1
|
Marsh DT, Shibuta M, Kato R, Smid SD. Medicinal cannabis extracts are neuroprotective against Aβ 1-42-mediated toxicity in vitro. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2024. [PMID: 39243211 DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.14078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 08/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Phytocannabinoids inhibit the aggregation and neurotoxicity of the neurotoxic Alzheimer's disease protein β amyloid (Aβ). We characterised the capacity of five proprietary medical cannabis extracts, heated and non-heated, with varying ratios of cannabidiol and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and their parent carboxylated compounds to protect against lipid peroxidation and Aβ-evoked neurotoxicity in PC12 cells. METHODS Neuroprotection against lipid peroxidation and Aβ1-42-induced cytotoxicity was assessed using the thiazolyl blue tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Transmission electron microscopy was used to visualise phytocannabinoid effects on Aβ1-42 aggregation and fluorescence microscopy. RESULTS Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)/tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA)-predominant cannabis extracts demonstrated the most significant overall neuroprotection against Aβ1-42-induced loss of PC12 cell viability. These protective effects were still significant after heating of extracts, while none of the extracts provided significant neuroprotection to lipid peroxidation via tbhp exposure. Modest inhibition of Aβ1-42 aggregation was demonstrated only with the non-heated BC-401 cannabis extract, but overall, there was no clear correlation between effects on fibrils and conferral of neuroprotection. CONCLUSIONS These findings highlight the variable neuroprotective activity of cannabis extracts containing major phytocannabinoids THC/THCA and cannabidiol (CBD)/cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) on Aβ-evoked neurotoxicity and inhibition of amyloid β aggregation. This may inform the future use of medicinal cannabis formulations in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease and dementia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dylan T Marsh
- Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Mayu Shibuta
- Department of Basic Medicinal Sciences, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Ryuji Kato
- Department of Basic Medicinal Sciences, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
- Institute of Nano-Life-Systems, Institutes of Innovation for Future Society, Nagoya University, Tokai National Higher Education and Research System, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
- Institute of Glyco-core Research (IGCORE), Nagoya University, Tokai National Higher Education and Research System, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Scott D Smid
- Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Tjallinks G, Mattevi A, Fraaije MW. Biosynthetic Strategies of Berberine Bridge Enzyme-like Flavoprotein Oxidases toward Structural Diversification in Natural Product Biosynthesis. Biochemistry 2024; 63:2089-2110. [PMID: 39133819 PMCID: PMC11375781 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.4c00320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Berberine bridge enzyme-like oxidases are often involved in natural product biosynthesis and are seen as essential enzymes for the generation of intricate pharmacophores. These oxidases have the ability to transfer a hydride atom to the FAD cofactor, which enables complex substrate modifications and rearrangements including (intramolecular) cyclizations, carbon-carbon bond formations, and nucleophilic additions. Despite the diverse range of activities, the mechanistic details of these reactions often remain incompletely understood. In this Review, we delve into the complexity that BBE-like oxidases from bacteria, fungal, and plant origins exhibit by providing an overview of the shared catalytic features and emphasizing the different reactivities. We propose four generalized modes of action by which BBE-like oxidases enable the synthesis of natural products, ranging from the classic alcohol oxidation reactions to less common amine and amide oxidation reactions. Exploring the mechanisms utilized by nature to produce its vast array of natural products is a subject of considerable interest and can lead to the discovery of unique biochemical activities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gwen Tjallinks
- Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, University of Groningen, Groningen 9747 AG, The Netherlands
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Pavia, Pavia 27100, Italy
| | - Andrea Mattevi
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Pavia, Pavia 27100, Italy
| | - Marco W Fraaije
- Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, University of Groningen, Groningen 9747 AG, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Yang S, Sun M. Recent Advanced Methods for Extracting and Analyzing Cannabinoids from Cannabis-Infused Edibles and Detecting Hemp-Derived Contaminants in Food (2013-2023): A Comprehensive Review. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024. [PMID: 38857901 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.4c01286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
Cannabis-infused edibles are food products infused with a cannabis extract. These edibles include baked goods, candies, and beverages, offering an alternative way to consume cannabis instead of smoking or vaporizing it. Ensuring the accurate detection of cannabis-infused edibles and identification of any contaminants is crucial for public health and safety. This is particularly important for compliance with legal regulations as these substances can have significant psychoactive effects, especially on unsuspecting consumers such as children or individuals with certain medical conditions. Using efficient extraction methods can greatly improve detection accuracy, ensuring that the concentration of cannabinoids in edibles is measured correctly and adheres to dosage guidelines and legal limits. This review comprehensively examines the preparation and extraction techniques for cannabinoid edibles. It covers methods such as solid-phase extraction, enhanced matrix removal-lipid, QuEChERS, dissolution and dispersion techniques, liquid-phase extraction, and other emerging methodologies along with analytical techniques for cannabinoid analysis. The main analytical techniques employed for the determination of cannabinoids include liquid chromatography (LC), gas chromatography (GC), direct analysis in real time (DART), and mass spectrometry (MS). The application of these extraction and analytical techniques is further demonstrated through their use in analyzing specific edible samples, including oils, candies, beverages, solid coffee and tea, snacks, pet food, and contaminated products.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siyun Yang
- Department of Biology, Kean University, Union, New Jersey 07083, United States
| | - Mingjing Sun
- Department of Chemistry and Physics, Kean University, Union, New Jersey 07083, United States
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Love AC, Purdy TN, Hubert FM, Kirwan EJ, Holland DC, Moore BS. Discovery of Latent Cannabichromene Cyclase Activity in Marine Bacterial Flavoenzymes. ACS Synth Biol 2024; 13:1343-1354. [PMID: 38459634 PMCID: PMC11031283 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.4c00051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Production of phytocannabinoids remains an area of active scientific interest due to the growing use of cannabis by the public and the underexplored therapeutic potential of the over 100 minor cannabinoids. While phytocannabinoids are biosynthesized by Cannabis sativa and other select plants and fungi, structural analogs and stereoisomers can only be accessed synthetically or through heterologous expression. To date, the bioproduction of cannabinoids has required eukaryotic hosts like yeast since key, native oxidative cyclization enzymes do not express well in bacterial hosts. Here, we report that two marine bacterial flavoenzymes, Clz9 and Tcz9, perform oxidative cyclization reactions on phytocannabinoid precursors to efficiently generate cannabichromene scaffolds. Furthermore, Clz9 and Tcz9 express robustly in bacteria and display significant tolerance to organic solvent and high substrate loading, thereby enabling fermentative production of cannabichromenic acid in Escherichia coli and indicating their potential for biocatalyst development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna C. Love
- Center for Marine Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Trevor N. Purdy
- Center for Marine Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Felix M. Hubert
- Center for Marine Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Ella J. Kirwan
- Center for Marine Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Darren C. Holland
- Center for Marine Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Bradley S. Moore
- Center for Marine Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Formisano C, Fiorentino N, Di Mola I, Iaccarino N, Gargiulo E, Chianese G. Effect of saline irrigation and plant-based biostimulant application on fiber hemp ( Cannabis sativa L.) growth and phytocannabinoid composition. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2024; 15:1293184. [PMID: 38559761 PMCID: PMC10978745 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2024.1293184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Phytocannabinoids represent the hallmark of the secondary metabolism of Cannabis sativa. The content of major phytocannabinoids is closely related to genetic variation as well as abiotic elicitors such as temperature, drought, and saline stress. The present study aims to evaluate hemp response to saline irrigation supplied as NaCl solutions with an electrical conductivity (EC) of 2.0, 4.0, and 6.0 dS m-1 (S1, S2, and S3, respectively) compared to a tap water control (S0). In addition, the potential beneficial effect of a plant-based biostimulant (a legume protein hydrolysate) in mitigating the detrimental effects of saline irrigation on crop growth and phytocannabinoid composition was investigated. Sodium chloride saline irrigation significantly reduced biomass production only with S2 and S3 treatments, in accordance with an induced nutrient imbalance, as evidenced by the mineral profile of leaves. Multivariate analysis revealed that the phytocannabinoid composition, both in inflorescences and leaves, was affected by the salinity level of the irrigation water. Interestingly, higher salinity levels (S2-S3) resulted in the predominance of cannabidiol (CBD), compared to lower salinity ones (S0-S1). Plant growth and nitrogen uptake were significantly increased by the biostimulant application, with significant mitigation of the detrimental effect of saline irrigations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Formisano
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Nunzio Fiorentino
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
| | - Ida Di Mola
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
| | - Nunzia Iaccarino
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Ernesto Gargiulo
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Chianese
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Dadiotis E, Cui M, Gerasi M, Mitsis V, Melliou E, Makriyannis A, Logothetis DE, Magiatis P. A Simple Chiral 1H NMR Method for the Discrimination of ( R)- and ( S)-Cannabichromene in Complex Natural Mixtures and Their Effects on TRPA1 Activity. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2024; 87:77-84. [PMID: 38158562 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.3c00796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, the enantiomeric ratio of cannabichromene (CBC) within the cannabis plant has attracted significant attention. Cannabichromene is one of the well-known cannabinoids found in cannabis, along with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). Cannabichromene exists as a scalemic mixture, meaning it has two enantiomers, (S)-cannabichromene and (R)-cannabichromene, with the ratio between these enantiomers varying among different cannabis strains and even within individual plants. This study presents an accurate and robust chiral NMR method for analyzing cannabichromene's enantiomeric ratio, a well-investigated cannabinoid with numerous pharmacological targets. The use of Pirkle's alcohol as the chiral solvating agent (CSA) or, alternatively, the use of (S)-ibuprofen as a chiral derivatizing agent (CDA) facilitated this analysis. Moreover, the chiral NMR method proves to be a user-friendly tool, easily applicable within any NMR facility, and an expanded investigation of cannabichromene chirality may provide insights into the origin, cultivation, treatment, and processing of Cannabis sativa plants. This study also undertakes a pharmacological examination of the (R)- and (S)-cannabichromenes concerning their most extensively studied pharmacological target, the TRPA1 channels, with the two enantiomers showing the same strong agonistic effect as the racemic mixture.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Evangelos Dadiotis
- Laboratory of Pharmacognosy and Natural Products Chemistry, Department of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimioupolis Zografou, 15771 Athens, Greece
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Meng Cui
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Maria Gerasi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Chemistry and Chemical Biology, College of Science, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | | | - Eleni Melliou
- Laboratory of Pharmacognosy and Natural Products Chemistry, Department of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimioupolis Zografou, 15771 Athens, Greece
| | - Alexandros Makriyannis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Chemistry and Chemical Biology, College of Science, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Diomedes E Logothetis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Chemistry and Chemical Biology, College of Science, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Prokopios Magiatis
- Laboratory of Pharmacognosy and Natural Products Chemistry, Department of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimioupolis Zografou, 15771 Athens, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Calcaterra A, Cianfoni G, Tortora C, Manetto S, Grassi G, Botta B, Gasparrini F, Mazzoccanti G, Appendino G. Natural Cannabichromene (CBC) Shows Distinct Scalemicity Grades and Enantiomeric Dominance in Cannabis sativa Strains. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2023; 86:909-914. [PMID: 37023389 PMCID: PMC10152484 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.2c01139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Cannabichromene (CBC, 1a) occurs in Cannabis (Cannabis sativa) as a scalemate having a composition that is strain-dependent in terms of both enantiomeric excess and enantiomeric dominance. In the present work, the chirality of CBC (1a), a noncrystalline compound, was shown not to be significantly affected by standard conditions of isolation and purification, and enantiomeric self-disproportionation effects were minimized by carrying out the chiral analysis on crude fractions rather than on purified products. A genetic basis for the different enantiomeric state of CBC in Cannabis therefore seems to exist, implying that the chirality status of natural CBC (1a) in the plant is associated with the differential expression of CBCA-synthase isoforms and/or of associated directing proteins with antipodal enantiospecificity. The biological profile of both enantiomers of CBC should therefore be investigated independently to assess the contribution of this compound to the activity of Cannabis preparations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Calcaterra
- Dipartimento di Chimica e Tecnologie del Farmaco, Sapienza Università di Roma, p.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriele Cianfoni
- Dipartimento di Chimica e Tecnologie del Farmaco, Sapienza Università di Roma, p.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Center for Life Nano- and Neuroscience at Sapienza, Italian Institute of Technology, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Carola Tortora
- Dipartimento di Chimica e Tecnologie del Farmaco, Sapienza Università di Roma, p.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Simone Manetto
- Dipartimento di Chimica e Tecnologie del Farmaco, Sapienza Università di Roma, p.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Giulio Grassi
- Canvasalus Research, Via Cristoforo Colombo 64, 35043 Monselice (PD), Italy
| | - Bruno Botta
- Dipartimento di Chimica e Tecnologie del Farmaco, Sapienza Università di Roma, p.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Gasparrini
- Dipartimento di Chimica e Tecnologie del Farmaco, Sapienza Università di Roma, p.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Mazzoccanti
- Dipartimento di Chimica e Tecnologie del Farmaco, Sapienza Università di Roma, p.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Appendino
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Largo Donegani 2, 28100 Novara, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Maioli C, Mattoteia D, Amin HIM, Minassi A, Caprioglio D. Cannabinol: History, Syntheses, and Biological Profile of the Greatest "Minor" Cannabinoid. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 11:2896. [PMID: 36365350 PMCID: PMC9658060 DOI: 10.3390/plants11212896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.) is an outstanding source of bioactive natural products, with more than 150 different phytocannabinoids isolated throughout the decades; however, studies of their bioactivity have historically concentrated on the so-called "big four" [∆9-THC (1a), CBD (2a), CBG (3a) and CBC (4a)]. Among the remaining products, which have traditionally been referred to as "minor cannabinoids", cannabinol (CBN, 5a) stands out for its important repercussions and implications on the global scientific landscape. Throughout this review, we will describe why CBN (5a) deserves a prominent place within the so-called "cannabinome", providing an overview on its history, the syntheses developed, and its bioactivity, highlighting its promising pharmacological potential and the significant impact that the study of its chemistry had on the development of new synthetic methodologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Maioli
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, Largo Guido Donegani 2/3, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Daiana Mattoteia
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, Largo Guido Donegani 2/3, 28100 Novara, Italy
- The Armenise-Harvard Laboratory of Structural Biology, Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Hawraz Ibrahim M. Amin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, Largo Guido Donegani 2/3, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Alberto Minassi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, Largo Guido Donegani 2/3, 28100 Novara, Italy
- PlantaChem SRLS, Via Canobio 4/6, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Diego Caprioglio
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, Largo Guido Donegani 2/3, 28100 Novara, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Minor Phytocannabinoids: A Misleading Name but a Promising Opportunity for Biomedical Research. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12081084. [PMID: 36008978 PMCID: PMC9406211 DOI: 10.3390/biom12081084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the very large number of phytocannabinoids isolated from Cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.), bioactivity studies have long remained focused on the so called “Big Four” [Δ9-THC (1), CBD (2), CBG (3) and CBC (4)] because of their earlier characterization and relatively easy availability via isolation and/or synthesis. Bioactivity information on the chemical space associated with the remaining part of the cannabinome, a set of ca 150 compounds traditionally referred to as “minor phytocannabinoids”, is scarce and patchy, yet promising in terms of pharmacological potential. According to their advancement stage, we sorted the bioactivity data available on these compounds, better referred to as the “dark cannabinome”, into categories: discovery (in vitro phenotypical and biochemical assays), preclinical (animal models), and clinical. Strategies to overcome the availability issues associated with minor phytocannabinoids are discussed, as well as the still unmet challenges facing their development as mainstream drugs.
Collapse
|
10
|
Mass Spectrometry-Based Metabolomics of Phytocannabinoids from Non-Cannabis Plant Origins. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27103301. [PMID: 35630777 PMCID: PMC9147514 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27103301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Phytocannabinoids are isoprenylated resorcinyl polyketides produced mostly in glandular trichomes of Cannabis sativa L. These discoveries led to the identification of cannabinoid receptors, which modulate psychotropic and pharmacological reactions and are found primarily in the human central nervous system. As a result of the biogenetic process, aliphatic ketide phytocannabinoids are exclusively found in the cannabis species and have a limited natural distribution, whereas phenethyl-type phytocannabinoids are present in higher plants, liverworts, and fungi. The development of cannabinomics has uncovered evidence of new sources containing various phytocannabinoid derivatives. Phytocannabinoids have been isolated as artifacts from their carboxylated forms (pre-cannabinoids or acidic cannabinoids) from plant sources. In this review, the overview of the phytocannabinoid biosynthesis is presented. Different non-cannabis plant sources are described either from those belonging to the angiosperm species and bryophytes, together with their metabolomic structures. Lastly, we discuss the legal framework for the ingestion of these biological materials which currently receive the attention as a legal high.
Collapse
|
11
|
Schafroth MA, Mazzoccanti G, Reynoso-Moreno I, Erni R, Pollastro F, Caprioglio D, Botta B, Allegrone G, Grassi G, Chicca A, Gasparrini F, Gertsch J, Carreira EM, Appendino G. Δ 9- cis-Tetrahydrocannabinol: Natural Occurrence, Chirality, and Pharmacology. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2021; 84:2502-2510. [PMID: 34304557 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.1c00513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The cis-stereoisomers of Δ9-THC [(-)-3 and (+)-3] were identified and quantified in a series of low-THC-containing varieties of Cannabis sativa registered in Europe as fiber hemp and in research accessions of cannabis. While Δ9-cis-THC (3) occurs in cannabis fiber hemp in the concentration range of (-)-Δ9-trans-THC [(-)-1], it was undetectable in a sample of high-THC-containing medicinal cannabis. Natural Δ9-cis-THC (3) is scalemic (ca. 80-90% enantiomeric purity), and the absolute configuration of the major enantiomer was established as 6aS,10aR [(-)-3] by chiral chromatographic comparison with a sample available by asymmetric synthesis. The major enantiomer, (-)-Δ9-cis-THC [(-)-3], was characterized as a partial cannabinoid agonist in vitro and elicited a full tetrad response in mice at 50 mg/kg doses. The current legal discrimination between narcotic and non-narcotic cannabis varieties centers on the contents of "Δ9-THC and isomers" and needs therefore revision, or at least a more specific wording, to account for the presence of Δ9-cis-THCs [(+)-3 and (-)-3] in cannabis fiber hemp varieties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael A Schafroth
- Laboratorium für Organische Chemie, ETH Zürich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 3, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Giulia Mazzoccanti
- Dipartimento di Chimica e Tecnologie del Farmaco, Sapienza Università di Roma, p.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Ines Reynoso-Moreno
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Bern, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Reto Erni
- Laboratorium für Organische Chemie, ETH Zürich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 3, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Federica Pollastro
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Largo Donegani 2, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Diego Caprioglio
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Largo Donegani 2, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Bruno Botta
- Dipartimento di Chimica e Tecnologie del Farmaco, Sapienza Università di Roma, p.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Gianna Allegrone
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Largo Donegani 2, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Giulio Grassi
- Canvasalus Research, Via Cristoforo Colombo 64, 35043 Monselice (PD), Italy
| | - Andrea Chicca
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Bern, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Francesco Gasparrini
- Dipartimento di Chimica e Tecnologie del Farmaco, Sapienza Università di Roma, p.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Jürg Gertsch
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Bern, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Erick M Carreira
- Laboratorium für Organische Chemie, ETH Zürich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 3, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Giovanni Appendino
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Largo Donegani 2, 28100 Novara, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Abstract
Cannabis sativa L. plant is currently attracting increasing interest in cosmetics and dermatology. In this review, the biologically active compounds of hemp are discussed. Particularly the complex interactions of cannabinoids with the endocannabinoid system of the skin to treat various conditions (such as acne, allergic contact dermatitis, melanoma, and psoriasis) with clinical data. Moreover, the properties of some cannabinoids make them candidates as cosmetic actives for certain skin types. Hemp seed oil and its minor bioactive compounds such as terpenes, flavonoids, carotenoids, and phytosterols are also discussed for their added value in cosmetic formulation.
Collapse
|
13
|
The Combined Effect of Branching and Elongation on the Bioactivity Profile of Phytocannabinoids. Part I: Thermo-TRPs. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9081070. [PMID: 34440274 PMCID: PMC8391922 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9081070] [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: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The affinity of cannabinoids for their CB1 and CB2 metabotropic receptors is dramatically affected by a combination of α-branching and elongation of their alkyl substituent, a maneuver exemplified by the n-pentyl -> α,α-dimethylheptyl (DMH) swap. The effect of this change on other cannabinoid end-points is still unknown, an observation surprising since thermo-TRPs are targeted by phytocannabinoids with often sub-micromolar affinity. To fill this gap, the α,α-dimethylheptyl analogues of the five major phytocannabinoids [CBD (1a), Δ8-THC (6a), CBG (7a), CBC (8a) and CBN (9a)] were prepared by total synthesis, and their activity on thermo-TRPs (TRPV1-4, TRPM8, and TRPA1) was compared with that of one of their natural analogues. Surprisingly, the DMH chain promoted a shift in the selectivity toward TRPA1, a target involved in pain and inflammatory diseases, in all investigated compounds. A comparative study of the putative binding modes at TRPA1 between DMH-CBC (8b), the most active compound within the series, and CBC (8a) was carried out by molecular docking, allowing the rationalization of their activity in terms of structure–activity relationships. Taken together, these observations qualify DMH-CBC (8b) as a non-covalent TRPA1-selective cannabinoid lead that is worthy of additional investigation as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent.
Collapse
|
14
|
Arif Y, Singh P, Bajguz A, Hayat S. Phytocannabinoids Biosynthesis in Angiosperms, Fungi, and Liverworts and Their Versatile Role. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 10:1307. [PMID: 34203173 PMCID: PMC8309193 DOI: 10.3390/plants10071307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Phytocannabinoids are a structurally diverse class of bioactive naturally occurring compounds found in angiosperms, fungi, and liverworts and produced in several plant organs such as the flower and glandular trichrome of Cannabis sativa, the scales in Rhododendron, and oil bodies of liverworts such as Radula species; they show a diverse role in humans and plants. Moreover, phytocannabinoids are prenylated polyketides, i.e., terpenophenolics, which are derived from isoprenoid and fatty acid precursors. Additionally, targeted productions of active phytocannabinoids have beneficial properties via the genes involved and their expression in a heterologous host. Bioactive compounds show a remarkable non-hallucinogenic biological property that is determined by the variable nature of the side chain and prenyl group defined by the enzymes involved in their biosynthesis. Phytocannabinoids possess therapeutic, antibacterial, and antimicrobial properties; thus, they are used in treating several human diseases. This review gives the latest knowledge on their role in the amelioration of abiotic (heat, cold, and radiation) stress in plants. It also aims to provide synthetic and biotechnological approaches based on combinatorial biochemical and protein engineering to synthesize phytocannabinoids with enhanced properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yamshi Arif
- Department of Botany, Plant Physiology Section, Faculty of Life Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, India; (Y.A.); (P.S.); (S.H.)
| | - Priyanka Singh
- Department of Botany, Plant Physiology Section, Faculty of Life Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, India; (Y.A.); (P.S.); (S.H.)
| | - Andrzej Bajguz
- Department of Biology and Plant Ecology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bialystok, Ciolkowskiego 1J, 15-245 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Shamsul Hayat
- Department of Botany, Plant Physiology Section, Faculty of Life Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, India; (Y.A.); (P.S.); (S.H.)
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Agua AR, Barr PJ, Marlowe CK, Pirrung MC. Cannabichromene Racemization and Absolute Stereochemistry Based on a Cannabicyclol Analog. J Org Chem 2021; 86:8036-8040. [PMID: 34078070 DOI: 10.1021/acs.joc.1c00451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Cannabichromene (CBC) is unusual among cannabinoids in having been described as both a racemic and a scalemic compound from natural Cannabis sources. Several explanations are available for this circumstance, including facile racemization. Cannabichromene was resolved chromatographically, and the enantiomer matching CBC from local Cannabis was identified. To preclude racemization, CBC was converted to cannabicyclol for further stereochemical analysis. This permitted the (R) absolute stereochemistry to be assigned to natural CBC based on chiroptical data for related natural products and the absolute configuration of a cannabicyclol analog determined by X-ray crystallography. The racemization of CBC was found to be rather slow in the laboratory, but handling practices for natural cannabis products can be inferred to promote the process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alon R Agua
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Philip J Barr
- BayMedica, 458 Carlton Court, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Charles K Marlowe
- BayMedica, 458 Carlton Court, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Michael C Pirrung
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, United States.,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, California 92697, United States
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Cannabis-Derived Compounds Cannabichromene and Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol Interact and Exhibit Cytotoxic Activity against Urothelial Cell Carcinoma Correlated with Inhibition of Cell Migration and Cytoskeleton Organization. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26020465. [PMID: 33477303 PMCID: PMC7830447 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26020465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabis sativa contains more than 500 constituents, yet the anticancer properties of the vast majority of cannabis compounds remains unknown. We aimed to identify cannabis compounds and their combinations presenting cytotoxicity against bladder urothelial carcinoma (UC), the most common urinary system cancer. An XTT assay was used to determine cytotoxic activity of C. sativa extracts on T24 and HBT-9 cell lines. Extract chemical content was identified by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) was used to determine apoptosis and cell cycle, using stained F-actin and nuclei. Scratch and transwell assays were used to determine cell migration and invasion, respectively. Gene expression was determined by quantitative Polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The most active decarboxylated extract fraction (F7) of high-cannabidiol (CBD) C. sativa was found to contain cannabichromene (CBC) and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Synergistic interaction was demonstrated between CBC + THC whereas cannabinoid receptor (CB) type 1 and type 2 inverse agonists reduced cytotoxic activity. Treatments with CBC + THC or CBD led to cell cycle arrest and cell apoptosis. CBC + THC or CBD treatments inhibited cell migration and affected F-actin integrity. Identification of active plant ingredients (API) from cannabis that induce apoptosis and affect cell migration in UC cell lines forms a basis for pre-clinical trials for UC treatment.
Collapse
|
17
|
Franco GDRR, Smid S, Viegas C. Phytocannabinoids: General Aspects and Pharmacological Potential in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Curr Neuropharmacol 2021; 19:449-464. [PMID: 32691712 PMCID: PMC8206465 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x18666200720172624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last few years research into Cannabis and its constituent phytocannabinoids has burgeoned, particularly in the potential application of novel cannabis phytochemicals for the treatment of diverse illnesses related to neurodegeneration and dementia, including Alzheimer's (AD), Parkinson's (PD) and Huntington's disease (HD). To date, these neurological diseases have mostly relied on symptomatological management. However, with an aging population globally, the search for more efficient and disease-modifying treatments that could delay or mitigate disease progression is imperative. In this context, this review aims to present state of the art in the research with cannabinoids and novel cannabinoid-based drug candidates that have been emerged as novel promising alternatives for drug development and innovation in the therapeutics of a number of diseases, especially those related to CNS-disturbance and impairment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Cláudio Viegas
- Address correspondence to this author at the PeQuiM-Laboratory of Research in Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Alfenas, 37133-840, Brazil; Tel/Fax: +55 35 3701-1880; E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Golombek P, Müller M, Barthlott I, Sproll C, Lachenmeier DW. Conversion of Cannabidiol (CBD) into Psychotropic Cannabinoids Including Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): A Controversy in the Scientific Literature. TOXICS 2020; 8:E41. [PMID: 32503116 PMCID: PMC7357058 DOI: 10.3390/toxics8020041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a naturally occurring, non-psychotropic cannabinoid of the hemp plant Cannabis sativa L. and has been known to induce several physiological and pharmacological effects. While CBD is approved as a medicinal product subject to prescription, it is also widely sold over the counter (OTC) in the form of food supplements, cosmetics and electronic cigarette liquids. However, regulatory difficulties arise from its origin being a narcotic plant or its status as an unapproved novel food ingredient. Regarding the consumer safety of these OTC products, the question whether or not CBD might be degraded into psychotropic cannabinoids, most prominently tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), under in vivo conditions initiated an ongoing scientific debate. This feature review aims to summarize the current knowledge of CBD degradation processes, specifically the results of in vitro and in vivo studies. Additionally, the literature on psychotropic effects of cannabinoids was carefully studied with a focus on the degradants and metabolites of CBD, but data were found to be sparse. While the literature is contradictory, most studies suggest that CBD is not converted to psychotropic THC under in vivo conditions. Nevertheless, it is certain that CBD degrades to psychotropic products in acidic environments. Hence, the storage stability of commercial formulations requires more attention in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Dirk W. Lachenmeier
- Chemisches und Veterinäruntersuchungsamt (CVUA) Karlsruhe, Weissenburger Straße 3, 76187 Karlsruhe, Germany; (P.G.); (M.M.); (I.B.); (C.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Caprioglio D, Mattoteia D, Minassi A, Pollastro F, Lopatriello A, Muňoz E, Taglialatela-Scafati O, Appendino G. One-Pot Total Synthesis of Cannabinol via Iodine-Mediated Deconstructive Annulation. Org Lett 2019; 21:6122-6125. [PMID: 31339327 DOI: 10.1021/acs.orglett.9b02258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The thermal degradation of cannabichromene (CBC, 3) is dominated by cationic reactions and not by the pericyclic rearrangements observed in model compounds. The rationalization of these differences inspired the development of a process that coupled, in an aromatization-driven single operational step, the condensation of citral and alkylresorciniols to homoprenylchromenes and their in situ deconstructive annulation to benzo[c]chromenes. This process was applied to a total synthesis of cannabinol (CBN, 5) and to its molecular editing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diego Caprioglio
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco , Università del Piemonte Orientale , Largo Donegani 2 , 28100 Novara , Italy
| | - Daiana Mattoteia
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco , Università del Piemonte Orientale , Largo Donegani 2 , 28100 Novara , Italy
| | - Alberto Minassi
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco , Università del Piemonte Orientale , Largo Donegani 2 , 28100 Novara , Italy
| | - Federica Pollastro
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco , Università del Piemonte Orientale , Largo Donegani 2 , 28100 Novara , Italy
| | - Annalisa Lopatriello
- Dipartimento di Farmacia , Università di Napoli Federico II , Via Montesano 49 , 80131 Napoli , Italy
| | - Eduardo Muňoz
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba , University of Córdoba , Avda Menéndez Pidal s/n , 14004 Córdoba , Spain
| | | | - Giovanni Appendino
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco , Università del Piemonte Orientale , Largo Donegani 2 , 28100 Novara , Italy
| |
Collapse
|