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Levine AA, Liktor-Busa E, Balasubramanian S, Palomino SM, Burtman AM, Couture SA, Lipinski AA, Langlais PR, Largent-Milnes TM. Depletion of Endothelial-Derived 2-AG Reduces Blood-Endothelial Barrier Integrity via Alteration of VE-Cadherin and the Phospho-Proteome. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:531. [PMID: 38203706 PMCID: PMC10778805 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Mounting evidence supports the role of the endocannabinoid system in neurophysiology, including blood-brain barrier (BBB) function. Recent work has demonstrated that activation of endocannabinoid receptors can mitigate insults to the BBB during neurological disorders like traumatic brain injury, cortical spreading depression, and stroke. As alterations to the BBB are associated with worsening clinical outcomes in these conditions, studies herein sought to examine the impact of endocannabinoid depletion on BBB integrity. Barrier integrity was investigated in vitro via bEnd.3 cell monolayers to assess endocannabinoid synthesis, barrier function, calcium influx, junctional protein expression, and proteome-wide changes. Inhibition of 2-AG synthesis using DAGLα inhibition and siRNA inhibition of DAGLα led to loss of barrier integrity via altered expression of VE-cadherin, which could be partially rescued by exogenous application of 2-AG. Moreover, the deleterious effects of DAGLα inhibition on BBB integrity showed both calcium and PKC (protein kinase C)-dependency. These data indicate that disruption of 2-AG homeostasis in brain endothelial cells, in the absence of insult, is sufficient to disrupt BBB integrity thus supporting the role of the endocannabinoid system in neurovascular disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aidan A. Levine
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA; (A.A.L.); (E.L.-B.); (S.B.); (S.M.P.); (A.M.B.); (S.A.C.)
| | - Erika Liktor-Busa
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA; (A.A.L.); (E.L.-B.); (S.B.); (S.M.P.); (A.M.B.); (S.A.C.)
| | - Shreya Balasubramanian
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA; (A.A.L.); (E.L.-B.); (S.B.); (S.M.P.); (A.M.B.); (S.A.C.)
| | - Seph M. Palomino
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA; (A.A.L.); (E.L.-B.); (S.B.); (S.M.P.); (A.M.B.); (S.A.C.)
| | - Anya M. Burtman
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA; (A.A.L.); (E.L.-B.); (S.B.); (S.M.P.); (A.M.B.); (S.A.C.)
| | - Sarah A. Couture
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA; (A.A.L.); (E.L.-B.); (S.B.); (S.M.P.); (A.M.B.); (S.A.C.)
| | - Austin A. Lipinski
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA; (A.A.L.); (P.R.L.)
| | - Paul R. Langlais
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA; (A.A.L.); (P.R.L.)
| | - Tally M. Largent-Milnes
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA; (A.A.L.); (E.L.-B.); (S.B.); (S.M.P.); (A.M.B.); (S.A.C.)
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2
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Norman JE, Nuthikattu S, Milenkovic D, Villablanca AC. Sex Modifies the Impact of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus on the Murine Whole Brain Metabolome. Metabolites 2023; 13:1012. [PMID: 37755291 PMCID: PMC10536706 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13091012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) leads to the development of cardiovascular diseases, cognitive impairment, and dementia. There are sex differences in the presentation of T2DM and its associated complications. We sought to determine the impact of sex and T2DM on the brain metabolome to gain insights into the underlying mechanisms of T2DM-associated cognitive complications. Untargeted metabolomic analysis was performed, using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, on whole brain tissue from adult male and female db/db mice (a T2DM model) compared to wild-type (WT) C57Bl6/J mice. Regardless of sex, T2DM increased free fatty acids and decreased acylcarnitines in the brain. Sex impacted the number (103 versus 65 in males and females, respectively), and types of metabolites shifted by T2DM. Many choline-containing phospholipids were decreased by T2DM in males. Female-specific T2DM effects included changes in neuromodulatory metabolites (γ-aminobutyric acid, 2-linoleoyl glycerol, N-methylaspartic acid, and taurine). Further, there were more significantly different metabolites between sexes in the T2DM condition as compared to the WT controls (54 vs. 15 in T2DM and WT, respectively). T2DM alters the murine brain metabolome in both sex-independent and sex-dependent manners. This work extends our understanding of brain metabolic sex differences in T2DM, cognitive implications, and potential sex-specific metabolic therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer E. Norman
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California, Davis. 1 Shields Ave, Davis, CA 95616, USA; (S.N.); (A.C.V.)
| | - Saivageethi Nuthikattu
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California, Davis. 1 Shields Ave, Davis, CA 95616, USA; (S.N.); (A.C.V.)
| | - Dragan Milenkovic
- Department of Nutrition, University of California, Davis. 1 Shields Ave, Davis, CA 95616, USA;
| | - Amparo C. Villablanca
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California, Davis. 1 Shields Ave, Davis, CA 95616, USA; (S.N.); (A.C.V.)
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Kłosińska U, Leszko M. CBD Oil as a Miracle Drug: A Thematic Analysis of Caregivers’ Attitudes and Practices Towards Cannabidiol in Dementia Treatment. JOURNAL OF DRUG ISSUES 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/00220426221145019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to understand caregivers of individuals with dementia attitudes toward CBD oil. Thematic analysis was conducted with 67 posts (570 comments) about CBD oil selected from a Polish online support forum for caregivers. We identified caregivers’ expectations, motivations, and practices of using CBD oil. Caregivers expected CBD to improve the behavior, cognition, communication, and daily activities of their loved ones. They motivated each other by sharing experiences about the positive effects of CBD oil and claimed to be administering CBD oil without medical advice, which led to dangerous practices such as an overnight withdrawal of all drugs or experimenting with CBD oil dosage. Caregivers perceive CBD oil as a safer and more effective treatment for those with dementia than the conventional methods. We recommend healthcare professionals inquire about possible CBD oil usage during follow-up visits and thoroughly explain what to expect from prescribed medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Urszula Kłosińska
- Faculty of Psychology, SWPS University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Magdalena Leszko
- Department of Psychology, University of Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland
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4
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Mechanistic Origin of Partial Agonism of Tetrahydrocannabinol for Cannabinoid Receptors. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:101764. [PMID: 35227761 PMCID: PMC8965160 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.101764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) is a therapeutically relevant drug target for controlling pain, obesity, and other central nervous system disorders. However, full agonists and antagonists of CB1 have been reported to cause serious side effects in patients. Therefore, partial agonists have emerged as a viable alternative as they can mitigate overstimulation and side effects. One of the key bottlenecks in the design of partial agonists, however, is the lack of understanding of the molecular mechanism of partial agonism itself. In this study, we examine two mechanistic hypotheses for the origin of partial agonism in cannabinoid receptors and predict the mechanistic basis of partial agonism exhibited by Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) against CB1. In particular, we inspect whether partial agonism emerges from the ability of THC to bind in both agonist and antagonist-binding poses or from its ability to only partially activate the receptor. We used extensive molecular dynamics simulations and Markov state modeling to capture the THC binding in both antagonist and agonist-binding poses in the CB1 receptor. Furthermore, we predict that binding of THC in the agonist-binding pose leads to rotation of toggle switch residues and causes partial outward movement of intracellular transmembrane helix 6 (TM6). Our simulations also suggest that the alkyl side chain of THC plays a crucial role in determining partial agonism by stabilizing the ligand in the agonist and antagonist-like poses within the pocket. Taken together, this study provides important insights into the mechanistic origin of the partial agonism of THC.
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Outen JD, Burhanullah H, Vandrey R, Amjad H, Harper DG, Patrick RE, May RL, Agronin ME, Forester BP, Rosenberg PB. Cannabinoids for Agitation in Alzheimer's Disease. Am J Geriatr Psychiatry 2021; 29:1253-1263. [PMID: 33573996 PMCID: PMC8313629 DOI: 10.1016/j.jagp.2021.01.015] [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: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Agitation is a common neuropsychiatric symptom of Alzheimer's disease (AD) that greatly impacts quality of life and amplifies caregiver burden. Agitation in AD may be associated with volume loss in the anterior cingulate cortex, posterior cingulate cortex, insula, amygdala, and frontal cortex, as well as with degeneration of monoaminergic neurotransmission, disrupted circadian rhythms, and frailty. Current pharmacologic options have troubling safety concerns and only modest efficacy. There is increasing interest in cannabinoids as promising agents due to preclinical and early clinical research that suggest cannabinoids can elicit anxiolytic, antidepressant, and/or anti-inflammatory effects. Cannabinoids may relieve agitation by regulating neurotransmitters, improving comorbidities and circadian rhythms, and increasing cerebral circulation. Here we discuss the possible contributory mechanisms for agitation in AD and the therapeutic relevance of cannabinoids, including CBD and THC.
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Affiliation(s)
- John D. Outen
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
| | - Haroon Burhanullah
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
| | - Ryan Vandrey
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
| | - Halima Amjad
- Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
| | - David G. Harper
- Division of Geriatric Psychiatry, McLean Hospital,Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School
| | - Regan E. Patrick
- Division of Geriatric Psychiatry, McLean Hospital,Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School
| | - Rose L. May
- Division of Geriatric Psychiatry, McLean Hospital
| | - Marc E. Agronin
- Department of Mental Health and Clinical Research, Miami Jewish Health
| | - Brent P. Forester
- Division of Geriatric Psychiatry, McLean Hospital,Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School
| | - Paul B. Rosenberg
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
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Bosnjak Kuharic D, Markovic D, Brkovic T, Jeric Kegalj M, Rubic Z, Vuica Vukasovic A, Jeroncic A, Puljak L. Cannabinoids for the treatment of dementia. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2021; 9:CD012820. [PMID: 34532852 PMCID: PMC8446835 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd012820.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dementia is a common chronic condition, mainly affecting older adults, characterised by a progressive decline in cognitive and functional abilities. Medical treatments for dementia are limited. Cannabinoids are being investigated for the treatment of dementia. OBJECTIVES To determine the efficacy and safety of cannabinoids for the treatment of dementia. SEARCH METHODS We searched ALOIS - the Cochrane Dementia and Cognitive Improvement Group's Specialised Register - on 8 July 2021, using the terms cannabis or cannabinoid or endocannabinoid or cannabidiol or THC or CBD or dronabinol or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol or marijuana or marihuana or hashish. The register contains records from all major healthcare databases (the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, LILACS), as well as from many clinical trials registries and grey literature sources. SELECTION CRITERIA We included all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of cannabinoids for the treatment of dementia. We included participants of any age and of either sex with diagnosed dementia of any subtype, or with unspecified dementia of any severity, from any setting. We considered studies of cannabinoids administered by any route, at any dose, for any duration, compared with placebo, no treatment, or any active control intervention. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently screened and selected studies for inclusion, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias in included studies. When necessary, other review authors were involved in reaching consensus decisions. We conducted meta-analyses using a generic inverse variance fixed-effect model to derive estimates of effect size. We used GRADE methods to assess our confidence in the effect estimates. MAIN RESULTS We included four studies (126 participants) in this review. Most participants had Alzheimer's disease; a few had vascular dementia or mixed dementia. Three studies had low risk of bias across all domains; one study had unclear risk of bias for the majority of domains. The included studies tested natural delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) (Namisol) and two types of synthetic THC analogue (dronabinol and nabilone). Three trials had a cross-over design. Interventions were applied over 3 to 14 weeks; one study reported adverse events over 70 weeks of follow-up. One trial was undertaken in the USA, one in Canada, and two in The Netherlands. Two studies reported non-commercial funding, and two studies were conducted with the support of both commercial and non-commercial funding. Primary outcomes in this review were changes in global and specific cognitive function, overall behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), and adverse events. We found very low-certainty evidence suggesting there may be little or no clinically important effect of a synthetic THC analogue on cognition assessed with the standardised Mini-Mental State Examination (sMMSE) (mean difference (MD) 1.1 points, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.1 to 2.1; 1 cross-over trial, 28 participants). We found low-certainty evidence suggesting there may be little or no clinically important effect of cannabinoids on overall behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia assessed with the Neuropsychiatric Inventory (or its modified nursing home version) (MD -1.97, 95% CI -3.87 to -0.07; 1 parallel group and 2 cross-over studies, 110 participants). All included studies reported data on adverse events. However, the total number of adverse events, the total numbers of mild and moderate adverse events, and the total number of serious adverse events (SAEs) were not reported in a way that permitted meta-analysis. There were no clear differences between groups in numbers of adverse events, with the exception of sedation (including lethargy), which was more frequent among participants taking nabilone (N = 17) than placebo (N = 6) (odds ratio (OR) 2.83, 95% CI 1.07 to 7.48; 1 cross-over study, 38 participants). We judged the certainty of evidence for adverse event outcomes to be low or very low due to serious concerns regarding imprecision and indirectness. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Based on data from four small, short, and heterogeneous placebo-controlled trials, we cannot be certain whether cannabinoids have any beneficial or harmful effects on dementia. If there are benefits of cannabinoids for people with dementia, the effects may be too small to be clinically meaningful. Adequately powered, methodologically robust trials with longer follow-up are needed to properly assess the effects of cannabinoids in dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Domagoj Markovic
- Clinic for Heart and Cardiovascular Diseases, University of Split Hospital Center, Split, Croatia
| | - Tonci Brkovic
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Split Hospital Center, Split, Croatia
| | | | - Zana Rubic
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, University of Split Hospital Center, Split, Croatia
| | - Ana Vuica Vukasovic
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Split Hospital Center, Split, Croatia
| | - Ana Jeroncic
- Department of Research in Biomedicine and Health, University of Split School of Medicine, Split, Croatia
| | - Livia Puljak
- Center for Evidence-Based Medicine and Health Care, Catholic University of Croatia, Zagreb, Croatia
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7
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Scarante FF, Ribeiro MA, Almeida-Santos AF, Guimarães FS, Campos AC. Glial Cells and Their Contribution to the Mechanisms of Action of Cannabidiol in Neuropsychiatric Disorders. Front Pharmacol 2021; 11:618065. [PMID: 33613284 PMCID: PMC7890128 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.618065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a phytocannabinoid with a broad-range of therapeutic potential in several conditions, including neurological (epilepsy, neurodegenerative diseases, traumatic and ischemic brain injuries) and psychiatric disorders (schizophrenia, addiction, major depressive disorder, and anxiety). The pharmacological mechanisms responsible for these effects are still unclear, and more than 60 potential molecular targets have been described. Regarding neuropsychiatric disorders, most studies investigating these mechanisms have focused on neuronal cells. However, glial cells (astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, microglia) also play a crucial role in keeping the homeostasis of the central nervous system. Changes in glial functions have been associated with neuropathological conditions, including those for which CBD is proposed to be useful. Mostly in vitro studies have indicated that CBD modulate the activation of proinflammatory pathways, energy metabolism, calcium homeostasis, and the proliferative rate of glial cells. Likewise, some of the molecular targets proposed for CBD actions are f expressed in glial cells, including pharmacological receptors such as CB1, CB2, PPAR-γ, and 5-HT1A. In the present review, we discuss the currently available evidence suggesting that part of the CBD effects are mediated by interference with glial cell function. We also propose additional studies that need to be performed to unveil the contribution of glial cells to CBD effects in neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franciele F. Scarante
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Melissa A. Ribeiro
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Ana F. Almeida-Santos
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Biological Science Institute, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Francisco S. Guimarães
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Alline C. Campos
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
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Fiani B, Sarhadi KJ, Soula M, Zafar A, Quadri SA. Current application of cannabidiol (CBD) in the management and treatment of neurological disorders. Neurol Sci 2020; 41:3085-3098. [PMID: 32556748 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-020-04514-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD), which is nonintoxicating pharmacologically relevant constituents of Cannabis, demonstrates several beneficial effects. It has been found to have antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects. As the medicinal use of CBD is gaining popularity for treatment of various disorders, the recent flare-up of largely unproven and unregulated cannabis-based preparations on medical therapeutics may have its greatest impact in the field of neurology. Currently, as lot of clinical trials are underway, CBD demonstrates remarkable potential to become a supplemental therapy in various neurological conditions. It has shown promise in the treatment of neurological disorders such as anxiety, chronic pain, trigeminal neuralgia, epilepsy, and essential tremors as well as psychiatric disorders. While recent FDA-approved prescription drugs have demonstrated safety, efficacy, and consistency enough for regulatory approval in spasticity in multiple sclerosis (MS) and in Dravet and Lennox-Gastaut Syndromes (LGS), many therapeutic challenges still remain. In the current review, the authors have shed light on the application of CBD in the management and treatment of various neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Fiani
- Department of Neurosurgery, Desert Regional Medical Center, Palm Springs, CA, USA
| | | | - Marisol Soula
- New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Atif Zafar
- Department of Neurology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Syed A Quadri
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.
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Bahji A, Meyyappan AC, Hawken ER. Cannabinoids for the Neuropsychiatric Symptoms of Dementia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRY. REVUE CANADIENNE DE PSYCHIATRIE 2020; 65:365-376. [PMID: 31835954 PMCID: PMC7265608 DOI: 10.1177/0706743719892717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2016, the global number of individuals living with dementia was 43.8 million, representing a 117% increase from 1990-mainly due to increases in aging and population growth. Up to 90% of individuals with dementia experience neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS). However, the limitations of current treatments for NPS have drivent he search for safer pharmacotherapies-including cannabinoids. AIM To assess the efficacy and acceptability of cannabinoids for the treatment of NPS in individuals with dementia. DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Of 6,902 papers, 9 were eligible (n = 205, 44% female, 78 ± 7 years, 85% Alzheimer disease). Trials were in North America and Europe and explored tetrahydrocannabinol (n = 3), dronabinol (n = 5), or nabilone (n = 1). MEASUREMENT Titles/abstracts were independently screened by one reviewer and reviewed by a second. Full-text screening was by two reviewers with discrepancies resolved via a third reviewer. We extracted data on the standardized mean difference (SMD) for several NPS instruments, trial completion, and adverse events. Data were pooled using random-effects models. FINDINGS Cannabinoids led to significant improvements across NPS instruments, including the Cohen Mansfield Agitation Inventory (SMD = -0.80; 95% confidence interval [CI], -1.45 to -0.16), the Neuropsychiatric Inventory (SMD = -0.61; CI, -1.07 to -0.15), and nocturnal actigraphy (SMD = -1.05; CI, -1.56 to -0.54h). Cannabinoids were well-tolerated, with an overall trial completion rate of 93% (193/205) and no serious treatment-related adverse events. Treatment efficacy was associated with baseline dementia severity and dose, but not dementia subtype, age, or sex. The overall study quality was rated as low. CONCLUSIONS There is preliminary evidence for the efficacy and tolerability of cannabinoids as treatments for NPS. Population-based studies are needed to characterize their real-world effectiveness and acceptability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anees Bahji
- Department of Psychiatry, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Public Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Arthi Chinna Meyyappan
- Providence Care Hospital, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.,Centre for Neurosciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Emily R Hawken
- Department of Psychiatry, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.,Providence Care Hospital, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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10
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Ihara M, Saito S. Drug Repositioning for Alzheimer’s Disease: Finding Hidden Clues in Old Drugs. J Alzheimers Dis 2020; 74:1013-1028. [DOI: 10.3233/jad-200049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Masafumi Ihara
- Department of Neurology, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, Japan
| | - Satoshi Saito
- Department of Neurology, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, Japan
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11
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Timler A, Bulsara C, Bulsara M, Vickery A, Smith J, Codde J. Use of cannabinoid-based medicine among older residential care recipients diagnosed with dementia: study protocol for a double-blind randomised crossover trial. Trials 2020; 21:188. [PMID: 32059690 PMCID: PMC7023743 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-020-4085-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dementia is a neurological condition that affects the cognitive and functional ability of the brain and is the leading cause of disability among those aged 65 years and above. More effective ways to manage dementia symptoms are needed because current treatment options (antidepressants and antipsychotics) can be ineffective and are associated with substantial side effects, including increased rate of mortality. Cannabinoid-based medicine (CBM) has shown an ability to inhibit some symptoms associated with dementia, and the adverse effects are often minimal; yet, little research has explored the use of CBM among this population. AIM To monitor the safety of a purified dose of CBM oil (3:2 delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol:cannabidiol) on behaviour symptoms, quality of life and discomfort caused by pain. METHODS/DESIGN We will carry out an 18-week, randomised, double-blind crossover trial that consists of a 2-week eligibility period, two 6-week treatment cycles, and two 2-week washout periods (between both cycles and after the second treatment cycle). We aim to recruit 50 participants with dementia who are living in residential aged-care facilities. The participants will be randomised into two groups and will receive a dose of either CBM oil or placebo for the first treatment cycle and the opposite medication for the second. Data will be collected using the Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire, the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory, the Quality of Life in Alzheimer's Disease questionnaire, and the Abbey Pain Scale on seven occasions. These will be completed by the participants, aged-care staff, and nominated next of kin or family members. The participants' heart rate and blood pressure will be monitored weekly, and their body composition and weight will be monitored fortnightly by a research nurse, to assess individual dose response and frailty. In addition, pre- and post-surveys will be administered to aged-care staff and family members to understand their perceptions of CBM and to inform proposed focus groups consisting of the aged-care staff and next of kin. DISCUSSION The study design has been informed by medical professionals and key stakeholders, including those working in the residential aged-care industry to ensure patient safety, collection of non-invasive measures, and methodological rigor and study feasibility. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry, ACTRN12619000474156. Registered on 21 March 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Timler
- Institute for Health Research, University of Notre Dame Australia, Perth, WA, Australia.
| | - Caroline Bulsara
- Institute for Health Research, University of Notre Dame Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Max Bulsara
- Institute for Health Research, University of Notre Dame Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | | | - Jill Smith
- Institute for Health Research, University of Notre Dame Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Jim Codde
- Institute for Health Research, University of Notre Dame Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
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12
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Bonaccorso S, Ricciardi A, Zangani C, Chiappini S, Schifano F. Cannabidiol (CBD) use in psychiatric disorders: A systematic review. Neurotoxicology 2019; 74:282-298. [PMID: 31412258 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2019.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2019] [Revised: 08/02/2019] [Accepted: 08/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are the most represented phytocannabinoids in Cannabis sativa plants. However, CBD may present with a different activity compared with the psychotomimetic THC. Most typically, CBD is reported to be used in some medical conditions, including chronic pain. Conversely, the main aim of this systematic review is to assess and summarise the available body of evidence relating to both efficacy and safety of CBD as a treatment for psychiatric disorders, alone and/or in combination with other treatments. Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials (RCT) assessing the effect of CBD in a range of psychopathological conditions, such as substance use; psychosis, anxiety, mood disturbances, and other psychiatric (e.g., cognitive impairment; sleep; personality; eating; obsessive-compulsive; post-traumatic stress/PTSD; dissociative; and somatic) disorders. For data gathering purposes, the PRISMA guidelines were followed. The initial search strategy identified some n = 1301 papers; n = 190 studies were included after the abstract's screening and n = 27 articles met the inclusion criteria. There is currently limited evidence regarding the safety and efficacy of CBD for the treatment of psychiatric disorders. However, available trials reported potential therapeutic effects for specific psychopathological conditions, such as substance use disorders, chronic psychosis, and anxiety. Further large-scale RCTs are required to better evaluate the efficacy of CBD in both acute and chronic illnesses, special categories, as well as to exclude any possible abuse liability.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Angelo Ricciardi
- Camden and Islington NHS Mental Health Foundation Trust, London, UK; Department of Mental Health, ASL Roma 1, Rome, Italy
| | - Caroline Zangani
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - Stefania Chiappini
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - Fabrizio Schifano
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
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Ayikobua ET, Semuyaba I, Eze DE, Kalange M, Nansunga M, Okpanachi AO, Safiriyu AA. Combined Donepezil and Ethanolic Extract of Propolis Improved Memory Better Than Donepezil and Propolis Monotherapy in Wild Type Drosophila melanogaster. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2018; 2018:3717328. [PMID: 30158994 PMCID: PMC6109536 DOI: 10.1155/2018/3717328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2018] [Revised: 07/07/2018] [Accepted: 07/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Donepezil is the most common drug used in the treatment of disorders associated with memory loss, especially that in Alzheimer's disease. Healthy individuals however have continued to use it as a memory enhancer. This study was aimed at evaluating the combined therapy of donepezil and propolis on cognition in Drosophila melanogaster. Method. Drosophila melanogaster flies were divided into five groups and fed with the different treatment doses of ethanolic extract of propolis and donepezil as follows: normal food, propolis 250 mg/mL, propolis 50 mg/mL, donepezil 0.001M, and donepezil 0.001M/propolis 50 mg/mL added to their food. The flies were fed from larval stage for 30 days. The memory and learning tests were conducted after every 10 days to assess improvement with time. RESULTS The results obtained showed that the combination of propolis with donepezil caused a remarkable improvement in both the short- and long-term memory. In addition, there was a dose dependent improvement with the administration of propolis. CONCLUSION Propolis extract obtained from different parts of Uganda expressed cognitive improvement when coadministered with donepezil in wild type Drosophila melanogaster.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Tiyo Ayikobua
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University, Western Campus, P.O. Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
- Institute of Biomedical Research Laboratory, Kampala International University, Western Campus, P.O. Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Ibrahim Semuyaba
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University, Western Campus, P.O. Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Daniel Ejike Eze
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University, Western Campus, P.O. Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Muhamudu Kalange
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University, Western Campus, P.O. Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Mariam Nansunga
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, St. Augustine International University, P.O. Box 88, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Alfred Omachonu Okpanachi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University, Western Campus, P.O. Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
- Institute of Biomedical Research Laboratory, Kampala International University, Western Campus, P.O. Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Abass Alao Safiriyu
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University, Western Campus, P.O. Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
- Institute of Biomedical Research Laboratory, Kampala International University, Western Campus, P.O. Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
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Tampi RR, Young JJ, Tampi DJ. Cannabinoids for the treatment of behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia. Neurodegener Dis Manag 2018; 8:211-213. [PMID: 30040030 DOI: 10.2217/nmt-2018-0019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Rajesh R Tampi
- Department of Psychiatry, MetroHealth, Cleveland, OH, 44109, USA
| | - Juan J Young
- Department of Psychiatry, MetroHealth, Cleveland, OH, 44109, USA
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15
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Agitation in Alzheimer Disease as a Qualifying Condition for Medical Marijuana in the United States. Am J Geriatr Psychiatry 2016; 24:1000-1003. [PMID: 27389672 PMCID: PMC5064815 DOI: 10.1016/j.jagp.2016.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2016] [Revised: 03/03/2016] [Accepted: 03/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the extent to which states and localities include dementia as a qualifying condition for medical marijuana and how common this indication is. METHODS The authors reviewed authorizing legislation and medical marijuana program websites and annual reports for the states and localities where medical marijuana is legal. RESULTS Of the 24 states and localities where medical marijuana is legal, dementia is a qualifying condition in 10 (41.7%), primarily for agitation of Alzheimer disease. In the five states where information was available regarding qualifying conditions for certification, dementia was the indication for <0.5% of medical marijuana certifications. CONCLUSION Dementia is somewhat commonly listed as a potential qualifying condition for medical marijuana. Currently, few applicants for medical marijuana list dementia as the reason for seeking certification. However, given increasingly open attitudes toward recreational and medical marijuana use, providers should be aware that dementia is a potential indication for licensing, despite lack of evidence for its efficacy.
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Libro R, Giacoppo S, Soundara Rajan T, Bramanti P, Mazzon E. Natural Phytochemicals in the Treatment and Prevention of Dementia: An Overview. Molecules 2016; 21:518. [PMID: 27110749 PMCID: PMC6274085 DOI: 10.3390/molecules21040518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2016] [Revised: 04/04/2016] [Accepted: 04/13/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The word dementia describes a class of heterogeneous diseases which etiopathogenetic mechanisms are not well understood. There are different types of dementia, among which, Alzheimer's disease (AD), vascular dementia (VaD), dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) are the more common. Currently approved pharmacological treatments for most forms of dementia seem to act only on symptoms without having profound disease-modifying effects. Thus, alternative strategies capable of preventing the progressive loss of specific neuronal populations are urgently required. In particular, the attention of researchers has been focused on phytochemical compounds that have shown antioxidative, anti-amyloidogenic, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic properties and that could represent important resources in the discovery of drug candidates against dementia. In this review, we summarize the neuroprotective effects of the main phytochemicals belonging to the polyphenol, isothiocyanate, alkaloid and cannabinoid families in the prevention and treatment of the most common kinds of dementia. We believe that natural phytochemicals may represent a promising sources of alternative medicine, at least in association with therapies approved to date for dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosaliana Libro
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino-Pulejo", Via Provinciale Palermo, Contrada Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy.
| | - Sabrina Giacoppo
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino-Pulejo", Via Provinciale Palermo, Contrada Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy.
| | - Thangavelu Soundara Rajan
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino-Pulejo", Via Provinciale Palermo, Contrada Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy.
| | - Placido Bramanti
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino-Pulejo", Via Provinciale Palermo, Contrada Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy.
| | - Emanuela Mazzon
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino-Pulejo", Via Provinciale Palermo, Contrada Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy.
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Shelef A, Barak Y, Berger U, Paleacu D, Tadger S, Plopsky I, Baruch Y. Safety and Efficacy of Medical Cannabis Oil for Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia: An-Open Label, Add-On, Pilot Study. J Alzheimers Dis 2016; 51:15-9. [DOI: 10.3233/jad-150915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Assaf Shelef
- Abarbanel Mental Health Center, Bat-Yam, Israel and Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Yoram Barak
- Abarbanel Mental Health Center, Bat-Yam, Israel and Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Uri Berger
- Department of Psychology, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel
| | - Diana Paleacu
- Abarbanel Mental Health Center, Bat-Yam, Israel and Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Shelly Tadger
- Abarbanel Mental Health Center, Bat-Yam, Israel and Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Igor Plopsky
- Abarbanel Mental Health Center, Bat-Yam, Israel and Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Yehuda Baruch
- Abarbanel Mental Health Center, Bat-Yam, Israel and Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
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González-Naranjo P, Pérez-Macias N, Campillo NE, Pérez C, Arán VJ, Girón R, Sánchez-Robles E, Martín MI, Gómez-Cañas M, García-Arencibia M, Fernández-Ruiz J, Páez JA. Cannabinoid agonists showing BuChE inhibition as potential therapeutic agents for Alzheimer's disease. Eur J Med Chem 2014; 73:56-72. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2013.11.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2013] [Revised: 11/08/2013] [Accepted: 11/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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