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Javadzadeh Y, Santos A, Aquilino MS, Mylvaganam S, Urban K, Carlen PL. Cannabidiol Exerts Anticonvulsant Effects Alone and in Combination with Δ 9-THC through the 5-HT1A Receptor in the Neocortex of Mice. Cells 2024; 13:466. [PMID: 38534310 DOI: 10.3390/cells13060466] [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: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids have shown potential in drug-resistant epilepsy treatment; however, we lack knowledge on which cannabinoid(s) to use, dosing, and their pharmacological targets. This study investigated (i) the anticonvulsant effect of Cannabidiol (CBD) alone and (ii) in combination with Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), as well as (iii) the serotonin (5-HT)1A receptor's role in CBD's mechanism of action. Seizure activity, induced by 4-aminopyridine, was measured by extracellular field recordings in cortex layer 2/3 of mouse brain slices. The anticonvulsant effect of 10, 30, and 100 µM CBD alone and combined with Δ9-THC was evaluated. To examine CBD's mechanism of action, slices were pre-treated with a 5-HT1A receptor antagonist before CBD's effect was evaluated. An amount of ≥30 µM CBD alone exerted significant anticonvulsant effects while 10 µM CBD did not. However, 10 µM CBD combined with low-dose Δ9-THC (20:3 ratio) displayed significantly greater anticonvulsant effects than either phytocannabinoid alone. Furthermore, blocking 5-HT1A receptors before CBD application significantly abolished CBD's effects. Thus, our results demonstrate the efficacy of low-dose CBD and Δ9-THC combined and that CBD exerts its effects, at least in part, through 5-HT1A receptors. These results could address drug-resistance while providing insight into CBD's mechanism of action, laying the groundwork for further testing of cannabinoids as anticonvulsants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasaman Javadzadeh
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5S 0T8, Canada
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Alexandra Santos
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5S 0T8, Canada
| | - Mark S Aquilino
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5S 0T8, Canada
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Shanthini Mylvaganam
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5S 0T8, Canada
| | | | - Peter L Carlen
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5S 0T8, Canada
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
- Department of Medicine (Neurology), University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada
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2
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Ross B, Trojian T, Cushman DM. Physician Perceptions of Cannabidiol (CBD) and Cannabis in Sports Medicine and Performance. TRANSLATIONAL SPORTS MEDICINE 2023; 2023:8824466. [PMID: 38654915 PMCID: PMC11022760 DOI: 10.1155/2023/8824466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Objectives There is growing evidence regarding cannabinoid use in sports medicine and performance, especially cannabidiol (CBD). This study aims to determine if sports medicine physicians are recommending cannabinoids for therapeutic purposes, as well as analyze perceptions of cannabinoids within sports medicine and performance. Methods Physician members of the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine (AMSSM) completed an anonymous survey on demographics, CBD and Cannabis recommendations, as well as attitudes toward cannabinoid products within sports medicine. Factors associated with CBD and cannabis recommendations as well as perceptual differences were found using multivariate regression modelling. Results Responses from 333 physicians were recorded. The following groups were less likely to agree with allowing cannabis for recreational purposes: female gender (coeff. = 0.79 (0.33-1.25), p=0.001), increasing age (coeff. = 0.04 (0.02, 0.07), p < 0.001), and rural respondents (compared to baseline urban, coeff. = 1.16 (0.36, 1.95), p=0.004). Similarly, these three factors were associated with a higher likelihood of disagreeing with WADA removing cannabis from the prohibited substance list and with the NCAA allowing CBD use by collegiate athletes (p ≤ 0.045). CBD was less likely to be recommended by pediatricians, rural physicians, and academic physicians (p ≤ 0.030). Male physicians and younger physicians were less likely to identify cannabis as performance-enhancing (p ≤ 0.042). Conclusions Sports medicine physicians have varying views on cannabinoids. While sports medicine physicians generally have favorable attitudes toward CBD and cannabis, these perceptions appear to be significantly affected by age, practice type, and gender.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendon Ross
- University of Chicago, Department of Orthopedic Surgery & Rehabilitation Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Daniel M. Cushman
- University of Utah, Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and Department of Orthopaedics, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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3
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Alves P, Amaral C, Teixeira N, Correia-da-Silva G. Effects of a combination of cannabidiol and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol on key biological functions of HTR-8/SVneo extravillous trophoblast cells. Toxicology 2023; 495:153614. [PMID: 37567336 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2023.153614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, cannabis use has increased among pregnant women. In addition, the phytocannabinoids cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) alone or in combination are being used for therapeutical applications. THC and CBD are able to cross the placenta and a lot remains unknown concerning their impact on angiogenesis and extravillous trophoblasts' (EVTs) migration and invasion, which are essential processes for placentation. Thus, in this study, the HTR-8/SVneo cell line was employed to evaluate the effects of CBD, THC and of their combination (1:1, 2 µM). Cannabinoids affected epithelial-mesenchymal transition, as showed by increased expression of the epithelial protein marker E-cadherin for CBD and CBD plus THC treatments, and decrease of mesenchymal intermediate filament vimentin for all treatments. The gene expression of the metalloproteinases MMP2 and MMP9, and of their inhibitors TIMP1 and TIMP2 was increased, except the latter for THC treatment. Moreover, CBD reduced cell migration and invasion, an effect that was enhanced by its combination with THC. CBD with or without THC also upregulated the gene expression of PGF, while the anti-angiogenic factor sFLT1 was increased for all treatments. VEGFA and FLT1 were not affected. Alone or combined CBD and THC also decreased tube segments' length. Additionally, ERK1/2 and STAT3 phosphorylation was increased in the CBD and CBD plus THC-treated cells, while THC only activated STAT3. AKT activation was only affected by CBD. This work demonstrates that the exposure to cannabinoid-based products containing CBD and/or THC, may interfere with key processes of EVTs differentiation. Therefore, crucial phases of placental development can be affected, compromising pregnancy success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia Alves
- UCIBIO.REQUIMTE, Department of Biological Sciences, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Cristina Amaral
- UCIBIO.REQUIMTE, Department of Biological Sciences, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Natércia Teixeira
- UCIBIO.REQUIMTE, Department of Biological Sciences, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Georgina Correia-da-Silva
- UCIBIO.REQUIMTE, Department of Biological Sciences, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
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Greco R, Francavilla M, Demartini C, Zanaboni AM, Sodergren MH, Facchetti S, Pacchetti B, Palmisan M, Franco V, Tassorelli C. Characterization of the biochemical and behavioral effects of cannabidiol: implications for migraine. J Headache Pain 2023; 24:48. [PMID: 37138206 PMCID: PMC10155373 DOI: 10.1186/s10194-023-01589-y] [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: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) is the main pharmacologically active phytocannabinoid. CBD exerts an analgesic effect in several pain models, does not have side effects and has low toxicity. The data about CBD mechanisms of action in pain and its therapeutic potential in this area are limited. Here, we tested CBD effects in animal models specific for migraine. We assayed CBD distribution in plasma and in cranial areas related to migraine pain in male Sprague Dawley rats treated chronically (5 days). Successively, we tested CBD activity on the behavioral and biochemical effects induced in the acute and the chronic migraine animal models by nitroglycerin (NTG) administration. In the acute migraine model, rats received CBD (15 mg or 30 mg/kg, i.p) 3 h after NTG (10 mg/kg i.p.) or vehicle injection. In the chronic migraine model, rats were treated with CBD and NTG every other day over nine days with the following doses: CBD 30 mg/kg i.p., NTG 10 mg/kg i.p. We evaluated behavioral parameters with the open field and the orofacial formalin tests. We explored the fatty acid amide hydrolase gene expression, cytokines mRNA and protein levels in selected brain areas and CGRP serum level. CBD levels in the meninges, trigeminal ganglia, cervical spinal cord, medulla pons, and plasma were higher 1 h after the last treatment than after 24 h, suggesting that CBD penetrates but does not accumulate in these tissues. In the acute model, CBD significantly reduced NTG-induced trigeminal hyperalgesia and CGRP and cytokine mRNA levels in peripheral and central sites. In the chronic model, CBD caused a significant decrease in NTG-induced IL-6 protein levels in the medulla-pons, and trigeminal ganglion. It also reduced CGRP serum levels. By contrast, CBD did not modulate TNF-alpha protein levels and fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) gene expression in any of investigated areas. In both experimental conditions, there was no modulation of anxiety, motor/exploratory behavior, or grooming. These findings show that CBD reaches brain areas involved in migraine pain after systemic administration. They also show for the first time that CBD modulates migraine-related nociceptive transmission, likely via a complex signaling mechanism involving different pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosaria Greco
- Unit of Translational Neurovascular Research, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, 27100, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Miriam Francavilla
- Unit of Translational Neurovascular Research, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, 27100, Pavia, Italy
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Chiara Demartini
- Unit of Translational Neurovascular Research, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, 27100, Pavia, Italy
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Zanaboni
- Unit of Translational Neurovascular Research, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, 27100, Pavia, Italy
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Mikael H Sodergren
- Curaleaf International, Guernsey, UK
- Medical Cannabis Research Group, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Sara Facchetti
- Unit of Translational Neurovascular Research, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | | | - Michela Palmisan
- Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Valentina Franco
- Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Cristina Tassorelli
- Unit of Translational Neurovascular Research, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, 27100, Pavia, Italy
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100, Pavia, Italy
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Ogunsola AS, Smith S, Eniola OA, Mercy UC, Karaye IM. Sex Differences in the Association Between Cannabis Use and Diabetes Mellitus among U.S. Adults: The National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey, 2013-2018. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2022; 7:876-881. [PMID: 34981965 DOI: 10.1089/can.2021.0134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Diabetes mellitus is an important public health problem in the United States, accounting for 87,647 deaths in 2019. This study aimed to assess the association between cannabis use and diabetes mellitus by sex among U.S. adults. Methods: Data were abstracted from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2013 through 2018. Cannabis use was estimated using exposure status and frequency of use. Diabetes mellitus was assessed based on physician diagnosis or laboratory results, per the American Diabetes Association guidelines. A multivariable survey logistic regression model was fitted to estimate adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and confidence intervals (95% CIs). Results: A total of 15,062 participants were included in this study. The majority were female (n=7845; 51.1%), >40 years of age (n=8564; 56.3%), non-Hispanic white (n=4873; 61.5%), with at least a college-level education (n=8239; 62.5%). Female participants who used cannabis heavily were less likely to be diagnosed with diabetes mellitus than female noncannabis users (aOR=0.49; 95% CI: 0.30-0.81; aOR=0.51; 95% CI: 0.31-0.84). However, no significant association was found for female adults who engaged in light use of cannabis (aOR=0.98; 95% CI: 0.55-1.75; aOR=1.01; 95% CI: 0.57-1.79). Among male adults, cannabis use, irrespective of the degree of exposure, was not significantly associated with diabetes mellitus (heavy users: aOR=0.89; 95% CI=0.56-1.41; light users: aOR=0.53; 95% CI=0.22-1.29). Conclusions: Heavy cannabis use is inversely associated with diabetes mellitus in females but not males. Further studies are needed to explore the sex-based heterogeneity-and individual and contextual factors responsible-in the association between cannabis use and diabetes mellitus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayobami S Ogunsola
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Samuel Smith
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Olatunji A Eniola
- Department of Health Policy & Management, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Udeh C Mercy
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Ibraheem M Karaye
- Department of Population Health, Hofstra University, Hempstead, New York, USA
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6
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Lichenstein SD. THC, CBD, and Anxiety: A review of recent findings on the anxiolytic and anxiogenic effects of cannabis' primary cannabinoids. CURRENT ADDICTION REPORTS 2022; 9:473-485. [PMID: 38106452 PMCID: PMC10722902 DOI: 10.1007/s40429-022-00450-7] [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] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of review In the context of ongoing decriminalization and legalization of cannabis, a better understanding of how THC and CBD impact anxiety is critical to elucidate the risks of recreational cannabis use as well as to establish the therapeutic potential of cannabis products for anxiety-related applications. Recent findings Recent literature supports anxiogenic effects of THC administration, which may be attenuated among regular cannabis users. Data regarding anxiolytic effects of CBD administration are mixed. Most newer studies contradict earlier findings in reporting no effects of CBD on anxiety in healthy participants, whereas inconsistent results have been reported among individuals with anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, and other clinical populations. Summary Future research is needed to reconcile heterogenous findings, explore sex differences in the effects of THC and CBD on anxiety, as well as to assess how effects change with extended exposure, the impact of different CBD doses, and interactions between THC, CBD, and other cannabis compounds.
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7
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Anderson LL, Low IK, McGregor IS, Arnold JC. Interactions between cannabidiol and Δ 9 -tetrahydrocannabinol in modulating seizure susceptibility and survival in a mouse model of Dravet syndrome. Br J Pharmacol 2020; 177:4261-4274. [PMID: 32608111 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Extracts from the cannabis plant can dramatically improve the health of children suffering from refractory epilepsies such as Dravet syndrome. These extracts typically contain cannabidiol (CBD), a phytocannabinoid with well-documented anticonvulsant effects, but may also contain Δ9 -tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9 -THC). It is unclear whether the presence of Δ9 -THC modulates the anticonvulsant efficacy of CBD. Here, we utilized the Scn1a+/- mouse model of Dravet syndrome to examine this question. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Scn1a+/- mice recapitulate core features of Dravet syndrome, including hyperthermia-induced seizures, early onset spontaneous seizures and sudden death. We assessed the effects on CBD and Δ9 -THC alone, and in combination on hyperthermia-induced seizures, spontaneous seizures and premature mortality. KEY RESULTS Administered alone, CBD (100 mg·kg-1 i.p.) was anticonvulsant against hyperthermia-induced seizures as were low (0.1 and 0.3 mg·kg-1 i.p.) but not higher doses of Δ9 -THC. A subthreshold dose of CBD (12 mg·kg-1 ) enhanced the anticonvulsant effects of Δ9 -THC (0.1 mg·kg-1 ). Sub-chronic oral administration of Δ9 -THC or CBD alone did not affect spontaneous seizure frequency or mortality while, surprisingly, their co-administration increased the severity of spontaneous seizures and overall mortality. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Low doses of Δ9 -THC are anticonvulsant against hyperthermia-induced seizures in Scn1a+/- mice, effects that are enhanced by a sub-anticonvulsant dose of CBD. However, proconvulsant effects and increased premature mortality are observed when CBD and Δ9 -THC are sub-chronically dosed in combination. The possible explanations and implications of this are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lyndsey L Anderson
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Discipline of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ivan K Low
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Iain S McGregor
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jonathon C Arnold
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Discipline of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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8
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Calapai F, Cardia L, Sorbara EE, Navarra M, Gangemi S, Calapai G, Mannucci C. Cannabinoids, Blood-Brain Barrier, and Brain Disposition. Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:pharmaceutics12030265. [PMID: 32183416 PMCID: PMC7150944 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12030265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Revised: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Potential therapeutic actions of the cannabinoids delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are based on their activity as analgesics, anti-emetics, anti-inflammatory agents, anti-seizure compounds. THC and CBD lipophilicity and their neurological actions makes them candidates as new medicinal approaches to treat central nervous system (CNS) diseases. However, they show differences about penetrability and disposition in the brain. The present article is an overview about THC and CBD crossing the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and their brain disposition. Several findings indicate that CBD can modify the deleterious effects on BBB caused by inflammatory cytokines and may play a pivotal role in ameliorating BBB dysfunction consequent to ischemia. Thus supporting the therapeutic potential of CBD for the treatment of ischemic and inflammatory diseases of CNS. Cannabinoids positive effects on cognitive function could be also considered through the aspect of protection of BBB cerebrovascular structure and function, indicating that they may purchase substantial benefits through the protection of BBB integrity. Delivery of these cannabinoids in the brain following different routes of administration (subcutaneous, oral, and pulmonary) is illustrated and commented. Finally, the potential role of cannabinoids in drug-resistance in the clinical management of neurological or psychiatric diseases such as epilepsy and schizophrenia is discussed on the light of their crossing the BBB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizio Calapai
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (F.C.); (E.E.S.); (C.M.)
| | - Luigi Cardia
- Anesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Therapy, A.O.U.G. Martino Messina, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy;
| | - Emanuela Elisa Sorbara
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (F.C.); (E.E.S.); (C.M.)
| | - Michele Navarra
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, 98166 Messina, Italy;
| | - Sebastiano Gangemi
- School and Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy;
| | - Gioacchino Calapai
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (F.C.); (E.E.S.); (C.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0902213646
| | - Carmen Mannucci
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (F.C.); (E.E.S.); (C.M.)
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9
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Samarut É, Nixon J, Kundap UP, Drapeau P, Ellis LD. Single and Synergistic Effects of Cannabidiol and Δ-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol on Zebrafish Models of Neuro-Hyperactivity. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:226. [PMID: 30949046 PMCID: PMC6435997 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of the two main active cannabinoids extracted from cannabis: Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) on two distinct behavioral models of induced neuro-hyperactivity. We have taken advantage of two previously developed zebrafish models of neuro-hyperactivity: a chemically induced pentylenetetrazole model and a genetic model caused by loss-of-function mutations in the GABA receptor subunit alpha 1 (GABRA1−/−). Both CBD and THC have a significant effect on the behavioral changes induced by both models. Importantly, we have also shown that when applied together at different ratios of THC to CBD (1:1, 1:5, and 1:10), there was a synergistic effect at a ratio of 1:1. This was particularly important for the genetically induced neuro-hyperactivity as it brought the concentrations of THC and CBD required to oppose the induced behavioral changes to levels that had much less of an effect on baseline larval behavior. The results of this study help to validate the ability of THC and CBD to oppose neuro-hyperactivity linked to seizure modalities. Additionally, it appears that individually, each cannabinoid may be more effective against the chemically induced model than against the GABRA1−/− transgenic model. However, when applied together, the concentration of each compound required to oppose the GABRA1−/− light-induced activity was lowered. This is of particular interest since the use of cannabinoids as therapeutics can be dampened by their side-effect profile. Reducing the level of each cannabinoid required may help to prevent off target effects that lead to side effects. Additionally, this study provides a validation of the complimentary nature of the two zebrafish models and sets a platform for future work with cannabinoids, particularly in the context of neuro-hyperactivity disorders such as epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Éric Samarut
- Department of Neurosciences, Research Center of the University of Montreal Hospital Center (CRCHUM), Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada.,Modelis Inc., Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Jessica Nixon
- National Research Council of Canada, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Uday P Kundap
- Department of Neurosciences, Research Center of the University of Montreal Hospital Center (CRCHUM), Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Pierre Drapeau
- Department of Neurosciences, Research Center of the University of Montreal Hospital Center (CRCHUM), Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Lee D Ellis
- National Research Council of Canada, Halifax, NS, Canada
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