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Cresswell O, Blankenship K, Kaplan BLF. Development of an in vitro peptide-stimulated T cell assay to evaluate immune effects by cannabinoid compounds. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 129:111654. [PMID: 38335658 PMCID: PMC10903979 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.111654] [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: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Previous studies demonstrated that cannabinoids exhibit immunosuppressive effects in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), the animal model of multiple sclerosis (MS). To ask questions about treatment timing and investigate mechanisms for immune suppression by the plant-derived cannabinoids, cannabidiol (CBD) and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), an in vitro peptide stimulation of naive splenocytes (SPLC) was developed to mimic T cell activation in EAE. The peptide was derived from the myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) protein, which is one component of the myelin sheath. MOG peptide is typically used with an immune adjuvant to trigger MOG-reactive T cells that attack MOG-containing tissues, causing demyelination and clinical disease in EAE. To develop the in vitro model, naïve SPLC were stimulated with MOG peptide on day 0 and restimulated on day 4. Cytokine analyses revealed that CBD and THC suppressed MOG peptide-stimulated cytokine production. Flow cytometric analysis showed that intracellular cytokines could be detected in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. To determine if intracellular calcium was altered in the cultures, cells were stimulated for 4 days to assess the state of the cells at the time of MOG peptide restimulation. Both cannabinoid-treated cultures had a smaller population of the calcium-positive population as compared to vehicle-treated cells. These results demonstrate the establishment of an in vitro model that can be used to mimic MOG-reactive T cell stimulation in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Cresswell
- Center for Environmental Health Sciences, Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississippi State University, MS, United States
| | - Karis Blankenship
- Center for Environmental Health Sciences, Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississippi State University, MS, United States
| | - Barbara L F Kaplan
- Center for Environmental Health Sciences, Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississippi State University, MS, United States.
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2
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Jaspers I, Love CA. Weed, sex and influenza. ERJ Open Res 2023; 9:00619-2023. [PMID: 38020565 PMCID: PMC10680031 DOI: 10.1183/23120541.00619-2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The study by Miladet al. presents data addressing how inhalation of cannabis smoke affects influenza infections in mice, and uncovers responses that are different in male and female mice https://bit.ly/46qpTis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilona Jaspers
- Center for Environmental Medicine, Asthma, and Lung Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Charlotte A. Love
- Curriculum in Toxicology and Environmental Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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3
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Chang JY, Balch C, Puccio J, Oh HS. A Narrative Review of Alternative Symptomatic Treatments for Herpes Simplex Virus. Viruses 2023; 15:1314. [PMID: 37376614 DOI: 10.3390/v15061314] [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: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1) and -2 (HSV-2) are large, spherically shaped, double-stranded DNA viruses that coevolved with Homo sapiens for over 300,000 years, having developed numerous immunoevasive mechanisms to survive the lifetime of their human host. Although in the continued absence of an acceptable prophylactic and therapeutic vaccine, approved pharmacologics (e.g., nucleoside analogs) hold benefit against viral outbreaks, while resistance and toxicity limit their universal application. Against these shortcomings, there is a long history of proven and unproven home remedies. With the breadth of purported alternative therapies, patients are exposed to risk of harm without proper information. Here, we examined the shortcomings of the current gold standard HSV therapy, acyclovir, and described several natural products that demonstrated promise in controlling HSV infection, including lemon balm, lysine, propolis, vitamin E, and zinc, while arginine, cannabis, and many other recreational drugs are detrimental. Based on this literature, we offered recommendations regarding the use of such natural products and their further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Y Chang
- Ascendant Biotech Inc., Foster City, CA 94404, USA
| | - Curt Balch
- Bioscience Advising, Ann Arbor, MI 48103, USA
| | - Joseph Puccio
- Department of Pediatrics, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
| | - Hyung S Oh
- Department of Microbiology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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Multi-Target Effects of ß-Caryophyllene and Carnosic Acid at the Crossroads of Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Neurodegeneration: From Oxidative Stress to Microglia-Mediated Neuroinflammation. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11061199. [PMID: 35740096 PMCID: PMC9220155 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11061199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammation and oxidative stress are interlinked and interdependent processes involved in many chronic diseases, including neurodegeneration, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. Therefore, targeting inflammatory pathways may represent a potential therapeutic strategy. Emerging evidence indicates that many phytochemicals extracted from edible plants have the potential to ameliorate the disease phenotypes. In this scenario, ß-caryophyllene (BCP), a bicyclic sesquiterpene, and carnosic acid (CA), an ortho-diphenolic diterpene, were demonstrated to exhibit anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities, as well as neuroprotective and mitoprotective effects in different in vitro and in vivo models. BCP essentially promotes its effects by acting as a selective agonist and allosteric modulator of cannabinoid type-2 receptor (CB2R). CA is a pro-electrophilic compound that, in response to oxidation, is converted to its electrophilic form. This can interact and activate the Keap1/Nrf2/ARE transcription pathway, triggering the synthesis of endogenous antioxidant “phase 2” enzymes. However, given the nature of its chemical structure, CA also exhibits direct antioxidant effects. BCP and CA can readily cross the BBB and accumulate in brain regions, giving rise to neuroprotective effects by preventing mitochondrial dysfunction and inhibiting activated microglia, substantially through the activation of pro-survival signalling pathways, including regulation of apoptosis and autophagy, and molecular mechanisms related to mitochondrial quality control. Findings from different in vitro/in vivo experimental models of Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease reported the beneficial effects of both compounds, suggesting that their use in treatments may be a promising strategy in the management of neurodegenerative diseases aimed at maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis and ameliorating glia-mediated neuroinflammation.
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Lowin T, Kok C, Smutny S, Pongratz G. Impact of Δ 9-Tetrahydrocannabinol on Rheumatoid Arthritis Synovial Fibroblasts Alone and in Co-Culture with Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells. Biomedicines 2022; 10:1118. [PMID: 35625855 PMCID: PMC9138512 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10051118] [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: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) has demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects in animal models of arthritis, but its mechanism of action and cellular targets are still unclear. The purpose of this study is to elucidate the effects of THC (0.1-25 µM) on synovial fibroblasts from patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RASF) and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from healthy donors in respect to proliferation, calcium mobilization, drug uptake, cytokine and immunoglobulin production. Intracellular calcium and drug uptake were determined by fluorescent dyes Cal-520 and PoPo3, respectively. Cytokine and immunoglobulin production were evaluated by ELISA. Cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2 (CB1 and CB2) were detected by flow cytometry. RASF express CB1 and CB2 and the latter was increased by tumor necrosis factor (TNF). In RASF, THC (≥5 µM) increased intracellular calcium levels/PoPo3 uptake in a TRPA1-dependent manner and reduced interleukin-8 (IL-8) and matrix metalloprotease 3 (MMP-3) production at high concentrations (25 µM). Proliferation was slightly enhanced at intermediate THC concentrations (1-10 µM) but was completely abrogated at 25 µM. In PBMC alone, THC decreased interleukin-10 (IL-10) production and increased immunoglobulin G (IgG). In PBMC/RASF co-culture, THC decreased TNF production when cells were stimulated with interferon-γ (IFN-γ) or CpG. THC provides pro- and anti-inflammatory effects in RASF and PBMC. This is dependent on the activating stimulus and concentration of THC. Therefore, THC might be used to treat inflammation in RA but it might need titrating to determine the effective concentration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Torsten Lowin
- Poliklinik, Funktionsbereich & Hiller Forschungszentrum für Rheumatologie, University Hospital Duesseldorf, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany; (C.K.); (S.S.); (G.P.)
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Khoury M, Cohen I, Bar-Sela G. “The Two Sides of the Same Coin”—Medical Cannabis, Cannabinoids and Immunity: Pros and Cons Explained. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14020389. [PMID: 35214123 PMCID: PMC8877666 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14020389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis, as a natural medicinal remedy, has long been used for palliative treatment to alleviate the side effects caused by diseases. Cannabis-based products isolated from plant extracts exhibit potent immunoregulatory properties, reducing chronic inflammatory processes and providing much needed pain relief. They are a proven effective solution for treatment-based side effects, easing the resulting symptoms of the disease. However, we discuss the fact that cannabis use may promote the progression of a range of malignancies, interfere with anti-cancer immunotherapy, or increase susceptibility to viral infections and transmission. Most cannabis preparations or isolated active components cause an overall potent immunosuppressive impact among users, posing a considerable hazard to patients with suppressed or compromised immune systems. In this review, current knowledge and perceptions of cannabis or cannabinoids and their impact on various immune-system components will be discussed as the “two sides of the same coin” or “double-edged sword”, referring to something that can have both favorable and unfavorable consequences. We propose that much is still unknown about adverse reactions to its use, and its integration with medical treatment should be conducted cautiously with consideration of the individual patient, effector cells, microenvironment, and the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Khoury
- Cancer Center, Emek Medical Center, 21 Yitzhak Rabin Blvd, Afula 1834111, Israel; (M.K.); (I.C.)
- Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3200002, Israel
| | - Idan Cohen
- Cancer Center, Emek Medical Center, 21 Yitzhak Rabin Blvd, Afula 1834111, Israel; (M.K.); (I.C.)
| | - Gil Bar-Sela
- Cancer Center, Emek Medical Center, 21 Yitzhak Rabin Blvd, Afula 1834111, Israel; (M.K.); (I.C.)
- Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3200002, Israel
- Oncology & Hematology Division, Emek Medical Center, Yitshak Rabin Boulevard 21, Afula 1834111, Israel
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +972-4-6495725; Fax: +972-4-6163992
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Laudanski K, Wain J. Considerations for Cannabinoids in Perioperative Care by Anesthesiologists. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11030558. [PMID: 35160010 PMCID: PMC8836924 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11030558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Increased usage of recreational and medically indicated cannabinoid compounds has been an undeniable reality for anesthesiologists in recent years. These compounds’ complicated pharmacology, composition, and biological effects result in challenging issues for anesthesiologists during different phases of perioperative care. Here, we review the existing formulation of cannabinoids and their biological activity to put them into the context of the anesthesia plan execution. Perioperative considerations should include a way to gauge the patient’s intake of cannabinoids, the ability to gain consent properly, and vigilance to the increased risk of pulmonary and airway problems. Intraoperative management in individuals with cannabinoid use is complicated by the effects cannabinoids have on general anesthetics and depth of anesthesia monitoring while simultaneously increasing the potential occurrence of intraoperative hemodynamic instability. Postoperative planning should involve higher vigilance to the risk of postoperative strokes and acute coronary syndromes. However, most of the data are not up to date, rending definite conclusions on the importance of perioperative cannabinoid intake on anesthesia management difficult.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krzysztof Laudanski
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Correspondence: (K.L.); (J.W.)
| | - Justin Wain
- School of Osteopathic Medicine, Campbell University, Buies Creek, NC 27506, USA
- Correspondence: (K.L.); (J.W.)
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Cannabinoid Type-2 Receptor Agonist, JWH133 May Be a Possible Candidate for Targeting Infection, Inflammation, and Immunity in COVID-19. IMMUNO 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/immuno1030020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, is a deadly disease affecting millions due to the non-availability of drugs and vaccines. The majority of COVID-19 drugs have been repurposed based on antiviral, immunomodulatory, and antibiotic potential. The pathogenesis and advanced complications with infection involve the immune-inflammatory cascade. Therefore, a therapeutic strategy could reduce infectivity, inflammation, and immune modulation. In recent years, modulating the endocannabinoid system, particularly activation of the cannabinoid type 2 (CB2) receptor is a promising therapeutic target for modulation of immune-inflammatory responses. JWH133, a selective, full functional agonist of the CB2 receptor, has been extensively studied for its potent anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and immunomodulatory properties. JWH133 modulates numerous signaling pathways and inhibits inflammatory mediators, including cytokines, chemokines, adhesion molecules, prostanoids, and eicosanoids. In this study, we propose that JWH133 could be a promising candidate for targeting infection, immunity, and inflammation in COVID-19, due to its pharmacological and molecular mechanisms in numerous preclinical efficacy and safety studies, along with its immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, organoprotective, and antiviral properties. Thus, JWH133 should be investigated in preclinical and clinical studies for its potential as an agent or adjuvant with other agents for its effect on viremia, infectivity, immune modulation, resolution of inflammation, reduction in severity, and progression of complications in COVID-19. JWH133 is devoid of psychotropic effects due to CB2 receptor selectivity, has negligible toxicity, good bioavailability and druggable properties, including pharmacokinetic and physicochemical effects. We believe that JWH133 could be a promising drug and may inspire further studies for an evidence-based approach against COVID-19.
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9
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Jha NK, Sharma C, Hashiesh HM, Arunachalam S, Meeran MN, Javed H, Patil CR, Goyal SN, Ojha S. β-Caryophyllene, A Natural Dietary CB2 Receptor Selective Cannabinoid can be a Candidate to Target the Trinity of Infection, Immunity, and Inflammation in COVID-19. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:590201. [PMID: 34054510 PMCID: PMC8163236 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.590201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19), caused by novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is an ongoing pandemic and presents a public health emergency. It has affected millions of people and continues to affect more, despite tremendous social preventive measures. Identifying candidate drugs for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 is crucial. The pathogenesis and the complications with advanced infection mainly involve an immune-inflammatory cascade. Therefore, therapeutic strategy relies on suppressing infectivity and inflammation, along with immune modulation. One of the most promising therapeutic targets for the modulation of immune-inflammatory responses is the endocannabinoid system, particularly the activation of cannabinoid type 2 receptors (CB2R), a G-protein coupled receptor which mediates the anti-inflammatory properties by modulating numerous signaling pathways. To pharmacologically activate the CB2 receptors, a naturally occurring cannabinoid ligand, beta-caryophyllene (BCP), received attention due to its potent anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and immunomodulatory properties. BCP is recognized as a full selective functional agonist on CB2 receptors and produces therapeutic effects by activating CB2 and the nuclear receptors, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs). BCP is regarded as the first dietary cannabinoid with abundant presence across cannabis and non-cannabis plants, including spices and other edible plants. BCP showed tissue protective properties and favorably modulates numerous signaling pathways and inhibits inflammatory mediators, including cytokines, chemokines, adhesion molecules, prostanoids, and eicosanoids. Based on its pharmacological properties, molecular mechanisms, and the therapeutic potential of BCP as an immunomodulator, anti-inflammatory, organ-protective, and antiviral, we hypothesize that BCP could be a promising therapeutic and/or preventive candidate to target the triad of infection, immunity, and inflammation in COVID-19. In line with numerous studies that proposed the potential of cannabinoids in COVID-19, BCP may be a novel candidate compound for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical development due to its unique functional receptor selectivity, wide availability and accessibility, dietary bioavailability, nonpsychoactivity, and negligible toxicity along with druggable properties, including favorable pharmacokinetic and physicochemical properties. Based on reasonable pharmacological mechanisms and therapeutic properties, we speculate that BCP has potential to be investigated against COVID-19 and will inspire further preclinical and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niraj Kumar Jha
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Engineering & Technology (SET), Sharda University, Greater Noida, India
| | - Charu Sharma
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hebaallah Mamdouh Hashiesh
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Seenipandi Arunachalam
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mf Nagoor Meeran
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hayate Javed
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Chandragouda R Patil
- Department of Pharmacology, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, New Delhi, India
| | - Sameer N Goyal
- Shri Vile Parle Kelvani Mandal's Institute of Pharmacy, Dhule, India
| | - Shreesh Ojha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Nagoor Meeran M, Javed H, Sharma C, Goyal SN, Kumar S, Jha NK, Ojha S. Can Echinacea be a potential candidate to target immunity, inflammation, and infection - The trinity of coronavirus disease 2019. Heliyon 2021; 7:e05990. [PMID: 33585706 PMCID: PMC7870107 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e05990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is an ongoing public health emergency. The pathogenesis and complications advanced with infection mainly involve immune-inflammatory cascade. Therefore, the therapeutic strategy relies on immune modulation, reducing infectivity and inflammation. Given the interplay of infection and immune-inflammatory axis, the natural products received attention for preventive and therapeutic usage in COVID-19 due to their potent antiviral and anti-immunomodulatory activities. Recently, Echinacea preparations, particularly E. purpurea, have been suggested to be an important antiviral agent to be useful in COVID-19 by modulating virus entry, internalization and replication. In principle, the immune response and the resultant inflammatory process are important for the elimination of the infection, but may have a significant impact on SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis and may play a role in the clinical spectrum of COVID-19. Considering the pharmacological effects, therapeutic potential, and molecular mechanisms of Echinacea, we hypothesize that it could be a reasonably possible candidate for targeting infection, immunity, and inflammation in COVID-19 with recent recognition of cannabinoid-2 (CB2) receptors and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) mediated mechanisms of bioactive components that make them notable immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory and antiviral agent. The plausible reason for our hypothesis is that the presence of numerous bioactive agents in different parts of plants that may synergistically exert polypharmacological actions in regulating immune-inflammatory axis in COVID-19. Our proposition is to scientifically contemplate the therapeutic perspective and prospect of Echinacea on infection, immunity, and inflammation with a potential in COVID-19 to limit the severity and progression of the disease. Based on the clinical usage for respiratory infections, and relative safety in humans, further studies for the evidence-based approach to COVID-19 are needed. We do hope that Echinacea could be a candidate agent for immunomodulation in the prevention and treatment of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- M.F. Nagoor Meeran
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, PO Box - 17666, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hayate Javed
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, PO Box - 17666, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Charu Sharma
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, PO Box - 17666, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Sameer N. Goyal
- Shri Vile Parle Kelvani Mandal's Institute of Pharmacy, Dhule 424001, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sanjay Kumar
- Division of Hematology/Nephrology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St. SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Basic Science and Research, Sharda University, Knowledge Park III, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh 201310, India
| | - Niraj Kumar Jha
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Engineering & Technology (SET), Sharda University, Knowledge Park III, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh 201310, India
| | - Shreesh Ojha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, PO Box - 17666, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Henriquez JE, Bach AP, Matos-Fernandez KM, Crawford RB, Kaminski NE. Δ 9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) Impairs CD8 + T Cell-Mediated Activation of Astrocytes. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2020; 15:863-874. [PMID: 32215844 PMCID: PMC7529688 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-020-09912-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
CD8+ T cells can contribute to neuroinflammation by secretion of inflammatory cytokines like interferon γ (IFNγ) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα). Astrocytes, a glial cell in the brain, can be stimulated by IFNγ and TNFα to secrete the inflammatory cytokines, monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP-1), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and interferon-γ inducible protein 10 (IP-10). Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive cannabinoid in Cannabis sativa, possesses potent anti-inflammatory activity. The objective of this investigation was to assess the effects of THC treatment on CD8+ T cell-mediated activation of astrocytes. CD3/CD28/IFNα- stimulated CD8+ T cells were treated with vehicle (0.03% EtOH) or THC and cocultured with U251 astrocytes. IP-10+, MCP-1+, and IL-6+ astrocytes were quantified by flow cytometry. LegendPlex™ was used to measure cytokine secretion by CD8+ T cells and flow cytometry was employed to quantify IFNγ, TNFα, and lysosomal-associated membrane protein 1 (LAMP-1) expression. Recombinant TNFα and IFNγ were used to stimulate MCP-1, IP-10, IL-6 responses in U251 astrocytes, which were measured by flow cytometry. Treatment with THC reduced CD8+ T cell-mediated induction of IP-10 and IL-6 responses in U251 astrocytes but had no effect on MCP-1. THC treatment differentially affected T cell effector functions such that IFNγ and degranulation responses were sensitive to THC-mediated ablation while TNFα was not. Lastly, THC treatment reduced the IFNγ-induced IP-10 response but had no effect on TNFα-induced MCP-1 response in U251 astrocytes. The results suggest that cannabinoid treatment can selectively reduce certain CD8+ T cell responses that contribute to stimulation of astrocytes. Graphical Abstract Treatment with THC can abate CD8+ T cell-dependent neuroinflammatory processes by inhibiting CD8+ cell differentiation into effector cells, suppressing CD8+ effector cell function, and reducing activation of astrocytes by CD8+ T cell-derived inflammatory cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph E Henriquez
- Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, East Lansing, MI, USA
- Institute for Integrative Toxicology, Michigan State University, 1129 Farm Lane, Rm 165G, Food Safety and Toxicology Building, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Anthony P Bach
- Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
- Center for Research on Ingredient Safety, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | | | - Robert B Crawford
- Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
- Institute for Integrative Toxicology, Michigan State University, 1129 Farm Lane, Rm 165G, Food Safety and Toxicology Building, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Norbert E Kaminski
- Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA.
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, East Lansing, MI, USA.
- Institute for Integrative Toxicology, Michigan State University, 1129 Farm Lane, Rm 165G, Food Safety and Toxicology Building, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA.
- Center for Research on Ingredient Safety, East Lansing, MI, USA.
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Cannabinoid Receptor Type 2: A Possible Target in SARS-CoV-2 (CoV-19) Infection? Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21113809. [PMID: 32471272 PMCID: PMC7312493 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21113809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In late December 2019, a novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2 or CoV-19) appeared in Wuhan, China, causing a global pandemic. SARS-CoV-2 causes mild to severe respiratory tract inflammation, often developing into lung fibrosis with thrombosis in pulmonary small vessels and causing even death. COronaVIrus Disease (COVID-19) patients manifest exacerbated inflammatory and immune responses, cytokine storm, prevalence of pro-inflammatory M1 macrophages and increased levels of resident and circulating immune cells. Men show higher susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection than women, likely due to estrogens production. The protective role of estrogens, as well as an immune-suppressive activity that limits the excessive inflammation, can be mediated by cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2). The role of this receptor in modulating inflammation and immune response is well documented in fact in several settings. The stimulation of CB2 receptors is known to limit the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, shift the macrophage phenotype towards the anti-inflammatory M2 type and enhance the immune-modulating properties of mesenchymal stromal cells. For these reasons, we hypothesize that CB2 receptor can be a therapeutic target in COVID-19 pandemic emergency.
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13
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Kovalchuk O, Kovalchuk I. Cannabinoids as anticancer therapeutic agents. Cell Cycle 2020; 19:961-989. [PMID: 32249682 PMCID: PMC7217364 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2020.1742952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2019] [Revised: 02/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The recent announcement of marijuana legalization in Canada spiked many discussions about potential health benefits of Cannabis sativa. Cannabinoids are active chemical compounds produced by cannabis, and their numerous effects on the human body are primarily exerted through interactions with cannabinoid receptor types 1 (CB1) and 2 (CB2). Cannabinoids are broadly classified as endo-, phyto-, and synthetic cannabinoids. In this review, we will describe the activity of cannabinoids on the cellular level, comprehensively summarize the activity of all groups of cannabinoids on various cancers and propose several potential mechanisms of action of cannabinoids on cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Kovalchuk
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
- Pathway Rx Inc., Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
| | - Igor Kovalchuk
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
- Pathway Rx Inc., Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
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14
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Abstract
Introduction: Cannabidiol (CBD) as Epidiolex® (GW Pharmaceuticals) was recently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat rare forms of epilepsy in patients 2 years of age and older. Together with the increased societal acceptance of recreational cannabis and CBD oil for putative medical use in many states, the exposure to CBD is increasing, even though all of its biological effects are not understood. Once such example is the ability of CBD to be anti-inflammatory and immune suppressive, so the purpose of this review is to summarize effects and mechanisms of CBD in the immune system. It includes a consideration of reports identifying receptors through which CBD acts, since the “CBD receptor,” if a single one exists, has not been definitively identified for the myriad immune system effects. The review then provides a summary of in vivo and in vitro effects in the immune system, in autoimmune models, with a focus on experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, and ends with identification of knowledge gaps. Conclusion: Overall, the data overwhelmingly support the notion that CBD is immune suppressive and that the mechanisms involve direct suppression of activation of various immune cell types, induction of apoptosis, and promotion of regulatory cells, which, in turn, control other immune cell targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- James M Nichols
- Department of Basic Sciences, Center for Environmental Health Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, Mississippi
| | - Barbara L F Kaplan
- Department of Basic Sciences, Center for Environmental Health Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, Mississippi
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15
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Rizzo MD, Crawford RB, Bach A, Sermet S, Amalfitano A, Kaminski NE. Δ 9-Tetrahydrocannabinol Suppresses Monocyte-Mediated Astrocyte Production of Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein 1 and Interleukin-6 in a Toll-Like Receptor 7-Stimulated Human Coculture. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2019; 371:191-201. [PMID: 31383729 PMCID: PMC7184191 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.119.260661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis is widely used in the United States, with an estimated prevalence of 9.5%. Certain cannabinoids in Cannabis sativa, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in particular, possess immune-modulating and anti-inflammatory activity. Depending on the context, the anti-inflammatory activity of cannabinoids may be beneficial (e.g., in treating inflammatory diseases) or detrimental to normal immune defense against pathogens. The potential beneficial effect of cannabinoids on chronic neuroinflammation has gained recent attention. Monocyte migration to the brain has been implicated as a key event in chronic neuroinflammation and in the etiology of central nervous system diseases including viral infection (e.g., human immunodeficiency virus-associated neurocognitive disorder). In the brain, monocytes can contribute to neuroinflammation through interactions with astrocytes, including inducing astrocyte secretion of cytokines and chemokines. In a human coculture system, monocyte-derived interleukin (IL)-1β due to Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) activation has been identified to promote astrocyte production of monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1 and IL-6. THC treatment of the TLR7-stimulated coculture suppressed monocyte secretion of IL-1β, resulting in decreased astrocyte production of MCP-1 and IL-6. Furthermore, THC displayed direct inhibition of monocytes, as TLR7-stimulated monocyte monocultures treated with THC also showed suppressed IL-1β production. The cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) agonist, JWH-015, impaired monocyte IL-1β production similar to that of THC, suggesting that THC acts, in part, through CB2. THC also suppressed key elements of the IL-1β production pathway, including IL1B mRNA levels and caspase-1 activity. Collectively, this study demonstrates that the anti-inflammatory properties of THC suppress TLR7-induced monocyte secretion of IL-1β through CB2, which results in decreased astrocyte secretion of MCP-1 and IL-6. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Because cannabis use is highly prevalent in the United States and has putative anti-inflammatory properties, it is important to investigate the effect of cannabinoids on immune cell function. Furthermore, cannabinoids have garnered particular interest due to their potential beneficial effects on attenuating viral-induced chronic neuroinflammation. This study utilized a primary human coculture system to demonstrate that the major psychotropic cannabinoid in cannabis, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, and a cannabinoid receptor-2 selective agonist suppress specific monocyte-mediated astrocyte inflammatory responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D Rizzo
- Cell and Molecular Biology Program (M.D.R.), Institute for Integrative Toxicology (M.D.R., R.B.C., N.E.K.), Center for Research on Ingredient Safety (A.B., N.E.K.), and Departments of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics (A.A.), Osteopathic Medicine (A.A.), and Pharmacology and Toxicology (S.S., N.E.K.), Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan
| | - Robert B Crawford
- Cell and Molecular Biology Program (M.D.R.), Institute for Integrative Toxicology (M.D.R., R.B.C., N.E.K.), Center for Research on Ingredient Safety (A.B., N.E.K.), and Departments of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics (A.A.), Osteopathic Medicine (A.A.), and Pharmacology and Toxicology (S.S., N.E.K.), Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan
| | - Anthony Bach
- Cell and Molecular Biology Program (M.D.R.), Institute for Integrative Toxicology (M.D.R., R.B.C., N.E.K.), Center for Research on Ingredient Safety (A.B., N.E.K.), and Departments of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics (A.A.), Osteopathic Medicine (A.A.), and Pharmacology and Toxicology (S.S., N.E.K.), Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan
| | - Sera Sermet
- Cell and Molecular Biology Program (M.D.R.), Institute for Integrative Toxicology (M.D.R., R.B.C., N.E.K.), Center for Research on Ingredient Safety (A.B., N.E.K.), and Departments of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics (A.A.), Osteopathic Medicine (A.A.), and Pharmacology and Toxicology (S.S., N.E.K.), Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan
| | - Andrea Amalfitano
- Cell and Molecular Biology Program (M.D.R.), Institute for Integrative Toxicology (M.D.R., R.B.C., N.E.K.), Center for Research on Ingredient Safety (A.B., N.E.K.), and Departments of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics (A.A.), Osteopathic Medicine (A.A.), and Pharmacology and Toxicology (S.S., N.E.K.), Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan
| | - Norbert E Kaminski
- Cell and Molecular Biology Program (M.D.R.), Institute for Integrative Toxicology (M.D.R., R.B.C., N.E.K.), Center for Research on Ingredient Safety (A.B., N.E.K.), and Departments of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics (A.A.), Osteopathic Medicine (A.A.), and Pharmacology and Toxicology (S.S., N.E.K.), Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan
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Suppression of CpG-ODN-mediated IFNα and TNFα response in human plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDC) by cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2)-specific agonists. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2019; 369:82-89. [PMID: 30807757 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2019.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2018] [Revised: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDC) compose 0.2-0.5% of circulating leukocytes but play a significant role in mounting host immune responses. Elevated and chronic activation of pDC are implicated in autoimmune disease like systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis. Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is a well characterized cannabinoid with potent anti-inflammatory activity, but acceptance of THC as a treatment for autoimmune disorders has been hindered due to psychotropic activity. The psychotropic effects of THC are mediated through cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) expressed in the central nervous system while the immunomodulatory effects of THC result from THC binding to CB1 and CB2 on immune cells. Synthetic CB2-selective agonists have been developed to explore immune modulation by cannabinoids in the absence of psychotropic effects. The goal of these studies was to determine if the CB2-selective agonists, JWH-015 and JWH-133, have comparable efficacy to THC in modulating IFNα and TNFα responses by primary human pDC. Treatment with JWH-133 and JWH-015 inhibited CpG-induced IFNα and TNFα responses by pDC. Further, the phosphorylation of IRF7, TBK1, NFκB, and IKKγ, key events in pDC activation, were suppressed by THC, JWH-133, and JWH-015. Likewise, the phosphorylation of AKT at the S473 and T308 residues were differentially modulated by treatment with THC and both JWH compounds. Collectively, these results demonstrate the potential for CB2 targeted therapeutics for treatment of inflammatory conditions involving aberrant pDC activity.
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Effects of Cannabinoids on T-cell Function and Resistance to Infection. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2015; 10:204-16. [PMID: 25876735 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-015-9603-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2015] [Accepted: 03/13/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
This review examines the effects of cannabinoids on immune function, with a focus on effects on T-cells, as well as on resistance to infection. The paper considers the immune modulating capacity of marijuana, of ∆(9)-THC extracted from the marijuana plant, and synthetic cannabinoids. Of particular interest are synthetic compounds that are CB2 receptor (CB2R) selective agonists. As the CB2R is principally expressed on cells of the immune system, agonists that target this receptor, and not CB1 (which is mainly expressed on neurons), have the possibility of altering immune function without psychoactive effects. The overall conclusion of the studies discussed in this review is that cannabinoids that bind to the CB2 receptor, including ∆(9)-THC and CB2 selective agonists are immunosuppressive. The studies provide objective evidence for potentially beneficial effects of marijuana and ∆(9)-THC on the immune system in conditions where it is desirable to dampen immune responses. Evidence is also reviewed supporting the conclusion that these same compounds can sensitize to some infections through their immunosuppressive activities, but not to others. An emerging area of investigation that is reviewed is evidence to support the conclusion that CB2 selective agonists are a new class of immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory compounds that may have exceptional beneficial effects in a variety of conditions, such as autoimmune diseases and graft rejection, where it is desirable to dampen the immune response without psychoactive effects.
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18
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Simkins T, Crawford RB, Goudreau JL, Lookingland KJ, Kaplan BLF. Enhanced Humoral Immunity in Mice Lacking CB1 and CB2 Receptors (Cnr1 −/− /Cnr2 −/− Mice) is not Due to Increased Splenic Noradrenergic Neuronal Activity. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2014; 9:544-57. [DOI: 10.1007/s11481-014-9549-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2014] [Accepted: 05/12/2014] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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Rogers TJ. The molecular basis for neuroimmune receptor signaling. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2012; 7:722-4. [PMID: 22935971 PMCID: PMC4011130 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-012-9398-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2012] [Accepted: 08/21/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Many of the receptors which are responsible for the responses to the common drugs of abuse belong to the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) family. In this special issue of the Journal of Neuroimmune Pharmacology a collection of papers is presented which deals with signaling events that are important for the function of these receptors. Because these receptors are expressed by both neuronal and immune cells, and because these receptors play a complex role in regulating function in both the nervous and immune systems, a more complete understanding of the regulation of expression of these receptors is essential. Moreover, once these receptors are expressed and activated, a complex series of signaling events are initiated that can have substantial significance. We have only a limited understanding of these signaling events, but with more complete information, we may be able to control the undesirable and/or desirable consequences of receptor activation by drugs of abuse.
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MESH Headings
- Analgesics, Opioid/pharmacology
- Animals
- Arachidonic Acids/pharmacology
- Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists/pharmacology
- Cannabinoid Receptor Modulators/pharmacology
- Cannabinoids/pharmacology
- Chemokine CXCL12/physiology
- Dronabinol/pharmacology
- Endocannabinoids/pharmacology
- Female
- HIV Envelope Protein gp120/toxicity
- HIV-1/physiology
- Humans
- Lymphocyte Activation/physiology
- Lymphocytes/physiology
- MicroRNAs/physiology
- Morphine/toxicity
- Narcotics/toxicity
- Neostriatum/cytology
- Nervous System/growth & development
- Neurons/pathology
- Polyunsaturated Alkamides/pharmacology
- Pregnancy
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/drug effects
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/drug effects
- Receptors, Cannabinoid
- Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/drug effects
- Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/physiology
- Receptors, Opioid, mu/biosynthesis
- Receptors, Opioid, mu/drug effects
- Signal Transduction/physiology
- T-Lymphocytes/physiology
- T-Lymphocytes, Cytotoxic/drug effects
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20
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Chen W, Kaplan BLF, Pike ST, Topper LA, Lichorobiec NR, Simmons SO, Ramabhadran R, Kaminski NE. Magnitude of stimulation dictates the cannabinoid-mediated differential T cell response to HIVgp120. J Leukoc Biol 2012; 92:1093-102. [PMID: 22899554 DOI: 10.1189/jlb.0212082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Approximately 25% of immunocompromised HIV patients smoke marijuana for its putative therapeutic benefit. The goal of these studies was to test the hypothesis that marijuana-derived cannabinoids have immunomodulatory effects on HIV antigen-specific T cell effector function. A surrogate mouse model to induce polyclonal T cell responses against HIV(gp120) was established. THC, a marijuana-derived cannabinoid, suppressed or enhanced mouse CD8(+) T cell proliferation and the gp120-specific CTL response depending on the magnitude of the IFN-γ response. To determine the molecular mechanisms by which cannabinoids differentially modulate T cell responses, P/I or anti-CD3/CD28 antibodies were used for stimulation, and another marijuana-derived cannabinoid, CBD, was also investigated. THC or CBD suppressed or enhanced IFN-γ and IL-2 production by mouse splenocytes under optimal or suboptimal stimulation, respectively. Similar differential effects of cannabinoids on cytokine production were also observed on nuclear translocation of NFAT and with human PBMCs in response to P/I stimulation. However, THC and CBD elevated intracellular calcium, regardless of the stimulation level with P/I, suggesting that the cannabinoid-induced calcium increase provides an appropriate signal for activation in suboptimally stimulated T cells but an anergic-like signal as a result of excessive calcium in optimally stimulated T cells. Overall, these data demonstrate differential modulation by cannabinoids of a HIV antigen-specific response and identify a possible mechanism responsible for this effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weimin Chen
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
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