1
|
Squire E, Lee HL, Jeong W, Lee S, Ravichandiran V, Limoli CL, Piomelli D, Parihar VK, Jung KM. Targeting dysfunctional endocannabinoid signaling in a mouse model of Gulf War illness. Neuropharmacology 2024; 261:110142. [PMID: 39241906 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2024.110142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2024] [Revised: 07/30/2024] [Accepted: 09/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024]
Abstract
Gulf War Illness (GWI) is a chronic disorder characterized by a heterogeneous set of symptoms that include pain, fatigue, anxiety, and cognitive impairment. These are thought to stem from damage caused by exposure under unpredictable stress to toxic Gulf War (GW) chemicals, which include pesticides, nerve agents, and prophylactic drugs. We hypothesized that GWI pathogenesis might be rooted in long-lasting disruption of the endocannabinoid (ECB) system, a signaling complex that serves important protective functions in the brain. Using a mouse model of GWI, we found that tissue levels of the ECB messenger, anandamide, were significantly reduced in the brain of diseased mice, compared to healthy controls. In addition, transcription of the Faah gene, which encodes for fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), the enzyme that deactivates anandamide, was significant elevated in prefrontal cortex of GWI mice and brain microglia. Behavioral deficits exhibited by these animals, including heightened anxiety-like and depression-like behaviors, and defective extinction of fearful memories, were corrected by administration of the FAAH inhibitor, URB597, which normalized brain anandamide levels. Furthermore, GWI mice displayed unexpected changes in the microglial transcriptome, implying persistent dampening of homeostatic surveillance genes and abnormal expression of pro-inflammatory genes upon immune stimulation. Together, these results suggest that exposure to GW chemicals produce a deficit in brain ECB signaling which is associated with persistent alterations in microglial function. Pharmacological normalization of anandamide-mediated ECB signaling may offer an effective therapeutic strategy for ameliorating GWI symptomology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erica Squire
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Hye-Lim Lee
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Woojin Jeong
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Sumin Lee
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - V Ravichandiran
- National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hajipur, Bihar, 844102, India
| | - Charles L Limoli
- Radiation Oncology, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA; Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Vipan Kumar Parihar
- National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hajipur, Bihar, 844102, India; Radiation Oncology, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA.
| | - Kwang-Mook Jung
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Valentino RJ, Volkow ND. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Signaling: Research Gaps and Opportunities. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2024; 391:154-158. [PMID: 39060161 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.124.002331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Cannabis and its products have been used for centuries for both medicinal and recreational purposes. The recent widespread legalization of cannabis has vastly expanded its use in the United States across all demographics except for adolescents. Meanwhile, decades of research have advanced our knowledge of cannabis pharmacology and particularly of the endocannabinoid system with which the components of cannabis interact. This research has revealed multiple targets and approaches for manipulating the system for therapeutic use and to ameliorate cannabis toxicity or cannabis use disorder. Research has also led to new questions that underscore the potential risks of its widespread use, particularly the enduring consequences of exposure during critical windows of brain development or for consumption of large daily doses of cannabis with high content Δ 9-tetrahydrocannabinol. This article highlights current neuroscience research on cannabis that has shed light on therapeutic opportunities and potential adverse consequences of misuse and points to gaps in knowledge that can guide future research. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Cannabis use has escalated with its increased availability. Here, the authors highlight the challenges of cannabis research and the gaps in our knowledge of cannabis pharmacology and of the endocannabinoid system that it targets. Future research that addresses these gaps is needed so that the endocannabinoid system can be leveraged for safe and effective use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Nora D Volkow
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, North Bethesda, Maryland
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Mabou Tagne A, Fotio Y, Gupta K, Piomelli D. Δ 9-Tetrahydrocannabinol Alleviates Hyperalgesia in a Humanized Mouse Model of Sickle Cell Disease. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2024; 391:174-181. [PMID: 38955494 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.124.002285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
People with sickle cell disease (SCD) often experience chronic pain as well as unpredictable episodes of acute pain, which significantly affects their quality of life and life expectancy. Current treatment strategies for SCD-associated pain primarily rely on opioid analgesics, which have limited efficacy and cause serious adverse effects. Cannabis has emerged as a potential alternative, yet its efficacy remains uncertain. In this study, we investigated the antinociceptive effects of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabis' intoxicating constituent, in male HbSS mice, which express >99% human sickle hemoglobin, and male HbAA mice, which express normal human hemoglobin A, as a control. Acute THC administration (0.1-3 mg/kg-1, i.p.) dose-dependently reduced mechanical and cold hypersensitivity in human sickle hemoglobin (HbSS) but not human normal hemoglobin A (HbAA) mice. In the tail-flick assay, THC (1 and 3 mg/kg-1, i.p.) produced substantial antinociceptive effects in HbSS mice. By contrast, THC (1 mg/kg-1, i.p.) did not alter anxiety-like behavior (elevated plus maze) or long-term memory (24-hour novel object recognition). Subchronic THC treatment (1 and 3 mg/kg-1, i.p.) provided sustained relief of mechanical hypersensitivity but led to tolerance in cold hypersensitivity in HbSS mice. Together, the findings identify THC as a possible therapeutic option for the management of chronic pain in SCD. Further research is warranted to elucidate its mechanism of action and possible interaction with other cannabis constituents. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: The study explores Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)'s efficacy in alleviating pain in sickle cell disease (SCD) using a humanized mouse model. Findings indicate that acute THC administration reduces mechanical and cold hypersensitivity in SCD mice without impacting emotional and cognitive dysfunction. Subchronic THC treatment offers sustained relief of mechanical hypersensitivity but leads to cold hypersensitivity tolerance. These results offer insights into THC's potential as an alternative pain management option in SCD, highlighting both its benefits and limitations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alex Mabou Tagne
- Departments of Anatomy and Neurobiology (A.M.T., Y.F., D.P.), Biological Chemistry (D.P.), and Pharmaceutical Sciences (D.P.), and Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine (K.G.), University of California Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Yannick Fotio
- Departments of Anatomy and Neurobiology (A.M.T., Y.F., D.P.), Biological Chemistry (D.P.), and Pharmaceutical Sciences (D.P.), and Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine (K.G.), University of California Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Kalpna Gupta
- Departments of Anatomy and Neurobiology (A.M.T., Y.F., D.P.), Biological Chemistry (D.P.), and Pharmaceutical Sciences (D.P.), and Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine (K.G.), University of California Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Departments of Anatomy and Neurobiology (A.M.T., Y.F., D.P.), Biological Chemistry (D.P.), and Pharmaceutical Sciences (D.P.), and Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine (K.G.), University of California Irvine, Irvine, California
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Navarro G, Gómez-Autet M, Morales P, Rebassa JB, Llinas Del Torrent C, Jagerovic N, Pardo L, Franco R. Homodimerization of CB 2 cannabinoid receptor triggered by a bivalent ligand enhances cellular signaling. Pharmacol Res 2024; 208:107363. [PMID: 39179054 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2024] [Revised: 08/17/2024] [Accepted: 08/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/26/2024]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) exist within a landscape of interconvertible conformational states and in dynamic equilibrium between monomers and higher-order oligomers, both influenced by ligand binding. Here, we show that a homobivalent ligand formed by equal chromenopyrazole moieties as pharmacophores, connected by 14 methylene units, can modulate the dynamics of the cannabinoid CB2 receptor (CB2R) homodimerization by simultaneously binding both protomers of the CB2R-CB2R homodimer. Computational and pharmacological experiments showed that one of the ligand pharmacophores binds to the orthosteric site of one protomer, and the other pharmacophore to a membrane-oriented pocket between transmembranes 1 and 7 of the partner protomer. This results in unique pharmacological properties, including increased potency in Gi-mediated signaling and enhanced recruitment of β-arrestin. Thus, by modulating dimerization dynamics, it may be possible to fine-tune CB2R activity, potentially leading to improved therapeutic outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Navarro
- Department of Biochemistry and Physiology. Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences. Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona 08028, Spain; Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona (NeuroUB), Barcelona 08035, Spain; Centro de Investigación en Red, Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28031, Spain
| | - Marc Gómez-Autet
- Laboratory of Computational Medicine, Biostatistics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra 08193, Spain
| | - Paula Morales
- Medicinal Chemistry Institute, Spanish National Research Council, CSIC, Madrid 28006, Spain
| | - Joan Biel Rebassa
- Department of Biochemistry and Physiology. Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences. Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona 08028, Spain; Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona (NeuroUB), Barcelona 08035, Spain
| | - Claudia Llinas Del Torrent
- Laboratory of Computational Medicine, Biostatistics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra 08193, Spain
| | - Nadine Jagerovic
- Medicinal Chemistry Institute, Spanish National Research Council, CSIC, Madrid 28006, Spain.
| | - Leonardo Pardo
- Laboratory of Computational Medicine, Biostatistics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra 08193, Spain.
| | - Rafael Franco
- Centro de Investigación en Red, Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28031, Spain; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Biology, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona 08028, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Inamassu CH, Raspini E Silva L, Marchioni C. Recent advances in the chromatographic analysis of endocannabinoids and phytocannabinoids in biological samples. J Chromatogr A 2024; 1732:465225. [PMID: 39128236 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2024.465225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2024] [Revised: 07/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024]
Abstract
Endocannabinoid system, including endocannabinoid neurotransmitters (eCBs), has gained much attention over the last years due to its involvement with the pathophysiology of diseases and the potential use of Cannabis sativa (marijuana). The identification of eCBs and phytocannabinoids in biological samples for forensic, clinical, or therapeutic drug monitoring purposes constitutes a still significant challenge. In this scoping review, the recent advantages, and limitations of the eCBs and phytocannabinoids quantification in biological samples are described. Published studies from 2018-2023 were searched in 8 databases, and after screening and exclusions, the selected 38 articles had their data tabulated, summarized, and analyzed. The main characteristics of the eCBs and phytocannabinoids analyzed and the potential use of each biological sample were described, indicating gaps in the literature that still need to be explored. Well-established and innovative sample preparation protocols, and chromatographic separations, such as GC, HPLC, and UHPLC, are reviewed highlighting their respective advantages, drawbacks, and challenges. Lastly, future approaches, challenges, and tendencies in the quantification analysis of cannabinoids are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Henkes Inamassu
- Program on Pharmacology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Campus Universitário, s/n, Sala 208, Bloco E, Prédio Administrativo - Córrego Grande, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Luisa Raspini E Silva
- Program on Pharmacology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Campus Universitário, s/n, Sala 208, Bloco E, Prédio Administrativo - Córrego Grande, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Camila Marchioni
- Department of Pathology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Rua Engenheiro Agronômico Andrei Cristian Ferreira, s/n - Trindade, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Briand-Mésange F, Gennero I, Salles J, Trudel S, Dahan L, Ausseil J, Payrastre B, Salles JP, Chap H. From Classical to Alternative Pathways of 2-Arachidonoylglycerol Synthesis: AlterAGs at the Crossroad of Endocannabinoid and Lysophospholipid Signaling. Molecules 2024; 29:3694. [PMID: 39125098 PMCID: PMC11314389 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29153694] [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: 06/21/2024] [Revised: 07/27/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) is the most abundant endocannabinoid (EC), acting as a full agonist at both CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors. It is synthesized on demand in postsynaptic membranes through the sequential action of phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase Cβ1 (PLCβ1) and diacylglycerol lipase α (DAGLα), contributing to retrograde signaling upon interaction with presynaptic CB1. However, 2-AG production might also involve various combinations of PLC and DAGL isoforms, as well as additional intracellular pathways implying other enzymes and substrates. Three other alternative pathways of 2-AG synthesis rest on the extracellular cleavage of 2-arachidonoyl-lysophospholipids by three different hydrolases: glycerophosphodiesterase 3 (GDE3), lipid phosphate phosphatases (LPPs), and two members of ecto-nucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterases (ENPP6-7). We propose the names of AlterAG-1, -2, and -3 for three pathways sharing an ectocellular localization, allowing them to convert extracellular lysophospholipid mediators into 2-AG, thus inducing typical signaling switches between various G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). This implies the critical importance of the regioisomerism of both lysophospholipid (LPLs) and 2-AG, which is the object of deep analysis within this review. The precise functional roles of AlterAGs are still poorly understood and will require gene invalidation approaches, knowing that both 2-AG and its related lysophospholipids are involved in numerous aspects of physiology and pathology, including cancer, inflammation, immune defenses, obesity, bone development, neurodegeneration, or psychiatric disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabienne Briand-Mésange
- Infinity-Toulouse Institute for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases, University of Toulouse, INSERM, CNRS, Paul Sabatier University, 31059 Toulouse, France; (F.B.-M.); (I.G.); (J.S.); (S.T.); (J.A.); (J.-P.S.)
| | - Isabelle Gennero
- Infinity-Toulouse Institute for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases, University of Toulouse, INSERM, CNRS, Paul Sabatier University, 31059 Toulouse, France; (F.B.-M.); (I.G.); (J.S.); (S.T.); (J.A.); (J.-P.S.)
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, Service de Biochimie, Institut Fédératif de Biologie, 31059 Toulouse, France
| | - Juliette Salles
- Infinity-Toulouse Institute for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases, University of Toulouse, INSERM, CNRS, Paul Sabatier University, 31059 Toulouse, France; (F.B.-M.); (I.G.); (J.S.); (S.T.); (J.A.); (J.-P.S.)
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, Service de Psychiatrie D’urgences, de Crise et de Liaison, Institut des Handicaps Neurologiques, Psychiatriques et Sensoriels, 31059 Toulouse, France
| | - Stéphanie Trudel
- Infinity-Toulouse Institute for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases, University of Toulouse, INSERM, CNRS, Paul Sabatier University, 31059 Toulouse, France; (F.B.-M.); (I.G.); (J.S.); (S.T.); (J.A.); (J.-P.S.)
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, Service de Biochimie, Institut Fédératif de Biologie, 31059 Toulouse, France
| | - Lionel Dahan
- Centre de Recherches sur la Cognition Animale (CRCA), Centre de Biologie Intégrative (CBI), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, 31062 Toulouse, France;
| | - Jérôme Ausseil
- Infinity-Toulouse Institute for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases, University of Toulouse, INSERM, CNRS, Paul Sabatier University, 31059 Toulouse, France; (F.B.-M.); (I.G.); (J.S.); (S.T.); (J.A.); (J.-P.S.)
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, Service de Biochimie, Institut Fédératif de Biologie, 31059 Toulouse, France
| | - Bernard Payrastre
- I2MC-Institute of Metabolic and Cardiovascular Diseases, INSERM UMR1297 and University of Toulouse III, 31400 Toulouse, France;
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, Laboratoire d’Hématologie, 31400 Toulouse, France
| | - Jean-Pierre Salles
- Infinity-Toulouse Institute for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases, University of Toulouse, INSERM, CNRS, Paul Sabatier University, 31059 Toulouse, France; (F.B.-M.); (I.G.); (J.S.); (S.T.); (J.A.); (J.-P.S.)
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, Unité d’Endocrinologie et Maladies Osseuses, Hôpital des Enfants, 31059 Toulouse, France
| | - Hugues Chap
- Infinity-Toulouse Institute for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases, University of Toulouse, INSERM, CNRS, Paul Sabatier University, 31059 Toulouse, France; (F.B.-M.); (I.G.); (J.S.); (S.T.); (J.A.); (J.-P.S.)
- Académie des Sciences, Inscriptions et Belles Lettres de Toulouse, Hôtel d’Assézat, 31000 Toulouse, France
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Nobili S, Micheli L, Lucarini E, Toti A, Ghelardini C, Di Cesare Mannelli L. Ultramicronized N-palmitoylethanolamine associated with analgesics: Effects against persistent pain. Pharmacol Ther 2024; 258:108649. [PMID: 38615798 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2024.108649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Current epidemiological data estimate that one in five people suffers from chronic pain with considerable impairment of health-related quality of life. The pharmacological treatment is based on first- and second-line analgesic drugs, including COX-2 selective and nonselective nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, paracetamol, antidepressants, anti-seizure drugs and opioids, that are characterized by important side effects. N-palmitoylethanolamine (PEA) is a body's own fatty-acid ethanolamide belonging to the family of autacoid local injury antagonist amides. The anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties of PEA have been recognized for decades and prompted to depict its role in the endogenous mechanisms of pain control. Together with its relative abundance in food sources, this opened the way to the use of PEA as a pain-relieving nutritional intervention. Naïve PEA is a large particle size lipid molecule with low solubility and bioavailability. Reducing particle size is a useful method to increase surface area, thereby improving dissolution rate and bioavailability accordingly. Micron-size formulations of PEA (e.g., ultramicronized and co-(ultra)micronized) have shown higher oral efficacy compared to naïve PEA. In particular, ultramicronized PEA has been shown to efficiently cross the intestinal wall and, more importantly, the blood-brain and blood-spinal cord barrier. Several preclinical and clinical studies have shown the efficacy, safety and tolerability of ultramicronized PEA. This narrative review summarizes the available pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic data on ultramicronized PEA and focuses to its contribution to pain control, in particular as 'add-on' nutritional intervention. Data showing the ability of ultramicronized PEA to limit opioid side effects, including the development of tolerance, have also been reviewed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Nobili
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health - NEUROFARBA - Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
| | - Laura Micheli
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health - NEUROFARBA - Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Elena Lucarini
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health - NEUROFARBA - Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Alessandra Toti
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health - NEUROFARBA - Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Carla Ghelardini
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health - NEUROFARBA - Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Di Cesare Mannelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health - NEUROFARBA - Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Murray CH, Javanbakht M, Cho GD, Gorbach PM, Fulcher JA, Cooper ZD. Changes in Immune-Related Biomarkers and Endocannabinoids as a Function of Frequency of Cannabis Use in People Living With and Without HIV. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2024; 9:e897-e906. [PMID: 37093248 PMCID: PMC11295663 DOI: 10.1089/can.2022.0287] [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] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Cannabis use is common among people living with HIV (PLWH). Some observational studies of PLWH have linked cannabis use to lower immune markers; however, this is yet to be confirmed. In addition, whether HIV affects the endogenous cannabinoid system has not been studied. Our objective was to examine changes in immune-related biomarkers and endocannabinoids as a function of cannabis use frequency in people living with and without HIV. Materials and Methods: Data were obtained from a longitudinal study of men who have sex with men living in Los Angeles with, or at risk for, HIV. By design, half were PLWH. Those eligible for the parent study were willing and able to return for follow-up every 6 months. Those eligible for inclusion in this study reported varying levels of current cannabis use at follow-up. Specifically, one visit corresponded to a period of daily use and another to a period of infrequent use (weekly, monthly, or less than monthly). Banked serum from all eligible participants was analyzed for immune-related biomarkers, endocannabinoids, and paracannabinoids. Results: The analysis included 36 men, 19 of whom were PLWH. PLWH reported greater lifetime methamphetamine or amphetamine use (68% vs. 0%) and current cigarette use (55% vs. 20%) than people without HIV. Serum levels of HIV-related immune biomarkers including tumor necrosis factor receptor 2 (TNFR2; p=0.013) and CD27 (p=0.004) were greater in PLWH, alongside lower anandamide (AEA) (F1,34=5.337, p=0.027) and oleoylethanolamide (OEA) (F1,34=8.222, p=0.007) levels relative to people without HIV. Frequency of cannabis use did not impact the serum analytes in our study. Conclusions: Higher levels of TNFR2 and CD27 and lower levels of AEA and OEA in PLWH underscore the role of the TNF/TNFR superfamily in HIV, while highlighting a new role for the enzymatic activity of fatty acid amide hydrolase (the enzyme that hydrolyzes AEA and OEA) in HIV. Findings that cannabis frequency did not impact the immune phenotype may not generalize to other populations of PLWH. Additional work is required to further clarify the relationship between immune markers and endocannabinoids as a function of cannabis use frequency in PLWH. ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT01201083.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Conor H. Murray
- UCLA Center for Cannabis and Cannabinoids, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Marjan Javanbakht
- UCLA Center for Cannabis and Cannabinoids, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Grace D. Cho
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Pamina M. Gorbach
- UCLA Center for Cannabis and Cannabinoids, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Jennifer A. Fulcher
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Ziva D. Cooper
- UCLA Center for Cannabis and Cannabinoids, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Di Micco S, Ciaglia T, Salviati E, Michela P, Kostrzewa M, Musella S, Schiano Moriello A, Di Sarno V, Smaldone G, Di Matteo F, Capolupo I, Infantino R, Bifulco G, Pepe G, Sommella EM, Kumar P, Basilicata MG, Allarà M, Sánchez-Fernández N, Aso E, Gomez-Monterrey IM, Campiglia P, Ostacolo C, Maione S, Ligresti A, Bertamino A. Novel pyrrole based CB2 agonists: New insights on CB2 receptor role in regulating neurotransmitters' tone. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 269:116298. [PMID: 38493727 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
The cannabinoid system is one of the most investigated neuromodulatory systems because of its involvement in multiple pathologies such as cancer, inflammation, and psychiatric diseases. Recently, the CB2 receptor has gained increased attention considering its crucial role in modulating neuroinflammation in several pathological conditions like neurodegenerative diseases. Here we describe the rational design of pyrrole-based analogues, which led to a potent and pharmacokinetically suitable CB2 full agonist particularly effective in improving cognitive functions in a scopolamine-induced amnesia murine model. Therefore, we extended our study by investigating the interconnection between CB2 activation and neurotransmission in this experimental paradigm. To this purpose, we performed a MALDI imaging analysis on mice brains, observing that the administration of our lead compound was able to revert the effect of scopolamine on different neurotransmitter tones, such as acetylcholine, serotonin, and GABA, shedding light on important networks not fully explored, so far.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simone Di Micco
- European Biomedical Research Institute (EBRIS), Via S. De Renzi 50, 84125, Salerno, Italy
| | - Tania Ciaglia
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132, 84084, Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
| | - Emanuela Salviati
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132, 84084, Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
| | - Perrone Michela
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Pharmacology Division, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli", 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Magdalena Kostrzewa
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Campi Flegrei, 34, 80078, Pozzuoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Simona Musella
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132, 84084, Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
| | - Aniello Schiano Moriello
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Campi Flegrei, 34, 80078, Pozzuoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Veronica Di Sarno
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132, 84084, Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
| | - Gerardina Smaldone
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132, 84084, Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
| | - Francesca Di Matteo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132, 84084, Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
| | - Ilaria Capolupo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132, 84084, Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
| | - Rosmara Infantino
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Pharmacology Division, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli", 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Bifulco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132, 84084, Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
| | - Giacomo Pepe
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132, 84084, Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
| | - Eduardo M Sommella
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132, 84084, Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
| | - Poulami Kumar
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Campi Flegrei, 34, 80078, Pozzuoli, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Marco Allarà
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Campi Flegrei, 34, 80078, Pozzuoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Nuria Sánchez-Fernández
- Department of Pharmacy, University Federico II of Naples, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131, Naples, Italy; Pharmacology Unit, Department of Pathology and Experimental Therapeutics, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, 08907, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Ester Aso
- Department of Pharmacy, University Federico II of Naples, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131, Naples, Italy; Pharmacology Unit, Department of Pathology and Experimental Therapeutics, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, 08907, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Isabel M Gomez-Monterrey
- Neuropharmacology & Pain Group, Neuroscience Program, Bellvitge Institute for Biomedical Research, 08907, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Pietro Campiglia
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132, 84084, Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
| | - Carmine Ostacolo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132, 84084, Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
| | - Sabatino Maione
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Pharmacology Division, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli", 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Alessia Ligresti
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Campi Flegrei, 34, 80078, Pozzuoli, Naples, Italy; Pharmacology Unit, Department of Pathology and Experimental Therapeutics, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, 08907, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain.
| | - Alessia Bertamino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132, 84084, Fisciano, Salerno, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Chen YF, Fan ZK, Wang YP, Liu P, Guo XF, Li D. Docosahexaenoic Acid Modulates Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease by Suppressing Endocannabinoid System. Mol Nutr Food Res 2024; 68:e2300616. [PMID: 38430210 DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.202300616] [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: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
SCOPE Endocannabinoid signaling regulates energy homeostasis, and is tightly associated with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The study previously finds that supplementation of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) has superior function to ameliorate NAFLD compared with eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), however, the underlying mechanism remains elusive. The present study aims to investigate whether DHA intervention alleviates NAFLD via endocannabinoid system. METHODS AND RESULTS In a case-control study, the serum endocannabinoid ligands in 60 NAFLD and 60 healthy subjects are measured. Meanwhile, NAFLD model is established in mice fed a high-fat and -cholesterol diet (HFD) for 9 weeks. DHA or EPA is administrated for additional 9 weeks. Serum primary endocannabinoid ligands, namely anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidoniylglycerol (2-AG), are significantly higher in individuals with NAFLD compared with healthy controls. NAFLD model shows that serum 2-AG concentrations and adipocyte cannabinoid receptor 1 expression levels are significantly lower in DHA group compared with HFD group. Lipidomic and targeted ceramide analyses further confirm that endocannabinoid signaling inhibition has exerted deletion of hepatic C16:0-ceramide contents, resulting in down-regulation of de novo fatty acid synthesis and up-regulation of fatty acid β-oxidation related protein expression levels. CONCLUSIONS This work elucidates that DHA has improved NAFLD by suppressing endocannabinoid system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Fang Chen
- Institute of Nutrition & Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
- School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Ze-Kai Fan
- Institute of Nutrition & Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
- School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Yin-Peng Wang
- Institute of Nutrition & Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
- School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Peng Liu
- Institute of Nutrition & Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
- School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Xiao-Fei Guo
- Institute of Nutrition & Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
- School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Duo Li
- Institute of Nutrition & Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
- Qingdao University Function Center of Medical Nutrition, Qingdao, 266071, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Jung KM, Lin L, Piomelli D. Overactivation of the Endocannabinoid System in Adolescence Disrupts Adult Adipose Organ Function in Mice. Cells 2024; 13:461. [PMID: 38474425 PMCID: PMC10930932 DOI: 10.3390/cells13050461] [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: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Cannabis use stimulates calorie intake, but epidemiological studies show that people who regularly use it are leaner than those who don't. Two explanations have been proposed for this paradoxical finding. One posits that Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in cannabis desensitizes adipose CB1 cannabinoid receptors, stopping their stimulating effects on lipogenesis and adipogenesis. Another explanation is that THC exposure in adolescence, when habitual cannabis use typically starts, produces lasting changes in the developing adipose organ, which impacts adult systemic energy use. Here, we consider these possibilities in the light of a study which showed that daily THC administration in adolescent mice produces an adult metabolic phenotype characterized by reduced fat mass, partial resistance to obesity and dyslipidemia, and impaired thermogenesis and lipolysis. The phenotype, whose development requires activation of CB1 receptors in differentiated adipocytes, is associated with overexpression of myocyte proteins in the adipose organ with unchanged CB1 expression. We propose that adolescent exposure to THC causes lasting adipocyte dysfunction and the consequent emergence of a metabolic state that only superficially resembles healthy leanness. A corollary of this hypothesis, which should be addressed in future studies, is that CB1 receptors and their endocannabinoid ligands may contribute to the maintenance of adipocyte differentiation during adolescence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kwang-Mook Jung
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; (K.-M.J.); (L.L.)
| | - Lin Lin
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; (K.-M.J.); (L.L.)
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; (K.-M.J.); (L.L.)
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Butini S, Grether U, Jung KM, Ligresti A, Allarà M, Postmus AGJ, Maramai S, Brogi S, Papa A, Carullo G, Sykes D, Veprintsev D, Federico S, Grillo A, Di Guglielmo B, Ramunno A, Stevens AF, Heer D, Lamponi S, Gemma S, Benz J, Di Marzo V, van der Stelt M, Piomelli D, Campiani G. Development of Potent and Selective Monoacylglycerol Lipase Inhibitors. SARs, Structural Analysis, and Biological Characterization. J Med Chem 2024; 67:1758-1782. [PMID: 38241614 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
New potent, selective monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) inhibitors based on the azetidin-2-one scaffold ((±)-5a-v, (±)-6a-j, and (±)-7a-d) were developed as irreversible ligands, as demonstrated by enzymatic and crystallographic studies for (±)-5d, (±)-5l, and (±)-5r. X-ray analyses combined with extensive computational studies allowed us to clarify the binding mode of the compounds. 5v was identified as selective for MAGL when compared with other serine hydrolases. Solubility, in vitro metabolic stability, cytotoxicity, and absence of mutagenicity were determined for selected analogues. The most promising compounds ((±)-5c, (±)-5d, and (±)-5v) were used for in vivo studies in mice, showing a decrease in MAGL activity and increased 2-arachidonoyl-sn-glycerol levels in forebrain tissue. In particular, 5v is characterized by a high eudysmic ratio and (3R,4S)-5v is one of the most potent irreversible inhibitors of h/mMAGL identified thus far. These results suggest that the new MAGL inhibitors have therapeutic potential for different central and peripheral pathologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Butini
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Uwe Grether
- Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, CH-4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Kwang-Mook Jung
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, United States
| | - Alessia Ligresti
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council of Italy, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Marco Allarà
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council of Italy, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Annemarieke G J Postmus
- Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University and Oncode Institute, 2300 CC, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Samuele Maramai
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Simone Brogi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, via Bonanno, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Alessandro Papa
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Gabriele Carullo
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - David Sykes
- Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, United Kingdom
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, Edgbaston, B15 2TT Birmingham, Midlands, United Kingdom
| | - Dmitry Veprintsev
- Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, United Kingdom
| | - Stefano Federico
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Grillo
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Bruno Di Guglielmo
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Anna Ramunno
- Department of Pharmacy/DIFARMA, University of Salerno, via Giovanni Paolo II 132, Salerno 84084, Fisciano, Italy
| | - Anna Floor Stevens
- Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University and Oncode Institute, 2300 CC, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Dominik Heer
- Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, CH-4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Stefania Lamponi
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Sandra Gemma
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Jörg Benz
- Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, CH-4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Vincenzo Di Marzo
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council of Italy, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
- Centre Nutrition, Santé et Société (NUTRISS), Institut sur La Nutrition Et Les Aliments Fonctionnels (INAF), École de Nutrition, Université Laval, 2440 Boulevard Hochelaga, Québec G1V 0A6, Canada
- Canada Excellence Research Chair in the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, PO Box 2325, Quebec G1V 0A6, Canada
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Faculté de Médecine, Département de Médecine, Université Laval, PO Box 2725, Québec G1V 4G5, Canada
- Unité Mixte Internationale en Recherche Chimique et Biomoléculaire sur le Microbiome et Son Impact Sur la Santé Métabolique et la Nutrition (UMI-MicroMeNu), Université Laval, PO Box 2325, Quebec G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Mario van der Stelt
- Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University and Oncode Institute, 2300 CC, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, United States
| | - Giuseppe Campiani
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Bioinformatics Research Center, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan 81746-7346, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Ahmed F, Torrens A, Mahler SV, Ferlenghi F, Huestis MA, Piomelli D. A Sensitive Ultrahigh-Performance Liquid Chromatography/Tandem Mass Spectrometry Method for the Simultaneous Analysis of Phytocannabinoids and Endocannabinoids in Plasma and Brain. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2024; 9:371-385. [PMID: 36367975 PMCID: PMC10874825 DOI: 10.1089/can.2022.0216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are major chemical constituents of cannabis, which may interact either directly or indirectly with the endocannabinoid and endocannabinoid-like ("paracannabinoid") systems, two lipid-based signaling complexes that play important roles in physiology. Legislative changes emphasize the need to understand how THC and CBD might impact endocannabinoid and paracannabinoid signaling, and to develop analytical approaches to study such impact. In this study, we describe a sensitive and accurate method for the simultaneous quantification of THC, its main oxidative metabolites [11-hydroxy-Δ9-THC (11-OH-THC) and 11-nor-9-carboxy-Δ9-THC (11-COOH-THC)], CBD, and a representative set of endocannabinoid [anandamide and 2-arachidonoyl-sn-glycerol (2-AG)] and paracannabinoid [palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) and oleoylethanolamide (OEA)] compounds. Analyte separation relies on the temperature-dependent shape selectivity properties of polymerically bonded C18 stationary phases. Materials and Methods: Analytes are extracted from tissues using acetonitrile precipitation followed by phospholipid removal. The ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry protocol utilizes a commercially available C18 polymeric-bonded phase column and a simple gradient elution system. Results: Ten-point calibration curves show excellent linearity (R2>0.99) over a wide range of analyte concentrations (0.02-500 ng/mL). Lowest limits of quantification are 0.05 ng/mL for anandamide, 0.1 ng/mL for 11-OH-THC and OEA, 0.2 ng/mL for THC and CBD, 0.5 ng/mL for 11-COOH-THC, 1.0 ng/mL for 2-AG, and 2.0 ng/mL for PEA. The lowest limits of detection are 0.02 ng/mL for anandamide, 0.05 ng/mL for 11-OH-THC and OEA, 0.1 ng/mL for THC and CBD, 0.2 ng/mL for 11-COOH-THC, 0.5 ng/mL for 2-AG, and 1.0 ng/mL for PEA. Conclusions: An application of the method is presented, which showed that phytocannabinoid administration elevates endocannabinoid levels in plasma and brain of adolescent male and female mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Faizy Ahmed
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Alexa Torrens
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Stephen V. Mahler
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Francesca Ferlenghi
- Dipartimento di Scienze degli Alimenti e del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Marilyn A. Huestis
- Institute of Emerging Health Professions, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Lee HL, Squire E, Fotio Y, Mabou Tagne A, Lee J, Yoon JJ, Hong Y, Kim LH, Jung KM, Piomelli D. Frequent low-impact exposure to THC during adolescence causes persistent sexually dimorphic alterations in the response to viral infection in mice. Pharmacol Res 2024; 199:107049. [PMID: 38159785 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.107049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Adolescent exposure to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) has enduring effects on energy metabolism and immune function. Prior work showed that daily administration of a low-impact dose of THC (5 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) during adolescence alters transcription in adult microglia and disrupts their response to bacterial endotoxin or social stress. To explore the lasting impact of adolescent THC exposure on the brain's reaction to viral infection, we administered THC (5 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) in male and female mice once daily on postnatal day (PND) 30-43. When the mice reached adulthood (PND 70), we challenged them with the viral mimic, polyinosinic acid:polycytidylic acid [Poly(I:C)], and assessed sickness behavior (motor activity, body temperature) and whole brain gene transcription. Poly(I:C) caused an elevation in body temperature which was lessened by prior THC exposure in female but not male mice. Adolescent THC exposure did not affect the locomotor response to Poly(I:C) in either sex. Transcriptomic analyses showed that Poly(I:C) produced a substantial upregulation of immune-related genes in the brain, which was decreased by THC in females. Additionally, the viral mimic caused a male-selective downregulation in transcription of genes involved in neurodevelopment and synaptic transmission, which was abrogated by adolescent THC treatment. The results indicate that Poly(I:C) produces complex transcriptional alterations in the mouse brain, which are sexually dimorphic and differentially affected by early-life THC exposure. In particular, adolescent THC dampens the brain's antiviral response to Poly(I:C) in female mice and prevents the transcriptional downregulation of neuron-related genes caused by the viral mimic in male mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hye-Lim Lee
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, USA
| | - Erica Squire
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, USA
| | - Yannick Fotio
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, USA
| | - Alex Mabou Tagne
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, USA
| | - Jungyeon Lee
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, USA
| | - John Jeongwoo Yoon
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, USA
| | - Yedam Hong
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, USA
| | - Laura Hyunseo Kim
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, USA
| | - Kwang-Mook Jung
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, USA
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, USA; Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Mohammad Aghaei A, Saali A, Canas MA, Weleff J, D'Souza DC, Angarita GA, Bassir Nia A. Dysregulation of the endogenous cannabinoid system following opioid exposure. Psychiatry Res 2023; 330:115586. [PMID: 37931479 PMCID: PMC10842415 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2023.115586] [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: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
Rates of opioid-related deaths and overdoses in the United States are at record-high levels. Thus, novel neurobiological targets for the treatment of OUD are greatly needed. Given the close interaction between the endogenous opioid system and the endocannabinoid system (ECS), targeting the ECS may have therapeutic potential in OUD. The various components of the ECS, including cannabinoid receptors, their lipid-derived endogenous ligands (endocannabinoids [eCBs]), and the related enzymes, present potential targets for developing new medications in OUD treatment. The purpose of this paper is to review the clinical and preclinical literature on the dysregulation of the ECS after exposure to opioids. We review the evidence of ECS dysregulation across various study types, exposure protocols, and measurement protocols and summarize the evidence for dysregulation of ECS components at specific brain regions. Preclinical research has shown that opioids disrupt various ECS components that are region-specific. However, the results in the literature are highly heterogenous and sometimes contradictory, possibly due to variety of different methods used. Further research is needed before a confident conclusion could be made on how exposure to opioids can affect ECS components in various brain regions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ardavan Mohammad Aghaei
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06519, United States
| | - Alexandra Saali
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, United States
| | | | - Jeremy Weleff
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06519, United States
| | - Deepak Cyril D'Souza
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06519, United States; VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States
| | - Gustavo A Angarita
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06519, United States
| | - Anahita Bassir Nia
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06519, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Briânis RC, Andreotti JP, Moreira FA, Iglesias LP. Interplay between endocannabinoid and endovanilloid mechanisms in fear conditioning. Acta Neuropsychiatr 2023:1-10. [PMID: 37982167 DOI: 10.1017/neu.2023.54] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The transient receptor potential cation channel, subfamily V (vanilloid), member 1 (TRPV1) mediates pain perception to thermal and chemical stimuli in peripheral neurons. The cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1), on the other hand, promotes analgesia in both the periphery and the brain. TRPV1 and CB1 have also been implicated in learned fear, which involves the association of a previously neutral stimulus with an aversive event. In this review, we elaborate on the interplay between CB1 receptors and TRPV1 channels in learned fear processing. METHODS We conducted a PubMed search for a narrative review on endocannabinoid and endovanilloid mechanisms on fear conditioning. RESULTS TRPV1 and CB1 receptors are activated by a common endogenous agonist, arachidonoyl ethanolamide (anandamide), Moreover, they are expressed in common neuroanatomical structures and recruit converging cellular pathways, acting in concert to modulate fear learning. However, evidence suggests that TRPV1 exerts a facilitatory role, whereas CB1 restrains fear responses. CONCLUSION TRPV1 and CB1 seem to mediate protective and aversive roles of anandamide, respectively. However, more research is needed to achieve a better understanding of how these receptors interact to modulate fear learning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rayssa C Briânis
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences; Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Julia P Andreotti
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences; Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Fabrício A Moreira
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences; Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Lia P Iglesias
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences; Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Trojan V, Landa L, Šulcová A, Slíva J, Hřib R. The Main Therapeutic Applications of Cannabidiol (CBD) and Its Potential Effects on Aging with Respect to Alzheimer's Disease. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1446. [PMID: 37892128 PMCID: PMC10604144 DOI: 10.3390/biom13101446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of cannabinoids (substances contained specifically in hemp plants) for therapeutic purposes has received increased attention in recent years. Presently, attention is paid to two main cannabinoids: delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). With respect to the psychotropic effects and dependence potential of THC (though it is very mild), its use is associated with certain restrictions, and thus the therapeutic properties of CBD are frequently emphasized because there are no limitations associated with the risk of dependence. Therefore, this review covers the main pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic features of CBD (including characteristics of endocannabinoidome) with respect to its possible beneficial effects on selected diseases in clinical practice. A substantial part of the text deals with the main effects of CBD on aging, including Alzheimer's disease and related underlying mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Václav Trojan
- International Clinical Research Centre, Cannabis Facility, St. Anne’s University Hospital, Pekařská 53, 602 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Leoš Landa
- International Clinical Research Centre, Cannabis Facility, St. Anne’s University Hospital, Pekařská 53, 602 00 Brno, Czech Republic
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Alexandra Šulcová
- International Clinical Research Centre, Cannabis Facility, St. Anne’s University Hospital, Pekařská 53, 602 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jiří Slíva
- Department of Pharmacology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Ruská 87, 100 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Radovan Hřib
- International Clinical Research Centre, Cannabis Facility, St. Anne’s University Hospital, Pekařská 53, 602 00 Brno, Czech Republic
- Centre for Pain Management, Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, St. Anne’s University Hospital, Pekařská 53, 602 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
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: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [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.
Collapse
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.)
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Lin L, Jung KM, Lee HL, Le J, Colleluori G, Wood C, Palese F, Squire E, Ramirez J, Su S, Torrens A, Fotio Y, Tang L, Yu C, Yang Q, Huang L, DiPatrizio N, Jang C, Cinti S, Piomelli D. Adolescent exposure to low-dose THC disrupts energy balance and adipose organ homeostasis in adulthood. Cell Metab 2023; 35:1227-1241.e7. [PMID: 37267956 PMCID: PMC10524841 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2023.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
One of cannabis' most iconic effects is the stimulation of hedonic high-calorie eating-the "munchies"-yet habitual cannabis users are, on average, leaner than non-users. We asked whether this phenotype might result from lasting changes in energy balance established during adolescence, when use of the drug often begins. We found that daily low-dose administration of cannabis' intoxicating constituent, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), to adolescent male mice causes an adult metabolic phenotype characterized by reduced fat mass, increased lean mass and utilization of fat as fuel, partial resistance to diet-induced obesity and dyslipidemia, enhanced thermogenesis, and impaired cold- and β-adrenergic receptor-stimulated lipolysis. Further analyses revealed that this phenotype is associated with molecular anomalies in the adipose organ, including ectopic overexpression of muscle-associated proteins and heightened anabolic processing. Thus, adolescent exposure to THC may promote an enduring "pseudo-lean" state that superficially resembles healthy leanness but might in fact be rooted in adipose organ dysfunction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lin Lin
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Kwang-Mook Jung
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Hye-Lim Lee
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Johnny Le
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Georgia Colleluori
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Center of Obesity, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona 600126, Italy
| | - Courtney Wood
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA 92697, USA
| | - Francesca Palese
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Erica Squire
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Jade Ramirez
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Shiqi Su
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Alexa Torrens
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Yannick Fotio
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Lingyi Tang
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Clinton Yu
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Qin Yang
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Lan Huang
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Nicholas DiPatrizio
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA 92697, USA
| | - Cholsoon Jang
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Saverio Cinti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Center of Obesity, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona 600126, Italy
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Lim J, Lee HL, Nguyen J, Shin J, Getze S, Quach C, Squire E, Jung KM, Mahler SV, Mackie K, Piomelli D, Luderer U. Adolescent exposure to low-dose Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol depletes the ovarian reserve in female mice. Toxicol Sci 2023; 193:31-47. [PMID: 36912754 PMCID: PMC10176244 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfad027] [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] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis use by adolescents is widespread, but its effects on the ovaries remain largely unknown. Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) exerts its pharmacological effects by activating, and in some conditions hijacking, cannabinoid receptors (CBRs). We hypothesized that adolescent exposure to THC affects ovarian function in adulthood. Peripubertal female C57BL/6N mice were given THC (5 mg/kg) or its vehicle, once daily by intraperitoneal injection. Some mice received THC from postnatal day (PND) 30-33 and their ovaries were harvested PND34; other mice received THC from PND30-43, and their ovaries were harvested PND70. Adolescent treatment with THC depleted ovarian primordial follicle numbers by 50% at PND70, 4 weeks after the last dose. The treatment produced primordial follicle activation, which persisted until PND70. THC administration also caused DNA damage in primary follicles and increased PUMA protein expression in oocytes of primordial and primary follicles. Both CB1R and CB2R were expressed in oocytes and theca cells of ovarian follicles. Enzymes involved in the formation (N-acylphosphatidylethanolamine phospholipase D) or deactivation (fatty acid amide hydrolase) of the endocannabinoid anandamide were expressed in granulosa cells of ovarian follicles and interstitial cells. Levels of mRNA for CBR1 were significantly increased in ovaries after adolescent THC exposure, and upregulation persisted for at least 4 weeks. Our results support that adolescent exposure to THC may cause aberrant activation of the ovarian endocannabinoid system in female mice, resulting in substantial loss of ovarian reserve in adulthood. Relevance of these findings to women who frequently used cannabis during adolescence warrants investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinhwan Lim
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
- Dept. of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Hye-Lim Lee
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Julie Nguyen
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Joyce Shin
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Samantha Getze
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Caitlin Quach
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Erica Squire
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Kwang-Mook Jung
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Stephen V Mahler
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Ken Mackie
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana 47405, USA
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Ulrike Luderer
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
- Dept. of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Della Pietra A, Krivoshein G, Ivanov K, Giniatullina R, Jyrkkänen HK, Leinonen V, Lehtonen M, van den Maagdenberg AMJM, Savinainen J, Giniatullin R. Potent dual MAGL/FAAH inhibitor AKU-005 engages endocannabinoids to diminish meningeal nociception implicated in migraine pain. J Headache Pain 2023; 24:38. [PMID: 37038131 PMCID: PMC10088116 DOI: 10.1186/s10194-023-01568-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Engaging the endocannabinoid system through inhibition of monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) and fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), degrading endocannabinoids (endoCBs) 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and anandamide (AEA), was proposed as a promising approach to ameliorate migraine pain. However, the activity of MAGL and FAAH and action of endoCB on spiking activity of meningeal afferents, from which migraine pain originates, has not been explored thus far. Therefore, we here explored the analgesic effects of endoCB enhancement in rat and human meningeal tissues. METHODS Both MAGL and FAAH activity and local 2-AG and AEA levels were measured by activity-based protein profiling (ABPP) and LC-MS/MS, respectively, in rat meninges obtained from hemiskulls of P38-P40 Wistar rats and human meninges from elderly patients undergoing non-migraine related neurosurgery. The action on endoCBs upon administration of novel dual MAGL/FAAH inhibitor AKU-005 on meningeal afferents excitability was tested by investigating paired KCl-induced spiking and validation with local (co-)application of either AEA or 2-AG. Finally, the specific TRPV1 agonist capsaicin and blocker capsazepine were tested. RESULTS The basal level of 2-AG exceeded that of AEA in rat and human meninges. KCl-induced depolarization doubled the level of AEA. AKU-005 slightly increased spontaneous spiking activity whereas the dual MAGL/FAAH inhibitor significantly decreased excitation of nerve fibres induced by KCl. Similar inhibitory effects on meningeal afferents were observed with local applications of 2-AG or AEA. The action of AKU-005 was reversed by CB1 antagonist AM-251, implying CB1 receptor involvement in the anti-nociceptive effect. The inhibitory action of AEA was also reversed by AM-251, but not with the TRPV1 antagonist capsazepine. Data cluster analysis revealed that both AKU-005 and AEA largely increased long-term depression-like meningeal spiking activity upon paired KCl-induced spiking. CONCLUSIONS In the meninges, high anti-nociceptive 2-AG levels can tonically counteract meningeal signalling, whereas AEA can be engaged on demand by local depolarization. AEA-mediated anti-nociceptive effects through CB1 receptors have therapeutic potential. Together with previously detected MAGL activity in trigeminal ganglia, dual MAGL/FAAH inhibitor AKU-005 appears promising as migraine treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Della Pietra
- A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Georgii Krivoshein
- A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Konstantin Ivanov
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Raisa Giniatullina
- A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Henna-Kaisa Jyrkkänen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kuopio University Hospital and Neurosurgery, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Ville Leinonen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kuopio University Hospital and Neurosurgery, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Marko Lehtonen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Arn M J M van den Maagdenberg
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Juha Savinainen
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Rashid Giniatullin
- A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Fotio Y, Mabou Tagne A, Jung KM, Piomelli D. Fatty acid amide hydrolase inhibition alleviates anxiety-like symptoms in a rat model used to study post-traumatic stress disorder. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2023:10.1007/s00213-023-06358-y. [PMID: 37017699 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-023-06358-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a chronic debilitating condition that affects nearly 5-10% of American adults, is treated with a handful of FDA-approved drugs that provide at best symptomatic relief and exert multiple side effects. Preclinical and clinical evidence shows that inhibitors of the enzyme fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), which deactivates the endocannabinoid anandamide, exhibit anxiolytic-like properties in animal models. In the present study, we investigated the effects of two novel brain-permeable FAAH inhibitors - the compounds ARN14633 and ARN14280 - in a rat model of predator stress-induced long-term anxiety used to study PTSD. METHODS We exposed male Sprague-Dawley rats to 2,5-dihydro-2,4,5-trimethylthiazoline (TMT), a volatile constituent of fox feces, and assessed anxiety-like behaviors in the elevated plus maze (EPM) test seven days later. We measured FAAH activity using a radiometric assay and brain levels of FAAH substrates by liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry. RESULTS Rats challenged with TMT developed persistent (≥ 7 days) anxiety-like symptoms in the EPM test. Intraperitoneal administration of ARN14633 or ARN14280 1 h before testing suppressed TMT-induced anxiety-like behaviors with median effective doses (ED50) of 0.23 and 0.33 mg/kg, respectively. The effects were negatively correlated (ARN14663: R2 = 0.455; ARN14280: R2 = 0.655) with the inhibition of brain FAAH activity and were accompanied by increases in brain FAAH substrate levels. CONCLUSIONS The results support the hypothesis that FAAH-regulated lipid signaling serves important regulatory functions in the response to stress and confirm that FAAH inhibitors may be useful for the management of PTSD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yannick Fotio
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Alex Mabou Tagne
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Kwang-Mook Jung
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697-4625, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Chen C. Inhibiting degradation of 2-arachidonoylglycerol as a therapeutic strategy for neurodegenerative diseases. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 244:108394. [PMID: 36966972 PMCID: PMC10123871 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Endocannabinoids are endogenous lipid signaling mediators that participate in a variety of physiological and pathological processes. 2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) is the most abundant endocannabinoid and is a full agonist of G-protein-coupled cannabinoid receptors (CB1R and CB2R), which are targets of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis. While 2-AG has been well recognized as a retrograde messenger modulating synaptic transmission and plasticity at both inhibitory GABAergic and excitatory glutamatergic synapses in the brain, growing evidence suggests that 2-AG also functions as an endogenous terminator of neuroinflammation in response to harmful insults, thus maintaining brain homeostasis. Monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) is the key enzyme that degrades 2-AG in the brain. The immediate metabolite of 2-AG is arachidonic acid (AA), a precursor of prostaglandins (PGs) and leukotrienes. Several lines of evidence indicate that pharmacological or genetic inactivation of MAGL, which boosts 2-AG levels and reduces its hydrolytic metabolites, resolves neuroinflammation, mitigates neuropathology, and improves synaptic and cognitive functions in animal models of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson's disease (PD), and traumatic brain injury (TBI)-induced neurodegenerative disease. Thus, it has been proposed that MAGL is a potential therapeutic target for treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. As the main enzyme hydrolyzing 2-AG, several MAGL inhibitors have been identified and developed. However, our understanding of the mechanisms by which inactivation of MAGL produces neuroprotective effects in neurodegenerative diseases remains limited. A recent finding that inhibition of 2-AG metabolism in astrocytes, but not in neurons, protects the brain from TBI-induced neuropathology might shed some light on this unsolved issue. This review provides an overview of MAGL as a potential therapeutic target for neurodegenerative diseases and discusses possible mechanisms underlying the neuroprotective effects of restraining degradation of 2-AG in the brain.
Collapse
|
24
|
Palmitoylethanolamide in the Treatment of Chronic Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trials. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15061350. [PMID: 36986081 PMCID: PMC10053226 DOI: 10.3390/nu15061350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain is a major source of morbidity for which there are limited effective treatments. Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), a naturally occurring fatty acid amide, has demonstrated utility in the treatment of neuropathic and inflammatory pain. Emerging reports have supported a possible role for its use in the treatment of chronic pain, although this remains controversial. We undertook a systematic review and meta-analysis to examine the efficacy of PEA as an analgesic agent for chronic pain. A systematic literature search was performed, using the databases MEDLINE and Web of Science, to identify double-blind randomized controlled trials comparing PEA to placebo or active comparators in the treatment of chronic pain. All articles were independently screened by two reviewers. The primary outcome was pain intensity scores, for which a meta-analysis was undertaken using a random effects statistical model. Secondary outcomes including quality of life, functional status, and side effects are represented in a narrative synthesis. Our literature search identified 253 unique articles, of which 11 were ultimately included in the narrative synthesis and meta-analysis. Collectively, these articles described a combined sample size of 774 patients. PEA was found to reduce pain scores relative to comparators in a pooled estimate, with a standard mean difference of 1.68 (95% CI 1.05 to 2.31, p = 0.00001). Several studies reported additional benefits of PEA for quality of life and functional status, and no major side effects were attributed to PEA in any study. The results of this systematic review and meta-analysis suggest that PEA is an effective and well-tolerated treatment for chronic pain. Further study is warranted to determine the optimal dosing and administration parameters of PEA for analgesic effects in the context of chronic pain.
Collapse
|
25
|
Mangiatordi GF, Cavalluzzi MM, Delre P, Lamanna G, Lumuscio MC, Saviano M, Majoral JP, Mignani S, Duranti A, Lentini G. Endocannabinoid Degradation Enzyme Inhibitors as Potential Antipsychotics: A Medicinal Chemistry Perspective. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11020469. [PMID: 36831006 PMCID: PMC9953700 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11020469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a very important role in numerous physiological and pharmacological processes, such as those related to the central nervous system (CNS), including learning, memory, emotional processing, as well pain control, inflammatory and immune response, and as a biomarker in certain psychiatric disorders. Unfortunately, the half-life of the natural ligands responsible for these effects is very short. This perspective describes the potential role of the inhibitors of the enzymes fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MGL), which are mainly responsible for the degradation of endogenous ligands in psychic disorders and related pathologies. The examination was carried out considering both the impact that the classical exogenous ligands such as Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and (-)-trans-cannabidiol (CBD) have on the ECS and through an analysis focused on the possibility of predicting the potential toxicity of the inhibitors before they are subjected to clinical studies. In particular, cardiotoxicity (hERG liability), probably the worst early adverse reaction studied during clinical studies focused on acute toxicity, was predicted, and some of the most used and robust metrics available were considered to select which of the analyzed compounds could be repositioned as possible oral antipsychotics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria Maddalena Cavalluzzi
- Department of Pharmacy—Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via E. Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Pietro Delre
- Institute of Crystallography, National Research Council of Italy, Via G. Amendola 122/O, 70126 Bari, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lamanna
- Institute of Crystallography, National Research Council of Italy, Via G. Amendola 122/O, 70126 Bari, Italy
- Department of Chemistry, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via E. Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Lumuscio
- Institute of Crystallography, National Research Council of Italy, Via G. Amendola 122/O, 70126 Bari, Italy
| | - Michele Saviano
- Institute of Crystallography, National Research Council of Italy, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Jean-Pierre Majoral
- Laboratoire de Chimie de Coordination du CNRS, 205 Route de Narbonne, CEDEX 4, 31077 Toulouse, France
- Université Toulouse, 118 Route de Narbonne, CEDEX 4, 31077 Toulouse, France
| | - Serge Mignani
- CERMN (Centre d’Etudes et de Recherche sur le Médicament de Normandie), Université de Caen, 14032 Caen, France
- CQM—Centro de Química da Madeira, MMRG (Molecular Materials Research Group), Campus da Penteada, Universidade da Madeira, 9020-105 Funchal, Portugal
| | - Andrea Duranti
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Piazza del Rinascimento 6, 61029 Urbino, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0722-303501
| | - Giovanni Lentini
- Department of Pharmacy—Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via E. Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Iglesias LP, Bedeschi L, Aguiar DC, Asth L, Moreira FA. Effects of Δ 9-THC and Type-1 Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists in the Elevated Plus Maze Test of Anxiety: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2023; 8:24-33. [PMID: 35984927 DOI: 10.1089/can.2022.0078] [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: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Δ9-THC (the main active compound from Cannabis sativa) and related cannabinoids have been used as drugs of abuse and as medications. They induce a complex set of emotional responses in humans and experimental animals, consisting of either anxiolysis or heightened anxiety. These discrepant effects pose a major challenge for data reproducibility and for developing new cannabinoid-based medicines. In this study, we review and analyze previous data on cannabinoids and anxiety-like behavior in experimental animals. Systematic review and meta-analysis on the effects of type-1 cannabinoid receptor agonists (full or partial, selective or not) in rodents exposed to the elevated plus maze, a widely used test of anxiety-like behavior. Cannabinoids tend to reduce anxiety-like behavior if administered at low doses. THC effects are moderated by the dose factor, with anxiolytic- and anxiogenic-like effects occurring at low-dose (0.075-1 mg/kg) and high-dose (1-10 mg/kg) ranges, respectively. However, some studies report no effect at all regardless of the dose tested. Finally, motor impairment represents a potential confounding factor when high doses are administered. The present analysis may contribute to elucidate the experimental factors underlying cannabinoid effects on anxiety-like behavior and facilitate data reproducibility in future studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lia P Iglesias
- Graduate School in Neuroscience; Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- Department of Pharmacology; Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Lucas Bedeschi
- Department of Pharmacology; Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Daniele C Aguiar
- Graduate School in Neuroscience; Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- Department of Pharmacology; Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- Graduate School in Physiology and Pharmacology; Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Laila Asth
- Graduate School in Neuroscience; Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- Graduate School in Physiology and Pharmacology; Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Fabrício A Moreira
- Graduate School in Neuroscience; Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- Department of Pharmacology; Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- Graduate School in Physiology and Pharmacology; Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Agostini M, Favretto D, Renzoni C, Vogliardi S, Duranti A. Characterization of URB Series Synthetic Cannabinoids by HRMS and UHPLC-MS/MS. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:201. [PMID: 37259350 PMCID: PMC9966132 DOI: 10.3390/ph16020201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
A large number of synthetic cannabinoids are included in new psychoactive substances (NPS) and constitute an open research area in analytical pharmaceutical and toxicology when methods are needed to unambiguously identify these substances and their metabolites in biological fluids. A full molecular characterization of five synthetic molecules of the URB series that is able to interact with the endocannabinoid system was achieved with a high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) in positive ion electrospray ionization and collisional experiments on the protonated parent ions, obtaining characteristic fragmentation patterns. Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with a triple quadrupole (UHPLC-MS/MS) has also been used, which can help develop methods for screening and confirming synthetic cannabinoids in biological fluids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Agostini
- Laboratory of Toxicology AST1, Via Lombroso 15, 61122 Pesaro, Italy
| | - Donata Favretto
- Legal Medicine and Toxicology, University Hospital of Padova, Via Falloppio 50, 35121 Padova, Italy
| | - Caterina Renzoni
- Laboratory of Toxicology AST1, Via Lombroso 15, 61122 Pesaro, Italy
| | - Susanna Vogliardi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Via Marzolo 5, 35121 Padova, Italy
| | - Andrea Duranti
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Piazza del Rinascimento 6, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Mock ED, Gagestein B, van der Stelt M. Anandamide and other N-acylethanolamines: A class of signaling lipids with therapeutic opportunities. Prog Lipid Res 2023; 89:101194. [PMID: 36150527 DOI: 10.1016/j.plipres.2022.101194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
N-acylethanolamines (NAEs), including N-palmitoylethanolamine (PEA), N-oleoylethanolamine (OEA), N-arachidonoylethanolamine (AEA, anandamide), N-docosahexaenoylethanolamine (DHEA, synaptamide) and their oxygenated metabolites are a lipid messenger family with numerous functions in health and disease, including inflammation, anxiety and energy metabolism. The NAEs exert their signaling role through activation of various G protein-coupled receptors (cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors, GPR55, GPR110, GPR119), ion channels (TRPV1) and nuclear receptors (PPAR-α and PPAR-γ) in the brain and periphery. The biological role of the oxygenated NAEs, such as prostamides, hydroxylated anandamide and DHEA derivatives, are less studied. Evidence is accumulating that NAEs and their oxidative metabolites may be aberrantly regulated or are associated with disease severity in obesity, metabolic syndrome, cancer, neuroinflammation and liver cirrhosis. Here, we comprehensively review NAE biosynthesis and degradation, their metabolism by lipoxygenases, cyclooxygenases and cytochrome P450s and the biological functions of these signaling lipids. We discuss the latest findings and therapeutic potential of modulating endogenous NAE levels by inhibition of their degradation, which is currently under clinical evaluation for neuropsychiatric disorders. We also highlight NAE biosynthesis inhibition as an emerging topic with therapeutic opportunities in endocannabinoid and NAE signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elliot D Mock
- Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University and Oncode Institute, Einsteinweg 55, Leiden 2333 CC, The Netherlands
| | - Berend Gagestein
- Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University and Oncode Institute, Einsteinweg 55, Leiden 2333 CC, The Netherlands
| | - Mario van der Stelt
- Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University and Oncode Institute, Einsteinweg 55, Leiden 2333 CC, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Duranti A, Beldarrain G, Álvarez A, Sbriscia M, Carloni S, Balduini W, Alonso-Alconada D. The Endocannabinoid System as a Target for Neuroprotection/Neuroregeneration in Perinatal Hypoxic-Ischemic Brain Injury. Biomedicines 2022; 11:biomedicines11010028. [PMID: 36672536 PMCID: PMC9855621 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11010028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid (EC) system is a complex cell-signaling system that participates in a vast number of biological processes since the prenatal period, including the development of the nervous system, brain plasticity, and circuit repair. This neuromodulatory system is also involved in the response to endogenous and environmental insults, being of special relevance in the prevention and/or treatment of vascular disorders, such as stroke and neuroprotection after neonatal brain injury. Perinatal hypoxia-ischemia leading to neonatal encephalopathy is a devastating condition with no therapeutic approach apart from moderate hypothermia, which is effective only in some cases. This overview, therefore, gives a current description of the main components of the EC system (including cannabinoid receptors, ligands, and related enzymes), to later analyze the EC system as a target for neonatal neuroprotection with a special focus on its neurogenic potential after hypoxic-ischemic brain injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Duranti
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino, Italy
- Correspondence: (A.D.); (D.A.-A.); Tel.: +39-0722-303501 (A.D.); +34-946-013294 (D.A.-A.)
| | - Gorane Beldarrain
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940 Leioa, Spain
| | - Antonia Álvarez
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940 Leioa, Spain
| | - Matilde Sbriscia
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Silvia Carloni
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Walter Balduini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Daniel Alonso-Alconada
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940 Leioa, Spain
- Correspondence: (A.D.); (D.A.-A.); Tel.: +39-0722-303501 (A.D.); +34-946-013294 (D.A.-A.)
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Cammarota M, Ferlenghi F, Vacondio F, Vincenzi F, Varani K, Bedini A, Rivara S, Mor M, Boscia F. Combined targeting of fatty acid amide hydrolase and melatonin receptors promotes neuroprotection and stimulates inflammation resolution in rats. Br J Pharmacol 2022; 180:1316-1338. [PMID: 36526591 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16014] [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: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Devising novel strategies to therapeutically favour inflammation resolution and provide neuroprotection is an unmet clinical need. Enhancing endocannabinoid tone by inhibiting the catabolic enzyme fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), or stimulating melatonin receptors has therapeutic potential to treat neuropathological states in which neuroinflammation plays a central role. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH A rodent hippocampal explant model of inflammatory injury was used to assess the effects of UCM1341, a dual-acting compound with FAAH inhibitory action and agonist activity at melatonin receptors, against neuroinflammatory damage. FAAH activity was measured by a radiometric assay, and N-acylethanolamine levels were assessed by HPLC-MS/MS methods. FAAH distribution, evolution of inflammation and the contribution of UCM1341 to the expression of proteins controlling macrophage behaviour were investigated by biochemical and confocal analyses. KEY RESULTS UCM1341 exhibited greater neuroprotection against neuroinflammatory degeneration, compared with the reference compounds URB597 (FAAH inhibitor) and melatonin. During neuroinflammation, UCM1341 augmented the levels of anandamide and N-oleoylethanolamine, but not N-palmitoylethanolamine, up-regulated PPAR-α levels, attenuated demyelination and prevented the release of TNF-α. UCM1341 modulated inflammatory responses by contributing to microglia/macrophage polarization, stimulating formation of lipid-laden macrophages and regulating expression of proteins controlling cholesterol metabolism and efflux. The neuroprotective effects of UCM1341 were prevented by PPARα, TRPV1 and melatonin receptor antagonists. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS UCM1341, by enhancing endocannabinoid and melatoninergic signalling, benefits neuroprotection and stimulates inflammation resolution pathways. Our findings provide an encouraging prospect of therapeutically targeting endocannabinoid and melatoninergic systems in inflammatory demyelinating states in the CNS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariarosaria Cammarota
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | | | | | - Fabrizio Vincenzi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Katia Varani
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Annalida Bedini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino 'Carlo Bo', Urbino, Italy
| | - Silvia Rivara
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Marco Mor
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Francesca Boscia
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Lee HL, Jung KM, Fotio Y, Squire E, Palese F, Lin L, Torrens A, Ahmed F, Mabou Tagne A, Ramirez J, Su S, Wong CR, Jung DH, Scarfone VM, Nguyen PU, Wood M, Green K, Piomelli D. Frequent Low-Dose Δ 9-Tetrahydrocannabinol in Adolescence Disrupts Microglia Homeostasis and Disables Responses to Microbial Infection and Social Stress in Young Adulthood. Biol Psychiatry 2022; 92:845-860. [PMID: 35750512 PMCID: PMC10629396 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2022.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND During adolescence, microglia are actively involved in neocortical maturation while concomitantly undergoing profound phenotypic changes. Because the teenage years are also a time of experimentation with cannabis, we evaluated whether adolescent exposure to the drug's psychotropic constituent, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), might persistently alter microglia function. METHODS We administered THC (5 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) once daily to male and female mice from postnatal day (PND) 30 to PND44 and examined the transcriptome of purified microglia in adult animals (PND70 and PND120) under baseline conditions or following either of two interventions known to recruit microglia: lipopolysaccharide injection and repeated social defeat. We used high-dimensional mass cytometry by time-of-flight to map brain immune cell populations after lipopolysaccharide challenge. RESULTS Adolescent THC exposure produced in mice of both sexes a state of microglial dyshomeostasis that persisted until young adulthood (PND70) but receded with further aging (PND120). Key features of this state included broad alterations in genes involved in microglia homeostasis and innate immunity along with marked impairments in the responses to lipopolysaccharide- and repeated social defeat-induced psychosocial stress. The endocannabinoid system was also dysfunctional. The effects of THC were prevented by coadministration of either a global CB1 receptor inverse agonist or a peripheral CB1 neutral antagonist and were not replicated when THC was administered in young adulthood (PND70-84). CONCLUSIONS Daily low-intensity CB1 receptor activation by THC during adolescence may disable critical functions served by microglia until young adulthood with potentially wide-ranging consequences for brain and mental health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hye-Lim Lee
- Departments of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Kwang-Mook Jung
- Departments of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Yannick Fotio
- Departments of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Erica Squire
- Departments of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Francesca Palese
- Departments of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Lin Lin
- Departments of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Alexa Torrens
- Departments of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Faizy Ahmed
- Departments of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Alex Mabou Tagne
- Departments of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Jade Ramirez
- Departments of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Shiqi Su
- Departments of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Christina Renee Wong
- Departments of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Daniel Hojin Jung
- Departments of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Vanessa M Scarfone
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Pauline U Nguyen
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Marcelo Wood
- Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Kim Green
- Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Departments of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California; Biological Chemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California; Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Benedicto A, Arteta B, Duranti A, Alonso-Alconada D. The Synthetic Cannabinoid URB447 Exerts Antitumor and Antimetastatic Effect in Melanoma and Colon Cancer. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15101166. [PMID: 36297277 PMCID: PMC9606960 DOI: 10.3390/ph15101166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system is widespread through the body and carries out a wide variety of functions. However, its involvement in other pathologies, such as cancer, still needs further attention. We aim to investigate the role of CB2 receptor during melanoma and colorectal cancer (CRC) aggressiveness and metastatic growth in the liver. We used the synthetic cannabinoid URB447, a known CB2 agonist and CB1 antagonist drug, and studied prometastatic ability of mouse B16 melanoma and MCA38 CRC cells, by means of proliferation, apoptosis, cell cycle, migration and matrix degradation in vitro upon URB447 treatment. We reported a dose-dependent viability decrease in both tumor types. This result is partly mediated by apoptotic cell death and cell cycle arrest in G1/G0 phase, as observed through flow cytometry. Melanoma and CRC cell migration was affected in a dose-dependent fashion as observed through scratch assay, whereas the secretion of matrix degrading proteins metalloprotease 2 (MMP2) and 9 (MMP9) in tumor cells did not significantly change. Moreover, daily treatment of tumor bearing mice with URB447 decreased the development of liver metastasis in a melanoma model in vivo. This proof of concept study points out to the synthetic cannabinoid URB447 as a potential candidate for deeper studies to confirm its potential as antitumor therapy and liver metastasis treatment for CRC and melanoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aitor Benedicto
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursery, University of the Basque Country, 48940 Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Beatriz Arteta
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursery, University of the Basque Country, 48940 Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Andrea Duranti
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Daniel Alonso-Alconada
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursery, University of the Basque Country, 48940 Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-946013294
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Mabou Tagne A, Fotio Y, Uppal PS, Piomelli D. Synergistic antinociceptive effects of concomitant NAAA and peripheral FAAH inhibition. Exp Neurol 2022; 357:114194. [PMID: 35932800 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2022.114194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The intracellular lipid amidases, fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and N-acylethanolamine acid amidase (NAAA), terminate the actions of anandamide and palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), two antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory lipid-derived mediators. Here we show, confirming prior research, that small-molecule inhibitors of peripheral FAAH (compound URB937) and systemic NAAA (compound ARN19702) individually attenuate, in male CD-1 mice, pain-related behaviors and paw inflammation in the formalin and carrageenan tests. More importantly, isobolographic analyses revealed that the combination of URB937 and ARN19702 produced substantial synergistic (greater than additive) antinociceptive effects in both models as well as additive anti-inflammatory effects in the carrageenan test. Together, the findings uncover a functional interplay between FAAH and NAAA substrates in the control of nociception, which might be exploited clinically to develop safe and effective pain management strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alex Mabou Tagne
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-4625, USA.
| | - Yannick Fotio
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-4625, USA
| | - Parwinder Singh Uppal
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-4625, USA
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-4625, USA; Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-4625, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California Irvine, CA 92697-4625, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Palese F, Pontis S, Realini N, Torrens A, Ahmed F, Assogna F, Pellicano C, Bossù P, Spalletta G, Green K, Piomelli D. Targeting NAAA counters dopamine neuron loss and symptom progression in mouse models of parkinsonism. Pharmacol Res 2022; 182:106338. [PMID: 35781057 PMCID: PMC9733952 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The lysosomal cysteine hydrolase N-acylethanolamine acid amidase (NAAA) deactivates palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), a lipid-derived PPAR-α agonist that is critically involved in the control of pain and inflammation. In this study, we asked whether NAAA-regulated PEA signaling might contribute to dopamine neuron degeneration and parkinsonism induced by the mitochondrial neurotoxins, 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) and 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP). In vitro experiments showed that 6-OHDA and MPTP enhanced NAAA expression and lowered PEA content in human SH-SY5Y cells. A similar effect was observed in mouse midbrain dopamine neurons following intra-striatal 6-OHDA injection. Importantly, deletion of the Naaa gene or pharmacological inhibition of NAAA activity substantially attenuated both dopamine neuron death and parkinsonian symptoms in mice treated with 6-OHDA or MPTP. Moreover, NAAA expression was elevated in postmortem brain cortex and premortem blood-derived exosomes from persons with Parkinson's disease compared to age-matched controls. The results identify NAAA-regulated PEA signaling as a molecular control point for dopaminergic neuron survival and a potential target for neuroprotective intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Palese
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology University of California Irvine, 92697-1275 CA, USA
| | - Silvia Pontis
- Drug Discovery and Development, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163 Genoa, Italy
| | - Natalia Realini
- Drug Discovery and Development, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163 Genoa, Italy
| | - Alexa Torrens
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology University of California Irvine, 92697-1275 CA, USA
| | - Faizy Ahmed
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology University of California Irvine, 92697-1275 CA, USA
| | - Francesca Assogna
- Laboratorio di Neuropsichiatria, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Clelia Pellicano
- Laboratorio di Neuropsichiatria, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Bossù
- Laboratorio di Neuropsichiatria, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Gianfranco Spalletta
- Laboratorio di Neuropsichiatria, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Kim Green
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California Irvine, 92697-1275 CA, USA
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology University of California Irvine, 92697-1275 CA, USA,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California Irvine, 92697-1275 CA, USA,Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California Irvine, 92697-1275 CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Inhibiting Endocannabinoid Hydrolysis as Emerging Analgesic Strategy Targeting a Spectrum of Ion Channels Implicated in Migraine Pain. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23084407. [PMID: 35457225 PMCID: PMC9027089 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Migraine is a disabling neurovascular disorder characterized by severe pain with still limited efficient treatments. Endocannabinoids, the endogenous painkillers, emerged, alternative to plant cannabis, as promising analgesics against migraine pain. In this thematic review, we discuss how inhibition of the main endocannabinoid-degrading enzymes, monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) and fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), could raise the level of endocannabinoids (endoCBs) such as 2-AG and anandamide in order to alleviate migraine pain. We describe here: (i) migraine pain signaling pathways, which could serve as specific targets for antinociception; (ii) a divergent distribution of MAGL and FAAH activities in the key regions of the PNS and CNS implicated in migraine pain signaling; (iii) a complexity of anti-nociceptive effects of endoCBs mediated by cannabinoid receptors and through a direct modulation of ion channels in nociceptive neurons; and (iv) the spectrum of emerging potent MAGL and FAAH inhibitors which efficiently increase endoCBs levels. The specific distribution and homeostasis of endoCBs in the main regions of the nociceptive system and their generation ‘on demand’, along with recent availability of MAGL and FAAH inhibitors suggest new perspectives for endoCBs-mediated analgesia in migraine pain.
Collapse
|
36
|
Campos A, Port JD, Acosta A. Integrative Hedonic and Homeostatic Food Intake Regulation by the Central Nervous System: Insights from Neuroimaging. Brain Sci 2022; 12:431. [PMID: 35447963 PMCID: PMC9032173 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12040431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Food intake regulation in humans is a complex process controlled by the dynamic interaction of homeostatic and hedonic systems. Homeostatic regulation is controlled by appetitive signals from the gut, adipose tissue, and the vagus nerve, while conscious and unconscious reward processes orchestrate hedonic regulation. On the one hand, sight, smell, taste, and texture perception deliver potent food-related feedback to the central nervous system (CNS) and influence brain areas related to food reward. On the other hand, macronutrient composition stimulates the release of appetite signals from the gut, which are translated in the CNS into unconscious reward processes. This multi-level regulation process of food intake shapes and regulates human ingestive behavior. Identifying the interface between hormones, neurotransmitters, and brain areas is critical to advance our understanding of conditions like obesity and develop better therapeutical interventions. Neuroimaging studies allow us to take a glance into the central nervous system (CNS) while these processes take place. This review focuses on the available neuroimaging evidence to describe this interaction between the homeostatic and hedonic components in human food intake regulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro Campos
- Precision Medicine for Obesity Program, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA;
| | - John D. Port
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA;
| | - Andres Acosta
- Precision Medicine for Obesity Program, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA;
| |
Collapse
|