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Martínez-Torres AM, Morán J. Aquaporin 4 and the endocannabinoid system: a potential therapeutic target in brain injury. Exp Brain Res 2024; 242:2041-2058. [PMID: 39043897 PMCID: PMC11306651 DOI: 10.1007/s00221-024-06896-7] [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: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
Brain edema is a critical complication arising from stroke and traumatic brain injury (TBI) with an important impact on patient recovery and can lead to long-term consequences. Therapeutic options to reduce edema progression are limited with variable patient outcomes. Aquaporin 4 (AQP4) is a water channel that allows bidirectional water diffusion across the astrocyte membrane and participates in the distinct phases of cerebral edema. The absence or inhibition of this channel has been demonstrated to ameliorate edema and brain damage. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a neuromodulator system with a wide expression in the brain and its activation has shown neuroprotective properties in diverse models of neuronal damage. This review describes and discusses the major features of ECS and AQP4 and their role during brain damage, observing that ECS stimulation reduces edema and injury size in diverse models of brain damage, however, the relationship between AQP4 expression and dynamics and ECS activation remains unclear. The research on these topics holds promising therapeutic implications for the treatment of brain edema following stroke and TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ari Misael Martínez-Torres
- División de Neurociencias, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Coyoacán, Apartado Postal 70-253, 04510, Ciudad de Mexico, México
| | - Julio Morán
- División de Neurociencias, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Coyoacán, Apartado Postal 70-253, 04510, Ciudad de Mexico, México.
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Glenn NAK, Finlay DB, Carruthers ER, Mountjoy KG, Walker CS, Grimsey NL. RAMP and MRAP accessory proteins have selective effects on expression and signalling of the CB 1, CB 2, GPR18 and GPR55 cannabinoid receptors. Br J Pharmacol 2024; 181:2212-2231. [PMID: 37085333 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16095] [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: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Receptor activity-modifying proteins (RAMPs) and melanocortin receptor accessory proteins (MRAPs) modulate expression and signalling of calcitonin and melanocortin GPCRs. Interactions with other GPCRs have also been reported. The cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2, and two putative cannabinoid receptors, GPR18 and GPR55, exhibit substantial intracellular expression and there are discrepancies in ligand responsiveness between studies. We investigated whether interactions with RAMPs or MRAPs could explain these phenomena. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Receptors and accessory proteins were co-expressed in HEK-293 cells. Selected receptors were studied at basal expression levels and also with enhanced expression produced by incorporation of a preprolactin signal sequence/peptide (pplss). Cell surface and total expression of receptors and accessory proteins were quantified using immunocytochemistry. Signalling was measured using cAMP (CAMYEL) and G protein dissociation (TRUPATH Gα13) biosensors. KEY RESULTS MRAP2 enhanced surface and total expression of GPR18. Pplss-GPR18 increased detection of cell surface MRAP2. MRAP1α and MRAP2 reduced GPR55 surface and total expression, correlating with reduced constitutive, but not agonist-induced, signalling. GPR55, pplss-CB1 and CB2 reduced detection of MRAP1α at the cell surface. Pplss-CB1 agonist potency was reduced by MRAP2 in Gα13 but not cAMP assays, consistent with MRAP2 reducing pplss-CB1 expression. Some cannabinoid receptors increased RAMP2 or RAMP3 total expression without influencing surface expression. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Mutual influences on expression and/or function for specific accessory protein-receptor pairings raises the strong potential for physiological and disease-relevant consequences. Sequestration and/or hetero-oligomerisation of cannabinoid receptors with accessory proteins is a possible novel mechanism for receptor crosstalk. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed issue Therapeutic Targeting of G Protein-Coupled Receptors: hot topics from the Australasian Society of Clinical and Experimental Pharmacologists and Toxicologists 2021 Virtual Annual Scientific Meeting. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v181.14/issuetoc.
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MESH Headings
- Humans
- HEK293 Cells
- Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/metabolism
- Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/genetics
- Receptors, Cannabinoid/metabolism
- Signal Transduction
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/metabolism
- Receptor Activity-Modifying Proteins/metabolism
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/metabolism
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/agonists
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/genetics
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathaniel A K Glenn
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - David B Finlay
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Emma R Carruthers
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Kathleen G Mountjoy
- Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Christopher S Walker
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland, New Zealand
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Natasha L Grimsey
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland, New Zealand
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Carruthers ER, Grimsey NL. Cannabinoid CB 2 receptor orthologues; in vitro function and perspectives for preclinical to clinical translation. Br J Pharmacol 2024; 181:2247-2269. [PMID: 37349984 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoid CB2 receptor agonists are in development as therapeutic agents, including for immune modulation and pain relief. Despite promising results in rodent preclinical studies, efficacy in human clinical trials has been marginal to date. Fundamental differences in ligand engagement and signalling responses between the human CB2 receptor and preclinical model species orthologues may contribute to mismatches in functional outcomes. This is a tangible possibility for the CB2 receptor in that there is a relatively large degree of primary amino acid sequence divergence between human and rodent. Here, we summarise CB2 receptor gene and protein structure, assess comparative molecular pharmacology between CB2 receptor orthologues, and review the current status of preclinical to clinical translation for drugs targeted at the CB2 receptor, focusing on comparisons between human, mouse and rat receptors. We hope that raising wider awareness of, and proposing strategies to address, this additional challenge in drug development will assist in ongoing efforts toward successful therapeutic translation of drugs targeted at the CB2 receptor. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue Therapeutic Targeting of G Protein-Coupled Receptors: hot topics from the Australasian Society of Clinical and Experimental Pharmacologists and Toxicologists 2021 Virtual Annual Scientific Meeting. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v181.14/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma R Carruthers
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Natasha L Grimsey
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland, New Zealand
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Kaszyńska AA. Cannabinoids: Potential for Modulation and Enhancement When Combined with Vitamin B12 in Case of Neurodegenerative Disorders. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:813. [PMID: 38931480 PMCID: PMC11207064 DOI: 10.3390/ph17060813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The enduring relationship between humanity and the cannabis plant has witnessed significant transformations, particularly with the widespread legalization of medical cannabis. This has led to the recognition of diverse pharmacological formulations of medical cannabis, containing 545 identified natural compounds, including 144 phytocannabinoids like Δ9-THC and CBD. Cannabinoids exert distinct regulatory effects on physiological processes, prompting their investigation in neurodegenerative diseases. Recent research highlights their potential in modulating protein aggregation and mitochondrial dysfunction, crucial factors in conditions such as Alzheimer's Disease, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson's disease. The discussion emphasizes the importance of maintaining homeodynamics in neurodegenerative disorders and explores innovative therapeutic approaches such as nanoparticles and RNA aptamers. Moreover, cannabinoids, particularly CBD, demonstrate anti-inflammatory effects through the modulation of microglial activity, offering multifaceted neuroprotection including mitigating aggregation. Additionally, the potential integration of cannabinoids with vitamin B12 presents a holistic framework for addressing neurodegeneration, considering their roles in homeodynamics and nervous system functioning including the hippocampal neurogenesis. The potential synergistic therapeutic benefits of combining CBD with vitamin B12 underscore a promising avenue for advancing treatment strategies in neurodegenerative diseases. However, further research is imperative to fully elucidate their effects and potential applications, emphasizing the dynamic nature of this field and its potential to reshape neurodegenerative disease treatment paradigms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Aleksandra Kaszyńska
- The Centre of Neurocognitive Research, Institute of Psychology, SWPS University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Chodakowska 19/31, 03-815 Warszawa, Poland
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Green HM, Manning JJ, Greig IR, Ross RA, Finlay DB, Glass M. Positive allosteric modulation of the cannabinoid CB 1 receptor potentiates endocannabinoid signalling and changes ERK1/2 phosphorylation kinetics. Br J Pharmacol 2024. [PMID: 38831545 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Activation of CB1 by exogenous agonists causes adverse effects in vivo. Positive allosteric modulation may offer improved therapeutic potential and a reduced on-target adverse effect profile compared with orthosteric agonists, due to reduced desensitisation/tolerance, but this has not been directly tested. This study investigated the ability of PAMs/ago-PAMs to induce receptor regulation pathways, including desensitisation and receptor internalisation. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) assays in HEK293 cells were performed to investigate G protein dissociation, ERK1/2 phosphorylation and β-arrestin 2 translocation, while immunocytochemistry was performed to measure internalisation of CB1 in response to the PAMs ZCZ011, GAT229 and ABD1236 alone and in combination with the orthosteric agonists AEA, 2-AG, and AMB-FUBINACA. KEY RESULTS ZCZ011, GAT229 and ABD1236 were allosteric agonists in all pathways tested. The ago-PAM ZCZ011 induced a biphasic ERK1/2 phosphorylation time course compared to transient activation by orthosteric agonists. In combination with 2-AG but not AEA or AMB-FUBINACA, ZCZ011 and ABD1236 caused the transient peak of ERK1/2 phosphorylation to become sustained. All PAMs increased the potency and efficacy of AEA-induced signalling in all pathways tested; however, no notable potentiation of 2-AG or AMB-FUBINACA was observed. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Ago-PAMs can potentiate endocannabinoid CB1 agonism by AEA to a larger extent compared with 2-AG. However, all compounds were found to be allosteric agonists and induce activation of CB1 in the absence of endocannabinoid, including β-arrestin 2 recruitment and internalisation. Thus, the spatiotemporal signalling of endogenous cannabinoids will not be retained in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley M Green
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Jamie J Manning
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Ian R Greig
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Ruth A Ross
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - David B Finlay
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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Bodke S, Joshi N, Alavala RR, Suares D. In silico exploration of CB2 receptor agonist in the management of neuroinflammatory conditions by pharmacophore modeling. Comput Biol Chem 2024; 110:108049. [PMID: 38507844 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiolchem.2024.108049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2024] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Endocannabinoid system plays a pivotal role in controlling neuroinflammation, and modulating this system may not only aid in managing symptoms of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Multiple sclerosis, Epilepsy, Central and Peripheral neuropathic pain, but also, have the potential to target these diseases at an early-stage. In the present study, six different pharmacophore hypotheses were generated from Cannabidiol (CBD)-Cannabinoid Receptor subtype-2 (CB2) and then Zinc database was screened for identification of hit molecules. Identified 215 hit molecules were subjected to preliminary screening with ADMET and drug likeness properties, and about 48 molecules were found with no violations and toxicity properties. In molecular docking studies, six compounds showed better binding energy than CBD and β-caryophyllene (known inhibitor of CB2). These six molecules were designated as leads and subjected to re-docking with glide tool and Lead1 (ZINC000078815430) showed docking score of -9.877 kcal/mol, whereas CBD and β-caryophyllene showed score of -9.664 and -8.499 kcal/mol, respectively. Lead1 and CBD were evaluated for stability studies with Desmond tool by molecular dynamic simulation studies. Lead1 showed better stability than CBD in all studied parameters such as RMSD, RMSF, SSE, Rg, SASA, etc. In MM-GBSA free energy calculations, ΔGbinding energy of CB2-CBD complex and CB2-Lead1 were found to be -103.13±11.19 and -107.94±5.42 kcal/mol, respectively. Six lead molecules stated in the study hold promise with respect to CBD agonistic activity for treating and/or managing chronic conditions and can be explored as an alternative for early-stage cure, which has not yet been experimentally explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shlok Bodke
- Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy and Technology Management, SVKM'S NMIMS, Mumbai 400056, India
| | - Nachiket Joshi
- Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy and Technology Management, SVKM'S NMIMS, Mumbai 400056, India
| | - Rajasekhar Reddy Alavala
- Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy and Technology Management, SVKM'S NMIMS, Mumbai 400056, India.
| | - Divya Suares
- Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy and Technology Management, SVKM'S NMIMS, Mumbai 400056, India.
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Patel M, Zheng X, Akinfiresoye LR, Prioleau C, Walker TD, Glass M, Marusich JA. Pharmacological evaluation of new generation OXIZID synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 971:176549. [PMID: 38561104 PMCID: PMC11132922 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176549] [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: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) remain one the largest classes of new psychoactive substances, and are increasingly associated with severe adverse effects and death compared to the phytocannabinoid Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). In the attempt to circumvent the rapid emergence of novel SCRAs, several nations have implemented 'generic' legislations, or 'class-wide' bans based on common structural scaffolds. However, this has only encouraged the incorporation of new chemical entities, including distinct core and linker structures, for which there is a dearth of pharmacological data. The current study evaluated five emergent OXIZID SCRAs for affinity and functional activity at the cannabinoid CB1 receptor (CB1) in HEK 293 cells, as well as pharmacological equivalence with THC in drug discrimination in mice. All OXIZID compounds behaved as agonists in Gαi protein activation and β-arrestin 2 translocation assays, possessing low micromolar affinity at CB1. All ligands also substituted for THC in drug discrimination, where potencies broadly correlated with in vitro activity, with the methylcyclohexane analogue BZO-CHMOXIZID being the most potent. Notably, MDA-19 (BZO-HEXOXIZID) exhibited partial efficacy in vitro, generating an activity profile most similar to that of THC, and partial substitution in vivo. Overall, the examined OXIZIDs were comparatively less potent and efficacious than previous generations of SCRAs. Further toxicological data will elucidate whether the moderate cannabimimetic activity for this series of SCRAs will translate to severe adverse health effects as seen with previous generations of SCRAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Patel
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Xiaoxi Zheng
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand; Institute of Environmental Science and Research Ltd (ESR), New Zealand
| | - Luli R Akinfiresoye
- United States Department of Justice, Drug Enforcement Administration, Diversion Control Division, Drug and Chemical Evaluation Section, 8701 Morrissette Drive, Springfield, VA, USA
| | - Cassandra Prioleau
- United States Department of Justice, Drug Enforcement Administration, Diversion Control Division, Drug and Chemical Evaluation Section, 8701 Morrissette Drive, Springfield, VA, USA
| | - Teneille D Walker
- United States Department of Justice, Drug Enforcement Administration, Diversion Control Division, Drug and Chemical Evaluation Section, 8701 Morrissette Drive, Springfield, VA, USA
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand; Institute of Environmental Science and Research Ltd (ESR), New Zealand.
| | - Julie A Marusich
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Rd, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
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Martínez-Rivera A, Fetcho RN, Birmingham L, Jiu JX, Yang R, Foord C, Scala-Chávez D, Mekawy N, Pleil K, Pickel VM, Liston C, Castorena CM, Levitz J, Pan YX, Briand LA, Rajadhyaksha AM, Lee FS. Elevating levels of the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol blunts opioid reward but not analgesia. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.02.585967. [PMID: 38766079 PMCID: PMC11101127 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.02.585967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Converging findings have established that the endocannabinoid (eCB) system serves as a possible target for the development of new treatments for pain as a complement to opioid-based treatments. Here we show in male and female mice that enhancing levels of the eCB, 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), through pharmacological inhibition of its catabolic enzyme, monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL), either systemically or in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) with JZL184, leads to a substantial attenuation of the rewarding effects of opioids in male and female mice using conditioned place preference and self-administration paradigms, without altering their analgesic properties. These effects are driven by CB1 receptors (CB1Rs) within the VTA as VTA CB1R conditional knockout, counteracts JZL184's effects. Conversely, pharmacologically enhancing the levels of the other eCB, anandamide (AEA), by inhibition of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) has no effect on opioid reward or analgesia. Using fiber photometry with fluorescent sensors for calcium and dopamine (DA), we find that enhancing 2-AG levels diminishes opioid reward-related nucleus accumbens (NAc) activity and DA neurotransmission. Together these findings reveal that 2-AG counteracts the rewarding properties of opioids and provides a potential adjunctive therapeutic strategy for opioid-related analgesic treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arlene Martínez-Rivera
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Robert N. Fetcho
- Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Lizzie Birmingham
- Department of Psychology, Temple University; Neuroscience Program, Temple University, 19122, USA
| | - Jin X Jiu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Ruirong Yang
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Careen Foord
- Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Diego Scala-Chávez
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Narmin Mekawy
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Kristen Pleil
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Virginia M. Pickel
- Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Conor Liston
- Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Carlos M. Castorena
- Center for Hypothalamic Research, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Joshua Levitz
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Ying-Xian Pan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Lisa A. Briand
- Department of Psychology, Temple University; Neuroscience Program, Temple University, 19122, USA
| | - Anjali M. Rajadhyaksha
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Francis S. Lee
- Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
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Ryalls B, Patel M, Sparkes E, Banister SD, Finlay DB, Glass M. Investigating selectivity and bias for G protein subtypes and β-arrestins by synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists at the cannabinoid CB 1 receptor. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 222:116052. [PMID: 38354957 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
The cannabinoid CB1 receptor (CB1) is a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) with widespread expression in the central nervous system. This canonically G⍺i/o-coupled receptor mediates the effects of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs). Recreational use of SCRAs is associated with serious adverse health effects, making pharmacological research into these compounds a priority. Several studies have hypothesised that signalling bias may explain the different toxicological profiles between SCRAs and THC. Previous studies have focused on bias between G protein activation measured by cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) inhibition and β-arrestin translocation. In contrast, the current study characterises bias between G⍺ subtypes of the G⍺i/o family and β-arrestins; this method facilitates a more accurate assessment of ligand bias by assessing signals that have not undergone major amplification. We have characterised G protein dissociation and translocation of β-arrestin 1 and 2 using real-time BRET reporters. The responses produced by each SCRA across the G protein subtypes tested were consistent with the responses produced by the reference ligand AMB-FUBINACA. Ligand bias was probed by applying the operational analysis to determine biases within the G⍺i/o family, and between G protein subtypes and β-arrestins. Overall, these results confirm SCRAs to be balanced, high-efficacy ligands compared to the low efficacy ligand THC, with only one SCRA, 4CN-MPP-BUT7IACA, demonstrating statistically significant bias in one pathway comparison (towards β-arrestin 1 when compared with G⍺oA/oB). This suggests that the adverse effects caused by SCRAs are due to high potency and efficacy at CB1, rather than biased agonism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beth Ryalls
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand. PO Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | - Monica Patel
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand. PO Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | - Eric Sparkes
- School of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Samuel D Banister
- School of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - David B Finlay
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand. PO Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand. PO Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand; Institute of Environmental Science and Research Limited (ESR) Kenepuru Science Centre: 34 Kenepuru Drive, Kenepuru, Porirua 5022, New Zealand.
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10
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Bo Y, Zhao X, Li L. Cardiotoxic effects of common and emerging drugs: role of cannabinoid receptors. Clin Sci (Lond) 2024; 138:413-434. [PMID: 38505994 DOI: 10.1042/cs20231156] [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: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Drug-induced cardiotoxicity has become one of the most common and detrimental health concerns, which causes significant loss to public health and drug resources. Cannabinoid receptors (CBRs) have recently achieved great attention for their vital roles in the regulation of heart health and disease, with mounting evidence linking CBRs with the pathogenesis and progression of drug-induced cardiotoxicity. This review aims to summarize fundamental characteristics of two well-documented CBRs (CB1R and CB2R) from aspects of molecular structure, signaling and their functions in cardiovascular physiology and pathophysiology. Moreover, we describe the roles of CB1R and CB2R in the occurrence of cardiotoxicity induced by common drugs such as antipsychotics, anti-cancer drugs, marijuana, and some emerging synthetic cannabinoids. We highlight the 'yin-yang' relationship between CB1R and CB2R in drug-induced cardiotoxicity and propose future perspectives for CBR-based translational medicine toward cardiotoxicity curation and clinical monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiming Bo
- Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xin Zhao
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Liliang Li
- Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
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11
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Bachari A, Nassar N, Schanknecht E, Telukutla S, Piva TJ, Mantri N. Rationalizing a prospective coupling effect of cannabinoids with the current pharmacotherapy for melanoma treatment. WIREs Mech Dis 2024; 16:e1633. [PMID: 37920964 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Melanoma is one of the leading fatal forms of cancer, yet from a treatment perspective, we have minimal control over its reoccurrence and resistance to current pharmacotherapies. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) has recently been accepted as a multifaceted homeostatic regulator, influencing various physiological processes across different biological compartments, including the skin. This review presents an overview of the pathophysiology of melanoma, current pharmacotherapy used for treatment, and the challenges associated with the different pharmacological approaches. Furthermore, it highlights the utility of cannabinoids as an additive remedy for melanoma by restoring the balance between downregulated immunomodulatory pathways and elevated inflammatory cytokines during chronic skin conditions as one of the suggested critical approaches in treating this immunogenic tumor. This article is categorized under: Cancer > Molecular and Cellular Physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ava Bachari
- The Pangenomics Lab, School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nazim Nassar
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ellen Schanknecht
- The Pangenomics Lab, School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Terrence Jerald Piva
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nitin Mantri
- The Pangenomics Lab, School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
- The UWA Institute of Agriculture, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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12
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Bouma J, Broekhuis JD, van der Horst C, Kumar P, Ligresti A, van der Stelt M, Heitman LH. Dual allosteric and orthosteric pharmacology of synthetic analog cannabidiol-dimethylheptyl, but not cannabidiol, on the cannabinoid CB 2 receptor. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 218:115924. [PMID: 37972874 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Cannabinoid CB2 receptor (CB2R) is a class A G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) involved in a broad spectrum of physiological processes and pathological conditions. For that reason, targeting CB2R might provide therapeutic opportunities in neurodegenerative disorders, neuropathic pain, inflammatory diseases, and cancer. The main components from Cannabis sativa, such as Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), have been therapeutically exploited and synthetically-derived analogs have been generated. One example is cannabidiol-dimethylheptyl (CBD-DMH), which exhibits anti-inflammatory effects. Nevertheless, its pharmacological mechanism of action is not yet fully understood and is hypothesized for multiple targets, including CB2R. The aim of this study was to further investigate the molecular pharmacology of CBD-DMH on CB2R while CBD was taken along as control. These compounds were screened in equilibrium and kinetic radioligand binding studies and various functional assays, including G protein activation, inhibition of cAMP production and ß-arrestin-2 recruitment. In dissociation studies, CBD-DMH allosterically modulated the radioligand binding. Furthermore, CBD-DMH negatively modulated the G protein activation of reference agonists CP55,940, AEA and 2-AG, but not the agonist-induced ß-arrestin-2 recruitment. Nevertheless, CBD-DMH also displayed competitive binding to CB2R and partial agonism on G protein activation, inhibition of cAMP production and ß-arrestin-2 recruitment. CBD did not exhibit such allosteric behavior and only very weakly bound CB2R without activation. This study shows a dual binding mode of CBD-DMH, but not CBD, to CB2R with the suggestion of two different binding sites. Altogether, it encourages further research into this dual mechanism which might provide a new class of molecules targeting CB2R.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jara Bouma
- Division of Drug Discovery and Safety, LACDR, Leiden University & Oncode Institute, the Netherlands
| | - Jeremy D Broekhuis
- Division of Drug Discovery and Safety, LACDR, Leiden University & Oncode Institute, the Netherlands
| | - Cas van der Horst
- Division of Drug Discovery and Safety, LACDR, Leiden University & Oncode Institute, the Netherlands
| | - Poulami Kumar
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Italy
| | - Alessia Ligresti
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Italy
| | - Mario van der Stelt
- Department of Molecular Physiology, LIC, Leiden University & Oncode Institute, the Netherlands
| | - Laura H Heitman
- Division of Drug Discovery and Safety, LACDR, Leiden University & Oncode Institute, the Netherlands.
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13
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Patel M, Grimsey NL, Banister SD, Finlay DB, Glass M. Evaluating signaling bias for synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists at the cannabinoid CB 2 receptor. Pharmacol Res Perspect 2023; 11:e01157. [PMID: 38018694 PMCID: PMC10685394 DOI: 10.1002/prp2.1157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The rapid structural evolution and emergence of novel synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) in the recreational market remains a key public health concern. Despite representing one of the largest classes of new psychoactive substances, pharmacological data on new SCRAs is limited, particularly at the cannabinoid CB2 receptor (CB2 ). Hence, the current study aimed to characterize the molecular pharmacology of a structurally diverse panel of SCRAs at CB2 , including 4-cyano MPP-BUT7AICA, 4F-MDMB-BUTINACA, AMB-FUBINACA, JWH-018, MDMB-4en-PINACA, and XLR-11. The activity of SCRAs was assessed in a battery of in vitro assays in CB2 -expressing HEK 293 cells: G protein activation (Gαi3 and GαoB ), phosphorylation of ERK1/2, and β-arrestin 1/2 translocation. The activity profiles of the ligands were further evaluated using the operational analysis to identify ligand bias. All SCRAs activated the CB2 signaling pathways in a concentration-dependent manner, although with varying potencies and efficacies. Despite the detection of numerous instances of statistically significant bias, compound activities generally appeared only subtly distinct in comparison with the reference ligand, CP55940. In contrast, the phytocannabinoid THC exhibited an activity profile distinct from the SCRAs; most notably in the translocation of β-arrestins. These findings demonstrate that CB2 is able to accommodate a structurally diverse array of SCRAs to generate canonical agonist activity. Further research is required to elucidate whether the activation of CB2 contributes to the toxicity of these compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Patel
- Department of Pharmacology and ToxicologyUniversity of OtagoDunedinNew Zealand
| | - Natasha L. Grimsey
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health SciencesUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
| | - Samuel D. Banister
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind CentreUniversity of SydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- School of Chemistry, Faculty of ScienceUniversity of SydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - David B. Finlay
- Department of Pharmacology and ToxicologyUniversity of OtagoDunedinNew Zealand
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology and ToxicologyUniversity of OtagoDunedinNew Zealand
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14
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Leo LM, Al-Zoubi R, Hurst DP, Stephan AP, Zhao P, Tilley DG, Miess E, Schulz S, Abood ME, Reggio PH. The NPXXY Motif Regulates β-Arrestin Recruitment by the CB1 Cannabinoid Receptor. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2023; 8:731-748. [PMID: 35792570 PMCID: PMC10589503 DOI: 10.1089/can.2021.0223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Activation of signaling effectors by G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) depends on different molecular mechanisms triggered by conserved amino acid residues. Although studies have focused on the G-protein signaling state, the mechanism for β-arrestin signaling by CB1 is not yet well defined. Studies have indicated that transmembrane helix 7 (TMH7) and the highly conserved NPXXY motif can be subject to different conformational changes in response to biased ligands and could therefore participate in a molecular mechanism to trigger β-arrestin recruitment. Objective: To investigate the effect of mutations in the NPXXY motif on different signaling pathways activated by the CB1 receptor. Materials and Methods: Point mutations of the NPXXY motif and associated residues were generated in the CB1 receptor using site-directed mutagenesis and transfection into HEK-293 cells. Signaling by wild-type and mutant receptors was analyzed by quantifying inhibition of cAMP, and by β-arrestin recruitment assays. Results: We found that N7.49 and Y7.53 are essential for β-arrestin recruitment by CB1. N7.49A and Y7.53F impair β-arrestin signaling, with no effect on G-protein signaling. We found a regulatory role for residue I2.43; I2.43 interacts with Y7.53, affecting its positioning. Reducing steric bulk at I2.43 (I2.43A) enhances β-arrestin1 recruitment, while introducing a polar residue (I2.43T) reduces β-arrestin recruitment. Conclusions: These findings point to a novel mechanism for β-arrestin recruitment, implicating amino acids in the NPXXY motif as critical for the putative β-arrestin biased conformational state of Class A GPCRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana M. Leo
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Rufaida Al-Zoubi
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science & Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Dow P. Hurst
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, UNC Greensboro, Greensboro, North Carolina, USA
| | - Anna P. Stephan
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Pingwei Zhao
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Douglas G. Tilley
- Center for Translational Medicine, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Elke Miess
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jena University Hospital-Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Stefan Schulz
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jena University Hospital-Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Mary E. Abood
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Patricia H. Reggio
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, UNC Greensboro, Greensboro, North Carolina, USA
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15
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Brust CA, Swanson MA, Bohn LM. Structural and functional insights into the G protein-coupled receptors: CB1 and CB2. Biochem Soc Trans 2023; 51:1533-1543. [PMID: 37646476 PMCID: PMC10586759 DOI: 10.1042/bst20221316] [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: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
The cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 mediate a variety of physiological processes and continue to be explored as desirable drug targets. Both receptors are activated by the endogenous endocannabinoids and the psychoactive components of marijuana. Over the years, many efforts have been made to make selective ligands; however, the high degree of homology between cannabinoid receptor subtypes introduces challenges in studying either receptor in isolation. Recent advancements in structure biology have resulted in a surge of high-resolution structures, enriching our knowledge and understanding of receptor structure and function. In this review, of recent cannabinoid receptor structures, key features of the inactive and active state CB1 and CB2 are presented. These structures will provide additional insight into the modulation and signaling mechanism of cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 and aid in the development of future therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina A. Brust
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation and Technology, Jupiter, FL 33458, U.S.A
- The Skaggs Graduate School of Chemical and Biological Sciences at Scripps Research, La Jolla, CA 92037, U.S.A
| | - Matthew A. Swanson
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation and Technology, Jupiter, FL 33458, U.S.A
- The Skaggs Graduate School of Chemical and Biological Sciences at Scripps Research, La Jolla, CA 92037, U.S.A
| | - Laura M. Bohn
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation and Technology, Jupiter, FL 33458, U.S.A
- The Skaggs Graduate School of Chemical and Biological Sciences at Scripps Research, La Jolla, CA 92037, U.S.A
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16
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Piscura MK, Henderson-Redmond AN, Barnes RC, Mitra S, Guindon J, Morgan DJ. Mechanisms of cannabinoid tolerance. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 214:115665. [PMID: 37348821 PMCID: PMC10528043 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis has been used recreationally and medically for centuries, yet research into understanding the mechanisms of its therapeutic effects has only recently garnered more attention. There is evidence to support the use of cannabinoids for the treatment of chronic pain, muscle spasticity, nausea and vomiting due to chemotherapy, improving weight gain in HIV-related cachexia, emesis, sleep disorders, managing symptoms in Tourette syndrome, and patient-reported muscle spasticity from multiple sclerosis. However, tolerance and the risk for cannabis use disorder are two significant disadvantages for cannabinoid-based therapies in humans. Recent work has revealed prominent sex differences in the acute response and tolerance to cannabinoids in both humans and animal models. This review will discuss evidence demonstrating cannabinoid tolerance in rodents, non-human primates, and humans and our current understanding of the neuroadaptations occurring at the cannabinoid type 1 receptor (CB1R) that are responsible tolerance. CB1R expression is downregulated in tolerant animals and humans while there is strong evidence of CB1R desensitization in cannabinoid tolerant rodent models. Throughout the review, critical knowledge gaps are indicated and discussed, such as the lack of a neuroimaging probe to assess CB1R desensitization in humans. The review discusses the intracellular signaling pathways that are responsible for mediating CB1R desensitization and downregulation including the action of G protein-coupled receptor kinases, β-arrestin2 recruitment, c-Jun N-terminal kinases, protein kinase A, and the intracellular trafficking of CB1R. Finally, the review discusses approaches to reduce cannabinoid tolerance in humans based on our current understanding of the neuroadaptations and mechanisms responsible for this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary K Piscura
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25755, USA; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, Auburn, AL 36832, USA
| | | | - Robert C Barnes
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Swarup Mitra
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25755, USA
| | - Josée Guindon
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Daniel J Morgan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25755, USA.
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17
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Pennant NM, Hinton CV. The evolution of cannabinoid receptors in cancer. WIREs Mech Dis 2023; 15:e1602. [PMID: 36750231 PMCID: PMC10484301 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1602] [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: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis sativa (cannabis) has been used as a therapeutic treatment for centuries treating various diseases and disorders. However, racial propaganda led to the criminalization of cannabis in the 1930s preventing opportunities to explore marijuana in therapeutic development. The increase in recreational use of cannabis further grew concern about abuse, and lead to further restrictions and distribution of cannabis in the 1970s when it was declared to be a Schedule I drug in the USA. In the late 1990s in some states, legislation assisted in legalizing the use of cannabis for medical purposes under physician supervision. As it has been proven that cannabinoids and their receptors play an essential role in the regulation of the physiological and biological processes in our bodies. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is the complex that regulates the cell-signaling system consisting of endogenous cannabinoids (endocannabinoids), cannabinoid receptors, and the enzymes responsible for the synthesis and degradation of the endocannabinoids. The ECS along with phytocannabinoids and synthetic cannabinoids serves to be a beneficial therapeutic target in treating diseases as they play roles in cell homeostasis, cell motility, inflammation, pain-sensation, mood, and memory. Cannabinoids have been shown to inhibit proliferation, metastasis, and angiogenesis and even restore homeostasis in a variety of models of cancer in vitro and in vivo. Cannabis and its receptors have evolved into a therapeutic treatment for cancers. This article is categorized under: Cancer > Molecular and Cellular Physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nakea M Pennant
- Biological Sciences, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Cimona V Hinton
- Biological Sciences, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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18
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Krishna Kumar K, Robertson MJ, Thadhani E, Wang H, Suomivuori CM, Powers AS, Ji L, Nikas SP, Dror RO, Inoue A, Makriyannis A, Skiniotis G, Kobilka B. Structural basis for activation of CB1 by an endocannabinoid analog. Nat Commun 2023; 14:2672. [PMID: 37160876 PMCID: PMC10169858 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37864-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Endocannabinoids (eCBs) are endogenous ligands of the cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1), a G protein-coupled receptor that regulates a number of therapeutically relevant physiological responses. Hence, understanding the structural and functional consequences of eCB-CB1 interactions has important implications for designing effective drugs targeting this receptor. To characterize the molecular details of eCB interaction with CB1, we utilized AMG315, an analog of the eCB anandamide to determine the structure of the AMG315-bound CB1 signaling complex. Compared to previous structures, the ligand binding pocket shows some differences. Using docking, molecular dynamics simulations, and signaling assays we investigated the functional consequences of ligand interactions with the "toggle switch" residues F2003.36 and W3566.48. Further, we show that ligand-TM2 interactions drive changes to residues on the intracellular side of TM2 and are a determinant of efficacy in activating G protein. These intracellular TM2 rearrangements are unique to CB1 and are exploited by a CB1-specific allosteric modulator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaavya Krishna Kumar
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, 279 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Michael J Robertson
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, 279 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Department of Structural Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, 279 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Elina Thadhani
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, 279 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Department of Structural Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, 279 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Department of Computer Science, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Institute for Computational and Mathematical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Haoqing Wang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, 279 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Carl-Mikael Suomivuori
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, 279 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Department of Structural Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, 279 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Department of Computer Science, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Institute for Computational and Mathematical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Alexander S Powers
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, 279 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Department of Structural Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, 279 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Department of Computer Science, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Institute for Computational and Mathematical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Lipin Ji
- Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Spyros P Nikas
- Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Ron O Dror
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, 279 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Department of Structural Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, 279 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Department of Computer Science, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Institute for Computational and Mathematical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Asuka Inoue
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8578, Japan
| | - Alexandros Makriyannis
- Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| | - Georgios Skiniotis
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, 279 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.
- Department of Structural Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, 279 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.
- Department of Photon Science, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Stanford University, Menlo Park, CA, 94025, USA.
| | - Brian Kobilka
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, 279 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.
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19
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Piscura MK, Sepulveda DE, Maulik M, Guindon J, Henderson-Redmond AN, Morgan DJ. Cannabinoid Tolerance in S426A/S430A x β-Arrestin 2 Knockout Double-Mutant Mice. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2023; 385:17-34. [PMID: 36669876 PMCID: PMC10029824 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.122.001367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Tolerance to compounds that target G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), such as the cannabinoid type-1 receptor (CB1R), is in part facilitated by receptor desensitization. Processes that mediate CB1R desensitization include phosphorylation of CB1R residues S426 and S430 by a GPCR kinase and subsequent recruitment of the β-arrestin2 scaffolding protein. Tolerance to cannabinoid drugs is reduced in S426A/S430A mutant mice and β-arrestin2 knockout (KO) mice according to previous work in vivo. However, the presence of additional phosphorylatable residues on the CB1R C-terminus made it unclear as to whether recruitment to S426 and S430 accounted for all desensitization and tolerance by β-arrestin2. Therefore, we assessed acute response and tolerance to the cannabinoids delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) and CP55,940 in S426A/S430A x β-arrestin2 KO double-mutant mice. We observed both delayed tolerance and increased sensitivity to the antinociceptive and hypothermic effects of CP55,940 in male S426A/S430A single- and double-mutant mice compared with wild-type littermates, but not with Δ9-THC. Female S426A/S430A single- and double-mutant mice were more sensitive to acute antinociception (CP55,940 and Δ9-THC) and hypothermia (CP55,940 only) exclusively after chronic dosing and did not differ in the development of tolerance. These results indicate that phosphorylation of S426 and S430 are likely responsible for β-arrestin2-mediated desensitization as double-mutant mice did not differ from the S426A/S430A single-mutant model in respect to cannabinoid tolerance and sensitivity. We also found antinociceptive and hypothermic effects from cannabinoid treatment demonstrated by sex-, agonist-, and duration-dependent features. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in tolerance will improve the therapeutic potential of cannabinoid drugs. This study determined that further deletion of β-arrestin2 does not enhance the delay in cannabinoid tolerance observed in CB1R S426A/S430A mutant mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary K Piscura
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia (M.K.P., M.M., A.N.H.-R., D.J.M.); Department of Pharmacology (D.E.S.) and Graduate Program in Anatomy (M.K.P.), Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania; and Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience (J.G.) and Center of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics (J.G.), Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas
| | - Diana E Sepulveda
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia (M.K.P., M.M., A.N.H.-R., D.J.M.); Department of Pharmacology (D.E.S.) and Graduate Program in Anatomy (M.K.P.), Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania; and Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience (J.G.) and Center of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics (J.G.), Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas
| | - Malabika Maulik
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia (M.K.P., M.M., A.N.H.-R., D.J.M.); Department of Pharmacology (D.E.S.) and Graduate Program in Anatomy (M.K.P.), Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania; and Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience (J.G.) and Center of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics (J.G.), Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas
| | - Josée Guindon
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia (M.K.P., M.M., A.N.H.-R., D.J.M.); Department of Pharmacology (D.E.S.) and Graduate Program in Anatomy (M.K.P.), Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania; and Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience (J.G.) and Center of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics (J.G.), Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas
| | - Angela N Henderson-Redmond
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia (M.K.P., M.M., A.N.H.-R., D.J.M.); Department of Pharmacology (D.E.S.) and Graduate Program in Anatomy (M.K.P.), Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania; and Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience (J.G.) and Center of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics (J.G.), Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas
| | - Daniel J Morgan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia (M.K.P., M.M., A.N.H.-R., D.J.M.); Department of Pharmacology (D.E.S.) and Graduate Program in Anatomy (M.K.P.), Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania; and Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience (J.G.) and Center of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics (J.G.), Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas
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20
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Sharma R, Singh S, Whiting ZM, Molitor M, Vernall AJ, Grimsey NL. Novel Cannabinoid Receptor 2 (CB2) Low Lipophilicity Agonists Produce Distinct cAMP and Arrestin Signalling Kinetics without Bias. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076406. [PMID: 37047385 PMCID: PMC10094510 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoid Receptor 2 (CB2) is a promising target for treating inflammatory diseases. We designed derivatives of 3-carbamoyl-2-pyridone and 1,8-naphthyridin-2(1H)-one-3-carboxamide CB2-selective agonists with reduced lipophilicity. The new compounds were measured for their affinity (radioligand binding) and ability to elicit cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) signalling and β-arrestin-2 translocation with temporal resolution (BRET-based biosensors). For the 3-carbamoyl-2-pyridone derivatives, we found that modifying the previously reported compound UOSS77 (also known as S-777469) by appending a PEG2-alcohol via a 3-carbomylcyclohexyl carboxamide (UOSS75) lowered lipophilicity, and preserved binding affinity and signalling profile. The 1,8-naphthyridin-2(1H)-one-3-carboxamide UOMM18, containing a cis configuration at the 3-carboxamide cyclohexyl and with an alcohol on the 4-position of the cyclohexyl, had lower lipophilicity but similar CB2 affinity and biological activity to previously reported compounds of this class. Relative to CP55,940, the new compounds acted as partial agonists and did not exhibit signalling bias. Interestingly, while all compounds shared similar temporal trajectories for maximal efficacy, differing temporal trajectories for potency were observed. Consequently, when applied at sub-maximal concentrations, CP55,940 tended to elicit sustained (cAMP) or increasing (arrestin) responses, whereas responses to the new compounds tended to be transient (cAMP) or sustained (arrestin). In future studies, the compounds characterised here may be useful in elucidating the consequences of differential temporal signalling profiles on CB2-mediated physiological responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raahul Sharma
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand; (R.S.)
- Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
| | - Sameek Singh
- Department of Chemistry, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand (M.M.); (A.J.V.)
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Zak M. Whiting
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand; (R.S.)
- Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
| | - Maximilian Molitor
- Department of Chemistry, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand (M.M.); (A.J.V.)
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Goethe University, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Andrea J. Vernall
- Department of Chemistry, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand (M.M.); (A.J.V.)
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Natasha L. Grimsey
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand; (R.S.)
- Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
- Correspondence:
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21
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Rokeby ACE, Natale BV, Natale DRC. Cannabinoids and the placenta: Receptors, signaling and outcomes. Placenta 2023; 135:51-61. [PMID: 36965349 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2023.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis use during pregnancy is increasing. The improvement of pregnancy-related symptoms including morning sickness and management of mood and stress are among the most reported reasons for its use. Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are the most abundant cannabinoids found within the cannabis flower. The concentration of these components has drastically increased in the past 20 years. Additionally, many edibles contain only one cannabinoid and are marketed to achieve a specific goal, meaning there are an increasing number of pregnancies that are exposed to isolated cannabinoids. Both Δ9-THC and CBD cross the placenta and can impact the fetus directly, but the receptors through which cannabinoids act are also expressed throughout the placenta, suggesting that the effects of in-utero cannabinoid exposure may include indirect effects from the placenta. In-utero cannabis research focuses on short and long-term fetal health and development; however, these studies include little to no placenta analysis. Prenatal cannabinoid exposure is linked to small for gestational age and fetal growth-restricted babies. Compromised placental development is also associated with fetal growth restriction and the few studies (clinical and animal models) that included placental analysis, identify changes in placental vasculature and function in these cannabinoid-exposed pregnancies. In vitro studies further support cannabinoid impact on cell function in the different populations that comprise the placenta. In this article, we aim to summarize how phytocannabinoids can impact placental development and function. Specifically, the cannabinoids and their actions at the different receptors are described, with receptor localization throughout the human and murine placenta discussed. Findings from studies that included placental analysis and how cannabinoid signaling may modulate critical developmental processing including cell proliferation, angiogenesis and migration are described. Considering the current research, prenatal cannabinoid exposure may significantly impact placental development, and, as such, identifying windows of placental vulnerability for each cannabinoid will be critical to elucidate the etiology of fetal outcome studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbey C E Rokeby
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Bryony V Natale
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - David R C Natale
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada; Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada.
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22
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Manning JJ, Rawcliffe G, Finlay DB, Glass M. Cannabinoid 1 (CB 1 ) receptor arrestin subtype-selectivity and phosphorylation dependence. Br J Pharmacol 2023; 180:369-382. [PMID: 36250246 PMCID: PMC10100024 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15973] [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: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Arrestin or G protein bias may be desirable for novel cannabinoid therapeutics. Arrestin-2 and arrestin-3 translocation to CB1 receptor have been suggested to mediate different functions that may be exploited with biased ligands. Here, the requirement of a recently described phosphorylation motif 'pxxp' (where 'p' denotes phosphorylatable serine or threonine and 'x' denotes any other amino acid) within the CB1 receptor C-terminus for interaction with different arrestin subtypes was examined. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Site-directed mutagenesis was conducted to generate nine different phosphorylation-impaired CB1 receptor C-terminal mutants. Bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) was employed to measure arrestin-2/3 translocation and G protein dissociation of a high efficacy agonist for each mutant. Immunocytochemistry was used to quantify receptor expression. KEY RESULTS The effects of each mutation were shared for arrestin-2 and arrestin-3 translocation to CB1 receptor pxxp motifs are partially required for arrestin-2/3 translocation, but translocation was not completely inhibited until all phosphorylation sites were mutated. The rate of arrestin translocation was reduced with simultaneous mutation of S425 and S429. Desensitisation of G protein dissociation was inhibited in different mutants proportional to the extent of their respective loss of arrestin translocation. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS These data do not support the existence of an 'essential' pxxp motif for arrestin translocation to CB1 receptor. These data also identify that arrestin-2 and arrestin-3 have equivalent phosphorylation requirements within the CB1 receptor C-terminus, suggesting arrestin subtype-selective biased ligands may not be viable and that different regions of the C-terminus contribute differently to arrestin translocation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie J Manning
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Gabriel Rawcliffe
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - David B Finlay
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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23
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Wen Y, Wang Z, Zhang R, Zhu Y, Lin G, Li R, Zhang J. The antinociceptive activity and mechanism of action of cannabigerol. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 158:114163. [PMID: 36916438 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.114163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis has been used for centuries to treat pain. The antinociceptive activity of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or cannabidiol (CBD) has been widely studied. However, the antinociceptive effects of other cannabis components, such as cannabichromene (CBC) and cannabigerol (CBG), have rarely been revealed. The antinociceptive mechanism of CBG is not yet clear, so we investigated the antinociceptive effect of CBG on different pain models, and explored the mechanism of action of CBG to exert antinociceptive effects. In the current study, we compared the antinociceptive effects of CBC, CBD, and CBG on the carrageenan-induced inflammatory pain model in mice, and the results showed that CBG had a better antinociceptive effects through intraplantar administration. On this basis, we further investigated the antinociceptive effect of CBG on CIA-induced arthritis pain model and nerve pain model in mice, and found that CBG also relieved on both types of pain. Then, we explored the antinociceptive mechanism of CBG, which revealed that CBG can activate TRPV1 and desensitize it to block the transmission of pain signals. In addition, CBG can further activate CB2R, but not CB1R, to stimulate the release of β-endorphin, which greatly promotes the antinociceptive effect. Finally, the safety test results showed that CBG had no irritating effect on the rabbits' skin, and it did not induce significant biochemical and hematological changes in mice. Transdermal delivery results also indicated that CBG has certain transdermal properties. Overall, this study indicates that CBG is promising for developing a transdermal dosage for pain management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Wen
- Innovation Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine (IRI), Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Zefeng Wang
- Innovation Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine (IRI), Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- Innovation Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine (IRI), Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yuying Zhu
- Innovation Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine (IRI), Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Guoqiang Lin
- Innovation Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine (IRI), Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Ruixiang Li
- Innovation Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine (IRI), Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Jiange Zhang
- Innovation Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine (IRI), Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
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24
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Intranuovo F, Brunetti L, DelRe P, Mangiatordi GF, Stefanachi A, Laghezza A, Niso M, Leonetti F, Loiodice F, Ligresti A, Kostrzewa M, Brea J, Loza MI, Sotelo E, Saviano M, Colabufo NA, Riganti C, Abate C, Contino M. Development of N-(1-Adamantyl)benzamides as Novel Anti-Inflammatory Multitarget Agents Acting as Dual Modulators of the Cannabinoid CB2 Receptor and Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase. J Med Chem 2023; 66:235-250. [PMID: 36542836 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoid type 2 receptor (CB2R), belonging to the endocannabinoid system, is overexpressed in pathologies characterized by inflammation, and its activation counteracts inflammatory states. Fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) is an enzyme responsible for the degradation of the main endocannabinoid anandamide; thus, the simultaneous CB2R activation and FAAH inhibition may be a synergistic anti-inflammatory strategy. Encouraged by principal component analysis (PCA) data identifying a wide chemical space shared by CB2R and FAAH ligands, we designed a small library of adamantyl-benzamides, as potential dual agents, CB2R agonists, and FAAH inhibitors. The new compounds were tested for their CB2R affinity/selectivity and CB2R and FAAH activity. Derivatives 13, 26, and 27, displaying the best pharmacodynamic profile as CB2R full agonists and FAAH inhibitors, decreased pro-inflammatory and increased anti-inflammatory cytokines production. Molecular docking simulations complemented the experimental findings by providing a molecular rationale behind the observed activities. These multitarget ligands constitute promising anti-inflammatory agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Intranuovo
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze Del Farmaco, Università Degli Studi di Bari ALDO MORO, Via Orabona 4, Bari 70125, Italy
| | - Leonardo Brunetti
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze Del Farmaco, Università Degli Studi di Bari ALDO MORO, Via Orabona 4, Bari 70125, Italy
| | - Pietro DelRe
- Institute of Crystallography, National Research Council of Italy, Via Amendola, 122/o, Bari 70126, Italy
| | | | - Angela Stefanachi
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze Del Farmaco, Università Degli Studi di Bari ALDO MORO, Via Orabona 4, Bari 70125, Italy
| | - Antonio Laghezza
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze Del Farmaco, Università Degli Studi di Bari ALDO MORO, Via Orabona 4, Bari 70125, Italy
| | - Mauro Niso
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze Del Farmaco, Università Degli Studi di Bari ALDO MORO, Via Orabona 4, Bari 70125, Italy
| | - Francesco Leonetti
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze Del Farmaco, Università Degli Studi di Bari ALDO MORO, Via Orabona 4, Bari 70125, Italy
| | - Fulvio Loiodice
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze Del Farmaco, Università Degli Studi di Bari ALDO MORO, Via Orabona 4, Bari 70125, Italy
| | - Alessia Ligresti
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council of Italy, Via Campi Flegrei 34, Pozzuoli 80078, Italy
| | - Magdalena Kostrzewa
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council of Italy, Via Campi Flegrei 34, Pozzuoli 80078, Italy
| | - Jose Brea
- Innopharma Screening Platform, BioFarma Research Group, Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CIMUS), University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain.,Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology. School of Pharmacy, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain
| | - Maria Isabel Loza
- Innopharma Screening Platform, BioFarma Research Group, Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CIMUS), University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain.,Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology. School of Pharmacy, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain
| | - Eddy Sotelo
- ComBioMed Research Group, Centro de Química Biológica y Materiales Moleculares (CIQUS), University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain
| | - Michele Saviano
- Institute of Crystallography, National Research Council of Italy, Via Vivaldi, 43, Caserta 81100, Italy
| | - Nicola Antonio Colabufo
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze Del Farmaco, Università Degli Studi di Bari ALDO MORO, Via Orabona 4, Bari 70125, Italy
| | - Chiara Riganti
- Dipartimento di Oncologia, Università Degli Studi di Torino, Torino 10126, Italy
| | - Carmen Abate
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze Del Farmaco, Università Degli Studi di Bari ALDO MORO, Via Orabona 4, Bari 70125, Italy.,Institute of Crystallography, National Research Council of Italy, Via Amendola, 122/o, Bari 70126, Italy
| | - Marialessandra Contino
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze Del Farmaco, Università Degli Studi di Bari ALDO MORO, Via Orabona 4, Bari 70125, Italy
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25
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Bouma J, Soethoudt M, van Gils N, Xia L, van der Stelt M, Heitman LH. Cellular Assay to Study β-Arrestin Recruitment by the Cannabinoid Receptors 1 and 2. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2576:189-199. [PMID: 36152187 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2728-0_15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1R) and cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2R) are G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) that activate a variety of pathways upon activation by (partial) agonists including the G protein pathway and the recruitment of β-arrestins. Differences in the activation level of these pathways lead to biased signaling. Here, we describe a detailed protocol to characterize the potency and efficacy of ligands to induce or inhibit β-arrestin recruitment to the human CB1R and CB2R using the PathHunter® assay. This is a cellular assay that uses a β-galactosidase complementation system which has a chemiluminescent read-out and can be performed in 384-well plates. We have successfully used this assay to characterize a set of reference ligands (both agonists, antagonists, and an inverse agonist) on human CB1R and CB2R, of which some examples will be presented here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jara Bouma
- Division of Drug Discovery and Safety, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Marjolein Soethoudt
- Division of Drug Discovery and Safety, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Noortje van Gils
- Division of Drug Discovery and Safety, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Lizi Xia
- Division of Drug Discovery and Safety, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Mario van der Stelt
- Department of Molecular Physiology, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Laura H Heitman
- Division of Drug Discovery and Safety, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands.
- Oncode Institute, Leiden, the Netherlands.
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26
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Green H, Finlay DB, Ross RA, Greig IR, Duffull SB, Glass M. In Vitro Characterization of 6-Methyl-3-(2-nitro-1-(thiophen-2-yl)ethyl)-2-phenyl-1 H-indole (ZCZ011) at the Type 1 Cannabinoid Receptor: Allosteric Agonist or Allosteric Modulator? ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2022; 5:1279-1291. [PMID: 36524007 PMCID: PMC9745890 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.2c00160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Orthosteric activation of CB1 is known to cause a plethora of adverse side effects in vivo. Allosteric modulation is an exciting therapeutic approach and is hoped to offer improved therapeutic potential and a reduced on-target side effect profile compared to orthosteric agonists. This study aimed to systematically characterize the in vitro activity of the positive allosteric modulator ZCZ011, explicitly considering its effects on receptor regulation. HEK293 cells expressing hCB1 receptors were used to characterize ZCZ011 alone and in combination with orthosteric agonists. Real-time BRET approaches were employed for G protein dissociation, cAMP signaling, and β-arrestin translocation. Characterization also included ERK1/2 phosphorylation (PerkinElmer AlphaLISA) and receptor internalization. ZCZ011 is an allosteric agonist of CB1 in all pathways tested, with a similar signaling profile to that of the partial orthosteric agonist Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol. ZCZ011 also showed limited positive allosteric modulation in increasing the potency and efficacy of THC-induced ERK1/2 phosphorylation, β-arrestin translocation, and receptor internalization. However, no positive allosteric modulation was observed for ZCZ011 in combination with either CP55940 or AMB-FUBINACA, in G protein dissociation, nor cAMP inhibition. Our study suggests that ZCZ011 is an allosteric agonist, with effects that are often difficult to differentiate from those of orthosteric agonists. Together with its pronounced agonist activity, the limited extent of ZCZ011 positive allosteric modulation suggests that further investigation into the differences between allosteric and orthosteric agonism is required, especially in receptor regulation end points.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley
M. Green
- Department
of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin9054, New
Zealand
| | - David B. Finlay
- Department
of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin9054, New
Zealand
| | - Ruth A. Ross
- Department
of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, TorontoM5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Iain R. Greig
- School
of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, AberdeenAB24 3FX, U.K.
| | - Stephen B. Duffull
- Otago
Pharmacometrics Group, School of Pharmacy, University of Otago, Dunedin9016, New Zealand
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department
of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin9054, New
Zealand
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27
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Pasquaré SJ, Chamorro-Aguirre E, Gaveglio VL. The endocannabinoid system in the visual process. JOURNAL OF PHOTOCHEMISTRY AND PHOTOBIOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpap.2022.100159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
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28
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Aziz AI, Nguyen LC, Oumeslakht L, Bensussan A, Ben Mkaddem S. Cannabinoids as Immune System Modulators: Cannabidiol Potential Therapeutic Approaches and Limitations. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2022; 8:254-269. [PMID: 36413346 DOI: 10.1089/can.2022.0133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Cannabidiol (CBD) is the second most abundant Phytocannabinoid in Cannabis extracts. CBD has a binding affinity for several cannabinoid and cannabinoid-associated receptors. Epidiolex (oral CBD solution) has been lately licensed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of pediatric epileptic seizures. Methods: In this review, we discussed the most promising applications of CBD for chronic inflammatory conditions, namely CBD's anti-inflammatory effects during inflammatory bowel disease, coronavirus disease (antiviral effect), brain pathologies (neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties), as well as CBD immunomodulatory and antitumoral activities in the tumor microenvironment. Special focus was shed on the main therapeutic mechanisms of action of CBD, particularly in the control of the immune system and the endocannabinoid system. Results: Findings suggest that CBD is a potent immunomodulatory drug as it has manifested immunosuppressive properties in the context of sterile inflammation (e.g., inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and neurodegenerative diseases), and immunoprotective effects during viral infections (e.g. COVID-19) Similarly, CBD has exhibited a selective response toward cancer types by engaging different targets and signaling pathways. These results are in favor of the primary function of the endocannabinoid system which is homeostatic maintenance. Conclusion: The presented evidence suggests that the endocannabinoid system is a prominent target for the treatment of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, rheumatoid diseases, viral infections, neurological and psychological pathologies, and cancer. Moreover, the antitumoral activities of CBD have been suggested to be potentially used in combination with chemo- or immunotherapy during cancer. However, clinical results are still lacking, which raises a challenge to apply translational cannabis research to the human immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdel-ilah Aziz
- Institute of Biological and Medical Sciences, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Ben Guerir, Morocco
| | - Long Chi Nguyen
- Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Loubna Oumeslakht
- Institute of Biological and Medical Sciences, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Ben Guerir, Morocco
| | - Armand Bensussan
- Institute of Biological and Medical Sciences, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Ben Guerir, Morocco
- Onco-Dermatology and Therapies, INSERM UMRS976, Hôpital Saint Louis, Paris, France
| | - Sanae Ben Mkaddem
- Institute of Biological and Medical Sciences, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Ben Guerir, Morocco
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29
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Mensah E, Tabrizchi R, Daneshtalab N. Pharmacognosy and Effects of Cannabinoids in the Vascular System. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2022; 5:1034-1049. [PMID: 36407955 PMCID: PMC9667477 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.2c00141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the pharmacodynamics of cannabinoids is an essential subject due to the recent increasing global acceptance of cannabis and its derivation for recreational and therapeutic purposes. Elucidating the interaction between cannabinoids and the vascular system is critical to exploring cannabinoids as a prospective therapeutic agent for treating vascular-associated clinical conditions. This review aims to examine the effect of cannabinoids on the vascular system and further discuss the fundamental pharmacological properties and mechanisms of action of cannabinoids in the vascular system. Data from literature revealed a substantial interaction between endocannabinoids, phytocannabinoids, and synthetic cannabinoids within the vasculature of both humans and animal models. However, the mechanisms and the ensuing functional response is blood vessels and species-dependent. The current understanding of classical cannabinoid receptor subtypes and the recently discovered atypical cannabinoid receptors and the development of new synthetic analogs have further enhanced the pharmacological characterization of the vascular cannabinoid receptors. Compelling evidence also suggest that cannabinoids represent a formidable therapeutic candidate for vascular-associated conditions. Nonetheless, explanations of the mechanisms underlining these processes are complex and paradoxical based on the heterogeneity of receptors and signaling pathways. Further insight from studies that uncover the mechanisms underlining the therapeutic effect of cannabinoids in the treatment of vascular-associated conditions is required to determine whether the known benefits of cannabinoids thus currently outweigh the known/unknown risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Mensah
- Faculty
of Medicine, Division of Biomedical Sciences, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador, St. John’s, NL A1C 5S7, Canada
| | - Reza Tabrizchi
- Faculty
of Medicine, Division of Biomedical Sciences, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador, St. John’s, NL A1C 5S7, Canada
| | - Noriko Daneshtalab
- School
of Pharmacy, Memorial University of Newfoundland
and Labrador, St. John’s, NL A1B 3V6, Canada
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30
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Whiting ZM, Yin J, de la Harpe SM, Vernall AJ, Grimsey NL. Developing the Cannabinoid Receptor 2 (CB2) pharmacopoeia: past, present, and future. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2022; 43:754-771. [PMID: 35906103 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2022.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoid Receptor 2 (CB2) is a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) with considerable, though as yet unrealised, therapeutic potential. Promising preclinical data supports the applicability of CB2 activation in autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, pain, neurodegeneration, and osteoporosis. A diverse pharmacopoeia of cannabinoid ligands is available, which has led to considerable advancements in the understanding of CB2 function and extensive preclinical evaluation. However, until recently, most CB2 ligands were highly lipophilic and as such not optimal for clinical application due to unfavourable physicochemical properties. A number of strategies have been applied to develop CB2 ligands to achieve closer to 'drug-like' properties and a few such compounds have now undergone clinical trial. We review the current state of CB2 ligand development and progress in optimising physicochemical properties, understanding advanced molecular pharmacology such as functional selectivity, and clinical evaluation of CB2-targeting compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zak M Whiting
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand; Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jiazhen Yin
- Department of Chemistry, Division of Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Sara M de la Harpe
- Department of Chemistry, Division of Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Andrea J Vernall
- Department of Chemistry, Division of Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand; Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Natasha L Grimsey
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand; Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand; Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland, New Zealand.
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Mechanistic Origin of Partial Agonism of Tetrahydrocannabinol for Cannabinoid Receptors. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:101764. [PMID: 35227761 PMCID: PMC8965160 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.101764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) is a therapeutically relevant drug target for controlling pain, obesity, and other central nervous system disorders. However, full agonists and antagonists of CB1 have been reported to cause serious side effects in patients. Therefore, partial agonists have emerged as a viable alternative as they can mitigate overstimulation and side effects. One of the key bottlenecks in the design of partial agonists, however, is the lack of understanding of the molecular mechanism of partial agonism itself. In this study, we examine two mechanistic hypotheses for the origin of partial agonism in cannabinoid receptors and predict the mechanistic basis of partial agonism exhibited by Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) against CB1. In particular, we inspect whether partial agonism emerges from the ability of THC to bind in both agonist and antagonist-binding poses or from its ability to only partially activate the receptor. We used extensive molecular dynamics simulations and Markov state modeling to capture the THC binding in both antagonist and agonist-binding poses in the CB1 receptor. Furthermore, we predict that binding of THC in the agonist-binding pose leads to rotation of toggle switch residues and causes partial outward movement of intracellular transmembrane helix 6 (TM6). Our simulations also suggest that the alkyl side chain of THC plays a crucial role in determining partial agonism by stabilizing the ligand in the agonist and antagonist-like poses within the pocket. Taken together, this study provides important insights into the mechanistic origin of the partial agonism of THC.
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Finlay DB, Nguyen T, Gamage TF, Chen S, Barrus DG, Patel PR, Thomas BF, Wiley JL, Zhang Y, Glass M. Exploring determinants of agonist efficacy at the CB1 cannabinoid receptor: Analogues of the synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist EG-018. Pharmacol Res Perspect 2022; 10:e00901. [PMID: 35041297 PMCID: PMC8929370 DOI: 10.1002/prp2.901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Neutral antagonists of GPCRs remain relatively rare—indeed, a large majority of GPCR antagonists are actually inverse agonists. The synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist (SCRA) EG‐018 was recently reported as a low efficacy cannabinoid receptor agonist. Here we report a comparative characterization of EG‐018 and 13 analogues along with extant putative neutral antagonists of CB1. In HEK cells stably expressing human CB1, assays for inhibition of cAMP were performed by real‐time BRET biosensor (CAMYEL), G protein cycling was quantified by [35S]GTPγS binding, and stimulation of pERK was characterized by AlphaLISA (PerkinElmer). Signaling outcomes for the EG‐018 analogues were highly variable, ranging from moderate efficacy agonism with high potency, to marginal agonism at lower potency. As predicted by differing pathway sensitivities to differences in ligand efficacy, most EG‐018‐based compounds were completely inactive in pERK alone. The lowest efficacy analogue in cAMP assays, 157, had utility in antagonism assay paradigms. Developing neutral antagonists of the CB1 receptor has been a long‐standing research goal, and such compounds would have utility both as research tools and in therapeutics. Although these results emphasize again the importance of system factors in determining signaling outcomes, some compounds characterized in this study appear among the lowest efficacy agonists described to date and therefore suggest that development of neutral antagonists is an achievable goal for CB1.
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Affiliation(s)
- David B Finlay
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Thuy Nguyen
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Thomas F Gamage
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Shuli Chen
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Daniel G Barrus
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Purvi R Patel
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Brian F Thomas
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jenny L Wiley
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Yanan Zhang
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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Patel M, Matti C, Grimsey NL, Legler DF, Javitch JA, Finlay DB, Glass M. Delineating the interactions between the cannabinoid CB 2 receptor and its regulatory effectors; β-arrestins and G protein-coupled receptor kinases. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 179:2223-2239. [PMID: 34811740 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The cannabinoid CB2 receptor (CB2 ) is a promising therapeutic target for modulating inflammation. However, little is known surrounding the mechanisms underpinning CB2 desensitisation and regulation, particularly the role of G protein-coupled receptor kinases (GRKs). Here, we evaluated the role of six GRK isoforms in β-arrestin recruitment to CB2 . Mutagenesis of several distal C-terminal aspartic acid residues was also performed in an attempt to delineate additional structural elements involved in the regulation of CB2 . EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH In CB2 -expressing HEK 293 cells, β-arrestin translocation was measured using real-time BRET assays. G protein dissociation BRET assays were performed to assess the activation and desensitisation of CB2 in the presence of β-arrestin 2. KEY RESULTS Overexpression of GRK isoforms 1-6 failed to considerably improve translocation of either β-arrestin 1 or β-arrestin 2 to CB2 . Consistent with this, inhibition of endogenous GRK2/3 did not substantially reduce β-arrestin 2 translocation. Mutagenesis of C-terminal aspartic acid residues resulted in attenuation of β-arrestin 2 translocation, which translated to a reduction in desensitisation of G protein activation. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Our findings suggest that CB2 does not adhere to the classical GPCR regulatory paradigm, entailing GRK- and β-arrestin-mediated desensitisation. Instead, C-terminal aspartic acid residues may act as phospho-mimics to induce β-arrestin activation. This study provides novel insights into the regulatory mechanisms of CB2 , which may aid in our understanding of drug tolerance and dependence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Patel
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Christoph Matti
- Biotechnology Institute Thurgau (BITg) at the University of Konstanz, Kreuzlingen, Switzerland
| | - Natasha L Grimsey
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Daniel F Legler
- Biotechnology Institute Thurgau (BITg) at the University of Konstanz, Kreuzlingen, Switzerland.,Faculty of Biology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany.,Theodor Kocher Institute, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Jonathan A Javitch
- Department of Psychiatry and Pharmacology, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York, United States.,Division of Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York, United States
| | - David B Finlay
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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On the Biomedical Properties of Endocannabinoid Degradation and Reuptake Inhibitors: Pre-clinical and Clinical Evidence. Neurotox Res 2021; 39:2072-2097. [PMID: 34741755 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-021-00424-z] [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: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is composed of endogenous cannabinoids; components involved in their synthesis, transport, and degradation; and an expansive variety of cannabinoid receptors. Hypofunction or deregulation of the ECS is related to pathological conditions. Consequently, endogenous enhancement of endocannabinoid levels and/or regulation of their metabolism represent promising therapeutic approaches. Several major strategies have been suggested for the modulation of the ECS: (1) blocking endocannabinoids degradation, (2) inhibition of endocannabinoid cellular uptake, and (3) pharmacological modulation of cannabinoid receptors as potential therapeutic targets. Here, we focused in this review on degradation/reuptake inhibitors over cannabinoid receptor modulators in order to provide an updated synopsis of contemporary evidence advancing mechanisms of endocannabinoids as pharmacological tools with therapeutic properties for the treatment of several disorders. For this purpose, we revisited the available literature and reported the latest advances regarding the biomedical properties of fatty acid amide hydrolase and monoacylglycerol lipase inhibitors in pre-clinical and clinical studies. We also highlighted anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol reuptake inhibitors with promising results in pre-clinical studies using in vitro and animal models as an outlook for future research in clinical trials.
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35
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Leo LM, Abood ME. CB1 Cannabinoid Receptor Signaling and Biased Signaling. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26175413. [PMID: 34500853 PMCID: PMC8433814 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26175413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The CB1 cannabinoid receptor is a G-protein coupled receptor highly expressed throughout the central nervous system that is a promising target for the treatment of various disorders, including anxiety, pain, and neurodegeneration. Despite the wide therapeutic potential of CB1, the development of drug candidates is hindered by adverse effects, rapid tolerance development, and abuse potential. Ligands that produce biased signaling—the preferential activation of a signaling transducer in detriment of another—have been proposed as a strategy to dissociate therapeutic and adverse effects for a variety of G-protein coupled receptors. However, biased signaling at the CB1 receptor is poorly understood due to a lack of strongly biased agonists. Here, we review studies that have investigated the biased signaling profile of classical cannabinoid agonists and allosteric ligands, searching for a potential therapeutic advantage of CB1 biased signaling in different pathological states. Agonist and antagonist bound structures of CB1 and proposed mechanisms of action of biased allosteric modulators are used to discuss a putative molecular mechanism for CB1 receptor activation and biased signaling. Current studies suggest that allosteric binding sites on CB1 can be explored to yield biased ligands that favor or hinder conformational changes important for biased signaling.
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36
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Singh K, Nassar N, Bachari A, Schanknecht E, Telukutla S, Zomer R, Piva TJ, Mantri N. The Pathophysiology and the Therapeutic Potential of Cannabinoids in Prostate Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:4107. [PMID: 34439262 PMCID: PMC8392233 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13164107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer is the second most frequently occurring cancer diagnosed among males. Recent preclinical evidence implicates cannabinoids as powerful regulators of cell growth and differentiation. In this review, we focused on studies that demonstrated anticancer effects of cannabinoids and their possible mechanisms of action in prostate cancer. Besides the palliative effects of cannabinoids, research from the past two decades has demonstrated their promising potential as antitumor agents in a wide variety of cancers. This analysis may provide pharmacological insights into the selection of specific cannabinoids for the development of antitumor drugs for the treatment of prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanika Singh
- The Pangenomics Lab, School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia; (K.S.); (A.B.); (E.S.); (S.T.)
| | - Nazim Nassar
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia; (N.N.); (T.J.P.)
| | - Ava Bachari
- The Pangenomics Lab, School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia; (K.S.); (A.B.); (E.S.); (S.T.)
| | - Ellen Schanknecht
- The Pangenomics Lab, School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia; (K.S.); (A.B.); (E.S.); (S.T.)
| | - Srinivasareddy Telukutla
- The Pangenomics Lab, School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia; (K.S.); (A.B.); (E.S.); (S.T.)
| | - Roby Zomer
- MGC Pharmaceuticals Limited, West Perth, WA 6005, Australia;
| | - Terrence J. Piva
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia; (N.N.); (T.J.P.)
| | - Nitin Mantri
- The Pangenomics Lab, School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia; (K.S.); (A.B.); (E.S.); (S.T.)
- The UWA Institute of Agriculture, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
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Balezina OP, Tarasova EO, Gaydukov AE. Noncanonical Activity of Endocannabinoids and Their Receptors in Central and Peripheral Synapses. BIOCHEMISTRY (MOSCOW) 2021; 86:818-832. [PMID: 34284706 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297921070038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
This review focuses on new aspects of endocannabinoid functions and mechanisms of activity in central and peripheral synapses, different from the general viewpoint that endocannabinoids are retrograde signaling molecules, which inhibit neurotransmitter release by activating specific presynaptic endocannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2. Biased agonism of the endogenous and synthetic cannabinoids as well as ability of the CB-receptors to couple not only with classical Gi-proteins, but also with Gs- and Gq-proteins and, moreover, with β-arrestins (thereby triggering additional signaling pathways in synapses) are described here in detail. Examples of noncanonical tonic activity of endocannabinoids and their receptors and their role in synaptic function are also presented. The role of endocannabinoids in short-term and long-term potentiation of neurotransmitter release in central synapses and their facilitating effect on quantal size and other parameters of acetylcholine release in mammalian neuromuscular junctions are highlighted in this review. In conclusion, it is stated that the endocannabinoid system has a wider range of various multidirectional modulating effects (both potentiating and inhibiting) on neurotransmitter release than initially recognized. Re-evaluation of the functions of endocannabinoid system with consideration of its noncanonical features will lead to better understanding of its role in the normal and pathological functioning of the nervous system and other systems of the body, which has an enormous practical value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga P Balezina
- Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119234, Russia
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Oyagawa CRM, Grimsey NL. Cannabinoid receptor CB 1 and CB 2 interacting proteins: Techniques, progress and perspectives. Methods Cell Biol 2021; 166:83-132. [PMID: 34752341 DOI: 10.1016/bs.mcb.2021.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2 (CB1 and CB2) are implicated in a range of physiological processes and have gained attention as promising therapeutic targets for a number of diseases. Protein-protein interactions play an integral role in modulating G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) expression, subcellular distribution and signaling, and the identification and characterization of these will not only improve our understanding of GPCR function and biology, but may provide a novel avenue for therapeutic intervention. A variety of techniques are currently being used to investigate GPCR protein-protein interactions, including Förster/fluorescence and bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (FRET and BRET), proximity ligation assay (PLA), and bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC). However, the reliable application of these methodologies is dependent on the use of appropriate controls and the consideration of the physiological context. Though not as extensively characterized as some other GPCRs, the investigation of CB1 and CB2 interacting proteins is a growing area of interest, and a range of interacting partners have been identified to date. This review summarizes the current state of the literature regarding the cannabinoid receptor interactome, provides commentary on the methodologies and techniques utilized, and discusses future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin R M Oyagawa
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand; Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand; Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Natasha L Grimsey
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand; Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand; Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland, New Zealand.
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39
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Morris G, Walder K, Kloiber S, Amminger P, Berk M, Bortolasci CC, Maes M, Puri BK, Carvalho AF. The endocannabinoidome in neuropsychiatry: Opportunities and potential risks. Pharmacol Res 2021; 170:105729. [PMID: 34119623 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) comprises two cognate endocannabinoid receptors referred to as CB1R and CB2R. ECS dysregulation is apparent in neurodegenerative/neuro-psychiatric disorders including but not limited to schizophrenia, major depressive disorder and potentially bipolar disorder. The aim of this paper is to review mechanisms whereby both receptors may interact with neuro-immune and neuro-oxidative pathways, which play a pathophysiological role in these disorders. CB1R is located in the presynaptic terminals of GABAergic, glutamatergic, cholinergic, noradrenergic and serotonergic neurons where it regulates the retrograde suppression of neurotransmission. CB1R plays a key role in long-term depression, and, to a lesser extent, long-term potentiation, thereby modulating synaptic transmission and mediating learning and memory. Optimal CB1R activity plays an essential neuroprotective role by providing a defense against the development of glutamate-mediated excitotoxicity, which is achieved, at least in part, by impeding AMPA-mediated increase in intracellular calcium overload and oxidative stress. Moreover, CB1R activity enables optimal neuron-glial communication and the function of the neurovascular unit. CB2R receptors are detected in peripheral immune cells and also in central nervous system regions including the striatum, basal ganglia, frontal cortex, hippocampus, amygdala as well as the ventral tegmental area. CB2R upregulation inhibits the presynaptic release of glutamate in several brain regions. CB2R activation also decreases neuroinflammation partly by mediating the transition from a predominantly neurotoxic "M1" microglial phenotype to a more neuroprotective "M2" phenotype. CB1R and CB2R are thus novel drug targets for the treatment of neuro-immune and neuro-oxidative disorders including schizophrenia and affective disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerwyn Morris
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - Ken Walder
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia; Deakin University, Centre for Molecular and Medical Research, School of Medicine, Geelong, Australia
| | - Stefan Kloiber
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Ursula Franklin Street, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Paul Amminger
- Orygen, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael Berk
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia; Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Centre for Youth Mental Health, Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health and the Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Chiara C Bortolasci
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - Michael Maes
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia; Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand; Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | | | - Andre F Carvalho
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia.
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Kasatkina LA, Rittchen S, Sturm EM. Neuroprotective and Immunomodulatory Action of the Endocannabinoid System under Neuroinflammation. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115431. [PMID: 34063947 PMCID: PMC8196612 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocannabinoids (eCBs) are lipid-based retrograde messengers with a relatively short half-life that are produced endogenously and, upon binding to the primary cannabinoid receptors CB1/2, mediate multiple mechanisms of intercellular communication within the body. Endocannabinoid signaling is implicated in brain development, memory formation, learning, mood, anxiety, depression, feeding behavior, analgesia, and drug addiction. It is now recognized that the endocannabinoid system mediates not only neuronal communications but also governs the crosstalk between neurons, glia, and immune cells, and thus represents an important player within the neuroimmune interface. Generation of primary endocannabinoids is accompanied by the production of their congeners, the N-acylethanolamines (NAEs), which together with N-acylneurotransmitters, lipoamino acids and primary fatty acid amides comprise expanded endocannabinoid/endovanilloid signaling systems. Most of these compounds do not bind CB1/2, but signal via several other pathways involving the transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-α and non-cannabinoid G-protein coupled receptors (GPRs) to mediate anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and neuroprotective activities. In vivo generation of the cannabinoid compounds is triggered by physiological and pathological stimuli and, specifically in the brain, mediates fine regulation of synaptic strength, neuroprotection, and resolution of neuroinflammation. Here, we review the role of the endocannabinoid system in intrinsic neuroprotective mechanisms and its therapeutic potential for the treatment of neuroinflammation and associated synaptopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludmila A. Kasatkina
- Otto Loewi Research Center, Division of Pharmacology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria; (L.A.K.); (S.R.)
- Department of Anatomy and Structural Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Sonja Rittchen
- Otto Loewi Research Center, Division of Pharmacology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria; (L.A.K.); (S.R.)
| | - Eva M. Sturm
- Otto Loewi Research Center, Division of Pharmacology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria; (L.A.K.); (S.R.)
- Correspondence:
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Zagzoog A, Brandt AL, Black T, Kim ED, Burkart R, Patel M, Jin Z, Nikolaeva M, Laprairie RB. Assessment of select synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist bias and selectivity between the type 1 and type 2 cannabinoid receptor. Sci Rep 2021; 11:10611. [PMID: 34012003 PMCID: PMC8134483 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-90167-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The first synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) were designed as tool compounds to study the endocannabinoid system's two predominant cannabinoid receptors, CB1R and CB2R. Unfortunately, novel SCRAs now represent the most rapidly proliferating novel psychoactive substances (NPS) of abuse globally. Unlike ∆9-tetrahydrocannabinol, the CB1R and CB2R partial agonist and the intoxicating constituent of Cannabis, many SCRAs characterized to date are full agonists of CB1R. Gaining additional insight into the pharmacological activity of these SCRAs is critical to assess and regulate NPSs as they enter the marketplace. The purpose of this study was to assess select SCRAs recently identified by Canadian police, border service agency, private companies and the illicit market as potential CB1R and CB2R agonists. To this end, fifteen SCRAs were screened for in vitro activity and in silico interactions at CB1R and CB2R. Several SCRAs were identified as being highly biased for cAMP inhibition or βarrestin2 recruitment and receptor subtype selectivity between CB1R and CB2R. The indazole ring and halogen-substituted butyl or pentyl moieties were identified as two structural features that may direct βarrestin2 bias. Two highly-biased SCRAs-JWH-018 2'-napthyl-N-(3-methylbutyl) isomer (biased toward cAMP inhibition) and 4-fluoro MDMB-BINACA (biased toward βarrestin2 recruitment) displayed unique and differential in vivo activity in mice. These data provide initial insight into the correlations between structure, signalling bias, and in vivo activity of the SCRAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayat Zagzoog
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 3B36, Health Sciences Building, 104 Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Asher L Brandt
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 3B36, Health Sciences Building, 104 Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Tallan Black
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 3B36, Health Sciences Building, 104 Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Eunhyun D Kim
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 3B36, Health Sciences Building, 104 Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Riley Burkart
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 3B36, Health Sciences Building, 104 Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Robert B Laprairie
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 3B36, Health Sciences Building, 104 Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada.
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.
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42
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Cankara FN, Çelik ZB, Günaydın C. Cannabinoid receptor-1 has an effect on CD200 under rotenone and alpha-synuclein induced stress. Neurosci Lett 2021; 755:135908. [PMID: 33892001 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2021.135908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Decades after identifying cannabinoids and their beneficial effects on Parkinson's disease (PD), many gaps are still missing. Although, CB2-dependent actions have been shown as underlying positive effects of cannabinoid treatment, in recent years, another receptor of cannabinoids, CB1, emerged as a valuable player in cannabinoid-induced neuroprotection. Remarkably, the effects of CB1 are mainly related to immune cells in the CNS, microglia, and astrocytes. However, oxidative stress, α-syn accumulation, and immune disbalance are essential aspects of both neurons and glial cells. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the effects of the CB1 on both α-syn and rotenone-treated SH-SY5Y and C8-D1A cells. ACEA and AM-251 were used as CB1 agonists and antagonists. Cell viability, IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α levels, and CD200 expressions were determined in culture mediums. Our results demonstrated that preformed fibril form (pFF) of α-syn did not cause any significant change in SH-SY5Y cells compared to C8-D1A cells. Rotenone significantly increased the expression of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α levels in both cells. pFF α-syn and rotenone treatment caused a decrease in CD200 expression. Surprisingly both ACEA and AM-251 alleviated rotenone-induced increase in cytokine levels in both cell lines. Although ACEA prevented pFF α-syn induced increase in cytokine levels and decrease in CD200 expression in C8-D1A cells, AM-251 failed to affect CD200 expression levels. Additionally, ACEA + AM-251 abolished the protective effects of both ACEA and AM-251 against rotenone and α-syn insults in both cell lines. The current study suggests that cannabinoid receptor agonism alleviates rotenone and α-syn-dependent inflammation in neurons and astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatma Nihan Cankara
- Süleyman Demirel University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, Isparta, Turkey.
| | - Zülfinaz Betül Çelik
- Ondokuz Mayıs University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biology, Samsun, Turkey.
| | - Caner Günaydın
- Ondokuz Mayıs University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, Samsun, Turkey.
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43
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Laguerre A, Keutler K, Hauke S, Schultz C. Regulation of Calcium Oscillations in β-Cells by Co-activated Cannabinoid Receptors. Cell Chem Biol 2021; 28:88-96.e3. [PMID: 33147441 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2020.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Pharmacological treatment of pancreatic β cells targeting cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2 (CB1 and CB2) has been shown to result in significant effects on insulin release, possibly by modulating intracellular calcium levels ([Ca2+]i). It is unclear how the interplay of CB1 and CB2 affects insulin secretion. Here, we demonstrate by the use of highly specific receptor antagonists and the recently developed photo-releasable endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol that both receptors have counteracting effects on cytosolic calcium oscillations. We further show that both receptors are juxtaposed in a way that increases [Ca2+]i oscillations in silent β cells but dampens them in active ones. This study highlights a functional role of CB1 and CB2 acting in concert as a compensator/attenuator switch for regulating β cell excitability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurélien Laguerre
- Department of Chemical Physiology & Biochemistry, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA.
| | - Kaya Keutler
- Department of Chemical Physiology & Biochemistry, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Sebastian Hauke
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Carsten Schultz
- Department of Chemical Physiology & Biochemistry, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA.
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44
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Joshi N, Onaivi ES. Psychiatric Disorders and Cannabinoid Receptors. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1264:131-153. [PMID: 33332008 PMCID: PMC10810008 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-57369-0_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
With the increasing global use of medical and adult recreational use of cannabis and cannabinoids, this chapter provides overview of evidence from animal and human studies on psychiatric disorders and cannabinoid receptors. We review and present evaluation of the relationship between changes in the ECS and psychiatric disorders. Evidence suggests the existence of a relationship between changes in components of the ECS, and some of the symptoms present in psychiatric disorders. Both CB1Rs and CB2Rs are components of the endocannabinoid system with different cellular and tissue localization patterns that are differentially expressed in the CNS and PNS and are emerging targets for the treatment of number psychiatric disorders. As cannabis preparations are widely used for recreation globally, it is predictable that cannabis use disorders (CUDs) will increase and there is currently no available treatment for CUDs. Although major advances have been reported from cannabinoid and ECS research, there are gaps in scientific knowledge on long-term consequences of cannabis use. Adolescent and cannabis use during pregnancy presents further challenges, and more research will uncover the signaling pathways that couple the gut microbiota with the host ECS. Development of cannabis and cannabinoid nanomedicine for nanotherapy will certainly overcome some of the shortcomings and challenges in medicinal and recreational use of cannabis and cannabinoids. Thus, nanotechnology will allow targeted delivery of cannabinoid formulations with the potential to elevate their use to scientifically validated nanotherapeutic applications as the field of cannabis nanoscience matures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neal Joshi
- Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, NJ, USA
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45
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Patel M, Finlay DB, Glass M. Biased agonism at the cannabinoid receptors - Evidence from synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists. Cell Signal 2020; 78:109865. [PMID: 33259937 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2020.109865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The type 1 and type 2 cannabinoid receptors are G protein-coupled receptors implicated in a variety of physiological processes and diseases. Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) were originally developed to explore the therapeutic benefits of cannabinoid receptor activation, although more recently, these compounds have been diverted to the recreational drug market and are increasingly associated with incidences of toxicity. A prominent concept in contemporary pharmacology is functional selectivity or biased agonism, which describes the ability of ligands to elicit differential activation of signalling pathways through stabilisation of distinct receptor conformations. Biased agonists may maximise drug effectiveness by reducing on-target adverse effects if they are mediated by signalling pathways distinct from those that drive the therapeutic effects. For the cannabinoid receptors, it remains unclear as to which signalling pathways mediate desirable and adverse effects. However, given their structural diversity and potential to induce a plethora of signalling effects, SCRAs provide the most promising prospect for detecting and studying bias at the cannabinoid receptors. This review summarises the emerging evidence of SCRA bias at the cannabinoid receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Patel
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - David B Finlay
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.
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Perin P, Mabou Tagne A, Enrico P, Marino F, Cosentino M, Pizzala R, Boselli C. Cannabinoids, Inner Ear, Hearing, and Tinnitus: A Neuroimmunological Perspective. Front Neurol 2020; 11:505995. [PMID: 33329293 PMCID: PMC7719758 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.505995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2019] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabis has been used for centuries for recreational and therapeutic purposes. Whereas, the recreative uses are based on the psychotropic effect of some of its compounds, its therapeutic effects range over a wide spectrum of actions, most of which target the brain or the immune system. Several studies have found cannabinoid receptors in the auditory system, both at peripheral and central levels, thus raising the interest in cannabinoid signaling in hearing, and especially in tinnitus, which is affected also by anxiety, memory, and attention circuits where cannabinoid effects are well described. Available studies on animal models of tinnitus suggest that cannabinoids are not likely to be helpful in tinnitus treatment and could even be harmful. However, the pharmacology of cannabinoids is very complex, and most studies focused on neural CB1R-based responses. Cannabinoid effects on the immune system (where CB2Rs predominate) are increasingly recognized as essential in understanding nervous system pathological responses, and data on immune cannabinoid targets have emerged in the auditory system as well. In addition, nonclassical cannabinoid targets (such as TRP channels) appear to play an important role in the auditory system as well. This review will focus on neuroimmunological mechanisms for cannabinoid effects and their possible use as protective and therapeutic agents in the ear and auditory system, especially in tinnitus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Perin
- Department of Brain and Behavioural Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Roberto Pizzala
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Cinzia Boselli
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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Structural Insights into β-arrestin/CB1 Receptor Interaction: NMR and CD Studies on Model Peptides. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21218111. [PMID: 33143110 PMCID: PMC7662265 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Activation of the cannabinoid CB1 receptor induces different cellular signaling cascades through coupling to different effector proteins (G-proteins and β-arrestins), triggering numerous therapeutic effects. Conformational changes and rearrangements at the intracellular domain of this GPCR receptor that accompany ligand binding dictate the signaling pathways. The GPCR-binding interface for G proteins has been extensively studied, whereas β-arrestin/GPCR complexes are still poorly understood. To gain knowledge in this direction, we designed peptides that mimic the motifs involved in the putative interacting region: β-arrestin1 finger loop and the transmembrane helix 7-helix 8 (TMH7-H8) elbow located at the intracellular side of the CB1 receptor. According to circular dichroism and NMR data, these peptides form a native-like, helical conformation and interact with each other in aqueous solution, in the presence of trifluoroethanol, and using zwitterionic detergent micelles as membrane mimics. These results increase our understanding of the binding mode of β-arrestin and CB1 receptor and validate minimalist approaches to structurally comprehend complex protein systems.
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deRoon-Cassini TA, Stollenwerk TM, Beatka M, Hillard CJ. Meet Your Stress Management Professionals: The Endocannabinoids. Trends Mol Med 2020; 26:953-968. [PMID: 32868170 PMCID: PMC7530069 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2020.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid signaling system (ECSS) is altered by exposure to stress and mediates and modulates the effects of stress on the brain. Considerable preclinical data support critical roles for the endocannabinoids and their target, the CB1 cannabinoid receptor, in the adaptation of the brain to repeated stress exposure. Chronic stress exposure increases vulnerability to mental illness, so the ECSS has attracted attention as a potential therapeutic target for the prevention and treatment of stress-related psychopathology. We discuss human genetic studies indicating that the ECSS contributes to risk for mental illness in those exposed to severe stress and trauma early in life, and we explore the potential difficulties in pharmacological manipulation of the ECSS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terri A deRoon-Cassini
- Neuroscience Research Center, USA; Department of Surgery, Division of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Todd M Stollenwerk
- Neuroscience Research Center, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Margaret Beatka
- Neuroscience Research Center, USA; Department of Pathology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Cecilia J Hillard
- Neuroscience Research Center, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA.
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49
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Fletcher-Jones A, Hildick KL, Evans AJ, Nakamura Y, Henley JM, Wilkinson KA. Protein Interactors and Trafficking Pathways That Regulate the Cannabinoid Type 1 Receptor (CB1R). Front Mol Neurosci 2020; 13:108. [PMID: 32595453 PMCID: PMC7304349 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2020.00108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) acts as a negative feedback mechanism to suppress synaptic transmission and plays a major role in a diverse range of brain functions including, for example, the regulation of mood, energy balance, and learning and memory. The function and dysfunction of the ECS are strongly implicated in multiple psychiatric, neurological, and neurodegenerative diseases. Cannabinoid type 1 receptor (CB1R) is the most abundant G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) expressed in the brain and, as for any synaptic receptor, CB1R needs to be in the right place at the right time to respond appropriately to changing synaptic circumstances. While CB1R is found intracellularly throughout neurons, its surface expression is highly polarized to the axonal membrane, consistent with its functional expression at presynaptic sites. Surprisingly, despite the importance of CB1R, the interacting proteins and molecular mechanisms that regulate the highly polarized distribution and function of CB1R remain relatively poorly understood. Here we set out what is currently known about the trafficking pathways and protein interactions that underpin the surface expression and axonal polarity of CB1R, and highlight key questions that still need to be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Fletcher-Jones
- Centre for Synaptic Plasticity, School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Keri L Hildick
- Centre for Synaptic Plasticity, School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Ashley J Evans
- Centre for Synaptic Plasticity, School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Yasuko Nakamura
- Centre for Synaptic Plasticity, School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Jeremy M Henley
- Centre for Synaptic Plasticity, School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin A Wilkinson
- Centre for Synaptic Plasticity, School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
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50
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Sachdev S, Banister SD, Santiago M, Bladen C, Kassiou M, Connor M. Differential activation of G protein-mediated signaling by synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists. Pharmacol Res Perspect 2020; 8:e00566. [PMID: 32101383 PMCID: PMC7043210 DOI: 10.1002/prp2.566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Revised: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) are new psychoactive substances associated with acute intoxication and even death. However, the molecular mechanisms through which SCRAs may exert their toxic effects remain unclear-including the potential differential activation of G protein subtypes by cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1), a major target of SCRA. We measured CB1-mediated activation of Gαs and Gαi/o proteins by SCRAs by examining stimulation (pertussis toxin, PTX treated) as well as inhibition (non-PTX treated) of forskolin (FSK)-induced cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) accumulation in human embryonic kidney (HEK) cells stably expressing CB1. Real-time measurements of stimulation and inhibition of cAMP levels were made using a BRET biosensor. We found that the maximum concentration of SCRAs tested (10 µmol L-1 ), increased cAMP levels 12%-45% above that produced by FSK alone, while the phytocannabinoid THC did not significantly alter cAMP levels in PTX-treated HEK-CB1 cells. All SCRAs had greater potency to inhibit FSK-induced cAMP levels than to stimulate cAMP levels. The rank order of potencies for SCRA stimulation of cAMP (Gαs ) was PB-22 > 5F-MDMB-PICA > JWH-018 ≈ AB-FUBINACA > XLR-11. By contrast, the potency of SCRAs for inhibition of cAMP (Gαi/o ) was 5F-MDMB-PICA > AB-FUBINACA > PB-22 > JWH-018 > XLR-11. The different rank order of potency and EMax of the SCRAs to stimulate Gαs -like signaling compared to Gαi/o signaling suggests differences in G protein preference between SCRAs. Understanding the apparent differences among these drugs may contribute to unravelling their complex effects in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivani Sachdev
- Department of Biomedical SciencesMacquarie UniversitySydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Samuel D. Banister
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind CentreThe University of SydneySydneyNSWAustralia
- School of ChemistryThe University of SydneySydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Marina Santiago
- Department of Biomedical SciencesMacquarie UniversitySydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Chris Bladen
- Department of Biomedical SciencesMacquarie UniversitySydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Michael Kassiou
- School of ChemistryThe University of SydneySydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Mark Connor
- Department of Biomedical SciencesMacquarie UniversitySydneyNSWAustralia
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