1
|
Classen N, Pitakbut T, Schöfbänker M, Kühn J, Hrincius ER, Ludwig S, Hensel A, Kayser O. Cannabigerol and Cannabicyclol Block SARS-CoV-2 Cell Fusion. PLANTA MEDICA 2024; 90:717-725. [PMID: 38885660 DOI: 10.1055/a-2320-8822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
The search for new active substances against SARS-CoV-2 is still a central challenge after the COVID-19 pandemic. Antiviral agents to complement vaccination are an important pillar in the clinical situation. Selected cannabinoids such as cannabigerol, cannabicyclol, cannabichromene, and cannabicitran from Cannabis sativa and synthetic homologues of cannabigerol and cannabicyclol were evaluated for effects on the cell viability of Vero cells (CC50 of cannabigerol and cannabicyclol 40 resp. 38 µM) and reduced virus entry of vesicular stomatitis pseudotyped viruses with surface-expressed SARS-CoV-2 spike protein at 20 µM. In addition to a reduction of pseudotyped virus entry, a titer reduction assay on Vero cells after preincubation of Wuhan SARS-CoV-2 significantly confirmed antiviral activity. Investigations on the molecular targets addressed by cannabigerol and cannabicyclol indicated that both compounds are inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein-mediated membrane fusion, as could be shown by a virus-free reporter fusion inhibition assay (EC50 for cannabigerol 5.5 µM and for cannabicyclol 10.8 µM) and by monitoring syncytia formation in Vero reporter cells. Selectivity indices were calculated as 7.4 for cannabigerol and 3.5 for cannabicyclol. Systematic semisynthetic alterations of cannabigerol and cannabicyclol indicated that the side chains of both compounds do not contribute to the observed anti-membrane fusion activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nica Classen
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biology and Phytochemistry, University of Münster, Germany
| | - Thanet Pitakbut
- Technical Biochemistry Laboratory, Faculty of Biochemical and Chemical Engineering, Technical University of Dortmund, Germany
| | | | - Joachim Kühn
- Institute of Virology Münster (IVM), University of Münster, Germany
| | - Eike R Hrincius
- Institute of Virology Münster (IVM), University of Münster, Germany
| | - Stephan Ludwig
- Institute of Virology Münster (IVM), University of Münster, Germany
| | - Andreas Hensel
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biology and Phytochemistry, University of Münster, Germany
| | - Oliver Kayser
- Technical Biochemistry Laboratory, Faculty of Biochemical and Chemical Engineering, Technical University of Dortmund, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Provenzano R, De Caro C, Vitiello A, Izzo L, Ritieni A, Ungaro F, Quaglia F, Russo E, Miro A, d'Angelo I. Enhancing transmucosal delivery of CBD through nanoemulsion: in vitro and in vivo studies. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2024; 14:1648-1659. [PMID: 38064145 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-023-01481-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) has gained significant attention as a complementary and alternative medicine due to its promising therapeutic properties. However, CBD faces obstacles when administered orally due to its poor solubility in water, leading to limited absorption into the bloodstream and low and variable bioavailability. Therefore, the development of innovative delivery approaches that can enhance CBD's bioavailability, facilitate administration, and promote patient adherence is crucial. We propose a new approach for buccal delivery of CBD based on a self-assembling nanoemulsion (NE) made of a mixture of surfactants (Tween 80 and Labrasol) and medium chain triglycerides (MCTs). The NE formulation showed properties suitable for buccal administration, including appropriate size, CBD content, and surface properties, and, if compared to a CBD-MCT solution, it exhibited better control of administered doses, faster dissolution in buccal medium, and enhanced stability. The CBD-NE effectively released its active load within 5 h, remained stable even when diluted in simulated buccal fluids, and could be easily administered through a commercially available spray, providing consistent and reproducible doses of NE with optimized properties. In vitro permeation studies demonstrated that the CBD-NE facilitated swift and consistent permeation through the buccal mucosa, resulting in a higher concentration in the acceptor compartment compared to CBD-MCT. Furthermore, the in vivo study in mice showed that a single buccal administration of CBD-NE led to a quicker onset of action than a CBD solution in MCT, while maintaining the same plasma levels over time and leading to typically higher plasma concentrations compared to those usually achieved through oral administration. In conclusion, our CBD-NE represents a promising alternative formulation strategy for buccal CBD administration, overcoming the challenges associated with conventional formulations such as variable bioavailability and low control of administered doses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Romina Provenzano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Carmen De Caro
- Department of Science of Health, Magna Græcia University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Antonella Vitiello
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Luana Izzo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Alberto Ritieni
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Ungaro
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Fabiana Quaglia
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Emilio Russo
- Department of Science of Health, Magna Græcia University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Agnese Miro
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131, Naples, Italy.
| | - Ivana d'Angelo
- DiSTABiF, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via A. Vivaldi, 43, 81100, Caserta, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Marquez AB, Vicente J, Castro E, Vota D, Rodríguez-Varela MS, Lanza Castronuovo PA, Fuentes GM, Parise AR, Romorini L, Alvarez DE, Bueno CA, Ramirez CL, Alaimo A, García CC. Broad-Spectrum Antiviral Effect of Cannabidiol Against Enveloped and Nonenveloped Viruses. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2024; 9:751-765. [PMID: 37682578 DOI: 10.1089/can.2023.0103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Cannabidiol (CBD), the main non-psychoactive cannabinoid of the Cannabis sativa plant, is a powerful antioxidant compound that in recent years has increased interest due to causes effects in a wide range of biological functions. Zika virus (ZIKV) is a virus transmitted mainly by the Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which causes neurological diseases, such as microcephaly and Guillain-Barre syndrome. Although the frequency of viral outbreaks has increased recently, no vaccinations or particular chemotherapeutic treatments are available for ZIKV infection. Objectives: The major aim of this study was to explore the in vitro antiviral activity of CBD against ZIKV, expanding also to other dissimilar viruses. Materials and Methods: Cell cultures were infected with enveloped and nonenveloped viruses and treated with non-cytotoxic concentrations of CBD and then, viral titers were determined. Additionally, the mechanism of action of the compound during ZIKV in vitro infections was studied. To study the possible immunomodulatory role of CBD, infected and uninfected Huh-7 cells were exposed to 10 μM CBD during 48 h and levels of interleukins 6 and 8 and interferon-beta (IFN-β) expression levels were measured. On the other hand, the effect of CBD on cellular membranes was studied. For this, an immunofluorescence assay was performed, in which cell membranes were labeled with wheat germ agglutinin. Finally, intracellular cholesterol levels were measured. Results: CBD exhibited a potent antiviral activity against all the tested viruses in different cell lines with half maximal effective concentration values (CE50) ranging from 0.87 to 8.55 μM. Regarding the immunomodulatory effect of CBD during ZIKV in vitro infections, CBD-treated cells exhibited significantly IFN-β increased levels, meanwhile, interleukins 6 and 8 were not induced. Furthermore, it was determined that CBD affects cellular membranes due to the higher fluorescence intensity that was observed in CBD-treated cells and lowers intracellular cholesterol levels, thus affecting the multiplication of ZIKV and other viruses. Conclusions: It was demonstrated that CBD inhibits structurally dissimilar viruses, suggesting that this phytochemical has broad-spectrum antiviral effect, representing a valuable alternative in emergency situations during viral outbreaks, like the one caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 in 2020.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Agostina B Marquez
- Laboratorio de Virología, Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN), UBA-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Josefina Vicente
- Laboratorio de Virología, Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN), UBA-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Eliana Castro
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas (IIBIO), Universidad Nacional de San Martín (UNSAM)-(CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Daiana Vota
- Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN), UBA-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Laboratorio de Inmunofarmacología, IQUIBICEN, UBA-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María S Rodríguez-Varela
- Laboratorio de Investigación Aplicada a Neurociencias (LIAN), Fundación para la Lucha contra las Enfermedades Neurológicas de la Infancia (Fleni)-CONICET, Instituto de Neurociencias (INEU), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Priscila A Lanza Castronuovo
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Biodiversidad y Biotecnología (INBIOTEC), Química Analítica y Modelado Molecular (QUIAMM), Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata-CONICET, Mar del Plata, Argentina
| | - Giselle M Fuentes
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción Sanidad y Ambiente (IIPROSAM), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Centro Científico Tecnológico Mar del Plata, CONICET, Mar del Plata, Argentina
- Centro de Asociación Simple CIC PBA, Mar del Plata, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Abejas Sociales, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Mar del Plata, Argentina
| | - Alejandro R Parise
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Biodiversidad y Biotecnología (INBIOTEC), Química Analítica y Modelado Molecular (QUIAMM), Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata-CONICET, Mar del Plata, Argentina
- Departamento de Química Biológica y Bioquímica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Mar del Plata, Argentina
| | - Leonardo Romorini
- Laboratorio de Investigación Aplicada a Neurociencias (LIAN), Fundación para la Lucha contra las Enfermedades Neurológicas de la Infancia (Fleni)-CONICET, Instituto de Neurociencias (INEU), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Diego E Alvarez
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas (IIBIO), Universidad Nacional de San Martín (UNSAM)-(CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Escuela de Bio y Nanotecnologías (EByN), Universidad Nacional de San Martín, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carlos A Bueno
- Laboratorio de Virología, Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN), UBA-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Cristina L Ramirez
- Departamento de Química Biológica y Bioquímica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Mar del Plata, Argentina
- Asociación Civil CBG2000, Mar del Plata, Argentina
| | - Agustina Alaimo
- Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN), UBA-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Cybele C García
- Laboratorio de Virología, Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN), UBA-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Hassan Kalantar Neyestanaki M, Gholizadeh O, Hosseini Tabatabaie F, Akbarzadeh S, Yasamineh S, Afkhami H, Sedighi S. Immunomodulatory effects of cannabinoids against viral infections: a review of its potential use in SARS-CoV2 infection. Virusdisease 2024; 35:342-356. [PMID: 39071880 PMCID: PMC11269557 DOI: 10.1007/s13337-024-00871-0] [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: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic is a global health crisis affecting millions of people worldwide. Along with vaccine development, there is also a priority to discover new drugs and treatments. One approach involves modulating the immune system to manage inflammation and cytokine storms. Patients with a high severity of complications exhibit a high level of inflammatory cytokines, particularly IL-6, in the airways and other infected tissues. Several studies have reported the function of the endocannabinoid system in regulating inflammation and different immune responses. Cannabinoids are a class of natural chemicals found in the Cannabis plant. Recently, the anti-inflammatory properties of cannabinoids and their mediatory immunosuppression mechanisms through the endocannabinoid system have engrossed scientists in the health field for infectious conditions. Research suggests that the immune system can regulate cytokine activation through cannabinoid receptors, particularly with Cannabidiol (CBD), the second most prevalent compound in cannabis. While CBD has been deemed safe by the World Health Organization and shows no signs of abuse potential, excessive CBD use may lead to respiratory depression. CBD shows promise in reducing immune cell recruitment and cytokine storms in organs affected by SARS-CoV2. However, before clinical use, it's crucial to evaluate cannabinoid-based medications' active ingredient concentrations and potential interactions with other drugs, along with associated side effects. Indication-based dosing, consistent formulations, and ensuring purity and potency are essential. This review highlights cannabinoids' effects on COVID-19 management and prognosis, drawing from preclinical and clinical studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Fatemeh Hosseini Tabatabaie
- Department of Bacteriology and Virology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Sama Akbarzadeh
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Natural Science, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Saman Yasamineh
- Young Researchers and Elite Club, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hamed Afkhami
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahed University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Somayeh Sedighi
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Science of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Monyela S, Kayoka PN, Ngezimana W, Nemadodzi LE. Evaluating the Metabolomic Profile and Anti-Pathogenic Properties of Cannabis Species. Metabolites 2024; 14:253. [PMID: 38786730 PMCID: PMC11122914 DOI: 10.3390/metabo14050253] [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: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The Cannabis species is one of the potent ancient medicinal plants acclaimed for its medicinal properties and recreational purposes. The plant parts are used and exploited all over the world for several agricultural and industrial applications. For many years Cannabis spp. has proven to present a highly diverse metabolomic profile with a pool of bioactive metabolites used for numerous pharmacological purposes ranging from anti-inflammatory to antimicrobial. Cannabis sativa has since been an extensive subject of investigation, monopolizing the research. Hence, there are fewer studies with a comprehensive understanding of the composition of bioactive metabolites grown in different environmental conditions, especially C. indica and a few other Cannabis strains. These pharmacological properties are mostly attributed to a few phytocannabinoids and some phytochemicals such as terpenoids or essential oils which have been tested for antimicrobial properties. Many other discovered compounds are yet to be tested for antimicrobial properties. These phytochemicals have a series of useful properties including anti-insecticidal, anti-acaricidal, anti-nematicidal, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral properties. Research studies have reported excellent antibacterial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative multidrug-resistant bacteria as well as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Although there has been an extensive investigation on the antimicrobial properties of Cannabis, the antimicrobial properties of Cannabis on phytopathogens and aquatic animal pathogens, mostly those affecting fish, remain under-researched. Therefore, the current review intends to investigate the existing body of research on metabolomic profile and anti-microbial properties whilst trying to expand the scope of the properties of the Cannabis plant to benefit the health of other animal species and plant crops, particularly in agriculture.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shadrack Monyela
- Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, University of South Africa, Science Campus, Florida, Johannesburg 1710, South Africa
| | - Prudence Ngalula Kayoka
- Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, University of South Africa, Science Campus, Florida, Johannesburg 1710, South Africa
| | - Wonder Ngezimana
- Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Plant and Animal Sciences and Technology, Marondera University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Marondera P.O. Box 35, Zimbabwe
| | - Lufuno Ethel Nemadodzi
- Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, University of South Africa, Science Campus, Florida, Johannesburg 1710, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Chen S, Kim JK. The Role of Cannabidiol in Liver Disease: A Systemic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2370. [PMID: 38397045 PMCID: PMC10888697 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid abundant in Cannabis sativa, has gained considerable attention for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, and neuroprotective properties. It exhibits the potential to prevent or slow the progression of various diseases, ranging from malignant tumors and viral infections to neurodegenerative disorders and ischemic diseases. Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), alcoholic liver disease, and viral hepatitis stand as prominent causes of morbidity and mortality in chronic liver diseases globally. The literature has substantiated CBD's potential therapeutic effects across diverse liver diseases in in vivo and in vitro models. However, the precise mechanism of action remains elusive, and an absence of evidence hinders its translation into clinical practice. This comprehensive review emphasizes the wealth of data linking CBD to liver diseases. Importantly, we delve into a detailed discussion of the receptors through which CBD might exert its effects, including cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), G protein-coupled receptor 55 (GPR55), transient receptor potential channels (TRPs), and their intricate connections with liver diseases. In conclusion, we address new questions that warrant further investigation in this evolving field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Si Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Jeonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju 54896, Republic of Korea;
| | - Jeon-Kyung Kim
- Institute of New Drug Development, School of Pharmacy, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Jeonbuk, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Williams A, Khatkar P, Branscome H, Kim Y, Erickson J, Jenabian MA, Costiniuk CT, Kashanchi F. The Use of CBD and Its Synthetic Analog HU308 in HIV-1-Infected Myeloid Cells. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1147. [PMID: 37631062 PMCID: PMC10458222 DOI: 10.3390/ph16081147] [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: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently, there is no cure for human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection. However, combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) aids in viral latency and prevents the progression of HIV-1 infection into acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). cART has extended many lives, but people living with HIV-1 (PLWH) face lifelong ailments such as HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) that range from asymptomatic HAND to HIV-1-associated dementia. HAND has been attributed to chronic inflammation and low-level infection within the central nervous system (CNS) caused by proinflammatory cytokines and viral products. These molecules are shuttled into the CNS within extracellular vesicles (EVs), lipid bound nanoparticles, and are released from cells as a form of intercellular communication. This study investigates the impact of cannabidiol (CBD), as a promising and potential therapeutic for HAND patients, and a similar synthetic molecule, HU308, on the EVs released from HIV-1-infected myeloid cells as well as HIV-1-infected 3D neurospheres. The data shows that both CBD and HU308 decrease non-coding and coding viral RNA (TAR and env) as well as proinflammatory cytokines as IL-1β and TNF-α mRNA. This decrease in viral RNA occurs in in vitro differentiated primary macrophages, in EVs released from HIV-1-infected cells monocytes, and infected neurospheres. Furthermore, a 3D neurosphere model shows an overall decrease in proinflammatory mRNA with HU308. Finally, using a humanized mouse model of HIV-1 infection, plasma viral RNA was shown to significantly decrease with HU308 alone and was most effective in combination with cART, even when compared to the typical cART treatment. Overall, CBD or HU308 may be a viable option to decrease EV release and associated cytokines which would dampen the virus spread and may be used in effective treatment of HAND in combination with cART.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Williams
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology, School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Discovery Hall Room 182, 10900 University Blvd., Manassas, VA 20110, USA
| | - Pooja Khatkar
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology, School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Discovery Hall Room 182, 10900 University Blvd., Manassas, VA 20110, USA
| | - Heather Branscome
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology, School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Discovery Hall Room 182, 10900 University Blvd., Manassas, VA 20110, USA
| | - Yuriy Kim
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology, School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Discovery Hall Room 182, 10900 University Blvd., Manassas, VA 20110, USA
| | - James Erickson
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology, School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Discovery Hall Room 182, 10900 University Blvd., Manassas, VA 20110, USA
| | - Mohammad-Ali Jenabian
- Department of Biological Sciences and CERMO-FC Research Center, University of Quebec in Montreal, Montreal, QC H2L 2C4, Canada
| | - Cecilia T. Costiniuk
- Infectious Diseases and Immunity in Global Health Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Chronic Viral Illness Service, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Fatah Kashanchi
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology, School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Discovery Hall Room 182, 10900 University Blvd., Manassas, VA 20110, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Chang JY, Balch C, Puccio J, Oh HS. A Narrative Review of Alternative Symptomatic Treatments for Herpes Simplex Virus. Viruses 2023; 15:1314. [PMID: 37376614 DOI: 10.3390/v15061314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1) and -2 (HSV-2) are large, spherically shaped, double-stranded DNA viruses that coevolved with Homo sapiens for over 300,000 years, having developed numerous immunoevasive mechanisms to survive the lifetime of their human host. Although in the continued absence of an acceptable prophylactic and therapeutic vaccine, approved pharmacologics (e.g., nucleoside analogs) hold benefit against viral outbreaks, while resistance and toxicity limit their universal application. Against these shortcomings, there is a long history of proven and unproven home remedies. With the breadth of purported alternative therapies, patients are exposed to risk of harm without proper information. Here, we examined the shortcomings of the current gold standard HSV therapy, acyclovir, and described several natural products that demonstrated promise in controlling HSV infection, including lemon balm, lysine, propolis, vitamin E, and zinc, while arginine, cannabis, and many other recreational drugs are detrimental. Based on this literature, we offered recommendations regarding the use of such natural products and their further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jane Y Chang
- Ascendant Biotech Inc., Foster City, CA 94404, USA
| | - Curt Balch
- Bioscience Advising, Ann Arbor, MI 48103, USA
| | - Joseph Puccio
- Department of Pediatrics, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
| | - Hyung S Oh
- Department of Microbiology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Khosropoor S, Alavi MS, Etemad L, Roohbakhsh A. Cannabidiol goes nuclear: The role of PPARγ. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 114:154771. [PMID: 36965374 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.154771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the main phytocannabinoids found in Cannabis sativa. In contrast to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, it has a low affinity for cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2, thereby it does not induce significant psychoactive effects. However, CBD may interact with other receptors, including peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ). CBD is a PPARγ agonist and changes its expression. There is considerable evidence that CBD's effects are mediated by its interaction with PPARγ. So, we reviewed studies related to the interaction of CBD and PPARγ. METHODS In this comprehensive literature review, the term 'cannabidiol' was used in combination with the following keywords including 'PPARγ', 'Alzheimer's disease', 'Parkinson's disease', 'seizure', 'multiple sclerosis', 'immune system', 'cardiovascular system', 'cancer', and 'adipogenesis'. PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were searched until December 20, 2022. A total of 78 articles were used for the reviewing process. RESULTS CBD, via activation of PPARγ, promotes significant pharmacological effects. The present review shows that the effects of CBD on Alzheimer's disease and memory, Parkinson's disease and movement disorders, multiple sclerosis, anxiety and depression, cardiovascular system, immune system, cancer, and adipogenesis are mediated, at least in part, via PPARγ. CONCLUSION CBD not only activates PPARγ but also affects its expression in the body. It was suggested that the late effects of CBD are mediated via PPARγ activation. We suggested that CBD's chemical structure is a good backbone for developing new dual agonists. Combining it with other chemicals enhances their biological effectiveness while reducing their dosage. The present study indicated that PPARγ is a key target for CBD, and its activation by CBD should be considered in all future studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Khosropoor
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohaddeseh Sadat Alavi
- Pharmacological Research Center of Medicinal Plants, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Leila Etemad
- International UNESCO Center for Health-Related Basic Sciences and Human Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Ali Roohbakhsh
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Yndart Arias A, Kolishetti N, Vashist A, Madepalli L, Llaguno L, Nair M. Anti-inflammatory effects of CBD in human microglial cell line infected with HIV-1. Sci Rep 2023; 13:7376. [PMID: 37147420 PMCID: PMC10162654 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-32927-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is associated with a chronic inflammatory stage and continuous activation of inflammasome pathway. We studied the anti-inflammatory effects of the compound cannabidiol (CBD) in comparison with Δ (9)-tetrahydrocannabinol [Δ(9)-THC] in human microglial cells (HC69.5) infected with HIV. Our results showed that CBD reduced the production of various inflammatory cytokines and chemokines such as MIF, SERPIN E1, IL-6, IL-8, GM-CSF, MCP-1, CXCL1, CXCL10, and IL-1 β compared to Δ(9)-THC treatment. In addition, CBD led to the deactivation of caspase 1, reduced NLRP3 gene expression which play a crucial role in the inflammasome cascade. Furthermore, CBD significantly reduced the expression of HIV. Our study demonstrated that CBD has anti-inflammatory properties and exhibits significant therapeutic potential against HIV-1 infections and neuroinflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Yndart Arias
- Department of Immunology and Nano-Medicine, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA.
- Institute of Neuroimmune Pharmacology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA.
| | - Nagesh Kolishetti
- Department of Immunology and Nano-Medicine, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA
- Institute of Neuroimmune Pharmacology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA
| | - Arti Vashist
- Department of Immunology and Nano-Medicine, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA
- Institute of Neuroimmune Pharmacology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA
| | - Lakshmana Madepalli
- Department of Immunology and Nano-Medicine, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA
- Institute of Neuroimmune Pharmacology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA
| | - Lorgeleys Llaguno
- Department of Immunology and Nano-Medicine, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA
| | - Madhavan Nair
- Department of Immunology and Nano-Medicine, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA.
- Institute of Neuroimmune Pharmacology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Nathan J, Shameera R, Ramachandran A. Impact of nutraceuticals on immunomodulation against viral infections-A review during COVID-19 pandemic in Indian scenario. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2023; 37:e23320. [PMID: 36799127 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.23320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) originated in Wuhan, China, in early December 2019 is a censorious global emergency after World War II. Research on the coronavirus uncovered essential information that aided in the development of the vaccine, and specific coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines were later developed and were approved for usage in humans. But then, mutations in the coronavirus gave rise to new variants and questioned the vaccine's efficacy against them. On the other hand, the investigation of traditional medicine was also on its path to find a novel outcome against COVID-19. On a comparative analysis between India and the United States, India had low death rate and high recovery rate than the latter. The dietary regulation of immunity may be the factor that makes the above difference. The immunity gained from the regular diet of Indian culture nourishes Indian people with essential phytochemicals that support immunity and metabolism. Dietary phytochemicals or nutraceuticals possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties, out of which our concern will be on immune-boosting phytochemicals from our daily nutritional supplements. In several case studies, dietary substance like lemon, ginger, and spinach was reported in the recovery of COVID-19 patients. Thus in this review, we discuss coronavirus and its available variants, vaccines, and the effect of nutraceuticals against the coronavirus. Further, we denote that the immunity of the Indian population may be high because of their diet, which adds natural phytochemicals to boost their immunity and metabolism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jhansi Nathan
- AUKBC Research Centre for Emerging Technologies, Anna University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Rabiathul Shameera
- AUKBC Research Centre for Emerging Technologies, Anna University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Arunkumar Ramachandran
- Multidisciplinary Research Unit (MRU), Madras Medical College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Zielińska A, Eder P, Karczewski J, Szalata M, Hryhorowicz S, Wielgus K, Szalata M, Dobrowolska A, Atanasov AG, Słomski R, Souto EB. Tocilizumab-coated solid lipid nanoparticles loaded with cannabidiol as a novel drug delivery strategy for treating COVID-19: A review. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1147991. [PMID: 37033914 PMCID: PMC10073701 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1147991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Commonly used clinical strategies against coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19), including the potential role of monoclonal antibodies for site-specific targeted drug delivery, are discussed here. Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) tailored with tocilizumab (TCZ) and loading cannabidiol (CBD) are proposed for the treatment of COVID-19 by oral route. TCZ, as a humanized IgG1 monoclonal antibody and an interleukin-6 (IL-6) receptor agonist, can attenuate cytokine storm in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2. CBD (an anti-inflammatory cannabinoid and TCZ agonist) alleviates anxiety, schizophrenia, and depression. CBD, obtained from Cannabis sativa L., is known to modulate gene expression and inflammation and also shows anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties. It has also been recognized to modulate angiotensin-converting enzyme II (ACE2) expression in SARS-CoV-2 target tissues. It has already been proven that immunosuppressive drugs targeting the IL-6 receptor may ameliorate lethal inflammatory responses in COVID-19 patients. TCZ, as an immunosuppressive drug, is mainly used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, although several attempts have been made to use it in the active hyperinflammatory phase of COVID-19, with promising outcomes. TCZ is currently administered intravenously. It this review, we discuss the potential advances on the use of SLN for oral administration of TCZ-tailored CBD-loaded SLN, as an innovative platform for managing SARS-CoV-2 and related infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Zielińska
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences Poznan, Poznan, Poland
- *Correspondence: Aleksandra Zielińska, ; Piotr Eder, ; Eliana B. Souto,
| | - Piotr Eder
- Department of Gastroenterology, Dietetics, and Internal Diseases, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
- *Correspondence: Aleksandra Zielińska, ; Piotr Eder, ; Eliana B. Souto,
| | - Jacek Karczewski
- Department of Environmental Medicine/Department of Gastroenterology, Human Nutrition and Internal Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Marlena Szalata
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Poznań University of Life Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Szymon Hryhorowicz
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences Poznan, Poznan, Poland
| | - Karolina Wielgus
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Metabolic Diseases, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Milena Szalata
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Natural Fibres and Medicinal Plants National Research Institute, Poznan, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Dobrowolska
- Department of Gastroenterology, Dietetics, and Internal Diseases, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Atanas G. Atanasov
- Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology, Magdalenka, Poland
- Institute of Neurobiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
- Department of Pharmacognosy, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ryszard Słomski
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences Poznan, Poznan, Poland
| | - Eliana B. Souto
- UCIBIO – Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, MEDTECH, Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Drug Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- *Correspondence: Aleksandra Zielińska, ; Piotr Eder, ; Eliana B. Souto,
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Trivedi P, Abbas A, Lehmann C, Rupasinghe HPV. Antiviral and Anti-Inflammatory Plant-Derived Bioactive Compounds and Their Potential Use in the Treatment of COVID-19-Related Pathologies. J Xenobiot 2022; 12:289-306. [PMID: 36278757 PMCID: PMC9589987 DOI: 10.3390/jox12040020] [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: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The highly contagious coronavirus disease (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has been declared a global pandemic and public health emergency as it has taken the lives of over 5.7 million in more than 180 different countries. This disease is characterized by respiratory tract symptoms, such as dry cough and shortness of breath, as well as other symptoms, including fever, chills, and fatigue. COVID-19 is also characterized by the excessive release of cytokines causing inflammatory injury to the lungs and other organs. It is advised to undergo precautionary measures, such as vaccination, social distancing, use of masks, hygiene, and a healthy diet. This review is aimed at summarizing the pathophysiology of COVID-19 and potential biologically active compounds (bioactive) found in plants and plant food. We conclude that many plant food bioactive compounds exhibit antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties and support in attenuating organ damage due to reduced cytokine release and improving the recovery process from COVID-19 infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Purvi Trivedi
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management and Perioperative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 3E2, Canada
| | - Amna Abbas
- Department of Plant, Food, and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Dalhousie University, Truro, NS B2N 5E3, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4M1, Canada
| | - Christian Lehmann
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management and Perioperative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 3E2, Canada
| | - H. P. Vasantha Rupasinghe
- Department of Plant, Food, and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Dalhousie University, Truro, NS B2N 5E3, Canada
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 3E2, Canada
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW There have been many debates, discussions, and published writings about the therapeutic value of cannabis plant and the hundreds of cannabinoids it contains. Many states and countries have attempted, are attempting, or have already passed bills to allow legal use of cannabinoids, especially cannabidiol (CBD), as medicines to treat a wide range of clinical conditions without having been approved by a regulatory body. Therefore, by using PubMed and Google Scholar databases, we have reviewed published papers during the past 30 years on cannabinoids as medicines and comment on whether there is sufficient clinical evidence from well-designed clinical studies and trials to support the use of CBD or any other cannabinoids as medicines. RECENT FINDINGS Current research shows that CBD and other cannabinoids currently are not ready for formal indications as medicines to treat a wide range of clinical conditions as promoted except for several exceptions including limited use of CBD for treating two rare forms of epilepsy in young children and CBD in combination with THC for treating multiple-sclerosis-associated spasticity. SUMMARY Research indicates that CBD and several other cannabinoids have potential to treat multiple clinical conditions, but more preclinical, and clinical studies and clinical trials, which follow regulatory guidelines, are needed to formally recommend CBD and other cannabinoids as medicines.
Collapse
|
15
|
Khalsa JH, Bunt G, Blum K, Maggirwar SB, Galanter M, Potenza MN. Review: Cannabinoids as Medicinals. CURRENT ADDICTION REPORTS 2022; 9:630-646. [PMID: 36093358 PMCID: PMC9449267 DOI: 10.1007/s40429-022-00438-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of review
There have been many debates, discussions, and published writings about the therapeutic value of cannabis plant and the hundreds of cannabinoids it contains. Many states and countries have attempted, are attempting, or have already passed bills to allow legal use of cannabinoids, especially cannabidiol (CBD), as medicines to treat a wide range of clinical conditions without having been approved by a regulatory body. Therefore, by using PubMed and Google Scholar databases, we have reviewed published papers during the past 30 years on cannabinoids as medicines and comment on whether there is sufficient clinical evidence from well-designed clinical studies and trials to support the use of CBD or any other cannabinoids as medicines. Recent findings Current research shows that CBD and other cannabinoids currently are not ready for formal indications as medicines to treat a wide range of clinical conditions as promoted except for several exceptions including limited use of CBD for treating two rare forms of epilepsy in young children and CBD in combination with THC for treating multiple-sclerosis-associated spasticity. Summary Research indicates that CBD and several other cannabinoids have potential to treat multiple clinical conditions, but more preclinical, and clinical studies and clinical trials, which follow regulatory guidelines, are needed to formally recommend CBD and other cannabinoids as medicines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jag H. Khalsa
- Division of Therapeutics and Medical Consequences, Medical Consequences of Drug Abuse and Infections Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, NIH, Special Volunteer, 16071 Industrial Drive, Gaithersburg, MD 20877 USA
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Tropical Medicine, The George Washington University School of Medicine, Ross Hall Room 502A, 2300 I Street, Washington, NWDC 20037 USA
- Drug Addiction and Co-occurring Infections, Aldie, VA 20105-5572 USA
| | - Gregory Bunt
- Samaritan Day Top Village, NYU School of Medicine, 550 First Ave, New York, NY 10016 USA
| | - Kenneth Blum
- Center for Behavioral Health & Sports, Western University Health Sciences, Pomona, CA USA
- Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
- Division of Nutrigenomics, Precision Translational Medicine, LLC, San Antonio, TX USA
- Division of Nutrigenomics, Institute of Behavior & Neurogenetics, LLC, San Antonio, TX USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Wright University Boonshoff School of Medicine, Dayton, OH USA
| | - Sanjay B. Maggirwar
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Tropical Medicine, The George Washington University School of Medicine, Ross Hall Room 502A, 2300 I Street, Washington, NWDC 20037 USA
| | - Marc Galanter
- Department of Psychiatry, NYU School of Medicine, 550 First Avenue, Room NBV20N28, New York, NY 10016 USA
| | - Marc N. Potenza
- Departments of Psychiatry and Neuroscience and the Child Study Center, Yale School of Medicine, 1 Church Street, Rm726, New Haven, CT 06510 USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Cannabinoids and Chronic Liver Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23169423. [PMID: 36012687 PMCID: PMC9408890 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), alcohol-induced liver disease (ALD), and viral hepatitis are the main causes of morbidity and mortality related to chronic liver diseases (CLDs) worldwide. New therapeutic approaches to prevent or reverse these liver disorders are thus emerging. Although their etiologies differ, these CLDs all have in common a significant dysregulation of liver metabolism that is closely linked to the perturbation of the hepatic endocannabinoid system (eCBS) and inflammatory pathways. Therefore, targeting the hepatic eCBS might have promising therapeutic potential to overcome CLDs. Experimental models of CLDs and observational studies in humans suggest that cannabis and its derivatives may exert hepatoprotective effects against CLDs through diverse pathways. However, these promising therapeutic benefits are not yet fully validated, as the few completed clinical trials on phytocannabinoids, which are thought to hold the most promising therapeutic potential (cannabidiol or tetrahydrocannabivarin), remained inconclusive. Therefore, expanding research on less studied phytocannabinoids and their derivatives, with a focus on their mode of action on liver metabolism, might provide promising advances in the development of new and original therapeutics for the management of CLDs, such as NAFLD, ALD, or even hepatitis C-induced liver disorders.
Collapse
|
17
|
Cortes-Altamirano JL, Yáñes-Pizaña A, Reyes-Long S, Angélica GM, Bandala C, Bonilla-Jaime H, Alfaro-Rodríguez A. Potential Neuroprotective Effect of Cannabinoids in Covid-19 Patients. Curr Top Med Chem 2022; 22:1326-1345. [PMID: 35382723 DOI: 10.2174/1568026622666220405143003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The global pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus began in early 2020 and is still present. The respiratory symptoms caused by COVID-19 are well established, however, neurological manifestations that may result from direct or indirect neurological damage after SARS-CoV-2 infection have been reported frequently. The main proposed pathophysiological processes leading to neurological damage in COVID-19 are cerebrovascular disease, and indirect mechanisms of inflammatory / autoimmune origin. A growing number of studies confirm that neuroprotective measures should be maintained in COVID-19 patients. On the other hand, cannabinoids have been the subject of various studies that propose them as potential promising drugs in chronic neurodegenerative diseases due to their powerful neuroprotective potential. In this review we address the possible mechanism of action of cannabinoids as a neuroprotective treatment in patients infected by SARS-CoV-2. The endocannabinoid system is found in multiple systems within the body, including the immune system. Its activation can lead to beneficial results, such as a decrease in viral entry, a decrease in viral replication, and a decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-12, TNF-α or IFN-c through CB2R expression induced during inflammation by SARS-CoV-2 infection in the central nervous system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- José Luis Cortes-Altamirano
- Division de Neurociencias, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación, Secretaría de Salud, Mexico City, 14389, Mexico.,Departamento de Quiropráctica, Universidad Estatal del Valle de Ecatepec, Estado de Mexico, 55210, Mexico
| | - Ariadna Yáñes-Pizaña
- Escuela de Ciencias de la Salud, Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad del Valle de Mexico, Mexico City, 04910, México.,Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia en Pequeñas Especies, Federación Canofila Mexicana, Mexico City, 14430, México
| | - Samuel Reyes-Long
- Division de Neurociencias, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación, Secretaría de Salud, Mexico City, 14389, Mexico.,Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City, 07738, México
| | - González-Maciel Angélica
- Laboratory of Cell and Tissue Morphology, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Secretaría de Salud, Insurgentes Sur No. 3700-C, Mexico City, C. P. 04530, Mexico
| | - Cindy Bandala
- Division de Neurociencias, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación, Secretaría de Salud, Mexico City, 14389, Mexico.,Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia en Pequeñas Especies, Federación Canofila Mexicana, Mexico City, 14430, México
| | - Herlinda Bonilla-Jaime
- Departamento de Biología de la reproducción, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Mexico City, 09340, Mexico
| | - Alfonso Alfaro-Rodríguez
- Division de Neurociencias, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación, Secretaría de Salud, Mexico City, 14389, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) can prevent the inflammatory response of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein in Caco-2-cells. This action is coupled with the inhibition of IL-1beta, IL-6, IL-18, and TNF-alpha, responsible for the inflammatory process during SARS-CoV-2 infection. CBD can act on the different proteins encoded by SARS-CoV-2 and as an antiviral agent to prevent the viral infection. Furthermore, recent studies have shown the possible action of CBD as an antagonist of cytokine release syndromes. In the SARS-CoV-2 pathophysiology, the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) seems to be the key cell receptor for SARS-CoV-2 infection. The WNT/β-catenin pathway and PPARγ interact in an opposite manner in many diseases, including SARS-CoV-2 infection. CBD exerts its activity through the interaction with PPARγ in SARS-CoV-2 infection. Thus, we can hypothesize that CBD may counteract the inflammatory process of SARS-CoV-2 by its interactions with both ACE2 and the interplay between the WNT/β-catenin pathway and PPARγ. Vaccines are the only way to prevent COVID-19, but it appears important to find therapeutic complements to treat patients already affected by SARS-CoV-2 infection. The possible role of CBD should be investigated by clinical trials to show its effectiveness.
Collapse
|
19
|
Mahmud MS, Hossain MS, Ahmed ATMF, Islam MZ, Sarker ME, Islam MR. Antimicrobial and Antiviral (SARS-CoV-2) Potential of Cannabinoids and Cannabis sativa: A Comprehensive Review. Molecules 2021; 26:7216. [PMID: 34885798 PMCID: PMC8658882 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26237216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance has emerged as a global health crisis and, therefore, new drug discovery is a paramount need. Cannabis sativa contains hundreds of chemical constituents produced by secondary metabolism, exerting outstanding antimicrobial, antiviral, and therapeutic properties. This paper comprehensively reviews the antimicrobial and antiviral (particularly against SARS-CoV-2) properties of C. sativa with the potential for new antibiotic drug and/or natural antimicrobial agents for industrial or agricultural use, and their therapeutic potential against the newly emerged coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Cannabis compounds have good potential as drug candidates for new antibiotics, even for some of the WHO's current priority list of resistant pathogens. Recent studies revealed that cannabinoids seem to have stable conformations with the binding pocket of the Mpro enzyme of SARS-CoV-2, which has a pivotal role in viral replication and transcription. They are found to be suppressive of viral entry and viral activation by downregulating the ACE2 receptor and TMPRSS2 enzymes in the host cellular system. The therapeutic potential of cannabinoids as anti-inflammatory compounds is hypothesized for the treatment of COVID-19. However, more systemic investigations are warranted to establish the best efficacy and their toxic effects, followed by preclinical trials on a large number of participants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Md Sultan Mahmud
- Faculty of Textile Engineering, Bangladesh University of Textiles, Dhaka 1208, Bangladesh; (M.S.M.); (A.T.M.F.A.); (M.Z.I.)
| | - Mohammad Sorowar Hossain
- Biomedical Research Foundation, Dhaka 1230, Bangladesh;
- School of Environment and Life Sciences, Independent University, Dhaka 1229, Bangladesh
| | - A. T. M. Faiz Ahmed
- Faculty of Textile Engineering, Bangladesh University of Textiles, Dhaka 1208, Bangladesh; (M.S.M.); (A.T.M.F.A.); (M.Z.I.)
| | - Md Zahidul Islam
- Faculty of Textile Engineering, Bangladesh University of Textiles, Dhaka 1208, Bangladesh; (M.S.M.); (A.T.M.F.A.); (M.Z.I.)
| | - Md Emdad Sarker
- Faculty of Textile Engineering, Bangladesh University of Textiles, Dhaka 1208, Bangladesh; (M.S.M.); (A.T.M.F.A.); (M.Z.I.)
| | - Md Reajul Islam
- Faculty of Textile Engineering, Bangladesh University of Textiles, Dhaka 1208, Bangladesh; (M.S.M.); (A.T.M.F.A.); (M.Z.I.)
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Bilginer S, Gozcu S, Guvenalp Z. Molecular Docking Study of Several Seconder Metabolites from Medicinal Plants as Potential Inhibitor of COVID-19 Main Protease. Turk J Pharm Sci 2021; 19:431-441. [DOI: 10.4274/tjps.galenos.2021.83548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
|
21
|
Lowe H, Toyang N, Steele B, Bryant J, Ngwa W. The Endocannabinoid System: A Potential Target for the Treatment of Various Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:9472. [PMID: 34502379 PMCID: PMC8430969 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is primarily responsible for maintaining homeostasis, a balance in internal environment (temperature, mood, and immune system) and energy input and output in living, biological systems. In addition to regulating physiological processes, the ECS directly influences anxiety, feeding behaviour/appetite, emotional behaviour, depression, nervous functions, neurogenesis, neuroprotection, reward, cognition, learning, memory, pain sensation, fertility, pregnancy, and pre-and post-natal development. The ECS is also involved in several pathophysiological diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases. In recent years, genetic and pharmacological manipulation of the ECS has gained significant interest in medicine, research, and drug discovery and development. The distribution of the components of the ECS system throughout the body, and the physiological/pathophysiological role of the ECS-signalling pathways in many diseases, all offer promising opportunities for the development of novel cannabinergic, cannabimimetic, and cannabinoid-based therapeutic drugs that genetically or pharmacologically modulate the ECS via inhibition of metabolic pathways and/or agonism or antagonism of the receptors of the ECS. This modulation results in the differential expression/activity of the components of the ECS that may be beneficial in the treatment of a number of diseases. This manuscript in-depth review will investigate the potential of the ECS in the treatment of various diseases, and to put forth the suggestion that many of these secondary metabolites of Cannabis sativa L. (hereafter referred to as "C. sativa L." or "medical cannabis"), may also have potential as lead compounds in the development of cannabinoid-based pharmaceuticals for a variety of diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Henry Lowe
- Biotech R & D Institute, University of the West Indies, Mona 99999, Jamaica; (H.L.); (J.B.)
- Vilotos Pharmaceuticals Inc., Baltimore, MD 21202, USA;
- Flavocure Biotech Inc., Baltimore, MD 21202, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland Medical School, Baltimore, MD 21202, USA
| | - Ngeh Toyang
- Vilotos Pharmaceuticals Inc., Baltimore, MD 21202, USA;
- Flavocure Biotech Inc., Baltimore, MD 21202, USA
| | - Blair Steele
- Biotech R & D Institute, University of the West Indies, Mona 99999, Jamaica; (H.L.); (J.B.)
| | - Joseph Bryant
- Biotech R & D Institute, University of the West Indies, Mona 99999, Jamaica; (H.L.); (J.B.)
| | - Wilfred Ngwa
- Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA;
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Khosravi M. Candidate Psychotropics against SARS - CoV - 2: A Narrative Review. PHARMACOPSYCHIATRY 2021; 55:16-23. [PMID: 34399430 DOI: 10.1055/a-1551-3756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Since few therapeutic options are clinically accessible for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), effective, safe, and globally available pharmaceuticals need to be urgently developed to prevent severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and alleviate the severity of COVID-19. In this regard, the present paper is intended to provide an extensive review of the clinical and preclinical evidence on the psychotropics' anti-SARS-CoV-2 effects, giving an insight into their potential applications for patients with a proven or high likelihood of COVID-19 pneumonia. The results showed that psychotropic drugs such as melatonin, lithium carbonate, valproate, olanzapine, quetiapine, clozapine, fluoxetine, escitalopram, fluvoxamine, and cannabidiol could help lower the mortality due to SARS-CoV-2 infection. According to these medications' direct immunomodulatory actions against the destructive cytokine storm, as well as other direct/indirect mechanisms (e. g., the endolysosomal pathway modulation, interactions with specific receptors, and membrane fusion), it was perceived that such drugs could effectively weaken the worsened immune response and avoid adult respiratory distress syndrome and acute lung injury. According to the author's analysis of the currently available evidence, there is significant support for psychotropics as complementary interventions during SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, further studies need to be carried out to assess the effects of the above psychotropic drugs in vitro and clinical settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohsen Khosravi
- Department of Psychiatry and Clinical Psychology, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Mishra D, Maurya RR, Kumar K, Munjal NS, Bahadur V, Sharma S, Singh P, Bahadur I. Structurally modified compounds of hydroxychloroquine, remdesivir and tetrahydrocannabinol against main protease of SARS-CoV-2, a possible hope for COVID-19: Docking and molecular dynamics simulation studies. J Mol Liq 2021; 335:116185. [PMID: 33879934 PMCID: PMC8051003 DOI: 10.1016/j.molliq.2021.116185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 04/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Now a days, more than 200 countries faces the health crisis due to epidemiological disease COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2 virus. It will cause a very high impact on world's economy and global health sector. Earlier the structure of main protease (Mpro) protein was deposited in the RCSB protein repository. Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) and remdesivir were found to effective in treatment of COVID-19 patients. Here we have performed docking and molecule dynamic (MD) simulation study of HCQ and remdesivir with Mpro protein which gave promising results to inhibit Mpro protein in SARS-CoV-2. On the basis of results obtained we designed structurally modified 18 novel derivatives of HCQ, remdesivir and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and carried out docking studies of all the derivatives. From the docking studies six molecules DK4, DK7, DK10, DK16, DK17 and DK19 gave promising results and can be use as inhibitor for Mpro of SARS-CoV-2 to control COVID-19 very effectively. Further, molecular dynamics simulation of one derivative of HCQ and one derivative of tetrahydrocannabinol showing excellent docking score was performed along with the respective parent molecules. The two derivatives gave excellent docking score and higher stability than the parent molecule as validated with molecular dynamics (MD) simulation for the binding affinities towards Mpro of SARS-CoV-2 thus represented as strong inhibitors at very low concentration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deepak Mishra
- Department of Chemistry, SRM University, Delhi-NCR Sonepa t, Haryana 131029, India
| | - Radha Raman Maurya
- Department of Chemistry, Ramjas College, University of Delhi, University Enclave, Delhi 110007, India
| | - Kamlesh Kumar
- Department of Chemistry, Kumaun University, Nainital 263001, UK, India,Corresponding authors
| | - Nupur S. Munjal
- Institute of Bioinformatics, International Technology Park, Bangalore 560066, India
| | - Vijay Bahadur
- Department of Chemistry, SRM University, Delhi-NCR Sonepa t, Haryana 131029, India
| | - Sandeep Sharma
- Department of Chemistry, SRM University, Delhi-NCR Sonepa t, Haryana 131029, India
| | - Prashant Singh
- Department of Chemistry, Atma Ram Sanatan Dharma (ARSD) College, Delhi University, New Delhi 110021, India
| | - Indra Bahadur
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, South Africa,Corresponding authors
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Fakhri S, Nouri Z, Moradi SZ, Akkol EK, Piri S, Sobarzo-Sánchez E, Farzaei MH, Echeverría J. Targeting Multiple Signal Transduction Pathways of SARS-CoV-2: Approaches to COVID-19 Therapeutic Candidates. Molecules 2021; 26:2917. [PMID: 34068970 PMCID: PMC8156180 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26102917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to the complicated pathogenic pathways of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), related medicinal therapies have remained a clinical challenge. COVID-19 highlights the urgent need to develop mechanistic pathogenic pathways and effective agents for preventing/treating future epidemics. As a result, the destructive pathways of COVID-19 are in the line with clinical symptoms induced by severe acute coronary syndrome (SARS), including lung failure and pneumonia. Accordingly, revealing the exact signaling pathways, including inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and autophagy, as well as relative representative mediators such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), Bax/caspases, and Beclin/LC3, respectively, will pave the road for combating COVID-19. Prevailing host factors and multiple steps of SARS-CoV-2 attachment/entry, replication, and assembly/release would be hopeful strategies against COVID-19. This is a comprehensive review of the destructive signaling pathways and host-pathogen interaction of SARS-CoV-2, as well as related therapeutic targets and treatment strategies, including potential natural products-based candidates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sajad Fakhri
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah 6734667149, Iran; (S.F.); (S.Z.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Zeinab Nouri
- Student Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah 6714415153, Iran;
| | - Seyed Zachariah Moradi
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah 6734667149, Iran; (S.F.); (S.Z.M.); (S.P.)
- Medical Biology Research Center, Health Technology Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah 6734667149, Iran
| | - Esra Küpeli Akkol
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Gazi University, Etiler, Ankara 06330, Turkey;
| | - Sana Piri
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah 6734667149, Iran; (S.F.); (S.Z.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Eduardo Sobarzo-Sánchez
- Instituto de Investigación y Postgrado, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Central de Chile, Santiago 8330507, Chile
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Mohammad Hosein Farzaei
- Medical Technology Research Center, Health Technology Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah 6734667149, Iran
| | - Javier Echeverría
- Departamento de Ciencias del Ambiente, Facultad de Química y Biología, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago 9170022, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Palit P, Chattopadhyay D, Thomas S, Kundu A, Kim HS, Rezaei N. Phytopharmaceuticals mediated Furin and TMPRSS2 receptor blocking: can it be a potential therapeutic option for Covid-19? PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 85:153396. [PMID: 33380375 PMCID: PMC7591300 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2020.153396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 09/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Currently, novel coronavirus disease (Covid-19) outbreak creates global panic across the continents, as people from almost all countries and territories have been affected by this highly contagious viral disease. The scenario is deteriorating due to lack of proper & specific target-oriented pharmacologically safe prophylactic agents or drugs, and or any effective vaccine. drug development is urgently required to back in the normalcy in the community and to combat this pandemic. PURPOSE Thus, we have proposed two novel drug targets, Furin and TMPRSS2, as Covid-19 treatment strategy. We have highlighted this target-oriented novel drug delivery strategy, based on their pathophysiological implication on SARS-CoV-2 infection, as evident from earlier SARS-CoV-1, MERS, and influenza virus infection via host cell entry, priming, fusion, and endocytosis. STUDY DESIGN & METHODS: An earlier study suggested that Furin and TMPRSS2 knockout mice had reduced level of viral load and a lower degree of organ damage such as the lung. The present study thus highlights the promise of some selected novel and potential anti-viral Phytopharmaceutical that bind to Furin and TMPRSS2 as target. RESULT Few of them had shown promising anti-viral response in both preclinical and clinical study with acceptable therapeutic safety-index. CONCLUSION Hence, this strategy may limit life-threatening Covid-19 infection and its mortality rate through nano-suspension based intra-nasal or oral nebulizer spray, to treat mild to moderate SARS-COV-2 infection when Furin and TMPRSS2 receptor may initiate to express and activate for processing the virus to cause cellular infection by replication within the host cell and blocking of host-viral interaction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Partha Palit
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Drug Discovery Research Laboratory, Assam University, Silchar, Assam-788011 India.
| | - Debprasad Chattopadhyay
- ICMR-National Institute of Traditional Medicine, Nehru Nagar, Belagavi, 590010, India; ICMR-National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases, Kolkata 700010, India.
| | - Sabu Thomas
- School of Chemical Sciences, Mahatma Gandhi University, Kerala 686 560, India.
| | - Amit Kundu
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066, Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon 440-746, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung Sik Kim
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066, Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon 440-746, Republic of Korea.
| | - Nima Rezaei
- Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, 14194, Tehran, Iran; Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Stockholm, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Malinowska B, Baranowska-Kuczko M, Kicman A, Schlicker E. Opportunities, Challenges and Pitfalls of Using Cannabidiol as an Adjuvant Drug in COVID-19. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:1986. [PMID: 33671463 PMCID: PMC7922403 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection may lead to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) which, in turn, may be associated with multiple organ dysfunction. In this review, we present advantages and disadvantages of cannabidiol (CBD), a non-intoxicating phytocannabinoid from the cannabis plant, as a potential agent for the treatment of COVID-19. CBD has been shown to downregulate proteins responsible for viral entry and to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication. Preclinical studies have demonstrated its effectiveness against diseases of the respiratory system as well as its cardioprotective, nephroprotective, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective and anti-convulsant properties, that is, effects that may be beneficial for COVID-19. Only the latter two properties have been demonstrated in clinical studies, which also revealed anxiolytic and antinociceptive effects of CBD (given alone or together with Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol), which may be important for an adjuvant treatment to improve the quality of life in patients with COVID-19 and to limit post-traumatic stress symptoms. However, one should be aware of side effects of CBD (which are rarely serious), drug interactions (also extending to drugs acting against COVID-19) and the proper route of its administration (vaping may be dangerous). Clearly, further clinical studies are necessary to prove the suitability of CBD for the treatment of COVID-19.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Malinowska
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, 15-222 Białystok, Poland; (M.B.-K.); (A.K.)
| | - Marta Baranowska-Kuczko
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, 15-222 Białystok, Poland; (M.B.-K.); (A.K.)
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Medical University of Białystok, 15-222 Białystok, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Kicman
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, 15-222 Białystok, Poland; (M.B.-K.); (A.K.)
| | - Eberhard Schlicker
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Paland N, Pechkovsky A, Aswad M, Hamza H, Popov T, Shahar E, Louria-Hayon I. The Immunopathology of COVID-19 and the Cannabis Paradigm. Front Immunol 2021; 12:631233. [PMID: 33643316 PMCID: PMC7907157 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.631233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease-19 caused by the novel RNA betacoronavirus SARS-CoV2 has first emerged in Wuhan, China in December 2019, and since then developed into a worldwide pandemic with >99 million people afflicted and >2.1 million fatal outcomes as of 24th January 2021. SARS-CoV2 targets the lower respiratory tract system leading to pneumonia with fever, cough, and dyspnea. Most patients develop only mild symptoms. However, a certain percentage develop severe symptoms with dyspnea, hypoxia, and lung involvement which can further progress to a critical stage where respiratory support due to respiratory failure is required. Most of the COVID-19 symptoms are related to hyperinflammation as seen in cytokine release syndrome and it is believed that fatalities are due to a COVID-19 related cytokine storm. Treatments with anti-inflammatory or anti-viral drugs are still in clinical trials or could not reduce mortality. This makes it necessary to develop novel anti-inflammatory therapies. Recently, the therapeutic potential of phytocannabinoids, the unique active compounds of the cannabis plant, has been discovered in the area of immunology. Phytocannabinoids are a group of terpenophenolic compounds which biological functions are conveyed by their interactions with the endocannabinoid system in humans. Here, we explore the anti-inflammatory function of cannabinoids in relation to inflammatory events that happen during severe COVID-19 disease, and how cannabinoids might help to prevent the progression from mild to severe disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Paland
- Medical Cannabis Research and Innovation Center, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | - Antonina Pechkovsky
- Medical Cannabis Research and Innovation Center, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | - Miran Aswad
- Medical Cannabis Research and Innovation Center, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | - Haya Hamza
- Medical Cannabis Research and Innovation Center, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | - Tania Popov
- Medical Cannabis Research and Innovation Center, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | - Eduardo Shahar
- Clinical Immunology Unit, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | - Igal Louria-Hayon
- Medical Cannabis Research and Innovation Center, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
- Clinical Research Institute at Rambam (CRIR), Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
- Department of Hematology, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Lowe H, Steele B, Bryant J, Fouad E, Toyang N, Ngwa W. Antiviral Activity of Jamaican Medicinal Plants and Isolated Bioactive Compounds. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26030607. [PMID: 33503834 PMCID: PMC7865499 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26030607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 12/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Plants have had historical significance in medicine since the beginning of civilization. The oldest medical pharmacopeias of the African, Arabian, and Asian countries solely utilize plants and herbs to treat pain, oral diseases, skin diseases, microbial infections, multiple types of cancers, reproductive disorders among a myriad of other ailments. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that over 65% of the world population solely utilize botanical preparations as medicine. Due to the abundance of plants, plant-derived medicines are more readily accessible, affordable, convenient, and have safer side-effect profiles than synthetic drugs. Plant-based decoctions have been a significant part of Jamaican traditional folklore medicine. Jamaica is of particular interest because it has approximately 52% of the established medicinal plants that exist on earth. This makes the island particularly welcoming for rigorous scientific research on the medicinal value of plants and the development of phytomedicine thereof. Viral infections caused by the human immunodeficiency virus types 1 and 2 (HIV-1 and HIV-2), hepatitis virus B and C, influenza A virus, and the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS CoV-2) present a significant global burden. This is a review of some important Jamaican medicinal plants, with particular reference to their antiviral activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Henry Lowe
- Biotech R & D Institute, University of the West Indies, Mona, 99999 Kingston, Jamaica; (H.L.); (J.B.)
- Vilotos Pharmaceuticals Inc., Baltimore, MD 21202, USA;
- Flavocure Biotech Inc., Baltimore, MD 21202, USA
- Institute of Human Virology (IHV), University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Blair Steele
- Biotech R & D Institute, University of the West Indies, Mona, 99999 Kingston, Jamaica; (H.L.); (J.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-876-926-8502
| | - Joseph Bryant
- Biotech R & D Institute, University of the West Indies, Mona, 99999 Kingston, Jamaica; (H.L.); (J.B.)
| | - Emadelden Fouad
- Physics Department, Florida Polytechnic Institute, Lakeland, FL 33805, USA; (E.F.); (W.N.)
| | - Ngeh Toyang
- Vilotos Pharmaceuticals Inc., Baltimore, MD 21202, USA;
- Flavocure Biotech Inc., Baltimore, MD 21202, USA
| | - Wilfred Ngwa
- Physics Department, Florida Polytechnic Institute, Lakeland, FL 33805, USA; (E.F.); (W.N.)
- Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Dana-Faber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Kotru S, Klimuntowski M, Ridha H, Uddin Z, Askhar AA, Singh G, Howlader MMR. Electrochemical sensing: A prognostic tool in the fight against COVID-19. Trends Analyt Chem 2021; 136:116198. [PMID: 33518850 PMCID: PMC7825925 DOI: 10.1016/j.trac.2021.116198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has devastated the world, despite all efforts in infection control and treatment/vaccine development. Hospitals are currently overcrowded, with health statuses of patients often being hard to gauge. Therefore, methods for determining infection severity need to be developed so that high-risk patients can be prioritized, resources can be efficiently distributed, and fatalities can be prevented. Electrochemical prognostic biosensing of various biomarkers may hold promise in solving these problems as they are low-cost and provide timely results. Therefore, we have reviewed the literature and extracted the most promising biomarkers along with their most favourable electrochemical sensors. The biomarkers discussed in this paper are C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukins (ILs), tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), interferons (IFNs), glutamate, breath pH, lymphocytes, platelets, neutrophils and D-dimer. Metabolic syndrome is also discussed as comorbidity for COVID-19 patients, as it increases infection severity and raises chances of becoming infected. Cannabinoids, especially cannabidiol (CBD), are discussed as a potential adjunct therapy for COVID-19 as their medicinal properties may be desirable in minimizing the neurodegenerative or severe inflammatory damage caused by severe COVID-19 infection. Currently, hospitals are struggling to provide adequate care; thus, point-of-care electrochemical sensor development needs to be prioritized to provide an approximate prognosis for hospital patients. During and following the immediate aftermath of the pandemic, electrochemical sensors can also be integrated into wearable and portable devices to help patients monitor recovery while returning to their daily lives. Beyond the COVID-19 pandemic, these sensors will also prove useful for monitoring inflammation-based diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sharda Kotru
- Department of Integrated Biomedical Engineering and Health Sciences, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - Martin Klimuntowski
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - Hashim Ridha
- School of Interdisciplinary Science, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - Zakir Uddin
- School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University, 1400 Main St W, Hamilton, ON, L8S 1C7, Canada
| | - Ali A Askhar
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario, L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - Gurmit Singh
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario, L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - Matiar M R Howlader
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Tallei TE, Tumilaar SG, Niode NJ, Fatimawali, Kepel BJ, Idroes R, Effendi Y, Sakib SA, Emran TB. Potential of Plant Bioactive Compounds as SARS-CoV-2 Main Protease (M pro) and Spike (S) Glycoprotein Inhibitors: A Molecular Docking Study. SCIENTIFICA 2020; 2020:6307457. [PMID: 33425427 PMCID: PMC7773461 DOI: 10.1155/2020/6307457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 19) pandemic, researchers have been trying to investigate several active compounds found in plants that have the potential to inhibit the proliferation of SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2). The present study aimed to evaluate bioactive compounds found in plants using a molecular docking approach to inhibit the main protease (Mpro) and spike (S) glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2. The evaluation was performed on the docking scores calculated using AutoDock Vina (AV) as a docking engine. A rule of five (Ro5) was calculated to determine whether a compound meets the criteria as an active drug orally in humans. The determination of the docking score was performed by selecting the best conformation of the protein-ligand complex that had the highest affinity (most negative Gibbs' free energy of binding/ΔG). As a comparison, nelfinavir (an antiretroviral drug), chloroquine, and hydroxychloroquine sulfate (antimalarial drugs recommended by the FDA as emergency drugs) were used. The results showed that hesperidin, nabiximols, pectolinarin, epigallocatechin gallate, and rhoifolin had better poses than nelfinavir, chloroquine, and hydroxychloroquine sulfate as spike glycoprotein inhibitors. Hesperidin, rhoifolin, pectolinarin, and nabiximols had about the same pose as nelfinavir but were better than chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine sulfate as Mpro inhibitors. This finding implied that several natural compounds of plants evaluated in this study showed better binding free energy compared to nelfinavir, chloroquine, and hydroxychloroquine sulfate, which so far are recommended in the treatment of COVID-19. From quantum chemical DFT calculations, the ascending order of chemical reactivity of selected compounds was pectolinarin > hesperidin > rhoifolin > morin > epigallocatechin gallate. All isolated compounds' C=O regions are preferable for an electrophilic attack, and O-H regions are suitable for a nucleophilic attack. Furthermore, Homo-Lumo and global descriptor values indicated a satisfactory remarkable profile for the selected compounds. As judged by the RO5 and previous study by others, the compounds kaempferol, herbacetin, eugenol, and 6-shogaol have good oral bioavailability, so they are also seen as promising candidates for the development of drugs to treat infections caused by SARS-CoV-2. The present study identified plant-based compounds that can be further investigated in vitro and in vivo as lead compounds against SARS-CoV-2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Trina Ekawati Tallei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Sam Ratulangi University, Manado 95115, Indonesia
| | - Sefren Geiner Tumilaar
- Pharmacy Study Program, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Sam Ratulangi University, Manado 95115, Indonesia
| | - Nurdjannah Jane Niode
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sam Ratulangi, Manado 95115, Indonesia
| | - Fatimawali
- Pharmacy Study Program, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Sam Ratulangi University, Manado 95115, Indonesia
| | - Billy Johnson Kepel
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Sam Ratulangi University, Manado 95115, Indonesia
| | - Rinaldi Idroes
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Syiah Kuala University, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia
| | - Yunus Effendi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Al Azhar University, South Jakarta 12110, Indonesia
| | - Shahenur Alam Sakib
- Department of Theoretical and Computational Chemistry, University of Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Talha Bin Emran
- Department of Pharmacy, BGC Trust University Bangladesh, Chittagong 4381, Bangladesh
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Majnooni MB, Fakhri S, Shokoohinia Y, Kiyani N, Stage K, Mohammadi P, Gravandi MM, Farzaei MH, Echeverría J. Phytochemicals: Potential Therapeutic Interventions Against Coronavirus-Associated Lung Injury. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:588467. [PMID: 33658931 PMCID: PMC7919380 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.588467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in December 2019, millions of people have been infected and died worldwide. However, no drug has been approved for the treatment of this disease and its complications, which urges the need for finding novel therapeutic agents to combat. Among the complications due to COVID-19, lung injury has attained special attention. Besides, phytochemicals have shown prominent anti-inflammatory effects and thus possess significant effects in reducing lung injury caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Also, the prevailing evidence reveales the antiviral effects of those phytochemicals, including anti-SARS-CoV activity, which could pave the road in providing suitable lead compounds in the treatment of COVID-19. In the present study, candidate phytochemicals and related mechanisms of action have been shown in the treatment/protection of lung injuries induced by various methods. In terms of pharmacological mechanism, phytochemicals have shown potential inhibitory effects on inflammatory and oxidative pathways/mediators, involved in the pathogenesis of lung injury during COVID-19 infection. Also, a brief overview of phytochemicals with anti-SARS-CoV-2 compounds has been presented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sajad Fakhri
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Technology Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Yalda Shokoohinia
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Technology Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Ric Scalzo Botanical Research Institute, Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine, Tempe, AZ, United States
| | - Narges Kiyani
- Ric Scalzo Botanical Research Institute, Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine, Tempe, AZ, United States
| | - Katrina Stage
- Ric Scalzo Botanical Research Institute, Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine, Tempe, AZ, United States
| | - Pantea Mohammadi
- Medical Biology Research Center, Health Technology Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Hosein Farzaei
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Technology Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Javier Echeverría
- Departamento De Ciencias Del Ambiente, Facultad De Química y Biología, Universidad De Santiago De Chile, Santiago, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Esposito G, Pesce M, Seguella L, Sanseverino W, Lu J, Corpetti C, Sarnelli G. The potential of cannabidiol in the COVID-19 pandemic. Br J Pharmacol 2020; 177:4967-4970. [PMID: 32519753 PMCID: PMC7300643 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Identifying drugs effective in the new coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is crucial, pending a vaccine against SARS-CoV2. We suggest the hypothesis that cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychotropic phytocannabinoid, has the potential to limit the severity and progression of the disease for several reasons:- (a) High-cannabidiol Cannabis sativa extracts are able to down-regulate the expression of the two key receptors for SARS-CoV2 in several models of human epithelia, (b) cannabidiol exerts a wide range of immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects and it can mitigate the uncontrolled cytokine production responsible for acute lung injury, (c) being a PPARγ agonist, it can display a direct antiviral activity and (d) PPARγ agonists are regulators of fibroblast/myofibroblast activation and can inhibit the development of pulmonary fibrosis, thus ameliorating lung function in recovered patients. We hope our hypothesis, corroborated by preclinical evidence, will inspire further targeted studies to test cannabidiol as a support drug against the COVID-19 pandemic. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue on The Pharmacology of COVID-19. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v177.21/issuetoc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Esposito
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “V. Erspamer”Sapienza University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Marcella Pesce
- Department of Clinical Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of Naples “Federico II”NaplesItaly
| | - Luisa Seguella
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “V. Erspamer”Sapienza University of RomeRomeItaly
| | | | - Jie Lu
- Department of Human Anatomy, College of Basic Medical SciencesChina Medical UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Chiara Corpetti
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “V. Erspamer”Sapienza University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Giovanni Sarnelli
- Department of Clinical Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of Naples “Federico II”NaplesItaly
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
McCartney D, Benson MJ, Desbrow B, Irwin C, Suraev A, McGregor IS. Cannabidiol and Sports Performance: a Narrative Review of Relevant Evidence and Recommendations for Future Research. SPORTS MEDICINE - OPEN 2020; 6:27. [PMID: 32632671 PMCID: PMC7338332 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-020-00251-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid derived from Cannabis sativa. CBD initially drew scientific interest due to its anticonvulsant properties but increasing evidence of other therapeutic effects has attracted the attention of additional clinical and non-clinical populations, including athletes. Unlike the intoxicating cannabinoid, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), CBD is no longer prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency and appears to be safe and well-tolerated in humans. It has also become readily available in many countries with the introduction of over-the-counter "nutraceutical" products. The aim of this narrative review was to explore various physiological and psychological effects of CBD that may be relevant to the sport and/or exercise context and to identify key areas for future research. As direct studies of CBD and sports performance are is currently lacking, evidence for this narrative review was sourced from preclinical studies and a limited number of clinical trials in non-athlete populations. Preclinical studies have observed robust anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective and analgesic effects of CBD in animal models. Preliminary preclinical evidence also suggests that CBD may protect against gastrointestinal damage associated with inflammation and promote healing of traumatic skeletal injuries. However, further research is required to confirm these observations. Early stage clinical studies suggest that CBD may be anxiolytic in "stress-inducing" situations and in individuals with anxiety disorders. While some case reports indicate that CBD improves sleep, robust evidence is currently lacking. Cognitive function and thermoregulation appear to be unaffected by CBD while effects on food intake, metabolic function, cardiovascular function, and infection require further study. CBD may exert a number of physiological, biochemical, and psychological effects with the potential to benefit athletes. However, well controlled, studies in athlete populations are required before definitive conclusions can be reached regarding the utility of CBD in supporting athletic performance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danielle McCartney
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Psychology, Sydney, New South Wales, 2050, Australia.
- The University of Sydney, Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
- The University of Sydney, Brain and Mind Centre, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Melissa J Benson
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Psychology, Sydney, New South Wales, 2050, Australia
- The University of Sydney, Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- The University of Sydney, Brain and Mind Centre, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ben Desbrow
- School of Allied Health Sciences, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Christopher Irwin
- School of Allied Health Sciences, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Anastasia Suraev
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Psychology, Sydney, New South Wales, 2050, Australia
- The University of Sydney, Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- The University of Sydney, Brain and Mind Centre, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Iain S McGregor
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Psychology, Sydney, New South Wales, 2050, Australia
- The University of Sydney, Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- The University of Sydney, Brain and Mind Centre, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Gonzalez-Llinares J, Font-Julián CI, Orduña-Malea E. Universidades en Google: hacia un modelo de análisis multinivel del posicionamiento web académico. REVISTA ESPANOLA DE DOCUMENTACION CIENTIFICA 2020. [DOI: 10.3989/redc.2020.2.1691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Se propone un modelo de análisis del posicionamiento web de universidades basado en un vocabulario de palabras clave categorizadas según las distintas misiones universitarias, que se aplica a una universidad (Universitat Politècnica de València) para comprobar su idoneidad. A partir de un vocabulario de 164 palabras clave se construyeron 290 consultas web que fueron ejecutadas en Google, recopilando los 20 primeros resultados obtenidos para cada consulta. Los resultados confirman que las universidades obtienen un posicionamiento web variable en función de la dimensión vinculada a la consulta web y que las páginas web vinculadas a la docencia (especialmente Grados) son las que mejor posicionan, incluso para consultas web orientadas a investigación. Con todo, se observa un posicionamiento bajo no sólo para la UPV sino para las universidades públicas presenciales españolas (sólo el 27% del total de resultados en el Top 20 corresponde a alguna de estas universidades). Se concluye que el análisis multinivel es necesario para estudiar el posicionamiento web de las universidades y que el modelo propuesto es viable y escalable. No obstante, se han identificado ciertas limitaciones (dependencia del vocabulario utilizado y alta variabilidad de datos) que deben tenerse en cuenta en el diseño de este tipo de modelos de análisis.
Collapse
|
35
|
Luque-Martínez T, Faraoni N, Doña-Toledo L. Los rankings académicos y la distribución por género de las universidades. REVISTA ESPANOLA DE DOCUMENTACION CIENTIFICA 2020. [DOI: 10.3989/redc.2020.2.1663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Este trabajo examina la distribución por género de las universidades, a través de un porcentaje de mujeres dentro del alumnado, y comprueba si tal distribución tiene alguna relación con la posición de las universidades en los rankings universitarios. Se han seleccionado siete rankings, globales y sintéticos, disponiendo de datos de la distribución por género del alumnado para 924 universidades. Los resultados confirman que las universidades con una equilibrada distribución entre hombres y mujeres presentan mayores puntuaciones, por tanto, mejores posiciones en los rankings. Las universidades con mayor presencia femenina en el alumnado son las de ratio más alto de estudiantes por profesor y las que alcanzan mayores valoraciones medias en los indicadores de internacionalización. En los indicadores de premios Nobel y medallas Fields, e ingresos procedentes de la industria, las universidades con mayor presencia masculina tienen mayores puntuaciones medias. Los resultados pueden contribuir a la mejora de las políticas de igualdad en las universidades, así como a orientar las decisiones estratégicas y de gestión de las mismas.
Collapse
|
36
|
Mabou Tagne A, Pacchetti B, Sodergren M, Cosentino M, Marino F. Cannabidiol for Viral Diseases: Hype or Hope? Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2020; 5:121-131. [PMID: 32656344 DOI: 10.1089/can.2019.0060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The possibility of cannabidiol (CBD) to be used as an antiviral or to treat viral diseases has received limited attention so far, despite the growing number of claims that CBD could be used for the treatment of viral infection-related conditions. Aim and Methods: Therefore, we systematically retrieved and critically evaluated the scientific literature available on PubMed and the claims on the Internet, to assess the current state of knowledge on the use of CBD in viral diseases, and to provide suggestions for future research directions. Results: PubMed search referenced two original articles supporting the use of CBD for the treatment of hepatitis C and Kaposi sarcoma and one article reporting the ability of CBD to reduce neuroinflammation in a virus-induced animal model of multiple sclerosis. Internet search found 25 websites claiming more indications for CBD. Remarkably, those claims were provided mostly by commercial websites and were not supported by appropriate scientific references. Conclusion: Although preclinical studies suggest the potential effectiveness of CBD in viral diseases such as hepatitis C and Kaposi sarcoma, clinical evidence is still lacking. Anecdotal experiences of CBD use retrieved on the Internet, on the other side, lack any support from sound scientific evidence, although they might in some cases provide suggestions for conditions associated with viral infections that may deserve proper assessment in well-designed clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alex Mabou Tagne
- Center for Research in Medical Pharmacology, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | | | - Mikael Sodergren
- Emmac Life Sciences, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Marco Cosentino
- Center for Research in Medical Pharmacology, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Franca Marino
- Center for Research in Medical Pharmacology, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin P. Hill
- Division of Addiction Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Tallei TE, Tumilaar SG, Niode NJ, Kepel BJ, Idroes R, Effendi Y, Sakib SA, Emran TB. Potential of Plant Bioactive Compounds as SARS-CoV-2 Main Protease (M pro) and Spike (S) Glycoprotein Inhibitors: A Molecular Docking Study. SCIENTIFICA 2020; 2020:6307457. [PMID: 33425427 DOI: 10.20944/preprints202004.0102.v2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 19) pandemic, researchers have been trying to investigate several active compounds found in plants that have the potential to inhibit the proliferation of SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2). The present study aimed to evaluate bioactive compounds found in plants using a molecular docking approach to inhibit the main protease (Mpro) and spike (S) glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2. The evaluation was performed on the docking scores calculated using AutoDock Vina (AV) as a docking engine. A rule of five (Ro5) was calculated to determine whether a compound meets the criteria as an active drug orally in humans. The determination of the docking score was performed by selecting the best conformation of the protein-ligand complex that had the highest affinity (most negative Gibbs' free energy of binding/ΔG). As a comparison, nelfinavir (an antiretroviral drug), chloroquine, and hydroxychloroquine sulfate (antimalarial drugs recommended by the FDA as emergency drugs) were used. The results showed that hesperidin, nabiximols, pectolinarin, epigallocatechin gallate, and rhoifolin had better poses than nelfinavir, chloroquine, and hydroxychloroquine sulfate as spike glycoprotein inhibitors. Hesperidin, rhoifolin, pectolinarin, and nabiximols had about the same pose as nelfinavir but were better than chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine sulfate as Mpro inhibitors. This finding implied that several natural compounds of plants evaluated in this study showed better binding free energy compared to nelfinavir, chloroquine, and hydroxychloroquine sulfate, which so far are recommended in the treatment of COVID-19. From quantum chemical DFT calculations, the ascending order of chemical reactivity of selected compounds was pectolinarin > hesperidin > rhoifolin > morin > epigallocatechin gallate. All isolated compounds' C=O regions are preferable for an electrophilic attack, and O-H regions are suitable for a nucleophilic attack. Furthermore, Homo-Lumo and global descriptor values indicated a satisfactory remarkable profile for the selected compounds. As judged by the RO5 and previous study by others, the compounds kaempferol, herbacetin, eugenol, and 6-shogaol have good oral bioavailability, so they are also seen as promising candidates for the development of drugs to treat infections caused by SARS-CoV-2. The present study identified plant-based compounds that can be further investigated in vitro and in vivo as lead compounds against SARS-CoV-2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Trina Ekawati Tallei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Sam Ratulangi University, Manado 95115, Indonesia
| | - Sefren Geiner Tumilaar
- Pharmacy Study Program, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Sam Ratulangi University, Manado 95115, Indonesia
| | - Nurdjannah Jane Niode
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sam Ratulangi, Manado 95115, Indonesia
| | - Billy Johnson Kepel
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Sam Ratulangi University, Manado 95115, Indonesia
| | - Rinaldi Idroes
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Syiah Kuala University, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia
| | - Yunus Effendi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Al Azhar University, South Jakarta 12110, Indonesia
| | - Shahenur Alam Sakib
- Department of Theoretical and Computational Chemistry, University of Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Talha Bin Emran
- Department of Pharmacy, BGC Trust University Bangladesh, Chittagong 4381, Bangladesh
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Andrews CN, Devlin SM, Le Foll B, Fischer B, Tse F, Storr M, Congly SE. Canadian Association of Gastroenterology Position Statement: Use of Cannabis in Gastroenterological and Hepatic Disorders. J Can Assoc Gastroenterol 2018; 2:37-43. [PMID: 31294362 PMCID: PMC6507278 DOI: 10.1093/jcag/gwy064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher N Andrews
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Correspondence: Christopher N Andrews, MD, MSc, FRCPC, Clinical Professor, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 6th Floor, TRW Building, 3280 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4Z6, Canada. E-mail
| | - Shane M Devlin
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Bernard Le Foll
- Translational Addiction Research Laboratory, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Acute Care Program, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Departments of Family and Community Medicine, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Psychiatry, Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Benedikt Fischer
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Frances Tse
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Martin Storr
- Department of Medicine, University of Munich and Center of Endoscopy, Starnberg, Germany
| | - Stephen E Congly
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Wijarnpreecha K, Panjawatanan P, Ungprasert P. Use of cannabis and risk of advanced liver fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Evid Based Med 2018; 11:272-277. [PMID: 30398032 DOI: 10.1111/jebm.12317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2018] [Accepted: 10/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is one of the most common chronic liver diseases. Several risk factors for the progression of liver fibrosis among these patients have been identified. Use of cannabis could be another risk factor, but the results from epidemiological studies remain inconclusive. METHODS Comprehensive literature review was conducted using MEDLINE and EMBASE databases through December 2017 to identify studies that compared the risk of advanced liver fibrosis among HCV-infected patients who use and who do not use cannabis. Effect estimates from each study were extracted and combined together using the random-effect, generic inverse variance method of DerSimonian and Laird. RESULTS A total of three cohort studies with 898 participants met the eligibility criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. The risk of advanced liver fibrosis among HCV-infected patients who use cannabis was numerically higher than those who do not use cannabis, although the result did not achieve statistical significance (pooled odds ratio, 1.77; 95% confidence interval, 0.78-4.02). The statistical heterogeneity was high with an I2 of 75%. CONCLUSIONS This meta-analysis showed that the risk of advanced liver fibrosis among HCV-infected patients who use cannabis was higher than those who do not use cannabis, but the result was not statistically significant. Further studies are required to better characterize the risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karn Wijarnpreecha
- Department of Internal Medicine, Bassett Medical Center, Cooperstown, New York
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida
| | | | - Patompong Ungprasert
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Department of Research and Development, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Reduced Incidence and Better Liver Disease Outcomes among Chronic HCV Infected Patients Who Consume Cannabis. Can J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2018; 2018:9430953. [PMID: 30345261 PMCID: PMC6174743 DOI: 10.1155/2018/9430953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2018] [Revised: 08/13/2018] [Accepted: 08/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM The effect of cannabis use on chronic liver disease (CLD) from Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infection, the most common cause of CLD, has been controversial. Here, we investigated the impact of cannabis use on the prevalence of CLD among HCV infected individuals. METHODS We analyzed hospital discharge records of adults (age ≥ 18 years) with a positive HCV diagnosis. We evaluated records from 2007 to 2014 of the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS). We excluded records with other causes of chronic liver diseases (alcohol, hemochromatosis, NAFLD, PBC, HBV, etc.). Of the 188,333 records, we matched cannabis users to nonusers on 1:1 ratio (4,728:4,728), using a propensity-based matching system, with a stringent algorithm. We then used conditional regression models with generalized estimating equations to measure the adjusted prevalence rate ratio (aPRR) for having liver cirrhosis (and its complications), carcinoma, mortality, discharge disposition, and the adjusted mean ratio (aMR) of total hospital cost and length of stay (LOS) [SAS 9.4]. RESULTS Our study revealed that cannabis users (CUs) had decreased prevalence of liver cirrhosis (aPRR: 0.81[0.72-0.91]), unfavorable discharge disposition (0.87[0.78-0.96]), and lower total health care cost ($39,642[36,220-43,387] versus $45,566[$42,244-$49,150]), compared to noncannabis users (NCUs). However, there was no difference among CUs and NCUs on the incidence of liver carcinoma (0.79[0.55-1.13]), in-hospital mortality (0.84[0.60-1.17]), and LOS (5.58[5.10-6.09] versus 5.66[5.25-6.01]). Among CUs, dependent cannabis use was associated with lower prevalence of liver cirrhosis, compared to nondependent use (0.62[0.41-0.93]). CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that cannabis use is associated with decreased incidence of liver cirrhosis, but no change in mortality nor LOS among HCV patients. These novel observations warrant further molecular mechanistic studies.
Collapse
|
42
|
Analysis of natural product regulation of opioid receptors in the treatment of human disease. Pharmacol Ther 2018; 184:51-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2017.10.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
|
43
|
Oláh A, Szekanecz Z, Bíró T. Targeting Cannabinoid Signaling in the Immune System: "High"-ly Exciting Questions, Possibilities, and Challenges. Front Immunol 2017; 8:1487. [PMID: 29176975 PMCID: PMC5686045 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2017] [Accepted: 10/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
It is well known that certain active ingredients of the plants of Cannabis genus, i.e., the "phytocannabinoids" [pCBs; e.g., (-)-trans-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), (-)-cannabidiol, etc.] can influence a wide array of biological processes, and the human body is able to produce endogenous analogs of these substances ["endocannabinoids" (eCB), e.g., arachidonoylethanolamine (anandamide, AEA), 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), etc.]. These ligands, together with multiple receptors (e.g., CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors, etc.), and a complex enzyme and transporter apparatus involved in the synthesis and degradation of the ligands constitute the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a recently emerging regulator of several physiological processes. The ECS is widely expressed in the human body, including several members of the innate and adaptive immune system, where eCBs, as well as several pCBs were shown to deeply influence immune functions thereby regulating inflammation, autoimmunity, antitumor, as well as antipathogen immune responses, etc. Based on this knowledge, many in vitro and in vivo studies aimed at exploiting the putative therapeutic potential of cannabinoid signaling in inflammation-accompanied diseases (e.g., multiple sclerosis) or in organ transplantation, and to dissect the complex immunological effects of medical and "recreational" marijuana consumption. Thus, the objective of the current article is (i) to summarize the most recent findings of the field; (ii) to highlight the putative therapeutic potential of targeting cannabinoid signaling; (iii) to identify open questions and key challenges; and (iv) to suggest promising future directions for cannabinoid-based drug development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Attila Oláh
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Szekanecz
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Tamás Bíró
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| |
Collapse
|