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Mohammed T, Yu J, Qiao Y, Kim Y, Mortensen E, Swede H, Wu Z, Zhang J. Marijuana Use May Be Associated with Reduced Prevalence of Prostate Cancer: A National Survey on Drug Use and Health Study from United States of America. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1008. [PMID: 38790970 PMCID: PMC11118915 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12051008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Preclinical evidence indicates the potential anti-tumor capabilities of cannabinoids in prostate cancer (PC). We undertook a cross-sectional study using National Survey on Drug Use and Health data from 2002 to 2020, involving 2503 participants in the USA. The independent variable was marijuana use status (current, former, never), while the dependent variable was self-reported PC (yes, no). Eleven other demographic variables were assessed as covariates. PC prevalence was lower among current marijuana users (46/145, 31.7%) and former users (323/1021, 31.6%) compared to non-users (534/1337, 39.9%, p < 0.001). PC prevalence was lower among users versus non-users in the elderly (≥65) (36.4% vs. 42.4%, p = 0.016) and non-Hispanic white subgroups (28.9% vs. 38.3%, p < 0.001). There were no significant PC prevalence differences between users and non-users in the younger population (50-64) or other race/ethnicity. In the multivariable analyses, former marijuana use was associated with lower PC compared to never using (odd ratio = 0.74, 95% CI 0.62-0.90, p = 0.001). Current use was also suggestive of reduced prevalence but was not statistically significant (odd ratio = 0.77, 95% CI 0.52-1.14, p = 0.198), possibly due to low sample size. Our findings from a large national survey provide additional data to link marijuana use with lower PC prevalence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Turab Mohammed
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612, USA; (T.M.); (J.Y.)
| | - James Yu
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612, USA; (T.M.); (J.Y.)
| | - Yong Qiao
- Department of Statistics, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA;
| | - Youngchul Kim
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612, USA;
| | - Eric Mortensen
- Department of Medicine, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT 06032, USA;
| | - Helen Swede
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT 06032, USA;
| | - Zhao Wu
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT 06030, USA;
| | - Jingsong Zhang
- Department of Genito-Urology Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
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2
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Kargar B, Fazeli M, Sobhani Z, Hosseinzadeh S, Solhjoo A, Akbarizadeh AR. Exploration of the photothermal role of curcumin-loaded targeted carbon nanotubes as a potential therapy for melanoma cancer. Sci Rep 2024; 14:10117. [PMID: 38698033 PMCID: PMC11066107 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-57612-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
In this research, the hydrophilic structure of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) was modified by synthesizing polycitric acid (PCA) and attaching folic acid (FA) to create MWCNT-PCA-FA. This modified nanocomplex was utilized as a carrier for the lipophilic compound curcumin (Cur). Characterization techniques including TGA, TEM, and UV-visible spectrophotometry were used to analyze the nanocomplex. The mechanism of cancer cell death induced by MWCNT-PCA-FA was studied extensively using the MTT assay, colony formation analysis, cell cycle assessment via flow cytometry, and apoptosis studies. Furthermore, we assessed the antitumor efficacy of these targeted nanocomplexes following exposure to laser radiation. The results showed that the nanocomposites and free Cur had significant toxicity on melanoma cancer cells (B16F10 cells) while having minimal impact on normal cells (NHDF cells). This selectivity for cancerous cells demonstrates the potential of these compounds as therapeutic agents. Furthermore, MWCNT-PCA-FA/Cur showed superior cytotoxicity compared to free Cur alone. Colony formation studies confirmed these results. The researchers found that MWCNT-FA-PCA/Cur effectively induced programmed cell death. In photothermal analysis, MWCNT-PCA-FA/Cur combined with laser treatment achieved the highest mortality rate. These promising results suggest that this multifunctional therapeutic nanoplatform holds the potential for combination cancer therapies that utilize various established therapeutic methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahareh Kargar
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mehdi Fazeli
- Department of Basic Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Zahra Sobhani
- Department of Drug and Food Control, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Saeid Hosseinzadeh
- Department of Food Hygiene and Public Health, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Aida Solhjoo
- Department of Drug and Food Control, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Amin Reza Akbarizadeh
- Department of Drug and Food Control, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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3
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Arnab MKH, Islam MR, Rahman MS. A comprehensive review on phytochemicals in the treatment and prevention of pancreatic cancer: Focusing on their mechanism of action. Health Sci Rep 2024; 7:e2085. [PMID: 38690008 PMCID: PMC11056788 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.2085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims Pancreatic cancer develops in the normal tissues of the pancreas from malignant cells. The chance of recovery is not good, and the chance of survival 5 years following diagnosis is quite low. Pancreatic cancer treatment strategies such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy had relatively low success rates. Therefore, the present study aims to explore new therapies for treating pancreatic cancer. Methods The present study searched for information about pancreatic cancer pathophysiology, available treatment options; and their comparative benefits and challenges. Aiming to identify potential alternative therapeutics, this comprehensive review analyzed information from renowned databases such as Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar. Results In recent years, there has been a rise in interest in the possibility that natural compounds could be used as treatments for cancer. Cannabinoids, curcumin, quercetin, resveratrol, and triptolide are some of the anticancer phytochemicals now used to manage pancreatic cancer. The above compounds are utilized by inhibiting or stimulating biological pathways such as apoptosis, autophagy, cell growth inhibition or reduction, oxidative stress, epithelial-mesenchymal transformation, and increased resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs in the management of pancreatic cancer. Conclusion Right now, surgery is the only therapeutic option for patients with pancreatic cancer. However, most people who get sick have been diagnosed too late to benefit from potentially effective surgery. Alternative medications, like natural compounds and herbal medicines, are promising complementary therapies for pancreatic cancer. Therefore, we recommend large-scale standardized clinical research for the investigation of natural compounds to ensure their consistency and comparability in pancreatic cancer treatment.
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Karelia D, Corey Z, Wang H, Raup-Konsavage WM, Vrana KE, Lü J, Jiang C. Library Screening and Preliminary Characterization of Synthetic Cannabinoids Against Prostate and Pancreatic Cancer Cell Lines. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2024; 9:523-536. [PMID: 36880938 DOI: 10.1089/can.2022.0270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Our previous screening efforts with colorectal cancer cell lines suggested potential cannabinoid therapeutic leads for other solid cancers. Objectives: The aim of this study was to identify cannabinoid lead compounds that have cytostatic and cytocidal activities against prostate and pancreatic cancer cell lines and profile cellular responses and molecular pathways of select leads. Materials and Methods: A library of 369 synthetic cannabinoids was screened against 4 prostate and 2 pancreatic cancer cell lines with 48 h of exposure at 10 μM in medium with 10% fetal bovine serum using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) viability assay. Concentration titration of the top 6 hits was carried out to identify their concentration-response patterns and calculate IC50 values. Three select leads were examined for cell cycle, apoptosis, and autophagy responses. The role of cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) and noncanonical receptors in apoptosis signaling was examined with selective antagonists. Results: Two independent screening experiments in each cell line detected growth inhibitory activities against all six or a majority of cancer cell lines for HU-331 (a known cannabinoid topoisomerase II inhibitor), (±)5-epi-CP55,940, and PTI-2, each previously identified in our colorectal cancer study. 5-Fluoro NPB-22, FUB-NPB-22, and LY2183240 were novel hits. Morphologically and biochemically, (±)5-epi-CP55,940 elicited caspase-mediated apoptosis of PC-3-luc2 (a PC-3 subline with luciferase) prostate cancer and Panc-1 pancreatic cancer cell lines, each the most aggressive of the respective organ site. The apoptosis induced by (±)5-epi-CP55,940 was abolished by the CB2 antagonist, SR144528, but not modulated by the CB1 antagonist, rimonabant, and GPR55 antagonist, ML-193, nor TRPV1 antagonist, SB-705498. In contrast, 5-fluoro NPB-22 and FUB-NPB-22 did not cause substantial apoptosis in either cell line, but resulted in cytosolic vacuoles and increased LC3-II formation (suggestive of autophagy) and S and G2/M cell cycle arrests. Combining each fluoro compound with an autophagy inhibitor, hydroxychloroquine, enhanced the apoptosis. Conclusions: 5-Fluoro NPB-22, FUB-NPB-22, and LY2183240 represent new leads against prostate and pancreatic cancer cells in addition to the previously reported compounds, HU-331, (±)5-epi-CP55,940, and PTI-2. Mechanistically, the two fluoro compounds and (±)5-epi-CP55,940 differed regarding their structures, CB receptor involvement, and death/fate responses and signaling. Safety and antitumor efficacy studies in animal models are warranted to guide further R&D.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepkamal Karelia
- Department of Pharmacology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
- Pennsylvania-Designated Medical Marijuana Academic Clinical Research Center at Penn State, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Zachary Corey
- Department of Pharmacology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Haifeng Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
- School of Traditional Chinese Materia Medica, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Wesley M Raup-Konsavage
- Department of Pharmacology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
- Pennsylvania-Designated Medical Marijuana Academic Clinical Research Center at Penn State, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Kent E Vrana
- Department of Pharmacology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
- Pennsylvania-Designated Medical Marijuana Academic Clinical Research Center at Penn State, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Junxuan Lü
- Department of Pharmacology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
- Pennsylvania-Designated Medical Marijuana Academic Clinical Research Center at Penn State, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
- Penn State Cancer Institute, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Cheng Jiang
- Department of Pharmacology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
- Pennsylvania-Designated Medical Marijuana Academic Clinical Research Center at Penn State, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
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Al-Khazaleh AK, Jaye K, Chang D, Münch GW, Bhuyan DJ. Buds and Bugs: A Fascinating Tale of Gut Microbiota and Cannabis in the Fight against Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:872. [PMID: 38255944 PMCID: PMC10815411 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Emerging research has revealed a complex bidirectional interaction between the gut microbiome and cannabis. Preclinical studies have demonstrated that the gut microbiota can significantly influence the pharmacological effects of cannabinoids. One notable finding is the ability of the gut microbiota to metabolise cannabinoids, including Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This metabolic transformation can alter the potency and duration of cannabinoid effects, potentially impacting their efficacy in cancer treatment. Additionally, the capacity of gut microbiota to activate cannabinoid receptors through the production of secondary bile acids underscores its role in directly influencing the pharmacological activity of cannabinoids. While the literature reveals promising avenues for leveraging the gut microbiome-cannabis axis in cancer therapy, several critical considerations must be accounted for. Firstly, the variability in gut microbiota composition among individuals presents a challenge in developing universal treatment strategies. The diversity in gut microbiota may lead to variations in cannabinoid metabolism and treatment responses, emphasising the need for personalised medicine approaches. The growing interest in understanding how the gut microbiome and cannabis may impact cancer has created a demand for up-to-date, comprehensive reviews to inform researchers and healthcare practitioners. This review provides a timely and invaluable resource by synthesizing the most recent research findings and spotlighting emerging trends. A thorough examination of the literature on the interplay between the gut microbiome and cannabis, specifically focusing on their potential implications for cancer, is presented in this review to devise innovative and effective therapeutic strategies for managing cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad K. Al-Khazaleh
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia; (A.K.A.-K.); (K.J.); (D.C.)
| | - Kayla Jaye
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia; (A.K.A.-K.); (K.J.); (D.C.)
| | - Dennis Chang
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia; (A.K.A.-K.); (K.J.); (D.C.)
| | - Gerald W. Münch
- Pharmacology Unit, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW 2560, Australia
| | - Deep Jyoti Bhuyan
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia; (A.K.A.-K.); (K.J.); (D.C.)
- School of Science, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia
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Oyama M, Sakamoto M, Kitabatake K, Shiina K, Kitahara D, Onozawa S, Nishino K, Sudo Y, Tsukimoto M. Involvement of Cannabinoid Receptors and Adenosine A2B Receptor in Enhanced Migration of Lung Cancer A549 Cells Induced by γ-Ray Irradiation. Biol Pharm Bull 2024; 47:60-71. [PMID: 37926527 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b23-00631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Residual cancer cells after radiation therapy may acquire malignant phenotypes such as enhanced motility and migration ability, and therefore it is important to identify targets for preventing radiation-induced malignancy in order to increase the effectiveness of radiotherapy. G-Protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) such as adenosine A2B receptor and cannabinoid receptors (CB1, CB2, and GPR55) may be involved, as they are known to have roles in proliferation, invasion, migration and tumor growth. In this study, we investigated the involvement of A2B and cannabinoid receptors in γ-radiation-induced enhancement of cell migration and actin remodeling, as well as the involvement of cannabinoid receptors in cell migration enhancement via activation of A2B receptor in human lung cancer A549 cells. Antagonists or knockdown of A2B, CB1, CB2, or GPR55 receptor suppressed γ-radiation-induced cell migration and actin remodeling. Furthermore, BAY60-6583 (an A2B receptor-specific agonist) enhanced cell migration and actin remodeling in A549 cells, and this enhancement was suppressed by antagonists or knockdown of CB2 or GPR55, though not CB1 receptor. Our results indicate that A2B receptors and cannabinoid CB1, CB2, and GPR55 receptors all contribute to γ-radiation-induced acquisition of malignant phenotypes, and in particular that interactions of A2B receptor and cannabinoid CB2 and GPR55 receptors play a role in promoting cell migration and actin remodeling. A2B receptor-cannabinoid receptor pathways may be promising targets for blocking the appearance of malignant phenotypes during radiotherapy of lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Misaki Oyama
- Department of Radiation Biosciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science
| | - Misaki Sakamoto
- Department of Radiation Biosciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science
| | - Kazuki Kitabatake
- Department of Radiation Biosciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science
| | - Kanami Shiina
- Department of Radiation Biosciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science
| | - Daisuke Kitahara
- Department of Radiation Biosciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science
| | - Sohei Onozawa
- Department of Radiation Biosciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science
| | - Keisuke Nishino
- Department of Radiation Biosciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science
| | - Yuka Sudo
- Department of Medicinal and Life Sciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science
| | - Mitsutoshi Tsukimoto
- Department of Radiation Biosciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science
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7
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Swierczynski M, Kasprzak Z, Makaro A, Salaga M. Regulators of G-Protein Signaling (RGS) in Sporadic and Colitis-Associated Colorectal Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:577. [PMID: 38203748 PMCID: PMC10778579 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common neoplasms worldwide. Among the risk factors of CRC, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is one of the most important ones leading to the development of colitis-associated CRC (CAC). G-protein coupled receptors (GPCR) are transmembrane receptors that orchestrate a multitude of signaling cascades in response to external stimuli. Because of their functionality, they are promising targets in research on new strategies for CRC diagnostics and treatment. Recently, regulators of G-proteins (RGS) have been attracting attention in the field of oncology. Typically, they serve as negative regulators of GPCR responses to both physiological stimuli and medications. RGS activity can lead to both beneficial and harmful effects depending on the nature of the stimulus. However, the atypical RGS-AXIN uses its RGS domain to antagonize key signaling pathways in CRC development through the stabilization of the β-catenin destruction complex. Since AXIN does not limit the efficiency of medications, it seems to be an even more promising pharmacological target in CRC treatment. In this review, we discuss the current state of knowledge on RGS significance in sporadic CRC and CAC with particular emphasis on the regulation of GPCR involved in IBD-related inflammation comprising opioid, cannabinoid and serotonin receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Maciej Salaga
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, Mazowiecka 5, 92-215 Lodz, Poland; (M.S.); (Z.K.); (A.M.)
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Śledziński P, Nowak-Terpiłowska A, Rzymski P, Słomski R, Zeyland J. In Vitro Evidence of Selective Pro-Apoptotic Action of the Pure Cannabidiol and Cannabidiol-Rich Extract. Molecules 2023; 28:7887. [PMID: 38067615 PMCID: PMC10708261 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28237887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Plant cannabinoids, secondary metabolites of species belonging to the Cannabis genus, can mimic the endocannabinoids' action and exert biological effects. Considering the contribution of the endocannabinoid system in cell cycle and apoptotic regulation, there is an interest in exploring the potential anti-cancer activities of natural and synthetic cannabinoids. Cannabidiol (CBD), an abundant plant cannabinoid, reveals a low affinity to cannabinoid receptors and, contrary to various cannabinoids, lacks psychoactive action. Here, we present the in vitro assessment of the pro-apoptototic potential of CBD-rich extracts of Cannabis sativa L. (eCBD) compared to purified CBD (pCBD). As demonstrated, both eCBD and pCBD decreased the viability of breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231 and human prostate cancer cell line PC-3 in a concentration-dependent fashion. Endoplasmic reticulum stress-related apoptosis and morphological changes were induced only in low-serum conditions. Moreover, the effects of eCDB and pCDB were also assessed in non-malignant cell lines (MCF-10A and PNT2) with no alterations of viability noted, ultimately suggesting a selective action of CBD in tumor cells. The results suggest the possible involvement of reactive oxygen species in the response mechanism to eCBD and pCBD, but no clear pattern was observed. We also demonstrated significant changes in gene expression involved in apoptosis and cell cycle control upon extract treatment. Altogether, our study shows the potential of eCBD and pCBD as novel pro-apoptototic agents that can be considered promising in future preclinical and clinical testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paweł Śledziński
- Department of RNA Structure and Function, Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Noskowskiego 12/14, 61-704 Poznan, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Nowak-Terpiłowska
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Poznań University of Life Sciences, Dojazd Street 11, 60-632 Poznan, Poland;
| | - Piotr Rzymski
- Department of Environmental Medicine, Poznań University of Medical Sciences, 60-806 Poznan, Poland;
| | - Ryszard Słomski
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Strzeszyńska Street 32, 60-479 Poznan, Poland;
| | - Joanna Zeyland
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Poznań University of Life Sciences, Dojazd Street 11, 60-632 Poznan, Poland;
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9
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Zorba BI, Boyacıoğlu Ö, Çağlayan T, Reçber T, Nemutlu E, Eroğlu İ, Korkusuz P. CB65 and novel CB65 liposomal system suppress MG63 and Saos-2 osteosarcoma cell growth in vitro. J Liposome Res 2023:1-14. [PMID: 37740901 DOI: 10.1080/08982104.2023.2262025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
Curable approaches for primary osteosarcoma are inadequate and urge investigation of novel therapeutic formulations. Cannabinoid ligands exert antiproliferative and apoptotic effect on osteosarcoma cells via cannabinoid 2 (CB2) or transient receptor potential vanilloid type (TRPV1) receptors. In this study, we confirmed CB2 receptor expression in MG63 and Saos-2 osteosarcoma cells by qRT-PCR and flow cytometry (FCM), then reported the reduction effect of synthetic specific CB2 receptor agonist CB65 on the proliferation of osteosarcoma cells by WST-1 (water-soluble tetrazolium-1) and RTCA (real-time impedance-based proliferation). CB65 revealed an IC50 (inhibitory concentration) for MG63 and Saos-2 cells as 1.11 × 10-11 and 4.95 × 10-11 M, respectively. The specific antiproliferative effect of CB65 on osteosarcoma cells was inhibited by CB2 antagonist AM630. CB65 induced late apoptosis of MG63 and Saos-2 cells at 24 and 48 h, respectively by FCM when applied submaximal concentration. A novel CB65 liposomal system was generated by a thin film hydration method with optimal particle size (141.7 ± 0.6 nm), polydispersity index (0.451 ± 0.026), and zeta potential (-10.9 ± 0.3 mV) values. The encapsulation efficiency (EE%) of the CB65-loaded liposomal formulation was 51.12%. The CB65 and CB65-loaded liposomal formulation releasing IC50 of CB65 reduced proliferation by RTCA and invasion by scratch assay and induced late apoptosis of MG63 and Saos-2 cells, by FCM. Our results demonstrate the CB2 receptor-mediated antiproliferative and apoptotic effect of a new liposomal CB65 delivery system on osteosarcoma cells that can be used as a targeted and intelligent tool for bone tumors to ameliorate pediatric bone cancers following in vivo validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Başak Işıl Zorba
- Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Department of Bioengineering, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Özge Boyacıoğlu
- Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Department of Bioengineering, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Atılım University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Tuğba Çağlayan
- Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Department of Bioengineering, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Tuba Reçber
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Analytical Chemistry, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Emirhan Nemutlu
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Analytical Chemistry, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - İpek Eroğlu
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Petek Korkusuz
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
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10
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O’Reilly E, Khalifa K, Cosgrave J, Azam H, Prencipe M, Simpson JC, Gallagher WM, Perry AS. Cannabidiol Inhibits the Proliferation and Invasiveness of Prostate Cancer Cells. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2023; 86:2151-2161. [PMID: 37703852 PMCID: PMC10521019 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.3c00363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Prostate cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer death in men, responsible for over 375,000 deaths in 2020. Novel therapeutic strategies are needed to improve outcomes. Cannabinoids, chemical components of the cannabis plant, are a possible solution. Preclinical evidence demonstrates that cannabinoids can modulate several cancer hallmarks of many tumor types. However, the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids in prostate cancer has not yet been fully explored. The aim of this study was to investigate the antiproliferative and anti-invasive properties of cannabidiol (CBD) in prostate cancer cells in vitro. CBD inhibited cell viability and proliferation, accompanied by reduced expression of key cell cycle proteins, specifically cyclin D3 and cyclin-dependent kinases CDK2, CDK4, and CDK1, and inhibition of AKT phosphorylation. The effects of CBD on cell viability were not blocked by cannabinoid receptor antagonists, a transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) channel blocker, or an agonist of the G-protein-coupled receptor GPR55, suggesting that CBD acts independently of these targets in prostate cancer cells. Furthermore, CBD reduced the invasiveness of highly metastatic PC-3 cells and increased protein expression of E-cadherin. The ability of CBD to inhibit prostate cancer cell proliferation and invasiveness suggests that CBD may have potential as a future chemotherapeutic agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eve O’Reilly
- UCD
School of Biology and Environmental Science, University College Dublin, Dublin D04 C1P1, Ireland
- Cancer
Biology and Therapeutics Laboratory, Conway Institute of Biomolecular
and Biomedical Research, University College
Dublin, Dublin D04 C1P1, Ireland
| | - Karima Khalifa
- UCD
School of Biology and Environmental Science, University College Dublin, Dublin D04 C1P1, Ireland
- Cancer
Biology and Therapeutics Laboratory, Conway Institute of Biomolecular
and Biomedical Research, University College
Dublin, Dublin D04 C1P1, Ireland
| | - Joanne Cosgrave
- UCD
School of Biology and Environmental Science, University College Dublin, Dublin D04 C1P1, Ireland
- Cancer
Biology and Therapeutics Laboratory, Conway Institute of Biomolecular
and Biomedical Research, University College
Dublin, Dublin D04 C1P1, Ireland
| | - Haleema Azam
- Cancer
Biology and Therapeutics Laboratory, Conway Institute of Biomolecular
and Biomedical Research, University College
Dublin, Dublin D04 C1P1, Ireland
- UCD
School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin D04 C1P1, Ireland
| | - Maria Prencipe
- Cancer
Biology and Therapeutics Laboratory, Conway Institute of Biomolecular
and Biomedical Research, University College
Dublin, Dublin D04 C1P1, Ireland
- UCD
School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin D04 C1P1, Ireland
| | - Jeremy C. Simpson
- UCD
School of Biology and Environmental Science, University College Dublin, Dublin D04 C1P1, Ireland
| | - William M. Gallagher
- Cancer
Biology and Therapeutics Laboratory, Conway Institute of Biomolecular
and Biomedical Research, University College
Dublin, Dublin D04 C1P1, Ireland
- UCD
School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin D04 C1P1, Ireland
| | - Antoinette S. Perry
- UCD
School of Biology and Environmental Science, University College Dublin, Dublin D04 C1P1, Ireland
- Cancer
Biology and Therapeutics Laboratory, Conway Institute of Biomolecular
and Biomedical Research, University College
Dublin, Dublin D04 C1P1, Ireland
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11
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Coelho MP, Duarte P, Calado M, Almeida AJ, Reis CP, Gaspar MM. The current role of cannabis and cannabinoids in health: A comprehensive review of their therapeutic potential. Life Sci 2023; 329:121838. [PMID: 37290668 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
There has been an increased interest of the scientific community in cannabis and its constituents for therapeutic purposes. Although it is believed that cannabinoids can be effective for a few different conditions and syndromes, there are little objective data that clearly support the use of cannabis, cannabis extracts or even cannabidiol (CBD) oil. This review aims to explore the therapeutic potential of phytocannabinoids and synthetic cannabinoids for the treatment of several diseases. A broad search covering the past five years, was performed in PubMed and ClinicalTrial.gov databases, to identify papers focusing on the use of medical phytocannabinoids in terms of tolerability, efficacy and safety. Accordingly, there are preclinical data supporting the use of phytocannabinoids and synthetic cannabinoids for the management of neurological pathologies, acute and chronical pain, cancer, psychiatric disorders and chemotherapy-induced emetic symptoms. However, regarding the clinical trials, most of the collected data do not fully support the use of cannabinoids in the treatment of such conditions. Consequently, more studies are still needed to clarify ascertain if the use of these compounds is useful in the management of different pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Pinto Coelho
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Patrícia Duarte
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Marta Calado
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - António J Almeida
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal; Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Catarina Pinto Reis
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal; Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal; IBEB, Institute of Biophysics and Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences, Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1649-016 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - M Manuela Gaspar
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal; Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal.
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12
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Voicu V, Brehar FM, Toader C, Covache-Busuioc RA, Corlatescu AD, Bordeianu A, Costin HP, Bratu BG, Glavan LA, Ciurea AV. Cannabinoids in Medicine: A Multifaceted Exploration of Types, Therapeutic Applications, and Emerging Opportunities in Neurodegenerative Diseases and Cancer Therapy. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1388. [PMID: 37759788 PMCID: PMC10526757 DOI: 10.3390/biom13091388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In this review article, we embark on a thorough exploration of cannabinoids, compounds that have garnered considerable attention for their potential therapeutic applications. Initially, this article delves into the fundamental background of cannabinoids, emphasizing the role of endogenous cannabinoids in the human body and outlining their significance in studying neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. Building on this foundation, this article categorizes cannabinoids into three main types: phytocannabinoids (plant-derived cannabinoids), endocannabinoids (naturally occurring in the body), and synthetic cannabinoids (laboratory-produced cannabinoids). The intricate mechanisms through which these compounds interact with cannabinoid receptors and signaling pathways are elucidated. A comprehensive overview of cannabinoid pharmacology follows, highlighting their absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion, as well as their pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties. Special emphasis is placed on the role of cannabinoids in neurodegenerative diseases, showcasing their potential benefits in conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and multiple sclerosis. The potential antitumor properties of cannabinoids are also investigated, exploring their potential therapeutic applications in cancer treatment and the mechanisms underlying their anticancer effects. Clinical aspects are thoroughly discussed, from the viability of cannabinoids as therapeutic agents to current clinical trials, safety considerations, and the adverse effects observed. This review culminates in a discussion of promising future research avenues and the broader implications for cannabinoid-based therapies, concluding with a reflection on the immense potential of cannabinoids in modern medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Voicu
- Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Psychopharmacology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Bucharest, 020021 Bucharest, Romania;
- Medical Section within the Romanian Academy, 010071 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Felix-Mircea Brehar
- Neurosurgery Department, Emergency Clinical Hospital Bagdasar-Arseni, 041915 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Neurosurgery, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (R.-A.C.-B.); (A.D.C.); (A.B.); (H.P.C.); (B.-G.B.); (L.-A.G.); (A.V.C.)
| | - Corneliu Toader
- Department of Neurosurgery, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (R.-A.C.-B.); (A.D.C.); (A.B.); (H.P.C.); (B.-G.B.); (L.-A.G.); (A.V.C.)
- Department of Vascular Neurosurgery, National Institute of Neurology and Neurovascular Diseases, 077160 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Razvan-Adrian Covache-Busuioc
- Department of Neurosurgery, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (R.-A.C.-B.); (A.D.C.); (A.B.); (H.P.C.); (B.-G.B.); (L.-A.G.); (A.V.C.)
| | - Antonio Daniel Corlatescu
- Department of Neurosurgery, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (R.-A.C.-B.); (A.D.C.); (A.B.); (H.P.C.); (B.-G.B.); (L.-A.G.); (A.V.C.)
| | - Andrei Bordeianu
- Department of Neurosurgery, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (R.-A.C.-B.); (A.D.C.); (A.B.); (H.P.C.); (B.-G.B.); (L.-A.G.); (A.V.C.)
| | - Horia Petre Costin
- Department of Neurosurgery, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (R.-A.C.-B.); (A.D.C.); (A.B.); (H.P.C.); (B.-G.B.); (L.-A.G.); (A.V.C.)
| | - Bogdan-Gabriel Bratu
- Department of Neurosurgery, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (R.-A.C.-B.); (A.D.C.); (A.B.); (H.P.C.); (B.-G.B.); (L.-A.G.); (A.V.C.)
| | - Luca-Andrei Glavan
- Department of Neurosurgery, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (R.-A.C.-B.); (A.D.C.); (A.B.); (H.P.C.); (B.-G.B.); (L.-A.G.); (A.V.C.)
| | - Alexandru Vlad Ciurea
- Department of Neurosurgery, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (R.-A.C.-B.); (A.D.C.); (A.B.); (H.P.C.); (B.-G.B.); (L.-A.G.); (A.V.C.)
- Neurosurgery Department, Sanador Clinical Hospital, 010991 Bucharest, Romania
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13
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Creanga-Murariu I, Filipiuc LE, Cuciureanu M, Tamba BI, Alexa-Stratulat T. Should oncologists trust cannabinoids? Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1211506. [PMID: 37521486 PMCID: PMC10373070 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1211506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis enjoyed a "golden age" as a medicinal product in the late 19th, early 20th century, but the increased risk of overdose and abuse led to its criminalization. However, the 21st century have witnessed a resurgence of interest and a large body of literature regarding the benefits of cannabinoids have emerged. As legalization and decriminalization have spread around the world, cancer patients are increasingly interested in the potential utility of cannabinoids. Although eager to discuss cannabis use with their oncologist, patients often find them to be reluctant, mainly because clinicians are still not convinced by the existing evidence-based data to guide their treatment plans. Physicians should prescribe cannabis only if a careful explanation can be provided and follow up response evaluation ensured, making it mandatory for them to be up to date with the positive and also negative aspects of the cannabis in the case of cancer patients. Consequently, this article aims to bring some clarifications to clinicians regarding the sometimes-confusing various nomenclature under which this plant is mentioned, current legislation and the existing evidence (both preclinical and clinical) for the utility of cannabinoids in cancer patients, for either palliation of the associated symptoms or even the potential antitumor effects that cannabinoids may have.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioana Creanga-Murariu
- Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine (CEMEX), “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
- Oncology Department, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
| | - Leontina Elena Filipiuc
- Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine (CEMEX), “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
| | - Magda Cuciureanu
- Pharmacology Department, Clinical Pharmacology and Algesiology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
| | - Bogdan-Ionel Tamba
- Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine (CEMEX), “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
- Pharmacology Department, Clinical Pharmacology and Algesiology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
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14
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Pennant NM, Hinton CV. The evolution of cannabinoid receptors in cancer. WIREs Mech Dis 2023; 15:e1602. [PMID: 36750231 PMCID: PMC10484301 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis sativa (cannabis) has been used as a therapeutic treatment for centuries treating various diseases and disorders. However, racial propaganda led to the criminalization of cannabis in the 1930s preventing opportunities to explore marijuana in therapeutic development. The increase in recreational use of cannabis further grew concern about abuse, and lead to further restrictions and distribution of cannabis in the 1970s when it was declared to be a Schedule I drug in the USA. In the late 1990s in some states, legislation assisted in legalizing the use of cannabis for medical purposes under physician supervision. As it has been proven that cannabinoids and their receptors play an essential role in the regulation of the physiological and biological processes in our bodies. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is the complex that regulates the cell-signaling system consisting of endogenous cannabinoids (endocannabinoids), cannabinoid receptors, and the enzymes responsible for the synthesis and degradation of the endocannabinoids. The ECS along with phytocannabinoids and synthetic cannabinoids serves to be a beneficial therapeutic target in treating diseases as they play roles in cell homeostasis, cell motility, inflammation, pain-sensation, mood, and memory. Cannabinoids have been shown to inhibit proliferation, metastasis, and angiogenesis and even restore homeostasis in a variety of models of cancer in vitro and in vivo. Cannabis and its receptors have evolved into a therapeutic treatment for cancers. This article is categorized under: Cancer > Molecular and Cellular Physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nakea M Pennant
- Biological Sciences, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Cimona V Hinton
- Biological Sciences, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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15
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Omer S, Pathak S, Nadar R, Bowen D, Sandey M, Dhanasekaran M, Pondugula S, Mansour M, Boothe D. Validating the anti-lymphoma pharmacodynamic actions of the endocannabinoids on canine non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Life Sci 2023; 327:121862. [PMID: 37330042 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
AIMS This study established the in vitro anti-lymphoma pharmacodynamic actions of the endocannabinoids (anandamide-AEA and 2-arachidonoylglycerol-2AG) on canine non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) and human NHL cells. MAIN METHODS The expression of cannabinoid (CB1 and CB2) receptors in various canine NHL cells {1771, CLBL-1, CLL-1, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs)} was studied using Quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR). Anti-lymphoma cell viability assay was performed to assess the effect of endocannabinoids on various canine and human NHL cells (1771, CLBL-1, CLL-1, Ramos cells). The spectrophotometric and fluorometric procedures evaluated oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and mitochondrial function markers. SAS® and Prism-V La Jolla, CA, USA, were used for statistical analysis. KEY FINDINGS The current study validated the presence of CB1 and CB2 receptors in the canine NHL cells. There was a significantly higher expression of CB1 and CB2 receptors in B-cell lymphoma (BCL) cells (1771, CLBL-1, Ramos) compared to canine T-cell lymphoma (TCL) cells (CL-1). AEA and 2AG dose and time-dependently exhibited significant but differential anti-lymphoma effects on canine and human NHL cells. Anti-lymphoma pharmacodynamic actions of the endocannabinoids in the canine 1771 NHL cells revealed a significant alteration in the markers of oxidative stress, inflammation, and a decrease in mitochondrial function without altering the apoptotic markers. SIGNIFICANCE Establishing the anti-lymphoma pharmacodynamic actions of endocannabinoids may provide new therapeutic interventions and expedite cannabinoid research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saba Omer
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, & Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA; Shifa College of Dentistry, Shifa Tameer-e-Millat University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Suhrud Pathak
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Rishi Nadar
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Dylan Bowen
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Maninder Sandey
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Muralikrishnan Dhanasekaran
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Satyanarayana Pondugula
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, & Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Mohammed Mansour
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, & Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Dawn Boothe
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, & Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA.
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16
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Song E, Ghil S. Crosstalk between cannabinoid receptor 2 and lysophosphatidic acid receptor 5. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2023; 666:154-161. [PMID: 37187093 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2023.04.115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) and lysophosphatidic acid receptor 5 (LPA5) are both classified as G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) activated by bioactive lipids and are highly expressed in colon cancer cells. However, crosstalk between two receptors and its potential effects on cancer cell physiology have not been fully elucidated. In the present study, the results of bioluminescence resonance energy transfer analysis showed that, among the LPA receptors, CB2 strongly and specifically interacted with LPA5. Both receptors were co-localized in the plasma membrane in the absence of agonists, and the receptors were co-internalized upon activation of either receptor alone or both receptors together. We further investigated the effects of expression of both receptors on cell proliferation and migration, and the molecular mechanisms underlying these effects in HCT116 colon cancer cells. Co-expression of receptors significantly increased cell proliferation and migration by increasing Akt phosphorylation and tumor progression-related gene expression, whereas no such effect was seen upon expression of either receptor alone. These results suggest the possibility of physical and functional crosstalk between CB2 and LPA5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunju Song
- Department of Life Science, Kyonggi University, Suwon, 16227, Republic of Korea
| | - Sungho Ghil
- Department of Life Science, Kyonggi University, Suwon, 16227, Republic of Korea.
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17
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Boyacıoğlu Ö, Reçber T, Kır S, Korkusuz P, Nemutlu E. Development and validation of a sensitive assay for the quantification of arachidonoylcyclopropylamide (ACPA) in cell culture by LC–MS/MS. J Anal Sci Technol 2023. [DOI: 10.1186/s40543-023-00381-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractSynthetic and natural cannabinoid derivatives are highly investigated as drug candidates due to their antinociceptive, antiepileptic and anticancer potential. Arachidonoylcyclopropylamide (ACPA) is a synthetic cannabinoid with antiproliferative and apoptotic effects on non-small cell lung cancer and pancreatic and endometrial carcinoma. Thus, ACPA has a great potential for being used as an anticancer drug for epithelial cancers. Therefore, determining the levels of ACPA in biological fluids, cells, tissues and pharmaceutical dosage forms is crucial in monitoring the effects of various pharmacological, physiological and pathological stimuli on biological systems. However, the challenge in the quantification of ACPA is its short half-life and lack of UV signal. Therefore, we developed a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometric (LC–MS/MS) method for sensitive and selective quantification of ACPA in cell culture medium and intracellular matrix. Multiple reaction monitoring in the positive ionization mode was used for detection with 344 → 203 m/z transitions. The separation of ACPA was performed on C18 column (50 × 3.0 mm, 2.1 μm) with the mobile phase run in the gradient mode with 0.1% formic acid (FA) in water and 0.1% FA in acetonitrile at a flow rate of 0.3 ml/min. The assay was linear in the concentration range of 1.8–1000 ng/mL (r = 0.999). The validation studies revealed that the method was linear, sensitive, accurate, precise, selective, repeatable, robust and rugged. Finally, the developed method was applied to quantify ACPA in cell culture medium and intracellular matrix.
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18
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Cannabidiol alters mitochondrial bioenergetics via VDAC1 and triggers cell death in hormone-refractory prostate cancer. Pharmacol Res 2023; 189:106683. [PMID: 36736415 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
In spite of the huge advancements in both diagnosis and interventions, hormone refractory prostate cancer (HRPC) remains a major hurdle in prostate cancer (PCa). Metabolic reprogramming plays a key role in PCa oncogenesis and resistance. However, the dynamics between metabolism and oncogenesis are not fully understood. Here, we demonstrate that two multi-target natural products, cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabigerol (CBG), suppress HRPC development in the TRansgenic Adenocarcinoma of the Mouse Prostate (TRAMP) model by reprogramming metabolic and oncogenic signaling. Mechanistically, CBD increases glycolytic capacity and inhibits oxidative phosphorylation in enzalutamide-resistant HRPC cells. This action of CBD originates from its effect on metabolic plasticity via modulation of VDAC1 and hexokinase II (HKII) coupling on the outer mitochondrial membrane, which leads to strong shifts of mitochondrial functions and oncogenic signaling pathways. The effect of CBG on enzalutamide-resistant HRPC cells was less pronounced than CBD and only partially attributable to its action on mitochondria. However, when optimally combined, these two cannabinoids exhibited strong anti-tumor effects in TRAMP mice, even when these had become refractory to enzalutamide, thus pointing to their therapeutical potential against PCa.
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19
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Fatehi R, Rashedinia M, Akbarizadeh AR, Zamani M, Firouzabadi N. Metformin enhances anti-cancer properties of resveratrol in MCF-7 breast cancer cells via induction of apoptosis, autophagy and alteration in cell cycle distribution. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2023; 644:130-139. [PMID: 36641965 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2022.12.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer is the fifth leading cause of death, worldwide affecting both genders. Accumulating evidence suggests that metformin, an oral hypoglycemic agent used in the management of type 2 diabetes, exerts anti-tumor effects in many cancers, including the breast cancer. Resveratrol, a natural product found abundantly in many fruits, exhibits marked cytotoxic and pro-oxidant effects. This study was designed to investigate the effect of metformin in combination with resveratrol and cisplatin in MCF-7 cells. Study groups were as follows: untreated control group, single treatment groups (metformin, resveratrol, and cisplatin), double treatment groups (metformin + resveratrol, metformin + cisplatin, and cisplatin + resveratrol) and triple treatment groups (metformin + resveratrol + cisplatin). Our results indicated that metformin inhibits proliferation of MCF-7 cells, an effect that was associated with ROS production and G0/G1 cell cycle arrest, but not apoptosis. Moreover, resveratrol suppressed the proliferation of MCF-7 cells by induction of apoptosis as well as cell cycle arrest. Notably, a significant inhibitory effect in the co-treatment of metformin, resveratrol, and cisplatin was observed which was attributed to induction of autophagy-mediated cell death and apoptosis along cell cycle arrest. In conclusion, our results advocate the anti-cancer properties of metformin and resveratrol on MCF-7 cell s via induction of cell cycle arrest. Additionally, synergistic anti-cancer effects of metformin in a triple combination with cisplatin and resveratrol was attributed to induction of autophagy-mediated cell death and apoptosis along cell cycle arrest. Based on our findings it is proposed that patients may benefit from addition of a drug with a safe profile to conventional anticancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reihaneh Fatehi
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Marzieh Rashedinia
- Food and Supplements Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Medicinal Plants Processing Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Amin Reza Akbarizadeh
- Department of Quality Control, Food and Drug, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mozhdeh Zamani
- Autophagy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Negar Firouzabadi
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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20
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Huang J, Huang D, Ruan X, Huang J, Xu D, Heavey S, Olivier J, Na R. Association between cannabis use with urological cancers: A population-based cohort study and a mendelian randomization study in the UK biobank. Cancer Med 2023; 12:3468-3476. [PMID: 35975633 PMCID: PMC9939109 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.5132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Legislation of cannabis use has been approved in many European and North American countries. Its impact on urological cancers is unclear. This study was conducted to explore the association between cannabis use and the risk of urological cancers. METHODS We identified 151,945 individuals with information on cannabis use in the UK Biobank from 2006 to 2010. Crude and age-standardized incidence ratios of different urological cancers were evaluated in the entire cohort and subgroups. Cox regression was performed for survival analysis. RESULTS Previous use of cannabis was a significant protective factor for renal cell carcinoma (HR = 0.61, 95%CI:0.40-0.93, p = 0.021) and prostate cancer (HR = 0.82, 95%CI:0.73-0.93, p = 0.002) in multivariable analysis. The association between previous cannabis use and both renal cell carcinoma and bladder cancer was only observed in females (HRRCC = 0.42, 95%CI:0.19-0.94, p = 0.034; HRBCa = 0.43, 95%CI:0.21-0.86, p = 0.018) but not in men. There was no significant association between cannabis use and testicular cancer incidence. Mendelian randomization demonstrated a potential causal effect of cannabis use on a lower incidence of renal cell carcinoma. CONCLUSIONS Previous use of cannabis was associated with a lower risk of bladder cancer, renal cell carcinoma, and prostate cancer. The inverse association between cannabis and both renal cell carcinoma and bladder cancer was only found in females but not in males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyi Huang
- Department of UrologyRuijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Da Huang
- Department of UrologyRuijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Xiaohao Ruan
- Department of UrologyRuijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Jinlun Huang
- Department of UrologyRuijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Danfeng Xu
- Department of UrologyRuijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Susan Heavey
- Division of Surgery and Interventional SciencesUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Jonathan Olivier
- Department of Urology, CHU LilleClaude Huriez Hospital, University of LilleLilleFrance
| | - Rong Na
- Division of Urology, Department of SurgeryQueen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong KongHong Kong
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21
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Acute toxic effects of new synthetic cannabinoid on brain: Neurobehavioral and Histological: Preclinical studies. Chem Biol Interact 2023; 370:110306. [PMID: 36528081 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2022.110306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The psychoactive effects of new synthetic cannabinoids (SCs), MDMB-4en-PINACA, are being marketed as a blend of herbs and spices. This study aims to determine the behavioral, neurochemical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical alterations associated with the acute toxicity of MDMB-4en-PINACA compounds. METHODS Adult male albino rats were administered various toxic doses of the drug (1.5, 3, and 6 mg/kg), and behavioral studies were conducted 2 and 24 h later; animals were then sacrificed. Histopathological and neurochemical examinations were performed. Two hours after intraperitoneal. RESULTS Intraperitoneal injection of MDMB-4en-PINACA, horizontal movement, the number of stops, and mobility ratio were significantly impaired, along with coordination and balance. In addition, it led to a decline in spatial learning and memory, and neurotransmitter concentrations decreased significantly in a dose-dependent manner. Further examination of the cerebral cortex and hippocampus histopathology revealed pathological degeneration of small pyramidal cells. CONCLUSION Thus, these findings revealed that MDMB-4en-PINACA interferes with hippocampal function and impairs cognitive performance, highlighting the cognitive risk associated with SC abuse.
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Schanknecht E, Bachari A, Nassar N, Piva T, Mantri N. Phytochemical Constituents and Derivatives of Cannabis sativa; Bridging the Gap in Melanoma Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24010859. [PMID: 36614303 PMCID: PMC9820847 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is deadly, physically impairing, and has ongoing treatment deficiencies. Current treatment regimens include surgery, targeted kinase inhibitors, immunotherapy, and combined approaches. Each of these treatments face pitfalls, with diminutive five-year survival in patients with advanced metastatic invasion of lymph and secondary organ tissues. Polyphenolic compounds, including cannabinoids, terpenoids, and flavonoids; both natural and synthetic, have emerging evidence of nutraceutical, cosmetic and pharmacological potential, including specific anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and palliative utility. Cannabis sativa is a wellspring of medicinal compounds whose direct and adjunctive application may offer considerable relief for melanoma suffers worldwide. This review aims to address the diverse applications of C. sativa's biocompounds in the scope of melanoma and suggest it as a strong candidate for ongoing pharmacological evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Schanknecht
- The Pangenomics Lab, School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia
| | - Ava Bachari
- The Pangenomics Lab, School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia
| | - Nazim Nassar
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia
| | - Terrence Piva
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia
| | - Nitin Mantri
- The Pangenomics Lab, School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia
- UWA Institute of Agriculture, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
- Correspondence:
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Boyacıoğlu Ö, Korkusuz P. Cannabinoids as Prospective Anti-Cancer Drugs: Mechanism of Action in Healthy and Cancer Cells. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1410:145-169. [PMID: 36396926 DOI: 10.1007/5584_2022_748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Endogenous and exogenous cannabinoids modulate many physiological and pathological processes by binding classical cannabinoid receptors 1 (CB1) or 2 (CB2) or non-cannabinoid receptors. Cannabinoids are known to exert antiproliferative, apoptotic, anti-migratory and anti-invasive effect on cancer cells by inducing or inhibiting various signaling cascades. In this chapter, we specifically emphasize the latest research works about the alterations in endocannabinoid system (ECS) components in malignancies and cancer cell proliferation, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, autophagy, and death by cannabinoid administration, emphasizing their mechanism of action, and give a future perspective for clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Özge Boyacıoğlu
- Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Atılım University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Petek Korkusuz
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey.
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Fayek M, Ebrahim HY, Elsayed HE, Abdel-Aziz MS, Kariuki BM, Moharram FA. Anti-prostate cancer metabolites from the soil-derived Aspergillus neoniveus. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1006062. [PMID: 36313355 PMCID: PMC9614250 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1006062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) ranks as one of the most commonly diagnosed malignancies worldwide. Toxicity, lack of clinical efficacy, and development of resistance phenotypes are the main challenges in the control of prostate malignancies. Notably, castration-resistance prostate cancer (CRPCa) is a highly aggressive and metastatic phenotype of the disease with a poor prognosis and very limited therapeutic options. Herein, we report the isolation and genotypic identification of a soil-derived fungus Aspergillus neoniveus using the PCR-based internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region amplification approach. HPLC/MS investigation of the metabolic profile of the ethyl acetate extract from the fungal biomass revealed tentative identification of forty-five compounds belonging to various chemical classes including γ-butyrolactones, alkaloids, phenolics, and quinoids. Furthermore, the chromatographic purification of microbial extract enabled the identification of nervonic acid methyl ester (1) for the first time from endophytic fungi, as well as acetyl aszonalenin (2), and butyrolactone II (3) for the first time from A. neoniveus. The chemical frameworks of the isolated compounds were identified via extensive spectral analysis including 1 and 2D NMR and MS. The X-ray crystal structure and absolute configuration of acetyl aszonalenin (2) were also determined. Additionally, screening of in vitro anticancer activity of the fungal extract revealed its potential antiproliferative and anti-migratory activities against five different prostate cancer cells (PC3, PC-3M, DU-145, CWR-R1ca, and 22Rv1), including different cells with the castration-resistance phenotype. Moreover, the isolated metabolites significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration, and colonization of human prostate cancer cells at low micromolar levels, thus providing credence for future investigation of these metabolites in relevant anti-prostate cancer animal models. Furthermore, computational target prediction tools identified the cannabinoid G-protein coupled receptors type 1 (CB1) as a potential biological target mediating, at least in part, the anticancer effects of acetylaszonalenin (2). Moreover, molecular modeling and docking studies revealed a favorable binding pose at the CB1 receptor orthosteric ligand pocket aided by multiple polar and hydrophobic interactions with critical amino acids. In conclusion, the Aspergillus neoniveus-derived prenylated indole alkaloid acetylaszonalenin has promising anticancer activity and is amenable to further hit-to-lead optimization for the control of prostate malignancies via modulating CB1 receptors
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Affiliation(s)
- Menna Fayek
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Helwan University, Helwan, Egypt
| | - Hassan Y. Ebrahim
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Helwan University, Helwan, Egypt
| | - Heba E. Elsayed
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Helwan University, Helwan, Egypt
| | - Mohamed S. Abdel-Aziz
- Microbial Chemistry Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Division, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | | | - Fatma A. Moharram
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Helwan University, Helwan, Egypt
- *Correspondence: Fatma A. Moharram,
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25
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Hinz B, Ramer R. Cannabinoids as anticancer drugs: current status of preclinical research. Br J Cancer 2022; 127:1-13. [PMID: 35277658 PMCID: PMC9276677 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-022-01727-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractDrugs that target the endocannabinoid system are of interest as pharmacological options to combat cancer and to improve the life quality of cancer patients. From this perspective, cannabinoid compounds have been successfully tested as a systemic therapeutic option in a number of preclinical models over the past decades. As a result of these efforts, a large body of data suggests that the anticancer effects of cannabinoids are exerted at multiple levels of tumour progression via different signal transduction mechanisms. Accordingly, there is considerable evidence for cannabinoid-mediated inhibition of tumour cell proliferation, tumour invasion and metastasis, angiogenesis and chemoresistance, as well as induction of apoptosis and autophagy. Further studies showed that cannabinoids could be potential combination partners for established chemotherapeutic agents or other therapeutic interventions in cancer treatment. Research in recent years has yielded several compounds that exert promising effects on tumour cells and tissues in addition to the psychoactive Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, such as the non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid cannabidiol and inhibitors of endocannabinoid degradation. This review provides an up-to-date overview of the potential of cannabinoids as inhibitors of tumour growth and spread as demonstrated in preclinical studies.
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Non-Canonical Cannabinoid Receptors with Distinct Binding and Signaling Properties in Prostate and Other Cancer Cell Types Mediate Cell Death. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23063049. [PMID: 35328467 PMCID: PMC8954350 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2022] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids exert anti-cancer actions; however, the underlying cytotoxic mechanisms and the cannabinoid receptors (CBRs) involved remain unclear. In this study, CBRs were characterized in several cancer cell lines. Radioligand binding screens surprisingly revealed specific binding only for the non-selective cannabinoid [3H]WIN-55,212-2, and not [3H]CP-55,940, indicating that the expressed CBRs exhibit atypical binding properties. Furthermore, [3H]WIN-55,212-2 bound to a single site in all cancer cells with high affinity and varying densities. CBR characteristics were next compared between human prostate cancer cell lines expressing low (PC-3) and high (DU-145) CBR density. Although mRNA for canonical CBRs was detected in both cell lines, only 5 out of 15 compounds with known high affinity for canonical CBRs displaced [3H]WIN-55,212-2 binding. Functional assays further established that CBRs in prostate cancer cells exhibit distinct signaling properties relative to canonical Gi/Go-coupled CBRs. Prostate cancer cells chronically exposed to both CBR agonists and antagonists/inverse agonists produced receptor downregulation, inconsistent with actions at canonical CBRs. Treatment of DU-145 cells with CBR ligands increased LDH-release, decreased ATP-dependent cell viability, and produced mitochondrial membrane potential depolarization. In summary, several cancer cell lines express CBRs with binding and signaling profiles dissimilar to canonical CBRs. Drugs selectively targeting these atypical CBRs might exhibit improved anti-cancer properties.
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Glogauer J, Blay J. Cannabinoids, their cellular receptors, and effects on the invasive phenotype of carcinoma and metastasis. Cancer Rep (Hoboken) 2022; 5:e1475. [PMID: 34313032 PMCID: PMC8842690 DOI: 10.1002/cnr2.1475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The morbidity and mortality of cancer are significantly impacted by the invasive and metastatic potential of particular subgroups of malignant cells within a tumor. The particular pre-metastatic properties of cancerous cells are thus a critical target for novel therapeutics in the oncology field. Cannabinoid molecules have been investigated in recent years in the context of invasion and metastasis of various malignancies, with varying effects reported in the literature. RECENT FINDINGS There was substantial variability in the findings reported by the literature of the effects of cannabinoid molecules on cancer cell invasion and metastasis. These effects varied depending on which ligand and which of the CB1, CB2, or GPR55 receptors were investigated. These findings suggest a role for the phenomenon of biased signaling in explaining the diversity of effects of cannabinoid molecules on cancer cell invasion. CONCLUSION While substantially more investigation is required into the effects of cannabinoid molecules on cancer cell invasion and metastasis, we describe in this review the significant diversity in the responses of cancer cells to cannabinoid molecules in terms of their invasive and metastatic capacities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judah Glogauer
- Michael G. DeGroote School of MedicineMcMaster University Waterloo Regional CampusKitchenerOntarioCanada
| | - Jonathan Blay
- School of PharmacyUniversity of WaterlooWaterlooOntarioCanada
- Department of PathologyDalhousie UniversityHalifaxNova ScotiaCanada
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Lowe H, Toyang N, Steele B, Bryant J, Ngwa W, Nedamat K. The Current and Potential Application of Medicinal Cannabis Products in Dentistry. Dent J (Basel) 2021; 9:106. [PMID: 34562980 PMCID: PMC8466648 DOI: 10.3390/dj9090106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Oral and dental diseases are a major global burden, the most common non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and may even affect an individual's general quality of life and health. The most prevalent dental and oral health conditions are tooth decay (otherwise referred to as dental caries/cavities), oral cancers, gingivitis, periodontitis, periodontal (gum) disease, Noma, oro-dental trauma, oral manifestations of HIV, sensitive teeth, cracked teeth, broken teeth, and congenital anomalies such as cleft lip and palate. Herbs have been utilized for hundreds of years in traditional Chinese, African and Indian medicine and even in some Western countries, for the treatment of oral and dental conditions including but not limited to dental caries, gingivitis and toothaches, dental pulpitis, halitosis (bad breath), mucositis, sore throat, oral wound infections, and periodontal abscesses. Herbs have also been used as plaque removers (chew sticks), antimicrobials, analgesics, anti-inflammatory agents, and antiseptics. Cannabis sativa L. in particular has been utilized in traditional Asian medicine for tooth-pain management, prevention of dental caries and reduction in gum inflammation. The distribution of cannabinoid (CB) receptors in the mouth suggest that the endocannabinoid system may be a target for the treatment of oral and dental diseases. Most recently, interest has been geared toward the use of Cannabidiol (CBD), one of several secondary metabolites produced by C. sativa L. CBD is a known anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anxiolytic, anti-microbial and anti-cancer agent, and as a result, may have therapeutic potential against conditions such burning mouth syndrome, dental anxiety, gingivitis, and possible oral cancer. Other major secondary metabolites of C. sativa L. such as terpenes and flavonoids also share anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anxiolytic and anti-microbial properties and may also have dental and oral applications. This review will investigate the potential of secondary metabolites of C. sativa L. in the treatment of dental and oral diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry Lowe
- Biotech R & D Institute, University of the West Indies, Mona 99999, Jamaica; (H.L.); (J.B.)
- Vilotos Pharmaceuticals Inc., Baltimore, MD 21202, USA;
- Flavocure Biotech Inc., Baltimore, MD 21202, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland Medical School, Baltimore, MD 21202, USA
| | - Ngeh Toyang
- Vilotos Pharmaceuticals Inc., Baltimore, MD 21202, USA;
- Flavocure Biotech Inc., Baltimore, MD 21202, USA
| | - Blair Steele
- Biotech R & D Institute, University of the West Indies, Mona 99999, Jamaica; (H.L.); (J.B.)
| | - Joseph Bryant
- Biotech R & D Institute, University of the West Indies, Mona 99999, Jamaica; (H.L.); (J.B.)
| | - Wilfred Ngwa
- Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA;
- School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Kaveh Nedamat
- Sloan School of Management, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA;
- Auraleaf Innovations, Toronto, ON M9B 4H6, Canada
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Lowe H, Toyang N, Steele B, Bryant J, Ngwa W. The Endocannabinoid System: A Potential Target for the Treatment of Various Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:9472. [PMID: 34502379 PMCID: PMC8430969 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is primarily responsible for maintaining homeostasis, a balance in internal environment (temperature, mood, and immune system) and energy input and output in living, biological systems. In addition to regulating physiological processes, the ECS directly influences anxiety, feeding behaviour/appetite, emotional behaviour, depression, nervous functions, neurogenesis, neuroprotection, reward, cognition, learning, memory, pain sensation, fertility, pregnancy, and pre-and post-natal development. The ECS is also involved in several pathophysiological diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases. In recent years, genetic and pharmacological manipulation of the ECS has gained significant interest in medicine, research, and drug discovery and development. The distribution of the components of the ECS system throughout the body, and the physiological/pathophysiological role of the ECS-signalling pathways in many diseases, all offer promising opportunities for the development of novel cannabinergic, cannabimimetic, and cannabinoid-based therapeutic drugs that genetically or pharmacologically modulate the ECS via inhibition of metabolic pathways and/or agonism or antagonism of the receptors of the ECS. This modulation results in the differential expression/activity of the components of the ECS that may be beneficial in the treatment of a number of diseases. This manuscript in-depth review will investigate the potential of the ECS in the treatment of various diseases, and to put forth the suggestion that many of these secondary metabolites of Cannabis sativa L. (hereafter referred to as "C. sativa L." or "medical cannabis"), may also have potential as lead compounds in the development of cannabinoid-based pharmaceuticals for a variety of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry Lowe
- Biotech R & D Institute, University of the West Indies, Mona 99999, Jamaica; (H.L.); (J.B.)
- Vilotos Pharmaceuticals Inc., Baltimore, MD 21202, USA;
- Flavocure Biotech Inc., Baltimore, MD 21202, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland Medical School, Baltimore, MD 21202, USA
| | - Ngeh Toyang
- Vilotos Pharmaceuticals Inc., Baltimore, MD 21202, USA;
- Flavocure Biotech Inc., Baltimore, MD 21202, USA
| | - Blair Steele
- Biotech R & D Institute, University of the West Indies, Mona 99999, Jamaica; (H.L.); (J.B.)
| | - Joseph Bryant
- Biotech R & D Institute, University of the West Indies, Mona 99999, Jamaica; (H.L.); (J.B.)
| | - Wilfred Ngwa
- Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA;
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
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Singh K, Nassar N, Bachari A, Schanknecht E, Telukutla S, Zomer R, Piva TJ, Mantri N. The Pathophysiology and the Therapeutic Potential of Cannabinoids in Prostate Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:4107. [PMID: 34439262 PMCID: PMC8392233 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13164107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer is the second most frequently occurring cancer diagnosed among males. Recent preclinical evidence implicates cannabinoids as powerful regulators of cell growth and differentiation. In this review, we focused on studies that demonstrated anticancer effects of cannabinoids and their possible mechanisms of action in prostate cancer. Besides the palliative effects of cannabinoids, research from the past two decades has demonstrated their promising potential as antitumor agents in a wide variety of cancers. This analysis may provide pharmacological insights into the selection of specific cannabinoids for the development of antitumor drugs for the treatment of prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanika Singh
- The Pangenomics Lab, School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia; (K.S.); (A.B.); (E.S.); (S.T.)
| | - Nazim Nassar
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia; (N.N.); (T.J.P.)
| | - Ava Bachari
- The Pangenomics Lab, School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia; (K.S.); (A.B.); (E.S.); (S.T.)
| | - Ellen Schanknecht
- The Pangenomics Lab, School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia; (K.S.); (A.B.); (E.S.); (S.T.)
| | - Srinivasareddy Telukutla
- The Pangenomics Lab, School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia; (K.S.); (A.B.); (E.S.); (S.T.)
| | - Roby Zomer
- MGC Pharmaceuticals Limited, West Perth, WA 6005, Australia;
| | - Terrence J. Piva
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia; (N.N.); (T.J.P.)
| | - Nitin Mantri
- The Pangenomics Lab, School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia; (K.S.); (A.B.); (E.S.); (S.T.)
- The UWA Institute of Agriculture, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
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Guo H, Zhang Z, Wang Y, Xue S. Identification of crucial genes and pathways associated with prostate cancer in multiple databases. J Int Med Res 2021; 49:3000605211016624. [PMID: 34082608 PMCID: PMC8182368 DOI: 10.1177/03000605211016624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Prostate cancer (PCa) is a malignant neoplasm of the urinary system. This study aimed to use bioinformatics to screen for core genes and biological pathways related to PCa. METHODS The GSE5957 gene expression profiles were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses of the DEGs were constructed by R language. Furthermore, protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks were generated to predict core genes. The expression levels of core genes were examined in the Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER) and Oncomine databases. The cBioPortal tool was used to study the co-expression and prognostic factors of the core genes. Finally, the core genes of signaling pathways were determined using gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). RESULTS Overall, 874 DEGs were identified. Hierarchical clustering analysis revealed that these 24 core genes have significant association with carcinogenesis and development. LONRF1, CDK1, RPS18, GNB2L1 (RACK1), RPL30, and SEC61A1 directly related to the recurrence and prognosis of PCa. CONCLUSIONS This study identified the core genes and pathways in PCa and provides candidate targets for diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanxu Guo
- School of Clinical Medicine, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu,
China
| | - Zhichao Zhang
- School of Clinical Medicine, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu,
China
| | - Yuhang Wang
- School of Clinical Medicine, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu,
China
| | - Sheng Xue
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu
Medical College, Bengbu, China
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Cannabinoid WIN 55,212-2 Inhibits Human Glioma Cell Growth by Triggering ROS-Mediated Signal Pathways. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 2021:6612592. [PMID: 33977107 PMCID: PMC8087470 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6612592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Glioblastoma is a highly invasive primary malignant tumor of the central nervous system. Cannabinoid analogue WIN 55,212-2 (WIN) exhibited a novel anticancer effect against human tumors. However, the anticancer potential and underlying mechanism of WIN against human glioma remain unclear. Herein, the anticancer efficiency and mechanism of WIN in U251 human glioma cells were investigated. The results showed that WIN dose-dependently inhibited U251 cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro. WIN treatment also effectively suppressed U251 tumor spheroids growth ex vivo. Further studies found that WIN induced significant apoptosis as convinced by the caspase-3 activation and release of cytochrome C. Mechanism investigation revealed that WIN triggered ROS-mediated DNA damage and caused dysfunction of VEGF-AKT/FAK signal axis. However, ROS inhibition effectively attenuated WIN-induced DNA damage and dysfunction of VEGF-AKT/FAK signal axis and eventually improved U251 cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Taken together, our findings validated that WIN had the potential to inhibit U251 cell proliferation, migration, and invasion and induce apoptosis by triggering ROS-dependent DNA damage and dysfunction of VEGF-AKT/FAK signal axis.
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Molecular Mechanism of Cannabinoids in Cancer Progression. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22073680. [PMID: 33916164 PMCID: PMC8037087 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22073680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids are a family of heterogeneous compounds that mostly interact with receptors eliciting several physiological effects both in the central and peripheral nervous systems and in peripheral organs. They exert anticancer action by modulating signaling pathways involved in cancer progression; furthermore, the effects induced by their use depend on both the type of tumor and their action on the components of the endocannabinoid system. This review will explore the mechanism of action of the cannabinoids in signaling pathways involved in cancer proliferation, neovascularisation, migration, invasion, metastasis, and tumor angiogenesis.
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Press DJ, Pierce B, Lauderdale DS, Aschebrook-Kilfoy B, Lin Gomez S, Hedeker D, Wright NE, Fantus RJ, Bettencourt L, Ahsan H, Eggener S. Tobacco and marijuana use and their association with serum prostate-specific antigen levels among African American men in Chicago. Prev Med Rep 2020; 20:101174. [PMID: 33088675 PMCID: PMC7566952 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2020.101174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Revised: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
AA men are under-represented in PSA research, a biomarker of prostate cancer aggresiveness. Cigarette smoking was associated with an increase in PSA among older AA men. Tobacco use was associated with an increase in PSA among older AA men. Marijuana use was associated with a decrease in PSA among older AA men. Future behavioral risk factor studies linked to biopsy outcomes are warranted.
African American (AA) men experience more than twice the prostate cancer mortality as White men yet are under-represented in academic research involving prostate-specific antigen (PSA), a biomarker of prostate cancer aggressiveness. We examined the impact of self-reported tobacco (cigarette pack-years and current tobacco use including e-cigarettes) and current regular marijuana use on serum PSA level based on clinical laboratory testing among 928 AA men interviewed 2013–2018 in Chicago. We defined outcome of elevated PSA ≥ 4.0 ng/mL for logistic regression models and continuous PSA increases for general linear models. All models were adjusted for age, sociodemographic characteristics, healthcare utilization, body mass index, and self-reported health. Among 431 AA men age ≥ 55 years, we observed ∼ 5 times the odds of elevated PSA among those with > 1 pack-years of cigarette smoking vs. never-smokers (odds ratio [OR] = 5.09; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.57–16.6) and a quarter the odds of elevated PSA among current marijuana users vs. non-users (OR = 0.27; 95% CI = 0.08–0.96). PSA increased on average 1.20 ng/mL among other current tobacco users vs. non-users. Among older AA men, cigarette smoking history and current tobacco use were positively associated with an increase in PSA levels and current marijuana use were inversely associated with PSA levels. Future work with studies of diverse patient populations with cancer outcomes are needed to assess whether these behavioral characteristics contribute to racial/ ethnic disparities in prostate cancer outcomes. Our study provides novel evidence regarding potential differences in PSA levels among older AA men according to behavioral characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J. Press
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- The Center for Health Information Partnerships (CHiP), Institute of Public Health & Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Corresponding author at: Department of Public Health Sciences, The University of Chicago Biological Sciences, 5841 S. Maryland Ave., Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
| | - Brandon Pierce
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Diane S. Lauderdale
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Briseis Aschebrook-Kilfoy
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Institute for Population and Precision Health, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Scarlett Lin Gomez
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Donald Hedeker
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Nathaniel E. Wright
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Luís Bettencourt
- Mansueto Institute for Urban Innovation, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Sociology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Santa Fe Institute, Santa Fe, NM, USA
| | - Habibul Ahsan
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Institute for Population and Precision Health, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Scott Eggener
- Department of Surgery, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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Mangiatordi GF, Intranuovo F, Delre P, Abatematteo FS, Abate C, Niso M, Creanza TM, Ancona N, Stefanachi A, Contino M. Cannabinoid Receptor Subtype 2 (CB2R) in a Multitarget Approach: Perspective of an Innovative Strategy in Cancer and Neurodegeneration. J Med Chem 2020; 63:14448-14469. [PMID: 33094613 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The cannabinoid receptor subtype 2 (CB2R) represents an interesting and new therapeutic target for its involvement in the first steps of neurodegeneration as well as in cancer onset and progression. Several studies, focused on different types of tumors, report a promising anticancer activity induced by CB2R agonists due to their ability to reduce inflammation and cell proliferation. Moreover, in neuroinflammation, the stimulation of CB2R, overexpressed in microglial cells, exerts beneficial effects in neurodegenerative disorders. With the aim to overcome current treatment limitations, new drugs can be developed by specifically modulating, together with CB2R, other targets involved in such multifactorial disorders. Building on successful case studies of already developed multitarget strategies involving CB2R, in this Perspective we aim at prompting the scientific community to consider new promising target associations involving HDACs (histone deacetylases) and σ receptors by employing modern approaches based on molecular hybridization, computational polypharmacology, and machine learning algorithms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Francesca Intranuovo
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro, Via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Pietro Delre
- CNR-Institute of Crystallography, Via Amendola 122/o, 70126 Bari, Italy.,Dipartimento di Chimica, Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Francesca Serena Abatematteo
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro, Via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Carmen Abate
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro, Via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Mauro Niso
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro, Via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Teresa Maria Creanza
- CNR-Institute of Intelligent Industrial Technologies and Systems for Advanced Manufacturing, Via Amendola 122/o, 70126 Bari, Italy
| | - Nicola Ancona
- CNR-Institute of Intelligent Industrial Technologies and Systems for Advanced Manufacturing, Via Amendola 122/o, 70126 Bari, Italy
| | - Angela Stefanachi
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro, Via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Marialessandra Contino
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro, Via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
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Cannabidiol and Oxygen-Ozone Combination Induce Cytotoxicity in Human Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Cell Lines. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12102774. [PMID: 32992648 PMCID: PMC7600087 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12102774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Pancreatic cancer (PC) is related to lifestyle risks, chronic inflammation, and germline mutations. Surgical resection and adjuvant chemotherapy are the main therapeutic strategies but are less effective in patients with high-grade tumors. Oxygen-ozone (O2/O3) therapy is an emerging alternative tool for the treatment of several clinical disorders. The advantages of using cannabinoids have been evaluated in several human cancers. Regarding PC, activation of cannabinoid receptors was found to induce PC cell apoptosis without affecting the normal pancreas cells. Herein, we evaluate the anticancer effect of cannabidiol (CBD) and O2/O3, alone or in combination, on two human pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cell lines, PANC-1 and MiaPaCa-2, examining expression profiles of 92 pancreatic adenocarcinoma associated genes, cytotoxicity, migration properties, and cell death. Finally, we assess the combination effects with gemcitabine and paclitaxel. Summarizing, for the first time the antitumoral effect of combined therapy with CBD and oxygen-ozone therapy in PDAC is evidenced. Abstract Pancreatic cancer (PC) is related to lifestyle risks, chronic inflammation, and germline mutations in BRCA1/2, ATM, MLH1, TP53, or CDKN2A. Surgical resection and adjuvant chemotherapy are the main therapeutic strategies but are less effective in patients with high-grade tumors. Oxygen-ozone (O2/O3) therapy is an emerging alternative tool for the treatment of several clinical disorders. O2/O3 therapy has been found to ameliorate mechanisms promoting chronic pain and inflammation, including hypoxia, inflammatory mediators, and infection. The advantages of using cannabinoids have been evaluated in vitro and in vivo models of several human cancers. Regarding PDAC, activation of cannabinoid receptors was found to induce pancreatic cancer cell apoptosis without affecting the normal pancreas cells. In a murine model of PDAC, a combination of cannabidiol (CBD) and gemcitabine increased survival length by nearly three times. Herein, we evaluate the anticancer effect of CBD and O2/O3, alone or in combination, on two human PDAC cell lines, PANC-1 and MiaPaCa-2, examining expression profiles of 92 pancreatic adenocarcinoma associated genes, cytotoxicity, migration properties, and cell death. Finally, we assess the combination effects with gemcitabine and paclitaxel. Summarizing, for the first time the antitumoral effect of combined therapy with CBD and oxygen-ozone therapy in PDAC is evidenced.
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Cannabinoids and Prostate Cancer: A Systematic Review of Animal Studies. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21176265. [PMID: 32872551 PMCID: PMC7503992 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer is a major cause of death among men worldwide. Recent preclinical evidence implicates cannabinoids as powerful regulators of cell growth and differentiation, as well as potential anti-cancer agents. The aim of this review was to evaluate the effect of cannabinoids on in vivo prostate cancer models. The databases searched included PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science from inception to August 2020. Articles reporting on the effect of cannabinoids on prostate cancer were deemed eligible. We identified six studies that were all found to be based on in vivo/xenograft animal models. Results: In PC3 and DU145 xenografts, WIN55,212-2 reduced cell proliferation in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, in LNCaP xenografts, WIN55,212-2 reduced cell proliferation by 66-69%. PM49, which is a synthetic cannabinoid quinone, was also found to result in a significant inhibition of tumor growth of up to 90% in xenograft models of LNCaP and 40% in xenograft models of PC3 cells, respectively. All studies have reported that the treatment of prostate cancers in in vivo/xenograft models with various cannabinoids decreased the size of the tumor, the outcomes of which depended on the dose and length of treatment. Within the limitation of these identified studies, cannabinoids were shown to reduce the size of prostate cancer tumors in animal models. However, further well-designed and controlled animal studies are warranted to confirm these findings.
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Win 55,212-2, atenolol and subdiaphragmatic vagotomy prevent acceleration of gastric emptying induced by cachexia via Yoshida-AH-130 cells in rats. Eur J Pharmacol 2020; 877:173087. [PMID: 32234430 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2020.173087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of cachexia induced by AH-130 cells on gastrointestinal motility in rats. We evaluated food intake, body weight variation, cachexia index, gastric emptying and in vitro gastric responsiveness of control or cachexia rats. In addition, we evaluated the effect of pretreatment with atenolol (20 mg/kg, p.o.), win 55,212-2 (2 mg/kg, s.c.) or subdiaphragmatic vagotomy on the effects found. Atenolol prevented (P < 0.05) the acceleration of gastric emptying (area under the curve, AUC, 20360.17 ± 1970.9 vs. 12579.2 ± 785.4 μg/min/ml), and increased gastric responsiveness to carbachol (CCh) stimulation in cachectic rats compared to control groups (CCh-6M: 63.2 ± 5.5% vs. 46.5 ± 5.7%). Vagotomy prevented (P < 0.05) increase in gastric emptying acceleration (AUC 20360.17 ± 1970.9 vs. 13414.0 ± 1112.9 μg/min/ml) and caused greater in vitro gastric responsiveness of cachectic compared to control rats (CCh-6M: 63.2 ± 5.5% vs. 31.2 ± 4.7%). Win 55,212-2 attenuated the cachexia index (38.5 ± 2.1% vs. 25.8 ± 2.7%), as well as significantly (P < 0.05) preventing increase in gastric emptying (AUC 20360.17 ± 1970.9 vs. 10965.4 ± 1392.3 μg/min/ml) and gastric responsiveness compared to control groups (CCh-6M: 63.2 ± 5.5% vs. 38.2 ± 3.9%). Cachexia accelerated gastric emptying and increased gastric responsiveness in vitro. These phenomena were prevented by subdiaphragmatic vagotomy and by atenolol and win 55,212-2 treatments, showing vagal involvement of β1-adrenergic and cannabinoid CB1/CB2 receptors.
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Xing C, Zhuang Y, Xu TH, Feng Z, Zhou XE, Chen M, Wang L, Meng X, Xue Y, Wang J, Liu H, McGuire TF, Zhao G, Melcher K, Zhang C, Xu HE, Xie XQ. Cryo-EM Structure of the Human Cannabinoid Receptor CB2-G i Signaling Complex. Cell 2020; 180:645-654.e13. [PMID: 32004460 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2020.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Revised: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 01/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Drugs selectively targeting CB2 hold promise for treating neurodegenerative disorders, inflammation, and pain while avoiding psychotropic side effects mediated by CB1. The mechanisms underlying CB2 activation and signaling are poorly understood but critical for drug design. Here we report the cryo-EM structure of the human CB2-Gi signaling complex bound to the agonist WIN 55,212-2. The 3D structure reveals the binding mode of WIN 55,212-2 and structural determinants for distinguishing CB2 agonists from antagonists, which are supported by a pair of rationally designed agonist and antagonist. Further structural analyses with computational docking results uncover the differences between CB2 and CB1 in receptor activation, ligand recognition, and Gi coupling. These findings are expected to facilitate rational structure-based discovery of drugs targeting the cannabinoid system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changrui Xing
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Computational Chemical Genomics Screen Center, School of Pharmacy, and NIDA National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA; Drug Discovery Institute and Departments of Computational Biology and of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Youwen Zhuang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China; University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Center for Cancer and Cell Biology, Program for Structural Biology, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Ting-Hai Xu
- Center for Cancer and Cell Biology, Program for Structural Biology, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Zhiwei Feng
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Computational Chemical Genomics Screen Center, School of Pharmacy, and NIDA National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA; Drug Discovery Institute and Departments of Computational Biology and of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - X Edward Zhou
- Center for Cancer and Cell Biology, Program for Structural Biology, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Maozi Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Computational Chemical Genomics Screen Center, School of Pharmacy, and NIDA National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Lei Wang
- Laboratory for GPCR Biology, Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Xing Meng
- David Van Andel Advanced Cryo-Electron Microscopy Suite, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Ying Xue
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Computational Chemical Genomics Screen Center, School of Pharmacy, and NIDA National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA; Department of Pharmacy and Therapeutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Junmei Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Computational Chemical Genomics Screen Center, School of Pharmacy, and NIDA National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Heng Liu
- Laboratory for GPCR Biology, Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Terence Francis McGuire
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Computational Chemical Genomics Screen Center, School of Pharmacy, and NIDA National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Gongpu Zhao
- David Van Andel Advanced Cryo-Electron Microscopy Suite, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Karsten Melcher
- Center for Cancer and Cell Biology, Program for Structural Biology, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Cheng Zhang
- Laboratory for GPCR Biology, Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA.
| | - H Eric Xu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Xiang-Qun Xie
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Computational Chemical Genomics Screen Center, School of Pharmacy, and NIDA National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA; Drug Discovery Institute and Departments of Computational Biology and of Structural Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA.
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Pietrovito L, Iozzo M, Bacci M, Giannoni E, Chiarugi P. Treatment with Cannabinoids as a Promising Approach for Impairing Fibroblast Activation and Prostate Cancer Progression. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21030787. [PMID: 31991773 PMCID: PMC7037293 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21030787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Revised: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Endo-, phyto- and synthetic cannabinoids have been proposed as promising anti-cancer agents able to impair cancer cells’ behavior without affecting their non-transformed counterparts. However, cancer outcome depends not only on cancer cells’ activity, but also on the stromal cells, which coevolve with cancer cells to sustain tumor progression. Here, we show for the first time that cannabinoid treatment impairs the activation and the reactivity of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), the most represented stromal component of prostate tumor microenvironment. Using prostate cancer-derived CAFs, we demonstrated that WIN 55-212.2 mesylate, a synthetic full agonist of cannabinoid receptors (CBs) 1 and 2, downregulates α-smooth muscle actin and matrix metalloprotease-2 expression, and it inhibits CAF migration, essential features to ensure the activated and reactive CAF phenotype. Furthermore, by impairing stromal reactivity, WIN 55-212.2 mesylate also negatively affects CAF-mediated cancer cells’ invasiveness. Using selective antagonists of CBs, we proved that CAFs response to WIN 55-212.2 mesylate is mainly mediated by CB2. Finally, we suggest that endocannabinoids self-sustain both prostate tumor cells migration and CAFs phenotype by an autocrine loop. Overall, our data strongly support the use of cannabinoids as anti-tumor agents in prostate cancer, since they are able to simultaneously strike both cancer and stromal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Pietrovito
- Correspondence: (L.P.); (E.G.); Tel.: +39-055-2751241 (L.P.); +39-055-2751236 (E.G.)
| | | | | | - Elisa Giannoni
- Correspondence: (L.P.); (E.G.); Tel.: +39-055-2751241 (L.P.); +39-055-2751236 (E.G.)
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Design and synthesis of fluorescent ligands for the detection of cannabinoid type 2 receptor (CB2R). Eur J Med Chem 2020; 188:112037. [PMID: 31954990 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2019] [Revised: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The Cannabinoid 2 receptor, CB2R, belonging to the endocannabinoid system, ECS, is involved in the first steps of neurodegeneration and cancer evolution and progression and thus its modulation may be exploited in the therapeutic and diagnostic fields. However, CB2Rs distribution and signaling pathways in physiological and pathological conditions are still controversial mainly because of the lack of reliable diagnostic tools. With the aim to produce green and safe systems to detect CB2R, we designed a series of fluorescent ligands with three different green fluorescent moieties (4-dimethylaminophthalimide, 4-DMAP, 7-nitro-4-yl-aminobenzoxadiazole, NBD, and Fluorescein-thiourea, FTU) linked to the N1-position of the CB2R pharmacophore N-adamantyl-4-oxo-1,4-dihydroquinoline-3-carboxamide through polymethylene chains. Compound 28 emerged for its compromise between good pharmacodynamic properties (CB2R Ki = 130 nM and no affinity vs the other subtype CB1R) and optimal fluorescent spectroscopic properties. Therefore, compound 28 was studied through FACS (saturation and competitive binding studies) and fluorescence microscopy (visualization and competitive binding) in engineered cells (CB2R-HEK293 cells) and in diverse tumour cells. The fluoligand binding assays were successfully set up, and affinity values for the two reference compounds GW405833 and WIN55,212-2, comparable to the values obtained by radioligand binding assays, were obtained. Fluoligand 28 also allowed the detection of the presence and quantification of the CB2R in the same cell lines. The interactions of compound 28 within the CB2R binding site were also investigated by molecular docking simulations, and indications for the improvement of the CB2R affinity of this class of compounds were provided. Overall, the results obtained through these studies propose compound 28 as a safe and green alternative to the commonly used radioligands for in vitro investigations.
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Almada M, Alves P, Fonseca BM, Carvalho F, Queirós CR, Gaspar H, Amaral C, Teixeira NA, Correia-da-Silva G. Synthetic cannabinoids JWH-018, JWH-122, UR-144 and the phytocannabinoid THC activate apoptosis in placental cells. Toxicol Lett 2019; 319:129-137. [PMID: 31730886 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2019.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Revised: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The increasing use of synthetic cannabinoids (SCBs) in recreational settings is becoming a new paradigm of drug abuse. Although SCBs effects mimic those of the Cannabis sativa plant, these drugs are frequently more potent and hazardous. It is known that endocannabinoid signalling plays a crucial role in diverse reproductive events such as placental development. Moreover, the negative impact of the phytocannabinoid Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in pregnancy outcome, leading to prematurity, intrauterine growth restriction and low birth weight is well recognized, which makes women of childbearing age a sensitive group to developmental adverse effects of cannabinoids. Placental trophoblast turnover relies on regulated processes of proliferation and apoptosis for normal placental development. Here, we explored the impact of the SCBs JWH-018, JWH-122 and UR-144 and of the phytocannabinoid THC in BeWo cell line, a human placental cytotrophoblast cell model. All the cannabinoids caused a significant decrease in cell viability without LDH release, though this effect was only detected for the highest concentrations of THC. Moreover, a cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase was also observed. JWH-018 and JWH-122 increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and THC, UR-144 and JWH-122 caused loss of mitochondrial membrane potential. All the compounds were able to induce caspase-9 activation. The involvement of apoptotic pathways was further confirmed through the significant increase in caspase -3/-7 activities. For UR-144, this effect was reversed by the CB1 antagonist AM281, for JWH-018 and THC this effect was mediated by both cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 while for JWH-122 it was cannabinoid receptor-independent. This work demonstrates that THC and SCBs are able to induce apoptotic cell death. Although they may act through different mechanisms and potencies, the studied cannabinoids have the potential to disrupt gestational fundamental events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Almada
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira no 228, Porto, Portugal
| | - Patrícia Alves
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira no 228, Porto, Portugal
| | - Bruno M Fonseca
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira no 228, Porto, Portugal
| | - Félix Carvalho
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira no 228, Porto, Portugal
| | - Cláudio R Queirós
- University of Lisboa, Faculty of Sciences, BioISI - Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, Campo Grande, 1749-016, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Helena Gaspar
- University of Lisboa, Faculty of Sciences, BioISI - Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, Campo Grande, 1749-016, Lisboa, Portugal; MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, ESTM, Instituto Politécnico de Leiria, 2520-641, Peniche, Portugal
| | - Cristina Amaral
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira no 228, Porto, Portugal
| | - Natércia A Teixeira
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira no 228, Porto, Portugal
| | - Georgina Correia-da-Silva
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira no 228, Porto, Portugal.
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Roberto D, Selvarajah S, Park PC, Berman D, Venkateswaran V. Functional validation of metabolic genes that distinguish Gleason 3 from Gleason 4 prostate cancer foci. Prostate 2019; 79:1777-1788. [PMID: 31503357 DOI: 10.1002/pros.23903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 08/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gleason grade is among the most powerful clinicopathological classification systems used to assess risk of lethal potential in prostate cancer, yet its biologic basis is poorly understood. Notably, pure low-grade cancers, comprised predominantly of Gleason pattern 3 (G3) are typically indolent, with lethal potential emerging with the progression of higher-grade Gleason patterns 4 (G4) or 5. One of the hallmarks of more aggressive cancer phenotypes is the stereotyped set of metabolic characteristics that transformed cells acquire to facilitate unregulated growth. In the present study, we profiled expression signatures of metabolic genes that are differentially expressed between G3 and G4 cancer foci and investigated the functional role of two of the profiled genes, PGRMC1 and HSD17B4, in prostate cancer cells. METHODS Gene expression profiling was conducted using 32 G3 and 32 G4 cancer foci from patients with 3+3 and ≥4+3 tumors, respectively. A 95-gene Nanostring probe set was used to probe genes associated with energy metabolism. Two out of five genes (PGRMC1 and HSD17B4) that significantly distinguish between G3 and G4 were functionally validated in vitro using established prostate cancer cells (PC3, DU145). Expression of PGRMC1 and HSD17B4 was knocked down and subsequent studies were performed to analyze cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis. Mechanistic studies that explored the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) pathway were performed by Western blot. RESULTS Multivariate analysis identified five metabolic genes that were differentially expressed between G3 and G4 stroma (P < .05). Functional validation studies revealed that knockdown of PGRMC1 and HSD17B4 significantly decreased cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, and increased apoptosis in PC3 and DU145 cells. Mechanistic studies showed that these effects, after PGRMC1 knockdown, were possibly mediated through alterations in downstream components of the EGFR, protein kinase B, and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells pathways. CONCLUSION The following study provides evidence supporting the use of metabolic genes PGRMC1 and HSD17B4 as a prognostic biomarker for the distinction between G3 and G4 prostate cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domenica Roberto
- Department of Surgery (Urology), Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Shamini Selvarajah
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Paul C Park
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - David Berman
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Cancer Research Institute, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Vasundara Venkateswaran
- Department of Surgery (Urology), Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Silva AG, Lopes CFB, Carvalho Júnior CG, Thomé RG, dos Santos HB, Reis R, Ribeiro RIMDA. WIN55,212-2 induces caspase-independent apoptosis on human glioblastoma cells by regulating HSP70, p53 and Cathepsin D. Toxicol In Vitro 2019; 57:233-243. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2019.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Revised: 02/02/2019] [Accepted: 02/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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