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Cherkasova V, Wang B, Gerasymchuk M, Fiselier A, Kovalchuk O, Kovalchuk I. Use of Cannabis and Cannabinoids for Treatment of Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:5142. [PMID: 36291926 PMCID: PMC9600568 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14205142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is an ancient homeostasis mechanism operating from embryonic stages to adulthood. It controls the growth and development of many cells and cell lineages. Dysregulation of the components of the ECS may result in uncontrolled proliferation, adhesion, invasion, inhibition of apoptosis and increased vascularization, leading to the development of various malignancies. Cancer is the disease of uncontrolled cell division. In this review, we will discuss whether the changes to the ECS are a cause or a consequence of malignization and whether different tissues react differently to changes in the ECS. We will discuss the potential use of cannabinoids for treatment of cancer, focusing on primary outcome/care-tumor shrinkage and eradication, as well as secondary outcome/palliative care-improvement of life quality, including pain, appetite, sleep, and many more factors. Finally, we will complete this review with the chapter on sex- and gender-specific differences in ECS and response to cannabinoids, and equality of the access to treatments with cannabinoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktoriia Cherkasova
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4, Canada
| | - Bo Wang
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4, Canada
| | - Marta Gerasymchuk
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4, Canada
| | - Anna Fiselier
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Olga Kovalchuk
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4, Canada
| | - Igor Kovalchuk
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4, Canada
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2
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Prüser JL, Ramer R, Wittig F, Ivanov I, Merkord J, Hinz B. The Monoacylglycerol Lipase Inhibitor JZL184 Inhibits Lung Cancer Cell Invasion and Metastasis via the CB 1 Cannabinoid Receptor. Mol Cancer Ther 2021; 20:787-802. [PMID: 33632876 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-20-0589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
A targeted modulation of the endocannabinoid system is currently discussed as a promising strategy for cancer treatment. An important enzyme for the endocannabinoid metabolism is the monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL), which catalyzes the degradation of 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) to glycerol and free fatty acids. In this study, we investigated the influence of MAGL inhibition on lung cancer cell invasion and metastasis. Using LC-MS, significantly increased 2-AG levels were detected in A549 cells treated with the MAGL inhibitor JZL184. In athymic nude mice, JZL184 suppressed metastasis of A549 cells in a dose-dependent manner, whereby the antimetastatic effect was cancelled by the CB1 receptor antagonist AM-251. In vitro, JZL184 induced a time- and concentration-dependent reduction of A549 cell invasion through Matrigel-coated membranes, which was likewise reversed by AM-251. An MAGL inhibition-associated reduction of free fatty acids as a cause of the anti-invasive effect could be excluded by add-back experiments with palmitic acid. Both JZL184 and the MAGL substrate 2-AG led to an increased formation of the tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1), whereby a TIMP-1 knockdown using siRNA significantly attenuated the anti-invasive effects of both substances. Decreased invasion and TIMP-1 upregulation was also caused by the MAGL inhibitors JW651 and MJN110 or transfection with MAGL siRNA. A CB1- and TIMP-1-dependent anti-invasive effect was further confirmed for JZL184 in H358 lung cancer cells. In conclusion, MAGL inhibition led to a CB1-dependent decrease in human lung cancer cell invasion and metastasis via inhibition of 2-AG degradation, with TIMP-1 identified as a mediator of the anti-invasive effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Lukas Prüser
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rostock University Medical Center, Rostock, Germany
| | - Robert Ramer
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rostock University Medical Center, Rostock, Germany
| | - Felix Wittig
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rostock University Medical Center, Rostock, Germany
| | - Igor Ivanov
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rostock University Medical Center, Rostock, Germany
| | - Jutta Merkord
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rostock University Medical Center, Rostock, Germany
| | - Burkhard Hinz
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rostock University Medical Center, Rostock, Germany.
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3
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Issa YA, El Achy SN, Mady RF. Cannabinoid receptor-1 antagonism: a new perspective on treating a murine schistosomal liver fibrosis model. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2019; 114:e190062. [PMID: 31389521 PMCID: PMC6684006 DOI: 10.1590/0074-02760190062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Formation of schistosomal granulomata surrounding the ova can result in
schistosomiasis-associated liver fibrosis (SSLF). The current standard of
treatment is praziquantel (PZQ), which cannot effectively reverse SSLF. The
role of the cannabinoid (CB) receptor family in liver fibrosis has recently
been highlighted. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to assess the therapeutic effect of CB1 receptor antagonism
in reversing SSLF in a murine model of Schistosoma mansoni
infection. METHODS One hundred male Swiss albino mice were divided equally into five groups:
healthy uninfected control (group I), infected control (group II), PZQ
treated (group III), rimonabant (RIM) (SR141716, a CB1 receptor
antagonist)-treated (group IV) and group V was treated with combined PZQ and
RIM. Liver sections were obtained for histopathological examination, alpha-1
smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) immunostaining and assessment of CB1 receptor
expression using real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). FINDINGS The most effective reduction in fibrotic marker levels and granuloma load was
achieved by combined treatment with PZQ+RIM (group V): CB1 receptor
expression (H = 26.612, p < 0.001), number of α-SMA-positive cells (F =
57.086, p < 0.001), % hepatic portal fibrosis (F = 42.849, p < 0.001)
and number of granulomata (F = 69.088, p < 0.001). MAIN CONCLUSIONS Combining PZQ with CB1 receptor antagonists yielded the best results in
reversing SSLF. To our knowledge, this is the first study to test this
regimen in S. mansoni infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmine Amr Issa
- University of Alexandria, Alexandria Faculty of Medicine, Medical Biochemistry Department, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Samar Nabil El Achy
- University of Alexandria, Alexandria Faculty of Medicine, Pathology Department, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Rasha Fadly Mady
- University of Alexandria, Alexandria Faculty of Medicine, Medical Parasitology Department, Alexandria, Egypt
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4
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Morales P, Jagerovic N. Antitumor Cannabinoid Chemotypes: Structural Insights. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:621. [PMID: 31214034 PMCID: PMC6555086 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabis has long been known to limit or prevent nausea and vomiting, lack of appetite, and pain. For this reason, cannabinoids have been successfully used in the treatment of some of the unwanted side effects caused by cancer chemotherapy. Besides their palliative effects, research from the past two decades has demonstrated their promising potential as antitumor agents in a wide variety of tumors. Cannabinoids of endogenous, phytogenic, and synthetic nature have been shown to impact the proliferation of cancer through the modulation of different proteins involved in the endocannabinoid system such as the G protein-coupled receptors CB1, CB2, and GRP55, the ionotropic receptor TRPV1, or the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). In this article, we aim to structurally classify the antitumor cannabinoid chemotypes described so far according to their targets and types of cancer. In a drug discovery approach, their in silico pharmacokinetic profile has been evaluated in order to identify appropriate drug-like profiles, which should be taken into account for further progress toward the clinic. This analysis may provide structural insights into the selection of specific cannabinoid scaffolds for the development of antitumor drugs for the treatment of particular types of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Morales
- Instituto de Quimica Medica, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientificas, Madrid, Spain
| | - Nadine Jagerovic
- Instituto de Quimica Medica, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientificas, Madrid, Spain
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5
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Chang HW, Wu MJ, Lin ZM, Wang CY, Cheng SY, Lin YK, Chow YH, Ch'ang HJ, Chang VHS. Therapeutic Effect of Repurposed Temsirolimus in Lung Adenocarcinoma Model. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:778. [PMID: 30087612 PMCID: PMC6066584 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2018] [Accepted: 06/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer is one of the major cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The poor prognosis and resistance to both radiation and chemotherapy urged the development of potential targets for lung cancer treatment. In this study, using a network-based cellular signature bioinformatics approach, we repurposed a clinically approved mTOR inhibitor for renal cell carcinomans, temsirolimus, as the potential therapeutic candidate for lung adenocarcinoma. The PI3K-AKT-mTOR pathway is known as one of the most frequently dysregulated pathway in cancers, including non-small-cell lung cancer. By using a well-documented lung adenocarcinoma mouse model of human pathophysiology, we examined the effect of temsirolimus on the growth of lung adenocarcinoma in vitro and in vivo. In addition, temsirolimus combined with reduced doses of cisplatin and gemcitabine significantly inhibited the lung tumor growth in the lung adenocarcinoma mouse model compared with the temsirolimus alone or the conventional cisplatin–gemcitabine combination. Functional imaging techniques and microscopic analyses were used to reveal the response mechanisms. Extensive immunohistochemical analyses were used to demonstrate the apparent effects of combined treatments on tumor architecture, vasculature, apoptosis, and the mTOR-pathway. The present findings urge the further exploration of temsirolimus in combination with chemotherapy for treating lung adenocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsuen-Wen Chang
- Laboratory Animal Center, Office of Research and Development, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Min-Ju Wu
- Laboratory Animal Center, Office of Research and Development, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Zih-Miao Lin
- The PhD Program for Translational Medicine, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chueh-Yi Wang
- Laboratory Animal Center, Office of Research and Development, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Yun Cheng
- Laboratory Animal Center, Office of Research and Development, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Kuang Lin
- Biostatistics Research Center, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Hung Chow
- National Institutes of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, National Health Research Institutes, Zhunan, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Ju Ch'ang
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Zhunan, Taiwan
| | - Vincent H S Chang
- The PhD Program for Translational Medicine, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
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6
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Diorio C, Salena K, Ladas EJ, Lam CG, Afungcwhi GM, Njuguna F, Marjerrison S. Traditional and complementary medicine used with curative intent in childhood cancer: A systematic review. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2017; 64. [PMID: 28244653 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.26501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2016] [Revised: 01/26/2017] [Accepted: 01/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Traditional and complementary medicine (T&CM) strategies are widely utilized in pediatric oncology, with many families reporting T&CM use with the intention to cure cancer. Study of T&CM agents presents many challenges, as a heterogeneous group of agents and techniques are used for a variety of different purpose in many different oncologic conditions. We present a systematic review of the literature examining published reports in which T&CM agents are used with an intention of cure. Twenty-two reports were identified, with most reports being of poor quality. Novel paradigms are likely needed to further investigate T&CM agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Diorio
- McMaster Children's Hospital, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kristen Salena
- Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Elena J Ladas
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/Stem Cell Transplant, Columbia University Medical Center, New York City, New York.,Institute of Human Nutrition, Columbia University Medical Centre, New York City, New York
| | - Catherine G Lam
- Departments of Oncology and Global Pediatric Medicine, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee
| | | | | | - Stacey Marjerrison
- McMaster Children's Hospital, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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7
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Freund P, Porpaczy EA, Le T, Gruber M, Pausz C, Staber P, Jäger U, Vanura K. Cannabinoid Receptors Are Overexpressed in CLL but of Limited Potential for Therapeutic Exploitation. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0156693. [PMID: 27248492 PMCID: PMC4889125 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0156693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2015] [Accepted: 05/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2 (CNR1&2) are overexpressed in a variety of malignant diseases and cannabinoids can have noteworthy impact on tumor cell viability and tumor growth. Patients diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) present with very heterogeneous disease characteristics translating into highly differential risk properties. To meet the urgent need for refinement in risk stratification at diagnosis and the search for novel therapies we studied CNR expression and response to cannabinoid treatment in CLL. Expression levels of CNR1&2 were determined in 107 CLL patients by real-time PCR and analyzed with regard to prognostic markers and survival. Cell viability of primary CLL cells was determined in suspension and co-culture after incubation in increasing cannabinoid concentrations under normal and reduced serum conditions and in combination with fludarabine. Impact of cannabinoids on migration of CLL cells towards CXCL12 was determined in transwell plates. We found CNR1&2 to be overexpressed in CLL compared to healthy B-cells. Discriminating between high and low expressing subgroups, only high CNR1 expression was associated with two established high risk markers and conferred significantly shorter overall and treatment free survival. Viability of CLL primary cells was reduced in a dose dependent fashion upon incubation with cannabinoids, however, healthy cells were similarly affected. Under serum reduced conditions, no significant differences were observed within suspension and co-culture, respectively, however, the feeder layer contributed significantly to the survival of CLL cells compared to suspension culture conditions. No significant differences were observed when treating CLL cells with cannabinoids in combination with fludarabine. Interestingly, biologic activity of cannabinoids was independent of both CNR1&2 expression. Finally, we did not observe an inhibition of CXCL12-induced migration by cannabinoids. In contrast to other tumor entities, our data suggest a limited usability of cannabinoids for CLL therapy. Nonetheless, we could define CNR1 mRNA expression as novel prognostic marker.
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MESH Headings
- Adult
- Aged
- Aged, 80 and over
- Coculture Techniques
- Female
- Humans
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/metabolism
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/pathology
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/therapy
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Prognosis
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- Receptors, Cannabinoid/genetics
- Receptors, Cannabinoid/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Freund
- Division of Hematology and Hemostaseology, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Edit A. Porpaczy
- Division of Hematology and Hemostaseology, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Trang Le
- Division of Hematology and Hemostaseology, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michaela Gruber
- Division of Hematology and Hemostaseology, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Clemens Pausz
- Division of Hematology and Hemostaseology, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Philipp Staber
- Division of Hematology and Hemostaseology, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ulrich Jäger
- Division of Hematology and Hemostaseology, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Katrina Vanura
- Division of Hematology and Hemostaseology, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- * E-mail:
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8
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Ciaglia E, Torelli G, Pisanti S, Picardi P, D'Alessandro A, Laezza C, Malfitano AM, Fiore D, Pagano Zottola AC, Proto MC, Catapano G, Gazzerro P, Bifulco M. Cannabinoid receptor CB1 regulates STAT3 activity and its expression dictates the responsiveness to SR141716 treatment in human glioma patients' cells. Oncotarget 2016; 6:15464-81. [PMID: 26008966 PMCID: PMC4558164 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.3895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2015] [Accepted: 04/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Herein we show that a majority of human brain tumor samples and cell lines over-expressed cannabinoid receptor CB1 as compared to normal human astrocytes (NHA), while uniformly expressed low levels of CB2. This finding prompted us to investigate the therapeutic exploitation of CB1 inactivation by SR141716 treatment, with regard to its direct and indirect cell-mediated effects against gliomas. Functional studies, using U251MG glioma cells and primary tumor cell lines derived from glioma patients expressing different levels of CB1, highlighted SR141716 efficacy in inducing apoptosis via G1 phase stasis and block of TGF-β1 secretion through a mechanism that involves STAT3 inhibition. According to the multivariate role of STAT3 in the immune escape too, interestingly SR141716 lead also to the functional and selective expression of MICA/B on the surface of responsive malignant glioma cells, but not on NHA. This makes SR141716 treated-glioma cells potent targets for allogeneic NK cell-mediated recognition through a NKG2D restricted mechanism, thus priming them for NK cell antitumor reactivity. These results indicate that CB1 and STAT3 participate in a new oncogenic network in the complex biology of glioma and their expression levels in patients dictate the efficacy of the CB1 antagonist SR141716 in multimodal glioma destruction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Ciaglia
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Salerno, Italy.,Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
| | - Giovanni Torelli
- "G.Rummo" Medical Hospital, Department of Neurosurgery, Benevento, Italy.,Neurosurgery Unit A.O. San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d' Aragona - Salerno's School of Medicine, Largo Città di Ippocrate, Salerno, Italy
| | - Simona Pisanti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Salerno, Italy.,Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
| | - Paola Picardi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Salerno, Italy.,Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
| | - Alba D'Alessandro
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
| | - Chiara Laezza
- Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology, IEOS CNR, Naples, Italy.,Department of Biology and Cellular and Molecular Pathology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Malfitano
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Salerno, Italy.,Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
| | - Donatella Fiore
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
| | | | | | - Giuseppe Catapano
- "G.Rummo" Medical Hospital, Department of Neurosurgery, Benevento, Italy
| | - Patrizia Gazzerro
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Salerno, Italy.,Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
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9
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Gasperi V, Evangelista D, Savini I, Del Principe D, Avigliano L, Maccarrone M, Catani MV. Downstream effects of endocannabinoid on blood cells: implications for health and disease. Cell Mol Life Sci 2015; 72:3235-52. [PMID: 25957591 PMCID: PMC11113859 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-015-1924-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2014] [Revised: 04/22/2015] [Accepted: 05/05/2015] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Endocannabinoids (eCBs), among which N-arachidonoylethanolamine (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) are the most biologically active members, are polyunsaturated lipids able to bind cannabinoid, vanilloid and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors. Depending on the target engaged, these bioactive mediators can regulate different signalling pathways, at both central and peripheral levels. The biological action of eCBs is tightly controlled by a plethora of metabolic enzymes which, together with the molecular targets of these substances, form the so-called "endocannabinoid system". The ability of eCBs to control manifold peripheral functions has received a great deal of attention, especially in the light of their widespread distribution in the body. In particular, eCBs are important regulators in blood, where they modulate haematopoiesis, platelet aggregation and apoptosis, as well as chemokine release and migration of immunocompetent cells. Here, we shall review the current knowledge on the pathophysiological roles of eCBs in blood. We shall also discuss the involvement of eCBs in those disorders affecting the haematological system, including cancer and inflammation. Knowledge gained to date underlines a fundamental role of the eCB system in blood, thus suggesting that it may represent a therapeutic promise for a broad range of diseases involving impaired hematopoietic cell functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Gasperi
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Evangelista
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Isabella Savini
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Luciana Avigliano
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Mauro Maccarrone
- Center of Integrated Research, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- European Center for Brain Research (CERC)/Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Valeria Catani
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
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10
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Almestrand S, Wang X, Jeppsson-Ahlberg Å, Nordgren M, Flygare J, Christensson B, Rössner S, Sander B. Influence of rimonabant treatment on peripheral blood mononuclear cells; flow cytometry analysis and gene expression profiling. PeerJ 2015; 3:e1056. [PMID: 26157624 PMCID: PMC4493638 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.1056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2015] [Accepted: 06/05/2015] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) antagonist rimonabant has been used as treatment for obesity. In addition, anti-proliferative effects on mitogen-activated leukocytes have been demonstrated in vitro. We have previously shown that rimonabant (SR141716A) induces cell death in ex vivo isolated malignant lymphomas with high expression of CB1 receptors. Since CB1 targeting may be part of a future lymphoma therapy, it was of interest to investigate possible effects on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) in patients treated with rimonabant. We therefore evaluated leukocyte subsets by 6 color flow cytometry in eight patients before and at treatment with rimonabant for 4 weeks. Whole-transcript gene expression profiling in PBMC before and at 4 weeks of rimonabant treatment was done using Affymetrix Human Gene 1.0 ST Arrays. Our data show no significant changes of monocytes, B cells, total T cells or T cell subsets in PBMC during treatment with rimonabant. There was a small but significant increase in CD3-, CD16+ and/or CD56+ cells after rimonabant therapy. Gene expression analysis detected significant changes in expression of genes associated with innate immunity, cell death and metabolism. The present study shows that normal monocytes and leukocyte subsets in blood remain rather constant during rimonabant treatment. This is in contrast to the induction of cell death previously observed in CB1 expressing lymphoma cells in response to treatment with rimonabant in vitro. These differential effects observed on normal and malignant lymphoid cells warrant investigation of CB1 targeting as a potential lymphoma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Almestrand
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Pathology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge , Stockholm , Sweden
| | - Xiao Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Pathology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge , Stockholm , Sweden
| | - Åsa Jeppsson-Ahlberg
- Pathology/Cytology, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge , Stockholm , Sweden
| | - Marcus Nordgren
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Pathology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge , Stockholm , Sweden
| | - Jenny Flygare
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Pathology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge , Stockholm , Sweden
| | - Birger Christensson
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Pathology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge , Stockholm , Sweden
| | - Stephan Rössner
- Department of Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge , Stockholm , Sweden
| | - Birgitta Sander
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Pathology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge , Stockholm , Sweden
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11
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Cotugno R, Gallotta D, Piaz FD, Apicella I, De Falco S, Rosselli S, Bruno M, Belisario MA. Powerful tumor cell growth-inhibiting activity of a synthetic derivative of atractyligenin: Involvement of PI3K/Akt pathway and thioredoxin system. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2014; 1840:1135-44. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2013.11.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2013] [Revised: 10/31/2013] [Accepted: 11/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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12
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Benz AH, Renné C, Maronde E, Koch M, Grabiec U, Kallendrusch S, Rengstl B, Newrzela S, Hartmann S, Hansmann ML, Dehghani F. Expression and functional relevance of cannabinoid receptor 1 in Hodgkin lymphoma. PLoS One 2013; 8:e81675. [PMID: 24349109 PMCID: PMC3857220 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0081675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2013] [Accepted: 10/15/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) is expressed in certain types of malignancies. An analysis of CB1 expression and function in Hodgkin lymphoma (HL), one of the most frequent lymphomas, was not performed to date. Design and Methods We examined the distribution of CB1 protein in primary cases of HL. Using lymphoma derived cell lines, the role of CB1 signaling on cell survival was investigated. Results A predominant expression of CB1 was found in Hodgkin-Reed-Sternberg cells in a vast majority of classical HL cases. The HL cell lines L428, L540 and KM-H2 showed strong CB1-abundance and displayed a dose-dependent decline of viability under CB1 inhibition with AM251. Further, application of AM251 led to decrease of constitutively active NFκB/p65, a crucial survival factor of HRS-cells, and was followed by elevation of apoptotic markers in HL cells. Conclusions The present study identifies CB1 as a feature of HL, which might serve as a potential selective target in the treatment of Hodgkin lymphoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander H. Benz
- Institute of Pathology, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
- Institute of Pathology, Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Christoph Renné
- Institute of Pathology, Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Erik Maronde
- Institute of Anatomy, Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Marco Koch
- Institute of Anatomy, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Urszula Grabiec
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Sylvia Hartmann
- Institute of Pathology, Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | | | - Faramarz Dehghani
- Institute of Anatomy, Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Germany
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
- * E-mail:
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Cytotoxic effect of efavirenz is selective against cancer cells and associated with the cannabinoid system. AIDS 2013; 27:2031-40. [PMID: 23612009 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0b013e3283625444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recently, a regression of precancerous lesions in HIV-1-infected patients after initiation of HAART was reported. Nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) as efavirenz (EFV) might be mediators of this effect, as they are known to have a cytotoxic effect on tumour cells. A potential mechanism involved in this effect may be the activation of the cannabinoid receptor to mediate tumour toxicity. METHODS Several tumour-derived and fibroblast cell lines were studied. Cytotoxicity of EFV was evaluated by Annexin-Pi staining. The expression of the cannabinoid receptors CB1, CB2 and GPR55 was analysed by western blot, quantitative reverse transcriptase (qRT-PCR) and fluorescence activated cell sorting. The influence of the cannabinoid agonists and antagonists on the effects of EFV was investigated. Furthermore, the effect of EFV on the phosphorylation state of the growth factors Erk, Akt and the tumour suppressor protein p53 was tested. RESULTS EFV revealed a selective cytotoxic effect on several tumour cell lines, whereas primary fibroblasts were not affected. The cytotoxic effect was associated with the expression of CB1. The combination of EFV with cannabinoid agonists showed an increase in toxicity. The phosphorylation state of Erk and Akt was not affected by EFV, whereas p53 showed an increased phosphorylation. CONCLUSION EFV has a selective cytotoxic effect on several tumour cells. Furthermore, EFV led to an activating phosphorylation of the tumour suppressor protein p53 going in line with earlier reports that EFV may be antitumourigenic and a potential cytostatic drug. The observed synergistic effect with cannabinoid agonists implicates an involvement of the cannabinoid system.
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Foster AJ, Prime LH, Gustafsson F, Temesi DG, Isin EM, Midlöv J, Castagnoli N, Kenna JG. Bioactivation of the Cannabinoid Receptor Antagonist Rimonabant to a Cytotoxic Iminium Ion Metabolite. Chem Res Toxicol 2012; 26:124-35. [DOI: 10.1021/tx300418w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Emre M. Isin
- CVGI Innovative Medicine DMPK, AstraZeneca, Mölndal 431 83, Sweden
| | - Johanna Midlöv
- CVGI Innovative Medicine DMPK, AstraZeneca, Mölndal 431 83, Sweden
| | - Neal Castagnoli
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
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Onitilo AA, Engel JM, Glurich I, Stankowski RV, Williams GM, Doi SA. Diabetes and cancer II: role of diabetes medications and influence of shared risk factors. Cancer Causes Control 2012; 23:991-1008. [PMID: 22527174 PMCID: PMC4138811 DOI: 10.1007/s10552-012-9971-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2011] [Accepted: 04/14/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
An association between type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) and cancer has long been postulated, but the biological mechanism responsible for this association has not been defined. In part one of this review, we discussed the epidemiological evidence for increased risk of cancer, decreased cancer survival, and decreased rates of cancer screening in diabetic patients. Here we review the risk factors shared by cancer and DM and how DM medications play a role in altering cancer risk. Hyperinsulinemia stands out as a major factor contributing to the association between DM and cancer, and modulation of circulating insulin levels by DM medications appears to play an important role in altering cancer risk. Drugs that increase circulating insulin, including exogenous insulin, insulin analogs, and insulin secretagogues, are generally associated with an increased cancer risk. In contrast, drugs that regulate insulin signaling without increasing levels, especially metformin, appear to be associated with a decreased cancer risk. In addition to hyperinsulinemia, the effect of DM medications on other shared risk factors including hyperglycemia, obesity, and oxidative stress as well as demographic factors that may influence the use of certain DM drugs in different populations are described. Further elucidation of the mechanisms behind the association between DM, cancer, and the role of DM medications in modulating cancer risk may aid in the development of better prevention and treatment options for both DM and cancer. Additionally, incorporation of DM medication use into cancer prediction models may lead to the development of improved risk assessment tools for diabetic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adedayo A Onitilo
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Marshfield Clinic Weston Center, WI 54476, USA.
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Cotugno R, Fortunato R, Santoro A, Gallotta D, Braca A, De Tommasi N, Belisario MA. Effect of sesquiterpene lactone coronopilin on leukaemia cell population growth, cell type-specific induction of apoptosis and mitotic catastrophe. Cell Prolif 2011; 45:53-65. [PMID: 22168177 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2184.2011.00796.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to investigate anti-leukaemic potential of coronopilin, a sesquiterpene lactone from Ambrosia arborescens, and to characterize mechanism(s) underlying its activity. MATERIALS AND METHODS The study was conducted on Jurkat and U937, two leukaemia-derived cell lines. Apoptosis and impairment of cell cycle progression were evaluated by flow cytometry and by microscopic analysis. Changes in protein expression and activation were evaluated by western blot analysis. Coronopilin-tubulin covalent adducts were demonstrated by mass spectrometry. RESULTS Coronopilin inhibited (IC(50) ≤ 20 μm) leukaemia cell population growth, but displayed poor cytotoxicity to normal white blood cells. On Jurkat cells, coronopilin exerted cell population growth inhibition activity, mainly by triggering caspase-dependent apoptosis. Conversely, in U937 cells, coronopilin's primary response was a robust arrest in G(2) /M. Marked increase in mitotic index and presence of activated cyclin B1/Cdk1 complex, phosphorylated histone H3 at Ser10, and hyperpolymerized tubulin indicated that cells accumulated in mitosis. Prolonged mitotic arrest ultimately resulted in U937 mitotic catastrophe, and dying cells exhibited the features of non-caspase-dependent death. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated that coronopilin efficiently inhibited leukaemia cell population growth by triggering cell type-specific responses. Moreover, coronopilin-mediated cell population expansion inhibition was specific to neoplastic cells, as normal white blood cell viability was not significantly affected. Thus, coronopilin may represent an interesting new chemical scaffold upon which to develop new anti-leukaemic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Cotugno
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
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Malfitano AM, Ciaglia E, Gangemi G, Gazzerro P, Laezza C, Bifulco M. Update on the endocannabinoid system as an anticancer target. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2011; 15:297-308. [PMID: 21244344 DOI: 10.1517/14728222.2011.553606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Recent studies have shown that the endocannabinoid system (ECS) could offer an attractive antitumor target. Numerous findings suggest the involvement of this system (constituted mainly by cannabinoid receptors, endogenous compounds and the enzymes for their synthesis and degradation) in cancer cell growth in vitro and in vivo. AREAS COVERED This review covers literature from the past decade which highlights the potential of targeting the ECS for cancer treatment. In particular, the levels of endocannabinoids and the expression of their receptors in several types of cancer are discussed, along with the signaling pathways involved in the endocannabinoid antitumor effects. Furthermore, the beneficial and adverse effects of old and novel compounds in clinical use are discussed. EXPERT OPINION One direction that should be pursued in antitumor therapy is to select compounds with reduced psychoactivity. This is known to be connected to the CB1 receptor; thus, targeting the CB2 receptor is a popular objective. CB1 receptors could be maintained as a target to design new compounds, and mixed CB1-CB2 ligands could be effective if they are able to not cross the BBB. Furthermore, targeting the ECS with agents that activate cannabinoid receptors or inhibitors of endogenous degrading systems such as fatty acid amide hydrolase inhibitors may have relevant therapeutic impact on tumor growth. Additional studies into the downstream consequences of endocannabinoid treatment are required and may illuminate other potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maria Malfitano
- University of Salerno, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
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