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Baldo BA. The entactogen 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA; ecstasy) as a treatment aid in psychotherapy and its safety concerns. Arch Toxicol 2024; 98:2409-2427. [PMID: 38743292 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-024-03765-8] [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: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
The phenylethylamine, 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, 'ecstasy'), is the prototypical example of an entactogen. Its original placement in highly restrictive drug usage categories in the US and UK, led to an inevitable restriction on MDMA neuroscience research and treatment. The dominant pharmacological effects of MDMA are its properties of release and inhibition of reuptake of amine neurotransmitter transporters for dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. MDMA is an agonist of a wide range of receptors; its mood-altering effects are mediated via 5-HT2A receptors; this receptor may also mediate its effects on body temperature, analgesia, and anxiolytic properties. The mechanisms underlying MDMA's entactogenic properties of sociability and interpersonal closeness are not known but release and involvement of oxytocin, a peptide thought by some to be involved in social bonding, has been suggested. Adverse effects of MDMA are mostly transient; acute multiorgan adverse effects occurring during raves or crowded dance gatherings include dehydration, hyperthermia, seizures, rhabdomyolysis, disseminated intravascular coagulation, and acute renal failure. Deaths following MDMA taken by itself are rare compared to fatalities following coadministration with other drugs. A recent FDA-approved phase 3 clinical trial of MDMA for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) led to the conclusion that MDMA-assisted therapy represents a potential breakthrough treatment meriting expedited clinical evaluation. Despite the ongoing deliberations by the FDA and EMA for approval of MDMA treatment of PTSD, the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) recently announced that after an evaluation of the therapeutic value, benefits, and risks of MDMA, it will permit its prescribing for the treatment of PTSD. Further examples of regulatory relaxation toward MDMA-assisted psychotherapy are underway. These include the FDA's recently approved clinical trial to assess MDMA's efficacy in the treatment of "asociality" in patients with schizophrenia and an open trial of MDMA treatment for alcohol-use disorder which showed decreased alcohol consumption. There are also ongoing studies on the little understood startle response, anxiety associated with life-threatening illness, and social anxiety in autistic adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian A Baldo
- Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2065, Australia.
- Department of Medicine, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia.
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Chandler CM, Nickell JR, George Wilson A, Culver JP, Crooks PA, Bardo MT, Dwoskin LP. Vesicular monoamine transporter-2 inhibitor JPC-141 prevents methamphetamine-induced dopamine toxicity and blocks methamphetamine self-administration in rats. Biochem Pharmacol 2024:116189. [PMID: 38580165 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
Previous research has demonstrated therapeutic potential for VMAT2 inhibitors in rat models of methamphetamine use disorder. Here, we report on the neurochemical and behavioral effects of 1-(2-methoxyphenethyl)-4-phenethypiperazine (JPC-141), a novel analog of lobelane. JPC-141 potently inhibited (Ki = 52 nM) [3H]dopamine uptake by VMAT2 in striatal vesicles with 50 to 250-fold greater selectivity for VMAT2 over dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin plasmalemma transporters. Also, JPC-141 was 57-fold more selective for inhibiting VMAT2 over [3H]dofetilide binding to hERG channels expressed by HEK293, suggesting relatively low potential for cardiotoxicity. When administered in vivo to rats, JPC-141 prevented the METH-induced reduction in striatal dopamine content when given either prior to or after a high dose of METH, suggesting a reduction in METH-induced dopaminergic neurotoxicity. In behavioral assays, JPC-141 decreased METH-stimulated locomotor activity in METH-sensitized rats at doses of JPC-141 which did not alter locomotor activity in the saline control group. Moreover, JPC-141 specifically decreased iv METH self-administration at doses that had no effect on food-maintained responding. These findings support the further development of VMAT2 inhibitors as pharmacotherapies for individuals with methamphetamine use disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassie M Chandler
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Justin R Nickell
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - A George Wilson
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - John P Culver
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Peter A Crooks
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Michael T Bardo
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Linda P Dwoskin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States.
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Machado da Silva MC, Iglesias LP, Candelario-Jalil E, Khoshbouei H, Moreira FA, de Oliveira ACP. Role of Microglia in Psychostimulant Addiction. Curr Neuropharmacol 2023; 21:235-259. [PMID: 36503452 PMCID: PMC10190137 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x21666221208142151] [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: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of psychostimulant drugs can modify brain function by inducing changes in the reward system, mainly due to alterations in dopaminergic and glutamatergic transmissions in the mesocorticolimbic pathway. However, the etiopathogenesis of addiction is a much more complex process. Previous data have suggested that microglia and other immune cells are involved in events associated with neuroplasticity and memory, which are phenomena that also occur in addiction. Nevertheless, how dependent is the development of addiction on the activity of these cells? Although the mechanisms are not known, some pathways may be involved. Recent data have shown psychoactive substances may act directly on immune cells, alter their functions and induce various inflammatory mediators that modulate synaptic activity. These could, in turn, be involved in the pathological alterations that occur in substance use disorder. Here, we extensively review the studies demonstrating how cocaine and amphetamines modulate microglial number, morphology, and function. We also describe the effect of these substances in the production of inflammatory mediators and a possible involvement of some molecular signaling pathways, such as the toll-like receptor 4. Although the literature in this field is scarce, this review compiles the knowledge on the neuroimmune axis that is involved in the pathogenesis of addiction, and suggests some pharmacological targets for the development of pharmacotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Carolina Machado da Silva
- Department of Pharmacology, Neuropharmacology Laboratory, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil;
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Lia Parada Iglesias
- Department of Pharmacology, Neuropsychopharmacology Laboratory, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | | - Habibeh Khoshbouei
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Fabrício Araujo Moreira
- Department of Pharmacology, Neuropsychopharmacology Laboratory, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
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Enhancer Regulation of Dopaminergic Neurochemical Transmission in the Striatum. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158543. [PMID: 35955676 PMCID: PMC9369307 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1) is a Gs protein-coupled, intracellularly located metabotropic receptor. Trace and classic amines, amphetamines, act as agonists on TAAR1; they activate downstream signal transduction influencing neurotransmitter release via intracellular phosphorylation. Our aim was to check the effect of the catecholaminergic activity enhancer compound ((−)BPAP, (R)-(−)-1-(benzofuran-2-yl)-2-propylaminopentane) on neurotransmitter release via the TAAR1 signaling. Rat striatal slices were prepared and the resting and electrical stimulation-evoked [3H]dopamine release was measured. The releaser (±)methamphetamine evoked non-vesicular [3H]dopamine release in a TAAR1-dependent manner, whereas (−)BPAP potentiated [3H]dopamine release with vesicular origin via TAAR1 mediation. (−)BPAP did not induce non-vesicular [3H]dopamine release. N-Ethylmaleimide, which inhibits SNARE core complex disassembly, potentiated the stimulatory effect of (−)BPAP on vesicular [3H]dopamine release. Subsequent analyses indicated that the dopamine-release stimulatory effect of (−)BPAP was due to an increase in PKC-mediated phosphorylation. We have hypothesized that there are two binding sites present on TAAR1, one for the releaser and one for the enhancer compounds, and they activate different PKC-mediated phosphorylation leading to the evoking of non-vesicular and vesicular dopamine release. (−)BPAP also increased VMAT2 operation enforcing vesicular [3H]dopamine accumulation and release. Vesicular dopamine release promoted by TAAR1 evokes activation of D2 dopamine autoreceptor-mediated presynaptic feedback inhibition. In conclusion, TAAR1 possesses a triggering role in both non-vesicular and vesicular dopamine release, and the mechanism of action of (−)BPAP is linked to the activation of TAAR1 and the signal transduction attached.
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Sarparast A, Thomas K, Malcolm B, Stauffer CS. Drug-drug interactions between psychiatric medications and MDMA or psilocybin: a systematic review. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2022; 239:1945-1976. [PMID: 35253070 PMCID: PMC9177763 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-022-06083-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE & OBJECTIVES ± 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and psilocybin are currently moving through the US Food and Drug Administration's phased drug development process for psychiatric treatment indications: posttraumatic stress disorder and depression, respectively. The current standard of care for these disorders involves treatment with psychiatric medications (e.g., selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), so it will be important to understand drug-drug interactions between MDMA or psilocybin and psychiatric medications. METHODS In accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, we queried the MEDLINE database via PubMed for publications of human studies in English spanning between the first synthesis of psilocybin (1958) and December 2020. We used 163 search terms containing 22 psychiatric medication classes, 135 specific psychiatric medications, and 6 terms describing MDMA or psilocybin. RESULTS Forty publications were included in our systematic review: 26 reporting outcomes from randomized controlled studies with healthy adults, 3 epidemiologic studies, and 11 case reports. Publications of studies describe interactions between MDMA (N = 24) or psilocybin (N = 5) and medications from several psychiatric drug classes: adrenergic agents, antipsychotics, anxiolytics, mood stabilizers, NMDA antagonists, psychostimulants, and several classes of antidepressants. We focus our results on pharmacodynamic, physiological, and subjective outcomes of drug-drug interactions. CONCLUSIONS As MDMA and psilocybin continue to move through the FDA drug development process, this systematic review offers a compilation of existing research on psychiatric drug-drug interactions with MDMA or psilocybin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aryan Sarparast
- Department of Psychiatry, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Kelan Thomas
- College of Pharmacy, Touro University California, Vallejo, CA, 94592, USA
| | | | - Christopher S Stauffer
- Department of Psychiatry, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA.
- Department of Mental Health, VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, OR, 97239, USA.
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Sustkova-Fiserova M, Charalambous C, Khryakova A, Certilina A, Lapka M, Šlamberová R. The Role of Ghrelin/GHS-R1A Signaling in Nonalcohol Drug Addictions. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:761. [PMID: 35054944 PMCID: PMC8776007 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23020761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug addiction causes constant serious health, social, and economic burden within the human society. The current drug dependence pharmacotherapies, particularly relapse prevention, remain limited, unsatisfactory, unreliable for opioids and tobacco, and even symptomatic for stimulants and cannabinoids, thus, new more effective treatment strategies are researched. The antagonism of the growth hormone secretagogue receptor type A (GHS-R1A) has been recently proposed as a novel alcohol addiction treatment strategy, and it has been intensively studied in experimental models of other addictive drugs, such as nicotine, stimulants, opioids and cannabinoids. The role of ghrelin signaling in these drugs effects has also been investigated. The present review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of preclinical and clinical studies focused on ghrelin's/GHS-R1A possible involvement in these nonalcohol addictive drugs reinforcing effects and addiction. Although the investigation is still in its early stage, majority of the existing reviewed experimental results from rodents with the addition of few human studies, that searched correlations between the genetic variations of the ghrelin signaling or the ghrelin blood content with the addictive drugs effects, have indicated the importance of the ghrelin's/GHS-R1As involvement in the nonalcohol abused drugs pro-addictive effects. Further research is necessary to elucidate the exact involved mechanisms and to verify the future potential utilization and safety of the GHS-R1A antagonism use for these drug addiction therapies, particularly for reducing the risk of relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Sustkova-Fiserova
- Department of Pharmacology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Ruska 87, 100 00 Prague, Czech Republic; (C.C.); (A.K.); (A.C.); (M.L.)
| | - Chrysostomos Charalambous
- Department of Pharmacology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Ruska 87, 100 00 Prague, Czech Republic; (C.C.); (A.K.); (A.C.); (M.L.)
| | - Anna Khryakova
- Department of Pharmacology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Ruska 87, 100 00 Prague, Czech Republic; (C.C.); (A.K.); (A.C.); (M.L.)
| | - Alina Certilina
- Department of Pharmacology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Ruska 87, 100 00 Prague, Czech Republic; (C.C.); (A.K.); (A.C.); (M.L.)
| | - Marek Lapka
- Department of Pharmacology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Ruska 87, 100 00 Prague, Czech Republic; (C.C.); (A.K.); (A.C.); (M.L.)
| | - Romana Šlamberová
- Department of Physiology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Ke Karlovu 4, 120 00 Prague, Czech Republic;
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7
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Caron A, Jane Michael N. New Horizons: Is Obesity a Disorder of Neurotransmission? J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2021; 106:e4872-e4886. [PMID: 34117881 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Obesity is a disease of the nervous system. While some will view this statement as provocative, others will take it as obvious. Whatever our side is, the pharmacology tells us that targeting the nervous system works for promoting weight loss. It works, but at what cost? Is the nervous system a safe target for sustainable treatment of obesity? What have we learned-and unlearned-about the central control of energy balance in the last few years? Herein we provide a thought-provoking exploration of obesity as a disorder of neurotransmission. We discuss the state of knowledge on the brain pathways regulating energy homeostasis that are commonly targeted in anti-obesity therapy and explore how medications affecting neurotransmission such as atypical antipsychotics, antidepressants, and antihistamines relate to body weight. Our goal is to provide the endocrine community with a conceptual framework that will help expending our understanding of the pathophysiology of obesity, a disease of the nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Caron
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Quebec Heart and Lung Institute, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Montreal Diabetes Research Center, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Natalie Jane Michael
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Quebec Heart and Lung Institute, Quebec City, QC, Canada
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Tuv SS, Bergh MSS, Andersen JM, Steinsland S, Vindenes V, Baumann MH, Huestis MA, Bogen IL. Comparative Neuropharmacology and Pharmacokinetics of Methamphetamine and Its Thiophene Analog Methiopropamine in Rodents. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222112002. [PMID: 34769427 PMCID: PMC8585037 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222112002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Methiopropamine is a novel psychoactive substance (NPS) that is associated with several cases of clinical toxicity, yet little information is available regarding its neuropharmacological properties. Here, we employed in vitro and in vivo methods to compare the pharmacokinetics and neurobiological effects of methiopropamine and its structural analog methamphetamine. Methiopropamine was rapidly distributed to the blood and brain after injection in C57BL/6 mice, with a pharmacokinetic profile similar to that of methamphetamine. Methiopropamine induced psychomotor activity, but higher doses were needed (Emax 12.5 mg/kg; i.p.) compared to methamphetamine (Emax 3.75 mg/kg; i.p.). A steep increase in locomotor activity was seen after a modest increase in the methiopropamine dose from 10 to 12.5 mg/kg, suggesting that a small increase in dosage may engender unexpectedly strong effects and heighten the risk of unintended overdose in NPS users. In vitro studies revealed that methiopropamine mediates its effects through inhibition of norepinephrine and dopamine uptake into presynaptic nerve terminals (IC50 = 0.47 and 0.74 µM, respectively), while the plasmalemmal serotonin uptake and vesicular uptake are affected only at high concentrations (IC50 > 25 µM). In summary, methiopropamine closely resembles methamphetamine with regard to its pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamic effects and mechanism of action, with a potency that is approximately five times lower than that of methamphetamine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silja Skogstad Tuv
- Department of Forensic Sciences, Oslo University Hospital, 0456 Oslo, Norway; (S.S.T.); (M.S.-S.B.); (J.M.A.); (S.S.); (V.V.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Oslo University Hospital, 0372 Oslo, Norway
| | - Marianne Skov-Skov Bergh
- Department of Forensic Sciences, Oslo University Hospital, 0456 Oslo, Norway; (S.S.T.); (M.S.-S.B.); (J.M.A.); (S.S.); (V.V.)
| | - Jannike Mørch Andersen
- Department of Forensic Sciences, Oslo University Hospital, 0456 Oslo, Norway; (S.S.T.); (M.S.-S.B.); (J.M.A.); (S.S.); (V.V.)
| | - Synne Steinsland
- Department of Forensic Sciences, Oslo University Hospital, 0456 Oslo, Norway; (S.S.T.); (M.S.-S.B.); (J.M.A.); (S.S.); (V.V.)
| | - Vigdis Vindenes
- Department of Forensic Sciences, Oslo University Hospital, 0456 Oslo, Norway; (S.S.T.); (M.S.-S.B.); (J.M.A.); (S.S.); (V.V.)
| | - Michael H. Baumann
- Designer Drug Research Unit, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA;
| | - Marilyn A. Huestis
- Institute of Emerging Health Professions, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA;
| | - Inger Lise Bogen
- Department of Forensic Sciences, Oslo University Hospital, 0456 Oslo, Norway; (S.S.T.); (M.S.-S.B.); (J.M.A.); (S.S.); (V.V.)
- Correspondence:
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Docherty JR, Alsufyani HA. Pharmacology of Drugs Used as Stimulants. J Clin Pharmacol 2021; 61 Suppl 2:S53-S69. [PMID: 34396557 DOI: 10.1002/jcph.1918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Psychostimulant, cardiovascular, and temperature actions of stimulants involve adrenergic (norepinephrine), dopaminergic (dopamine), and serotonergic (serotonin) pathways. Stimulants such as amphetamine, 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), or mephedrone can act on the neuronal membrane monoamine transporters NET, DAT, and SERT and/or the vesicular monoamine transporter 2 to inhibit reuptake of neurotransmitter or cause release by reverse transport. Stimulants may have additional effects involving pre- and postsynaptic/junctional receptors for norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin and other receptors. As a result, stimulants may have a wide range of possible actions. Agents with cocaine or MDMA-like actions can induce serious and potentially fatal adverse events via thermodysregulatory, cardiovascular, or other mechanisms. MDMA-like stimulants may cause hyperthermia that can be life threathening. Recreational users of stimulants should be aware of the dangers of hyperthermia in a rave/club environment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hadeel A Alsufyani
- Department of Physiology, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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10
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Lucido MJ, Bekhbat M, Goldsmith DR, Treadway MT, Haroon E, Felger JC, Miller AH. Aiding and Abetting Anhedonia: Impact of Inflammation on the Brain and Pharmacological Implications. Pharmacol Rev 2021; 73:1084-1117. [PMID: 34285088 PMCID: PMC11060479 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.120.000043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Exogenous administration of inflammatory stimuli to humans and laboratory animals and chronic endogenous inflammatory states lead to motivational deficits and ultimately anhedonia, a core and disabling symptom of depression present in multiple other psychiatric disorders. Inflammation impacts neurotransmitter systems and neurocircuits in subcortical brain regions including the ventral striatum, which serves as an integration point for reward processing and motivational decision-making. Many mechanisms contribute to these effects of inflammation, including decreased synthesis, release and reuptake of dopamine, increased synaptic and extrasynaptic glutamate, and activation of kynurenine pathway metabolites including quinolinic acid. Neuroimaging data indicate that these inflammation-induced neurotransmitter effects manifest as decreased activation of ventral striatum and decreased functional connectivity in reward circuitry involving ventral striatum and ventromedial prefrontal cortex. Neurocircuitry changes in turn mediate nuanced effects on motivation that include decreased willingness to expend effort for reward while maintaining the ability to experience reward. Taken together, the data reveal an inflammation-induced pathophysiologic phenotype that is agnostic to diagnosis. Given the many mechanisms involved, this phenotype represents an opportunity for development of novel and/or repurposed pharmacological strategies that target inflammation and associated cellular and systemic immunometabolic changes and their downstream effects on the brain. To date, clinical trials have failed to capitalize on the unique nature of this transdiagnostic phenotype, leaving the field bereft of interpretable data for meaningful clinical application. However, novel trial designs incorporating established targets in the brain and/or periphery using relevant outcome variables (e.g., anhedonia) are the future of targeted therapy in psychiatry. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Emerging understanding of mechanisms by which peripheral inflammation can affect the brain and behavior has created unprecedented opportunities for development of pharmacological strategies to treat deficits in motivation including anhedonia, a core and disabling symptom of depression well represented in multiple psychiatric disorders. Mechanisms include inflammation and cellular and systemic immunometabolism and alterations in dopamine, glutamate, and kynurenine metabolites, revealing a target-rich environment that nevertheless has yet to be fully exploited by current clinical trial designs and drugs employed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Lucido
- Emory Behavioral Immunology Program, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia (M.J.L., M.B., D.R.G., E.H., J.C.F., A.H.M.); and Department of Psychology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia (M.T.T.)
| | - Mandy Bekhbat
- Emory Behavioral Immunology Program, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia (M.J.L., M.B., D.R.G., E.H., J.C.F., A.H.M.); and Department of Psychology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia (M.T.T.)
| | - David R Goldsmith
- Emory Behavioral Immunology Program, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia (M.J.L., M.B., D.R.G., E.H., J.C.F., A.H.M.); and Department of Psychology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia (M.T.T.)
| | - Michael T Treadway
- Emory Behavioral Immunology Program, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia (M.J.L., M.B., D.R.G., E.H., J.C.F., A.H.M.); and Department of Psychology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia (M.T.T.)
| | - Ebrahim Haroon
- Emory Behavioral Immunology Program, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia (M.J.L., M.B., D.R.G., E.H., J.C.F., A.H.M.); and Department of Psychology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia (M.T.T.)
| | - Jennifer C Felger
- Emory Behavioral Immunology Program, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia (M.J.L., M.B., D.R.G., E.H., J.C.F., A.H.M.); and Department of Psychology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia (M.T.T.)
| | - Andrew H Miller
- Emory Behavioral Immunology Program, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia (M.J.L., M.B., D.R.G., E.H., J.C.F., A.H.M.); and Department of Psychology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia (M.T.T.)
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11
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Rudin D, Liechti ME, Luethi D. Molecular and clinical aspects of potential neurotoxicity induced by new psychoactive stimulants and psychedelics. Exp Neurol 2021; 343:113778. [PMID: 34090893 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2021.113778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
New psychoactive stimulants and psychedelics continue to play an important role on the illicit new psychoactive substance (NPS) market. Designer stimulants and psychedelics both affect monoaminergic systems, although by different mechanisms. Stimulant NPS primarily interact with monoamine transporters, either as inhibitors or as substrates. Psychedelic NPS most potently interact with serotonergic receptors and mediate their mind-altering effects mainly through agonism at serotonin 5-hydroxytryptamine-2A (5-HT2A) receptors. Rarely, designer stimulants and psychedelics are associated with potentially severe adverse effects. However, due to the high number of emerging NPS, it is not possible to investigate the toxicity of each individual substance in detail. The brain is an organ particularly sensitive to substance-induced toxicity due to its high metabolic activity. In fact, stimulant and psychedelic NPS have been linked to neurological and cognitive impairments. Furthermore, studies using in vitro cell models or rodents indicate a variety of mechanisms that could potentially lead to neurotoxic damage in NPS users. Cytotoxicity, mitochondrial dysfunction, and oxidative stress may potentially contribute to neurotoxicity of stimulant NPS in addition to altered neurochemistry. Serotonin 5-HT2A receptor-mediated toxicity, oxidative stress, and activation of mitochondrial apoptosis pathways could contribute to neurotoxicity of some psychedelic NPS. However, it remains unclear how well the current preclinical data of NPS-induced neurotoxicity translate to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Rudin
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Institute of Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Matthias E Liechti
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Dino Luethi
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Institute of Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Institute of Applied Physics, TU Wien, Vienna, Austria.
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12
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Jiménez-González A, Gómez-Acevedo C, Ochoa-Aguilar A, Chavarría A. The Role of Glia in Addiction: Dopamine as a Modulator of Glial Responses in Addiction. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2021; 42:2109-2120. [PMID: 34057683 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-021-01105-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Addiction is a chronic and potentially deadly disease considered a global health problem. Nevertheless, there is still no ideal treatment for its management. The alterations in the reward system are the most known pathophysiological mechanisms. Dopamine is the pivotal neurotransmitter involved in neuronal drug reward mechanisms and its neuronal mechanisms have been intensely investigated in recent years. However, neuroglial interactions and their relation to drug addiction development and maintenance of drug addiction have been understudied. Many reports have found that most neuroglial cells express dopamine receptors and that dopamine activity may induce neuroimmunomodulatory effects. Furthermore, current research has also shown that pro- and anti-inflammatory molecules modulate dopaminergic neuron activity. Thus, studying the immune mechanisms of dopamine associated with drug abuse is vital in researching new pathophysiological mechanisms and new therapeutic targets for addiction management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariadna Jiménez-González
- Laboratorio de Biomembranas, Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Claudia Gómez-Acevedo
- Laboratorio de Biomembranas, Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Abraham Ochoa-Aguilar
- Plan de Estudios Combinados en Medicina, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Anahí Chavarría
- Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico.
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13
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Molecular Mechanisms of Action of Novel Psychoactive Substances (NPS). A New Threat for Young Drug Users with Forensic-Toxicological Implications. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11050440. [PMID: 34068903 PMCID: PMC8156937 DOI: 10.3390/life11050440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Novel psychoactive substances (NPS) represent a severe health risk for drug users. Even though the phenomenon has been growing since the early 2000s, the mechanisms of action of NPS at the receptors and beyond them are still scarcely understood. The aim of the present study was to provide a systematic review of the updated knowledge regarding the molecular mechanisms underlying the toxicity of synthetic opioids, cannabinoids, cathinones, and stimulants. The study was conducted on the PubMed database. Study eligibility criteria included relevance to the topic, English language, and time of publication (2010–2020). A combined Mesh and free-text protocols search was performed. Study selection was performed on the title/abstract and, in doubtful cases, on the full texts of papers. Of the 580 records identified through PubMed searching and reference checking, 307 were excluded by title/abstract and 78 additional papers were excluded after full-text reading, leaving a total of 155 included papers. Molecular mechanisms of synthetic opioids, synthetic cannabinoids, stimulants, psychedelics, and hallucinogens were reviewed and mostly involved both a receptor-mediated and non-receptor mediated cellular modulation with multiple neurotransmitters interactions. The molecular mechanisms underlying the action of NPS are more complex than expected, with a wide range of overlap among activated receptors and neurotransmitter systems. The peculiar action profile of single compounds does not necessarily reflect that of the structural class to which they belong, accounting for possible unexpected toxic reactions.
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14
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Docherty JR, Alsufyani HA. Cardiovascular and temperature adverse actions of stimulants. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 178:2551-2568. [PMID: 33786822 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The vast majority of illicit stimulants act at monoaminergic systems, causing both psychostimulant and adverse effects. Stimulants can interact as substrates or antagonists at the nerve terminal monoamine transporter that mediates the reuptake of monoamines across the nerve synaptic membrane and at the vesicular monoamine transporter (VMAT-2) that mediates storage of monoamines in vesicles. Stimulants can act directly at presynaptic or postsynaptic receptors for monoamines or have indirect monoamine-mimetic actions due to the release of monoamines. Cocaine and other stimulants can acutely increase the risk of sudden cardiac death. Stimulants, particularly MDMA, in hot conditions, such as that occurring at a "rave," have caused fatalities from the consequences of hyperthermia, often compounding cardiac adverse actions. This review examines the pharmacology of the cardiovascular and temperature adverse actions of stimulants.
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Affiliation(s)
- James R Docherty
- Department of Physiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Hadeel A Alsufyani
- Department of Physiology, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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15
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Oeri HE. Beyond ecstasy: Alternative entactogens to 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine with potential applications in psychotherapy. J Psychopharmacol 2021; 35:512-536. [PMID: 32909493 PMCID: PMC8155739 DOI: 10.1177/0269881120920420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The last two decades have seen a revival of interest in the entactogen 3,4-methylenedioxy-N-methylamphetamine (MDMA) as an adjunct to psychotherapy, particularly for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder. While clinical results are highly promising, and MDMA is expected to be approved as a treatment in the near future, it is currently the only compound in its class of action that is being actively investigated as a medicine. This lack of alternatives to MDMA may prove detrimental to patients who do not respond well to the particular mechanism of action of MDMA or whose treatment calls for a modification of MDMA's effects. For instance, patients with existing cardiovascular conditions or with a prolonged history of stimulant drug use may not fit into the current model of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy, and could benefit from alternative drugs. This review examines the existing literature on a host of entactogenic drugs, which may prove to be useful alternatives in the future, paying particularly close attention to any neurotoxic risks, neuropharmacological mechanism of action and entactogenic commonalities with MDMA. The substances examined derive from the 1,3-benzodioxole, cathinone, benzofuran, aminoindane, indole and amphetamine classes. Several compounds from these classes are identified as potential alternatives to MDMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans Emanuel Oeri
- Hans Emanuel Oeri, University of Victoria,
3800 Finnerty Rd, Victoria, British Columbia V8P 5C2, Canada.
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16
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Torres Valladares D, Kudumala S, Hossain M, Carvelli L. Caenorhabditis elegans as an in vivo Model to Assess Amphetamine Tolerance. BRAIN, BEHAVIOR AND EVOLUTION 2021; 95:247-255. [PMID: 33831863 DOI: 10.1159/000514858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Amphetamine is a potent psychostimulant also used to treat attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder and narcolepsy. In vivo and in vitro data have demonstrated that amphetamine increases the amount of extra synaptic dopamine by both inhibiting reuptake and promoting efflux of dopamine through the dopamine transporter. Previous studies have shown that chronic use of amphetamine causes tolerance to the drug. Thus, since the molecular mechanisms underlying tolerance to amphetamine are still unknown, an animal model to identify the neurochemical mechanisms associated with drug tolerance is greatly needed. Here we took advantage of a unique behavior caused by amphetamine in Caenorhabditis elegans to investigate whether this simple, but powerful, genetic model develops tolerance following repeated exposure to amphetamine. We found that at least 3 treatments with 0.5 mM amphetamine were necessary to see a reduction in the amphetamine-induced behavior and, thus, to promote tolerance. Moreover, we found that, after intervals of 60/90 minutes between treatments, animals were more likely to exhibit tolerance than animals that underwent 10-minute intervals between treatments. Taken together, our results show that C. elegans is a suitable system to study tolerance to drugs of abuse such as amphetamines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dayana Torres Valladares
- Department of Biology, Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College, Florida Atlantic University, Jupiter, Florida, USA
| | - Sirisha Kudumala
- Department of Biology, Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College, Florida Atlantic University, Jupiter, Florida, USA
| | - Murad Hossain
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Health and Life Sciences, North South University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Lucia Carvelli
- Department of Biology, Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College, Florida Atlantic University, Jupiter, Florida, USA.,Brain Institute, Florida Atlantic University, Jupiter, Florida, USA
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17
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Jîtcă G, Ősz BE, Tero-Vescan A, Vari CE. Psychoactive Drugs-From Chemical Structure to Oxidative Stress Related to Dopaminergic Neurotransmission. A Review. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:381. [PMID: 33806320 PMCID: PMC8000782 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10030381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Nowadays, more and more young people want to experience illegal, psychoactive substances, without knowing the risks of exposure. Besides affecting social life, psychoactive substances also have an important effect on consumer health. We summarized and analyzed the published literature data with reference to the mechanism of free radical generation and the link between chemical structure and oxidative stress related to dopaminergic neurotransmission. This review presents data on the physicochemical properties, on the ability to cross the blood brain barrier, the chemical structure activity relationship (SAR), and possible mechanisms by which neuronal injuries occur due to oxidative stress as a result of drug abuse such as "bath salts", amphetamines, or cocaine. The mechanisms of action of ingested compounds or their metabolites involve intermediate steps in which free radicals are generated. The brain is strongly affected by the consumption of such substances, facilitating the induction of neurodegenerative diseases. It can be concluded that neurotoxicity is associated with drug abuse. Dependence and oxidative stress are linked to inhibition of neurogenesis and the onset of neuronal death. Understanding the pathological mechanisms following oxidative attack can be a starting point in the development of new therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Jîtcă
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Târgu Mureș, 540142 Târgu Mureș, Romania; (G.J.); (C.E.V.)
| | - Bianca E. Ősz
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Târgu Mureș, 540142 Târgu Mureș, Romania; (G.J.); (C.E.V.)
| | - Amelia Tero-Vescan
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Târgu Mureș, 540142 Târgu Mureș, Romania;
| | - Camil E. Vari
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Târgu Mureș, 540142 Târgu Mureș, Romania; (G.J.); (C.E.V.)
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18
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Sassi KLM, Rocha NP, Colpo GD, John V, Teixeira AL. Amphetamine Use in the Elderly: A Systematic Review of the Literature. Curr Neuropharmacol 2020; 18:126-135. [PMID: 31660835 PMCID: PMC7324882 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x17666191010093021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Revised: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To systematically review the literature on the therapeutic use of amphetamine, lisdexamfetamine and methylphenidate in elderly population with and without dementia. Methods: We conducted two researches on the PubMed, Scopus and Embase using the keywords (“elderly”) AND (“amphetamine” OR “methylphenidate” OR “lisdexamfetamine”) and then (“Alzheimer” OR “dementia”) AND (“amphetamine” OR “methylphenidate” OR “lisdexamfetamine”). Results: Twenty-nine papers met all the eligibility criteria. The results are encouraging as 81.5% of the studies showed clinical improvement of the investigated condition. Conclusion: Amphetamines and methylphenidate are probably effective strategies for different conditions in the elderly population. However, further studies are needed to provide more robust evidence on efficacy, dosage and safety for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karina Lúcia Moreira Sassi
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Natalia Pessoa Rocha
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Gabriela Delevati Colpo
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Vineeth John
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Antonio Lucio Teixeira
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, United States
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19
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Abstract
Psychoactive substances with chemical structures or pharmacological profiles that are similar to traditional drugs of abuse continue to emerge on the recreational drug market. Internet vendors may at least temporarily sell these so-called designer drugs without adhering to legal statutes or facing legal consequences. Overall, the mechanism of action and adverse effects of designer drugs are similar to traditional drugs of abuse. Stimulants, such as amphetamines and cathinones, primarily interact with monoamine transporters and mostly induce sympathomimetic adverse effects. Agonism at μ-opioid receptors and γ-aminobutyric acid-A (GABAA) or GABAB receptors mediates the pharmacological effects of sedatives, which may induce cardiorespiratory depression. Dissociative designer drugs primarily act as N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor antagonists and pose similar health risks as the medically approved dissociative anesthetic ketamine. The cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) receptor is thought to drive the psychoactive effects of synthetic cannabinoids, which are associated with a less desirable effect profile and more severe adverse effects compared with cannabis. Serotonergic 5-hydroxytryptamine-2A (5-HT2A) receptors mediate alterations of perception and cognition that are induced by serotonergic psychedelics. Because of their novelty, designer drugs may remain undetected by routine drug screening, thus hampering evaluations of adverse effects. Intoxication reports suggest that several designer drugs are used concurrently, posing a high risk for severe adverse effects and even death.
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20
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Bardo MT, Denehy ED, Hammerslag LR, Dwoskin LP, Blough BE, Landavazo A, Bergman J, Kohut SJ. Effects of methamphetamine isomers on d-methamphetamine self-administration and food-maintained responding in male rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2019; 236:3557-3565. [PMID: 31346628 PMCID: PMC6895396 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-019-05327-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Methamphetamine (METH) abuse is generally attributed to the d-isomer. Self-administration of l-METH has been examined only in rhesus monkeys with a history of cocaine self-administration or drug-naïve rats using high toxic doses. OBJECTIVES In this study, the ability of l-METH and, for comparison, d-METH to engender self-administration in experimentally naïve rats, as well as to decrease d-METH self-administration and food-maintained responding, was examined. METHODS Male Sprague-Dawley rats were used in 3 separate experiments. In experiment 1, the acquisition of l- or d-METH self-administration followed by dose-response determinations was studied. In experiment 2, rats were trained to self-administer d-METH (0.05 mg/kg/infusion) and, then, various doses of l- or d-METH were given acutely prior to the session; the effect of repeated l-METH (30 mg/kg) also was examined. In experiment 3, rats were trained to respond for food reinforcement and, then, various doses of l- or d-METH were given acutely prior to the session; the effect of repeated l-METH (3 mg/kg) also was examined. RESULTS Reliable acquisition of l- and d-METH self-administration was obtained at unit doses of 0.5 and 0.05 mg/kg/infusion respectively. The dose-response function for l-METH self-administration was flattened and shifted rightward compared with d-METH self-administration, with peak responding for l- and d-METH occurring at unit doses of 0.17 and 0.025 respectively. l-METH also was approximately 10-fold less potent than d-METH in decreasing d-METH self-administration and 2-fold lower in decreasing food-maintained responding. Tolerance did not occur to repeated l-METH pretreatments on either measure. CONCLUSIONS As a potential pharmacotherapeutic, l-METH has less abuse liability than d-METH and its efficacy in decreasing d-METH self-administration and food-maintained responding is sustained with repeated treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- M T Bardo
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA.
| | - E D Denehy
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - L R Hammerslag
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - L P Dwoskin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - B E Blough
- Research Triangle Institute, Center for Drug Discovery, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - A Landavazo
- Research Triangle Institute, Center for Drug Discovery, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - J Bergman
- McLean Hospital - Harvard Medical School, 115 Mill Street, Belmont, MA, 02478, USA
| | - S J Kohut
- McLean Hospital - Harvard Medical School, 115 Mill Street, Belmont, MA, 02478, USA
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21
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Lee NR, Zheng G, Leggas M, Janganati V, Nickell JR, Crooks PA, Bardo MT, Dwoskin LP. GZ-11608, a Vesicular Monoamine Transporter-2 Inhibitor, Decreases the Neurochemical and Behavioral Effects of Methamphetamine. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2019; 371:526-543. [PMID: 31413138 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.119.258699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite escalating methamphetamine use and high relapse rates, pharmacotherapeutics for methamphetamine use disorders are not available. Our iterative drug discovery program had found that R-N-(1,2-dihydroxypropyl)-2,6-cis-di-(4-methoxyphenethyl)piperidine hydrochloride (GZ-793A), a selective vesicular monoamine transporter-2 (VMAT2) inhibitor, specifically decreased methamphetamine's behavioral effects. However, GZ-793A inhibited human-ether-a-go-go-related gene (hERG) channels, suggesting cardiotoxicity and prohibiting clinical development. The current study determined if replacement of GZ-793A's piperidine ring with a phenylalkyl group to yield S-3-(4-methoxyphenyl)-N-(1-phenylpropan-2-yl)propan-1-amine (GZ-11608) diminished hERG interaction while retaining pharmacological efficacy. VMAT2 inhibition, target selectivity, and mechanism of GZ-11608-induced inhibition of methamphetamine-evoked vesicular dopamine release were determined. We used GZ-11608 doses that decreased methamphetamine-sensitized activity to evaluate the potential exacerbation of methamphetamine-induced dopaminergic neurotoxicity. GZ-11608-induced decreases in methamphetamine reinforcement and abuse liability were determined using self-administration, reinstatement, and substitution assays. Results show that GZ-11608 exhibited high affinity (Ki = 25 nM) and selectivity (92-1180-fold) for VMAT2 over nicotinic receptors, dopamine transporter, and hERG, suggesting low side-effects. GZ-11608 (EC50 = 620 nM) released vesicular dopamine 25-fold less potently than it inhibited VMAT2 dopamine uptake. GZ-11608 competitively inhibited methamphetamine-evoked vesicular dopamine release (Schild regression slope = 0.9 ± 0.13). GZ-11608 decreased methamphetamine sensitization without altering striatal dopamine content or exacerbating methamphetamine-induced dopamine depletion, revealing efficacy without neurotoxicity. GZ-11608 exhibited linear pharmacokinetics and rapid brain penetration. GZ-11608 decreased methamphetamine self-administration, and this effect was not surmounted by increasing methamphetamine unit doses. GZ-11608 reduced cue- and methamphetamine-induced reinstatement, suggesting potential to prevent relapse. GZ-11608 neither served as a reinforcer nor substituted for methamphetamine, suggesting low abuse liability. Thus, GZ-11608, a potent and selective VMAT2 inhibitor, shows promise as a therapeutic for methamphetamine use disorder. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: GZ-11608 is a potent and selective vesicular monoamine transporter-2 inhibitor that decreases methamphetamine-induced dopamine release from isolated synaptic vesicles from brain dopaminergic neurons. Results from behavioral studies show that GZ-11608 specifically decreases methamphetamine-sensitized locomotor activity, methamphetamine self-administration, and reinstatement of methamphetamine-seeking behavior, without exhibiting abuse liability. Tolerance does not develop to the efficacy of GZ-11608 to decrease the behavioral effects of methamphetamine. In conclusion, GZ-11608 is an outstanding lead in our search for a therapeutic to treat methamphetamine use disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na-Ra Lee
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy (N.-R.L., M.L., J.R.N., L.P.D.), and Department of Psychology, College of Arts & Sciences (M.T.B.), University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida (G.Z.); and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas (V.J., P.A.C.)
| | - Guangrong Zheng
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy (N.-R.L., M.L., J.R.N., L.P.D.), and Department of Psychology, College of Arts & Sciences (M.T.B.), University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida (G.Z.); and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas (V.J., P.A.C.)
| | - Markos Leggas
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy (N.-R.L., M.L., J.R.N., L.P.D.), and Department of Psychology, College of Arts & Sciences (M.T.B.), University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida (G.Z.); and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas (V.J., P.A.C.)
| | - Venumadhav Janganati
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy (N.-R.L., M.L., J.R.N., L.P.D.), and Department of Psychology, College of Arts & Sciences (M.T.B.), University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida (G.Z.); and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas (V.J., P.A.C.)
| | - Justin R Nickell
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy (N.-R.L., M.L., J.R.N., L.P.D.), and Department of Psychology, College of Arts & Sciences (M.T.B.), University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida (G.Z.); and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas (V.J., P.A.C.)
| | - Peter A Crooks
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy (N.-R.L., M.L., J.R.N., L.P.D.), and Department of Psychology, College of Arts & Sciences (M.T.B.), University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida (G.Z.); and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas (V.J., P.A.C.)
| | - Michael T Bardo
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy (N.-R.L., M.L., J.R.N., L.P.D.), and Department of Psychology, College of Arts & Sciences (M.T.B.), University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida (G.Z.); and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas (V.J., P.A.C.)
| | - Linda P Dwoskin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy (N.-R.L., M.L., J.R.N., L.P.D.), and Department of Psychology, College of Arts & Sciences (M.T.B.), University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida (G.Z.); and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas (V.J., P.A.C.)
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22
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Cholanians AB, Phan AV, Lau SS, Monks TJ. Concurrent Inhibition of Vesicular Monoamine Transporter 2 Does Not Protect Against 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (Ecstasy) Induced Neurotoxicity. Toxicol Sci 2019; 170:157-166. [PMID: 30923810 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfz085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
3, 4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is a hallucinogenic amphetamine derivative. The acute effects of MDMA are hyperthermia, hyperactivity, and behavioral changes, followed by long-term serotonergic neurotoxicity in rats and primates. However, the underlying mechanisms of MDMA neurotoxicity remain elusive. We reported that pretreatment of rats with Ro 4-1284, a reversible inhibitor of the vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2), reduced MDMA-induced hyperactivity in rats, abolished the hyperthermic response, and the long-term neurotoxicity. Current studies focused on the effects of co- and/or postinhibition of VMAT2 on the acute and chronic effects of MDMA and on the dose-response relationship between MDMA-induced elevations in body temperature and subsequent reductions in indolamine concentrations. Sprague Dawley rats were treated with MDMA (20, 25, or 27.5 mg/kg sc), and either co- and/or posttreatment with the VMAT2 inhibitor (10 mg/kg ip). Rats simultaneously treated with Ro 4-1284 and MDMA exhibited a more rapid increase in body temperature compared to just MDMA. However, the duration of the elevated body temperature was significantly shortened (approximately 3 h vs approximately 8 h, respectively). A similar body temperature response was observed in rats posttreated (7 h after MDMA) with Ro 4-1284. Despite decreases in the area under the curve (Δtemp X time) of body temperature caused by Ro 4-1284, there were no significant differences in the degree of indolamine depletion between any of the MDMA-treated groups. The results suggest that the neuroprotective effects of VMAT2 inhibition is likely due to the indirect monoamine depleting effects of the Ro 4-1284 pretreatment, rather than by the direct inhibition of VMAT2 function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aram B Cholanians
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721
| | - Andy V Phan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver, Denver, Colorado 80045
| | - Serrine S Lau
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan 48201
| | - Terrence J Monks
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan 48201
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Halberstadt AL, Brandt SD, Walther D, Baumann MH. 2-Aminoindan and its ring-substituted derivatives interact with plasma membrane monoamine transporters and α 2-adrenergic receptors. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2019; 236:989-999. [PMID: 30904940 PMCID: PMC6848746 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-019-05207-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2018] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Over the last decade, many new psychostimulant analogues have appeared on the recreational drug market and most are derivatives of amphetamine or cathinone. Another class of designer drugs is derived from the 2-aminoindan structural template. Several members of this class, including the parent compound 2-aminoindan (2-AI), have been sold as designer drugs. Another aminoindan derivative, 5-methoxy-2-aminoindan (5-MeO-AI or MEAI), is the active ingredient in a product marketed online as an alcohol substitute. METHODS Here, we tested 2-AI and its ring-substituted derivatives 5-MeO-AI, 5-methoxy-6-methyl-2-aminoindan (MMAI), and 5,6-methylenedioxy-2-aminoindan (MDAI) for their abilities to interact with plasma membrane monoamine transporters for dopamine (DAT), norepinephrine (NET) and serotonin (SERT). We also compared the binding affinities of the aminoindans at 29 receptor and transporter binding sites. RESULTS 2-AI was a selective substrate for NET and DAT. Ring substitution increased potency at SERT while reducing potency at DAT and NET. MDAI was moderately selective for SERT and NET, with tenfold weaker effects on DAT. 5-MeO-AI exhibited some selectivity for SERT, having sixfold lower potency at NET and 20-fold lower potency at DAT. MMAI was highly selective for SERT, with 100-fold lower potency at NET and DAT. The aminoindans had relatively high affinity for α2-adrenoceptor subtypes. 2-AI had particularly high affinity for α2C receptors (Ki = 41 nM) and slightly lower affinity for the α2A (Ki = 134 nM) and α2B (Ki = 211 nM) subtypes. 5-MeO-AI and MMAI also had moderate affinity for the 5-HT2B receptor. CONCLUSIONS 2-AI is predicted to have (+)-amphetamine-like effects and abuse potential whereas the ring-substituted derivatives may produce 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)-like effects but with less abuse liability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam L Halberstadt
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0804, USA.
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, 3350 La Jolla Village Dr., San Diego, CA, 92161, USA.
| | - Simon D Brandt
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool, L3 3AF, UK
| | - Donna Walther
- Designer Drug Research Unit, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Michael H Baumann
- Designer Drug Research Unit, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
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Abstract
There is a plethora of amphetamine derivatives exerting stimulant, euphoric, anti-fatigue, and hallucinogenic effects; all structural properties allowing these effects are contained within the amphetamine structure. In the first part of this review, the interaction of amphetamine with the dopamine transporter (DAT), crucially involved in its behavioral effects, is covered, as well as the role of dopamine synthesis, the vesicular monoamine transporter VMAT2, and organic cation 3 transporter (OCT3). The second part deals with requirements in amphetamine's effect on the kinases PKC, CaMKII, and ERK, whereas the third part focuses on where we are in developing anti-amphetamine therapeutics. Thus, treatments are discussed that target DAT, VMAT2, PKC, CaMKII, and OCT3. As is generally true for the development of therapeutics for substance use disorder, there are multiple preclinically promising specific compounds against (meth)amphetamine, for which further development and clinical trials are badly needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maarten E A Reith
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Margaret E Gnegy
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan School of Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Henke A, Kovalyova Y, Dunn M, Dreier D, Gubernator NG, Dincheva I, Hwu C, Šebej P, Ansorge MS, Sulzer D, Sames D. Toward Serotonin Fluorescent False Neurotransmitters: Development of Fluorescent Dual Serotonin and Vesicular Monoamine Transporter Substrates for Visualizing Serotonin Neurons. ACS Chem Neurosci 2018; 9:925-934. [PMID: 29281252 PMCID: PMC6342556 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.7b00320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Ongoing efforts in our laboratories focus on design of optical reporters known as fluorescent false neurotransmitters (FFNs) that enable the visualization of uptake into, packaging within, and release from individual monoaminergic neurons and presynaptic sites in the brain. Here, we introduce the molecular probe FFN246 as an expansion of the FFN platform to the serotonergic system. Combining the acridone fluorophore with the ethylamine recognition element of serotonin, we identified FFN54 and FFN246 as substrates for both the serotonin transporter and the vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2). A systematic structure-activity study revealed the basic structural chemotype of aminoalkyl acridones required for serotonin transporter (SERT) activity and enabled lowering the background labeling of these probes while maintaining SERT activity, which proved essential for obtaining sufficient signal in the brain tissue (FFN246). We demonstrate the utility of FFN246 for direct examination of SERT activity and SERT inhibitors in 96-well cell culture assays, as well as specific labeling of serotonergic neurons of the dorsal raphe nucleus in the living tissue of acute mouse brain slices. While we found only minor FFN246 accumulation in serotonergic axons in murine brain tissue, FFN246 effectively traces serotonin uptake and packaging in the soma of serotonergic neurons with improved photophysical properties and loading parameters compared to known serotonin-based fluorescent tracers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Henke
- Department of Chemistry and Neuro Technology Center at Columbia University , New York , New York 10027 , United States
| | - Yekaterina Kovalyova
- Department of Chemistry and Neuro Technology Center at Columbia University , New York , New York 10027 , United States
| | - Matthew Dunn
- Department of Chemistry and Neuro Technology Center at Columbia University , New York , New York 10027 , United States
| | - Dominik Dreier
- Department of Chemistry and Neuro Technology Center at Columbia University , New York , New York 10027 , United States
| | - Niko G Gubernator
- Department of Chemistry and Neuro Technology Center at Columbia University , New York , New York 10027 , United States
| | - Iva Dincheva
- Department of Psychiatry , Columbia University , New York , New York 10032 , United States
| | - Christopher Hwu
- Department of Chemistry and Neuro Technology Center at Columbia University , New York , New York 10027 , United States
| | - Peter Šebej
- Department of Chemistry and Neuro Technology Center at Columbia University , New York , New York 10027 , United States
| | - Mark S Ansorge
- Department of Psychiatry , Columbia University , New York , New York 10032 , United States
| | - David Sulzer
- Department of Psychiatry , Columbia University , New York , New York 10032 , United States
- Department of Neurology , Columbia University , New York , New York 10032 , United States
- Department of Pharmacology , Columbia University , New York , New York 10032 , United States
| | - Dalibor Sames
- Department of Chemistry and Neuro Technology Center at Columbia University , New York , New York 10027 , United States
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Hondebrink L, Zwartsen A, Westerink RHS. Effect fingerprinting of new psychoactive substances (NPS): What can we learn from in vitro data? Pharmacol Ther 2017; 182:193-224. [PMID: 29097307 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2017.10.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The use of new psychoactive substances (NPS) is increasing and currently >600 NPS have been reported. However, limited information on neuropharmacological and toxicological effects of NPS is available, hampering risk characterization. We reviewed the literature on the in vitro neuronal modes of action to obtain effect fingerprints of different classes of illicit drugs and NPS. The most frequently reported NPS were selected for review: cathinones (MDPV, α-PVP, mephedrone, 4-MEC, pentedrone, methylone), cannabinoids (JWH-018), (hallucinogenic) phenethylamines (4-fluoroamphetamine, benzofurans (5-APB, 6-APB), 2C-B, NBOMes (25B-NBOMe, 25C-NBOMe, 25I-NBOMe)), arylcyclohexylamines (methoxetamine) and piperazine derivatives (mCPP, TFMPP, BZP). Our effect fingerprints highlight the main modes of action for the different NPS studied, including inhibition and/or reversal of monoamine reuptake transporters (cathinones and non-hallucinogenic phenethylamines), activation of 5-HT2receptors (hallucinogenic phenethylamines and piperazines), activation of cannabinoid receptors (cannabinoids) and inhibition of NDMA receptors (arylcyclohexylamines). Importantly, we identified additional targets by relating reported effect concentrations to the estimated human brain concentrations during recreational use. These additional targets include dopamine receptors, α- and β-adrenergic receptors, GABAAreceptors and acetylcholine receptors, which may all contribute to the observed clinical symptoms following exposure. Additional data is needed as the number of NPS continues to increase. Also, the effect fingerprints we have obtained are still incomplete and suffer from a large variation in the reported effects and effect sizes. Dedicated in vitro screening batteries will aid in complementing specific effect fingerprints of NPS. These fingerprints can be implemented in the risk assessments of NPS that are necessary for eventual control measures to reduce Public Health risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Hondebrink
- Dutch Poisons Information Center (DPIC), University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, The Netherlands
| | - Anne Zwartsen
- Dutch Poisons Information Center (DPIC), University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, The Netherlands; Neurotoxicology Research Group, Division Toxicology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80.177, NL-3508 TD, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Remco H S Westerink
- Neurotoxicology Research Group, Division Toxicology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80.177, NL-3508 TD, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Fluorinated phenmetrazine "legal highs" act as substrates for high-affinity monoamine transporters of the SLC6 family. Neuropharmacology 2017; 134:149-157. [PMID: 28988906 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2017] [Revised: 09/29/2017] [Accepted: 10/04/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
A variety of new psychoactive substances (NPS) are appearing in recreational drug markets worldwide. NPS are compounds that target various receptors and transporters in the central nervous system to achieve their psychoactive effects. Chemical modifications of existing drugs can generate NPS that are not controlled by current legislation, thereby providing legal alternatives to controlled substances such as cocaine or amphetamine. Recently, 3-fluorophenmetrazine (3-FPM), a derivative of the anorectic compound phenmetrazine, appeared on the recreational drug market and adverse clinical effects have been reported. Phenmetrazine is known to elevate extracellular monoamine concentrations by an amphetamine-like mechanism. Here we tested 3-FPM and its positional isomers, 2-FPM and 4-FPM, for their abilities to interact with plasma membrane monoamine transporters for dopamine (DAT), norepinephrine (NET) and serotonin (SERT). We found that 2-, 3- and 4-FPM inhibit uptake mediated by DAT and NET in HEK293 cells with potencies comparable to cocaine (IC50 values < 2.5 μM), but display less potent effects at SERT (IC50 values >80 μM). Experiments directed at identifying transporter-mediated reverse transport revealed that FPM isomers induce efflux via DAT, NET and SERT in HEK293 cells, and this effect is augmented by the Na+/H+ ionophore monensin. Each FPM evoked concentration-dependent release of monoamines from rat brain synaptosomes. Hence, this study reports for the first time the mode of action for 2-, 3- and 4-FPM and identifies these NPS as monoamine releasers with marked potency at catecholamine transporters implicated in abuse and addiction. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Designer Drugs and Legal Highs.'
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28
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Knoll J, Baghy K, Eckhardt S, Ferdinandy P, Garami M, Harsing L, Hauser P, Mervai Z, Pocza T, Schaff Z, Schuler D, Miklya I. A longevity study with enhancer substances (selegiline, BPAP) detected an unknown tumor-manifestation-suppressing regulation in rat brain. Life Sci 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2017.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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29
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Hiranita T, Freyberg Z. Importance of Substrate-Coupled Proton Antiport by the Vesicular Monoamine Transporter in the Actions of Amphetamines in Drosophila Brain. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 4. [PMID: 28164142 DOI: 10.4172/2329-6488.1000e136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Takato Hiranita
- Division of Neurotoxicology, National Center for Toxicological Research (NCTR), U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), AR 72079-9502, USA
| | - Zachary Freyberg
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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30
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Ma KH, Liu TT, Weng SJ, Chen CFF, Huang YS, Chueh SH, Liao MH, Chang KW, Sung CC, Hsu TH, Huang WS, Cheng CY. Effects of dextromethorphan on MDMA-induced serotonergic aberration in the brains of non-human primates using [ 123I]-ADAM/SPECT. Sci Rep 2016; 6:38695. [PMID: 27941910 PMCID: PMC5150522 DOI: 10.1038/srep38695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2016] [Accepted: 11/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), a common recreational drug, is known to cause serotonergic neurotoxicity in the brain. Dextromethorphan (DM) is a widely used antitussive reported to exert anti-inflammatory effect in vivo. In this study, we examined the long-term effect of MDMA on the primate serotonergic system and the protective property of DM against MDMA-induced serotonergic abnormality using single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). Nine monkeys (Macaca cyclopis) were divided into three groups, namely control, MDMA and co-treatment (MDMA/DM). [123I]-ADAM was used as the radioligand for serotonin transporters (SERT) in SPECT scans. SERT levels of the brain were evaluated and presented as the uptake ratios (URs) of [123I]-ADAM in several regions of interest of the brain including midbrain, thalamus and striatum. We found that the URs of [123I]-ADAM were significantly lower in the brains of MDMA than control group, indicating lower brain SERT levels in the MDMA-treated monkeys. This MDMA-induced decrease in brain SERT levels could persist for over four years. However, the loss of brain SERT levels was not observed in co-treatment group. These results suggest that DM may exert a protective effect against MDMA-induced serotonergic toxicity in the brains of the non-human primate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuo-Hsing Ma
- Department of Biology and Anatomy, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-Ta Liu
- Department of Biology and Anatomy, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shao-Ju Weng
- Department of Biology and Anatomy, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Fu F Chen
- Graduate Institute of Life Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yuahn-Sieh Huang
- Department of Biology and Anatomy, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Sheau-Huei Chueh
- Department of Biochemistry, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Hsiu Liao
- Institute of Nuclear Energy Research, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | | | - Chi-Chang Sung
- Department of Biology and Anatomy, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Te-Hung Hsu
- Department of Biology and Anatomy, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Sheng Huang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Yi Cheng
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
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31
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Popova D, Forsblad A, Hashemian S, Jacobsson SOP. Non-Serotonergic Neurotoxicity by MDMA (Ecstasy) in Neurons Derived from Mouse P19 Embryonal Carcinoma Cells. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0166750. [PMID: 27861613 PMCID: PMC5115802 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0166750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2016] [Accepted: 11/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA; ecstasy) is a commonly abused recreational drug that causes neurotoxic effects in both humans and animals. The mechanism behind MDMA-induced neurotoxicity is suggested to be species-dependent and needs to be further investigated on the cellular level. In this study, the effects of MDMA in neuronally differentiated P19 mouse embryonal carcinoma cells have been examined. MDMA produces a concentration-, time- and temperature-dependent toxicity in differentiated P19 neurons, as measured by intracellular MTT reduction and extracellular LDH activity assays. The P19-derived neurons express both the serotonin reuptake transporter (SERT), that is functionally active, and the serotonin metabolizing enzyme monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A). The involvement of these proteins in the MDMA-induced toxicity was investigated by a pharmacological approach. The MAO inhibitors clorgyline and deprenyl, and the SERT inhibitor fluoxetine, per se or in combination, were not able to mimic the toxic effects of MDMA in the P19-derived neurons or block the MDMA-induced cell toxicity. Oxidative stress has been implicated in MDMA-induced neurotoxicity, but pre-treatment with the antioxidants α-tocopherol or N-acetylcysteine did not reveal any protective effects in the P19 neurons. Involvement of mitochondria in the MDMA-induced cytotoxicity was also examined, but MDMA did not alter the mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) in the P19 neurons. We conclude that MDMA produce a concentration-, time- and temperature-dependent neurotoxicity and our results suggest that the mechanism behind MDMA-induced toxicity in mouse-derived neurons do not involve the serotonergic system, oxidative stress or mitochondrial dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dina Popova
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Andréas Forsblad
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Sanaz Hashemian
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Stig O. P. Jacobsson
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- * E-mail:
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32
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Golovko AI, Bonitenko EY, Ivanov MB, Barinov VA, Zatsepin EP. The neurochemical bases of the pharmacological activity of ligands of monoamine-transport systems. NEUROCHEM J+ 2016. [DOI: 10.1134/s1819712416030065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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33
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Alsufyani HA, Docherty JR. Investigation of gender differences in the cardiovascular actions of direct and indirect sympathomimetic stimulants including cathinone in the anaesthetized rat. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 36:14-9. [DOI: 10.1111/aap.12043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2016] [Revised: 06/15/2016] [Accepted: 06/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- H. A. Alsufyani
- Department of Physiology; Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland; Dublin Ireland
- Department of Physiology; King Abdulaziz University; Jeddah Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - J. R. Docherty
- Department of Physiology; Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland; Dublin Ireland
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34
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Pei Y, Asif-Malik A, Canales JJ. Trace Amines and the Trace Amine-Associated Receptor 1: Pharmacology, Neurochemistry, and Clinical Implications. Front Neurosci 2016; 10:148. [PMID: 27092049 PMCID: PMC4820462 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2016.00148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2016] [Accepted: 03/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Biogenic amines are a collection of endogenous molecules that play pivotal roles as neurotransmitters and hormones. In addition to the "classical" biogenic amines resulting from decarboxylation of aromatic acids, including dopamine (DA), norepinephrine, epinephrine, serotonin (5-HT), and histamine, other biogenic amines, present at much lower concentrations in the central nervous system (CNS), and hence referred to as "trace" amines (TAs), are now recognized to play significant neurophysiological and behavioral functions. At the turn of the century, the discovery of the trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1), a phylogenetically conserved G protein-coupled receptor that is responsive to both TAs, such as β-phenylethylamine, octopamine, and tyramine, and structurally-related amphetamines, unveiled mechanisms of action for TAs other than interference with aminergic pathways, laying the foundations for deciphering the functional significance of TAs and its mammalian CNS receptor, TAAR1. Although, its molecular interactions and downstream targets have not been fully elucidated, TAAR1 activation triggers accumulation of intracellular cAMP, modulates PKA and PKC signaling and interferes with the β-arrestin2-dependent pathway via G protein-independent mechanisms. TAAR1 is uniquely positioned to exert direct control over DA and 5-HT neuronal firing and release, which has profound implications for understanding the pathophysiology of, and therefore designing more efficacious therapeutic interventions for, a range of neuropsychiatric disorders that involve aminergic dysregulation, including Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, mood disorders, and addiction. Indeed, the recent development of novel pharmacological tools targeting TAAR1 has uncovered the remarkable potential of TAAR1-based medications as new generation pharmacotherapies in neuropsychiatry. This review summarizes recent developments in the study of TAs and TAAR1, their intricate neurochemistry and pharmacology, and their relevance for neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Juan J. Canales
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology and Behaviour, University of LeicesterLeicester, UK
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35
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Rapid Recovery of Vesicular Dopamine Levels in Methamphetamine Users in Early Abstinence. Neuropsychopharmacology 2016; 41:1179-87. [PMID: 26321315 PMCID: PMC4748442 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2015.267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2015] [Revised: 07/30/2015] [Accepted: 08/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
We previously reported very low levels of dopamine in post-mortem striatum of chronic methamphetamine users, raising the possibility that restoration of normal dopamine levels could help in this addiction and perhaps prevent early relapse. To establish relevance of this finding to the living brain, we tested whether striatal [(11)C]-(+)-dihydrotetrabenazine binding, a vesicular monoamine transporter probe sensitive to changes in (stored) vesicular dopamine, is elevated in methamphetamine users. Chronic methamphetamine users underwent [(11)C]-(+)-dihydrotetrabenazine positron emission tomography scans during early (mean 2.6 days) and later (~10 days) abstinence. Striatal [(11)C]-(+)-dihydrotetrabenazine binding was elevated (suggesting low stored dopamine) in methamphetamine users (n=28; 2.6 days after last use) relative to controls (n=22) (+28%, p<0.0001) and correlated with severity and recency of drug use and with cognitive impairment and withdrawal symptoms. Mean [(11)C]-(+)-dihydrotetrabenazine binding levels in the subgroup of methamphetamine users who could remain abstinent ~10 days following last use (n=17) were normal at the follow-up scan. Our imaging data support post-mortem findings and suggest that chronic methamphetamine users have low brain levels of stored dopamine during very early abstinence from MA, which could contribute to behavioral and cognitive deficits. Findings also suggest a rapid recovery of stored dopamine in some methamphetamine users who become abstinent and who therefore might not benefit from dopamine replacement medication (eg, levodopa). Further study is necessary to establish whether those users who could not maintain abstinence for the second scan might have a more severe and persistent dopamine deficiency and who could benefit from this medication.
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36
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Aher YD, Subramaniyan S, Shanmugasundaram B, Sase A, Saroja SR, Holy M, Höger H, Beryozkina T, Sitte HH, Leban JJ, Lubec G. A Novel Heterocyclic Compound CE-104 Enhances Spatial Working Memory in the Radial Arm Maze in Rats and Modulates the Dopaminergic System. Front Behav Neurosci 2016; 10:20. [PMID: 26941626 PMCID: PMC4761905 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2016.00020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2015] [Accepted: 02/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Various psychostimulants targeting monoamine neurotransmitter transporters (MATs) have been shown to rescue cognition in patients with neurological disorders and improve cognitive abilities in healthy subjects at low doses. Here, we examined the effects upon cognition of a chemically synthesized novel MAT inhibiting compound 2-(benzhydrylsulfinylmethyl)-4-methylthiazole (named as CE-104). The efficacy of CE-104 in blocking MAT [dopamine transporter (DAT), serotonin transporter (SERT), and norepinephrine transporter] was determined using in vitro neurotransmitter uptake assay. The effect of the drug at low doses (1 and 10 mg/kg) on spatial memory was studied in male rats in the radial arm maze (RAM). Furthermore, the dopamine receptor and transporter complex levels of frontal cortex (FC) tissue of trained and untrained animals treated either with the drug or vehicle were quantified on blue native PAGE (BN-PAGE). The drug inhibited dopamine (IC50: 27.88 μM) and norepinephrine uptake (IC50: 160.40 μM), but had a negligible effect on SERT. In the RAM, both drug-dose groups improved spatial working memory during the performance phase of RAM as compared to vehicle. BN-PAGE Western blot quantification of dopamine receptor and transporter complexes revealed that D1, D2, D3, and DAT complexes were modulated due to training and by drug effects. The drug’s ability to block DAT and its influence on DAT and receptor complex levels in the FC is proposed as a possible mechanism for the observed learning and memory enhancement in the RAM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yogesh D Aher
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna Vienna, Austria
| | | | | | - Ajinkya Sase
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Marion Holy
- Institute of Pharmacology, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna Vienna, Austria
| | - Harald Höger
- Core Unit of Biomedical Research, Division of Laboratory Animal Science and Genetics, Medical University of Vienna Himberg, Austria
| | | | - Harald H Sitte
- Institute of Pharmacology, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna Vienna, Austria
| | - Johann J Leban
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna Vienna, Austria
| | - Gert Lubec
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Vienna Vienna, Austria
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Freyberg Z, Sonders MS, Aguilar JI, Hiranita T, Karam CS, Flores J, Pizzo AB, Zhang Y, Farino ZJ, Chen A, Martin CA, Kopajtic TA, Fei H, Hu G, Lin YY, Mosharov EV, McCabe BD, Freyberg R, Wimalasena K, Hsin LW, Sames D, Krantz DE, Katz JL, Sulzer D, Javitch JA. Mechanisms of amphetamine action illuminated through optical monitoring of dopamine synaptic vesicles in Drosophila brain. Nat Commun 2016; 7:10652. [PMID: 26879809 PMCID: PMC4757768 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms10652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2015] [Accepted: 01/06/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Amphetamines elevate extracellular dopamine, but the underlying mechanisms remain uncertain. Here we show in rodents that acute pharmacological inhibition of the vesicular monoamine transporter (VMAT) blocks amphetamine-induced locomotion and self-administration without impacting cocaine-induced behaviours. To study VMAT's role in mediating amphetamine action in dopamine neurons, we have used novel genetic, pharmacological and optical approaches in Drosophila melanogaster. In an ex vivo whole-brain preparation, fluorescent reporters of vesicular cargo and of vesicular pH reveal that amphetamine redistributes vesicle contents and diminishes the vesicle pH-gradient responsible for dopamine uptake and retention. This amphetamine-induced deacidification requires VMAT function and results from net H+ antiport by VMAT out of the vesicle lumen coupled to inward amphetamine transport. Amphetamine-induced vesicle deacidification also requires functional dopamine transporter (DAT) at the plasma membrane. Thus, we find that at pharmacologically relevant concentrations, amphetamines must be actively transported by DAT and VMAT in tandem to produce psychostimulant effects. Amphetamines are known to enhance extracellular dopamine levels, but the underlying mechanisms are unclear. Utilising a new pH biosensor for synaptic vesicles, the authors show that amphetamines diminish vesicle pH gradients, disrupting dopamine packaging and leading to increased neurotransmitter release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary Freyberg
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Physicians &Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, USA.,Division of Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York 10032, USA
| | - Mark S Sonders
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Physicians &Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, USA.,Division of Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York 10032, USA.,Department of Neurology, College of Physicians &Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, USA
| | - Jenny I Aguilar
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Physicians &Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, USA.,Division of Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York 10032, USA
| | - Takato Hiranita
- Psychobiology Section, Intramural Research Program, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA
| | - Caline S Karam
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Physicians &Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, USA.,Division of Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York 10032, USA
| | - Jorge Flores
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, College of Physicians &Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, USA
| | - Andrea B Pizzo
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Physicians &Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, USA.,Division of Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York 10032, USA
| | - Yuchao Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Physicians &Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, USA.,Division of Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York 10032, USA
| | - Zachary J Farino
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Physicians &Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, USA.,Division of Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York 10032, USA
| | - Audrey Chen
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences and Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Hatos Center for Neuropharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
| | - Ciara A Martin
- UCLA Interdepartmental Program in Molecular Toxicology, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
| | - Theresa A Kopajtic
- Psychobiology Section, Intramural Research Program, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA
| | - Hao Fei
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences and Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Hatos Center for Neuropharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
| | - Gang Hu
- Department of Chemistry, Columbia University, New York, New York 10027, USA
| | - Yi-Ying Lin
- School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Republic of China 10055
| | - Eugene V Mosharov
- Department of Neurology, College of Physicians &Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, USA
| | - Brian D McCabe
- Center for Motor Neuron Biology and Disease, College of Physicians &Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, USA.,Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, College of Physicians &Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, USA.,Department of Neuroscience, College of Physicians &Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, USA
| | - Robin Freyberg
- Department of Psychology, Stern College for Women, Yeshiva University, New York, New York 10016, USA
| | | | - Ling-Wei Hsin
- School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Republic of China 10055
| | - Dalibor Sames
- Department of Chemistry, Columbia University, New York, New York 10027, USA
| | - David E Krantz
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences and Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Hatos Center for Neuropharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
| | - Jonathan L Katz
- Psychobiology Section, Intramural Research Program, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA
| | - David Sulzer
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Physicians &Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, USA.,Division of Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York 10032, USA.,Department of Neurology, College of Physicians &Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, USA.,Department of Pharmacology, College of Physicians &Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, USA
| | - Jonathan A Javitch
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Physicians &Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, USA.,Division of Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York 10032, USA.,Department of Pharmacology, College of Physicians &Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, USA
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Shih JH, Ma KH, Chen CFF, Cheng CY, Pao LH, Weng SJ, Huang YS, Shiue CY, Yeh MK, Li IH. Evaluation of brain SERT occupancy by resveratrol against MDMA-induced neurobiological and behavioral changes in rats: A 4-[¹⁸F]-ADAM/small-animal PET study. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2016; 26:92-104. [PMID: 26612383 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2015.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2015] [Revised: 10/23/2015] [Accepted: 11/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The misuse of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) has drawn a growing concern worldwide for its psychophysiological impacts on humans. MDMA abusers are often accompanied by long-term serotonergic neurotoxicity, which is associated with reduced density of cerebral serotonin transporters (SERT) and depressive disorders. Resveratrol (RSV) is a natural polyphenolic phytoalexin that has been known for its antidepressant and neuroprotective effects. However, biological targets of RSV as well as its neuroprotective effects against MDMA remained largely unknown. In this study, we examined binding potency of RSV and MDMA to SERT using small-animal positron emission tomography (PET) with the SERT radioligand, N,N-dimethyl-2-(2-amino-4-[(18)F]fluorophenylthio)benzylamine (4-[(18)F]-ADAM) and investigated the protection of RSV against the acute and long-term adverse effects of MDMA. We found that RSV exhibit binding potentials to SERT in vivo in a dose-dependent manner with variation among brain regions. When the MDMA-treated rats (10mg/kg, s.c.) were co-injected with RSV (20mg/kg, i.p.) twice daily for 4 consecutive days, MDMA-induced acute elevation in plasma corticosterone was significantly reduced. Further, 4-[(18)F]-ADAM PET imaging revealed that RSV protected against the MDMA-induced decrease in SERT availability in the midbrain and the thalamus 2 weeks following the co-treatment. The PET data were comparable to the observation from the forced swim test that RSV sufficiently ameliorated the depressive-like behaviors of the MDMA-treated rats. Together, these findings suggest that RSV is a potential antidepressant and may confer protection against neurobiological and behavioral changes induced by MDMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jui-Hu Shih
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Pharmacy Practice, Tri-Service General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; School of Pharmacy, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Hsing Ma
- Department of Biology and Anatomy, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Fu F Chen
- Graduate Institute of Life Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Yi Cheng
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Li-Heng Pao
- School of Pharmacy, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Health-Industry Technology, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Research Center for Industry of Human Ecology, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Shao-Ju Weng
- Department of Biology and Anatomy, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yuahn-Sieh Huang
- Department of Biology and Anatomy, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chyng-Yann Shiue
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Kung Yeh
- School of Pharmacy, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan; Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taiwan
| | - I-Hsun Li
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Pharmacy Practice, Tri-Service General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; School of Pharmacy, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan.
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Action potentials and amphetamine release antipsychotic drug from dopamine neuron synaptic VMAT vesicles. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2015. [PMID: 26216995 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1503766112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Based on lysotracker red imaging in cultured hippocampal neurons, antipsychotic drugs (APDs) were proposed to accumulate in synaptic vesicles by acidic trapping and to be released in response to action potentials. Because many APDs are dopamine (DA) D2 receptor (D2R) antagonists, such a mechanism would be particularly interesting if it operated in midbrain DA neurons. Here, the APD cyamemazine (CYAM) is visualized directly by two-photon microscopy in substantia nigra and striatum brain slices. CYAM accumulated slowly into puncta based on vacuolar H(+)-ATPase activity and dispersed rapidly upon dissipating organelle pH gradients. Thus, CYAM is subject to acidic trapping and released upon deprotonation. In the striatum, Ca(2+)-dependent reduction of the CYAM punctate signal was induced by depolarization or action potentials. Striatal CYAM overlapped with the dopamine transporter (DAT). Furthermore, parachloroamphetamine (pCA), acting via vesicular monoamine transporter (VMAT), and a charged VMAT, substrate 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP(+)), reduced striatal CYAM. In vivo CYAM administration and in vitro experiments confirmed that clinically relevant CYAM concentrations result in vesicular accumulation and pCA-dependent release. These results show that some CYAM is in DA neuron VMAT vesicles and suggests a new drug interaction in which amphetamine induces CYAM deprotonation and release as a consequence of the H(+) countertransport by VMAT that accompanies vesicular uptake, but not by inducing exchange or acting as a weak base. Therefore, in the striatum, APDs are released with DA in response to action potentials and an amphetamine. This synaptic corelease is expected to enhance APD antagonism of D2Rs where and when dopaminergic transmission occurs.
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Alsufyani HA, Docherty JR. Direct and indirect cardiovascular actions of cathinone and MDMA in the anaesthetized rat. Eur J Pharmacol 2015; 758:142-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2015.03.079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2015] [Revised: 03/25/2015] [Accepted: 03/31/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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A Permeability Study of O2 and the Trace Amine p-Tyramine through Model Phosphatidylcholine Bilayers. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0122468. [PMID: 26086933 PMCID: PMC4472697 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0122468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2014] [Accepted: 02/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We study here the permeability of the hydrophobic O2 molecule through a model DPPC bilayer at 323K and 350K, and of the trace amine p-tyramine through PC bilayers at 310K. The tyramine results are compared to previous experimental work at 298K. Nonequilibrium work methods were used in conjunction to simultaneously obtain both the potential of mean force (PMF) and the position dependent transmembrane diffusion coefficient, D(z), from the simulations. These in turn were used to calculate the permeability coefficient, P, through the inhomogeneous solubility-diffusion model. The results for O2 are consistent with previous simulations, and agree with experimentally measured P values for PC bilayers. A temperature dependence in the permeability of O2 through DPPC was obtained, with P decreasing at higher temperatures. Two relevant species of p-tyramine were simulated, from which the PMF and D(z) were calculated. The charged species had a large energetic barrier to crossing the bilayer of ~ 21 kcal/mol, while the uncharged, deprotonated species had a much lower barrier of ~ 7 kcal/mol. The effective in silico permeability for p-tyramine was calculated by applying three approximations, all of which gave nearly identical results (presented here as a function of the pKa). As the permeability value calculated from simulation was highly dependent on the pKa of the amine group, a further pKa study was performed that also varied the fraction of the uncharged and zwitterionic p-tyramine species. Using the experimental P value together with the simulated results, we were able to label the phenolic group as responsible for the pKa1 and the amine for the pKa2, that together represent all of the experimentally measured pKa values for p-tyramine. This agrees with older experimental results, in contrast to more recent work that has suggested there is a strong ambiguity in the pKa values.
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Contribution of dopamine to mitochondrial complex I inhibition and dopaminergic deficits caused by methylenedioxymethamphetamine in mice. Neuropharmacology 2015; 93:124-33. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2015.01.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2014] [Revised: 12/19/2014] [Accepted: 01/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Abstract
Psychostimulants are a diverse group of substances that cause an increase in psychomotor activity at least in part through their actions on catecholaminergic systems including the dopaminergic mesolimbic pathways. Animal models used to study addiction are based on the psychomotor stimulant theory of addiction. The basics of this theory are that the reinforcing effects and the addition liabilities of the drugs can be predicted from their ability to induce psychomotor activation. This approach focuses on the ability of the drugs to directly control the animal's behavior and to induce psychomotor stimulation, and is consistent with the behavioral definition of addiction and behavioral sensitization. Animal experiments have the advantage over clinical studies of lower variation and fewer confounding effects.
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Reith ME, Blough BE, Hong WC, Jones KT, Schmitt KC, Baumann MH, Partilla JS, Rothman RB, Katz JL. Behavioral, biological, and chemical perspectives on atypical agents targeting the dopamine transporter. Drug Alcohol Depend 2015; 147:1-19. [PMID: 25548026 PMCID: PMC4297708 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2014.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2014] [Revised: 12/04/2014] [Accepted: 12/04/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treatment of stimulant-use disorders remains a formidable challenge, and the dopamine transporter (DAT) remains a potential target for antagonist or agonist-like substitution therapies. METHODS This review focuses on DAT ligands, such as benztropine, GBR 12909, modafinil, and DAT substrates derived from phenethylamine or cathinone that have atypical DAT-inhibitor effects, either in vitro or in vivo. The compounds are described from a molecular mechanistic, behavioral, and medicinal-chemical perspective. RESULTS Possible mechanisms for atypicality at the molecular level can be deduced from the conformational cycle for substrate translocation. For each conformation, a crystal structure of a bacterial homolog is available, with a possible role of cholesterol, which is also present in the crystal of Drosophila DAT. Although there is a direct relationship between behavioral potencies of most DAT inhibitors and their DAT affinities, a number of compounds bind to the DAT and inhibit dopamine uptake but do not share cocaine-like effects. Such atypical behavior, depending on the compound, may be related to slow DAT association, combined sigma-receptor actions, or bias for cytosol-facing DAT. Some structures are sterically small enough to serve as DAT substrates but large enough to also inhibit transport. Such compounds may display partial DA releasing effects, and may be combined with release or uptake inhibition at other monoamine transporters. CONCLUSIONS Mechanisms of atypical DAT inhibitors may serve as targets for the development of treatments for stimulant abuse. These mechanisms are novel and their further exploration may produce compounds with unique therapeutic potential as treatments for stimulant abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maarten E.A. Reith
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA,Corresponding author: Maarten E.A. Reith, Department of Psychiatry, Alexandria Center of Life Sciences, New York University School of Medicine, 450 E 29th Street, Room 803, New York, NY 10016. Tel.: 212 - 263 8267; Fax: 212 – 263 8183;
| | - Bruce E. Blough
- Center for Drug Discovery, Research Triangle Institute, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Weimin C. Hong
- Psychobiology Section, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Kymry T. Jones
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Kyle C. Schmitt
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Michael H. Baumann
- Medicinal Chemistry Section, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - John S. Partilla
- Medicinal Chemistry Section, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Richard B. Rothman
- Medicinal Chemistry Section, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Jonathan L. Katz
- Psychobiology Section, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
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Hiranita T. Preclinical Efficacy of Novel Vesicular Monoamine Transporter 2 Inhibitors as Antagonists of d-Methamphetamine Self-Administration in Rats. JOURNAL OF ALCOHOLISM AND DRUG DEPENDENCE 2015; 3. [PMID: 27398393 PMCID: PMC4934384 DOI: 10.4172/2329-6488.1000e127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Takato Hiranita
- Division of Neurotoxicology, National Center for Toxicological Research (NCTR), U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), 3900 NCTR Road, Jefferson, AR 72079-9501, USA
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Teixeira‐Gomes A, Costa VM, Feio‐Azevedo R, Bastos MDL, Carvalho F, Capela JP. The neurotoxicity of amphetamines during the adolescent period. Int J Dev Neurosci 2014; 41:44-62. [PMID: 25482046 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2014.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2014] [Revised: 11/30/2014] [Accepted: 12/01/2014] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Armanda Teixeira‐Gomes
- REQUIMTE (Rede de Química e Tecnologia), Laboratório de Toxicologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de FarmáciaUniversidade do PortoRua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 2284050‐313PortoPortugal
| | - Vera Marisa Costa
- REQUIMTE (Rede de Química e Tecnologia), Laboratório de Toxicologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de FarmáciaUniversidade do PortoRua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 2284050‐313PortoPortugal
| | - Rita Feio‐Azevedo
- REQUIMTE (Rede de Química e Tecnologia), Laboratório de Toxicologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de FarmáciaUniversidade do PortoRua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 2284050‐313PortoPortugal
| | - Maria de Lourdes Bastos
- REQUIMTE (Rede de Química e Tecnologia), Laboratório de Toxicologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de FarmáciaUniversidade do PortoRua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 2284050‐313PortoPortugal
| | - Félix Carvalho
- REQUIMTE (Rede de Química e Tecnologia), Laboratório de Toxicologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de FarmáciaUniversidade do PortoRua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 2284050‐313PortoPortugal
| | - João Paulo Capela
- REQUIMTE (Rede de Química e Tecnologia), Laboratório de Toxicologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de FarmáciaUniversidade do PortoRua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 2284050‐313PortoPortugal
- Faculdade de Ciências da SaúdeUniversidade Fernando PessoaRua Carlos da Maia, 2964200‐150PortoPortugal
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Lizarraga LE, Cholanians AB, Phan AV, Herndon JM, Lau SS, Monks TJ. Vesicular monoamine transporter 2 and the acute and long-term response to 3,4-(±)-methylenedioxymethamphetamine. Toxicol Sci 2014; 143:209-19. [PMID: 25370842 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfu222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
3,4-(±)-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, Ecstasy) is a ring-substituted amphetamine derivative with potent psychostimulant properties. The neuropharmacological effects of MDMA are biphasic in nature, initially causing synaptic monoamine release, primarily of serotonin (5-HT). Conversely, the long-term effects of MDMA manifest as prolonged depletions in 5-HT, and reductions in 5-HT reuptake transporter (SERT), indicative of serotonergic neurotoxicity. MDMA-induced 5-HT efflux relies upon disruption of vesicular monoamine storage, which increases cytosolic 5-HT concentrations available for release via a carrier-mediated mechanism. The vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) is responsible for packaging monoamine neurotransmitters into cytosolic vesicles. Thus, VMAT2 is a molecular target for a number of psychostimulant drugs, including methamphetamine and MDMA. We investigated the effects of depressed VMAT2 activity on the adverse responses to MDMA, via reversible inhibition of the VMAT2 protein with Ro4-1284. A single dose of MDMA (20 mg/kg, subcutaneous) induced significant hyperthermia in rats. Ro4-1284 (10 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) pretreatment prevented the thermogenic effects of MDMA, instead causing a transient decrease in body temperature. MDMA-treated rats exhibited marked increases in horizontal velocity and rearing behavior. In the presence of Ro4-1284, MDMA-mediated horizontal hyperlocomotion was delayed and attenuated, whereas rearing activity was abolished. Finally, Ro4-1284 prevented deficits in 5-HT content in rat cortex and striatum, and reduced depletions in striatal SERT staining, 7 days after MDMA administration. In summary, acute inhibition of VMAT2 by Ro4-1284 protected against MDMA-mediated hyperthermia, hyperactivity, and serotonergic neurotoxicity. The data suggest the involvement of VMAT2 in the thermoregulatory, behavioral, and neurotoxic effects of MDMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucina E Lizarraga
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721
| | - Aram B Cholanians
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721
| | - Andy V Phan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721
| | - Joseph M Herndon
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721
| | - Serrine S Lau
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721
| | - Terrence J Monks
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721
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Forray A, Sofuoglu M. Future pharmacological treatments for substance use disorders. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2014; 77:382-400. [PMID: 23039267 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2125.2012.04474.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2012] [Accepted: 09/23/2012] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Substance use disorders represent a serious public health and social issue worldwide. Recent advances in our understanding of the neurobiological basis of the addictive processes have led to the development of a growing number of pharmacological agents to treat addictions. Despite this progress, there are no approved pharmacological treatments for cocaine, methamphetamine and cannabis addiction. Moving treatment development to the next stage will require novel ways of approaching substance use disorders. One such novel approach is to target individual vulnerabilities, such as cognitive function, sex differences and psychiatric comorbidities. This review provides a summary of promising pharmacotherapies for alcohol, opiate, stimulant and nicotine addictions. Many medications that target positive and negative reinforcement of drugs, as well as individual vulnerabilities to addiction, are in different phases of development. Clinical trials testing the efficacy of these medications for substance use disorder are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariadna Forray
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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Hofford RS, Darna M, Wilmouth CE, Dwoskin LP, Bardo MT. Environmental enrichment reduces methamphetamine cue-induced reinstatement but does not alter methamphetamine reward or VMAT2 function. Behav Brain Res 2014; 270:151-8. [PMID: 24821405 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2014.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2014] [Revised: 04/17/2014] [Accepted: 05/02/2014] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Environmental factors influence a variety of health-related outcomes. In general, being raised in an environment possessing social, sensory, and motor enrichment reduces the rewarding effects of various drugs, thus protecting against abuse vulnerability. However, in the case of methamphetamine (METH), which acts at the vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) to enhance dopamine release from the cytosol, previous evidence suggests that METH reward may not be altered by environmental enrichment. This study examined the influence of an enriched environment on measures of METH reward, METH seeking, and VMAT2 function. Rats were raised from weaning to adulthood in either an enriched environment (presence of social cohorts and novel objects) or an isolated environment (no cohorts or novel objects). Rats in these two conditions were subsequently tested for their acquisition of conditioned place preference (CPP), METH self-administration, maintenance of self-administration at various unit doses of METH (0.001-0.5mg/kg/infusion), and cue-induced reinstatement. VMAT2 function in striatum from these two groups also was assessed. No significant environment effects were found in CPP or METH self-administration, which paralleled a lack of effect in VMAT2 function between groups. However, cue-induced reinstatement was reduced by environmental enrichment. Together, these results suggest that environmental enrichment does not alter VMAT2 function involved in METH reward. However, the enrichment-induced decrease in cue-induced reinstatement indicates that enrichment may have a beneficial effect against relapse following a period of extinction via a neural mechanism other than striatal VMAT2 function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca S Hofford
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; Center for Drug Abuse Research Translation, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Mahesh Darna
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; Center for Drug Abuse Research Translation, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Carrie E Wilmouth
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; Center for Drug Abuse Research Translation, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Linda P Dwoskin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; Center for Drug Abuse Research Translation, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Michael T Bardo
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; Center for Drug Abuse Research Translation, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA.
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Nickell JR, Siripurapu KB, Vartak A, Crooks PA, Dwoskin LP. The vesicular monoamine transporter-2: an important pharmacological target for the discovery of novel therapeutics to treat methamphetamine abuse. ADVANCES IN PHARMACOLOGY (SAN DIEGO, CALIF.) 2014; 69:71-106. [PMID: 24484975 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-420118-7.00002-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Methamphetamine abuse escalates, but no approved therapeutics are available to treat addicted individuals. Methamphetamine increases extracellular dopamine in reward-relevant pathways by interacting at vesicular monoamine transporter-2 (VMAT2) to inhibit dopamine uptake and promote dopamine release from synaptic vesicles, increasing cytosolic dopamine available for reverse transport by the dopamine transporter (DAT). VMAT2 is the target of our iterative drug discovery efforts to identify pharmacotherapeutics for methamphetamine addiction. Lobeline, the major alkaloid in Lobelia inflata, potently inhibited VMAT2, methamphetamine-evoked striatal dopamine release, and methamphetamine self-administration in rats but exhibited high affinity for nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). Defunctionalized, unsaturated lobeline analog, meso-transdiene (MTD), exhibited lobeline-like in vitro pharmacology, lacked nAChR affinity, but exhibited high affinity for DAT, suggesting potential abuse liability. The 2,4-dicholorophenyl MTD analog, UKMH-106, exhibited selectivity for VMAT2 over DAT, inhibited methamphetamine-evoked dopamine release, but required a difficult synthetic approach. Lobelane, a saturated, defunctionalized lobeline analog, inhibited the neurochemical and behavioral effects of methamphetamine; tolerance developed to the lobelane-induced decrease in methamphetamine self-administration. Improved drug-likeness was afforded by the incorporation of a chiral N-1,2-dihydroxypropyl moiety into lobelane to afford GZ-793A, which inhibited the neurochemical and behavioral effects of methamphetamine, without tolerance. From a series of 2,5-disubstituted pyrrolidine analogs, AV-2-192 emerged as a lead, exhibiting high affinity for VMAT2 and inhibiting methamphetamine-evoked dopamine release. Current results support the hypothesis that potent, selective VMAT2 inhibitors provide the requisite preclinical behavioral profile for evaluation as pharmacotherapeutics for methamphetamine abuse and emphasize selectivity for VMAT2 relative to DAT as a criterion for reducing abuse liability of the therapeutic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin R Nickell
- College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | | | - Ashish Vartak
- College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Peter A Crooks
- College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Linda P Dwoskin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA.
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