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van de Wetering R, Ewald A, Welsh S, Kornberger L, Williamson SE, McElroy BD, Butelman ER, Prisinzano TE, Kivell BM. The Kappa Opioid Receptor Agonist 16-Bromo Salvinorin A Has Anti-Cocaine Effects without Significant Effects on Locomotion, Food Reward, Learning and Memory, or Anxiety and Depressive-like Behaviors. Molecules 2023; 28:4848. [PMID: 37375403 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28124848] [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: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Kappa opioid receptor (KOR) agonists have preclinical antipsychostimulant effects; however, adverse side effects have limited their therapeutic development. In this preclinical study, conducted in Sprague Dawley rats, B6-SJL mice, and non-human primates (NHPs), we evaluated the G-protein-biased analogue of salvinorin A (SalA), 16-bromo salvinorin A (16-BrSalA), for its anticocaine effects, side effects, and activation of cellular signaling pathways. 16-BrSalA dose-dependently decreased the cocaine-primed reinstatement of drug-seeking behavior in a KOR-dependent manner. It also decreased cocaine-induced hyperactivity, but had no effect on responding for cocaine on a progressive ratio schedule. Compared to SalA, 16-BrSalA had an improved side effect profile, with no significant effects in the elevated plus maze, light-dark test, forced swim test, sucrose self-administration, or novel object recognition; however, it did exhibit conditioned aversive effects. 16-BrSalA increased dopamine transporter (DAT) activity in HEK-293 cells coexpressing DAT and KOR, as well as in rat nucleus accumbens and dorsal striatal tissue. 16-BrSalA also increased the early phase activation of extracellular-signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2, as well as p38 in a KOR-dependent manner. In NHPs, 16-BrSalA caused dose-dependent increases in the neuroendocrine biomarker prolactin, similar to other KOR agonists, at doses without robust sedative effects. These findings highlight that G-protein-biased structural analogues of SalA can have improved pharmacokinetic profiles and fewer side effects while maintaining their anticocaine effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ross van de Wetering
- School of Biological Sciences, Centre for Biodiscovery, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington 6012, New Zealand
| | - Amy Ewald
- School of Biological Sciences, Centre for Biodiscovery, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington 6012, New Zealand
| | - Susan Welsh
- School of Biological Sciences, Centre for Biodiscovery, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington 6012, New Zealand
| | - Lindsay Kornberger
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
| | - Samuel E Williamson
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
| | - Bryan D McElroy
- Laboratory on the Biology of Addictive Diseases, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Eduardo R Butelman
- Laboratory on the Biology of Addictive Diseases, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Thomas E Prisinzano
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
| | - Bronwyn M Kivell
- School of Biological Sciences, Centre for Biodiscovery, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington 6012, New Zealand
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2
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Halang M, Maier ME. Formal Total Synthesis of Salvinorin A. Chemistry 2022; 11:e202200015. [PMID: 35218166 PMCID: PMC9535499 DOI: 10.1002/open.202200015] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The generation of the quaternary stereocenter at the C9 position of salvinorin A precursors by the Claisen rearrangement was investigated. The required allyl alcohol was prepared from a Wieland‐Miescher ketone using a known γ‐hydroxylation, reduction of the enone double bond, cyanohydrin formation, and elimination, yielding an unsaturated nitrile. A two‐step reduction led to the required allyl alcohol. The subsequent Johnson‐Claisen rearrangement provided a mixture of two diastereomeric 1,4‐unsaturated esters in a ratio of around 2.6 : 1. The major isomer could be converted to a key intermediate of the Hagiwara synthesis of salvinorin A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Halang
- Institut für Organische Chemie, Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 18, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Martin E Maier
- Institut für Organische Chemie, Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 18, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
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Shou Q, Tan T, Xu F. Salvinorin A inhibits ovalbumin-stimulated allergic rhinitis and RBL-2H3 cells degranulation. FEBS Open Bio 2021. [PMID: 34092045 PMCID: PMC8329952 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.13219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a long-term noncommunicable inflammatory disease of the nasal mucosa mediated by immunoglobulin E and is mainly caused by exposure of genetically susceptible individuals to environmental allergens. Mast cells contribute to the pathogenesis of allergic and nonallergic inflammatory diseases. Salvinorin A has been previously shown to inhibit leukotriene production and mast cell degranulation to suppress airway hyperresponsiveness caused by sensitization; thus, we hypothesized that salvinorin A has an anti-AR effect. We tested this hypothesis using monoclonal anti-2,4,6-dinitrophenyl immunoglobulin E/human serum albumin-induced rat basophilic leukemia cells (RBL-2H3 cells) and ovalbumin (OVA)-induced AR in mice as in vivo and in vitro AR models, respectively. The expression levels of histamine, β-hexosaminidase, interleukin-4 and tumor necrosis factor-α were decreased by salvinorin A in vitro. Granule release and F-actin organization were also suppressed by salvinorin A. Furthermore, salvinorin A inhibited OVA-induced features of AR in mice, including nasal rubbing and sneezing, as well as increased OVA-specific immunoglobulin E, histamine, tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-4 levels. In addition, salvinorin A decreased the phosphorylation of phosphoinositide 3-kinase/Akt in vitro and in vivo. Our work suggests that salvinorin A suppresses AR caused by sensitization by inhibiting the inflammatory responses of mast cells; thus, salvinorin A may have potential for treatment of AR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiyang Shou
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University of Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tao Tan
- Internal Medicine Department, Zhejiang Provincial General Team Hospital of the Chinese People's Armed Police Force, Hangzhou, China
| | - Faying Xu
- School of Medical Imaging, Hangzhou Medical College, China
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Wu L, Wu D, Chen J, Chen C, Yao T, He X, Ma Y, Zhi X, Liu R, Ji X. Intranasal salvinorin A improves neurological outcome in rhesus monkey ischemic stroke model using autologous blood clot. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2021; 41:723-730. [PMID: 32615886 PMCID: PMC7983500 DOI: 10.1177/0271678x20938137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Salvinorin A (SA) exerts neuroprotection and improves neurological outcomes in ischemic stroke models in rodents. In this study, we investigated whether intranasal SA administration could improve neurological outcomes in a monkey ischemic stroke model. The stroke model was induced in adult male rhesus monkeys by occluding the middle cerebral artery M2 segment with an autologous blood clot. Eight adult rhesus monkeys were randomly administered SA or 10% dimethyl sulfoxide as control 20 min after ischemia. Magnetic resonance imaging was used to confirm the ischemia and extent of injury. Neurological function was evaluated using the Non-Human Primate Stroke Scale (NHPSS) over a 28-day observation period. SA significantly reduced infarct volume (3.9 ± 0.7 cm3 vs. 7.2 ± 1.0 cm3; P = 0.002), occupying effect (0.3 ± 0.2% vs. 1.4 ± 0.3%; P = 0.002), and diffusion limitation in the lesion (-28.2 ± 11.0% vs. -51.5 ± 7.1%; P = 0.012) when compared to the control group. SA significantly reduced the NHPSS scores to almost normal in a 28-day observation period as compared to the control group (P = 0.005). Intranasal SA reduces infarct volume and improves neurological outcomes in a rhesus monkey ischemic stroke model using autologous blood clot.
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Affiliation(s)
- Longfei Wu
- Department of Neurology and China-America Institute of Neuroscience, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Di Wu
- Department of Neurology and China-America Institute of Neuroscience, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jian Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chunhua Chen
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Tianqi Yao
- Department of Neurology and China-America Institute of Neuroscience, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoduo He
- Department of Neurology and China-America Institute of Neuroscience, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yanqin Ma
- Nhwa Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Xuzhou, China
| | - Xinglong Zhi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Renyu Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Renyu Liu, Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Xunming Ji
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Xunming Ji, Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100053, China.
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Crowley RS, Riley AP, Alder AF, Anderson RJ, Luo D, Kaska S, Maynez P, Kivell BM, Prisinzano TE. Synthetic Studies of Neoclerodane Diterpenes from Salvia divinorum: Design, Synthesis, and Evaluation of Analogues with Improved Potency and G-protein Activation Bias at the μ-Opioid Receptor. ACS Chem Neurosci 2020; 11:1781-1790. [PMID: 32383854 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.0c00191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies identified the first centrally acting, non-nitrogenous μ-opioid receptor (MOR) agonist, kurkinorin (1), derived from salvinorin A. In an effort to further probe the physiological effects induced upon activation of MORs with this nonmorphine scaffold, a variety of analogues were synthesized and evaluated in vitro for their ability to activate G-proteins and recruit β-arrestin-2 upon MOR activation. Through these studies, compounds that are potent agonists at MORs and either biased toward β-arrestin-2 recruitment or biased toward G-protein activation have been identified. One such compound, 25, has potent activity and selectivity at the MOR over KOR with bias for G-protein activation. Impressively, 25 is over 100× more potent than morphine and over 5× more potent than fentanyl in vitro and elicits antinociception with limited tolerance development in vivo. This is especially significant given that 25 lacks a basic nitrogen and other ionizable groups present in other opioid ligand classes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel S. Crowley
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas 66047, United States
| | - Andrew P. Riley
- Department of Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas 66045, United States
| | - Amy F. Alder
- School of Biological Sciences, Centre for Biodiscovery, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington 6140, New Zealand
| | - Richard J. Anderson
- School of Biological Sciences, Centre for Biodiscovery, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington 6140, New Zealand
| | - Dan Luo
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas 66047, United States
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, United States
| | - Sophia Kaska
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas 66047, United States
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, United States
| | - Pamela Maynez
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas 66047, United States
| | - Bronwyn M. Kivell
- School of Biological Sciences, Centre for Biodiscovery, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington 6140, New Zealand
| | - Thomas E. Prisinzano
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas 66047, United States
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, United States
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Socała K, Doboszewska U, Wlaź P. Salvinorin A Does Not Affect Seizure Threshold in Mice. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25051204. [PMID: 32155979 PMCID: PMC7179429 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25051204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [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: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The κ-opioid receptor has recently gained attention as a new molecular target in the treatment of many psychiatric and neurological disorders including epilepsy. Salvinorin A is a potent plant-derived hallucinogen that acts as a highly selective κ-opioid receptor agonist. It has unique structure and pharmacological properties, but its influence on seizure susceptibility has not been studied so far. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of salvinorin A on seizure thresholds in three acute seizure tests in mice. We also examined its effect on muscular strength and motor coordination. The obtained results showed that salvinorin A (0.1-10 mg/kg, i.p.) did not significantly affect the thresholds for the first myoclonic twitch, generalized clonic seizure, or forelimb tonus in the intravenous pentylenetetrazole seizure threshold test in mice. Likewise, it failed to affect the thresholds for tonic hindlimb extension and psychomotor seizures in the maximal electroshock- and 6 Hz-induced seizure threshold tests, respectively. Moreover, no changes in motor coordination (assessed in the chimney test) or muscular strength (assessed in the grip-strength test) were observed. This is a preliminary report only, and further studies are warranted to better characterize the effects of salvinorin A on seizure and epilepsy.
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Abstract
Salvia divinorum is a herbal plant native to the southwest region of Mexico. Traditional preparations of this plant have been used in illness treatments that converge with inflammatory conditions and pain. Currently, S. divinorum extracts have become popular in several countries as a recreational drug due to its hallucinogenic effects. Its main active component is a diterpene named salvinorin A (SA), a potent naturally occurring hallucinogen with a great affinity to the κ opioid receptors and with allosteric modulation of cannabinoid type 1 receptors. Recent biochemical research has revealed the mechanism of action of the anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect of SA at the cellular and molecular level. Nevertheless, because of their short-lasting and hallucinogenic effect, the research has focused on discovering a new analogue of SA that is able to induce analgesia and reduce inflammation with a long-lasting effect but without the hallucinatory component. In this review, we explore the role of S. divinorum, SA and its analogues. We focus mainly on their analgesic and anti-inflammatory roles but also mention their psychoactive properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulises Coffeen
- Research in Neurosciences, Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Mexico City, México,
| | - Francisco Pellicer
- Research in Neurosciences, Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Mexico City, México,
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Ventura L, Carvalho F, Dinis-Oliveira RJ. Opioids in the Frame of New Psychoactive Substances Network: A Complex Pharmacological and Toxicological Issue. Curr Mol Pharmacol 2019; 11:97-108. [PMID: 28676005 DOI: 10.2174/1874467210666170704110146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2017] [Revised: 06/08/2017] [Accepted: 06/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND New psychoactive substances (NPS), often referred to as "legal highs" or "designer drugs", are derivatives and analogues of existing psychoactive drugs that are introduced in the recreational market to circumvent existing legislation on drugs of abuse. OBJECTIVE This systematic review aims to gather the state of the art regarding chemical, molecular pharmacology and toxicological information of opioid class of NPS. METHODS Chemical, pharmacological, toxicological and clinical effects of opioid class of NPS were searched in books and in PubMed (U.S. National Library of Medicine) without a limiting period. RESULTS Within this class, fentanyl analogues are among the most frequently abused and pose several clinical concerns and therefore will be thoroughly discussed. Other opioid sub-categories of NPS frequently misused include AH-7921, MT-45, U-47700, U-50488, desomorphine, mitragynine, tramadol, tapentadol, salvinorin A and its analogue herkinorin. CONCLUSION Due to inefficient monitoring techniques, as well as limited knowledge regarding the acute and long-term effects of opioids NPS, further clinical and forensic toxicological studies are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludovic Ventura
- Department of Public Health and Forensic Sciences, and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Felix Carvalho
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Jorge Dinis-Oliveira
- Department of Public Health and Forensic Sciences, and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,IINFACTS - Institute of Research and Advanced Training in Health Sciences and Technologies, Department of Sciences, University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), CESPU, CRL, Gandra, Portugal
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Sun J, Zhang Y, Lu J, Zhang W, Yan J, Yang L, Zhou C, Liu R, Chen C. Salvinorin A ameliorates cerebral vasospasm through activation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase in a rat model of subarachnoid hemorrhage. Microcirculation 2019; 25:e12442. [PMID: 29377443 DOI: 10.1111/micc.12442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2017] [Accepted: 01/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to demonstrate the potential of salvinorin A (SA) for cerebral vasospasm after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) and investigate mechanisms of therapeutic effect using rat SAH model. METHODS Salvinorin A was injected intraperitoneally, and the neurobehavioral changes were observed at 12 hours, 24 hours, 48 hours, and 72 hours after SAH. Basilar artery was observed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The inner diameter and thickness of basilar artery were measured. The morphological changes and the apoptosis in CA1 area of hippocampus were detected. Endothelin-1 (ET-1) and nitric oxide (NO) levels were detected by ELISA kit. The protein expression of endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) and aquaporin-4 (AQP-4) was determined by Western blot for potential mechanism exploration. RESULTS Salvinorin A administration could relieve neurological deficits, decrease the neuronal apoptosis, and alleviate the morphological changes in CA1 area of hippocampus. SA alleviated CVS by increasing diameter and decreasing thickness of basilar artery, and such changes were accompanied by the decreased concentration of ET-1 and increased level of NO. Meanwhile, SA increased the expression of eNOS and decreased the expression of AQP-4 protein in the basilar artery and hippocampus. CONCLUSIONS Salvinorin A attenuated CVS and alleviated brain injury after SAH via increasing expression of eNOS and NO content, and decreasing ET-1 concentration and AQP-4 protein expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Sun
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Jianfei Lu
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Weiguang Zhang
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Junhao Yan
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Yang
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Changman Zhou
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Renyu Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Chunhua Chen
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
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Zjawiony JK, Machado AS, Menegatti R, Ghedini PC, Costa EA, Pedrino GR, Lukas SE, Franco OL, Silva ON, Fajemiroye JO. Cutting-Edge Search for Safer Opioid Pain Relief: Retrospective Review of Salvinorin A and Its Analogs. Front Psychiatry 2019; 10:157. [PMID: 30971961 PMCID: PMC6445891 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2018] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the years, pain has contributed to low life quality, poor health, and economic loss. Opioids are very effective analgesic drugs for treating mild, moderate, or severe pain. Therapeutic application of opioids has been limited by short and long-term side effects. These side effects and opioid-overuse crisis has intensified interest in the search for new molecular targets and drugs. The present review focuses on salvinorin A and its analogs with the aim of exploring their structural and pharmacological profiles as clues for the development of safer analgesics. Ethnopharmacological reports and growing preclinical data have demonstrated the antinociceptive effect of salvinorin A and some of its analogs. The pharmacology of analogs modified at C-2 dominates the literature when compared to the ones from other positions. The distinctive binding affinity of these analogs seems to correlate with their chemical structure and in vivo antinociceptive effects. The high susceptibility of salvinorin A to chemical modification makes it an important pharmacological tool for cellular probing and developing analogs with promising analgesic effects. Additional research is still needed to draw reliable conclusions on the therapeutic potential of salvinorin A and its analogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan K Zjawiony
- Division of Pharmacognosy, Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Mississippi, University, MS, United States
| | - Antônio S Machado
- Laboratory of Medicinal Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Menegatti
- Laboratory of Medicinal Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Paulo C Ghedini
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Elson A Costa
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Gustavo R Pedrino
- Department of Physiology, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Scott E Lukas
- McLean Imaging Center, Harvard Medical School, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, United States
| | - Octávio L Franco
- S-Inova Biotech, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, Brazil.,Centro de Análises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Pós-graduação em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-graduação em Patologia Molecular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Osmar N Silva
- S-Inova Biotech, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, Brazil
| | - James O Fajemiroye
- Department of Physiology, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil.,Centro Universitário de Anápolis, Unievangélica, Anápolis, Brazil
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11
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Pelot KA, Mitchell R, Kwon M, Hagelthorn LM, Wardman JF, Chiang A, Bohlmann J, Ro DK, Zerbe P. Biosynthesis of the psychotropic plant diterpene salvinorin A: Discovery and characterization of the Salvia divinorum clerodienyl diphosphate synthase. Plant J 2017; 89:885-897. [PMID: 27865008 DOI: 10.1111/tpj.13427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2016] [Revised: 11/03/2016] [Accepted: 11/14/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Salvia divinorum commonly known as diviner's sage, is an ethnomedicinal plant of the mint family (Lamiaceae). Salvia divinorum is rich in clerodane-type diterpenoids, which accumulate predominantly in leaf glandular trichomes. The main bioactive metabolite, salvinorin A, is the first non-nitrogenous natural compound known to function as an opioid-receptor agonist, and is undergoing clinical trials for potential use in treating neuropsychiatric diseases and drug addictions. We report here the discovery and functional characterization of two S. divinorum diterpene synthases (diTPSs), the ent-copalyl diphosphate (ent-CPP) synthase SdCPS1, and the clerodienyl diphosphate (CLPP) synthase SdCPS2. Mining of leaf- and trichome-specific transcriptomes revealed five diTPSs, two of which are class II diTPSs (SdCPS1-2) and three are class I enzymes (SdKSL1-3). Of the class II diTPSs, transient expression in Nicotiana benthamiana identified SdCPS1 as an ent-CPP synthase, which is prevalent in roots and, together with SdKSL1, exhibits a possible dual role in general and specialized metabolism. In vivo co-expression and in vitro assays combined with nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analysis identified SdCPS2 as a CLPP synthase. A role of SdCPS2 in catalyzing the committed step in salvinorin A biosynthesis is supported by its biochemical function, trichome-specific expression and absence of additional class II diTPSs in S. divinorum. Structure-guided mutagenesis revealed four catalytic residues that enabled the re-programming of SdCPS2 activity to afford four distinct products, thus advancing our understanding of how neo-functionalization events have shaped the array of different class II diTPS functions in plants, and may promote synthetic biology platforms for a broader spectrum of diterpenoid bioproducts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle A Pelot
- Department of Plant Biology, University of California-Davis, 1 Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Rod Mitchell
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, 2500 University Dr. NW, Calgary, AB, T2N1N4, Canada
| | - Moonhyuk Kwon
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, 2500 University Dr. NW, Calgary, AB, T2N1N4, Canada
| | - Lynne M Hagelthorn
- Department of Plant Biology, University of California-Davis, 1 Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Jacob F Wardman
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, 2500 University Dr. NW, Calgary, AB, T2N1N4, Canada
| | - Angela Chiang
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, 2185 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Jörg Bohlmann
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, 2185 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Dae-Kyun Ro
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, 2500 University Dr. NW, Calgary, AB, T2N1N4, Canada
| | - Philipp Zerbe
- Department of Plant Biology, University of California-Davis, 1 Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
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Margalho C, Corte-Real F, López-Rivadulla M, Gallardo E. Salvia divinorum: toxicological aspects and analysis in human biological specimens. Bioanalysis 2016; 8:1415-25. [PMID: 27277872 DOI: 10.4155/bio-2016-0067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The identification and quantitation of the main psychoactive component of Salvia divinorum (salvinorin A) in biological specimens are crucial in forensic and clinical toxicology. Despite all the efforts made, its uncontrolled abuse has increased quickly, exposing its users' health to serious risks both in the short and long term. The use of alternative biological matrices in toxicological analyzes can be advantageous as complementary postmortem samples, or in situations when neither blood nor urine can be collected; they may be useful tools in those determinations, providing important information about prior exposure. The aim of this article is to present a brief summary of legal aspects of Salvia divinorum and salvinorin A, including the methods used for the determination of the latter in biological matrices.
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Gupta A, Gomes I, Bobeck EN, Fakira AK, Massaro NP, Sharma I, Cavé A, Hamm HE, Parello J, Devi LA. Collybolide is a novel biased agonist of κ-opioid receptors with potent antipruritic activity. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2016; 113:6041-6. [PMID: 27162327 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1521825113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Among the opioid receptors, the κ-opioid receptor (κOR) has been gaining considerable attention as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of complex CNS disorders including depression, visceral pain, and cocaine addiction. With an interest in discovering novel ligands targeting κOR, we searched natural products for unusual scaffolds and identified collybolide (Colly), a nonnitrogenous sesquiterpene from the mushroom Collybia maculata. This compound has a furyl-δ-lactone core similar to that of Salvinorin A (Sal A), another natural product from the plant Salvia divinorum Characterization of the molecular pharmacological properties reveals that Colly, like Sal A, is a highly potent and selective κOR agonist. However, the two compounds differ in certain signaling and behavioral properties. Colly exhibits 10- to 50-fold higher potency in activating the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway compared with Sal A. Taken with the fact that the two compounds are equipotent for inhibiting adenylyl cyclase activity, these results suggest that Colly behaves as a biased agonist of κOR. Behavioral studies also support the biased agonistic activity of Colly in that it exhibits ∼10-fold higher potency in blocking non-histamine-mediated itch compared with Sal A, and this difference is not seen in pain attenuation by these two compounds. These results represent a rare example of functional selectivity by two natural products that act on the same receptor. The biased agonistic activity, along with an easily modifiable structure compared with Sal A, makes Colly an ideal candidate for the development of novel therapeutics targeting κOR with reduced side effects.
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Johnson MW, MacLean KA, Caspers MJ, Prisinzano TE, Griffiths RR. Time course of pharmacokinetic and hormonal effects of inhaled high-dose salvinorin A in humans. J Psychopharmacol 2016; 30:323-9. [PMID: 26880225 PMCID: PMC5289219 DOI: 10.1177/0269881116629125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Salvinorin A is a kappa opioid agonist and the principal psychoactive constituent of the Salvia divinorum plant, which has been used for hallucinogenic effects. Previous research on salvinorin A pharmacokinetics likely underestimated plasma levels typically resulting from the doses administered due to inefficient vaporization and not collecting samples during peak drug effects. Six healthy adults inhaled a single high dose of vaporized salvinorin A (n = 4, 21 mcg/kg; n = 2, 18 mcg/kg). Participant- and monitor-rated effects were assessed every 2 min for 60 min post-inhalation. Blood samples were collected at 13 time points up to 90 min post-inhalation. Drug levels peaked at 2 min and then rapidly decreased. Drug levels were significantly, positively correlated with participant and monitor drug effect ratings. Significant elevations in prolactin were observed beginning 5 min post-inhalation and peaking at 15 min post-inhalation. Cortisol showed inconsistent increases across participants. Hormonal responses were not well correlated with drug levels. This is the first study to demonstrate a direct relationship between changes in plasma levels of salvinorin A and drug effects in humans. The results confirm the efficacy of an inhalation technique for salvinorin A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew W. Johnson
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 5510 Nathan Shock Drive, Baltimore, MD 21224-6823, USA
| | - Katherine A. MacLean
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 5510 Nathan Shock Drive, Baltimore, MD 21224-6823, USA
| | - Michael J. Caspers
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, The University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045-7582, USA
| | - Thomas E. Prisinzano
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, The University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045-7582, USA
| | - Roland R. Griffiths
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 5510 Nathan Shock Drive, Baltimore, MD 21224-6823, USA,Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 5510 Nathan Shock Drive, Baltimore, MD 21224-6823, USA
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15
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Akaberi M, Iranshahi M, Mehri S. Molecular Signaling Pathways Behind the Biological Effects of Salvia Species Diterpenes in Neuropharmacology and Cardiology. Phytother Res 2016; 30:878-93. [PMID: 26988179 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.5599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [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: 10/31/2015] [Revised: 01/29/2016] [Accepted: 02/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The genus Salvia, from the Lamiaceae family, has diverse biological properties that are primarily attributable to their diterpene contents. There is no comprehensive review on the molecular signaling pathways of these active components. In this review, we investigated the molecular targets of bioactive Salvia diterpenes responsible for the treatment of nervous and cardiovascular diseases. The effects on different pathways, including apoptosis signaling, oxidative stress phenomena, the accumulation of amyloid beta plaques, and tau phosphorylation, have all been considered to be mechanisms of the anti-Alzheimer properties of Salvia diterpenes. Additionally, effects on the benzodiazepine and kappa opioid receptors and neuroprotective effects are noted as neuropharmacological properties of Salvia diterpenes, including tanshinone IIA, salvinorin A, cryptotanshinone, and miltirone. Tanshinone IIA, as the primary diterpene of Salvia miltiorrhiza, has beneficial activities in heart diseases because of its ability to scavenge free radicals and its effects on transcription factors, such as nuclear transcription factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs). Additionally, tanshinone IIA has also been proposed to have cardioprotective properties including antiarrhythmic activities and effects on myocardial infarction. With respect to the potential therapeutic effects of Salvia diterpenes, comprehensive clinical trials are warranted to evaluate these valuable molecules as lead compounds. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Akaberi
- Student Research Committee, Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - M Iranshahi
- Biotechnology Research Center and School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - S Mehri
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Butelman ER, Kreek MJ. Corrigendum: Salvinorin A, a kappa-opioid receptor agonist hallucinogen: pharmacology and potential template for novel pharmacotherapeutic agents in neuropsychiatric disorders. Front Pharmacol 2015; 6:285. [PMID: 26648869 PMCID: PMC4663718 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2015.00285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2015] [Accepted: 11/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo R Butelman
- Laboratory on the Biology of Addictive Diseases, The Rockefeller University New York, NY, USA
| | - Mary Jeanne Kreek
- Laboratory on the Biology of Addictive Diseases, The Rockefeller University New York, NY, USA
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Butelman ER, Kreek MJ. Salvinorin A, a kappa-opioid receptor agonist hallucinogen: pharmacology and potential template for novel pharmacotherapeutic agents in neuropsychiatric disorders. Front Pharmacol 2015; 6:190. [PMID: 26441647 PMCID: PMC4561799 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2015.00190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2015] [Accepted: 08/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Salvinorin A is a potent hallucinogen, isolated from the ethnomedical plant Salvia divinorum. Salvinorin A is a selective high efficacy kappa-opioid receptor (KOPr) agonist, and thus implicates the KOPr system and its endogenous agonist ligands (the dynorphins) in higher functions, including cognition and perceptual effects. Salvinorin A is the only selective KOPr ligand to be widely available outside research or medical settings, and salvinorin A-containing products have undergone frequent non-medical use. KOPr/dynorphin systems in the brain are known to be powerful counter-modulatory mechanisms to dopaminergic function, which is important in mood and reward engendered by natural and chemical reinforcers (including drugs of abuse). KOPr activation (including by salvinorin A) can thus cause aversion and anhedonia in preclinical models. Salvinorin A is also a completely new scaffold for medicinal chemistry approaches, since it is a non-nitrogenous neoclerodane, unlike other known opioid ligands. Ongoing efforts have the goal of discovering novel semi-synthetic salvinorin analogs with potential KOPr-mediated pharmacotherapeutic effects (including partial agonist or biased agonist effects), with a reduced burden of undesirable effects associated with salvinorin A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo R Butelman
- Laboratory on the Biology of Addictive Diseases, The Rockefeller University , New York, NY, USA
| | - Mary Jeanne Kreek
- Laboratory on the Biology of Addictive Diseases, The Rockefeller University , New York, NY, USA
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Abstract
This study examined the overall psychological effects of inebriation facilitated by the naturally-occurring plant hallucinogen Salvia divinorum using a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Thirty healthy individuals self-administered Salvia divinorum via combustion and inhalation in a quiet, comfortable research setting. Experimental sessions, post-session interviews, and 8-week follow-up meetings were audio recorded and transcribed to provide the primary qualitative material analyzed here. Additionally, post-session responses to the Hallucinogen Rating Scale provided a quantitative groundwork for mixed-methods discussion. Qualitative data underwent thematic content analysis, being coded independently by three researchers before being collaboratively integrated to provide the final results. Three main themes and 10 subthemes of acute intoxication emerged, encompassing the qualities of the experience, perceptual alterations, and cognitive-affective shifts. The experience was described as having rapid onset and being intense and unique. Participants reported marked changes in auditory, visual, and interoceptive sensory input; losing normal awareness of themselves and their surroundings; and an assortment of delusional phenomena. Additionally, the abuse potential of Salvia divinorum was examined post hoc. These findings are discussed in light of previous research, and provide an initial framework for greater understanding of the subjective effects of Salvia divinorum, an emerging drug of abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter H Addy
- Medical Informatics, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA Department of Medical Informatics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Albert Garcia-Romeu
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Simonson B, Morani AS, Ewald AWM, Walker L, Kumar N, Simpson D, Miller JH, Prisinzano TE, Kivell BM. Pharmacology and anti-addiction effects of the novel κ opioid receptor agonist Mesyl Sal B, a potent and long-acting analogue of salvinorin A. Br J Pharmacol 2014; 172:515-31. [PMID: 24641310 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [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: 10/20/2013] [Revised: 03/09/2014] [Accepted: 03/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Acute activation of κ opioid (KOP) receptors results in anticocaine-like effects, but adverse effects, such as dysphoria, aversion, sedation and depression, limit their clinical development. Salvinorin A, isolated from the plant Salvia divinorum, and its semi-synthetic analogues have been shown to have potent KOP receptor agonist activity and may induce a unique response with similar anticocaine addiction effects as the classic KOP receptor agonists, but with a different side effect profile. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH We evaluated the duration of effects of Mesyl Sal B in vivo utilizing antinociception assays and screened for cocaine-prime induced cocaine-seeking behaviour in self-administering rats to predict anti-addiction effects. Cellular transporter uptake assays and in vitro voltammetry were used to assess modulation of dopamine transporter (DAT) function and to investigate transporter trafficking and kinase signalling pathways modulated by KOP receptor agonists. KEY RESULTS Mesyl Sal B had a longer duration of action than SalA, had anti-addiction properties and increased DAT function in vitro in a KOP receptor-dependent and Pertussis toxin-sensitive manner. These effects on DAT function required ERK1/2 activation. We identified differences between Mesyl Sal B and SalA, with Mesyl Sal B increasing the Vmax of dopamine uptake without altering cell-surface expression of DAT. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS SalA analogues, such as Mesyl Sal B, have potential for development as anticocaine agents. Further tests are warranted to elucidate the mechanisms by which the novel salvinorin-based neoclerodane diterpene KOP receptor ligands produce both anti-addiction and adverse side effects. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Opioids: New Pathways to Functional Selectivity. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2015.172.issue-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Simonson
- School of Biological Science, Centre for Biodiscovery, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
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Stiefel KM, Merrifield A, Holcombe AO. The claustrum's proposed role in consciousness is supported by the effect and target localization of Salvia divinorum. Front Integr Neurosci 2014; 8:20. [PMID: 24624064 PMCID: PMC3935397 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2014.00020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [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: 12/05/2013] [Accepted: 02/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
This article brings together three findings and ideas relevant for the understanding of human consciousness: (I) Crick’s and Koch’s theory that the claustrum is a “conductor of consciousness” crucial for subjective conscious experience. (II) Subjective reports of the consciousness-altering effects the plant Salvia divinorum, whose primary active ingredient is salvinorin A, a κ-opioid receptor agonist. (III) The high density of κ-opioid receptors in the claustrum. Fact III suggests that the consciousness-altering effects of S. divinorum/salvinorin A (II) are due to a κ-opioid receptor mediated inhibition of primarily the claustrum and, additionally, the deep layers of the cortex, mainly in prefrontal areas. Consistent with Crick and Koch’s theory that the claustrum plays a key role in consciousness (I), the subjective effects of S. divinorum indicate that salvia disrupts certain facets of consciousness much more than the largely serotonergic hallucinogen lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD). Based on this data and on the relevant literature, we suggest that the claustrum does indeed serve as a conductor for certain aspects of higher-order integration of brain activity, while integration of auditory and visual signals relies more on coordination by other areas including parietal cortex and the pulvinar.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaus M Stiefel
- The MARCS Institute, University of Western Sydney Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Alex O Holcombe
- School of Psychology, University of Sydney Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Zawilska JB, Wojcieszak J. Salvia divinorum: from Mazatec medicinal and hallucinogenic plant to emerging recreational drug. Hum Psychopharmacol 2013; 28:403-12. [PMID: 23794315 DOI: 10.1002/hup.2304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2012] [Accepted: 02/19/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Salvia divinorum is a sage endemic to a small region of Mexico and has been traditionally used by the Mazatec Indians for divination and spiritual healing. Recently, it has gained increased popularity as a recreational drug, used by adolescents and young adults as an alternative to marijuana and LSD. Salvinorin A, the major active ingredient of the plant, is considered to be the most potent known hallucinogen of natural origin. This review surveys the current state of knowledge on the neurochemical, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacological properties of salvinorin A, the trends and motivation behind S. divinorum use, and the health problems among users of the plant's products. S. divinorum induces intense, but short-lived, psychedelic-like changes in mood and perception, with concomitant hallucinations and disorientation. Many websites have misinterpreted the limited existing research-based information on the side effects of salvia as evidence for its safety. However, data accumulated over the last few years indicate that potential health risks are associated with the use of S. divinorum, especially by teenagers, users of other substances of abuse, and individuals with underlying psychotic disturbances. Taken together, the data presented in this review point to the need for further basic and clinical studies to create a basis for the development of well-addressed prevention and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jolanta B Zawilska
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
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