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Dallabrida KG, de Oliveira Bender JM, Chade ES, Rodrigues N, Sampaio TB. Endocannabinoid System Changes throughout Life: Implications and Therapeutic Potential for Autism, ADHD, and Alzheimer's Disease. Brain Sci 2024; 14:592. [PMID: 38928592 PMCID: PMC11202267 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14060592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system has been linked to various physiological and pathological processes, because it plays a neuromodulator role in the central nervous system. In this sense, cannabinoids have been used off-label for neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHA), as well as in Alzheimer's disease (AD), a more prevalent neurodegenerative disease. Thus, this study aims, through a comprehensive literature review, to arrive at a better understanding of the impact of cannabinoids in the therapeutic treatment of patients with ASD, ADHD, and Alzheimer's disease (AD). Overall, cannabis products rich in CBD displayed a higher therapeutic potential for ASD children, while cannabis products rich in THC have been tested more for AD therapy. For ADHD, the clinical studies are incipient and inconclusive, but promising. In general, the main limitations of the clinical studies are the lack of standardization of the cannabis-based products consumed by the participants, a lack of scientific rigor, and the small number of participants.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ellen Schavarski Chade
- Department of Pharmacy, State University of Centro Oeste, Guarapuava 85040-167, PR, Brazil
| | - Nathalia Rodrigues
- Department of Medicine, State University of Centro Oeste, Guarapuava 85040-167, PR, Brazil
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Stanciu GD, Ababei DC, Solcan C, Uritu CM, Craciun VC, Pricope CV, Szilagyi A, Tamba BI. Exploring Cannabinoids with Enhanced Binding Affinity for Targeting the Expanded Endocannabinoid System: A Promising Therapeutic Strategy for Alzheimer's Disease Treatment. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:530. [PMID: 38675490 PMCID: PMC11053678 DOI: 10.3390/ph17040530] [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: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite decades of rigorous research and numerous clinical trials, Alzheimer's disease (AD) stands as a notable healthcare challenge of this century, with effective therapeutic solutions remaining elusive. Recently, the endocannabinoid system (ECS) has emerged as an essential therapeutic target due to its regulatory role in different physiological processes, such as neuroprotection, modulation of inflammation, and synaptic plasticity. This aligns with previous research showing that cannabinoid receptor ligands have the potential to trigger the functional structure of neuronal and brain networks, potentially impacting memory processing. Therefore, our study aims to assess the effects of prolonged, intermittent exposure (over 90 days) to JWH-133 (0.2 mg/kg) and an EU-GMP certified Cannabis sativa L. (Cannabixir® Medium Flos, 2.5 mg/kg) on recognition memory, as well as their influence on brain metabolism and modulation of the expanded endocannabinoid system in APP/PS1 mice. Chronic therapy with cannabinoid receptor ligands resulted in reduced anxiety-like behavior and partially reversed the cognitive deficits. Additionally, a reduction was observed in both the number and size of Aβ plaque deposits, along with decreased cerebral glucose metabolism, as well as a decline in the expression of mTOR and CB2 receptors. Furthermore, the study revealed enlarged astrocytes and enhanced expression of M1 mAChR in mice subjected to cannabinoid treatment. Our findings highlight the pivotal involvement of the extended endocannabinoid system in cognitive decline and pathological aspects associated with AD, presenting essential preclinical evidence to support the continued exploration and assessment of cannabinoid receptor ligands for AD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Dumitrita Stanciu
- Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine “Prof. Ostin C. Mungiu”—CEMEX, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (G.D.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Daniela-Carmen Ababei
- Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine “Prof. Ostin C. Mungiu”—CEMEX, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (G.D.S.); (A.S.)
- Pharmacodynamics and Clinical Pharmacy Department, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Carmen Solcan
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, “Ion Ionescu de la Brad” University of Life Sciences, 700490 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Cristina-Mariana Uritu
- Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine “Prof. Ostin C. Mungiu”—CEMEX, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (G.D.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Vlad-Constantin Craciun
- Department of Computer Science, “Alexandru Ioan Cuza” University of Iasi, 700506 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Cosmin-Vasilica Pricope
- Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine “Prof. Ostin C. Mungiu”—CEMEX, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (G.D.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Andrei Szilagyi
- Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine “Prof. Ostin C. Mungiu”—CEMEX, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (G.D.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Bogdan-Ionel Tamba
- Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine “Prof. Ostin C. Mungiu”—CEMEX, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (G.D.S.); (A.S.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Algesiology, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
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Zhang R, He X, Cheng J, Zhang X, Han C, Liu Y, Chen P, Wang Y. (m) RVD-hemopressin (α) Ameliorated Oxidative Stress, Apoptosis and Damage to the BDNF/TrkB/Akt Pathway Induced by Scopolamine in HT22 Cells. Neurotox Res 2023; 41:627-637. [PMID: 37971633 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-023-00677-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Dysfunction in the cholinergic system and oxidative stress are closely related and play roles in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Scopolamine (Scop), which is commonly used to induce cholinergic system damage in cells and animals, also evokes oxidative stress. Our previous study indicated that the peptide (m) RVD-hemopressin (RVD) reversed the memory-impairing effect of Scop in mice by activating cannabinoid receptor 1 (CBR1), but the mechanism was unclear. In this study, we found that RVD inhibited the oxidative stress, apoptosis, decreased cell viability and downregulation of synapse-associated proteins induced by Scop in HT22 cells. The effect was associated with the BDNF/TrkB/Akt pathway, and the effects of RVD outlined above could be blocked by an antagonist of CBR1. These results suggest that RVD may be a potential drug candidate for disorders associated with damage to the cholinergic system and oxidative stress, such as AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruisan Zhang
- Xi'an Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microorganism and Tumor Immunity, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, 710021, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Science, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, 710021, China
| | - Xinliang He
- Xi'an Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microorganism and Tumor Immunity, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, 710021, China
| | - Jianghong Cheng
- Xi'an Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microorganism and Tumor Immunity, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, 710021, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Science, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, 710021, China
| | - Xiaofan Zhang
- Xi'an Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microorganism and Tumor Immunity, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, 710021, China
| | - Chen Han
- Xi'an Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microorganism and Tumor Immunity, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, 710021, China
| | - Yifan Liu
- Xi'an Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microorganism and Tumor Immunity, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, 710021, China
| | - Peng Chen
- Xi'an Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microorganism and Tumor Immunity, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, 710021, China.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Science, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, 710021, China.
| | - Yang Wang
- Xi'an Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microorganism and Tumor Immunity, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, 710021, China.
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Banach D, Ferrero P. Cannabis and pathologies in dogs and cats: first survey of phytocannabinoid use in veterinary medicine in Argentina. J Cannabis Res 2023; 5:39. [PMID: 38031164 PMCID: PMC10685507 DOI: 10.1186/s42238-023-00209-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In animals, the endocannabinoid system regulates multiple physiological functions. Like humans, animals respond to preparations containing phytocannabinoids for treating several conditions. In Argentina, laws 27350 and 27669 have expanded the possibility of studying beneficial and adverse effects. MATERIALS AND METHODS We conducted a web-based survey of Argentinian Cannabis Veterinarians to make a situational diagnosis on the number of veterinary medicine professionals currently developing treatments with cannabinoids focusing on dogs and cats. RESULTS: Among the species treated, 77% corresponded to dogs, while 21% were cats. Pain, seizures, and behavior disorders are the most prevalent conditions in dogs. Seven conditions and combinations were treated in cats. Full-spectrum cannabis extract derived from three different chemotypes was administered alone or with standard medication. Response to cannabis treatment was characterized based on improvement categorized according to clinical assessment. Both dogs and cats showed different improvement grades in clinical signs. CONCLUSION This analysis provides promising results regarding the medicinal use of cannabis in dogs and cats. Based on this analysis, we propose to expand the training of professionals, obtain quality preparations, and initiate controlled trials to reinforce knowledge of the use of cannabinoids in veterinary medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Banach
- Argentinian Cannabis Veterinarians, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
- RACME: Committee of Veterinary, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Paola Ferrero
- RACME: Committee of Veterinary, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
- Centro de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares "Dr. Horacio E Cingolani" Facultad de Ciencias Médicas CONICET/UNLP, La Plata, Argentina.
- Dto de Ciencias Básicas y Experimentales, UNNOBA, Pergamino, Argentina.
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Banerjee A, Hosie W, Terso Ventura AC, Razmkhah K, Bautista J, Beyene A, Binder J, Trant JF. Rational Design, Synthesis, and Characterization of a Solid Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol Nanoformulation Suitable for "Microdosing" Applications. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2023. [PMID: 37579068 DOI: 10.1089/can.2023.0084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: This article highlights the formulation of a solid Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)-loaded ingestible prepared from pure THC distillate. Methods: A THC-containing ethanol-assisted cannabinoid nanoemulsion (EACNE) was created using a solvent displacement technique. Subsequently, the EACNE was converted to a solid powdery material while still retaining its THC potency, a format uniquely suited for "microdosing" applications. Results: EACNE had an average lipid droplet size of ∼190 nm, with a polydispersity index of 0.15, and an average droplet ζ potential of -49±10 mV. The nanoemulsion (NE) was colloidally stable for at least 6 weeks, with no meaningful change in cannabinoid potency over the experimental period, as determined by high-performance liquid chromatography analysis. The EACNE remained stable when subjected to physical stresses such as heat, freeze/thaw cycles, carbonation, dilution to beverage concentrations, high sucrose concentrations, and a pH range between 5 and 8. The microencapsulated EACNE demonstrated limited free-flowing behavior but was freely redispersible in water without any visible phase separation. Conclusions: We report the design, creation, and characterization of a THC NE generated without the use of specialized equipment, such as a microfluidizer or a high-pressure homogenizer. This emulsion could readily be converted to a water-redispersible powder. This embodiment is particularly suited for THC "microdosing," a practice that might decouple the health benefits of THC from its psychotropic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhinandan Banerjee
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
| | - William Hosie
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ana Carolina Terso Ventura
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pharmacy, Universidade Estadual de Ponta Grossa, Parana, Brazil
| | - Kasra Razmkhah
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
| | - Joseph Bautista
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
| | - Afeson Beyene
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
| | - Justin Binder
- Peak Processing Solutions, Tecumseh, Ontario, Canada
| | - John F Trant
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
- WeSpark Health Institute, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
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