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Lindekamp N, Triesch N, Rohn S, Weigel S. Quantification of sixteen cannabinoids in hemp seed edible oils and the influence of thermal processing on cannabinoid contents and profiles. Food Addit Contam Part A Chem Anal Control Expo Risk Assess 2024; 41:550-562. [PMID: 38588664 DOI: 10.1080/19440049.2024.2319270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
To investigate cannabinoid content and profiles, 16 cannabinoids were quantified in 30 commercial hemp seed edible oils. In addition, one hemp seed oil was subjected to thermal processing up to 200 °C for up to 60 min. UHPLC-MS/MS was used for analysis. The content of cannabinoids in the samples ranged from 9 to 279 mg kg-1 (sum) and for Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) from 0.2 to 6.7 mg kg-1. Three samples exceeded the EU Δ9-THC equivalent maximum levels of 7.5 mg kg-1 for hemp seed oils. Cannabinoid profiles can provide indications of different product characteristics (e.g. degree of processing, variety of plant material). Furthermore, intense thermal processing (200 °C, 60 min) led to 38% decrease in sum cannabinoid content (sum of all analysed cannabinoids in this study), 99% decrease in cannabinoid acids, and 22% increase in Δ9-THC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niklas Lindekamp
- Department Safety in the Food Chain, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Berlin, Germany
| | - Nadja Triesch
- Department Safety in the Food Chain, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Berlin, Germany
| | - Sascha Rohn
- Department of Food Chemistry and Analysis, Institute of Food Technology and Food Chemistry, Technische Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Stefan Weigel
- Department Safety in the Food Chain, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Berlin, Germany
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Casati S, Rota P, Bergamaschi RF, Palmisano E, La Rocca P, Ravelli A, Angeli I, Minoli M, Roda G, Orioli M. Hexahydrocannabinol on the Light Cannabis Market: The Latest "New" Entry. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2024; 9:622-628. [PMID: 36445181 DOI: 10.1089/can.2022.0253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Hexahydrocannabinols (HHCs), referred to as (9R)-HHC and (9S)-HHC diastereoisomers, are poorly studied cannabinoids naturally found in small concentrations in the pollen and the seeds of the hemp plants. Aim: In this study, for the first time, we describe the finding of (9R)-HHC and (9S)-HHC in two commercialized hemp derived products. Methods: The achievement of reference standards by semisynthetic or isolation approach allows us to develop and validate a gas chromatography mass spectrometry method for the identification and quantification of HHCs in hemp-derived resin. Results: The two analyzed samples showed percentage of 42.5 and 41.5 for (9R)-HHC and of 23.6 and 23.6 for (9S)-HHC. Conclusions: Despite the lack of in-depth studies about HHCs activity, potency, toxicity, and safety, these cannabinoids are emerging on the light-cannabis (hemp) market probably because legislations still do not clearly regulate them. Since analytical assay for hemp-derived products usually include only Δ9-THC, THC-A, CBD, and CBD-A, a thorough investigation could be carried out to reveal the possible addition of "new" compounds that might be a matter of safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Casati
- Laboratorio di Tossicologia Forense, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Chirurgiche ed Odontoiatriche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Paola Rota
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Chirurgiche ed Odontoiatriche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Roberta F Bergamaschi
- Laboratorio di Tossicologia Forense, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Chirurgiche ed Odontoiatriche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Erika Palmisano
- Laboratorio di Tossicologia Forense, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Chirurgiche ed Odontoiatriche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Paolo La Rocca
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche per la Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Alessandro Ravelli
- Laboratorio di Tossicologia Forense, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Chirurgiche ed Odontoiatriche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Ilaria Angeli
- Laboratorio di Tossicologia Forense, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Chirurgiche ed Odontoiatriche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Mauro Minoli
- Laboratorio di Tossicologia Forense, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Chirurgiche ed Odontoiatriche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Gabriella Roda
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Marica Orioli
- Laboratorio di Tossicologia Forense, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Chirurgiche ed Odontoiatriche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
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Geweda MM, Majumdar CG, Moore MN, Elhendawy MA, Radwan MM, Chandra S, ElSohly MA. Evaluation of dispensaries' cannabis flowers for accuracy of labeling of cannabinoids content. J Cannabis Res 2024; 6:11. [PMID: 38461280 PMCID: PMC10924369 DOI: 10.1186/s42238-024-00220-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis policies have changed drastically over the last few years with many states enacting medical cannabis laws, and some authorizing recreational use; all against federal laws. As a result, cannabis products are marketed in dispensaries in different forms, most abundantly as flowers intended for smoking and sometimes vaping. All samples used in this study were obtained directly from law enforcement. The sample collection process was facilitated and funded by the National Marijuana Initiative (NMI), part of the High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program. This initial report focuses on cannabis flowers. Similar studies with other cannabis products will be the subject of a future report. METHODS A total of 107 Δ9-THC cannabis flower samples were collected by law enforcement from adult commercial use cannabis dispensaries, located in three different states (Colorado, Oregon, and California) and analyzed in this study for cannabinoid concentration. Samples were analyzed by GC-FID following our previously published procedure. DISCUSSION The label claims for total Δ9-THC content ranged from 12.04 to 58.20% w/w, while GC-FID results showed a concentration ranging from 12.95 to 36.55% w/w. Of the evaluated 107 products, only 32 samples have Δ9-THC content within ± 20% of the labeled content. However, the remaining 75 samples were found to be out of the ± 20% acceptance criteria. The degree of agreement for the tested samples using ± 20% tolerance with label claims was only 30%. The results of this study indicate that there is a need for more stringent regulations to ensure that product labeling is accurate, as 70% of the evaluated products did not meet the ± 20% acceptance criteria. This highlights the importance of healthcare professionals and patients being vigilant about the Δ9-THC content, as inaccurate labeling of cannabis products could potentially result in adverse health effects. Furthermore, there is a pressing need for more rigorous regulation of commercial cannabis products in the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona M Geweda
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS, 38677, USA
| | - Chandrani G Majumdar
- National Center for Natural Products Research, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS, 38677, USA
| | - Malorie N Moore
- National Center for Natural Products Research, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS, 38677, USA
| | - Mostafa A Elhendawy
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Mississippi, University, 38677, USA
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Damietta University, Damietta, 34517, Egypt
| | - Mohamed M Radwan
- National Center for Natural Products Research, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS, 38677, USA
| | - Suman Chandra
- National Center for Natural Products Research, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS, 38677, USA
| | - Mahmoud A ElSohly
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS, 38677, USA.
- National Center for Natural Products Research, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS, 38677, USA.
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Nair VS, Heybroek M, Boyle E, Rogers M, Campbell T, Eichner D, Hill K. Prevalence of carboxy-Δ 8 -tetrahydrocannabiniol in antidoping samples. Drug Test Anal 2024. [PMID: 38176407 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Δ9 -Tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9 -THC) is usually the primary psychoactive agent in cannabis preparations. Recently, products containing another isomer, Δ8 -tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ8 -THC), have become available for sale. Δ8 -THC exists naturally in the cannabis plant at very low concentrations; hence, the Δ8 -THC present in most of the above-mentioned products is likely to be manufactured synthetically. A surge in popularity of these products, coupled with little oversight to ensure purity and potency, has led to reports of adverse events. Workplace drug testing programs as well as many sporting organizations prohibit the use of cannabinoids. Carboxy-Δ9 -THC (Δ9 -THC-COOH) is the targeted urinary metabolite for detection of cannabis use. The proliferation of products containing Δ8 -THC, which metabolizes to Δ8 -THC-COOH, presents analytical complexity with respect to separation and quantification of the individual isomers as well as legal complexity with respect to lack of clarity around the legal status of Δ8 -THC. This study aims to estimate the prevalence of Δ8 -THC use in the athlete community by monitoring for Δ8 -THC-COOH in samples collected for antidoping. A high-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method was utilized to resolve Δ8 and Δ9 -THC-COOH. One thousand samples with a presumptive Δ9 -THC-COOH finding in routine screening were analyzed by the above LC-MS/MS method. Approximately 12% of samples contained Δ8 -THC-COOH at relative abundances between 5% and 100% of total carboxy-THC content.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinod S Nair
- Sports Medicine Research and Testing Laboratory, South Jordan, Utah, USA
| | - Mari Heybroek
- Sports Medicine Research and Testing Laboratory, South Jordan, Utah, USA
| | - Emily Boyle
- Sports Medicine Research and Testing Laboratory, South Jordan, Utah, USA
| | - Mason Rogers
- University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Thane Campbell
- Sports Medicine Research and Testing Laboratory, South Jordan, Utah, USA
| | - Daniel Eichner
- Sports Medicine Research and Testing Laboratory, South Jordan, Utah, USA
| | - Kevin Hill
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Yamamuro T, Saito Y, Okada Y, Segawa H, Kuwayama K, Tsujikawa K, Kanamori T, Iwata YT. Identifying a suspect powder as a cannabis concentrate through chemical analysis and DNA testing. Forensic Toxicol 2024; 42:102-109. [PMID: 37603166 DOI: 10.1007/s11419-023-00672-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Cannabis is regulated in many countries, and cannabis products are diversifying, which can hinder identification. Here, we report the seizure of a powder sample with a cannabis-like odor in a spice bottle labeled "nutmeg" and identification of the sample by chemical testing and cannabis DNA testing. METHODS The sample was observed under a microscope, extracted with methanol, and analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The chemical profile of the seized powder was compared with that of nutmeg samples. Gas chromatography-flame ionization detection was used to estimate the total Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) concentration in the sample. A commercially available cannabis DNA testing kit was used to confirm the presence of cannabis plant DNA in the seized sample. RESULTS The characteristics of cannabis in the seized powder were difficult to determine through microscopic observation alone. GC-MS analysis identified β-caryophyllene (an aromatic component of cannabis) and five cannabinoids unique to cannabis, including Δ9-THC. No common compounds were identified in the seized powder or nutmeg samples. The total Δ9-THC concentration in the sample was very high (approximately 47% by weight). Cannabis DNA testing confirmed that the seized powder contained cannabis. CONCLUSIONS The seized powder was found to be a processed product made from a finely pulverized resin-like cannabis concentrate. Our results indicate that combined chemical and DNA analysis should help identify cannabis-related samples in various forms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tadashi Yamamuro
- National Research Institute of Police Science, 6-3-1, Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba, 277-0882, Japan.
| | - Yusuke Saito
- Criminal Investigation Laboratory, Hokkaido Prefectural Police Headquarters, Kita 2-Jo Nishi 7-Chome, Chuo-Ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-8520, Japan
| | - Yuki Okada
- National Research Institute of Police Science, 6-3-1, Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba, 277-0882, Japan
| | - Hiroki Segawa
- National Research Institute of Police Science, 6-3-1, Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba, 277-0882, Japan
| | - Kenji Kuwayama
- National Research Institute of Police Science, 6-3-1, Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba, 277-0882, Japan
| | - Kenji Tsujikawa
- National Research Institute of Police Science, 6-3-1, Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba, 277-0882, Japan
| | - Tatsuyuki Kanamori
- National Research Institute of Police Science, 6-3-1, Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba, 277-0882, Japan
| | - Yuko T Iwata
- National Research Institute of Police Science, 6-3-1, Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba, 277-0882, Japan
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6
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Cheng YC, Kerrigan S. Factors influencing the in situ formation of Δ9-THC from cannabidiol during GC-MS analysis. Drug Test Anal 2023. [PMID: 38049934 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) is widely used for the identification of cannabinoids in seized plant material. Conditions used for instrumental analysis should maximize decarboxylation, while minimizing the in situ production of Δ9-THC inside the GC inlet. In this study, decarboxylation of the acidic Δ9-THC precursor and in situ degradation of cannabidiol (CBD) were investigated using seven commercial GC liners with different deactivation chemistries and geometries. While the inlet temperature was previously optimized at 250°C in a previously validated assay, we systematically examined the temperature-dependent decarboxylation of tetrahydrocannabinolic acid-A (Δ9-THCA-A) and cyclization of CBD between 230°C and 310°C using different liners using favorable and unfavorable conditions. Significant differences in decarboxylation rate and CBD cyclization were observed between different liner types. While no temperature-dependent differences in decarboxylation rate were observed within liner type, liner-dependent differences were observed (α = 0.05), particularly between those with different geometry. In contrast, temperature and liner-dependent differences were observed for in situ formation of Δ9-THC (α = 0.05). This was influenced by liner geometry and to a smaller extent by surface deactivation. Effects were exacerbated with liner usage. While significant differences were observed using new and used GC liners, differences between liners of the same type but different lot numbers were not observed. Inter-instrument differences using the same liner were also evaluated and had minimal effect. Liner- and temperature-dependent effects were also confirmed using more than 20 cannabis plant extracts. Careful selection of liner, inlet conditions, and regular preventive maintenance can mitigate the risks associated with in situ formation Δ9-THC from CBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Chih Cheng
- Department of Forensic Science, Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, Texas, USA
| | - Sarah Kerrigan
- Department of Forensic Science, Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, Texas, USA
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Hudzik TJ, Huestis MA, Rossi SS, Schumacher YO, Harcourt P, Budgett R, Stuart M, Tettey J, Mazzoni I, Rabin O, Danion A, Culler M, Handelsman D, Thevis M, Kinahan A. Cannabis and sport: A World Anti-Doping perspective. Addiction 2023; 118:2040-2042. [PMID: 37574590 DOI: 10.1111/add.16315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Marilyn A Huestis
- Institute for Emerging Health Professions, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Sabina Strano Rossi
- Department of Health Surveillance and Bioethics, Forensic Toxicology Laboratory, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore F. Policlinico Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Richard Budgett
- Medical and Scientific Department, International Olympic Committee, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Mark Stuart
- International Testing Agency-ITA, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Justice Tettey
- United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Vienna International Centre, Vienna, Austria
| | - Irene Mazzoni
- Science and Medicine Department, World Anti-Doping Agency, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Olivier Rabin
- Science and Medicine Department, World Anti-Doping Agency, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Anne Danion
- Science and Medicine Department, World Anti-Doping Agency, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - David Handelsman
- The ANZAC Research Institute Concord Repatriation General Hospital Gate 3, Concord, NSW, Australia
| | - Mario Thevis
- Center for Preventive Doping Research, Institute of Biochemistry, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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Verdikt R, Armstrong AA, Cheng J, Hwang YS, Clark AT, Yang X, Allard P. Metabolic memory of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol exposure in pluripotent stem cells and primordial germ cells-like cells. bioRxiv 2023:2023.03.13.531968. [PMID: 36993751 PMCID: PMC10054962 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.13.531968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis, the most consumed illicit psychoactive drug in the world, is increasingly used by pregnant women. However, while cannabinoid receptors are expressed in the early embryo, the impact of phytocannabinoids exposure on early embryonic processes is lacking. Here, we leverage a stepwise in vitro differentiation system that captures early embryonic developmental cascade to investigate the impact of exposure to the most abundant phytocannabinoid, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC). We demonstrate that Δ9-THC increases the proliferation of naïve mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs) but not of their primed counterpart. Surprisingly, this increased proliferation, dependent on the CB1 receptor binding, is only associated with moderate transcriptomic changes. Instead, Δ9-THC capitalizes on ESCs' metabolic bivalence by increasing their glycolytic rates and anabolic capabilities. A memory of this metabolic rewiring is retained throughout differentiation to Primordial Germ Cell-Like Cells in the absence of direct exposure and is associated with an alteration of their transcriptional profile. These results represent the first in-depth molecular characterization of the impact of Δ9-THC exposure on early stages of germline development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxane Verdikt
- Institute for Society and Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Abigail A. Armstrong
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jenny Cheng
- Molecular, Cellular, and Integrative Physiology Graduate Program, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Young Sun Hwang
- Department of Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Amander T. Clark
- Department of Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
- Center for Reproductive Science, Health and Education, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Xia Yang
- Integrative Biology and Physiology Department, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Patrick Allard
- Institute for Society and Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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9
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Holt AK, Karin KN, Butler SN, Ferreira AR, Krotulski AJ, Poklis JL, Peace MR. Cannabinoid-based vaping products and supplement formulations reported by consumers to precipitate adverse effects. Drug Test Anal 2023; 15:1067-1076. [PMID: 35347865 PMCID: PMC10062403 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Cannabinoid-based products submitted by consumers experiencing adverse effects were analyzed to identify and quantitate ingredients. Product testing identified several synthetic cannabinoids and products with inaccurate or incomplete labeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaina K. Holt
- Department of Forensic Science, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Integrative Life Sciences Doctoral Program, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Kimberly N. Karin
- Department of Forensic Science, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Shelle N. Butler
- Department of Forensic Science, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Amanda R. Ferreira
- Department of Forensic Science, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Alex J. Krotulski
- Center for Forensic Science Research and Education, Fredric Rieders Family Foundation, Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Justin L. Poklis
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Michelle R. Peace
- Department of Forensic Science, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
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Triesch N, Vijayakumar N, Weigel S, These A. Cannabinoid contents in hemp teas and estimation of their transfer into tea infusions. Food Addit Contam Part A Chem Anal Control Expo Risk Assess 2023:1-12. [PMID: 37417991 DOI: 10.1080/19440049.2023.2224455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
This study focused on the investigation of cannabinoid profiles and contents of 23 different hemp teas and on the individual transfer of 16 cannabinoids from hemp teas into their tea infusions. The total cannabinoid content in the dry products averaged 14,960 mg kg-1, with CBD&CBDA (sum of cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA)) being the major component, accounting for 87% of the total cannabinoid content. The Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) content ranged from 16 mg kg-1 to 935 mg kg-1 and was on average 221 mg kg-1. For each hemp tea, an infusion was prepared according to a standardized protocol issued by the German Standardisation body DIN and transfer rates per cannabinoid were estimated by comparing the contents in the dry material with the concentrations in the aqueous infusion. The limited water solubility of cannabinoids results in limited extraction efficiency for cannabinoids using boiling water to prepare a tea infusion and the average transfer rate of the psychoactive Δ9-THC was only 0.5%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadja Triesch
- Department Safety in the Food Chain, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Berlin, Germany
| | - Nansiya Vijayakumar
- Department Safety in the Food Chain, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Berlin, Germany
| | - Stefan Weigel
- Department Safety in the Food Chain, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Berlin, Germany
| | - Anja These
- Department Safety in the Food Chain, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Berlin, Germany
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Vassall M, Chakraborty S, Feng Y, Faheem M, Wang X, Bhandari RK. Transcriptional Alterations Induced by Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol in the Brain and Gonads of Adult Medaka. J Xenobiot 2023; 13:237-251. [PMID: 37367494 DOI: 10.3390/jox13020018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
With the legalization of marijuana smoking in several states of the United States and many other countries for medicinal and recreational use, the possibility of its release into the environment cannot be overruled. Currently, the environmental levels of marijuana metabolites are not monitored on a regular basis, and their stability in the environment is not well understood. Laboratory studies have linked delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) exposure with behavioral abnormalities in some fish species; however, their effects on endocrine organs are less understood. To understand the effects of THC on the brain and gonads, we exposed adult medaka (Oryzias latipes, Hd-rR strain, both male and female) to 50 ug/L THC for 21 days spanning their complete spermatogenic and oogenic cycles. We examined transcriptional responses of the brain and gonads (testis and ovary) to Δ9-THC, particularly molecular pathways associated with behavioral and reproductive functions. The Δ9-THC effects were more profound in males than females. The Δ9-THC-induced differential expression pattern of genes in the brain of the male fish suggested pathways to neurodegenerative diseases and pathways to reproductive impairment in the testis. The present results provide insights into endocrine disruption in aquatic organisms due to environmental cannabinoid compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlee Vassall
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina, Greensboro, NC 27412, USA
| | - Sourav Chakraborty
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina, Greensboro, NC 27412, USA
| | - Yashi Feng
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina, Greensboro, NC 27412, USA
| | - Mehwish Faheem
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina, Greensboro, NC 27412, USA
| | - Xuegeng Wang
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina, Greensboro, NC 27412, USA
- Institute of Modern Aquaculture Science and Engineering, College of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China
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de Maria Gadotti V, Antunes FTT, Zamponi GW. Analgesia by intrathecal delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol is dependent on Cav3.2 calcium channels. Mol Brain 2023; 16:47. [PMID: 37231418 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-023-01036-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) is known to produce systemic analgesia that involves CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors. However, there is compelling evidence that Δ9-THC can potently inhibit Cav3.2T-type calcium channels which are highly expressed in dorsal root ganglion neurons and in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord. Here, we investigated whether spinal analgesia produced by Δ9-THC involves Cav3.2 channels vis a vis cannabinoid receptors. We show that spinally delivered Δ9-THC produced dose-dependent and long-lasting mechanical anti-hyperalgesia in neuropathic mice, and showed potent analgesic effects in models of inflammatory pain induced by formalin or Complete Freund's Adjuvant (CFA) injection into the hind paw, with the latter showing no overt sex differences. The Δ9-THC mediated reversal of thermal hyperalgesia in the CFA model was abolished in Cav3.2 null mice, but was unaltered in CB1 and CB2 null animals. Hence, the analgesic effects of spinally delivered Δ9-THC are due to an action on T-type calcium channels, rather than activation of spinal cannabinoid receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinicius de Maria Gadotti
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Flavia Tasmin Techera Antunes
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Gerald W Zamponi
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
- Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
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13
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Frankowska M, Wydra K, Suder A, Zaniewska M, Gawliński D, Miszkiel J, Furgała-Wojas A, Sałat K, Filip M, Müller CE, Kieć-Kononowicz K, Kotańska M. Novel GPR18 Ligands in Rodent Pharmacological Tests: Effects on Mood, Pain, and Eating Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24109046. [PMID: 37240392 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24109046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The lack of selective pharmacological tools has limited the full unraveling of G protein-coupled receptor 18 (GPR18) functions. The present study was aimed at discovering the activities of three novel preferential or selective GPR18 ligands, one agonist (PSB-KK-1415) and two antagonists (PSB-CB-5 and PSB-CB-27). We investigated these ligands in several screening tests, considering the relationship between GPR18 and the cannabinoid (CB) receptor system, and the control of endoCB signaling over emotions, food intake, pain sensation, and thermoregulation. We also assessed whether the novel compounds could modulate the subjective effects evoked by Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Male mice or rats were pretreated with the GPR18 ligands, and locomotor activity, depression- and anxiety-like symptoms, pain threshold, core temperature, food intake, and THC-vehicle discrimination were measured. Our screening analyses indicated that GPR18 activation partly results in effects that are similar to those of CB receptor activation, considering the impact on emotional behavior, food intake, and pain activity. Thus, the orphan GPR18 may provide a novel therapeutic target for mood, pain, and/or eating disorders, and further investigation is warranted to better discern its function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Frankowska
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12 Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Karolina Wydra
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12 Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Agata Suder
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12 Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Magdalena Zaniewska
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12 Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Dawid Gawliński
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12 Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Joanna Miszkiel
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12 Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Anna Furgała-Wojas
- Chair of Pharmacodynamics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9 Street, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
| | - Kinga Sałat
- Chair of Pharmacodynamics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9 Street, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Filip
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12 Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Christa E Müller
- PharmaCenter Bonn, Pharmaceutical Institute, Pharmaceutical & Medicinal Chemistry, University of Bonn, An der Immenburg 4, D-53121 Bonn, Germany
| | - Katarzyna Kieć-Kononowicz
- Chair of Technology and Biotechnology of Drugs, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9 Street, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
| | - Magdalena Kotańska
- Department of Pharmacological Screening, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9 Street, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
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Campbell MA, Iyer P, Kaufman F, Kim A, Moran F, Niknam Y, Wu L, Sandy MS, Zeise L. Animal evidence considered in determination of cannabis smoke and Δ 9 -tetrahydrocannabinol as causing reproductive toxicity (developmental endpoint); Part I. somatic development. Birth Defects Res 2022; 114:1143-1154. [PMID: 36177831 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.2099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES On December 11, 2019, California's Developmental and Reproductive Toxicant Identification Committee (DARTIC) met to consider the addition of cannabis smoke and Δ9 -THC to the Proposition 65 list as causing reproductive toxicity (developmental endpoint). As the lead state agency for implementing Proposition 65, the Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) reviewed and summarized the relevant scientific literature in the form of a hazard identification document (HID). Here we provide reviews based on the HID: shortened, revised, and reformatted for a larger audience. METHODS While the HID included both human and animal data, this set of three reviews will highlight the animal-derived data pertaining to somatic development (Part I), neurodevelopmental effects (Part II), and proposed neurodevelopmental mechanisms of action (Part III). RESULTS Endogenous cannabinoids (eCBs) and their receptors serve many critical functions in normal development. Δ9 -THC can interfere with these functions. Mechanistic studies employed techniques including: blocking Δ9 -THC binding to endocannabinoid (EC) receptors, inhibiting Δ9 -THC metabolism, and/or using animals expressing knockout mutations of EC receptors. Apical somatic effects of cannabis smoke or Δ9 -THC reported in whole animal studies included decreases in offspring viability and growth. Mechanistic studies discussed in Part I focused on Δ9 -THC effects on early embryos and implantation, immune development, and bone growth. CONCLUSIONS In reaching its decision to list cannabis and Δ9 -THC as a developmental toxicant under California's Proposition 65, the DARTIC considered biological plausibility and the consistency of mechanistic information with effects reported in human and whole animal studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlissa A Campbell
- Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment, California Environmental Protection Agency, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Poorni Iyer
- Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment, California Environmental Protection Agency, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Farla Kaufman
- Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment, California Environmental Protection Agency, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Allegra Kim
- Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment, California Environmental Protection Agency, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Francisco Moran
- Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment, California Environmental Protection Agency, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Yassaman Niknam
- Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment, California Environmental Protection Agency, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Lily Wu
- Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment, California Environmental Protection Agency, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Martha S Sandy
- Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment, California Environmental Protection Agency, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Lauren Zeise
- Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment, California Environmental Protection Agency, Sacramento, California, USA
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15
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De Leersnijder C, Duchateau C, De Braekeleer K, Deconinck E. Relative response factors and multiple regression models in liquid chromatography to quantify low-dosed components using alternative standards-proof of concept: total Δ9-THC content in cannabis flowers using CBD as reference. Anal Bioanal Chem 2022; 414:6507-6520. [PMID: 35788421 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-022-04208-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
A classical quantitative analysis in liquid chromatography is performed using either a one-point calibration or a calibration line, prepared using a reference standard of the compound(s) of interest. However, in some cases, adequate reference standards may be very expensive, rare to obtain, or have limited shelf-life properties. Also, in herbal matrices, multiple compounds could be necessary to be quantified, needing a whole series of different (related) reference standards. In these cases, the use of relative response (sometimes called relative correction factors) factors (RRFs) towards reference standards, different of the compound to be quantified, gained attraction. This study performed a comparison of the use of RRFs and linear relative response factor models (LRRFM) for the quantification of targeted low-dosed compounds using an alternative standard, since it is known that classical RRFs often fail in lower concentration ranges. For this purpose, the determination of the total Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC + Δ9-THC-A) content in dried cannabis flowers, using UHPLC-DAD, was used as a case study. A chromatographic method was implemented and validated, and the use of classical calibration lines, classical RRF, and the LRRFM was applied and compared, with special focus on the concentration around 0.2% (w/w) total Δ9-THC, the legal limit (in most European countries) in these products. Results showed that the newly presented and validated LRRFM approach outperformed the classical RRFs, especially in the low-concentration ranges and that concentrations obtained with the LRRFM were in accordance with the interpolation results obtained with a calibration line.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cedric De Leersnijder
- ULB- Faculty of Pharmacy - RD3 - Pharmacognosy, Bioanalysis and Drug Discovery Unit - Bld Triomphe, Campus Plaine, CP 205/6 - B - 1050, Brussels, Belgium.,Sciensano - Scientific Direction Physical and Chemical Health Risks - Medicines and health products, Rue Juliette Wytsmanstraat, 14 - 1050, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Céline Duchateau
- ULB- Faculty of Pharmacy - RD3 - Pharmacognosy, Bioanalysis and Drug Discovery Unit - Bld Triomphe, Campus Plaine, CP 205/6 - B - 1050, Brussels, Belgium.,Sciensano - Scientific Direction Physical and Chemical Health Risks - Medicines and health products, Rue Juliette Wytsmanstraat, 14 - 1050, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Kris De Braekeleer
- ULB- Faculty of Pharmacy - RD3 - Pharmacognosy, Bioanalysis and Drug Discovery Unit - Bld Triomphe, Campus Plaine, CP 205/6 - B - 1050, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Eric Deconinck
- ULB- Faculty of Pharmacy - RD3 - Pharmacognosy, Bioanalysis and Drug Discovery Unit - Bld Triomphe, Campus Plaine, CP 205/6 - B - 1050, Brussels, Belgium. .,Sciensano - Scientific Direction Physical and Chemical Health Risks - Medicines and health products, Rue Juliette Wytsmanstraat, 14 - 1050, Brussels, Belgium.
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16
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Fuchs Weizman N, Wyse BA, Montbriand J, Jahangiri S, Librach CL. Cannabis significantly alters DNA methylation of the human ovarian follicle in a concentration-dependent manner. Mol Hum Reprod 2022; 28:gaac022. [PMID: 35674367 PMCID: PMC9247704 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaac022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabis is increasingly consumed by women of childbearing age, and the reproductive and epigenetic effects are unknown. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the potential epigenetic implications of cannabis use on the female ovarian follicle. Whole-genome methylation was assessed in granulosa cells from 14 matched case-control patients. Exposure status was determined by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) measurements of five cannabis-derived phytocannabinoids in follicular fluid. DNA methylation was measured using the Illumina TruSeq Methyl Capture EPIC kit. Differential methylation, pathway analysis and correlation analysis were performed. We identified 3679 differentially methylated sites, with two-thirds affecting coding genes. A hotspot region on chromosome 9 was associated with two genomic features, a zinc-finger protein (ZFP37) and a long non-coding RNA (FAM225B). There were 2214 differentially methylated genomic features, 19 of which have been previously implicated in cannabis-related epigenetic modifications in other organ systems. Pathway analysis revealed enrichment in G protein-coupled receptor signaling, cellular transport, immune response and proliferation. Applying strict criteria, we identified 71 differentially methylated regions, none of which were previously annotated in this context. Finally, correlation analysis revealed 16 unique genomic features affected by cannabis use in a concentration-dependent manner. Of these, the histone methyltransferases SMYD3 and ZFP37 were hypomethylated, possibly implicating histone modifications as well. Herein, we provide the first DNA methylation profile of human granulosa cells exposed to cannabis. With cannabis increasingly legalized worldwide, further investigation into the heritability and functional consequences of these effects is critical for clinical consultation and for legalization guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noga Fuchs Weizman
- CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Racine IVF Unit, Lis Maternity Hospital, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Affiliated to the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | | | | | - Sahar Jahangiri
- CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
- CReATe BioBank, Toronto, Canada
| | - Clifford L Librach
- CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
- CReATe BioBank, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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17
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Abraham OR, Waddell Smith R. Optical and spectroscopic characterization of crystalline structures in cannabis extracts. J Forensic Sci 2021; 67:483-493. [PMID: 34787321 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.14940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Marijuana and hemp represent two broad classes of Cannabis sativa plants that are distinguished based on the concentration of the psychoactive cannabinoid delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9 -THC). In this work, solvent extracts derived from marijuana and hemp were characterized using optical and spectroscopic techniques. The crystalline components of the solvent extracts were first analyzed using polarized light microscopy to determine optical properties, namely, crystal system, optical sign, and principle refractive indices. Crystals from the marijuana-derived extracts exhibited an orthorhombic crystal system and were optically negative, with nβ between 1.6320 and 1.6330 ± 0.0002. In contrast, crystals from hemp-derived extracts exhibited a monoclinic crystal system and were optically positive, with nβ between 1.600 and 1.6040 ± 0.0002. Crystals were further distinguished through infrared spectroscopy, which highlighted structural differences between the two sample types, primarily based on differences in O-H stretching. Finally, single-crystal X-ray diffraction was used to definitively identify the crystalline components, confirming the presence of tetrahydrocannabinolic acid in marijuana-derived extracts and cannabidiol in hemp-derived extracts. Given the differences in crystal structure identified between marijuana-derived and hemp-derived solvent extracts, optical characterization provides a screening method to differentiate visually similar samples prior to confirmatory analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Otyllia R Abraham
- Forensic Science Program, School of Criminal Justice, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Ruth Waddell Smith
- Forensic Science Program, School of Criminal Justice, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA.,Department of Chemistry, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
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18
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Martínez-Peña AA, Perono GA, Gritis SA, Sharma R, Selvakumar S, Walker OS, Gurm H, Holloway AC, Raha S. The Impact of Early Life Exposure to Cannabis: The Role of the Endocannabinoid System. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:8576. [PMID: 34445282 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 08/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis use during pregnancy has continued to rise, particularly in developed countries, as a result of the trend towards legalization and lack of consistent, evidence-based knowledge on the matter. While there is conflicting data regarding whether cannabis use during pregnancy leads to adverse outcomes such as stillbirth, preterm birth, low birthweight, or increased admission to neonatal intensive care units, investigations into long-term effects on the offspring’s health are limited. Historically, studies have focused on the neurobehavioral effects of prenatal cannabis exposure on the offspring. The effects of cannabis on other physiological aspects of the developing fetus have received less attention. Importantly, our knowledge about cannabinoid signaling in the placenta is also limited. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is present at early stages of development and represents a potential target for exogenous cannabinoids in utero. The ECS is expressed in a broad range of tissues and influences a spectrum of cellular functions. The aim of this review is to explore the current evidence surrounding the effects of prenatal exposure to cannabinoids and the role of the ECS in the placenta and the developing fetus.
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Humburg BA, Jordan CJ, Zhang H, Shen H, Han X, Bi G, Hempel B, Galaj E, Baumann MH, Xi Z. Optogenetic brain-stimulation reward: A new procedure to re-evaluate the rewarding versus aversive effects of cannabinoids in dopamine transporter-Cre mice. Addict Biol 2021; 26:e13005. [PMID: 33538103 DOI: 10.1111/adb.13005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Despite extensive research, the rewarding effects of cannabinoids are still debated. Here, we used a newly established animal procedure called optogenetic intracranial self-stimulation (ICSS) (oICSS) to re-examine the abuse potential of cannabinoids in mice. A specific adeno-associated viral vector carrying a channelrhodopsin gene was microinjected into the ventral tegmental area (VTA) to express light-sensitive channelrhodopsin in dopamine (DA) neurons of transgenic dopamine transporter (DAT)-Cre mice. Optogenetic stimulation of VTA DA neurons was highly reinforcing and produced a classical "sigmoidal"-shaped stimulation-response curve dependent upon the laser pulse frequency. Systemic administration of cocaine dose-dependently enhanced oICSS and shifted stimulation-response curves upward, in a way similar to previously observed effects of cocaine on electrical ICSS. In contrast, Δ9 -tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9 -THC), but not cannabidiol, dose-dependently decreased oICSS responding and shifted oICSS curves downward. WIN55,212-2 and ACEA, two synthetic cannabinoids often used in laboratory settings, also produced dose-dependent reductions in oICSS. We then examined several new synthetic cannabinoids, which are used recreationally. XLR-11 produced a cocaine-like increase, AM-2201 produced a Δ9 -THC-like reduction, while 5F-AMB had no effect on oICSS responding. Immunohistochemistry and RNAscope in situ hybridization assays indicated that CB1 Rs are expressed mainly in VTA GABA and glutamate neurons, while CB2 Rs are expressed mainly in VTA DA neurons. Together, these findings suggest that most cannabinoids are not reward enhancing, but rather reward attenuating or aversive in mice. Activation of CB1 R and/or CB2 R in different populations of neurons in the brain may underlie the observed actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bree A. Humburg
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery, Intramural Research Program National Institute on Drug Abuse Baltimore Maryland USA
| | - Chloe J. Jordan
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery, Intramural Research Program National Institute on Drug Abuse Baltimore Maryland USA
| | - Hai‐Ying Zhang
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery, Intramural Research Program National Institute on Drug Abuse Baltimore Maryland USA
| | - Hui Shen
- Synaptic Plasticity Section, Intramural Research Program National Institute on Drug Abuse Baltimore Maryland USA
| | - Xiao Han
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery, Intramural Research Program National Institute on Drug Abuse Baltimore Maryland USA
| | - Guo‐Hua Bi
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery, Intramural Research Program National Institute on Drug Abuse Baltimore Maryland USA
| | - Briana Hempel
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery, Intramural Research Program National Institute on Drug Abuse Baltimore Maryland USA
| | - Ewa Galaj
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery, Intramural Research Program National Institute on Drug Abuse Baltimore Maryland USA
| | - Michael H. Baumann
- Designer Drug Research Unit, Intramural Research Program National Institute on Drug Abuse Baltimore Maryland USA
| | - Zheng‐Xiong Xi
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery, Intramural Research Program National Institute on Drug Abuse Baltimore Maryland USA
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20
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Murata T, Noritake K, Aki T, Uemura K. Possible roles of AMPK and macropinocytosis in the defense responses against Δ 9-THC toxicity on HL-1 cardiomyocytes. Toxicol Rep 2021; 8:980-7. [PMID: 34026562 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2021.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids are some of the most popular recreationally used illicit drugs, and are frequently consumed along with alcoholic beverages. Although the whole body effects of cannabinoids depend largely on their effects on the central nerve system, cannabinoids could harm the heart directly, due to the presence of the endocannabinoid system including cannabinoid receptor1 and 2 (CB-R1 and CB-R2) in the heart. The aim of this study is to examine the mechanism of direct cardiotoxicity of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), the main psychoactive ingredient of cannabis. For this purpose, HL-1 murine atrial cardiac muscle cells were treated with 10 or 30 μM Δ9-THC, along with 100 mM ethanol to examine the possible synergistic effects of Δ9-THC and ethanol. Transcriptome analysis showed upregulation of the genes involved in the unfolded protein response (UPR), including Bip, CHOP, ATF4 and ATF6, in cells treated with Δ9-THC. Immunoblot analysis showed caspase3 activation, indicating apoptosis caused by ER stress in Δ9-THC-treated cells. Microscopic analysis showed that Δ9-THC enhances macropinocytosis, a process involved in the uptake of extracellular fluids including nutrients. Moreover Δ9-THC seemed to activate AMPK, a sensor of intracellular energy status and an activator of macropinocytosis. Finally, we found that compound C (AMPK inhibitor) aggravated cell death by Δ9-THC while AICAR (AMPK activator) ameliorated it. Collectively, these results indicate that the activation of AMPK is necessary for the survival of HL-1 cells against Δ9-THC toxicity. Macropinocytosis might serve as one of the survival pathways downstream of AMPK.
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21
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Couch JR, Grimes GR, Green BJ, Wiegand DM, King B, Methner MM. Review of NIOSH Cannabis-Related Health Hazard Evaluations and Research. Ann Work Expo Health 2021; 64:693-704. [PMID: 32053725 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxaa013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Revised: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Since 2004, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has received 10 cannabis-related health hazard evaluation (HHE) investigation requests from law enforcement agencies (n = 5), state-approved cannabis grow operations (n = 4), and a coroner's office (n = 1). Earlier requests concerned potential illicit drug exposures (including cannabis) during law enforcement activities and criminal investigations. Most recently HHE requests have involved state-approved grow operations with potential occupational exposures during commercial cannabis production for medicinal and non-medical (recreational) use. As of 2019, the United States Drug Enforcement Administration has banned cannabis as a Schedule I substance on the federal level. However, cannabis legalization at the state level has become more common in the USA. In two completed cannabis grow operation HHE investigations (two investigations are still ongoing as of 2019), potential dermal exposures were evaluated using two distinct surface wipe sample analytical methods. The first analyzed for delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) using a liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS-MS) method with a limit of detection (LOD) of 4 nanograms (ng) per sample. A second method utilized high performance liquid chromatography with diode-array detection to analyze for four phytocannabinoids (Δ9-THC, Δ9-THC acid, cannabidiol, and cannabinol) with a LOD (2000 ng per sample) which, when comparing Δ9-THC limits, was orders of magnitude higher than the LC-MS-MS method. Surface wipe sampling results for both methods illustrated widespread contamination of all phytocannabinoids throughout the tested occupational environments, highlighting the need to consider THC form (Δ9-THC or Δ9-THC acid) as well as other biologically active phytocannabinoids in exposure assessments. In addition to potential cannabis-related dermal exposures, ergonomic stressors, and psychosocial issues, the studies found employees in cultivation, harvesting, and processing facilities could potentially be exposed to allergens and respiratory hazards through inhalation of organic dusts (including fungus, bacteria, and endotoxin) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as diacetyl and 2,3-pentanedione. These hazards were most evident during the decarboxylation and grinding of dried cannabis material, where elevated job-specific concentrations of VOCs and endotoxin were generated. Additionally, utilization of contemporary gene sequencing methods in NIOSH HHEs provided a more comprehensive characterization of microbial communities sourced during cannabis cultivation and processing. Internal Transcribed Spacer region sequencing revealed over 200 fungal operational taxonomic units and breathing zone air samples were predominantly composed of Botrytis cinerea, a cannabis plant pathogen. B. cinerea, commonly known as gray mold within the industry, has been previously associated with hypersensitivity pneumonitis. This work elucidates new occupational hazards related to cannabis production and the evolving occupational safety and health landscape of an emerging industry, provides a summary of cannabis-related HHEs, and discusses critical lessons learned from these previous HHEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- James R Couch
- NIOSH, Division of Science Integration, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | | | - Brett J Green
- NIOSH, Health Effects Laboratory Division, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Douglas M Wiegand
- NIOSH, Division of Field Studies and Engineering, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | | | - Mark M Methner
- NIOSH, Division of Field Studies and Engineering, Cincinnati, OH, USA
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22
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Martínez-Peña AA, Lee K, Petrik JJ, Hardy DB, Holloway AC. Gestational exposure to Δ 9-THC impacts ovarian follicular dynamics and angiogenesis in adulthood in Wistar rats. J Dev Orig Health Dis 2021;:1-5. [PMID: 33407988 DOI: 10.1017/S2040174420001282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
With the legalization of marijuana (Cannabis sativa) and increasing use during pregnancy, it is important to understand its impact on exposed offspring. Specifically, the effects of Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), the major psychoactive component of cannabis, on fetal ovarian development and long-term reproductive health are not fully understood. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of prenatal exposure to Δ9-THC on ovarian health in adult rat offspring. At 6 months of age, Δ9-THC-exposed offspring had accelerated folliculogenesis with apparent follicular development arrest, but no persistent effects on circulating steroid levels. Ovaries from Δ9-THC-exposed offspring had reduced blood vessel density in association with decreased expression of the pro-angiogenic factor VEGF and its receptor VEGFR-2, as well as an increase in the anti-angiogenic factor thrombospondin 1 (TSP-1). Collectively, these data suggest that exposure to Δ9-THC during pregnancy alters follicular dynamics during postnatal life, which may have long-lasting detrimental effects on female reproductive health.
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McCartney D, Isik AD, Rooney K, Arnold JC, Bartlett DJ, Murnion B, Richards E, Arkell TR, Lintzeris N, McGregor IS. The effect of daily aerobic cycling exercise on sleep quality during inpatient cannabis withdrawal: A randomised controlled trial. J Sleep Res 2020; 30:e13211. [PMID: 33078435 DOI: 10.1111/jsr.13211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Sleep disturbance is a common symptom encountered by cannabis-dependent individuals abstaining from cannabis use. In the present study, we investigated the effect of daily aerobic cycling exercise versus control stretching on sleep quality during inpatient cannabis withdrawal in treatment-seeking dependent cannabis users. The protocol incorporated three consecutive phases: a 4-Day (4-Night) (at-home) 'Baseline' phase, a 6-Day (5-Night) 'Treatment' phase (within a 7-Day inpatient hospital stay) and a 3-Day (4-Night) (at-home) 'Post-Treatment' phase. Participants performed 35 min of monitored activity per day during the Treatment phase. The intervention group (n = 19) cycled at ~60% aerobic capacity (VO2max ), while the control group (n = 12) performed a stretching routine. Objective sleep quality was measured nightly throughout the study using wrist actigraphy ratings of subjective sleep quality were also recorded during the Treatment phase. There were no group differences in sleep measures during the Baseline phase (all p > .05). Objective sleep onset latency increased from the Baseline to the Treatment phase in the control (stretching) group (p = .042). In contrast, the Cycling group exhibited improvements in sleep duration (p = .008) and sleep efficiency (p = .023) during the Treatment phase compared to the Baseline phase. Cycling also increased sleep duration (p = .005), decreased average wake bout (p = .040) and tended to increase sleep efficiency (p = .051) compared to stretching during the Treatment phase. Subjective sleep quality ratings did not differ between groups (p > .10). These preliminary findings suggest that moderate-intensity aerobic exercise may attenuate the sleep disturbances associated with cannabis withdrawal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle McCartney
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Science, School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Ashling D Isik
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Science, School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kieron Rooney
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Exercise and Sport Science, Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jonathon C Arnold
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Pharmacology, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Bridin Murnion
- Drug and Alcohol Services, Central Coast Local Health District, Gosford, NSW, Australia.,School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Addiction Medicine, Central Clinical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Elisha Richards
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Science, School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Thomas R Arkell
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, Central Clinical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Nicholas Lintzeris
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Addiction Medicine, Central Clinical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,The Langton Centre, Drug and Alcohol Services, South East Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Iain S McGregor
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Science, School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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24
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Smith A, Kaufman F, Sandy MS, Cardenas A. Cannabis Exposure During Critical Windows of Development: Epigenetic and Molecular Pathways Implicated in Neuropsychiatric Disease. Curr Environ Health Rep 2020; 7:325-342. [PMID: 32441004 PMCID: PMC7458902 DOI: 10.1007/s40572-020-00275-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Cannabis exposure during critical windows of development may have intergenerational physiological consequences disrupting epigenetic programming and marks. This review examines the literature relating to pre-gestational and prenatal cannabinoid exposure and its effect on genes and molecular pathways related to the development of psychiatric disease. RECENT FINDINGS Developmental cannabis exposure alters epigenetic processes with functional gene consequences. These include potentially heritable alterations in genes and molecular pathways critical for brain development and associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), schizophrenia, addiction, and other psychiatric diseases. Cannabis consumption and mental health illness in adolescents and young adults are increasing in the United States (U.S.), and recent studies suggest that cannabis consumption during critical periods of brain development could contribute to mental health illness through epigenetic mechanisms. These findings warrant future studies and consideration by regulators and health communicators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Smith
- Division of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Center for Computational Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Farla Kaufman
- Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment, California Environmental Protection Agency, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Martha S Sandy
- Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment, California Environmental Protection Agency, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Andres Cardenas
- Division of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA.
- Center for Computational Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA.
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25
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Dybowski MP, Dawidowicz AL, Typek R, Rombel M. Conversion of cannabidiol (CBD) to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol ( Δ9-THC) during protein precipitations prior to plasma samples analysis by chromatography - Troubles with reliable CBD quantitation when acidic precipitation agents are applied. Talanta 2020; 220:121390. [PMID: 32928411 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2020.121390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 07/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The growing popularity of supplements containing cannabidiol (CBD), mainly CBD oils, in self-medication of humans and the increased interest in this compound in different preclinical and clinical trials stimulates the development of procedures of CBD analysis in plasma for the study of CBD pharmacology in people and animals or in establishing dose-therapeutic effect relationships of this compound. Preliminary removal of protein by its precipitation from plasma is still one of the willingly applied plasma sample preparation methods in many analytical procedures estimating plasma drug concentration, including CBD. The present paper shows that a significant amount of CBD transforms to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) in a hot GC injection system when acidic precipitation agents, such as TFA, TCA, HClO4, H2SO4, ZnSO4 or CHCl3, are used for plasma protein precipitation. The transformation degree depends on the temperature of the GC injector, the concentration of the precipitation agent and the incubation time of plasma with the precipitating agent. At the CBD plasma concentration equal to 50 ng/ml, which is approximately the mean level for patients treated for epileptic syndromes, the CBD transformation degree can exceed 20%. For a reliable estimate of CBD in blood plasma, neutral precipitation agents (e.g. ACN, MeOH, acetone) should be used when plasma deproteinization precedes GC analysis. The presented results are important not only for analysts cooperating with pharmacologists and for medicine doctors examining the activity of CBD-containing drugs in the therapeutic process, but also for forensic scientists who may erroneously find innocent people guilty of using marijuana or its preparations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal P Dybowski
- Department of Chromatography, Institute of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Chemistry, Maria Curie Sklodowska University in Lublin, 20-031, Lublin, Poland.
| | - Andrzej L Dawidowicz
- Department of Chromatography, Institute of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Chemistry, Maria Curie Sklodowska University in Lublin, 20-031, Lublin, Poland
| | - Rafal Typek
- Department of Chromatography, Institute of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Chemistry, Maria Curie Sklodowska University in Lublin, 20-031, Lublin, Poland
| | - Michal Rombel
- Department of Chromatography, Institute of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Chemistry, Maria Curie Sklodowska University in Lublin, 20-031, Lublin, Poland
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26
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Miranda CC, Barata T, Vaz SH, Ferreira C, Quintas A, Bekman EP. hiPSC-Based Model of Prenatal Exposure to Cannabinoids: Effect on Neuronal Differentiation. Front Mol Neurosci 2020; 13:119. [PMID: 32733202 PMCID: PMC7357827 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2020.00119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Phytocannabinoids are psychotropic substances ofcannabis with the ability to bind endocannabinoid (eCB) receptors that regulate synaptic activity in the central nervous system (CNS). Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) are synthetic analogs of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), the psychotropic compound of cannabis, acting as agonists of eCB receptor CB1. SC is an easily available and popular alternative to cannabis, and their molecular structure is always changing, increasing the hazard for the general population. The popularity of cannabis and its derivatives may lead, and often does, to a child's exposure to cannabis both in utero and through breastfeeding by a drug-consuming mother. Prenatal exposure to cannabis has been associated with an altered rate of mental development and significant changes in nervous system functioning. However, the understanding of mechanisms of its action on developing the human CNS is still lacking. We investigated the effect of continuous exposure to cannabinoids on developing human neurons, mimicking the prenatal exposure by drug-consuming mother. Two human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) lines were induced to differentiate into neuronal cells and exposed for 37 days to cannabidiol (CBD), Δ9-THC, and two SCs, THJ-018 and EG-018. Both Δ9-THC and SC, at 10 μM, promote precocious neuronal and glial differentiation, while CBD at the same concentration is neurotoxic. Neurons exposed to Δ9-THC and SC show abnormal functioning of voltage-gated calcium channels when stimulated by extracellular potassium. In sum, all studied substances have a profound impact on the developing neurons, highlighting the importance of thorough research on the impact of prenatal exposure to natural and SC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cláudia C Miranda
- Department of Bioengineering and iBB-Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisbon, Lisbona, Portugal
| | - Tiago Barata
- Department of Bioengineering and iBB-Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisbon, Lisbona, Portugal
| | - Sandra H Vaz
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Carla Ferreira
- Molecular Pathology and Forensic Biochemistry Laboratory, CiiEM, Campus Universitário Quinta da Granja, Monte da Caparica, Caparica, Portugal.,Forensic and Psychological Sciences Laboratory Egas Moniz, Campus Universitário Quinta da Granja, Monte da Caparica, Caparica, Portugal
| | - Alexandre Quintas
- Molecular Pathology and Forensic Biochemistry Laboratory, CiiEM, Campus Universitário Quinta da Granja, Monte da Caparica, Caparica, Portugal.,Forensic and Psychological Sciences Laboratory Egas Moniz, Campus Universitário Quinta da Granja, Monte da Caparica, Caparica, Portugal
| | - Evguenia P Bekman
- Department of Bioengineering and iBB-Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisbon, Lisbona, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular, João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,The Discoveries Centre for Regenerative and Precision Medicine, Lisbon, Portugal
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27
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Finlay DB, Manning JJ, Ibsen MS, Macdonald CE, Patel M, Javitch JA, Banister SD, Glass M. Do Toxic Synthetic Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists Have Signature in Vitro Activity Profiles? A Case Study of AMB-FUBINACA. ACS Chem Neurosci 2019; 10:4350-4360. [PMID: 31513380 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.9b00429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Recreational consumption of synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) is a growing crisis in public health in many parts of the world. AMB-FUBINACA is a member of this class of drugs and is responsible for a large proportion of SCRA-related toxicity both in New Zealand and internationally. Strikingly, little is currently known about the mechanisms by which SCRAs exert toxic effects or whether their activity through the CB1 cannabinoid receptor (the mediator of cannabinoid-related psychoactivity) is sufficient to explain clinical observations. The current study therefore set out to perform a basic molecular pharmacology characterization of AMB-FUBINACA (in comparison to traditional research cannabinoids CP55,940, WIN55,212-2, and Δ9-THC) in fundamental pathways of receptor activity, including cAMP inhibition, pERK activation, ability to drive CB1 internalization, and ability to induce translocation of β-arrestins-1 and -2. Activity pathways were then compared by operational analysis to indicate whether AMB-FUBINACA may be a biased ligand. Results revealed that AMB-FUBINACA is highly efficacious and potent in all pathways assayed. However, surprisingly, bias analysis suggested that Δ9-THC, not AMB-FUBINACA, may be a biased ligand, with it being less active in both arrestin pathways than predicted by the activity of the other ligands tested. These data may help predict molecular characteristics of SCRAs. However, more research is required to determine whether these molecular effects manifest in toxicity at tissue/system level.
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Affiliation(s)
- David B. Finlay
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Jamie J. Manning
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Mikkel Søes Ibsen
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Christa E. Macdonald
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Monica Patel
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Jonathan A. Javitch
- Department of Psychiatry and Pharmacology, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York 10032, United States
- Division of Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York 10032, United States
| | - Samuel D. Banister
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Campterdown, NSW 2050, Australia
- School of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
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28
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Schreiber S, Bader M, Lenchinski T, Meningher I, Rubovitch V, Katz Y, Cohen E, Gabet Y, Rotenberg M, Wolf E(U, Pick CG. Functional effects of synthetic cannabinoids versus Δ 9 -THC in mice on body temperature, nociceptive threshold, anxiety, cognition, locomotor/exploratory parameters and depression. Addict Biol 2019; 24:414-425. [PMID: 29423994 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2017] [Revised: 12/07/2017] [Accepted: 01/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids are psychoactive substances designed to mimic the euphorigenic effects of the natural cannabis. Novel unregulated compounds appear once older compounds become illegal. It has been previously reported that synthetic cannabinoids are different than Δ9 -tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9 -THC) as they have chemical structures unrelated to Δ9 -THC, different metabolism and, often, greater toxicity. This study aimed to investigate the effects of three novel synthetic cannabinoids and pure Δ9 -THC on body temperature, nociceptive threshold, anxiety, memory function, locomotor and exploratory parameters, and depression. We performed a battery of behavioural and motor tests starting 50 minutes post i.p. injection of each drug to adult ICR mice. The synthetic cannabinoids that were used are AB-FUBINACA, AB-CHMINACA and PB-22. All synthetic cannabinoids and Δ9 -THC caused hypothermia, but only Δ9 -THC induced a clear antinociceptive effect. All synthetic cannabinoids and Δ9 -THC caused decreased anxiety levels, spatial memory deficits and decreased exploratory behaviour as measured in the elevated plus maze, Y-maze and staircase paradigm, respectively. However, all synthetic cannabinoids but not Δ9 -THC demonstrated decreased locomotor activity in the staircase test. Moreover, only AB-FUBINACA and Δ9 -THC affected the gait balance and grip strength of the mice as was assessed by the latency time to fall from a rod. In the forced swimming test, PB-22 caused elevated depression-like behaviour while AB-FUBINACA induced a reversed effect. These results suggest varied effects among different synthetic cannabinoids and Δ9 -THC. Further studies are needed to characterize the overall effects and differences between these synthetic cannabinoids and Δ9 -THC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaul Schreiber
- Department of Psychiatry, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical CenterTel Aviv University Sackler Faculty of Medicine Israel
- Sagol School of NeuroscienceTel‐Aviv University Israel
| | - Miaad Bader
- Department of Anatomy and AnthropologyTel‐Aviv University Sackler Faculty of Medicine Israel
| | - Tatiana Lenchinski
- Sagol School of NeuroscienceTel‐Aviv University Israel
- Department of Anatomy and AnthropologyTel‐Aviv University Sackler Faculty of Medicine Israel
| | | | - Vardit Rubovitch
- Department of Anatomy and AnthropologyTel‐Aviv University Sackler Faculty of Medicine Israel
| | - Yiffat Katz
- Analytical LaboratoryDivision of Identification and Forensic Science Israel
| | - Etia Cohen
- Analytical LaboratoryDivision of Identification and Forensic Science Israel
| | - Yankel Gabet
- Sagol School of NeuroscienceTel‐Aviv University Israel
- Department of Anatomy and AnthropologyTel‐Aviv University Sackler Faculty of Medicine Israel
| | - Michal Rotenberg
- Laboratory of Clinical Toxicology and PharmacologySheba Medical Center Israel
| | - Ehud (Udi) Wolf
- Analytical LaboratoryDivision of Identification and Forensic Science Israel
| | - Chaim G. Pick
- Sagol School of NeuroscienceTel‐Aviv University Israel
- Department of Anatomy and AnthropologyTel‐Aviv University Sackler Faculty of Medicine Israel
- The Dr. Miriam and Sheldon G. Adelson Chair and Center for the Biology of Addictive DiseasesTel‐Aviv University Israel
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29
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Chopda GR, Nikas SP, Sharma R, Kulkarni S, Makriyannis A, Paronis CA. Cannabinoid-induced lower lip retraction in rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2019; 236:1199-1206. [PMID: 30460515 PMCID: PMC6527497 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-018-5125-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2018] [Accepted: 11/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Lower lip retraction (LLR) in rats has been described as a distinctive effect of 5-HT1A agonists. In the course of evaluating behavioral effects of cannabinoid agonists in rats, LLR effects were evident following injection of several cannabinoid agonists. OBJECTIVES To pharmacologically characterize cannabinoid-induced LLR in rats. METHODS Lower lip retraction was scored using a 3-point scale for up to 6 h after injection of the cannabinoid agonists Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC, 1-10 mg/kg), AM7499 (0.01-1.0 mg/kg), or AM2389 (0.003-0.1 mg/kg), or, for comparison, the 5-HT1A agonist 8-OH-DPAT (0.01-0.3 mg/kg). Next, antagonist effects of rimonabant (1-10 mg/kg) and WAY100635 (0.3 mg/kg) on LLR produced by cannabinoid or 5-HT1A agonists were evaluated. Lastly, effects of 8-OH-DPAT were determined following pretreatment with AM2389 (0.003-0.01 mg/kg) or Δ9-THC (1 mg/kg). RESULTS All three cannabinoid agonists produced LLR. Effects of AM2389 were attenuated by both rimonabant and WAY100635 whereas effects of 8-OH-DPAT were antagonized by WAY 100635 but not by rimonabant. Pretreatment with 1 mg/kg Δ9-THC or 0.01 mg/kg AM2389 shifted the 8-OH-DPAT dose-effect function for LLR to the left and isobolographic analysis of the data indicates CB1 and 5-HT1A interactions can be supraadditive. CONCLUSIONS Cannabinoid agonists produce LLR in rats, an effect heretofore ascribed only to activity at 5-HT1A receptors, via CB1 receptor-mediated actions. Co-administration of a cannabinoid agonist and the 5-HT1A agonist 8-OH-DPAT results in a synergistic effect on LLR.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Carol A Paronis
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA. .,Preclinical Pharmacology, McLean Hospital, Belmont, USA.
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30
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Cha HJ, Song YJ, Lee DE, Kim YH, Shin J, Jang CG, Suh SK, Kim SJ, Yun J. Receptor Binding Affinities of Synthetic Cannabinoids Determined by Non-Isotopic Receptor Binding Assay. Toxicol Res 2019; 35:37-44. [PMID: 30766656 PMCID: PMC6354946 DOI: 10.5487/tr.2019.35.1.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Revised: 08/07/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
A major predictor of the efficacy of natural or synthetic cannabinoids is their binding affinity to the cannabinoid type I receptor (CB1) in the central nervous system, as the main psychological effects of cannabinoids are achieved via binding to this receptor. Conventionally, receptor binding assays have been performed using isotopes, which are inconvenient owing to the effects of radioactivity. In the present study, the binding affinities of five cannabinoids for purified CB1 were measured using a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) technique as a putative non-isotopic receptor binding assay. Results were compared with those of a radio-isotope-labeled receptor binding assay. The representative natural cannabinoid Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and four synthetic cannabinoids, JWH-015, JWH-210, RCS-4, and JWH-250, were assessed using both the SPR biosensor assay and the conventional isotopic receptor binding assay. The binding affinities of the test substances to CB1 were determined to be (from highest to lowest) 9.52 × 10-13 M (JWH-210), 6.54 × 10-12 M (JWH-250), 1.56 × 10-11 M (Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol), 2.75 × 10-11 M (RCS-4), and 6.80 ×10-11 M (JWH-015) using the non-isotopic method. Using the conventional isotopic receptor binding assay, the same order of affinities was observed. In conclusion, our results support the use of kinetic analysis via SPR in place of the isotopic receptor binding assay. To replace the receptor binding affinity assay with SPR techniques in routine assays, further studies for method validation will be needed in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye Jin Cha
- Pharmacological Research Division, Toxicological Evaluation and Research Department, National Institute of Food and Drug Safety Evaluation, Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, Chungju, Korea
| | - Yun Jeong Song
- Pharmacological Research Division, Toxicological Evaluation and Research Department, National Institute of Food and Drug Safety Evaluation, Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, Chungju, Korea
| | - Da Eun Lee
- Pharmacological Research Division, Toxicological Evaluation and Research Department, National Institute of Food and Drug Safety Evaluation, Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, Chungju, Korea
| | - Young-Hoon Kim
- Pharmacological Research Division, Toxicological Evaluation and Research Department, National Institute of Food and Drug Safety Evaluation, Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, Chungju, Korea
| | - Jisoon Shin
- Pharmacological Research Division, Toxicological Evaluation and Research Department, National Institute of Food and Drug Safety Evaluation, Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, Chungju, Korea
| | - Choon-Gon Jang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Korea
| | - Soo Kyung Suh
- Pharmacological Research Division, Toxicological Evaluation and Research Department, National Institute of Food and Drug Safety Evaluation, Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, Chungju, Korea
| | - Sung Jin Kim
- Cosmetics Policy Division, Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, Chungju, Korea
| | - Jaesuk Yun
- Neuroimmunology Lab, College of Pharmacy, Wonkwang University, Iksan, Korea
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31
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Chandra S, Radwan MM, Majumdar CG, Church JC, Freeman TP, ElSohly MA. New trends in cannabis potency in USA and Europe during the last decade (2008-2017). Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2019; 269:5-15. [PMID: 30671616 DOI: 10.1007/s00406-019-00983-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 269] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Through the potency monitoring program at the University of Mississippi supported by National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), a total of 18108 samples of cannabis preparations have been analyzed over the last decade, using a validated GC/FID method. The samples are classified as sinsemilla, marijuana, ditchweed, hashish, and hash oil (now referred to as cannabis concentrate). The number of samples received over the last 5 years has decreased dramatically due to the legalization of marijuana either for medical or for recreational purposes in many US states. The results showed that the mean Δ9-THC concentration has increased dramatically over the last 10 years, from 8.9% in 2008 to 17.1% in 2017. The mean Δ9-THC:CBD ratio also rose substantially from 23 in 2008 to 104 in 2017. There was also marked increase in the proportion of hash oil samples (concentrates) seized (0.5-4.7%) and their mean Δ9-THC concentration (6.7-55.7%) from 2008 to 2017. Other potency monitoring programs are also present in several European countries such as The Netherlands, United Kingdom, France, and Italy. These programs have also documented increases in Δ9-THC concentrations and Δ9-THC:CBD ratios in cannabis. These trends in the last decade suggest that cannabis is becoming an increasingly harmful product in the USA and Europe.
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Uttl L, Szczurowska E, Hájková K, Horsley RR, Štefková K, Hložek T, Šíchová K, Balíková M, Kuchař M, Micale V, Páleníček T. Behavioral and Pharmacokinetic Profile of Indole-Derived Synthetic Cannabinoids JWH-073 and JWH-210 as Compared to the Phytocannabinoid Δ 9-THC in Rats. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:703. [PMID: 30405327 PMCID: PMC6206206 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Accepted: 09/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoid compounds are marketed as “legal” marijuana substitutes, even though little is known about their behavioral effects in relation to their pharmacokinetic profiles. Therefore, in the present study we assessed the behavioral effects of systemic treatment with the two synthetic cannabinoids JWH-073 and JWH-210 and the phytocannabinoid Δ9-THC on locomotor activity, anxiety-like phenotype (in the open field) and sensorimotor gating (measured as prepulse inhibition of the acoustic startle response, PPI), in relation to cannabinoid serum levels. Wistar rats were injected subcutaneously (sc.) with JWH-073 (0.1, 0.5, or 5 mg/kg), JWH-210 (0.1, 0.5, or 5 mg/kg), Δ9-THC (1 or 3 mg/kg) or vehicle (oleum helanti) in a volume of 0.5 ml/kg and tested in the open field and PPI. Although JWH-073, JWH-210, Δ9-THC (and its metabolites) were confirmed in serum, effects on sensorimotor gating were absent, and locomotor activity was only partially affected. Δ9-THC (3 mg/kg) elicited an anxiolytic-like effect as suggested by the increased time spent in the center of the open field (p < 0.05). Our results further support the potential anxiolytic-like effect of pharmacological modulation of the endocannabinoid system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Libor Uttl
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Ewa Szczurowska
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia
| | - Kateřina Hájková
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia.,Forensic Laboratory of Biologically Active Compounds, Department of Chemistry of Natural Compounds, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Prague, Czechia
| | - Rachel R Horsley
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia
| | - Kristýna Štefková
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia
| | - Tomáš Hložek
- Institute of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague, Czechia
| | - Klára Šíchová
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia
| | - Marie Balíková
- Institute of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague, Czechia
| | - Martin Kuchař
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia.,Forensic Laboratory of Biologically Active Compounds, Department of Chemistry of Natural Compounds, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Prague, Czechia
| | - Vincenzo Micale
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia.,Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Tomáš Páleníček
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia.,Third Faculty of Medicine, Psychiatric Clinic, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
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ElSohly MA, Gul W, Walker LA. Pharmacokinetics and Tolerability of Δ9-THC-Hemisuccinate in a Suppository Formulation as an Alternative to Capsules for the Systemic Delivery of Δ9-THC. Med Cannabis Cannabinoids 2018; 1:44-53. [PMID: 34676321 DOI: 10.1159/000489037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2018] [Accepted: 04/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The objectives of this study were: (1) to assess the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of ascending doses of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol-hemisuccinate (THC-HS) after rectal administration as suppositories in male volunteers; and (2) to compare the pharmacokinetics of oral administration of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) with an equivalent amount of Δ9-THC delivered as THC-HS via the suppository formulation. In support of the pharmacokinetic evaluations, an analytical method was developed and validated for the determination of Δ9-THC and for its major circulating metabolites 11-hydroxy-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (11-OH-THC) and 11-nor-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol-9-carboxylic acid (THC-COOH) in human plasma. Δ9-THC, 11-OH-THC, and THC-COOH were extracted from plasma using solid phase extraction and analyzed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The limits of detection and quantitation for all 3 analytes were 0.25 and 0.5 ng/mL, respectively. The method was validated over the range of 0.5-25 ng/mL. This method was used to quantify Δ9-THC and any THC-HS as Δ9-THC due to the inclusion of a hydrolysis step as part of the extraction procedure. Therefore, Δ9-THC measured was the total THC (free Δ9-THC plus Δ9-THC derived from THC-HS). The assay was reproducible for the measurement of all 3 analytes, with a variability of 7.2, 13.7, and 8.3%, respectively, at the 1 ng/mL level. The method was then used to assess the pharmacokinetics of Δ9-THC and metabolites from the suppository dosage form in doses equivalent to 1.25, 2.5, 5, 10, and 20 mg Δ9-THC per suppository as THC-HS. Systemic exposure to Δ9-THC, administered as THC-HS suppository, increased broadly dose proportionally. Systemic exposure and Cmax (obs) estimates for 11-OH-THC and THC-COOH generally increased subproportionally. The pharmacokinetic profiles of Δ9-THC and metabolites were also compared after oral administration of 10 mg Δ9-THC (as dronabinol capsules) and after administration of 10 mg equivalents of Δ9-THC as THC-HS in suppository form. Total systemic exposure to Δ9-THC was considerably higher following rectal administration of THC-HS than after oral administration. The Δ9-THC area under the plasma concentration versus time curve (AUC(0-∞)) for THC-HS was 2.44-fold higher (90% confidence interval: 1.78, 3.35) than for the capsule administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud A ElSohly
- ElSohly Laboratories, Inc., Oxford, Mississippi, USA.,National Center for Natural Products Research (NCNPR), School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, Oxford, Mississippi, USA.,Department of Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, Oxford, Mississippi, USA
| | - Waseem Gul
- ElSohly Laboratories, Inc., Oxford, Mississippi, USA.,National Center for Natural Products Research (NCNPR), School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, Oxford, Mississippi, USA
| | - Larry A Walker
- ElSohly Laboratories, Inc., Oxford, Mississippi, USA.,National Center for Natural Products Research (NCNPR), School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, Oxford, Mississippi, USA
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Abstract
Psychoactive cannabinoids from the marijuana plant (phytocannabinoids), from the body (endocannabinoids), and from the research lab (synthetic cannabinoids) produce their discriminative stimulus effects by stimulation of CB1 receptors in the brain. Early discrimination work with phytocannabinoids confirmed that Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) is the primary psychoactive constituent of the marijuana plant, with more recent work focusing on characterization of the contribution of the major endocannabinoids, anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), to Δ9-THC-like internal states. Collectively, these latter studies suggest that endogenous increases in both anandamide and 2-AG seem to be optimal for mimicking Δ9-THC's discriminative stimulus effects, although suprathreshold concentrations of anandamide also appear to be Δ9-THC-like in discrimination assays. Recently, increased abuse of synthetic cannabinoids (e.g., "fake marijuana") has spurred discrimination studies to inform regulatory authorities by predicting which of the many synthetic compounds on the illicit market are most likely to share Δ9-THC's abuse liability. In the absence of a reliable model of cannabinoid self-administration (specifically, Δ9-THC self-administration), cannabinoid discrimination represents the most validated and pharmacologically selective animal model of an abuse-related property of cannabinoids - i.e., marijuana's subjective effects. The influx of recent papers in which cannabinoid discrimination is highlighted attests to its continued relevance as a valuable method for scientific study of cannabinoid use and abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny L Wiley
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA.
| | - R Allen Owens
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Box 980613, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Aron H Lichtman
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Box 980613, Richmond, VA, USA
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Prini P, Penna F, Sciuccati E, Alberio T, Rubino T. Chronic Δ⁸-THC Exposure Differently Affects Histone Modifications in the Adolescent and Adult Rat Brain. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18102094. [PMID: 28976920 PMCID: PMC5666776 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18102094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2017] [Revised: 09/29/2017] [Accepted: 09/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Adolescence represents a vulnerable period for the psychiatric consequences of delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ⁸-THC) exposure, however, the molecular underpinnings of this vulnerability remain to be established. Histone modifications are emerging as important epigenetic mechanisms involved in the etiopathogenesis of psychiatric diseases, thus, we investigated the impact of chronic Δ⁸-THC exposure on histone modifications in different brain areas of female rats. We checked histone modifications associated to both transcriptional repression (H3K9 di- and tri-methylation, H3K27 tri-methylation) and activation (H3K9 and H3K14 acetylation) after adolescent and adult chronic Δ⁸-THC exposure in the hippocampus, nucleus accumbens, and amygdala. Chronic exposure to increasing doses of Δ⁸-THC for 11 days affected histone modifications in a region- and age-specific manner. The primary effect in the adolescent brain was represented by changes leading to transcriptional repression, whereas the one observed after adult treatment led to transcriptional activation. Moreover, only in the adolescent brain, the primary effect was followed by a homeostatic response to counterbalance the Δ⁸-THC-induced repressive effect, except in the amygdala. The presence of a more complex response in the adolescent brain may be part of the mechanisms that make the adolescent brain vulnerable to Δ⁸-THC adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Prini
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, 21052 Busto Arsizio, VA, Italy.
- Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, 21052 Busto Arsizio, VA, Italy.
| | - Federica Penna
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, 21052 Busto Arsizio, VA, Italy.
| | - Emanuele Sciuccati
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, 21052 Busto Arsizio, VA, Italy.
| | - Tiziana Alberio
- Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, 21052 Busto Arsizio, VA, Italy.
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, 21052 Busto Arsizio, VA, Italy.
| | - Tiziana Rubino
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, 21052 Busto Arsizio, VA, Italy.
- Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, 21052 Busto Arsizio, VA, Italy.
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Rodríguez G, Neugebauer NM, Yao KL, Meltzer HY, Csernansky JG, Dong H. Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol ( Δ9-THC) administration after neonatal exposure to phencyclidine potentiates schizophrenia-related behavioral phenotypes in mice. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2017. [PMID: 28648819 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2017.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The clinical onset of schizophrenia often coincides with cannabis use in adolescents and young adults. However, the neurobiological consequences of this co-morbidity are not well understood. In this study, we examined the effects of Δ9-THC exposure during early adulthood on schizophrenia-related behaviors using a developmental mouse model of schizophrenia. Phencyclidine (PCP) or saline was administered once in neonatal mice (at P7; 10mg/kg). In turn, Δ9-THC or saline was administered sub-acutely later in life to cohorts of animals who had received either PCP or saline (P55-80, 5mg/kg). Mice who were administered PCP alone displayed behavioral changes in the Morris water waze (MWM) and pre-pulse inhibition (PPI) task paradigm that were consistent with schizophrenia-related phenotypes, but not in the locomotor activity or novel object recognition (NOR) task paradigms. Mice who were administered PCP and then received Δ9-THC later in life displayed behavioral changes in the locomotor activity paradigm (p<0.001) that was consistent with a schizophrenia-related phenotype, as well as potentiated changes in the NOR (p<0.01) and MWM (p<0.05) paradigms as compared to mice that received PCP alone. Decreased cortical receptor expression of NMDA receptor 1 subunit (NR1) was observed in mice that received PCP and PCP+Δ9-THC, while mice that received Δ9-THC and PCP+Δ9-THC displayed decreases in CB1 receptor expression. These findings suggest that administration of Δ9-THC during the early adulthood can potentiate the development of schizophrenia-related behavioral phenotypes induced by neonatal exposure to PCP in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guadalupe Rodríguez
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 303 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Nichole M Neugebauer
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 303 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Katherine Lan Yao
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 303 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
| | - Herbert Y Meltzer
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 303 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
| | - John G Csernansky
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 303 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
| | - Hongxin Dong
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 303 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
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Abstract
Recent decades have seen much progress in the identification and characterization of cannabinoid receptors and the elucidation of the mechanisms by which derivatives of the Cannabis sativa plant bind to receptors and produce their physiological and psychological effects. The information generated in this process has enabled better understanding of the fundamental physiological and psychological processes controlled by the central and peripheral nervous systems and has fostered the development of natural and synthetic cannabinoids as therapeutic agents. A negative aspect of this decades-long effort is the proliferation of clandestinely synthesized analogs as recreational street drugs with dangerous effects. Currently, the interactions of cannabinoids with their biochemical substrates are extensively but inadequately understood, and the clinical application of derived and synthetic receptor ligands remains quite limited. The wide anatomical distribution and functional complexity of the cannabinoid system continue to indicate potential for both therapeutic and side effects, which offers challenges and opportunities for medicinal chemists involved in drug discovery and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian F Thomas
- Analytical Chemistry and Pharmaceutics, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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Abstract
For centuries, hashish and marihuana, both derived from the Indian hemp Cannabis sativa L., have been used for their medicinal, as well as, their psychotropic effects. These effects are associated with the phytocannabinoids which are oxygen containing C21 aromatic hydrocarbons found in Cannabis sativa L. To date, over 120 phytocannabinoids have been isolated from Cannabis. For many years, it was assumed that the beneficial effects of the phytocannabinoids were mediated by the cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2. However, today we know that the picture is much more complex, with the same phytocannabinoid acting at multiple targets. This contribution focuses on the molecular pharmacology of the phytocannabinoids, including Δ9-THC and CBD, from the prospective of the targets at which these important compounds act.
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Canazza I, Ossato A, Vincenzi F, Gregori A, Di Rosa F, Nigro F, Rimessi A, Pinton P, Varani K, Borea PA, Marti M. Pharmaco-toxicological effects of the novel third-generation fluorinate synthetic cannabinoids, 5F-ADBINACA, AB-FUBINACA, and STS-135 in mice. In vitro and in vivo studies. Hum Psychopharmacol 2017; 32. [PMID: 28597570 DOI: 10.1002/hup.2601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2016] [Revised: 04/10/2017] [Accepted: 04/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION 5F-ADBINACA, AB-FUBINACA, and STS-135 are 3 novel third-generation fluorinate synthetic cannabinoids that are illegally marketed as incense, herbal preparations, or research chemicals for their psychoactive cannabis-like effects. METHODS The present study aims at investigating the in vitro and in vivo pharmacological activity of 5F-ADBINACA, AB-FUBINACA, and STS-135 in male CD-1 mice, comparing their in vivo effects with those caused by the administration of Δ9 -THC and JWH-018. In vitro competition binding experiments revealed a nanomolar affinity and potency of the 5F-ADBINACA, AB-FUBINACA, and STS-135 on mouse and human CB1 and CB2 receptors. Moreover, these synthetic cannabinoids induced neurotoxicity in murine neuro-2a cells. RESULTS In vivo studies showed that 5F-ADBINACA, AB-FUBINACA, and STS-135 induced hypothermia; increased pain threshold to both noxious mechanical and thermal stimuli; caused catalepsy; reduced motor activity; impaired sensorimotor responses (visual, acoustic, and tactile); caused seizures, myoclonia, and hyperreflexia; and promoted aggressiveness in mice. Behavioral and neurological effects were fully prevented by the selective CB1 receptor antagonist/inverse agonist AM 251. Differently, the visual sensory response induced by STS-135 was only partly prevented by the AM 251, suggesting a CB1 -independent mechanism. CONCLUSIONS For the first time, the present study demonstrates the pharmaco-toxicological effects induced by the administration of 5F-ADBINACA, AB-FUBINACA, and STS-135 in mice and suggests their possible detrimental effects on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Canazza
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology (SVeB), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Institute of Public Health, Section of Legal Medicine, Catholic University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Ossato
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology (SVeB), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Institute of Public Health, Section of Legal Medicine, Catholic University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Vincenzi
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Adolfo Gregori
- Carabinieri, Department of Scientific Investigation (RIS), Rome, Italy
| | - Fabiana Di Rosa
- Carabinieri, Department of Scientific Investigation (RIS), Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Nigro
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessandro Rimessi
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Paolo Pinton
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Katia Varani
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Pier Andrea Borea
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Matteo Marti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology (SVeB), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Center for Neuroscience and Istituto Nazionale di Neuroscienze, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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Kendall DA, Yudowski GA. Cannabinoid Receptors in the Central Nervous System: Their Signaling and Roles in Disease. Front Cell Neurosci 2017; 10:294. [PMID: 28101004 PMCID: PMC5209363 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2016.00294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 160] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2016] [Accepted: 12/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The identification and cloning of the two major cannabinoid (CB1 and CB2) receptors together with the discovery of their endogenous ligands in the late 80s and early 90s, resulted in a major effort aimed at understanding the mechanisms and physiological roles of the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Due to its expression and localization in the central nervous system (CNS), the CB1 receptor together with its endogenous ligands (endocannabinoids (eCB)) and the enzymes involved in their synthesis and degradation, has been implicated in multiple pathophysiological events ranging from memory deficits to neurodegenerative disorders among others. In this review, we will provide a general overview of the ECS with emphasis on the CB1 receptor in health and disease. We will describe our current understanding of the complex aspects of receptor signaling and trafficking, including the non-canonical signaling pathways such as those mediated by β-arrestins within the context of functional selectivity and ligand bias. Finally, we will highlight some of the disorders in which CB1 receptors have been implicated. Significant knowledge has been achieved over the last 30 years. However, much more research is still needed to fully understand the complex roles of the ECS, particularly in vivo and to unlock its true potential as a source of therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debra A Kendall
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Guillermo A Yudowski
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Puerto Rico, Medical Sciences CampusSan Juan, Puerto Rico; Institute of Neurobiology, University of Puerto RicoSan Juan, Puerto Rico
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Canazza I, Ossato A, Trapella C, Fantinati A, De Luca MA, Margiani G, Vincenzi F, Rimondo C, Di Rosa F, Gregori A, Varani K, Borea PA, Serpelloni G, Marti M. Effect of the novel synthetic cannabinoids AKB48 and 5F-AKB48 on "tetrad", sensorimotor, neurological and neurochemical responses in mice. In vitro and in vivo pharmacological studies. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2016; 233:3685-3709. [PMID: 27527584 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-016-4402-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2016] [Accepted: 08/01/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE AKB48 and its fluorinate derivate 5F-AKB48 are two novel synthetic cannabinoids belonging to a structural class with an indazole core structure. They are marketed as incense, herbal preparations or chemical supply for their psychoactive Cannabis-like effects. OBJECTIVES The present study was aimed at investigating the in vitro and in vivo pharmacological activity of AKB48 and 5F-AKB48 in male CD-1 mice and comparing their in vivo effects with those caused by the administration of Δ9-THC and JWH-018. RESULTS In vitro competition binding experiments performed on mouse and human CB1 and CB2 receptors revealed a nanomolar affinity and potency of the AKB48 and 5F-AKB48. In vivo studies showed that AKB48 and 5F-AKB48, induced hypothermia, increased pain threshold to both noxious mechanical and thermal stimuli, caused catalepsy, reduced motor activity, impaired sensorimotor responses (visual, acoustic and tactile), caused seizures, myoclonia, hyperreflexia and promoted aggressiveness in mice. Moreover, microdialysis study in freely moving mice showed that systemic administration of AKB48 and 5F-AKB48 stimulated dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens. Behavioural, neurological and neurochemical effects were fully prevented by the selective CB1 receptor antagonist/inverse agonist AM 251. CONCLUSIONS For the first time, the present study demonstrates the overall pharmacological effects induced by the administration of AKB48 and 5F-AKB48 in mice and suggests that the fluorination can increase the power and/or effectiveness of SCBs. Furthermore, this study outlines the potential detrimental effects of SCBs on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Canazza
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology (SVeB), University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Andrea Ossato
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology (SVeB), University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Claudio Trapella
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Anna Fantinati
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Giulia Margiani
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Vincenzi
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Claudia Rimondo
- Department of Diagnostic and Public Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Fabiana Di Rosa
- Department of Scientific Investigation (RIS), Carabinieri, 00191, Rome, Italy
| | - Adolfo Gregori
- Department of Scientific Investigation (RIS), Carabinieri, 00191, Rome, Italy
| | - Katia Varani
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Pier Andrea Borea
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giovanni Serpelloni
- U.R.I.To.N., Forensic Toxicology Unit, Department of Health Science, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Matteo Marti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology (SVeB), University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121, Ferrara, Italy. .,Center for Neuroscience and Istituto Nazionale di Neuroscienze, ᅟ, Italy.
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Wanklyn C, Burton D, Enston E, Bartlett CA, Taylor S, Raniczkowska A, Black M, Murphy L. Disposable screen printed sensor for the electrochemical detection of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol in undiluted saliva. Chem Cent J 2016; 10:1. [PMID: 26807144 PMCID: PMC4722664 DOI: 10.1186/s13065-016-0148-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2015] [Accepted: 01/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cannabis has an adverse effect on the ability to drive safely, therefore a rapid disposable test for Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), the psychoactive component of cannabis, is highly desirable for roadside testing. Results A screen printed carbon electrode is used for the N-(4-amino-3-methoxyphenyl)-methanesulfonamide mediated detection of Δ9-THC in saliva. Mediator placed in an overlayer was galvanostatically oxidized and reacted with Δ9-THC to give an electrochemically active adduct which could be detected by chronoamperometric reduction. Detection of 25-50 ng/mL Δ9-THC spiked into undiluted saliva was achieved with a response time of 30 s. A trial of the sensors with four cannabis smokers showed sensitivity of 28 %, specificity of 99 % and accuracy of 52 %. Conclusions Rapid electrochemical detection of Δ9-THC in undiluted saliva has been demonstrated using a disposable sensor, however the sensitivity is lower than acceptable. Further optimization of the assay and sensor format is required to improve the sensitivity of response to Δ9-THC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ceri Wanklyn
- Oxtox Limited, Warren House, Mowbray Street, Stockport, SK1 3EJ UK
| | - Dan Burton
- Oxtox Limited, Warren House, Mowbray Street, Stockport, SK1 3EJ UK
| | - Emma Enston
- Oxtox Limited, Warren House, Mowbray Street, Stockport, SK1 3EJ UK
| | | | - Sarah Taylor
- Oxtox Limited, Warren House, Mowbray Street, Stockport, SK1 3EJ UK
| | | | - Murdo Black
- Oxtox Limited, Warren House, Mowbray Street, Stockport, SK1 3EJ UK
| | - Lindy Murphy
- Oxtox Limited, Warren House, Mowbray Street, Stockport, SK1 3EJ UK
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McHugh D, Roskowski D, Xie S, Bradshaw HB. Δ(9)-THC and N-arachidonoyl glycine regulate BV-2 microglial morphology and cytokine release plasticity: implications for signaling at GPR18. Front Pharmacol 2014; 4:162. [PMID: 24427137 PMCID: PMC3877838 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2013.00162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2013] [Accepted: 12/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Microglial cells are extremely plastic and undergo a variety of CNS-prompted shape changes relative to their location and current role. Signaling molecules from neurons also regulate microglial cytokine production. Neurons are known to employ the endogenous cannabinoid system to communicate with other cells of the CNS. N-arachidonoyl glycine (NAGly) and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) signaling via GPR18 has been introduced as an important new target in microglial–neuronal communication. Our hypothesis is that endogenous NAGly-GPR18 signaling regulates phenotypic shape and cytokine production in microglia, and is mimicked by Δ9-THC in the BV-2 microglia model system. BV-2 microglia were exposed to NAGly and Δ9-THC or Vh for 12 h, which resulted in significant differences in the cell morphologies expressed. Cannabidiol (CBD) was effective at antagonizing the effects of both NAGly and Δ9-THC. Using ELISA-based microarrays, BV-2 microglia were exposed to NAGly and Δ9-THC or Vh for 3 h and the presence of 40 cytokines in the culture media quantified. Production of Axl, CD40, IGF-I, OPN, and Pro-MMP-9 were significantly altered by NAGly and Δ9-THC, and antagonized by CBD. These data add to an emerging profile that emphasizes NAGly as a component of an endogenous system present in the CNS that tightly integrates microglial proliferation, recruitment, and adhesion with neuron–glia interactivity and tissue remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas McHugh
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University Bloomington, IN, USA ; Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine, Quinnipiac University North Haven, CT, USA
| | - Daniel Roskowski
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Sisi Xie
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Heather B Bradshaw
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University Bloomington, IN, USA
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Onaivi ES, Benno R, Halpern T, Mehanovic M, Schanz N, Sanders C, Yan X, Ishiguro H, Liu QR, Berzal AL, Viveros MP, Ali SF. Consequences of cannabinoid and monoaminergic system disruption in a mouse model of autism spectrum disorders. Curr Neuropharmacol 2011; 9:209-14. [PMID: 21886592 PMCID: PMC3137184 DOI: 10.2174/157015911795017047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2009] [Revised: 04/17/2010] [Accepted: 05/26/2010] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are heterogenous neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by impairment in social, communication skills and stereotype behaviors. While autism may be uniquely human, there are behavioral characteristics in ASDs that can be mimicked using animal models. We used the BTBR T+tf/J mice that have been shown to exhibit autism-like behavioral phenotypes to 1). Evaluate cannabinoid-induced behavioral changes using forced swim test (FST) and spontaneous wheel running (SWR) activity and 2). Determine the behavioral and neurochemical changes after the administration of MDMA (20 mg/kg), methamphetamine (10 mg/kg) or MPTP (20 mg/kg). We found that the BTBR mice exhibited an enhanced basal spontaneous locomotor behavior in the SWR test and a reduced depressogenic profile. These responses appeared to be enhanced by the prototypic cannabinoid, Δ(9)-THC. MDMA and MPTP at the doses used did not modify SWR behavior in the BTBR mice whereas MPTP reduced SWR activity in the control CB57BL/6J mice. In the hippocampus, striatum and frontal cortex, the levels of DA and 5-HT and their metabolites were differentially altered in the BTBR and C57BL/6J mice. Our data provides a basis for further studies in evaluating the role of the cannabinoid and monoaminergic systems in the etiology of ASDs.
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