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Holmes J, Islam SM, Milligan KA. Exploring Cannabinoids as Potential Inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 Papain-like Protease: Insights from Computational Analysis and Molecular Dynamics Simulations. Viruses 2024; 16:878. [PMID: 38932170 PMCID: PMC11209085 DOI: 10.3390/v16060878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The emergence of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has triggered a global COVID-19 pandemic, challenging healthcare systems worldwide. Effective therapeutic strategies against this novel coronavirus remain limited, underscoring the urgent need for innovative approaches. The present research investigates the potential of cannabis compounds as therapeutic agents against SARS-CoV-2 through their interaction with the virus's papain-like protease (PLpro) protein, a crucial element in viral replication and immune evasion. Computational methods, including molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, were employed to screen cannabis compounds against PLpro and analyze their binding mechanisms and interaction patterns. The results showed cannabinoids with binding affinities ranging from -6.1 kcal/mol to -4.6 kcal/mol, forming interactions with PLpro. Notably, Cannabigerolic and Cannabidiolic acids exhibited strong binding contacts with critical residues in PLpro's active region, indicating their potential as viral replication inhibitors. MD simulations revealed the dynamic behavior of cannabinoid-PLpro complexes, highlighting stable binding conformations and conformational changes over time. These findings shed light on the mechanisms underlying cannabis interaction with SARS-CoV-2 PLpro, aiding in the rational design of antiviral therapies. Future research will focus on experimental validation, optimizing binding affinity and selectivity, and preclinical assessments to develop effective treatments against COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shahidul M. Islam
- Department of Chemistry, Delaware State University, 1200 N. DuPont Hwy, Dover, DE 19901, USA; (J.H.); (K.A.M.)
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Kytikova OY, Denisenko YK, Novgorodtseva TP, Kovalenko IS. Cannabinoids And Cannabinoid-Like Compounds: Biochemical Characterization And Pharmacological Perspectives. RUSSIAN OPEN MEDICAL JOURNAL 2023. [DOI: 10.15275/rusomj.2023.0107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Publication interest in cannabinoids, including phytocannabinoids, endogenous cannabinoids, synthetic cannabinoids and cannabinomimetic compounds, is due to the therapeutic potential of these compounds in inflammatory pathology. Since recent years, scientific interest was focused on compounds with cannabinomimetic activity. The therapeutic use of phytocannabinoids and endocannabinoids is somewhat limited due to unresolved issues of dosing, toxicity and safety in humans, while cannabinoid-like compounds combine similar therapeutic effects with a high confirmed safety. Targets for endocannabinoids and phytocannabinoids are endocannabinoid receptors 1 and 2, G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), and transient receptor potential ion channels (TRPs). Non-endocannabinoid N-acylethanolamines do not interact with cannabinoid receptors and exhibit agonist activity towards non-cannabinoid receptors, such as PPARs, GPCRs and TRPs. This literature review includes contemporary information on the biological activity, metabolism and pharmacological properties of cannabinoids and cannabinoid-like compounds, as well as their receptors. We established that only a few studies were devoted to the relationship of non-endocannabinoid N-acylethanolamines with non-cannabinoid receptors, such as PPARs, GPCRs, and also with TRPs. We have focused on issues that were insufficiently covered in the published sources in order to identify gaps in existing knowledge and determine the prospects for scientific research.
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Zielińska A, Eder P, Karczewski J, Szalata M, Hryhorowicz S, Wielgus K, Szalata M, Dobrowolska A, Atanasov AG, Słomski R, Souto EB. Tocilizumab-coated solid lipid nanoparticles loaded with cannabidiol as a novel drug delivery strategy for treating COVID-19: A review. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1147991. [PMID: 37033914 PMCID: PMC10073701 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1147991] [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: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Commonly used clinical strategies against coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19), including the potential role of monoclonal antibodies for site-specific targeted drug delivery, are discussed here. Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) tailored with tocilizumab (TCZ) and loading cannabidiol (CBD) are proposed for the treatment of COVID-19 by oral route. TCZ, as a humanized IgG1 monoclonal antibody and an interleukin-6 (IL-6) receptor agonist, can attenuate cytokine storm in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2. CBD (an anti-inflammatory cannabinoid and TCZ agonist) alleviates anxiety, schizophrenia, and depression. CBD, obtained from Cannabis sativa L., is known to modulate gene expression and inflammation and also shows anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties. It has also been recognized to modulate angiotensin-converting enzyme II (ACE2) expression in SARS-CoV-2 target tissues. It has already been proven that immunosuppressive drugs targeting the IL-6 receptor may ameliorate lethal inflammatory responses in COVID-19 patients. TCZ, as an immunosuppressive drug, is mainly used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, although several attempts have been made to use it in the active hyperinflammatory phase of COVID-19, with promising outcomes. TCZ is currently administered intravenously. It this review, we discuss the potential advances on the use of SLN for oral administration of TCZ-tailored CBD-loaded SLN, as an innovative platform for managing SARS-CoV-2 and related infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Zielińska
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences Poznan, Poznan, Poland
- *Correspondence: Aleksandra Zielińska, ; Piotr Eder, ; Eliana B. Souto,
| | - Piotr Eder
- Department of Gastroenterology, Dietetics, and Internal Diseases, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
- *Correspondence: Aleksandra Zielińska, ; Piotr Eder, ; Eliana B. Souto,
| | - Jacek Karczewski
- Department of Environmental Medicine/Department of Gastroenterology, Human Nutrition and Internal Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Marlena Szalata
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Poznań University of Life Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Szymon Hryhorowicz
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences Poznan, Poznan, Poland
| | - Karolina Wielgus
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Metabolic Diseases, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Milena Szalata
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Natural Fibres and Medicinal Plants National Research Institute, Poznan, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Dobrowolska
- Department of Gastroenterology, Dietetics, and Internal Diseases, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Atanas G. Atanasov
- Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology, Magdalenka, Poland
- Institute of Neurobiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
- Department of Pharmacognosy, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ryszard Słomski
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences Poznan, Poznan, Poland
| | - Eliana B. Souto
- UCIBIO – Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, MEDTECH, Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Drug Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- *Correspondence: Aleksandra Zielińska, ; Piotr Eder, ; Eliana B. Souto,
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Pérez R, Glaser T, Villegas C, Burgos V, Ulrich H, Paz C. Therapeutic Effects of Cannabinoids and Their Applications in COVID-19 Treatment. LIFE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 12:life12122117. [PMID: 36556483 PMCID: PMC9784976 DOI: 10.3390/life12122117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis sativa is one of the first medicinal plants used by humans. Its medical use remains controversial because it is a psychotropic drug whose use has been banned. Recently, however, some countries have approved its use, including for recreational and medical purposes, and have allowed the scientific study of its compounds. Cannabis is characterized by the production of special types of natural products called phytocannabinoids that are synthesized exclusively by this genus. Phytocannabinoids and endocannabinoids are chemically different, but both pharmacologically modulate CB1, CB2, GRP55, GRP119 and TRPV1 receptor activities, involving activities such as memory, sleep, mood, appetite and motor regulation, pain sensation, neuroinflammation, neurogenesis and apoptosis. Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are phytocannabinoids with greater pharmacological potential, including anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective and anticonvulsant activities. Cannabidiol is showing promising results for the treatment of COVID-19, due to its capability of acting on the unleashed cytokine storm, on the proteins necessary for both virus entry and replication and on the neurological consequences of patients who have been infected by the virus. Here, we summarize the latest knowledge regarding the advantages of using cannabinoids in the treatment of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebeca Pérez
- Laboratory of Natural Products & Drug Discovery, Center CEBIM, Department of Basic Sciences, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811230, Chile
| | - Talita Glaser
- Department of Biochemistry, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes 748, São Paulo 05508-000, SP, Brazil
| | - Cecilia Villegas
- Laboratory of Natural Products & Drug Discovery, Center CEBIM, Department of Basic Sciences, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811230, Chile
| | - Viviana Burgos
- Departamento de Ciencias Básicas, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Santo Tomas, Temuco 4780000, Chile
| | - Henning Ulrich
- Department of Biochemistry, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes 748, São Paulo 05508-000, SP, Brazil
- Correspondence: (H.U.); (C.P.); Tel.: +55-11-97277-6344 (H.U.); +56-45-259-2825 (C.P.)
| | - Cristian Paz
- Laboratory of Natural Products & Drug Discovery, Center CEBIM, Department of Basic Sciences, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811230, Chile
- Correspondence: (H.U.); (C.P.); Tel.: +55-11-97277-6344 (H.U.); +56-45-259-2825 (C.P.)
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Crippa JAS, Pacheco JC, Zuardi AW, Guimarães FS, Campos AC, Osório FDL, Loureiro SR, dos Santos RG, Souza JDS, Ushirohira JM, Ferreira RR, Mancini Costa KC, Scomparin DS, Scarante FF, Pires-Dos-Santos I, Mechoulam R, Kapczinski F, Fonseca BA, Esposito DL, Passos ADC, Dal Fabbro AL, Bellissimo-Rodrigues F, Arruda E, Scarpelini S, Andraus MH, Nather Junior JC, Wada DT, Koenigkam-Santos M, Santos AC, Busatto Filho G, Hallak JE. Cannabidiol for COVID-19 Patients with Mild to Moderate Symptoms (CANDIDATE Study): A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2022; 7:658-669. [PMID: 34619044 PMCID: PMC9587798 DOI: 10.1089/can.2021.0093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Importance: Owing to its anti-inflammatory properties and antiviral "in vitro" effect against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), cannabidiol (CBD) has been proposed as a potential treatment for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Objective: To investigate the safety and efficacy of CBD for treating patients with mild to moderate COVID-19. Design: Randomized, parallel-group, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial conducted between July 7 and October 16, 2020, in two sites in Brazil. Setting: Patients were recruited in an emergency room. Participants: Block randomized patients (1:1 allocation ratio-by a researcher not directly involved in data collection) with mild and moderate COVID-19 living in Ribeirão Preto, Brazil, seeking medical consultation, and those who voluntarily agreed to participate in the study. Interventions: Patients received 300 mg of CBD or placebo added to standard symptomatic care during 14 days. Main Outcome and Measure: The primary outcome was reduction or prevention of the deterioration in clinical status from mild/moderate to severe/critical measured with the COVID-19 Scale or the natural course of the resolution of typical clinical symptoms. Primary study outcome was assessed on days 14, 21, and 28 after enrollment. Results: A total of 321 patients were recruited and assessed for eligibility, and 105 were randomly allocated either in CBD (n=49) or in placebo (n=42) group. Ninety-one participants were included in the analysis of efficacy. There were no baseline between-group differences regarding disease severity (χ2=0.025, p=0.988) and median time to symptom resolution (12 days [95% confidence interval, CI, 6.5-17.5] in the CBD group, 9 days [95% CI, 4.8-13.2] in the placebo group [χ2=1.6, p=0.205 by log-rank test]). By day 28, 83.3% in the CBD group and 90.2% in the placebo group had resolved symptoms. There were no between-group differences on secondary measures. CBD was well tolerated, producing mostly mild and transient side effects (e.g., somnolence, fatigue, changes in appetite, lethargy, nausea, diarrhea, and fever), with no significant differences between CBD and placebo treatment groups. Conclusions and Relevance: Daily administration of 300 mg CBD for 14 days failed to alter the clinical evolution of COVID-19. Further trials should explore the therapeutic effect of CBD in patients with severe COVID-19, possibly trying higher doses than the used in our study. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT04467918 (date of registration: July 13, 2020).
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Affiliation(s)
- José Alexandre S. Crippa
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
- National Institute for Science and Technology—Translational Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Julia Cozar Pacheco
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Antonio W. Zuardi
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
- National Institute for Science and Technology—Translational Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Francisco S. Guimarães
- National Institute for Science and Technology—Translational Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Alline Cristina Campos
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Flávia de Lima Osório
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
- National Institute for Science and Technology—Translational Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sonia Regina Loureiro
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Rafael G. dos Santos
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
- National Institute for Science and Technology—Translational Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - José Diogo S. Souza
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Juliana Mayumi Ushirohira
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Rafael Rinaldi Ferreira
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | | | - Davi Silveira Scomparin
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Franciele Franco Scarante
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Isabela Pires-Dos-Santos
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Raphael Mechoulam
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Natural Products, The Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Flávio Kapczinski
- National Institute for Science and Technology—Translational Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University and St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton, Canada
- Graduate Program in Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Benedito A.L. Fonseca
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Danillo L.A. Esposito
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Afonso Dinis Costa Passos
- Department of Social Medicine, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Amaury Lelis Dal Fabbro
- Department of Social Medicine, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | | | - Eurico Arruda
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, and Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Sandro Scarpelini
- Department of Surgery and Anatomy, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | | | - Julio Cesar Nather Junior
- Department of Medical Imaging, Hematology, and Clinical Oncology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Danilo Tadao Wada
- Department of Medical Imaging, Hematology, and Clinical Oncology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Marcel Koenigkam-Santos
- Department of Medical Imaging, Hematology, and Clinical Oncology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Antonio Carlos Santos
- Department of Medical Imaging, Hematology, and Clinical Oncology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Geraldo Busatto Filho
- Laboratory of Psychiatric Neuroimaging (LIM 21), Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jaime E.C. Hallak
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
- National Institute for Science and Technology—Translational Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
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Pitakbut T, Nguyen GN, Kayser O. Activity of THC, CBD, and CBN on Human ACE2 and SARS-CoV1/2 Main Protease to Understand Antiviral Defense Mechanism. PLANTA MEDICA 2022; 88:1047-1059. [PMID: 34638139 DOI: 10.1055/a-1581-3707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
THC, CBD, and CBN were reported as promising candidates against SARS-CoV2 infection, but the mechanism of action of these three cannabinoids is not understood. This study aims to determine the mechanism of action of THC, CBD, and CBN by selecting two essential targets that directly affect the coronavirus infections as viral main proteases and human angiotensin-converting enzyme2. Tested THC and CBD presented a dual-action action against both selected targets. Only CBD acted as a potent viral main protease inhibitor at the IC50 value of 1.86 ± 0.04 µM and exhibited only moderate activity against human angiotensin-converting enzyme2 at the IC50 value of 14.65 ± 0.47 µM. THC acted as a moderate inhibitor against both viral main protease and human angiotensin-converting enzymes2 at the IC50 value of 16.23 ± 1.71 µM and 11.47 ± 3.60 µM, respectively. Here, we discuss cannabinoid-associated antiviral activity mechanisms based on in silico docking studies and in vitro receptor binding studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanet Pitakbut
- Technical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biochemical and Chemical Engineering, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Gia-Nam Nguyen
- Technical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biochemical and Chemical Engineering, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany
- MINDbioscience GmbH, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Oliver Kayser
- Technical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biochemical and Chemical Engineering, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany
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Aghamahdi F, Shafiee A, Rostami S, Mokhames Z, Safavi M, Yaslianifard S, Siami Z, Kabir K, Azizi G, Bakhtiyari M, Mozhgani SH. Comparative study of CNR1 and CNR2 cannabinoid receptors expression levels in COVID-19 patients with and without diabetes mellitus: Recommendations for future research targets. Diabetes Metab Syndr 2022; 16:102499. [PMID: 35580523 PMCID: PMC9078453 DOI: 10.1016/j.dsx.2022.102499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted researchers to look for effective therapeutic targets. The effect of endocannabinoid system against infectious diseases is investigated for several years. In this study, we evaluated the expression level of CNR1 and CNR2 genes in patients with COVID-19 with and without diabetes to provide new insights regarding these receptors and their potential effect in COVID-19 disease. METHODS In this study, peripheral blood monocytes cells (PBMCs) were isolated from eight different groups including COVID-19 patients, diabetic patients, and healthy individuals. RNA were extracted to evaluate the expression level of CNR1 and CNR2 genes using real-time PCR. The correlation between the expression levels of these genes in different groups were assessed. RESULTS A total of 80 samples were divided into 8 groups, with each group consisting of ten samples. When comparing severe and moderate COVID-19 groups to healthy control group, the expression levels of the CNR1 and CNR2 genes were significantly higher in the severe and moderate COVID-19 groups. There were no significant differences between the mild COVID-19 group and the healthy control group. It was found that the expression levels of these genes in patients with diabetes who were infected with SARS-COV-2 did not differ across COVID-19 groups with varying severity, but they were significantly higher when compared to healthy controls. CONCLUSION Our study suggests the possible role of endocannabinoid system during SARS-COV-2 pathogenicity as the expression of CNR1 and CNR2 were elevated during the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Aghamahdi
- Department of Pediatrics, Non-communicable Diseases Research Center, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Arman Shafiee
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Sayeh Rostami
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Zakiye Mokhames
- Department of Molecular Diagnostics, Emam Ali Educational and Therapeutic Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Mahshid Safavi
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Somayeh Yaslianifard
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Zeinab Siami
- Department of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Kourosh Kabir
- Department of Community Medicine, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Azizi
- Non-Communicable Disease Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Mahmood Bakhtiyari
- Non-Communicable Disease Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Sayed-Hamidreza Mozhgani
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran; Non-Communicable Disease Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran.
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Janecki M, Graczyk M, Lewandowska AA, Pawlak Ł. Anti-Inflammatory and Antiviral Effects of Cannabinoids in Inhibiting and Preventing SARS-CoV-2 Infection. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23084170. [PMID: 35456990 PMCID: PMC9025270 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus made it necessary to search for new options for both causal treatment and mitigation of its symptoms. Scientists and researchers around the world are constantly looking for the best therapeutic options. These difficult circumstances have also spurred the re-examination of the potential of natural substances contained in Cannabis sativa L. Cannabinoids, apart from CB1 and CB2 receptors, may act multifacetedly through a number of other receptors, such as the GPR55, TRPV1, PPARs, 5-HT1A, adenosine and glycine receptors. The complex anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects of cannabinoids have been confirmed by interactions with various signaling pathways. Considering the fact that the SARS-CoV-2 virus causes excessive immune response and triggers an inflammatory cascade, and that cannabinoids have the ability to regulate these processes, it can be assumed that they have potential to be used in the treatment of COVID-19. During the pandemic, there were many publications on the subject of COVID-19, which indicate the potential impact of cannabinoids not only on the course of the disease, but also their role in prevention. It is worth noting that the anti-inflammatory and antiviral potential are shown not only by well-known cannabinoids, such as cannabidiol (CBD), but also secondary cannabinoids, such as cannabigerolic acid (CBGA) and terpenes, emphasizing the role of all of the plant’s compounds and the entourage effect. This article presents a narrative review of the current knowledge in this area available in the PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science medical databases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Janecki
- Department of Palliative Care and Palliative Medicine, Silesian Medical University in Katowice, 40-752 Katowice, Poland;
| | - Michał Graczyk
- Department of Palliative Care, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, 87-100 Toruń, Poland
- Correspondence: (M.G.); (A.A.L.)
| | - Agata Anna Lewandowska
- 10th Military Research Hospital and Polyclinic in Bydgoszcz, 85-681 Bydgoszcz, Poland
- Correspondence: (M.G.); (A.A.L.)
| | - Łukasz Pawlak
- Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, 87-100 Toruń, Poland;
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Santos S, Barata P, Charmier A, Lehmann I, Rodrigues S, Melosini MM, Pais PJ, Sousa AP, Teixeira C, Santos I, Rocha AC, Baylina P, Fernandes R. Cannabidiol and Terpene Formulation Reducing SARS-CoV-2 Infectivity Tackling a Therapeutic Strategy. Front Immunol 2022; 13:841459. [PMID: 35242142 PMCID: PMC8886108 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.841459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In late 2019, COVID-19 emerged in Wuhan, China. Currently, it is an ongoing global health threat stressing the need for therapeutic compounds. Linking the virus life cycle and its interaction with cell receptors and internal cellular machinery is key to developing therapies based on the control of infectivity and inflammation. In this framework, we evaluate the combination of cannabidiol (CBD), as an anti-inflammatory molecule, and terpenes, by their anti-microbiological properties, in reducing SARS-CoV-2 infectivity. Our group settled six formulations combining CBD and terpenes purified from Cannabis sativa L, Origanum vulgare, and Thymus mastichina. The formulations were analyzed by HPLC and GC-MS and evaluated for virucide and antiviral potential by in vitro studies in alveolar basal epithelial, colon, kidney, and keratinocyte human cell lines. Conclusions and Impact We demonstrate the virucide effectiveness of CBD and terpene-based formulations. F2TC reduces the infectivity by 17%, 24%, and 99% for CaCo-2, HaCat, and A549, respectively, and F1TC by 43%, 37%, and 29% for Hek293T, HaCaT, and Caco-2, respectively. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first approach that tackles the combination of CBD with a specific group of terpenes against SARS-CoV-2 in different cell lines. The differential effectiveness of formulations according to the cell line can be relevant to understanding the pattern of virus infectivity and the host inflammation response, and lead to new therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susana Santos
- R&D&Innovation Department, EXMceuticals Portugal Lda, Lisboa, Portugal.,Cooperativa de Formação e Animação Cultural - Centre for Interdisciplinary Development and Research on Environment, Applied Management and Space (COFAC-DREAMS)-Universidade Lusófona, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Pedro Barata
- LABMI - Laboratório de Biotecnologia Médica e Industrial, PORTIC - Porto Research, Technology and Innovation Center, Porto, Portugal.,Metabesity Deopartment, i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Porto, Portugal
| | - Adilia Charmier
- R&D&Innovation Department, EXMceuticals Portugal Lda, Lisboa, Portugal.,Cooperativa de Formação e Animação Cultural - Centre for Interdisciplinary Development and Research on Environment, Applied Management and Space (COFAC-DREAMS)-Universidade Lusófona, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Inês Lehmann
- R&D&Innovation Department, EXMceuticals Portugal Lda, Lisboa, Portugal
| | | | - Matteo M Melosini
- R&D&Innovation Department, EXMceuticals Portugal Lda, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Patrick J Pais
- LABMI - Laboratório de Biotecnologia Médica e Industrial, PORTIC - Porto Research, Technology and Innovation Center, Porto, Portugal.,Metabesity Deopartment, i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Porto, Portugal
| | - André P Sousa
- LABMI - Laboratório de Biotecnologia Médica e Industrial, PORTIC - Porto Research, Technology and Innovation Center, Porto, Portugal.,Metabesity Deopartment, i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Porto, Portugal.,Escola Superior de Saúde, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Catarina Teixeira
- LABMI - Laboratório de Biotecnologia Médica e Industrial, PORTIC - Porto Research, Technology and Innovation Center, Porto, Portugal.,Metabesity Deopartment, i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Porto, Portugal.,Escola Superior de Saúde, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Inês Santos
- LABMI - Laboratório de Biotecnologia Médica e Industrial, PORTIC - Porto Research, Technology and Innovation Center, Porto, Portugal.,Metabesity Deopartment, i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Porto, Portugal.,Escola Superior de Saúde, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Catarina Rocha
- LABMI - Laboratório de Biotecnologia Médica e Industrial, PORTIC - Porto Research, Technology and Innovation Center, Porto, Portugal.,Metabesity Deopartment, i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Porto, Portugal
| | - Pilar Baylina
- LABMI - Laboratório de Biotecnologia Médica e Industrial, PORTIC - Porto Research, Technology and Innovation Center, Porto, Portugal.,Metabesity Deopartment, i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Porto, Portugal.,Escola Superior de Saúde, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ruben Fernandes
- LABMI - Laboratório de Biotecnologia Médica e Industrial, PORTIC - Porto Research, Technology and Innovation Center, Porto, Portugal.,Metabesity Deopartment, i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Porto, Portugal.,Escola Superior de Saúde, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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10
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Erukainure OL, Matsabisa MG, Muhammad A, Abarshi MM, Amaku JF, Katsayal SB, Nde AL. Targeting of Protein's Messenger RNA for Viral Replication, Assembly and Release in SARS-CoV-2 Using Whole Genomic Data From South Africa: Therapeutic Potentials of Cannabis Sativa L. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:736511. [PMID: 34539415 PMCID: PMC8448283 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.736511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The possible evolutionary trend of COVID-19 in South Africa was investigated by comparing the genome of SARS-CoV-2 isolated from a patient in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa with those isolated from China, Spain, Italy, and United States, as well as the genomes of Bat SARS CoV, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV), Mouse Hepatitis Virus (MHV), and Infectious Bronchitis Virus (IBV). Phylogenetic analysis revealed a strong homology (96%) between the genomes of SARS-CoV-2 isolated from KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa and those isolated from the study countries as well as those isolated from bat SARS CoV, MERS-CoV, MHV and IBV. The ability of phytocannabinoids from Cannabis sativa infusion to interact with gene segments (mRNAs) coding for proteins implicated in viral replication, assembly and release were also investiagted using computational tools. Hot water infusion of C. sativa leaves was freeze-dried and subjected to Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy analysis which revealed the presence of tetrahydrocannabivarin, cannabispiran, cannabidiol tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabigerol, and cannabinol. Molecular docking analysis revealed strong binding affinities and interactions between the phytocannabinoids and codon mRNAs for ORF1ab, Surface glycoprotein, Envelope protein and Nucleocapsid phosphoprotein from SARS-CoV-2 whole genome which may be due to chemico-biological interactions as a result of nucleophilic/electrophilic attacks between viral nucleotides and cannabinoids. These results depict the spread of SARS-CoV-2 is intercontinental and might have evolved from other coronaviruses. The results also portray the phytocannabinoids of C. sativa infusion as potential therapies against COVID-19 as depicted by their ability to molecularly interact with codon mRNAs of proteins implicated in the replication, translation, assembly, and release of SARS-CoV-2. However, further studies are needed to verify these activities in pre-clinical and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ochuko L. Erukainure
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Motlalepula G. Matsabisa
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Aliyu Muhammad
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria
| | - Musa M. Abarshi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria
| | - James F. Amaku
- Department of Chemistry, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Nigeria
| | - Sanusi B. Katsayal
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria
| | - Adeline Lum Nde
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
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11
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ONAY A, ERTAŞ A, SÜZERER V, YENER İ, YILMAZ MA, AYAZ-TİLKAT E, EKİNCİ R, BOZHAN N, İRTEGÜN-KANDEMİR S. Cannabinoids for SARS-CoV-2 and is there evidence of their therapeutic efficacy? Turk J Biol 2021; 45:570-587. [PMID: 34803455 PMCID: PMC8573844 DOI: 10.3906/biy-2105-73] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
To combat the coronaviruses and their novel variants, therapeutic drugs and the development of vaccines that are to be effective throughout human life are urgently needed. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) acts as a modulator in the activation of the microcirculation, immune system, and autonomic nervous system, along with controlling pharmacological functions such as emotional responses, homeostasis, motor functions, cognition, and motivation. The ECS contains endogenous cannabinoids, cannabinoid receptor (CBRs), and enzymes that regulate their biosynthesis, transport, and degradation. Moreover, phytocannabinoids and synthetic cannabinoids that mimic the action of endocannabinoids also play an essential role in the modulation of the ECS. Cannabinoids, the main constituents of cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.), are therapeutic compounds that have received international attention in the health field due to their therapeutic properties. Recently, they have been tested for the treatment of COVID-19 due to their antiviral properties. Indeed, cannabinoid-type compounds, and in particular cannabidiol (CBD), isolated from glandular trichomes found in the calyx of cannabis flowers with reported antiviral properties is hypothesized to be a therapeutic option in the ministration of SARS-CoV-2 consorted with COVID-19 disease. The relevant articles were determined from the database search published mainly in Web of Science, Google scholar, PubMed, Crossref, and ClinicalTrials.gov database during the pandemic period. The articles were evaluated for the therapeutic potentials, mechanisms of action of cannabinoids, the roles of the ECS in the immune system, impact of cannabinoids in SARS-CoV-2 septic, especially if they address the application of cannabinoids as drugs for the curability and management of SARS-CoV-2 and its novel variants. Although the evidence needed to be considered using cannabinoids in the control and treatment of viral diseases is currently in its infancy, they already offer an opportunity for clinicians due to their effects in relieving pain, improving appetite, and improving childhood epilepsy, especially in cancer and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV/AIDS) patients. In addition to these, the most recent scientific evidence emphasizes their use in the treatment of the coronavirus infected patients. In brief, all preclinic and clinic studies that have been reported show that, through the cannabinoid system, cannabinoids, particularly CBD, have many mechanisms that are effective in the treatment of patients infected by SARS-CoV-2. Thus, more extensive studies are necessary in this area to fully identify the effects of cannabinoids on SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmet ONAY
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Dicle University, DiyarbakırTurkey
| | - Abdulselam ERTAŞ
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Dicle University, DiyarbakırTurkey
| | - Veysel SÜZERER
- Department of Pharmacy Services, Vocational School of Health, Bingöl University, BingölTurkey
| | - İsmail YENER
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Dicle University, DiyarbakırTurkey
| | | | - Emine AYAZ-TİLKAT
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Literature, Batman University, BatmanTurkey
| | - Remzi EKİNCİ
- Department of Field Crops, Faculty of Agriculture, Dicle University, DiyarbakırTurkey
| | - Nesrin BOZHAN
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Dicle University, DiyarbakırTurkey
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12
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Malinowska B, Baranowska-Kuczko M, Kicman A, Schlicker E. Opportunities, Challenges and Pitfalls of Using Cannabidiol as an Adjuvant Drug in COVID-19. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:1986. [PMID: 33671463 PMCID: PMC7922403 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection may lead to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) which, in turn, may be associated with multiple organ dysfunction. In this review, we present advantages and disadvantages of cannabidiol (CBD), a non-intoxicating phytocannabinoid from the cannabis plant, as a potential agent for the treatment of COVID-19. CBD has been shown to downregulate proteins responsible for viral entry and to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication. Preclinical studies have demonstrated its effectiveness against diseases of the respiratory system as well as its cardioprotective, nephroprotective, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective and anti-convulsant properties, that is, effects that may be beneficial for COVID-19. Only the latter two properties have been demonstrated in clinical studies, which also revealed anxiolytic and antinociceptive effects of CBD (given alone or together with Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol), which may be important for an adjuvant treatment to improve the quality of life in patients with COVID-19 and to limit post-traumatic stress symptoms. However, one should be aware of side effects of CBD (which are rarely serious), drug interactions (also extending to drugs acting against COVID-19) and the proper route of its administration (vaping may be dangerous). Clearly, further clinical studies are necessary to prove the suitability of CBD for the treatment of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Malinowska
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, 15-222 Białystok, Poland; (M.B.-K.); (A.K.)
| | - Marta Baranowska-Kuczko
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, 15-222 Białystok, Poland; (M.B.-K.); (A.K.)
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Medical University of Białystok, 15-222 Białystok, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Kicman
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, 15-222 Białystok, Poland; (M.B.-K.); (A.K.)
| | - Eberhard Schlicker
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
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