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Kouchaeknejad A, Van Der Walt G, De Donato MH, Puighermanal E. Imaging and Genetic Tools for the Investigation of the Endocannabinoid System in the CNS. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15829. [PMID: 37958825 PMCID: PMC10648052 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115829] [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: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
As central nervous system (CNS)-related disorders present an increasing cause of global morbidity, mortality, and high pressure on our healthcare system, there is an urgent need for new insights and treatment options. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a critical network of endogenous compounds, receptors, and enzymes that contribute to CNS development and regulation. Given its multifaceted involvement in neurobiology and its significance in various CNS disorders, the ECS as a whole is considered a promising therapeutic target. Despite significant advances in our understanding of the ECS's role in the CNS, its complex architecture and extensive crosstalk with other biological systems present challenges for research and clinical advancements. To bridge these knowledge gaps and unlock the full therapeutic potential of ECS interventions in CNS-related disorders, a plethora of molecular-genetic tools have been developed in recent years. Here, we review some of the most impactful tools for investigating the neurological aspects of the ECS. We first provide a brief introduction to the ECS components, including cannabinoid receptors, endocannabinoids, and metabolic enzymes, emphasizing their complexity. This is followed by an exploration of cutting-edge imaging tools and genetic models aimed at elucidating the roles of these principal ECS components. Special emphasis is placed on their relevance in the context of CNS and its associated disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Emma Puighermanal
- Neuroscience Institute, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain; (A.K.); (G.V.D.W.); (M.H.D.D.)
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2
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Knap B, Nieoczym D, Kundap U, Kusio-Targonska K, Kukula-Koch W, Turski WA, Gawel K. Zebrafish as a robust preclinical platform for screening plant-derived drugs with anticonvulsant properties-a review. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1221665. [PMID: 37701853 PMCID: PMC10493295 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1221665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Traditionally, selected plant sources have been explored for medicines to treat convulsions. This continues today, especially in countries with low-income rates and poor medical systems. However, in the low-income countries, plant extracts and isolated drugs are in high demand due to their good safety profiles. Preclinical studies on animal models of seizures/epilepsy have revealed the anticonvulsant and/or antiepileptogenic properties of, at least some, herb preparations or plant metabolites. Still, there is a significant number of plants known in traditional medicine that exert anticonvulsant activity but have not been evaluated on animal models. Zebrafish is recognized as a suitable in vivo model of epilepsy research and is increasingly used as a screening platform. In this review, the results of selected preclinical studies are summarized to provide credible information for the future development of effective screening methods for plant-derived antiseizure/antiepileptic therapeutics using zebrafish models. We compared zebrafish vs. rodent data to show the translational value of the former in epilepsy research. We also surveyed caveats in methodology. Finally, we proposed a pipeline for screening new anticonvulsant plant-derived drugs in zebrafish ("from tank to bedside and back again").
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Affiliation(s)
- Bartosz Knap
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Dorota Nieoczym
- Department of Animal Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Lublin, Poland
| | - Uday Kundap
- Canada East Spine Center, Saint John Regional Hospital, Horizon Health Center, Saint John, NB, Canada
| | - Kamila Kusio-Targonska
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Wirginia Kukula-Koch
- Department of Pharmacognosy with Medicinal Plants Garden, Medical University, Lublin, Poland
| | - Waldemar A. Turski
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Kinga Gawel
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
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3
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Marijuana and Opioid Use during Pregnancy: Using Zebrafish to Gain Understanding of Congenital Anomalies Caused by Drug Exposure during Development. Biomedicines 2020; 8:biomedicines8080279. [PMID: 32784457 PMCID: PMC7460517 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8080279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Marijuana and opioid addictions have increased alarmingly in recent decades, especially in the United States, posing threats to society. When the drug user is a pregnant mother, there is a serious risk to the developing baby. Congenital anomalies are associated with prenatal exposure to marijuana and opioids. Here, we summarize the current data on the prevalence of marijuana and opioid use among the people of the United States, particularly pregnant mothers. We also summarize the current zebrafish studies used to model and understand the effects of these drug exposures during development and to understand the behavioral changes after exposure. Zebrafish experiments recapitulate the drug effects seen in human addicts and the birth defects seen in human babies prenatally exposed to marijuana and opioids. Zebrafish show great potential as an easy and inexpensive model for screening compounds for their ability to mitigate the drug effects, which could lead to new therapeutics.
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Amin MR, Ahmed KT, Ali DW. Early Exposure to THC Alters M-Cell Development in Zebrafish Embryos. Biomedicines 2020; 8:biomedicines8010005. [PMID: 31947970 PMCID: PMC7168183 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8010005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Revised: 12/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabis is one of the most commonly used illicit recreational drugs that is often taken for medicinal purposes. The psychoactive ingredient in cannabis is Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC, hereafter referred to as THC), which is an agonist at the endocannabinoid receptors CB1R and CB2R. Here, we exposed zebrafish embryos to THC during the gastrulation phase to determine the long-term effects during development. We specifically focused on reticulospinal neurons known as the Mauthner cells (M-cell) that are involved in escape response movements. The M- cells are born during gastrulation, thus allowing us to examine neuronal morphology of neurons born during the time of exposure. After the exposure, embryos were allowed to develop normally and were examined at two days post-fertilization for M-cell morphology and escape responses. THC treated embryos exhibited subtle alterations in M-cell axon diameter and small changes in escape response dynamics to touch. Because escape responses were altered, we also examined muscle fiber development. The fluorescent labelling of red and white muscle fibers showed that while muscles were largely intact, the fibers were slightly disorganized with subtle but significant changes in the pattern of expression of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. However, there were no overt changes in the expression of nicotinic receptor subunit mRNA ascertained by qPCR. Embryos were allowed to further develop until 5 dpf, when they were examined for overall levels of movement. Animals exposed to THC during gastrulation exhibited reduced activity compared with vehicle controls. Together, these findings indicate that zebrafish exposed to THC during the gastrula phase exhibit small changes in neuronal and muscle morphology that may impact behavior and locomotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Ruhul Amin
- Department of Biological Sciences, CW-405 Biological Sciences Bldg., University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E9, Canada; (M.R.A.); (K.T.A.)
| | - Kazi T. Ahmed
- Department of Biological Sciences, CW-405 Biological Sciences Bldg., University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E9, Canada; (M.R.A.); (K.T.A.)
| | - Declan W. Ali
- Department of Biological Sciences, CW-405 Biological Sciences Bldg., University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E9, Canada; (M.R.A.); (K.T.A.)
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-780-492-6094
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5
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Demin KA, Meshalkina DA, Kysil EV, Antonova KA, Volgin AD, Yakovlev OA, Alekseeva PA, Firuleva MM, Lakstygal AM, de Abreu MS, Barcellos LJG, Bao W, Friend AJ, Amstislavskaya TG, Rosemberg DB, Musienko PE, Song C, Kalueff AV. Zebrafish models relevant to studying central opioid and endocannabinoid systems. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2018; 86:301-312. [PMID: 29604314 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2018.03.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2018] [Revised: 03/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid and opioid systems are two interplaying neurotransmitter systems that modulate drug abuse, anxiety, pain, cognition, neurogenesis and immune activity. Although they are involved in such critical functions, our understanding of endocannabinoid and opioid physiology remains limited, necessitating further studies, novel models and new model organisms in this field. Zebrafish (Danio rerio) is rapidly emerging as one of the most effective translational models in neuroscience and biological psychiatry. Due to their high physiological and genetic homology to humans, zebrafish may be effectively used to study the endocannabinoid and opioid systems. Here, we discuss current models used to target the endocannabinoid and opioid systems in zebrafish, and their potential use in future translational research and high-throughput drug screening. Emphasizing the high degree of conservation of the endocannabinoid and opioid systems in zebrafish and mammals, we suggest zebrafish as an excellent model organism to study these systems and to search for the new drugs and therapies targeting their evolutionarily conserved mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin A Demin
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia; Institute of Experimental Medicine, Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg, Russia; Laboratory of Preclinical Bioscreening, Russian Research Center for Radiology and Surgical Technologies, Ministry of Health, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Darya A Meshalkina
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia; Institute of Experimental Medicine, Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg, Russia; Laboratory of Preclinical Bioscreening, Russian Research Center for Radiology and Surgical Technologies, Ministry of Health, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Elana V Kysil
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Kristina A Antonova
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Andrey D Volgin
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia; Medical Military Academy, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Oleg A Yakovlev
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia; Medical Military Academy, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Polina A Alekseeva
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Maria M Firuleva
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Anton M Lakstygal
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Murilo S de Abreu
- Bioscience Institute, University of Passo Fundo (UPF), Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil; Graduate Program in Pharmacology, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Brazil
| | - Leonardo J G Barcellos
- Graduate Program in Pharmacology, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Brazil; Graduate Programs in Environmental Sciences, and Bio-Experimentation, University of Passo Fundo (UPF), Passo Fundo, Brazil; The International Zebrafish Neuroscience Research Consortium (ZNRC), Slidell, LA, USA
| | - Wandong Bao
- School of Pharmacy, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ashton J Friend
- The International Zebrafish Neuroscience Research Consortium (ZNRC), Slidell, LA, USA; Tulane University School of Science and Engineering, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Tamara G Amstislavskaya
- The International Zebrafish Neuroscience Research Consortium (ZNRC), Slidell, LA, USA; Laboratory of Translational Biopsychiatry, Research Institute of Physiology and Basic Medicine, Novosibirsk, Russia; Neuroscience Department, Novosibirsk State University, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Denis B Rosemberg
- The International Zebrafish Neuroscience Research Consortium (ZNRC), Slidell, LA, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Brazil
| | - Pavel E Musienko
- Laboratory of Neuroprosthetics, Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia; Laboratory of Motor Physiology, Pavlov Institute of Physiology RAS, St. Petersburg, Russia; Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Experimental Neurorehabilitation, St. Petersburg State Research Institute of Phthysiopulmonology, Ministry of Health, St. Petersburg, Russia; Russian Research Center of Radiology and Surgical Technologies, Ministry of Health, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Cai Song
- Research Institute for Marine Drugs and Nutrition, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China; Marine Medicine Research and Development Center, Shenzhen Institute of Guangdong Ocean University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Allan V Kalueff
- School of Pharmacy, Southwest University, Chongqing, China; Laboratory of Translational Biopsychiatry, Research Institute of Physiology and Basic Medicine, Novosibirsk, Russia; Neuroscience Department, Novosibirsk State University, Novosibirsk, Russia; ZENEREI Research Center, Slidell, LA, USA; Russian Research Center of Radiology and Surgical Technologies, Ministry of Health, St. Petersburg, Russia; Ural Federal University, Ekaterinburg, Russia; Aquatic Laboratory, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg, Russia.
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6
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Achenbach JC, Hill J, Hui JPM, Morash MG, Berrue F, Ellis LD. Analysis of the Uptake, Metabolism, and Behavioral Effects of Cannabinoids on Zebrafish Larvae. Zebrafish 2018; 15:349-360. [PMID: 29634460 DOI: 10.1089/zeb.2017.1541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The Cannabis sativa plant contains numerous phytocannabinoids and terpenes with known or potential biological activity. For decades, plant breeders have been breeding the Cannabis plant to control for a desired ratio of the major cannabinoids. A high-throughput in vivo model to understand the relationship between the chemical composition of different strains and their therapeutic potential then becomes of value. Measuring changes in the behavioral patterns of zebrafish larvae is an established model with which to test the biological activity of neuroactive compounds. However, there is currently little information regarding the uptake kinetics and metabolism of compounds by larvae. In this study, we chose to compare the uptake kinetics and metabolism of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) alone or in combination with their effects on larval behavior. We have shown that both compounds have distinct behavioral patterns and concentration response profiles. Additionally, the uptake kinetics observed for each compound appears to correlate with the change in behavior observed in the behavioral assays. When combinations of THC and CBD were tested there were shifts in both the behavioral activity and the uptake kinetics of each compound compared with when they were tested alone. Finally, the THC/CBD-derived metabolites detected in the larvae are similar to those found in mammalian systems. This study thus provides a model for further testing of additional cannabinoids and potentially plant extracts.
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Affiliation(s)
- John C Achenbach
- Aquatic and Crop Resource Development Research Center, National Research Council of Canada , Halifax, Canada
| | - Jessica Hill
- Aquatic and Crop Resource Development Research Center, National Research Council of Canada , Halifax, Canada
| | - Joseph P M Hui
- Aquatic and Crop Resource Development Research Center, National Research Council of Canada , Halifax, Canada
| | - Michael G Morash
- Aquatic and Crop Resource Development Research Center, National Research Council of Canada , Halifax, Canada
| | - Fabrice Berrue
- Aquatic and Crop Resource Development Research Center, National Research Council of Canada , Halifax, Canada
| | - Lee D Ellis
- Aquatic and Crop Resource Development Research Center, National Research Council of Canada , Halifax, Canada
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7
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Chiarlone A, Börner C, Martín-Gómez L, Jiménez-González A, García-Concejo A, García-Bermejo ML, Lorente M, Blázquez C, García-Taboada E, de Haro A, Martella E, Höllt V, Rodríguez R, Galve-Roperh I, Kraus J, Guzmán M. MicroRNA let-7d is a target of cannabinoid CB1 receptor and controls cannabinoid signaling. Neuropharmacology 2016; 108:345-52. [PMID: 27179908 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2016.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2015] [Revised: 04/19/2016] [Accepted: 05/10/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cannabinoid CB1 receptor, the molecular target of endocannabinoids and cannabis active components, is one of the most abundant metabotropic receptors in the brain. Cannabis is widely used for both recreational and medicinal purposes. Despite the ever-growing fundamental roles of microRNAs in the brain, the possible molecular connections between the CB1 receptor and microRNAs are surprisingly unknown. Here, by using reporter gene constructs that express interaction sequences for microRNAs in human SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells, we show that CB1 receptor activation enhances the expression of several microRNAs, including let-7d. This was confirmed by measuring hsa-let-7d expression levels. Accordingly, knocking-down CB1 receptor in zebrafish reduced dre-let-7d levels, and knocking-out CB1 receptor in mice decreased mmu-let-7d levels in the cortex, striatum and hippocampus. Conversely, knocking-down let-7d increased CB1 receptor mRNA expression in zebrafish, SH-SY5Y cells and primary striatal neurons. Likewise, in primary striatal neurons chronically exposed to a cannabinoid or opioid agonist, a let-7d-inhibiting sequence facilitated not only cannabinoid or opioid signaling but also cannabinoid/opioid cross-signaling. Taken together, these findings provide the first evidence for a bidirectional link between the CB1 receptor and a microRNA, namely let-7d, and thus unveil a new player in the complex process of cannabinoid action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Chiarlone
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED) and Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN), Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain; Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Christine Börner
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Magdeburg, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Laura Martín-Gómez
- Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ada Jiménez-González
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas de Salamanca (IBSAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| | - Adrián García-Concejo
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas de Salamanca (IBSAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| | | | - Mar Lorente
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED) and Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN), Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Blázquez
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED) and Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN), Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain; Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Elena García-Taboada
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED) and Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN), Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain; Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Amador de Haro
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED) and Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN), Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Elisa Martella
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Magdeburg, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Volker Höllt
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Magdeburg, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Raquel Rodríguez
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas de Salamanca (IBSAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| | - Ismael Galve-Roperh
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED) and Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN), Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain; Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Jürgen Kraus
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Magdeburg, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Manuel Guzmán
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED) and Instituto Universitario de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUIN), Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain; Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), 28034 Madrid, Spain.
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8
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Kyzar EJ, Kalueff AV. Exploring Hallucinogen Pharmacology and Psychedelic Medicine with Zebrafish Models. Zebrafish 2016; 13:379-90. [PMID: 27002655 DOI: 10.1089/zeb.2016.1251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
After decades of sociopolitical obstacles, the field of psychiatry is experiencing a revived interest in the use of hallucinogenic agents to treat brain disorders. Along with the use of ketamine for depression, recent pilot studies have highlighted the efficacy of classic serotonergic hallucinogens, such as lysergic acid diethylamide and psilocybin, in treating addiction, post-traumatic stress disorder, and anxiety. However, many basic pharmacological and toxicological questions remain unanswered with regard to these compounds. In this study, we discuss psychedelic medicine as well as the behavioral and toxicological effects of hallucinogenic drugs in zebrafish. We emphasize this aquatic organism as a model ideally suited to assess both the potential toxic and therapeutic effects of major known classes of hallucinogenic compounds. In addition, novel drugs with hallucinogenic properties can be efficiently screened using zebrafish models. Well-designed preclinical studies utilizing zebrafish can contribute to the reemerging treatment paradigm of psychedelic medicine, leading to new avenues of clinical exploration for psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan J Kyzar
- 1 Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago , Chicago, Illinois
| | - Allan V Kalueff
- 2 Research Institute for Marine Drugs and Nutrition, College of Food Science and Technology, Guangdong Ocean University (GDOU) , Zhanjiang, China .,3 ZENEREI Institute , Slidell, Louisiana.,4 Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University , St. Petersburg, Russia .,5 Institutes of Chemical Technology and Natural Sciences, Ural Federal University , Ekaterinburg, Russia .,6 The International Zebrafish Neuroscience Research Consortium (ZNRC) , Slidell, Louisiana
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9
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Krug RG, Clark KJ. Elucidating cannabinoid biology in zebrafish (Danio rerio). Gene 2015; 570:168-79. [PMID: 26192460 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2015.07.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2015] [Accepted: 07/11/2015] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The number of annual cannabinoid users exceeds 100,000,000 globally and an estimated 9% of these individuals will suffer from dependency. Although exogenous cannabinoids, like those contained in marijuana, are known to exert their effects by disrupting the endocannabinoid system, a dearth of knowledge exists about the potential toxicological consequences on public health. Conversely, the endocannabinoid system represents a promising therapeutic target for a plethora of disorders because it functions to endogenously regulate a vast repertoire of physiological functions. Accordingly, the rapidly expanding field of cannabinoid biology has sought to leverage model organisms in order to provide both toxicological and therapeutic insights about altered endocannabinoid signaling. The primary goal of this manuscript is to review the existing field of cannabinoid research in the genetically tractable zebrafish model-focusing on the cannabinoid receptor genes, cnr1 and cnr2, and the genes that produce enzymes for synthesis and degradation of the cognate ligands anandamide and 2-arachidonylglycerol. Consideration is also given to research that has studied the effects of exposure to exogenous phytocannabinoids and synthetic cannabinoids that are known to interact with cannabinoid receptors. These results are considered in the context of either endocannabinoid gene expression or endocannabinoid gene function, and are integrated with findings from rodent studies. This provides the framework for a discussion of how zebrafish may be leveraged in the future to provide novel toxicological and therapeutic insights in the field of cannabinoid biology, which has become increasingly significant given recent trends in cannabis legislation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randall G Krug
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA; Mayo Graduate School, Neurobiology of Disease Track, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Karl J Clark
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
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10
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Connors KA, Valenti TW, Lawless K, Sackerman J, Onaivi ES, Brooks BW, Gould GG. Similar anxiolytic effects of agonists targeting serotonin 5-HT1A or cannabinoid CB receptors on zebrafish behavior in novel environments. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2014; 151:105-13. [PMID: 24411165 PMCID: PMC3989442 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2013.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2013] [Revised: 11/30/2013] [Accepted: 12/05/2013] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
The discovery that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as fluoxetine are present and bioaccumulate in aquatic ecosystems have spurred studies of fish serotonin transporters (SERTs) and changes in SSRI-sensitive behaviors as adverse outcomes relevant for risk assessment. Many SSRIs also act at serotonin 5-HT1A receptors. Since capitalizing on this action may improve treatments of clinical depression and other psychiatric disorders, novel multimodal drugs that agonize 5-HT1A and block SERT were introduced. In mammals both 5-HT1A and CB agonists, such as buspirone and WIN55,212-2, reduce anxious behaviors. Immunological and behavioral evidence suggests that 5-HT1A-like receptors may function similarly in zebrafish (Danio rerio), yet their pharmacological properties are not well characterized. Herein we compared the density of [(3)H] 8-hydroxy-2-di-n-propylamino tetralin (8-OH-DPAT) binding to 5-HT1A-like sites in the zebrafish brain, to that of similarly Gαi/o-coupled cannabinoid receptors. [(3)H] 8-OH-DPAT specific binding was 176±8, 275±32, and 230±36fmol/mg protein in the hypothalamus, optic tectum, and telencephalon. [(3)H] WIN55,212-2 binding density was higher in those same brain regions at 6±0.3, 5.5±0.4 and 7.3±0.3pm/mg protein. The aquatic light-dark plus maze was used to examine behavioral effects of 5-HT1A and CB receptor agonists on zebrafish novelty-based anxiety. With acute exposure to the 5-HT1A partial-agonist buspirone (50mg/L), or dietary exposure to WIN55,212-2 (7μg/week) zebrafish spent more time in and/or entered white arms more often than controls (p<0.05). Acute exposure to WIN55,212-2 at 0.5-50mg/L reduced mobility. These behavioral findings suggest that azipirones, like cannabinoid agonists, have anxiolytic and/or sedative properties on fish in novel environments. These observations highlight the need to consider potential ecological risks of azapirones and multimodal antidepressants in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin A Connors
- Department of Environmental Science, Institute of Biomedical Studies, Baylor University, Waco, TX 76798-7266, USA
| | - Theodore W Valenti
- Department of Environmental Science, The Institute of Ecological, Earth, and Environmental Science, Baylor University, Waco, TX 76798-7266, USA(1); Syngenta Crop Protection LLC, Greensboro, NC 27419, USA(2)
| | - Kelly Lawless
- Department of Biology, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ 07470, USA
| | - James Sackerman
- Department of Biology, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ 07470, USA
| | - Emmanuel S Onaivi
- Department of Biology, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ 07470, USA
| | - Bryan W Brooks
- Department of Environmental Science, Institute of Biomedical Studies, Baylor University, Waco, TX 76798-7266, USA; Department of Environmental Science, The Institute of Ecological, Earth, and Environmental Science, Baylor University, Waco, TX 76798-7266, USA(1)
| | - Georgianna G Gould
- Department of Physiology and Center for Biomedical Neuroscience, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229-3900, USA.
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11
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Stewart AM, Kalueff AV. The behavioral effects of acute Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol and heroin (diacetylmorphine) exposure in adult zebrafish. Brain Res 2013; 1543:109-19. [PMID: 24216135 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2013.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2013] [Revised: 10/31/2013] [Accepted: 11/01/2013] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The use of psychotropic drugs in clinical and translational brain research continues to grow, and the need for novel experimental models and screens is becoming widely recognized. Mounting evidence supports the utility of zebrafish (Danio rerio) for studying various pharmacological manipulations, as an alternative model complementing the existing rodent paradigms in this field. Here, we explore the effects of acute 20-min exposure to two commonly abused psychotropic compounds, Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and heroin, on adult zebrafish behavior in the novel tank test. Overall, THC administration (30 and 50 mg/L) produces an anxiogenic-like reduction of top swimming, paralleled with a slower, continuous bottom swimming. In contrast, heroin exposure (15 and 25 mg/L) evoked a hyperlocomotor response (with rapid bouts of bottom swimming and frequent 'bouncing' motions) without altering anxiety-sensitive top/bottom endpoints. The behavioral effects of these two compounds in zebrafish seem to parallel the respective rodent and human findings. Collectively, this emphasizes the growing significance of novel emerging aquatic models in translational drug abuse research and small molecule screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Michael Stewart
- Zebrafish Neuroscience Research Consortium (ZNRC) and ZENEREI Institute, 309 Palmer Court, Slidell 70458, USA; Department of Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, A210 Langley Hall, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Allan V Kalueff
- Zebrafish Neuroscience Research Consortium (ZNRC) and ZENEREI Institute, 309 Palmer Court, Slidell 70458, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience Program, Tulane University Medical School, 1430 Tulane Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA.
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12
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Nguyen M, Yang E, Neelkantan N, Mikhaylova A, Arnold R, Poudel MK, Stewart AM, Kalueff AV. Developing 'integrative' zebrafish models of behavioral and metabolic disorders. Behav Brain Res 2013; 256:172-87. [PMID: 23948218 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2013.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2013] [Revised: 07/31/2013] [Accepted: 08/03/2013] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Recently, the pathophysiological overlap between metabolic and mental disorders has received increased recognition. Zebrafish (Danio rerio) are rapidly becoming a popular model organism for translational biomedical research due to their genetic tractability, low cost, quick reproductive cycle, and ease of behavioral, pharmacological or genetic manipulation. High homology to mammalian physiology and the availability of well-developed assays also make the zebrafish an attractive organism for studying human disorders. Zebrafish neurobehavioral and endocrine phenotypes show promise for the use of zebrafish in studies of stress, obesity and related behavioral and metabolic disorders. Here, we discuss the parallels between zebrafish and other model species in stress and obesity physiology, as well as outline the available zebrafish models of weight gain, metabolic deficits, feeding, stress, anxiety and related behavioral disorders. Overall, zebrafish demonstrate a strong potential for modeling human behavioral and metabolic disorders, and their comorbidity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Nguyen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, 415 Lane Road, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA; Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, 6560 Braddock Road, Alexandria, VA 22312, USA
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13
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Akhtar MT, Ali S, Rashidi H, van der Kooy F, Verpoorte R, Richardson MK. Developmental effects of cannabinoids on zebrafish larvae. Zebrafish 2013; 10:283-93. [PMID: 23789728 DOI: 10.1089/zeb.2012.0785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids are natural or synthetic compounds related chemically to (-)-(6aR,10aR)-6,6,9-trimethyl-3-pentyl-6a,7,8,10a-tetrahydro-6H-benzo[c]chromen-1-ol (Δ(9)-THC), the principle psychotropic constituent of the hemp plant, Cannabis sativa L. Here we examine the effects of the cannabinoids Δ(9)-THC, (R)-(+)-[2,3-dihydro-5-methyl-3-(4-morpholinylmethyl)pyrrolo [1,2,3-de]-1,4-benzoxazin-6-yl]-1-napthalenylmethanone and 2-[(1R,2R,5R)-5-hydroxy-2-(3-hydroxypropyl) cyclohexyl]-5-(2-methyloctan-2-yl)phenol, and the cannabinoid antagonist (AM 251). Exposures were either acute (1-12-h exposure at 108 hours of postfertilization [hpf]) or chronic (96-h exposure starting at 24 hpf). Geometric range finding was used to determine the experimental concentrations. The concentration of the chemical that kills 50% of the test animals in a given time (LC50) was determined based on cumulative mortality at 5 days of postfertilization. At day 5, behavioral analysis (visual motor response test) was carried out in which movement of individual larvae was analysed using automated video-tracking. With acute exposure, embryos showed a biphasic response to the dark challenge with all three cannabinoids tested. This response consisted of stimulation of the locomotor activity at low concentrations, suppression at high doses. With chronic exposure, embryos habituated to the effects of all three cannabinoids when assayed with the dark challenge phase. Further, the excitation was ameliorated when the antagonist AM 251 was coadministered with the cannabinoid. When AM 251 was administered on its own (chronically or acutely), the locomotor activity was suppressed at high concentrations. We examined the embryos for a range of malformations after chronic exposure to cannabinoid. Only Δ(9)-THC was associated with a significant increase in malformations at 5d (yolk sac and pericardial edema, bent tail/body axis). We conclude that cannabinoids have behavioral effects in zebrafish that are comparable to some of those reported in the literature for mammals. In particular, the acute exposure response resembles behavioral effects reported for adult rodents. Our data are consistent with these behavioral effects being mediated, at least in part, by the CB1 receptor.
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14
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Barba-Escobedo PA, Gould GG. Visual social preferences of lone zebrafish in a novel environment: strain and anxiolytic effects. GENES BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR 2012; 11:366-73. [PMID: 22288820 DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-183x.2012.00770.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Zebrafish (Danio rerio) have an innate tendency to join shoals. Based on this, we refined visual choice tests to focus on social interaction and novelty preference. Our design follows mouse three-chamber sociability protocols, except testing is conducted under 940 Lux fluorescent lighting. Initially, we compared performance among zebrafish strains: inbred (AB) or wild-crossbred (WIK) from Zebrafish International Resource Center, to golden and short-fin from Petco stores. AB fish exhibited a preference for shoaling; they dwelled longest near transparent boxes containing zebrafish, while short fin favored blue boxes without fish. AB and golden exhibited a strong preference for social novelty, not evident in short-fin or WIK fish. Serotonin and cannabinoids shape mammalian social behavior, and equivalents of both receptor types are expressed in the zebrafish brain. We examined the effects of the cannabinoid receptor agonist WIN 55,212-2 (1 mg/l), or serotonin 5-HT(1A) receptor agonist buspirone (10 mg/l) on Petco short-fin social choice. Fish were bath exposed to test compounds for 10 min, under these conditions [(3) H]CP55,940 (4 nm) bound to brain with a concentration of 1.9-6.4 fmol/mg 5-30 min afterward. Social approach was measured 20 min after acclimation to the test arena. WIN 55,212-2 and buspirone increased dwelling near boxed zebrafish. In zebrafish whole-brain homogenates, buspirone displaced [(3) H] 8-hydroxy-N,N-dipropylaminotetralin (dissociation constant, K(D) = 16 ± 1.2 nm) with an inhibition constant (K(i) ) of 1.8 ± 1.0 nm lower than that of WAY 100,635 (K(i) ∼1000 nm). These fish social choice tests may enhance social behavior research, and are useful for studying the effects of genetic manipulations, pharmaceuticals or environmental toxins.
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Tian X, Pavlopoulos S, Yang DP, Makriyannis A. The interaction of cannabinoid receptor agonists, CP55940 and WIN55212-2 with membranes using solid state 2H NMR. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2010; 1808:2095-101. [PMID: 21129361 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2010.11.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2010] [Revised: 11/18/2010] [Accepted: 11/22/2010] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Two key commonly used cannabinergic agonists, CP55940 and WIN55212-2, are investigated for their effects on the lipid membrane bilayer using (2)H solid state NMR, and the results are compared with our earlier work with delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ(9)-THC). To study the effects of these ligands we used hydrated bilayers of dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC) deuterated at the 2' and 16' positions of both acyl chains with deuterium atoms serving as probes for the dynamic and phase changes at the membrane interface and at the bilayer center respectively. All three cannabinergic ligands lower the phospholipid membrane phase transition temperature, increase the lipid sn-2 chain order parameter at the membrane interface and decrease the order at the center of the bilayer. Our studies show that the cannabinoid ligands induce lateral phase separation in the lipid membrane at physiological temperatures. During the lipid membrane phase transition, the cooperative dynamic process whereby the C-(2)H segments at the interface and center of the bilayer spontaneously reach the fast exchange regime ((2)H NMR timescale) is distinctively modulated by the two cannabinoids. Specifically, CP55940 is slightly more efficient at inducing liquid crystalline-type (2)H NMR spectral features at the membrane interface compared to WIN55212-2. In contrast, WIN55212-2 has a far superior ability to induce liquid crystalline-type spectral features at the center of the bilayer, and it increases the order parameter of the sn-1 chain in addition to the sn-2 chain of the lipids. These observations suggest the cannabinoid ligands may influence lipid membrane domain formations and there may be contributions to their cannabinergic activities through lipid membrane microdomain related mechanisms. Our work demonstrates that experimental design strategies utilizing specifically deuterium labeled lipids yield more detailed insights concerning the properties of lipid bilayers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu Tian
- Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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Zhang Y, Gilliam A, Maitra R, Damaj MI, Tajuba JM, Seltzman HH, Thomas BF. Synthesis and biological evaluation of bivalent ligands for the cannabinoid 1 receptor. J Med Chem 2010; 53:7048-60. [PMID: 20845959 DOI: 10.1021/jm1006676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Dimerization or oligomerization of many G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), including the cannabinoid 1 (CB1) receptor, is now widely accepted and may have significant implications for medications development targeting these receptor complexes. A library of bivalent ligands composed of two identical CB1 antagonist pharmacophores derived from SR141716 linked by spacers of various lengths were developed. The affinities of these bivalent ligands at CB1 and CB2 receptors were determined using radiolabeled binding assays. Their functional activities were measured using GTP-γ-S accumulation and intracellular calcium mobilization assays. The results suggest that the nature of the linker and its length are crucial factors for optimum interactions of these ligands at CB1 receptor binding sites. Finally, selected bivalent ligands (5d and 7b) were able to attenuate the antinociceptive effects of the cannabinoid agonist CP55,940 (21) in a rodent tail-flick assay. These novel compounds may serve as probes that will enable further characterization of CB1 receptor dimerization and oligomerization and its functional significance and may prove useful in the development of new therapeutic approaches to G-protein-coupled receptor mediated disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Zhang
- Research Triangle Institute, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709, USA.
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Fasano S, Meccariello R, Cobellis G, Chianese R, Cacciola G, Chioccarelli T, Pierantoni R. The Endocannabinoid System: An Ancient Signaling Involved in the Control of Male Fertility. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2009; 1163:112-24. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.2009.04437.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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Migliarini B, Carnevali O. A novel role for the endocannabinoid system during zebrafish development. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2009; 299:172-7. [PMID: 19071191 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2008.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2008] [Revised: 11/11/2008] [Accepted: 11/11/2008] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to increase our understanding of the physiological functions controlled by the endocannabinoid system during embryogenesis. Using genomic and proteomic methodologies applied to zebrafish, we proved, for the first time in an oviparous species, that the cannabinoid receptor CB1 is not a maternal factor. The analysis of different developmental stages showed that the zygotic expression of CB1 occurs from the 3 somites stage while CB1 protein becomes evident during hatching time, indicating an involvement in the hatching process. This result was supported by the data regarding embryo exposure to the CB1 antagonist, AM251, consisting in a 75% decrease in hatching rate. In addition, as previously described for mammals, we observed a role of CB1 in the motility behavior in zebrafish larvae.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Migliarini
- Marine Sciences Department, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Via Brecce Bianche 60131, Ancona, Italy
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