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Banerjee S, Saha D, Sharma R, Jaidee W, Puttarak P, Chaiyakunapruk N, Chaoroensup R. Phytocannabinoids in neuromodulation: From omics to epigenetics. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 330:118201. [PMID: 38677573 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent developments in metabolomics, transcriptomic and epigenetics open up new horizons regarding the pharmacological understanding of phytocannabinoids as neuromodulators in treating anxiety, depression, epilepsy, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's disease and autism. METHODS The present review is an extensive search in public databases, such as Google Scholar, Scopus, the Web of Science, and PubMed, to collect all the literature about the neurobiological roles of cannabis extract, cannabidiol, 9-tetrahydrocannabinol specially focused on metabolomics, transcriptomic, epigenetic, mechanism of action, in different cell lines, induced animal models and clinical trials. We used bioinformatics, network pharmacology and enrichment analysis to understand the effect of phytocannabinoids in neuromodulation. RESULTS Cannabidomics studies show wide variability of metabolites across different strains and varieties, which determine their medicinal and abusive usage, which is very important for its quality control and regulation. CB receptors interact with other compounds besides cannabidiol and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, like cannabinol and Δ8-tetrahydrocannabinol. Phytocannabinoids interact with cannabinoid and non-cannabinoid receptors (GPCR, ion channels, and PPAR) to improve various neurodegenerative diseases. However, its abuse because of THC is also a problem found across different epigenetic and transcriptomic studies. Network enrichment analysis shows CNR1 expression in the brain and its interacting genes involve different pathways such as Rap1 signalling, dopaminergic synapse, and relaxin signalling. CBD protects against diseases like epilepsy, depression, and Parkinson's by modifying DNA and mitochondrial DNA in the hippocampus. Network pharmacology analysis of 8 phytocannabinoids revealed an interaction with 10 (out of 60) targets related to neurodegenerative diseases, with enrichment of ErbB and PI3K-Akt signalling pathways which helps in ameliorating neuro-inflammation in various neurodegenerative diseases. The effects of phytocannabinoids vary across sex, disease state, and age which suggests the importance of a personalized medicine approach for better success. CONCLUSIONS Phytocannabinoids present a range of promising neuromodulatory effects. It holds promise if utilized in a strategic way towards personalized neuropsychiatric treatment. However, just like any drug irrational usage may lead to unforeseen negative effects. Exploring neuro-epigenetics and systems pharmacology of major and minor phytocannabinoid combinations can lead to success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subhadip Banerjee
- Medicinal Plant Innovation Center of Mae Fah Luang University, Mae Fah Luang University, ChiangRai, 57100, Thailand
| | - Debolina Saha
- School of Bioscience and Engineering, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, 700032, India
| | - Rohit Sharma
- Department of Rasa Shastra and Bhaishajya Kalpana, Faculty of Ayurveda, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Wuttichai Jaidee
- Medicinal Plant Innovation Center of Mae Fah Luang University, Mae Fah Luang University, ChiangRai, 57100, Thailand
| | - Panupong Puttarak
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Pharmaceutical Botany, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Songkhla, 90112, Thailand; Phytomedicine and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology Excellence Center, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Prince of Songkla University, Hat-Yai, Songkhla 90110, Thailand
| | | | - Rawiwan Chaoroensup
- Medicinal Plant Innovation Center of Mae Fah Luang University, Mae Fah Luang University, ChiangRai, 57100, Thailand; School of Integrative Medicine, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, 57100, Thailand.
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Guldager MB, Biojone C, da Silva NR, Godoy LD, Joca S. New insights into the involvement of serotonin and BDNF-TrkB signalling in cannabidiol's antidepressant effect. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2024; 133:111029. [PMID: 38762160 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2024.111029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a phytocannabinoid devoid of psychostimulant properties and is currently under investigation as a potential antidepressant drug. However, the mechanisms underlying CBD's antidepressant effects are not yet well understood. CBD targets include a variety of receptors, enzymes, and transporters, with different binding-affinities. Neurochemical and pharmacological evidence indicates that both serotonin and BDNF-TrkB signalling in the prefrontal cortex are necessary for the antidepressant effects induced by CBD in animal models. Herein, we reviewed the current literature to dissect if these are independent mechanisms or if CBD-induced modulation of the serotonergic neurotransmission could mediate its neuroplastic effects through subsequent regulation of BDNF-TrkB signalling, thus culminating in rapid neuroplastic changes. It is hypothesized that: a) CBD interaction with serotonin receptors on neurons of the dorsal raphe nuclei and the resulting disinhibition of serotonergic neurons would promote rapid serotonin release in the PFC and hence its neuroplastic and antidepressant effects; b) CBD facilitates BDNF-TRKB signalling, especially in the PFC, which rapidly triggers neurochemical and neuroplastic effects. These hypotheses are discussed with perspectives for new drug development and clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matti Bock Guldager
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark; Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Caroline Biojone
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark; Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Nicole Rodrigues da Silva
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark; Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Livea Dornela Godoy
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark; School of Medicine of Ribeirao Preto, University of Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sâmia Joca
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark; Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
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Guldager MB, Chaves Filho AM, Biojone C, Joca S. Therapeutic potential of cannabidiol in depression. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2024; 177:251-293. [PMID: 39029987 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2024.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a widespread and debilitating condition affecting a significant portion of the global population. Traditional treatment for MDD has primarily involved drugs that increase brain monoamines by inhibiting their uptake or metabolism, which is the basis for the monoaminergic hypothesis of depression. However, these treatments are only partially effective, with many patients experiencing delayed responses, residual symptoms, or complete non-response, rendering the current view of the hypothesis as reductionist. Cannabidiol (CBD) has shown promising results in preclinical models and human studies. Its mechanism is not well-understood, but may involve monoamine and endocannabinoid signaling, control of neuroinflammation and enhanced neuroplasticity. This chapter will explore CBD's effects in preclinical and clinical studies, its molecular mechanisms, and its potential as a treatment for MDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matti Bock Guldager
- Department of Biomedicine, Health Faculty, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark; Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit (TNU), Department of Clinical Medicine, Health Faculty, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Caroline Biojone
- Department of Biomedicine, Health Faculty, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark; Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit (TNU), Department of Clinical Medicine, Health Faculty, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Sâmia Joca
- Department of Biomedicine, Health Faculty, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark; Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit (TNU), Department of Clinical Medicine, Health Faculty, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
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Rodrigues Tavares LR, Petrilli LA, Baptista-de-Souza D, Canto-de-Souza L, Planeta CDS, Guimarães FS, Nunes-de-Souza RL, Canto-de-Souza A. Cannabidiol Treatment Shows Therapeutic Efficacy in a Rodent Model of Social Transfer of Pain in Pair-Housed Male Mice. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2024; 9:699-713. [PMID: 37074109 DOI: 10.1089/can.2022.0300] [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] [Indexed: 04/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Prosocial behavior refers to sharing emotions and sensations such as pain. Accumulated data indicate that cannabidiol (CBD), a nonpsychotomimetic component of the Cannabis sativa plant, attenuates hyperalgesia, anxiety, and anhedonic-like behavior. Nevertheless, the role of CBD in the social transfer of pain has never been evaluated. In this study, we investigated the effects of acute systemic administration of CBD in mice that cohabited with a conspecific animal suffering from chronic constriction injury. Furthermore, we assessed whether repeated CBD treatment decreases hypernociception, anxiety-like behavior, and anhedonic-like responses in mice undergoing chronic constriction injury and whether this attenuation would be socially transferred to the partner. Materials and Methods: Male Swiss mice were Housed in pairs for 28 days. On the 14th day of living together, animals were then divided into two groups: cagemate nerve constriction (CNC), in which one animal of each partner was subjected to sciatic nerve constriction; and cagemate sham (CS), subjected to the same surgical procedure but without suffering nerve constriction. In Experiments 1, 2, and 3 on day 28 of living together, the cagemates (CNC and CS) animals received a single systemic injection (intraperitoneally) of vehicle or CBD (0.3, 1, 10, or 30 mg/kg). After 30 min, the cagemates were subjected to the elevated plusmaze followed by exposure to the writhing and sucrose splash tests. For chronic treatment (Exp. 4), sham and chronic constriction injury animals received a repeated systemic injection (subcutaneous) of vehicle or CBD (10 mg/kg) for 14 days after the sciatic nerve constriction procedure. On days 28 and 29 sham and chronic constriction injury animals and their cagemates were behaviorally tested. Results and Conclusion: Acute CBD administration attenuated anxiety-like behavior, pain hypersensitivity, and anhedonic-like behavior in cagemates that cohabited with a pair in chronic pain. In addition, repeated CBD treatment reversed the anxiety-like behavior induced by chronic pain and enhanced the mechanical withdrawal thresholds in Von Frey filaments and the grooming time in the sucrose splash test. Moreover, repeated CBD treatment effects were socially transferred to the chronic constriction injury cagemates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lígia Renata Rodrigues Tavares
- Psychobiology Group, Department of Psychology, CECH-Universidade Federal de São Carlos-UFSCar, São Carlos, Brazil
- Joint Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences UFSCar/UNESP, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Abdelnur Petrilli
- Psychobiology Group, Department of Psychology, CECH-Universidade Federal de São Carlos-UFSCar, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Daniela Baptista-de-Souza
- Psychobiology Group, Department of Psychology, CECH-Universidade Federal de São Carlos-UFSCar, São Carlos, Brazil
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista-UNESP, Araraquara, Brazil
- Neuroscience and Behavior Institute-IneC, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lucas Canto-de-Souza
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista-UNESP, Araraquara, Brazil
- Neuroscience and Behavior Institute-IneC, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cleopatra da Silva Planeta
- Joint Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences UFSCar/UNESP, São Carlos, Brazil
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista-UNESP, Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Francisco Silveira Guimarães
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine of Ribeirao Preto, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Luiz Nunes-de-Souza
- Joint Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences UFSCar/UNESP, São Carlos, Brazil
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista-UNESP, Araraquara, Brazil
- Neuroscience and Behavior Institute-IneC, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Azair Canto-de-Souza
- Psychobiology Group, Department of Psychology, CECH-Universidade Federal de São Carlos-UFSCar, São Carlos, Brazil
- Joint Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences UFSCar/UNESP, São Carlos, Brazil
- Neuroscience and Behavior Institute-IneC, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
- Program in Psychology UFSCar, São Carlos, Brazil
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McCartney D, Irwin C, Bawa Z, Palmer B, Sahinovic A, Delang N, Cox GR, Desbrow B, Lau NS, McGregor IS. The Effect of Cannabidiol on Subjective Responses to Endurance Exercise: A Randomised Controlled Trial. SPORTS MEDICINE - OPEN 2024; 10:61. [PMID: 38782848 PMCID: PMC11116295 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-024-00727-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exercise is known to improve health. However, it can be unpleasant, often inducing negative feelings, or 'affect'. Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-intoxicating constituent of the cannabis plant, has been reported to enhance the subjective experience of exercise; specifically, in trained individuals performing fixed-intensity endurance activity. Here, we investigated the effects of CBD on subjective responses to exercise under more ecologically valid conditions; namely, in recreationally active individuals performing self-paced endurance activity. METHODS A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial was conducted at Griffith University between July 17 and August 28, 2023. Griffith University students studying sports nutrition were invited to take part, with eligible volunteers ≥ 18 years of age and able to perform endurance exercise. Participants ingested placebo or 150 mg CBD in two soft-gel capsules 90 min before completing a self-paced 25-lap (10 km) run around an outdoor athletics track (400 m, synthetic). The primary outcomes were affective valence during exercise, assessed on completion of laps 6, 12, 18 and 24 using the 'Feelings Scale', and positive and negative affect, assessed at baseline, pre-run and post-run using the 'Positive and Negative Affect Schedule'. Exercise enjoyment, motivation and self-efficacy, the core features of the 'runner's high' (i.e., euphoria, pain, anxiety, sedation), perceived exertion and run time were also assessed. RESULTS Fifty-two participants were randomised and 51 were included in the final sample (n = 22 female; 22 [21-25] years). Exercise induced negative affect (i.e., at the time of undertaking) and increased pain. CBD did not counteract either response. In fact, CBD had no significant effects on any of the outcomes measured. In contrast, exercise, once completed, increased positive affect, and decreased negative affect and anxiety. CONCLUSIONS CBD (150 mg, oral) does not appear to enhance the subjective experience of self-paced endurance exercise in recreationally active individuals. Nor, however, does it appear to compromise it. These findings suggest that CBD use is safe under exercise conditions and unlikely to impede physical activity participation. Our study also reaffirms the powerful mood-enhancing effects of exercise. TRIAL REGISTRATION Registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ( www.anzctr.org.au ) on May 31, 2023 (Trial ID: ACTRN12623000593639).
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle McCartney
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
- The University of Sydney, 94 Mallett Street, Camperdown, NSW, 2050, Australia.
| | - Christopher Irwin
- School of Health Sciences and Social Work, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Zeeta Bawa
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Sydney Pharmacy School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Blake Palmer
- School of Health Sciences and Social Work, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Ayshe Sahinovic
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Nathan Delang
- School of Health Sciences and Social Work, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Gregory R Cox
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Ben Desbrow
- School of Health Sciences and Social Work, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Namson S Lau
- The Boden Initiative, Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Iain S McGregor
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Domingos LB, Müller HK, da Silva NR, Filiou MD, Nielsen AL, Guimarães FS, Wegener G, Joca S. Repeated cannabidiol treatment affects neuroplasticity and endocannabinoid signaling in the prefrontal cortex of the Flinders Sensitive Line (FSL) rat model of depression. Neuropharmacology 2024; 248:109870. [PMID: 38401791 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2024.109870] [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: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Delayed therapeutic responses and limited efficacy are the main challenges of existing antidepressant drugs, thereby incentivizing the search for new potential treatments. Cannabidiol (CBD), non-psychotomimetic component of cannabis, has shown promising antidepressant effects in different rodent models, but its mechanism of action remains unclear. Herein, we investigated the antidepressant-like effects of repeated CBD treatment on behavior, neuroplasticity markers and lipidomic profile in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) of Flinders Sensitive Line (FSL), a genetic animal model of depression, and their control counterparts Flinders Resistant Line (FRL) rats. Male FSL animals were treated with CBD (10 mg/kg; i.p.) or vehicle (7 days) followed by Open Field Test (OFT) and the Forced Swimming Test (FST). The PFC was analyzed by a) western blotting to assess markers of synaptic plasticity and cannabinoid signaling in synaptosome and cytosolic fractions; b) mass spectrometry-based lipidomics to investigate endocannabinoid levels (eCB). CBD attenuated the increased immobility observed in FSL, compared to FRL in FST, without changing the locomotor behavior in the OFT. In synaptosomes, CBD increased ERK1, mGluR5, and Synaptophysin, but failed to reverse the reduced CB1 and CB2 levels in FSL rats. In the cytosolic fraction, CBD increased ERK2 and decreased mGluR5 expression in FSL rats. Surprisingly, there were no significant changes in eCB levels in response to CBD treatment. These findings suggest that CBD effects in FSL animals are associated with changes in synaptic plasticity markers involving mGluR5, ERK1, ERK2, and synaptophysin signaling in the PFC, without increasing the levels of endocannabinoids in this brain region.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Heidi Kaastrup Müller
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Michaela D Filiou
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Biological Applications and Technology, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Greece; Biomedical Research Institute, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, Ioannina, Greece
| | | | | | - Gregers Wegener
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Sâmia Joca
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
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Yang W, Gong X, Sun H, Wu C, Suo J, Ji J, Jiang X, Shen J, He Y, Aisa HA. Discovery of a CB 2 and 5-HT 1A receptor dual agonist for the treatment of depression and anxiety. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 265:116048. [PMID: 38150961 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.116048] [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: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Cannabinoid CB2R agonists have gained considerable attention as potential novel therapies for psychiatric disorders due to their non-psychoactive nature, in contrast to CB1R agonists. In this study, we employed molecular docking to design and synthesize 23 derivatives of cannabidiol (CBD) with the aim of discovering potent CB2R agonists rather than CB2R antagonists or inverse agonists. Structure-activity relationship (SAR) investigations highlighted the critical importance of the amide group at the C-3' site and the cycloalkyl group at the C-4' site for CB2R activation. Interestingly, three CBD derivatives, namely 2o, 6g, and 6h, exhibited substantial partial agonistic activity towards the CB2 receptor, in contrast to the inverse agonistic property of CBD. Among these, 2o acted as a CB2R and 5-HT1AR dual agonist, albeit with some undesired antagonist activity for CB1R. It demonstrated significant CB2R partial agonism while maintaining a level of 5-HT1AR agonistic and CB1R antagonistic activity similar to CBD. Pharmacokinetic experiments confirmed that 2o possesses favorable pharmacokinetic properties. Behavioral studies further revealed that 2o elicits significant antidepressant-like and anxiolytic-like effects while maintaining a good safety profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjiao Yang
- State Key Laboratory Basis of Xinjiang Indigenous Medicinal Plants Resource Utilization, and Key Laboratory of Plant Resources and Chemistry of Arid Zone, Xinjiang Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Urumqi, 830011, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xudong Gong
- Vigonvita Shanghai Co., Ltd, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Haiguo Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Chunhui Wu
- Vigonvita Shanghai Co., Ltd, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Jin Suo
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Jing Ji
- State Key Laboratory Basis of Xinjiang Indigenous Medicinal Plants Resource Utilization, and Key Laboratory of Plant Resources and Chemistry of Arid Zone, Xinjiang Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Urumqi, 830011, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xiangrui Jiang
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China; State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Jingshan Shen
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China; State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Yang He
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China; State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Haji Akber Aisa
- State Key Laboratory Basis of Xinjiang Indigenous Medicinal Plants Resource Utilization, and Key Laboratory of Plant Resources and Chemistry of Arid Zone, Xinjiang Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Urumqi, 830011, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
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8
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Schouten M, Dalle S, Mantini D, Koppo K. Cannabidiol and brain function: current knowledge and future perspectives. Front Pharmacol 2024; 14:1328885. [PMID: 38288087 PMCID: PMC10823027 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1328885] [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: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a naturally occurring non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in Cannabis sativa, commonly known as cannabis or hemp. Although currently available CBD products do not meet the safety standards of most food safety authorities to be approved as a dietary supplement or food additive, CBD has been gaining widespread attention in recent years due to its various potential health benefits. While primarily known for its therapeutic effects in managing epileptic seizures, psychosis, anxiety, (neuropathic) pain, and inflammation, CBD's influence on brain function has also piqued the interest of researchers and individuals seeking to enhance cognitive performance. The primary objective of this review is to gather, synthesize, and consolidate scientifically proven evidence on the impact of CBD on brain function and its therapeutic significance in treating neurological and mental disorders. First, basic background information on CBD, including its biomolecular properties and mechanisms of action is presented. Next, evidence for CBD effects in the human brain is provided followed by a discussion on the potential implications of CBD as a neurotherapeutic agent. The potential effectiveness of CBD in reducing chronic pain is considered but also in reducing the symptoms of various brain disorders such as epilepsy, Alzheimer's, Huntington's and Parkinson's disease. Additionally, the implications of using CBD to manage psychiatric conditions such as psychosis, anxiety and fear, depression, and substance use disorders are explored. An overview of the beneficial effects of CBD on aspects of human behavior, such as sleep, motor control, cognition and memory, is then provided. As CBD products remain largely unregulated, it is crucial to address the ethical concerns associated with their use, including product quality, consistency, and safety. Therefore, this review discusses the need for responsible research and regulation of CBD to ensure its safety and efficacy as a therapeutic agent for brain disorders or to stimulate behavioral and cognitive abilities of healthy individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moniek Schouten
- Exercise Physiology Research Group, Department of Movement Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sebastiaan Dalle
- Exercise Physiology Research Group, Department of Movement Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Dante Mantini
- Movement Control and Neuroplasticity Research Group, Department of Movement Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Katrien Koppo
- Exercise Physiology Research Group, Department of Movement Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Hanna DA, Messiha BAS, Abo-Saif AA, Ali FEM, Azouz AA. Lysosomal membrane stabilization by imipramine attenuates gentamicin-induced renal injury: Enhanced LAMP2 expression, down-regulation of cytoplasmic cathepsin D and tBid/cytochrome c/cleaved caspase-3 apoptotic signaling. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 126:111179. [PMID: 37995569 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.111179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Nephrotoxicity is a serious complication commonly encountered with gentamicin (GTM) treatment. Permeabilization of lysosomes with subsequent cytoplasmic release of GTM and cathepsins is considered a crucial issue in progression of GTM toxicity. This study was designed to evaluate the prospective defensive effect of lysosomal membrane stabilization by imipramine (IMP) against GTM nephrotoxicity in rats. GTM (30 mg/kg/h) was intraperitoneally administered over 4 h daily (120 mg/kg/day) for 7 days. IMP (30 mg/kg/day) was orally administered for 14 days; starting 7 days before and then concurrently with GTM. On 15th day, samples (urine, blood, kidney) were collected to estimate biomarkers of kidney function, lysosomal stability, apoptosis, and inflammation. IMP administration to GTM-treated rats ameliorated the disruption in lysosomal membrane stability induced by GTM. That was evidenced by enhanced renal protein expressions of LAMP2 and PI3K, but reduced cathepsin D cytoplasmic expression in kidney sections. Besides, IMP guarded against apoptosis in GTM-treated rats by down-regulation of the pro-apoptotic (tBid, Bax, cytochrome c) and the effector cleaved caspase-3 expressions, while the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 expression was enhanced. Additionally, the inflammatory cascade p38 MAPK/NF-κB/TNF-α was attenuated in GTM + IMP group along with marked improvement in kidney function biomarkers, compared to GTM group. These findings were supported by the obvious improvement in histological architecture. Furthermore, in vitro enhancement of the antibacterial activity of GTM by IMP confers an additional benefit to their combination. Conclusively, lysosomal membrane stabilization by IMP with subsequent suppression of tBid/cytochrome c/cleaved caspase-3 apoptotic signaling could be a promising protective strategy against GTM nephrotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dina A Hanna
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Nahda University, Beni-Suef, Egypt; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef 62514, Egypt
| | - Basim A S Messiha
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef 62514, Egypt
| | - Ali A Abo-Saif
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Fares E M Ali
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut Branch, Assiut 71524, Egypt
| | - Amany A Azouz
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef 62514, Egypt.
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10
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Stöllberger C, Finsterer J. Cannabidiol's impact on drug-metabolization. Eur J Intern Med 2023; 118:6-13. [PMID: 37541924 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2023.07.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Products containing cannabidiol(CBD) are easily accessible. CBD is reported to inhibit the drug-metabolizing proteins(DMP) Cytochrome P450(CYP)3A4/5, CYP2C9, CYP2B6, CYP2D6, CYP2E1, CYP1A2, CYP2C19, carboxylesterase 1(CES1), uridine 5'diphospho-glucoronosyltransferase(UGT)1A9, UGT2B7, P-glycoprotein(P-gp) and Breast Cancer Resistance Protein(BCRP). The relevance of CBD-drug interactions is largely unknown. Aim of the study was to identify drugs, potentially interacting with orally ingested CBD, to assess whether CBD-drug interactions have been reported, and if substrates of DMP are frequently prescribed drugs. OBSERVATIONS Identified were 403 drugs as substrates of DMP. CBD-drug interactions were reported for 53/403 substrates in humans (n = 25), in vivo (n = 13) or in vitro (n = 15). In 31/53 substrates, CBD induced an increase, in 1/53 a decrease, in 4/53 no change in the substrate level. For 5/53 substrates, the results were controversial, and in 12/53 no substrate levels were reported. Among the 30 most frequently prescribed drugs in Germany were 67% substrates of DMP and among the 50 most frequently prescribed drugs in the USA 68%. RELEVANCE AND CONCLUSIONS There is an urgent need for pharmacologic studies on CBD-drug interactions. Patients should be educated on the potential risk and awareness should be increased among physicians. Regulatory authorities should become aware of the problem and start an initiative on an international level to increase the safety of CBD.
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Saad N, Raviv D, Mizrachi Zer-Aviv T, Akirav I. Cannabidiol Modulates Emotional Function and Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Expression in Middle-Aged Female Rats Exposed to Social Isolation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15492. [PMID: 37895171 PMCID: PMC10607116 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015492] [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: 09/09/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Aging is associated with changes in cognitive and emotional function. Cannabidiol (CBD) has been reported to attenuate stress and anxiety in human and animal studies. In this study, we aimed to assess the therapeutic potential of CBD among middle-aged female rats exposed to social isolation (SI) and the potential involvement of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in these effects. Thirteen-month-old female rats were group-housed (GH) or exposed to social isolation (SI) and treated with vehicle or CBD (10 mg/kg). CBD restored the SI-induced immobility in the forced swim test and the SI-induced decrease in the expression of BDNF protein levels in the nucleus accumbens (NAc). CBD also increased the time that rats spent in the center in an open field, improved spatial training, and increased BDNF expression in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and basolateral amygdala (BLA). BDNF expression was found to be correlated with an antidepressant (in the NAc) and an anxiolytic (in the mPFC, BLA, NAc) phenotype, and with learning improvement in the PFC. Together, our results suggest that CBD may serve as a beneficial agent for wellbeing in old age and may help with age-related cognitive decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadya Saad
- Department of Psychology, School of Psychological Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel; (N.S.); (D.R.); (T.M.Z.-A.)
- The Integrated Brain and Behavior Research Center (IBBRC), University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel
| | - Danielle Raviv
- Department of Psychology, School of Psychological Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel; (N.S.); (D.R.); (T.M.Z.-A.)
- The Integrated Brain and Behavior Research Center (IBBRC), University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel
| | - Tomer Mizrachi Zer-Aviv
- Department of Psychology, School of Psychological Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel; (N.S.); (D.R.); (T.M.Z.-A.)
- The Integrated Brain and Behavior Research Center (IBBRC), University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel
| | - Irit Akirav
- Department of Psychology, School of Psychological Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel; (N.S.); (D.R.); (T.M.Z.-A.)
- The Integrated Brain and Behavior Research Center (IBBRC), University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel
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12
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Aychman MM, Goldman DL, Kaplan JS. Cannabidiol's neuroprotective properties and potential treatment of traumatic brain injuries. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1087011. [PMID: 36816569 PMCID: PMC9932048 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1087011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) has numerous pharmacological targets that initiate anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and antiepileptic properties. These neuroprotective benefits have generated interest in CBD's therapeutic potential against the secondary injury cascade from traumatic brain injury (TBI). There are currently no effective broad treatment strategies for combating the damaging mechanisms that follow the primary injury and lead to lasting neurological consequences or death. However, CBD's effects on different neurotransmitter systems, the blood brain barrier, oxidative stress mechanisms, and the inflammatory response provides mechanistic support for CBD's clinical utility in TBI. This review describes the cascades of damage caused by TBI and CBD's neuroprotective mechanisms to counter them. We also present challenges in the clinical treatment of TBI and discuss important future clinical research directions for integrating CBD in treatment protocols. The mechanistic evidence provided by pre-clinical research shows great potential for CBD as a much-needed improvement in the clinical treatment of TBI. Upcoming clinical trials sponsored by major professional sport leagues are the first attempts to test the efficacy of CBD in head injury treatment protocols and highlight the need for further clinical research.
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13
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Cannabidiol Modulates Alterations in PFC microRNAs in a Rat Model of Depression. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032052. [PMID: 36768376 PMCID: PMC9953518 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a potential antidepressant agent. We examined the association between the antidepressant effects of CBD and alterations in brain microRNAs in the unpredictable chronic mild stress (UCMS) model for depression. UCMS male rats were injected with vehicle or CBD (10 mg/kg) and tested for immobility time in the forced swim test. Alterations in miRNAs (miR16, miR124, miR135a) and genes that encode for the 5HT1a receptor, the serotonergic transporter SERT, β-catenin, and CB1 were examined. UCMS increased immobility time in a forced swim test (i.e., depressive-like behavior) and altered the expression of miRNAs and mRNA in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC), raphe nucleus, and nucleus accumbens. Importantly, CBD restored UCMS-induced upregulation in miR-16 and miR-135 in the vmPFC as well as the increase in immobility time. CBD also restored the UCMS-induced decrease in htr1a, the gene that encodes for the serotonergic 5HT1a receptor; using a pharmacological approach, we found that the 5HT1a receptor antagonist WAY100135 blocked the antidepressant-like effect of CBD on immobility time. Our findings suggest that the antidepressant effects of CBD in a rat model for depression are associated with alterations in miR-16 and miR-135 in the vmPFC and are mediated by the 5HT1a receptor.
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García-Gutiérrez MS, Navarro D, Austrich-Olivares A, Manzanares J. Unveiling behavioral and molecular neuroadaptations related to the antidepressant action of cannabidiol in the unpredictable chronic mild stress model. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1171646. [PMID: 37144214 PMCID: PMC10151764 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1171646] [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: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: This study aims to further characterize cannabidiol's pharmacological and molecular profile as an antidepressant. Methods: Effects of cannabidiol (CBD), alone or combined with sertraline (STR), were evaluated in male CD1 mice (n = 48) exposed to an unpredictable chronic mild stress (UCMS) procedure. Once the model was established (4 weeks), mice received CBD (20 mg·kg-1, i.p.), STR (10 mg·kg-1, p.o.) or its combination for 28 days. The efficacy of CBD was evaluated using the light-dark box (LDB), elevated plus maze (EPM), tail suspension (TS), sucrose consumption (SC) and novel object recognition (NOR) tests. Gene expression changes in the serotonin transporter, 5-HT1A and 5-HT2A receptors, BDNF, VGlut1 and PPARdelta, were evaluated in the dorsal raphe, hippocampus (Hipp) and amygdala by real-time PCR. Besides, BDNF, NeuN and caspase-3 immunoreactivity were assessed in the Hipp. Results: CBD exerted anxiolytic and antidepressant-like effects at 4 and 7 days of treatment in the LDB and TS tests, respectively. In contrast, STR required 14 days of treatment to show efficacy. CBD improved cognitive impairment and anhedonia more significantly than STR. CBD plus STR showed a similar effect than CBD in the LBD, TST and EPM. However, a worse outcome was observed in the NOR and SI tests. CBD modulates all molecular disturbances induced by UCMS, whereas STR and the combination could not restore 5-HT1A, BDNF and PPARdelta in the Hipp. Discussion: These results pointed out CBD as a potential new antidepressant with faster action and efficiency than STR. Particular attention should be given to the combination of CBD with current SSRI since it appears to produce a negative impact on treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Salud García-Gutiérrez
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández, Alicante, Spain
- Research Network on Primary Addictions, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL), Alicante, Spain
| | - Daniela Navarro
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández, Alicante, Spain
- Research Network on Primary Addictions, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL), Alicante, Spain
| | | | - Jorge Manzanares
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández, Alicante, Spain
- Research Network on Primary Addictions, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL), Alicante, Spain
- *Correspondence: Jorge Manzanares,
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15
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Hartmann A, Vila-Verde C, Guimarães FS, Joca SR, Lisboa SF. The NLRP3 Inflammasome in Stress Response: Another Target for the Promiscuous Cannabidiol. Curr Neuropharmacol 2023; 21:284-308. [PMID: 35410608 PMCID: PMC10190150 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x20666220411101217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Many psychiatric patients do not respond to conventional therapy. There is a vast effort to investigate possible mechanisms involved in treatment resistance, trying to provide better treatment options, and several data points toward a possible involvement of inflammatory mechanisms. Microglia, glial, and resident immune cells are involved in complex responses in the brain, orchestrating homeostatic functions, such as synaptic pruning and maintaining neuronal activity. In contrast, microglia play a major role in neuroinflammation, neurodegeneration, and cell death. Increasing evidence implicate microglia dysfunction in neuropsychiatric disorders. The mechanisms are still unclear, but one pathway in microglia has received increased attention in the last 8 years, i.e., the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway. Stress response and inflammation, including microglia activation, can be attenuated by Cannabidiol (CBD). CBD has antidepressant, anti-stress, antipsychotic, anti-inflammatory, and other properties. CBD effects are mediated by direct or indirect modulation of many receptors, enzymes, and other targets. This review will highlight some findings for neuroinflammation and microglia involvement in stress-related psychiatric disorders, particularly addressing the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway. Moreover, we will discuss evidence and mechanisms for CBD effects in psychiatric disorders and animal models and address its potential effects on stress response via neuroinflammation and NLRP3 inflammasome modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Hartmann
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto (FMRP), University of São Paulo (USP), Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Carla Vila-Verde
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto (FMRP), University of São Paulo (USP), Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Francisco S. Guimarães
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto (FMRP), University of São Paulo (USP), Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on Applied Neurosciences (NAPNA), University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sâmia R. Joca
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on Applied Neurosciences (NAPNA), University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- BioMolecular Sciences Department, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto (FCFRP), University of São Paulo (USP);
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Sabrina F. Lisboa
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on Applied Neurosciences (NAPNA), University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- BioMolecular Sciences Department, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto (FCFRP), University of São Paulo (USP);
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16
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Hu G, Zhang M, Wang Y, Yu M, Zhou Y. Potential of Heterogeneous Compounds as Antidepressants: A Narrative Review. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232213776. [PMID: 36430254 PMCID: PMC9692659 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232213776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Depression is a globally widespread disorder caused by a complicated interplay of social, psychological, and biological factors. Approximately 280 million people are suffering from depression worldwide. Traditional frontline antidepressants targeting monoamine neurotransmitters show unsatisfactory effects. The development and application of novel antidepressants for dissimilar targets are on the agenda. This review characterizes the antidepressant effects of multiple endogenous compounds and/or their targets to provide new insight into the working mechanism of antidepressants. We also discuss perspectives and challenges for the generation of novel antidepressants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gonghui Hu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266000, China
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
- Institute of Brain Sciences and Related Disorders, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
- Institute of Brain Sciences and Related Disorders, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Yuyang Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266000, China
| | - Ming Yu
- Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation Institute, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao 266000, China
| | - Yu Zhou
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266000, China
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
- Institute of Brain Sciences and Related Disorders, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
- Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation Institute, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao 266000, China
- Correspondence:
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17
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Zada W, VanRyzin JW, Perez-Pouchoulen M, Baglot SL, Hill MN, Abbas G, Clark SM, Rashid U, McCarthy MM, Mannan A. Fatty acid amide hydrolase inhibition and N-arachidonoylethanolamine modulation by isoflavonoids: A novel target for upcoming antidepressants. Pharmacol Res Perspect 2022; 10:e00999. [PMID: 36029006 PMCID: PMC9418665 DOI: 10.1002/prp2.999] [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: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Modulation of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a novel putative target for therapeutic intervention in depressive disorders. Altering concentrations of one of the principal endocannabinoids, N‐arachidonoylethanolamine, also known as anandamide (AEA) can affect depressive‐like behaviors through several mechanisms including anti‐inflammatory, hormonal, and neural circuit alterations. Recently, isoflavonoids, a class of plant‐derived compounds, have been of therapeutic interest given their ability to modulate the metabolism of the endogenous ligands of the ECS. To determine the therapeutic potential of isoflavonoids, we screened several candidate compounds (Genistein, Biochanin‐A, and 7‐hydroxyflavone) in silico to determine their binding properties with fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), the primary degrative enzyme for AEA. We further validated the ability of these compounds to inhibit FAAH and determined their effects on depressive‐like and locomotor behaviors in the forced swim test (FST) and open field test in male and female mice. We found that while genistein was the most potent FAAH inhibitor, 7‐hydroxyflavone was most effective at reducing immobility time in the forced swim test. Finally, we measured blood corticosterone and prefrontal cortex AEA concentrations following the forced swim test and found that all tested compounds decreased corticosterone and increased AEA, demonstrating that isoflavonoids are promising therapeutic targets as FAAH inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wahid Zada
- Department of Pharmacy, COMSATS University Islamabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.,Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jonathan W VanRyzin
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Miguel Perez-Pouchoulen
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Samantha L Baglot
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute and Mathison Center for Mental Health Research and Education, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Matthew N Hill
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute and Mathison Center for Mental Health Research and Education, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy & Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ghulam Abbas
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ziauddin University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Sarah M Clark
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Umer Rashid
- Department of Chemistry, COMSATS University Islamabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Margaret M McCarthy
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Abdul Mannan
- Department of Pharmacy, COMSATS University Islamabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
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18
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Modulation of Endocannabinoid System Components in Depression: Pre-Clinical and Clinical Evidence. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23105526. [PMID: 35628337 PMCID: PMC9146799 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Depression is characterized by continuous low mood and loss of interest or pleasure in enjoyable activities. First-line medications for mood disorders mostly target the monoaminergic system; however, many patients do not find relief with these medications, and those who do suffer from negative side effects and a discouragingly low rate of remission. Studies suggest that the endocannabinoid system (ECS) may be involved in the etiology of depression and that targeting the ECS has the potential to alleviate depression. ECS components (such as receptors, endocannabinoid ligands, and degrading enzymes) are key neuromodulators in motivation and cognition as well as in the regulation of stress and emotions. Studies in depressed patients and in animal models for depression have reported deficits in ECS components, which is motivating researchers to identify potential diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers within the ECS. By understanding the effects of cannabinoids on ECS components in depression, we enhance our understanding of which brain targets they hit, what biological processes they alter, and eventually how to use this information to design better therapeutic options. In this article, we discuss the literature on the effects of cannabinoids on ECS components of specific depression-like behaviors and phenotypes in rodents and then describe the findings in depressed patients. A better understanding of the effects of cannabinoids on ECS components in depression may direct future research efforts to enhance diagnosis and treatment.
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Rachayon M, Jirakran K, Sodsai P, Klinchanhom S, Sughondhabirom A, Plaimas K, Suratanee A, Maes M. In Vitro Effects of Cannabidiol on Activated Immune–Inflammatory Pathways in Major Depressive Patients and Healthy Controls. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15040405. [PMID: 35455402 PMCID: PMC9032852 DOI: 10.3390/ph15040405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Major depressive disorder and major depressive episodes (MDD/MDE) are characterized by the activation of the immune–inflammatory response system (IRS) and the compensatory immune–regulatory system (CIRS). Cannabidiol (CBD) is a phytocannabinoid isolated from the cannabis plant, which is reported to have antidepressant-like and anti-inflammatory effects. The aim of the present study is to examine the effects of CBD on IRS, CIRS, M1, T helper (Th)-1, Th-2, Th-17, T regulatory (Treg) profiles, and growth factors in depression and healthy controls. Culture supernatant of stimulated (5 μg/mL of PHA and 25 μg/mL of LPS) whole blood of 30 depressed patients and 20 controls was assayed for cytokines using the LUMINEX assay. The effects of three CBD concentrations (0.1 µg/mL, 1 µg/mL, and 10 µg/mL) were examined. Depression was characterized by significantly increased PHA + LPS-stimulated Th-1, Th-2, Th-17, Treg, IRS, CIRS, and neurotoxicity profiles. CBD 0.1 µg/mL did not have any immune effects. CBD 1.0 µg/mL decreased CIRS activities but increased growth factor production, while CBD 10.0 µg/mL suppressed Th-1, Th-17, IRS, CIRS, and a neurotoxicity profile and enhanced T cell growth and growth factor production. CBD 1.0 to 10.0 µg/mL dose-dependently decreased sIL-1RA, IL-8, IL-9, IL-10, IL-13, CCL11, G-CSF, IFN-γ, CCL2, CCL4, and CCL5, and increased IL-1β, IL-4, IL-15, IL-17, GM-CSF, TNF-α, FGF, and VEGF. In summary, in this experiment, there was no beneficial effect of CBD on the activated immune profile of depression and higher CBD concentrations can worsen inflammatory processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muanpetch Rachayon
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, The Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok 10330, Thailand; (M.R.); (K.J.); (A.S.)
| | - Ketsupar Jirakran
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, The Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok 10330, Thailand; (M.R.); (K.J.); (A.S.)
- Maximizing Thai Children’s Developmental Potential Research Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Pimpayao Sodsai
- Center of Excellence in Immunology and Immune-Mediated Diseases, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand;
| | - Siriwan Klinchanhom
- Division of Immunology, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand;
| | - Atapol Sughondhabirom
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, The Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok 10330, Thailand; (M.R.); (K.J.); (A.S.)
| | - Kitiporn Plaimas
- Advanced Virtual and Intelligent Computing (AVIC) Center, Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand;
| | - Apichat Suratanee
- Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Applied Science, King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok, Bangkok 10800, Thailand;
| | - Michael Maes
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, The Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok 10330, Thailand; (M.R.); (K.J.); (A.S.)
- IMPACT Strategic Research Center, Barwon Health, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Plovdiv, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- Correspondence:
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20
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Shapiro L, Escayg A, Wong JC. Cannabidiol Increases Seizure Resistance and Improves Behavior in an Scn8a Mouse Model. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:815950. [PMID: 35153788 PMCID: PMC8826257 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.815950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Voltage-gated sodium channel genes are an important family of human epilepsy genes. De novo missense mutations in SCN8A (encoding Nav1.6) are associated with a spectrum of clinical presentation, including multiple seizure types, movement disorders, intellectual disability, and behavioral abnormalities such as autism. Patients with SCN8A mutations are often treated with multiple antiepileptic drugs, the most common being sodium channel blockers. Cannabidiol (CBD) has been included as a component of treatment regimens for some SCN8A patients; however, to date, there are no clinical trials that have evaluated the therapeutic potential of CBD in patients with SCN8A mutations. In the current manuscript, we demonstrated a dose-dependent increase in seizure resistance following CBD treatment in mice expressing the human SCN8A mutation R1620L (RL/+). We also found that CBD treatment improved social behavior and reduced hyperactivity in the RL/+ mutants. Our findings suggest that CBD may be beneficial in patients with SCN8A-associated disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey Shapiro
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Andrew Escayg
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Jennifer C Wong
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
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O’Brien K. Cannabidiol (CBD) in Cancer Management. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14040885. [PMID: 35205633 PMCID: PMC8869992 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14040885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the main constituents of the plant Cannabis sativa. Surveys suggest that medicinal cannabis is popular amongst people diagnosed with cancer. CBD is one of the key constituents of cannabis, and does not have the potentially intoxicating effects that tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the other key phytocannabinoid has. Research indicates the CBD may have potential for the treatment of cancer, including the symptoms and signs associated with cancer and its treatment. Preclinical research suggests CBD may address many of the pathways involved in the pathogenesis of cancers. Preclinical and clinical research also suggests some evidence of efficacy, alone or in some cases in conjunction with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC, the other key phytocannabinoid in cannabis), in treating cancer-associated pain, anxiety and depression, sleep problems, nausea and vomiting, and oral mucositis that are associated with cancer and/or its treatment. Studies also suggest that CBD may enhance orthodox treatments with chemotherapeutic agents and radiation therapy and protect against neural and organ damage. CBD shows promise as part of an integrative approach to the management of cancer. Abstract The plant Cannabis sativa has been in use medicinally for several thousand years. It has over 540 metabolites thought to be responsible for its therapeutic effects. Two of the key phytocannabinoids are cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Unlike THC, CBD does not have potentially intoxicating effects. Preclinical and clinical research indicates that CBD has a wide range of therapeutic effects, and many of them are relevant to the management of cancer. In this article, we explore some of the potential mechanisms of action of CBD in cancer, and evidence of its efficacy in the integrative management of cancer including the side effects associated with its treatment, demonstrating its potential for integration with orthodox cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kylie O’Brien
- Adelaide Campus, Torrens University, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia;
- NICM Health Research Centre, Western Sydney University, Westmead, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
- Releaf Group Ltd., St Kilda, VIC 3182, Australia
- International College of Cannabinoid Medicine, iccm.co, London N1 7GU, UK
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Silote GP, Gatto MC, Eskelund A, Guimarães FS, Wegener G, Joca SRL. Strain-, Sex-, and Time-Dependent Antidepressant-like Effects of Cannabidiol. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:1269. [PMID: 34959670 PMCID: PMC8709491 DOI: 10.3390/ph14121269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-intoxicating compound extracted from Cannabis sativa, showing antidepressant-like effects in different rodent models. However, inconsistent results have been described depending on the species and the strain used to assess depressive-like behavior. Moreover, only a few studies investigated the effect of CBD in female rodents. Therefore, we aimed to (i) investigate the effects of CBD in two different strains of mice (Swiss and C57BL/6) and a rat model of depression based on selective breeding (Flinders Sensitive and Resistant Lines, FSL and FRL) subjected to tests predictive of antidepressant-like effects and (ii) investigate the influence of sex in the effects of CBD in both mice and rats. CBD induced an antidepressant-like effect in male Swiss but not in female Swiss or C57BL/6 mice in the tail suspension test (TST). In male FSL rats, CBD produced an antidepressant-like effect 1 h post injection. However, in female FSL, CBD induced a bimodal effect, increasing the immobility time at 1 h and decreasing it at 2 h. In conclusion, strain, sex, and administration time affect CBD's behavioral response to rodents exposed to tests predictive of antidepressant effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela P. Silote
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto (FCFRP), University of São Paulo (USP), Ribeirão Preto 14040-903, SP, Brazil; (G.P.S.); (M.C.G.)
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit (TNU), Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark;
| | - Michelle C. Gatto
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto (FCFRP), University of São Paulo (USP), Ribeirão Preto 14040-903, SP, Brazil; (G.P.S.); (M.C.G.)
| | - Amanda Eskelund
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit (TNU), Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark;
| | - Francisco S. Guimarães
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14049-900, SP, Brazil;
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on Applied Neurosciences (NAPNA), University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, SP, Brazil
| | - Gregers Wegener
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit (TNU), Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark;
| | - Sâmia R. L. Joca
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto (FCFRP), University of São Paulo (USP), Ribeirão Preto 14040-903, SP, Brazil; (G.P.S.); (M.C.G.)
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
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Ahn Y, Han SH, Kim MG, Hong KB, Kim WJ, Suh HJ, Jo K. Anti-depressant effects of ethanol extract from Cannabis sativa (hemp) seed in chlorpromazine-induced Drosophila melanogaster depression model. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2021; 59:998-1007. [PMID: 34362287 PMCID: PMC8354181 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2021.1949356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Depression is a severe mental illness caused by a deficiency of dopamine and serotonin. Cannabis sativa L. (Cannabaceae) has long been used to treat pain, nausea, and depression. OBJECTIVE This study investigates the anti-depressant effects of C. sativa (hemp) seed ethanol extract (HE) in chlorpromazine (CPZ)-induced Drosophila melanogaster depression model. MATERIALS AND METHODS The normal group was untreated, and the control group was treated with CPZ (0.1% of media) for 7 days. The experimental groups were treated with a single HE treatment (0.5, 1.0, and 1.5% of media) and a mixture of 0.1% CPZ and HE for 7 days. The locomotor activity, behavioural patterns, depression-related gene expression, and neurotransmitters level of flies were investigated. RESULTS The behavioural patterns of individual flies were significantly reduced with 0.1% CPZ treatment. In contrast, combination treatment of 1.5% HE and 0.1% CPZ significantly increased subjective daytime activity (p < 0.001) and behavioural factors (p < 0.001). These results correlate with increased transcript levels of dopamine (p < 0.001) and serotonin (p < 0.05) receptors and concentration of dopamine (p < 0.05), levodopa (p < 0.001), 5-HTP (p < 0.05), and serotonin (p < 0.001) compared to those in the control group. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Collectively, HE administration alleviates depression-like symptoms by modulating the circadian rhythm-related behaviours, transcript levels of neurotransmitter receptors, and neurotransmitter levels in the CPZ-induced Drosophila model. However, additional research is needed to investigate the role of HE administration in behavioural patterns, reduction of the neurotransmitter, and signalling pathways of depression in a vertebrate model system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yejin Ahn
- Department of Integrated Biomedical and Life Science, Graduate School, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Hee Han
- Institute of Human Behavior & Genetic, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Guk Kim
- Department of Integrated Biomedical and Life Science, Graduate School, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki-Bae Hong
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Jeju National University, Jeju, Republic of Korea
| | - Woo Jung Kim
- Biocenter, Gyeonggido Business and Science Accerlerator, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung Joo Suh
- Department of Integrated Biomedical and Life Science, Graduate School, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyungae Jo
- Department of Integrated Biomedical and Life Science, Graduate School, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- CONTACT Kyungae Jo Department of Integrated Biomedical and Life Science, Graduate School, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Binge-like Alcohol Exposure in Adolescence: Behavioural, Neuroendocrine and Molecular Evidence of Abnormal Neuroplasticity… and Return. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9091161. [PMID: 34572345 PMCID: PMC8470908 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9091161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2021] [Revised: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Binge alcohol consumption among adolescents affects the developing neural networks underpinning reward and stress processing in the nucleus accumbens (NAc). This study explores in rats the long-lasting effects of early intermittent exposure to intoxicating alcohol levels at adolescence, on: (1) the response to natural positive stimuli and inescapable stress; (2) stress-axis functionality; and (3) dopaminergic and glutamatergic neuroadaptation in the NAc. We also assess the potential effects of the non-intoxicating phytocannabinoid cannabidiol, to counteract (or reverse) the development of detrimental consequences of binge-like alcohol exposure. Our results show that adolescent binge-like alcohol exposure alters the sensitivity to positive stimuli, exerts social and novelty-triggered anxiety-like behaviour, and passive stress-coping during early and prolonged withdrawal. In addition, serum corticosterone and hypothalamic and NAc corticotropin-releasing hormone levels progressively increase during withdrawal. Besides, NAc tyrosine hydroxylase levels increase at late withdrawal, while the expression of dopamine transporter, D1 and D2 receptors is dynamically altered during binge and withdrawal. Furthermore, the expression of markers of excitatory postsynaptic signaling—PSD95; Homer-1 and -2 and the activity-regulated spine-morphing proteins Arc, LIM Kinase 1 and FOXP1—increase at late withdrawal. Notably, subchronic cannabidiol, during withdrawal, attenuates social- and novelty-induced aversion and passive stress-coping and rectifies the hyper-responsive stress axis and NAc dopamine and glutamate-related neuroplasticity. Overall, the exposure to binge-like alcohol levels in adolescent rats makes the NAc, during withdrawal, a locus minoris resistentiae as a result of perturbations in neuroplasticity and in stress-axis homeostasis. Cannabidiol holds a promising potential for increasing behavioural, neuroendocrine and molecular resilience against binge-like alcohol harmful effects.
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25
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Cannabidiol prevents lipopolysaccharide-induced sickness behavior and alters cytokine and neurotrophic factor levels in the brain. Pharmacol Rep 2021; 73:1680-1693. [PMID: 34218397 PMCID: PMC8254454 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-021-00301-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Background Major depressive disorder (MDD) affects millions of people worldwide. While the exact pathogenesis is yet to be elucidated, the role of neuro-immune signaling has recently emerged. Despite major advances in pharmacotherapy, antidepressant use is marred by limited efficacy and potential side effects. Cannabidiol (CBD), a phytocannabinoid, exerts antidepressant-like effects in experimental animals. This study investigated the impact of CBD on sickness behavior (SB), a measure of depressive-like response, and neuro-immune changes induced by lipopolysaccharides (LPS) in mice. Methods Socially isolated rodents were administered with LPS to trigger SB. and treated with CBD or its vehicle. Animals were submitted to forced swimming test, to evaluate depressive-like behavior, and to open field test, to evaluate locomotory activity. Immediately after behavioral analyses, animals were euthanized and had their hypothalamus, prefrontal cortex and hippocampus dissected, to proceed neurotrophins and cytokines analyses. ELISA was used to detect IL-1β, BDNF and NGF; and cytometric beads array to measure IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IFN-γ, TNF-α and IL-10 levels. Results CBD effectively prevented SB-induced changes in the forced swim test without altering spontaneous locomotion. This phytocannabinoid also partially reversed LPS-evoked IL-6 increase in both the hypothalamus and hippocampus. In addition, CBD prevented endotoxin-induced increase in BDNF and NGF levels in the hippocampus of SB animals. Conclusions Apparently, CBD prevents both behavioral and neuro-immunological changes associated with LPS-induced SB, which reinforces its potential use as an antidepressant which modulates neuroinflammation. This opens up potentially new therapeutic avenues in MDD. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s43440-021-00301-8.
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26
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Vitale RM, Iannotti FA, Amodeo P. The (Poly)Pharmacology of Cannabidiol in Neurological and Neuropsychiatric Disorders: Molecular Mechanisms and Targets. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:4876. [PMID: 34062987 PMCID: PMC8124847 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD), the major nonpsychoactive Cannabis constituent, has been proposed for the treatment of a wide panel of neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders, including anxiety, schizophrenia, epilepsy and drug addiction due to the ability of its versatile scaffold to interact with diverse molecular targets that are not restricted to the endocannabinoid system. Albeit the molecular mechanisms responsible for the therapeutic effects of CBD have yet to be fully elucidated, many efforts have been devoted in the last decades to shed light on its complex pharmacological profile. In particular, an ever-increasing number of molecular targets linked to those disorders have been identified for this phytocannabinoid, along with the modulatory effects of CBD on their cascade signaling. In this view, here we will try to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the molecular basis underlying the therapeutic effects of CBD involved in the treatment of neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Maria Vitale
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council (ICB-CNR), Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, NA, Italy; (F.A.I.); (P.A.)
| | - Fabio Arturo Iannotti
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council (ICB-CNR), Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, NA, Italy; (F.A.I.); (P.A.)
- Endocannabinoid Research Group (ERG), Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council (ICB-CNR), Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, NA, Italy
| | - Pietro Amodeo
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council (ICB-CNR), Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, NA, Italy; (F.A.I.); (P.A.)
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27
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Duffy SS, Hayes JP, Fiore NT, Moalem-Taylor G. The cannabinoid system and microglia in health and disease. Neuropharmacology 2021; 190:108555. [PMID: 33845074 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Recent years have yielded significant advances in our understanding of microglia, the immune cells of the central nervous system (CNS). Microglia are key players in CNS development, immune surveillance, and the maintenance of proper neuronal function throughout life. In the healthy brain, homeostatic microglia have a unique molecular signature. In neurological diseases, microglia become activated and adopt distinct transcriptomic signatures, including disease-associated microglia (DAM) implicated in neurodegenerative disorders. Homeostatic microglia synthesise the endogenous cannabinoids 2-arachidonoylglycerol and anandamide and express the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 at constitutively low levels. Upon activation, microglia significantly increase their synthesis of endocannabinoids and upregulate their expression of CB2 receptors, which promote a protective microglial phenotype by enhancing their production of neuroprotective factors and reducing their production of pro-inflammatory factors. Here, we summarise the effects of the microglial cannabinoid system in the CNS demyelinating disease multiple sclerosis, the neurodegenerative diseases Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, chronic inflammatory and neuropathic pain, and psychiatric disorders including depression, anxiety and schizophrenia. We discuss the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids in regulating microglial activity and highlight the need to further investigate their specific microglia-dependent immunomodulatory effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel S Duffy
- Translational Neuroscience Facility, School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, UNSW Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Jessica P Hayes
- Translational Neuroscience Facility, School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, UNSW Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Nathan T Fiore
- Translational Neuroscience Facility, School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, UNSW Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Gila Moalem-Taylor
- Translational Neuroscience Facility, School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, UNSW Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia.
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28
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Chaves YC, Genaro K, Crippa JA, da Cunha JM, Zanoveli JM. Cannabidiol induces antidepressant and anxiolytic-like effects in experimental type-1 diabetic animals by multiple sites of action. Metab Brain Dis 2021; 36:639-652. [PMID: 33464458 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-020-00667-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD), a phytocannabinoid compound, presents antidepressant and anxiolytic-like effects in the type-1 diabetes mellitus(DM1) animal model. Although the underlying mechanism remains unknown, the type-1A serotonin receptor (5-HT1A) and cannabinoids type-1 (CB1) and type-2 (CB2) receptors seem to play a central role in mediating the beneficial effects on emotional responses. We aimed to study the involvement of these receptors on an antidepressant- and anxiolytic-like effects of CBD and on some parameters of the diabetic condition itself. After 2 weeks of the DM1 induction in male Wistar rats by streptozotocin (60 mg/kg; i.p.), animals were treated continuously for 2-weeks with the 5-HT1A receptor antagonist WAY100635 (0.1 mg/kg, i.p.), CB1 antagonist AM251 (1 mg/kg i.p.) or CB2 antagonist AM630 (1 mg/kg i.p.) before the injection of CBD (30 mg/kg, i.p.) or vehicle (VEH, i.p.) and then, they were submitted to the elevated plus-maze and forced swimming tests. Our findings show the continuous treatment with CBD improved all parameters evaluated in these diabetic animals. The previous treatment with the antagonists - 5-HT1A, CB1, or CB2 - blocked the CBD-induced antidepressant-like effect whereas only the blockade of 5-HT1A or CB1 receptors was able to inhibit the CBD-induced anxiolytic-like effect. Regarding glycemic control, only the blockade of CB2 was able to inhibit the beneficial effect of CBD in reducing the glycemia of diabetic animals. These findings indicated a therapeutic potential for CBD in the treatment of depression/anxiety associated with diabetes pointing out a complex intrinsic mechanism in which 5-HT1A, CB1, and/or CB2 receptors are differently recruited.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Anti-Anxiety Agents/pharmacology
- Anti-Anxiety Agents/therapeutic use
- Antidepressive Agents/pharmacology
- Antidepressive Agents/therapeutic use
- Cannabidiol/pharmacology
- Cannabidiol/therapeutic use
- Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/chemically induced
- Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/drug therapy
- Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/psychology
- Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/chemically induced
- Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/drug therapy
- Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/psychology
- Male
- Maze Learning/drug effects
- Maze Learning/physiology
- Rats
- Rats, Wistar
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/agonists
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/metabolism
- Receptor, Serotonin, 5-HT1A/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Yane Costa Chaves
- Department of Pharmacology, Biological Science Sector, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Karina Genaro
- Institute of Neurosciences and Behavior (INeC), University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Sao Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - José Alexandre Crippa
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology for Translational Medicine (INCT-TM- CNPq), Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Joice Maria da Cunha
- Department of Pharmacology, Biological Science Sector, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
- Institute of Neurosciences and Behavior (INeC), University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Janaína Menezes Zanoveli
- Department of Pharmacology, Biological Science Sector, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil.
- Institute of Neurosciences and Behavior (INeC), University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Sao Paulo, Brazil.
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Cannabidiol as a Potential Treatment for Anxiety and Mood Disorders: Molecular Targets and Epigenetic Insights from Preclinical Research. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22041863. [PMID: 33668469 PMCID: PMC7917759 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) is the most abundant non-psychoactive component of cannabis; it displays a very low affinity for cannabinoid receptors, facilitates endocannabinoid signaling by inhibiting the hydrolysis of anandamide, and stimulates both transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 and 2 and serotonin type 1A receptors. Since CBD interacts with a wide variety of molecular targets in the brain, its therapeutic potential has been investigated in a number of neuropsychiatric diseases, including anxiety and mood disorders. Specifically, CBD has received growing attention due to its anxiolytic and antidepressant properties. As a consequence, and given its safety profile, CBD is considered a promising new agent in the treatment of anxiety and mood disorders. However, the exact molecular mechanism of action of CBD still remains unknown. In the present preclinical review, we provide a summary of animal-based studies that support the use of CBD as an anxiolytic- and antidepressant-like compound. Next, we describe neuropharmacological evidence that links the molecular pharmacology of CBD to its behavioral effects. Finally, by taking into consideration the effects of CBD on DNA methylation, histone modifications, and microRNAs, we elaborate on the putative role of epigenetic mechanisms in mediating CBD’s therapeutic outcomes.
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30
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Wanner NM, Colwell M, Drown C, Faulk C. Developmental cannabidiol exposure increases anxiety and modifies genome-wide brain DNA methylation in adult female mice. Clin Epigenetics 2021; 13:4. [PMID: 33407853 PMCID: PMC7789000 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-020-00993-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Use of cannabidiol (CBD), the primary non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis, has recently risen dramatically, while relatively little is known about the underlying molecular mechanisms of its effects. Previous work indicates that direct CBD exposure strongly impacts the brain, with anxiolytic, antidepressant, antipsychotic, and other effects being observed in animal and human studies. The epigenome, particularly DNA methylation, is responsive to environmental input and can direct persistent patterns of gene regulation impacting phenotype. Epigenetic perturbation is particularly impactful during embryogenesis, when exogenous exposures can disrupt critical resetting of epigenetic marks and impart phenotypic effects lasting into adulthood. The impact of prenatal CBD exposure has not been evaluated; however, studies using the psychomimetic cannabinoid Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) have identified detrimental effects on psychological outcomes in developmentally exposed adult offspring. We hypothesized that developmental CBD exposure would have similar negative effects on behavior mediated in part by the epigenome. Nulliparous female wild-type Agouti viable yellow (Avy) mice were exposed to 20 mg/kg CBD or vehicle daily from two weeks prior to mating through gestation and lactation. Coat color shifts, a readout of DNA methylation at the Agouti locus in this strain, were measured in F1 Avy/a offspring. Young adult F1 a/a offspring were then subjected to tests of working spatial memory and anxiety/compulsive behavior. Reduced-representation bisulfite sequencing was performed on both F0 and F1 cerebral cortex and F1 hippocampus to identify genome-wide changes in DNA methylation for direct and developmental exposure, respectively. RESULTS F1 offspring exposed to CBD during development exhibited increased anxiety and improved memory behavior in a sex-specific manner. Further, while no significant coat color shift was observed in Avy/a offspring, thousands of differentially methylated loci (DMLs) were identified in both brain regions with functional enrichment for neurogenesis, substance use phenotypes, and other psychologically relevant terms. CONCLUSIONS These findings demonstrate for the first time that despite positive effects of direct exposure, developmental CBD is associated with mixed behavioral outcomes and perturbation of the brain epigenome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole M Wanner
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, 1334 Eckles Avenue, St. Paul, MN, USA
| | - Mathia Colwell
- Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, 1334 Eckles Avenue, 225 Food Science, St. Paul, MN, 55018, USA
| | - Chelsea Drown
- Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, 1334 Eckles Avenue, 225 Food Science, St. Paul, MN, 55018, USA
| | - Christopher Faulk
- Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, 1334 Eckles Avenue, 225 Food Science, St. Paul, MN, 55018, USA.
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31
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Abame MA, He Y, Wu S, Xie Z, Zhang J, Gong X, Wu C, Shen J. Chronic administration of synthetic cannabidiol induces antidepressant effects involving modulation of serotonin and noradrenaline levels in the hippocampus. Neurosci Lett 2020; 744:135594. [PMID: 33388355 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2020.135594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychotomimetic compound derived from Cannabis sativa. Preclinical and clinical studies have shown therapeutic potential of CBD in a variety of disorders. Despite several research efforts on CBD, its antidepressant activity has been poorly investigated and the exact mechanism of action remains unclear. Thus, this study aimed to further explore the mechanism of CBD after chronic administration (7 days). First, the dose level of CBD that is enough to produce antidepressant effects after chronic administration was explored. Second, the changes in key proteins and neurotransmitters through such methods as real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), western blotting, and high-performance liquid chromatography-electrochemical detection (HPLC-ECD) were critically studied. Furthermore, correlation between behavioral phenotypes with protein and neurotransmitters was established and the possible mechanism was herein postulated. The results showed that only the high dose CBD 100 mg/kg chronic administration induced antidepressant-like effects in mice subjected to forced swim test. Chronic CBD 100 mg/kg administration resulted in significant increases in serotonin (5-HT) and noradrenaline (NA) levels in the hippocampus (HPC). Similarly, the chronic administration of CBD 30 mg/kg and CBD 100 mg/kg significantly decreased nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) expression in the HPC. Moreover, none of the treatments were observed to induce locomotor effects. Thus, we concluded that chronic administration of CBD (100 mg/kg) induced antidepressant-like effects by increasing 5-HT and NA levels in the HPC. These results shed new light on further discovery of the antidepressant effect of CBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melkamu Alemu Abame
- CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Drug Discovery and Design Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shanghai, 201203, China; School of Pharmacy, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yang He
- CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Drug Discovery and Design Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Song Wu
- Department of Druggabilty Evaluation, Topharman Shanghai Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Zhifei Xie
- Department of Druggabilty Evaluation, Topharman Shanghai Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Druggabilty Evaluation, Topharman Shanghai Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Xudong Gong
- Department of Druggabilty Evaluation, Topharman Shanghai Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Chunhui Wu
- Department of Druggabilty Evaluation, Topharman Shanghai Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Jingshan Shen
- CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Drug Discovery and Design Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shanghai, 201203, China; School of Pharmacy, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
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Cannabidiol: A Potential New Alternative for the Treatment of Anxiety, Depression, and Psychotic Disorders. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10111575. [PMID: 33228239 PMCID: PMC7699613 DOI: 10.3390/biom10111575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The potential therapeutic use of some Cannabis sativa plant compounds has been attracting great interest, especially for managing neuropsychiatric disorders due to the relative lack of efficacy of the current treatments. Numerous studies have been carried out using the main phytocannabinoids, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). CBD displays an interesting pharmacological profile without the potential for becoming a drug of abuse, unlike THC. In this review, we focused on the anxiolytic, antidepressant, and antipsychotic effects of CBD found in animal and human studies. In rodents, results suggest that the effects of CBD depend on the dose, the strain, the administration time course (acute vs. chronic), and the route of administration. In addition, certain key targets have been related with these CBD pharmacological actions, including cannabinoid receptors (CB1r and CB2r), 5-HT1A receptor and neurogenesis factors. Preliminary clinical trials also support the efficacy of CBD as an anxiolytic, antipsychotic, and antidepressant, and more importantly, a positive risk-benefit profile. These promising results support the development of large-scale studies to further evaluate CBD as a potential new drug for the treatment of these psychiatric disorders.
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Ferber SG, Namdar D, Hen-Shoval D, Eger G, Koltai H, Shoval G, Shbiro L, Weller A. The "Entourage Effect": Terpenes Coupled with Cannabinoids for the Treatment of Mood Disorders and Anxiety Disorders. Curr Neuropharmacol 2020; 18:87-96. [PMID: 31481004 PMCID: PMC7324885 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x17666190903103923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2019] [Revised: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Mood disorders are the most prevalent mental conditions encountered in psychiatric practice. Numerous patients suffering from mood disorders present with treatment-resistant forms of depression, co-morbid anxiety, other psychiatric disorders and bipolar disorders. Standardized essential oils (such as that of Lavender officinalis) have been shown to exert clinical efficacy in treating anxiety disorders. As endocannabinoids are suggested to play an important role in major depression, generalized anxiety and bipolar disorders, Cannabis sativa was suggested for their treatment. The endocannabinoid system is widely distributed throughout the body including the brain, modulating many functions. It is involved in mood and related disorders, and its activity may be modified by exogenous cannabinoids. CB1 and CB2 receptors primarily serve as the binding sites for endocannabinoids as well as for phytocannabinoids, produced by cannabis inflorescences. However, ‘cannabis’ is not a single compound product but is known for its complicated molecular profile, producing a plethora of phytocannabinoids alongside a vast array of terpenes. Thus, the “entourage effect” is the suggested positive contribution derived from the addition of terpenes to cannabinoids. Here, we review the literature on the effects of cannabinoids and discuss the possibility of enhancing cannabinoid activity on psychiatric symptoms by the addition of terpenes and terpenoids. Possible underlying mechanisms for the anti-depressant and anxiolytic effects are reviewed. These natural products may be an important potential source for new medications for the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sari Goldstein Ferber
- Psychology Department, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel.,Gonda Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Dvora Namdar
- ARO, Volcani Center, Rishon LeZion 7505101, Israel
| | - Danielle Hen-Shoval
- Psychology Department, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel.,Gonda Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Gilad Eger
- Geha Mental Health Center, Petah Tiqva, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | | | - Gal Shoval
- Geha Mental Health Center, Petah Tiqva, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Liat Shbiro
- Geha Mental Health Center, Petah Tiqva, Israel
| | - Aron Weller
- Psychology Department, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel.,Gonda Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
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Wanner NM, Colwell M, Drown C, Faulk C. Subacute cannabidiol alters genome-wide DNA methylation in adult mouse hippocampus. ENVIRONMENTAL AND MOLECULAR MUTAGENESIS 2020; 61:890-900. [PMID: 32579259 PMCID: PMC7765463 DOI: 10.1002/em.22396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Use of cannabidiol (CBD), the most abundant non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis (Cannabis sativa), has recently increased as a result of widespread availability of CBD-containing products. CBD is FDA-approved for the treatment of epilepsy and exhibits anxiolytic, antipsychotic, prosocial, and other behavioral effects in animal studies and clinical trials, however, the underlying mechanisms governing these phenotypes are still being elucidated. The epigenome, particularly DNA methylation, is responsive to environmental input and can govern persistent patterns of gene regulation affecting phenotype across the life course. In order to understand the epigenomic activity of cannabidiol exposure in the adult brain, 12-week-old male wild-type a/a Agouti viable yellow (Avy ) mice were exposed to either 20 mg/kg CBD or vehicle daily by oral administration for 14 days. Hippocampal tissue was collected and reduced-representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS) was performed. Analyses revealed 3,323 differentially methylated loci (DMLs) in CBD-exposed animals with a small skew toward global hypomethylation. Genes for cell adhesion and migration, dendritic spine development, and excitatory postsynaptic potential were found to be enriched in a gene ontology term analysis of DML-containing genes, and disease ontology enrichment revealed an overrepresentation of DMLs in gene sets associated with autism spectrum disorder, schizophrenia, and other phenotypes. These results suggest that the epigenome may be a key substrate for CBD's behavioral effects and provides a wealth of gene regulatory information for further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole M Wanner
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine
| | | | - Chelsea Drown
- Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota
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Alteba S, Mizrachi Zer-Aviv T, Tenenhaus A, Ben David G, Adelman J, Hillard CJ, Doron R, Akirav I. Antidepressant-like effects of URB597 and JZL184 in male and female rats exposed to early life stress. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2020; 39:70-86. [PMID: 32891517 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2020.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Early life stress (ELS) may increase predisposition to depression. Despite extensive research, there is still a lack of knowledge of how to optimally treat depression. We aimed to establish a role for the endocannabinoid (ECB) system within the hippocampal-nucleus accumbens (NAc) network as a possible effective target in combating the pathophysiological development of depression-like behavior and neuronal alterations that are precipitated by ELS. Male and female rats were exposed to ELS during post-natal days (P) 7-14, injected with the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitor URB597 or the monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) inhibitor JZL184 for 2 weeks during late-adolescence (P45-60). Rats were tested starting at P90 for depressive- and anxiety-like behaviors as well as social preference and recognition; alterations in FAAH and MAGL activity; the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF); and plasticity in the hippocampal-NAc pathway. FAAH and MAGL inhibitors during late-adolescence prevented: (i) the long-term effects of ELS on depression- and anxiety-like behavior and the impairment in social behavior and neuronal plasticity in males and females; (ii) ELS-induced alterations in MAGL activity in males' hippocampus and females' hippocampus and NAc; and (iii) ELS-induced alterations in BDNF in males' hippocampus and NAc and females' hippocampus. Significant correlations were observed between alterations in MAGL and BDNF levels and the behavioral phenotype. The findings suggest that alterations in MAGL activity and BDNF expression in the hippocampal-NAc network contribute to the depressive-like behavioral phenotype in ELS males and females. Moreover, the study suggests FAAH and MAGL inhibitors as potential intervention drugs for depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirley Alteba
- School of Psychological Sciences, Department of Psychology, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel; The Integrated Brain and Behavior Research Center (IBBR), University of Haifa, Haifa, 3498838, Israel
| | - Tomer Mizrachi Zer-Aviv
- School of Psychological Sciences, Department of Psychology, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel; The Integrated Brain and Behavior Research Center (IBBR), University of Haifa, Haifa, 3498838, Israel
| | - Adi Tenenhaus
- Department of Education and Psychology, The Open University of Israel, Israel
| | - Gilad Ben David
- Department of Education and Psychology, The Open University of Israel, Israel
| | - Jacob Adelman
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Neuroscience Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee 53226, USA
| | - Cecilia J Hillard
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Neuroscience Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee 53226, USA
| | - Ravid Doron
- Department of Education and Psychology, The Open University of Israel, Israel
| | - Irit Akirav
- School of Psychological Sciences, Department of Psychology, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel; The Integrated Brain and Behavior Research Center (IBBR), University of Haifa, Haifa, 3498838, Israel.
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Romero P, Peris A, Vergara K, Matus JT. Comprehending and improving cannabis specialized metabolism in the systems biology era. PLANT SCIENCE : AN INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL PLANT BIOLOGY 2020; 298:110571. [PMID: 32771172 DOI: 10.1016/j.plantsci.2020.110571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis sativa is a source of food, fiber and specialized metabolites such as cannabinoids, with psychoactive and pharmacological effects. Due to its expanding and increasingly-accepted use in medicine, cannabis cultivation is acquiring more importance and less social stigma. Humans initiated different domestication episodes whose later spread gave rise to a plethora of landrace cultivars. At present, breeders cross germplasms from different gene pools depending on their specific use. The fiber (hemp) and drug (marijuana) types of C. sativa differ in their cannabinoid chemical composition phenotype (chemotype) and also in the accumulation of terpenoid compounds that constitute a strain's particular flavor and scent. Cannabinoids are isoprenylated polyketides among which cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) and (-)-trans-Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol acid (THCA) have been well-documented for their many effects on humans. Here, we review the most studied specialized metabolic pathways in C. sativa, showing how terpenes and cannabinoids share both part of the isoprenoid pathway and the same biosynthetic compartmentalization (i.e. glandular trichomes of leaves and flowers). We enlist the several studies that have deciphered these pathways in this species including physical and genetic maps, QTL analyses and localization and enzymatic studies of cannabinoid and terpene synthases. In addition, new comparative modeling of cannabinoid synthases and phylogenetic trees are presented. We describe the genome sequencing initiatives of several accessions with the concomitant generation of next-generation genome maps and transcriptomic data. Very recently, proteomic characterizations and systems biology approaches such as those applying network theory or the integration of multi-omics data have increased the knowledge on gene function, enzyme diversity and metabolite content in C. sativa. In this revision we drift through the history, present and future of cannabis research and on how second- and third-generation sequencing technologies are bringing light to the field of cannabis specialized metabolism. We also discuss different biotechnological approaches for producing cannabinoids in engineered microorganisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Romero
- Institute for Integrative Systems Biology, I²SysBio (Universitat de València - CSIC), 46908, Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - A Peris
- Institute for Integrative Systems Biology, I²SysBio (Universitat de València - CSIC), 46908, Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - K Vergara
- Centro de Estudios del Cannabis, CECANN, Santiago, Chile
| | - J T Matus
- Institute for Integrative Systems Biology, I²SysBio (Universitat de València - CSIC), 46908, Paterna, Valencia, Spain.
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Chaves YC, Genaro K, Stern CA, de Oliveira Guaita G, de Souza Crippa JA, da Cunha JM, Zanoveli JM. Two-weeks treatment with cannabidiol improves biophysical and behavioral deficits associated with experimental type-1 diabetes. Neurosci Lett 2020; 729:135020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2020.135020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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38
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Decreased sensitivity in adolescent versus adult rats to the antidepressant-like effects of cannabidiol. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2020; 237:1621-1631. [PMID: 32086540 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-020-05481-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Cannabidiol is a non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid with great therapeutic potential in diverse psychiatric disorders; however, its antidepressant potential has been mainly ascertained in adult rats. OBJECTIVES To compare the antidepressant-like response induced by cannabidiol in adolescent and adult rats and the possible parallel modulation of hippocampal neurogenesis. METHODS Male Sprague-Dawley rats were repeatedly treated with cannabidiol (3, 10, and 30 mg/kg) or vehicle (1 mL/kg) during adolescence (postnatal days, PND 27-33) or adulthood (PND 141-147) and exposed to 3 consecutive tests (forced swim, open field, two-bottle choice) that quantified behavioral despair, anxiety, and sucrose intake respectively. RESULTS Cannabidiol induced differential effects depending on the age and dose administered, with a decreased sensitivity observed in adolescent rats: (1) cannabidiol (30 mg/kg) decreased body weight only in adult rats; (2) cannabidiol ameliorated behavioral despair in adolescent and adult rats, but with a different dose sensitivity (10 vs. 30 mg/kg), and with a different extent (2 vs. 21 days post-treatment); (3) cannabidiol did not modulate anxiety-like behavior at any dose tested in adolescent or adult rats; and (4) cannabidiol increased sucrose intake in adult rats. CONCLUSIONS Our findings support the notion that cannabidiol exerts antidepressant- and anorexigenic-like effects in adult rats and demonstrate a decreased potential when administered in adolescent rats. Moreover, since cannabidiol did not modulate hippocampal neurogenesis (cell proliferation and early neuronal survival) in adolescent or adult rats, the results revealed potential antidepressant-like effects induced by cannabidiol without the need of regulating hippocampal neurogenesis.
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Pinto JV, Saraf G, Frysch C, Vigo D, Keramatian K, Chakrabarty T, Lam RW, Kauer-Sant'Anna M, Yatham LN. [Not Available]. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRY. REVUE CANADIENNE DE PSYCHIATRIE 2020; 65:213-227. [PMID: 31830820 PMCID: PMC7385425 DOI: 10.1177/0706743719895195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Objective: To review the current evidence for efficacy of cannabidiol in the treatment of mood disorders. Methods: We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, PsychInfo, Scielo, ClinicalTrials.gov, and The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for studies published up to July 31, 2019. The inclusion criteria were clinical trials, observational studies, or case reports evaluating the effect of pure cannabidiol or cannabidiol mixed with other cannabinoids on mood symptoms related to either mood disorders or other health conditions. The review was reported in accordance with guidelines from Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses protocol. Results: Of the 924 records initially yielded by the search, 16 were included in the final sample. Among them, six were clinical studies that used cannabidiol to treat other health conditions but assessed mood symptoms as an additional outcome. Similarly, four tested cannabidiol blended with Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol in the treatment of general health conditions and assessed affective symptoms as secondary outcomes. Two were case reports testing cannabidiol. Four studies were observational studies that evaluated the cannabidiol use and its clinical correlates. However, there were no clinical trials investigating the efficacy of cannabidiol, specifically in mood disorders or assessing affective symptoms as the primary outcome. Although some articles point in the direction of benefits of cannabidiol to treat depressive symptoms, the methodology varied in several aspects and the level of evidence is not enough to support its indication as a treatment for mood disorders. Conclusions: There is a lack of evidence to recommend cannabidiol as a treatment for mood disorders. However, considering the preclinical and clinical evidence related to other diseases, cannabidiol might have a role as a treatment for mood disorders. Therefore, there is an urgent need for well-designed clinical trials investigating the efficacy of cannabidiol in mood disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jairo Vinícius Pinto
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Gayatri Saraf
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Christian Frysch
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Daniel Vigo
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Kamyar Keramatian
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Trisha Chakrabarty
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Raymond W Lam
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Márcia Kauer-Sant'Anna
- Department of Psychiatry, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Lakshmi N Yatham
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Wang L, Zhang Y, Du X, Ding T, Gong W, Liu F. Review of antidepressants in clinic and active ingredients of traditional Chinese medicine targeting 5-HT1A receptors. Biomed Pharmacother 2019; 120:109408. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2019.109408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Revised: 08/26/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
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Calpe-López C, García-Pardo MP, Aguilar MA. Cannabidiol Treatment Might Promote Resilience to Cocaine and Methamphetamine Use Disorders: A Review of Possible Mechanisms. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24142583. [PMID: 31315244 PMCID: PMC6680550 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24142583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Revised: 07/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, there are no approved pharmacotherapies for addiction to cocaine and other psychostimulant drugs. Several studies have proposed that cannabidiol (CBD) could be a promising treatment for substance use disorders. In the present work, the authors describe the scarce preclinical and human research about the actions of CBD on the effects of stimulant drugs, mainly cocaine and methamphetamine (METH). Additionally, the possible mechanisms underlying the therapeutic potential of CBD on stimulant use disorders are reviewed. CBD has reversed toxicity and seizures induced by cocaine, behavioural sensitization induced by amphetamines, motivation to self-administer cocaine and METH, context- and stress-induced reinstatement of cocaine and priming-induced reinstatement of METH seeking behaviours. CBD also potentiated the extinction of cocaine- and amphetamine-induced conditioned place preference (CPP), impaired the reconsolidation of cocaine CPP and prevented priming-induced reinstatement of METH CPP. Observational studies suggest that CBD may reduce problems related with crack-cocaine addiction, such as withdrawal symptoms, craving, impulsivity and paranoia (Fischer et al., 2015). The potential mechanisms involved in the protective effects of CBD on addiction to psychostimulant drugs include the prevention of drug-induced neuroadaptations (neurotransmitter and intracellular signalling pathways changes), the erasure of aberrant drug-memories, the reversion of cognitive deficits induced by psychostimulant drugs and the alleviation of mental disorders comorbid with psychostimulant abuse. Further, preclinical studies and future clinical trials are necessary to fully evaluate the potential of CBD as an intervention for cocaine and methamphetamine addictive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Calpe-López
- Unit of Research "Neurobehavioural mechanisms and endophenotypes of addictive behavior", Department of Psychobiology, University of Valencia, Avda. Blasco Ibañez 21, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - M Pilar García-Pardo
- Department of Psychology and Sociology, University of Zaragoza, 44003 Teruel, Spain
| | - Maria A Aguilar
- Unit of Research "Neurobehavioural mechanisms and endophenotypes of addictive behavior", Department of Psychobiology, University of Valencia, Avda. Blasco Ibañez 21, 46010 Valencia, Spain.
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42
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Silote GP, Sartim A, Sales A, Eskelund A, Guimarães F, Wegener G, Joca S. Emerging evidence for the antidepressant effect of cannabidiol and the underlying molecular mechanisms. J Chem Neuroanat 2019; 98:104-116. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2019.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2018] [Revised: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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43
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Ingram G, Pearson OR. Cannabis and multiple sclerosis. Pract Neurol 2019; 19:310-315. [PMID: 31201234 DOI: 10.1136/practneurol-2018-002137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Revised: 03/22/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Patients with multiple sclerosis have long turned to complementary therapies to manage symptoms that licensed products can only partially control. Around half of patients with multiple sclerosis admit to previous or current cannabis use for medicinal purposes and would endorse legalisation. Despite many governments worldwide relaxing regulations around medicinal cannabis, there remain many unanswered questions as to how clinicians should prescribe or recommend products, and access to pharmaceutical-grade products remains highly restricted. Here we address what adult neurologists need to know about cannabis and its use in multiple sclerosis.
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Imipramine treatment reverses depressive- and anxiety-like behaviors, normalize adrenocorticotropic hormone, and reduces interleukin-1β in the brain of rats subjected to experimental periapical lesion. Pharmacol Rep 2019; 71:24-31. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharep.2018.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2017] [Revised: 06/20/2018] [Accepted: 08/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Effects of cannabidiol in males and females in two different rat models of depression. Physiol Behav 2018; 201:59-63. [PMID: 30571957 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2018.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2018] [Revised: 11/14/2018] [Accepted: 12/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The current study explores the therapeutic potential of Cannabidiol (CBD), a compound in the Cannabis plant, using both sexes of 2 "depressive-like" genetic models, Wistar Kyoto (WKY) and Flinders Sensitive Line (FSL) rats. Rats ingested CBD (30 mg/kg) orally. In the saccharin preference test, following a previous report of a pro-hedonic effect of CBD in male WKY, we now found similar results in female WKY. CBD also decreased immobility in the forced swim test in males (both strains) and in female WKY. These findings suggest a role for CBD in treating mental disorders with prominent symptoms of helplessness and anhedonia.
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46
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Crippa JA, Guimarães FS, Campos AC, Zuardi AW. Translational Investigation of the Therapeutic Potential of Cannabidiol (CBD): Toward a New Age. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2009. [PMID: 30298064 PMCID: PMC6161644 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2017] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Among the many cannabinoids in the cannabis plant, cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound that does not produce the typical subjective effects of marijuana. Objectives: The aim of the present review is to describe the main advances in the development of the experimental and clinical use of cannabidiol CBD in neuropsychiatry. Methods: A non-systematic search was performed for studies dealing with therapeutic applications of CBD, especially performed by Brazilian researchers. Results: CBD was shown to have anxiolytic, antipsychotic and neuroprotective properties. In addition, basic and clinical investigations on the effects of CBD have been carried out in the context of many other health conditions, including its potential use in epilepsy, substance abuse and dependence, schizophrenia, social phobia, post-traumatic stress, depression, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, and Parkinson. Discussion: CBD is an useful and promising molecule that may help patients with a number of clinical conditions. Controlled clinical trials with different neuropsychiatric populations that are currently under investigation should bring important answers in the near future and support the translation of research findings to clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- José A. Crippa
- Department of Neurosciences and Behavior, Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- National Institute for Translational Medicine (INCT-TM; CNPq), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Francisco S. Guimarães
- National Institute for Translational Medicine (INCT-TM; CNPq), São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alline C. Campos
- National Institute for Translational Medicine (INCT-TM; CNPq), São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Antonio W. Zuardi
- Department of Neurosciences and Behavior, Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- National Institute for Translational Medicine (INCT-TM; CNPq), São Paulo, Brazil
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47
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Sales AJ, Crestani CC, Guimarães FS, Joca SRL. Antidepressant-like effect induced by Cannabidiol is dependent on brain serotonin levels. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2018; 86:255-261. [PMID: 29885468 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2018.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2018] [Revised: 05/19/2018] [Accepted: 06/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound of Cannabis sativa with relevant therapeutic potential in several neuropsychiatric disorders including depression. CBD treatment has shown significant antidepressant-like effects in different rodent preclinical models. However, the mechanisms involved in CBD-induced antidepressant effects are still poorly understood. Therefore, this work aimed at investigating the participation of serotonin (5-HT) and/or noradrenaline (NA) in CBD-induced antidepressant-like effects in the forced swimming test (FST) by: 1) testing if CBD co-administration with serotonergic (fluoxetine, FLX) or noradrenergic (desipramine, DES) antidepressants would have synergistic effects; and 2) investigating if 5-HT or NA depletion would impair CBD-induced behavioral effects. Results showed that CBD (10 mg/kg), FLX (10 mg/kg) and DES (5 mg/kg) induced antidepressant-like effects in mice submitted to FST. Ineffective doses of CBD (7 mg/kg), when co-administered with ineffective doses of FLX (5 mg/kg) or DES (2.5 mg/kg) resulted in significant antidepressant-like effects, thus implicating synergistic and/or additive mechanisms. Pretreatment with PCPA (an inhibitor of serotonin synthesis: 150 mg/kg, i.p., once per day for 4 days), but not DSP-4 (a noradrenergic neurotoxin: 1 μg/μl, i.c.v., 24 h before the test), reduced monoamine levels in the brain. However, only PCPA treatment abolished CBD-induced behavioral effects in FST, indicating the participation of serotonergic mechanisms. None of the treatments induced locomotor effects. Our results suggest that the antidepressant-like effect induced by CBD in the FST is dependent on serotonin levels in the central nervous system (CNS).
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda J Sales
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Carlos C Crestani
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Araraquara, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, SP, Brazil
| | - Francisco S Guimarães
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil; Center for Interdisciplinary Research on Applied Neurosciences (NAPNA), University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sâmia R L Joca
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on Applied Neurosciences (NAPNA), University of São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil; Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Denmark.
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48
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Peres FF, Diana MC, Levin R, Suiama MA, Almeida V, Vendramini AM, Santos CM, Zuardi AW, Hallak JEC, Crippa JA, Abílio VC. Cannabidiol Administered During Peri-Adolescence Prevents Behavioral Abnormalities in an Animal Model of Schizophrenia. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:901. [PMID: 30186164 PMCID: PMC6113576 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia is considered a debilitating neurodevelopmental psychiatric disorder and its pharmacotherapy remains problematic without recent major advances. The development of interventions able to prevent the emergence of schizophrenia would therefore represent an enormous progress. Here, we investigated whether treatment with cannabidiol (CBD - a compound of Cannabis sativa that presents an antipsychotic profile in animals and humans) during peri-adolescence would prevent schizophrenia-like behavioral abnormalities in an animal model of schizophrenia: the spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR) strain. Wistar rats and SHRs were treated with vehicle or CBD from 30 to 60 post-natal days. In experiment 1, schizophrenia-like behaviors (locomotor activity, social interaction, prepulse inhibition of startle and contextual fear conditioning) were assessed on post-natal day 90. Side effects commonly associated with antipsychotic treatment were also evaluated: body weight gain and catalepsy throughout the treatment, and oral dyskinesia 48 h after treatment interruption and on post-natal day 90. In experiment 2, serum levels of triglycerides and glycemia were assessed on post-natal day 61. In experiment 3, levels of BDNF, monoamines, and their metabolites were evaluated on post-natal days 61 and 90 in the prefrontal cortex and striatum. Treatment with CBD prevented the emergence of SHRs' hyperlocomotor activity (a model for the positive symptoms of schizophrenia) and deficits in prepulse inhibition of startle and contextual fear conditioning (cognitive impairments). CBD did not induce any of the potential motor or metabolic side effects evaluated. Treatment with CBD increased the prefrontal cortex 5-HIAA/serotonin ratio and the levels of 5-HIAA on post-natal days 61 and 90, respectively. Our data provide pre-clinical evidence for a safe and beneficial effect of peripubertal and treatment with CBD on preventing positive and cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia, and suggest the involvement of the serotoninergic system on this effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda F Peres
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,National Institute for Translational Medicine, National Council for Scientific and Technological Development, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.,Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Neurosciences, Department of Psychiatry, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mariana C Diana
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Neurosciences, Department of Psychiatry, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Raquel Levin
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Neurosciences, Department of Psychiatry, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mayra A Suiama
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Neurosciences, Department of Psychiatry, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Valéria Almeida
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Neurosciences, Department of Psychiatry, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana M Vendramini
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Neurosciences, Department of Psychiatry, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Camila M Santos
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Neurosciences, Department of Psychiatry, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Antônio W Zuardi
- National Institute for Translational Medicine, National Council for Scientific and Technological Development, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.,Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Jaime E C Hallak
- National Institute for Translational Medicine, National Council for Scientific and Technological Development, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.,Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - José A Crippa
- National Institute for Translational Medicine, National Council for Scientific and Technological Development, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.,Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Vanessa C Abílio
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,National Institute for Translational Medicine, National Council for Scientific and Technological Development, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.,Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
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49
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Sartim AG, Sales AJ, Guimarães FS, Joca SR. Hippocampal mammalian target of rapamycin is implicated in stress-coping behavior induced by cannabidiol in the forced swim test. J Psychopharmacol 2018; 32:922-931. [PMID: 29968502 DOI: 10.1177/0269881118784877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabidiol is a non-psychotomimetic compound with antidepressant-like effects. However, the mechanisms and brain regions involved in cannabidiol effects are not yet completely understood. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor/tropomyosin-receptor kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin (BDNF-TrkB-mTOR) signaling, especially in limbic structures, seems to play a central role in mediating the effects of antidepressant drugs. AIM Since it is not yet known if BDNF-TrkB-mTOR signaling in the hippocampus is critical to the antidepressant-like effects of cannabidiol, we investigated the effects produced by cannabidiol (10/30/60 nmol/0.2 µL) micro-injection into the hippocampus of mice submitted to the forced swim test and to the open field test. METHODS Independent groups received intra-hippocampal injections of rapamycin (mTOR inhibitor, 0.2 nmol/0.2 µL) or K252 (Trk antagonist, 0.01 nmol/0.2 µL), before the systemic (10 mg/kg) or hippocampal (10 nmol/0.2µL) injection of cannabidiol, and were submitted to the same tests. BDNF levels were analyzed in the hippocampus of animals treated with cannabidiol (10 mg/kg). RESULTS Systemic cannabidiol administration induced antidepressant-like effects and increased BDNF levels in the dorsal hippocampus. Rapamycin, but not K252a, injection into the dorsal hippocampus prevented the antidepressant-like effect induced by systemic cannabidiol treatment (10 mg/kg). Differently, hippocampal administration of cannabidiol (10 nmol/0.2 µL) reduced immobility time, an effect that was blocked by both rapamycin and K252a local microinjection. CONCLUSION Altogether, our data suggest that the hippocampal BDNF-TrkB-mTOR pathway is vital for cannabidiol-induced antidepressant-like effect when the drug is locally administered. However, other brain regions may also be involved in cannabidiol-induced antidepressant effect upon systemic administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariandra G Sartim
- 1 Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Amanda J Sales
- 2 Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Francisco S Guimarães
- 2 Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil.,3 Center for Interdisciplinary Research on Applied Neurosciences (NAPNA), University of São Paulo, Brazil.,5 National Institute of Science and Translational Medicine, (INCT), Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Sâmia Rl Joca
- 1 Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil.,3 Center for Interdisciplinary Research on Applied Neurosciences (NAPNA), University of São Paulo, Brazil.,4 Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit (TNU), Aarhus University, Denmark.,5 National Institute of Science and Translational Medicine, (INCT), Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
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50
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de Morais H, Chaves YC, Waltrick APF, Jesus CHA, Genaro K, Crippa JA, da Cunha JM, Zanoveli JM. Sub-chronic treatment with cannabidiol but not with URB597 induced a mild antidepressant-like effect in diabetic rats. Neurosci Lett 2018; 682:62-68. [PMID: 29885450 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2018.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2018] [Revised: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 06/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Depression associated with diabetes has been described as a highly debilitating comorbidity. Due to its complex and multifactorial mechanisms, the treatment of depression associated with diabetes represents a clinical challenge. Cannabidiol (CBD), the non-psychotomimetic compound derived from Cannabis sativa, has been pointed out as a promising compound for the treatment of several psychiatric disorders. Here, we evaluated the potential antidepressant-like effect of acute or sub-chronic treatment with CBD in diabetic rats using the modified forced swimming test (mFST). Also, to better understand the functionality of the endocannabinoid system in diabetic animals we also evaluated the effect of URB597, a fatty acid amide hydrolase inhibitor. Four weeks after the treatment with streptozotocin (60 mg/kg; i.p.; diabetic group-DBT) or citrate buffer (i.p.; normoglycemic group-NGL), DBT animals received an acute intraperitoneal injection of CBD (0, 0.3, 3, 10, 30 or 60 mg/kg), 1 h before the mFST, or URB597 (0, 0.1, 0.3 or 1 mg/kg) 2 h before the mFST. In another set of experiments, animals were sub-chronically treated with CBD (0, 0.3, 3, 30 or 60 mg/kg i.p.), 24, 5 and 1 h before the mFST or URB597 (0, 0.1, 0.3 or 1 mg/kg i.p.) 24, 5 and 2 h before the mFST. The NGL group was acutely treated with CBD (0, 30 mg/kg i.p.) or URB597 (0, 0.3 mg/kg; i.p.). Acute treatment with either CBD or URB induced an antidepressant-like effect in NGL rats, but not in DBT rats. However, sub-chronic treatment with CBD (only at a dose of 30 mg/kg), but not with URB597, induced a mild antidepressant-like effect in DBT animals. Neither body weight nor blood glucose levels were altered by treatments. Considering the importance of the endocannabinoid system to the mechanism of action of many antidepressant drugs, the mild antidepressant-like effect of the sub-chronic treatment with CBD, but not with URB597 does not invalidate the importance of deepening the studies involving the endocannabinoid system particularly in DBT animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen de Morais
- Department of Pharmacology, Biological Science Sector, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Yane Costa Chaves
- Department of Pharmacology, Biological Science Sector, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Ana Paula Farias Waltrick
- Department of Pharmacology, Biological Science Sector, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Carlos Henrique Alves Jesus
- Department of Pharmacology, Biological Science Sector, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Karina Genaro
- Institute of Neurosciences and Behavior (INeC), Universitz of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Sao Paulo, Brazil; Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - José Alexandre Crippa
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Brazil; National Institute of Science and Technology for Translational Medicine (INCT-TM-CNPq), Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Joice Maria da Cunha
- Department of Pharmacology, Biological Science Sector, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil; Institute of Neurosciences and Behavior (INeC), Universitz of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Janaína Menezes Zanoveli
- Department of Pharmacology, Biological Science Sector, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil; Institute of Neurosciences and Behavior (INeC), Universitz of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Sao Paulo, Brazil.
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