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Lafzi A, Demirci T, Yüce N, Annaç E, Çiçek M, Şişman T. A study on the possible neurotoxic effects of CUMYL-4CN-BINACA in Sprague Dawley rats. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2024; 67:102389. [PMID: 38185093 DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2023.102389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Substances such as Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol cross the blood-brain barrier. Detecting the damage of these substances in the brain provides important data in drug abuse studies. The aim of the study is to define the neurotoxicity of a novel synthetic cannabinoid (CUMYL-4CN-BINACA) in the Sprague-Dawley rats. Histopathological, immunohistochemical, behavioral, and biochemical examinations were performed to determine the acute and subacute toxicity of the cannabinoid. Three cannabinoid doses were administered for 2 days in the acute exposure groups and 14 days in the subacute exposure groups. Observations were made for 14 days and various changes such as mortality, injury, and illness were recorded daily. No mortality was determined. Serious pathological changes such as neurodegeneration, focal plague formation, vacuolation, edema, congestion, and fibrosis were observed in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus of the brain in a dose-dependent manner. Brain tissue caspase-3 activity showed that the cannabinoid triggered apoptosis in the rat brain. The detected cellular oxidative stress (higher lipid peroxidation and lower antioxidant enzyme activity) also supported neurotoxicity. Significant behavioral abnormalities were also observed in the acute groups, while no behavioral changes were detected in the subacute groups. This study showed for the first time that CUMYL-4CN-BINACA adversely affects the rat brain. It can be estimated that the abuse of the cannabinoid may harm human health in the same way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayşe Lafzi
- Department of Criminalistics, Graduate School of Natural and Applied Science, Atatürk University, 25240 Erzurum, Turkey.
| | - Tuba Demirci
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medicine Faculty, Atatürk University, 25240 Erzurum, Turkey.
| | - Neslihan Yüce
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medicine Faculty, Atatürk University, 25240 Erzurum, Turkey.
| | - Ebru Annaç
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medicine Faculty, Adıyaman University, 02040 Adıyaman, Turkey.
| | - Mustafa Çiçek
- Department of Medical Biology and Genetics, Medicine Faculty, Kahramanmaraş Sütçü İmam University, 46050 Kahramanmaraş, Turkey.
| | - Turgay Şişman
- Department of Criminalistics, Graduate School of Natural and Applied Science, Atatürk University, 25240 Erzurum, Turkey; Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Science Faculty, Atatürk University, 25240 Erzurum, Turkey.
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Marusich JA, Wiley JL. Δ 9-tetrahydrocannabinol discrimination: Effects of route of administration in mice. DRUG AND ALCOHOL DEPENDENCE REPORTS 2023; 9:100205. [PMID: 38045495 PMCID: PMC10690562 DOI: 10.1016/j.dadr.2023.100205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Background Route of administration is an important pharmacokinetic variable in development of translationally relevant preclinical models. Humans primarily administer cannabis through smoking, vaping, and edibles. In contrast, preclinical research has historically utilized injected Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The present study sought to examine how route of administration affected the potency and time course of THC's discriminative stimulus properties. Methods Adult female and male C57BL/6 mice were trained to discriminate intraperitoneal (i.p.) THC from vehicle in a drug discrimination procedure. After discrimination was acquired, a dose-effect curve was determined for i.p., oral (p.o.), subcutaneous (s.c.), and aerosolized THC. Subsequently, the time course of effects of each route of administration was determined. Results THC administered i.p., p.o., s.c., or via aerosolization fully substituted for i.p. THC. The potency of THC's psychoactive effects was similar for i.p., p.o., and s.c., except that THC was more potent when administered s.c. vs p.o. in females. All routes of administration had a similar potency in both sexes. The duration of THC's psychoactive effects was similar across i.p., s.c., and p.o. routes of administration, whereas aerosolized THC produced a faster onset and shorter duration of effects compared to the other routes. Conclusion THC administered via multiple routes of administration, including those commonly used in preclinical research (i.p. and s.c.) and more translationally relevant routes (aerosol and p.o.), produced THC-like discriminative stimulus effects in mice trained to discriminate i.p. THC. More precise predictions of THC's effects in humans may result from use of these translationally relevant routes of administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie A. Marusich
- Center for Drug Discovery, RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Rd, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Jenny L. Wiley
- Center for Drug Discovery, RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Rd, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
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3
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Piscura MK, Henderson-Redmond AN, Barnes RC, Mitra S, Guindon J, Morgan DJ. Mechanisms of cannabinoid tolerance. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 214:115665. [PMID: 37348821 PMCID: PMC10528043 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115665] [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: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis has been used recreationally and medically for centuries, yet research into understanding the mechanisms of its therapeutic effects has only recently garnered more attention. There is evidence to support the use of cannabinoids for the treatment of chronic pain, muscle spasticity, nausea and vomiting due to chemotherapy, improving weight gain in HIV-related cachexia, emesis, sleep disorders, managing symptoms in Tourette syndrome, and patient-reported muscle spasticity from multiple sclerosis. However, tolerance and the risk for cannabis use disorder are two significant disadvantages for cannabinoid-based therapies in humans. Recent work has revealed prominent sex differences in the acute response and tolerance to cannabinoids in both humans and animal models. This review will discuss evidence demonstrating cannabinoid tolerance in rodents, non-human primates, and humans and our current understanding of the neuroadaptations occurring at the cannabinoid type 1 receptor (CB1R) that are responsible tolerance. CB1R expression is downregulated in tolerant animals and humans while there is strong evidence of CB1R desensitization in cannabinoid tolerant rodent models. Throughout the review, critical knowledge gaps are indicated and discussed, such as the lack of a neuroimaging probe to assess CB1R desensitization in humans. The review discusses the intracellular signaling pathways that are responsible for mediating CB1R desensitization and downregulation including the action of G protein-coupled receptor kinases, β-arrestin2 recruitment, c-Jun N-terminal kinases, protein kinase A, and the intracellular trafficking of CB1R. Finally, the review discusses approaches to reduce cannabinoid tolerance in humans based on our current understanding of the neuroadaptations and mechanisms responsible for this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary K Piscura
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25755, USA; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, Auburn, AL 36832, USA
| | | | - Robert C Barnes
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Swarup Mitra
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25755, USA
| | - Josée Guindon
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Daniel J Morgan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25755, USA.
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4
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Markham J, Sparkes E, Boyd R, Chen S, Manning JJ, Finlay D, Lai F, McGregor E, Maloney CJ, Gerona RR, Connor M, McGregor IS, Hibbs DE, Glass M, Kevin RC, Banister SD. Defining Steric Requirements at CB 1 and CB 2 Cannabinoid Receptors Using Synthetic Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists 5F-AB-PINACA, 5F-ADB-PINACA, PX-1, PX-2, NNL-1, and Their Analogues. ACS Chem Neurosci 2022; 13:1281-1295. [PMID: 35404067 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.2c00034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) are a diverse class of new psychoactive substances (NPS). They commonly comprise N-alkylated indole, indazole, or 7-azaindole scaffolds with amide-linked pendant amino acid groups. To explore the contribution of the amino acid side chain to the cannabinoid pharmacology of SCRA NPS, a systematic library of side chain-modified SCRAs was prepared based on the recent detections of amino acid derivatives 17 (5F-AB-PINACA), 18 (5F-ADB-PINACA), 15 (PX-1), 19 (PX-2), and 20 (NNL-1). In vitro binding affinities and functional activities at cannabinoid type 1 and 2 receptors (CB1 and CB2, respectively) were determined for all the library members using radioligand competition experiments and a fluorescence-based membrane potential assay. Binding affinities and functional activities varied widely across compounds (Ki = 0.32 to >10 000 nM, EC50 = 0.24-1259 nM), with several clear structure-activity relationships (SARs) emerging. Affinity and potency at CB1 changed as a function of the heterocyclic core (indazole > indole > 7-azaindole) and the pendant amino acid side chain (tert-butyl > iso-propyl > iso-butyl > benzyl > ethyl > methyl > hydrogen). Ensemble docking at CB1 revealed a clear steric basis for observed SAR trends. Interestingly, although 15 (PX-1) and 19 (PX-2) have been detected in recreational drug markets, they failed to induce centrally CB1-mediated effects (e.g., hypothermia) in mice using radiobiotelemetry. Together, these data provide insights regarding structural contributions to the cannabimimetic profiles of 17 (5F-AB-PINACA), 18 (5F-ADB-PINACA), 15 (PX-1), 19 (PX-2), 20 (NNL-1), and other SCRA NPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Markham
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2050, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Eric Sparkes
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2050, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rochelle Boyd
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2050, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Shuli Chen
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
| | - Jamie J. Manning
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
| | - David Finlay
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
| | - Felcia Lai
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Eila McGregor
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2050, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2005, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Callan J. Maloney
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2050, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Roy R. Gerona
- Clinical Toxicology and Environmental Biomonitoring Laboratory, University of California, San Francisco, California 94143, United States
| | - Mark Connor
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney 2109, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Iain S. McGregor
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2050, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2005, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David E. Hibbs
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
| | - Richard C. Kevin
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2050, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Samuel D. Banister
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2050, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, New South Wales, Australia
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Abstract
Newly emerging synthetic cannabinoid compounds continue to be found in the designer drug market. They are often targeted as a 'legal high' alternative to traditional cannabinoids via 'darknet' markets and their increased potency and efficacy are becoming a growing concern internationally. The purpose of this study was to determine whether 4-CN-CUMYL-BUTINACA, 4F-MDMB-BINACA, 5F-AEB, 5F-CUMYL-P7AICA and EMB-FUBINACA exhibited similar behavioral effects as Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC). Locomotor activity was assessed in an open-field assay using Swiss-Webster mice. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were trained to discriminate between intraperitoneal injections of Δ9-THC (3 mg/kg) and vehicle. Following successful training, substitution tests for 4-CN-CUMYL-BUTINACA, 4F-MDMB-BINACA, 5F-AEB, 5F-CUMYL-P7AICA and EMB-FUBINACA were conducted. All of the test compounds decreased locomotor activity. 4-CN-CUMYL-BUTINACA (ED50 = 0.26 mg/kg), 4F-MDMB-BINACA (ED50 = 0.019 mg/kg), 5F-CUMYL-P7AICA (ED50 = 0.13 mg/kg) and EMB-FUBINACA (ED50 = 0.13 mg/kg) each fully substituted for the discriminative stimulus effects of the training dose of Δ9-THC, whereas 5F-AEB produced only a maximum of 67% drug-appropriate responding at 0.5 mg/kg. Higher doses produced piloerection, exophthalmos and convulsions. 4-CN-CUMYL-BUTINACA, 4F-MDMB-BINACA, 5F-CUMYL-P7AICA and EMB-FUBINACA are likely to produce similar subjective effects in humans as those produced by abused synthetic cannabinoids, and may therefore share similar abuse liability. In contrast, 5F-AEB may have a reduced abuse liability given its weaker THC-like discriminative stimulus effects but maybe more dangerous due to the adverse effects observed at doses needed to produce discriminative stimulus effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael B Gatch
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Center for Neuroscience Discovery, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas, USA
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6
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Orazietti V, Basile G, Giorgetti R, Giorgetti A. Effects of synthetic cannabinoids on psychomotor, sensory and cognitive functions relevant for safe driving. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:998828. [PMID: 36226105 PMCID: PMC9548613 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.998828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Recreational use of Synthetic Cannabinoids (SCs), one of the largest groups of New Psychoactive Substances (NPS), has increased globally over the past few years. Driving is a structured process requiring the cooperation of several cognitive and psychomotor functions, organized in different levels of complexity. Each of these functions can be affected when Driving Under the Influence (DUI) of SCs. In order to reduce the likelihood of SC-related road accidents, it is essential to understand which areas of psychomotor performance are most affected by these substances, as well as the severity of impairment. For this purpose, a multiple database- literature review of recent experimental studies in humans and animals regarding the psychomotor effects of SCs has been performed. Despite the many limitations connected to experimental studies on humans, results showed a consistency between animal and human data. SCs appear to impair psychomotor performance in humans, affecting different domains related to safe driving even at low doses. Cases of DUI of SC have been repeatedly reported, although the exact prevalence is likely to be underestimated due to current analytical and interpretative issues. For this reason, an accurate physical examination performed by trained and experienced personnel has a primary role in recognizing signs of impairment in case of strong suspicion of SC consumption. The identification of a suspected case should be followed by reliable laboratory examination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasco Orazietti
- Department of Excellence of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Marche Polytechnic University of Ancona, Ancona, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Basile
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Galeazzi Orthopedics Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Raffaele Giorgetti
- Department of Excellence of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Marche Polytechnic University of Ancona, Ancona, Italy
| | - Arianna Giorgetti
- Department of Excellence of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Marche Polytechnic University of Ancona, Ancona, Italy.,Unit of Legal Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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7
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Molecular Mechanisms of Action of Novel Psychoactive Substances (NPS). A New Threat for Young Drug Users with Forensic-Toxicological Implications. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11050440. [PMID: 34068903 PMCID: PMC8156937 DOI: 10.3390/life11050440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Novel psychoactive substances (NPS) represent a severe health risk for drug users. Even though the phenomenon has been growing since the early 2000s, the mechanisms of action of NPS at the receptors and beyond them are still scarcely understood. The aim of the present study was to provide a systematic review of the updated knowledge regarding the molecular mechanisms underlying the toxicity of synthetic opioids, cannabinoids, cathinones, and stimulants. The study was conducted on the PubMed database. Study eligibility criteria included relevance to the topic, English language, and time of publication (2010–2020). A combined Mesh and free-text protocols search was performed. Study selection was performed on the title/abstract and, in doubtful cases, on the full texts of papers. Of the 580 records identified through PubMed searching and reference checking, 307 were excluded by title/abstract and 78 additional papers were excluded after full-text reading, leaving a total of 155 included papers. Molecular mechanisms of synthetic opioids, synthetic cannabinoids, stimulants, psychedelics, and hallucinogens were reviewed and mostly involved both a receptor-mediated and non-receptor mediated cellular modulation with multiple neurotransmitters interactions. The molecular mechanisms underlying the action of NPS are more complex than expected, with a wide range of overlap among activated receptors and neurotransmitter systems. The peculiar action profile of single compounds does not necessarily reflect that of the structural class to which they belong, accounting for possible unexpected toxic reactions.
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Oliveira da Cruz JF, Ioannidou C, Pagano Zottola AC, Muguruza C, Gomez‐Sotres P, Fernandez M, Callado LF, Marsicano G, Busquets‐Garcia A. Sex-dependent pharmacological profiles of the synthetic cannabinoid MMB-Fubinaca. Addict Biol 2021; 26:e12940. [PMID: 32744799 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids have emerged as novel psychoactive substances with damaging consequences for public health. They exhibit high affinity at the cannabinoid type-1 (CB1 ) receptor and produce similar and often more potent effects as other CB1 receptor agonists. However, we are still far from a complete pharmacological understanding of these compounds. In this study, by using behavioral, molecular, pharmacological, and electrophysiological approaches, we aimed at characterizing several in vitro and in vivo pharmacological effects of the synthetic cannabinoid MMB-Fubinaca (also known as AMB-Fubinaca or FUB-AMB), a particular synthetic cannabinoid. MMB-Fubinaca stimulates CB1 receptor-mediated functional coupling to G-proteins in mouse and human brain preparations in a similar manner as the CB1 receptor agonist WIN55,512-2 but with a much greater potency. Both drugs similarly activate the CB1 receptor-dependent extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway. Notably, in vivo administration of MMB-Fubinaca in mice induced greater behavioral and electrophysiological effects in male than in female mice in a CB1 receptor-dependent manner. Overall, these data provide a solid pharmacological profiling of the effects of MMB-Fubinaca and important information about the mechanisms of action underlying its harmful impact in humans. At the same time, they reinforce the significant sexual dimorphism of cannabinoid actions, which will have to be taken into account in future animal and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- José F. Oliveira da Cruz
- INSERM, U1215 NeuroCentre Magendie Bordeaux France
- University of Bordeaux Bordeaux France
- Center for Neural Science New York University New York New York USA
| | - Christina Ioannidou
- INSERM, U1215 NeuroCentre Magendie Bordeaux France
- University of Bordeaux Bordeaux France
| | | | - Carolina Muguruza
- Department of Pharmacology University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU Leioa Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental, CIBERSAM Spain
| | - Paula Gomez‐Sotres
- INSERM, U1215 NeuroCentre Magendie Bordeaux France
- University of Bordeaux Bordeaux France
| | - Monica Fernandez
- INSERM, U1215 NeuroCentre Magendie Bordeaux France
- University of Bordeaux Bordeaux France
| | - Luis F. Callado
- Department of Pharmacology University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU Leioa Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental, CIBERSAM Spain
| | - Giovanni Marsicano
- INSERM, U1215 NeuroCentre Magendie Bordeaux France
- University of Bordeaux Bordeaux France
| | - Arnau Busquets‐Garcia
- INSERM, U1215 NeuroCentre Magendie Bordeaux France
- University of Bordeaux Bordeaux France
- Integrative Pharmacology and Systems Neuroscience Research Group, Neurosciences Research Program IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute) Barcelona Spain
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9
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Walsh KB, Andersen HK. Molecular Pharmacology of Synthetic Cannabinoids: Delineating CB1 Receptor-Mediated Cell Signaling. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E6115. [PMID: 32854313 PMCID: PMC7503917 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) are a class of new psychoactive substances (NPSs) that exhibit high affinity binding to the cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors and display a pharmacological profile similar to the phytocannabinoid (-)-trans-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). SCs are marketed under brand names such as K2 and Spice and are popular drugs of abuse among male teenagers and young adults. Since their introduction in the early 2000s, SCs have grown in number and evolved in structural diversity to evade forensic detection and drug scheduling. In addition to their desirable euphoric and antinociceptive effects, SCs can cause severe toxicity including seizures, respiratory depression, cardiac arrhythmias, stroke and psychosis. Binding of SCs to the CB1 receptor, expressed in the central and peripheral nervous systems, stimulates pertussis toxin-sensitive G proteins (Gi/Go) resulting in the inhibition of adenylyl cyclase, a decreased opening of N-type Ca2+ channels and the activation of G protein-gated inward rectifier (GIRK) channels. This combination of signaling effects dampens neuronal activity in both CNS excitatory and inhibitory pathways by decreasing action potential formation and neurotransmitter release. Despite this knowledge, the relationship between the chemical structure of the SCs and their CB1 receptor-mediated molecular actions is not well understood. In addition, the potency and efficacy of newer SC structural groups has not been determined. To address these limitations, various cell-based assay technologies are being utilized to develop structure versus activity relationships (SAR) for the SCs and to explore the effects of these compounds on noncannabinoid receptor targets. This review focuses on describing and evaluating these assays and summarizes our current knowledge of SC molecular pharmacology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth B. Walsh
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Neuroscience, University of South Carolina, School of Medicine, Columbia, SC 29208, USA;
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10
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Aboul-Enein HY, Mostafa GA, AlRabiah H, Al-Ramadi M, Attia SM, Wagdy HA. Development and Validation of HPLC-UV Method for the Determination of a Potent Synthetic Cannabinoid THJ-2201 in Mouse Plasma and Application in a Pharmacokinetic Study. CURR PHARM ANAL 2020. [DOI: 10.2174/1573412915666190204144843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Aim:
A new simple and sensitive high-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) method
for the determination of a potent synthetic cannabinoid THJ-2201, has been developed and validated.
Lixiviptan was used as the Internal Standard (IS).
Methods:
THJ-2201 and IS were extracted from mouse plasma using deproteinization procedure that
uses acetonitrile followed by HPLC analysis. The separation was carried out on a reversed-phase C18
column using water and acetonitrile mixture (30:70 v/v). The flow-rate was 1.0 mL/min. Eluting of both
THJ-2201 and lixivaptan was performed at 220 nm.
Results:
The method demonstrated linearity over a calibration range of 95 - 1500 ng/mL and the Limit
of Detection (LOD) and Quantitation (LOQ) were 28 ng/mL and 91 ng/mL, respectively. The validation
of the proposed method was carried out by following the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
guidelines. Intra- and inter-day precision did not exceed 6.4%, whereas the accuracy of THJ-2201
measurements was within ±13%.
Conclusion:
This new method is simple and sensitive and has been applied successfully in a pharmacokinetic
study of THJ-2201 in mouse plasma. The mean values of Tmax and Cmax were 0.25 h and
141.87 ± 12.11 ng/mL, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassan Y. Aboul-Enein
- Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry Department, Pharmaceutical and Drug Industries Research Division, National Research Center, Dokki, Cairo 12622, Egypt
| | - Gamal A.E Mostafa
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O.Box 2457, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Haitham AlRabiah
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O.Box 2457, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Al-Ramadi
- Forensic Chemistry Department, Naif Arab University for Security Science, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sabry M. Attia
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O.Box 2457, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hebatallah A. Wagdy
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, El-Sherouk City, Cairo, Egypt
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11
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Wouters E, Walraed J, Banister SD, Stove CP. Insights into biased signaling at cannabinoid receptors: synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists. Biochem Pharmacol 2019; 169:113623. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2019.08.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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12
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Effects of the synthetic cannabinoid 5F-AMB on anxiety and recognition memory in mice. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2019; 236:2235-2242. [PMID: 30868181 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-019-05222-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2018] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE N-[[1-(5-fluoropentyl)-1H-indazol-3-yl]carbonyl]-L-valine methyl ester (5F-AMB) is a synthetic cannabinoid that has been distributed recently. Although inhalation of 5F-AMB produces adverse effects, such as impaired memory and disturbed consciousness, in humans, the psychopharmacological effects of 5F-AMB in rodents have not been investigated. OBJECTIVES We first examined the effects of intraperitoneal and intracerebroventricular injections of 5F-AMB on anxiety-like behavior and locomotor activity in the open field (OF) test and recognition memory in the novel object recognition test (NOR) in C57BL/6J mice. We also examined whether a cannabinoid 1 (CB1) receptor antagonist AM251 blocks the effects of 5F-AMB. We next examined the effects of 5F-AMB infusion into the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), a brain region associated with anxiety and memory, on these tests. RESULTS Intraperitoneal injection of 5F-AMB (0.3 mg/kg) dramatically decreased locomotor activity in the OF, and this effect was partially reversed by AM251 (3 mg/kg). Intracerebroventricular infusion of 5F-AMB (10 nmol) produced an anxiolytic effect in the OF and impaired acquisition, but not retrieval, of recognition memory in the NOR, and these effects were blocked by co-infusion of AM251 (1.8 nmol). Bilateral intra-mPFC infusion of 5F-AMB (10 pmol/side) similarly produced impaired recognition memory acquisition, but no anxiolytic effect. CONCLUSIONS The results demonstrate that centrally administered 5F-AMB produces anxiolytic effect and impaired recognition memory acquisition via activation of CB1 receptors, while systemic 5F-AMB severely impaired locomotor activity. The mPFC is involved in 5F-AMB-induced impairment of recognition memory acquisition. However, other brain region(s) may contribute to the 5F-AMB-induced anxiolytic effect.
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13
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Schreiber S, Bader M, Lenchinski T, Meningher I, Rubovitch V, Katz Y, Cohen E, Gabet Y, Rotenberg M, Wolf E(U, Pick CG. Functional effects of synthetic cannabinoids versus Δ 9 -THC in mice on body temperature, nociceptive threshold, anxiety, cognition, locomotor/exploratory parameters and depression. Addict Biol 2019; 24:414-425. [PMID: 29423994 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2017] [Revised: 12/07/2017] [Accepted: 01/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids are psychoactive substances designed to mimic the euphorigenic effects of the natural cannabis. Novel unregulated compounds appear once older compounds become illegal. It has been previously reported that synthetic cannabinoids are different than Δ9 -tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9 -THC) as they have chemical structures unrelated to Δ9 -THC, different metabolism and, often, greater toxicity. This study aimed to investigate the effects of three novel synthetic cannabinoids and pure Δ9 -THC on body temperature, nociceptive threshold, anxiety, memory function, locomotor and exploratory parameters, and depression. We performed a battery of behavioural and motor tests starting 50 minutes post i.p. injection of each drug to adult ICR mice. The synthetic cannabinoids that were used are AB-FUBINACA, AB-CHMINACA and PB-22. All synthetic cannabinoids and Δ9 -THC caused hypothermia, but only Δ9 -THC induced a clear antinociceptive effect. All synthetic cannabinoids and Δ9 -THC caused decreased anxiety levels, spatial memory deficits and decreased exploratory behaviour as measured in the elevated plus maze, Y-maze and staircase paradigm, respectively. However, all synthetic cannabinoids but not Δ9 -THC demonstrated decreased locomotor activity in the staircase test. Moreover, only AB-FUBINACA and Δ9 -THC affected the gait balance and grip strength of the mice as was assessed by the latency time to fall from a rod. In the forced swimming test, PB-22 caused elevated depression-like behaviour while AB-FUBINACA induced a reversed effect. These results suggest varied effects among different synthetic cannabinoids and Δ9 -THC. Further studies are needed to characterize the overall effects and differences between these synthetic cannabinoids and Δ9 -THC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaul Schreiber
- Department of Psychiatry, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical CenterTel Aviv University Sackler Faculty of Medicine Israel
- Sagol School of NeuroscienceTel‐Aviv University Israel
| | - Miaad Bader
- Department of Anatomy and AnthropologyTel‐Aviv University Sackler Faculty of Medicine Israel
| | - Tatiana Lenchinski
- Sagol School of NeuroscienceTel‐Aviv University Israel
- Department of Anatomy and AnthropologyTel‐Aviv University Sackler Faculty of Medicine Israel
| | | | - Vardit Rubovitch
- Department of Anatomy and AnthropologyTel‐Aviv University Sackler Faculty of Medicine Israel
| | - Yiffat Katz
- Analytical LaboratoryDivision of Identification and Forensic Science Israel
| | - Etia Cohen
- Analytical LaboratoryDivision of Identification and Forensic Science Israel
| | - Yankel Gabet
- Sagol School of NeuroscienceTel‐Aviv University Israel
- Department of Anatomy and AnthropologyTel‐Aviv University Sackler Faculty of Medicine Israel
| | - Michal Rotenberg
- Laboratory of Clinical Toxicology and PharmacologySheba Medical Center Israel
| | - Ehud (Udi) Wolf
- Analytical LaboratoryDivision of Identification and Forensic Science Israel
| | - Chaim G. Pick
- Sagol School of NeuroscienceTel‐Aviv University Israel
- Department of Anatomy and AnthropologyTel‐Aviv University Sackler Faculty of Medicine Israel
- The Dr. Miriam and Sheldon G. Adelson Chair and Center for the Biology of Addictive DiseasesTel‐Aviv University Israel
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Bakdash A, AL-Mathloum AMK, Abdelgadir ElAmin EH, Abu Taha NMT, Kumar S, Nasr FA. Single-dose acute toxicity of THJ-2201 designer Cannabis drug: LD50 and hematological and histological changes in mice. EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF FORENSIC SCIENCES 2018. [DOI: 10.1186/s41935-018-0079-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
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15
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Cannabinoid-like effects of five novel carboxamide synthetic cannabinoids. Neurotoxicology 2018; 70:72-79. [PMID: 30439379 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2018.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Revised: 11/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
A new generation of novel cannabinoid compounds have been developed as marijuana substitutes to avoid drug control laws and cannabinoid blood tests. 5F-MDMB-PINACA (also known as 5F-ADB, 5F-ADB-PINACA), MDMB-CHIMICA, MDMB-FUBINACA, ADB-FUBINACA, and AMB-FUBINACA (also known as FUB-AMB, MMB-FUBINACA) were tested for in vivo cannabinoid-like effects to assess their abuse liability. Locomotor activity in mice was tested to screen for locomotor depressant effects and to identify behaviorally-active dose ranges and times of peak effect. Discriminative stimulus effects were tested in rats trained to discriminate Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (3 mg/kg, 30-min pretreatment). 5F-MDMB-PINACA (ED50 = 1.1 mg/kg) and MDMB-CHIMICA (ED50 = 0.024 mg/kg) produced short-acting (30 min) depression of locomotor activity. ADB-FUBINACA (ED50 = 0.19 mg/kg), and AMB- FUBINACA (ED50 = 0.19 mg/kg) depressed locomotor activity for 60-90 min; whereas MDMB-FUBINACA (ED50 = 0.04 mg/kg) depressed locomotor activity for 150 min. AMB-FUBINACA produced tremors at the highest dose tested. 5F-MDMB-PINACA (ED50 = 0.07), MDMB-CHIMICA (ED50 = 0.01 mg/kg), MDMB-FUBINACA (ED50 = 0.051 mg/kg), ADB-FUBINACA (ED50 = 0.075 mg/kg) and AMB-FUBINACA (ED50 = 0.029) fully substituted for the discriminative stimulus effects of Δ9-THC following 15-min pretreatment. All 5 compounds decreased locomotor activity and produced discriminative stimulus effects similar to those of Δ9-THC, which suggests they may have abuse liability similar to that of Δ9-THC. AMB-FUBINACA may have an increased risk of toxicities in recreational users.
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16
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Uttl L, Szczurowska E, Hájková K, Horsley RR, Štefková K, Hložek T, Šíchová K, Balíková M, Kuchař M, Micale V, Páleníček T. Behavioral and Pharmacokinetic Profile of Indole-Derived Synthetic Cannabinoids JWH-073 and JWH-210 as Compared to the Phytocannabinoid Δ 9-THC in Rats. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:703. [PMID: 30405327 PMCID: PMC6206206 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Accepted: 09/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoid compounds are marketed as “legal” marijuana substitutes, even though little is known about their behavioral effects in relation to their pharmacokinetic profiles. Therefore, in the present study we assessed the behavioral effects of systemic treatment with the two synthetic cannabinoids JWH-073 and JWH-210 and the phytocannabinoid Δ9-THC on locomotor activity, anxiety-like phenotype (in the open field) and sensorimotor gating (measured as prepulse inhibition of the acoustic startle response, PPI), in relation to cannabinoid serum levels. Wistar rats were injected subcutaneously (sc.) with JWH-073 (0.1, 0.5, or 5 mg/kg), JWH-210 (0.1, 0.5, or 5 mg/kg), Δ9-THC (1 or 3 mg/kg) or vehicle (oleum helanti) in a volume of 0.5 ml/kg and tested in the open field and PPI. Although JWH-073, JWH-210, Δ9-THC (and its metabolites) were confirmed in serum, effects on sensorimotor gating were absent, and locomotor activity was only partially affected. Δ9-THC (3 mg/kg) elicited an anxiolytic-like effect as suggested by the increased time spent in the center of the open field (p < 0.05). Our results further support the potential anxiolytic-like effect of pharmacological modulation of the endocannabinoid system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Libor Uttl
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Ewa Szczurowska
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia
| | - Kateřina Hájková
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia.,Forensic Laboratory of Biologically Active Compounds, Department of Chemistry of Natural Compounds, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Prague, Czechia
| | - Rachel R Horsley
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia
| | - Kristýna Štefková
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia
| | - Tomáš Hložek
- Institute of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague, Czechia
| | - Klára Šíchová
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia
| | - Marie Balíková
- Institute of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague, Czechia
| | - Martin Kuchař
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia.,Forensic Laboratory of Biologically Active Compounds, Department of Chemistry of Natural Compounds, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Prague, Czechia
| | - Vincenzo Micale
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia.,Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Tomáš Páleníček
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia.,Third Faculty of Medicine, Psychiatric Clinic, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
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Floresta G, Apirakkan O, Rescifina A, Abbate V. Discovery of High-Affinity Cannabinoid Receptors Ligands through a 3D-QSAR Ushered by Scaffold-Hopping Analysis. Molecules 2018; 23:molecules23092183. [PMID: 30200181 PMCID: PMC6225167 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23092183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2018] [Revised: 08/26/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Two 3D quantitative structure–activity relationships (3D-QSAR) models for predicting Cannabinoid receptor 1 and 2 (CB1 and CB2) ligands have been produced by way of creating a practical tool for the drug-design and optimization of CB1 and CB2 ligands. A set of 312 molecules have been used to build the model for the CB1 receptor, and a set of 187 molecules for the CB2 receptor. All of the molecules were recovered from the literature among those possessing measured Ki values, and Forge was used as software. The present model shows high and robust predictive potential, confirmed by the quality of the statistical analysis, and an adequate descriptive capability. A visual understanding of the hydrophobic, electrostatic, and shaping features highlighting the principal interactions for the CB1 and CB2 ligands was achieved with the construction of 3D maps. The predictive capabilities of the model were then used for a scaffold-hopping study of two selected compounds, with the generation of a library of new compounds with high affinity for the two receptors. Herein, we report two new 3D-QSAR models that comprehend a large number of chemically different CB1 and CB2 ligands and well account for the individual ligand affinities. These features will facilitate the recognition of new potent and selective molecules for CB1 and CB2 receptors.
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MESH Headings
- Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists/chemistry
- Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists/metabolism
- Cannabinoid Receptor Antagonists/chemistry
- Cannabinoid Receptor Antagonists/metabolism
- Drug Design
- Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Interactions
- Ligands
- Models, Molecular
- Molecular Conformation
- Molecular Docking Simulation
- Molecular Dynamics Simulation
- Molecular Structure
- Protein Binding
- Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationship
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/chemistry
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/metabolism
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/chemistry
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/metabolism
- Receptors, Cannabinoid/chemistry
- Receptors, Cannabinoid/metabolism
- Software
- Static Electricity
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Floresta
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, V.le A. Doria, 95125 Catania, Italy.
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, V.le A. Doria, 95125 Catania, Italy.
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, UK.
| | - Orapan Apirakkan
- King's Forensics, School of Population Health & Environmental Sciences, King's College London, Franklin-Wilkins Building, 150 Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, UK.
| | - Antonio Rescifina
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, V.le A. Doria, 95125 Catania, Italy.
| | - Vincenzo Abbate
- King's Forensics, School of Population Health & Environmental Sciences, King's College London, Franklin-Wilkins Building, 150 Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, UK.
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18
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Marusich JA, Wiley JL, Lefever TW, Patel PR, Thomas BF. Finding order in chemical chaos - Continuing characterization of synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists. Neuropharmacology 2018. [PMID: 29113898 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.1010.1041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Diversion of synthetic cannabinoids from the lab to drugs of abuse has become increasingly prevalent in recent years. Moreover, as earlier synthetic cannabinoids were banned, manufacturers introduced a new supply of novel compounds to serve as replacements. Hence, the chemical diversity of synthetic cannabinoid analogs has also rapidly increased. The present study examined 8 new synthetic cannabinoids: AM-1220, AM-2232, AM-2233, AM-679, EAM-2201, JWH-210, JHW-251, and MAM-2201. Each compound was assessed for binding affinity and functional activation of CB1 and CB2 receptors, and pharmacological equivalence with Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in THC drug discrimination. All compounds bound to and activated CB1 and CB2 receptors, although efficacy at the CB2 receptor was reduced compared to that for the CB1 receptor. Similarly, all compounds stimulated [35S]GTPγS binding through the CB1 receptor, and all compounds except AM-1220 and AM-2233 stimulated [35S]GTPγS binding through the CB2 receptor. Furthermore, these compounds, along with CP55,940, substituted for THC in THC drug discrimination. Rank order of potency in drug discrimination was correlated with CB1 receptor binding affinity. Together, these results suggest that all test compounds share the THC-like subjective effects of marijuana. Interestingly, the most potent compounds in CB1 binding in the present study were also the compounds that have been found recently in the U.S., MAM-2201, EAM-2201, JWH-210, AM-2233, and AM-1220. These results indicate that the evolution of the synthetic cannabinoid drug market may be focused toward compounds with increased potency. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Designer Drugs and Legal Highs.'
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie A Marusich
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, United States
| | - Jenny L Wiley
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, United States
| | - Timothy W Lefever
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, United States
| | - Purvi R Patel
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, United States
| | - Brian F Thomas
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, United States.
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Differentiation of AB-FUBINACA and its five positional isomers using liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-linear ion trap mass spectrometry and triple quadrupole mass spectrometry. Forensic Toxicol 2018; 36:351-358. [PMID: 29963205 PMCID: PMC6002426 DOI: 10.1007/s11419-018-0410-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2017] [Accepted: 02/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Positional isomer differentiation is crucial for forensic analysis. The aim of this study was to differentiate AB-FUBINACA positional isomers using liquid chromatography (LC)–electrospray ionization (ESI)-linear ion trap mass spectrometry (LIT-MS) and LC–ESI-triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (QqQ-MS). Methods AB-FUBINACA, its two fluorine positional isomers on the phenyl ring, and three methyl positional isomers in the carboxamide side chain were analyzed by LC–ESI-LIT-MS and LC–ESI-QqQ-MS. Results Four of the positional isomers, excluding AB-FUBINACA and its 3-fluorobenzyl isomer, were chromatographically separated on an ODS column in isocratic mode. ESI-LIT-MS could discriminate only three isomers, i.e., the 2-fluorobenzyl isomer, the N-(1-amino-2-methyl-1-oxobutan-2-yl) isomer, and the N-(1-amino-1-oxobutan-2-yl)-N-methyl isomer, based on their characteristic product ions observed at the MS3 stage in negative mode. ESI-QqQ-MS differentiated all six isomers in terms of the relative abundances of the product ions that contained the isomeric moieties involved in collision-induced dissociation reactions. The six isomers were more clearly and significantly differentiated upon comparison of the logarithmic values of the product ion abundance ratios as a function of collision energy. Conclusions The present LC–MS methodologies were useful for the differentiation of a series of AB-FUBINACA positional isomers. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s11419-018-0410-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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20
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Gatch MB, Forster MJ. Δ 9-Tetrahydrocannabinol-like discriminative stimulus effects of five novel synthetic cannabinoids in rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2018; 235:673-680. [PMID: 29138877 PMCID: PMC5823726 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-017-4783-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2017] [Accepted: 11/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES Novel synthetic cannabinoid compounds continue to appear in the market advertised as legal alternatives to marijuana and the older synthetic cannabinoid compounds which are now controlled substances. Most of these newer compounds have been found to act at CB1 receptors, so the purpose of this study was to study the abuse liability of these compounds. METHODS Five of these compounds (BB-22, FUB-PB-22, 5F-AMB, NM2201, and MAB-CHMINACA) were tested for their ability to produce discriminative stimulus effects similar to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) in rats. The ability of the CB1 receptor inverse agonist rimonabant to antagonize the discriminative stimulus effects of the five test compounds was also tested. RESULTS All five of the test compounds fully substituted for the discriminative stimulus effects of Δ9-THC at some dose, although MAB-CHMINACA produced an inverted U-shaped dose effect. Rimonabant fully antagonized the Δ9-THC-like discriminative stimulus effects of BB-22, 5F-AMB, NM2201, and MAB-CHMINACA but only reduced the effects of FUB-PB-22 to 40-50 % of Δ9-THC-appropriate responding. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that all five of the test compounds produced Δ9-THC-like effects and will likely have abuse liability similar to that of the controlled cannabinoid compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael B Gatch
- Department of Pharmacology & Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, 3500 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth, TX, 76107-2699, USA.
| | - Michael J Forster
- Department of Pharmacology & Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, 3500 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth, TX, 76107-2699, USA
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21
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Fantegrossi WE, Wilson CD, Berquist MD. Pro-psychotic effects of synthetic cannabinoids: interactions with central dopamine, serotonin, and glutamate systems. Drug Metab Rev 2018; 50:65-73. [PMID: 29385930 DOI: 10.1080/03602532.2018.1428343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
An association between marijuana use and schizophrenia has been noted for decades, and the recent emergence of high-efficacy synthetic cannabinoids (SCBs) as drugs of abuse has lead to a growing number of clinical reports of persistent psychotic effects in users of these substances. The mechanisms underlying SCB-elicited pro-psychotic effects is unknown, but given the ubiquitous neuromodulatory functions of the endocannabinoid system, it seems likely that agonist actions at cannabinoid type-1 receptors (CB1Rs) might modulate the functions of other neurotransmitter systems known to be involved in schizophrenia. The present review surveys what is currently known about the interactions of CB1Rs with dopamine, serotonin, and glutamate systems, because all three of those neurotransmitters are well-established in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia and psychosis. Identification of molecular mechanisms underlying the pro-psychotic effects of SCB drugs of abuse may establish certain classes of these substances as particularly dangerous, guiding regulations to control availability of these drugs. Likewise, an understanding of the pharmacological interactions which lead to schizophrenia and psychosis subsequent to SCB exposure might guide the development of novel therapies to treat afflicted users.
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Affiliation(s)
- William E Fantegrossi
- a Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology , University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, College of Medicine , Little Rock , AR , USA
| | - Catheryn D Wilson
- a Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology , University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, College of Medicine , Little Rock , AR , USA
| | - Michael D Berquist
- a Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology , University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, College of Medicine , Little Rock , AR , USA
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22
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Tresa Zanda
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Liana Fattore
- Institute of Neuroscience-Cagliari, National Research Council of Italy, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, Monserrato, Italy
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23
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Banister SD, Olson A, Winchester M, Stuart J, Edington AR, Kevin RC, Longworth M, Herrera M, Connor M, McGregor IS, Gerona RR, Kassiou M. The chemistry and pharmacology of synthetic cannabinoid SDB-006 and its regioisomeric fluorinated and methoxylated analogs. Drug Test Anal 2018; 10:1099-1109. [PMID: 29350472 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2017] [Revised: 01/09/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids are the largest and most structurally diverse class of new psychoactive substances, with manufacturers often using isomerism to evade detection and circumvent legal restriction. The regioisomeric methoxy- and fluorine-substituted analogs of SDB-006 (N-benzyl-1-pentyl-1H-indole-3-carboxamide) were synthesized and could not be differentiated by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), but were distinguishable by liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight-MS (LC-QTOF-MS). In a fluorescence-based plate reader membrane potential assay, SDB-006 acted as a potent agonist at human cannabinoid receptors (CB1 EC50 = 19 nM). All methoxy- and fluorine-substituted analogs showed reduced potency compared to SDB-006, although the 2-fluorinated analog (EC50 = 166 nM) was comparable to known synthetic cannabinoid RCS-4 (EC50 = 146 nM). Using biotelemetry in rats, SDB-006 and RCS-4 evoked comparable reduction in body temperature (~0.7°C at a dose of 10 mg/kg), suggesting lower potency than the recent synthetic cannabinoid AB-CHMINACA (>2°C, 3 mg/kg).
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel D Banister
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Alexander Olson
- Clinical Toxicology and Environmental Biomonitoring Laboratory, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Matthew Winchester
- Clinical Toxicology and Environmental Biomonitoring Laboratory, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Jordyn Stuart
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Amelia R Edington
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Richard C Kevin
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Marco Herrera
- Department of Immunology, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Mark Connor
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Iain S McGregor
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Roy R Gerona
- Clinical Toxicology and Environmental Biomonitoring Laboratory, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Michael Kassiou
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Banister SD, Connor M. The Chemistry and Pharmacology of Synthetic Cannabinoid Receptor Agonist New Psychoactive Substances: Evolution. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2018; 252:191-226. [PMID: 30105473 DOI: 10.1007/164_2018_144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) are the largest and most structurally diverse class of new psychoactive substances (NPS). Although the earliest SCRA NPS were simply repurposed from historical academic manuscripts or pharmaceutical patents describing cannabinoid ligands, recent examples bear hallmarks of rational design. SCRA NPS manufacturers have applied traditional medicinal chemistry strategies (such as molecular hybridization, bioisosteric replacement, and scaffold hopping) to existing cannabinoid templates in order to generate new molecules that circumvent structure-based legislation. Most SCRAs potently activate cannabinoid type 1 and type 2 receptors (CB1 and CB2, respectively), with the former contributing to the psychoactivity of these substances. SCRAs are generally more toxic than the Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) found in cannabis, and this may be due to ligand bias, metabolism, or off-target activity. This chapter will chart the evolution of recently identified SCRA NPS chemotypes, as well as their putative manufacturing by-products and thermolytic degradants, and describe structure-activity relationships within each class.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel D Banister
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Mark Connor
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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25
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Marusich JA, Wiley JL, Lefever TW, Patel PR, Thomas BF. Finding order in chemical chaos - Continuing characterization of synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists. Neuropharmacology 2017; 134:73-81. [PMID: 29113898 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.10.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2017] [Revised: 10/11/2017] [Accepted: 10/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Diversion of synthetic cannabinoids from the lab to drugs of abuse has become increasingly prevalent in recent years. Moreover, as earlier synthetic cannabinoids were banned, manufacturers introduced a new supply of novel compounds to serve as replacements. Hence, the chemical diversity of synthetic cannabinoid analogs has also rapidly increased. The present study examined 8 new synthetic cannabinoids: AM-1220, AM-2232, AM-2233, AM-679, EAM-2201, JWH-210, JHW-251, and MAM-2201. Each compound was assessed for binding affinity and functional activation of CB1 and CB2 receptors, and pharmacological equivalence with Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in THC drug discrimination. All compounds bound to and activated CB1 and CB2 receptors, although efficacy at the CB2 receptor was reduced compared to that for the CB1 receptor. Similarly, all compounds stimulated [35S]GTPγS binding through the CB1 receptor, and all compounds except AM-1220 and AM-2233 stimulated [35S]GTPγS binding through the CB2 receptor. Furthermore, these compounds, along with CP55,940, substituted for THC in THC drug discrimination. Rank order of potency in drug discrimination was correlated with CB1 receptor binding affinity. Together, these results suggest that all test compounds share the THC-like subjective effects of marijuana. Interestingly, the most potent compounds in CB1 binding in the present study were also the compounds that have been found recently in the U.S., MAM-2201, EAM-2201, JWH-210, AM-2233, and AM-1220. These results indicate that the evolution of the synthetic cannabinoid drug market may be focused toward compounds with increased potency. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Designer Drugs and Legal Highs.'
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie A Marusich
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, United States
| | - Jenny L Wiley
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, United States
| | - Timothy W Lefever
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, United States
| | - Purvi R Patel
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, United States
| | - Brian F Thomas
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, United States.
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26
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Longworth M, Banister SD, Boyd R, Kevin RC, Connor M, McGregor IS, Kassiou M. Pharmacology of Cumyl-Carboxamide Synthetic Cannabinoid New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) CUMYL-BICA, CUMYL-PICA, CUMYL-5F-PICA, CUMYL-5F-PINACA, and Their Analogues. ACS Chem Neurosci 2017; 8:2159-2167. [PMID: 28792725 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.7b00267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids (SC) are the largest class of new psychoactive substances (NPS), and are increasingly associated with serious adverse effects. The majority of SC NPS are 1,3-disubstituted indoles and indazoles featuring a diversity of subunits at the 1- and 3-positions. Most recently, cumyl-derived indole- and indazole-3-carboxamides have been detected by law enforcement agencies and by emergency departments. Herein we describe the synthesis, characterization, and pharmacology of SCs CUMYL-BICA, CUMYL-PICA, CUMYL-5F-PICA, CUMYL-PINACA, CUMYL-5F-PINACA, and related analogues. All cumyl-derived SCs were potent, efficacious agonists at CB1 (EC50 = 0.43-12.3 nM) and CB2 (EC50 = 11.3-122 nM) receptors in a fluorometric assay of membrane potential, with selectivity for CB1 activation (3.1-53 times over CB2). CUMYL-PICA and CUMYL-5F-PICA were evaluated in rats using biotelemetry, and induced hypothermia and bradycardia at doses of 1 mg/kg. Hypothermia was reversed by pretreatment with a CB1, but not CB2, antagonist, confirming that cumyl-derived SCs are cannabimimetic in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell Longworth
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Samuel D. Banister
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Rochelle Boyd
- Department
of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Richard C. Kevin
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Mark Connor
- Department
of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Iain S. McGregor
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Michael Kassiou
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
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Armenian P, Darracq M, Gevorkyan J, Clark S, Kaye B, Brandehoff NP. Intoxication from the novel synthetic cannabinoids AB-PINACA and ADB-PINACA: A case series and review of the literature. Neuropharmacology 2017; 134:82-91. [PMID: 29037744 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2017] [Revised: 09/22/2017] [Accepted: 10/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids (SC), are a novel class of designer drugs which emerged as a drug of abuse in the late 2000's. We report a case series of 6 patients who may have smoked a synthetic cannabinoid product in a remote wilderness setting. They presented with varying degrees of altered mental status, agitation, and seizures. Two were confirmed to have AB-PINACA, ADB-PINACA and their respective pentanoic acid metabolites in biological specimens via liquid chromatography time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-TOF/MS). Both compounds had DEA Schedule I classification at the time of case presentation, and 22 SCs are currently temporary or permanent DEA Schedule I. More than 150 SCs are known to date, and new compounds are appearing at a rapid rate on darknet and surface web e-commerce websites, marketed as "research chemicals" or "legal highs." The scale and rapidity of SC evolution make legal control and analytical detection difficult. Nontargeted testing with liquid chromatography high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS), examining both parent compounds and metabolites, is the ideal method for novel SC identification and confirmation. Due to full agonism at the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2, clinical effects are more severe than marijuana, which is a partial cannabinoid receptor agonist. They include agitated delirium, lethargy and coma, seizures, tachycardia, hypertension, and hallucinations, among other findings. Treatment is primarily symptomatic and aimed at airway protection and control of agitation and seizures. SCs do not appear to be abating anytime soon and require the cooperation of law enforcement, analytical scientists, and clinicians to adequately control. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Designer Drugs and Legal Highs.'
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Affiliation(s)
- Patil Armenian
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California, San Francisco-Fresno. 155 N Fresno St., Fresno, CA 93701, USA.
| | - Michael Darracq
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California, San Francisco-Fresno. 155 N Fresno St., Fresno, CA 93701, USA.
| | - Jirair Gevorkyan
- Central Valley Toxicology, 1580 Tollhouse Rd, Clovis, CA 93611, USA.
| | - Shane Clark
- SkyLife Air Ambulance, 5526 E Aircorp Way, Fresno, CA 93727, USA.
| | - Bryan Kaye
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California, San Francisco-Fresno. 155 N Fresno St., Fresno, CA 93701, USA.
| | - Nicklaus P Brandehoff
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California, San Francisco-Fresno. 155 N Fresno St., Fresno, CA 93701, USA.
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Longworth M, Connor M, Banister SD, Kassiou M. Synthesis and Pharmacological Profiling of the Metabolites of Synthetic Cannabinoid Drugs APICA, STS-135, ADB-PINACA, and 5F-ADB-PINACA. ACS Chem Neurosci 2017; 8:1673-1680. [PMID: 28574245 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.7b00116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) containing a 1-pentyl-1-H substituted indole or indazole are abused around the world and are associated with an array of serious side effects. These compounds undergo extensive phase 1 metabolism after ingestion with little understanding whether these metabolites are contributing to the cannabimimetic activity of the drugs. This work presents the synthesis and pharmacological characterization of the major metabolites of two high concern SCs; APICA and ADB-PINACA. In a fluorometric assay of membrane potential, all metabolites that did not contain a carboxylic acid functionality retained potent activity at both the CB1 (EC50 = 14-787 nM) and CB2 (EC50 = 5.5-291 nM) receptors regardless of heterocyclic core or 3-carboxamide substituent. Of note were the 5-hydroxypentyl and 4-pentanone metabolites which showed significant increases in CB2 functional selectivity. These results suggest that the metabolites of SCs potentially contribute to the overall pharmacological profile of these drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell Longworth
- School
of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Mark Connor
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Samuel D. Banister
- Department
of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Michael Kassiou
- School
of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia
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29
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Hruba L, McMahon LR. Apparent Affinity Estimates and Reversal of the Effects of Synthetic Cannabinoids AM-2201, CP-47,497, JWH-122, and JWH-250 by Rimonabant in Rhesus Monkeys. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2017; 362:278-286. [PMID: 28533288 PMCID: PMC5502382 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.117.240572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2017] [Accepted: 05/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids have been prohibited due to abuse liability and toxicity. Four such synthetic cannabinoids, AM-2201 ([1-(5-fluoropentyl)indol-3-yl]-naphthalen-1-ylmethanone), CP-47,497 (2-[(1R,3S)-3-hydroxycyclohexyl]-5-(2-methyloctan-2-yl)phenol), JWH-122 [(4-methylnaphthalen-1-yl)-(1-pentylindol-3-yl)methanone], and JWH-250 [2-(2-methoxyphenyl)-1-(1-pentylindol-3-yl)ethanone], were tested for their capacity to produce CB1 receptor-mediated discriminative stimulus effects in two groups of rhesus monkeys. One group (n = 4) discriminated Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (∆9-THC; 0.1 mg/kg i.v.), and a second group (n = 4) discriminated the cannabinoid antagonist rimonabant (1 mg/kg i.v.) while receiving 1 mg/kg/12 hours of ∆9-THC. AM-2201, JWH-122, CP-47,497, JWH-250, and ∆9-THC increased ∆9-THC lever responding. Duration of action was 1-2 hours for AM-2201, JWH-122, and JWH-250 and 4-5 hours for CP-47,497 and ∆9-THC. Rimonabant (1 mg/kg) surmountably antagonized the discriminative stimulus effects of all cannabinoid agonists; the magnitude of rightward shift was 10.6-fold for AM-2201, 10.7-fold for JWH-122, 11.0-fold for CP-47,497, and 15.7-fold for JWH-250. The respective pKB values were not significantly different: 6.61, 6.65, 6.66, and 6.83. In ∆9-THC-treated monkeys discriminating rimonabant, AM-2201 (0.1 and 0.32 mg/kg), JWH-122 (0.32 and 1 mg/kg), JWH-250 (1 and 3.2 mg/kg), and CP-47,497 (0.32, 1, and 3.2 mg/kg) produced not only rate-decreasing effects that were reversed by rimonabant, but also dose-dependent, rightward shifts in the rimonabant discrimination dose-effect function. These results show striking similarity in the CB1 receptor mechanism mediating the subjective effects of AM-2201, JWH-122, JWH-250, and CP-47,497. For products containing AM-2201 and JWH-122, a short duration of action could lead to more frequent use; moreover, inattention to differences in potency among synthetic cannabinoids could underlie unexpected toxicity. Rapid reversal of effects by intravenous rimonabant has potential value in emergency situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lenka Hruba
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Lance R McMahon
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
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Ford BM, Tai S, Fantegrossi WE, Prather PL. Synthetic Pot: Not Your Grandfather's Marijuana. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2017; 38:257-276. [PMID: 28162792 PMCID: PMC5329767 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2016.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2016] [Revised: 11/08/2016] [Accepted: 12/13/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
In the early 2000s in Europe and shortly thereafter in the USA, it was reported that 'legal' forms of marijuana were being sold under the name K2 and/or Spice. Active ingredients in K2/Spice products were determined to be synthetic cannabinoids (SCBs), producing psychotropic actions via CB1 cannabinoid receptors, similar to those of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), the primary active constituent in marijuana. Often abused by adolescents and military personnel to elude detection in drug tests due to their lack of structural similarity to Δ9-THC, SCBs are falsely marketed as safe marijuana substitutes. Instead, SCBs are a highly structural diverse group of compounds, easily synthesized, which produce very dangerous adverse effects occurring by, as of yet, unknown mechanisms. Therefore, available evidence indicates that K2/Spice products are clearly not safe marijuana alternatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin M Ford
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Sherrica Tai
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA; Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - William E Fantegrossi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Paul L Prather
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA.
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31
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Järbe TUC, Raghav JG. Tripping with Synthetic Cannabinoids ("Spice"): Anecdotal and Experimental Observations in Animals and Man. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2017; 32:263-281. [PMID: 27753006 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2016_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The phenomenon of consuming synthetic cannabinoids ("Spice") for recreational purposes is a fairly recent trend. However, consumption of cannabis dates back millennia, with numerous accounts written on the experience of its consumption, and thousands of scientific reports published on the effects of its constituents in laboratory animals and humans. Here, we focus on consolidating the scientific literature on the effects of "Spice" compounds in various behavioral assays, including assessing abuse liability, tolerance, dependence, withdrawal, and potential toxicity. In most cases, the behavioral effects of "Spice" compounds are compared with those of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol. Methodological aspects, such as modes of administration and other logistical issues, are also discussed. As the original "Spice" molecules never were intended for human consumption, scientifically based information about potential toxicity and short- and long-term behavioral effects are very limited. Consequently, preclinical behavioral studies with "Spice" compounds are still in a nascent stage. Research is needed to address the addiction potential and other effects, including propensity for producing tissue/organ toxicity, of these synthetic cannabimimetic "Spice" compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Torbjörn U C Järbe
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Center for Drug Discovery (CDD), Northeastern University, 116 Mugar Hall, 360 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| | - Jimit Girish Raghav
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Center for Drug Discovery (CDD), Northeastern University, 116 Mugar Hall, 360 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
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Weinstein AM, Rosca P, Fattore L, London ED. Synthetic Cathinone and Cannabinoid Designer Drugs Pose a Major Risk for Public Health. Front Psychiatry 2017; 8:156. [PMID: 28878698 PMCID: PMC5572353 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2017.00156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2017] [Accepted: 08/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
As part of an increasing worldwide use of designer drugs, recent use of compounds containing cathinones and synthetic cannabinoids is especially prevalent. Here, we reviewed current literature on the prevalence, epidemiology, bio-behavioral effects, and detection of these compounds. Gender differences and clinical effects will also be examined. Chronic use of synthetic cathinone compounds can have major effects on the central nervous system and can induce acute psychosis, hypomania, paranoid ideation, and delusions, similar to the effects of other better-known amphetamine-type stimulants. Synthetic cannabinoid products have effects that are somewhat similar to those of natural cannabis but more potent and long-lasting than THC. Some of these compounds are potent and dangerous, having been linked to psychosis, mania, and suicidal ideation. Novel compounds are developed rapidly and new screening techniques are needed to detect them as well as a rigorous regulation and legislation reinforcement to prevent their distribution and use. Given the rapid increase in the use of synthetic cathinones and cannabinoid designer drugs, their potential for dependence and abuse, and harmful medical and psychiatric effects, there is a need for research and education in the areas of prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aviv M Weinstein
- Department of Behavioral Science, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Paola Rosca
- Department for the Treatment of Substance Abuse, Ministry of Health, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Liana Fattore
- Institute of Neuroscience-Cagliari, National Research Council of Italy, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Edythe D London
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Brain Research Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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