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Ghasemi-Gojani E, Kovalchuk I, Kovalchuk O. Cannabinoids and terpenes for diabetes mellitus and its complications: from mechanisms to new therapies. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2022; 33:828-849. [PMID: 36280497 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2022.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The number of people diagnosed with diabetes mellitus and its complications is markedly increasing worldwide, leading to a worldwide epidemic across all age groups, from children to older adults. Diabetes is associated with premature aging. In recent years, it has been found that peripheral overactivation of the endocannabinoid system (ECS), and in particular cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1R) signaling, plays a crucial role in the progression of insulin resistance, diabetes (especially type 2), and its aging-related comorbidities such as atherosclerosis, nephropathy, neuropathy, and retinopathy. Therefore, it is suggested that peripheral blockade of CB1R may ameliorate diabetes and diabetes-related comorbidities. The use of synthetic CB1R antagonists such as rimonabant has been prohibited because of their psychiatric side effects. In contrast, phytocannabinoids such as cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), produced by cannabis, exhibit antagonistic activity on CB1R signaling and do not show any adverse side effects such as psychoactive effects, depression, or anxiety, thereby serving as potential candidates for the treatment of diabetes and its complications. In addition to these phytocannabinoids, cannabis also produces a substantial number of other phytocannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids with therapeutic potential against insulin resistance, diabetes, and its complications. In this review, the pathogenesis of diabetes, its complications, and the potential to use cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids for its treatment are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Igor Kovalchuk
- University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB T1K3M4, Canada.
| | - Olga Kovalchuk
- University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB T1K3M4, Canada.
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Haddad M. The Impact of CB1 Receptor on Nuclear Receptors in Skeletal Muscle Cells. PATHOPHYSIOLOGY 2021; 28:457-470. [PMID: 35366244 PMCID: PMC8830471 DOI: 10.3390/pathophysiology28040029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids are abundant signaling compounds; their influence predominantly arises via engagement with the principal two G-protein-coupled cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2. One suggested theory is that cannabinoids regulate a variety of physiological processes within the cells of skeletal muscle. Earlier publications have indicated that expression of CB1 receptor mRNA and protein has been recognized within myotubes and tissues of skeletal muscle from both murines and humans, thus representing a potentially significant pathway which plays a role in the control of skeletal muscular activities. The part played by CB1 receptor activation or inhibition with respect to these functions and relevant to targets in the periphery, especially skeletal muscle, is not fully delineated. Thus, the aim of the current research was to explore the influence of CB1 receptor stimulation and inhibition on downstream signaling of the nuclear receptor, NR4A, which regulates the immediate impacts of arachidonyl-2′-chloroethylamide (ACEA) and/or rimonabant in the cells of skeletal muscle. Murine L6 skeletal muscle cells were used in order to clarify additional possible molecular signaling pathways which contribute to alterations in the CB1 receptor. Skeletal muscle cells have often been used; it is well-documented that they express cannabinoid receptors. Quantitative real-time probe-based polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) assays are deployed in order to assess the gene expression characteristics of CB1 receptor signaling. In the current work, it is demonstrated that skeletal muscle cells exhibit functional expression of CB1 receptors. This can be deduced from the qRT-PCR assays; triggering CB1 receptors amplifies both NR4A1 and NR4A3 mRNA gene expression. The impact of ACEA is inhibited by the selective CB1 receptor antagonist, rimonabant. The present research demonstrated that 10 nM of ACEA notably amplified mRNA gene expression of NR4A1 and NR4A3; this effect was suppressed by the addition of 100 nM rimonabant. Furthermore, the CB1 receptor antagonist led to the downregulation of mRNA gene expression of NR4A1, NR4A2 and NR4A3. In conclusion, in skeletal muscle, CB1 receptors were recognized to be important moderators of NR4A1 and NR4A3 mRNA gene expression; these actions may have possible clinical benefits. Thus, in skeletal muscle cells, a possible physiological expression of CB1 receptors was identified. It is as yet unknown whether these CB1 receptors contribute to pathways underlying skeletal muscle biological function and disease processes. Further research is required to fully delineate their role(s).
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Affiliation(s)
- Mansour Haddad
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Philadelphia University, P.O. Box 1, Amman 19392, Jordan
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Haddad M. The Impact of CB1 Receptor on Inflammation in Skeletal Muscle Cells. J Inflamm Res 2021; 14:3959-3967. [PMID: 34421307 PMCID: PMC8373309 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s322247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Various factors trigger the inflammatory response and cytokine activation in skeletal muscle. Inflamed muscle will exhibit significant levels of inflammation and cytokine activity. Interleukin-6 (IL-6), a pro-inflammatory cytokine, exerts pleiotropic effects on skeletal muscle. Endocannabinoid produced by all cell types binds to a class of G protein-coupled receptors, in particular cannabinoid CB1 receptors, to induce skeletal muscle actions. Objective The purpose of this research was to discover whether activation of cannabinoid CB1 receptors in L6 skeletal muscle cells may promote IL-6 gene expression. Materials and Methods L6 skeletal muscle cells were cultured in 25 cm2 flasks and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (probe-based) utilised to quantify IL-6 gene expression levels among different treatment settings. Results Arachidonyl-2'-chloroethylamide (ACEA) 10 nM, a persistent selective CB1 receptor agonist, promotes IL-6 gene expression in a time-dependent manner. Rimonabant 100 nM, a selective cannabinoid CB1 receptor antagonist, blocks the impact of ACEA. However, insulin does not change IL-6 gene expression. Conclusion For the first time, a unique link between ACEA and IL-6 up-regulation has been established; IL-6 up-regulation generated by ACEA is mediated in skeletal muscle through cannabinoid CB1 receptor activation. As a result, cannabinoid CB1 receptors may be useful pharmaceutical targets in the treatment of inflammation and related disorders in skeletal muscle tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mansour Haddad
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Philadelphia University, Amman, Jordan
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Rahman SMK, Uyama T, Hussain Z, Ueda N. Roles of Endocannabinoids and Endocannabinoid-like Molecules in Energy Homeostasis and Metabolic Regulation: A Nutritional Perspective. Annu Rev Nutr 2021; 41:177-202. [PMID: 34115519 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-nutr-043020-090216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system is involved in signal transduction in mammals. It comprises principally G protein-coupled cannabinoid receptors and their endogenous agonists, called endocannabinoids, as well as the enzymes and transporters responsible for the metabolism of endocannabinoids. Two arachidonic acid-containing lipid molecules, arachidonoylethanolamide (anandamide) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol, function as endocannabinoids. N-acylethanolamines and monoacylglycerols, in which the arachidonic acid chain is replaced with a saturated or monounsaturated fatty acid, are not directly involved in the endocannabinoid system but exhibit agonistic activities for other receptors. These endocannabinoid-like molecules include palmitoylethanolamide, oleoylethanolamide (OEA), and 2-oleoylglycerol. Endocannabinoids stimulate feeding behavior and the anabolism of lipids and glucose, while OEA suppresses appetite. Both central and peripheral systems are included in these nutritional and metabolic contexts. Therefore, they have potential in the treatment and prevention of obesity. We outline the structure, metabolism, and biological activities of endocannabinoids and related molecules, and focus on their involvement in energy homeostasis and metabolic regulation. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Nutrition, Volume 41 is September 2021. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Khaledur Rahman
- Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa 761-0793, Japan; , , .,Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore-7408, Bangladesh
| | - Toru Uyama
- Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa 761-0793, Japan; , ,
| | - Zahir Hussain
- Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa 761-0793, Japan; , , .,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Center for Pharmacogenetics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, USA;
| | - Natsuo Ueda
- Department of Biochemistry, Kagawa University School of Medicine, Miki, Kagawa 761-0793, Japan; , ,
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González-Mariscal I, Montoro RA, O'Connell JF, Kim Y, Gonzalez-Freire M, Liu QR, Alfaras I, Carlson OD, Lehrmann E, Zhang Y, Becker KG, Hardivillé S, Ghosh P, Egan JM. Muscle cannabinoid 1 receptor regulates Il-6 and myostatin expression, governing physical performance and whole-body metabolism. FASEB J 2019; 33:5850-5863. [PMID: 30726112 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201801145r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Sarcopenic obesity, the combination of skeletal muscle mass and function loss with an increase in body fat, is associated with physical limitations, cardiovascular diseases, metabolic stress, and increased risk of mortality. Cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1R) plays a critical role in the regulation of whole-body energy metabolism because of its involvement in controlling appetite, fuel distribution, and utilization. Inhibition of CB1R improves insulin secretion and insulin sensitivity in pancreatic β-cells and hepatocytes. We have now developed a skeletal muscle-specific CB1R-knockout (Skm-CB1R-/-) mouse to study the specific role of CB1R in muscle. Muscle-CB1R ablation prevented diet-induced and age-induced insulin resistance by increasing IR signaling. Moreover, muscle-CB1R ablation enhanced AKT signaling, reducing myostatin expression and increasing IL-6 secretion. Subsequently, muscle-CB1R ablation increased myogenesis through its action on MAPK-mediated myogenic gene expression. Consequently, Skm-CB1R-/- mice had increased muscle mass and whole-body lean/fat ratio in obesity and aging. Muscle-CB1R ablation improved mitochondrial performance, leading to increased whole-body muscle energy expenditure and improved physical endurance, with no change in body weight. These results collectively show that CB1R in muscle is sufficient to regulate whole-body metabolism and physical performance and is a novel target for the treatment of sarcopenic obesity. -González-Mariscal, I., Montoro, R. A., O'Connell, J. F., Kim, Y., Gonzalez-Freire, M., Liu, Q.-R., Alfaras, I., Carlson, O. D., Lehrmann, E., Zhang, Y., Becker, K. G., Hardivillé, S., Ghosh, P., Egan, J. M. Muscle cannabinoid 1 receptor regulates Il-6 and myostatin expression, governing physical performance and whole-body metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel González-Mariscal
- Laboratory of Clinical Investigation, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Rodrigo A Montoro
- Laboratory of Clinical Investigation, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jennifer F O'Connell
- Laboratory of Clinical Investigation, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Yoo Kim
- Laboratory of Clinical Investigation, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Marta Gonzalez-Freire
- Translational Gerontology Branch, National Institute on Aging (NIA), National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Qing-Rong Liu
- Laboratory of Clinical Investigation, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Irene Alfaras
- Translational Gerontology Branch, National Institute on Aging (NIA), National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Olga D Carlson
- Laboratory of Clinical Investigation, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Elin Lehrmann
- Laboratory of Genetics and Genomics, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Yongqing Zhang
- Laboratory of Genetics and Genomics, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Kevin G Becker
- Laboratory of Genetics and Genomics, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Stéphan Hardivillé
- Unité Propre de Recherche (UMR) 8576-Unité de Glycobiologie Structurale et Fonctionelle (UGSF), Centre National de la Recherche (CNRS), Université Lille, Lille, France
| | - Paritosh Ghosh
- Laboratory of Clinical Investigation, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Josephine M Egan
- Laboratory of Clinical Investigation, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Heinitz S, Basolo A, Piomelli D, Krakoff J, Piaggi P. Endocannabinoid Anandamide Mediates the Effect of Skeletal Muscle Sphingomyelins on Human Energy Expenditure. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2018; 103:3757-3766. [PMID: 30113648 PMCID: PMC6179180 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2018-00780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2018] [Accepted: 07/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Skeletal muscle endocannabinoids and sphingolipids (particularly sphingomyelins) are inversely associated with sleeping energy expenditure (SLEEP) in humans. The endocannabinoid system may increase sphingolipid synthesis via cannabinoid receptor-1. OBJECTIVE To investigate in human skeletal muscle whether endocannabinoids are responsible for the effect of sphingomyelins on SLEEP. DESIGN Muscle endocannabinoid [anandamide (AEA), 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG)], endocannabinoid congeners [oleoylethanolamide (OEA), palmitoylethanolamide (PEA)], and sphingomyelin content were measured with liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry. SLEEP was assessed in a whole-room indirect calorimeter. Mediation analyses tested whether the inverse associations between sphingomyelins and SLEEP depended on endocannabinoids and endocannabinoid-related OEA and PEA. SETTING Inpatient study. PARTICIPANTS Fifty-three Native Americans who are overweight. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE SLEEP. RESULTS AEA (r = 0.45, P = 0.001), 2-AG (r = 0.47, P = 0.0004), OEA (r = 0.27, P = 0.05), and PEA (r = 0.53, P < 0.0001) concentrations were associated with the total sphingomyelin content. AEA, OEA, and PEA correlated with specific sphingomyelins (SM18:1/23:0, SM18:1/23:1, and SM18:1/26:1) previously reported to be determinants of SLEEP in Native Americans (all r > 0.31, all P < 0.03). Up to half of the negative effect of these specific sphingomyelins on SLEEP was accounted for by AEA (all P < 0.04), rendering the direct effect by sphingomyelins per se on SLEEP negligible (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS In skeletal muscle, AEA is responsible for the sphingomyelin effect on SLEEP, indicating that endocannabinoids and sphingomyelins may jointly reduce human whole-body energy metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sascha Heinitz
- Obesity and Diabetes Clinical Research Section, Phoenix Epidemiology and Clinical Research Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Phoenix, Arizona
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Nephrology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Alessio Basolo
- Obesity and Diabetes Clinical Research Section, Phoenix Epidemiology and Clinical Research Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Phoenix, Arizona
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Jonathan Krakoff
- Obesity and Diabetes Clinical Research Section, Phoenix Epidemiology and Clinical Research Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Phoenix, Arizona
| | - Paolo Piaggi
- Obesity and Diabetes Clinical Research Section, Phoenix Epidemiology and Clinical Research Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Phoenix, Arizona
- Correspondence and Reprint Requests: Paolo Piaggi, PhD, Obesity and Diabetes Clinical Research Section, Phoenix Epidemiology and Clinical Research Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, 4212 North 16th Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85016. E-mail: or
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Peripheral modulation of the endocannabinoid system in metabolic disease. Drug Discov Today 2018; 23:592-604. [PMID: 29331500 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2018.01.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2017] [Revised: 11/17/2017] [Accepted: 01/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Dysfunction of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) has been identified in metabolic disease. Cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) is abundantly expressed in the brain but also expressed in the periphery. Cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) is more abundant in the periphery, including the immune cells. In obesity, global antagonism of overexpressed CB1 reduces bodyweight but leads to centrally mediated adverse psychological outcomes. Emerging research in isolated cultured cells or tissues has demonstrated that targeting the endocannabinoid system in the periphery alleviates the pathologies associated with metabolic disease. Further, peripheral specific cannabinoid ligands can reverse aspects of the metabolic phenotype. This Keynote review will focus on current research on the functionality of peripheral modulation of the ECS for the treatment of obesity.
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Sidibeh CO, Pereira MJ, Lau Börjesson J, Kamble PG, Skrtic S, Katsogiannos P, Sundbom M, Svensson MK, Eriksson JW. Role of cannabinoid receptor 1 in human adipose tissue for lipolysis regulation and insulin resistance. Endocrine 2017; 55:839-852. [PMID: 27858284 PMCID: PMC5316391 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-016-1172-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2016] [Accepted: 11/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
We recently showed that the peripheral cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CNR1) gene is upregulated by the synthetic glucocorticoid dexamethasone. CNR1 is highly expressed in the central nervous system and has been a drug target for the treatment of obesity. Here we explore the role of peripheral CNR1 in states of insulin resistance in human adipose tissue. Subcutaneous adipose tissue was obtained from well-controlled type 2 diabetes subjects and controls. Subcutaneous adipose tissue gene expression levels of CNR1 and endocannabinoid synthesizing and degrading enzymes were assessed. Furthermore, paired human subcutaneous adipose tissue and omental adipose tissue from non-diabetic volunteers undergoing kidney donation or bariatric surgery, was incubated with or without dexamethasone. Subcutaneous adipose tissue obtained from volunteers through needle biopsy was incubated with or without dexamethasone and in the presence or absence of the CNR1-specific antagonist AM281. CNR1 gene and protein expression, lipolysis and glucose uptake were evaluated. Subcutaneous adipose tissue CNR1 gene expression levels were 2-fold elevated in type 2 diabetes subjects compared with control subjects. Additionally, gene expression levels of CNR1 and endocannabinoid-regulating enzymes from both groups correlated with markers of insulin resistance. Dexamethasone increased CNR1 expression dose-dependently in subcutaneous adipose tissue and omental adipose tissue by up to 25-fold. Dexamethasone pre-treatment of subcutaneous adipose tissue increased lipolysis rate and reduced glucose uptake. Co-incubation with the CNR1 antagonist AM281 prevented the stimulatory effect on lipolysis, but had no effect on glucose uptake. CNR1 is upregulated in states of type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance. Furthermore, CNR1 is involved in glucocorticoid-regulated lipolysis. Peripheral CNR1 could be an interesting drug target in type 2 diabetes and dyslipidemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cherno O Sidibeh
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Maria J Pereira
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Prasad G Kamble
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Stanko Skrtic
- AstraZeneca R&D, Mölndal, Sweden
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | - Magnus Sundbom
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Maria K Svensson
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jan W Eriksson
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
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Effects of chronic exercise on the endocannabinoid system in Wistar rats with high-fat diet-induced obesity. J Physiol Biochem 2016; 72:183-99. [PMID: 26880264 DOI: 10.1007/s13105-016-0469-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2015] [Accepted: 01/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system is dysregulated during obesity in tissues involved in the control of food intake and energy metabolism. We examined the effect of chronic exercise on the tissue levels of endocannabinoids (eCBs) and on the expression of genes coding for cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) and cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) (Cnr1 and Cnr2, respectively) in the subcutaneous (SAT) and visceral adipose tissues and in the soleus and extensor digitorim longus (EDL) muscles, in rats fed with standard or high-fat diet. Twenty-eight male Wistar rats were placed on high-fat diet or standard diet (HFD and Ctl groups, respectively) during 12 weeks whereafter half of each group was submitted to an exercise training period of 12 weeks (HFD + training and Ctl + training). Tissue levels of eCBs were measured by LC-MS while expressions of genes coding for CB1 and CB2 receptors were investigated by qPCR. High-fat diet induced an increase in anandamide (AEA) levels in soleus and EDL (p < 0.02). In soleus of the HFD group, these changes were accompanied by elevated Cnr1 messenger RNA (mRNA) levels (p < 0.05). In EDL, exercise training allowed to reduce significantly this diet-induced AEA increase (p < 0.005). 2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) levels were decreased and increased by high-fat diet in SAT and EDL, respectively (p < 0.04), but not affected by exercise training. Unlike the HFD + training group, 2-AG levels in soleus were also decreased in the HFD group compared to Ctl (p < 0.04). The levels of eCBs and Cnr1 expression are altered in a tissue-specific manner following a high-fat diet, and chronic exercise reverses some of these alterations.
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Wang X, Yu Q, Yue H, Zeng S, Cui F. Effect of Intermittent Hypoxia and Rimonabant on Glucose Metabolism in Rats: Involvement of Expression of GLUT4 in Skeletal Muscle. Med Sci Monit 2015; 21:3252-60. [PMID: 26503060 PMCID: PMC4629628 DOI: 10.12659/msm.896039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and its main feature, chronic intermittent hypoxia (IH) during sleep, is closely associated with insulin resistance (IR) and diabetes. Rimonabant can regulate glucose metabolism and improve IR. The present study aimed to assess the effect of IH and rimonabant on glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity, and to explore the possible mechanisms. Material/Methods Thirty-two rats were randomly assigned into 4 groups: Control group, subjected to intermittent air only; IH group, subjected to IH only; IH+NS group, subjected to IH and treated with normal saline; and IH+Rim group, subjected to IH and treated with 10 mg/kg/day of rimonabant. All rats were killed after 28 days of exposure. Then, the blood and skeletal muscle were collected. We measured fasting blood glucose levels, fasting blood insulin levels, and the expression of glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) in both mRNA and protein levels in skeletal muscle. Results IH can slow weight gain, increase serum insulin level, and reduce insulin sensitivity in rats. The expressions of GLUT4 mRNA, total GLUT4, and plasma membrane protein of GLUT4 (PM GLUT4) in skeletal muscle were decreased. Rimonabant treatment was demonstrated to improve weight gain and insulin sensitivity of the rats induced by IH. Rimonabant significantly upregulated the expression of GLUT4 mRNA, PM GLUT4, and total GLUT4 in skeletal muscle. Conclusions The present study demonstrates that IH can cause IR and reduced expression of GLUT4 in both mRNA and protein levels in skeletal muscle of rats. Rimonabant treatment can improve IH – induced IR, and the upregulation of GLUT4 expression may be involved in this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoya Wang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China (mainland)
| | - Qin Yu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China (mainland)
| | - Hongmei Yue
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China (mainland)
| | - Shuang Zeng
- The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China (mainland)
| | - Fenfen Cui
- The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China (mainland)
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Maccarrone M, Bab I, Bíró T, Cabral GA, Dey SK, Di Marzo V, Konje JC, Kunos G, Mechoulam R, Pacher P, Sharkey KA, Zimmer A. Endocannabinoid signaling at the periphery: 50 years after THC. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2015; 36:277-96. [PMID: 25796370 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2015.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 434] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2014] [Revised: 02/10/2015] [Accepted: 02/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
In 1964, the psychoactive ingredient of Cannabis sativa, Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), was isolated. Nearly 30 years later the endogenous counterparts of THC, collectively termed endocannabinoids (eCBs), were discovered: N-arachidonoylethanolamine (anandamide) (AEA) in 1992 and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) in 1995. Since then, considerable research has shed light on the impact of eCBs on human health and disease, identifying an ensemble of proteins that bind, synthesize, and degrade them and that together form the eCB system (ECS). eCBs control basic biological processes including cell choice between survival and death and progenitor/stem cell proliferation and differentiation. Unsurprisingly, in the past two decades eCBs have been recognized as key mediators of several aspects of human pathophysiology and thus have emerged to be among the most widespread and versatile signaling molecules ever discovered. Here some of the pioneers of this research field review the state of the art of critical eCB functions in peripheral organs. Our community effort is aimed at establishing consensus views on the relevance of the peripheral ECS for human health and disease pathogenesis, as well as highlighting emerging challenges and therapeutic hopes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Maccarrone
- Center of Integrated Research, Campus Bio-Medico University, Rome, Italy; Center for Brain Research, Santa Lucia Foundation IRCCS, Rome, Italy.
| | - Itai Bab
- Bone Laboratory, Hebrew University Medical Faculty, Jerusalem, Israel; Institute for Drug Research, Hebrew University Medical Faculty, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Tamás Bíró
- DE-MTA 'Lendület' Cellular Physiology Research Group, Department of Physiology, Medical Faculty, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Guy A Cabral
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Sudhansu K Dey
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Research Foundation, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Vincenzo Di Marzo
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Council of Research, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Justin C Konje
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Sidra Medical and Research Center, Doha, Qatar
| | - George Kunos
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Raphael Mechoulam
- Institute for Drug Research, Hebrew University Medical Faculty, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Pal Pacher
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Keith A Sharkey
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Andreas Zimmer
- Institute of Molecular Psychiatry, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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12
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Lees H, Swann J, Poucher SM, Nicholson JK, Holmes E, Wilson ID, Marchesi JR. Age and microenvironment outweigh genetic influence on the Zucker rat microbiome. PLoS One 2014; 9:e100916. [PMID: 25232735 PMCID: PMC4169429 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0100916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2014] [Accepted: 06/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Animal models are invaluable tools which allow us to investigate the microbiome-host dialogue. However, experimental design introduces biases in the data that we collect, also potentially leading to biased conclusions. With obesity at pandemic levels animal models of this disease have been developed; we investigated the role of experimental design on one such rodent model. We used 454 pyrosequencing to profile the faecal bacteria of obese (n = 6) and lean (homozygous n = 6; heterozygous n = 6) Zucker rats over a 10 week period, maintained in mixed-genotype cages, to further understand the relationships between the composition of the intestinal bacteria and age, obesity progression, genetic background and cage environment. Phylogenetic and taxon-based univariate and multivariate analyses (non-metric multidimensional scaling, principal component analysis) showed that age was the most significant source of variation in the composition of the faecal microbiota. Second to this, cage environment was found to clearly impact the composition of the faecal microbiota, with samples from animals from within the same cage showing high community structure concordance, but large differences seen between cages. Importantly, the genetically induced obese phenotype was not found to impact the faecal bacterial profiles. These findings demonstrate that the age and local environmental cage variables were driving the composition of the faecal bacteria and were more deterministically important than the host genotype. These findings have major implications for understanding the significance of functional metagenomic data in experimental studies and beg the question; what is being measured in animal experiments in which different strains are housed separately, nature or nurture?
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Lees
- Section of Computational and Systems Medicine, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan Swann
- Department of Food and Nutritional Sciences, School of Chemistry, Food and Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
| | - Simon M. Poucher
- Cardiovascular and Gastro-Intestinal Disorders Innovative Medicines, AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals, Alderley Park, Cheshire, United Kingdom
| | - Jeremy K. Nicholson
- Section of Computational and Systems Medicine, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Elaine Holmes
- Section of Computational and Systems Medicine, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ian D. Wilson
- Section of Computational and Systems Medicine, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Julian R. Marchesi
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
- Centre for Digestive and Gut Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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13
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Schaich CL, Shaltout HA, Brosnihan KB, Howlett AC, Diz DI. Acute and chronic systemic CB1 cannabinoid receptor blockade improves blood pressure regulation and metabolic profile in hypertensive (mRen2)27 rats. Physiol Rep 2014; 2:2/8/e12108. [PMID: 25168868 PMCID: PMC4246581 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.12108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated acute and chronic effects of CB1 cannabinoid receptor blockade in renin‐angiotensin system‐dependent hypertension using rimonabant (SR141716A), an orally active antagonist with central and peripheral actions. In transgenic (mRen2)27 rats, a model of angiotensin II‐dependent hypertension with increased body mass and insulin resistance, acute systemic blockade of CB1 receptors significantly reduced blood pressure within 90 min but had no effect in Sprague‐Dawley rats. No changes in metabolic hormones occurred with the acute treatment. During chronic CB1 receptor blockade, (mRen2)27 rats received daily oral administration of SR141716A (10 mg/kg/day) for 28 days. Systolic blood pressure was significantly reduced within 24 h, and at Day 21 of treatment values were 173 mmHg in vehicle versus 149 mmHg in drug‐treated rats (P < 0.01). This accompanied lower cumulative weight gain (22 vs. 42 g vehicle; P < 0.001), fat mass (2.0 vs. 2.9% of body weight; P < 0.05), and serum leptin (2.8 vs. 6.0 ng/mL; P < 0.05) and insulin (1.0 vs. 1.9 ng/mL; P < 0.01), following an initial transient decrease in food consumption. Conscious hemodynamic recordings indicate twofold increases occurred in spontaneous baroreflex sensitivity (P < 0.05) and heart rate variability (P < 0.01), measures of cardiac vagal tone. The beneficial actions of CB1 receptor blockade in (mRen2)27 rats support the interpretation that an upregulated endocannabinoid system contributes to hypertension and impaired autonomic function in this angiotensin II‐dependent model. We conclude that systemic CB1 receptor blockade may be an effective therapy for angiotensin II‐dependent hypertension and associated metabolic syndrome. Acute and chronic systemic CB1 cannabinoid receptor blockade significantly lowers blood pressure in Angiotensin II‐dependent hypertensive (mRen2)27 rats, with a concomitant positive influence over conscious autonomic blood pressure regulation and metabolic profile. Results from our study indicate novel mechanisms for maintenance of hypertension, metabolic syndrome, and impaired autonomic control of blood pressure associated with upregulation of Angiotensin II signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris L Schaich
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina Hypertension & Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Hossam A Shaltout
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina Hypertension & Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - K Bridget Brosnihan
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina Hypertension & Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Allyn C Howlett
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina Hypertension & Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Debra I Diz
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina Hypertension & Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
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14
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Abstract
Endocannabinoids and cannabinoid CB1 receptors are known to play a generalized role in energy homeostasis. However, clinical trials with the first generation of CB1 blockers, now discontinued due to psychiatric side effects, were originally designed to reduce food intake and body weight rather than the metabolic risk factors associated with obesity. In this review, we discuss how, in addition to promoting energy intake, endocannabinoids control lipid and glucose metabolism in several peripheral organs, particularly the liver and adipose tissue. Direct actions in skeletal muscle and pancreas are also emerging. This knowledge may help in the design of future therapies for the metabolic syndrome.
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15
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Heyman E, Gamelin FX, Aucouturier J, Di Marzo V. The role of the endocannabinoid system in skeletal muscle and metabolic adaptations to exercise: potential implications for the treatment of obesity. Obes Rev 2012; 13:1110-24. [PMID: 22943701 DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-789x.2012.01026.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The results of recent studies add the endocannabinoid system, and more specifically CB1 receptor signalling, to the complex mechanisms that negatively modulate insulin sensitivity and substrate oxidation in skeletal muscle. CB1 receptors might become overactive in the skeletal muscle during obesity due to increased levels of endocannabinoids. However, quite surprisingly, one of the most studied endocannabinoids, anandamide, when administered in a sufficient dose, was shown to improve muscle glucose uptake and activate some key molecules of insulin signalling and mitochondrial biogenesis. This is probably because anandamide is only a partial agonist at CB1 receptors and interacts with other receptors (PPARγ, TRPV1), which may trigger positive metabolic effects. This putative beneficial role of anandamide is worth considering because increased plasma anandamide levels were recently reported after intense exercise. Whether the endocannabinoid system is involved in the positive exercise effects on mitochondrial biogenesis and glucose fatty acid oxidation remains to be confirmed. Noteworthy, when exercise becomes chronic, a decrease in CB1 receptor expression in obese metabolically deregulated tissues occurs. It is then tempting to hypothesize that physical activity would represent a complementary alternative approach for the clinical management of endocannabinoid system deregulation in obesity, without the side effects occurring with CB1 receptor antagonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Heyman
- Univ Lille Nord de France, EA4488 'Activité Physique, Muscle, Santé', Lille, France.
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16
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Rohrbach K, Thomas MA, Glick S, Fung EN, Wang V, Watson L, Gregory P, Antel J, Pelleymounter MA. Ibipinabant attenuates β-cell loss in male Zucker diabetic fatty rats independently of its effects on body weight. Diabetes Obes Metab 2012; 14:555-64. [PMID: 22268426 DOI: 10.1111/j.1463-1326.2012.01563.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
AIM To test the antidiabetic efficacy of ibipinabant, this new cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) antagonist was compared with food-restriction-induced weight loss, rosiglitazone (4 mg/kg) and rimonabant (3 and 10 mg/kg), using parameters of glycaemic control in male Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats. METHODS Body weight, food and water intake, fasted and non-fasted glucose and insulin, glucose tolerance and glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) were all assessed over the course of the 9-week study. Pancreatic insulin content and islet area were also evaluated. RESULTS At the end of the study, vehicle-treated ZDF rats were severely hyperglycaemic and showed signs of β-cell decline, including dramatic reductions in unfasted insulin levels. Ibipinanbant (10 mg/kg) reduced the following relative to vehicle controls: fasting glucose (-61%), glucose excursion area under the curve (AUC) in an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT, -44%) and HbA1c (-50%). Furthermore, non-fasting insulin, islet area and islet insulin content were all increased (71, 40 and 76%, respectively) relative to vehicle controls by the end of the study. All of these effects were similar to those of rimonabant and rosiglitazone, where ibipinabant was slightly more effective than rimonabant at the lowest dose and somewhat less effective than rosiglitazone at all doses. These antidiabetic effects appear independent of weight loss because none of the parameters above were consistently improved by the comparable weight loss induced by food restriction. CONCLUSIONS Ibipinabant may have weight loss-independent antidiabetic effects and may have the potential to attenuate β-cell loss in a model of progressive β-cell dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Rohrbach
- Department of Metabolic Research, Bristol-Myers Squibb Co., Hopewell, NJ, USA
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Hayden MR, Sowers JR. Childhood-Adolescent Obesity in the Cardiorenal Syndrome: Lessons from Animal Models. Cardiorenal Med 2011; 1:75-86. [PMID: 22294984 DOI: 10.1159/000327022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2011] [Accepted: 03/02/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Childhood-adolescent overweight and obesity have grown to pandemic proportions during the past decade. The onset of obesity in younger adults will likely be manifested as earlier onset of myocardial and renal end-organ disease in younger adults. For the first time, it is estimated that the current generation may not live to be as old as their parents. Thus, it is important to develop animal models of childhood obesity to understand fundamental pathological organ changes. METHODS In this regard, we utilize transmission electron microscopy evaluation to evaluate early remodeling changes of two adolescent rodent obesity models: the Zucker obese (fa/fa) rat and the db/db mouse models of obesity. We have concentrated on the initial ultrastructural remodeling (obese adipose tissue, skeletal muscle, and islet remodeling) and the associated changes in target end organs (including the myocardium and kidney) in young rodent models of obesity and insulin resistance, collectively manifesting as the cardiorenal metabolic syndrome (CRS). RESULTS Briefly, tissues revealed the following ultrastructural remodeling abnormalities: inflammation, hypertrophy, and early fibrosis in adipose tissue; loss of mitochondria in skeletal muscles, hyperplasia, fibrosis, and depletion of insulin-secretory granules in pancreatic islets; increased intramyocardial lipid accumulation, fibrosis, and mitochondrial deposition in the myocardium, and obesity-related glomerulopathy and tubulopathy in the kidney. CONCLUSION Based on the current knowledge and ultrastructural observations of organ pathology, we propose mechanisms whereby obesity appears to be the driving force behind the development of the CRS.
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