1
|
Mancini M, Calculli A, Di Martino D, Pisani A. Interplay between endocannabinoids and dopamine in the basal ganglia: implications for pain in Parkinson's disease. JOURNAL OF ANESTHESIA, ANALGESIA AND CRITICAL CARE 2024; 4:33. [PMID: 38745258 PMCID: PMC11094869 DOI: 10.1186/s44158-024-00169-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Pain is a complex phenomenon, and basal ganglia circuitry integrates many aspects of pain including motor, emotional, autonomic, and cognitive responses. Perturbations in dopamine (DA) signaling are implicated in the pathogenesis of chronic pain due to its involvement in both pain perception and relief. Several lines of evidence support the role of endocannabinoids (eCBs) in the regulation of many electrical and chemical aspects of DAergic neuron function including excitability, synaptic transmission, integration, and plasticity. However, eCBs play an even more intricate and intimate relationship with DA, as indicated by the adaptive changes in the eCB system following DA depletion. Although the precise mechanisms underlying DA control on pain are not fully understood, given the high correlation of eCB and DAergic system, it is conceivable that eCBs may be part of these mechanisms.In this brief survey, we describe the reciprocal regulation of eCB-DA neurotransmission with a particular emphasis on the actions of eCBs on ionic and synaptic signaling in DAergic neurons mediated by CB receptors or independent on them. Furthermore, we analyze the eCB-DA imbalance which characterizes pain condition and report the implications of reduced DA levels for pain in Parkinson's disease. Lastly, we discuss the potential of the eCB-DA system in the development of future therapeutic strategies for the treatment of pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Mancini
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, c/o Mondino Foundation Via Mondino, 2, Pavia, 27100, Italy
| | - Alessandra Calculli
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, c/o Mondino Foundation Via Mondino, 2, Pavia, 27100, Italy
- IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, 27100, Italy
| | - Deborah Di Martino
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, c/o Mondino Foundation Via Mondino, 2, Pavia, 27100, Italy
- IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, 27100, Italy
| | - Antonio Pisani
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, c/o Mondino Foundation Via Mondino, 2, Pavia, 27100, Italy.
- IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, 27100, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kanwal H, Sangineto M, Ciarnelli M, Castaldo P, Villani R, Romano AD, Serviddio G, Cassano T. Potential Therapeutic Targets to Modulate the Endocannabinoid System in Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4050. [PMID: 38612861 PMCID: PMC11012768 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25074050] [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: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), the most common neurodegenerative disease (NDD), is characterized by chronic neuronal cell death through progressive loss of cognitive function. Amyloid beta (Aβ) deposition, neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and hyperphosphorylated tau proteins are considered the hallmarks of AD pathology. Different therapeutic approaches approved by the Food and Drug Administration can only target a single altered pathway instead of various mechanisms that are involved in AD pathology, resulting in limited symptomatic relief and almost no effect in slowing down the disease progression. Growing evidence on modulating the components of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) proclaimed their neuroprotective effects by reducing neurochemical alterations and preventing cellular dysfunction. Recent studies on AD mouse models have reported that the inhibitors of the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoacylglycerol (MAGL), hydrolytic enzymes for N-arachidonoyl ethanolamine (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), respectively, might be promising candidates as therapeutical intervention. The FAAH and MAGL inhibitors alone or in combination seem to produce neuroprotection by reversing cognitive deficits along with Aβ-induced neuroinflammation, oxidative responses, and neuronal death, delaying AD progression. Their exact signaling mechanisms need to be elucidated for understanding the brain intrinsic repair mechanism. The aim of this review was to shed light on physiology and pathophysiology of AD and to summarize the experimental data on neuroprotective roles of FAAH and MAGL inhibitors. In this review, we have also included CB1R and CB2R modulators with their diverse roles to modulate ECS mediated responses such as anti-nociceptive, anxiolytic, and anti-inflammatory actions in AD. Future research would provide the directions in understanding the molecular mechanisms and development of new therapeutic interventions for the treatment of AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hina Kanwal
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (M.S.); (M.C.); (R.V.); (A.D.R.); (G.S.); (T.C.)
| | - Moris Sangineto
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (M.S.); (M.C.); (R.V.); (A.D.R.); (G.S.); (T.C.)
| | - Martina Ciarnelli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (M.S.); (M.C.); (R.V.); (A.D.R.); (G.S.); (T.C.)
| | - Pasqualina Castaldo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, School of Medicine, University “Politecnica delle Marche”, 60126 Ancona, Italy;
| | - Rosanna Villani
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (M.S.); (M.C.); (R.V.); (A.D.R.); (G.S.); (T.C.)
| | - Antonino Davide Romano
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (M.S.); (M.C.); (R.V.); (A.D.R.); (G.S.); (T.C.)
| | - Gaetano Serviddio
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (M.S.); (M.C.); (R.V.); (A.D.R.); (G.S.); (T.C.)
| | - Tommaso Cassano
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (M.S.); (M.C.); (R.V.); (A.D.R.); (G.S.); (T.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Augustin SM, Gracias AL, Luo G, Anumola RC, Lovinger DM. Striatonigral direct pathway 2-arachidonoylglycerol contributes to ethanol effects on synaptic transmission and behavior. Neuropsychopharmacology 2023; 48:1941-1951. [PMID: 37528221 PMCID: PMC10584873 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-023-01671-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
Endocannabinoids (eCB) and cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) play important roles in mediating short- and long-term synaptic plasticity in many brain regions involved in learning and memory, as well as the reinforcing effects of misused substances. Ethanol-induced plasticity and neuroadaptations predominantly occur in striatal direct pathway projecting medium spiny neurons (dMSNs). It is hypothesized that alterations in eCB neuromodulation may be involved. Recent work has implicated a role of eCB 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) in the rewarding effects of ethanol. However, there is insufficient research to answer which cellular subtype is responsible for mediating the 2-AG eCB signal that might be involved in the rewarding properties of ethanol and the mechanisms by which that occurs. To examine the role of dMSN mediated 2-AG signaling in ethanol related synaptic transmission and behaviors, we used conditional knockout mice in which the 2-AG-synthesizing enzyme diacylglycerol lipase α (DGLα) was deleted in dMSNs, DGLαD1-Cre+. Using acute brain slice photometry and a genetically encoded fluorescent eCB sensor, GRABeCB2.0, to assess real-time eCB mediated activity of sensorimotor inputs from primary motor cortices (M1/M2) to the dorsolateral striatum, we showed that DGLαD1-Cre+ mice had blunted evoked eCB-mediated presynaptic eCB signaling compared to littermate controls. Furthermore, ethanol induced eCB inhibition was significantly reduced in DGLαD1-Cre+ deficient mice. Additionally, there was a reduction in the duration of loss of righting reflex (LORR) to a high dose of ethanol in the DGLαD1-Cre+ mice compared to controls. These mice also showed a male-specific decrease in ethanol preference accompanied by an increase in ethanol-induced water consumption in a voluntary drinking paradigm. There were no significant differences observed in sucrose and quinine consumption between the genotypes. These findings reveal a novel role for dMSN mediated 2-AG signaling in modulating ethanol effects on presynaptic function and behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shana M Augustin
- Laboratory for Integrative Neuroscience, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
| | - Alexa L Gracias
- Laboratory for Integrative Neuroscience, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Guoxiang Luo
- Laboratory for Integrative Neuroscience, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Rishitha C Anumola
- Laboratory for Integrative Neuroscience, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - David M Lovinger
- Laboratory for Integrative Neuroscience, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Rathod SS, Agrawal YO, Nakhate KT, Meeran MFN, Ojha S, Goyal SN. Neuroinflammation in the Central Nervous System: Exploring the Evolving Influence of Endocannabinoid System. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2642. [PMID: 37893016 PMCID: PMC10604915 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11102642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is a complex biological process that typically originates as a protective response in the brain. This inflammatory process is triggered by the release of pro-inflammatory substances like cytokines, prostaglandins, and reactive oxygen and nitrogen species from stimulated endothelial and glial cells, including those with pro-inflammatory functions, in the outer regions. While neuronal inflammation is common in various central nervous system disorders, the specific inflammatory pathways linked with different immune-mediated cell types and the various factors influencing the blood-brain barrier significantly contribute to disease-specific characteristics. The endocannabinoid system consists of cannabinoid receptors, endogenous cannabinoids, and enzymes responsible for synthesizing and metabolizing endocannabinoids. The primary cannabinoid receptor is CB1, predominantly found in specific brain regions such as the brainstem, cerebellum, hippocampus, and cortex. The presence of CB2 receptors in certain brain components, like cultured cerebellar granular cells, Purkinje fibers, and microglia, as well as in the areas like the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, and cerebellum is also evidenced by immunoblotting assays, radioligand binding, and autoradiography studies. Both CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors exhibit noteworthy physiological responses and possess diverse neuromodulatory capabilities. This review primarily aims to outline the distribution of CB1 and CB2 receptors across different brain regions and explore their potential roles in regulating neuroinflammatory processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sumit S. Rathod
- Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal’s Institute of Pharmacy, Dhule 424001, Maharashtra, India; (S.S.R.); (Y.O.A.); (K.T.N.)
- Department of Pharmacy, R. C. Patel Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Shirpur 425405, Maharashtra, India
| | - Yogeeta O. Agrawal
- Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal’s Institute of Pharmacy, Dhule 424001, Maharashtra, India; (S.S.R.); (Y.O.A.); (K.T.N.)
| | - Kartik T. Nakhate
- Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal’s Institute of Pharmacy, Dhule 424001, Maharashtra, India; (S.S.R.); (Y.O.A.); (K.T.N.)
| | - M. F. Nagoor Meeran
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Shreesh Ojha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Sameer N. Goyal
- Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal’s Institute of Pharmacy, Dhule 424001, Maharashtra, India; (S.S.R.); (Y.O.A.); (K.T.N.)
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ferré S, Köfalvi A, Ciruela F, Justinova Z, Pistis M. Targeting corticostriatal transmission for the treatment of cannabinoid use disorder. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2023; 44:495-506. [PMID: 37331914 PMCID: PMC10524660 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2023.05.003] [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: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
It is generally assumed that the rewarding effects of cannabinoids are mediated by cannabinoid CB1 receptors (CB1Rs) the activation of which disinhibits dopaminergic neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA). However, this mechanism cannot fully explain novel results indicating that dopaminergic neurons also mediate the aversive effects of cannabinoids in rodents, and previous results showing that preferentially presynaptic adenosine A2A receptor (A2AR) antagonists counteract self-administration of Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in nonhuman primates (NHPs). Based on recent experiments in rodents and imaging studies in humans, we propose that the activation of frontal corticostriatal glutamatergic transmission constitutes an additional and necessary mechanism. Here, we review evidence supporting the involvement of cortical astrocytic CB1Rs in the activation of corticostriatal neurons and that A2AR receptor heteromers localized in striatal glutamatergic terminals mediate the counteracting effects of the presynaptic A2AR antagonists, constituting potential targets for the treatment of cannabinoid use disorder (CUD).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sergi Ferré
- Integrative Neurobiology Section, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Attila Köfalvi
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Francisco Ciruela
- Pharmacology Unit, Department of Pathology and Experimental Therapeutics, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Neuroscience Program, Bellvitge Institute for Biomedical Research, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Zuzana Justinova
- Division of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Biological Chemistry (PPBC), National Institute of General Medical Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Marco Pistis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy; Neuroscience Institute, Section of Cagliari, National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Cagliari, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
McReynolds JR, Wolf CP, Starck DM, Mathy JC, Schaps R, Krause LA, Hillard CJ, Mantsch JR. Role of mesolimbic cannabinoid receptor 1 in stress-driven increases in cocaine self-administration in male rats. Neuropsychopharmacology 2023; 48:1121-1132. [PMID: 37188846 PMCID: PMC10267161 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-023-01589-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Stress is prevalent in the lives of those with substance use disorders (SUDs) and influences SUD outcomes. Understanding the neurobiological mechanisms through which stress promotes drug use is important for the development of effective SUD interventions. We have developed a model wherein exposure to a stressor, uncontrollable electric footshock, daily at the time of cocaine self-administration escalates intake in male rats. Here we test the hypothesis that stress-induced escalation of cocaine self-administration requires the CB1 cannabinoid receptor. Male Sprague-Dawley rats self-administered cocaine (0.5 mg/kg/inf, i.v.) during 2-h sessions comprised of four 30-min self-administration components separated by 5-min shock sequences or 5-min shock-free periods for 14 days. Footshock produced an escalation of cocaine self-administration that persisted following shock removal. Systemic administration of the cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1R) antagonist/inverse agonist, AM251, attenuated cocaine intake only in rats with a history of stress. This effect was localized to the mesolimbic system, as intra-nucleus accumbens (NAc) shell and intra-ventral tegmental area (VTA) micro-infusions of AM251 attenuated cocaine intake only in stress-escalated rats. Cocaine self-administration, regardless of stress history, increased CB1R binding site density in the VTA, but not NAc shell. Following extinction, cocaine-primed reinstatement (10 mg/kg, ip) was increased in rats with prior footshock during self-administration. AM251 attenuated reinstatement only in rats with a stress history. Altogether, these data demonstrate that mesolimbic CB1Rs are required to escalate intake and heighten relapse susceptibility and suggest that repeated stress at the time of cocaine use regulates mesolimbic CB1R activity through a currently unknown mechanism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jayme R McReynolds
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, USA.
- Department of Pharmacology & Systems Physiology and Center for Addiction Research, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
| | - Colten P Wolf
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Dylan M Starck
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Jacob C Mathy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Rebecca Schaps
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Leslie A Krause
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology and Neuroscience Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Cecilia J Hillard
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology and Neuroscience Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - John R Mantsch
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, USA
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology and Neuroscience Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Chen G, Rahman S, Lutfy K. E-cigarettes may serve as a gateway to conventional cigarettes and other addictive drugs. ADVANCES IN DRUG AND ALCOHOL RESEARCH 2023; 3:11345. [PMID: 38389821 PMCID: PMC10880776 DOI: 10.3389/adar.2023.11345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are devices that allow the user to inhale nicotine in a vapor, and are primarily marketed as a means of quitting smoking and a less harmful replacement for traditional cigarette smoking. However, further research is needed to determine if vaping nicotine via e-cigarettes can be effective. Conversely, nicotine has been considered a gateway drug to alcohol and other addictive drugs and e-cigarettes containing nicotine may have the same effects. Previous reports have shown that e-cigarette use may open the gate for the use of other drugs including conventional cigarettes, cannabis, opioids, etc. The increasing prevalence of e-cigarettes, particularly among youth and adolescents in the last decade have led to an increase in the dual use of e-cigarettes with alcohol, cannabis, and other illicit drug use like heroin and 3-4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA). The advent of e-cigarettes as a device to self-administer addictive agents such as cocaine and synthetic cathinones may bring about additional adverse health effects associated with their concurrent use. This review aims to briefly describe e-cigarettes and their different generations, and their co-use with other addictive drugs as well as the use of the device as a tool to self-administer addictive drugs, such as cocaine, etc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Grace Chen
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA, United States
| | - Shafiqur Rahman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD, United States
| | - Kabirullah Lutfy
- College of Pharmacy, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Rodríguez-Manzo G, Canseco-Alba A. The endogenous cannabinoid system modulates male sexual behavior expression. Front Behav Neurosci 2023; 17:1198077. [PMID: 37324524 PMCID: PMC10264596 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2023.1198077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a key neuromodulatory role in the brain. Main features of endocannabinoids (eCBs) are that they are produced on demand, in response to enhanced neuronal activity, act as retrograde messengers, and participate in the induction of brain plasticity processes. Sexual activity is a motivated behavior and therefore, the mesolimbic dopaminergic system (MSL) plays a central role in the control of its appetitive component (drive to engage in copulation). In turn, copulation activates mesolimbic dopamine neurons and repeated copulation produces the continuous activation of the MSL system. Sustained sexual activity leads to the achievement of sexual satiety, which main outcome is the transient transformation of sexually active male rats into sexually inhibited animals. Thus, 24 h after copulation to satiety, the sexually satiated males exhibit a decreased sexual motivation and do not respond to the presence of a sexually receptive female with sexual activity. Interestingly, blockade of cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1R) during the copulation to satiety process, interferes with both the appearance of the long-lasting sexual inhibition and the decrease in sexual motivation in the sexually satiated males. This effect is reproduced when blocking CB1R at the ventral tegmental area evidencing the involvement of MSL eCBs in the induction of this sexual inhibitory state. Here we review the available evidence regarding the effects of cannabinoids, including exogenously administered eCBs, on male rodent sexual behavior of both sexually competent animals and rat sub populations spontaneously showing copulatory deficits, considered useful to model some human male sexual dysfunctions. We also include the effects of cannabis preparations on human male sexual activity. Finally, we review the role played by the ECS in the control of male sexual behavior expression with the aid of the sexual satiety phenomenon. Sexual satiety appears as a suitable model for the study of the relationship between eCB signaling, MSL synaptic plasticity and the modulation of male sexual motivation under physiological conditions that might be useful for the understanding of MSL functioning, eCB-mediated plasticity and their relationship with motivational processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Rodríguez-Manzo
- Departamento de Farmacobiología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados (Cinvestav-Sede Sur), Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Ana Canseco-Alba
- Laboratorio de Fisiología de la Formación Reticular, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Karimi-Haghighi S, Mahmoudi M, Sayehmiri F, Mozafari R, Haghparast A. Endocannabinoid system as a therapeutic target for psychostimulants relapse: A systematic review of preclinical studies. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 951:175669. [PMID: 36965745 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.175669] [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: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/27/2023]
Abstract
The mechanism behind the reinstament of psychostimulant, as a major obstacle in addiction treatment is not fully understood. Controversial data are available in the literature concerning the role of the endocannabinoid (eCB) system in regulating the relapse to psychostimulant addiction in preclinical studies. The current systematic review aims to evaluate eCB modulators' effect in the reinstatement of commonly abused psychostimulants, including cocaine, amphetamine, methamphetamine, and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine. By searching the PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases, studies were selected. Then the studies, quality was evaluated by the SYRCLE risk of bias tool. The results have still been limited to preclinical studies. Thirty-nine articles that employed self-administration and CPP as the most prevalent animal models of addiction were selected. This data indicates that cannabinoid receptor 1 antagonists and some cannabinoid receptor 2 agonists could suppress the reinstatement of cocaine and methamphetamine addiction in a dose-dependent manner. However, only AM251 was efficient to block the reinstatement of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine. In conclusion, cannabinoid receptor 1 antagonists and some cannabinoid receptor 2 agonists may have curative potential in the relapse of psychostimulant abuse. However, time, dose, and route of administration are crucial factors in their inhibitory impacts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saeideh Karimi-Haghighi
- Community Based Psychiatric Care Research Center, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Maedeh Mahmoudi
- Neurobiology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Sayehmiri
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Roghayeh Mozafari
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbas Haghparast
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; School of Cognitive Sciences, Institute for Research in Fundamental Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Basic Sciences, Iranian Academy of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
de Ceglia M, Micioni Di Bonaventura MV, Romano A, Friuli M, Micioni Di Bonaventura E, Gavito AL, Botticelli L, Gaetani S, de Fonseca FR, Cifani C. Anxiety associated with palatable food withdrawal is reversed by the selective FAAH inhibitor PF-3845: A regional analysis of the contribution of endocannabinoid signaling machinery. Int J Eat Disord 2023. [PMID: 36840536 DOI: 10.1002/eat.23917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Consumption of energy-dense palatable "comfort" food can alleviate stress and negative emotions, while abrupt withdrawal from a palatable diet can worsen these symptoms, causing difficulties with adherence to weight-loss diets. Currently, no pharmacological treatment is effective for obesity-related anxiety, so we investigated the endocannabinoid system (ECS), and specifically the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), as an interesting emerging target in this context because of its key role in the regulation of both energy homeostasis and emotional behavior. METHODS Rats were subjected to exposure and subsequent abstinence from a palatable cafeteria diet. During abstinence period, rats were treated with the selective FAAH inhibitor PF-3845 (10 mg/kg; intraperitoneal administration every other day). RESULTS Abstinent rats displayed an anxiogenic-like behavior and changes in the proteins of ECS signaling machinery in brain areas involved both in anxiety and food intake regulation. In particular, withdrawal caused a reduction of the expression of cannabinoid receptors in the nucleus accumbens and of enzymes diacylglycerol lipase alpha and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) in the amygdala. Pharmacological inhibition of FAAH exerted an anxiolytic-like effect in abstinent animals and increased both MAGL expression in amygdala and CB2 expression in prefrontal cortex. DISCUSSION Overall, our results suggest that emotional disturbances associated with dieting are coupled with region-specific alterations in the cerebral expression of the ECS and that the enhancement of the endocannabinoid signaling by FAAH inhibition might represent a novel pharmacological strategy for the treatment of anxiety related to abstinence from palatable food. PUBLIC SIGNIFICANCE The present study focused on evaluating the role of the endocannabinoid system in modulating withdrawal from naturally rewarding activities that have an impact on mood, such as feeding. The variations observed in the emotional behavior of abstinent rats was linked to neuroadaptations of the ECS in specific brain areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marialuisa de Ceglia
- UGC Salud Mental, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA), Universidad de Málaga-Hospital Universitario Regional de Málaga, Málaga, Spain.,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Adele Romano
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marzia Friuli
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Ana L Gavito
- UGC Salud Mental, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA), Universidad de Málaga-Hospital Universitario Regional de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Luca Botticelli
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Silvana Gaetani
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Fernando Rodríguez de Fonseca
- UGC Salud Mental, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA), Universidad de Málaga-Hospital Universitario Regional de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Carlo Cifani
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Acute toxic effects of new synthetic cannabinoid on brain: Neurobehavioral and Histological: Preclinical studies. Chem Biol Interact 2023; 370:110306. [PMID: 36528081 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2022.110306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The psychoactive effects of new synthetic cannabinoids (SCs), MDMB-4en-PINACA, are being marketed as a blend of herbs and spices. This study aims to determine the behavioral, neurochemical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical alterations associated with the acute toxicity of MDMB-4en-PINACA compounds. METHODS Adult male albino rats were administered various toxic doses of the drug (1.5, 3, and 6 mg/kg), and behavioral studies were conducted 2 and 24 h later; animals were then sacrificed. Histopathological and neurochemical examinations were performed. Two hours after intraperitoneal. RESULTS Intraperitoneal injection of MDMB-4en-PINACA, horizontal movement, the number of stops, and mobility ratio were significantly impaired, along with coordination and balance. In addition, it led to a decline in spatial learning and memory, and neurotransmitter concentrations decreased significantly in a dose-dependent manner. Further examination of the cerebral cortex and hippocampus histopathology revealed pathological degeneration of small pyramidal cells. CONCLUSION Thus, these findings revealed that MDMB-4en-PINACA interferes with hippocampal function and impairs cognitive performance, highlighting the cognitive risk associated with SC abuse.
Collapse
|
12
|
Niloy N, Hediyal TA, Vichitra C, Sonali S, Chidambaram SB, Gorantla VR, Mahalakshmi AM. Effect of Cannabis on Memory Consolidation, Learning and Retrieval and Its Current Legal Status in India: A Review. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13010162. [PMID: 36671547 PMCID: PMC9855787 DOI: 10.3390/biom13010162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis is one of the oldest crops grown, traditionally held religious attachments in various cultures for its medicinal use much before its introduction to Western medicine. Multiple preclinical and clinical investigations have explored the beneficial effects of cannabis in various neurocognitive and neurodegenerative diseases affecting the cognitive domains. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the major psychoactive component, is responsible for cognition-related deficits, while cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid, has been shown to elicit neuroprotective activity. In the present integrative review, the authors focus on the effects of cannabis on the different cognitive domains, including learning, consolidation, and retrieval. The present study is the first attempt in which significant focus has been imparted on all three aspects of cognition, thus linking to its usage. Furthermore, the investigators have also depicted the current legal position of cannabis in India and the requirement for reforms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nandi Niloy
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, SS Nagar, Mysore 570015, Karnataka, India
| | - Tousif Ahmed Hediyal
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, SS Nagar, Mysore 570015, Karnataka, India
- Centre for Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Central Animal Facility, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, SS Nagar, Mysore 570015, Karnataka, India
| | - Chandrasekaran Vichitra
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, SS Nagar, Mysore 570015, Karnataka, India
- Centre for Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Central Animal Facility, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, SS Nagar, Mysore 570015, Karnataka, India
| | - Sharma Sonali
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, SS Nagar, Mysore 570015, Karnataka, India
- Centre for Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Central Animal Facility, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, SS Nagar, Mysore 570015, Karnataka, India
| | - Saravana Babu Chidambaram
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, SS Nagar, Mysore 570015, Karnataka, India
- Centre for Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Central Animal Facility, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, SS Nagar, Mysore 570015, Karnataka, India
| | - Vasavi Rakesh Gorantla
- Department of Anatomical Science, St. George’s University, University Centre, St. Georges FZ818, Grenada
- Correspondence: (V.R.G.); (A.M.M.)
| | - Arehally M. Mahalakshmi
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, SS Nagar, Mysore 570015, Karnataka, India
- Centre for Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Central Animal Facility, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, SS Nagar, Mysore 570015, Karnataka, India
- Correspondence: (V.R.G.); (A.M.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Sitzia G, Abrahao KP, Liput D, Calandra GM, Lovinger DM. Distinct mechanisms of CB1 and GABA B receptor presynaptic modulation of striatal indirect pathway projections to mouse globus pallidus. J Physiol 2023; 601:195-209. [PMID: 36412169 PMCID: PMC10107704 DOI: 10.1113/jp283614] [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: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Presynaptic modulation is a fundamental process regulating synaptic transmission. Striatal indirect pathway projections originate from A2A-expressing spiny projection neurons (iSPNs), targeting the globus pallidus external segment (GPe) and control the firing of the tonically active GPe neurons via GABA release. It is unclear if and how the presynaptic G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), GABAB and CB1 receptors modulate iSPN-GPe projections. Here we used an optogenetic platform to study presynaptic Ca2+ and GABAergic transmission at iSPN projections, using a genetic strategy to express the calcium sensor GCaMP6f or the excitatory channelrhodopsin (hChR2) on iSPNs. We found that P/Q-type calcium channels are the primary voltage-gated Ca2+ channel (VGCC) subtype controlling presynaptic calcium and GABA release at iSPN-GPe projections. N-type and L-type VGCCs also contribute to GABA release at iSPN-GPe synapses. GABAB receptor activation resulted in a reversible inhibition of presynaptic Ca2+ transients (PreCaTs) and an inhibition of GABAergic transmission at iSPN-GPe synapses. CB1 receptor activation did not inhibit PreCaTs but inhibited GABAergic transmission at iSPN-GPe projections. CB1 effects on GABAergic transmission persisted in experiments where NaV and KV 1 were blocked, indicating a VGCC- and KV 1-independent presynaptic mechanism of action of CB1 receptors. Taken together, presynaptic modulation of iSPN-GPe projections by CB1 and GABAB receptors is mediated by distinct mechanisms. KEY POINTS: P/Q-type are the predominant voltage-gated Ca2+ channels controlling presynaptic Ca2+ and GABA release on the striatal indirect pathway projections. GABAB receptors modulate iSPN-GPe projections via a VGCC-dependent mechanism. CB1 receptors modulate iSPN-GPe projections via a VGCC-independent mechanism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Sitzia
- Laboratory for Integrative NeuroscienceNational Institute on Alcohol Abuse and AlcoholismUS National Institutes of HealthRockvilleMarylandUSA
- Molecular Neurophysiology LaboratoryDepartment of Physiology and PharmacologyKarolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden
| | - Karina Possa Abrahao
- Departamento de PsicobiologiaUniversidade Federal de São PauloSão PauloSao PauloBrazil
| | - Daniel Liput
- Laboratory for Integrative NeuroscienceNational Institute on Alcohol Abuse and AlcoholismUS National Institutes of HealthRockvilleMarylandUSA
| | - Gian Marco Calandra
- Institute for Stroke and Dementia ResearchLudwig‐Maximilians‐UniversitätMunichGermany
| | - David M. Lovinger
- Laboratory for Integrative NeuroscienceNational Institute on Alcohol Abuse and AlcoholismUS National Institutes of HealthRockvilleMarylandUSA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Gunasekera B, Davies C, Blest-Hopley G, Veronese M, Ramsey NF, Bossong MG, Radua J, Bhattacharyya S. Task-independent acute effects of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol on human brain function and its relationship with cannabinoid receptor gene expression: A neuroimaging meta-regression analysis. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 140:104801. [PMID: 35914625 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104801] [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: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The neurobiological mechanisms underlying the effects of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) remain unclear. Here, we examined the spatial acute effect of THC on human regional brain activation or blood flow (hereafter called 'activation signal') in a 'core' network of brain regions from 372 participants, tested using a within-subject repeated measures design under experimental conditions. We also investigated whether the neuromodulatory effects of THC are related to the local expression of the cannabinoid-type-1 (CB1R) and type-2 (CB2R) receptors. Finally, we investigated the dose-response relationship between THC and key brain substrates. These meta-analytic findings shed new light on the localisation of the effects of THC in the human brain, suggesting that THC has neuromodulatory effects in regions central to many cognitive tasks and processes, related to dose, with greater effects in regions with higher levels of CB1R expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brandon Gunasekera
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK
| | - Cathy Davies
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK
| | - Grace Blest-Hopley
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK
| | - Mattia Veronese
- Department of Neuroimaging, Centre for Neuroimaging Sciences, King's College London, UK; Department of Information Engineering, University of Padua, Italy
| | - Nick F Ramsey
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Matthijs G Bossong
- Department of Psychiatry, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Joaquim Radua
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), CIBERSAM, Barcelona, Spain; Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sagnik Bhattacharyya
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Cannabinoids—Perspectives for Individual Treatment in Selected Patients: Analysis of the Case Series. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10081862. [PMID: 36009411 PMCID: PMC9405173 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10081862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids can be successfully used in the treatment of many symptoms and diseases; however, most often they are not the drugs of first choice. They can be added to the primary therapy, which can improve its effectiveness, or be introduced as the basic treatment when the conventional methods have failed. Small clinical trials and case reports prove the benefits of applying medicinal cannabis in various indications; however, clinical trials in larger groups of patients are scarce and often controversial. Due to limited scientific evidence, it is essential to conduct further experimental trials. Understanding the role of endocannabinoids, as well as the composition of cannabis containing both phytocannabinoids and terpenes plays an important role in their clinical use. The clinical effects of cannabinoids depend, among other things, on the activity of the endocannabinoid system, the proportion of phytocannabinoids, such as Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), and the dosage used. The article discusses the role of phytocannabinoids and the potential of using them in different clinical cases in patients suffering from chronic pain, opioid dependence, depression and migraine, who did not respond to the conventional therapeutic methods. In each of the presented cases, the implementation of cannabinoids altered the course of the disease and resulted in symptom relief. Every decision to introduce cannabinoids to the treatment should be made individually with careful attention paid to details. Additionally, it is worth taking care of good clinical communication and education so that the implemented therapy is safe, effective and properly perceived by the patient.
Collapse
|
16
|
Augustin SM, Lovinger DM. Synaptic changes induced by cannabinoid drugs and cannabis use disorder. Neurobiol Dis 2022; 167:105670. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2022.105670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
|
17
|
Lee JH, Xue B, Chen Z, Sun Y. Neuronal GHS-R Differentially Modulates Feeding Patterns under Normal and Obesogenic Conditions. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12020293. [PMID: 35204795 PMCID: PMC8961776 DOI: 10.3390/biom12020293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The orexigenic hormone ghrelin increases food intake and promotes obesity through its receptor, growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R). We previously reported two neuron-specific GHS-R knockout mouse lines, namely pan-neuronal deletion by Syn1-cre and hypothalamic deletion by AgRP-cre, exhibiting differential diet-dependent effects on body weight. GHS-R deficiency in neurons elicited less pronounced metabolic effects under regular diet (RD) than high fat diet (HFD). While there was no difference in total food intake of HFD in either mouse line, Syn1-cre; Ghsrf/f mice showed much greater anti-obesity effect than that of AgRP-cre; Ghsrf/f mice. Meal feeding pattern is known to have a major impact on energy homeostasis and obesity development. Here, we investigated the feeding behaviors of these two neuron-specific GHS-R knockout mice under RD and HFD feeding, by assessing meal number, meal size, meal duration, and feeding frequency. Under the normal diet, RD-fed Syn1-cre; Ghsrf/f mice showed a decreased meal size in dark phase, while RD-fed AgRP-cre; Ghsrf/f mice showed an increased meal duration in dark phase. Under the obesogenic diet, HFD-fed Syn1-cre; Ghsrf/f mice displayed reduced meal numbers in light phase and increased feeding in both light and dark phases, whereas HFD-fed AgRP-cre; Ghsrf/f mice showed a decreased meal duration in the light phase only. Consistently, the expression of neuropeptides (Neuropeptide Y and Orexin) was increased in the hypothalamus of RD-fed Syn1-cre; Ghsrf/f mice, whereas the expression of cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) was increased in the hypothalamus of HFD fed Syn1-cre; Ghsrf/f mice. Overall, feeding pattern changes were more pronounced in Syn1-cre; Ghsrf/f mice than that in AgRP-cre; Ghsrf/f mice, and HFD elicited greater alteration than RD. While AgRP-cre; Ghsrf/f mice consumed HFD meals faster during the day (showing shorter meal duration), Syn1-cre; Ghsrf/f mice ate few HFD meals during the light phase and ate slowly throughout the day (showing longer meal duration in both phases). Our findings reveal that neuronal GHS-R regulates energy homeostasis by altering feeding patterns, and differentially modulates feeding patterns in a site- and diet-dependent manner. The distinctive data in these two mouse lines also suggest that eating slowly during the optimal feeding period (dark phase for mice) may be beneficial in combating obesity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jong Han Lee
- Department of Marine Bio and Medical Science, Hanseo University, Seosan 31962, Korea;
- USDA/ARS Children’s Nutrition Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Bingzhong Xue
- Department of Biology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA;
| | - Zheng Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Yuxiang Sun
- USDA/ARS Children’s Nutrition Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Nutrition, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 7743, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-979-862-9143
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Soti M, Ranjbar H, Kohlmeier KA, Shabani M. Parkinson's disease related alterations in cannabinoid transmission. Brain Res Bull 2021; 178:82-96. [PMID: 34808322 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2021.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by the progressive loss of dopaminergic (DAergic) neurons of the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) by neurodegeneration. Recent findings in animal models of PD propose tonic inhibition of the remaining DA neurons through GABA release from reactive glial cells. Movement dysfunctions could be ameliorated by promotion of activity in dormant DA cells. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is extensively present in basal ganglia (BG) and is known as an indirect modulator of DAergic neurotransmission, thus drugs designed to target this system have shown promising therapeutic potential in PD patients. Interestingly, down/up-regulation of cannabinoid receptors (CBRs) varies across the different stages of PD, suggesting that some of the motor/ non-motor deficits may be related to changes in CBRs. Determination of the profile of changes of these receptors across the different stages of PD as well as their neural distribution within the BG could improve understanding of PD and identify pathways important in disease pathobiology. In this review, we focus on temporal and spatial alterations of CBRs during PD in the BG. At present, as inconclusive, but suggestive results have been obtained, future investigations should be conducted to extend preclinical studies examining CBRs changes within each stage in controlled clinical trials in order to determine the potential of targeting CBRs in management of PD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monavareh Soti
- Neuroscience Research Center, Neuropharmacology Institute, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Hoda Ranjbar
- Neuroscience Research Center, Neuropharmacology Institute, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Kristi A Kohlmeier
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Mohammad Shabani
- Neuroscience Research Center, Neuropharmacology Institute, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Roberts BZ, Minassian A, Halberstadt AL, He YV, Chatha M, Geyer MA, Grant I, Young JW. HIV Transgenic Rats Demonstrate Impaired Sensorimotor Gating But Are Insensitive to Cannabinoid (Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol)-Induced Deficits. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2021; 24:894-906. [PMID: 34338765 PMCID: PMC8598295 DOI: 10.1093/ijnp/pyab053] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND) is commonly observed in persons living with HIV (PWH) and is characterized by cognitive deficits implicating disruptions of fronto-striatal neurocircuitry. Such circuitry is also susceptible to alteration by cannabis and other drugs of abuse. PWH use cannabis at much higher rates than the general population, thus prioritizing the characterization of any interactions between HIV and cannabinoids on cognitively relevant systems. Prepulse inhibition (PPI) of the startle response, the process by which the motor response to a startling stimulus is attenuated by perception of a preceding non-startling stimulus, is an operational assay of fronto-striatal circuit integrity that is translatable across species. PPI is reduced in PWH. The HIV transgenic (HIVtg) rat model of HIV infection mimics numerous aspects of HAND, although to date the PPI deficit observed in PWH has yet to be fully recreated in animals. METHODS PPI was measured in male and female HIVtg rats and wild-type controls following acute, nonconcurrent treatment with the primary constituents of cannabis: Δ 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC; 1 and 3 mg/kg, s.c.) and cannabidiol (1, 10, and 30 mg/kg, i.p.). RESULTS HIVtg rats exhibited a significant PPI deficit relative to wild-type controls. THC reduced PPI in controls but not HIVtg rats. Cannabidiol exerted only minor, genotype-independent effects on PPI. CONCLUSIONS HIVtg rats exhibit a relative insensitivity to the deleterious effects of THC on the fronto-striatal function reflected by PPI, which may partially explain the higher rates of cannabis use among PWH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Z Roberts
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Arpi Minassian
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, California, USA,VA Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, Veterans Administration San Diego HealthCare System, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Adam L Halberstadt
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, California, USA,VISN-22 Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Yinong V He
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Muhammad Chatha
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Mark A Geyer
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, California, USA,VISN-22 Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Igor Grant
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Jared W Young
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, California, USA,VISN-22 Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA,Correspondence: Jared W. Young, PhD, Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive MC 0804, La Jolla, CA 92093-0804, USA ()
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Marszalek-Grabska M, Smaga I, Surowka P, Grochecki P, Slowik T, Filip M, Kotlinska JH. Memantine Prevents the WIN 55,212-2 Evoked Cross-Priming of Ethanol-Induced Conditioned Place Preference (CPP). Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22157940. [PMID: 34360704 PMCID: PMC8348856 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22157940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The activation of the endocannabinoid system controls the release of many neurotransmitters involved in the brain reward pathways, including glutamate. Both endocannabinoid and glutamate systems are crucial for alcohol relapse. In the present study, we hypothesize that N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) glutamate receptors regulate the ability of a priming dose of WIN 55,212-2 to cross-reinstate ethanol-induced conditioned place preference (CPP). To test this hypothesis, ethanol-induced (1.0 g/kg, 10% w/v, i.p.) CPP (unbiased method) was established using male adult Wistar rats. After CPP extinction, one group of animals received WIN 55,212-2 (1.0 and 2.0 mg/kg, i.p.), the cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) agonist, or ethanol, and the other group received memantine (3.0 or 10 mg/kg, i.p.), the NMDA antagonist and WIN 55,212-2 on the reinstatement day. Our results showed that a priming injection of WIN 55,212-2 (2.0 mg/kg, i.p.) reinstated (cross-reinstated) ethanol-induced CPP with similar efficacy to ethanol. Memantine (3.0 or 10 mg/kg, i.p.) pretreatment blocked this WIN 55,212-2 effect. Furthermore, our experiments indicated that ethanol withdrawal (7 days withdrawal after 10 days ethanol administration) down-regulated the CNR1 (encoding CB1), GRIN1/2A (encoding GluN1 and GluN2A subunit of the NMDA receptor) genes expression in the prefrontal cortex and dorsal striatum, but up-regulated these in the hippocampus, confirming the involvement of these receptors in ethanol rewarding effects. Thus, our results show that the endocannabinoid system is involved in the motivational properties of ethanol, and glutamate may control cannabinoid induced relapse into ethanol seeking behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marta Marszalek-Grabska
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-090 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Irena Smaga
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 31-343 Kraków, Poland; (I.S.); (M.F.)
| | - Paulina Surowka
- Affective Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 31-343 Kraków, Poland;
| | - Pawel Grochecki
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacodynamics, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Tymoteusz Slowik
- Experimental Medicine Center, Medical University of Lublin, 20-090 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Malgorzata Filip
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 31-343 Kraków, Poland; (I.S.); (M.F.)
| | - Jolanta H. Kotlinska
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacodynamics, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland;
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Guzman AS, Avalos MP, De Giovanni LN, Euliarte PV, Sanchez MA, Mongi-Bragato B, Rigoni D, Bollati FA, Virgolini MB, Cancela LM. CB1R activation in nucleus accumbens core promotes stress-induced reinstatement of cocaine seeking by elevating extracellular glutamate in a drug-paired context. Sci Rep 2021; 11:12964. [PMID: 34155271 PMCID: PMC8217548 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-92389-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Preclinical models of stress-induced relapse to drug use have shown that the dysregulation of glutamatergic transmission within the nucleus accumbens (NA) contributes notably to the reinstatement of cocaine-seeking behavior in rodents. In this sense, there has been increasing interest in the cannabinoid type-1 receptor (CB1R), due to its crucial role in modulating glutamatergic neurotransmission within brain areas involved in drug-related behaviors. This study explored the involvement of CB1R within the NA subregions in the restraint stress-induced reinstatement of cocaine-conditioned place preference (CPP), as well as in the regulation of glutamatergic transmission, by using a pharmacological approach and the in vivo microdialysis sampling technique in freely moving rats. CB1R blockade by the antagonist/inverse agonist AM251 (5 nmol/0.5 μl/side) or CB1R activation by the agonist ACEA (0.01 fmol/0.5 μl/side), prevented or potentiated restraint stress-induced reinstatement of cocaine-CPP, respectively, after local administration into NAcore, but not NAshell. In addition, microdialysis experiments demonstrated that restraint stress elicited a significant increase in extracellular glutamate in NAcore under reinstatement conditions, with the local administration of AM251 or ACEA inhibiting or potentiating this, respectively. Interestingly, this rise specifically corresponded to the cocaine-associated CPP compartment. We also showed that this context-dependent change in glutamate paralleled the expression of cocaine-CPP, and disappeared after the extinction of this response. Taken together, these findings demonstrated the key role played by CB1R in mediating reinstatement of cocaine-CPP after restraint stress, through modulation of the context-specific glutamate release within NAcore. Additionally, CB1R regulation of basal extracellular glutamate was demonstrated and proposed as the underlying mechanism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea S Guzman
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, X5000HUA, Córdoba, Argentina.,Instituto de Farmacología Experimental de Córdoba (IFEC-CONICET), X5000HUA, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Maria P Avalos
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, X5000HUA, Córdoba, Argentina.,Instituto de Farmacología Experimental de Córdoba (IFEC-CONICET), X5000HUA, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Laura N De Giovanni
- Instituto de Farmacología Experimental de Córdoba (IFEC-CONICET), X5000HUA, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Pia V Euliarte
- Instituto de Farmacología Experimental de Córdoba (IFEC-CONICET), X5000HUA, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Marianela A Sanchez
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, X5000HUA, Córdoba, Argentina.,Instituto de Farmacología Experimental de Córdoba (IFEC-CONICET), X5000HUA, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Bethania Mongi-Bragato
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, X5000HUA, Córdoba, Argentina.,Instituto de Farmacología Experimental de Córdoba (IFEC-CONICET), X5000HUA, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Daiana Rigoni
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, X5000HUA, Córdoba, Argentina.,Instituto de Farmacología Experimental de Córdoba (IFEC-CONICET), X5000HUA, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Flavia A Bollati
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, X5000HUA, Córdoba, Argentina.,Instituto de Farmacología Experimental de Córdoba (IFEC-CONICET), X5000HUA, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Miriam B Virgolini
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, X5000HUA, Córdoba, Argentina.,Instituto de Farmacología Experimental de Córdoba (IFEC-CONICET), X5000HUA, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Liliana M Cancela
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, X5000HUA, Córdoba, Argentina. .,Instituto de Farmacología Experimental de Córdoba (IFEC-CONICET), X5000HUA, Córdoba, Argentina.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Hassanlou AA, Jamali S, RayatSanati K, Mousavi Z, Haghparast A. Cannabidiol modulates the METH-induced conditioned place preference through D2-like dopamine receptors in the hippocampal CA1 region. Brain Res Bull 2021; 172:43-51. [PMID: 33862125 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2021.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The main problem with addiction is a relapse with a high rate in methamphetamine (METH) abusers. Using addictive drugs repetitively will cause the reward. METH reward is due to an increase in dopamine levels, and the endocannabinoid system (ECS) has a modulatory role in reward through CB1 receptors. On the other hand, the hippocampus plays an important role in learning and memory, so it is involved in the neuroplasticity caused by METH abuse. Cannabidiol (CBD) has been shown to reduce the effects of METH through different mechanisms such as increasing the ECS activity, regulating emotional memory in the ventral hippocampus through D2-like dopamine receptors, and decreasing the mesolimbic dopaminergic activity. The present study tried to find out the role of hippocampal CA1 D2-like dopamine receptors (D2R) in the effects of cannabidiol on the acquisition and expression of METH-induced conditioned place preference (METH-CPP) in rats by using microinjection of sulpiride as a D2R antagonist. For this purpose, different groups of animals received different doses of sulpiride (0.25, 1, and 4 μg/0.5 μL DMSO; CA1), once prior to the injection of CBD (10 μg/5 μL for acquisition and 50 μg/5 μL for expression; ICV) and once in the absence of CBD. Control groups were also considered. In brief, findings showed that cannabidiol decreases METH-induced CPP. Intra-CA1 administration of sulpiride reversed the decreasing effects of cannabidiol on METH-induced CPP in both acquisition and expression phases but more prominent in the expression phase. The results showed that sulpiride did not affect the METH-induced CPP in the absence of cannabidiol. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that cannabidiol decreased METH-induced CPP in part through interaction with hippocampal CA1 D2-dopamine receptors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amir Arash Hassanlou
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shole Jamali
- Neuroscience Research Center, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kimia RayatSanati
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Mousavi
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbas Haghparast
- Neuroscience Research Center, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Sallam NA, Borgland SL. Insulin and endocannabinoids in the mesolimbic system. J Neuroendocrinol 2021; 33:e12965. [PMID: 33856071 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Easy access to palatable food and an abundance of food-related cues exacerbate non-homeostatic feeding. The metabolic and economical sequelae of non-homeostatic feeding outweigh those of homeostatic feeding and contribute significantly to the global obesity pandemic. The mesolimbic dopamine system is the primary central circuit that governs the motivation to consume food. Insulin and endocannabinoids (eCBs) are two major, presumably opposing, players in regulating homeostatic and non-homeostatic feeding centrally and peripherally. Insulin is generally regarded as a postprandial satiety signal, whereas eCBs mainly function as pre-prandial orexinergic signals. In this review, we discuss the effects of insulin and eCB-mediated actions within the mesolimbic pathways. We propose that insulin and eCBs have regional- and time course-dependent roles. We discuss their mechanisms of actions in the ventral tegmental area and nucleus accumbens, as well as how their mechanisms converge to finely tune dopaminergic activity and food intake.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nada A Sallam
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Stephanie L Borgland
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
De Caro C, Cristiano C, Avagliano C, Cuozzo M, La Rana G, Aviello G, De Sarro G, Calignano A, Russo E, Russo R. Analgesic and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Perampanel in Acute and Chronic Pain Models in Mice: Interaction With the Cannabinergic System. Front Pharmacol 2021; 11:620221. [PMID: 33597883 PMCID: PMC7883473 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.620221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pain conditions, such as neuropathic pain (NP) and persistent inflammatory pain are therapeutically difficult to manage. Previous studies have shown the involvement of glutamate receptor in pain modulation and in particular same of these showed the key role of the AMPA ionotropic glutamate receptor subtype. Antiseizure medications (ASMs) are often used to treat this symptom, however the effect of perampanel (PER), an ASM acting as selective, non-competitive inhibitor of the AMPA receptor on the management of pain has not well been investigated yet. Here we tested the potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of PER, in acute and chronic pain models. PER was given orally either in acute (5 mg/kg) or repeated administration (3 mg/kg/d for 4 days). Pain response was assessed using models of nociceptive sensitivity, visceral and inflammatory pain, and mechanical allodynia and hyperalgesia induced by chronic constriction injury to the sciatic nerve. PER significantly reduced pain perception in all behavioral tests as well as CCI-induced mechanical allodynia and hyperalgesia in acute regimen (5 mg/kg). This effect was also observed after repeated treatment using the dose of 3 mg/kg/d. The antinociceptive, antiallodynic and antihyperalgesic effects of PER were attenuated when the CB1 antagonist AM251 (1 mg/kg/i.p.) was administered before PER treatment, suggesting the involvement of the cannabinergic system. Moreover, Ex vivo analyses showed that PER significantly increased CB1 receptor expression and reduced inflammatory cytokines (i.e. TNFα, IL-1β, and IL-6) in the spinal cord. In conclusion, these results extend our knowledge on PER antinociceptive and antiallodynic effects and support the involvement of cannabinergic system on its mode of action.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carmen De Caro
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Claudia Cristiano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Carmen Avagliano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Giovanna La Rana
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Gabriella Aviello
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Giovambattista De Sarro
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Antonio Calignano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Emilio Russo
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Roberto Russo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Ibarra-Lecue I, Diez-Alarcia R, Urigüen L. Serotonin 2A receptors and cannabinoids. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2021; 259:135-175. [PMID: 33541675 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2021.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence has proven that both exogenous cannabinoids as well as imbalances in the endocannabinoid system are involved in the onset and development of mental disorders such as anxiety, depression, or schizophrenia. Extensive recent research in this topic has mainly focused on the molecular mechanisms by which cannabinoid agonists may contribute to the pathophysiology of these disorders. Initially, serotonin neurotransmitter garnered most attention due to its relationship to mood disorders and mental diseases, with little attention to specific receptors. To date, the focus has redirected toward the understanding of different serotonin receptors, through a demonstration of its versatile pharmacology and synergy with different modulators. Serotonin 2A receptors are a good example of this phenomenon, and the complex signaling that they trigger appears of high relevance in the context of mental disorders, especially in schizophrenia. This chapter will analyze most relevant attributes of serotonin 2A receptors and the endocannabinoid system, and will highlight the evidence toward the functional bidirectional interaction between these elements in the brain as well as the impact of the endocannabinoid system dysregulation on serotonin 2A receptors functionality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Inés Ibarra-Lecue
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rebeca Diez-Alarcia
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain; Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Leyre Urigüen
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain; Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Bizkaia, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Escartín Pérez RE, Mancilla Díaz JM, Cortés Salazar F, López Alonso VE, Florán Garduño B. CB1/5-HT/GABA interactions and food intake regulation. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2021; 259:177-196. [PMID: 33541676 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2021.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Despite historically the serotonergic, GABAergic, and cannabinoid systems have been shown to play a crucial role in the central regulation of eating behavior, interest in the study of the interactions of these neurotransmission systems has only now been investigated. Current evidence suggests that serotonin may influence normal and pathological eating behavior in significantly more complex ways than was initially thought. This knowledge has opened the possibility of exploring the potential clinical utility of new therapeutic strategies more effective and safer than the current approaches to treat pathological eating behavior. Furthermore, the nature and complexity of the interactions between these neurotransmitter systems have provided a better understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms not only of eating behavior and eating disorders but also of some of the comorbidities associated with modulation of cortical circuits, which are involved in high order cognitive processes. Accordingly, in the present chapter, the clinical and experimental findings of the interactions between serotonin, GABA, and cannabinoids are synthesized, emphasizing the pharmacological, neurophysiological, and neuroanatomical aspects that could potentially improve the current therapeutic approaches against pathological eating behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Erick Escartín Pérez
- Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, División de Investigación y Posgrado, Laboratorio de Neurobiología de la Alimentación, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México, México.
| | - Juan Manuel Mancilla Díaz
- Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, División de Investigación y Posgrado, Laboratorio de Neurobiología de la Alimentación, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México, México
| | - Felipe Cortés Salazar
- Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, División de Investigación y Posgrado, Laboratorio de Neurobiología de la Alimentación, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México, México
| | - Verónica Elsa López Alonso
- Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, División de Investigación y Posgrado, Laboratorio de Neurobiología de la Alimentación, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México, México
| | - Benjamín Florán Garduño
- Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, División de Investigación y Posgrado, Laboratorio de Neurobiología de la Alimentación, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México, México
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Khaleghzadeh‐Ahangar H, Haghparast A. Cannabinoid receptor modulation changes the accumbal neuronal responses to morphine in the reinstatement of morphine-induced conditioned place preference. Addict Biol 2020; 25:e12817. [PMID: 31436887 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2018] [Revised: 05/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The nucleus accumbens (NAc) is a central component of the brain reward system. It has been known that most of the drugs of abuse such as opioids and cannabinoids affect the NAc. Although cannabinoids can modulate different stages of morphine encounter such as the reinstatement of morphine-induced conditioned place preference (CPP), there is no evidence for the NAc neurons' response to prove it. That is why the present study was designed. The procedure was as follows: The rats were entered to CPP by sc 5 mg/kg morphine in three consecutive days. During the extinction period or in the reinstatement phase, icv WIN 55,212-2 (10mM/5 μL dimethyl sulfoxide [DMSO] 10%) or AM251 (0.5mM/5-μL DMSO 10%) was infused in separate groups. Also, the NAc neurons' response to cannabinoid modulation in reinstatement to morphine was investigated by extracellular single unit recording. As a result, the cannabinoid in the reinstatement phase decreased the NAc neuronal activity. The CB1 receptor inhibition during the extinction period increased the NAc firing rate after ip 1 mg/kg morphine. Also, the inhibition of this receptor in the reinstatement phase increased the NAc neurons' firing rate. The inhibitory effect of cannabinoid on the NAc neuronal activity in the reinstatement has indicated the possible potency of cannabinoid to induce reinstatement of morphine-induced CPP alone and in the absence of a priming dose of morphine. Also, the different effects of the CB1 agonist during the extinction period in the reinstatement phase suggest different mechanisms underlying these two parts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hossein Khaleghzadeh‐Ahangar
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine Babol University of Medical Sciences Babol Iran
- Neuroscience Research Center, Health Research Institute Babol University of Medical Sciences Babol Iran
| | - Abbas Haghparast
- Neuroscience Research Center, School of Medicine Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
The role of cannabinoid 1 receptor in the nucleus accumbens on tramadol induced conditioning and reinstatement. Life Sci 2020; 260:118430. [PMID: 32931800 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.118430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Previous investigations demonstrated that tramadol, as a painkiller, similar to morphine induces tolerance and dependence. Furthermore, the cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1R) located in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) plays a critical role in morphine-induced conditioning. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to evaluate the role of NAc CB1R in tramadol induced conditioning and reinstatement. MAIN METHODS In the present experiment, the effect of NAc CB1 receptors on tramadol induced conditioning was tested by microinjecting of arachidonylcyclopropylamide (ACPA, CB1R agonist) and AM 251 (CB1R inverse agonist) in the NAc during tramadol-induced conditioning in the adult male Wistar rats. In addition, the role of NAc CB1R in the reinstatement was also evaluated by injecting ACPA and AM 251 after a 10-days extinction period. KEY FINDINGS The obtained data revealed that the administration of tramadol (1,2, and 4 mg/kg, ip) dose-dependently produced conditioned place preference (CPP). Moreover, intra-NAc administration of ACPA (0.25, 0.5, and 1 μg/rat) dose-dependently induced conditioning, while the administration of AM-251 (30, 60, and 120 ng/rat) induced a significant aversion. In addition, the administration of a non-effective dose of AM251 during tramadol conditioning inhibited conditioning induced by tramadol. On the other hand, the administration of ACPA after extinction induced a significant reinstatement. Notably, the locomotor activity did not change among groups. SIGNIFICANCE Previous studies have shown that tramadol-induced CPP occurs through μ-opioid receptors. The data obtained in the current study indicated that CB1R located in the NAc is involved in mediating conditioning induced by tramadol. Besides, CB1R also plays a vital role in the reinstatement of tramadol-conditioned animals. It might be due to the effect of opioids on enhancing the level of CB1R.
Collapse
|
29
|
Turco CV, Arsalan SO, Nelson AJ. The Influence of Recreational Substance Use in TMS Research. Brain Sci 2020; 10:E751. [PMID: 33080965 PMCID: PMC7603156 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10100751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) approaches are widely used to study cortical and corticospinal function. However, responses to TMS are subject to significant intra-and inter-individual variability. Acute and chronic exposure to recreational substances alters the excitability of the sensorimotor system and may contribute to the variability in TMS outcome measures. The increasing prevalence of recreational substance use poses a significant challenge for executing TMS studies, but there is a lack of clarity regarding the influence of these substances on sensorimotor function. (2) Methods: The literature investigating the influence of alcohol, nicotine, caffeine and cannabis on TMS outcome measures of corticospinal, intracortical and interhemispheric excitability was reviewed. (3) Results: Both acute and chronic use of recreational substances modulates TMS measures of excitability. Despite the abundance of research in this field, we identify knowledge gaps that should be addressed in future studies to better understand the influence of these substances on TMS outcomes. (4) Conclusions: This review highlights the need for TMS studies to take into consideration the history of participant substance use and to control for acute substance use prior to testing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Aimee J. Nelson
- Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada; (C.V.T.); (S.O.A.)
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Activation of tyrosine phosphatase PTP1B in pyramidal neurons impairs endocannabinoid signaling by tyrosine receptor kinase trkB and causes schizophrenia-like behaviors in mice. Neuropsychopharmacology 2020; 45:1884-1895. [PMID: 32610340 PMCID: PMC7608138 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-020-0755-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a debilitating disorder affecting young adults displaying symptoms of cognitive impairment, anxiety, and early social isolation prior to episodes of auditory hallucinations. Cannabis use has been tied to schizophrenia-like symptoms, indicating that dysregulated endogenous cannabinoid signaling may be causally linked to schizophrenia. Previously, we reported that glutamatergic neuron-selective ablation of Lmo4, an endogenous inhibitor of the tyrosine phosphatase PTP1B, impairs endocannabinoid (eCB) production from the metabotropic glutamate receptor mGluR5. These Lmo4-deficient mice display anxiety-like behaviors that are alleviated by local shRNA knockdown or pharmacological inhibition of PTP1B that restores mGluR5-dependent eCB production in the amygdala. Here, we report that these Lmo4-deficient mice also display schizophrenia-like behaviors: impaired working memory assessed in the Y maze and defective sensory gating by prepulse inhibition of the acoustic startle response. Modulation of inhibitory inputs onto layer 2/3 pyramidal neurons of the prefrontal cortex relies on eCB signaling from the brain-derived neurotrophic factor receptor trkB, rather than mGluR5, and this mechanism was defective in Lmo4-deficient mice. Genetic ablation of PTP1B in the glutamatergic neurons lacking Lmo4 restored tyrosine phosphorylation of trkB, trkB-mediated eCB signaling, and ameliorated schizophrenia-like behaviors. Pharmacological inhibition of PTP1B with trodusquemine also restored trkB phosphorylation and improved schizophrenia-like behaviors by restoring eCB signaling, since the CB1 receptor antagonist 1-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)-5-(4-iodophenyl)-4-methyl-N-1-piperidinyl-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxamide blocked this effect. Thus, activation of PTP1B in pyramidal neurons contributes to schizophrenia-like behaviors in Lmo4-deficient mice and genetic or pharmacological intervention targeting PTP1B ameliorates schizophrenia-related deficits.
Collapse
|
31
|
Rezaie M, Nasehi M, Vaseghi S, Alimohammadzadeh K, Islami Vaghar M, Mohammadi-Mahdiabadi-Hasani MH, Zarrindast MR. The interaction effect of sleep deprivation and cannabinoid type 1 receptor in the CA1 hippocampal region on passive avoidance memory, depressive-like behavior and locomotor activity in rats. Behav Brain Res 2020; 396:112901. [PMID: 32920013 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2020.112901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Increasing evidence shows the interaction effect of cannabinoids and sleep on cognitive functions. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the interaction effect of cannabinoids type 1 receptor (CB1r) in the CA1 hippocampal region and sleep deprivation (SD) on passive avoidance memory and depressive-like behavior in male Wistar rats. We used water box apparatus to induce total SD (TSD) for 24 h. The shuttle-box was applied to assess passive avoidance memory and locomotion apparatus was applied to assess locomotor activity. Forced swim test (FST) was used to evaluate rat's behavior. ACPA (CB1r agonist) at the doses of 0.01, 0.001 and 0.0001 μg/rat, and AM251 (CB1r antagonist) at the doses of 100, 10 and 1 ng/rat were injected intra-CA1, five minutes after training via stereotaxic surgery. Results showed SD impaired memory. ACPA at the doses of 0.01 and 0.001 μg/rat impaired memory and at all doses did not alter the effect of SD on memory. AM251 by itself did not alter memory, while at lowest dose (1 ng/rat) restored SD-induced memory deficit. Both drugs induced depressive-like behavior in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, both drugs decreased swimming at some doses (ACPA at 0.0001 μg/rat, AM251 at 0.001 and 0.01 ng/rat). Also, ACPA at the highest dose increased climbing of SD rats. In conclusion, we suggest CB1r may interact with the effect of SD on memory. Additionally, cannabinoids may show a dose-dependent manner in modulating mood and behavior. Interestingly, CB1r agonists and antagonists may exhibit a similar effect in some behavioral assessments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maede Rezaie
- Cognitive and Neuroscience Research Center (CNRC), Amir-Almomenin Hospital, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Nasehi
- Cognitive and Neuroscience Research Center (CNRC), Amir-Almomenin Hospital, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Salar Vaseghi
- Cognitive and Neuroscience Research Center (CNRC), Amir-Almomenin Hospital, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Institute for Cognitive Science Studies (ICSS), Tehran, Iran.
| | - Khalil Alimohammadzadeh
- Department of Health Services Management, North Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Health Economics Policy Research Center, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Islami Vaghar
- Department of Nursing, Faculity of Nursing and Midwifery, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad-Reza Zarrindast
- Cognitive and Neuroscience Research Center (CNRC), Amir-Almomenin Hospital, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Institute for Cognitive Science Studies (ICSS), Tehran, Iran; Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Neuroendocrinology, Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Spanagel R. Cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system in reward processing and addiction: from mechanisms to interventions
. DIALOGUES IN CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCE 2020; 22:241-250. [PMID: 33162767 PMCID: PMC7605022 DOI: 10.31887/dcns.2020.22.3/rspanagel] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The last decades have seen a major gain in understanding the action of
cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system in reward processing and the development of
addictive behavior. Cannabis-derived psychoactive compounds such as
Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and synthetic cannabinoids directly interact with the reward
system and thereby have addictive properties. Cannabinoids induce their reinforcing
properties by an increase in tonic dopamine levels through a cannabinoid type 1 (CB1)
receptor–dependent mechanism within the ventral tegmental area. Cues that are
conditioned to cannabis smoking can induce drug-seeking responses (ie, craving) by
eliciting phasic dopamine events. A dopamine-independent mechanism involved in
drug-seeking responses involves an endocannabinoid/glutamate interaction within the
corticostriatal part of the reward system. In conclusion, pharmacological blockade of
endocannabinoid signaling should lead to a reduction in drug craving and subsequently
should reduce relapse behavior in addicted individuals. Indeed, there is increasing
preclinical evidence that targeting the endocannabinoid system reduces craving and
relapse, and allosteric modulators at CB1 receptors and fatty acid amide hydrolase
inhibitors are in clinical development for cannabis use disorder. Cannabidiol, which
mainly acts on CB1 and CB2 receptors, is currently being tested in patients with alcohol
use disorder and opioid use disorder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rainer Spanagel
- Institute of Psychopharmacology, Central Institute of Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Amancio-Belmont O, Becerril Meléndez AL, Ruiz-Contreras AE, Méndez-Díaz M, Prospéro-García O. Maternal separation plus social isolation during adolescence reprogram brain dopamine and endocannabinoid systems and facilitate alcohol intake in rats. Brain Res Bull 2020; 164:21-28. [PMID: 32784005 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2020.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2020] [Revised: 07/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Adverse early life experiences, i.e. abusive parenting, during postnatal development, induce long-lasting effects on the stress response systems and behavior. Such changes persist throughout an individual's life, making him/her vulnerable to suffer psychiatric disorders, including anxiety disorders and drug addiction. Rat pup maternal separation (MS) is a widely used rodent early-life stress model. MS induces changes in the dopamine and endocannabinoid systems in the nucleus accumbens (NAcc) that facilitate alcohol consumption. In this study, our endeavor was to determine if social isolation during adolescence (aSI) was as efficient as MS to facilitate alcohol intake; and moreover, if their combination (MS + aSI) induces even higher alcohol intake and exacerbates anxiety-like behaviors. Also, we evaluated dopamine and endocannabinoid receptors in the NAcc to describe potential changes caused by MS, aSI or both. Wistar rats were reared under 4 different conditions: non-MS + social housing (SH), MS + SH, non-MS + aSI and MS + aSI. Once these rats became adults they were submitted to a voluntary alcohol intake protocol for 10 days. Similar groups of rats with no exposure to alcohol whatsoever, were sacrificed to dissect out the NAcc to analyze the expression of cannabinoid (CB1R and CB2R) and dopamine (D2R and D3R) receptors. Results showed that MS, aSI and MS + aSI increase both CB1R, D2R and D3R expression in the NAcc and also increase alcohol intake and anxiety. These results suggest that early life adverse experiences induce a reprogramming of the brain's dopamine and endocannabinoid systems which increases subject's vulnerability to develop anxiety, alcohol abuse and dependence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Octavio Amancio-Belmont
- Laboratorio de Canabinoides, Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico
| | - Alline L Becerril Meléndez
- Laboratorio de Canabinoides, Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico
| | - Alejandra E Ruiz-Contreras
- Laboratorio de Neurogenómica Cognitiva, Departamento de Psicofisiología, Facultad de Psicología. Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico
| | - Mónica Méndez-Díaz
- Laboratorio de Canabinoides, Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico
| | - Oscar Prospéro-García
- Laboratorio de Canabinoides, Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Hauser SR, Katner SN, Waeiss RA, Truitt WA, Bell RL, McBride WJ, Rodd ZA. Selective breeding for high alcohol preference is associated with increased sensitivity to cannabinoid reward within the nucleus accumbens shell. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2020; 197:173002. [PMID: 32710885 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2020.173002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2020] [Revised: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE The rate of cannabinoid intake by those with alcohol use disorder (AUD) exceeds that of the general public. The high prevalence of co-abuse of alcohol and cannabis has been postulated to be predicated upon both a common predisposing genetic factor and the interaction of the drugs within the organism. The current experiments examined the effects of cannabinoids in an animal model of AUD. OBJECTIVES The present study assessed the reinforcing properties of a cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) agonist self-administered directly into the nucleus accumbens shell (AcbSh) in female Wistar and alcohol-preferring (P) rats. METHODS Following guide cannulae surgery aimed at AcbSh, subjects were placed in an operant box equipped with an 'active lever' (fixed ratio 1; FR1) that caused the delivery of the infusate and an 'inactive lever' that did not. Subjects were arbitrarily assigned to one of seven groups that self-administered either artificial cerebrospinal fluid (aCSF), or 3.125, 6.25, 12.5, or 25 pmol/100 nl of O-1057, a water-soluble CB1 agonist, dissolved in aCSF. The first four sessions of acquisition are followed by aCSF only infusates in sessions 5 and 6 during extinction, and finally the acquisition dose of infusate during session 7 as reinstatement. RESULTS The CB1 agonist was self-administered directly into the AcbSh. P rats self-administered the CB1 agonist at lower concentrations and at higher rates compared to Wistar rats. CONCLUSIONS Overall, the data indicate selective breeding for high alcohol preference has produced rats divergent in response to cannabinoids within the brain reward pathway. The data support the hypothesis that there can be common genetic factors influencing drug addiction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sheketha R Hauser
- Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA; Paul and Carole Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
| | - Simon N Katner
- Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA; Paul and Carole Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Robert A Waeiss
- Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA; Paul and Carole Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - William A Truitt
- Paul and Carole Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA; Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology & Physiology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Richard L Bell
- Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA; Paul and Carole Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - William J McBride
- Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA; Paul and Carole Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Zachary A Rodd
- Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA; Paul and Carole Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Pardo-García TR, Yusif-Rodriguez N, Yudowski G, Maldonado-Vlaar CS. Blockade of the endovanilloid receptor, TRPV1, and of the endocannabinoid enzyme, FAAH, within the nucleus accumbens shell elicits anxiolytic-like effects in male rats. Neurosci Lett 2020; 732:135023. [PMID: 32422166 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2020.135023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE The functional role of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid type-1 (TRPV1) within the Nucleus Accumbens shell (NAc shell) remains unknown. Preclinical studies in rodents have reported that the ECS modulates emotional responses such as anxiety. The NAc shell has a high density of synaptically co-localized cannabinoid receptor type-1 (CB1R) and TRPV1, suggesting a potential involvement in the modulation of anxiety. OBJECTIVES The present study aims to establish the role of ECS-TRPV1 interactions within the NAc shell and its effects on anxiety. It is hypothesized that the neurochemical regulation elicited by ECS within the NAc shell mediates anxiety-like behaviors in rodents. METHODS In this study, male Sprague Dawley rats were implanted with bilateral brain cannula targeting the NAc shell. Following recovery from surgery, animals received microinfusion pretreatments (0, 0.125, 0.5 nmol/0.4 μl) of N-arachidonoyl-serotonin (AA-5-HT), a dual blocker of the endocannabinoid-inactivating enzyme, fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and a TRPV1 antagonist in the NAc shell. Following treatment, animals were tested in an elevated plus maze (EPM) paradigm for a period of 5 minutes. At the end of the experiment, animals were sacrificed and their brains collected for histological and biochemical analysis. RESULTS Results showed that animals treated with AA-5-HT in a dose dependent manner spent significantly more time in the open arms than vehicle-treated animals. In addition, AA-5-HT administration induced a significant downregulation of CB1R expression in the NAc shell. CONCLUSIONS The present findings suggest that the ECS within the NAc shell modulates anxiety-like behaviors via FAAH and CB1R activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thibaut R Pardo-García
- University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras Campus, Department of Biology, PO Box 23360, San Juan, 00931, Puerto Rico.
| | - Nadira Yusif-Rodriguez
- University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras Campus, Department of Biology, PO Box 23360, San Juan, 00931, Puerto Rico.
| | - Guillermo Yudowski
- University of Puerto Rico-Medical School, Institute of Neurobiology, San Juan, 00936, Puerto Rico
| | - Carmen S Maldonado-Vlaar
- University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras Campus, Department of Biology, PO Box 23360, San Juan, 00931, Puerto Rico.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Prieto JP, González B, Muñiz J, Bisagno V, Scorza C. Molecular changes in the nucleus accumbens and prefrontal cortex associated with the locomotor sensitization induced by coca paste seized samples. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2020; 237:1481-1491. [PMID: 32034449 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-020-05474-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE In previous studies, we have demonstrated that seized samples of a smokable form of cocaine, also known as coca paste (CP), induced behavioral sensitization in rats. Interestingly, this effect was accelerated and enhanced when the samples were adulterated with caffeine. While the cocaine phenomenon is associated with persistent functional and structural alterations in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and nucleus accumbens (NAc), the molecular mechanisms underlying the CP sensitization and the influence of caffeine remains still unknown. OBJECTIVE We examined the gene expression in NAc and mPFC after the expression caffeine-adulterated and non-adulterated CP locomotor sensitization. METHODS The locomotor sensitization was established in C57BL/6 mice, repeatedly treated with a CP-seized sample adulterated with caffeine (CP-2) and a non-adulterated one (CP-1). We then assessed the mRNA expression of receptor subunits of the dopaminergic and glutamatergic systems in the medial PFC (mPFC) and NAc. Other molecular markers (e.g., adenosinergic, endocannabinoid receptor subunits, and synaptic plasticity-associated genes) were also analyzed. RESULTS Only CP-2-treated mice expressed locomotor sensitization. This phenomenon was associated with increased Drd1a, Gria1, Cnr1, and Syn mRNA expression levels in the NAc. Drd3 mRNA expression levels were only significantly increased in mPFC of CP-2-treated group. CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrated that caffeine actively collaborates in the induction of the molecular changes underlying CP sensitization. The present study provides new knowledge on the impact of active adulterants to understand the early dependence induced by CP consumption.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- José Pedro Prieto
- Departamento de Neurofarmacología Experimental, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Betina González
- Instituto de Investigaciones Farmacológicas (ININFA-UBA-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Javier Muñiz
- Instituto de Investigaciones Farmacológicas (ININFA-UBA-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Verónica Bisagno
- Instituto de Investigaciones Farmacológicas (ININFA-UBA-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Cecilia Scorza
- Departamento de Neurofarmacología Experimental, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Montevideo, Uruguay.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Bouchet CA, Ingram SL. Cannabinoids in the descending pain modulatory circuit: Role in inflammation. Pharmacol Ther 2020; 209:107495. [PMID: 32004514 PMCID: PMC7183429 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2020.107495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The legalization of cannabis in some states has intensified interest in the potential for cannabis and its constituents to lead to novel therapeutics for pain. Our understanding of the cellular mechanisms underlying cannabinoid actions in the brain have lagged behind opioids; however, the current opioid epidemic has also increased attention on the use of cannabinoids as alternatives to opioids for pain, especially chronic pain that requires long-term use. Endogenous cannabinoids are lipid signaling molecules that have complex roles in modulating neuronal function throughout the brain. In this review, we discuss cannabinoid functions in the descending pain modulatory pathway, a brain circuit that integrates cognitive and emotional processing of pain to modulate incoming sensory inputs. In addition, we highlight areas where further studies are necessary to understand cannabinoid regulation of descending pain modulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Courtney A Bouchet
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, United States of America
| | - Susan L Ingram
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Abstract
Given the aging Baby Boomer generation, changes in cannabis legislation, and the growing acknowledgment of cannabis for its therapeutic potential, it is predicted that cannabis use in the older population will escalate. It is, therefore, important to determine the interaction between the effects of cannabis and aging. The aim of this report is to describe the link between cannabis use and the aging brain. Our review of the literature found few and inconsistent empirical studies that directly address the impact of cannabis use on the aging brain. However, research focused on long-term cannabis use points toward cumulative effects on multimodal systems in the brain that are similarly affected during aging. Specifically, the effects of cannabis and aging converge on overlapping networks in the endocannabinoid, opioid, and dopamine systems that may affect functional decline particularly in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex, which are critical areas for memory and executive functioning. To conclude, despite the limited current knowledge on the potential interactive effects between cannabis and aging, evidence from the literature suggests that cannabis and aging effects are concurrently present across several neurotransmitter systems. There is a great need for future research to directly test the interactions between cannabis and aging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hye Bin Yoo
- Center for BrainHealth, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Jennifer DiMuzio
- Center for BrainHealth, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Francesca M Filbey
- Center for BrainHealth, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Dallas, Texas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Yu J, Ishikawa M, Wang J, Schlüter OM, Sesack SR, Dong Y. Ventral Tegmental Area Projection Regulates Glutamatergic Transmission in Nucleus Accumbens. Sci Rep 2019; 9:18451. [PMID: 31804595 PMCID: PMC6895172 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-55007-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The ventral tegmental area (VTA) projection to the nucleus accumbens shell (NAcSh) regulates NAcSh-mediated motivated behaviors in part by modulating the glutamatergic inputs. This modulation is likely to be mediated by multiple substances released from VTA axons, whose phenotypic diversity is illustrated here by ultrastructural examination. Furthermore, we show in mouse brain slices that a brief optogenetic stimulation of VTA-to-NAc projection induced a transient inhibition of excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) in NAcSh principal medium spiny neurons (MSNs). This inhibition was not accompanied by detectable alterations in presynaptic release properties of electrically-evoked EPSCs, suggesting a postsynaptic mechanism. The VTA projection to the NAcSh releases dopamine, GABA and glutamate, and induces the release of other neuronal substrates that are capable of regulating synaptic transmission. However, pharmacological inhibition of dopamine D1 or D2 receptors, GABAA or GABAB receptors, NMDA receptors, P2Y1 ATP receptors, metabotropic glutamate receptor 5, and TRP channels did not prevent this short-term inhibition. These results suggest that an unknown mechanism mediates this form of short-term plasticity induced by the VTA-to-NAc projection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jun Yu
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA
| | - Masago Ishikawa
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA
| | - Junshi Wang
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA
| | - Oliver M Schlüter
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA
| | - Susan R Sesack
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA
| | - Yan Dong
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Pavón FJ, Serrano A, Stouffer DG, Polis I, Roberto M, Cravatt BF, Martin-Fardon R, de Fonseca FR, Parsons LH. Ethanol-induced alterations in endocannabinoids and relevant neurotransmitters in the nucleus accumbens of fatty acid amide hydrolase knockout mice. Addict Biol 2019; 24:1204-1215. [PMID: 30421483 PMCID: PMC6551299 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2018] [Revised: 09/24/2018] [Accepted: 10/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Deletion of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), enzyme responsible for degrading endocannabinoids, increases alcohol consumption and preference. However, there is a lack of data on neurochemical events in mice exposed to alcohol in the absence of FAAH. Extracellular levels of endocannabinoids and relevant neurotransmitters were measured by in vivo microdialysis in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) of FAAH knockout (KO) and wild-type (WT) mice during an ethanol (EtOH; 2 g/kg, ip) challenge in EtOH-naive and repeated (r) EtOH-treated mice. In both genotypes, EtOH treatment caused no changes in baseline endocannabinoid levels, although FAAH KO mice displayed higher baseline N-arachidonoylethanolamine levels than WT mice. EtOH challenge caused a sustained increase in 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) levels in EtOH-naive WT mice but not in FAAH KO mice. In contrast, 2-AG levels were decreased following EtOH challenge in (r)EtOH-treated mice in both genotypes. Whereas (r)EtOH-treated mice showed higher baseline dopamine and serotonin levels than EtOH-naive mice in WT mice, these differences were attenuated in FAAH KO mice. Significant differences in baseline γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate levels by EtOH history were observed in WT mice but not in FAAH KO mice. Moreover, opposed effects on glutamate response were observed after EtOH challenge in EtOH-naive and (r)EtOH-treated FAAH KO mice. Finally, FAAH deletion failed to show EtOH-induced locomotion sensitivity. These data provide evidence of a potential influence of 2-AG in the neurochemical response to EtOH exposure in the NAc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francisco J. Pavón
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Salud Mental, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga, Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Antonia Serrano
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Salud Mental, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga, Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - David G. Stouffer
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Ilham Polis
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Marisa Roberto
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Benjamin F. Cravatt
- Department of Chemical Physiology, Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Rémi Martin-Fardon
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Fernando Rodríguez de Fonseca
- Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Salud Mental, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga, Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Loren H. Parsons
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Tomaselli G, Vallée M. Stress and drug abuse-related disorders: The promising therapeutic value of neurosteroids focus on pregnenolone-progesterone-allopregnanolone pathway. Front Neuroendocrinol 2019; 55:100789. [PMID: 31525393 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2019.100789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Revised: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The pregnenolone-progesterone-allopregnanolone pathway is receiving increasing attention in research on the role of neurosteroids in pathophysiology, particularly in stress-related and drug use disorders. These disorders involve an allostatic change that may result from deficiencies in allostasis or adaptive responses, and may be downregulated by adjustments in neurotransmission by neurosteroids. The following is an overview of findings that assess how pregnenolone and/or allopregnanolone concentrations are altered in animal models of stress and after consumption of alcohol or cannabis-type drugs, as well as in patients with depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder or psychosis and/or in those diagnosed with alcohol or cannabis use disorders. Preclinical and clinical evidence shows that pregnenolone and allopregnanolone, operating according to a different or common pharmacological profile involving GABAergic and/or endocannabinoid system, may be relevant biomarkers of psychiatric disorders for therapeutic purposes. Hence, ongoing clinical trials implicate synthetic analogs of pregnenolone or allopregnanolone, and also modulators of neurosteroidogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Tomaselli
- INSERM U1215, Neurocentre Magendie, Group "Physiopathology and Therapeutic Approaches of Stress-Related Disease", 146 Rue Léo Saignat, 33000 Bordeaux, France; University of Bordeaux, 33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Monique Vallée
- INSERM U1215, Neurocentre Magendie, Group "Physiopathology and Therapeutic Approaches of Stress-Related Disease", 146 Rue Léo Saignat, 33000 Bordeaux, France; University of Bordeaux, 33000 Bordeaux, France.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Cohen K, Weizman A, Weinstein A. Modulatory effects of cannabinoids on brain neurotransmission. Eur J Neurosci 2019; 50:2322-2345. [DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Revised: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Koby Cohen
- Department of Behavioral Science Ariel University Science Park 40700 Ariel Israel
| | | | - Aviv Weinstein
- Department of Behavioral Science Ariel University Science Park 40700 Ariel Israel
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Schwitzer T, Schwan R, Angioi-Duprez K, Lalanne L, Giersch A, Laprevote V. Cannabis use and human retina: The path for the study of brain synaptic transmission dysfunctions in cannabis users. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2019; 106:11-22. [PMID: 30773228 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2018.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2018] [Revised: 11/08/2018] [Accepted: 12/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Owing to the difficulty of obtaining direct access to the functioning brain, new approaches are needed for the indirect exploration of brain disorders in neuroscience research. Due to its embryonic origin, the retina is part of the central nervous system and is well suited to the investigation of neurological functions in psychiatric and addictive disorders. In this review, we focus on cannabis use, which is a crucial public health challenge, since cannabis is one of the most widely used addictive drugs in industrialized countries. We first explain why studying retinal function is relevant when exploring the effects of cannabis use on brain function. Next, we describe both the retinal electrophysiological measurements and retinal dysfunctions observed after acute and regular cannabis use. We then discuss how these retinal dysfunctions may inform brain synaptic transmission abnormalities. Finally, we present various directions for future research on the neurotoxic effects of cannabis use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Schwitzer
- Pôle Hospitalo-Universitaire de Psychiatrie d'Adultes du Grand Nancy, Centre Psychothérapique de Nancy, Laxou, France; INSERM U1114, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Département de Psychiatrie, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France.
| | - Raymund Schwan
- Pôle Hospitalo-Universitaire de Psychiatrie d'Adultes du Grand Nancy, Centre Psychothérapique de Nancy, Laxou, France; INSERM U1114, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Département de Psychiatrie, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France; Maison des Addictions, CHRU Nancy, Nancy, France
| | | | - Laurence Lalanne
- INSERM U1114, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Département de Psychiatrie, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France; Pôle de Psychiatrie Santé Mentale et Addictologie, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Anne Giersch
- INSERM U1114, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Département de Psychiatrie, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Vincent Laprevote
- Pôle Hospitalo-Universitaire de Psychiatrie d'Adultes du Grand Nancy, Centre Psychothérapique de Nancy, Laxou, France; INSERM U1114, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Département de Psychiatrie, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
De Luca MA, Buczynski MW, Di Chiara G. Loren Parsons' contribution to addiction neurobiology. Addict Biol 2018; 23:1207-1222. [PMID: 29949237 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2018] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Loren (Larry) H. Parsons passed away at the age of 51. In spite of his premature departure, Larry much contributed to the drug abuse field. Since his graduate studies for the Ph.D. in Chemistry in J.B. Justice lab, microdialysis is the tread that links Larry's research topics, namely, the role of dopamine (DA), serotonin (5-HT), gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), glutamate and endocannabinoids (eCBs) in drug reinforcement and dependence. Larry was the first to show that abstinence from chronic cocaine reduces extracellular DA in the NAc, consistent with the so called 'dopamine depletion hypothesis' of cocaine addiction. Another Larry's major contributions are the studies on 5-HT and 5-HT receptors' role in cocaine stimulant actions, which resulted in the identification of 5-HT1B receptors as a critical substrate of cocaine reinforcement. By applying mass spectrometry to eCBs analysis in brain dialysates, Larry's lab showed that ethanol, heroin, nicotine and cocaine differentially affect anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglicerol overflow in the NAc shell, a critical site of drugs of abuse DA stimulant actions. Larry also applied microdialysis to study GABA and glutamate's role in ethanol dependence and heroin reinforcement, providing in vivo evidence for a sensitization of corticotropin-releasing factor-dependent release of GABA in the central amygdala in withdrawal from chronic ethanol and for a reduction of GABA transmission in the ventral pallidum in heroin but not cocaine intravenous self-administration. Larry showed the wide possibilities of microdialysis as a general purpose methodology for monitoring neurotransmitters and neuromodulators in the brain extracellular compartment. From this viewpoint, he stands as the best advocate for microdialysis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria A. De Luca
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuropsychopharmacology; University of Cagliari; Cagliari Italy
- National Institute of Neuroscience (INN); University of Cagliari; Cagliari Italy
| | - Matthew W. Buczynski
- School of Neuroscience; Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University; Blacksburg VA 24061 USA
| | - Gaetano Di Chiara
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuropsychopharmacology; University of Cagliari; Cagliari Italy
- National Institute of Neuroscience (INN); University of Cagliari; Cagliari Italy
- National Research Council of Italy; Institute of Neuroscience; Cagliari Italy
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Spencer S, Neuhofer D, Chioma VC, Garcia-Keller C, Schwartz DJ, Allen N, Scofield MD, Ortiz-Ithier T, Kalivas PW. A Model of Δ 9-Tetrahydrocannabinol Self-administration and Reinstatement That Alters Synaptic Plasticity in Nucleus Accumbens. Biol Psychiatry 2018; 84:601-610. [PMID: 29861097 PMCID: PMC6162175 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2018.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2017] [Revised: 04/17/2018] [Accepted: 04/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis is the most widely used illicit drug, but knowledge of the neurological consequences of cannabis use is deficient. Two primary components of cannabis are Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). We established a THC+CBD model of self-administration and reinstated drug seeking to determine if, similar to other addictive drugs, cannabis produces enduring synaptic changes in nucleus accumbens core (NAcore) thought to contribute vulnerability to drug reinstatement. METHODS Sprague Dawley rats were trained to self-administer THC+CBD (n = 165) or were used as vehicle self-administering control animals (n = 24). Reinstatement was initiated by context, cues, drug priming, and stress (yohimbine injection). Enduring neuroadaptations produced by THC+CBD self-administration were assayed using four measures: dendritic spine morphology, long-term depression, alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid/N-methyl-D-aspartate ratios, and behavioral pharmacology. RESULTS We described a novel rodent model of cannabis relapse involving intravenous THC+CBD self-administration and drug seeking induced by conditioned context, cues, and stress. Cued reinstatement of THC+CBD seeking depended on a sequence of events implicated in relapse to other addictive drugs, as reinstatement was prevented by daily treatment with N-acetylcysteine or acute intra-NAcore pretreatment with a neuronal nitric oxide synthase or matrix metalloprotease-9 inhibitor, all of which normalize impaired glutamate homeostasis. The capacity to induce N-methyl-D-aspartate long-term depression in NAcore medium spiny neurons was abolished and dendritic spine density was reduced, but alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid/N-methyl-D-aspartate ratio was unaltered in THC+CBD-trained animals, akin to opioids, but not to psychostimulants. CONCLUSIONS We report enduring consequences of THC+CBD use on critical relapse circuitry and synaptic physiology in NAcore following rat self-administration and provide the first report of cue- and stress-induced reinstatement with this model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sade Spencer
- Department of Neurosciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina.
| | - Daniela Neuhofer
- Department of Neurosciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Vivian C Chioma
- Department of Neurosciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Constanza Garcia-Keller
- Department of Neurosciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Danielle J Schwartz
- Department of Neurosciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Nicholas Allen
- Department of Neurosciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Michael D Scofield
- Department of Neurosciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina; Department of Anesthesiology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Tara Ortiz-Ithier
- Department of Neurosciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina; Department of Physiology, University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico
| | - Peter W Kalivas
- Department of Neurosciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Role of the endocannabinoid system in drug addiction. Biochem Pharmacol 2018; 157:108-121. [PMID: 30217570 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2018.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Drug addiction is a chronic relapsing disorder that produces a dramaticglobal health burden worldwide. Not effective treatment of drug addiction is currently available probably due to the difficulties to find an appropriate target to manage this complex disease raising the needs for further identification of novel therapeutic approaches. The endocannabinoid system has been found to play a crucial role in the neurobiological substrate underlying drug addiction. Endocannabinoids and cannabinoid receptors are widely expressed in the main areas of the mesocorticolimbic system that participate in the initiation and maintenance of drug consumption and in the development of compulsion and loss of behavioral control occurring during drug addiction. The identification of the important role played by CB1 cannabinoid receptors in drug addiction encouraged the possible used of an early commercialized CB1 receptor antagonist for treating drug addiction. However, the incidence of serious psychiatric adverse events leaded to the sudden withdrawal from the market of this CB1 antagonist and all the research programs developed by pharmaceutical companies to obtain new CB1 antagonists were stopped. Currently, new research strategies are under development to target the endocannabinoid system for drug addiction avoiding these side effects, which include allosteric negative modulators of CB1 receptors and compounds targeting CB2 receptors. Recent studies showing the potential role of CB2 receptors in the addictive properties of different drugs of abuse have open a promising research opportunity to develop novel possible therapeutic approaches.
Collapse
|
47
|
Khaleghzadeh-Ahangar H, Khodagholi F, Shaerzadeh F, Haghparast A. Modulatory role of the intra-accumbal CB1 receptor in protein level of the c-fos and pCREB/CREB ratio in the nucleus accumbens and ventral tegmental area in extinction and morphine seeking in the rats. Brain Res Bull 2018; 142:320-327. [PMID: 30170186 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2018.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2018] [Revised: 06/26/2018] [Accepted: 08/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Brain reward and motivation circuit begin from the ventral tegmental area (VTA) that its dopaminergic terminals project to various regions of the brain including the nucleus accumbens (NAc). This reward circuit is influenced by drugs of abuse such as morphine and cannabinoid. The present study tried to investigate the role of the intra-accumbal CB1 receptor in the c-fos level and pCREB/CREB ratio in the NAc and the VTA during reinstatement phase of morphine-induced conditioned place preference (CPP) by western blotting. The present data reveals that intra-accumbal administration of CB1 agonist, WIN55,212-2 (0.5, 1 and 2 mM/0.5 μl DMSO) before/during extinction period of morphine-induced CPP, significantly decreased the NAc and the VTA c-fos protein level in the reinstatement phase; whereas the pre-reinstatement administration of the CB1 agonist, increased the c-fos protein level. Intra-accumbal administration of the CB1 agonist during the extinction period of morphine-induced CPP reduced the pCREB/CREB ratio in the NAc. Also, the present data show that intra-accumbal administration of CB1 antagonist, AM251 (15, 45 and 90 μM/0.5 μl DMSO) during/after extinction period of morphine-induced CPP affects the NAc and the VTA c-fos protein level in the reinstatement phase. Also, intra-NAc microinjection of AM251 during the extinction period reduced pCREB/CREB ratio in these regions. In conclusion, the results presented here provide compelling evidence of the modulation and involvement of the c-fos and the CREB molecules in the cannabinoid-opioid interaction of the brain reward system in the CPP paradigm.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Animals
- Benzoxazines/pharmacology
- Cannabinoid Receptor Modulators/pharmacology
- Cyclic AMP Response Element-Binding Protein/metabolism
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Drug-Seeking Behavior/drug effects
- Drug-Seeking Behavior/physiology
- Extinction, Psychological/drug effects
- Extinction, Psychological/physiology
- Male
- Morphine/pharmacology
- Morphine Dependence/metabolism
- Morpholines/pharmacology
- Naphthalenes/pharmacology
- Narcotics/pharmacology
- Nucleus Accumbens/drug effects
- Nucleus Accumbens/metabolism
- Phosphorylation
- Piperidines/pharmacology
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-fos/metabolism
- Pyrazoles/pharmacology
- Rats, Wistar
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/agonists
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/metabolism
- Ventral Tegmental Area/drug effects
- Ventral Tegmental Area/metabolism
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hossein Khaleghzadeh-Ahangar
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran; Neuroscience Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Fariba Khodagholi
- Neuroscience Research Center, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box 19615-1178, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Shaerzadeh
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Hormozgan Health Institute, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran; Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida College of Medicine and McKnight Brain Institute, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Abbas Haghparast
- Neuroscience Research Center, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box 19615-1178, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Secci ME, Mascia P, Sagheddu C, Beggiato S, Melis M, Borelli AC, Tomasini MC, Panlilio LV, Schindler CW, Tanda G, Ferré S, Bradberry CW, Ferraro L, Pistis M, Goldberg SR, Schwarcz R, Justinova Z. Astrocytic Mechanisms Involving Kynurenic Acid Control Δ 9-Tetrahydrocannabinol-Induced Increases in Glutamate Release in Brain Reward-Processing Areas. Mol Neurobiol 2018; 56:3563-3575. [PMID: 30151725 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-018-1319-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The reinforcing effects of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in rats and monkeys, and the reinforcement-related dopamine-releasing effects of THC in rats, can be attenuated by increasing endogenous levels of kynurenic acid (KYNA) through systemic administration of the kynurenine 3-monooxygenase inhibitor, Ro 61-8048. KYNA is a negative allosteric modulator of α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (α7nAChRs) and is synthesized and released by astroglia, which express functional α7nAChRs and cannabinoid CB1 receptors (CB1Rs). Here, we tested whether these presumed KYNA autoreceptors (α7nAChRs) and CB1Rs regulate glutamate release. We used in vivo microdialysis and electrophysiology in rats, RNAscope in situ hybridization in brain slices, and primary culture of rat cortical astrocytes. Acute systemic administration of THC increased extracellular levels of glutamate in the nucleus accumbens shell (NAcS), ventral tegmental area (VTA), and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). THC also reduced extracellular levels of KYNA in the NAcS. These THC effects were prevented by administration of Ro 61-8048 or the CB1R antagonist, rimonabant. THC increased the firing activity of glutamatergic pyramidal neurons projecting from the mPFC to the NAcS or to the VTA in vivo. These effects were averted by pretreatment with Ro 61-8048. In vitro, THC elicited glutamate release from cortical astrocytes (on which we demonstrated co-localization of the CB1Rs and α7nAChR mRNAs), and this effect was prevented by KYNA and rimonabant. These results suggest a key role of astrocytes in interactions between the endocannabinoid system, kynurenine pathway, and glutamatergic neurotransmission, with ramifications for the pathophysiology and treatment of psychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria E Secci
- Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd., Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Paola Mascia
- Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd., Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Claudia Sagheddu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Sarah Beggiato
- Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Miriam Melis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Andrea C Borelli
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maria C Tomasini
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Leigh V Panlilio
- Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd., Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Charles W Schindler
- Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd., Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Gianluigi Tanda
- Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, Intramural Research Program, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sergi Ferré
- Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, Intramural Research Program, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Charles W Bradberry
- Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd., Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Luca Ferraro
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Marco Pistis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy
- National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Section of Cagliari, Neuroscience Institute, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Steven R Goldberg
- Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd., Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Robert Schwarcz
- Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Zuzana Justinova
- Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd., Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Neuroprotective Action of the CB1/2 Receptor Agonist, WIN 55,212-2, against DMSO but Not Phenobarbital-Induced Neurotoxicity in Immature Rats. Neurotox Res 2018; 35:173-182. [PMID: 30141144 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-018-9944-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2018] [Revised: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 08/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The developing brain is uniquely susceptible to drug-induced increases in programmed cell death or apoptosis. Many compounds, including anticonvulsant drugs, anesthetic agents, and ethanol, when administered in a narrow postnatal window in rodents, result in increased pruning of neurons. Here, we report that dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) triggers widespread neurodegeneration in the immature (postnatal day, P7) rat brain, an effect consistent with a prior report in neonatal mice. We found that the synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist WIN 55,212-2 (WIN) exerts a neuroprotective effect against DMSO-induced cell death. We extended these findings to determine if WIN is neuroprotective against another drug class known to increase developmental cell death, namely antiseizure drugs. The antiseizure drug phenobarbital (PB) remains the primary treatment for neonatal seizures, despite significantly increasing cell death in the developing rodent brain. WIN exerts antiseizure effects in immature rodent seizure models, but increases the toxicity associated with neonatal ethanol exposure. We thus sought to determine if WIN would protect against or exacerbate PB-induced cell death. Unlike either the prior report with ethanol or our present findings with DMSO, WIN was largely without effect on PB-induced cell death. WIN alone did not increase cell death over levels observed in vehicle-treated rats. These data suggest that WIN has a favorable safety profile in the developing brain and could potentially serve as an adjunct therapy with phenobarbital (albeit one that does not attenuate PB-induced toxicity).
Collapse
|
50
|
Lupica CR, Hoffman AF. Cannabinoid disruption of learning mechanisms involved in reward processing. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 25:435-445. [PMID: 30115765 PMCID: PMC6097761 DOI: 10.1101/lm.046748.117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The increasing use of cannabis, its derivatives, and synthetic cannabinoids for medicinal and recreational purposes has led to burgeoning interest in understanding the addictive potential of this class of molecules. It is estimated that ∼10% of marijuana users will eventually show signs of dependence on the drug, and the diagnosis of cannabis use disorder (CUD) is increasing in the United States. The molecule that sustains the use of cannabis is Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), and our knowledge of its effects, and those of other cannabinoids on brain function has expanded rapidly in the past two decades. Additionally, the identification of endogenous cannabinoid (endocannabinoid) systems in brain and their roles in physiology and behavior, demonstrate extensive involvement of these lipid signaling molecules in regulating CNS function. Here, we examine roles for endogenous cannabinoids in shaping synaptic activity in cortical and subcortical brain circuits, and we discuss mechanisms in which exogenous cannabinoids, such as Δ9-THC, interact with endocannabinoid systems to disrupt neuronal network oscillations. We then explore how perturbation of the interaction of this activity within brain reward circuits may lead to impaired learning. Finally, we propose that disruption of cellular plasticity mechanisms by exogenous cannabinoids in cortical and subcortical circuits may explain the difficulty in establishing viable cannabinoid self-administration models in animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carl R Lupica
- Electrophysiology Research Section, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA
| | - Alexander F Hoffman
- Electrophysiology Research Section, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA
| |
Collapse
|