1
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Kosar M, Mach L, Carreira EM, Nazaré M, Pacher P, Grether U. Patent review of cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB 2R) modulators (2016-present). Expert Opin Ther Pat 2024:1-36. [PMID: 38886185 DOI: 10.1080/13543776.2024.2368745] [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: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2R), predominantly expressed in immune tissues, is believed to play a crucial role within the body's protective mechanisms. Its modulation holds immense therapeutic promise for addressing a wide spectrum of dysbiotic conditions, including cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, liver, kidney, neurodegenerative, psychiatric, bone, skin, and autoimmune diseases, as well as lung disorders, cancer, and pain management. AREAS COVERED This review is an account of patents from 2016 up to 2023 which describes novel CB2R ligands, therapeutic applications, synthesis, as well as formulations of CB2R modulators. EXPERT OPINION The patents cover a vast, structurally diverse chemical space. The focus of CB2R ligand development has shifted from unselective dual-cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1R) and 2 agonists toward agonists with high selectivity over CB1R, particularly for indications associated with inflammation and tissue injury. Currently, there are at least eight CB2R agonists and one antagonist in active clinical development. A better understanding of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and in particular of CB2R pharmacology is required to unlock the receptor's full therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miroslav Kosar
- Laboratorium für Organische Chemie, Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Leonard Mach
- Medicinal Chemistry, Leibniz-Forschungsinstitut für Molekulare Pharmakologie (FMP) Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Erick M Carreira
- Laboratorium für Organische Chemie, Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Marc Nazaré
- Medicinal Chemistry, Leibniz-Forschungsinstitut für Molekulare Pharmakologie (FMP) Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Pal Pacher
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Uwe Grether
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
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2
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Carruthers ER, Grimsey NL. Cannabinoid CB 2 receptor orthologues; in vitro function and perspectives for preclinical to clinical translation. Br J Pharmacol 2024; 181:2247-2269. [PMID: 37349984 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoid CB2 receptor agonists are in development as therapeutic agents, including for immune modulation and pain relief. Despite promising results in rodent preclinical studies, efficacy in human clinical trials has been marginal to date. Fundamental differences in ligand engagement and signalling responses between the human CB2 receptor and preclinical model species orthologues may contribute to mismatches in functional outcomes. This is a tangible possibility for the CB2 receptor in that there is a relatively large degree of primary amino acid sequence divergence between human and rodent. Here, we summarise CB2 receptor gene and protein structure, assess comparative molecular pharmacology between CB2 receptor orthologues, and review the current status of preclinical to clinical translation for drugs targeted at the CB2 receptor, focusing on comparisons between human, mouse and rat receptors. We hope that raising wider awareness of, and proposing strategies to address, this additional challenge in drug development will assist in ongoing efforts toward successful therapeutic translation of drugs targeted at the CB2 receptor. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue Therapeutic Targeting of G Protein-Coupled Receptors: hot topics from the Australasian Society of Clinical and Experimental Pharmacologists and Toxicologists 2021 Virtual Annual Scientific Meeting. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v181.14/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma R Carruthers
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Natasha L Grimsey
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland, New Zealand
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3
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Kosar M, Sarott RC, Sykes DA, Viray AEG, Vitale RM, Tomašević N, Li X, Ganzoni RLZ, Kicin B, Reichert L, Patej KJ, Gómez-Bouzó U, Guba W, McCormick PJ, Hua T, Gruber CW, Veprintsev DB, Frank JA, Grether U, Carreira EM. Flipping the GPCR Switch: Structure-Based Development of Selective Cannabinoid Receptor 2 Inverse Agonists. ACS CENTRAL SCIENCE 2024; 10:956-968. [PMID: 38799662 PMCID: PMC11117691 DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.3c01461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
We report a blueprint for the rational design of G protein coupled receptor (GPCR) ligands with a tailored functional response. The present study discloses the structure-based design of cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2R) selective inverse agonists (S)-1 and (R)-1, which were derived from privileged agonist HU-308 by introduction of a phenyl group at the gem-dimethylheptyl side chain. Epimer (R)-1 exhibits high affinity for CB2R with Kd = 39.1 nM and serves as a platform for the synthesis of a wide variety of probes. Notably, for the first time these fluorescent probes retain their inverse agonist functionality, high affinity, and selectivity for CB2R independent of linker and fluorophore substitution. Ligands (S)-1, (R)-1, and their derivatives act as inverse agonists in CB2R-mediated cAMP as well as G protein recruitment assays and do not trigger β-arrestin-receptor association. Furthermore, no receptor activation was detected in live cell ERK1/2 phosphorylation and Ca2+-release assays. Confocal fluorescence imaging experiments with (R)-7 (Alexa488) and (R)-9 (Alexa647) probes employing BV-2 microglial cells visualized CB2R expressed at endogenous levels. Finally, molecular dynamics simulations corroborate the initial docking data in which inverse agonists restrict movement of toggle switch Trp2586.48 and thereby stabilize CB2R in its inactive state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miroslav Kosar
- Laboratorium
für Organische Chemie, Eidgenössische
Technische Hochschule Zürich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 3, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Roman C. Sarott
- Laboratorium
für Organische Chemie, Eidgenössische
Technische Hochschule Zürich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 3, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - David A. Sykes
- Faculty
of Medicine & Health Sciences, University
of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, U.K.
- Centre
of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham
and University of Nottingham, https://www.birmingham-nottingham.ac.uk/compare
| | - Alexander E. G. Viray
- Department
of Chemical Physiology & Biochemistry, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239-3098, United States
| | - Rosa Maria Vitale
- Institute
of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research
Council, Via Campi Flegrei
34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Nataša Tomašević
- Center for
Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University
of Vienna, Schwarzspanierstrasse
17, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Xiaoting Li
- iHuman
Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Rudolf L. Z. Ganzoni
- Laboratorium
für Organische Chemie, Eidgenössische
Technische Hochschule Zürich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 3, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Bilal Kicin
- Laboratorium
für Organische Chemie, Eidgenössische
Technische Hochschule Zürich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 3, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Lisa Reichert
- Laboratorium
für Organische Chemie, Eidgenössische
Technische Hochschule Zürich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 3, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Kacper J. Patej
- Laboratorium
für Organische Chemie, Eidgenössische
Technische Hochschule Zürich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 3, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Uxía Gómez-Bouzó
- Laboratorium
für Organische Chemie, Eidgenössische
Technische Hochschule Zürich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 3, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Wolfgang Guba
- Roche
Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel,
F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Peter J. McCormick
- Department
of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University
of Liverpool, Ashton
Street, Liverpool L69 3GE, U.K.
| | - Tian Hua
- iHuman
Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Christian W. Gruber
- Center for
Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University
of Vienna, Schwarzspanierstrasse
17, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Dmitry B. Veprintsev
- Faculty
of Medicine & Health Sciences, University
of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, U.K.
- Centre
of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham
and University of Nottingham, https://www.birmingham-nottingham.ac.uk/compare
| | - James A. Frank
- Department
of Chemical Physiology & Biochemistry, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239-3098, United States
- Vollum
Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239-3098, United States
| | - Uwe Grether
- Roche
Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel,
F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Erick M. Carreira
- Laboratorium
für Organische Chemie, Eidgenössische
Technische Hochschule Zürich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 3, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
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Jana A, Nath A, Sen P, Kundu S, Alghamdi BS, Abujamel TS, Saboor M, Woon-Khiong C, Alexiou A, Papadakis M, Alam MZ, Ashraf GM. Unraveling the Endocannabinoid System: Exploring Its Therapeutic Potential in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Neuromolecular Med 2024; 26:20. [PMID: 38744725 PMCID: PMC11093854 DOI: 10.1007/s12017-024-08781-6] [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: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
The salient features of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) encompass persistent difficulties in social communication, as well as the presence of restricted and repetitive facets of behavior, hobbies, or pursuits, which are often accompanied with cognitive limitations. Over the past few decades, a sizable number of studies have been conducted to enhance our understanding of the pathophysiology of ASD. Preclinical rat models have proven to be extremely valuable in simulating and analyzing the roles of a wide range of established environmental and genetic factors. Recent research has also demonstrated the significant involvement of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the pathogenesis of several neuropsychiatric diseases, including ASD. In fact, the ECS has the potential to regulate a multitude of metabolic and cellular pathways associated with autism, including the immune system. Moreover, the ECS has emerged as a promising target for intervention with high predictive validity. Particularly noteworthy are resent preclinical studies in rodents, which describe the onset of ASD-like symptoms after various genetic or pharmacological interventions targeting the ECS, providing encouraging evidence for further exploration in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankit Jana
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117558, Singapore
| | - Arnab Nath
- Department of Developmental Biology and Genetics, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka, 560012, India
| | - Palash Sen
- School of Biosciences, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, West Bengal, 721302, India
| | - Swikriti Kundu
- Siksha Bhavana, Visva-Bharati University, Bolpur, West Bengal, 731235, India
| | - Badrah S Alghamdi
- Pre-Clinical Research Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Physiology, Neuroscience Unit, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Turki S Abujamel
- Vaccines and Immunotherapy Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Saboor
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Health Sciences, and Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Chan Woon-Khiong
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117558, Singapore
| | - Athanasios Alexiou
- University Centre for Research & Development, Chandigarh University, Chandigarh-Ludhiana Highway, Mohali, Punjab, India
- Department of Research & Development, Funogen, Athens, Greece
- Department of Research & Development, AFNP Med, 1030, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Science and Engineering, Novel Global Community Educational Foundation, Hebersham, NSW, 2770, Australia
| | - Marios Papadakis
- Department of Surgery II, University Hospital Witten-Herdecke, University of Witten-Herdecke, Heusnerstrasse 40, 42283, Wuppertal, Germany.
| | - Mohammad Zubair Alam
- Pre-Clinical Research Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ghulam Md Ashraf
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Health Sciences, and Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.
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5
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Joers V, Murray BC, McLaughlin C, Oliver D, Staley H, Coronado J, Achat-Mendes C, Golshani S, Kelly SD, Goodson M, Lee D, Manfredsson FP, Moore BM, Tansey MG. Modulation of cannabinoid receptor 2 alters neuroinflammation and reduces formation of alpha-synuclein aggregates in a rat model of nigral synucleinopathy. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.08.25.554814. [PMID: 38562842 PMCID: PMC10983852 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.25.554814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Research into the disequilibrium of microglial phenotypes has become an area of intense focus in neurodegenerative disease as a potential mechanism that contributes to chronic neuroinflammation and neuronal loss in Parkinson's disease (PD). There is growing evidence that neuroinflammation accompanies and may promote progression of alpha-synuclein (Asyn)-induced nigral dopaminergic (DA) degeneration. From a therapeutic perspective, development of immunomodulatory strategies that dampen overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines from chronically activated immune cells and induce a pro-phagocytic phenotype is expected to promote Asyn removal and protect vulnerable neurons. Cannabinoid receptor-2 (CB2) is highly expressed on activated microglia and peripheral immune cells, is upregulated in the substantia nigra of individuals with PD and in mouse models of nigral degeneration. Furthermore, modulation of CB2 protects against rotenone-induced nigral degeneration; however, CB2 has not been pharmacologically and selectively targeted in an Asyn model of PD. Here, we report that 7 weeks of peripheral administration of CB2 inverse agonist SMM-189 reduced phosphorylated (pSer129) alpha-synuclein in the substantia nigra compared to vehicle treatment. Additionally, SMM-189 delayed Asyn-induced immune cell infiltration into the brain as determined by flow cytometry, increased CD68 protein expression, and elevated wound-healing-immune-mediator gene expression. Additionally, peripheral immune cells increased wound-healing non-classical monocytes and decreased pro-inflammatory classical monocytes. In vitro analysis of RAW264.7 macrophages treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and SMM-189 revealed increased phagocytosis as measured by the uptake of fluorescence of pHrodo E. coli bioparticles. Together, results suggest that targeting CB2 with SMM-189 skews immune cell function toward a phagocytic phenotype and reduces toxic aggregated species of Asyn. Our novel findings demonstrate that CB2 may be a target to modulate inflammatory and immune responses in proteinopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerie Joers
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida
- Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida
- McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | | | | | - Danielle Oliver
- Department of Physiology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Hannah Staley
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida
- Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida
- McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Jazmyn Coronado
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida
- Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida
- McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | | | - Sanam Golshani
- Department of Physiology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Sean D Kelly
- Department of Physiology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Matthew Goodson
- Department of Physiology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Danica Lee
- Department of Physiology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Fredric P Manfredsson
- Parkinson's Disease Research Unit, Department of Translational Neuroscience, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, Arizona
| | - Bob M Moore
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - Malú Gámez Tansey
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida
- Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida
- McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
- Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases, University of Florida Health, Gainesville, Florida
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6
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Steinmüller SAM, Fender J, Deventer MH, Tutov A, Lorenz K, Stove CP, Hislop JN, Decker M. Visible-Light Photoswitchable Benzimidazole Azo-Arenes as β-Arrestin2-Biased Selective Cannabinoid 2 Receptor Agonists. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202306176. [PMID: 37269130 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202306176] [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: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The cannabinoid 2 receptor (CB2 R) has high therapeutic potential for multiple pathogenic processes, such as neuroinflammation. Pathway-selective ligands are needed to overcome the lack of clinical success and to elucidate correlations between pathways and their respective therapeutic effects. Herein, we report the design and synthesis of a photoswitchable scaffold based on the privileged structure of benzimidazole and its application as a functionally selective CB2 R "efficacy-switch". Benzimidazole azo-arenes offer huge potential for the broad extension of photopharmacology to a wide range of optically addressable biological targets. We used this scaffold to develop compound 10 d, a "trans-on" agonist, which serves as a molecular probe to study the β-arrestin2 (βarr2) pathway at CB2 R. βΑrr2 bias was observed in CB2 R internalization and βarr2 recruitment, while no activation occurred when looking at Gα16 or mini-Gαi . Overall, compound 10 d is the first light-dependent functionally selective agonist to investigate the complex mechanisms of CB2 R-βarr2 dependent endocytosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie A M Steinmüller
- Pharmazeutische und Medizinische Chemie, Institut für Pharmazie und Lebensmittelchemie, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Am Hubland, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Julia Fender
- Institut für Pharmakologie und Toxikologie, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Versbacher Str. 9, 97078, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Marie H Deventer
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Anna Tutov
- Pharmazeutische und Medizinische Chemie, Institut für Pharmazie und Lebensmittelchemie, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Am Hubland, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Kristina Lorenz
- Institut für Pharmakologie und Toxikologie, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Versbacher Str. 9, 97078, Würzburg, Germany
- Leibniz-Institut für Analytische Wissenschaften - ISAS-e.V., Bunsen-Kirchhoff-Straße 11, 44139, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Christophe P Stove
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - James N Hislop
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Michael Decker
- Pharmazeutische und Medizinische Chemie, Institut für Pharmazie und Lebensmittelchemie, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Am Hubland, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
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7
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Maccarrone M, Di Marzo V, Gertsch J, Grether U, Howlett AC, Hua T, Makriyannis A, Piomelli D, Ueda N, van der Stelt M. Goods and Bads of the Endocannabinoid System as a Therapeutic Target: Lessons Learned after 30 Years. Pharmacol Rev 2023; 75:885-958. [PMID: 37164640 PMCID: PMC10441647 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.122.000600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The cannabis derivative marijuana is the most widely used recreational drug in the Western world and is consumed by an estimated 83 million individuals (∼3% of the world population). In recent years, there has been a marked transformation in society regarding the risk perception of cannabis, driven by its legalization and medical use in many states in the United States and worldwide. Compelling research evidence and the Food and Drug Administration cannabis-derived cannabidiol approval for severe childhood epilepsy have confirmed the large therapeutic potential of cannabidiol itself, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and other plant-derived cannabinoids (phytocannabinoids). Of note, our body has a complex endocannabinoid system (ECS)-made of receptors, metabolic enzymes, and transporters-that is also regulated by phytocannabinoids. The first endocannabinoid to be discovered 30 years ago was anandamide (N-arachidonoyl-ethanolamine); since then, distinct elements of the ECS have been the target of drug design programs aimed at curing (or at least slowing down) a number of human diseases, both in the central nervous system and at the periphery. Here a critical review of our knowledge of the goods and bads of the ECS as a therapeutic target is presented to define the benefits of ECS-active phytocannabinoids and ECS-oriented synthetic drugs for human health. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: The endocannabinoid system plays important roles virtually everywhere in our body and is either involved in mediating key processes of central and peripheral diseases or represents a therapeutic target for treatment. Therefore, understanding the structure, function, and pharmacology of the components of this complex system, and in particular of key receptors (like cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2) and metabolic enzymes (like fatty acid amide hydrolase and monoacylglycerol lipase), will advance our understanding of endocannabinoid signaling and activity at molecular, cellular, and system levels, providing new opportunities to treat patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Maccarrone
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy (M.M.); European Center for Brain Research, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy (M.M.); Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, University of Laval, Quebec, Canada (V.D.); Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (J.G.); Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (U.G.); Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina (A.C.H.); iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China (T.H.); Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (A.M.); Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California (D.P.); Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa, Japan (N.U.); Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands (M.S.)
| | - Vincenzo Di Marzo
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy (M.M.); European Center for Brain Research, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy (M.M.); Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, University of Laval, Quebec, Canada (V.D.); Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (J.G.); Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (U.G.); Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina (A.C.H.); iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China (T.H.); Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (A.M.); Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California (D.P.); Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa, Japan (N.U.); Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands (M.S.)
| | - Jürg Gertsch
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy (M.M.); European Center for Brain Research, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy (M.M.); Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, University of Laval, Quebec, Canada (V.D.); Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (J.G.); Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (U.G.); Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina (A.C.H.); iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China (T.H.); Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (A.M.); Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California (D.P.); Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa, Japan (N.U.); Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands (M.S.)
| | - Uwe Grether
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy (M.M.); European Center for Brain Research, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy (M.M.); Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, University of Laval, Quebec, Canada (V.D.); Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (J.G.); Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (U.G.); Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina (A.C.H.); iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China (T.H.); Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (A.M.); Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California (D.P.); Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa, Japan (N.U.); Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands (M.S.)
| | - Allyn C Howlett
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy (M.M.); European Center for Brain Research, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy (M.M.); Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, University of Laval, Quebec, Canada (V.D.); Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (J.G.); Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (U.G.); Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina (A.C.H.); iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China (T.H.); Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (A.M.); Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California (D.P.); Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa, Japan (N.U.); Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands (M.S.)
| | - Tian Hua
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy (M.M.); European Center for Brain Research, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy (M.M.); Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, University of Laval, Quebec, Canada (V.D.); Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (J.G.); Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (U.G.); Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina (A.C.H.); iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China (T.H.); Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (A.M.); Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California (D.P.); Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa, Japan (N.U.); Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands (M.S.)
| | - Alexandros Makriyannis
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy (M.M.); European Center for Brain Research, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy (M.M.); Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, University of Laval, Quebec, Canada (V.D.); Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (J.G.); Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (U.G.); Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina (A.C.H.); iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China (T.H.); Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (A.M.); Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California (D.P.); Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa, Japan (N.U.); Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands (M.S.)
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy (M.M.); European Center for Brain Research, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy (M.M.); Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, University of Laval, Quebec, Canada (V.D.); Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (J.G.); Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (U.G.); Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina (A.C.H.); iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China (T.H.); Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (A.M.); Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California (D.P.); Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa, Japan (N.U.); Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands (M.S.)
| | - Natsuo Ueda
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy (M.M.); European Center for Brain Research, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy (M.M.); Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, University of Laval, Quebec, Canada (V.D.); Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (J.G.); Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (U.G.); Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina (A.C.H.); iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China (T.H.); Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (A.M.); Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California (D.P.); Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa, Japan (N.U.); Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands (M.S.)
| | - Mario van der Stelt
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Italy (M.M.); European Center for Brain Research, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy (M.M.); Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, University of Laval, Quebec, Canada (V.D.); Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (J.G.); Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland (U.G.); Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina (A.C.H.); iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China (T.H.); Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (A.M.); Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California (D.P.); Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa, Japan (N.U.); Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands (M.S.)
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8
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Piscura MK, Henderson-Redmond AN, Barnes RC, Mitra S, Guindon J, Morgan DJ. Mechanisms of cannabinoid tolerance. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 214:115665. [PMID: 37348821 PMCID: PMC10528043 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis has been used recreationally and medically for centuries, yet research into understanding the mechanisms of its therapeutic effects has only recently garnered more attention. There is evidence to support the use of cannabinoids for the treatment of chronic pain, muscle spasticity, nausea and vomiting due to chemotherapy, improving weight gain in HIV-related cachexia, emesis, sleep disorders, managing symptoms in Tourette syndrome, and patient-reported muscle spasticity from multiple sclerosis. However, tolerance and the risk for cannabis use disorder are two significant disadvantages for cannabinoid-based therapies in humans. Recent work has revealed prominent sex differences in the acute response and tolerance to cannabinoids in both humans and animal models. This review will discuss evidence demonstrating cannabinoid tolerance in rodents, non-human primates, and humans and our current understanding of the neuroadaptations occurring at the cannabinoid type 1 receptor (CB1R) that are responsible tolerance. CB1R expression is downregulated in tolerant animals and humans while there is strong evidence of CB1R desensitization in cannabinoid tolerant rodent models. Throughout the review, critical knowledge gaps are indicated and discussed, such as the lack of a neuroimaging probe to assess CB1R desensitization in humans. The review discusses the intracellular signaling pathways that are responsible for mediating CB1R desensitization and downregulation including the action of G protein-coupled receptor kinases, β-arrestin2 recruitment, c-Jun N-terminal kinases, protein kinase A, and the intracellular trafficking of CB1R. Finally, the review discusses approaches to reduce cannabinoid tolerance in humans based on our current understanding of the neuroadaptations and mechanisms responsible for this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary K Piscura
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25755, USA; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, Auburn, AL 36832, USA
| | | | - Robert C Barnes
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Swarup Mitra
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25755, USA
| | - Josée Guindon
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Daniel J Morgan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25755, USA.
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9
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Piscura MK, Sepulveda DE, Maulik M, Guindon J, Henderson-Redmond AN, Morgan DJ. Cannabinoid Tolerance in S426A/S430A x β-Arrestin 2 Knockout Double-Mutant Mice. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2023; 385:17-34. [PMID: 36669876 PMCID: PMC10029824 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.122.001367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Tolerance to compounds that target G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), such as the cannabinoid type-1 receptor (CB1R), is in part facilitated by receptor desensitization. Processes that mediate CB1R desensitization include phosphorylation of CB1R residues S426 and S430 by a GPCR kinase and subsequent recruitment of the β-arrestin2 scaffolding protein. Tolerance to cannabinoid drugs is reduced in S426A/S430A mutant mice and β-arrestin2 knockout (KO) mice according to previous work in vivo. However, the presence of additional phosphorylatable residues on the CB1R C-terminus made it unclear as to whether recruitment to S426 and S430 accounted for all desensitization and tolerance by β-arrestin2. Therefore, we assessed acute response and tolerance to the cannabinoids delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) and CP55,940 in S426A/S430A x β-arrestin2 KO double-mutant mice. We observed both delayed tolerance and increased sensitivity to the antinociceptive and hypothermic effects of CP55,940 in male S426A/S430A single- and double-mutant mice compared with wild-type littermates, but not with Δ9-THC. Female S426A/S430A single- and double-mutant mice were more sensitive to acute antinociception (CP55,940 and Δ9-THC) and hypothermia (CP55,940 only) exclusively after chronic dosing and did not differ in the development of tolerance. These results indicate that phosphorylation of S426 and S430 are likely responsible for β-arrestin2-mediated desensitization as double-mutant mice did not differ from the S426A/S430A single-mutant model in respect to cannabinoid tolerance and sensitivity. We also found antinociceptive and hypothermic effects from cannabinoid treatment demonstrated by sex-, agonist-, and duration-dependent features. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in tolerance will improve the therapeutic potential of cannabinoid drugs. This study determined that further deletion of β-arrestin2 does not enhance the delay in cannabinoid tolerance observed in CB1R S426A/S430A mutant mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary K Piscura
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia (M.K.P., M.M., A.N.H.-R., D.J.M.); Department of Pharmacology (D.E.S.) and Graduate Program in Anatomy (M.K.P.), Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania; and Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience (J.G.) and Center of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics (J.G.), Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas
| | - Diana E Sepulveda
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia (M.K.P., M.M., A.N.H.-R., D.J.M.); Department of Pharmacology (D.E.S.) and Graduate Program in Anatomy (M.K.P.), Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania; and Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience (J.G.) and Center of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics (J.G.), Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas
| | - Malabika Maulik
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia (M.K.P., M.M., A.N.H.-R., D.J.M.); Department of Pharmacology (D.E.S.) and Graduate Program in Anatomy (M.K.P.), Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania; and Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience (J.G.) and Center of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics (J.G.), Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas
| | - Josée Guindon
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia (M.K.P., M.M., A.N.H.-R., D.J.M.); Department of Pharmacology (D.E.S.) and Graduate Program in Anatomy (M.K.P.), Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania; and Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience (J.G.) and Center of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics (J.G.), Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas
| | - Angela N Henderson-Redmond
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia (M.K.P., M.M., A.N.H.-R., D.J.M.); Department of Pharmacology (D.E.S.) and Graduate Program in Anatomy (M.K.P.), Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania; and Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience (J.G.) and Center of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics (J.G.), Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas
| | - Daniel J Morgan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia (M.K.P., M.M., A.N.H.-R., D.J.M.); Department of Pharmacology (D.E.S.) and Graduate Program in Anatomy (M.K.P.), Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania; and Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience (J.G.) and Center of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics (J.G.), Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas
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10
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Kline T, Xu C, Kreitzer FR, Hurst DP, Eldeeb KM, Wager-Miller J, Olivas K, Hepburn SA, Huffman JW, Mackie K, Howlett AC, Reggio P, Stella N. Design, synthesis, and evaluation of substituted alkylindoles that activate G protein-coupled receptors distinct from the cannabinoid CB 1 and CB 2 receptors. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 249:115123. [PMID: 36708677 PMCID: PMC10917149 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115123] [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: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The alkylindole (AI), WIN55212-2, modulates the activity of several proteins, including cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2 (CB1R, CB2R), and at least additional G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that remains uncharacterized with respect to its molecular identity and pharmacological profile. Evidence suggests that such AI-sensitive GPCRs are expressed by the human kidney cell line HEK293. We synthesized fourteen novel AI analogues and evaluated their activities at AI-sensitive GPCRs using [35S]GTPγS and [3H]WIN55212-2 binding in HEK293 cell membranes, and performed in silico pharmacophore modeling to identify characteristics that favor binding to AI-sensitive GPCRs versus CB1R/CB2R. Compounds 10 and 12 stimulated [35S]GTPγS binding (EC50s = 3.5 and 1.1 nM, respectively), and this response was pertussis toxin-sensitive, indicating that AI-sensitive GPCRs couple to Gi/o proteins. Five AI analogues reliably distinguished two binding sites that correspond to the high and low affinity state of AI-sensitive GPCRs coupled or not to G proteins. In silico pharmacophore modeling suggest 3 characteristics that favor binding to AI-sensitive GPCRs versus CB1R/CB2R: 1) an s-cis orientation of the two aromatic rings in AI analogues, 2) a narrow dihedral angle between the carbonyl group and the indole ring plane [i.e., O-C(carbonyl)-C3-C2] and 3) the presence of a carbonyl oxygen. The substituted alkylindoles reported here represent novel chemical tools to study AI-sensitive GPCRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toni Kline
- Department of Microbiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Cong Xu
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Faith R Kreitzer
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Dow P Hurst
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of North Carolina, Greensboro, NC, 27412, USA
| | - Khalil M Eldeeb
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University, School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - Jim Wager-Miller
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences and the Gill Center, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, USA
| | - Kathleen Olivas
- Department of Microbiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Seon A Hepburn
- Howard L. Hunter Laboratory, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
| | - John W Huffman
- Howard L. Hunter Laboratory, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
| | - Ken Mackie
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences and the Gill Center, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, USA
| | - Allyn C Howlett
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University, School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - Patricia Reggio
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of North Carolina, Greensboro, NC, 27412, USA
| | - Nephi Stella
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA; Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA.
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11
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Lampron MC, Paré I, Al-Zharani M, Semlali A, Loubaki L. Cannabinoid Mixture Affects the Fate and Functions of B Cells through the Modulation of the Caspase and MAP Kinase Pathways. Cells 2023; 12:588. [PMID: 36831255 PMCID: PMC9954265 DOI: 10.3390/cells12040588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis use is continuously increasing in Canada, raising concerns about its potential impact on immunity. The current study assessed the impact of a cannabinoid mixture (CM) on B cells and the mechanisms by which the CM exerts its potential anti-inflammatory properties. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were treated with different concentrations of the CM to evaluate cytotoxicity. In addition, flow cytometry was used to evaluate oxidative stress, antioxidant levels, mitochondrial membrane potential, apoptosis, caspase activation, and the activation of key signaling pathways (ERK1/2, NF-κB, STAT5, and p38). The number of IgM- and IgG-expressing cells was assessed using FluoroSpot, and the cytokine production profile of the B cells was explored using a cytokine array. Our results reveal that the CM induced B-cell cytotoxicity in a dose-dependent manner, which was mediated by apoptosis. The levels of ROS and those of the activated caspases, mitochondrial membrane potential, and DNA damage increased following exposure to the CM (3 µg/mL). In addition, the activation of MAP Kinase, STATs, and the NF-κB pathway and the number of IgM- and IgG-expressing cells were reduced following exposure to the CM. Furthermore, the exposure to the CM significantly altered the cytokine profile of the B cells. Our results suggest that cannabinoids have a detrimental effect on B cells, inducing caspase-mediated apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Claude Lampron
- Héma-Québec, Medical Affairs and Innovation, 1070 Avenue des Sciences-de-la-Vie, Québec, QC G1V 5C3, Canada
| | - Isabelle Paré
- Héma-Québec, Medical Affairs and Innovation, 1070 Avenue des Sciences-de-la-Vie, Québec, QC G1V 5C3, Canada
| | - Mohammed Al-Zharani
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh 11623, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdelhabib Semlali
- Groupe de Recherche en Écologie Buccale, Faculté de Médecine Dentaire, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Lionel Loubaki
- Héma-Québec, Medical Affairs and Innovation, 1070 Avenue des Sciences-de-la-Vie, Québec, QC G1V 5C3, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Bioinformatics, Laval University, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
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12
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Wager-Miller J, Mackie K. Quantitation of Plasma Membrane (G Protein-Coupled) Receptor Trafficking in Cultured Cells. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2576:395-406. [PMID: 36152205 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2728-0_33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Measuring the functional behavior of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) has been a major focus of academic and pharmaceutical research for many decades. These efforts have led to the development of many assays to measure the downstream effects of ligand binding on receptor activity. In this chapter, we describe an internalization/recycling assay that can be used to track changes in receptor number at the plasma membrane. Used in concert with other assays, this antibody-based technique can provide dynamic information on GPCR activation by receptor-specific ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jim Wager-Miller
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Ken Mackie
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, IN, USA.
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13
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Bouma J, Soethoudt M, van Gils N, Xia L, van der Stelt M, Heitman LH. Cellular Assay to Study β-Arrestin Recruitment by the Cannabinoid Receptors 1 and 2. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2576:189-199. [PMID: 36152187 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2728-0_15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1R) and cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2R) are G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) that activate a variety of pathways upon activation by (partial) agonists including the G protein pathway and the recruitment of β-arrestins. Differences in the activation level of these pathways lead to biased signaling. Here, we describe a detailed protocol to characterize the potency and efficacy of ligands to induce or inhibit β-arrestin recruitment to the human CB1R and CB2R using the PathHunter® assay. This is a cellular assay that uses a β-galactosidase complementation system which has a chemiluminescent read-out and can be performed in 384-well plates. We have successfully used this assay to characterize a set of reference ligands (both agonists, antagonists, and an inverse agonist) on human CB1R and CB2R, of which some examples will be presented here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jara Bouma
- Division of Drug Discovery and Safety, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Marjolein Soethoudt
- Division of Drug Discovery and Safety, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Noortje van Gils
- Division of Drug Discovery and Safety, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Lizi Xia
- Division of Drug Discovery and Safety, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Mario van der Stelt
- Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Laura H Heitman
- Division of Drug Discovery and Safety, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands.
- Oncode Institute, Leiden, the Netherlands.
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14
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Carey LM, Xu Z, Rajic G, Makriyannis A, Romero J, Hillard C, Mackie K, Hohmann AG. Peripheral sensory neuron CB2 cannabinoid receptors are necessary for both CB2-mediated antinociceptive efficacy and sparing of morphine tolerance in a mouse model of anti-retroviral toxic neuropathy. Pharmacol Res 2023; 187:106560. [PMID: 36417942 PMCID: PMC9845180 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Painful peripheral neuropathy is a common neurological complication associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and anti-retroviral therapy. We characterized the impact of two CB2 cannabinoid agonists (AM1710 and LY2828360 - ligands differing in signaling bias and CNS penetration) on neuropathic nociception induced by the antiretroviral agent Zalcitabine (2',3'-dideoxycytidine; ddC). We also used a conditional knockout approach to identify cell types mediating CB2 agonist-induced antinociceptive efficacy and sparing of morphine tolerance. AM1710 and LY2828360 alleviated ddC-induced neuropathic nociception in mice of both sexes. These benefits were absent in global CB2 knockout mice, which exhibited robust morphine antinociception. Like morphine, AM1710 blunted ddC-induced increases in proinflammatory cytokine (IL-1β, TNF-α) and chemokine (CCL2) mRNA expression levels. We generated advillinCre/+;CB2f/f conditional knockout mice to ascertain the role of CB2 localized to primary sensory neurons in CB2-mediated therapeutic effects. Antinociceptive efficacy of both AM1710 and LY2828360, but not reference analgesics, were absent in advillinCre/+;CB2f/f mice, which exhibited robust ddC-induced neuropathy. In ddC-treated CB2f/f mice, LY2828360 suppressed development of morphine tolerance and reversed established morphine tolerance, albeit with greater efficacy in male compared to female mice. LY2828360 failed to block or reverse morphine tolerance in advillinCre/+;CB2f/f mice. The present studies indicate that CB2 activation may alleviate HIV-associated antiretroviral neuropathy and identify a previously unreported mechanism through which CB2 activation produces antinociceptive efficacy. Our results also provide the first evidence that a CB2 agonist can reverse established morphine tolerance and demonstrate that CB2 localized to peripheral sensory neurons mediates the opioid tolerance sparing efficacy of CB2 agonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence M Carey
- Program in Neuroscience, USA; Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Zhili Xu
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Gabriela Rajic
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | | | - Julian Romero
- Faculty of Experimental Sciences, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Cecilia Hillard
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Med. Col. of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Ken Mackie
- Program in Neuroscience, USA; Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA; Gill Center for Biomolecular Science, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Andrea G Hohmann
- Program in Neuroscience, USA; Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA; Gill Center for Biomolecular Science, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA.
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15
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Glogauer J, Blay J. Cannabinoids, their cellular receptors, and effects on the invasive phenotype of carcinoma and metastasis. Cancer Rep (Hoboken) 2022; 5:e1475. [PMID: 34313032 PMCID: PMC8842690 DOI: 10.1002/cnr2.1475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The morbidity and mortality of cancer are significantly impacted by the invasive and metastatic potential of particular subgroups of malignant cells within a tumor. The particular pre-metastatic properties of cancerous cells are thus a critical target for novel therapeutics in the oncology field. Cannabinoid molecules have been investigated in recent years in the context of invasion and metastasis of various malignancies, with varying effects reported in the literature. RECENT FINDINGS There was substantial variability in the findings reported by the literature of the effects of cannabinoid molecules on cancer cell invasion and metastasis. These effects varied depending on which ligand and which of the CB1, CB2, or GPR55 receptors were investigated. These findings suggest a role for the phenomenon of biased signaling in explaining the diversity of effects of cannabinoid molecules on cancer cell invasion. CONCLUSION While substantially more investigation is required into the effects of cannabinoid molecules on cancer cell invasion and metastasis, we describe in this review the significant diversity in the responses of cancer cells to cannabinoid molecules in terms of their invasive and metastatic capacities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judah Glogauer
- Michael G. DeGroote School of MedicineMcMaster University Waterloo Regional CampusKitchenerOntarioCanada
| | - Jonathan Blay
- School of PharmacyUniversity of WaterlooWaterlooOntarioCanada
- Department of PathologyDalhousie UniversityHalifaxNova ScotiaCanada
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16
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Howlett AC, Thomas BF, Huffman JW. The Spicy Story of Cannabimimetic Indoles. Molecules 2021; 26:6190. [PMID: 34684770 PMCID: PMC8538531 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26206190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The Sterling Research Group identified pravadoline as an aminoalkylindole (AAI) non-steroidal anti-inflammatory pain reliever. As drug design progressed, the ability of AAI analogs to block prostaglandin synthesis diminished, and antinociceptive activity was found to result from action at the CB1 cannabinoid receptor, a G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) abundant in the brain. Several laboratories applied computational chemistry methods to ultimately conclude that AAI and cannabinoid ligands could overlap within a common binding pocket but that WIN55212-2 primarily utilized steric interactions via aromatic stacking, whereas cannabinoid ligands required some electrostatic interactions, particularly involving the CB1 helix-3 lysine. The Huffman laboratory identified strategies to establish CB2 receptor selectivity among cannabimimetic indoles to avoid their CB1-related adverse effects, thereby stimulating preclinical studies to explore their use as anti-hyperalgesic and anti-allodynic pharmacotherapies. Some AAI analogs activate novel GPCRs referred to as "Alkyl Indole" receptors, and some AAI analogs act at the colchicine-binding site on microtubules. The AAI compounds having the greatest potency to interact with the CB1 receptor have found their way into the market as "Spice" or "K2". The sale of these alleged "herbal products" evades FDA consumer protections for proper labeling and safety as a medicine, as well as DEA scheduling as compounds having no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. The distribution to the public of potent alkyl indole synthetic cannabimimetic chemicals without regard for consumer safety contrasts with the adherence to regulatory requirements for demonstration of safety that are routinely observed by ethical pharmaceutical companies that market medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allyn C. Howlett
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
| | - Brian F. Thomas
- Department of Analytical Sciences, The Cronos Group, Toronto, ON M5V 2H1, Canada;
| | - John W. Huffman
- Department of Chemistry, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, USA;
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17
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Wang W, Bian J, Sun Y, Li Z. The new fate of internalized membrane receptors: Internalized activation. Pharmacol Ther 2021; 233:108018. [PMID: 34626676 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2021.108018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Revised: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Classically, the fate of internalized membrane receptors includes receptor degradation and receptor recycling. However, recent findings have begun to challenge these views. Much research demonstrated that many internalized membrane receptors can trigger distinct signal activation rather than being desensitized inside the cell. Here, we introduce the concept of "internalized activation" which not only represents a new mode of receptor activation, but also endows the new fate for receptor internalization (from death to life). The new activation mode and fate of membrane receptor are ubiquitous and have unique theoretical significance. We systematically put forward the features, process, and regulation of "internalized activation" and its significance in signal transduction and diseases. "Internalized activation" will provide a completely new understanding for the theory of receptor activation, internalization and novel drug targets for precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Wang
- Department of Cardiology and Institute of Vascular Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Receptors Research, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Molecular Biology and Regulatory Peptides, Ministry of Health, Key Laboratory of Molecular Cardiovascular Sciences, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Jingwei Bian
- Department of Cardiology and Institute of Vascular Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Receptors Research, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Molecular Biology and Regulatory Peptides, Ministry of Health, Key Laboratory of Molecular Cardiovascular Sciences, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yang Sun
- Department of Cardiology and Institute of Vascular Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Receptors Research, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Molecular Biology and Regulatory Peptides, Ministry of Health, Key Laboratory of Molecular Cardiovascular Sciences, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Zijian Li
- Department of Cardiology and Institute of Vascular Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Receptors Research, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Molecular Biology and Regulatory Peptides, Ministry of Health, Key Laboratory of Molecular Cardiovascular Sciences, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China; Department of Pharmacy, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China.
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18
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Magham SV, Thaggikuppe Krishnamurthy P, Shaji N, Mani L, Balasubramanian S. Cannabinoid receptor 2 selective agonists and Alzheimer's disease: An insight into the therapeutic potentials. J Neurosci Res 2021; 99:2888-2905. [PMID: 34486749 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Endocannabinoid system has been extensively studied in recent decades, particularly the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2, due to their important role in neuroinflammation. Among these, CB2 has gained prominence due to its selective overexpression in glial cells during neuroinflammation. In contrast to CB1 agonists, CB2 agonists have no side effects such as ataxia, hypothermia, euphoria, psychological, or addiction liabilities. CB2 and its selective agonists' above-mentioned unique properties have become a research focus in neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). The review discusses the neuroprotective role of CB receptors, particularly CB2, in AD, as well as the significance and limitations of this research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sai Varshini Magham
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Ooty, India
| | | | - Neenu Shaji
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Ooty, India
| | - Lalithkumar Mani
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Ooty, India
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19
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Fyke W, Velinov M. FMR1 and Autism, an Intriguing Connection Revisited. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12081218. [PMID: 34440392 PMCID: PMC8394635 DOI: 10.3390/genes12081218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) represents a distinct phenotype of behavioral dysfunction that includes deficiencies in communication and stereotypic behaviors. ASD affects about 2% of the US population. It is a highly heritable spectrum of conditions with substantial genetic heterogeneity. To date, mutations in over 100 genes have been reported in association with ASD phenotypes. Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most common single-gene disorder associated with ASD. The gene associated with FXS, FMR1 is located on chromosome X. Accordingly, the condition has more severe manifestations in males. FXS results from the loss of function of FMR1 due to the expansion of an unstable CGG repeat located in the 5'' untranslated region of the gene. About 50% of the FXS males and 20% of the FXS females meet the Diagnostic Statistical Manual 5 (DSM-5) criteria for ASD. Among the individuals with ASD, about 3% test positive for FXS. FMRP, the protein product of FMR1, is a major gene regulator in the central nervous system. Multiple pathways regulated by FMRP are found to be dysfunctional in ASD patients who do not have FXS. Thus, FXS presents the opportunity to study cellular phenomena that may have wider applications in the management of ASD and to develop new strategies for ASD therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Fyke
- SUNY Downstate Medical Center, SUNY Downstate College of Medicine, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA;
- Graduate Program in Neural and Behavioral Science, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA
| | - Milen Velinov
- Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
- Child Health Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
- Correspondence:
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20
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Morris G, Walder K, Kloiber S, Amminger P, Berk M, Bortolasci CC, Maes M, Puri BK, Carvalho AF. The endocannabinoidome in neuropsychiatry: Opportunities and potential risks. Pharmacol Res 2021; 170:105729. [PMID: 34119623 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) comprises two cognate endocannabinoid receptors referred to as CB1R and CB2R. ECS dysregulation is apparent in neurodegenerative/neuro-psychiatric disorders including but not limited to schizophrenia, major depressive disorder and potentially bipolar disorder. The aim of this paper is to review mechanisms whereby both receptors may interact with neuro-immune and neuro-oxidative pathways, which play a pathophysiological role in these disorders. CB1R is located in the presynaptic terminals of GABAergic, glutamatergic, cholinergic, noradrenergic and serotonergic neurons where it regulates the retrograde suppression of neurotransmission. CB1R plays a key role in long-term depression, and, to a lesser extent, long-term potentiation, thereby modulating synaptic transmission and mediating learning and memory. Optimal CB1R activity plays an essential neuroprotective role by providing a defense against the development of glutamate-mediated excitotoxicity, which is achieved, at least in part, by impeding AMPA-mediated increase in intracellular calcium overload and oxidative stress. Moreover, CB1R activity enables optimal neuron-glial communication and the function of the neurovascular unit. CB2R receptors are detected in peripheral immune cells and also in central nervous system regions including the striatum, basal ganglia, frontal cortex, hippocampus, amygdala as well as the ventral tegmental area. CB2R upregulation inhibits the presynaptic release of glutamate in several brain regions. CB2R activation also decreases neuroinflammation partly by mediating the transition from a predominantly neurotoxic "M1" microglial phenotype to a more neuroprotective "M2" phenotype. CB1R and CB2R are thus novel drug targets for the treatment of neuro-immune and neuro-oxidative disorders including schizophrenia and affective disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerwyn Morris
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - Ken Walder
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia; Deakin University, Centre for Molecular and Medical Research, School of Medicine, Geelong, Australia
| | - Stefan Kloiber
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Ursula Franklin Street, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Paul Amminger
- Orygen, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael Berk
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia; Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Centre for Youth Mental Health, Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health and the Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Chiara C Bortolasci
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - Michael Maes
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia; Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand; Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | | | - Andre F Carvalho
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia.
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21
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Cannabinoid receptor type 2 ligands: an analysis of granted patents since 2010. Pharm Pat Anal 2021; 10:111-163. [DOI: 10.4155/ppa-2021-0002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The G-protein-coupled cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2R) is a key element of the endocannabinoid (EC) system. EC/CB2R signaling has significant therapeutic potential in major pathologies affecting humans such as allergies, neurodegenerative disorders, inflammation or ocular diseases. CB2R agonism exerts anti-inflammatory and tissue protective effects in preclinical animal models of cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, liver, kidney, lung and neurodegenerative disorders. Existing ligands can be subdivided into endocannabinoids, cannabinoid-like and synthetic CB2R ligands that possess various degrees of potency on and selectivity against the cannabinoid receptor type 1. This review is an account of granted CB2R ligand patents from 2010 up to the present, which were surveyed using Derwent Innovation®.
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22
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Shapiro L, Gado F, Manera C, Escayg A. Allosteric modulation of the cannabinoid 2 receptor confers seizure resistance in mice. Neuropharmacology 2021; 188:108448. [PMID: 33450277 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Mounting evidence suggests that modulation of cannabinoid 2 receptors (CB2Rs) is therapeutic in mouse models of neurological disorders, including neuropathic pain, neurodegenerative disease, and stroke. We previously showed that reducing CB2R activity increases seizure susceptibility in mice. In the present study, we evaluated the therapeutic potential of the CB2R positive allosteric modulator, Ec21a, against induced seizures in mice. The pharmacokinetic profile of Ec21 demonstrated a similar distribution in brain and plasma, with detection up to 12 h following injection. Ec21a increased resistance to induced seizures in CF1 wild-type mice and mice harboring the SCN1A R1648H human epilepsy mutation. A rotarod test provided evidence that Ec21a does not cause neurotoxicity-induced motor deficits at its therapeutic dose, and seizure protection was maintained with repeated drug administration. The selectivity of Ec21a for CB2R was supported by the ability of the CB2R antagonist AM630, but not the CB1R antagonist AM251, to block Ec21a-conferred seizure protection in mice, and a lack of significant binding of Ec21a to 34 brain-expressed receptors and transporters in vitro. These results identify allosteric modulation of CB2Rs as a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey Shapiro
- Emory University, Department of Human Genetics, Atlanta, 30322, Georgia
| | - Francesca Gado
- University of Pisa, Department of Pharmacy, Pisa, 56126, Italy
| | | | - Andrew Escayg
- Emory University, Department of Human Genetics, Atlanta, 30322, Georgia.
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23
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Franklin JM, Broseguini de Souza RK, Carrasco GA. Cannabinoid 2 receptors regulate dopamine 2 receptor expression by a beta-arrestin 2 and GRK5-dependent mechanism in neuronal cells. Neurosci Lett 2021; 753:135883. [PMID: 33838258 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2021.135883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
We have previously reported that the repeated exposure to cannabinoids upregulates and enhances the activity of serotonin 2A (5-HT2A) and dopamine 2 (D2) receptors and facilitates the formation of D2-5-HT2A receptor heterodimers in the rat prefrontal cortex and two neuronal cell lines. Because the repeated exposure to cannabinoids has been associated with adverse neuropsychiatric disorders, this study investigated the mechanisms that underly the cannabinoid-mediated regulation of D2 receptor expression in a neuronal cell model, CLU213 cells. We initially tested the effects of repeated exposure (72 h) to a non-selective cannabinoid agonist (1 nM CP55940), a selective CB1 receptor agonist (15 nM ACEA), or a selective CB2 receptor drug (1 nM GP1a) on the expression of postsynaptic D2 (D2L) receptors in CLU213 cells. Repeated CP55940, GP1a, or ACEA treatments significantly increased D2L receptor protein levels (99 % ± 7%, 30 % ± 7%, and 39 % ± 5% increases compared with control levels, respectively). Repeated exposure to both GP1a and ACEA increased D2L receptor protein levels by 73 % ± 8%. Interestingly, CP55940 and GP1a, but not ACEA, upregulated D2 mRNA. Using cells that were stably transfected with short-hairpin RNA (shRNA) lentiviral particles targeting CB2 receptors, G protein-coupled receptor kinase 5 (GRK5), and β-arrestin 2, we found that CB2 receptors regulated D2 expression through a mechanism that is dependent on GRK5, β-arrestin 2, and extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK)1/2. We also found that repeated exposure to either ACEA or GP1a selectively stimulated the protein and mRNA expression of GRK proteins. ACEA significantly upregulated GRK2 proteins, whereas GP1a upregulated GRK5 protein expression. Our results identified mechanisms associated with the upregulation of D2 receptors in neuronal cells after the repeated exposure to cannabinoids. These data can shed light on the mechanisms that can be targeted to prevent potential adverse effects, while simultaneously determining the therapeutic benefits of cannabinoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jade M Franklin
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, University of Kansas, Kansas, United States
| | | | - Gonzalo A Carrasco
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Copper Medical School of Rowan University, New Jersey, United States; Rowan University Institute for Cannabis Research, Policy, & Workforce Development, New Jersey, United States.
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24
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Sarott RC, Viray AEG, Pfaff P, Sadybekov A, Rajic G, Katritch V, Carreira EM, Frank JA. Optical Control of Cannabinoid Receptor 2-Mediated Ca2+ Release Enabled by Synthesis of Photoswitchable Probes. J Am Chem Soc 2021; 143:736-743. [DOI: 10.1021/jacs.0c08926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Roman C. Sarott
- Laboratorium für Organische Chemie, Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 3, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Alexander E. G. Viray
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, Oregon 97239-3098, United States
| | - Patrick Pfaff
- Laboratorium für Organische Chemie, Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 3, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Anastasiia Sadybekov
- Department of Quantitative and Computational Biology and Department of Chemistry, Bridge Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, United States
| | - Gabriela Rajic
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, Oregon 97239-3098, United States
| | - Vsevolod Katritch
- Department of Quantitative and Computational Biology and Department of Chemistry, Bridge Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, United States
| | - Erick M. Carreira
- Laboratorium für Organische Chemie, Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 3, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - James A. Frank
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, Oregon 97239-3098, United States
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25
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Turu G, Soltész-Katona E, Tóth AD, Juhász C, Cserző M, Misák Á, Balla A, Caron MG, Hunyady L. Biased Coupling to β-Arrestin of Two Common Variants of the CB 2 Cannabinoid Receptor. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:714561. [PMID: 34484125 PMCID: PMC8415483 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.714561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
β-arrestins are partners of the G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), regulating their intracellular trafficking and signaling. Development of biased GPCR agonists, selectively targeting either G protein or β-arrestin pathways, are in the focus of interest due to their therapeutic potential in different pathological conditions. The CB2 cannabinoid receptor (CB2R) is a GPCR involved in various functions in the periphery and the central nervous system. Two common occurring variants of CB2R, harboring Q63R or L133I missense mutations, have been implicated in the development of a diverse set of disorders. To evaluate the effect of these mutations, we characterized the binding profile of these mutant CB2 receptors to G proteins and β-arrestin2. Although their ability to inhibit cAMP signaling was similar, the Q63R mutant had increased, whereas the L133I mutant receptor had decreased β-arrestin2 binding. In line with these observations, the variants also had altered intracellular trafficking. Our results show that two common variants of the CB2 receptor have biased signaling properties, which may contribute to the pathogenesis of the associated disorders and may offer CB2R as a target for further development of biased receptor activation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gábor Turu
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-SE Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Hungarian Academy of Sciences and Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
- *Correspondence: Gábor Turu, ; László Hunyady,
| | - Eszter Soltész-Katona
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-SE Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Hungarian Academy of Sciences and Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - András Dávid Tóth
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-SE Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Hungarian Academy of Sciences and Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Cintia Juhász
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Miklós Cserző
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-SE Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Hungarian Academy of Sciences and Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ádám Misák
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - András Balla
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-SE Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Hungarian Academy of Sciences and Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Marc G. Caron
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
| | - László Hunyady
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-SE Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Hungarian Academy of Sciences and Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- *Correspondence: Gábor Turu, ; László Hunyady,
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26
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Positive Allosteric Modulation of CB1 and CB2 Cannabinoid Receptors Enhances the Neuroprotective Activity of a Dual CB1R/CB2R Orthosteric Agonist. Life (Basel) 2020; 10:life10120333. [PMID: 33302569 PMCID: PMC7763181 DOI: 10.3390/life10120333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Preclinical studies highlighted that compounds targeting cannabinoid receptors could be useful for developing novel therapies against neurodegenerative disorders. However, the chronic use of orthosteric agonists alone has several disadvantages, limiting their usefulness as clinically relevant drugs. Positive allosteric modulators might represent a promising approach to achieve the potential therapeutic benefits of orthosteric agonists of cannabinoid receptors through increasing their activity and limiting their adverse effects. The aim of the present study was to show the effects of positive allosteric ligands of cannabinoid receptors on the activity of a potent dual orthosteric agonist for neuroinflammation and excitotoxic damage by excessive glutamate release. The results indicate that the combination of an orthosteric agonist with positive allosteric modulators could represent a promising therapeutic approach to the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders.
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27
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Patel M, Finlay DB, Glass M. Biased agonism at the cannabinoid receptors - Evidence from synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists. Cell Signal 2020; 78:109865. [PMID: 33259937 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2020.109865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The type 1 and type 2 cannabinoid receptors are G protein-coupled receptors implicated in a variety of physiological processes and diseases. Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) were originally developed to explore the therapeutic benefits of cannabinoid receptor activation, although more recently, these compounds have been diverted to the recreational drug market and are increasingly associated with incidences of toxicity. A prominent concept in contemporary pharmacology is functional selectivity or biased agonism, which describes the ability of ligands to elicit differential activation of signalling pathways through stabilisation of distinct receptor conformations. Biased agonists may maximise drug effectiveness by reducing on-target adverse effects if they are mediated by signalling pathways distinct from those that drive the therapeutic effects. For the cannabinoid receptors, it remains unclear as to which signalling pathways mediate desirable and adverse effects. However, given their structural diversity and potential to induce a plethora of signalling effects, SCRAs provide the most promising prospect for detecting and studying bias at the cannabinoid receptors. This review summarises the emerging evidence of SCRA bias at the cannabinoid receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Patel
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - David B Finlay
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.
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Spyridakos D, Papadogkonaki S, Dionysopoulou S, Mastrodimou N, Polioudaki H, Thermos K. Effect of acute and subchronic administration of (R)-WIN55,212-2 induced neuroprotection and anti inflammatory actions in rat retina: CB1 and CB2 receptor involvement. Neurochem Int 2020; 142:104907. [PMID: 33220388 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2020.104907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Cannabinoids have been shown to protect the retina from ischemic/excitotoxic insults. The aim of the present study was to investigate the neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties of the synthetic cannabinoid (R)-WIN55,212-2 (CB1/CB2 receptor agonist) when administered acutely or subchronically in control and AMPA treated retinas. Sprague-Dawley rats were intravitreally administered (acutely) with vehicle or AMPA, in the absence or presence of (R)-WIN55,212-2 (10-7-10-4M) alone or in combination with AM251 [CB1 receptor antagonist/inverse agonist,10-4M] and AM630 (CB2 receptor antagonist,10-4M). In addition, AMPA was co-administered with the racemic (R,S)-WIN55,212 (10-4Μ). (R)-WIN55,212-2 was also administered subchronically (25,100 μg/kg,i.p.,4d) in control and AMPA treated rats. Immunohistochemical studies were performed using antibodies against the CB1R, and retinal markers for retinal neurons (brain nitric oxide synthetase, bNOS) and microglia (ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1, Iba1). ELISA assay was employed to assess TNFα levels in AMPA treated retinas. Intravitreal administration of (R)-WIN55,212-2 reversed the AMPA induced loss of bNOS expressing amacrine cells, an effect that was blocked by both AM251 and AM630. (R,S)WIN55,212 had no effect. (R)-WIN55,212-2 also reduced a) the AMPA induced activation of microglia, by activating CB2 receptors that were shown to be colocalized with Iba1+ reactive microglial cells, and b) TNFα levels in retina. (R)-WIN55,212-2 administered subchronically led to the downregulation of CB1 receptors at the high dose of 100 μg/kg(i.p.), and to the attenuation of the WIN55,212-2 induced neuroprotection of amacrine cells. At the same dose, (R)-WIN55,212-2 did not attenuate the AMPA induced increase in the number of reactive microglia cells, suggesting CB2 receptor downregulation under subchronic conditions. This study provides new findings regarding the role of CB1 and CB2 receptor activation by the synthetic cannabinoid (R)-WIN55,212-2, administered acutely or sub-chronically, on neuron viability and microglia activation in healthy and diseased retina.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Anti-Inflammatory Agents/administration & dosage
- Benzoxazines/administration & dosage
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Drug Administration Schedule
- Female
- Male
- Morpholines/administration & dosage
- Naphthalenes/administration & dosage
- Neuroprotective Agents/administration & dosage
- Rats
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/agonists
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/metabolism
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/agonists
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/metabolism
- Retina/drug effects
- Retina/metabolism
- alpha-Amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic Acid/toxicity
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitris Spyridakos
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, 71003, Greece.
| | - Sofia Papadogkonaki
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, 71003, Greece.
| | - Stavroula Dionysopoulou
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, 71003, Greece.
| | - Niki Mastrodimou
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, 71003, Greece.
| | - Hara Polioudaki
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, 71003, Greece.
| | - Kyriaki Thermos
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, 71003, Greece.
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Haspula D, Clark MA. Cannabinoid Receptors: An Update on Cell Signaling, Pathophysiological Roles and Therapeutic Opportunities in Neurological, Cardiovascular, and Inflammatory Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E7693. [PMID: 33080916 PMCID: PMC7590033 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21207693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Revised: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The identification of the human cannabinoid receptors and their roles in health and disease, has been one of the most significant biochemical and pharmacological advancements to have occurred in the past few decades. In spite of the major strides made in furthering endocannabinoid research, therapeutic exploitation of the endocannabinoid system has often been a challenging task. An impaired endocannabinoid tone often manifests as changes in expression and/or functions of type 1 and/or type 2 cannabinoid receptors. It becomes important to understand how alterations in cannabinoid receptor cellular signaling can lead to disruptions in major physiological and biological functions, as they are often associated with the pathogenesis of several neurological, cardiovascular, metabolic, and inflammatory diseases. This review focusses mostly on the pathophysiological roles of type 1 and type 2 cannabinoid receptors, and it attempts to integrate both cellular and physiological functions of the cannabinoid receptors. Apart from an updated review of pre-clinical and clinical studies, the adequacy/inadequacy of cannabinoid-based therapeutics in various pathological conditions is also highlighted. Finally, alternative strategies to modulate endocannabinoid tone, and future directions are also emphasized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhanush Haspula
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA;
| | - Michelle A. Clark
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314, USA
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Lu HC, Mackie K. Review of the Endocannabinoid System. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY: COGNITIVE NEUROSCIENCE AND NEUROIMAGING 2020; 6:607-615. [PMID: 32980261 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsc.2020.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a widespread neuromodulatory network involved in the developing central nervous system as well as playing a major role in tuning many cognitive and physiological processes. The ECS is composed of endogenous cannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors, and the enzymes responsible for the synthesis and degradation of endocannabinoids. In addition to its endogenous roles, cannabinoid receptors are the primary target of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, the intoxicating component of cannabis. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of the ECS. We start with a description of ECS components and their role in synaptic plasticity and neurodevelopment, and then discuss how phytocannabinoids and other exogenous compounds may perturb the ECS, emphasizing examples relevant to psychosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Chen Lu
- Gill Center for Biomolecular Science and the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, Indiana
| | - Ken Mackie
- Gill Center for Biomolecular Science and the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, Indiana.
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Andreias L, Roffe E, Eng A, Yiu K, Pashmforoosh G, Khan Z, Rahman R, Kalantari H, Hassen GW. Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists-induced recurrent seizure in elderly patient. Am J Emerg Med 2020; 38:850.e5-850.e6. [PMID: 31839517 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2019.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Abuse of synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) has been associated with young individuals. The abuse of SCRAs is very rare in elderly people, but a few cases highlight the SCRAs-induced side effects. These substances lead to a variety of clinical and psychiatric symptoms including seizures. Here we report recurrent seizures after SCRA abuse by an elderly patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Andreias
- SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Department of Geriatrics, Brooklyn, NY, United States of America
| | - Estrella Roffe
- Albert Einstein Hospital, Department of Geriatrics, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America; NYMC, Metropolitan Hospital Center, Department of Emergency Medicine, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Andrew Eng
- NYMC, Metropolitan Hospital Center, Department of Emergency Medicine, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Kevin Yiu
- NYMC, Metropolitan Hospital Center, Department of Emergency Medicine, New York, NY, United States of America; Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine, Middletown, New York
| | - Golnar Pashmforoosh
- NYMC, Metropolitan Hospital Center, Department of Emergency Medicine, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Zoya Khan
- NYMC, Metropolitan Hospital Center, Department of Emergency Medicine, New York, NY, United States of America; Royal College of Surgeons Bahrain, Bahrain
| | - Raunain Rahman
- NYMC, Metropolitan Hospital Center, Department of Emergency Medicine, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Hossein Kalantari
- NYMC, Metropolitan Hospital Center, Department of Emergency Medicine, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Getaw Worku Hassen
- NYMC, Metropolitan Hospital Center, Department of Emergency Medicine, New York, NY, United States of America.
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Poleszak E, Wośko S, Sławińska K, Wyska E, Szopa A, Świąder K, Wróbel A, Szponar J, Doboszewska U, Wlaź P, Wlaź A, Serefko A. Influence of the endocannabinoid system on the antidepressant activity of bupropion and moclobemide in the behavioural tests in mice. Pharmacol Rep 2020; 72:1562-1572. [PMID: 32221841 PMCID: PMC7704509 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-020-00088-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Revised: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Background Though there are several classes of antidepressant drugs available on the pharmaceutical market, depression that affects globally over 320 million people is still undertreated. Scientists have made attempts to develop novel therapeutical strategies to maximize effectiveness of therapy and minimize undesired reactions. One of the ideas is use of either dual-action agents or combined administration of two substances that affect diverse neurotransmissions. Thus, we investigated whether the selected CB receptor ligands (oleamide, AM251, JWH133, and AM630) can have an impact on the activity of bupropion and moclobemide. Bupropion belongs to the dual acting drugs, whereas moclobemide is an inhibitor of monoamine oxidase. Methods The mice forced swim test and the tail suspension test were applied in order to determine the potential antidepressant-like activity, whereas the HPLC method was used in order to assess the brain concentrations of the tested antidepressants. Results An intraperitoneal injection of sub-effective doses of oleamide (5 mg/kg), AM251 (0.25 mg/kg), and AM630 (0.25 mg/kg) increased activity of bupropion (10 mg/kg) in both behavioural tests. Effects of moclobemide (1.5 mg/kg) were potentiated only by AM251. These results were not influenced by the hypo- or hyperlocomotion of animals. Conclusion The outcomes of the present study revealed that particularly activation or inhibition of the CB1 receptor function may augment the antidepressant activity of bupropion, whereas only inhibition of the CB1 receptor function manages to increase activity of moclobemide. Most probably, an interplay between CB receptor ligands and bupropion or moclobemide takes place at the cellular level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Poleszak
- Laboratory of Preclinical Testing, Chair and Department of Applied and Social Pharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 1, 20-093, Lublin, Poland.
| | - Sylwia Wośko
- Laboratory of Preclinical Testing, Chair and Department of Applied and Social Pharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 1, 20-093, Lublin, Poland
| | - Karolina Sławińska
- Chair and Department of Applied and Social Pharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 1, 20-093, Lublin, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Wyska
- Department of Pharmacokinetics and Physical Pharmacy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688, Kraków, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Szopa
- Laboratory of Preclinical Testing, Chair and Department of Applied and Social Pharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 1, 20-093, Lublin, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Świąder
- Chair and Department of Applied and Social Pharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 1, 20-093, Lublin, Poland
| | - Andrzej Wróbel
- Second Department of Gynecology, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 8, 20-090, Lublin, Poland
| | - Jarosław Szponar
- Toxicology Clinic, Medical University of Lublin: Clinical Department of Toxicology and Cardiology, Stefan Wyszyński Regional Specialist Hospital in Lublin, Al. Kraśnicka 100, Lublin, Poland
| | - Urszula Doboszewska
- Department of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Akademicka 19, 20-033, Lublin, Poland
| | - Piotr Wlaź
- Department of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Akademicka 19, 20-033, Lublin, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Wlaź
- Department of Pathophysiology, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 8, 20-090, Lublin, Poland
| | - Anna Serefko
- Laboratory of Preclinical Testing, Chair and Department of Applied and Social Pharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 1, 20-093, Lublin, Poland.
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Ye L, Cao Z, Wang W, Zhou N. New Insights in Cannabinoid Receptor Structure and Signaling. Curr Mol Pharmacol 2020; 12:239-248. [PMID: 30767756 DOI: 10.2174/1874467212666190215112036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Revised: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabinoid has long been used for medicinal purposes. Cannabinoid signaling has been considered the therapeutic target for treating pain, addiction, obesity, inflammation, and other diseases. Recent studies have suggested that in addition to CB1 and CB2, there are non-CB1 and non-CB2 cannabinoid-related orphan GPCRs including GPR18, GPR55, and GPR119. In addition, CB1 and CB2 display allosteric binding and biased signaling, revealing correlations between biased signaling and functional outcomes. Interestingly, new investigations have indicated that CB1 is functionally present within the mitochondria of striated and heart muscles directly regulating intramitochondrial signaling and respiration. CONCLUSION In this review, we summarize the recent progress in cannabinoid-related orphan GPCRs, CB1/CB2 structure, Gi/Gs coupling, allosteric ligands and biased signaling, and mitochondria-localized CB1, and discuss the future promise of this research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingyan Ye
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Zijingang Campus, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zheng Cao
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Zijingang Campus, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Weiwei Wang
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Zijingang Campus, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Naiming Zhou
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Zijingang Campus, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Zhou H, Peng X, Hou T, Zhao N, Qiu M, Zhang X, Liang X. Identification of novel phytocannabinoids from Ganoderma by label-free dynamic mass redistribution assay. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 246:112218. [PMID: 31494202 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.112218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2019] [Revised: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 09/02/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Located throughout the body, cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) are therapeutic targets for obesity/metabolic diseases, neurological/mental disorders, and immune modulation. Phytocannabinoids are greatly important for the development of new medicines with high efficacy and/or minor side effects. Plants and fungi are used in traditional medicine for beneficial effects to mental and immune system. The current research studied five fungi from the genus Ganoderma and five plants: Ganoderma hainanense J.D. Zhao, L.W. Hsu & X.Q. Zhang; Ganoderma capense (Lloyd) Teng, Zhong Guo De Zhen Jun; Ganoderma cochlear (Blume & T. Nees) Bres., Hedwigia; Ganoderma resinaceum Boud.; Ganoderma applanatum (Pers.) Pat.; Carthamus tinctorius L. (Compositae); Cynanchum otophyllum C. K. Schneid. (Asclepiadaceae); Coffea arabica L. (Rubiaceae); Prinsepia utilis Royle (Rosaceae); Lepidium meyenii Walp. (Brassicaceae). They show immunoregulation, promotion of longevity and maintenance of vitality, stimulant effects on the central nervous system, hormone balance and other beneficial effects. However, it remains unclear whether cannabinoid receptors are involved in these effects. AIM OF THE STUDY This work aimed to identify components working on CB1 and CB2 from the above plants and fungi, as novel phytocannabinoids, and to investigate mechanisms of how these compounds affected the cells. By analyzing the structure-activity relationship, we could identify the core structure for future development. MATERIALS AND METHODS Eighty-two natural compounds were screened on stably transfected Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell lines, CHO-CB1 and CHO-CB2, with application of a label-free dynamic mass redistribution (DMR) technology that measured cellular responses to compounds. CP55,940 and WIN55,212-2 were agonist probe molecules, and SR141716A and SR144528 were antagonist probes. Pertussis toxin, cholera toxin, LY294002 and U73122 were signaling pathway inhibitors. The DMR data were acquired by Epic Imager software (Corning, NY), processed by Imager Beta 3.7 (Corning), and analyzed by GraphPad Prism 6 (GraphPad Software, San Diego, CA). RESULTS Transfected CHO-CB1 and CHO-CB2 cell lines were established and characterized. Seven compounds induced responses/activities in the cells. Among the seven compounds, four were purified from two Ganoderma species with potencies between 20 and 35 μM. Three antagonists: Kfb68 antagonized both receptors with a better desensitizing effect on CB2 to WIN55,212-2 over CP55,940. Kga1 and Kfb28 were antagonists selective to CB1 and CB2, respectively. Kfb77 was a special agonist and it stimulated CB1 in a mechanism different from that of CP55,940. Another three active compounds, derived from the Lepidium meyenii Walp. (Brassicaceae), were also identified but their effects were mediated through mechanisms much related to the signaling transduction pathways, especially through the stimulatory Gs protein. CONCLUSIONS We identified four natural cannabinoids that exhibited structural and functional diversities. Our work confirms the presence of active ingredients in the Ganoderma species to CB1 and CB2, and this finding establishes connections between the fungi and the cannabinoid receptors, which will serve as a starting point to connect their beneficial effects to the endocannabinoid system. This research will also enrich the inventory of cannabinoids and phytocannabinoids from fungi. Yet due to some limitations, further structure-activity relationship studies and mechanism investigation are warranted in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Zhou
- Key Lab of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023, China.
| | - Xingrong Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650201, China; Yunnan Key Laboratory of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650201, China.
| | - Tao Hou
- Key Lab of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023, China.
| | - Nan Zhao
- Pharmacology Department, University College London, London, WC1E 6BT, UK.
| | - Minghua Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650201, China; Yunnan Key Laboratory of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650201, China.
| | - Xiuli Zhang
- Key Lab of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023, China; College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China.
| | - Xinmiao Liang
- Key Lab of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023, China.
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Udoh M, Santiago M, Devenish S, McGregor IS, Connor M. Cannabichromene is a cannabinoid CB 2 receptor agonist. Br J Pharmacol 2019; 176:4537-4547. [PMID: 31368508 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2018] [Revised: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Cannabichromene (CBC) is one of the most abundant phytocannabinoids in Cannabis spp. It has modest antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects and potentiates some effects of Δ9 -tetrahydrocannabinol in vivo. How CBC exerts these effects is poorly defined and there is little information about its efficacy at cannabinoid receptors. We sought to determine the functional activity of CBC at cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH AtT20 cells stably expressing haemagglutinin-tagged human CB1 and CB2 receptors were used. Assays of cellular membrane potential and loss of cell surface receptors were performed. KEY RESULTS CBC activated CB2 but not CB1 receptors to produce hyperpolarization of AtT20 cells. This activation was inhibited by a CB2 receptor antagonist AM630, and sensitive to Pertussis toxin. Application of CBC reduced activation of CB2 , but not CB1 , receptors by subsequent co-application of CP55,940, an efficacious CB1 and CB2 receptor agonist. Continuous CBC application induced loss of cell surface CB2 receptors and desensitization of the CB2 receptor-induced hyperpolarization. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS CBC is a selective CB2 receptor agonist displaying higher efficacy than tetrahydrocannabinol in hyperpolarizing AtT20 cells. CBC can also recruit CB2 receptor regulatory mechanisms. CBC may contribute to the potential therapeutic effectiveness of some cannabis preparations, potentially through CB2 receptor-mediated modulation of inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Udoh
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Marina Santiago
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Steven Devenish
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Iain S McGregor
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Mark Connor
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Wouters E, Walraed J, Banister SD, Stove CP. Insights into biased signaling at cannabinoid receptors: synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists. Biochem Pharmacol 2019; 169:113623. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2019.08.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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Santiago M, Sachdev S, Arnold JC, McGregor IS, Connor M. Absence of Entourage: Terpenoids Commonly Found in Cannabis sativa Do Not Modulate the Functional Activity of Δ 9-THC at Human CB 1 and CB 2 Receptors. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2019; 4:165-176. [PMID: 31559333 PMCID: PMC6757242 DOI: 10.1089/can.2019.0016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Compounds present in Cannabis sativa such as phytocannabinoids and terpenoids may act in concert to elicit therapeutic effects. Cannabinoids such as Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) directly activate cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) and cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2); however, it is not known if terpenoids present in Cannabis also affect cannabinoid receptor signaling. Therefore, we examined six common terpenoids alone, and in combination with cannabinoid receptor agonists, on CB1 and CB2 signaling in vitro. Materials and Methods: Potassium channel activity in AtT20 FlpIn cells transfected with human CB1 or CB2 receptors was measured in real time using FLIPR® membrane potential dye in a FlexStation 3 plate reader. Terpenoids were tested individually and in combination for periods up to 30 min. Endogenous somatostatin receptors served as a control for direct effects of drugs on potassium channels. Results: α-Pinene, β-pinene, β-caryophyllene, linalool, limonene, and β-myrcene (up to 30-100 μM) did not change membrane potential in AtT20 cells expressing CB1 or CB2, or affect the response to a maximally effective concentration of the synthetic cannabinoid CP55,940. The presence of individual or a combination of terpenoids did not affect the hyperpolarization produced by Δ9-THC (10 μM): (CB1: control, 59%±7%; with terpenoids (10 μM each) 55%±4%; CB2: Δ9-THC 16%±5%, with terpenoids (10 μM each) 17%±4%). To investigate possible effect on desensitization of CB1 responses, all six terpenoids were added together with Δ9-THC and signaling measured continuously over 30 min. Terpenoids did not affect desensitization, after 30 min the control hyperpolarization recovered by 63%±6% in the presence of the terpenoids recovery was 61%±5%. Discussion: None of the six of the most common terpenoids in Cannabis directly activated CB1 or CB2, or modulated the signaling of the phytocannabinoid agonist Δ9-THC. These results suggest that if a phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effect exists, it is not at the CB1 or CB2 receptor level. It remains possible that terpenoids activate CB1 and CB2 signaling pathways that do not involve potassium channels; however, it seems more likely that they may act at different molecular target(s) in the neuronal circuits important for the behavioral effect of Cannabis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Santiago
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Shivani Sachdev
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jonathon C. Arnold
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Discipline of Pharmacology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Iain S. McGregor
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mark Connor
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Ibsen MS, Finlay DB, Patel M, Javitch JA, Glass M, Grimsey NL. Cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 Receptor-Mediated Arrestin Translocation: Species, Subtype, and Agonist-Dependence. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:350. [PMID: 31024316 PMCID: PMC6468047 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Arrestin translocation and signaling have come to the fore of the G protein-coupled receptor molecular pharmacology field. Some receptor–arrestin interactions are relatively well understood and considered responsible for specific therapeutic or adverse outcomes. Coupling of arrestins with cannabinoid receptors 1 (CB1) and 2 (CB2) has been reported, though the majority of studies have not systematically characterized the differential ligand dependence of this activity. In addition, many prior studies have utilized bovine (rather than human) arrestins, and the most widely applied assays require reporter-tagged receptors, which prevent meaningful comparison between receptor types. We have employed a bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) method that does not require the use of tagged receptors and thereby allows comparisons of arrestin translocation between receptor types, as well as with cells lacking the receptor of interest – an important control. The ability of a selection of CB1 and CB2 agonists to stimulate cell surface translocation of human and bovine β-arrestin-1 and -2 was assessed. We find that some CB1 ligands induce moderate β-arrestin-2 translocation in comparison with vasopressin V2 receptor (a robust arrestin recruiter); however, CB1 coupling with β-arrestin-1 and CB2 with either arrestin elicited low relative efficacies. A range of efficacies between ligands was evident for both receptors and arrestins. Endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol stood out as a high efficacy ligand for translocation of β-arrestin-2 via CB1. Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol was generally unable to elicit translocation of either arrestin subtype via CB1 or CB2; however, control experiments revealed translocation in cells not expressing CB1/CB2, which may assist in explaining some discrepancy with the literature. Overexpression of GRK2 had modest influence on CB1/CB2-induced arrestin translocation. Results with bovine and human arrestins were largely analogous, but a few instances of inconsistent rank order potencies/efficacies between bovine and human arrestins raise the possibility that subtle differences in receptor conformation stabilized by these ligands manifest in disparate affinities for the two arrestin species, with important potential consequences for interpretation in ligand bias studies. As well as contributing important information regarding CB1/CB2 ligand-dependent arrestin coupling, our study raises a number of points for consideration in the design and interpretation of arrestin recruitment assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikkel Søes Ibsen
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - David B Finlay
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Monica Patel
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jonathan A Javitch
- Department of Psychiatry and Pharmacology, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, United States.,Division of Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, United States
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Natasha Lillia Grimsey
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Attili B, Celen S, Ahamed M, Koole M, Haute CVD, Vanduffel W, Bormans G. Preclinical evaluation of [ 18 F]MA3: a CB 2 receptor agonist radiotracer for PET. Br J Pharmacol 2019; 176:1481-1491. [PMID: 30588600 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2017] [Revised: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Non-invasive in vivo imaging of cannabinoid CB2 receptors using PET is pursued to study neuroinflammation. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the in vivo binding specificity of [18 F]MA3, a CB2 receptor agonist, in a rat model with local overexpression of human (h) CB2 receptors. METHODS [18 F]MA3 was produced with good radiochemical yield and radiochemical purity. The radiotracer was evaluated in rats with local overexpression of hCB2 receptors and in a healthy non-human primate using PET. KEY RESULTS Ex vivo autoradiography demonstrated CB2 -specific binding of [18 F]MA3 in rat hCB2 receptor vector injected striatum. In a PET study, increased tracer binding in the hCB2 receptor vector-injected striatum compared to the contralateral control vector-injected striatum was observed. Binding in hCB2 receptor vector-injected striatum was blocked with a structurally non-related CB2 receptor inverse agonist, and a displacement study confirmed the reversibility of tracer binding. This study identified the utility of mutated inactive vector model for evaluation of CB2 receptor agonist PET tracers. [18 F]MA3 PET scans in the non-human primate showed good uptake and fast washout from brain, but no CB2 receptor-specific binding was observed. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Evaluation of [18 F]MA3 in a rat model with local overexpression of hCB2 receptors showed CB2 receptor-specific and reversible tracer binding. [18 F]MA3 showed good brain uptake and subsequent washout in a healthy non-human primate, but no specific binding was observed. Further clinical evaluation of [18 F]MA3 in patients with neuroinflammation is warranted. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on 8th European Workshop on Cannabinoid Research. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v176.10/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bala Attili
- Radiopharmaceutical Research, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sofie Celen
- Radiopharmaceutical Research, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Muneer Ahamed
- Radiopharmaceutical Research, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Michel Koole
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, UZ Gasthuisberg, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Chris Van Den Haute
- Laboratory for Neurobiology and Gene Therapy, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Leuven Viral Vector Core, Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Wim Vanduffel
- Laboratory for Neuro- and Psychophysiology, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Guy Bormans
- Radiopharmaceutical Research, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Li AL, Lin X, Dhopeshwarkar AS, Thomaz AC, Carey LM, Liu Y, Nikas SP, Makriyannis A, Mackie K, Hohmann AG. Cannabinoid CB2 Agonist AM1710 Differentially Suppresses Distinct Pathological Pain States and Attenuates Morphine Tolerance and Withdrawal. Mol Pharmacol 2018; 95:155-168. [PMID: 30504240 DOI: 10.1124/mol.118.113233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
AM1710 (3-(1,1-dimethyl-heptyl)-1-hydroxy-9-methoxy-benzo(c) chromen-6-one), a cannabilactone cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) agonist, suppresses chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain in rodents without producing tolerance or unwanted side effects associated with CB1 receptors; however, the signaling profile of AM1710 remains incompletely characterized. It is not known whether AM1710 behaves as a broad-spectrum analgesic and/or suppresses the development of opioid tolerance and physical dependence. In vitro, AM1710 inhibited forskolin-stimulated cAMP production and produced enduring activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 phosphorylation in human embryonic kidney (HEK) cells stably expressing mCB2. Only modest species differences in the signaling profile of AM1710 were observed between HEK cells stably expressing mCB2 and hCB2. In vivo, AM1710 produced a sustained inhibition of paclitaxel-induced allodynia in mice. In paclitaxel-treated mice, a history of AM1710 treatment (5 mg/kg per day × 12 day, i.p.) delayed the development of antinociceptive tolerance to morphine and attenuated morphine-induced physical dependence. AM1710 (10 mg/kg, i.p.) did not precipitate CB1 receptor-mediated withdrawal in mice rendered tolerant to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, suggesting that AM1710 is not a functional CB1 antagonist in vivo. Furthermore, AM1710 (1, 3, 10 mg/kg, i.p.) did not suppress established mechanical allodynia induced by complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) or by partial sciatic nerve ligation (PSNL). Similarly, prophylactic and chronic dosing with AM1710 (10 mg/kg, i.p.) did not produce antiallodynic efficacy in the CFA model. By contrast, gabapentin suppressed allodynia in both CFA and PSNL models. Our results indicate that AM1710 is not a broad-spectrum analgesic agent in mice and suggest the need to identify signaling pathways underlying CB2 therapeutic efficacy to identify appropriate indications for clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ai-Ling Li
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences (A.-L.L., X.L., A.S.D., A.C.T., L.M.C., K.M., A.G.H.), Program in Neuroscience (A.C.T., L.M.C., K.M., A.G.H.), Genome, Cell and Developmental Biology Program (A.C.T., A.G.H.), and Gill Center for Biomolecular Science (K.M., A.G.H.), Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana; and Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (Y.L., S.P.N., A.M.)
| | - Xiaoyan Lin
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences (A.-L.L., X.L., A.S.D., A.C.T., L.M.C., K.M., A.G.H.), Program in Neuroscience (A.C.T., L.M.C., K.M., A.G.H.), Genome, Cell and Developmental Biology Program (A.C.T., A.G.H.), and Gill Center for Biomolecular Science (K.M., A.G.H.), Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana; and Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (Y.L., S.P.N., A.M.)
| | - Amey S Dhopeshwarkar
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences (A.-L.L., X.L., A.S.D., A.C.T., L.M.C., K.M., A.G.H.), Program in Neuroscience (A.C.T., L.M.C., K.M., A.G.H.), Genome, Cell and Developmental Biology Program (A.C.T., A.G.H.), and Gill Center for Biomolecular Science (K.M., A.G.H.), Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana; and Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (Y.L., S.P.N., A.M.)
| | - Ana Carla Thomaz
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences (A.-L.L., X.L., A.S.D., A.C.T., L.M.C., K.M., A.G.H.), Program in Neuroscience (A.C.T., L.M.C., K.M., A.G.H.), Genome, Cell and Developmental Biology Program (A.C.T., A.G.H.), and Gill Center for Biomolecular Science (K.M., A.G.H.), Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana; and Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (Y.L., S.P.N., A.M.)
| | - Lawrence M Carey
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences (A.-L.L., X.L., A.S.D., A.C.T., L.M.C., K.M., A.G.H.), Program in Neuroscience (A.C.T., L.M.C., K.M., A.G.H.), Genome, Cell and Developmental Biology Program (A.C.T., A.G.H.), and Gill Center for Biomolecular Science (K.M., A.G.H.), Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana; and Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (Y.L., S.P.N., A.M.)
| | - Yingpeng Liu
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences (A.-L.L., X.L., A.S.D., A.C.T., L.M.C., K.M., A.G.H.), Program in Neuroscience (A.C.T., L.M.C., K.M., A.G.H.), Genome, Cell and Developmental Biology Program (A.C.T., A.G.H.), and Gill Center for Biomolecular Science (K.M., A.G.H.), Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana; and Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (Y.L., S.P.N., A.M.)
| | - Spyros P Nikas
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences (A.-L.L., X.L., A.S.D., A.C.T., L.M.C., K.M., A.G.H.), Program in Neuroscience (A.C.T., L.M.C., K.M., A.G.H.), Genome, Cell and Developmental Biology Program (A.C.T., A.G.H.), and Gill Center for Biomolecular Science (K.M., A.G.H.), Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana; and Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (Y.L., S.P.N., A.M.)
| | - Alexandros Makriyannis
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences (A.-L.L., X.L., A.S.D., A.C.T., L.M.C., K.M., A.G.H.), Program in Neuroscience (A.C.T., L.M.C., K.M., A.G.H.), Genome, Cell and Developmental Biology Program (A.C.T., A.G.H.), and Gill Center for Biomolecular Science (K.M., A.G.H.), Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana; and Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (Y.L., S.P.N., A.M.)
| | - Ken Mackie
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences (A.-L.L., X.L., A.S.D., A.C.T., L.M.C., K.M., A.G.H.), Program in Neuroscience (A.C.T., L.M.C., K.M., A.G.H.), Genome, Cell and Developmental Biology Program (A.C.T., A.G.H.), and Gill Center for Biomolecular Science (K.M., A.G.H.), Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana; and Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (Y.L., S.P.N., A.M.)
| | - Andrea G Hohmann
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences (A.-L.L., X.L., A.S.D., A.C.T., L.M.C., K.M., A.G.H.), Program in Neuroscience (A.C.T., L.M.C., K.M., A.G.H.), Genome, Cell and Developmental Biology Program (A.C.T., A.G.H.), and Gill Center for Biomolecular Science (K.M., A.G.H.), Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana; and Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (Y.L., S.P.N., A.M.)
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Oyagawa CRM, de la Harpe SM, Saroz Y, Glass M, Vernall AJ, Grimsey NL. Cannabinoid Receptor 2 Signalling Bias Elicited by 2,4,6-Trisubstituted 1,3,5-Triazines. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:1202. [PMID: 30524271 PMCID: PMC6256112 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.01202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Accepted: 10/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) is predominantly distributed in immune tissues and cells and is a promising therapeutic target for modulating inflammation. In this study we designed and synthesised a series of 2,4,6-trisubstituted 1,3,5-triazines with piperazinylalkyl or 1,2-diethoxyethane (PEG2) chains as CB2 agonists, all of which were predicted to be considerably more polar than typical cannabinoid ligands. In this series, we found that triazines containing an adamantanyl group were conducive to CB2 binding whereas those with a cyclopentyl group were not. Although the covalent attachment of a PEG2 linker to the adamantyl triazines resulted in a decrease in binding affinity, some of the ligands produced very interesting hCB2 signalling profiles. Six compounds with notable hCB2 orthosteric binding were functionally characterised in three pathways; internalisation, cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and ERK phosphorylation (pERK). These were predominantly confirmed to be hCB2 agonists, and upon comparison to a reference ligand (CP 55,940), four compounds exhibited signalling bias. Triazines 14 (UOSD017) and 15 were biased towards internalisation over cAMP and pERK, and 7 was biased away from pERK activation relative to cAMP and internalisation. Intriguingly, the triazine with an amino-PEG2-piperazinyl linker (13 [UOSD008]) was identified to be a mixed agonist/inverse agonist, exhibiting apparent neutral antagonism in the internalisation pathway, transient inverse agonism in the cAMP pathway and weak partial agonism in the pERK pathway. Both the cAMP and pERK signalling were pertussis toxin (PTX) sensitive, implying that 13 is acting as both a weak agonist and inverse agonist at CB2 via Gαi/o. Compound 10 (UOSD015) acted as a balanced high intrinsic efficacy agonist with the potential to produce greater hCB2-mediated efficacy than reference ligand CP 55,940. As 10 includes a Boc-protected PEG2 moiety it is also a promising candidate for further modification, for example with a secondary reporter or fluorophore. The highest affinity compound in this set of relatively polar hCB2 ligands was compound 16, which acted as a slightly partial balanced agonist in comparison with CP 55,940. The ligands characterised here may therefore exhibit unique functional properties in vivo and have the potential to be valuable in the future development of CB2-directed therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin R. M. Oyagawa
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Centre for Brain Research, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | | | - Yurii Saroz
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Centre for Brain Research, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Centre for Brain Research, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | | | - Natasha Lillia Grimsey
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Centre for Brain Research, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Vučković S, Srebro D, Vujović KS, Vučetić Č, Prostran M. Cannabinoids and Pain: New Insights From Old Molecules. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:1259. [PMID: 30542280 PMCID: PMC6277878 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.01259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 166] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. The prohibition of cannabis in the middle of the 20th century has arrested cannabis research. In recent years there is a growing debate about the use of cannabis for medical purposes. The term ‘medical cannabis’ refers to physician-recommended use of the cannabis plant and its components, called cannabinoids, to treat disease or improve symptoms. Chronic pain is the most commonly cited reason for using medical cannabis. Cannabinoids act via cannabinoid receptors, but they also affect the activities of many other receptors, ion channels and enzymes. Preclinical studies in animals using both pharmacological and genetic approaches have increased our understanding of the mechanisms of cannabinoid-induced analgesia and provided therapeutical strategies for treating pain in humans. The mechanisms of the analgesic effect of cannabinoids include inhibition of the release of neurotransmitters and neuropeptides from presynaptic nerve endings, modulation of postsynaptic neuron excitability, activation of descending inhibitory pain pathways, and reduction of neural inflammation. Recent meta-analyses of clinical trials that have examined the use of medical cannabis in chronic pain present a moderate amount of evidence that cannabis/cannabinoids exhibit analgesic activity, especially in neuropathic pain. The main limitations of these studies are short treatment duration, small numbers of patients, heterogeneous patient populations, examination of different cannabinoids, different doses, the use of different efficacy endpoints, as well as modest observable effects. Adverse effects in the short-term medical use of cannabis are generally mild to moderate, well tolerated and transient. However, there are scant data regarding the long-term safety of medical cannabis use. Larger well-designed studies of longer duration are mandatory to determine the long-term efficacy and long-term safety of cannabis/cannabinoids and to provide definitive answers to physicians and patients regarding the risk and benefits of its use in the treatment of pain. In conclusion, the evidence from current research supports the use of medical cannabis in the treatment of chronic pain in adults. Careful follow-up and monitoring of patients using cannabis/cannabinoids are mandatory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja Vučković
- Department of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Dragana Srebro
- Department of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Katarina Savić Vujović
- Department of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Čedomir Vučetić
- Clinic of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Milica Prostran
- Department of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
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Aymerich MS, Aso E, Abellanas MA, Tolon RM, Ramos JA, Ferrer I, Romero J, Fernández-Ruiz J. Cannabinoid pharmacology/therapeutics in chronic degenerative disorders affecting the central nervous system. Biochem Pharmacol 2018; 157:67-84. [PMID: 30121249 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2018.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 08/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) exerts a modulatory effect of important functions such as neurotransmission, glial activation, oxidative stress, or protein homeostasis. Dysregulation of these cellular processes is a common neuropathological hallmark in aging and in neurodegenerative diseases of the central nervous system (CNS). The broad spectrum of actions of cannabinoids allows targeting different aspects of these multifactorial diseases. In this review, we examine the therapeutic potential of the ECS for the treatment of chronic neurodegenerative diseases of the CNS focusing on Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. First, we describe the localization of the molecular components of the ECS and how they are altered under neurodegenerative conditions, either contributing to or protecting cells from degeneration. Second, we address recent advances in the modulation of the ECS using experimental models through different strategies including the direct targeting of cannabinoid receptors with agonists or antagonists, increasing the endocannabinoid tone by the inhibition of endocannabinoid hydrolysis, and activation of cannabinoid receptor-independent effects. Preclinical evidence indicates that cannabinoid pharmacology is complex but supports the therapeutic potential of targeting the ECS. Third, we review the clinical evidence and discuss the future perspectives on how to bridge human and animal studies to develop cannabinoid-based therapies for each neurodegenerative disorder. Finally, we summarize the most relevant opportunities of cannabinoid pharmacology related to each disease and the multiple unexplored pathways in cannabinoid pharmacology that could be useful for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria S Aymerich
- Universidad de Navarra, Facultad de Ciencias, Departamento de Bioquímica y Genética, Pamplona, Spain; Universidad de Navarra, CIMA, Programa de Neurociencias, Pamplona, Spain; IdiSNA, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, Spain.
| | - Ester Aso
- Departamento de Patología y Terapéutica Experimental, Universidad de Barcelona, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain; CIBERNED, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Spain
| | - Miguel A Abellanas
- Universidad de Navarra, Facultad de Ciencias, Departamento de Bioquímica y Genética, Pamplona, Spain; Universidad de Navarra, CIMA, Programa de Neurociencias, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Rosa M Tolon
- Facultad de Ciencias Experimentales, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Spain
| | - Jose A Ramos
- CIBERNED, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Spain; Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica, Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain; IRYCIS, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Isidre Ferrer
- Departamento de Patología y Terapéutica Experimental, Universidad de Barcelona, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain; CIBERNED, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Spain
| | - Julian Romero
- Facultad de Ciencias Experimentales, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Spain
| | - Javier Fernández-Ruiz
- CIBERNED, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Spain; Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica, Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain; IRYCIS, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria, Madrid, Spain
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Sánchez-Zavaleta R, Cortés H, Avalos-Fuentes JA, García U, Segovia Vila J, Erlij D, Florán B. Presynaptic cannabinoid CB2 receptors modulate [ 3 H]-Glutamate release at subthalamo-nigral terminals of the rat. Synapse 2018; 72:e22061. [PMID: 30022523 DOI: 10.1002/syn.22061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Revised: 07/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies suggested the expression of CB2 receptors in neurons of the CNS, however, most of these studies have only explored one aspect of the receptors, i.e., expression of protein, messenger RNA, or functional response, and more complete studies appear to be needed to establish adequately their role in the neuronal function. Electron microscopy studies showed the presence of CB2r in asymmetric terminals of the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNr), and its mRNA appeared is expressed in the subthalamic nucleus. Here, we explore the expression, source, and functional effects of such receptors by different experimental approaches. Through PCR and immunochemistry, we showed mRNA and protein for CB2rs in slices and primary neuronal cultures from subthalamus. GW833972A, GW405833, and JHW 133, three CB2r agonists dose-dependent inhibited K+ -induced [3 H]-Glutamate release in slices of SNr, and the two antagonist/inverse agonists, JTE-907 and AM630, but not AM281, a CB1r antagonist, prevented GW833972A effect. Subthalamus lesions with kainic acid prevented GW833972A inhibition on release and decreased CB2r protein in nigral synaptosomes, thus nigral CB2rs originate in subthalamus. Inhibition of [3 H]-Glutamate release was PTX- and gallein-sensitive, suggesting a Giβγ -mediated effect. P/Q Ca2+ -type channel blocker, ω-Agatoxin-TK, also inhibited the [3 H]-Glutamate release, this effect was occluded with GW833972A inhibition, indicating that the βγ subunit effect is exerted on Ca2+ channel activity. Finally, microinjections of GW833972A in SNr induced contralateral turning. Our data showed that presynaptic CB2rs inhibit [3 H]-Glutamate release in subthalamo-nigral terminals by P/Q-channels modulation through the Giβγ subunit and suggested their participation in motor behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodolfo Sánchez-Zavaleta
- Departamento de Fisiología, Biofísica y Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, México City, México
| | - Hernán Cortés
- Laboratorio de Medicina Genómica, Departamento de Genética, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación Luis Guillermo Ibarra Ibarra, Ciudad de México, México
| | - José Arturo Avalos-Fuentes
- Departamento de Fisiología, Biofísica y Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, México City, México
| | - Ubaldo García
- Departamento de Fisiología, Biofísica y Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, México City, México
| | - José Segovia Vila
- Departamento de Fisiología, Biofísica y Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, México City, México
| | - David Erlij
- Department of Physiology, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York
| | - Benjamín Florán
- Departamento de Fisiología, Biofísica y Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, México City, México
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46
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Morales P, Goya P, Jagerovic N. Emerging strategies targeting CB 2 cannabinoid receptor: Biased agonism and allosterism. Biochem Pharmacol 2018; 157:8-17. [PMID: 30055149 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2018.07.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
During these last years, the CB2 cannabinoid receptor has emerged as a potential anti-inflammatory target in diseases such as multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Huntington's disease, ischemic stroke, autoimmune diseases, osteoporosis, and cancer. However, the development of clinically useful CB2 agonists reveals to be very challenging. Allosterism and biased-signaling mechanisms at CB2 receptor may offer new avenues for the development of improved CB2 receptor-targeted therapies. Although there has been some exploration of CB1 receptor activation by new CB1 allosteric or biased-signaling ligands, the CB2 receptor is still at initial stages in this domain. In an effort to understand the molecular basis behind these pharmacological approaches, we have analyzed and summarized the structural data reported so far at CB2 receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Morales
- Instituto de Química Médica, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Unidad Asociada I+D+i IQM/Universidad Rey Juan Carlos (URJC), Calle Juan de la Cierva, 3, E-28006 Madrid, Spain
| | - Pilar Goya
- Instituto de Química Médica, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Unidad Asociada I+D+i IQM/Universidad Rey Juan Carlos (URJC), Calle Juan de la Cierva, 3, E-28006 Madrid, Spain
| | - Nadine Jagerovic
- Instituto de Química Médica, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Unidad Asociada I+D+i IQM/Universidad Rey Juan Carlos (URJC), Calle Juan de la Cierva, 3, E-28006 Madrid, Spain.
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47
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Yuill MB, Hale DE, Guindon J, Morgan DJ. Anti-nociceptive interactions between opioids and a cannabinoid receptor 2 agonist in inflammatory pain. Mol Pain 2018; 13:1744806917728227. [PMID: 28879802 PMCID: PMC5593227 DOI: 10.1177/1744806917728227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The cannabinoid 1 receptor and cannabinoid 2 receptor can both be targeted in the treatment of pain; yet, they have some important differences. Cannabinoid 1 receptor is expressed at high levels in the central nervous system, whereas cannabinoid 2 receptor is found predominantly, although not exclusively, outside the central nervous system. The objective of this study was to investigate potential interactions between cannabinoid 2 receptor and the mu-opioid receptor in pathological pain. The low level of adverse side effects and lack of tolerance for cannabinoid 2 receptor agonists are attractive pharmacotherapeutic traits. This study assessed the anti-nociceptive effects of a selective cannabinoid 2 receptor agonist (JWH-133) in pathological pain using mice subjected to inflammatory pain using the formalin test. Furthermore, we examined several ways in which JWH-133 may interact with morphine. JWH-133 produces dose-dependent anti-nociception during both the acute and inflammatory phases of the formalin test. This was observed in both male and female mice. However, a maximally efficacious dose of JWH-133 (1 mg/kg) was not associated with somatic withdrawal symptoms, motor impairment, or hypothermia. After eleven once-daily injections of 1 mg/JWH-133, no tolerance was observed in the formalin test. Cross-tolerance for the anti-nociceptive effects of JWH-133 and morphine were assessed to gain insight into physiologically relevant cannabinoid 2 receptor and mu-opioid receptor interaction. Mice made tolerant to the effects of morphine exhibited a lower JWH-133 response in both phases of the formalin test compared to vehicle-treated morphine-naïve animals. However, repeated daily JWH-133 administration did not cause cross-tolerance for morphine, suggesting opioid and cannabinoid 2 receptor cross-tolerance is unidirectional. However, preliminary data suggest co-administration of JWH-133 with morphine modestly attenuates morphine tolerance. Isobolographic analysis revealed that co-administration of JWH-133 and morphine has an additive effect on anti-nociception in the formalin test. Overall these findings show that cannabinoid 2 receptor may functionally interact with mu-opioid receptor to modulate anti-nociception in the formalin test.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew B Yuill
- 1 Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA.,2 Department of Pharmacology, Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA.,3 Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - David E Hale
- 1 Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Josée Guindon
- 4 Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Daniel J Morgan
- 1 Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA.,2 Department of Pharmacology, Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA.,3 Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
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48
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Stumpf A, Parthier D, Sammons RP, Stempel AV, Breustedt J, Rost BR, Schmitz D. Cannabinoid type 2 receptors mediate a cell type-specific self-inhibition in cortical neurons. Neuropharmacology 2018; 139:217-225. [PMID: 30025920 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.07.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2018] [Revised: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 07/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Endogenous cannabinoids are diffusible lipid ligands of the main cannabinoid receptors type 1 and 2 (CB1R and CB2R). In the central nervous system endocannabinoids are produced in an activity-dependent manner and have been identified as retrograde modulators of synaptic transmission. Additionally, some neurons display a cell-autonomous slow self-inhibition (SSI) mediated by endocannabinoids. In these neurons, repetitive action potential firing triggers the production of endocannabinoids, which induce a long-lasting hyperpolarization of the membrane potential, rendering the cells less excitable. Different endocannabinoid receptors and effector mechanisms have been described underlying SSI in different cell types and brain areas. Here, we investigate SSI in neurons of layer 2/3 in the somatosensory cortex. High-frequency bursts of action potentials induced SSI in pyramidal cells (PC) and regular spiking non-pyramidal cells (RSNPC), but not in fast-spiking interneurons (FS). In RSNPCs the hyperpolarization was accompanied by a change in input resistance due to the activation of G protein-coupled inward-rectifying K+ (GIRK) channels. A CB2R-specific agonist induced the long-lasting hyperpolarization, whereas preincubation with a CB2R-specific inverse agonist suppressed SSI. Additionally, using cannabinoid receptor knockout mice, we found that SSI was still intact in CB1R-deficient but abolished in CB2R-deficient mice. Taken together, we describe an additional SSI mechanism in which the activity-induced release of endocannabinoids activates GIRK channels via CB2Rs. These findings expand our knowledge about cell type-specific differential neuronal cannabinoid receptor signaling and suggest CB2R-selective compounds as potential therapeutic approaches.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Cannabinoid Receptor Modulators/pharmacology
- Endocannabinoids/metabolism
- G Protein-Coupled Inwardly-Rectifying Potassium Channels/metabolism
- Membrane Potentials/drug effects
- Membrane Potentials/physiology
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Knockout
- Neural Inhibition/drug effects
- Neural Inhibition/physiology
- Neurons/drug effects
- Neurons/metabolism
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/deficiency
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/genetics
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/metabolism
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/agonists
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/deficiency
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/genetics
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/metabolism
- Somatosensory Cortex/drug effects
- Somatosensory Cortex/metabolism
- Tissue Culture Techniques
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Stumpf
- Neuroscience Research Center, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany
| | - Daniel Parthier
- Neuroscience Research Center, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany
| | - Rosanna P Sammons
- Neuroscience Research Center, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany
| | - A Vanessa Stempel
- Neuroscience Research Center, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany; Sainsbury Wellcome Centre for Neural Circuits and Behaviour, University College London, UK
| | - Jörg Breustedt
- Neuroscience Research Center, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany
| | - Benjamin R Rost
- Neuroscience Research Center, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Berlin, Germany
| | - Dietmar Schmitz
- Neuroscience Research Center, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Berlin, Germany; Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany; Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience Berlin, Germany; Cluster of Excellence NeuroCure, Berlin, Germany; Einstein Center for Neurosciences, Berlin, Germany.
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49
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Tan L, Yan W, McCorvy JD, Cheng J. Biased Ligands of G Protein-Coupled Receptors (GPCRs): Structure-Functional Selectivity Relationships (SFSRs) and Therapeutic Potential. J Med Chem 2018; 61:9841-9878. [PMID: 29939744 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.8b00435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) signal through both G-protein-dependent and G-protein-independent pathways, and β-arrestin recruitment is the most recognized one of the latter. Biased ligands selective for either pathway are expected to regulate biological functions of GPCRs in a more precise way, therefore providing new drug molecules with superior efficacy and/or reduced side effects. During the past decade, biased ligands have been discovered and developed for many GPCRs, such as the μ opioid receptor, the angiotensin II receptor type 1, the dopamine D2 receptor, and many others. In this Perspective, recent advances in this field are reviewed by discussing the structure-functional selectivity relationships (SFSRs) of GPCR biased ligands and the therapeutic potential of these molecules. Further understanding of the biological functions associated with each signaling pathway and structural basis for biased signaling will facilitate future drug design in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Tan
- iHuman Institute , ShanghaiTech University , 393 Middle Huaxia Road , Pudong District, Shanghai 201210 , China
| | - Wenzhong Yan
- iHuman Institute , ShanghaiTech University , 393 Middle Huaxia Road , Pudong District, Shanghai 201210 , China
| | - John D McCorvy
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy , Medical College of Wisconsin , 8701 W. Watertown Plank Road , Milwaukee , Wisconsin 53226 , United States
| | - Jianjun Cheng
- iHuman Institute , ShanghaiTech University , 393 Middle Huaxia Road , Pudong District, Shanghai 201210 , China
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50
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Guo X, Ling X, Du F, Wang Q, Huang W, Wang Z, Ding X, Bai M, Wu Z. Molecular Imaging of Pancreatic Duct Adenocarcinoma Using a Type 2 Cannabinoid Receptor-Targeted Near-Infrared Fluorescent Probe. Transl Oncol 2018; 11:1065-1073. [PMID: 30005208 PMCID: PMC6043890 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2018.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2018] [Revised: 06/21/2018] [Accepted: 06/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Imaging probes targeting type 2 cannabinoid receptor (CB2R) overexpressed in pancreatic duct adenocarcinoma (PDAC) tissue have the potential to improve early detection and surgical outcome of PDAC. The aim of our study was to evaluate the molecular imaging potential of a CB2R-targeted near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent probe (NIR760-XLP6) for PDAC. CB2R overexpression was observed in both PDAC patient tissues and various pancreatic cancer cell lines. In vitro fluorescence imaging indicated specific binding of NIR760-XLP6 to CB2R in human PDAC PANC-1 cells. In a xenograft mouse tumor model, NIR760-XLP6 showed remarkable 50- (ex vivo) and 3.2-fold (in vivo) tumor to normal contrast enhancement with minimal liver and kidney uptake. In a PDAC lymph node metastasis model, significant signal contrast was observed in bilateral axillary lymph nodes with PDAC metastasis after injection of the probe. In conclusion, NIR760-XLP6 exhibits promising characteristics for imaging PDAC, and CB2R appears to be an attractive target for PDAC imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxia Guo
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Xiaoxi Ling
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, 3501 Fifth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Fang Du
- Department of Rheumatology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Qingbing Wang
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Wei Huang
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Zhongmin Wang
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Xiaoyi Ding
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Mingfeng Bai
- Vanderbilt University Institute of Imaging Science (VUIIS), Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; Center for Molecular Probes, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center (VICC), Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Zhiyuan Wu
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China.
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