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Doesburg-van Kleffens M, Zimmermann-Klemd AM, Gründemann C. An Overview on the Hallucinogenic Peyote and Its Alkaloid Mescaline: The Importance of Context, Ceremony and Culture. Molecules 2023; 28:7942. [PMID: 38138432 PMCID: PMC10746114 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28247942] [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: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Peyote (Lophophora williamsii) is a cactus that contains various biologically active alkaloids-such as pellotine, anhalonidine, hordenine and mescaline. Here, mescaline induces the psychoactive effects of peyote through the activation of the serotonin 5-HT2A receptor and the subsequent release of calcium (Ca2+) from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Moreover, an evaluation of the therapeutic benefits of mescaline is also currently the subject of research. It is important to consider that the outcome of taking a psychedelic drug strongly depends on the mindset of the recipient and the context (set and setting principle), including ceremonies and culture. This overview serves to summarise the current state of the knowledge of the metabolism, mechanism of action and clinical application studies of peyote and mescaline. Furthermore, the benefits of the potential of peyote and mescaline are presented in a new light, setting an example for combining a form of treatment embedded in nature and ritually enriched with our current highly innovative Western medicine.
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Lin J, Yang S, Ji J, Xiang P, Wu L, Chen H. Natural or artificial: An example of topographic spatial distribution analysis of mescaline in cactus plants by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1066595. [PMID: 36844095 PMCID: PMC9950628 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1066595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Differentiating whether plant products are natural or artificial is of great importance in many practical fields, including forensic science, food safety, cosmetics, and fast-moving consumer goods. Information about the topographic distribution of compounds is an important criterion for answering this question. However, of equal importance is the likelihood that topographic spatial distribution information may provide important and valuable information for molecular mechanism study. METHODS In this study, we took mescaline, a substance with hallucinogenic properties in cacti of the species Trichocereus pachanoi and Lophophora williamsii, as an example to characterize the spatial distribution of mescaline in plants and flowers by liquid chromatograph-mass spectrometry-matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging at the macroscopic, tissue structure, and even cellular levels. RESULTS According to our results, the distribution of mescaline in natural plant was concentrated on the active meristems, epidermal tissues, and protruding parts of Trichocereus pachanoi and Lophophora williamsii, while artificially spiked Lophophora diffusa products showed no such difference in their topographic spatial distribution. DISCUSSION This difference in distribution pattern allowed us to distinguish between flowers that could synthesize mescaline on their own and those that had been artificially spiked with mescaline. The interesting topographic spatial distribution results, such as the overlap of the mescaline distribution map and micrographs of the vascular bundles, were consistent with the synthesis and transport theory of mescaline, indicating the potential for applying matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging in botanical research.
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Vamvakopoulou IA, Narine KAD, Campbell I, Dyck JRB, Nutt DJ. Mescaline: The forgotten psychedelic. Neuropharmacology 2023; 222:109294. [PMID: 36252614 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2022.109294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mescaline (3,4,5-trimethoxyphenethylamine) is one of the oldest hallucinogens, with evidence of use dating back 5700 years. Mescaline is a naturally occurring alkaloid found in cacti, mainly in the peyote cactus (Lophophora williamsii) and in the cacti of the Echinopsis genus. Since the prohibition of psychoactive substances in the early 70s, research on mescaline and other classical psychedelics has been limited. OBJECTIVES This article aims to review the pharmacology and behavioural effects of mescaline, focusing on preclinical and clinical research. FINDINGS Mescaline is a serotonin 5HT2A/2C receptor agonist, with its main hallucinogenic effects being mediated via its 5HT2A receptor agonist action. It also exerts effects via agonist binding at α1A/2A noradrenaline and D1/2/3 dopamine receptors. Overall, mescaline has anxiolytic-like effects in animals and increases prosocial behaviour, locomotion, and response reactivity. In humans, mescaline can induce euphoria, hallucinations, improvements in well-being and mental health conditions, and psychotomimetic effects in a naturalistic or religious setting. CONCLUSION The pharmacological mechanisms of mescaline are similar to those of other classical psychedelics, like psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD). Mescaline appears to be safe to consume, with most intoxications being mild and easily treatable. Improvement in mental well-being and its ability to overcome alcoholism render mescaline potentially beneficial in clinical settings. This article is part of the Special Issue on 'Psilocybin Research'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioanna A Vamvakopoulou
- Neural Therapeutics Inc., Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Centre for Psychiatry, Division of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, Commonwealth Building, Hammersmith Campus, 160 Du Cane Road, London, W12 0NN, United Kingdom
| | | | - Ian Campbell
- Neural Therapeutics Inc., Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jason R B Dyck
- Neural Therapeutics Inc., Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Cardiovascular Research Centre, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - David J Nutt
- Neural Therapeutics Inc., Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Centre for Psychiatry, Division of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, Commonwealth Building, Hammersmith Campus, 160 Du Cane Road, London, W12 0NN, United Kingdom.
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Wang Y, Zhang H, Wang J, Yu M, Zhang Q, Yan S, You D, Shi L, Zhang L, Wang L, Wu H, Cao X. Aconiti lateralis Radix Praeparata inhibits Alzheimer's disease by regulating the complex regulation network with the core of GRIN1 and MAPK1. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2021; 59:311-320. [PMID: 33784489 PMCID: PMC8018400 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2021.1900879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Current medicine for Alzheimer's disease (AD) cannot effectively reverse or block nerve injury. Traditional Chinese Medicine practice and research imply Aconiti lateralis Radix Praeparata (Fuzi) may meet this goal. OBJECTIVE Analysing the anti-AD effect of Fuzi and its potential molecular mechanism. MATERIALS AND METHODS AD model cells were treated with Fuzi in 0-300 mg/mL for 24 h in 37 °C. The cell viability (CV) and length of cell projections (LCP) for each group were observed, analysed, and standardised using control as a baseline (CVs and LCPs). The Fuzi and AD relevant genes were identified basing on databases, and the molecular mechanism of Fuzi anti-AD was predicted by network analysis. RESULTS Experiment results showed that Fuzi in 0.4 mg/mL boosted LCP (LCPs = 1.2533, p ≤ 0.05), and in 1.6-100 mg/mL increased CV (CVs from 1.1673 to 1.3321, p ≤ 0.05). Bioinformatics analysis found 17 Fuzi target genes (relevant scores ≥ 20), showing strong AD relevant signals (RMS_p ≤ 0.05, related scores ≥ 5), enriched in the pathways regulating axon growth, synaptic plasticity, cell survival, proliferation, apoptosis, and death (p ≤ 0.05). Especially, GRIN1 and MAPK1 interacted with APP protein and located in the key point of the "Alzheimer's disease" pathway. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that Fuzi may have therapeutic and prevention potential in AD, and GRIN1 and MAPK1 may be the core of the pathways of the Fuzi anti-AD process. Fuzi should be studied more extensively, especially for the prevention of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutao Wang
- Department of Laboratory Animal Science, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- Basic Medical College, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Huixiang Zhang
- Institute of Neuroscience, Basic Medical College, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Jing Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, China
| | - Ming Yu
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Bioengineering Centre, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, P.R. China
| | - Qianqian Zhang
- Basic Medical College, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Shan Yan
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Bioengineering Centre, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, P.R. China
| | - Dingyun You
- School of Public Health, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Lanlan Shi
- Basic Medical College, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Lihuan Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Animal Science, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Limei Wang
- Department of Laboratory Animal Science, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Hongxiang Wu
- Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Xue Cao
- Department of Laboratory Animal Science, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
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Dinis-Oliveira RJ, Pereira CL, da Silva DD. Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Aspects of Peyote and Mescaline: Clinical and Forensic Repercussions. Curr Mol Pharmacol 2020; 12:184-194. [PMID: 30318013 DOI: 10.2174/1874467211666181010154139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2018] [Revised: 10/03/2018] [Accepted: 10/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mescaline (3,4,5-trimethoxyphenethylamine), mainly found in the Peyote cactus (Lophophora williamsii), is one of the oldest known hallucinogenic agents that influence human and animal behavior, but its psychoactive mechanisms remain poorly understood. OBJECTIVES This article aims to fully review pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of mescaline, focusing on the in vivo and in vitro metabolic profile of the drug and its implications for the variability of response. METHODS Mescaline pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic aspects were searched in books and in PubMed (U.S. National Library of Medicine) without a limiting period. Biological effects of other compounds found in peyote were also reviewed. RESULTS Although its illicit administration is less common, in comparison with cocaine and Cannabis, it has been extensively described in adolescents and young adults, and licit consumption often occurs in religious and therapeutic rituals practiced by the Native American Church. Its pharmacodynamic mechanisms of action are primarily attributed to the interaction with the serotonergic 5-HT2A-C receptors, and therefore clinical effects are similar to those elicited by other psychoactive substances, such as lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and psilocybin, which include euphoria, hallucinations, depersonalization and psychoses. Moreover, as a phenethylamine derivative, signs and symptoms are consistent with a sympathomimetic effect. Mescaline is mainly metabolized into trimethoxyphenylacetic acid by oxidative deamination but several minor metabolites with possible clinical and forensic repercussions have also been reported. CONCLUSION Most reports concerning mescaline were presented in a complete absence of exposure confirmation, since toxicological analysis is not widely available. Addiction and dependence are practically absent and it is clear that most intoxications appear to be mild and are unlikely to produce lifethreatening symptoms, which favors the contemporary interest in the therapeutic potential of the drugs of the class.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Jorge Dinis-Oliveira
- IINFACTS - Institute of Research and Advanced Training in Health Sciences and Technologies, Department of Sciences, University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), CESPU, Rua Central de Gandra, 1317, 4585-116 Gandra PRD, Portugal.,UCIBIO/REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, Porto, 4050-313, Portugal.,Department of Public Health and Forensic Sciences, and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - Carolina Lança Pereira
- IINFACTS - Institute of Research and Advanced Training in Health Sciences and Technologies, Department of Sciences, University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), CESPU, Rua Central de Gandra, 1317, 4585-116 Gandra PRD, Portugal
| | - Diana Dias da Silva
- IINFACTS - Institute of Research and Advanced Training in Health Sciences and Technologies, Department of Sciences, University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), CESPU, Rua Central de Gandra, 1317, 4585-116 Gandra PRD, Portugal.,UCIBIO/REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, Porto, 4050-313, Portugal
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Cacti for production of metabolites: current state and perspectives. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2019; 103:8657-8667. [DOI: 10.1007/s00253-019-10125-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 09/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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Abstract
Alkaloids of the Cactaceae have been studied for the last 120 years. The first half of that period provided the “classic” compounds, after which a large number of usually very similar analogs were isolated or determined with modern methods. Although some unusual synthetic approaches have been developed, their preparation is generally quite straightforward. Their biosynthesis has been studied but, particularly in the case of the isoquinoline compounds, important aspects have not been addressed. Due to its striking effects, the pharmacology of mescaline has been studied more intensely than that of the other phenethylamines present in cacti, followed only by hordenine. The many 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline alkaloids have attracted much less interest and have often been considered practically inactive. Nevertheless, some recorded activities of this group of compounds suggests a need for additional studies, especially in connection with their co-administration with mescaline, as in dried cacti and in beverages prepared from them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce K. Cassels
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago 7800003, Chile
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Jones PN. The Native American Church, Peyote, and Health: Expanding Consciousness for Healing Purposes. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007. [DOI: 10.1080/10282580701677477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Barreto RDL, Nascimbem LBLR, Correia CRD. Synthesis of the 3-(3,4,5-Trimethoxyphenyl)-pyrrolidine: A New Conformationally Constrained Mescaline Analogue. SYNTHETIC COMMUN 2007. [DOI: 10.1080/00397910701356504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo de L. Barreto
- a Chemistry Institute, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP) , Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
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Abstract
In previous studies, the ethanol extract of cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica) showed potent anti-inflammatory action. In the present study, following fractionation of the methanol extract of cactus stems guided by adjuvant-induced chronic inflammation model in mice, an active anti-inflammatory principle has been isolated and identified as beta-sitosterol.
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Affiliation(s)
- E H Park
- College of Pharmacy, Sookmyung Women's University, 140-742, Seoul, South Korea.
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Abstract
The methanolic extract of Opuntia ficus-indica stems and its hexane, ethyl acetate, n-butanol and aqueous fractions were evaluated for their wound healing activity in rats. The extract and less polar fractions showed significant effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- E H Park
- College of Pharmacy, Sookmyung Women's University, 140-742, Seoul, South Korea.
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Park EH, Kahng JH, Paek EA. Studies on the pharmacological action of cactus: identification of its anti-inflammatory effect. Arch Pharm Res 1998; 21:30-4. [PMID: 9875511 DOI: 10.1007/bf03216749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The ethanol extracts of Opuntia ficus-indica fructus (EEOF) and Opuntia ficus-indica stem (EEOS) were prepared and used to evaluate the pharmacological effects of cactus. Both the extracts inhibited the writhing syndrome induced by acetic acid, indicating that they contains analgesic effect. The oral administrations of EEOF and EEOS suppressed carrageenan-induced rat paw edema and also showed potent inhibition in the leukocyte migration of CMC-pouch model in rats. Moreover, the extracts suppressed the release of beta-glucuronidase, a lysosomal enzyme in rat neutrophils. It was also noted that the extracts showed the protective effect on gastric mucosal layers. From the results it is suggested that the cactus extracts contain anti-inflammatory action having protective effect against gastric lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- E H Park
- College of Pharmacy, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul, Korea
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Affiliation(s)
- K W Bentley
- Marrview, Tillybirloch, Midmar, Aberdeenshire
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