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Varty GB, Canal CE, Mueller TA, Hartsel JA, Tyagi R, Avery K, Morgan ME, Reichelt AC, Pathare P, Stang E, Palfreyman MG, Nivorozhkin A. Synthesis and Structure-Activity Relationships of 2,5-Dimethoxy-4-Substituted Phenethylamines and the Discovery of CYB210010: A Potent, Orally Bioavailable and Long-Acting Serotonin 5-HT 2 Receptor Agonist. J Med Chem 2024; 67:6144-6188. [PMID: 38593423 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Structure-activity studies of 4-substituted-2,5-dimethoxyphenethylamines led to the discovery of 2,5-dimethoxy-4-thiotrifluoromethylphenethylamines, including CYB210010, a potent and long-acting serotonin 5-HT2 receptor agonist. CYB210010 exhibited high agonist potency at 5-HT2A and 5-HT2C receptors, modest selectivity over 5-HT2B, 5-HT1A, 5-HT6, and adrenergic α2A receptors, and lacked activity at monoamine transporters and over 70 other proteins. CYB210010 (0.1-3 mg/kg) elicited a head-twitch response (HTR) and could be administered subchronically at threshold doses without behavioral tolerance. CYB210010 was orally bioavailable in three species, readily and preferentially crossed into the CNS, engaged frontal cortex 5-HT2A receptors, and increased the expression of genes involved in neuroplasticity in the frontal cortex. CYB210010 represents a new tool molecule for investigating the therapeutic potential of 5-HT2 receptor activation. In addition, several other compounds with high 5-HT2A receptor potency, yet with little or no HTR activity, were discovered, providing the groundwork for the development of nonpsychedelic 5-HT2A receptor ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey B Varty
- Cybin IRL Limited, North Wall Quay, 1 Spencer Dock, Dublin 1 DO1 X9R7, Ireland
| | - Clinton E Canal
- Cybin IRL Limited, North Wall Quay, 1 Spencer Dock, Dublin 1 DO1 X9R7, Ireland
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mercer University, 3001 Mercer University Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30341, United States
| | - Tina A Mueller
- Cybin IRL Limited, North Wall Quay, 1 Spencer Dock, Dublin 1 DO1 X9R7, Ireland
- BioIVT, Hicksville, New York 11803, United States
| | - Joshua A Hartsel
- Cybin IRL Limited, North Wall Quay, 1 Spencer Dock, Dublin 1 DO1 X9R7, Ireland
- Consultant, UPS PO Box #105-650, 25422 Trabuco Road, Lake Forest, California 92630, United States
| | - Richa Tyagi
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mercer University, 3001 Mercer University Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30341, United States
| | - Ken Avery
- Cybin IRL Limited, North Wall Quay, 1 Spencer Dock, Dublin 1 DO1 X9R7, Ireland
| | - Michael E Morgan
- Cybin IRL Limited, North Wall Quay, 1 Spencer Dock, Dublin 1 DO1 X9R7, Ireland
| | - Amy C Reichelt
- Cybin IRL Limited, North Wall Quay, 1 Spencer Dock, Dublin 1 DO1 X9R7, Ireland
- Faculty of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia
| | - Pradip Pathare
- Cybin IRL Limited, North Wall Quay, 1 Spencer Dock, Dublin 1 DO1 X9R7, Ireland
| | - Erik Stang
- Cybin IRL Limited, North Wall Quay, 1 Spencer Dock, Dublin 1 DO1 X9R7, Ireland
| | | | - Alex Nivorozhkin
- Cybin IRL Limited, North Wall Quay, 1 Spencer Dock, Dublin 1 DO1 X9R7, Ireland
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Kim YJ, Kook WA, Ma SX, Lee BR, Ko YH, Kim SK, Lee Y, Lee JG, Lee S, Kim KM, Lee SY, Jang CG. The novel psychoactive substance 25E-NBOMe induces reward-related behaviors via dopamine D1 receptor signaling in male rodents. Arch Pharm Res 2024; 47:360-376. [PMID: 38551761 DOI: 10.1007/s12272-024-01491-4] [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: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Novel psychoactive substances (NPSs) are new psychotropic drugs designed to evade substance regulatory policies. 25E-NBOMe (2-(4-ethyl-2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-N-(2-methoxybenzyl)ethanamine) has recently been identified as an NPS, and its recreational misuse has been reported to be rapidly increasing. However, the psychopharmacological effects and mechanisms of 25E-NBOMe have not been studied. We examined the abuse potential of 25E-NBOMe using the conditioned place preference in male mice and self-administration paradigms in male rats. Additionally, immunoblot assay, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and microdialysis were used to determine the molecular effects of 25E-NBOMe in the nucleus accumbens (NAc). Our data demonstrated that 25E-NBOMe induces conditioned place preference, and the dopaminergic signaling in the NAc mediates these. Following 25E-NBOMe administration, expression of dopamine transporter and dopamine D1 receptor (D1DR) were enhanced in the NAc of male mice, and NAc dopamine levels were reduced in both male mice and rats. Induction of intracellular dopaminergic pathways, DARPP32, and phosphorylation of CREB in the NAc of male mice was also observed. Significantly, pharmacological blockade of D1DR or chemogenetic inhibition of D1DR-expressing medium spiny neurons in the NAc attenuated 25E-NBOMe-induced conditioned place preference in male mice. We also examined the hallucinogenic properties of 25E-NBOMe using the head twitch response test in male mice and found that this behavior was mediated by serotonin 2A receptor activity. Our findings demonstrate that D1DR signaling may govern the addictive potential of 25E-NBOMe. Moreover, our study provides new insights into the potential mechanisms of substance use disorder and the improvement of controlled substance management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young-Jung Kim
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Wun-A Kook
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Shi-Xun Ma
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Bo-Ram Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Hyun Ko
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Seon-Kyung Kim
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Youyoung Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Gyeong Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Sooyeun Lee
- Analytical Toxicology Laboratory, College of Pharmacy, Keimyung University, Daegu, 42601, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyeong-Man Kim
- Pharmacology Laboratory, College of Pharmacy, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 81186, Republic of Korea
| | - Seok-Yong Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Choon-Gon Jang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea.
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Wojtas A, Herian M, Maćkowiak M, Solarz A, Wawrzczak-Bargiela A, Bysiek A, Noworyta K, Gołembiowska K. Hallucinogenic activity, neurotransmitters release, anxiolytic and neurotoxic effects in Rat's brain following repeated administration of novel psychoactive compound 25B-NBOMe. Neuropharmacology 2023; 240:109713. [PMID: 37689261 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2023.109713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
2-(4-Bromo-2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-N-(2-methoxybenzyl)etanoamine (25B-NBOMe) is a highly selective 5-HT2A receptor agonist, exhibiting a potent hallucinogenic activity. In the present study, we investigated the effect of a 7-day treatment with 25B-NBOMe in a dose of 0.3 mg/kg on the following: the neurotransmitter release in vivo using microdialysis in freely moving animals, hallucinogenic activity measured in the Wet Dog Shake (WDS) test, anxiety level as measured in the light/dark box (LDB) and locomotor activity in the open field (OF) test, DNA damage with the comet assay, and on a number of neuronal and glial cells with immunohistochemistry. Repeated administration of 25B-NBOMe decreased the response to a challenge dose (0.3 mg/kg) on DA, 5-HT and glutamatergic neurons in the rats' frontal cortex, striatum, and nucleus accumbens. The WDS response dropped drastically after the second day of treatment, suggesting a rapid development of tolerance. LDB and OF tests showed that the effect of 25B-NBOMe on anxiety depends on the treatment and environmental settings. Results obtained with the comet assay indicate a genotoxic properties in the frontal cortex and hippocampus. An increase in immunopositive glial but not neuronal cells was observed in the cortical regions but not in the hippocampus. In conclusion, our study showed that a chronic administration of 25B-NBOMe produces the development of tolerance observed in the neurotransmitters release and hallucinogenic activity. The oxidative damage of cortical and hippocampal DNA implies the generation of free radicals by the drug, resulting in genotoxicity but rather not in neurotoxic tissue damage. Behavioral tests show that 25B-NBOMe exerts anxiogenic effect after single and repeated treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Wojtas
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Pharmacology, 31-343, Kraków, 12 Smętna, Poland
| | - Monika Herian
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Pharmacology, 31-343, Kraków, 12 Smętna, Poland
| | - Marzena Maćkowiak
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Pharmacology, Laboratory of Pharmacology and Brain Biostructure, 31-343, Kraków, 12 Smętna, Poland
| | - Anna Solarz
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Pharmacology, Laboratory of Pharmacology and Brain Biostructure, 31-343, Kraków, 12 Smętna, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Wawrzczak-Bargiela
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Pharmacology, Laboratory of Pharmacology and Brain Biostructure, 31-343, Kraków, 12 Smętna, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Bysiek
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Pharmacology, 31-343, Kraków, 12 Smętna, Poland
| | - Karolina Noworyta
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Pharmacology, 31-343, Kraków, 12 Smętna, Poland
| | - Krystyna Gołembiowska
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Pharmacology, 31-343, Kraków, 12 Smętna, Poland.
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Ekins TG, Brooks I, Kailasa S, Rybicki-Kler C, Jedrasiak-Cape I, Donoho E, Mashour GA, Rech J, Ahmed OJ. Cellular rules underlying psychedelic control of prefrontal pyramidal neurons. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.20.563334. [PMID: 37961554 PMCID: PMC10634703 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.20.563334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Classical psychedelic drugs are thought to increase excitability of pyramidal cells in prefrontal cortex via activation of serotonin 2A receptors (5-HT2ARs). Here, we instead find that multiple classes of psychedelics dose-dependently suppress intrinsic excitability of pyramidal neurons, and that extracellular delivery of psychedelics decreases excitability significantly more than intracellular delivery. A previously unknown mechanism underlies this psychedelic drug action: enhancement of ubiquitously expressed potassium "M-current" channels that is independent of 5-HT2R activation. Using machine-learning-based data assimilation models, we show that M-current activation interacts with previously described mechanisms to dramatically reduce intrinsic excitability and shorten working memory timespan. Thus, psychedelic drugs suppress intrinsic excitability by modulating ion channels that are expressed throughout the brain, potentially triggering homeostatic adjustments that can contribute to widespread therapeutic benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler G Ekins
- Dept. of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
- Michigan Psychedelic Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Isla Brooks
- Dept. of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Sameer Kailasa
- Dept. of Mathematics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Chloe Rybicki-Kler
- Dept. of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | | | - Ethan Donoho
- Dept. of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - George A. Mashour
- Michigan Psychedelic Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Jason Rech
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Omar J Ahmed
- Dept. of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
- Michigan Psychedelic Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
- Dept. of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
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5
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Mallaroni P, Mason NL, Kloft L, Reckweg JT, van Oorsouw K, Ramaekers JG. Cortical structural differences following repeated ayahuasca use hold molecular signatures. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1217079. [PMID: 37869513 PMCID: PMC10585114 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1217079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Serotonergic psychedelics such as ayahuasca are reported to promote both structural and functional neural plasticity via partial 5-HT2A agonism. However, little is known about how these molecular mechanisms may extend to repeated psychedelic administration in humans, let alone neuroanatomy. While early evidence suggests localised changes to cortical thickness in long-term ayahuasca users, it is unknown how such findings may be reflected by large-scale anatomical brain networks comprising cytoarchitecturally complex regions. Methods Here, we examined the relationship between cortical gene expression markers of psychedelic action and brain morphometric change following repeated ayahuasca usage, using high-field 7 Tesla neuroimaging data derived from 24 members of an ayahuasca-using church (Santo Daime) and case-matched controls. Results Using a morphometric similarity network (MSN) analysis, repeated ayahuasca use was associated with a spatially distributed cortical patterning of both structural differentiation in sensorimotor areas and de-differentiation in transmodal areas. Cortical MSN remodelling was found to be spatially correlated with dysregulation of 5-HT2A gene expression as well as a broader set of genes encoding target receptors pertinent to ayahuasca's effects. Furthermore, these associations were similarly interrelated with altered gene expression of specific transcriptional factors and immediate early genes previously identified in preclinical assays as relevant to psychedelic-induced neuroplasticity. Conclusion Taken together, these findings provide preliminary evidence that the molecular mechanisms of psychedelic action may scale up to a macroscale level of brain organisation in vivo. Closer attention to the role of cortical transcriptomics in structural-functional coupling may help account for the behavioural differences observed in experienced psychedelic users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Mallaroni
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Natasha L. Mason
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Lilian Kloft
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Johannes T. Reckweg
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Kim van Oorsouw
- Department of Forensic Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Johannes G. Ramaekers
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
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Jaster AM, González-Maeso J. Mechanisms and molecular targets surrounding the potential therapeutic effects of psychedelics. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:3595-3612. [PMID: 37759040 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02274-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Psychedelics, also known as classical hallucinogens, have been investigated for decades due to their potential therapeutic effects in the treatment of neuropsychiatric and substance use disorders. The results from clinical trials have shown promise for the use of psychedelics to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as to promote substantial decreases in the use of nicotine and alcohol. While these studies provide compelling evidence for the powerful subjective experience and prolonged therapeutic adaptations, the underlying molecular reasons for these robust and clinically meaningful improvements are still poorly understood. Preclinical studies assessing the targets and circuitry of the post-acute effects of classical psychedelics are ongoing. Current literature is split between a serotonin 5-HT2A receptor (5-HT2AR)-dependent or -independent signaling pathway, as researchers are attempting to harness the mechanisms behind the sustained post-acute therapeutically relevant effects. A combination of molecular, behavioral, and genetic techniques in neuropharmacology has begun to show promise for elucidating these mechanisms. As the field progresses, increasing evidence points towards the importance of the subjective experience induced by psychedelic-assisted therapy, but without further cross validation between clinical and preclinical research, the why behind the experience and its translational validity may be lost.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaina M Jaster
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA
| | - Javier González-Maeso
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA.
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Tsybko AS, Kondaurova EM, Zalivina EA, Blaginya VO, Naumenko VS. Effects of Chronic Combined Treatment with Ketanserin and Fluoxetine in B6.CBA-D13Mit76C Recombinant Mice with Abnormal 5-HT 1A Receptor Functional Activity. BIOCHEMISTRY. BIOKHIMIIA 2023; 88:758-769. [PMID: 37748872 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297923060044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
The recombinant B6.CBA-D13Mit76C mouse strain is characterized by an altered sensitivity of 5-HT1A receptors and upregulated 5-HT1A gene transcription. Recently, we found that in B6.CBA-D13Mit76C mice, chronic fluoxetine treatment produced the pro-depressive effect in a forced swim test. Since 5-HT2A receptor blockade may be beneficial in treatment-resistant depression, we investigated the influence of chronic treatment (14 days, intraperitoneally) with selective 5-HT2A antagonist ketanserin (0.5 mg/kg), fluoxetine (20 mg/kg), or fluoxetine + ketanserin on the behavior, functional activity of 5-HT1A and 5-HT2A receptors, serotonin turnover, and transcription of principal genes of the serotonin system in the brain of B6.CBA-D13Mit76C mice. Ketanserin did not reverse the pro-depressive effect of fluoxetine, while fluoxetine, ketanserin, and fluoxetine + ketanserin decreased the functional activity of 5-HT1A receptors and Htr1a gene transcription in the midbrain and hippocampus. All tested drug regimens decreased the mRNA levels of Slc6a4 and Maoa in the midbrain. These changes were not accompanied by a significant shift in the levels of serotonin and its metabolite 5-HIAA. Notably, ketanserin upregulated enzymatic activity of tryptophan hydroxylase 2 (TPH2). Thus, despite some benefits (reduced Htr1a, Slc6a4, and Maoa transcription and increased TPH2 activity), prolonged blockade of 5-HT2A receptors failed to ameliorate the adverse effect of fluoxetine in the case of abnormal functioning of 5-HT1A receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anton S Tsybko
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia.
| | - Elena M Kondaurova
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia
| | - Elena A Zalivina
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia
| | - Varvara O Blaginya
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia
| | - Vladimir S Naumenko
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia
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Herian M, Świt P. 25X-NBOMe compounds - chemistry, pharmacology and toxicology. A comprehensive review. Crit Rev Toxicol 2023; 53:15-33. [PMID: 37115704 DOI: 10.1080/10408444.2023.2194907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
Recently, a growing number of reports have indicated a positive effect of hallucinogenic-based therapies in different neuropsychiatric disorders. However, hallucinogens belonging to the group of new psychoactive substances (NPS) may produce high toxicity. NPS, due to their multi-receptors affinity, are extremely dangerous for the human body and mental health. An example of hallucinogens that have been lately responsible for many severe intoxications and deaths are 25X-NBOMes - N-(2-methoxybenzyl)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-substituted phenethylamines, synthetic compounds with strong hallucinogenic properties. 25X-NBOMes exhibit a high binding affinity to serotonin receptors but also to dopamine, adrenergic and histamine receptors. Apart from their influence on perception, many case reports point out systemic and neurological poisoning with these compounds. In humans, the most frequent side effects are tachycardia, anxiety, hypertension and seizures. Moreover, preclinical studies confirm that 25X-NBOMes cause developmental impairments, cytotoxicity, cardiovascular toxicity and changes in behavior of animals. Metabolism of NBOMes seems to be very complex and involves many metabolic pathways. This fact may explain the observed high toxicity. In addition, many analytical methods have been applied in order to identify these compounds and their metabolites. The presented review summarized the current knowledge about 25X-NBOMes, especially in the context of toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Herian
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Paweł Świt
- Institute of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
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9
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Odland AU, Kristensen JL, Andreasen JT. Animal Behavior in Psychedelic Research. Pharmacol Rev 2022; 74:1176-1205. [PMID: 36180111 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.122.000590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy holds great promise in the treatment of mental health disorders. Research into 5-hydroxytryptamine 2A receptor (5-HT2AR) agonist psychedelic compounds has increased dramatically over the past two decades. In humans, these compounds produce drastic effects on consciousness, and their therapeutic potential relates to changes in the processing of emotional, social, and self-referential information. The use of animal behavior to study psychedelics is under debate, and this review provides a critical perspective on the translational value of animal behavior studies in psychedelic research. Acute activation of 5-HT2ARs produces head twitches and unique discriminative cues, disrupts sensorimotor gating, and stimulates motor activity while inhibiting exploration in rodents. The acute treatment with psychedelics shows discrepant results in conventional rodent tests of depression-like behaviors but generally induces anxiolytic-like effects and inhibits repetitive behavior in rodents. Psychedelics impair waiting impulsivity but show discrepant effects in other tests of cognitive function. Tests of social interaction also show conflicting results. Effects on measures of time perception depend on the experimental schedule. Lasting or delayed effects of psychedelics in rodent tests related to different behavioral domains appear to be rather sensitive to changes in experimental protocols. Studying the effects of psychedelics on animal behaviors of relevance to effects on psychiatric symptoms in humans, assessing lasting effects, publishing negative findings, and relating behaviors in rodents and humans to other more translatable readouts, such as neuroplastic changes, will improve the translational value of animal behavioral studies in psychedelic research. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin have received immense interest as potential new treatments of psychiatric disorders. Psychedelics change high-order consciousness in humans, and there is debate about the use of animal behavior studies to investigate these compounds. This review provides an overview of the behavioral effects of 5-HT2AR agonist psychedelics in laboratory animals and discusses the translatability of the effects in animals to effects in humans. Possible ways to improve the utility of animal behavior in psychedelic research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna U Odland
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, 2100, Denmark
| | - Jesper L Kristensen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, 2100, Denmark
| | - Jesper T Andreasen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, 2100, Denmark
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de la Fuente Revenga M, Jaster AM, McGinn J, Silva G, Saha S, González-Maeso J. Tolerance and Cross-Tolerance among Psychedelic and Nonpsychedelic 5-HT 2A Receptor Agonists in Mice. ACS Chem Neurosci 2022; 13:2436-2448. [PMID: 35900876 PMCID: PMC10411500 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.2c00170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Classical psychedelics represent a subgroup of serotonergic psychoactive substances characterized by their distinct subjective effects on the human psyche. Another unique attribute of this drug class is that such effects become less apparent after repeated exposure within a short time span. The classification of psychedelics as a subgroup within the serotonergic drug family and the tolerance to their effects are replicated by the murine head twitch response (HTR) behavioral paradigm. Here, we aimed to assess tolerance and cross-tolerance to HTR elicited by psychedelic and nonpsychedelic serotonin 2A receptor (5-HT2AR) agonists in mice. We show that repeated (4 days) administration of the psychedelic 1-(2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodophenyl)-2-aminopropane (DOI) induced a progressive decrease in HTR behavior. Tolerance to DOI-induced HTR was also observed 24 h after a single administration of this psychedelic. Pretreatment with the 5-HT2AR antagonist M100907 reduced not only the acute manifestation of DOI-induced HTR, but also the development of tolerance to HTR. Additionally, cross-tolerance became apparent between the psychedelics DOI and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), whereas repeated administration of the nonpsychedelic 5-HT2AR agonist lisuride did not affect the ability of these two psychedelics to induce HTR. At the molecular level, DOI administration led to down-regulation of 5-HT2AR density in mouse frontal cortex membrane preparations. However, development of tolerance to the effect of DOI on HTR remained unchanged in β-arrestin-2 knockout mice. Together, these data suggest that tolerance to HTR induced by psychedelics involves activation of the 5-HT2AR, is not observable upon repeated administration of nonpsychedelic 5-HT2AR agonists, and occurs via a signaling mechanism independent of β-arrestin-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario de la Fuente Revenga
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia 23298, United States
- Virginia Institute of Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 23298, United States
| | - Alaina M Jaster
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia 23298, United States
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia 23298, United States
| | - John McGinn
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia 23298, United States
| | - Gabriella Silva
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia 23298, United States
| | - Somdatta Saha
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia 23298, United States
| | - Javier González-Maeso
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia 23298, United States
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11
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Collins SM, O’Connell CJ, Reeder EL, Norman SV, Lungani K, Gopalan P, Gudelsky GA, Robson MJ. Altered Serotonin 2A (5-HT2A) Receptor Signaling Underlies Mild TBI-Elicited Deficits in Social Dominance. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:930346. [PMID: 35910378 PMCID: PMC9337880 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.930346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Various forms of traumatic brain injury (TBI) are a leading cause of disability in the United States, with the generation of neuropsychiatric complications such as depression, anxiety, social dysfunction, and suicidality being common comorbidities. Serotonin (5-HT) signaling is linked to psychiatric disorders; however, the effects of neurotrauma on normal, homeostatic 5-HT signaling within the central nervous system (CNS) have not been well characterized. We hypothesize that TBI alters specific components of 5-HT signaling within the CNS and that the elucidation of specific TBI-induced alterations in 5-HT signaling may identify novel targets for pharmacotherapies that ameliorate the neuropsychiatric complications of TBI. Herein, we provide evidence that closed-head blast-induced mild TBI (mTBI) results in selective alterations in cortical 5-HT2A receptor signaling. We find that mTBI increases in vivo cortical 5-HT2A receptor sensitivity and ex vivo radioligand binding at time points corresponding with mTBI-induced deficits in social behavior. In contrast, in vivo characterizations of 5-HT1A receptor function revealed no effect of mTBI. Notably, we find that repeated pharmacologic activation of 5-HT2A receptors post-injury reverses deficits in social dominance resulting from mTBI. Cumulatively, these studies provide evidence that mTBI drives alterations in cortical 5-HT2A receptor function and that selective targeting of TBI-elicited alterations in 5-HT2A receptor signaling may represent a promising avenue for the development of pharmacotherapies for TBI-induced generation of neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean M. Collins
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Cincinnati James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Christopher J. O’Connell
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Cincinnati James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Evan L. Reeder
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Cincinnati James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Sophia V. Norman
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati College of Arts and Sciences, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Kainat Lungani
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati College of Arts and Sciences, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Poornima Gopalan
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati College of Arts and Sciences, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Gary A. Gudelsky
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Cincinnati James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy, Cincinnati, OH, United States
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Matthew J. Robson
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Cincinnati James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy, Cincinnati, OH, United States
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
- *Correspondence: Matthew J. Robson,
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12
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Kimmey BA, Wittenberg RE, Croicu A, Shadani N, Ostroumov A, Dani JA. The serotonin 2A receptor agonist TCB-2 attenuates heavy alcohol drinking and alcohol-induced midbrain inhibitory plasticity. Addict Biol 2022; 27:e13147. [PMID: 35229942 PMCID: PMC8896307 DOI: 10.1111/adb.13147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Disruption of neuronal chloride ion (Cl- ) homeostasis has been linked to several pathological conditions, including substance use disorder, yet targeted pharmacotherapies are lacking. In this study, we explored the potential of serotonin 2A receptor (5-HT2A R) agonism to reduce alcohol consumption in male wild-type C57Bl/6J mice and to ameliorate alcohol-induced inhibitory plasticity in the midbrain. We found that administration of the putative 5-HT2A R agonist TCB-2 attenuated alcohol consumption and preference but did not alter water or saccharin consumption. We hypothesized that the selective behavioural effects of TCB-2 on alcohol drinking were due, at least in part, to effects of the agonist on ventral tegmental area (VTA) neurocircuitry. Alcohol consumption impairs Cl- transport in VTA GABA neurons, which acts as a molecular adaptation leading to increased alcohol self-administration. Using ex vivo electrophysiological recordings, we found that exposure to either intermittent volitional alcohol drinking or an acute alcohol injection diminished homeostatic Cl- transport in VTA GABA neurons. Critically, in vivo TCB-2 administration normalized Cl- transport in the VTA after alcohol exposure. Thus, we show a potent effect of alcohol consumption on VTA inhibitory circuitry, in the form of dysregulated Cl- homeostasis that is reversible with agonism of 5-HT2A Rs. Our results provide insight into the potential therapeutic action of 5-HT2A R agonists for alcohol abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Alexey Ostroumov
- Co-corresponding authors: Alexey Ostroumov, Ph.D., Georgetown University, Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, New Research Building, Room W226, 3970 Reservoir Road, N.W., Washington D.C. 20057, USA, Phone: (832) 641-5562, , John A. Dani, Ph.D., University of Pennsylvania, Department of Neuroscience, Clinical Research Building, Room 211, 415 Curie Boulevard, Philadelphia, P.A. 19104, USA, Phone: (215) 898-8498,
| | - John A. Dani
- Co-corresponding authors: Alexey Ostroumov, Ph.D., Georgetown University, Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, New Research Building, Room W226, 3970 Reservoir Road, N.W., Washington D.C. 20057, USA, Phone: (832) 641-5562, , John A. Dani, Ph.D., University of Pennsylvania, Department of Neuroscience, Clinical Research Building, Room 211, 415 Curie Boulevard, Philadelphia, P.A. 19104, USA, Phone: (215) 898-8498,
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13
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Schetz D, Schetz A, Kocić I. A retrospective analysis of the "Neverending Trip" after administration of a potent full agonist of 5-HT2A receptor - 25I-NBOMe. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 146:112295. [PMID: 34980551 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND 5-HT2A receptor (e.g. 25I-NBOMe) agonists not only pose risks of acute intoxication but also long-term effects and significant adverse reactions, e.g. hallucinogen persisting perception disorder (HPPD), derealization, and depersonalization. AIMS We evaluated the risk associated with single and repeated use of 25I-NBOMe. We aimed to identify factors that may increase the risk of HPPD, increase its severity and determine the time when the first symptoms appear. Herein, we report the first extensive evaluation of 25I-NBOMe-induced HPPD. METHOD We assessed all reports (58) collected by The Pomeranian Pharmacovigilance Centre (PPC) from 2013 to 2020. RESULTS The study included a total of 58 reports of adverse reactions caused by 25I-NBOMe. In the case of 15 reports (in patients aged 19-26 years), symptoms persisted many months after the discontinuation of 25I-NBOMe. The most common were: pseudohallucinations, bizarre delusions, derealizations and in some cases development or worsening of depression has been diagnosed. HPPD-like symptoms were most common in patients who took the drug regularly (i.e., several times a month). The risk of HPPD-like symptoms is higher in patients who have severe visual pseudohallucinations, severe bizarre delusions, derealization and/or depersonalization onset immediately after taking the drug. Recurrence of HPPD symptoms may be provoked by many factors, however, there is some cases there is no apparent reason. HPPD after 25I-NBOMe use can last from 2 months up to 2 years. In some patients, pharmacological treatment was necessary due to 25I-NBOMe-induced HPPD and depression. CONCLUSIONS The study showed long-lasting effects after 25I-NBOMe administration and allowed for the determination of HPPD risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria Schetz
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Poland.
| | - Adriana Schetz
- Institute of Philosophy and Cognitive Science, University of Szczecin, Poland
| | - Ivan Kocić
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Poland
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14
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Odland AU, Kristensen JL, Andreasen JT. The selective 5-HT2A receptor agonist 25CN-NBOH does not affect reversal learning in mice. Behav Pharmacol 2021; 32:448-452. [PMID: 33595957 DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0000000000000626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Psychedelic 5-hydroxytryptamine 2A receptor (5-HT2AR) agonists are showing promise in the treatment of psychiatric disorders, such as treatment-resistant depression and anxiety. Human studies suggest that enhanced cognitive flexibility may contribute to their clinical efficacy. Both improvement and impairment of cognitive flexibility has been reported with 5-HT2AR ligands, making the link between 5-HT2AR pharmacology and cognitive flexibility equivocal. We tested the selective 5-HT2AR agonist 25CN-NBOH in healthy male C57BL/6JOlaHsd mice in a touchscreen-based mouse reversal learning test. No effects were observed on acquisition of the new stimulus-reward contingency, learning errors, or perseverative responses during reversal. Our results suggest that 25CN-NBOH does not affect reversal learning in the schedule used in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna U Odland
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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15
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Herian M, Skawski M, Wojtas A, Sobocińska MK, Noworyta K, Gołembiowska K. Tolerance to neurochemical and behavioral effects of the hallucinogen 25I-NBOMe. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2021; 238:2349-2364. [PMID: 34032876 PMCID: PMC8292280 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-021-05860-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE 4-Iodo-2,5-dimethoxy-N-(2-methoxybenzyl)phenethylamine (25I-NBOMe) is a potent serotonin 5-HT2A/2C receptor agonist with hallucinogenic activity. There is no data on the 25I-NBOMe effect on brain neurotransmission and animal performance after chronic administration. OBJECTIVES We examined the effect of a 7-day treatment with 25I-NBOMe (0.3 mg/kg/day) on neurotransmitters' release and rats' behavior in comparison to acute dose. METHODS Changes in dopamine (DA), serotonin (5-HT), acetylcholine (ACh), and glutamate release were studied using microdialysis in freely moving rats. The hallucinogenic activity was measured in the wet dog shake (WDS) test. The animal locomotion was examined in the open field (OF) test, short-term memory in the novel object recognition (NOR) test. The anxiogenic/anxiolytic properties of the drug were tested using the light/dark box (LDB) test. RESULTS Repeated administration of 25I-NBOMe decreased the response to a challenge dose of DA, 5-HT, and glutamatergic neurons in the frontal cortex as well as weakened the hallucinogenic activity in comparison to acute dose. In contrast, striatal and accumbal DA and 5-HT release and accumbal but not striatal glutamate release in response to the challenge dose of 25I-NBOMe was increased in comparison to acute treatment. The ACh release was increased in all brain regions. Behavioral tests showed a motor activity reduction and memory deficiency in comparison to a single dose and induction of anxiety after the drug's chronic and acute administration. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that multiple injections of 25I-NBOMe induce tolerance to hallucinogenic activity and produce alterations in neurotransmission. 25I-NBOMe effect on short-term memory, locomotor function, and anxiety seems to be the result of complex interactions between neurotransmitter pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Herian
- Department of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, 12 Smętna, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Mateusz Skawski
- Department of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, 12 Smętna, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Adam Wojtas
- Department of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, 12 Smętna, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Małgorzata K Sobocińska
- Department of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, 12 Smętna, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Karolina Noworyta
- Department of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, 12 Smętna, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Krystyna Gołembiowska
- Department of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, 12 Smętna, 31-343, Kraków, Poland.
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16
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Märcher Rørsted E, Jensen AA, Kristensen JL. 25CN-NBOH: A Selective Agonist for in vitro and in vivo Investigations of the Serotonin 2A Receptor. ChemMedChem 2021; 16:3263-3270. [PMID: 34288515 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202100395] [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: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
4-(2-((2-hydroxybenzyl)amino)ethyl)-2,5-dimethoxybenzonitrile (25CN-NBOH) was first reported as a potent and selective serotonin 2A receptor (5-HT2A R) agonist in 2014, and it has since found extensive use as a pharmacological tool in a variety of in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo studies. 25CN-NBOH is readily available from a synthetic perspective using standard chemical transformations, and displays favorable physiochemical properties in terms of stability and solubility. Due to its superior selectivity for 5-HT2A R, 25CN-NBOH has been used to investigate the effects of selective 5-HT2A R activation in vivo, and has thus become an important pharmacological tool for the exploration of 5-HT2A R signaling in a range of animal models. In the present review, we outline the discovery of 25CN-NBOH, its pharmacological profile and major findings from studies where it has been used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emil Märcher Rørsted
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Anders A Jensen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Jesper L Kristensen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
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17
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Kristensen JL, Märcher-Rørsted E, Nykodemová J. An Improved, Scalable Synthesis of the Selective Serotonin 2A Receptor Agonist 25CN-NBOH. SYNOPEN 2021. [DOI: 10.1055/a-1524-4439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract4-{2-[(2-hydroxybenzyl)amino]ethyl}-2,5-dimethoxybenzonitrile (25CN-NBOH) was first reported as a potent and highly selective serotonin 2A receptor (5-HT2AR) agonist in 2014. The compound has since found extensive use as a pharmacological tool in a variety of in vivo and in vitro studies. In the present study, we present an improved and scalable synthesis of 25CN-NBOH making this compound readily available to the scientific community.
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18
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Elsilä LV, Korhonen N, Hyytiä P, Korpi ER. Acute Lysergic Acid Diethylamide Does Not Influence Reward-Driven Decision Making of C57BL/6 Mice in the Iowa Gambling Task. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:602770. [PMID: 33343373 PMCID: PMC7745734 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.602770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
While interest in psychedelic drugs in the fields of psychiatry and neuroscience has re-emerged in recent last decades, the general understanding of the effects of these drugs remains deficient. In particular, there are gaps in knowledge on executive functions and goal-directed behaviors both in humans and in commonly used animal models. The effects of acute doses of psychedelic lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) on reward-driven decision making were explored using the mouse version of the Iowa Gambling Task. A total of 15 mice were trained to perform in a touch-screen adaptation of the rodent version of the Iowa Gambling Task, after which single acute doses of LSD (0.025, 0.1, 0.2, 0.4 mg/kg), serotonin 2A receptor-selective agonist 25CN-NBOH (1.5 mg/kg), d-amphetamine (2.0 mg/kg), and saline were administered before the trial. 25CN-NBOH and the three lowest doses of LSD showed no statistically significant changes in option selection or in general functioning during the gambling task trials. The highest dose of LSD (0.4 mg/kg) significantly decreased premature responding and increased the omission rate, but had no effect on option selection in comparison with the saline control. Amphetamine significantly decreased the correct responses and premature responding while increasing the omission rate. In conclusion, mice can perform previously learned, reward-driven decision-making tasks while under the acute influence of LSD at a commonly used dose range.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauri V Elsilä
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Nuppu Korhonen
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Petri Hyytiä
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Esa R Korpi
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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19
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Herian M, Wojtas A, Sobocińska MK, Skawski M, González-Marín A, Gołembiowska K. Contribution of serotonin receptor subtypes to hallucinogenic activity of 25I-NBOMe and to its effect on neurotransmission. Pharmacol Rep 2020; 72:1593-1603. [PMID: 33174181 PMCID: PMC7704505 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-020-00181-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND 4-Iodo-2,5-dimethoxy-N-(2-methoxybenzyl)phenethylamine (25I-NBOMe) is a potent serotonin (5-HT) receptor agonist with hallucinogenic properties. The aim of our research was to examine the role of the 5-HT2A, 5-HT2C and 5-HT1A serotonin receptor subtypes in 25I-NBOMe hallucinogenic activity and its effect on dopamine (DA), 5-HT and glutamate release in the rat frontal cortex. METHODS Hallucinogenic activity was investigated using the wet dog shake (WDS) test. The release of DA, 5-HT and glutamate in the rat frontal cortex was studied using a microdialysis in freely moving rats. Neurotransmitter levels were analyzed by HPLC with electrochemical detection. The selective antagonists of the 5-HT2A, 5-HT2C and 5-HT1A serotonin receptor subtypes: M100907, SB242084 and WAY100635, respectively were applied through a microdialysis probe. RESULTS The WDS response to 25I-NBOMe (1 and 3 mg/kg) was significantly reduced by local administration of M100907 and SB242084 (100 nM). The 25I-NBOMe-induced increase in glutamate, DA and 5-HT release was inhibited by M100907 and SB242084. WAY100635 had no effect on 25I-NBOMe-induced WDS and glutamate release, while it decreased DA and 5-HT release from cortical neuronal terminals. CONCLUSION The obtained results suggest that 5-HT2A and 5-HT2C receptors play a role in 25I-NBOMe-induced hallucinogenic activity and in glutamate, DA and 5-HT release in the rat frontal cortex as their respective antagonists attenuated the effect of this hallucinogen. The disinhibition of GABA cells by the 5-HT1A receptor antagonist seems to underlie the mechanism of decreased DA and 5-HT release from neuronal terminals in the frontal cortex.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Dimethoxyphenylethylamine/analogs & derivatives
- Dimethoxyphenylethylamine/pharmacology
- Dopamine/metabolism
- Frontal Lobe/drug effects
- Frontal Lobe/metabolism
- Glutamic Acid/metabolism
- Hallucinogens/pharmacology
- Male
- Microdialysis
- Rats
- Rats, Wistar
- Receptor, Serotonin, 5-HT1A/drug effects
- Receptor, Serotonin, 5-HT1A/metabolism
- Receptor, Serotonin, 5-HT2A/drug effects
- Receptor, Serotonin, 5-HT2A/metabolism
- Receptor, Serotonin, 5-HT2C/drug effects
- Receptor, Serotonin, 5-HT2C/metabolism
- Serotonin/metabolism
- Serotonin Receptor Agonists/pharmacology
- Synaptic Transmission/drug effects
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Herian
- Department of Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Adam Wojtas
- Department of Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | | | - Mateusz Skawski
- Department of Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Alejandro González-Marín
- Department of Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna, 31-343, Kraków, Poland
| | - Krystyna Gołembiowska
- Department of Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna, 31-343, Kraków, Poland.
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20
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Tsybko AS, Ilchibaeva TV, Filimonova EA, Eremin DV, Popova NK, Naumenko VS. The Chronic Treatment With 5-HT 2A Receptor Agonists Affects the Behavior and the BDNF System in Mice. Neurochem Res 2020; 45:3059-3075. [PMID: 33095437 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-020-03153-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Serotonin 5-HT2A receptors and the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) are involved in the pathophysiology and treatment of many psychiatric diseases. However, the interaction between 5-HT2A and BDNF is still poorly understood. In the present paper, the effects of chronic treatment with mixed 5-HT2A/2C receptor agonist DOI, highly selective 5-HT2A agonists TCB-2 and 25CN-NBOH on behavior and the BDNF system have been investigated. Chronic treatment of males of C57Bl/6 mice with DOI, TCB-2 and 25CN-NBOH (1 mg/kg, i.p., 14 days) resulted in desensitization of 5-HT2A receptors. Treatment with 25CN-NBOH significantly increased startle amplitude. At the same time all used drugs failed to affect anxiety, exploratory and stereotyped behavior as well as spatial memory and learning. TCB-2 and 25CN-NBOH increased the BDNF mRNA level. All 5-HT2A agonists increased the proBDNF level but failed to alter the mature BDNF protein level. TrkB and p75NTR mRNA levels were affected by all utilized agonists. All drugs decreased the total level as well as membrane TrkB protein one indicating downregulation of TrkB receptors. All agonists decreased the membrane p75NTR protein level. Thus, we have shown for the first time that the chronic activation of the 5-HT2A receptor with agonists has affected the BDNF system almost on all levels-transcription, proBDNF production, TrkB and p75NTR receptors' level. The obtained data suggested possible suppression in BDNF-TrkB signaling under chronic treatment with 5-HT2A agonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anton S Tsybko
- The Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, The Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, Prospekt Lavrentyeva, 10, 630090, Novosibirsk, Russia.
| | - Tatiana V Ilchibaeva
- The Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, The Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, Prospekt Lavrentyeva, 10, 630090, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Elena A Filimonova
- The Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, The Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, Prospekt Lavrentyeva, 10, 630090, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Dmitry V Eremin
- The Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, The Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, Prospekt Lavrentyeva, 10, 630090, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Nina K Popova
- The Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, The Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, Prospekt Lavrentyeva, 10, 630090, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Vladimir S Naumenko
- The Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, The Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, Prospekt Lavrentyeva, 10, 630090, Novosibirsk, Russia
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21
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Psychedelics as an emerging novel intervention in the treatment of substance use disorder: a review. Mol Biol Rep 2020; 47:9791-9799. [PMID: 33231817 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-020-06009-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Classical psychedelics are a group of drugs characterized by their activation of the serotonin-2A (5-hydroxytryptamine-2A; 5-HT2A) receptor and the unique hallucinogenic and mystical-type experiences that result. After a substantial period of restrictions limiting investigations into the therapeutic potential of psychedelics, a relatively recent recommencement of interest has sparked the burgeoning possibility for these drugs to play a part in the treatment of a wide array of psychopathologies. One of the most promising is in the study of addiction. Evidence has emerged that psychedelic agents may provide a novel avenue for the clinical treatment of patients dealing with substance use disorders (SUD). These serotonergic hallucinogens have displayed remarkable and enduring positive outcomes in this area, even when administered as one or two doses. The neural targets for these psychedelics are varied and underlie a complex mechanism of action-modulating multiple neural networks. It is believed that these agents allow for the reorganization of disordered neural pathways in the default mode network and attenuate maladaptive signaling in mesolimbic reward circuitry. The aim of this review is to examine the current standing of evidence regarding psychedelic psychopharmacology and to provide an overview of the use and effectiveness of these drugs in the treatment of SUD, alcohol use disorder, and for smoking cessation.
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22
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Wei Y, Jiang N, Liu T, Liu C, Xiao W, Liang L, Li T, Yu Y. The comparison of extraction methods of ganjiang decoction based on fingerprint, quantitative analysis and pharmacodynamics. Chin Med 2020; 15:81. [PMID: 32774446 PMCID: PMC7409467 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-020-00355-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic nonspecific inflammatory disease of the colon and rectum with unknown etiology, and its symptoms include bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, and hematochezia. Traditional Chinese medicine compound has a good therapeutic, multi-target effect on UC. Ganjiang decoction (GD), which is a traditional classic prescription in China, contains Zingiberis Rhizoma, Angelicae Sinensis Radix, Coptidis Rhizoma, Phellodendri Chinensis Cortex, Sanguisorbae Radix, Granati Pericarpium, and Asini Corii Colla and could be used to treat symptoms of UC. This study aimed to conduct a preliminary study before GD colon-targeted preparation, to explore the relationship between extraction method and efficacy of GD. Methods High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used for the fingerprinting of five preparation methods of GD. HPLC and gas chromatography were used to quantitatively analyze the important chemical components of GD and compare their differences. Mice with UC induced by dextran sulphate sodium salt received the extracts from the five preparation methods of GD via gavage. Disease activity index (DAI) score, colonic length, relative weight of spleen, pathological analysis results, inflammatory factors, therapeutic effect of the five preparation methods of GD, and their relationship with extraction process were compared. Results Cluster analysis revealed that the content of the components extracted by traditional extraction methods was significantly different from the other four methods. The third and fifth preparation methods extracted Coptidis Rhizoma and Phellodendri Chinensis Cortex with 50% ethanol to obtain more alkaloids. In the fourth and fifth methods, more volatile oils were detected by adding Zingiberis Rhizoma and Angelicae Sinensis Radix fine powder. According to DAI score, colonic length, relative weight of spleen, pathological analysis results, and inflammatory factors, the third method showed a good therapeutic effect, while the fifth method had the best therapeutic effect. Conclusions The results showed that the difference of the five extracts of GD in the efficacy of DSS-induced UC in mice was closely related to the extraction method. Our study improved the extraction process of GD and provided a foundation for the process of enteric-soluble preparations and a new idea for traditional Chinese medicine compound preparation. ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanyan Wei
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006 China
| | - Ning Jiang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006 China
| | - Tuo Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006 China
| | - Chang Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006 China
| | - Wen Xiao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006 China
| | - Likeng Liang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou, University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006 China
| | - Tongming Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006 China
| | - Yang Yu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006 China
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Buchborn T, Lyons T, Song C, Feilding A, Knöpfel T. The serotonin 2A receptor agonist 25CN-NBOH increases murine heart rate and neck-arterial blood flow in a temperature-dependent manner. J Psychopharmacol 2020; 34:786-794. [PMID: 32048564 PMCID: PMC7488829 DOI: 10.1177/0269881120903465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [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] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Serotonin 2A receptors, the molecular target of psychedelics, are expressed by neuronal and vascular cells, both of which might contribute to brain haemodynamic characteristics for the psychedelic state. AIM Aiming for a systemic understanding of psychedelic vasoactivity, here we investigated the effect of N-(2-hydroxybenzyl)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-cyanophenylethylamine - a new-generation agonist with superior serotonin 2A receptor selectivity - on brain-supplying neck-arterial blood flow. METHODS We recorded core body temperature and employed non-invasive, collar-sensor based pulse oximetry in anesthetised mice to extract parameters of local blood perfusion, oxygen saturation, heart and respiration rate. Hypothesising an overlap between serotonergic pulse- and thermoregulation, recordings were done under physiological and elevated pad temperatures. RESULTS N-(2-hydroxybenzyl)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-cyanophenylethylamine (1.5 mg/kg, subcutaneous) significantly increased the frequency of heart beats accompanied by a slight elevation of neck-arterial blood flow. Increasing the animal-supporting heat-pad temperature from 37°C to 41°C enhanced the drug's effect on blood flow while counteracting tachycardia. Additionally, N-(2-hydroxybenzyl)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-cyanophenylethylamine promoted bradypnea, which, like tachycardia, quickly reversed at the elevated pad temperature. The interrelatedness of N-(2-hydroxybenzyl)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-cyanophenylethylamine's respiro-cardiovascular effects and thermoregulation was further corroborated by the drug selectively increasing the core body temperature at the elevated pad temperature. Arterial oxygen saturation was not affected by N-(2-hydroxybenzyl)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-cyanophenylethylamine at either temperature. CONCLUSIONS Our findings imply that selective serotonin 2A receptor activation modulates systemic cardiovascular functioning in orchestration with thermoregulation and with immediate relevance to brain-imminent neck (most likely carotid) arteries. As carotid branching is a critical last hub to channel cardiovascular output to or away from the brain, our results might have implications for the brain haemodynamics associated with psychedelia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Buchborn
- Laboratory for Neuronal Circuit Dynamics, Department of Medicine, Imperial College, London, UK,Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Medicine, Imperial College, London, UK,Tobias Buchborn, Laboratory for Neuronal Circuit Dynamics, Department of Medicine, Imperial College, Du Cane Road, Burlington Danes, London, W12 0NN, UK.
| | - Taylor Lyons
- Laboratory for Neuronal Circuit Dynamics, Department of Medicine, Imperial College, London, UK,Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Medicine, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Chenchen Song
- Laboratory for Neuronal Circuit Dynamics, Department of Medicine, Imperial College, London, UK
| | | | - Thomas Knöpfel
- Laboratory for Neuronal Circuit Dynamics, Department of Medicine, Imperial College, London, UK,Centre for Neurotechnology, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Imperial College, London, UK
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Antonio-Tolentino K, Hopkins CR. Selective α7 nicotinic receptor agonists and positive allosteric modulators for the treatment of schizophrenia - a review. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2020; 29:603-610. [PMID: 32396418 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2020.1764938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Alpha 7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7 nAChR) partial agonists, agonists, and positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) have been in development for over a decade. The initial candidates were in clinical trials for a wide variety of diseases including schizophrenia, but there has yet to be a successful compound to make it to the market for any disorder. Although difficult to assess the cause of all the clinical failures, the lack of efficacy played a major role. The development of more selective compounds, may bring a successful compound to long-suffering schizophrenia patients. AREAS COVERED This article examines investigational agonists and positive allosteric modulators of the α7 nicotinic receptor in preclinical studies as well as clinical trials. Our search included the use of SciFinder, Google, and clinicaltrials.gov with search dates of 2015 to the present. EXPERT OPINION Researchers must rethink their approach should look more closely at the selectivity of new compounds and how to tackle the translational gap. Perhaps new positive allosteric modulators that can help minimize receptor desensitization and selectivity profiles can be a path forward for α7 nAChRs in schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten Antonio-Tolentino
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center , Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Corey R Hopkins
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center , Omaha, NE, USA
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25
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Marcher-Rørsted E, Halberstadt AL, Klein AK, Chatha M, Jademyr S, Jensen AA, Kristensen JL. Investigation of the 2,5-Dimethoxy Motif in Phenethylamine Serotonin 2A Receptor Agonists. ACS Chem Neurosci 2020; 11:1238-1244. [PMID: 32212672 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.0c00129] [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] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The 2,5-dimethoxyphenethylamine (2,5-PEA) scaffold is recognized as a motif conferring potent agonist activity at the serotonin 2A receptor (5-HT2AR). The 2,5-dimethoxy motif is present in several classical phenethylamine psychedelics such as 2,4,5- trimethoxyamphetamine (TMA-2), 2,5-dimethoxy-4-methylamphetamine (DOM), 2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine (DOI), 2,5- dimethoxy-4-bromoamphetamine (DOB), 2,5-dimethoxy-4-bromophenethylamine (2C-B), and 2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodophenethylamine (2C-I), and it has previously been suggested that this structural motif is essential for 5-HT2AR activation. In the present study, we present data that challenges this assumption. The 2- and 5-desmethoxy derivatives of 2C-B and DOB were synthesized, and their pharmacological profiles were evaluated in vitro at 5-HT2AR and 5-HT2CR in binding and functional assays and in vivo by assessing their induction of the head-twitch response in mice. Elimination of either the 2- or 5-methoxy group leads to a modest drop in binding affinity and functional potency at 5-HT2AR and 5-HT2CR, which was more pronounced upon removal of the 2-methoxy group. However, this trend was not mirrored in vivo, as removal of either methoxy group resulted in significant reduction in the ability of the compounds to induce the head-twitch response in mice. Thus, the 2,5-dimethoxyphenethylamine motif appears to be important for in vivo potency of phenethylamine 5-HT2AR agonists, but this does not correlate to the relative affinity and potency of the ligands at the recombinant 5-HT2AR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emil Marcher-Rørsted
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Adam L. Halberstadt
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr., La Jolla 92093, California
| | - Adam K. Klein
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr., La Jolla 92093, California
| | - Muhammad Chatha
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr., La Jolla 92093, California
| | - Simon Jademyr
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anders A. Jensen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jesper L. Kristensen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
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Jensen AA, Halberstadt AL, Märcher-Rørsted E, Odland AU, Chatha M, Speth N, Liebscher G, Hansen M, Bräuner-Osborne H, Palner M, Andreasen JT, Kristensen JL. The selective 5-HT 2A receptor agonist 25CN-NBOH: Structure-activity relationship, in vivo pharmacology, and in vitro and ex vivo binding characteristics of [ 3H]25CN-NBOH. Biochem Pharmacol 2020; 177:113979. [PMID: 32298690 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2020.113979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The remarkable effects exhibited by classical psychedelics in recent clinical trials have spawned considerable interest in 5-HT2A receptor (5-HT2AR) activation as a treatment strategy for several psychiatric/cognitive disorders. In this study we have continued our development of 25CN-NBOH, one of the most 5-HT2AR-selective agonists reported to date, as a pharmacological tool for exploration of 5-HT2AR expression and functions. The importance of the 2' and 3' positions in 25CN-NBOH as structural hotspots for its 5-HT2AR activity was investigated by synthesis and pharmacological characterization of six novel analogs at 5-HT2AR and 5-HT2CR in binding and functional assays. While the 5-HT2AR activity of 25CN-NBOH was retained in 3'-methyl, 2',3'-chroman, 2',3'-dihydrofuran and 2',3'-furan analogs, the 3'-methoxy and 3'-ethyl analogs displayed substantially lower binding affinities and agonist potencies than 25CN-NBOH. Interestingly, the 2',3'-substitution pattern was also a key determinant of agonist efficacy, as all six analogs exhibited low-efficacy partial agonism or de facto antagonism at the 5-HT2AR in the functional assays. Systemic administration of 25CN-NBOH and its close structural analog 25CN-NBMD induced robust head-twitch response in mice, a well-established behavioural effect of 5-HT2AR activation in vivo, and 25CN-NBOH mediated robust reductions in the activity of mice in an anxiety-related marble burying assay, which supports the proposed beneficial effects of 5-HT2AR activation on disorders characterized by cognitive rigidity. Finally, tritiated 25CN-NBOH exhibited high 5-HT2AR binding affinity (KD ~1 nM) and selectivity against 5-HT2BR and 5-HT2CR in equilibrium and kinetic binding studies of the recombinant receptors, and in concordance [3H]25CN-NBOH displayed substantial specific, ketanserin-sensitive binding to cortex and small levels of binding to choroid plexus in rat brain slices in autoradiography studies. In conclusion, this work delineates the subtle molecular determinants of the 5-HT2AR activity in 25CN-NBOH, substantiates the potential in this compound and its analogs as tools for in vivo studies of the 5-HT2AR, and introduces a novel selective agonist radioligand as another potentially valuable tool for future explorations of this receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anders A Jensen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark.
| | - Adam L Halberstadt
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States; Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Emil Märcher-Rørsted
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Anna U Odland
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Muhammad Chatha
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Nikolaj Speth
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Gudrun Liebscher
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Martin Hansen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Hans Bräuner-Osborne
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Mikael Palner
- Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark; Center for Translational Neuromedicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jesper T Andreasen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Jesper L Kristensen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
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Poulie CBM, Jensen AA, Halberstadt AL, Kristensen JL. DARK Classics in Chemical Neuroscience: NBOMes. ACS Chem Neurosci 2019; 11:3860-3869. [PMID: 31657895 PMCID: PMC9191638 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.9b00528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
N-Benzylphenethylamines, commonly known as NBOMes, are synthetic psychedelic compounds derived from the phenethylamine class of psychedelics (2C-X compounds), which originally have been derived from the naturally occurring alkaloid mescaline. Analogously to their parent compounds and other classical psychedelics, such as psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), NBOMes are believed to exert their main pharmacological effects through activation of serotonin 2A (5-HT2A) receptors. Since their introduction as New Psychoactive Substances (NPSs) in 2010, NBOMes have been widely used for recreational purposes; this has resulted in numerous cases of acute toxicity, sometimes with lethal outcomes, leading to the classification of several NBOMes as Schedule I substances in 2013. However, in addition to their recreational use, the NBOMe class has yielded several important biochemical tools, including [11C]Cimbi-36, which is now being used in positron emission tomography (PET) studies of the 5-HT2A and 5-HT2C receptors in the mammalian brain, and 25CN-NBOH, one of the most selective 5-HT2A receptor agonists developed to date. In this Review, the history, chemistry, structure-activity relationships, ADME (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion) properties, and safety profiles of NBOMes will be outlined and discussed.
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28
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Odland AU, Jessen L, Kristensen JL, Fitzpatrick CM, Andreasen JT. The 5-hydroxytryptamine 2A receptor agonists DOI and 25CN-NBOH decrease marble burying and reverse 8-OH-DPAT-induced deficit in spontaneous alternation. Neuropharmacology 2019; 183:107838. [PMID: 31693871 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2019.107838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2019] [Revised: 10/29/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
5-Hydroxytryptamine 2A receptor (5-HT2AR) agonist psychedelics are increasingly recognized as potentially useful treatments of psychiatric disorders, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, anxiety, and drug dependence. There is limited understanding of the way they exert their therapeutic action, but inhibition of rigid behavior and cognition has been suggested as a key factor. To examine the role of 5-HT2ARs in modulating repetitive behavior, we tested two 5-HT2AR agonists, DOI, and the selective 25CN-NBOH, in two mouse tests of compulsive-like behavior. Using adult C57BL/6JOlaHsd male mice, we examined the effects of the two compounds on digging behavior in the marble burying test and on 8-OH-DPAT-disrupted spontaneous alternation behavior in the Y-maze. Both compounds dose-dependently decreased digging behavior in the marble burying test, indicating anti-compulsivity effects, which were not related to non-specific locomotor inhibition. Both 5-HT2AR agonists also reversed 8-OH-DPAT-reduced alternation ratio in the spontaneous alternation behavior test, although the effects were less pronounced than in the marble burying test. This suggests that the 5-HT2AR promotes exploratory behavior, but that the deficit produced by 8-OH-DPAT is too excessive to be fully reversed by 5-HT2AR agonists. This study shows that agonism of 5-HT2AR reduces repetitive behavioral patterns, supporting the theory that this is a potential new treatment approach to disorders of cognitive or behavioral inflexibility. This article is part of the special issue entitled 'Serotonin Research: Crossing Scales and Boundaries'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna U Odland
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, 2100, Denmark
| | - Lea Jessen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, 2100, Denmark
| | - Jesper L Kristensen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, 2100, Denmark
| | - Ciarán M Fitzpatrick
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, 2100, Denmark
| | - Jesper T Andreasen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, 2100, Denmark.
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de la Fuente Revenga M, Shin JM, Vohra HZ, Hideshima KS, Schneck M, Poklis JL, González-Maeso J. Fully automated head-twitch detection system for the study of 5-HT 2A receptor pharmacology in vivo. Sci Rep 2019; 9:14247. [PMID: 31582824 PMCID: PMC6776537 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-49913-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2018] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Head-twitch behavior (HTR) is the behavioral signature of psychedelic drugs upon stimulation of the serotonin 5-HT2A receptor (5-HT2AR) in rodents. Following the previous report of a semi-automated detection of HTR based on the dynamics of mouse's head movement, here we present a system for the identification of individual HTR events in a fully automated fashion. The validity of this fully automated HTR detection system was tested with the psychedelic drug DOI in 5-HT2AR-KO mice, and via evaluation of potential sources of false-positive and false-negative HTR events. The increased throughput in data processing achieved via automation afforded the possibility of conducting otherwise time consuming HTR time-course studies. To further assess the versatility of our system, we also explored the pharmacological interactions between 5-HT2AR and the metabotropic glutamate receptor 2 (mGluR2). Our data demonstrate the potentiation effect of the mGluR2/3 antagonist LY341495 on DOI-induced HTR, as well as the HTR-blocking effect of the mGluR2/3 agonist and antipsychotic drug in development LY404039. This fully automated system can contribute to speed up our understanding of 5-HT2AR's pharmacology and its characteristic behavioral outputs in rodents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario de la Fuente Revenga
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA
| | - Jong M Shin
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA
| | - Hiba Z Vohra
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA
| | - Kelsey S Hideshima
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA
| | - Matthew Schneck
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, 23220, USA
| | - Justin L Poklis
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA
| | - Javier González-Maeso
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA.
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Chronic treatment with a metabotropic mGlu2/3 receptor agonist diminishes behavioral response to a phenethylamine hallucinogen. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2019; 236:821-830. [PMID: 30448990 PMCID: PMC6778591 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-018-5118-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 11/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is evidence that mGlu2/3 receptors regulate 5-HT2A signaling, interactions that have been theorized to play a role in the antipsychotic-like effects of mGlu2/3 agonists as well as the hallucinogenic effects of 5-HT2A agonists. One approach to unraveling this interaction is through the chronic administration of agonists at the two receptors, which should influence the functional properties of the targeted receptor due to receptor downregulation or desensitization and thereby alter crosstalk between the two receptors. In this study, we investigated whether chronic treatment with the mGlu2/3 agonist LY379268 would alter the behavioral response to a phenethylamine hallucinogen, 25CN-NBOH, which acts as a selective 5-HT2A agonist. METHODS We first conducted a dose response of 25CN-NBOH (0.1, 0.3, 1, 3, or 10 mg/kg) to confirm the effects on head-twitch response (HTR) and then blockade studies with either the M100907 (0.1 mg/kg) or SB242084 (0.1, 0.3, or 1 mg/kg) to determine the contribution of 5-HT2A and 5-HT2C to 25CN-NBOH-induced HTR, respectively. To determine whether an mGlu2/3 agonist could block 25CN-NBOH-induced HTR, mice were pretreated with vehicle or LY379268 (0.1, 1, or 10 mg/kg) prior to 25CN-NBOH, and HTR was assessed. The effects of chronic LY379268 on 5-HT2A agonist-induced HTR were evaluated by treating mice with either vehicle or LY379268 (10 mg/kg) for 21 days and measuring 25CN-NBOH-induced HTR 48 h after the final LY379268 treatment. The following day (72 h after the final LY379268 treatment), the ability of acute LY379268 to block PCP-induced locomotor activity was assessed. RESULTS 25CN-NBOH dose-dependently increased the HTR, a 5-HT2A-mediated behavior, in mice. The selective 5-HT2A antagonist M100907 completely blocked the HTR induced by 25CN-NBOH, whereas the selective 5-HT2C antagonist SB242084 had no effect on the HTR. Administration of LY379268 (10 mg/kg SC) attenuated the HTR induced by 1 mg/kg 25CN-NBOH by ~ 50%. Chronic treatment (21 days) with LY379268 also attenuated the HTR response to 25CN-NBOH when tested 48 h after the last dose of LY379268. In locomotor tests, acute LY379268 significantly attenuated PCP-induced locomotor activity in the chronic vehicle treatment group; by contrast, there was only a trend for an overall interaction in the chronic LY379268 group, with LY379268 blocking the locomotor-stimulating effects of PCP only during the last 20 min. CONCLUSIONS These data are consistent with a functional interaction between mGlu2/3 and 5-HT2A receptors, although the specific mechanism for the interaction is not known. These data support the hypothesis that mGlu2/3 receptors play a prominent role in modulating the behavioral response to 5-HT2A receptor activation.
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