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Thompson MD, Percy ME, Cole DEC, Bichet DG, Hauser AS, Gorvin CM. G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) gene variants and human genetic disease. Crit Rev Clin Lab Sci 2024:1-30. [PMID: 38497103 DOI: 10.1080/10408363.2023.2286606] [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: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Genetic variations in the genes encoding G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) can disrupt receptor structure and function, which can result in human genetic diseases. Disease-causing mutations have been reported in at least 55 GPCRs for more than 66 monogenic diseases in humans. The spectrum of pathogenic and likely pathogenic variants includes loss of function variants that decrease receptor signaling on one extreme and gain of function that may result in biased signaling or constitutive activity, originally modeled on prototypical rhodopsin GPCR variants identified in retinitis pigmentosa, on the other. GPCR variants disrupt ligand binding, G protein coupling, accessory protein function, receptor desensitization and receptor recycling. Next generation sequencing has made it possible to identify variants of uncertain significance (VUS). We discuss variants in receptors known to result in disease and in silico strategies for disambiguation of VUS such as sorting intolerant from tolerant and polymorphism phenotyping. Modeling of variants has contributed to drug development and precision medicine, including drugs that target the melanocortin receptor in obesity and interventions that reverse loss of gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor from the cell surface in idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Activating and inactivating variants of the calcium sensing receptor (CaSR) gene that are pathogenic in familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia and autosomal dominant hypocalcemia have enabled the development of calcimimetics and calcilytics. Next generation sequencing has continued to identify variants in GPCR genes, including orphan receptors, that contribute to human phenotypes and may have therapeutic potential. Variants of the CaSR gene, some encoding an arginine-rich region that promotes receptor phosphorylation and intracellular retention, have been linked to an idiopathic epilepsy syndrome. Agnostic strategies have identified variants of the pyroglutamylated RF amide peptide receptor gene in intellectual disability and G protein-coupled receptor 39 identified in psoriatic arthropathy. Coding variants of the G protein-coupled receptor L1 (GPR37L1) orphan receptor gene have been identified in a rare familial progressive myoclonus epilepsy. The study of the role of GPCR variants in monogenic, Mendelian phenotypes has provided the basis of modeling the significance of more common variants of pharmacogenetic significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miles D Thompson
- Krembil Brain Institute, Toronto Western Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Maire E Percy
- Departments of Physiology and Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - David E C Cole
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Daniel G Bichet
- Department of Physiology and Medicine, Hôpital du Sacré-Coeur, Université de Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Alexander S Hauser
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Caroline M Gorvin
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR), University of Birmingham, Birmingham, West Midlands, UK
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Bonifazi A, Del Bello F, Giorgioni G, Piergentili A, Saab E, Botticelli L, Cifani C, Micioni Di Bonaventura E, Micioni Di Bonaventura MV, Quaglia W. Targeting orexin receptors: Recent advances in the development of subtype selective or dual ligands for the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders. Med Res Rev 2023; 43:1607-1667. [PMID: 37036052 DOI: 10.1002/med.21959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023]
Abstract
Orexin-A and orexin-B, also named hypocretin-1 and hypocretin-2, are two hypothalamic neuropeptides highly conserved across mammalian species. Their effects are mediated by two distinct G protein-coupled receptors, namely orexin receptor type 1 (OX1-R) and type 2 (OX2-R), which share 64% amino acid identity. Given the wide expression of OX-Rs in different central nervous system and peripheral areas and the several pathophysiological functions in which they are involved, including sleep-wake cycle regulation (mainly mediated by OX2-R), emotion, panic-like behaviors, anxiety/stress, food intake, and energy homeostasis (mainly mediated by OX1-R), both subtypes represent targets of interest for many structure-activity relationship (SAR) campaigns carried out by pharmaceutical companies and academies. However, before 2017 the research was predominantly directed towards dual-orexin ligands, and limited chemotypes were investigated. Analytical characterizations, including resolved structures for both OX1-R and OX2-R in complex with agonists and antagonists, have improved the understanding of the molecular basis of receptor recognition and are assets for medicinal chemists in the design of subtype-selective ligands. This review is focused on the medicinal chemistry aspects of small molecules acting as dual or subtype selective OX1-R/OX2-R agonists and antagonists belonging to different chemotypes and developed in the last years, including radiolabeled OX-R ligands for molecular imaging. Moreover, the pharmacological effects of the most studied ligands in different neuropsychiatric diseases, such as sleep, mood, substance use, and eating disorders, as well as pain, have been discussed. Poly-pharmacology applications and multitarget ligands have also been considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Bonifazi
- Medicinal Chemistry Section, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse - Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Fabio Del Bello
- School of Pharmacy, Medicinal Chemistry Unit, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Gianfabio Giorgioni
- School of Pharmacy, Medicinal Chemistry Unit, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | | | - Elizabeth Saab
- Medicinal Chemistry Section, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse - Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Luca Botticelli
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Carlo Cifani
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | | | | | - Wilma Quaglia
- School of Pharmacy, Medicinal Chemistry Unit, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
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Gürbüzer N, Ceyhun HA, Öztürk N, Kasali K. The Relationship Between Eating-Attitudes and Clinical Characteristics, Agouti-Related Peptide, and Other Biochemical Markers in Adult-Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. J Atten Disord 2023; 27:394-409. [PMID: 36642920 DOI: 10.1177/10870547221149198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In our study, we aimed to evaluate eating-attitudes in adult-ADHD, and to examine its relationship with sociodemographic, clinical, AgRP, and biochemical parameters. METHOD The study included 70 adult-patients and 47 healthy-controls. The DIVA2.0, SCID-1 was administered to the participants. Eating-Attitudes Test (EAT), Night-Eating Questionnaire (NEQ), Barratt Impulsivity Scale (BIS-11) were filled by the participants. RESULTS We found that psychological state affect eating-attitudes in adult-ADHD (p = .013), emotional eating is more common, nocturnal chronotype is dominant (p < .001), NES is more frequent (p < .001), waist circumference measurement is higher (p = .030), and lipid profile is deteriorated (p < .001). AgRP levels were significantly lower in patients treated with methylphenidate (p = .021). Those who received methylphenidate treatment had less NES than those who did not. Deterioration in eating-attitudes and symptom severity of night eating in ADHD, it was positively correlated with clinical severity of ADHD and impulsivity. In addition, age and increase in night eating symptoms were predictors of deterioration in eating attitudes in adult-ADHD. We found that impaired eating-attitudes and impulsivity severity were also predictors of NES (p = .006, p = .034). CONCLUSION The necessity of adult-ADHD treatment has been demonstrated by the deterioration in eating-attitudes and cardiometabolic risk dimensions and the underlying mechanisms.
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Dale NC, Hoyer D, Jacobson LH, Pfleger KDG, Johnstone EKM. Orexin Signaling: A Complex, Multifaceted Process. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:812359. [PMID: 35496914 PMCID: PMC9044999 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.812359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The orexin system comprises two G protein-coupled receptors, OX1 and OX2 receptors (OX1R and OX2R, respectively), along with two endogenous agonists cleaved from a common precursor (prepro-orexin), orexin-A (OX-A) and orexin-B (OX-B). For the receptors, a complex array of signaling behaviors has been reported. In particular, it becomes obvious that orexin receptor coupling is very diverse and can be tissue-, cell- and context-dependent. Here, the early signal transduction interactions of the orexin receptors will be discussed in depth, with particular emphasis on the direct G protein interactions of each receptor. In doing so, it is evident that ligands, additional receptor-protein interactions and cellular environment all play important roles in the G protein coupling profiles of the orexin receptors. This has potential implications for our understanding of the orexin system’s function in vivo in both central and peripheral environments, as well as the development of novel agonists, antagonists and possibly allosteric modulators targeting the orexin system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha C. Dale
- Molecular Endocrinology and Pharmacology, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research and Centre for Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre for Personalised Therapeutics Technologies, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre for Personalised Therapeutics Technologies, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Daniel Hoyer
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Laura H. Jacobson
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Melbourne Dementia Research Centre, Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Kevin D. G. Pfleger
- Molecular Endocrinology and Pharmacology, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research and Centre for Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre for Personalised Therapeutics Technologies, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre for Personalised Therapeutics Technologies, Perth, WA, Australia
- Dimerix Limited, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- *Correspondence: Kevin D. G. Pfleger,
| | - Elizabeth K. M. Johnstone
- Molecular Endocrinology and Pharmacology, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research and Centre for Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre for Personalised Therapeutics Technologies, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre for Personalised Therapeutics Technologies, Perth, WA, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Elizabeth K. M. Johnstone,
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Pourrahimi AM, Abbasnejad M, Raoof M, Esmaeili-Mahani S, Kooshki R. The involvement of orexin 1 and cannabinoid 1 receptors within the ventrolateral periaqueductal gray matter in the modulation of migraine-induced anxiety and social behavior deficits of rats. Peptides 2021; 146:170651. [PMID: 34560171 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2021.170651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Orexin 1 receptors (Orx1R) and cannabinoid 1 receptors (CB1R) are implicated in migraine pathophysiology. This study evaluated the potential involvement of Orx1R and CB1R within the ventrolateral periaqueductal gray matter (vlPAG) in the modulation of anxiety-like behavior and social interaction of migraineurs rats. A rat model of migraine induced by recurrent administration of nitroglycerin (NTG) (5 mg/kg/i.p.). The groups of rats (n = 6) were then subjected to intra-vlPAG microinjection of orexin-A (25, 50 pM), and Orx1R antagonist SB334867 (20, 40 nM) or AM 251 (2, 4 μg) as a CB1R antagonist. Behavioral responses were evaluated in elevated plus maze (EPM), open field (OF) and three-chambered social test apparatus. NTG produced a marked anxiety like behaviors, in both EPM and OF tasks. It did also decrease social performance. NTG-related anxiety and social conflicts were attenuated by orexin-A (25, 50 pM). However, NTG effects were exacerbated by SB334867 (40 nM) and AM251 (2, 4 μg). The orexin-A-mediated suppression of NTG-induced anxiety and social conflicts were prevented by either SB334867 (20 nM) or AM251 (2 μg). The findings suggest roles for Orx1R and CB1R signaling within vlPAG in the modulation of migraine-induced anxiety-like behavior and social dysfunction in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Mohammad Pourrahimi
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mehdi Abbasnejad
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
| | - Maryam Raoof
- Department of Orofacial Pain and Dysfunction, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Endodontology Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Saeed Esmaeili-Mahani
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
| | - Razieh Kooshki
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Lorestan University, Khorramabad, Iran.
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Swinton MK, Sundermann EE, Pedersen L, Nguyen JD, Grelotti DJ, Taffe MA, Iudicello JE, Fields JA. Alterations in Brain Cannabinoid Receptor Levels Are Associated with HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorders in the ART Era: Implications for Therapeutic Strategies Targeting the Endocannabinoid System. Viruses 2021; 13:v13091742. [PMID: 34578323 PMCID: PMC8473156 DOI: 10.3390/v13091742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) persist despite the advent of antiretroviral therapy (ART), suggesting underlying systemic and central nervous system (CNS) inflammatory mechanisms. The endogenous cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2 (CB1 and CB2) modulate inflammatory gene expression and play an important role in maintaining neuronal homeostasis. Cannabis use is disproportionately high among people with HIV (PWH) and may provide a neuroprotective effect for those on ART due to its anti-inflammatory properties. However, expression profiles of CB1 and CB2 in the brains of PWH on ART with HAND have not been reported. In this study, biochemical and immunohistochemical analyses were performed to determine CB1 and CB2 expression in the brain specimens of HAND donors. Immunoblot revealed that CB1 and CB2 were differentially expressed in the frontal cortices of HAND brains compared to neurocognitively unimpaired (NUI) brains of PWH. CB1 expression levels negatively correlated with memory and information processing speed. CB1 was primarily localized to neuronal soma in HAND brains versus a more punctate distribution of neuronal processes in NUI brains. CB1 expression was increased in cells with glial morphology and showed increased colocalization with an astroglial marker. These results suggest that targeting the endocannabinoid system may be a potential therapeutic strategy for HAND.
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The Paradoxical Effect Hypothesis of Abused Drugs in a Rat Model of Chronic Morphine Administration. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10153197. [PMID: 34361981 PMCID: PMC8348660 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10153197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
A growing body of studies has recently shown that abused drugs could simultaneously induce the paradoxical effect in reward and aversion to influence drug addiction. However, whether morphine induces reward and aversion, and which neural substrates are involved in morphine’s reward and aversion remains unclear. The present study first examined which doses of morphine can simultaneously produce reward in conditioned place preference (CPP) and aversion in conditioned taste aversion (CTA) in rats. Furthermore, the aversive dose of morphine was determined. Moreover, using the aversive dose of 10 mg/kg morphine tested plasma corticosterone (CORT) levels and examined which neural substrates were involved in the aversive morphine-induced CTA on conditioning, extinction, and reinstatement. Further, we analyzed c-Fos and p-ERK expression to demonstrate the paradoxical effect—reward and aversion and nonhomeostasis or disturbance by morphine-induced CTA. The results showed that a dose of more than 20 mg/kg morphine simultaneously induced reward in CPP and aversion in CTA. A dose of 10 mg/kg morphine only induced the aversive CTA, and it produced higher plasma CORT levels in conditioning and reacquisition but not extinction. High plasma CORT secretions by 10 mg/kg morphine-induced CTA most likely resulted from stress-related aversion but were not a rewarding property of morphine. For assessments of c-Fos and p-ERK expression, the cingulate cortex 1 (Cg1), prelimbic cortex (PrL), infralimbic cortex (IL), basolateral amygdala (BLA), nucleus accumbens (NAc), and dentate gyrus (DG) were involved in the morphine-induced CTA, and resulted from the aversive effect of morphine on conditioning and reinstatement. The c-Fos data showed fewer neural substrates (e.g., PrL, IL, and LH) on extinction to be hyperactive. In the context of previous drug addiction data, the evidence suggests that morphine injections may induce hyperactivity in many neural substrates, which mediate reward and/or aversion due to disturbance and nonhomeostasis in the brain. The results support the paradoxical effect hypothesis of abused drugs. Insight from the findings could be used in the clinical treatment of drug addiction.
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Lu J, Huang ML, Li JH, Jin KY, Li HM, Mou TT, Fronczek R, Duan JF, Xu WJ, Swaab D, Bao AM. Changes of Hypocretin (Orexin) System in Schizophrenia: From Plasma to Brain. Schizophr Bull 2021; 47:1310-1319. [PMID: 33974073 PMCID: PMC8379539 DOI: 10.1093/schbul/sbab042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Hypocretin (also called orexin) regulates various functions, such as sleep-wake rhythms, attention, cognition, and energy balance, which show significant changes in schizophrenia (SCZ). We aimed to identify alterations in the hypocretin system in SCZ patients. We measured plasma hypocretin-1 levels in SCZ patients and healthy controls and found significantly decreased plasma hypocretin-1 levels in SCZ patients, which was mainly due to a significant decrease in female SCZ patients compared with female controls. In addition, we measured postmortem hypothalamic hypocretin-1-immunoreactivity (ir), ventricular cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) hypocretin-1 levels, and hypocretin receptor (Hcrt-R) mRNA expression in the superior frontal gyrus (SFG) in SCZ patients and controls We observed a significant decrease in the amount of hypothalamic hypocretin-1 ir in SCZ patients, which was due to decreased amounts in female but not male patients. Moreover, Hcrt-R2 mRNA in the SFG was decreased in female SCZ patients compared with female controls, while male SCZ patients showed a trend of increased Hcrt-R1 mRNA and Hcrt-R2 mRNA expression compared with male controls. We conclude that central hypocretin neurotransmission is decreased in SCZ patients, especially female patients, and this is reflected in the plasma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Lu
- Department of Psychiatry, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China,The Key Laboratory of Mental Disorder Management in Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Man-Li Huang
- Department of Psychiatry, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China,The Key Laboratory of Mental Disorder Management in Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jin-Hui Li
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine & Rehabilitation, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kang-Yu Jin
- Department of Psychiatry, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hai-Mei Li
- Department of Psychiatry, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ting-Ting Mou
- Department of Psychiatry, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China,The Key Laboratory of Mental Disorder Management in Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Rolf Fronczek
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Jin-Feng Duan
- Department of Psychiatry, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China,The Key Laboratory of Mental Disorder Management in Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wei-Juan Xu
- Department of Psychiatry, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China,The Key Laboratory of Mental Disorder Management in Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Dick Swaab
- Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, an Institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands,NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ai-Min Bao
- Department of Psychiatry, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China,The Key Laboratory of Mental Disorder Management in Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China,NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China,To whom correspondence should be addressed; Department of Psychiatry, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; tel: +86 571 88208789, fax: +86 571 88208094, e-mail:
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The Neural Network of Neuropeptide S (NPS): Implications in Food Intake and Gastrointestinal Functions. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14040293. [PMID: 33810221 PMCID: PMC8065993 DOI: 10.3390/ph14040293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The Neuropeptide S (NPS), a 20 amino acids peptide, is recognized as the endogenous ligand of a previously orphan G protein-coupled receptor, now termed NPS receptor (NPSR). The limited distribution of the NPS-expressing neurons in few regions of the brainstem is in contrast with the extensive expression of NPSR in the rodent central nervous system, suggesting the involvement of this receptor in several brain functions. In particular, NPS promotes locomotor activity, behavioral arousal, wakefulness, and unexpectedly, at the same time, it exerts anxiolytic-like properties. Intriguingly, the NPS system is implicated in the rewarding properties of drugs of abuse and in the regulation of food intake. Here, we focus on the anorexigenic effect of NPS, centrally injected in different brain areas, in both sated and fasted animals, fed with standard or palatable food, and, in addition, on its influence in the gastrointestinal tract. Further investigations, regarding the role of the NPS/NPSR system and its potential interaction with other neurotransmitters could be useful to understand the mechanisms underlying its action and to develop novel pharmacological tools for the treatment of aberrant feeding patterns and obesity.
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Steardo L, Carbone EA, Menculini G, Moretti P, Steardo L, Tortorella A. Endocannabinoid System as Therapeutic Target of PTSD: A Systematic Review. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11030214. [PMID: 33803374 PMCID: PMC8000573 DOI: 10.3390/life11030214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 02/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a complex disorder involving dysregulation of stress-related hormones and neurotransmitter systems. Research focused on the endocannabinoid system (eCBS) for anxiety and stress regulation, cognitive and emotional responses modulation and aversive memories extinction, leading to the hypothesis that it could represent a possible alternative treatment target for PTSD. In this systematic review, we summarize evidence about the efficacy and safety of medicinal cannabidiol (CBD), Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), and nabilone in PTSD treatment. The PRISMA statement guidelines were followed. A systematic literature search was conducted in MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science by two independent researchers, who also performed data extraction and quality assessment. Among the initial 495 papers, 234 were screened for eligibility and 10 were included. Studies suggested that different medicinal cannabinoids at distinct doses and formulations could represent promising treatment strategies for the improvement of overall PTSD symptomatology as well as specific symptom domains (e.g., sleep disorders, arousal disturbances, suicidal thoughts), also influencing quality of life, pain and social impact. Although there is a robust rationale for treatment with drugs that target the eCBS and the results are promising, further studies are needed to investigate the safety and efficacy profile of their prolonged use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Steardo
- Psychiatric Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Viale Tommaso Campanella, 115, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Elvira Anna Carbone
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Viale Tommaso Campanella, 115, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Giulia Menculini
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Perugia, Piazzale Lucio Severi, 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (G.M.); (P.M.); (A.T.)
| | - Patrizia Moretti
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Perugia, Piazzale Lucio Severi, 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (G.M.); (P.M.); (A.T.)
| | - Luca Steardo
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro, 5, 00185 Rome, Italy;
- Department of Psychiatry, Giustino Fortunato University, 12, 82100 Benevento, Italy
| | - Alfonso Tortorella
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Perugia, Piazzale Lucio Severi, 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (G.M.); (P.M.); (A.T.)
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Phytocannabinoids-A Green Approach toward Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Treatment. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10030393. [PMID: 33498537 PMCID: PMC7864168 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10030393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most frequent chronic liver disease in adults in developed countries, with a global prevalence as high as one billion. The pathogenesis of NAFLD is a multifactorial and multi-step process. Nowadays, a growing body of research suggests the considerable role of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) as a complex cell-signaling system in NAFLD development. Although increased endocannabinoid tone in the liver highly contributes to NAFLD development, the complex effects and impacts of plant-derived cannabinoids in the aspect of NAFLD pathophysiology are yet not fully understood, and effective medications are still in demand. In our review, we present the latest reports describing the role of ECS in NAFLD, focusing primarily on two types of cannabinoid receptors. Moreover, we sum up the recent literature on the clinical use of natural cannabinoids in NAFLD treatment. This review is useful for understanding the importance of ECS in NAFLD development, and it also provides the basis for more extensive clinical phytocannabinoids testing in patients suffering from NAFLD.
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Yaeger JD, Krupp KT, Gale JJ, Summers CH. Counterbalanced microcircuits for Orx1 and Orx2 regulation of stress reactivity. MEDICINE IN DRUG DISCOVERY 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.medidd.2020.100059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
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Medina-Vera D, Rosell-Valle C, López-Gambero AJ, Navarro JA, Zambrana-Infantes EN, Rivera P, Santín LJ, Suarez J, Rodríguez de Fonseca F. Imbalance of Endocannabinoid/Lysophosphatidylinositol Receptors Marks the Severity of Alzheimer's Disease in a Preclinical Model: A Therapeutic Opportunity. BIOLOGY 2020; 9:E377. [PMID: 33167441 PMCID: PMC7694492 DOI: 10.3390/biology9110377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of neurodegeneration and dementia. The endocannabinoid (ECB) system has been proposed as a novel therapeutic target to treat AD. The present study explores the expression of the ECB system, the ECB-related receptor GPR55, and cognitive functions (novel object recognition; NOR) in the 5xFAD (FAD: family Alzheimer's disease) transgenic mouse model of AD. Experiments were performed on heterozygous (HTZ) and homozygous (HZ) 11 month old mice. Protein expression of ECB system components, neuroinflammation markers, and β-amyloid (Aβ) plaques were analyzed in the hippocampus. According to the NOR test, anxiety-like behavior and memory were altered in both HTZ and HZ 5xFAD mice. Furthermore, both animal groups displayed a reduction of cannabinoid (CB1) receptor expression in the hippocampus, which is related to memory dysfunction. This finding was associated with indirect markers of enhanced ECB production, resulting from the combination of impaired monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) degradation and increased diacylglycerol lipase (DAGL) levels, an effect observed in the HZ group. Regarding neuroinflammation, we observed increased levels of CB2 receptors in the HZ group that positively correlate with Aβ's accumulation. Moreover, HZ 5xFAD mice also exhibited increased expression of the GPR55 receptor. These results highlight the importance of the ECB signaling for the AD pathogenesis development beyond Aβ deposition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dina Medina-Vera
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga-IBIMA, Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Salud Mental, Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, 29010 Málaga, Spain; (C.R.-V.); (A.J.L.-G.); (J.A.N.); (P.R.); (J.S.)
- Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Málaga, 29010 Málaga, Spain
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Málaga, 29010 Málaga, Spain
| | - Cristina Rosell-Valle
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga-IBIMA, Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Salud Mental, Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, 29010 Málaga, Spain; (C.R.-V.); (A.J.L.-G.); (J.A.N.); (P.R.); (J.S.)
| | - Antonio J. López-Gambero
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga-IBIMA, Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Salud Mental, Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, 29010 Málaga, Spain; (C.R.-V.); (A.J.L.-G.); (J.A.N.); (P.R.); (J.S.)
- Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Málaga, 29010 Málaga, Spain
| | - Juan A. Navarro
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga-IBIMA, Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Salud Mental, Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, 29010 Málaga, Spain; (C.R.-V.); (A.J.L.-G.); (J.A.N.); (P.R.); (J.S.)
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Málaga, 29010 Málaga, Spain
| | - Emma N. Zambrana-Infantes
- Departamento de Psicobiología y Metodología de las Ciencias del Comportamiento, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de Málaga, 29010 Málaga, Spain; (E.N.Z.-I.); (L.J.S.)
| | - Patricia Rivera
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga-IBIMA, Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Salud Mental, Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, 29010 Málaga, Spain; (C.R.-V.); (A.J.L.-G.); (J.A.N.); (P.R.); (J.S.)
| | - Luis J. Santín
- Departamento de Psicobiología y Metodología de las Ciencias del Comportamiento, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de Málaga, 29010 Málaga, Spain; (E.N.Z.-I.); (L.J.S.)
| | - Juan Suarez
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga-IBIMA, Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Salud Mental, Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, 29010 Málaga, Spain; (C.R.-V.); (A.J.L.-G.); (J.A.N.); (P.R.); (J.S.)
| | - Fernando Rodríguez de Fonseca
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga-IBIMA, Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Salud Mental, Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, 29010 Málaga, Spain; (C.R.-V.); (A.J.L.-G.); (J.A.N.); (P.R.); (J.S.)
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Harwell V, Fasinu PS. Pitolisant and Other Histamine-3 Receptor Antagonists-An Update on Therapeutic Potentials and Clinical Prospects. MEDICINES 2020; 7:medicines7090055. [PMID: 32882898 PMCID: PMC7554886 DOI: 10.3390/medicines7090055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Background: Besides its well-known role as a peripheral chemical mediator of immune, vascular, and cellular responses, histamine plays major roles in the central nervous system, particularly in the mediation of arousal and cognition-enhancement. These central effects are mediated by the histamine-3 auto receptors, the modulation of which is thought to be beneficial for the treatment of disorders that impair cognition or manifest with excessive daytime sleepiness. Methods: A database search of PubMed, Google Scholar, and clinicaltrials.gov was performed in June 2020. Full-text articles were screened and reviewed to provide an update on pitolisant and other histamine-3 receptor antagonists. Results: A new class of drugs—histamine-3 receptor antagonists—has emerged with the approval of pitolisant for the treatment of narcolepsy with or without cataplexy. At the recommended dose, pitolisant is well tolerated and effective. It has also been evaluated for potential therapeutic benefit in Parkinson disease, epilepsy, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Alzheimer’s disease, and dementia. Limited studies have shown pitolisant to lack abuse potential which will be a major advantage over existing drug options for narcolepsy. Several histamine-3 receptor antagonists are currently in development for a variety of clinical indications. Conclusions: Although limited clinical studies have been conducted on this new class of drugs, the reviewed literature showed promising results for future additions to the clinical indications of pitolisant, and the expansion of the list of approved drugs in this class for a variety of indications.
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Romigi A, Bari M, Liguori C, Izzi F, Rapino C, Nuccetelli M, Battista N, Bernardini S, Centonze D, Mercuri NB, Placidi F, Maccarrone M. CSF Levels of the Endocannabinoid Anandamide are Reduced in Patients with Untreated Narcolepsy Type 1: A Pilot Study. CNS & NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS-DRUG TARGETS 2020; 19:142-147. [PMID: 32148204 DOI: 10.2174/1871527319666200309115602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Revised: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endocannabinoids (ECs) modulate both excitatory and inhibitory components in the CNS. There is a growing body of evidence that shows ECs influence both hypothalamic orexinergic and histaminergic neurons involved in narcolepsy physiopathology. Therefore, ECs may influence sleep and sleep-wake cycle. OBJECTIVE To evaluate EC levels in the CSF of untreated narcoleptic patients to test whether ECs are dysregulated in Narcolepsy Type 1 (NT1) and Type 2 (NT2). METHODS We compared CSF Anandamide (AEA), 2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and orexin in narcoleptic drug-naïve patients and in a sample of healthy subjects. RESULTS We compared NT1 (n=6), NT2 (n=6), and healthy controls (n=6). We found significantly reduced AEA levels in NT1 patients compared to both NT2 and controls. No differences were found between AEA levels in NT2 versus controls and between 2-AG levels in all groups, although a trend toward a decrease in NT1 was evident. Finally, the CSF AEA level was related to CSF orexin levels in all subjects. CONCLUSION We demonstrated that the EC system is dysregulated in NT1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Romigi
- IRCCS Neuromed Sleep Medicine Center, Via Atinense, 18 Pozzilli (IS), Italy
| | - Monica Bari
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Liguori
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Izzi
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', Rome, Italy
| | - Cinzia Rapino
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, University of Teramo, Agriculture and Environment, Teramo, Italy
| | - Marzia Nuccetelli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', Rome, Italy
| | - Natalia Battista
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, University of Teramo, Agriculture and Environment, Teramo, Italy
| | - Sergio Bernardini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', Rome, Italy
| | - Diego Centonze
- IRCCS Neuromed Sleep Medicine Center, Via Atinense, 18 Pozzilli (IS), Italy
| | | | - Fabio Placidi
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', Rome, Italy
| | - Mauro Maccarrone
- Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Italy.,European Center for Brain Research, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
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Insomnia in Schizophrenia Patients: Prevalence and Quality of Life. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17041350. [PMID: 32093111 PMCID: PMC7068578 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17041350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2020] [Revised: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Sleep disorders are often not regarded as an important health problem, despite their impact on heath. Insomnia is the most frequent sleep disorder in mental health. The aim is to quantify the prevalence of insomnia in a population with schizophrenic disorder and assess its influence on quality of life. This is a descriptive, analytical and cross-sectional study conducted in a sample of 267 schizophrenic patients over 18 years of age using consecutive non-probabilistic sampling. The variables of interest were collected by means of the "Cuestionario Oviedo de Sueño," "Insomnia Severity Index" and EuqoQol-5D. The estimation of insomnia in our schizophrenic population according to the International Classification of Disease (ICD-10) criteria was 23.2%. The likelihood of insomnia when there are problems in the quality of life is significant in all its dimensions: mobility OR: 3.54 (95% CI 1.88– 6.65), self-care OR: 2.69 (95% CI 1.36–5.32), usual activities OR: 3.56 (95% CI 1.97–6.44), pain/discomfort OR: 4.29 (95% CI 2.37–7.74) and anxiety/depression OR: 3.01 (95% CI 1.61–5.65). The prevalence of insomnia fluctuates depending on the diagnostic criteria; however, the schizophrenic population shows high prevalence in some clinical characteristics. People with insomnia have a lower quality of life.
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Analysis of HCRTR2, GNB3, and ADH4 Gene Polymorphisms in a Southeastern European Caucasian Cluster Headache Population. J Mol Neurosci 2019; 70:467-474. [PMID: 31768945 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-019-01439-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Studies point to an increased hereditary risk of cluster headache. HCRTR2 gene rs2653349 and ADH4 gene rs1800759 polymorphisms have been associated with cluster headache susceptibility. Also, GNB3 rs5443 polymorphism, associated with increased signal transduction via GPCRs, seems to influence triptan treatment response. DNA from 114 cluster headache patients and 570 non-related controls, representing a general Southeastern European Caucasian (SEC) population, was extracted from buccal swabs and genotyped using real-time PCR. Gene distribution for the rs2653349 was GG = 79.8%, GA = 18.4%, and AA = 1.8% for patients and GG = 79.1%, GA = 19.1%, and AA = 1.8% for controls. The frequency of the mutated A allele was 11.0% for patients and 11.3% for controls. The frequencies for rs5443 were CC = 44.7%, CT = 44.7%, and TT = 10.5% for patients and CC = 43.9%, CT = 42.6%, and TT = 13.5% for controls. The frequency of the mutated T allele was 32.9% for patients and 34.8% for controls. A 2.7-fold more frequent appearance of the mutated T allele was observed in patients with better triptan treatment response, although not statistically significant. For rs1800759, the frequencies were CC = 36.0%, CA = 43.0%, and AA = 21.0% for patients and CC = 34.0%, CA = 50.2%, and AA = 15.8% for controls. The frequency of the mutated A allele was 42.5% and 40.9% for patients and controls, respectively. The mutated T allele of GNB3 rs5443 polymorphism was more prevalent in patients with better triptan treatment response, indicating a possible trend of association between this polymorphism and triptan treatment response in SEC population. According to our observation, no association of HCRTR2 rs2653349 and ADH4 rs1800759 polymorphisms and cluster headache in SEC population could be documented.
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Factors Associated with Sleep Disorders among Methadone-Maintained Drug Users in Vietnam. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16224315. [PMID: 31698771 PMCID: PMC6887969 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16224315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Revised: 10/29/2019] [Accepted: 10/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Sleep quality among heroin-dependent patients receiving methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) is not fully investigated in Vietnam. This study explored the prevalence of poor sleep quality in methadone-maintained patients and associated factors. This cross-sectional included 395 MMT patients at three clinics in Nam Dinh province, Vietnam. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was employed to measure patients’ sleep quality. Sociodemographic, clinical, behavioral, psychological, and social support characteristics were collected. Multivariate Logistic and Generalized Linear Regression models were applied to identify associated factors. Among 395 patients, 26.6% had poor sleep quality according to the PSQI scale. People having jobs were less likely to have poor sleep quality and lower PSQI scores compared to unemployed patients. Those having spouses had lower PSQI scores than single patients. High depression, anxiety, and stress scores were associated with poor sleep quality and high PSQI scores. A longer duration of MMT increased the likelihood of experiencing poor sleep quality. Patients smoking tobacco daily or concurrently using drugs had lower PSQI scores than those that did not. This study highlights a moderate prevalence of poor sleep quality among Vietnamese MMT patients. Regular evaluation, appropriate psychological management, and social support, as well as the provision of employment opportunities, potentially improve the sleep quality of methadone-maintained patients.
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Lu G, Lee MT, Chiou L. Orexin-mediated restoration of hippocampal synaptic potentiation in mice with established cocaine-conditioned place preference. Addict Biol 2019; 24:1153-1166. [PMID: 30276922 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2018] [Revised: 07/21/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Orexins (also called hypocretins) are implicated in reward and addiction, but little is known about their role(s) in the association between hippocampal synaptic plasticity and drug preference. Previously, we found that exogenous orexin via OX1 and OX2 receptors can impair low frequency stimulation-induced depotentiation, i.e. restoring potentiation of excitatory synaptic transmission (re-potentiation) in mouse hippocampal slices. Here, we found this re-potentiation in hippocampal slices from mice that had acquired conditioned place preference (CPP) to cocaine. Both 10 and 20 mg/kg of cocaine induced similar magnitudes of CPP in mice and re-potentiation in their hippocampal slices, but differed in their susceptibility to TCS1102, a dual (OX1 and OX2 ) orexin receptor antagonist. TCS1102 significantly attenuated CPP and hippocampal re-potentiation induced by cocaine at 10 mg/kg but not at 20 mg/kg. Nonetheless, SCH23390, an antagonist of dopamine D1-like receptors (D1-likeRs), inhibited the effects induced by both doses of cocaine. SKF38393, a D1-likeR-selective agonist, also induced hippocampal re-potentiation in vitro. Interestingly, this effect was attenuated by TCS1102. Conversely, SCH23390 prevented orexin A-induced hippocampal re-potentiation. These results suggest that endogenous orexins are released in mice during cocaine-CPP acquisition, which sustains potentiated hippocampal transmission via OX1 /OX2 receptors and may contribute to the addiction memory of cocaine. This effect of endogenous orexins, however, may be substituted by dopamine that may dominate hippocampal re-potentiation and CPP via D1-likeRs when the reinforcing effect of cocaine is high.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guan‐Ling Lu
- Graduate Institute of PharmacologyCollege of Medicine, National Taiwan University Taiwan
| | - Ming Tatt Lee
- Graduate Institute of PharmacologyCollege of Medicine, National Taiwan University Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind SciencesCollege of Medicine, National Taiwan University Taiwan
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical SciencesUCSI University Malaysia
| | - Lih‐Chu Chiou
- Graduate Institute of PharmacologyCollege of Medicine, National Taiwan University Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind SciencesCollege of Medicine, National Taiwan University Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Acupuncture ScienceChina Medical University Taiwan
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Alapafuja SO, Nikas SP, Ho TC, Tong F, Benchama O, Makriyannis A. Chain Substituted Cannabilactones with Selectivity for the CB2 Cannabinoid Receptor. Molecules 2019; 24:E3559. [PMID: 31581433 PMCID: PMC6804212 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24193559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2019] [Revised: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 09/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In earlier work, we reported a novel class of CB2 selective ligands namely cannabilactones. These compounds carry a dimethylheptyl substituent at C3, which is typical for synthetic cannabinoids. In the current study with the focus on the pharmacophoric side chain at C3 we explored the effect of replacing the C1'-gem-dimethyl group with the bulkier cyclopentyl ring, and, we also probed the chain's length and terminal carbon substitution with bromo or cyano groups. One of the analogs synthesized namely 6-[1-(1,9-dihydroxy-6-oxo-6H-benzo[c]chromen-3-yl) cyclopentyl] hexanenitrile (AM4346) has very high affinity (Ki = 4.9 nM) for the mouse CB2 receptor (mCB2) and 131-fold selectivity for that target over the rat CB1 (rCB1). The species difference in the affinities of AM4346 between the mouse (m) and the human (h) CB2 receptors is reduced when compared to our first-generation cannabilactones. In the cyclase assay, our lead compound was found to be a highly potent and efficacious hCB2 receptor agonist (EC50 = 3.7 ± 1.5 nM, E(max) = 89%). We have also extended our structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies to include biphenyl synthetic intermediates that mimic the structure of the phytocannabinoid cannabinodiol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shakiru O Alapafuja
- 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.
| | - Thanh C Ho
- Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Fei Tong
- Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Othman Benchama
- Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Alexandros Makriyannis
- Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
- Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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Lauriola M, Carleton RN, Tempesta D, Calanna P, Socci V, Mosca O, Salfi F, De Gennaro L, Ferrara M. A Correlational Analysis of the Relationships among Intolerance of Uncertainty, Anxiety Sensitivity, Subjective Sleep Quality, and Insomnia Symptoms. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:E3253. [PMID: 31491841 PMCID: PMC6765836 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16183253] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Revised: 08/29/2019] [Accepted: 08/31/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we used structural equation modeling to investigate the interplay among Intolerance of Uncertainty (IU), Anxiety Sensitivity (AS), and sleep problems. Three hundred undergraduate students completed the Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale, the Intolerance of Uncertainty Inventory, the Anxiety Sensitivity Index, the Beck Depression Inventory, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and the Insomnia Severity Index. 68% and 40% of the students reported poor sleep quality or sub-threshold insomnia problems, respectively. Depression and anxiety levels were above the cut-off for about one-fourth of the participants. Structural equation modeling revealed that IU was strongly associated with AS, in turn influencing both insomnia severity and sleep quality via depression and anxiety. Significant indirect effects revealed that an anxious pathway was more strongly associated with insomnia severity, while a depression pathway was more relevant for worsening the quality of sleep. We discussed the results in the frameworks of cognitive models of insomnia. Viewing AS and IU as antecedents of sleep problems and assigning to AS a pivotal role, our study suggested indications for clinical interventions on a population at risk for sleep disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Lauriola
- Department of Social and Developmental Psychology, Sapienza, University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | | | - Daniela Tempesta
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - Pierpaolo Calanna
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, Sapienza, University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Valentina Socci
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - Oriana Mosca
- Department of Social and Developmental Psychology, Sapienza, University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Federico Salfi
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - Luigi De Gennaro
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza, University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Michele Ferrara
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy.
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Role of Cannabinoid Receptor Type 1 in Insulin Resistance and Its Biological Implications. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20092109. [PMID: 31035653 PMCID: PMC6540410 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20092109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2019] [Revised: 04/26/2019] [Accepted: 04/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Endogenous cannabinoids (ECs) are lipid-signaling molecules that specifically bind to cannabinoid receptor types 1 and 2 (CB1R and CB2R) and are highly expressed in central and many peripheral tissues under pathological conditions. Activation of hepatic CB1R is associated with obesity, insulin resistance, and impaired metabolic function, owing to increased energy intake and storage, impaired glucose and lipid metabolism, and enhanced oxidative stress and inflammatory responses. Additionally, blocking peripheral CB1R improves insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism and also reduces hepatic steatosis and body weight in obese mice. Thus, targeting EC receptors, especially CB1R, may provide a potential therapeutic strategy against obesity and insulin resistance. There are many CB1R antagonists, including inverse agonists and natural compounds that target CB1R and can reduce body weight, adiposity, and hepatic steatosis, and those that improve insulin sensitivity and reverse leptin resistance. Recently, the use of CB1R antagonists was suspended due to adverse central effects, and this caused a major setback in the development of CB1R antagonists. Recent studies, however, have focused on development of antagonists lacking adverse effects. In this review, we detail the important role of CB1R in hepatic insulin resistance and the possible underlying mechanisms, and the therapeutic potential of CB1R targeting is also discussed.
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Franco R, Villa M, Morales P, Reyes-Resina I, Gutiérrez-Rodríguez A, Jiménez J, Jagerovic N, Martínez-Orgado J, Navarro G. Increased expression of cannabinoid CB 2 and serotonin 5-HT 1A heteroreceptor complexes in a model of newborn hypoxic-ischemic brain damage. Neuropharmacology 2019; 152:58-66. [PMID: 30738036 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2019.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2018] [Revised: 12/07/2018] [Accepted: 02/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Preclinical work shows cannabidiol as a promising drug to manage neonatal hypoxic-ischemic brain damage (NHIBD). The molecular mechanism is not well defined but the beneficial effects of this phytocannabinoid are blocked by antagonists of both cannabinoid CB2 (CB2R) and serotonin 5-HT1A (5-HT1AR) receptors that, in addition, may form heteromers in a heterologous expression system. Using bioluminescence energy transfer, we have shown a direct interaction of the two receptors that leads to a particular signaling in a heterologous system. A property attributed to the heteromer, namely cross-antagonism, was found in primary cultures of neurons thus indicating the occurrence of the receptor heteromer in the CNS. Oxygen-glucose deprivation to neurons led to an increase of CB2R-mediated signaling and an upregulation of CB2-5-HT1A heteroreceptor complex expression. In situ proximity ligation assays in brain cortical sections were performed to compare the expression of CB2-5-HT1A complexes in rat E20 fetuses and at different postnatal days. The expression, which is elevated in fetus and shortly after birth, was sharply reduced at later ages (even at P7). The expression of heteromer receptors was more marked in a model of NHIBD and, remarkably, the drop in expression was significantly delayed with respect to controls. These results indicate that CB2-5-HT1A heteroreceptor complex may be considered as a target in the therapy of the NHIBD. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Receptor heteromers and their allosteric receptor-receptor interactions'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Franco
- Centro de Investigación en Red, Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED). Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - María Villa
- Fundación para la Investigación Biomédica del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Paula Morales
- Instituto de Química Médica, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Madrid, Spain
| | - Irene Reyes-Resina
- Centro de Investigación en Red, Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED). Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana Gutiérrez-Rodríguez
- Fundación para la Investigación Biomédica del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Jasmina Jiménez
- Centro de Investigación en Red, Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED). Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Nadine Jagerovic
- Instituto de Química Médica, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Gemma Navarro
- Centro de Investigación en Red, Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED). Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Department of Biochemistry and Physiology. Facultat de Farmàcia. Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
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Li G, Zhang K, Wang L, Cao C, Fang R, Liu P, Luo S, Liberzon I. The preliminary investigation of orexigenic hormone gene polymorphisms on posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2019; 100:131-136. [PMID: 30326460 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2018.09.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2018] [Revised: 07/18/2018] [Accepted: 09/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Orexigenic hormones are a group of hormones that can up-regulate appetite. Current studies have shown that orexigenic hormones also play important roles in stress responses and may be implicated in regulation of fear memory. However, these conclusions lack evidence from human studies. In this study, we examined associations between orexigenic hormone genes and fear-related mental disorders by investigating main, G × E, and G × G effects of ghrelin and orexin gene single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on human posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms in 1134 Chinese earthquake survivors. SNPs Leu72Met of the GHRL gene (rs696217), Ile408Val of the HCRTR1 gene (rs2271933) and Val308Ile of the HCRTR2 gene (rs2653349) were genotyped. None of the SNPs showed significant main or G × E effects. However, a significant interaction effect between GHRL rs696217 and HCRTR1 rs2271933 was found to predict the PTSD Checklist (PCL-5) total score (P = 0.007). Further analysis revealed different interaction patterns in males and females. For females, the rs2271933 G allele was associated with an increased PCL-5 total score (B = 2.59, P = 0.024) when the rs696217 genotype TT/TG was present. For males, the rs696217 T allele is associated with an increased PCL-5 total score (B = 3.62, P = 0.040) when the rs2271933 genotype GG/GA was present. These current findings expand our knowledge of physiological function of the orexigenic hormone system, and suggest its involvement in development of fear-related mental disorders such as PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gen Li
- Laboratory for Traumatic Stress studies and Center for Genetics and BioMedical Informatics Research, CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Beijing, China; Department of Psychology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Kunlin Zhang
- Laboratory for Traumatic Stress studies and Center for Genetics and BioMedical Informatics Research, CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Beijing, China; Department of Psychology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
| | - Li Wang
- Laboratory for Traumatic Stress studies and Center for Genetics and BioMedical Informatics Research, CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Beijing, China; Department of Psychology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
| | - Chengqi Cao
- Laboratory for Traumatic Stress studies and Center for Genetics and BioMedical Informatics Research, CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Beijing, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Affective and Social Cognitive Science, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ruojiao Fang
- Laboratory for Traumatic Stress studies and Center for Genetics and BioMedical Informatics Research, CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Beijing, China; Department of Psychology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ping Liu
- People's Hospital of Deyang City, Deyang, Sichuan, China
| | - Shu Luo
- People's Hospital of Deyang City, Deyang, Sichuan, China
| | - Israel Liberzon
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan and Mental Health Service, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Pourrahimi AM, Abbasnejad M, Esmaeili-Mahani S, Kooshki R, Raoof M. Intra-periaqueductal gray matter administration of orexin-A exaggerates pulpitis-induced anxiogenic responses and c-fos expression mainly through the interaction with orexin 1 and cannabinoid 1 receptors in rats. Neuropeptides 2019; 73:25-33. [PMID: 30587409 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2018.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2018] [Revised: 12/06/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Different types of trigeminal pains are frequently associated with psychophysiological concerns. Orexin-A and orexin 1 receptor (OX1R) are involved in modulation of both trigeminal pain and anxiety responses. Ventrolateral periaqueductal gray matter (vlPAG), a controlling site for nociception and emotion, receives orexinergic inputs. Here, the role of vlPAG OX1Rs and their interaction with cannabinoid 1 (CB1) receptor was evaluated in anxiety-like behavior following capsaicin-induced dental pulp pain. Rats were cannulated in the vlPAG and orexin-A was injected at the doses of 0.17, 0.35 and 0.51 μg/rat prior to the induction of pain. The elevated plus maze (EPM) and open field (OF) tests were used for assessing the anxiety responses. In addition, the induction of c-fos, in the vlPAG, was investigated using immunofluorescence microscopy. Capsaicin-treated rats displayed significantly higher anxiogenic behavior on EPM and OF tests. Pretreatment with orexin-A (0.51 μg/rat) attenuated capsaicin-mediated nociception, while exaggerated anxiogenic responses (p < 0.05). In addition, orexin-A effects were diminished by the administration of OX1R (SB-334867, 12 μg/rat) and cannabinoid 1 (AM251, 4 μg/rat) receptor antagonists. Intradental capsaicin induced a significant increase in c-fos expression in the vlPAG that was exaggerated by orexin-A (0.51 μg/rat). Blockage of OX1R and CB1 receptors attenuated the effect of orexin-A on c-fos expression in capsaicin-treated rats. In conclusion, the data suggest that manipulation of OX1R and CB1 receptors in the vlPAG alters capsaicin-evoked anxiety like behaviors and c-fos induction in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Mohammad Pourrahimi
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mehdi Abbasnejad
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
| | - Saeed Esmaeili-Mahani
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
| | - Razieh Kooshki
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
| | - Maryam Raoof
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Department of Orofacial Pain and Dysfunction, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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26
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Functional cardiac orexin receptors: role of orexin-B/orexin 2 receptor in myocardial protection. Clin Sci (Lond) 2018; 132:2547-2564. [PMID: 30467191 PMCID: PMC6365625 DOI: 10.1042/cs20180150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2018] [Revised: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 11/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Orexins/hypocretins exert cardiovascular effects which are centrally mediated. In the present study, we tested whether orexins and their receptors may also act in an autocrine/paracrine manner in the heart exerting direct effects. Quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR), immunohistochemical and Western blot analyses revealed that the rat heart expresses orexins and orexin receptors (OXR). In isolated rat cardiomyocytes, only orexin-B (OR-B) caused an increase in contractile shortening, independent of diastolic or systolic calcium levels. A specific orexin receptor-2 (OX2R) agonist ([Ala11, d-Leu15]-Orexin B) exerted similar effects as OR-B, whereas a specific orexin receptor-1 (OX1R) antagonist (SB-408124) did not alter the responsiveness of OR-B. Treatment of the same model with OR-B resulted in a dose-dependent increase in myosin light chain and troponin-I (TnI) phosphorylation. Following ischaemia/reperfusion in the isolated Langendorff perfused rat heart model, OR-B, but not OR-A, exerts a cardioprotective effect; mirrored in an in vivo model as well. Unlike OR-A, OR-B was also able to induce extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2 (ERK1/2) and Akt phosphorylation in rat myocardial tissue and ERK1/2 phosphorylation in human heart samples. These findings were further corroborated in an in vivo rat model. In human subjects with heart failure, there is a significant negative correlation between the expression of OX2R and the severity of the disease clinical symptoms, as assessed by the New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional classification. Collectively, we provide evidence of a distinct orexin system in the heart that exerts a cardioprotective role via an OR-B/OX2R pathway.
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Berrendero F, Flores Á, Robledo P. When orexins meet cannabinoids: Bidirectional functional interactions. Biochem Pharmacol 2018; 157:43-50. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2018.08.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2018] [Accepted: 08/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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Vigil JM, Stith SS, Diviant JP, Brockelman F, Keeling K, Hall B. Effectiveness of Raw, Natural Medical Cannabis Flower for Treating Insomnia under Naturalistic Conditions. MEDICINES 2018; 5:medicines5030075. [PMID: 29997343 PMCID: PMC6164964 DOI: 10.3390/medicines5030075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Revised: 07/07/2018] [Accepted: 07/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background: We use a mobile software application (app) to measure for the first time, which fundamental characteristics of raw, natural medical Cannabis flower are associated with changes in perceived insomnia under naturalistic conditions. Methods: Four hundred and nine people with a specified condition of insomnia completed 1056 medical cannabis administration sessions using the Releaf AppTM educational software during which they recorded real-time ratings of self-perceived insomnia severity levels prior to and following consumption, experienced side effects, and product characteristics, including combustion method, cannabis subtypes, and/or major cannabinoid contents of cannabis consumed. Within-user effects of different flower characteristics were modeled using a fixed effects panel regression approach with standard errors clustered at the user level. Results: Releaf AppTM users showed an average symptom severity reduction of -4.5 points on a 0⁻10 point visual analogue scale (SD = 2.7, d = 2.10, p < 0.001). Use of pipes and vaporizers was associated with greater symptom relief and more positive and context-specific side effects as compared to the use of joints, while vaporization was also associated with lower negative effects. Cannabidiol (CBD) was associated with greater statistically significant symptom relief than tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), but the cannabinoid levels generally were not associated with differential side effects. Flower from C. sativa plants was associated with more negative side effects than flower from C. indica or hybrid plant subtypes. Conclusions: Consumption of medical Cannabis flower is associated with significant improvements in perceived insomnia with differential effectiveness and side effect profiles, depending on the product characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob M Vigil
- Department of Psychology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA.
| | - Sarah S Stith
- Department of Economics, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA.
| | - Jegason P Diviant
- Department of Psychology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA.
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