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Babayeva M, Loewy ZG. Cannabis Pharmacogenomics: A Path to Personalized Medicine. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:3479-3514. [PMID: 37185752 PMCID: PMC10137111 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45040228] [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: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis and related compounds have created significant research interest as a promising therapy in many disorders. However, the individual therapeutic effects of cannabinoids and the incidence of side effects are still difficult to determine. Pharmacogenomics may provide the answers to many questions and concerns regarding the cannabis/cannabinoid treatment and help us to understand the variability in individual responses and associated risks. Pharmacogenomics research has made meaningful progress in identifying genetic variations that play a critical role in interpatient variability in response to cannabis. This review classifies the current knowledge of pharmacogenomics associated with medical marijuana and related compounds and can assist in improving the outcomes of cannabinoid therapy and to minimize the adverse effects of cannabis use. Specific examples of pharmacogenomics informing pharmacotherapy as a path to personalized medicine are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Babayeva
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Touro College of Pharmacy, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Zvi G Loewy
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Touro College of Pharmacy, New York, NY 10027, USA
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
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Hosseinzadeh Anvar L, Ahmadalipour A. Fatty acid amide hydrolase C385A polymorphism affects susceptibility to various diseases. Biofactors 2023; 49:62-78. [PMID: 36300805 DOI: 10.1002/biof.1911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid (eCB) system is an important neuromodulatory system with its extensive network of receptors throughout the human body that has complex actions in the nervous system, immune system, and all of the body's other organs. Fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) is an important membrane-bound homodimeric degrading enzyme that controls the biological activity of N-arachidonoylethanolamide (AEA) in the eCB system and other relevant bioactive lipids. It has been shown that several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of FAAH are associated with various phenotypes and diseases including cardiovascular, endocrine, drug abuse, and neuropsychiatric disorders. A common functional and most studied polymorphism of this gene is C385A (rs324420), which results in the replacement of a conserved proline to threonine in the FAAH enzyme structure, leads to a reduction of the activity and expression of FAAH, compromises the inactivation of AEA and causes higher synaptic concentrations of AEA that can be associated with several various phenotypes. The focus of this review is on evidence-based studies on the associations of the FAAH C385A polymorphism and the various diseases or traits. Although there was variability in the results of these reports, the overall consensus is that the FAAH C385A genotype can affect susceptibility to some multifactorial disorders and can be considered a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Hosseinzadeh Anvar
- Research Center of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ali Ahmadalipour
- Research Center of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Legare CA, Raup-Konsavage WM, Vrana KE. Therapeutic Potential of Cannabis, Cannabidiol, and Cannabinoid-Based Pharmaceuticals. Pharmacology 2022; 107:131-149. [DOI: 10.1159/000521683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
<b><i>Background:</i></b> There is a growing interest in the use of cannabis (and its extracts), as well as CBD oil (hemp extracts containing cannabidiol), for therapeutic purposes. While there is reason to believe that cannabinoids may be efficacious for a number of different diseases and syndromes, there exist limited objective data supporting the use of crude materials (CBD oil, cannabis extracts, and/or cannabis itself). <b><i>Summary:</i></b> In the present review, we examined data for pure cannabinoid compounds (dronabinol, nabilone, and CBD), as well as partially purified medicinal cannabis extracts (nabiximols), to provide guidance on the potential therapeutic uses of high-THC cannabis and CBD oil. In general, data support a role for cannabis/cannabinoids in pain, seizure disorders, appetite stimulation, muscle spasticity, and treatment of nausea/vomiting. Given the biological activities of the cannabinoids, there may be utility in treatment of central nervous system disorders (such as neurodegenerative diseases, PTSD, and addiction) or for the treatment of cancer. However, those data are much less compelling. <b><i>Key Message:</i></b> On balance, there are reasons to support the potential use of medical cannabis and cannabis extract (Δ<sup>9</sup>-THC-dominant or CBD-dominant), but much more careful research is required.
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Moulin V, Framorando D, Gasser J, Dan-Glauser E. The Link Between Cannabis Use and Violent Behavior in the Early Phase of Psychosis: The Potential Role of Impulsivity. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:746287. [PMID: 35392388 PMCID: PMC8980530 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.746287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Recently, the literature has shown that Cannabis Use (CU) was a risk factor for Violent Behavior (VB) in patients with psychosis, and those in the early phase of psychosis (EPP). These findings are relevant because of the high prevalence of CU in this EPP, and the potential for prevention during this phase of illness. However, there is still a lack of clear explanations, supported by empirical evidence, about what underlies the link between CU and VB against other. METHOD This viewpoint reviews the scientific literature on the link between CU and VB, and the involvement of impulsivity in this relationship. This last point will be addressed at clinical and neurobiological levels. RESULTS Recent studies confirmed that CU is particularly high in the EPP, and is a risk factor for VB in the EPP and schizophrenia. Studies have also shown that impulsivity is a risk factor for VB in psychosis, is associated with CU, and may mediate the link between CU and VB. Research suggests a neurobiological mechanism, as CU affects the structures and function of frontal areas, known to play a role in impulsive behavior. CONCLUSION Scientific evidence support the hypothesis of an involvement of impulsivity as a variable that could mediate the link between CU and aggression, particularly, when CU has an early onset. However, this hypothesis should be confirmed with longitudinal studies and by taking into account confounding factors. The studies highlight the relevance of early prevention in the EPP, in addition to interventions focusing on psychotic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerie Moulin
- Unit for Research in Legal Psychiatry and Psychology, Institute of Forensic Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - David Framorando
- Unit for Research in Legal Psychiatry and Psychology, Institute of Forensic Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jacques Gasser
- Unit for Research in Legal Psychiatry and Psychology, Institute of Forensic Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Elise Dan-Glauser
- Institute of Psychology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Lifetime Cannabis Use Disorder Is Not Associated With Lifetime Impulsive Behavior and Severe Violence in Patients With Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders From a High-Security Hospital. J Clin Psychopharmacol 2021; 41:623-628. [PMID: 34735097 DOI: 10.1097/jcp.0000000000001493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE/BACKGROUND The link between substances of abuse, impulsivity, and violence in psychotic patients remains unclear. This study aims at unraveling whether cannabis use disorder is associated with violent and/or psychotic behavior in patients who are hospitalized in a high-security hospital. METHODS/PROCEDURES We conducted a cross-sectional retrospective study in 124 patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders admitted to a high-security hospital. Lifetime violent behavior was assessed using the History of Aggressive Behavior Form-Subject of the MacArthur Violence Risk Assessment Study and impulsivity using the Psychopathy Checklist-Revised (considering items: "proneness to boredom," "lack of self-control," and "impulsive thoughtless gestures"). Substance use disorder was diagnosed according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition criteria. Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale was also administered. FINDINGS/RESULTS Violent and nonviolent psychotic patients showed similar prevalence of cannabis use disorder. Alcohol and cocaine use disorders were more prevalent among violent psychotic patients. Cannabis use disorder was not associated with any dimension of impulsivity, whereas alcohol use disorder was positively correlated to impulsive thoughtless gestures (standardized β = 0.213, P = 0.027) and cocaine use disorder with proneness to boredom (standardized β = 0.290, P = 0.002). Finally, logistic regression analysis revealed that, unlike cannabis and cocaine use disorders, alcohol use disorder (odds ratio, 3.964; 95% confidence interval, 1.729-9.087; P = 0.001) was a factor associated with violence. IMPLICATIONS/CONCLUSIONS These findings show that cannabis and alcohol are largely abused and coabused by psychotic patients with a propsensity for violence, but only alcohol is associated with impulsive and violent behavior. Therefore, especially alcohol abuse should be seriously considered by practitioners when evaluating the dangerousness of patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders.
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Influence of Cannabinoid Receptor 1 Genetic Variants on the Subjective Effects of Smoked Cannabis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22147388. [PMID: 34299009 PMCID: PMC8307475 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
As many jurisdictions consider relaxing cannabis legislation and usage is increasing in North America and other parts of the world, there is a need to explore the possible genetic differences underlying the subjective effects of cannabis. This pilot study investigated specific genetic variations within the cannabinoid receptor 1 (CNR1) gene for association with the subjective effects of smoked cannabis. Data were obtained from a double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial studying the impact of cannabis intoxication on driving performance. Participants randomized to the active cannabis group who consented to secondary genetic analysis (n = 52) were genotyped at the CNR1 rs1049353 and rs2023239 polymorphic areas. Maximum value and area under the curve (AUC) analyses were performed on subjective measures data. Analysis of subjective effects by genotype uncovered a global trend towards greater subjective effects for rs1049353 T-allele- and rs2023239 C-allele-carrying subjects. However, significant differences attributed to allelic identity were only documented for a subset of subjective effects. Our findings suggest that rs1049353 and rs2023239 minor allele carriers experience augmented subjective effects during acute cannabis intoxication.
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Filbey FM, Beaton D, Prashad S. The contributions of the endocannabinoid system and stress on the neural processing of reward stimuli. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 106:110183. [PMID: 33221340 PMCID: PMC8204292 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.110183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The brain's endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in reward processes by mediating appetitive learning and encoding the reinforcing properties of substances. Evidence also suggests that endocannabinoids are an important constituent of neuronal substrates involved in emotional responses to stress. Thus, it is critical to understand how the endocannabinoid system and stress may affect reward processes given their importance in substance use disorders. We examined the relationship between factors that regulate endocannabinoid system signaling (i.e., cannabinoid receptor genes and prolonged cannabis exposure) and stress on fMRI BOLD response to reward cues using multivariate statistical analysis. We found that proxies for endocannabinoid system signaling (i.e., endocannabinoid genes and chronic exposure to cannabis) and stress have differential effects on neural response to cannabis cues. Specifically, a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) variant in the cannabinoid receptor 1 (CNR1) gene, early life stress, and current perceived stress modulated reward responsivity in long-term, heavy cannabis users, while a variant in the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) gene and current perceived stress modulated cue-elicited response in non-using controls. These associations were related to distinct neural responses to cannabis-related cues compared to natural reward cues. Understanding the contributions of endocannabinoid system factors and stress that lead to downstream effects on neural mechanisms underlying sensitivity to rewards, such as cannabis, will contribute towards a better understanding of endocannabinoid-targeted therapies as well as individual risks for cannabis use disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- F M Filbey
- Center for BrainHealth, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, TX, USA.
| | - D Beaton
- Rotman Research Institute, Baycrest Health Sciences, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - S Prashad
- Department of Kinesiology and Educational Psychology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States of America
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Rinehart L, Spencer S. Which came first: Cannabis use or deficits in impulse control? Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 106:110066. [PMID: 32795592 PMCID: PMC7750254 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.110066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 07/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Impulse control deficits are often found to co-occur with substance use disorders (SUDs). On the one hand, it is well known that chronic intake of drugs of abuse remodels the brain with significant consequences for a range of cognitive behaviors. On the other hand, individual variation in impulse control may contribute to differences in susceptibility to SUDs. Both of these relationships have been described, thus leading to a "chicken or the egg" debate which remains to be fully resolved. Does impulsivity precede drug use or does it manifest as a function of problematic drug usage? The link between impulsivity and SUDs has been most strongly established for cocaine and alcohol use disorders using both preclinical models and clinical data. Much less is known about the potential link between impulsivity and cannabis use disorder (CUD) or the directionality of this relationship. The initiation of cannabis use occurs most often during adolescence prior to the brain's maturation, which is recognized as a critical period of development. The long-term effects of chronic cannabis use on the brain and behavior have started to be explored. In this review we will summarize these observations, especially as they pertain to the relationship between impulsivity and CUD, from both a psychological and biological perspective. We will discuss impulsivity as a multi-dimensional construct and attempt to reconcile the results obtained across modalities. Finally, we will discuss possible avenues for future research with emerging longitudinal data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Rinehart
- University of Minnesota, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
| | - Sade Spencer
- University of Minnesota, Department of Pharmacology, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
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Thorpe HHA, Talhat MA, Khokhar JY. High genes: Genetic underpinnings of cannabis use phenotypes. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 106:110164. [PMID: 33152387 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.110164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis is one of the most widely used substances across the globe and its use has a substantial heritable component. However, the heritability of cannabis use varies according to substance use phenotype, suggesting that a unique profile of gene variants may contribute to the different stages of use, such as age of use onset, lifetime use, cannabis use disorder, and withdrawal and craving during abstinence. Herein, we review a subset of genes identified by candidate gene, family-based linkage, and genome-wide association studies related to these cannabis use phenotypes. We also describe their relationships with other substances, and their functions at the neurobiological, cognitive, and behavioral levels to hypothesize the role of these genes in cannabis use risk. Delineating genetic risk factors in the various stages of cannabis use will provide insight into the biological mechanisms related to cannabis use and highlight points of intervention prior to and following the development of dependence, as well as identify targets to aid drug development for treating problematic cannabis use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley H A Thorpe
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | | | - Jibran Y Khokhar
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada.
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Abstract
Cannabis use disorder (CUD) is an underappreciated risk of using cannabis that affects ~10% of the 193 million cannabis users worldwide. The individual and public health burdens are less than those of other forms of drug use, but CUD accounts for a substantial proportion of persons seeking treatment for drug use disorders owing to the high global prevalence of cannabis use. Cognitive behavioural therapy, motivational enhancement therapy and contingency management can substantially reduce cannabis use and cannabis-related problems, but enduring abstinence is not a common outcome. No pharmacotherapies have been approved for cannabis use or CUD, although a number of drug classes (such as cannabinoid agonists) have shown promise and require more rigorous evaluation. Treatment of cannabis use and CUD is often complicated by comorbid mental health and other substance use disorders. The legalization of non-medical cannabis use in some high-income countries may increase the prevalence of CUD by making more potent cannabis products more readily available at a lower price. States that legalize medical and non-medical cannabis use should inform users about the risks of CUD and provide information on how to obtain assistance if they develop cannabis-related mental and/or physical health problems.
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Chen HT, Mackie K. Adolescent Δ 9-Tetrahydrocannabinol Exposure Selectively Impairs Working Memory but Not Several Other mPFC-Mediated Behaviors. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:576214. [PMID: 33262712 PMCID: PMC7688511 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.576214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
As the frequency of cannabis use by 14-16-year-olds increases, it becomes increasingly important to understand the effect of cannabis on the developing central nervous system. Using mice as a model system, we treated adolescent (28 day old) C57BL6/J mice of both sexes for 3 weeks with 3 mg/kg tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Starting a week after the last treatment, several cognitive behaviors were analyzed. Mice treated with THC as adolescents acquired proficiency in a working memory task more slowly than vehicle-treated mice. Working memory recall in both sexes of THC-treated mice was also deficient during increasing cognitive load compared to vehicle-treated mice. Our adolescent THC treatment did not strongly affect social preference, anxiety behaviors, or decision-making behaviors on the elevated T maze task. In summary, under the conditions of this study, adolescent THC treatment of mice markedly affected the establishment, and persistence of working memory, while having little effect on decision-making, social preference or anxiety behaviors. This study provides further support that adolescent THC affects specific behavioral domains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han-Ting Chen
- Department of Psychology and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States.,Gill Center, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | - Ken Mackie
- Department of Psychology and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States.,Gill Center, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
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Is (poly-) substance use associated with impaired inhibitory control? A mega-analysis controlling for confounders. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2019; 105:288-304. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2019.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Revised: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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Lopez-Vergara HI, Jackson KM, Meshesha LZ, Metrik J. Dysregulation as a correlate of cannabis use and problem use. Addict Behav 2019; 95:138-144. [PMID: 30913511 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2019.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Revised: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cannabis users with a dysregulatory risk factor may be particularly vulnerable to engaging in more frequent and problematic cannabis use. Contemporary models of dysregulated behavior suggest that dysregulation emerges due to distinct mechanisms. The current study seeks to examine the dysregulatory correlates of cannabis involvement, including working memory capacity, delay discounting, impulsivity, and reward sensitivity. METHOD Participants were 104 non-treatment seeking frequent cannabis users (the average participant used cannabis 71% of the days/past 60 days [SD = 22%], with an average of two uses per day [SD = 1.2]). Mean age was 21.3 (SD = 4.3); 36.5% were female. Working memory was assessed via the Trail-Making Test-B and the Digit Span subtests of the WAIS-III, delay discounting was assessed via a computer-based task, trait impulsivity was self-reported via the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale, and reward sensitivity was self-reported via the Reward Dependence Scale and the Snaith-Hamilton Pleasure Scale. RESULTS Structural equation modeling estimated the associations between different facets of dysregulation and cannabis involvement. Results suggest that poor working memory capacity and high trait impulsivity were associated with both use and problem use. Greater delay discounting was associated with problem use, but not with frequency of use. Low reward sensitivity was associated with more frequent cannabis use, but not with problem use. CONCLUSIONS Results confirm that the dysregulatory correlates of cannabis involvement consist of multiple dimensions of functioning. Prospective studies that assess the multidimensional structure of dysregulation and cannabis involvement are needed in order to disaggregate the dysregulatory antecedents and consequences of cannabis involvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hector I Lopez-Vergara
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI 02903, United States of America
| | - Kristina M Jackson
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI 02903, United States of America
| | - Lidia Z Meshesha
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI 02903, United States of America
| | - Jane Metrik
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI 02903, United States of America; Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, RI 02908, United States of America.
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Palmer RHC, McGeary JE, Knopik VS, Bidwell LC, Metrik JM. CNR1 and FAAH variation and affective states induced by marijuana smoking. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE 2019; 45:514-526. [PMID: 31184938 DOI: 10.1080/00952990.2019.1614596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Background: Polymorphisms in cannabinoid receptor type 1 (encoded by CNR1) and fatty acid amide hydrolase (encoded by FAAH) have been associated with cannabis dependence, but it remains unknown whether variation within these genes influences cannabis' acute effects on affect. Objective: Conduct a secondary data analysis study to determine whether previously observed acute effects of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) on mood was dependent upon variation in CNR1 and FAAH. Methods: A balanced placebo design was used crossing marijuana administration (i.e., 0% THC vs. 2.8% THC) with stimulus expectancy. Participants (N = 118; 64% male) provided DNA and completed the Profile of Mood States questionnaire prior to and after smoking. Haplotypes were constructed from genotyped single nucleotide polymorphisms for CNR1 (rs1049353 and rs806368) and FAAH (rs4141964, rs324420, and rs11576941); rs2023239 (CNR1) and rs6703669 (FAAH) were not part of a phased haplotype block. Analyses tested both main and interaction effects for genotype across CNR1 and FAAH, and drug, and expectancy effects. Results: THC increased levels of POMS Tension-Anxiety and Confusion-Bewilderment over and above the effects of variation in CNR1 and FAAH. Significant drug X genotype/haplotype and expectancy X genotype/haplotype interaction effects were observed for some but not all mood states [e.g., 'C' allele carriers of rs2023239 who received THC had higher levels of Anger-Hostility (β= 0.29 (0.12), p= .02) compared to those who received placebo]. Conclusion: These preliminary findings suggest individual differences in mood states after using marijuana depend on genetic variation. Such information might be useful in understanding either motivation for use of marijuana and/or risk for associated behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohan H C Palmer
- a Department of Psychology at Emory University, Behavioral Genetics of Addiction Laboratory , Atlanta , GA , USA
| | - John E McGeary
- b Providence Veterans Affairs Medical Center , Providence , RI , USA.,c Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School, Brown University , Providence , RI , USA.,d Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health , Providence , RI , USA
| | - Valerie S Knopik
- e Human Development and Family Studies, Purdue University , West Lafayette , IN , USA
| | - L Cinnamon Bidwell
- f Institute for Cognitive Science, University of Colorado at Boulder , Boulder , CO , USA
| | - Jane M Metrik
- b Providence Veterans Affairs Medical Center , Providence , RI , USA.,d Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health , Providence , RI , USA
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Syed Haneef SA, Ranganathan S. Structural bioinformatics analysis of variants on GPCR function. Curr Opin Struct Biol 2019; 55:161-177. [PMID: 31174013 DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2019.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2019] [Revised: 04/20/2019] [Accepted: 04/22/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are key membrane-embedded receptor proteins, with critical roles in cellular signal transduction. In the era of precision medicine, understanding the role of natural variants on GPCR function is critical, especially from a pharmacogenomics viewpoint. Studies involved in mapping variants to GPCR structures are briefly reviewed here. The endocannabinoid system involving the central nervous system (CNS), the human cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1), is an important drug target and its variability has implications for disease susceptibility and altered drug and pain response. We have carried out a computational study to map deleterious non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (nsSNPs) to CB1. CB1 mutations were computationally evaluated from neutral to deleterious, and the top twelve deleterious mutations, with structural information, were found to be either close to the ligand binding region or the G-protein binding site. We have mapped these to the active and inactive CB1 X-ray crystallographic structures to correlate variants with available phenotypic information. We have also carried out molecular dynamics simulations to functionally characterize four selected mutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed Askar Syed Haneef
- Department of Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Macquarie University, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Shoba Ranganathan
- Department of Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Macquarie University, NSW 2109, Australia.
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Frohe T, Leeman RF, Patock-Peckham J, Ecker A, Kraus S, Foster DW. Correlates of cannabis vape-pen use and knowledge among U.S. college students. Addict Behav Rep 2018; 7:32-39. [PMID: 29450254 PMCID: PMC5805498 DOI: 10.1016/j.abrep.2017.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2017] [Revised: 11/16/2017] [Accepted: 11/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The proliferation of electronic devices, such as vape-pens, has provided alternative means for cannabis use. Research has found cannabis-vaping (i.e., vape-pen use) is associated with lower perceived risks and higher cannabis use. Knowledge of these products may increase likelihood of subsequent use. As policies for cannabis shift, beliefs that peers and family approve of this substance use (injunctive norms) increase and there has been an increase in vape-pen use among young adults (18-35 year olds); however, correlates thereof remain unknown. Young adults often engage in cross-substance use with cannabis and alcohol, making alcohol a potential correlate of cannabis vape-pen use and knowledge. Therefore, we examined alcohol use and other potential correlates of vape-pen use and knowledge among a sample of university students. METHODS This secondary data analysis utilized surveys at multiple colleges in the U.S. (N = 270). Alcohol use, social anxiety, cannabis expectancies, injunctive and descriptive norms and facets of impulsivity were examined as correlates of vape-pen use and knowledge using bivariate correlations and logistic regressions. RESULTS Alcohol use was correlated with cannabis vape-pen use and knowledge. Frequency of cannabis use, peer injunctive norms, and positive expectancies were associated with increased likelihood of vape-pen use. Lack of premeditation, a facet of impulsivity, was associated with cannabis vape-pen knowledge. CONCLUSIONS Given the unknown nature and consequences of cannabis vape-pens, the present findings offer valuable information on correlates of this behavior. Further, correlates of knowledge of vape-pens may point to areas for education and clinical intervention to prevent heavy cannabis vape-pen use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessa Frohe
- University of Florida, Department of Health Education and Behavior, College of Health and Human Performance, P.O. Box 118210, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Robert F. Leeman
- University of Florida, Department of Health Education and Behavior, College of Health and Human Performance, P.O. Box 118210, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, 300 George St., Suite 901, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Julie Patock-Peckham
- Arizona State University, Department of Psychology, 950 S. McAllister Ave, Tempe, AZ 85287, PO Box 871104, Tempe, AZ 85287-1104, USA
| | - Anthony Ecker
- South Central MIRECC, Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, 2002 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Medical Center, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Shane Kraus
- VISN 1 New England MIRECC, Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital, Bedford, MA, USA
| | - Dawn W. Foster
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, 300 George St., Suite 901, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
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17
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Gunn RL, Jackson KM, Borsari B, Metrik J. Negative urgency partially accounts for the relationship between major depressive disorder and marijuana problems. Borderline Personal Disord Emot Dysregul 2018; 5:10. [PMID: 29796282 PMCID: PMC5956924 DOI: 10.1186/s40479-018-0087-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2018] [Accepted: 05/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To goal of this study was to better understand mechanisms underlying associations between Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and marijuana use and problems. Specifically, it was hypothesized that negative urgency (NU), the tendency to act rashly while experiencing negative mood states, would uniquely (compared to other impulsivity traits: positive urgency, sensation seeking, premeditation, and perseverance) account for the relationship between MDD and marijuana use and problems. METHODS Data were collected from a sample (N = 357) of veterans (M age = 33.63) recruited from a Veterans Affairs hospital who used marijuana at least once in their lifetime. Participants completed the SCID-NP to assess MDD, a marijuana problems scale, a Time-Line Follow-back to assess six-month marijuana use, and the UPPS-P Impulsive Behavior Scale for impulsivity. RESULTS Path analysis was conducted using bootstrapped (k = 20,000) and bias-corrected 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to estimate mediation (indirect) effects, controlling for age, sex, and race. Analyses revealed a significant direct effect of MDD on NU and NU on marijuana problems. Regarding mediational analyses, there was a significant indirect effect of MDD on marijuana problems via NU. The direct effect of MDD on marijuana problems was reduced, but remained significant, suggesting partial mediation. No other impulsivity scales accounted for the relationship between MDD and marijuana problems. In predicting marijuana use, there were no significant indirect effects for any impulsivity traits, including NU, despite significant bivariate associations between use and NU and MDD. CONCLUSIONS Results suggest that high levels of NU may partially explain associations between MDD and marijuana problems, but not marijuana use. No other facets of impulsivity accounted for the relationship between MDD and marijuana use or problems, underscoring the specificity of NU as a putative mechanism and the importance of assessing NU in treatment settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel L Gunn
- 1Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI 02903 USA
| | - Kristina M Jackson
- 1Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI 02903 USA
| | - Brian Borsari
- 2San Francisco VA Medical Center, San Francisco, California 94121 USA.,3University of California, San Francisco, 94143 USA
| | - Jane Metrik
- 1Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI 02903 USA.,4Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, RI 02908 USA
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18
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Filbey FM. Commentary on Lichenstein et al. (2017): Escalating cannabis use, weak corticostriatal connections and negative outcomes. Addiction 2017; 112:1971-1972. [PMID: 28990298 DOI: 10.1111/add.13935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2017] [Accepted: 07/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca M Filbey
- Center for BrainHealth, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, Dallas, TX, USA
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Strickland JC, Lile JA, Stoops WW. Unique prediction of cannabis use severity and behaviors by delay discounting and behavioral economic demand. Behav Processes 2017; 140:33-40. [PMID: 28347716 DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2017.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2016] [Revised: 02/17/2017] [Accepted: 03/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Few studies have simultaneously evaluated delay discounting and behavioral economic demand to determine their unique contribution to drug use. A recent study in cannabis users found that monetary delay discounting uniquely predicted cannabis dependence symptoms, whereas cannabis demand uniquely predicted use frequency. This study sought to replicate and extend this research by evaluating delay discounting and behavioral economic demand measures for multiple commodities and including a use quantity measure. Amazon.com's Mechanical Turk was used to sample individuals reporting recent cannabis use (n=64) and controls (n=72). Participants completed measures of monetary delay discounting as well as alcohol and cannabis delay discounting and demand. Cannabis users and controls did not differ on monetary delay discounting or alcohol delay discounting and demand. Among cannabis users, regression analyses indicated that cannabis delay discounting uniquely predicted use severity, whereas cannabis demand uniquely predicted use frequency and quantity. These effects remained significant after controlling for other delay discounting and demand measures. This research replicates previous outcomes relating delay discounting and demand with cannabis use and extends them by accounting for the contribution of multiple commodities. This research also demonstrates the ability of online crowdsourcing methods to complement traditional human laboratory techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin C Strickland
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky College of Arts and Sciences, 171 Funkhouser Drive, Lexington, KY 40506-0044, USA.
| | - Joshua A Lile
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky College of Arts and Sciences, 171 Funkhouser Drive, Lexington, KY 40506-0044, USA; Department of Behavioral Science, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, 1100 Veterans Drive, Medical Behavioral Science Building Room 140, Lexington, KY 40536-0086, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, 3470 Blazer Parkway, Lexington, KY 40509-1810, USA
| | - William W Stoops
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky College of Arts and Sciences, 171 Funkhouser Drive, Lexington, KY 40506-0044, USA; Department of Behavioral Science, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, 1100 Veterans Drive, Medical Behavioral Science Building Room 140, Lexington, KY 40536-0086, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, 3470 Blazer Parkway, Lexington, KY 40509-1810, USA
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20
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Boileau I, Mansouri E, Williams B, Le Foll B, Rusjan P, Mizrahi R, Tyndale RF, Huestis MA, Payer DE, Wilson AA, Houle S, Kish SJ, Tong J. Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase Binding in Brain of Cannabis Users: Imaging With the Novel Radiotracer [ 11C]CURB. Biol Psychiatry 2016; 80:691-701. [PMID: 27345297 PMCID: PMC5050070 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2016.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2016] [Revised: 03/24/2016] [Accepted: 04/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND One of the major mechanisms for terminating the actions of the endocannabinoid anandamide is hydrolysis by fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), and inhibitors of the enzyme were suggested as potential treatment for human cannabis dependence. However, the status of brain FAAH in cannabis use disorder is unknown. METHODS Brain FAAH binding was measured with positron emission tomography and [11C]CURB in 22 healthy control subjects and ten chronic cannabis users during early abstinence. The FAAH genetic polymorphism (rs324420) and blood, urine, and hair levels of cannabinoids and metabolites were determined. RESULTS In cannabis users, FAAH binding was significantly lower by 14%-20% across the brain regions examined than in matched control subjects (overall Cohen's d = 0.96). Lower binding was negatively correlated with cannabinoid concentrations in blood and urine and was associated with higher trait impulsiveness. CONCLUSIONS Lower FAAH binding levels in the brain may be a consequence of chronic and recent cannabis exposure and could contribute to cannabis withdrawal. This effect should be considered in the development of novel treatment strategies for cannabis use disorder that target FAAH and endocannabinoids. Further studies are needed to examine possible changes in FAAH binding during prolonged cannabis abstinence and whether lower FAAH binding predates drug use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Boileau
- Addiction Imaging Research Group, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Human Brain Lab, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Esmaeil Mansouri
- Addiction Imaging Research Group, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, Canada,Human Brain Lab, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, Canada,Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, Canada,Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Belinda Williams
- Addiction Imaging Research Group, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, Canada,Human Brain Lab, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, Canada,Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, Canada,Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Bernard Le Foll
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, Canada,Department Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada,Department Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada,Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Pablo Rusjan
- Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, Canada,Department Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Romina Mizrahi
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, Canada,Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, Canada,Department Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada,Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Rachel F. Tyndale
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, Canada,Department Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada,Department Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Marilyn A. Huestis
- Chemistry and Drug Metabolism, IRP, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Doris E. Payer
- Addiction Imaging Research Group, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, Canada,Human Brain Lab, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, Canada,Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, Canada,Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, Canada,Department Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Alan A. Wilson
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, Canada,Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sylvain Houle
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, Canada,Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Stephen J. Kish
- Human Brain Lab, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, Canada,Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, Canada,Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, Canada,Department Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada,Department Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada,Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Junchao Tong
- Human Brain Lab, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, Canada,Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, Canada,Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, Canada,Department Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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21
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Hanna RC, Perez JM, Ghose S. Cannabis and development of dual diagnoses: A literature review. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE 2016; 43:442-455. [PMID: 27612527 DOI: 10.1080/00952990.2016.1213273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of cannabis has garnered more attention recently with ongoing efforts at marijuana legalization. The consequences of cannabis use are not clearly understood and remain a concern. OBJECTIVES To review the acute and persistent effects of cannabis use and associations with psychiatric disorders. METHODS Using Pubmed and PsychInfo, we conducted a narrative review of the literature on cannabis and psychiatric comorbidity using the keywords cannab*, marijuana, schizo*, psychosis, mood, depression, mania, bipolar, and anxiety. RESULTS There is substantial evidence of cannabis use leading to other illicit drug use and of an association between cannabis use and psychosis. A few reports suggest an association with bipolar disorder while the association with depression and anxiety disorders is mixed. CONCLUSIONS Whenever an association is observed between cannabis use and psychiatric disorders, the relationship is generally an adverse one. Age at the time of cannabis use appears to be an important factor with stronger associations observed between adolescent onset cannabis use and later onset of psychiatric disorders. Additional studies taking into account potential confounds (such as withdrawal symptoms, periods of abstinence, and other substance use) and moderators (such as age of initiation of cannabis use, the amount and frequency of drug use, prior history of childhood maltreatment, and gender) are needed to better understand the psychiatric consequences of cannabis use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca C Hanna
- a Department of Psychiatry , UT Southwestern , Dallas , TX , USA
| | - Jessica M Perez
- a Department of Psychiatry , UT Southwestern , Dallas , TX , USA
| | - Subroto Ghose
- a Department of Psychiatry , UT Southwestern , Dallas , TX , USA
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22
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Melroy-Greif WE, Wilhelmsen KC, Ehlers CL. Genetic variation in FAAH is associated with cannabis use disorders in a young adult sample of Mexican Americans. Drug Alcohol Depend 2016; 166:249-53. [PMID: 27394933 PMCID: PMC4983484 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2016.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2016] [Revised: 06/17/2016] [Accepted: 06/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis is a commonly used drug and studies have shown that a significant portion of the variation in cannabis use disorders (CUDs) is heritable. Five genes known to play a role in the endocannabinoid system and CUDs were examined in a community sample of young adult Mexican Americans (MAs): CNR1, MGLL, FAAH, DAGLA, and DAGLB. METHODS Gene-based tests were run to test for association between each gene and two DSM-5 cannabis phenotypes. Subsequent linear regressions were run in PLINK using an additive model to determine which single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were driving the association. RESULTS FAAH was significantly associated with DSM-5 cannabis use disorder group count (DSM-5 CUD) using a gene-based test (p=0.0035). This association survived Bonferroni correction for multiple testing at p<0.004. Post hoc analyses suggested this association was driven by two common (minor allele frequency >5%) SNPs in moderate linkage disequilibrium, rs324420 and rs4141964, at p=0.0014 and p=0.0023, respectively. In both cases the minor allele increased risk for DSM-5 CUD. CONCLUSIONS Genetic variation in FAAH was associated with DSM-5 CUD in MAs. This association was primarily driven by the missense SNP rs324420. In vitro work has provided evidence that the risk allele generates an enzyme with decreased expression and cellular stability. Although this SNP has been previously associated with substance use in the literature, this is the first association in a young adult MA sample.
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Affiliation(s)
- Whitney E. Melroy-Greif
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Kirk C. Wilhelmsen
- Department of Genetics and Neurology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Cindy L. Ehlers
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA,Corresponding author: Dr. Cindy L. Ehlers, Department of Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 N. Torrey Pines Rd. La Jolla, CA 92037, Mail SP30-1501, Tel: 858-784-7058, Fax: 858-784-7409,
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23
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Bogdan R, Winstone JMA, Agrawal A. Genetic and Environmental Factors Associated with Cannabis Involvement. CURRENT ADDICTION REPORTS 2016; 3:199-213. [PMID: 27642547 PMCID: PMC5019486 DOI: 10.1007/s40429-016-0103-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Approximately 50-70% of the variation in cannabis use and use disorders can be attributed to heritable factors. For cannabis use, the remaining variance can be parsed in to familial and person-specific environmental factors while for use disorders, only the latter contribute. While numerous candidate gene studies have identified the role of common variation influencing liability to cannabis involvement, replication has been elusive. To date, no genomewide association study has been sufficiently powered to identify significant loci. Despite this, studies adopting polygenic techniques and integrating genetic variation with neural phenotypes and measures of environmental risk, such as childhood adversity, are providing promising new leads. It is likely that the small effect sizes associated with variants related to cannabis involvement will only be robustly identified in substantially larger samples. Results of such large-scale efforts will provide valuable single variant targets for translational research in neurogenetic, pharmacogenetic and non-human animal models as well as polygenic risk indices that can be used to explore a host of other genetic hypotheses related to cannabis use and misuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Bogdan
- BRAIN lab, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Washington University in St. Louis
| | - Jonathan MA Winstone
- BRAIN lab, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Washington University in St. Louis
| | - Arpana Agrawal
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri
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24
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Abnormal medial prefrontal cortex activity in heavy cannabis users during conscious emotional evaluation. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2016; 233:1035-44. [PMID: 26690589 PMCID: PMC4761289 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-015-4180-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2015] [Accepted: 12/07/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Long-term heavy cannabis users (cannabis users) who are not acutely intoxicated have diminished subconscious neural responsiveness to affective stimuli. OBJECTIVE This study sought to determine if abnormal processing extends to the conscious evaluation of emotional stimuli. METHODS Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was used to examine brain activity as cannabis users (N = 16) and non-cannabis-using controls (N = 17) evaluated and categorized standardized International Affective Picture System (IAPS) stimuli. Individual judgments were used to isolate activity during the evaluation of emotional (i.e., emotional evaluation) or neutral (i.e., neutral evaluation) stimuli. Within- and between-group analyses were performed. RESULTS Both groups judged the same stimuli as emotional and had activations in visual, midbrain, and middle cingulate cortices during emotional evaluation, relative to neutral. Within-group analyses also revealed amygdalar and inferior frontal gyrus activations in controls, but not cannabis users, and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) deactivations in cannabis users, but not controls, during emotional evaluation, relative to neutral. Between-group comparisons found that mPFC activity during positive and negative evaluation was significantly hypoactive in cannabis users, relative to controls. CONCLUSIONS Abnormal neural processing of affective content extends to the level of consciousness in cannabis users. The hypoactive mPFC responses observed resembles the attenuated mPFC responses found during increased non-affective cognitive load in prior research. These findings suggest that abnormal mPFC singling in cannabis users during emotional evaluation might be associated with increased non-affective cognitive load.
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25
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Cadoni C. Fischer 344 and Lewis Rat Strains as a Model of Genetic Vulnerability to Drug Addiction. Front Neurosci 2016; 10:13. [PMID: 26903787 PMCID: PMC4746315 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2016.00013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2015] [Accepted: 01/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Today it is well acknowledged that both nature and nurture play important roles in the genesis of psychopathologies, including drug addiction. Increasing evidence suggests that genetic factors contribute for at least 40–60% of the variation in liability to drug dependence. Human genetic studies suggest that multiple genes of small effect, rather than single genes, contribute to the genesis of behavioral psychopathologies. Therefore, the use of inbred rat strains might provide a valuable tool to identify differences, linked to genotype, important in liability to addiction and related disorders. In this regard, Lewis and Fischer 344 inbred rats have been proposed as a model of genetic vulnerability to drug addiction, given their innate differences in sensitivity to the reinforcing and rewarding effects of drugs of abuse, as well their different responsiveness to stressful stimuli. This review will provide evidence in support of this model for the study of the genetic influence on addiction vulnerability, with particular emphasis on differences in mesolimbic dopamine (DA) transmission, rewarding and emotional function. It will be highlighted that Lewis and Fischer 344 rats differ not only in several indices of DA transmission and adaptive changes following repeated drug exposure, but also in hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis responsiveness, influencing not only the ability of the individual to cope with stressful events, but also interfering with rewarding and motivational processes, given the influence of corticosteroids on dopamine neuron functionality. Further differences between the two strains, as impulsivity or anxiousness, might contribute to their different proneness to addiction, and likely these features might be linked to their different DA neurotransmission plasticity. Although differences in other neurotransmitter systems might deserve further investigation, results from the reviewed studies might open new vistas in understanding aberrant deviations in reward and motivational functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Cadoni
- Institute of Neuroscience, Cagliari Section, Department of Biomedical Sciences, National Research Council of ItalyCagliari, Italy; Centre of Excellence "Neurobiology of Dependence", University of CagliariCagliari, Italy
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26
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Khadka S, Narayanan B, Meda SA, Gelernter J, Han S, Sawyer B, Aslanzadeh F, Stevens MC, Hawkins KA, Anticevic A, Potenza MN, Pearlson GD. Genetic association of impulsivity in young adults: a multivariate study. Transl Psychiatry 2014; 4:e451. [PMID: 25268255 PMCID: PMC4199418 DOI: 10.1038/tp.2014.95] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2014] [Revised: 08/19/2014] [Accepted: 08/21/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Impulsivity is a heritable, multifaceted construct with clinically relevant links to multiple psychopathologies. We assessed impulsivity in young adult (N~2100) participants in a longitudinal study, using self-report questionnaires and computer-based behavioral tasks. Analysis was restricted to the subset (N=426) who underwent genotyping. Multivariate association between impulsivity measures and single-nucleotide polymorphism data was implemented using parallel independent component analysis (Para-ICA). Pathways associated with multiple genes in components that correlated significantly with impulsivity phenotypes were then identified using a pathway enrichment analysis. Para-ICA revealed two significantly correlated genotype-phenotype component pairs. One impulsivity component included the reward responsiveness subscale and behavioral inhibition scale of the Behavioral-Inhibition System/Behavioral-Activation System scale, and the second impulsivity component included the non-planning subscale of the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale and the Experiential Discounting Task. Pathway analysis identified processes related to neurogenesis, nervous system signal generation/amplification, neurotransmission and immune response. We identified various genes and gene regulatory pathways associated with empirically derived impulsivity components. Our study suggests that gene networks implicated previously in brain development, neurotransmission and immune response are related to impulsive tendencies and behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Khadka
- Olin Neuropsychiatry Research Center/Institute of
Living, Hartford Healthcare, Hartford, CT, USA
| | - B Narayanan
- Olin Neuropsychiatry Research Center/Institute of
Living, Hartford Healthcare, Hartford, CT, USA
| | - S A Meda
- Olin Neuropsychiatry Research Center/Institute of
Living, Hartford Healthcare, Hartford, CT, USA
| | - J Gelernter
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of
Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - S Han
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of
Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa Carver
College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - B Sawyer
- Olin Neuropsychiatry Research Center/Institute of
Living, Hartford Healthcare, Hartford, CT, USA
| | - F Aslanzadeh
- Olin Neuropsychiatry Research Center/Institute of
Living, Hartford Healthcare, Hartford, CT, USA
| | - M C Stevens
- Olin Neuropsychiatry Research Center/Institute of
Living, Hartford Healthcare, Hartford, CT, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of
Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - K A Hawkins
- Olin Neuropsychiatry Research Center/Institute of
Living, Hartford Healthcare, Hartford, CT, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of
Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - A Anticevic
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of
Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - M N Potenza
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of
Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Neurobiology, Yale University School of
Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - G D Pearlson
- Olin Neuropsychiatry Research Center/Institute of
Living, Hartford Healthcare, Hartford, CT, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of
Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Neurobiology, Yale University School of
Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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Buchmann AF, Hohm E, Witt SH, Blomeyer D, Jennen-Steinmetz C, Schmidt MH, Esser G, Banaschewski T, Brandeis D, Laucht M. Role of CNR1 polymorphisms in moderating the effects of psychosocial adversity on impulsivity in adolescents. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2014; 122:455-63. [PMID: 24980155 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-014-1266-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2013] [Accepted: 06/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Enhanced endocannabinoid signaling has been implicated in typically adolescent behavioral features such as increased risk-taking, impulsivity and novelty seeking. Research investigating the impact of genetic variants in the cannabinoid receptor 1 gene (CNR1) and of early rearing conditions has demonstrated that both factors contribute to the prediction of impulsivity-related phenotypes. The present study aimed to test the hypothesis of an interaction of the two most studied CNR1 polymorphisms rs806379 and rs1049353 with early psychosocial adversity in terms of affecting impulsivity in 15-year-olds from an epidemiological cohort sample followed since birth. In 323 adolescents (170 girls, 153 boys), problems of impulse control and novelty seeking were assessed using parent-report and self-report, respectively. Exposure to early psychosocial adversity was determined in a parent interview conducted at the age of 3 months. The results indicated that impulsivity increased following exposure to early psychosocial adversity, with this increase being dependent on CNR1 genotype. In contrast, while individuals exposed to early adversity scored higher on novelty seeking, no significant impact of genotype or the interaction thereof was detected. This is the first evidence to suggest that the interaction of CNR1 gene variants with the experience of early life adversity may play a role in determining adolescent impulsive behavior. However, given that the reported findings are obtained in a high-risk community sample, results are restricted in terms of interpretation and generalization. Future research is needed to replicate these findings and to identify the mediating mechanisms underlying this effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arlette F Buchmann
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, J 5, 68159, Mannheim, Germany
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Lisdahl KM, Wright NE, Kirchner-Medina C, Maple KE, Shollenbarger S. Considering Cannabis: The Effects of Regular Cannabis Use on Neurocognition in Adolescents and Young Adults. CURRENT ADDICTION REPORTS 2014; 1:144-156. [PMID: 25013751 PMCID: PMC4084860 DOI: 10.1007/s40429-014-0019-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Thirty-six percent of high school seniors have used cannabis in the past year, and an alarming 6.5% smoked cannabis daily, up from 2.4% in 1993 (Johnston et al., 2013). Adolescents and emerging adults are undergoing significant neurodevelopment and animal studies suggest they may be particularly vulnerable to negative drug effects. In this review, we will provide a detailed overview of studies outlining the effects of regular (at least weekly) cannabis use on neurocognition, including studies outlining cognitive, structural and functional findings. We will also explore the public health impact of this research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krista M. Lisdahl
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI
| | - Natasha E. Wright
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI
| | | | - Kristin E. Maple
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI
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