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Santos Porto D, da Costa Bernardo Port B, Conte J, Fretes Argenta D, Pereira Balleste M, Amadeu Micke G, Machado Campos Â, Silva Caumo K, Caon T. Development of ophthalmic nanoemulsions of β-caryophyllene for the treatment of Acanthamoeba keratitis. Int J Pharm 2024; 659:124252. [PMID: 38782149 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2024.124252] [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: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Although rare, amoebic keratitis (AK) is a disease caused by Acanthamoeba spp. that can lead to blindness. The drugs currently available for its treatment are very toxic, which has motivated the investigation for more effective and safe therapeutic options. In this study, the in vitro activity of ß-caryophyllene (BCP) was exploited taking into account its action against other protozoans as well as its well-known healing and anti-inflammatory properties (aspects relevant for the AK pathogenesis). On the other hand, high volatilization and oxidation phenomena are found for this compound, which led to its incorporation into nanoemulsions (NEs). Two emulsifying agents were tested, resulting in monodisperse systems with reduced droplet size (<265 nm) and high surface charge (positive and negative for NEs prepared with cetrimonium bromide -CTAB and Phosal® 50+, respectively). NEs prepared with CTAB were shown to be more stable after long-term storage at 4 and 25 °C than those prepared with Phosal®. Pure BCP, at the highest concentration (500 µM), resulted in a level of inhibition of Acanthamoeba trophozoites equivalent to that of reference drug (chlorhexidine). This activity was even greater after oil nanoencapsulation. The reduced droplet size could improve the interaction of the oil with the microorganism, justifying this finding. Changes in surface charge did not impact the activity. Positively charged NEs improved the interaction and retention of BCP in the cornea and thus should be prioritized for further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas Santos Porto
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil
| | | | - Júlia Conte
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Debora Fretes Argenta
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Maira Pereira Balleste
- Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Amadeu Micke
- Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Ângela Machado Campos
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Karin Silva Caumo
- Department of Clinical Analyses, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Thiago Caon
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil.
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Sang T, Wang Y, Wang Z, Sun D, Dou S, Yu Y, Wang X, Zhao C, Wang Q. NEAT1 Deficiency Promotes Corneal Epithelial Wound Healing by Activating cAMP Signaling Pathway. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2024; 65:10. [PMID: 38466291 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.65.3.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study aimed to investigate the role of the long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) NEAT1 in corneal epithelial wound healing in mice. Methods The central corneal epithelium of wild-type (WT), MALAT1 knockout (M-KO), NEAT1 knockout (N-KO), and NEAT1 knockdown (N-KD) mice was scraped to evaluate corneal epithelial and nerve regeneration rates. RNA sequencing of the corneal epithelium from WT and N-KO mice was performed 24 hours after debridement to determine the role of NEAT1. Quantitative PCR (qPCR) and ELISA were used to confirm the bioinformatic analysis. The effects of the cAMP signaling pathway were evaluated in N-KO and N-KD mice using SQ22536, an adenylate cyclase inhibitor. Results Central corneal epithelial debridement in N-KO mice significantly promoted epithelial and nerve regeneration rates while suppressing inflammatory cell infiltration. Furthermore, the expression of Atp1a2, Ppp1r1b, Calm4, and Cngb1, which are key components of the cAMP signaling pathway, was upregulated in N-KO mice, indicative of its activation. Furthermore, the cAMP pathway inhibitor SQ22536 reversed the accelerated corneal epithelial wound healing in both N-KO and N-KD mice. Conclusions NEAT1 deficiency contributes to epithelial repair during corneal wound healing by activating the cAMP signaling pathway, thereby highlighting a potential therapeutic strategy for corneal epithelial diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Sang
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Shandong, China
| | - Yani Wang
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Shandong, China
| | - Zhiqing Wang
- School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Shandong, China
| | - Di Sun
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Shandong, China
| | - Shengqian Dou
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Shandong, China
| | - Yaoyao Yu
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaoyun Wang
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Shandong, China
| | - Can Zhao
- Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Shandong, China
- School of Ophthalmology, Shandong First Medical University, Shandong, China
| | - Qun Wang
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Shandong, China
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Gonçalves YC, de Francisco Campos KC, da Silva Vasconcelos E, D'Almeida Eça BM, Rantin FT, Kalinin AL, Monteiro DA. Activation of the cannabinoid type 2 (CB2) receptor improves cardiac contractile performance in fish, Brycon amazonicus. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2024; 277:109822. [PMID: 38113964 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2023.109822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
In addition to their well-known classical effects, cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors have also been involvement in both deleterious and protective actions on the heart under various pathological conditions. While the potential therapeutic applications of the endocannabinoid system in the context of cardiovascular function are indeed a viable prospect, significant debate exists within the literature regarding whether CB1, CB2, or a combination of both receptors exert a favorable influence on cardiac function. Hence, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of CB1 + CB2 or CB2 agonists on cardiac excitation-contraction (E-C) coupling, utilizing fish (Brycon amazonicus) as an experimental model. The CB2 agonist elicited marked positive inotropic and lusitropic responses in isolated ventricular myocardium, induced cyclic adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cAMP) production, and upregulated critical Ca2+ handling proteins, such as sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA) and Na+/Ca2+ exchanger (NCX). Our current study demonstrated, for the first time, that CB2 receptor activation-induced effects improved the efficiency of Ca2+ cycling, excitation-contraction coupling (E-C coupling), and cardiac performance in under physiological conditions. Hence, CB2 receptors could be considered a potential therapeutic target for modulating cardiac contractile dysfunctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Costa Gonçalves
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar), 13565-905 São Carlos, São Paulo, Brazil; Joint Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences, Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar)/São Paulo State University (UNESP), 13565-905 São Carlos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Eliton da Silva Vasconcelos
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar), 13565-905 São Carlos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Beatriz Micucci D'Almeida Eça
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar), 13565-905 São Carlos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Francisco Tadeu Rantin
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar), 13565-905 São Carlos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana Lúcia Kalinin
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar), 13565-905 São Carlos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Diana Amaral Monteiro
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar), 13565-905 São Carlos, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Thathapudi NC, Groleau M, Degué DS, Aghajanzadeh Kiyaseh M, Kujawa P, Soulhi F, Akla N, Griffith M, Robert MC. Novel micellar CB2 receptor agonist with anti-inflammatory action for treating corneal alkali burns in a mouse model. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1270699. [PMID: 38161702 PMCID: PMC10755873 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1270699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Moderate corneal alkali burns such as those sustained from accidental exposure to household chemicals are treated with topical corticosteroids. Side effects include increased intraocular pressure and slowing of wound healing. Here, we compare the effects of a cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2r) agonist, TA-A001, that is involved in wound healing with that of the corticosteroid, prednisolone. Methods: TA-A001 was encapsulated with a polymeric micelle comprising polyvinylpyrrolidone: polylactide block copolymers referred to as SmartCelle™ to allow delivery of the very hydrophobic drug. Mouse corneas were given moderate alkali burns. Different doses of TA-A001 of 0.125%, 0.25% and 0.5% were used to treat the burns in comparison to the corticosteroid, prednisolone. Results: TA-A001 at 0.25% and 0.5% allowed for faster wound closure. However, the higher 0.5% dose also induced unwanted neovascularization. By comparison, burned corneas treated with prednisolone showed slower healing as well as disorganization of the cornea. Although 0.25% TA-A001 appeared to produce the most-optimal responses, this dose resulted in marked expression of the macrophage chemoattractant protein, MCP-1. However, there was also an increase in CD163 positive stained M2 anti-inflammatory macrophages in the TA-A001 corneas. TA-A001 treated corneas showed the presence of sensory nerve fibers throughout the corneal epithelium including the superficial cell layers as did Substance P staining. Discussion: We found that TA-A001 at the 0.25% doses was able to modulate inflammation resulting from a moderate alkali burn to the cornea. With more extensive testing, TA-A001 might prove to be a potential alternative to corticosteroids for treating alkali burns or other causes of corneal inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neethi C. Thathapudi
- Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Marc Groleau
- Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Microbiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Delali S. Degué
- Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Mozhgan Aghajanzadeh Kiyaseh
- Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Piotr Kujawa
- Pharmaceutical Research and Development, Altus Formulation Inc., Laval, QC, Canada
| | - Fouzia Soulhi
- Pharmaceutical Research and Development, Altus Formulation Inc., Laval, QC, Canada
| | - Naoufal Akla
- Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - May Griffith
- Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Marie-Claude Robert
- Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Healy CR, Gethin G, Pandit A, Finn DP. Chronic wound-related pain, wound healing and the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids and endocannabinoid system modulation. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 168:115714. [PMID: 37865988 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic wounds represent a significant burden on the individual, and the healthcare system. Individuals with chronic wounds report pain to be the most challenging aspect of living with a chronic wound, with current therapeutic options deemed insufficient. The cutaneous endocannabinoid system is an important regulator of skin homeostasis, with evidence of system dysregulation in several cutaneous disorders. Herein, we describe the cutaneous endocannabinoid system, chronic wound-related pain, and comorbidities, and review preclinical and clinical evidence investigating endocannabinoid system modulation for wound-related pain and wound healing. Based on the current literature, there is some evidence to suggest efficacy of endocannabinoid system modulation for promotion of wound healing, attenuation of cutaneous disorder-related inflammation, and for the management of chronic wound-related pain. However, there is 1) a paucity of preclinical studies using validated models, specific for the study of chronic wound-related pain and 2) a lack of randomised control trials and strong clinical evidence relating to endocannabinoid system modulation for wound-related pain. In conclusion, while there is some limited evidence of benefit of endocannabinoid system modulation in wound healing and wound-related pain management, further research is required to better realise the potential of targeting the endocannabinoid system for these therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine R Healy
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway City, Ireland; Galway Neuroscience Centre, University of Galway, Galway City, Ireland; Centre for Pain Research, University of Galway, Galway City, Ireland; CÚRAM, SFI Research Centre for Medical Devices, University of Galway, Galway City, Ireland
| | - Georgina Gethin
- CÚRAM, SFI Research Centre for Medical Devices, University of Galway, Galway City, Ireland; School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Galway, Galway City, Ireland; Alliance for Research and Innovation in Wounds, University of Galway, Galway City, Ireland
| | - Abhay Pandit
- CÚRAM, SFI Research Centre for Medical Devices, University of Galway, Galway City, Ireland
| | - David P Finn
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway City, Ireland; Galway Neuroscience Centre, University of Galway, Galway City, Ireland; Centre for Pain Research, University of Galway, Galway City, Ireland; CÚRAM, SFI Research Centre for Medical Devices, University of Galway, Galway City, Ireland.
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Lindner T, Schmidl D, Peschorn L, Pai V, Popa-Cherecheanu A, Chua J, Schmetterer L, Garhöfer G. Therapeutic Potential of Cannabinoids in Glaucoma. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1149. [PMID: 37631064 PMCID: PMC10460067 DOI: 10.3390/ph16081149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. To date, intraocular pressure (IOP) is the only modifiable risk factor in glaucoma treatment, but even in treated patients, the disease can progress. Cannabinoids, which have been known to lower IOP since the 1970s, have been shown to have beneficial effects in glaucoma patients beyond their IOP-lowering properties. In addition to the classical cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2, knowledge of non-classical cannabinoid receptors and the endocannabinoid system has increased in recent years. In particular, the CB2 receptor has been shown to mediate anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and neuroprotective properties, which may represent a promising therapeutic target for neuroprotection in glaucoma patients. Due to their vasodilatory effects, cannabinoids improve blood flow to the optic nerve head, which may suggest a vasoprotective potential and counteract the altered blood flow observed in glaucoma patients. The aim of this review was to assess the available evidence on the effects and therapeutic potential of cannabinoids in glaucoma patients. The pharmacological mechanisms underlying the effects of cannabinoids on IOP, neuroprotection, and ocular hemodynamics have been discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa Lindner
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (T.L.); (D.S.); (L.P.); (V.P.); (L.S.)
| | - Doreen Schmidl
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (T.L.); (D.S.); (L.P.); (V.P.); (L.S.)
| | - Laura Peschorn
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (T.L.); (D.S.); (L.P.); (V.P.); (L.S.)
| | - Viktoria Pai
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (T.L.); (D.S.); (L.P.); (V.P.); (L.S.)
| | - Alina Popa-Cherecheanu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Emergency University Hospital, 050098 Bucharest, Romania;
- Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Jacqueline Chua
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore 169856, Singapore;
- Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Leopold Schmetterer
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (T.L.); (D.S.); (L.P.); (V.P.); (L.S.)
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore 169856, Singapore;
- Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
- SERI-NTU Advanced Ocular Engineering (STANCE), Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639798, Singapore
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637459, Singapore
- Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Medical University Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Gerhard Garhöfer
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (T.L.); (D.S.); (L.P.); (V.P.); (L.S.)
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Galor A, Britten-Jones AC, Feng Y, Ferrari G, Goldblum D, Gupta PK, Merayo-Lloves J, Na KS, Naroo SA, Nichols KK, Rocha EM, Tong L, Wang MTM, Craig JP. TFOS Lifestyle: Impact of lifestyle challenges on the ocular surface. Ocul Surf 2023; 28:262-303. [PMID: 37054911 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2023.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
Many factors in the domains of mental, physical, and social health have been associated with various ocular surface diseases, with most of the focus centered on aspects of dry eye disease (DED). Regarding mental health factors, several cross-sectional studies have noted associations between depression and anxiety, and medications used to treat these disorders, and DED symptoms. Sleep disorders (both involving quality and quantity of sleep) have also been associated with DED symptoms. Under the domain of physical health, several factors have been linked to meibomian gland abnormalities, including obesity and face mask wear. Cross-sectional studies have also linked chronic pain conditions, specifically migraine, chronic pain syndrome and fibromyalgia, to DED, principally focusing on DED symptoms. A systematic review and meta-analysis reviewed available data and concluded that various chronic pain conditions increased the risk of DED (variably defined), with odds ratios ranging from 1.60 to 2.16. However, heterogeneity was noted, highlighting the need for additional studies examining the impact of chronic pain on DED signs and subtype (evaporative versus aqueous deficient). With respect to societal factors, tobacco use has been most closely linked to tear instability, cocaine to decreased corneal sensitivity, and alcohol to tear film disturbances and DED symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anat Galor
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA; Surgical Services, Miami Veterans Administration, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - Alexis Ceecee Britten-Jones
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Yun Feng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Peking University Eye Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Giulio Ferrari
- Cornea and Ocular Surface Unit, Eye Repair Lab, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - David Goldblum
- Pallas-Kliniken, Olten, Bern, Zurich, Switzerland; University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Preeya K Gupta
- Triangle Eye Consultants, Raleigh, NC, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Jesus Merayo-Lloves
- Instituto Universitario Fernandez-Vega, Universidad de Oviedo, Principality of Asturias, Spain
| | - Kyung-Sun Na
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Shehzad A Naroo
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Kelly K Nichols
- School of Optometry, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Eduardo M Rocha
- Department of Ophthalmology, Othorynolaringology and Head & Neck Surgery, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Louis Tong
- Cornea and External Eye Disease Service, Singapore National Eye Center, Ocular Surface Research Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Eye Academic Clinical Program, Duke-National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Michael T M Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, New Zealand National Eye Centre, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jennifer P Craig
- Department of Ophthalmology, New Zealand National Eye Centre, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Swanson ML, Regner KR, Moore BM, Park F. Cannabinoid Type 2 Receptor Activation Reduces the Progression of Kidney Fibrosis Using a Mouse Model of Unilateral Ureteral Obstruction. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2022; 7:790-803. [PMID: 35196117 DOI: 10.1089/can.2021.0127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Kidney fibrosis is a hallmark consequence of all forms of chronic kidney disease with few available treatment modalities. Material and Methods: In this study, we performed the unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) procedure to investigate the effects of a selective cannabinoid type 2 (CB2) agonist receptor, SMM-295, as a nephroprotective therapy. Results: SMM-295 was demonstrated to exhibit 50-fold selectivity over the cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) receptor with an EC50 ∼2 nM. Four other off-targets were identified in the safety panel, but only at the highest concentration (5 mM) tested in the assay demonstrating the relative selectivity and safety of our compound. Administration of SMM-295 (12 mg/kg IP daily) in UUO mice led to a significant decrease of 33% in tubular damage compared to the vehicle-treated UUO mice after 7 days. Consistent with these findings, there was a significant decrease in α-smooth muscle actin and fibronectin, which are markers of tubulointerstitial fibrosis, as determined by Western blot analysis. DNA damage as detected by a classic marker, γ-H2AX, was significantly reduced by 50% in the SMM-295 treatment group compared to vehicle treatment. Genetic knockout of CB2 or administration of a CB2 inverse agonist did not exhibit any beneficial effect on tubulointerstitial fibrosis or kidney tubule injury. Conclusions: In conclusion, our study provides new evidence that SMM-295 can therapeutically target the CB2 receptor with few, if any, physiological off-target sites to reduce kidney tissue damage and slow the fibrotic progression in a mouse model of kidney fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mallory L Swanson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Kevin R Regner
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Bob M Moore
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Frank Park
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
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Andreis K, Billingsley J, Naimi Shirazi K, Wager-Miller J, Johnson C, Bradshaw H, Straiker A. Cannabinoid CB1 receptors regulate salivation. Sci Rep 2022; 12:14182. [PMID: 35986066 PMCID: PMC9391487 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-17987-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Saliva serves multiple important functions within the body that we typically take for granted, such as helping prepare food for swallowing and defense against oral pathogens. Dry mouth is a primary symptom of Sjӧgren’s syndrome and is a side effect of many drug treatments. Cannabis users frequently report dry mouth, but the basis for this is still unknown. If the effects occur via the endogenous cannabinoid signaling system, then this may represent a novel mechanism for the regulation of salivation. We examined expression of cannabinoid CB1 receptors in submandibular salivary gland using immunohistochemistry and tested regulation of salivation by THC and cannabinoid-related ligands. We now report that CB1 receptors are expressed in the axons of cholinergic neurons innervating the submandibular gland. No staining is seen in submandibular gland epithelial cells (acinar and ductal), or myoepithelial cells (MECs). Treatment with THC (4 mg/kg, IP) or the cannabinoid receptor agonist CP55940 (0.5 mg/kg) reduced salivation in both male and female mice 1 h after treatment. CBD had no effect on its own but reversed the effect of THC in a concentration-dependent manner. Neither the CB1 receptor antagonist SR141716 (4 mg/kg) nor the CB2-selective agonist JWH133 (4 mg/kg) had an effect on salivation. We also found that fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), the enzyme that metabolizes the endocannabinoid anandamide and related lipids, regulates salivation. Salivation was reduced in FAAH knockout mice as well as mice treated with the FAAH blocker URB597 (4 mg/kg). URB597 had no effect in CB1 knockout mice. FAAH protein is detected intracellularly in acinar but not ductal epithelial cells. In lipidomics experiments, we found that FAAH knockout mice chiefly had elevated levels of acylethanolamines, including anandamide, and reduced levels of acyglycines. Our results are consistent with a model wherein endocannabinoids activate CB1 receptors on cholinergic axons innervating the submandibular gland. THC likely acts by plugging into this system, activating CB1 receptors to reduce salivation, thus offering a mechanism underlying the dry mouth reported by cannabis users.
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Evidence-based Potential Therapeutic Applications of Cannabinoids in Wound Management. Adv Skin Wound Care 2022; 35:447-453. [PMID: 35588193 DOI: 10.1097/01.asw.0000831920.15801.25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although wound management is a major component of all domains of healthcare, conventional therapeutics have numerous limitations. The endocannabinoid system of the skin, one of the major endogenous systems, has recently been connected to wound healing. Cannabinoids and their interactions with the endogenous chemical signaling system may be a promising therapeutic option because they address some of the fundamental pathways for physiologic derangement that underpin chronic integumentary wounds. RECENT ADVANCES The therapeutic applications of cannabinoids are increasing because of their legalization and resulting market expansion. Recently, their immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory properties have been explored for the treatment of wounds that are not effectively managed by conventional medicines. CRITICAL ISSUES Failure to manage wounds effectively is associated with reduced quality of life, disability, mortality, and increased healthcare expenditures. Therapeutic options that can manage wounds effectively and efficiently are needed. In this review, the authors summarize recent advances on the use of cannabinoids to treat skin disorders with an emphasis on wound management. FUTURE DIRECTIONS Effective wound management requires medicines with good therapeutic outcomes and minimal adverse effects. Despite the promising results of cannabinoids in wound management, further controlled clinical studies are required to establish the definitive role of these compounds in the pathophysiology of wounds and their usefulness in the clinical setting.
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Tran BN, Maass M, Musial G, Stern ME, Gehlsen U, Steven P. Topical application of cannabinoid-ligands ameliorates experimental dry-eye disease. Ocul Surf 2021; 23:131-139. [PMID: 34922011 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2021.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Dry eye disease (DED) is a multifactorial disease, with limitations regarding efficacy and tolerability of applied substances. Among several candidates, the endocannabinoid system with its receptors (CB1R and CB2R) were reported to modulate inflammation, wound healing and pain, which are also core DED pathomechanisms. This study is to investigate the therapeutic responses of Δ-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (a non-selective agonist) and two selective antagonists, SR141716A (CB1R antagonist) and SR144528 (CB2R antagonist), as a topical application using a DED mouse model. METHOD Experimental DED was induced in naïve C57BL/6 mice. Expression of CBR at the ocular surface of naïve and DED mice was determined by qPCR and in-situ hybridization. Either THC or CBR antagonists were compounded in an aqueous solution and dosed during the induction of DED. Tear production, cornea sensitivity, and cornea fluorescence staining were tested. At the end of each experiment, corneas were stained with β3-tubulin for analysis of corneal nerve morphology. Conjunctiva was analyzed for CD4+ and CD8+ infiltration. RESULTS CB1R and CB2R are present at the ocular surface, and desiccating stress increased CBR expressions (p < 0.05). After 10 days of DED induction, treated groups demonstrated a reduced CBR expression in the cornea, which was concurrent with improvements in the DED phenotype including fluorescence staining & inflammation. Applying THC protected corneal nerve morphology, thus maintained corneal sensitivity and reduced CD4+ T-cell infiltration. The CB1R antagonist maintained cornea sensitivity without changing nerve morphology. CONCLUSIONS Endocannabinoid receptor modulation presents a potential multi-functional therapeutic approach for DED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bao N Tran
- Division of Dry-Eye and Ocular GVHD, Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Martina Maass
- Division of Dry-Eye and Ocular GVHD, Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Gwen Musial
- Division of Dry-Eye and Ocular GVHD, Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Michael E Stern
- Division of Dry-Eye and Ocular GVHD, Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; ImmunEyez LLC, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Uta Gehlsen
- Division of Dry-Eye and Ocular GVHD, Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Philipp Steven
- Division of Dry-Eye and Ocular GVHD, Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
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12
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Hashiesh HM, Sharma C, Goyal SN, Jha NK, Ojha S. Pharmacological Properties, Therapeutic Potential and Molecular Mechanisms of JWH133, a CB2 Receptor-Selective Agonist. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:702675. [PMID: 34393784 PMCID: PMC8363263 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.702675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system has attracted attention as a pharmacological target for several pathological conditions. Cannabinoid (CB2)-selective agonists have been the focus of pharmacological studies because modulation of the CB2 receptor (CB2R) can be useful in the treatment of pain, inflammation, arthritis, addiction, and cancer among other possible therapeutic applications while circumventing CNS-related adverse effects. Increasing number of evidences from different independent preclinical studies have suggested new perspectives on the involvement of CB2R signaling in inflammation, infection and immunity, thus play important role in cancer, cardiovascular, renal, hepatic and metabolic diseases. JWH133 is a synthetic agonist with high CB2R selectivity and showed to exert CB2R mediated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, gastroprotective, nephroprotective, and immunomodulatory activities. Cumulative evidences suggest that JWH133 protects against hepatic injury, renal injury, cardiotoxicity, fibrosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and cancer as well as against oxidative damage and inflammation, inhibits fibrosis and apoptosis, and acts as an immunosuppressant. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the polypharmacological properties and therapeutic potential of JWH133. This review also presents molecular mechanism and signaling pathways of JWH133 under various pathological conditions except neurological diseases. Based on the available data, this review proposes the possibilities of developing JWH133 as a promising therapeutic agent; however, further safety and toxicity studies in preclinical studies and clinical trials in humans are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hebaallah Mamdouh Hashiesh
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Charu Sharma
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Sameer N Goyal
- Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal's Institute of Pharmacy, Dhule, India
| | - Niraj Kumar Jha
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Engineering and Technology (SET), Sharda University, Greater Noida, India
| | - Shreesh Ojha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates.,Zayed Bin Sultan Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Angyal Á, Pénzes Z, Alimohammadi S, Horváth D, Takács L, Vereb G, Zsebik B, Bíró T, Tóth KF, Lisztes E, Tóth BI, Oláh A, Szöllősi AG. Anandamide Concentration-Dependently Modulates Toll-Like Receptor 3 Agonism or UVB-Induced Inflammatory Response of Human Corneal Epithelial Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22157776. [PMID: 34360541 PMCID: PMC8346008 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22157776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Photodamage-induced and viral keratitis could benefit from treatment with novel nonsteroid anti-inflammatory agents. Therefore, we determined whether human corneal epithelial cells (HCECs) express members of the endocannabinoid system (ECS), and examined how the endocannabinoid anandamide (AEA, N-arachidonoyl ethanolamine) influences the Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) agonism- or UVB irradiation-induced inflammatory response of these cells. Other than confirming the presence of cannabinoid receptors, we show that endocannabinoid synthesizing and catabolizing enzymes are also expressed in HCECs in vitro, as well as in the epithelial layer of the human cornea in situ, proving that they are one possible source of endocannabinoids. p(I:C) and UVB irradiation was effective in promoting the transcription and secretion of inflammatory cytokines. Surprisingly, when applied alone in 100 nM and 10 μM, AEA also resulted in increased pro-inflammatory cytokine production. Importantly, AEA further increased levels of these cytokines in the UVB model, whereas its lower concentration partially prevented the transcriptional effect of p(I:C), while not decreasing the p(I:C)-induced cytokine release. HCECs express the enzymatic machinery required to produce endocannabinoids both in vitro and in situ. Moreover, our data show that, despite earlier reports about the anti-inflammatory potential of AEA in murine cornea, its effects on the immune phenotype of human corneal epithelium may be more complex and context dependent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ágnes Angyal
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (Á.A.); (K.F.T.); (E.L.); (B.I.T.); (A.O.)
- Doctoral School of Molecular Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (Z.P.); (S.A.); (D.H.)
| | - Zsófia Pénzes
- Doctoral School of Molecular Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (Z.P.); (S.A.); (D.H.)
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
| | - Shahrzad Alimohammadi
- Doctoral School of Molecular Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (Z.P.); (S.A.); (D.H.)
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
| | - Dorottya Horváth
- Doctoral School of Molecular Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (Z.P.); (S.A.); (D.H.)
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
| | - Lili Takács
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
| | - György Vereb
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (G.V.); (B.Z.)
- MTA-DE Cell Biology and Signaling Research Group, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Barbara Zsebik
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (G.V.); (B.Z.)
- MTA-DE Cell Biology and Signaling Research Group, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Tamás Bíró
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
- Monasterium Laboratory Skin & Hair Research Solutions, Mendelstraße 17, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Kinga Fanni Tóth
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (Á.A.); (K.F.T.); (E.L.); (B.I.T.); (A.O.)
- Doctoral School of Molecular Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (Z.P.); (S.A.); (D.H.)
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
| | - Erika Lisztes
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (Á.A.); (K.F.T.); (E.L.); (B.I.T.); (A.O.)
| | - Balázs István Tóth
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (Á.A.); (K.F.T.); (E.L.); (B.I.T.); (A.O.)
| | - Attila Oláh
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (Á.A.); (K.F.T.); (E.L.); (B.I.T.); (A.O.)
| | - Attila Gábor Szöllősi
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +36-5241171 (ext. 65242)
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Puri S, Sun M, Mutoji KN, Gesteira TF, Coulson-Thomas VJ. Epithelial Cell Migration and Proliferation Patterns During Initial Wound Closure in Normal Mice and an Experimental Model of Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2021; 61:27. [PMID: 32790859 PMCID: PMC7441334 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.61.10.27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Establishing the dynamics of corneal wound healing is of vital importance to better understand corneal inflammation, pathology, and corneal regeneration. Numerous studies have made great strides in investigating multiple aspects of corneal wound healing; however, some aspects remain to be elucidated. This study worked toward establishing (1) if epithelial limbal stem cells (LSCs) are necessary for healing all corneal wounds, (2) the mechanism by which epithelial cells migrate toward the wound, and (3) if centrifugal epithelial cell movement exists. Methods To establish different aspects of corneal epithelial wound healing we subjected mice lacking hyaluronan synthase 2 (previously shown to lack LSCs) and wild-type mice to different corneal debridement injury models. Results Our data show that both LSCs and corneal epithelial cells contribute toward closure of corneal wounds. In wild-type mice, removal of the limbal rim delayed closure of 1.5-mm wounds, and not of 0.75-mm wounds, indicating that smaller wounds do not rely on LSCs as do larger wounds. In mice shown to lack LSCs, removal of the limbal rim did not affect wound healing, irrespective of the wound size. Finally, transient amplifying cells and central epithelial cells move toward a central corneal wound in a centripetal manner, whereas central epithelial cells may move in a centrifugal manner to resurface peripheral corneal wounds. Conclusions Our findings show the dimensions of the corneal wound dictate involvement of LSCs. Our data suggest that divergent findings by different groups on the dynamics of wound healing can be in part owing to differences in the wounding models used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudan Puri
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, United States
| | - Mingxia Sun
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, United States
| | - Kazadi N Mutoji
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, United States
| | - Tarsis F Gesteira
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, United States
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CannabinEYEds: The Endocannabinoid System as a Regulator of the Ocular Surface Nociception, Inflammatory Response, Neovascularization and Wound Healing. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9124036. [PMID: 33327429 PMCID: PMC7764860 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9124036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex regulatory system, highly conserved among vertebrates. It has been widely described in nearly all human tissues. In the conjunctiva and cornea, the ECS is believed to play a pivotal role in the modulation of the local inflammatory state as well as in the regulation of tissue repair and fibrosis, neo-angiogenesis and pain perception. This review aims to summarize all the available data on ECS expression and its function in ocular surface structures to provide a specific insight concerning its modulation in dry eye disease, and to propose directions for future research.
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16
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Weigelt MA, Sivamani R, Lev-Tov H. The therapeutic potential of cannabinoids for integumentary wound management. Exp Dermatol 2020; 30:201-211. [PMID: 33205468 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The increasing legalization of Cannabis for recreational and medicinal purposes in the United States has spurred renewed interest in the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids (CBs) for human disease. The skin has its own endocannabinoid system (eCS) which is a key regulator of various homeostatic processes, including those necessary for normal physiologic wound healing. Data on the use of CBs for wound healing are scarce. Compelling pre-clinical evidence supporting the therapeutic potential of CBs to improve wound healing by modulating key molecular pathways is herein reviewed. These findings merit further exploration in basic science, translational and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximillian A Weigelt
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology & Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Raja Sivamani
- Department of Dermatology, University of California-Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA.,Department of Biological Sciences, California State University, Sacramento, CA, USA.,School of Medicine, California Northstate University, Elk Grove, CA, USA.,Pacific Skin Institute, Sacramento, CA, USA.,Zen Dermatology, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Hadar Lev-Tov
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology & Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
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17
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Miller S, Daily L, Dharla V, Gertsch J, Malamas MS, Ojima I, Kaczocha M, Ogasawara D, Straiker A. Endocannabinoid metabolism and transport as targets to regulate intraocular pressure. Exp Eye Res 2020; 201:108266. [PMID: 32979397 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2020.108266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cannabinoids are part of an endogenous signaling system found throughout the body, including the eye. Hepler and Frank showed in the early 1970s that plant cannabinoids can lower intraocular pressure (IOP), an effect since shown to occur via cannabinoid CB1 and GPR18 receptors. Endocannabinoids are synthesized and metabolized enzymatically. Enzymes implicated in endocannabinoids breakdown include monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) and fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), but also ABHD12, NAAA, and COX-2. Inhibition of MAGL activity raises levels of the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoyl glycerol and substantially lowers IOP. Blocking other cannabinoid metabolizing enzymes or cannabinoid transporters may similarly contribute to lowering IOP and so serve as therapeutic targets for treating glaucoma. We have tested blockers for several cannabinoid-metabolizing enzymes and transporters (FABP5 and membrane reuptake) for their ability to alter ocular pressure in a murine model of IOP. Of FAAH, ABHD12, NAAA, and COX2, only FAAH was seen to play a role in regulation of IOP. Only the FAAH blocker URB597 lowered IOP, but in a temporally, diurnally, and sex-specific manner. We also tested two blockers of cannabinoid transport (SBFI-26 and WOBE437), finding that each lowered IOP in a CB1-dependent manner. Though we see a modest, limited role for FAAH, our results suggest that MAGL is the primary cannabinoid-metabolizing enzyme in regulating ocular pressure, thus pointing towards a role of 2-arachidonoyl glycerol. Interestingly, inhibition of cannabinoid transport mechanisms independent of hydrolysis may prove to be an alternative strategy to lower ocular pressure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally Miller
- The Gill Center for Biomolecular Science, Program in Neuroscience, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, USA
| | - Laura Daily
- The Gill Center for Biomolecular Science, Program in Neuroscience, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, USA
| | - Vijai Dharla
- The Gill Center for Biomolecular Science, Program in Neuroscience, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, USA
| | - Juerg Gertsch
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bühlstrasse 28, 3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Michael S Malamas
- Center for Drug Discovery and Departments of Chemistry and Chemical Biology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Iwao Ojima
- Department of Chemistry, USA; Institute of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, USA
| | - Martin Kaczocha
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, USA; Department of Anesthesiology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA
| | - Daisuke Ogasawara
- Department of Chemistry, Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Alex Straiker
- The Gill Center for Biomolecular Science, Program in Neuroscience, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, USA.
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Abstract
Cannabis ranks among the most commonly used psychotropic drugs worldwide. In the context of the global movement toward more widespread legalisation, there is a growing need toward developing a better understanding of the physiological and pathological effects. We provide an overview of the current evidence on the effects of cannabinoids on the eye. Of the identified cannabinoids, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol is recognized to be the primary psychotropic compound, and cannabidiol is the predominant nonpsychoactive ingredient. Despite demonstrating ocular hypotensive and neuroprotective activity, the use of cannabinoids as a treatment for glaucoma is limited by a large number of potential systemic and ophthalmic side effects. Anterior segment effects of cannabinoids are complex, with preliminary evidence showing decreased corneal endothelial density in chronic cannabinoid users. Experiments in rodents, however, have shown potential promise for the treatment of ocular surface injury via antinociceptive and antiinflammatory effects. Electroretinography studies demonstrating adverse effects on photoreceptor, bipolar, and ganglion cell function suggest links between cannabis and neuroretinal dysfunction. Neuro-ophthalmic associations include ocular motility deficits and decrements in smooth pursuit and saccadic eye movements, although potential therapeutic effects for congenital and acquired nystagmus have been observed.
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19
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Thayer A, Murataeva N, Delcroix V, Wager-Miller J, Makarenkova HP, Straiker A. THC Regulates Tearing via Cannabinoid CB1 Receptors. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2020; 61:48. [PMID: 32852544 PMCID: PMC7452851 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.61.10.48] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Aqueous deficiency dry eye (ADDE) is a chronic condition affecting millions, with symptoms ranging from a dry itchiness to blurred vision and accompanied by an increased risk of eye infections. ADDE typically arises from disorders of the lacrimal gland that produces tears necessary for eye lubrication. Cannabis users frequently report dry eye, but the basis for this is unknown. If the effects occur via the endogenous cannabinoid signaling system, then this may represent a novel mechanism for the regulation of tearing. Methods We examined expression of cannabinoid CB1 receptors in the lacrimal gland using immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, and PCR and tested tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) regulation of tearing in wild-type and CB1-null mice. Results We now report that CB1 receptors are expressed in the axons of cholinergic neurons innervating the lacrimal gland. Little if any staining is seen in lacrimal gland epithelial cells (acinar and ductal) or myoepithelial cells (MECs). Activation of CB1 receptors by THC or the cannabinoid agonist CP55940 reduces tearing in male mice. In female mice, THC has no effect, but CP55940 increases tearing. In both sexes, the effect of CP55940 is absent in CB1 knockout mice. CB1 mRNA and protein levels are approximately four- to fivefold higher in males than females. In male knockouts, THC increases tearing, suggesting that THC also acts through different receptors. Conclusions Our results suggest a novel, albeit sex-dependent, physiologic basis for the dry eye symptoms experienced by cannabis users: activation of neuronal CB1 receptors in the lacrimal gland reduces tearing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Thayer
- The Gill Center for Biomolecular Science, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States.,Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States
| | - Natalia Murataeva
- The Gill Center for Biomolecular Science, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States.,Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States
| | - Vanessa Delcroix
- Scripps Research Institute, Department of Molecular Medicine, La Jolla, California, United States
| | - Jim Wager-Miller
- The Gill Center for Biomolecular Science, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States.,Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States
| | - Helen P Makarenkova
- Scripps Research Institute, Department of Molecular Medicine, La Jolla, California, United States
| | - Alex Straiker
- The Gill Center for Biomolecular Science, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States.,Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States.,Program in Neuroscience, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States
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Thompson KJ, Tobin AB. Crosstalk between the M 1 muscarinic acetylcholine receptor and the endocannabinoid system: A relevance for Alzheimer's disease? Cell Signal 2020; 70:109545. [PMID: 31978506 PMCID: PMC7184673 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2020.109545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2019] [Revised: 01/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder which accounts for 60-70% of the 50 million worldwide cases of dementia and is characterised by cognitive impairments, many of which have long been associated with dysfunction of the cholinergic system. Although the M1 muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (mAChR) is considered a promising drug target for AD, ligands targeting this receptor have so far been unsuccessful in clinical trials. As modulatory receptors to cholinergic transmission, the endocannabinoid system may be a promising drug target to allow fine tuning of the cholinergic system. Furthermore, disease-related changes have been found in the endocannabinoid system during AD progression and indeed targeting the endocannabinoid system at specific disease stages alleviates cognitive symptoms in numerous mouse models of AD. Here we review the role of the endocannabinoid system in AD, and its crosstalk with mAChRs as a potential drug target for cholinergic dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen J Thompson
- Centre for Translational Pharmacology, Institute of Molecular Cell and Systems Biology, Davidson Building, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK.
| | - Andrew B Tobin
- Centre for Translational Pharmacology, Institute of Molecular Cell and Systems Biology, Davidson Building, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
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21
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Abstract
Purpose: While cannabis has the potential to reduce corneal pain, cannabinoids might induce side effects. This review article examines the effects of cannabinoids on the cornea. As more states and countries consider the legalization of adult cannabis use, health-care providers will need to identify ocular effects of cannabis consumption.Methods: Studies included in this review examined the connection between cannabis and the cornea, more specifically anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory actions of cannabinoids. NCBI Databases from 1781 up to December 2019 were consulted.Results: Five studies examined corneal dysfunctions caused by cannabis consumption (opacification, decreased endothelial cell density). Twelve studies observed a reduction in corneal pain and inflammation (less lymphocytes, decreased corneal neovascularization, increased cell proliferation and migration).Conclusion: More than half of the studies examined the therapeutic effects of cannabinoids on the cornea. As the field is still young, more studies should be conducted to develop safe cannabinoid treatments for corneal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne X Nguyen
- Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Albert Y Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
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22
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Straiker
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
- Program in Neuroscience, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
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