or synthetic agonists, and the possible biological mechanisms involved in these effects.
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Levels of endocannabinoids and palmitoylethanolamide and their pharmacological manipulation in chronic granulomatous inflammation in rats. Pharmacol Res 2010; 61:321-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2009.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2009] [Revised: 11/10/2009] [Accepted: 11/11/2009] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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25
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Guida M, Ligresti A, De Filippis D, D'Amico A, Petrosino S, Cipriano M, Bifulco G, Simonetti S, Orlando P, Insabato L, Nappi C, Di Spiezio Sardo A, Di Marzo V, Iuvone T. The levels of the endocannabinoid receptor CB2 and its ligand 2-arachidonoylglycerol are elevated in endometrial carcinoma. Endocrinology 2010; 151:921-8. [PMID: 20133454 DOI: 10.1210/en.2009-0883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system plays protective roles against the growth and the spreading of several types of carcinomas. Because estrogens regulate this system both in physiological states and cancer, in this paper we evaluated its involvement in endometrial carcinoma, a well-known estrogen-dependent tumor. To test whether the endocannabinoid system is expressed in endometrial cancer, tissue samples were collected both from 18 patients undergoing surgical treatment for endometrial adenocarcinoma and 16 healthy age-matched controls, and treated for Western blot and immunohistochemical analysis. Moreover, tissues were dounce homogenized and submitted to endocannabinoid measurement by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. To evaluate the physiological role of the endocannabinoid system, a human endometrial cancer cell-line (AN3CA) was used and transiently transfected with a plasmid containing the cDNA for the endocannabinoid receptor CB(2). Cells were incubated for 48 h with an agonist (JWH133) (10 mum) or antagonist (SR144528) (1 mum) of CB(2) 24 h after transfection, and cell proliferation was measured by the 3-[4,5-dimethyltiazol-2yl]-2,5 diphenyltetrazolium bromide formazan assay. In human endometrial carcinoma biopsies the expression of CB(2) receptor and the levels of its ligand, 2-arachidonoylglycerol increased, whereas monoacylglycerol lipase, an enzyme responsible for 2-arachidonoylglycerol degradation, was down-regulated. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that CB(2) was overexpressed only in malignant endometrial cells. CB(2)-overexpressing AN3CA cells showed a significant reduction in cell vitality compared with parental AN3CA cells: incubation with the selective CB(2) antagonist SR144128 restored the viability of CB(2)-overexpressing cells to that of untransfected cells. In conclusion, the endocannabinoid system seems to play an important role in human endometrial carcinoma, and modulation of CB(2) activity/expression may account for a tumor-suppressive effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Guida
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics and Pathophysiology of Human Reproduction, University of Naples Federico II, 80078 Naples, Italy
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26
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Evens N, Muccioli GG, Houbrechts N, Lambert DM, Verbruggen AM, Van Laere K, Bormans GM. Synthesis and biological evaluation of carbon-11- and fluorine-18-labeled 2-oxoquinoline derivatives for type 2 cannabinoid receptor positron emission tomography imaging. Nucl Med Biol 2009; 36:455-65. [PMID: 19423014 DOI: 10.1016/j.nucmedbio.2009.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2008] [Revised: 01/14/2009] [Accepted: 01/15/2009] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The type 2 cannabinoid (CB(2)) receptor is part of the endocannabinoid system and has been suggested as a mediator of several central and peripheral inflammatory processes. Imaging of the CB(2) receptor has been unsuccessful so far. We synthesized and evaluated a carbon-11- and a fluorine-18-labeled 2-oxoquinoline derivative as new PET tracers with high specificity and affinity for the CB(2) receptor. METHODS Two 2-oxoquinoline derivatives were synthesized and radiolabeled with either carbon-11 or fluorine-18. Their affinity and selectivity for the human CB(2) receptor were determined. Biological evaluation was done by biodistribution, radiometabolite and autoradiography studies in mice. RESULTS In vitro studies showed that both compounds are high affinity CB(2)-specific inverse agonists. Biodistribution study of the tracers in mice showed a high in vivo initial brain uptake and fast brain washout, in accordance with the low CB(2) receptor expression levels in normal brain. A persistently high in vivo binding to the spleen was observed, which was inhibited by pretreatment with two structurally unrelated CB(2) selective inverse agonists. In vitro autoradiography studies with the radioligands confirmed CB(2)-specific binding to the mouse spleen. CONCLUSION We synthesized two novel CB(2) receptor PET tracers that show high affinity/selectivity for CB(2) receptors. Both tracers show favourable characteristics as radioligands for central and peripheral in vivo visualization of the CB(2) receptor and are promising candidates for primate and human CB(2) PET imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nele Evens
- Laboratory for Radiopharmacy, K.U. Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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Diaz P, Phatak SS, Xu J, Astruc-Diaz F, Cavasotto CN, Naguib M. 6-Methoxy-N-alkyl Isatin Acylhydrazone Derivatives as a Novel Series of Potent Selective Cannabinoid Receptor 2 Inverse Agonists: Design, Synthesis, and Binding Mode Prediction. J Med Chem 2008; 52:433-44. [DOI: 10.1021/jm801353p] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Diaz
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Unit 409, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, 1400 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, Texas 77030, School of Health Information Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 7000 Fannin, Suite 860B, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Sharangdhar S. Phatak
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Unit 409, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, 1400 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, Texas 77030, School of Health Information Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 7000 Fannin, Suite 860B, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Jijun Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Unit 409, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, 1400 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, Texas 77030, School of Health Information Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 7000 Fannin, Suite 860B, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Fanny Astruc-Diaz
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Unit 409, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, 1400 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, Texas 77030, School of Health Information Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 7000 Fannin, Suite 860B, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Claudio N. Cavasotto
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Unit 409, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, 1400 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, Texas 77030, School of Health Information Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 7000 Fannin, Suite 860B, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Mohamed Naguib
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Unit 409, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, 1400 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, Texas 77030, School of Health Information Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 7000 Fannin, Suite 860B, Houston, Texas 77030
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Cannabinoids reduce granuloma-associated angiogenesis in rats by controlling transcription and expression of mast cell protease-5. Br J Pharmacol 2008; 154:1672-9. [PMID: 18552882 DOI: 10.1038/bjp.2008.211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Chronic inflammatory conditions, such as granulomas, are associated with angiogenesis. Mast cells represent the main cell type orchestrating angiogenesis, through the release of their granule content. Therefore, compounds able to modulate mast cell behaviour may be considered as a new pharmacological approach to treat angiogenesis-dependent events. Here, we tested the effect of selective cannabinoid (CB) receptor agonists in a model of angiogenesis-dependent granuloma formation induced by lambda-carrageenin in rats. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Granulomas were induced by lambda-carrageenin-soaked sponges implanted subcutaneously on the back of male Wistar rats. After 96 h, implants were removed and granuloma formation was measured (wet weight); angiogenesis was evaluated by histological analysis and by the measurement of haemoglobin content. Mast cells in the granulomas were evaluated histologically and by RT-PCR and immunoblotting analysis for mast cell-derived proteins (rat mast cell protease-5 (rMCP-5) and nerve growth factor). Selective CB1 and CB2 receptor agonists(,) ACEA and JWH-015 (0.001-0.1 mg mL(-1)), were given locally only once, at the time of implantation. KEY RESULTS The CB1 and CB2 receptor agonists decreased the weight and vascularization of granulomas after 96 h. This treatment also reduced mast cell number and activation in granulomatous tissue. Specifically, these compounds prevented the transcription and expression of rMCP-5, a protein involved in sprouting and advance of new blood vessels. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Modulation of mast cell function by cannabinoids reduced granuloma formation and associated angiogenesis. Therefore cannabinoid-related drugs may be useful in the management of granulomatous diseases accompanied by angiogenesis.
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De Filippis D, D'Amico A, Cinelli MP, Esposito G, Di Marzo V, Iuvone T. Adelmidrol, a palmitoylethanolamide analogue, reduces chronic inflammation in a carrageenin-granuloma model in rats. J Cell Mol Med 2008; 13:1086-95. [PMID: 18429935 PMCID: PMC4496105 DOI: 10.1111/j.1582-4934.2008.00353.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) and some of its analogues have shown great efficacy in the treatment of pain and inflammation. Adelmidrol – the International Nonproprietary Name (INN) of the di-amide derivative of azelaic acid – is one of these analogues. The anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of PEA and adelmidrol are hypothesized to be mediated, at least in part, by mast cell down-modulation. Mast cell mediators released at early stage of the inflammatory process drive the inflammatory reaction to chronicity as it happens in X-carrageenin-induced granulomatous tissue formation. In the present study, the choice of testing adelmidrol depends upon the physicochemical properties of the compound, i.e. the amphipatic feature, that make it more easily soluble than PEA. In this study, we investigated the effect of adelmidrol on granuloma formation induced by λ-carrageenin-soaked sponge implant in rats. Our results show that the local administration of the compound under study significantly decreases weight and neo-angiogenesis in granulomatous tissue. The anti-inflammatory effect was due to the modulation of mast cells degranulation, as shown by histological analysis and by the inhibition of the release of several pro-inflammatory and pro-angiogenic enzymes (e.g. iNOS, chymase and metalloproteinase MMP-9), and mediators (e.g. nitric oxide and TNF-α). The results indicate that adelmidrol, given locally, may represent a potential therapeutic tool in controlling chronic inflammation.
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