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Hen-Shoval D, Indig-Naimer T, Moshe L, Kogan NM, Zaidan H, Gaisler-Salomon I, Okun E, Mechoulam R, Shoval G, Zalsman G, Weller A. Unraveling the molecular basis of cannabidiolic acid methyl Ester's anti-depressive effects in a rat model of treatment-resistant depression. J Psychiatr Res 2024; 175:50-59. [PMID: 38704981 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2024.04.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) stands as a significant cause of disability globally. Cannabidiolic Acid-Methyl Ester (CBDA-ME) (EPM-301, HU-580), a derivative of Cannabidiol, demonstrates immediate antidepressant-like effects, yet it has undergone only minimal evaluation in psychopharmacology. Our goal was to investigate the behavioral and potential molecular mechanisms associated with the chronic oral administration of this compound in the Wistar Kyoto (WKY) genetic model of treatment-resistant depression. Male WKY rats were subjected to behavioral assessments before and after receiving chronic (14-day) oral doses of CBDA-ME (0.5 mg/kg), 15 mg/kg of imipramine or vehicle. At the end of the study, plasma corticosterone levels and mRNA expression of various genes in the medial Prefrontal Cortex and Hippocampus were measured. Behavioral outcomes from CBDA-ME treatment indicated an antidepressant-like effect similar to imipramine, as oral ingestion reduced immobility and increased swimming duration in the Forced Swim Test. Neither treatment influenced locomotion in the Open Field Test nor preference in the Saccharin Preference Test. The behavioral impact in WKY rats coincided with reduced corticosterone serum levels, upregulated mRNA expression of Cannabinoid receptor 1, Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase, and Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone Receptor 1, alongside downregulation of the Serotonin Transporter in the hippocampus. Additionally, there was an upregulation of CB1 mRNA expression and downregulation of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in the mPFC. These findings contribute to our limited understanding of the antidepressant effects of CBDA-ME and shed light on its potential psychopharmacological mechanisms. This discovery opens up possibilities for utilizing cannabinoids in the treatment of major depressive disorder and related conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Hen-Shoval
- Psychology Department, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel; Gonda Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel.
| | - T Indig-Naimer
- Gonda Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - L Moshe
- Psychology Department, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel; Gonda Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - N M Kogan
- Institute of Personalized and Translational Medicine, Molecular Biology, Ariel University, Ariel, 4070000, Israel
| | - H Zaidan
- School of Psychological Sciences and the Integrated Brain and Behavior Research Center, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - I Gaisler-Salomon
- School of Psychological Sciences and the Integrated Brain and Behavior Research Center, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - E Okun
- Gonda Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel; The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Israel; The Paul Feder laboratory for Alzheimer disease research, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel; Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, United States
| | - R Mechoulam
- Institute for Drug Research, Medical Faculty, Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - G Shoval
- Geha Mental Health Center, Petah Tiqva, Israel; Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel; Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, United States
| | - G Zalsman
- Geha Mental Health Center, Petah Tiqva, Israel; Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel; Division of Molecular Imaging and Neuropathology, Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - A Weller
- Psychology Department, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel; Gonda Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
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2
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Rodrigues RS, Moreira JB, Mateus JM, Barateiro A, Paulo SL, Vaz SH, Lourenço DM, Ribeiro FF, Soares R, Loureiro-Campos E, Bielefeld P, Sebastião AM, Fernandes A, Pinto L, Fitzsimons CP, Xapelli S. Cannabinoid type 2 receptor inhibition enhances the antidepressant and proneurogenic effects of physical exercise after chronic stress. Transl Psychiatry 2024; 14:170. [PMID: 38555299 PMCID: PMC10981758 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-024-02877-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic stress is a major risk factor for neuropsychiatric conditions such as depression. Adult hippocampal neurogenesis (AHN) has emerged as a promising target to counteract stress-related disorders given the ability of newborn neurons to facilitate endogenous plasticity. Recent data sheds light on the interaction between cannabinoids and neurotrophic factors underlying the regulation of AHN, with important effects on cognitive plasticity and emotional flexibility. Since physical exercise (PE) is known to enhance neurotrophic factor levels, we hypothesised that PE could engage with cannabinoids to influence AHN and that this would result in beneficial effects under stressful conditions. We therefore investigated the actions of modulating cannabinoid type 2 receptors (CB2R), which are devoid of psychotropic effects, in combination with PE in chronically stressed animals. We found that CB2R inhibition, but not CB2R activation, in combination with PE significantly ameliorated stress-evoked emotional changes and cognitive deficits. Importantly, this combined strategy critically shaped stress-induced changes in AHN dynamics, leading to a significant increase in the rates of cell proliferation and differentiation of newborn neurons, overall reduction in neuroinflammation, and increased hippocampal levels of BDNF. Together, these results show that CB2Rs are crucial regulators of the beneficial effects of PE in countering the effects of chronic stress. Our work emphasises the importance of understanding the mechanisms behind the actions of cannabinoids and PE and provides a framework for future therapeutic strategies to treat stress-related disorders that capitalise on lifestyle interventions complemented with endocannabinoid pharmacomodulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- R S Rodrigues
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Université de Bordeaux, INSERM, Neurocentre Magendie, Bordeaux, France
| | - J B Moreira
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - J M Mateus
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - A Barateiro
- Central Nervous System, blood and peripheral inflammation, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Medicines, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - S L Paulo
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - S H Vaz
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - D M Lourenço
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - F F Ribeiro
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - R Soares
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - E Loureiro-Campos
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - P Bielefeld
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A M Sebastião
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - A Fernandes
- Central Nervous System, blood and peripheral inflammation, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Medicines, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - L Pinto
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - C P Fitzsimons
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - S Xapelli
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.
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Haddad NM, De Jesus LP, Serpa M, Van De Bilt M, Talib L, Costa A, Gattaz W, Loch AA. Endocannabinoid system alterations in schizophrenia: association with cannabis use and antipsychotic medication. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2024:10.1007/s00406-024-01788-x. [PMID: 38502208 DOI: 10.1007/s00406-024-01788-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Determining peripheral modulation of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) may be important for differentiating individuals with schizophrenia. Such differentiation can also be extended to subgroups of individuals, those who use cannabis and antipsychotic medications, particularly those who are treatment resistant. Patients and controls were recruited from the outpatient clinic of the Psychosis Group of the University of São Paulo, Brazil. A final sample of 93 individuals was divided into 3 groups: patients with schizophrenia using clozapine (treatment-resistant) (n = 29), patients with schizophrenia using another antipsychotic (n = 31), and controls (n = 33). By measuring the proteins and metabolites involved in the ECS pathways in the peripheral blood, AEA (anandamide), 2-AG (2-arachidonoyl ethanolamine), and CB2 receptor (peripheral) were quantified. Individuals reporting lifetime cannabis use had lower 2-AG plasma levels (p = 0.011). Regarding the CB2 receptor, the values of patients with schizophrenia and controls were similar, but those of patients using antipsychotics other than clozapine differed (p = 0.022). In generalized linear models to control for confounders, the use of cannabis remained the only factor that significantly influenced 2-AG levels. The relationship for non-clozapine antipsychotics as the only factor related to CB2 changes was marginally significant. We found for the first time that cannabis use and non-clozapine antipsychotic medication are potentially involved in the modulation of the ECS, specifically influencing 2-AG endocannabinoid and CB2 receptor levels. More studies regarding the ECS are needed since it has been increasingly related to the physiopathology of schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Mansur Haddad
- Laboratório de Neurociências (LIM 27), Instituto de Psiquiatria, Faculdade de Medicina, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Rua Dr. Ovidio Pires de Campos 785, 4 Andar Ala Norte Sala 4N60, Sao Paulo, SP, CEP 05403-010, Brazil.
| | - Leonardo Peroni De Jesus
- Laboratório de Neurociências (LIM 27), Instituto de Psiquiatria, Faculdade de Medicina, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Rua Dr. Ovidio Pires de Campos 785, 4 Andar Ala Norte Sala 4N60, Sao Paulo, SP, CEP 05403-010, Brazil
| | - Mauricio Serpa
- Laboratório de Neurociências (LIM 27), Instituto de Psiquiatria, Faculdade de Medicina, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Rua Dr. Ovidio Pires de Campos 785, 4 Andar Ala Norte Sala 4N60, Sao Paulo, SP, CEP 05403-010, Brazil
- Instituto Nacional de Biomarcadores em Neuropsiquiatria (INBION), Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Martinus Van De Bilt
- Laboratório de Neurociências (LIM 27), Instituto de Psiquiatria, Faculdade de Medicina, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Rua Dr. Ovidio Pires de Campos 785, 4 Andar Ala Norte Sala 4N60, Sao Paulo, SP, CEP 05403-010, Brazil
- Instituto Nacional de Biomarcadores em Neuropsiquiatria (INBION), Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Leda Talib
- Laboratório de Neurociências (LIM 27), Instituto de Psiquiatria, Faculdade de Medicina, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Rua Dr. Ovidio Pires de Campos 785, 4 Andar Ala Norte Sala 4N60, Sao Paulo, SP, CEP 05403-010, Brazil
- Instituto Nacional de Biomarcadores em Neuropsiquiatria (INBION), Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Alana Costa
- Laboratório de Neurociências (LIM 27), Instituto de Psiquiatria, Faculdade de Medicina, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Rua Dr. Ovidio Pires de Campos 785, 4 Andar Ala Norte Sala 4N60, Sao Paulo, SP, CEP 05403-010, Brazil
| | - Wagner Gattaz
- Laboratório de Neurociências (LIM 27), Instituto de Psiquiatria, Faculdade de Medicina, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Rua Dr. Ovidio Pires de Campos 785, 4 Andar Ala Norte Sala 4N60, Sao Paulo, SP, CEP 05403-010, Brazil
- Instituto Nacional de Biomarcadores em Neuropsiquiatria (INBION), Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Andrade Loch
- Laboratório de Neurociências (LIM 27), Instituto de Psiquiatria, Faculdade de Medicina, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Rua Dr. Ovidio Pires de Campos 785, 4 Andar Ala Norte Sala 4N60, Sao Paulo, SP, CEP 05403-010, Brazil
- Instituto Nacional de Biomarcadores em Neuropsiquiatria (INBION), Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico, Brasília, Brazil
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Yang W, Gong X, Sun H, Wu C, Suo J, Ji J, Jiang X, Shen J, He Y, Aisa HA. Discovery of a CB 2 and 5-HT 1A receptor dual agonist for the treatment of depression and anxiety. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 265:116048. [PMID: 38150961 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.116048] [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: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Cannabinoid CB2R agonists have gained considerable attention as potential novel therapies for psychiatric disorders due to their non-psychoactive nature, in contrast to CB1R agonists. In this study, we employed molecular docking to design and synthesize 23 derivatives of cannabidiol (CBD) with the aim of discovering potent CB2R agonists rather than CB2R antagonists or inverse agonists. Structure-activity relationship (SAR) investigations highlighted the critical importance of the amide group at the C-3' site and the cycloalkyl group at the C-4' site for CB2R activation. Interestingly, three CBD derivatives, namely 2o, 6g, and 6h, exhibited substantial partial agonistic activity towards the CB2 receptor, in contrast to the inverse agonistic property of CBD. Among these, 2o acted as a CB2R and 5-HT1AR dual agonist, albeit with some undesired antagonist activity for CB1R. It demonstrated significant CB2R partial agonism while maintaining a level of 5-HT1AR agonistic and CB1R antagonistic activity similar to CBD. Pharmacokinetic experiments confirmed that 2o possesses favorable pharmacokinetic properties. Behavioral studies further revealed that 2o elicits significant antidepressant-like and anxiolytic-like effects while maintaining a good safety profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjiao Yang
- State Key Laboratory Basis of Xinjiang Indigenous Medicinal Plants Resource Utilization, and Key Laboratory of Plant Resources and Chemistry of Arid Zone, Xinjiang Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Urumqi, 830011, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xudong Gong
- Vigonvita Shanghai Co., Ltd, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Haiguo Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Chunhui Wu
- Vigonvita Shanghai Co., Ltd, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Jin Suo
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Jing Ji
- State Key Laboratory Basis of Xinjiang Indigenous Medicinal Plants Resource Utilization, and Key Laboratory of Plant Resources and Chemistry of Arid Zone, Xinjiang Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Urumqi, 830011, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xiangrui Jiang
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China; State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Jingshan Shen
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China; State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Yang He
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China; State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Haji Akber Aisa
- State Key Laboratory Basis of Xinjiang Indigenous Medicinal Plants Resource Utilization, and Key Laboratory of Plant Resources and Chemistry of Arid Zone, Xinjiang Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Urumqi, 830011, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
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5
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Yu X, Jia Y, Dong Y. Research progress on the cannabinoid type-2 receptor and Parkinson's disease. Front Aging Neurosci 2024; 15:1298166. [PMID: 38264546 PMCID: PMC10804458 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1298166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is featured by movement impairments, including tremors, bradykinesia, muscle stiffness, and imbalance. PD is also associated with many non-motor symptoms, such as cognitive impairments, dementia, and mental disorders. Previous studies identify the associations between PD progression and factors such as α-synuclein aggregation, mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation, and cell death. The cannabinoid type-2 receptor (CB2 receptor) is a transmembrane G-protein-coupled receptor and has been extensively studied as part of the endocannabinoid system. CB2 receptor is recently emerged as a promising target for anti-inflammatory treatment for neurodegenerative diseases. It is reported to modulate mitochondrial function, oxidative stress, iron transport, and neuroinflammation that contribute to neuronal cell death. Additionally, CB2 receptor possesses the potential to provide feedback on electrophysiological processes, offering new possibilities for PD treatment. This review summarized the mechanisms underlying PD pathogenesis. We also discussed the potential regulatory role played by CB2 receptor in PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqi Yu
- Neuropsychiatry Research Institute, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yi Jia
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yuan Dong
- Neuropsychiatry Research Institute, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
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6
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Wood CP, Avalos B, Alvarez C, DiPatrizio NV. A Sexually Dimorphic Role for Intestinal Cannabinoid Receptor Subtype-1 in the Behavioral Expression of Anxiety. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2023; 8:1045-1059. [PMID: 37862126 PMCID: PMC10771877 DOI: 10.1089/can.2023.0150] [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] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Increasing evidence suggests that the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the brain controls anxiety and may be a therapeutic target for the treatment of anxiety disorders. For example, both pharmacological and genetic disruption of cannabinoid receptor subtype-1 (CB1R) signaling in the central nervous system is associated with increased anxiety-like behaviors in rodents, while activating the system is anxiolytic. Sex is also a critical factor that controls the behavioral expression of anxiety; however, roles for the ECS in the gut in these processes and possible differences between sexes are largely unknown. Objective: In this study, we aimed to determine if CB1Rs in the intestinal epithelium exert control over anxiety-like behaviors in a sex-dependent manner. Methods: We subjected male and female mice with conditional deletion of CB1Rs in the intestinal epithelium (intCB1-/-) and controls (intCB1+/+) to the elevated plus maze (EPM), light/dark box, and open field test. Corticosterone (CORT) levels in plasma were measured at baseline and immediately after EPM exposure. Results: When compared with intCB1+/+ male mice, intCB1-/- male mice exhibited reduced levels of anxiety-like behaviors in the EPM and light/dark box. In contrast to male mice, no differences were found between female intCB1+/+ and intCB1-/- mice. Circulating CORT was higher in female versus male mice for both genotype groups at baseline and after EPM exposure; however, there was no effect of genotype on CORT levels. Conclusions: Collectively, these results indicate that genetic deletion of CB1Rs in the intestinal epithelium is associated with an anxiolytic phenotype in a sex-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney P. Wood
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, California, USA
| | - Bryant Avalos
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, California, USA
| | - Camila Alvarez
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, California, USA
| | - Nicholas V. DiPatrizio
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, California, USA
- University of California Riverside Center for Cannabinoid Research, Riverside, California, USA
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7
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Peng ZW, Zhou CH, Xue SS, Yu H, Shi QQ, Xue F, Chen YH, Tan QR, Wang HN. High-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation regulates neural oscillations of the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex in mice by modulating endocannabinoid signalling. J Affect Disord 2023; 331:217-228. [PMID: 36965621 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.03.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neural oscillations play a role in the antidepressant effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS). However, the effects of high-frequency rTMS on the neural oscillations of the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and hippocampus (HPC) and its molecular mechanism have not been fully clarified. METHODS The depressive-like behaviours, local field potentials (LFPs) of the ventral HPC (vHPC)-mPFC, and alternations of endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the HPC and mPFC were observed after rTMS treatment. Meanwhile, depressive-like behaviours and LFPs were also observed after cannabinoid type-1 receptor (CB1R) antagonist AM281 or monoacylglycerol lipase inhibitor JZL184 injection. Moreover, the antidepressant effect of rTMS was further assessed in glutamatergic-CB1R and gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA)-ergic -CB1R knockout mice. RESULTS Alternations of endocannabinoids and energy value and synchronisation of mPFC-vHPC, especially the decrease of theta oscillation induced by CUMS, were alleviated by rTMS. JZL184 has similar effects to rTMS and AM281 blocked the effects of rTMS. GABAergic-CB1R deletion inhibited CUMS-induced depressive-like behaviours whereas Glutaminergic-CB1R deletion dampened the antidepressant effects of rTMS. LIMITATIONS The immediate effect of rTMS on field-potential regulation was not observed. Moreover, the role of region-specific regulation of the ECS in the antidepressant effect of rTMS was unclear and the effects of cell-specific CB1R knockout on neuronal oscillations of the mPFC and vHPC should be further investigated. CONCLUSION Endocannabinoid system mediated the antidepressant effects and was involved in the regulation of LFP in the vHPC-mPFC of high-frequency rTMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng-Wu Peng
- Department of Psychiatry, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China; Department of Toxicology, Shaanxi Key Lab of Free Radical Biology and Medicine, The Ministry of Education Key Lab of Hazard Assessment and Control in Special Operational Environment, School of Public Health, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Cui-Hong Zhou
- Department of Psychiatry, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China; Department of Toxicology, Shaanxi Key Lab of Free Radical Biology and Medicine, The Ministry of Education Key Lab of Hazard Assessment and Control in Special Operational Environment, School of Public Health, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Shan-Shan Xue
- Department of Psychiatry, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Huan Yu
- Department of Psychiatry, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Qing-Qing Shi
- Department of Psychiatry, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Fen Xue
- Department of Psychiatry, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Yi-Huan Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Qing-Rong Tan
- Department of Psychiatry, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China.
| | - Hua-Ning Wang
- Department of Psychiatry, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China.
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8
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Ishiguro H. Editorial: Targeting the endocannabinoidome in neurodegenerative disorders. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 14:1116635. [PMID: 36688166 PMCID: PMC9846791 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.1116635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Ishiguro
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Chuo, Japan,Department of Clinical Genetics, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Chuo, Japan,*Correspondence: Hiroki Ishiguro ✉
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Ishiguro H, Kibret BG, Horiuchi Y, Onaivi ES. Potential Role of Cannabinoid Type 2 Receptors in Neuropsychiatric and Neurodegenerative Disorders. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:828895. [PMID: 35774086 PMCID: PMC9237241 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.828895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is composed of the two canonical receptor subtypes; type-1 cannabinoid (CB1R) and type 2 receptor (CB2R), endocannabinoids (eCBs) and enzymes responsible for the synthesis and degradation of eCBs. Recently, with the identification of additional lipid mediators, enzymes and receptors, the expanded ECS called the endocannabinoidome (eCBome) has been identified and recognized. Activation of CB1R is associated with a plethora of physiological effects and some central nervous system (CNS) side effects, whereas, CB2R activation is devoid of such effects and hence CB2Rs might be utilized as potential new targets for the treatment of different disorders including neuropsychiatric disorders. Previous studies suggested that CB2Rs were absent in the brain and they were considered as peripheral receptors, however, recent studies confirmed the presence of CB2Rs in different brain regions. Several studies have now focused on the characterization of its physiological and pathological roles. Studies done on the role of CB2Rs as a therapeutic target for treating different disorders revealed important putative role of CB2R in neuropsychiatric disorders that requires further clinical validation. Here we provide current insights and knowledge on the potential role of targeting CB2Rs in neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. Its non-psychoactive effect makes the CB2R a potential target for treating CNS disorders; however, a better understanding of the fundamental pharmacology of CB2R activation is essential for the design of novel therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Ishiguro
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Graduate School of Medical Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu, Japan
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medical Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu, Japan
| | - Berhanu Geresu Kibret
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Health, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ, United States
| | - Yasue Horiuchi
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Emmanuel S. Onaivi
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Health, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ, United States
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10
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The antidepressant and anxiolytic effects of cannabinoids in chronic unpredictable stress: a preclinical systematic review and meta-analysis. Transl Psychiatry 2022; 12:217. [PMID: 35641487 PMCID: PMC9156762 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-022-01967-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroscience research presents contradictory evidence in support of both the protective and destructive effects of cannabinoids in depression. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis summarizes the existing preclinical literature on the effects of cannabinoid administration in the chronic unpredictable stress model of depression in order to evaluate the effects of cannabinoids and identify gaps in the literature. After protocol registration (PROSPERO #CRD42020219986), we systematically searched Scopus, Embase, Psychology & Behavioral Sciences Collection, APA PsychINFO, PubMed, CINAHL Complete, and ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global from the earliest record of the databases, February 1964, to November 2020 for articles that met inclusion criteria (e.g., rodent subjects and administration of a cannabinoid. A total of 26 articles were included representing a sample size estimate of 1132 rodents with the majority of articles administering daily intraperitoneal injections during chronic unpredictable stress. These articles were evaluated using a modified SYRCLE's risk-of-bias tool. For each continuous behavioral measure, the standardized mean difference was calculated between cannabinoid and vehicle groups in rodents subjected to chronic unpredictable stress. The effects of cannabinoids on depressive-like behavior was evaluated using a multilevel mixed-effects model with effect size weights nested within control groups. Cannabinoid administration moderately improved the pooled negative effects of chronic unpredictable stress on anhedonia, learned helplessness, novelty suppressed feeding, time in the anxiogenic context, and entries into the anxiogenic context. Although the interpretations are limited, these findings suggest that with further investigation, cannabinoids may be a viable long-term treatment for stress-related psychopathologies such as depression.
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11
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Modulation of Endocannabinoid System Components in Depression: Pre-Clinical and Clinical Evidence. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23105526. [PMID: 35628337 PMCID: PMC9146799 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Depression is characterized by continuous low mood and loss of interest or pleasure in enjoyable activities. First-line medications for mood disorders mostly target the monoaminergic system; however, many patients do not find relief with these medications, and those who do suffer from negative side effects and a discouragingly low rate of remission. Studies suggest that the endocannabinoid system (ECS) may be involved in the etiology of depression and that targeting the ECS has the potential to alleviate depression. ECS components (such as receptors, endocannabinoid ligands, and degrading enzymes) are key neuromodulators in motivation and cognition as well as in the regulation of stress and emotions. Studies in depressed patients and in animal models for depression have reported deficits in ECS components, which is motivating researchers to identify potential diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers within the ECS. By understanding the effects of cannabinoids on ECS components in depression, we enhance our understanding of which brain targets they hit, what biological processes they alter, and eventually how to use this information to design better therapeutic options. In this article, we discuss the literature on the effects of cannabinoids on ECS components of specific depression-like behaviors and phenotypes in rodents and then describe the findings in depressed patients. A better understanding of the effects of cannabinoids on ECS components in depression may direct future research efforts to enhance diagnosis and treatment.
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12
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Inflammation and Nitro-oxidative Stress as Drivers of Endocannabinoid System Aberrations in Mood Disorders and Schizophrenia. Mol Neurobiol 2022; 59:3485-3503. [PMID: 35347586 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-02800-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is composed of the endocannabinoid ligands anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylgycerol (2-AG), their target cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) and the enzymes involved in their synthesis and metabolism (N-acyltransferase and fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) in the case of AEA and diacylglycerol lipase (DAGL) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) in the case of 2-AG). The origins of ECS dysfunction in major neuropsychiatric disorders remain to be determined, and this paper explores the possibility that they may be associated with chronically increased nitro-oxidative stress and activated immune-inflammatory pathways, and it examines the mechanisms which might be involved. Inflammation and nitro-oxidative stress are associated with both increased CB1 expression, via increased activity of the NADPH oxidases NOX4 and NOX1, and increased CNR1 expression and DNA methylation; and CB2 upregulation via increased pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, binding of the transcription factor Nrf2 to an antioxidant response element in the CNR2 promoter region and the action of miR-139. CB1 and CB2 have antagonistic effects on redox signalling, which may result from a miRNA-enabled negative feedback loop. The effects of inflammation and oxidative stress are detailed in respect of AEA and 2-AG levels, via effects on calcium homeostasis and phospholipase A2 activity; on FAAH activity, via nitrosylation/nitration of functional cysteine and/or tyrosine residues; and on 2-AG activity via effects on MGLL expression and MAGL. Finally, based on these detailed molecular neurobiological mechanisms, it is suggested that cannabidiol and dimethyl fumarate may have therapeutic potential for major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
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13
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Kibret BG, Ishiguro H, Horiuchi Y, Onaivi ES. New Insights and Potential Therapeutic Targeting of CB2 Cannabinoid Receptors in CNS Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:975. [PMID: 35055161 PMCID: PMC8778243 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23020975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is ubiquitous in most human tissues, and involved in the regulation of mental health. Consequently, its dysregulation is associated with neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. Together, the ECS and the expanded endocannabinoidome (eCBome) are composed of genes coding for CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors (CB1R, CB2R), endocannabinoids (eCBs), and the metabolic enzyme machinery for their synthesis and catabolism. The activation of CB1R is associated with adverse effects on the central nervous system (CNS), which has limited the therapeutic use of drugs that bind this receptor. The discovery of the functional neuronal CB2R raised new possibilities for the potential and safe targeting of the ECS for the treatment of CNS disorders. Previous studies were not able to detect CB2R mRNA transcripts in brain tissue and suggested that CB2Rs were absent in the brain and were considered peripheral receptors. Studies done on the role of CB2Rs as a potential therapeutic target for treating different disorders revealed the important putative role of CB2Rs in certain CNS disorders, which requires further clinical validation. This review addresses recent advances on the role of CB2Rs in neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders, including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, Parkinson's disease (PD), Alzheimer's disease (AD), Huntington's disease (HD) and addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berhanu Geresu Kibret
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Health, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ 07470, USA
| | - Hiroki Ishiguro
- Department of Neuropsychiatry and Clinical Ethics, Graduate School of Medical Science, University of Yamanashi, Chuo, Yamanashi 409-3898, Japan;
| | - Yasue Horiuchi
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo 156-8506, Japan;
| | - Emmanuel S. Onaivi
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Health, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ 07470, USA
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14
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Martínez-Aguirre C, Cinar R, Rocha L. Targeting Endocannabinoid System in Epilepsy: For Good or for Bad. Neuroscience 2021; 482:172-185. [PMID: 34923038 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2021.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder with a high prevalence worldwide. Several studies carried out during the last decades indicate that the administration of cannabinoids as well as the activation of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) represent a therapeutic strategy to control epilepsy. However, there are controversial studies indicating that activation of ECS results in cell damage, inflammation and neurotoxicity, conditions that facilitate the seizure activity. The present review is focused to present findings supporting this issue. According to the current discrepancies, it is relevant to elucidate the different effects induced by the activation of ECS and determine the conditions under which it facilitates the seizure activity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Resat Cinar
- Section on Fibrotic Disorders, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Rockville, USA
| | - Luisa Rocha
- Department of Pharmacobiology, Center for Research and Advanced Studies, Mexico City, Mexico.
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15
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Topuz RD, Cetinkaya MZ, Erumit D, Duvan Aydemir K, Gunduz O, Karadag CH, Ulugol A. The role of endocannabinoid system and TRPV1 receptors in the antidepressant and anxiolytic effects of dipyrone in chronic unpredictable mild stress in mice. Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 908:174315. [PMID: 34270988 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.174315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Although dipyrone is a widely used analgesic and antipyretic, its mechanism of action is not fully clarified. Recent studies have drawn attention to its central effects and its relationship with the endocannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system plays important roles in processes such as anxiety, depression, fear, and learning-memory. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether endocannabinoid levels change in the amygdala in chronic unpredictable mild stress model in mice and whether cannabinoid and TRPV1 receptors mediate antidepressant and anxiolytic effects of dipyrone. Mice were submitted to chronic unpredictable mild stress protocol of 6-weeks, then behavioral test were performed. In the first part of the study, dipyrone was injected at doses of 150, 300, and 600 mg/kg (i.p.) during behavioral tests. In the second part, the CB1 antagonist AM 251 (1 mg/kg, i.p.), the CB2 antagonist AM630 (1 mg/kg, i.p.), and the TRPV1 antagonist capsazepine (3 mg/kg, i.p.) were administered alone or in combination with 300 mg/kg dipyrone to observe if these receptors mediate dipyrone effects. Endocannabinoid and N-acylethanolamines levels were measured by LC-MS/MS in amygdala. Our results showed that there were no changes in AEA, 2-AG, PEA, OAE levels in the amygdala in mice exposed to chronic unpredictable mild stress model; dipyrone exerted antidepressant and anxiolytic effects at doses of 300 and 600 mg/kg; its anxiolytic effect appears to be mediated via CB1 receptors, whereas TRPV1 receptors seems to mediate its antidepressant action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruhan Deniz Topuz
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Trakya University, 22030, Edirne, Turkey.
| | - Mehmet Zahid Cetinkaya
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Trakya University, 22030, Edirne, Turkey
| | - Dilsat Erumit
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Trakya University, 22030, Edirne, Turkey
| | - Kubra Duvan Aydemir
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Trakya University, 22030, Edirne, Turkey
| | - Ozgur Gunduz
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Trakya University, 22030, Edirne, Turkey
| | - Cetin Hakan Karadag
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Trakya University, 22030, Edirne, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Ulugol
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Trakya University, 22030, Edirne, Turkey
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16
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Estrada JA, Contreras I. Endocannabinoid Receptors in the CNS: Potential Drug Targets for the Prevention and Treatment of Neurologic and Psychiatric Disorders. Curr Neuropharmacol 2021; 18:769-787. [PMID: 32065105 PMCID: PMC7536826 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x18666200217140255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 12/14/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system participates in the regulation of CNS homeostasis and functions, including neurotransmission, cell signaling, inflammation and oxidative stress, as well as neuronal and glial cell proliferation, differentiation, migration and survival. Endocannabinoids are produced by multiple cell types within the CNS and their main receptors, CB1 and CB2, are expressed in both neurons and glia. Signaling through these receptors is implicated in the modulation of neuronal and glial alterations in neuroinflammatory, neurodegenerative and psychiatric conditions, including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and Huntington’s disease, multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, stroke, epilepsy, anxiety and depression. The therapeutic potential of endocannabinoid receptors in neurological disease has been hindered by unwelcome side effects of current drugs used to target them; however, due to their extensive expression within the CNS and their involvement in physiological and pathological process in nervous tissue, they are attractive targets for drug development. The present review highlights the potential applications of the endocannabinoid system for the prevention and treatment of neurologic and psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Antonio Estrada
- Neurochemistry Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Toluca, Mexico
| | - Irazú Contreras
- Neurochemistry Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Toluca, Mexico
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17
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Cannabinoid-based therapy as a future for joint degeneration. Focus on the role of CB 2 receptor in the arthritis progression and pain: an updated review. Pharmacol Rep 2021; 73:681-699. [PMID: 34050525 PMCID: PMC8180479 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-021-00270-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Over the last several decades, the percentage of patients suffering from different forms of arthritis has increased due to the ageing population and the increasing risk of civilization diseases, e.g. obesity, which contributes to arthritis development. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are estimated to affect 50-60% of people over 65 years old and cause serious health and economic problems. Currently, therapeutic strategies are limited and focus mainly on pain attenuation and maintaining joint functionality. First-line therapies are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; in more advanced stages, stronger analgesics, such as opioids, are required, and in the most severe cases, joint arthroplasty is the only option to ensure joint mobility. Cannabinoids, both endocannabinoids and synthetic cannabinoid receptor (CB) agonists, are novel therapeutic options for the treatment of arthritis-associated pain. CB1 receptors are mainly located in the nervous system; thus, CB1 agonists induce many side effects, which limit their therapeutic efficacy. On the other hand, CB2 receptors are mainly located in the periphery on immune cells, and CB2 modulators exert analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects in vitro and in vivo. In the current review, novel research on the cannabinoid-mediated analgesic effect on arthritis is presented, with particular emphasis on the role of the CB2 receptor in arthritis-related pain and the suppression of inflammation.
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18
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Pehlivan S, Aytac HM, Cetinay Aydin P, Nursal AF, Pehlivan M. Global and glucocorticoid receptor gene-specific (NR3C1) DNA methylation analysis in patients with cannabinoid or synthetic cannabinoid use disorder. Psychiatry Res 2021; 298:113774. [PMID: 33556690 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2021.113774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
This study investigates the relationship between cannabinoid use disorder (CUD) or synthetic cannabinoid use disorder (SCUD) and the global methylation, methylation of NR3C1 gene promotor, and NR3C1 BclI polymorphism, considering clinical parameters. Based on the DSM-5 criteria, 172 SCUD patients' and 44 CUD patients' diagnoses were confirmed with a positive urine test; 88 healthy volunteers were also included in the study. Global DNA methylation was measured using a 5-methylcytosine (5-mC) DNA ELISA Kit. Methylation-specific PCR was used to identify the methylation of the NR3C1 gene. The analysis of the BclI polymorphism of the NR3C1 gene was evaluated by using the PCR-RFLP. Our results demonstrated that the mean of 5-mC percentages of SCUD patients differed significantly from those of the control group. When comparing NR3C1 gene methylation and clinical parameters due to NR3C1 genotype distribution in patients, the genotype distribution was significantly different between the groups, due to the former polysubstance abuse. Additionally, there was a significantly positive correlation between the 5-mC percentages of SCUD patients and the reported durations of their disorders. In summary, whereas global DNA methylation may be associated with SCUD, the methylation of the NR3C1 gene and NR3C1 BclI polymorphism were not related to CUD or SCUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sacide Pehlivan
- Department of Medical Biology, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University, Turkey.
| | | | - Pinar Cetinay Aydin
- University of Health Sciences Department of Psychiatry, Bakirkoy Research and Training Hospital for Psychiatry, Neurology and Neurosurgery, 12. Psychiatry Clinic, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Ayse Feyda Nursal
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Hitit University, Corum, Turkey.
| | - Mustafa Pehlivan
- Department of Hematology, Gaziantep University, Faculty of Medicine, Gaziantep, Turkey.
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Giacobbe J, Marrocu A, Di Benedetto MG, Pariante CM, Borsini A. A systematic, integrative review of the effects of the endocannabinoid system on inflammation and neurogenesis in animal models of affective disorders. Brain Behav Immun 2021; 93:353-367. [PMID: 33383145 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2020.12.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid (eCB) system is considered relevant in the pathophysiology of affective disorders, and a potential therapeutic target, as its hypoactivity is considered an important risk factor of depression. However, the biological mechanisms whereby the eCB system affects mood remain elusive. Through a systematic review, thirty-seven articles were obtained from the PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Embase, PsychInfo, and CINAHL databases, investigating the role of the eCB system on the immune system and neurogenesis, as well as resulting behavioural effects in rodent models of affective disorders. Overall, activation of the eCB system appears to decrease depressive-like behaviour and to be anti-inflammatory, while promoting neuro- and synaptogenesis in various models. Activation of cannabinoid receptors (CBRs) is shown to be crucial in improving depressive-like and anxiety-like behaviour, although cannabidiol administration suggests a role of additional mechanisms. CB1R signalling, as well as fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibition, are associated with decreased pro-inflammatory cytokines. Moreover, activation of CBRs is required for neurogenesis, which is also upregulated by FAAH inhibitors. This review is the first to assess the association between the eCB system, immune system and neurogenesis, alongside behavioural outcomes, across rodent models of affective disorders. We confirm the therapeutic potential of eCB system activation in depression and anxiety, highlighting immunoregulation as an important mechanism whereby dysfunctional behaviour and neurogenesis can be improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliette Giacobbe
- Stress, Psychiatry and Immunology Laboratory, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Alessia Marrocu
- Stress, Psychiatry and Immunology Laboratory, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Maria Grazia Di Benedetto
- Stress, Psychiatry and Immunology Laboratory, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom; Biological Psychiatry Unit, IRCCS Fatebenefratelli S. Giovanni di Dio, Brescia, Italy
| | - Carmine M Pariante
- Stress, Psychiatry and Immunology Laboratory, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Alessandra Borsini
- Stress, Psychiatry and Immunology Laboratory, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom.
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20
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Ramírez-López A, Pastor A, de la Torre R, La Porta C, Ozaita A, Cabañero D, Maldonado R. Role of the endocannabinoid system in a mouse model of Fragile X undergoing neuropathic pain. Eur J Pain 2021; 25:1316-1328. [PMID: 33619843 DOI: 10.1002/ejp.1753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuropathic pain is a complex condition characterized by sensory, cognitive and affective symptoms that magnify the perception of pain. The underlying pathogenic mechanisms are largely unknown and there is an urgent need for the development of novel medications. The endocannabinoid system modulates pain perception and drugs targeting the cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2) devoid of psychoactive side effects could emerge as novel analgesics. An interesting model to evaluate the mechanisms underlying resistance to pain is the fragile X mental retardation protein knockout mouse (Fmr1KO), a model of fragile X syndrome that exhibits nociceptive deficits and fails to develop neuropathic pain. METHODS A partial sciatic nerve ligation was performed to wild-type (WT) and Fmr1KO mice having (HzCB2 and Fmr1KO-HzCB2, respectively) or not (WT and Fmr1KO mice) a partial deletion of CB2 to investigate the participation of the endocannabinoid system on the pain-resistant phenotype of Fmr1KO mice. RESULTS Nerve injury induced canonical hypersensitivity in WT and HzCB2 mice, whereas this increased pain sensitivity was absent in Fmr1KO mice. Interestingly, Fmr1KO mice partially lacking CB2 lost this protection against neuropathic pain. Similarly, pain-induced depressive-like behaviour was observed in WT, HzCB2 and Fmr1KO-HzCB2 mice, but not in Fmr1KO littermates. Nerve injury evoked different alterations in WT and Fmr1KO mice at spinal and supra-spinal levels that correlated with these nociceptive and emotional alterations. CONCLUSIONS This work shows that CB2 is necessary for the protection against neuropathic pain observed in Fmr1KO mice, raising the interest in targeting this receptor for the treatment of neuropathic pain. SIGNIFICANCE Neuropathic pain is a complex chronic pain condition and current treatments are limited by the lack of efficacy and the incidence of important side effects. Our findings show that the pain-resistant phenotype of Fmr1KO mice against nociceptive and emotional manifestations triggered by persistent nerve damage requires the participation of the cannabinoid receptor CB2, raising the interest in targeting this receptor for neuropathic pain treatment. Additional multidisciplinary studies more closely related to human pain experience should be conducted to explore the potential use of cannabinoids as adequate analgesic tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Ramírez-López
- Barcelona Biomedical Research Park (PRBB), University Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Antoni Pastor
- IMIM-Hospital del Mar Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Carmen La Porta
- Barcelona Biomedical Research Park (PRBB), University Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Andrés Ozaita
- Barcelona Biomedical Research Park (PRBB), University Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - David Cabañero
- Barcelona Biomedical Research Park (PRBB), University Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rafael Maldonado
- Barcelona Biomedical Research Park (PRBB), University Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain.,IMIM-Hospital del Mar Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
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21
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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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Banaszkiewicz I, Biala G, Kruk-Slomka M. Contribution of CB2 receptors in schizophrenia-related symptoms in various animal models: Short review. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 114:158-171. [PMID: 32437746 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.04.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a severe and chronic mental disease with a high prevalence and a variety of symptoms. Data from behavioural studies suggest that it is rational to investigate the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and its cannabinoid receptor (CBr) because they seem to underlie susceptibility to schizophrenia, and these findings have pointed to several lines of future research. Currently, most available studies address the role of CBr type 1 in schizophrenia-like responses. Here, we present for the first time, a review that demonstrates the pivotal role of CBr type 2 in the regulation of neurobiological processes underlying cognition, psychosis- and mood-related (anxiety, depression) behaviours, all of which may be included in schizophrenia symptoms. This review is based on available evidence from the PubMed database regarding schizophrenia-like symptoms induced via CB2r modulation in various animal models. The data presented in this manuscript indicate that CB2r could be a promising new key target in the treatment of different central nervous system (CNS) disorders, which manifest as psychosis, mood-related disturbances and/or memory impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Izabela Banaszkiewicz
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacodynamics, Medical University of Lublin, Chodzki 4a Street, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Grazyna Biala
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacodynamics, Medical University of Lublin, Chodzki 4a Street, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Marta Kruk-Slomka
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacodynamics, Medical University of Lublin, Chodzki 4a Street, 20-093 Lublin, Poland.
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Influence of the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptor ligands on the activity of atypical antidepressant drugs in the behavioural tests in mice. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2020; 188:172833. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2019.172833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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Ligands of the CB2 cannabinoid receptors augment activity of the conventional antidepressant drugs in the behavioural tests in mice. Behav Brain Res 2020; 378:112297. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2019.112297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Cortez IL, Rodrigues da Silva N, Guimarães FS, Gomes FV. Are CB2 Receptors a New Target for Schizophrenia Treatment? Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:587154. [PMID: 33329132 PMCID: PMC7673393 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.587154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a complex disorder that involves several neurotransmitters such as dopamine, glutamate, and GABA. More recently, the endocannabinoid system has also been associated with this disorder. Although initially described as present mostly in the periphery, cannabinoid type-2 (CB2) receptors are now proposed to play a role in several brain processes related to schizophrenia, such as modulation of dopaminergic neurotransmission, microglial activation, and neuroplastic changes induced by stress. Here, we reviewed studies describing the involvement of the CB2 receptor in these processes and their association with the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. Taken together, these pieces of evidence indicate that CB2 receptor may emerge as a new target for the development of antipsychotic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isadora L Cortez
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Naielly Rodrigues da Silva
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Francisco S Guimarães
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Felipe V Gomes
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
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Kong X, Miao Q, Lu X, Zhang Z, Chen M, Zhang J, Zhai J. The association of endocannabinoid receptor genes (CNR1 and CNR2) polymorphisms with depression: A meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2019; 98:e17403. [PMID: 31725603 PMCID: PMC6867758 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000017403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Studies investigating the association between gene variants and depression susceptibility found inconsistent data. The present study aimed to clarify whether CNR1rs1049353, CNR1 AAT triplet repeat, and CNR2rs2501432 polymorphisms confer higher risk for depressive disorder.Literature from PubMed, Medline, Embase, Scopus, Cochrance Library, and Wanfang databases was searched (up to August 20, 2018). Seven case-control studies with various comorbidities were eligible. We targeted CNR single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that have been reported by 2 or more studies to be involved in the current meta-analysis, resulting in a final list of 3 SNPs: CNR1rs1049353, CNR1 AAT triplet repeat polymorphism, and CNR2rs2501432. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for allele and homozygote comparisons, dominant and recessive models, and triplet repeat polymorphism ((AAT)n≥5, ≥5 vs (AAT)n<5, <5 or <5, ≥5) were assessed using a random effect model as measures of association. Heterogeneity among included studies was analyzed using sensitivity test. Publication bias was also explored by Egger and rank correlation test.overall, no significant association was found between depression and CNR1rs1049353 (G vs A: OR [95% CI] = 1.09 [0.61-1.95]; GG vs AA: 1.29 [0.73-2.26]; GG vs GA+AA: 1.10 [0.57-2.10]; GG+GA vs AA: 1.25 [0.72-2.18]; and AAT triplet repeat polymorphism ((AAT)n≥5, ≥5 vs (AAT)n<5, <5 or <5, ≥5): 1.92 [0.59-6.27]. In contrast, a significant association between CNR2rs2501432 and depression was detected, and the ORs and 95% CIs are as follows: allele contrast (OR = 1.39, 95% CI = [1.12-1.72], P = .003); homozygous (OR = 2.19, 95% CI = [1.34-3.59], P = .002); dominant (OR = 1.93,95% CI = [1.23-3.04], P = .005); and recessive (OR = 1.41, 95% CI = [1.04-1.92], P = .03).This meta-analysis revealed that CNR1rs1049353 or AAT triplet repeat polymorphism had no association with susceptibility to depression, while CNR2rs2501432 polymorphism was a remarkable mark for depression patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangjuan Kong
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Jining Psychiatric Hospital
| | - Qingshan Miao
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Jining Psychiatric Hospital
| | - Xiaozi Lu
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Qindao Mental Health Center
| | - Zeng Zhang
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Jining Psychiatric Hospital
| | - Min Chen
- School of Mental Health, Jining Medical University, Shandong, China
| | - Jinxiang Zhang
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Jining Psychiatric Hospital
| | - Jinguo Zhai
- School of Mental Health, Jining Medical University, Shandong, China
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Andrade AK, Renda B, Murray JE. Cannabinoids, interoception, and anxiety. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2019; 180:60-73. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2019.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2018] [Revised: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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