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Green HM, Manning JJ, Greig IR, Ross RA, Finlay DB, Glass M. Positive allosteric modulation of the cannabinoid CB 1 receptor potentiates endocannabinoid signalling and changes ERK1/2 phosphorylation kinetics. Br J Pharmacol 2024. [PMID: 38831545 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16433] [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: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Activation of CB1 by exogenous agonists causes adverse effects in vivo. Positive allosteric modulation may offer improved therapeutic potential and a reduced on-target adverse effect profile compared with orthosteric agonists, due to reduced desensitisation/tolerance, but this has not been directly tested. This study investigated the ability of PAMs/ago-PAMs to induce receptor regulation pathways, including desensitisation and receptor internalisation. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) assays in HEK293 cells were performed to investigate G protein dissociation, ERK1/2 phosphorylation and β-arrestin 2 translocation, while immunocytochemistry was performed to measure internalisation of CB1 in response to the PAMs ZCZ011, GAT229 and ABD1236 alone and in combination with the orthosteric agonists AEA, 2-AG, and AMB-FUBINACA. KEY RESULTS ZCZ011, GAT229 and ABD1236 were allosteric agonists in all pathways tested. The ago-PAM ZCZ011 induced a biphasic ERK1/2 phosphorylation time course compared to transient activation by orthosteric agonists. In combination with 2-AG but not AEA or AMB-FUBINACA, ZCZ011 and ABD1236 caused the transient peak of ERK1/2 phosphorylation to become sustained. All PAMs increased the potency and efficacy of AEA-induced signalling in all pathways tested; however, no notable potentiation of 2-AG or AMB-FUBINACA was observed. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Ago-PAMs can potentiate endocannabinoid CB1 agonism by AEA to a larger extent compared with 2-AG. However, all compounds were found to be allosteric agonists and induce activation of CB1 in the absence of endocannabinoid, including β-arrestin 2 recruitment and internalisation. Thus, the spatiotemporal signalling of endogenous cannabinoids will not be retained in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley M Green
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Jamie J Manning
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Ian R Greig
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Ruth A Ross
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - David B Finlay
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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2
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Janero DR. Current strategic trends in drug discovery: the present as prologue. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2024; 19:147-159. [PMID: 37936504 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2023.2275640] [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: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Escalating costs and inherent uncertainties associated with drug discovery invite initiatives to improve its efficiency and de-risk campaigns for inventing better therapeutics. One such initiative involves recognizing and exploiting current approaches in therapeutics invention with molecular mechanisms of action that hold promise for designing and targeting new chemical entities as drugs. AREAS COVERED This perspective considers the current contextual framework around three drug-discovery approaches and evaluates their potential to help identify new targets/modalities in small-molecule molecular pharmacology: diversifying ligand-directed phenotypes for G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) pharmacotherapeutic signaling; developing therapeutic-protein degraders and stabilizers for proximity-inducing pharmacology; and mining organelle biology for druggable therapeutic targets. EXPERT OPINION The contemporary drug-discovery approaches examined appear generalizable and versatile to have applications in therapeutics invention beyond those case studies discussed herein. Accordingly, they may be considered strategic trends worthy of note in advancing the field toward novel ways of addressing pharmacotherapeutically unmet medical needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- David R Janero
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Health Sciences Entrepreneurs, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
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3
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Green HM, Fellner DMJ, Finlay DB, Furkert DP, Glass M. Determination of the Cannabinoid CB1 Receptor's Positive Allosteric Modulator Binding Site through Mutagenesis Studies. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:154. [PMID: 38399369 PMCID: PMC10892375 DOI: 10.3390/ph17020154] [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: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) of the cannabinoid CB1 receptor (CB1) offer potential therapeutic advantages in the treatment of neuropathic pain and addiction by avoiding the adverse effects associated with orthosteric CB1 activation. Here, molecular modeling and mutagenesis were used to identify residues central to PAM activity at CB1. Six putative allosteric binding sites were identified in silico, including novel sites previously associated with cholesterol binding, and key residues within each site were mutated to alanine. The recently determined ZCZ011 binding site was found to be essential for allosteric agonism, as GAT228, GAT229 and ZCZ011 all increased wild-type G protein dissociation in the absence of an orthosteric ligand; activity that was abolished in mutants F191A3.27 and I169A2.56. PAM activity was demonstrated for ZCZ011 in the presence of the orthosteric ligand CP55940, which was only abolished in I169A2.56. In contrast, the PAM activity of GAT229 was reduced for mutants R220A3.56, L404A8.50, F191A3.27 and I169A2.56. This indicates that allosteric modulation may represent the net effect of binding at multiple sites, and that allosteric agonism is likely to be mediated via the ZCZ011 site. This study underlines the need for detailed understanding of ligand receptor interactions in the search for pure CB1 allosteric modulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley M. Green
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand; (H.M.G.); (D.B.F.)
| | - Daniel M. J. Fellner
- School of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand; (D.M.J.F.); (D.P.F.)
| | - David B. Finlay
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand; (H.M.G.); (D.B.F.)
| | - Daniel P. Furkert
- School of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand; (D.M.J.F.); (D.P.F.)
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand; (H.M.G.); (D.B.F.)
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
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4
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Hill MN, Haney M, Hillard CJ, Karhson DS, Vecchiarelli HA. The endocannabinoid system as a putative target for the development of novel drugs for the treatment of psychiatric illnesses. Psychol Med 2023; 53:7006-7024. [PMID: 37671673 PMCID: PMC10719691 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291723002465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis is well established to impact affective states, emotion and perceptual processing, primarily through its interactions with the endocannabinoid system. While cannabis use is quite prevalent in many individuals afflicted with psychiatric illnesses, there is considerable controversy as to whether cannabis may worsen these conditions or provide some form of therapeutic benefit. The development of pharmacological agents which interact with components of the endocannabinoid system in more localized and discrete ways then via phytocannabinoids found in cannabis, has allowed the investigation if direct targeting of the endocannabinoid system itself may represent a novel approach to treat psychiatric illness without the potential untoward side effects associated with cannabis. Herein we review the current body of literature regarding the various pharmacological tools that have been developed to target the endocannabinoid system, their impact in preclinical models of psychiatric illness and the recent data emerging of their utilization in clinical trials for psychiatric illnesses, with a specific focus on substance use disorders, trauma-related disorders, and autism. We highlight several candidate drugs which target endocannabinoid function, particularly inhibitors of endocannabinoid metabolism or modulators of cannabinoid receptor signaling, which have emerged as potential candidates for the treatment of psychiatric conditions, particularly substance use disorder, anxiety and trauma-related disorders and autism spectrum disorders. Although there needs to be ongoing clinical work to establish the potential utility of endocannabinoid-based drugs for the treatment of psychiatric illnesses, the current data available is quite promising and shows indications of several potential candidate diseases which may benefit from this approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew N. Hill
- Departments of Cell Biology and Anatomy & Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, Hotchkiss Brain Institute and The Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Margaret Haney
- Department of Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, USA
| | - Cecilia J. Hillard
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Neuroscience Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, USA
| | - Debra S. Karhson
- Department of Psychology, University of New Orleans, New Orleans, USA
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5
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Yuan J, Yang B, Hou G, Xie XQ, Feng Z. Targeting the endocannabinoid system: Structural determinants and molecular mechanism of allosteric modulation. Drug Discov Today 2023; 28:103615. [PMID: 37172889 PMCID: PMC10330941 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2023.103615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Although drugs targeting the orthosteric binding site of cannabinoid receptors (CBRs) have several therapeutic effects on human physiological and pathological conditions, they can also cause serious adverse effects. Only a few orthosteric ligands have successfully passed clinical trials. Recently, allosteric modulation has become a novel option for drug discovery, with fewer adverse effects and the potential to avoid drug overdose. In this review, we highlight novel findings related to the drug discovery of allosteric modulators (AMs) targeting CBRs. We summarize newly synthesized AMs and the reported/predicted allosteric binding sites. We also discuss the structural determinants of the AMs binding as well as the molecular mechanism of CBR allostery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayi Yuan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, and Pharmacometrics & System Pharmacology PharmacoAnalytics, School of Pharmacy; National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research; Drug Discovery Institute; Departments of Computational Biology and Structural Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States
| | - Bo Yang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, and Pharmacometrics & System Pharmacology PharmacoAnalytics, School of Pharmacy; National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research; Drug Discovery Institute; Departments of Computational Biology and Structural Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States
| | - Guanyu Hou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, and Pharmacometrics & System Pharmacology PharmacoAnalytics, School of Pharmacy; National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research; Drug Discovery Institute; Departments of Computational Biology and Structural Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States
| | - Xiang-Qun Xie
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, and Pharmacometrics & System Pharmacology PharmacoAnalytics, School of Pharmacy; National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research; Drug Discovery Institute; Departments of Computational Biology and Structural Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States
| | - Zhiwei Feng
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, and Pharmacometrics & System Pharmacology PharmacoAnalytics, School of Pharmacy; National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research; Drug Discovery Institute; Departments of Computational Biology and Structural Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States.
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6
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Bagher AM, Binmahfouz LS, Shaik RA, Eid BG. Cannabinoid receptor 1 positive allosteric modulator (GAT229) attenuates cisplatin-induced neuropathic pain in mice. Saudi Pharm J 2023; 31:255-264. [PMID: 36942271 PMCID: PMC10023546 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2022.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is one of chemotherapies' most often documented side effects. Patients with CIPN experience spontaneous burning, numbness, tingling, and neuropathic pain in their feet and hands. Currently, there is no effective pharmacological treatment to prevent or treat CIPN. Activating the cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) by orthosteric agonists has shown promising results in alleviating the pain and neuroinflammation associated with CIPN. However, the use of CB1 orthosteric agonists is linked to undesirable side effects. Unlike the CB1 orthosteric agonists, CB1 positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) don't produce any psychoactive effects, tolerance, or dependence. Previous studies have shown that CB1 PAMs exhibit antinociceptive effects in inflammatory and neuropathic rodent models. This study aimed to investigate the potential benefits of the newly synthesized GAT229, a pure CB1 PAM, in alleviating neuropathic pain and slowing the progression of CIPN. GAT229 was evaluated in a cisplatin-induced (CIS) mouse model of peripheral neuropathic pain (3 mg/kg/d, 28 d, i.p.). GAT229 attenuated and slowed the progression of thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia induced by CIS, as evaluated by the hotplate test and von Frey filament test. GAT229 reduced the expression of proinflammatory cytokines in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons. Furthermore, GAT229 attenuated nerve injuries by normalizing the brain-derived neurotrophic factor and the nerve growth factor mRNA expression levels in the DRG neurons. The CB1 receptor antagonist/inverse agonist AM251 blocked GAT229-mediated beneficial effects. According to our data, we suggest that CB1 PAMs might be beneficial in alleviating neuropathic pain and slowing the progression of CIPN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amina M. Bagher
- Corresponding author at: Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
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7
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Martinez Ramirez CE, Ruiz-Pérez G, Stollenwerk TM, Behlke C, Doherty A, Hillard CJ. Endocannabinoid signaling in the central nervous system. Glia 2023; 71:5-35. [PMID: 36308424 PMCID: PMC10167744 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
It is hard to overestimate the influence of the endocannabinoid signaling (ECS) system on central nervous system (CNS) function. In the 40 years since cannabinoids were found to trigger specific cell signaling cascades, studies of the ECS system continue to cause amazement, surprise, and confusion! CB1 cannabinoid receptors are expressed widely in the CNS and regulate cell-cell communication via effects on the release of both neurotransmitters and gliotransmitters. CB2 cannabinoid receptors are difficult to detect in the CNS but seem to "punch above their weight" as compounds targeting these receptors have significant effects on inflammatory state and behavior. Positive and negative allosteric modulators for both receptors have been identified and examined in preclinical studies. Concentrations of the endocannabinoid ligands, N-arachidonoylethanolamine and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), are regulated by a combination of enzymatic synthesis and degradation and inhibitors of these processes are available and making their way into clinical trials. Importantly, ECS regulates many essential brain functions, including regulation of reward, anxiety, inflammation, motor control, and cellular development. While the field is on the cusp of preclinical discoveries providing impactful clinical and therapeutic insights into many CNS disorders, there is still much to be learned about this remarkable and versatile modulatory system.
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Affiliation(s)
- César E Martinez Ramirez
- Neuroscience Research Center and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Gonzalo Ruiz-Pérez
- Neuroscience Research Center and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Todd M Stollenwerk
- Neuroscience Research Center and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Christina Behlke
- Neuroscience Research Center and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Ashley Doherty
- Neuroscience Research Center and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Cecilia J Hillard
- Neuroscience Research Center and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
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8
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Li S, Huang Y, Yu L, Ji X, Wu J. Impact of the Cannabinoid System in Alzheimer's Disease. Curr Neuropharmacol 2023; 21:715-726. [PMID: 35105293 PMCID: PMC10207907 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x20666220201091006] [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: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids are compounds isolated from cannabis and are also widely present in both nervous and immune systems of animals. In recent years, with in-depth research on cannabinoids, their clinical medicinal value has been evaluated, and many exciting achievements have been continuously accumulating, especially in the field of neurodegenerative disease. Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of neurodegenerative disease that causes dementia and has become a global health problem that seriously impacts human health today. In this review, we discuss the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. How cannabinoids act on different endocannabinoid receptor subtypes to regulate Alzheimer's disease and the roles of the endocannabinoid system in Alzheimer's disease are outlined, and the underlying mechanisms are discussed. Finally, we summarize the most relevant opportunities of cannabinoid pharmacology related to Alzheimer's disease and discuss the potential usefulness of cannabinoids in the clinical treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuangtao Li
- Shantou University Medical College, Brain Function and Disease Laboratory, Shantou, #22 Road Xinling, Guangdong 515041, China
| | - Yuanbing Huang
- Department of Neurology, Yunfu People’s Hospital, Yunfu, Guangdong 527300, China
| | - Lijun Yu
- Shantou University Medical College, Brain Function and Disease Laboratory, Shantou, #22 Road Xinling, Guangdong 515041, China
| | - Xiaoyu Ji
- Department of Neurology, Yunfu People’s Hospital, Yunfu, Guangdong 527300, China
| | - Jie Wu
- Shantou University Medical College, Brain Function and Disease Laboratory, Shantou, #22 Road Xinling, Guangdong 515041, China
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9
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Wu YR, Tang JQ, Zhang WN, Zhuang CL, Shi Y. Rational drug design of CB2 receptor ligands: from 2012 to 2021. RSC Adv 2022; 12:35242-35259. [PMID: 36540233 PMCID: PMC9730932 DOI: 10.1039/d2ra05661e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoid receptors belong to the large family of G-protein-coupled receptors, which can be divided into two receptor types, cannabinoid receptor type-1 (CB1) and cannabinoid receptor type-2 (CB2). Marinol, Cesamet and Sativex are marketed CB1 drugs which are still in use and work well, but the central nervous system side effects caused by activation CB1, which limited the development of CB1 ligands. So far, no selective CB2 ligand has been approved for marketing, but lots of its ligands in the clinical stage and pre-clinical stage have positive effects on the treatment of some disease models and have great potential for development. Most selective CB2 agonists are designed and synthesized based on non-selective CB2 agonists through the classical med-chem strategies, e.g. molecular hybridization, scaffold hopping, bioisosterism, etc. During these processes, the balance between selectivity, activity, and pharmacokinetic properties needs to be achieved. Hence, we summarized some reported ligands on the basis of the optimization strategies in recent 10 years, and the limitations and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Ran Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Hui Ethnic Medicine Modernization, Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University 1160 Shengli Street Yinchuan 750004 China
| | - Jia-Qin Tang
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Hui Ethnic Medicine Modernization, Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University 1160 Shengli Street Yinchuan 750004 China
| | - Wan-Nian Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Hui Ethnic Medicine Modernization, Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University 1160 Shengli Street Yinchuan 750004 China
- School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University 325 Guohe Road Shanghai 200433 China
| | - Chun-Lin Zhuang
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Hui Ethnic Medicine Modernization, Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University 1160 Shengli Street Yinchuan 750004 China
- School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University 325 Guohe Road Shanghai 200433 China
| | - Ying Shi
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Hui Ethnic Medicine Modernization, Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University 1160 Shengli Street Yinchuan 750004 China
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10
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Brandt AL, Garai S, Zagzoog A, Hurst DP, Stevenson LA, Pertwee RG, Imler GH, Reggio PH, Thakur GA, Laprairie RB. Pharmacological evaluation of enantiomerically separated positive allosteric modulators of cannabinoid 1 receptor, GAT591 and GAT593. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:919605. [PMID: 36386195 PMCID: PMC9640980 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.919605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Positive allosteric modulation of the type 1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1R) has substantial potential to treat both neurological and immune disorders. To date, a few studies have evaluated the structure-activity relationship (SAR) for CB1R positive allosteric modulators (PAMs). In this study, we separated the enantiomers of the previously characterized two potent CB1R ago-PAMs GAT591 and GAT593 to determine their biochemical activity at CB1R. Separating the enantiomers showed that the R-enantiomers (GAT1665 and GAT1667) displayed mixed allosteric agonist-PAM activity at CB1R while the S-enantiomers (GAT1664 and GAT1666) showed moderate activity. Furthermore, we observed that the R and S-enantiomers had distinct binding sites on CB1R, which led to their distinct behavior both in vitro and in vivo. The R-enantiomers (GAT1665 and GAT1667) produced ago-PAM effects in vitro, and PAM effects in the in vivo behavioral triad, indicating that the in vivo activity of these ligands may occur via PAM rather than agonist-based mechanisms. Overall, this study provides mechanistic insight into enantiospecific interaction of 2-phenylindole class of CB1R allosteric modulators, which have shown therapeutic potential in the treatment of pain, epilepsy, glaucoma, and Huntington's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asher L. Brandt
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Sumanta Garai
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Ayat Zagzoog
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Dow P. Hurst
- Center for Drug Discovery, University of North Carolina Greensboro, Greensboro, NC, United States
| | - Lesley A. Stevenson
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Roger G. Pertwee
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Gregory H. Imler
- Centre for Biomolecular Science and Engineering, Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Patricia H. Reggio
- Center for Drug Discovery, University of North Carolina Greensboro, Greensboro, NC, United States
| | - Ganesh A. Thakur
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Robert B. Laprairie
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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11
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Manzke P, Crippa JADS, Marchioni C, Queiroz MEC, Brito MCM, Pimentel AV, Bosaipo NB, Foss MP, Tumas V. Circulating Endocannabinoids in Huntington's Disease: An Exploratory Cross-Sectional Study. J Huntingtons Dis 2022; 11:91-95. [PMID: 35124656 DOI: 10.3233/jhd-210507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is an inherited neurodegenerative disease characterized by motor, cognitive and behavioral deficits. Some evidence suggests that the endocannabinoid system participates in the pathophysiology of HD. We conducted a cross-sectional study comparing plasma levels of anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol in manifest HD gene-expansion carriers (HDGEC) and healthy controls, finding no difference in endocannabinoid levels between the groups. Correlations between endocannabinoid levels and clinical scales (Mini-Mental State Examination, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Unified Huntington Disease Rating Scale) were non-significant. We found a significant association between body mass index and anandamide levels in healthy controls but not in HDGEC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Manzke
- Hospital de Base do Distrito Federal, Brasilia, Brazil.,Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Camila Marchioni
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | | | - Manuelina C M Brito
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Angela V Pimentel
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Nayanne B Bosaipo
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Paula Foss
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Vitor Tumas
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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12
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Vasincu A, Rusu RN, Ababei DC, Larion M, Bild W, Stanciu GD, Solcan C, Bild V. Endocannabinoid Modulation in Neurodegenerative Diseases: In Pursuit of Certainty. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11030440. [PMID: 35336814 PMCID: PMC8945712 DOI: 10.3390/biology11030440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Simple Summary Neurodegenerative diseases represent an important cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Existing therapeutic options are limited and focus mostly on improving symptoms and reducing exacerbations. The endocannabinoid system is involved in the pathophysiology of such disorders, an idea which has been highlighted by recent scientific work. The current work focusses its attention on the importance and implications of this system and its synthetic and natural ligands in disorders such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Huntington’s and multiple sclerosis. Abstract Neurodegenerative diseases are an increasing cause of global morbidity and mortality. They occur in the central nervous system (CNS) and lead to functional and mental impairment due to loss of neurons. Recent evidence highlights the link between neurodegenerative and inflammatory diseases of the CNS. These are typically associated with several neurological disorders. These diseases have fundamental differences regarding their underlying physiology and clinical manifestations, although there are aspects that overlap. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is comprised of receptors (type-1 (CB1R) and type-2 (CB2R) cannabinoid-receptors, as well as transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1)), endogenous ligands and enzymes that synthesize and degrade endocannabinoids (ECBs). Recent studies revealed the involvement of the ECS in different pathological aspects of these neurodegenerative disorders. The present review will explore the roles of cannabinoid receptors (CBRs) and pharmacological agents that modulate CBRs or ECS activity with reference to Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), Parkinson’s Disease (PD), Huntington’s Disease (HD) and multiple sclerosis (MS).
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandru Vasincu
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Clinical Pharmacy, “Grigore T Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.V.); (D.-C.A.); (V.B.)
| | - Răzvan-Nicolae Rusu
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Clinical Pharmacy, “Grigore T Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.V.); (D.-C.A.); (V.B.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Daniela-Carmen Ababei
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Clinical Pharmacy, “Grigore T Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.V.); (D.-C.A.); (V.B.)
| | - Mădălina Larion
- Department of Anaesthesiology Intensive Therapy, Regional Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology “Prof. Dr. Octavian Fodor”, 19 Croitorilor Street, 400162 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
- Department of Anaesthetics, Midland Regional Hospital, Longford Road, Mullingar, N91 NA43 Co. Westmeath, Ireland
| | - Walther Bild
- Department of Physiology, “Grigore T Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania;
- Center of Biomedical Research of the Romanian Academy, 700506 Iasi, Romania
| | - Gabriela Dumitrița Stanciu
- Center for Advanced Research and Development in Experimental Medicine (CEMEX), “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Carmen Solcan
- Preclinics Department, “Ion Ionescu de la Brad” University of Life Sciences, 8 M. Sadoveanu Alley, 700489 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Veronica Bild
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Clinical Pharmacy, “Grigore T Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.V.); (D.-C.A.); (V.B.)
- Center of Biomedical Research of the Romanian Academy, 700506 Iasi, Romania
- Center for Advanced Research and Development in Experimental Medicine (CEMEX), “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania;
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13
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Anderson LL, Doohan PT, Hawkins NA, Bahceci D, Thakur GA, Kearney JA, Arnold JC, Arnold JC. The endocannabinoid system impacts seizures in a mouse model of Dravet syndrome. Neuropharmacology 2022; 205:108897. [PMID: 34822817 PMCID: PMC9514665 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Dravet syndrome is a catastrophic childhood epilepsy with multiple seizure types that are refractory to treatment. The endocannabinoid system regulates neuronal excitability so a deficit in endocannabinoid signaling could lead to hyperexcitability and seizures. Thus, we sought to determine whether a deficiency in the endocannabinoid system might contribute to seizure phenotypes in a mouse model of Dravet syndrome and whether enhancing endocannabinoid tone is anticonvulsant. Scn1a+/- mice model the clinical features of Dravet syndrome: hyperthermia-induced seizures, spontaneous seizures and reduced survival. We examined whether Scn1a+/- mice exhibit deficits in the endocannabinoid system by measuring brain cannabinoid receptor expression and endocannabinoid concentrations. Next, we determined whether pharmacologically enhanced endocannabinoid tone was anticonvulsant in Scn1a+/- mice. We used GAT229, a positive allosteric modulator of the cannabinoid (CB1) receptor, and ABX-1431, a compound that inhibits the degradation of the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG). The Scn1a+/- phenotype is strain-dependent with mice on a 129S6/SvEvTac (129) genetic background having no overt phenotype and those on an F1 (129S6/SvEvTac x C57BL/6J) background exhibiting a severe epilepsy phenotype. We observed lower brain cannabinoid CB1 receptor expression in the seizure-susceptible F1 compared to seizure-resistant 129 strain, suggesting an endocannabinoid deficiency might contribute to seizure susceptibility. GAT229 and ABX-1431 were anticonvulsant against hyperthermia-induced seizures. However, subchronic ABX1431 treatment increased spontaneous seizure frequency despite reducing seizure severity. Cnr1 is a putative genetic modifier of epilepsy in the Scn1a+/- mouse model of Dravet syndrome. Compounds that increase endocannabinoid tone could be developed as novel treatments for Dravet syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lyndsey L. Anderson
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, The University of Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia,Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia,Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia
| | - Peter T. Doohan
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, The University of Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia,Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia,Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia
| | - Nicole A. Hawkins
- Department of Pharmacology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, IL 60611, USA
| | - Dilara Bahceci
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, The University of Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia,Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia,Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia
| | - Ganesh A. Thakur
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jennifer A. Kearney
- Department of Pharmacology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, IL 60611, USA
| | - Jonathon C. Arnold
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, The University of Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia,Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia,Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia
| | - Jonathon C Arnold
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, The University of Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia; Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia.
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14
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Young AP, Denovan-Wright EM. The Dynamic Role of Microglia and the Endocannabinoid System in Neuroinflammation. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:806417. [PMID: 35185547 PMCID: PMC8854262 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.806417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Microglia, the resident immune cells of the brain, can take on a range of pro- or anti-inflammatory phenotypes to maintain homeostasis. However, the sustained activation of pro-inflammatory microglia can lead to a state of chronic neuroinflammation characterized by high concentrations of neurotoxic soluble factors throughout the brain. In healthy brains, the inflammatory processes cease and microglia transition to an anti-inflammatory phenotype, but failure to halt the pro-inflammatory processes is a characteristic of many neurological disorders. The endocannabinoid system has been identified as a promising therapeutic target for chronic neuroinflammation as there is evidence that synthetic and endogenously produced cannabinoids temper the pro-inflammatory response of microglia and may encourage a switch to an anti-inflammatory phenotype. Activation of cannabinoid type 2 (CB2) receptors has been proposed as the mechanism of action responsible for these effects. The abundance of components of the endocannabinoid system in microglia also change dynamically in response to several brain pathologies. This can impact the ability of microglia to synthesize and degrade endocannabinoids or react to endogenous and exogenous cannabinoids. Cannabinoid receptors also participate in the formation of receptor heteromers which influences their function specifically in cells that express both receptors, such as microglia. This creates opportunities for drug-drug interactions between CB2 receptor-targeted therapies and other classes of drugs. In this article, we review the roles of pro- and anti-inflammatory microglia in the development and resolution of neuroinflammation. We also discuss the fluctuations observed in the components of the endocannabinoid in microglia and examine the potential of CB2 receptors as a therapeutic target in this context.
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15
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McElroy DL, Roebuck AJ, Greba Q, Garai S, Brandt AL, Yilmaz O, Cain SM, Snutch TP, Thakur GA, Laprairie RB, Howland JG. The type 1 cannabinoid receptor positive allosteric modulators GAT591 and GAT593 reduce spike-and-wave discharges in Genetic Absence Epilepsy Rats from Strasbourg. IBRO Neurosci Rep 2022; 12:121-130. [PMID: 35128516 PMCID: PMC8804275 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibneur.2022.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Childhood absence epilepsy (CAE) is a non-convulsive seizure disorder primarily in children characterized by absence seizures. Absence seizures consist of 2.5–5 Hz spike-and-wave discharges (SWDs) detectable using electroencephalography (EEG). Current drug treatments are only partially effective and adverse side effects have spurred research into alternative treatment approaches. Recent research shows that positive allosteric modulation of the type-1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1R) reduces the frequency and duration of SWDs in Genetic Absence Epilepsy Rats from Strasbourg (GAERS), a model that recapitulates the SWDs in CAE. Here, we tested additional CB1R ago-PAMs, GAT591 and GAT593, for their potential in alleviating SWD activity in GAERS. In vitro experiments confirm that GAT591 and GAT593 exhibit increased potency and selectivity in cell cultures and behave as CB1R allosteric agonists and PAMs. To assess drug effects on SWDs, bilateral electrodes were surgically implanted in the somatosensory cortices of male GAERS and EEGs recorded for 4 h following systemic administration of GAT591 or GAT593 (1.0, 3.0 and 10.0 mg/kg). Both GAT591 and GAT593 dose-dependently reduced total SWD duration during the recording period. The greatest effect on SWD activity was observed at 10.0 mg/kg doses, with GAT591 and GAT593 reducing seizure duration by 36% and 34% respectively. Taken together, these results support the continued investigation of CB1R PAMs as a potential therapeutic to alleviate SWDs in absence epilepsy. Positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) of cannabinoid type 1 receptors may help treat absence epilepsy. Two ago-PAMs for CB1Rs were assessed using in vitro and in vivo assays. The increased efficacy of the CB1R-PAMs GAT591 and GAT593 was confirmed in vitro. Systemic injection of either compound reduced spike-and-wave discharges in a rat genetic model of absence epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan L. McElroy
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Andrew J. Roebuck
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E5, Canada
- School of Liberal Arts, Yukon University, Whitehorse, YT Y1A 5K4, Canada
| | - Quentin Greba
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Sumanta Garai
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Asher L. Brandt
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Orhan Yilmaz
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Stuart M. Cain
- Michael Smith Laboratories and Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Terrance P. Snutch
- Michael Smith Laboratories and Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Ganesh A. Thakur
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Robert B. Laprairie
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E5, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
- Correspondence to: College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 3B36 - 104 Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E5, Canada.
| | - John G. Howland
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E5, Canada
- Correspondence to: Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, GD30.7, Health Sciences Building, 107 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E5, Canada.
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16
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Garai S, Schaffer PC, Laprairie RB, Janero DR, Pertwee RG, Straiker A, Thakur GA. Design, synthesis, and pharmacological profiling of cannabinoid 1 receptor allosteric modulators: Preclinical efficacy of C2-group GAT211 congeners for reducing intraocular pressure. Bioorg Med Chem 2021; 50:116421. [PMID: 34634617 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2021.116421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Allosteric modulators of cannabinoid 1 receptor (CB1R) show translational promise over orthosteric ligands due to their potential to elicit therapeutic benefit without cannabimimetic side effects. The prototypic 2-phenylindole CB1R allosteric modulator, GAT211 (1), demonstrates preclinical efficacy in various disease models. The limited systematic structure-activity relationship (SAR) data at the C2 position of the indole ring within GAT211 invites the opportunity for further modifications to improve GAT211's pharmacological profile while serving to amplify and variegate this library of therapeutically attractive agents. These considerations prompted this focused SAR study in which we substituted the GAT211 C2-phenyl ring with heteroaromatic substituents. The synthesized GAT211 analogs were then evaluated in vitro as CB1R allosteric modulators in cAMP and β-arrestin2 assays with CP55,940 as the orthosteric ligand. Furan and thiophene rings (15c-f and 15m) were the best-tolerated substituents at the C2 position of GAT211 for engagement with human CB1R (hCB1R). The SAR around the novel ligands reported allowed direct experimental characterization of the interaction profile of that pharmacophore with its binding domain in functional, human CB1R, thus offering guidance for accessing subsequent-generation hCB1R allosteric modulators as potential therapeutics. The most potent analog, 15d, markedly promoted orthosteric ligand binding to hCB1R. Pharmacological profiling in the GTPγS and mouse vas deferens assays demonstrated that 15d behaves as a CB1R agonist-positive allosteric modulator (ago-PAM), as confirmed electrophysiologically in autoptic neurons. In vivo, 15d was efficacious as a topical agent that significantly reduced intraocular pressure (IOP) in the ocular normotensive murine model of glaucoma. Since elevated IOP is a decisive risk factor for glaucoma and attendant vision loss, our data support the proposition that the 2-phenylindole class of CB1R ago-PAMs has therapeutic potential for glaucoma and other diseases where potentiation of CB1R signaling may be therapeutic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumanta Garai
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Peter C Schaffer
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Robert B Laprairie
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 104 Clinic Pl, Saskatoon, SK S7N2Z4, Canada
| | - David R Janero
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Roger G Pertwee
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, Scotland, UK
| | - Alex Straiker
- Program in Neuroscience, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana Gill Center for Biomolecular Science, Bloomington, IN 47405, United States
| | - Ganesh A Thakur
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
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17
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Leo LM, Abood ME. CB1 Cannabinoid Receptor Signaling and Biased Signaling. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26175413. [PMID: 34500853 PMCID: PMC8433814 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26175413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The CB1 cannabinoid receptor is a G-protein coupled receptor highly expressed throughout the central nervous system that is a promising target for the treatment of various disorders, including anxiety, pain, and neurodegeneration. Despite the wide therapeutic potential of CB1, the development of drug candidates is hindered by adverse effects, rapid tolerance development, and abuse potential. Ligands that produce biased signaling—the preferential activation of a signaling transducer in detriment of another—have been proposed as a strategy to dissociate therapeutic and adverse effects for a variety of G-protein coupled receptors. However, biased signaling at the CB1 receptor is poorly understood due to a lack of strongly biased agonists. Here, we review studies that have investigated the biased signaling profile of classical cannabinoid agonists and allosteric ligands, searching for a potential therapeutic advantage of CB1 biased signaling in different pathological states. Agonist and antagonist bound structures of CB1 and proposed mechanisms of action of biased allosteric modulators are used to discuss a putative molecular mechanism for CB1 receptor activation and biased signaling. Current studies suggest that allosteric binding sites on CB1 can be explored to yield biased ligands that favor or hinder conformational changes important for biased signaling.
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18
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Onofrychuk TJ, Cai S, McElroy DL, Roebuck AJ, Greba Q, Garai S, Thakur GA, Laprairie RB, Howland JG. Effects of the cannabinoid receptor 1 positive allosteric modulator GAT211 and acute MK-801 on visual attention and impulsivity in rats assessed using the five-choice serial reaction time task. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 109:110235. [PMID: 33373679 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.110235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Altered interactions between endocannabinoid and glutamate signaling may be involved in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia and acute psychosis. As cognitive disturbances are involved in schizophrenia, increased understanding of the roles of these neurotransmitter systems in cognition may lead to the development of novel therapeutics for disorder. In the present study, we examined the effects of a recently synthesized cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1R) positive allosteric modulator GAT211 in a rodent model of acute psychosis induced by systemic treatment with MK-801. To assess cognitive function, we used the Five-Choice Serial Reaction Time (5CSRT) task, conducted in touchscreen-equipped operant conditioning chambers. Our measures of primary interest were accuracy - indicative of visual attentional capacity - and the number of premature responses - indicative of impulsivity. We also measured latencies, omissions, and perseverative responding during all test sessions. Thirteen adult male Long Evans rats were trained on the 5CSRT and were then tested using a repeated measures design with acute MK-801 (0 or 0.15 mg/kg, i.p.) and GAT211 (0, 3, or 10 mg/kg, i.p.) administration. Acute MK-801 severely impaired accuracy, increased omissions, and increased the number of premature responses. MK-801 also significantly increased correct response latencies, without significant effects on incorrect or reward correction latencies. GAT211 had no significant effects when administered alone, or in combination with acute MK-801. These data confirm the dramatic effects of acute MK-801 treatment on behavioral measures of attention and impulsivity. Continued investigation of CB1R positive allosteric modulators as potential treatments for the cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia and related disorders should be pursued in other rodent models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy J Onofrychuk
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Shuang Cai
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Dan L McElroy
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E5, Canada
| | | | - Quentin Greba
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Sumanta Garai
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Ganesh A Thakur
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Robert B Laprairie
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - John G Howland
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E5, Canada.
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Garai S, Leo LM, Szczesniak AM, Hurst DP, Schaffer PC, Zagzoog A, Black T, Deschamps JR, Miess E, Schulz S, Janero DR, Straiker A, Pertwee RG, Abood ME, Kelly MEM, Reggio PH, Laprairie RB, Thakur GA. Discovery of a Biased Allosteric Modulator for Cannabinoid 1 Receptor: Preclinical Anti-Glaucoma Efficacy. J Med Chem 2021; 64:8104-8126. [PMID: 33826336 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c00040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
We apply the magic methyl effect to improve the potency/efficacy of GAT211, the prototypic 2-phenylindole-based cannabinoid type-1 receptor (CB1R) agonist-positive allosteric modulator (ago-PAM). Introducing a methyl group at the α-position of nitro group generated two diastereomers, the greater potency and efficacy of erythro, (±)-9 vs threo, (±)-10 constitutes the first demonstration of diastereoselective CB1R-allosteric modulator interaction. Of the (±)-9 enantiomers, (-)-(S,R)-13 evidenced improved potency over GAT211 as a CB1R ago-PAM, whereas (+)-(R,S)-14 was a CB1R allosteric agonist biased toward G protein- vs β-arrestin1/2-dependent signaling. (-)-(S,R)-13 and (+)-(R,S)-14 were devoid of undesirable side effects (triad test), and (+)-(R,S)-14 reduced intraocular pressure with an unprecedentedly long duration of action in a murine glaucoma model. (-)-(S,R)-13 docked into both a CB1R extracellular PAM and intracellular allosteric-agonist site(s), whereas (+)-(R,S)-14 preferentially engaged only the latter. Exploiting G-protein biased CB1R-allosteric modulation can offer safer therapeutic candidates for glaucoma and, potentially, other diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumanta Garai
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Luciana M Leo
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19140, United States
| | - Anna-Maria Szczesniak
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Dow P Hurst
- Center for Drug Discovery, University of North Carolina Greensboro, Greensboro, North Carolina 27402, United States
| | - Peter C Schaffer
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Ayat Zagzoog
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 104 Clinic Pl, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N2Z4, Canada
| | - Tallan Black
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 104 Clinic Pl, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N2Z4, Canada
| | - Jeffrey R Deschamps
- Naval Research Laboratory, Code 6930, 4555 Overlook Avenue, Washington, District of Columbia 20375, United States
| | - Elke Miess
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jena University Hospital-Friedrich Schiller University Jena, D-07747 Jena, Germany
| | - Stefan Schulz
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jena University Hospital-Friedrich Schiller University Jena, D-07747 Jena, Germany
| | - David R Janero
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Alex Straiker
- The Gill Center and the Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Indiana University, 1101 E. 10th St, Bloomington, Indiana 47405, United States
| | - Roger G Pertwee
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, Scotland, U.K
| | - Mary E Abood
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19140, United States
| | - Melanie E M Kelly
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Patricia H Reggio
- Center for Drug Discovery, University of North Carolina Greensboro, Greensboro, North Carolina 27402, United States
| | - Robert B Laprairie
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 104 Clinic Pl, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N2Z4, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Ganesh A Thakur
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
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20
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Roebuck AJ, Greba Q, Smolyakova AM, Alaverdashvili M, Marks WN, Garai S, Baglot SL, Petrie G, Cain SM, Snutch TP, Thakur GA, Hill MN, Howland JG, Laprairie RB. Positive allosteric modulation of type 1 cannabinoid receptors reduces spike-and-wave discharges in Genetic Absence Epilepsy Rats from Strasbourg. Neuropharmacology 2021; 190:108553. [PMID: 33845076 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Childhood Absence Epilepsy (CAE) accounts for approximately 10% of all pediatric epilepsies. Current treatments for CAE are ineffective in approximately 1/3 of patients and can be associated with severe side effects such as hepatotoxicity. Certain cannabinoids, such as cannabidiol (CBD), have shown promise in the treatment of pediatric epilepsies. However, CBD remains limited or prohibited in many jurisdictions, and has not been shown to have efficacy in CAE. Modulation of the type 1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1R) may provide more desirable pharmacological treatments. Genetic Absence Epilepsy Rats from Strasbourg (GAERS) model many aspects of CAE, including cortical spike and wave discharges (SWDs). We have recently demonstrated that Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) increases SWDs in GAERS whereas CBD decreases these events. Here, we characterized aspects of the endocannabinoid system in brain areas relevant to seizures in GAERS and tested whether positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) of CB1R reduced SWDs. Both female and male GAERS had reduced (>50%) expression of CB1R and elevated levels of the endocannabinoid 2-AG in cortex compared to non-epileptic controls (NEC). We then administered the CB1R PAMs GAT211 and GAT229 to GAERS implanted with cortical electrodes. Systemic administration of GAT211 to male GAERS reduced SWDs by 40%. Systemic GAT229 administration reduced SWDs in female and male GAERS. Intracerebral infusion of GAT229 into the cortex of male GAERS reduced SWDs by >60% in a CB1R-dependent manner that was blocked by SR141716A. Together, these experiments identify altered endocannabinoid tone in GAERS and suggest that CB1R PAMs should be explored for treatment of absence seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Roebuck
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada; School of Liberal Arts, Yukon University, Whitehorse, YT, Y1A 5K4, Canada
| | - Quentin Greba
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Anna-Maria Smolyakova
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada
| | - Mariam Alaverdashvili
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada
| | - Wendie N Marks
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Sumanta Garai
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, United States
| | - Samantha L Baglot
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Gavin Petrie
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Stuart M Cain
- Michael Smith Laboratories and Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Terrance P Snutch
- Michael Smith Laboratories and Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Ganesh A Thakur
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, United States
| | - Matthew N Hill
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - John G Howland
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada.
| | - Robert B Laprairie
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada; Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada, B3H 4R2.
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21
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Antipsychotic potential of the type 1 cannabinoid receptor positive allosteric modulator GAT211: preclinical in vitro and in vivo studies. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2021; 238:1087-1098. [PMID: 33442771 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-020-05755-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Antipsychotics help alleviate the positive symptoms associated with schizophrenia; however, their debilitating side effects have spurred the search for better treatment options. Novel compounds can be screened for antipsychotic potential in neuronal cell cultures and following acute N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor blockade with non-competitive antagonists such as MK-801 in rodent behavioral models. Given the known interactions between NMDA receptors and type 1 cannabinoid receptors (CB1R), compounds that modulate CB1Rs may have therapeutic potential for schizophrenia. OBJECTIVES This study assessed whether the CB1R positive allosteric modulator GAT211, when compared to ∆9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), has potential to reduce psychiatric behavioral phenotypes following acute MK-801 treatment in rats, and block hyperdopaminergic signalling associated with those behaviors. METHODS The effects of GAT211 and THC on cellular signaling were compared in Neuro2a cells, and behavioral effects of GAT211 and THC on altered locomotor activity and prepulse inhibition of the acoustic startle response caused by acute MK-801 treatment were assessed in male, Long Evans rats. RESULTS GAT211 limited dopamine D2 receptor-mediated extracellular regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation in Neuro2a cells, whereas THC did not. As expected, acute MK-801 (0.15 mg/kg) produced a significant increase in locomotor activity and impaired PPI. GAT211 treatment alone (0.3-3.0 mg/kg) dose-dependently reduced locomotor activity and the acoustic startle response. GAT211 (3.0 mg/kg) also prevented hyperlocomotion caused by MK-801 but did not significantly affect PPI impairments. CONCLUSION Taken together, these findings support continued preclinical research regarding the usefulness of CB1R positive allosteric modulators as antipsychotics.
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22
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Mielnik CA, Lam VM, Ross RA. CB 1 allosteric modulators and their therapeutic potential in CNS disorders. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 106:110163. [PMID: 33152384 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.110163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
CB1 is the most abundant GPCR found in the mammalian brain. It has garnered considerable attention as a potential therapeutic drug target. CB1 is involved in a wide range of physiological and psychiatric processes and has the potential to be targeted in a wide range of disease states. However, most of the selective and non-selective synthetic CB1 agonists and antagonists/inverse agonists developed to date are primarily used as research tools. No novel synthetic cannabinoids are currently in the clinic for use in psychiatric illness; synthetic analogues of the phytocannabinoid THC are on the market to treat nausea and vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy, along with off-label use for pain. Novel strategies are being explored to target CB1, but with emphasis on the elimination or mitigation of the potential psychiatric adverse effects that are observed by central agonism/antagonism of CB1. New pharmacological options are being pursued that may avoid these adverse effects while preserving the potential therapeutic benefits of CB1 modulation. Allosteric modulation of CB1 is one such approach. In this review, we will summarize and critically analyze both the in vitro characterization and in vivo validation of CB1 allosteric modulators developed to date, with a focus on CNS therapeutic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catharine A Mielnik
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Vincent M Lam
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Ruth A Ross
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada.
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23
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Joshi N, Onaivi ES. Psychiatric Disorders and Cannabinoid Receptors. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1264:131-153. [PMID: 33332008 PMCID: PMC10810008 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-57369-0_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
With the increasing global use of medical and adult recreational use of cannabis and cannabinoids, this chapter provides overview of evidence from animal and human studies on psychiatric disorders and cannabinoid receptors. We review and present evaluation of the relationship between changes in the ECS and psychiatric disorders. Evidence suggests the existence of a relationship between changes in components of the ECS, and some of the symptoms present in psychiatric disorders. Both CB1Rs and CB2Rs are components of the endocannabinoid system with different cellular and tissue localization patterns that are differentially expressed in the CNS and PNS and are emerging targets for the treatment of number psychiatric disorders. As cannabis preparations are widely used for recreation globally, it is predictable that cannabis use disorders (CUDs) will increase and there is currently no available treatment for CUDs. Although major advances have been reported from cannabinoid and ECS research, there are gaps in scientific knowledge on long-term consequences of cannabis use. Adolescent and cannabis use during pregnancy presents further challenges, and more research will uncover the signaling pathways that couple the gut microbiota with the host ECS. Development of cannabis and cannabinoid nanomedicine for nanotherapy will certainly overcome some of the shortcomings and challenges in medicinal and recreational use of cannabis and cannabinoids. Thus, nanotechnology will allow targeted delivery of cannabinoid formulations with the potential to elevate their use to scientifically validated nanotherapeutic applications as the field of cannabis nanoscience matures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neal Joshi
- Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, NJ, USA
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24
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Gado F, Mohamed KA, Meini S, Ferrisi R, Bertini S, Digiacomo M, D'Andrea F, Stevenson LA, Laprairie RB, Pertwee RG, Manera C. Variously substituted 2-oxopyridine derivatives: Extending the structure-activity relationships for allosteric modulation of the cannabinoid CB2 receptor. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 211:113116. [PMID: 33360803 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.113116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
We previously reported the 2-oxopyridine-3-carboxamide derivative EC21a as the first small synthetic CB2R positive allosteric modulator which displayed antinociceptive activity in vivo in an experimental mouse model of neuropathic pain. Herein, we extended the structure-activity relationships of EC21a through structural modifications regarding the p-fluoro benzyl moiety at position 1 and the amide group in position 3 of the central core. The characterization in vitro was assessed through radioligand binding experiments and functional assays (GTPγS, cAMP, βarrestin2). Among the new compounds, the derivatives A1 (SV-10a) and A5 (SB-13a) characterized respectively by fluorine atom or by chlorine atom in ortho position of the benzylic group at position 1 and by a cycloheptane-carboxamide at position 3 of the central core, showed positive allosteric behavior on CB2R. They enhanced the efficacy of CP55,940 in [35S]GTPγS assay, and modulated CP55,940-dependent βarrestin2 recruitment and cAMP inhibition. The obtained results extend our knowledge of the structural requirements for interaction with the allosteric site of CB2R.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Gado
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Kawthar A Mohamed
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Serena Meini
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Rebecca Ferrisi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Simone Bertini
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Maria Digiacomo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Lesley A Stevenson
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, Aberdeen, Scotland, UK
| | - Robert B Laprairie
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Roger G Pertwee
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, Aberdeen, Scotland, UK
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25
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Positive Allosteric Modulation of CB1 and CB2 Cannabinoid Receptors Enhances the Neuroprotective Activity of a Dual CB1R/CB2R Orthosteric Agonist. Life (Basel) 2020; 10:life10120333. [PMID: 33302569 PMCID: PMC7763181 DOI: 10.3390/life10120333] [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: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Preclinical studies highlighted that compounds targeting cannabinoid receptors could be useful for developing novel therapies against neurodegenerative disorders. However, the chronic use of orthosteric agonists alone has several disadvantages, limiting their usefulness as clinically relevant drugs. Positive allosteric modulators might represent a promising approach to achieve the potential therapeutic benefits of orthosteric agonists of cannabinoid receptors through increasing their activity and limiting their adverse effects. The aim of the present study was to show the effects of positive allosteric ligands of cannabinoid receptors on the activity of a potent dual orthosteric agonist for neuroinflammation and excitotoxic damage by excessive glutamate release. The results indicate that the combination of an orthosteric agonist with positive allosteric modulators could represent a promising therapeutic approach to the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders.
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26
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Zagzoog A, Mohamed KA, Kim HJJ, Kim ED, Frank CS, Black T, Jadhav PD, Holbrook LA, Laprairie RB. In vitro and in vivo pharmacological activity of minor cannabinoids isolated from Cannabis sativa. Sci Rep 2020; 10:20405. [PMID: 33230154 PMCID: PMC7684313 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-77175-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The Cannabis sativa plant contains more than 120 cannabinoids. With the exceptions of ∆9-tetrahydrocannabinol (∆9-THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), comparatively little is known about the pharmacology of the less-abundant plant-derived (phyto) cannabinoids. The best-studied transducers of cannabinoid-dependent effects are type 1 and type 2 cannabinoid receptors (CB1R, CB2R). Partial agonism of CB1R by ∆9-THC is known to bring about the 'high' associated with Cannabis use, as well as the pain-, appetite-, and anxiety-modulating effects that are potentially therapeutic. CB2R activation by certain cannabinoids has been associated with anti-inflammatory activities. We assessed the activity of 8 phytocannabinoids at human CB1R, and CB2R in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells stably expressing these receptors and in C57BL/6 mice in an attempt to better understand their pharmacodynamics. Specifically, ∆9-THC, ∆9-tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (∆9-THCa), ∆9-tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), CBD, cannabidiolic acid (CBDa), cannabidivarin (CBDV), cannabigerol (CBG), and cannabichromene (CBC) were evaluated. Compounds were assessed for their affinity to receptors, ability to inhibit cAMP accumulation, βarrestin2 recruitment, receptor selectivity, and ligand bias in cell culture; and cataleptic, hypothermic, anti-nociceptive, hypolocomotive, and anxiolytic effects in mice. Our data reveal partial agonist activity for many phytocannabinoids tested at CB1R and/or CB2R, as well as in vivo responses often associated with activation of CB1R. These data build on the growing body of literature showing cannabinoid receptor-dependent pharmacology for these less-abundant phytocannabinoids and are critical in understanding the complex and interactive pharmacology of Cannabis-derived molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayat Zagzoog
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 3B36, Health Sciences Building, 107 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada
| | - Kawthar A Mohamed
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 3B36, Health Sciences Building, 107 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada
| | - Hye Ji J Kim
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 3B36, Health Sciences Building, 107 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada
| | - Eunhyun D Kim
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 3B36, Health Sciences Building, 107 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada
| | - Connor S Frank
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 3B36, Health Sciences Building, 107 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada
| | - Tallan Black
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 3B36, Health Sciences Building, 107 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada
| | | | | | - Robert B Laprairie
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 3B36, Health Sciences Building, 107 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 2Z4, Canada. .,Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.
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27
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Delorme C, Giron C, Bendetowicz D, Méneret A, Mariani LL, Roze E. Current challenges in the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of paroxysmal movement disorders. Expert Rev Neurother 2020; 21:81-97. [PMID: 33089715 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2021.1840978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Paroxysmal movement disorders mostly comprise paroxysmal dyskinesia and episodic ataxia, and can be the consequence of a genetic disorder or symptomatic of an acquired disease. AREAS COVERED In this review, the authors focused on certain hot-topic issues in the field: the respective contribution of the cerebellum and striatum to the generation of paroxysmal dyskinesia, the importance of striatal cAMP turnover in the pathogenesis of paroxysmal dyskinesia, the treatable causes of paroxysmal movement disorders not to be missed, with a special emphasis on the treatment strategy to bypass the glucose transport defect in paroxysmal movement disorders due to GLUT1 deficiency, and functional paroxysmal movement disorders. EXPERT OPINION Treatment of genetic causes of paroxysmal movement disorders is evolving towards precision medicine with targeted gene-specific therapy. Alteration of the cerebellar output and modulation of the striatal cAMP turnover offer new perspectives for experimental therapeutics, at least for paroxysmal movement disorders due to selected causes. Further characterization of cell-specific molecular pathways or network dysfunctions that are critically involved in the pathogenesis of paroxysmal movement disorders will likely result in the identification of new biomarkers and testing of innovative-targeted therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cécile Delorme
- Département de Neurologie, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière , Paris, France
| | - Camille Giron
- Département de Neurologie, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière , Paris, France
| | - David Bendetowicz
- Département de Neurologie, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière , Paris, France.,Inserm U 1127, CNRS UMR 7225- Institut du cerveau (ICM), Sorbonne Université , Paris, France
| | - Aurélie Méneret
- Département de Neurologie, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière , Paris, France.,Inserm U 1127, CNRS UMR 7225- Institut du cerveau (ICM), Sorbonne Université , Paris, France
| | - Louise-Laure Mariani
- Département de Neurologie, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière , Paris, France.,Inserm U 1127, CNRS UMR 7225- Institut du cerveau (ICM), Sorbonne Université , Paris, France
| | - Emmanuel Roze
- Département de Neurologie, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière , Paris, France.,Inserm U 1127, CNRS UMR 7225- Institut du cerveau (ICM), Sorbonne Université , Paris, France
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28
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Focused structure-activity relationship profiling around the 2-phenylindole scaffold of a cannabinoid type-1 receptor agonist-positive allosteric modulator: site-III aromatic-ring congeners with enhanced activity and solubility. Bioorg Med Chem 2020; 28:115727. [PMID: 33065437 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2020.115727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Specific tuning of cannabinoid 1 receptor (CB1R) activity by small-molecule allosteric modulators is a therapeutic modality with multiple properties inherently advantageous to therapeutic applications. We previously generated a library of unique CB1R positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) derived from GAT211, which has three pharmacophoric sites critical to its ago-PAM activity. To elaborate our CB1R PAM library, we report the rational design and molecular-pharmacology profiling of several 2-phenylindole analogs modified at the "site-III" aromatic ring. The comprehensive structure-activity relationship (SAR) investigation demonstrates that attaching small lipophilic functional groups on the ortho-position of the GAT211 site-III phenyl ring could markedly enhance CB1R ago-PAM activity. Select site-III modifications also improved GAT211's water solubility. The SAR reported both extends the structural diversity of this compound class and demonstrates the utility of GAT211's site-III for improving the parent compound's drug-like properties of potency and/or aqueous solubility.
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29
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An D, Peigneur S, Hendrickx LA, Tytgat J. Targeting Cannabinoid Receptors: Current Status and Prospects of Natural Products. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E5064. [PMID: 32709050 PMCID: PMC7404216 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21145064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2), as part of the endocannabinoid system, play a critical role in numerous human physiological and pathological conditions. Thus, considerable efforts have been made to develop ligands for CB1 and CB2, resulting in hundreds of phyto- and synthetic cannabinoids which have shown varying affinities relevant for the treatment of various diseases. However, only a few of these ligands are clinically used. Recently, more detailed structural information for cannabinoid receptors was revealed thanks to the powerfulness of cryo-electron microscopy, which now can accelerate structure-based drug discovery. At the same time, novel peptide-type cannabinoids from animal sources have arrived at the scene, with their potential in vivo therapeutic effects in relation to cannabinoid receptors. From a natural products perspective, it is expected that more novel cannabinoids will be discovered and forecasted as promising drug leads from diverse natural sources and species, such as animal venoms which constitute a true pharmacopeia of toxins modulating diverse targets, including voltage- and ligand-gated ion channels, G protein-coupled receptors such as CB1 and CB2, with astonishing affinity and selectivity. Therefore, it is believed that discovering novel cannabinoids starting from studying the biodiversity of the species living on planet earth is an uncharted territory.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jan Tytgat
- Toxicology and Pharmacology, KU Leuven, Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N 2, Herestraat 49, P.O. Box 922, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (D.A.); (S.P.); (L.A.H.)
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30
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Slivicki RA, Iyer V, Mali SS, Garai S, Thakur GA, Crystal JD, Hohmann AG. Positive Allosteric Modulation of CB 1 Cannabinoid Receptor Signaling Enhances Morphine Antinociception and Attenuates Morphine Tolerance Without Enhancing Morphine- Induced Dependence or Reward. Front Mol Neurosci 2020; 13:54. [PMID: 32410959 PMCID: PMC7199816 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2020.00054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2019] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Opioid analgesics represent a critical treatment for chronic pain in the analgesic ladder of the World Health Organization. However, their use can result in a number of unwanted side-effects including incomplete efficacy, constipation, physical dependence, and overdose liability. Cannabinoids enhance the pain-relieving effects of opioids in preclinical studies and dampen unwanted side-effects resulting from excessive opioid intake. We recently reported that a CB1 positive allosteric modulator (PAM) exhibits antinociceptive efficacy in models of pathological pain and lacks the adverse side effects of direct CB1 receptor activation. In the present study, we evaluated whether a CB1 PAM would enhance morphine’s therapeutic efficacy in an animal model of chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain and characterized its impact on unwanted side-effects associated with chronic opioid administration. In paclitaxel-treated mice, both the CB1 PAM GAT211 and the opioid analgesic morphine reduced paclitaxel-induced behavioral hypersensitivities to mechanical and cold stimulation in a dose-dependent manner. Isobolographic analysis revealed that combinations of GAT211 and morphine resulted in anti-allodynic synergism. In paclitaxel-treated mice, a sub-threshold dose of GAT211 prevented the development of tolerance to the anti-allodynic effects of morphine over 20 days of once daily dosing. However, GAT211 did not reliably alter somatic withdrawal signs (i.e., jumps, paw tremors) in morphine-dependent neuropathic mice challenged with naloxone. In otherwise naïve mice, GAT211 also prolonged antinociceptive efficacy of morphine in the tail-flick test and reduced the overall right-ward shift in the ED50 for morphine to produce antinociception in the tail-flick test, consistent with attenuation of morphine tolerance. Pretreatment with GAT211 did not alter somatic signs of μ opioid receptor dependence in mice rendered dependent upon morphine via subcutaneous implantation of a morphine pellet. Moreover, GAT211 did not reliably alter μ-opioid receptor-mediated reward as measured by conditioned place preference to morphine. Our results suggest that a CB1 PAM may be beneficial in enhancing and prolonging the therapeutic properties of opioids while potentially sparing unwanted side-effects (e.g., tolerance) that occur with repeated opioid treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard A Slivicki
- Program in Neuroscience, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States.,Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | - Vishakh Iyer
- Program in Neuroscience, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States.,Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | - Sonali S Mali
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | - Sumanta Garai
- Center for Drug Discovery, Bouve College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Ganesh A Thakur
- Center for Drug Discovery, Bouve College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jonathon D Crystal
- Program in Neuroscience, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States.,Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | - Andrea G Hohmann
- Program in Neuroscience, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States.,Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States.,Gill Center for Biomolecular Science, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
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31
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Stasiulewicz A, Znajdek K, Grudzień M, Pawiński T, Sulkowska JI. A Guide to Targeting the Endocannabinoid System in Drug Design. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21082778. [PMID: 32316328 PMCID: PMC7216112 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21082778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is one of the most crucial systems in the human organism, exhibiting multi-purpose regulatory character. It is engaged in a vast array of physiological processes, including nociception, mood regulation, cognitive functions, neurogenesis and neuroprotection, appetite, lipid metabolism, as well as cell growth and proliferation. Thus, ECS proteins, including cannabinoid receptors and their endogenous ligands’ synthesizing and degrading enzymes, are promising therapeutic targets. Their modulation has been employed in or extensively studied as a treatment of multiple diseases. However, due to a complex nature of ECS and its crosstalk with other biological systems, the development of novel drugs turned out to be a challenging task. In this review, we summarize potential therapeutic applications for ECS-targeting drugs, especially focusing on promising synthetic compounds and preclinical studies. We put emphasis on modulation of specific proteins of ECS in different pathophysiological areas. In addition, we stress possible difficulties and risks and highlight proposed solutions. By presenting this review, we point out information pivotal in the spotlight of ECS-targeting drug design, as well as provide an overview of the current state of knowledge on ECS-related pharmacodynamics and show possible directions for needed research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Stasiulewicz
- Department of Drug Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland; (M.G.); (T.P.)
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Biological Systems Modelling, Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland;
- Correspondence: (A.S.); (J.I.S.)
| | - Katarzyna Znajdek
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Biological Systems Modelling, Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland;
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Monika Grudzień
- Department of Drug Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland; (M.G.); (T.P.)
| | - Tomasz Pawiński
- Department of Drug Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland; (M.G.); (T.P.)
| | - Joanna I. Sulkowska
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Biological Systems Modelling, Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland;
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 1, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
- Materials and Process Simulation Center, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
- Correspondence: (A.S.); (J.I.S.)
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Bruder M, Polo G, Trivella DBB. Natural allosteric modulators and their biological targets: molecular signatures and mechanisms. Nat Prod Rep 2020; 37:488-514. [PMID: 32048675 DOI: 10.1039/c9np00064j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Covering: 2008 to 2018Over the last decade more than two hundred single natural products were confirmed as natural allosteric modulators (alloNPs) of proteins. The compounds are presented and discussed with the support of a chemical space, constructed using a principal component analysis (PCA) of molecular descriptors from chemical compounds of distinct databases. This analysis showed that alloNPs are dispersed throughout the majority of the chemical space defined by natural products in general. Moreover, a cluster of alloNPs was shown to occupy a region almost devoid of allosteric modulators retrieved from a dataset composed mainly of synthetic compounds, further highlighting the importance to explore the entire natural chemical space for probing allosteric mechanisms. The protein targets which alloNPs bind to comprised 81 different proteins, which were classified into 5 major groups, with enzymes, in particular hydrolases, being the main representative group. The review also brings a critical interpretation on the mechanisms by which alloNPs display their molecular action on proteins. In the latter analysis, alloNPs were classified according to their final effect on the target protein, resulting in 3 major categories: (i) local alteration of the orthosteric site; (ii) global alteration in protein dynamics that change function; and (iii) oligomer stabilisation or protein complex destabilisation via protein-protein interaction in sites distant from the orthosteric site. G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs), which use a combination of the three types of allosteric regulation found, were also probed by natural products. In summary, the natural allosteric modulators reviewed herein emphasise their importance for exploring alternative chemotherapeutic strategies, potentially pushing the boundaries of the druggable space of pharmacologically relevant drug targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjorie Bruder
- Brazilian Biosciences National Laboratory (LNBio), National Centre for Research in Energy and Materials (CNPEM), 13083-970 Campinas, SP, Brazil.
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Garai S, Kulkarni PM, Schaffer PC, Leo LM, Brandt AL, Zagzoog A, Black T, Lin X, Hurst DP, Janero DR, Abood ME, Zimmowitch A, Straiker A, Pertwee RG, Kelly M, Szczesniak AM, Denovan-Wright EM, Mackie K, Hohmann AG, Reggio PH, Laprairie RB, Thakur GA. Application of Fluorine- and Nitrogen-Walk Approaches: Defining the Structural and Functional Diversity of 2-Phenylindole Class of Cannabinoid 1 Receptor Positive Allosteric Modulators. J Med Chem 2020; 63:542-568. [PMID: 31756109 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.9b01142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Cannabinoid 1 receptor (CB1R) allosteric ligands hold a far-reaching therapeutic promise. We report the application of fluoro- and nitrogen-walk approaches to enhance the drug-like properties of GAT211, a prototype CB1R allosteric agonist-positive allosteric modulator (ago-PAM). Several analogs exhibited improved functional potency (cAMP, β-arrestin 2), metabolic stability, and aqueous solubility. Two key analogs, GAT591 (6r) and GAT593 (6s), exhibited augmented allosteric-agonist and PAM activities in neuronal cultures, improved metabolic stability, and enhanced orthosteric agonist binding (CP55,940). Both analogs also exhibited good analgesic potency in the CFA inflammatory-pain model with longer duration of action over GAT211 while being devoid of adverse cannabimimetic effects. Another analog, GAT592 (9j), exhibited moderate ago-PAM potency and improved aqueous solubility with therapeutic reduction of intraocular pressure in murine glaucoma models. The SAR findings and the enhanced allosteric activity in this class of allosteric modulators were accounted for in our recently developed computational model for CB1R allosteric activation and positive allosteric modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumanta Garai
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Bouvé College of Health Sciences , Northeastern University , Boston , Massachusetts 02115 , United States
| | - Pushkar M Kulkarni
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Bouvé College of Health Sciences , Northeastern University , Boston , Massachusetts 02115 , United States
| | - Peter C Schaffer
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Bouvé College of Health Sciences , Northeastern University , Boston , Massachusetts 02115 , United States
| | - Luciana M Leo
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine , Temple University , Philadelphia , Pennsylvania 19140 , United States
| | - Asher L Brandt
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition , University of Saskatchewan , 104 Clinic Pl , Saskatoon , SK S7N2Z4 , Canada
| | - Ayat Zagzoog
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition , University of Saskatchewan , 104 Clinic Pl , Saskatoon , SK S7N2Z4 , Canada
| | - Tallan Black
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition , University of Saskatchewan , 104 Clinic Pl , Saskatoon , SK S7N2Z4 , Canada
| | - Xiaoyan Lin
- Program in Neuroscience, Psychological and Brain Sciences, and Gill Center for Biomolecular Science , Indiana University , Bloomington , Indiana 47405 , United States
| | - Dow P Hurst
- Center for Drug Discovery , University of North Carolina Greensboro , Greensboro , North Carolina 27402 , United States
| | - David R Janero
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, College of Science, and Health Sciences Entrepreneurs , Northeastern University , Boston , Massachusetts 02115 , United States
| | - Mary E Abood
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine , Temple University , Philadelphia , Pennsylvania 19140 , United States
| | - Anaelle Zimmowitch
- Program in Neuroscience, Psychological and Brain Sciences, and Gill Center for Biomolecular Science , Indiana University , Bloomington , Indiana 47405 , United States
| | - Alex Straiker
- Program in Neuroscience, Psychological and Brain Sciences, and Gill Center for Biomolecular Science , Indiana University , Bloomington , Indiana 47405 , United States
| | - Roger G Pertwee
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, Institute of Medical Sciences , University of Aberdeen , Aberdeen AB25 2ZD , Scotland, U.K
| | - Melanie Kelly
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine , Dalhousie University , 5850 College St , Halifax , NS , B3H4R2 , Canada
| | - Anna-Maria Szczesniak
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine , Dalhousie University , 5850 College St , Halifax , NS , B3H4R2 , Canada
| | - Eileen M Denovan-Wright
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine , Dalhousie University , 5850 College St , Halifax , NS , B3H4R2 , Canada
| | - Ken Mackie
- Program in Neuroscience, Psychological and Brain Sciences, and Gill Center for Biomolecular Science , Indiana University , Bloomington , Indiana 47405 , United States
| | - Andrea G Hohmann
- Program in Neuroscience, Psychological and Brain Sciences, and Gill Center for Biomolecular Science , Indiana University , Bloomington , Indiana 47405 , United States
| | - Patricia H Reggio
- Center for Drug Discovery , University of North Carolina Greensboro , Greensboro , North Carolina 27402 , United States
| | - Robert B Laprairie
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition , University of Saskatchewan , 104 Clinic Pl , Saskatoon , SK S7N2Z4 , Canada.,Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine , Dalhousie University , 5850 College St , Halifax , NS , B3H4R2 , Canada
| | - Ganesh A Thakur
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Bouvé College of Health Sciences , Northeastern University , Boston , Massachusetts 02115 , United States
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Laprairie RB, Mohamed KA, Zagzoog A, Kelly MEM, Stevenson LA, Pertwee R, Denovan-Wright EM, Thakur GA. Indomethacin Enhances Type 1 Cannabinoid Receptor Signaling. Front Mol Neurosci 2019; 12:257. [PMID: 31680861 PMCID: PMC6813218 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2019.00257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In addition to its known actions as a non-selective cyclooxygenase (COX) 1 and 2 inhibitor, we hypothesized that indomethacin can act as an allosteric modulator of the type 1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1R) because of its shared structural features with the known allosteric modulators of CB1R. Indomethacin enhanced the binding of [3H]CP55940 to hCB1R and enhanced AEA-dependent [35S]GTPγS binding to hCB1R in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell membranes. Indomethacin (1 μM) also enhanced CP55940-dependent βarrestin1 recruitment, cAMP inhibition, ERK1/2 and PLCβ3 phosphorylation in HEK293A cells expressing hCB1R, but not in cells expressing hCB2R. Finally, indomethacin enhanced the magnitude and duration of CP55940-induced hypolocomotion, immobility, hypothermia, and anti-nociception in C57BL/6J mice. Together, these data support the hypothesis that indomethacin acted as a positive allosteric modulator of hCB1R. The identification of structural and functional features shared amongst allosteric modulators of CB1R may lead to the development of novel compounds designed for greater CB1R or COX selectivity and compounds designed to modulate both the prostaglandin and endocannabinoid systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert B Laprairie
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Kawthar A Mohamed
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Ayat Zagzoog
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Melanie E M Kelly
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.,Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Lesley A Stevenson
- School of Medical Sciences, The Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Roger Pertwee
- School of Medical Sciences, The Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | | | - Ganesh A Thakur
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
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Hurst DP, Garai S, Kulkarni PM, Schaffer PC, Reggio PH, Thakur GA. Identification of CB1 Receptor Allosteric Sites Using Force-Biased MMC Simulated Annealing and Validation by Structure-Activity Relationship Studies. ACS Med Chem Lett 2019; 10:1216-1221. [PMID: 31413808 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.9b00256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Positive allosteric modulation of the cannabinoid 1 receptor (CB1R) has demonstrated distinct therapeutic advantages that address several limitations associated with orthosteric agonism and has opened a promising therapeutic avenue for further drug development. To advance the development of CB1R positive allosteric modulators, it is important to understand the molecular architecture of CB1R allosteric site(s). The goal of this work was to use Force-Biased MMC Simulated Annealing to identify binding sites for GAT228 (R), a partial allosteric agonist, and GAT229 (S), a positive allosteric modulator (PAM) at the CB1R. Our studies suggest that GAT228 binds in an intracellular (IC) TMH1-2-4 exosite that would allow this compound to act as a CB1 allosteric agonist as well as a CB1 PAM. In contrast, GAT229 binds at the extracellular (EC) ends of TMH2/3, just beneath the EC1 loop. At this site, this compound can act as CB1 PAM only. Finally, these results were successfully validated through the synthesis and biochemical evaluation of a focused library of compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dow P. Hurst
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro North Carolina 27412, United States
| | - Sumanta Garai
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Pushkar M. Kulkarni
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Peter C. Schaffer
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Patricia H. Reggio
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro North Carolina 27412, United States
| | - Ganesh A. Thakur
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
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