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Morris T, Cucinello-Ragland JA, Marks TJ, Prevost K, Glenn JF, Davenport GJ, Edwards S, Winsauer PJ. Distinct antinociceptive and conditioned behavioral effects are produced by individual cannabinoids and a cannabis-derived mixture. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2024; 235:173692. [PMID: 38128766 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2023.173692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Cannabinoids have been proposed as therapeutics for pain mitigation. Therefore, the antihyperalgesic effects of a proprietary cannabis-derived mixture, Non-Euphoric Phytocannabinoid Elixir #14 (NEPE14), were examined in a persistent Complete Freund's Adjuvant (CFA)-induced model of inflammatory pain. The acute antinociceptive and operant behavioral effects of NEPE14 were then compared with single cannabinoid preparations of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), Δ8-THC, the synthetic cannabinoid (-)-CP 55,940 (CP), and cannabidiol (CBD). The THC isomers and CP were also administered with cannabinoid-type-1 receptor (CB1R) antagonist, AM251, and NEPE14 was administered in combination with THC or CP. To induce inflammation, CFA or saline was administered into the paw of male and female Wistar rats. After injections, mechanical hypersensitivity was assessed with Von Frey filaments, and thermal hyperalgesia with a thermal probe. Nine Sprague Dawley rats were also trained to respond under a fixed-ratio 30 schedule for food reinforcers during a 60-min session. Response rates were recorded during the session and warm-water tail-withdrawal latency post session. In CFA-administered rats, mechanical and thermal paw-withdrawal thresholds significantly decreased compared to vehicle, indicating hyperalgesia. Both i.p. (6.6-20.7 ml/kg) and o.m. (30-300 μL) NEPE14 significantly reduced the mechanical and thermal hyperalgesia. In contrast, neither NEPE14 (3.7-20.7 mL/kg i.p., 100-1000 μL o.m.) nor CBD (10-100 mg/kg) significantly decreased response rates or increased tail-withdrawal latency. Acute Δ9-THC, Δ8-THC (1-5.6 mg/kg), and CP (0.032-0.18 mg/kg) significantly and dose-dependently decreased overall response rate and increased tail-withdrawal latency compared to vehicle. AM251 significantly antagonized the rate-decreasing effects of THC, and CP, as well as the antinociceptive effects of CP. Combinations of NEPE14 with Δ9-THC or CP were not significantly different from these cannabinoids alone. In summary, while NEPE14 significantly reduced CFA-induced hyperalgesia, it was more similar to CBD than Δ9-THC, Δ8-THC, and CP for significantly reducing thermal nociception and disrupting conditioned behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Morris
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, United States of America
| | - Jessica A Cucinello-Ragland
- Department of Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, United States of America
| | - Taylor J Marks
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, United States of America
| | - Kayla Prevost
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, United States of America
| | - John F Glenn
- MilMed R&D Consulting LLC, 1300 Home Farm Court, Brunswick, MD 21716, United States of America
| | - Gregory J Davenport
- Full Spectrum Omega, Inc., 176 S. Alvarado Street, Los Angeles, CA 90057, United States of America
| | - Scott Edwards
- Department of Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, United States of America
| | - Peter J Winsauer
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, United States of America.
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Khodadadi H, Salles ÉL, Alptekin A, Mehrabian D, Rutkowski M, Arbab AS, Yeudall WA, Yu JC, Morgan JC, Hess DC, Vaibhav K, Dhandapani KM, Baban B. Inhalant Cannabidiol Inhibits Glioblastoma Progression Through Regulation of Tumor Microenvironment. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2023; 8:824-834. [PMID: 34918964 PMCID: PMC10589502 DOI: 10.1089/can.2021.0098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common invasive brain tumor composed of diverse cell types with poor prognosis. The highly complex tumor microenvironment (TME) and its interaction with tumor cells play important roles in the development, progression, and durability of GBM. Angiogenic and immune factors are two major components of TME of GBM; their interplay is a major determinant of tumor vascularization, immune profile, as well as immune unresponsiveness of GBM. Given the ineffectiveness of current standard therapies (surgery, radiotherapy, and concomitant chemotherapy) in managing patients with GBM, it is necessary to develop new ways of treating these lethal brain tumors. Targeting TME, altering tumor ecosystem may be a viable therapeutic strategy with beneficial effects for patients in their fight against GBM. Materials and Methods: Given the potential therapeutic effects of cannabidiol (CBD) in a wide spectrum of diseases, including malignancies, we tested, for the first time, whether inhalant CBD can inhibit GBM tumor growth using a well-established orthotopic murine model. Optical imaging, histology, immunohistochemistry, and flow cytometry were employed to describe the outcomes such as tumor progression, cancer cell signaling pathways, and the TME. Results: Our findings showed that inhalation of CBD was able to not only limit the tumor growth but also to alter the dynamics of TME by repressing P-selectin, apelin, and interleukin (IL)-8, as well as blocking a key immune checkpoint-indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO). In addition, CBD enhanced the cluster of differentiation (CD) 103 expression, indicating improved antigen presentation, promoted CD8 immune responses, and reduced innate Lymphoid Cells within the tumor. Conclusion: Overall, our novel findings support the possible therapeutic role of inhaled CBD as an effective, relatively safe, and easy to administer treatment adjunct for GBM with significant impacts on the cellular and molecular signaling of TME, warranting further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hesam Khodadadi
- Department of Oral Biology and Diagnostic Sciences, Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
- Center for Excellence in Research, Scholarship and Innovation, Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Évila Lopes Salles
- Department of Oral Biology and Diagnostic Sciences, Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
- Center for Excellence in Research, Scholarship and Innovation, Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Ahmet Alptekin
- Georgia Cancer Center, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Daniel Mehrabian
- Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Martin Rutkowski
- Department of Neurosurgery and Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Ali S. Arbab
- Georgia Cancer Center, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - W. Andrew Yeudall
- Department of Oral Biology and Diagnostic Sciences, Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
- Center for Excellence in Research, Scholarship and Innovation, Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Jack C. Yu
- Department of Surgery, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - John C. Morgan
- Parkinson's Foundation Center of Excellence, Movement Disorders, Program, Department of Neurology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - David C. Hess
- Department of Neurology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Kumar Vaibhav
- Department of Neurosurgery and Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Krishnan M. Dhandapani
- Department of Neurosurgery and Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Babak Baban
- Department of Oral Biology and Diagnostic Sciences, Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
- Center for Excellence in Research, Scholarship and Innovation, Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
- Department of Surgery, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
- Department of Neurology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
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Craft RM, Gogulski HY, Freels TG, Glodosky NC, McLaughlin RJ. Vaporized cannabis extract-induced antinociception in male vs female rats with persistent inflammatory pain. Pain 2023; 164:2036-2047. [PMID: 37027147 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Although preclinical studies generally report robust antinociceptive effects of cannabinoids in rodent persistent pain models, randomized controlled trials in chronic pain patients report limited pain relief from cannabis/cannabinoids. Differences between animal and human studies that may contribute to these discrepant findings include route of cannabis/cannabinoid administration, type of cannabis/cannabinoid, and how pain is measured. To address these factors, rats with complete Freund adjuvant (CFA)-induced hind paw inflammation were exposed acutely or repeatedly to vaporized cannabis extract that was either tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or cannabidiol (CBD)dominant. One measure of evoked pain (mechanical threshold), 2 functional measures of pain (hind paw weight-bearing, and locomotor activity), and hind paw edema were assessed for up to 2 hours after vapor exposure. Acute exposure to vaporized THC-dominant extract (200 or 400 mg/mL) decreased mechanical allodynia and hind paw edema and increased hind paw weight-bearing and locomotor activity, with no sex differences. After repeated exposure to vaporized THC-dominant extract (twice daily for 3 days), only the antiallodynic effect was significant. Acute exposure to vaporized CBD-dominant cannabis extract (200 mg/mL) did not produce any effects in either sex; repeated exposure to this extract (100, 200, or 400 mg/mL) decreased mechanical allodynia in male rats only. Sex differences (or lack thereof) in the effects of vaporized cannabis extracts were not explained by sex differences in plasma levels of THC, CBD, or their major metabolites. These results suggest that although vaporized THC-dominant extract is likely to be modestly effective against inflammatory pain in both male and female rats, tolerance may develop, and the CBD-dominant extract may be effective only in male rats.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Timothy G Freels
- Integrative Physiology and Neuroscience, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
| | | | - Ryan J McLaughlin
- Integrative Physiology and Neuroscience, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
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Gazarov EA, Zequeira S, Senetra AS, Howard J, Sharma A, McCurdy CR, Lewis J, Bizon JL, Setlow B. Pharmacokinetics of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol following acute cannabis smoke exposure in mice; effects of sex, age, and strain. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1227220. [PMID: 37701025 PMCID: PMC10493391 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1227220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Increased use of cannabis and cannabinoids for recreational and medical purposes has led to a growth in research on their effects in animal models. The majority of this work has employed cannabinoid injections; however, smoking remains the most common route of cannabis consumption. To better model real-world cannabis use, we exposed mice to cannabis smoke to establish the pharmacokinetics of Δ9THC and its metabolites in plasma and brain. To determine the time course of Δ9THC and two major metabolites [11-hydroxy-delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (11-OH-THC) and 11-nor-9-carboxy-delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (11-COOH-THC)], male and female C57BL/6J mice were exposed to smoke from sequentially burning 5 cannabis cigarettes. Following smoke exposure, trunk blood and brains were collected at 6 time points (10-240 min). Plasma and brain homogenates were analyzed for Δ9THC and metabolites using a validated ultraperformance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method. To assess effects of age, sex, and mouse strain, we exposed mice of four strains (C57BL/6J, FVB, Swiss Webster, and 129S6/SvEv, aged 4-24 months) to cannabis using the same smoke regimen. Samples were collected 10 and 40 min following exposure. Lastly, to assess effects of dose, C57BL/6J mice were exposed to smoke from burning 3 or 5 cannabis cigarettes, with samples collected 40 min following exposure. The pharmacokinetic study revealed that maximum plasma Δ9THC concentrations (Cmax) were achieved at 10 and 40 min for males and females, respectively, while Cmax for brain Δ9THC was observed at 20 and 40 min for males and females, respectively. There were no age or strain differences in plasma Δ9THC concentrations at 10 or 40 min; however, 129S6/SvEv mice had significantly higher brain Δ9THC concentrations than FVB mice. Additionally, 3 cigarettes produced significantly lower plasma 11-COOH-THC concentrations compared to 5 cigarettes, although dose differences were not evident in plasma or brain concentrations of Δ9THC or 11-OH-THC. Across all experiments, females had higher levels of 11-COOH-THC in plasma compared to males. The results reveal robust sex differences in Δ9THC pharmacokinetics, and lay the groundwork for future studies using mice to model the pharmacodynamics of smoked cannabis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emely A. Gazarov
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Sabrina Zequeira
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | | | - John Howard
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Abhisheak Sharma
- Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Center for Addiction Research and Education, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Christopher R. McCurdy
- Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Center for Addiction Research and Education, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Jada Lewis
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Jennifer L. Bizon
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Center for Addiction Research and Education, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Barry Setlow
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Center for Addiction Research and Education, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
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Sadaka AH, Canuel J, Febo M, Johnson CT, Bradshaw HB, Ortiz R, Ciumo F, Kulkarni P, Gitcho MA, Ferris CF. Effects of inhaled cannabis high in Δ9-THC or CBD on the aging brain: A translational MRI and behavioral study. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1055433. [PMID: 36819730 PMCID: PMC9930474 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1055433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
With the recent legalization of inhaled cannabis for medicinal and recreational use, the elderly represents one of the newest, rapidly growing cohorts of cannabis users. To understand the neurobiological effects of cannabis on the aging brain, 19-20 months old mice were divided into three groups exposed to vaporized cannabis containing ~10% Δ9-THC, ~10% CBD, or placebo for 30 min each day. Voxel based morphometry, diffusion weighted imaging, and resting state functional connectivity data were gathered after 28 days of exposure and following a two-week washout period. Tail-flick, open field, and novel object preference tests were conducted to explore analgesic, anxiolytic, and cognitive effects of cannabis, respectively. Vaporized cannabis high in Δ9-THC and CBD achieved blood levels reported in human users. Mice showed antinociceptive effects to chronic Δ9-THC without tolerance while the anxiolytic and cognitive effects of Δ9-THC waned with treatment. CBD had no effect on any of the behavioral measures. Voxel based morphometry showed a decrease in midbrain dopaminergic volume to chronic Δ9-THC followed but an increase after a two-week washout. Fractional anisotropy values were reduced in the same area by chronic Δ9-THC, suggesting a reduction in gray matter volume. Cannabis high in CBD but not THC increased network strength and efficiency, an effect that persisted after washout. These data would indicate chronic use of inhaled cannabis high in Δ9-THC can be an effective analgesic but not for treatment of anxiety or cognitive decline. The dopaminergic midbrain system was sensitive to chronic Δ9-THC but not CBD showing robust plasticity in volume and water diffusivity prior to and following drug cessation an effect possibly related to the abuse liability of Δ9-THC. Chronic inhaled CBD resulted in enhanced global network connectivity that persisted after drug cessation. The behavioral consequences of this sustained change in brain connectivity remain to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aymen H. Sadaka
- Center for Translational NeuroImaging, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Justin Canuel
- Center for Translational NeuroImaging, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Marcelo Febo
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Clare T. Johnson
- Psychological and Brain Sciences, Program in Neuroscience, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | - Heather B. Bradshaw
- Psychological and Brain Sciences, Program in Neuroscience, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | - Richard Ortiz
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, United States
| | - Federica Ciumo
- Center for Translational NeuroImaging, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Praveen Kulkarni
- Center for Translational NeuroImaging, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Michael A. Gitcho
- Department of Biological Sciences, Delaware Center for Neuroscience Research, Delaware State University, Dover, DE, United States
| | - Craig F. Ferris
- Center for Translational NeuroImaging, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States,Departments of Psychology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States,*Correspondence: Craig F. Ferris,
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Moore CF, Stiltner JW, Davis CM, Weerts EM. Translational models of cannabinoid vapor exposure in laboratory animals. Behav Pharmacol 2022; 33:63-89. [PMID: 33136615 PMCID: PMC8079522 DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0000000000000592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis is one of the most frequently used psychoactive substances in the world. The most common route of administration for cannabis and cannabinoid constituents such as Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) is via smoking or vapor inhalation. Preclinical vapor models have been developed, although the vaporization devices and delivery methods vary widely across laboratories. This review examines the emerging field of preclinical vapor models with a focus on cannabinoid exposure in order to (1) summarize vapor exposure parameters and other methodological details across studies; (2) discuss the pharmacological and behavioral effects produced by exposure to vaporized cannabinoids; and (3) compare behavioral effects of cannabinoid vapor administration with those of other routes of administration. This review will serve as a guide for past and current vapor delivery methods in animals, synergize findings across studies, and propose future directions for this area of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine F. Moore
- Division of Behavioral Biology, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Jeffrey W. Stiltner
- Division of Behavioral Biology, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Catherine M. Davis
- Division of Behavioral Biology, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Elise M. Weerts
- Division of Behavioral Biology, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
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Zantut PRA, Veras MM, Benevenutto SGM, Safatle AMV, Pecora RA, Yariwake VY, Torres JI, Sakuno G, Martins MAG, Bolzan AA, Takahashi WY, Saldiva PHN, Damico FM. Lasting effects of prenatal exposure to Cannabis in the retina of the offspring: an experimental study in mice. Int J Retina Vitreous 2021; 7:45. [PMID: 34193310 PMCID: PMC8246684 DOI: 10.1186/s40942-021-00314-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Prenatal exposure to Cannabis is a worldwide growing problem. Although retina is part of the central nervous system, the impact of maternal Cannabis use on the retinal development and its postnatal consequences remains unknown. As the prenatal period is potentially sensitive in the normal development of the retina, we hypothesized that recreational use of Cannabis during pregnancy may alter retina structure in the offspring. To test this, we developed a murine model that mimics human exposure in terms of dose and use. Methods Pregnant BalbC mice were exposed daily for 5 min to Cannabis smoke (0.2 g of Cannabis) or filtered air, from gestational day 5 to 18 (N = 10/group). After weaning period, pups were separated and examined weekly. On days 60, 120, 200, and 360 after birth, 10 pups from each group were randomly selected for Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomography (SD-OCT) analysis of the retina. All retina layers were measured and inner, outer, and total retina thickness were calculated. Other 37 mice from both groups were sacrificed on days 20, 60, and 360 for retinal stereology (total volume of the retina and volume fraction of each retinal layer) and light microscopy. Means and standard deviations were calculated and MANOVA was performed. Results The retina of animals which mother was exposed to Cannabis during gestation was 17% thinner on day 120 (young adult) than controls (P = 0.003) due to 21% thinning of the outer retina (P = 0.001). The offspring of mice from the exposed group presented thickening of the IS/OS in comparison to controls on day 200 (P < 0.001). In the volumetric analyzes by retinal stereology, the exposed mice presented transitory increase of the IS/OS total volume and volume fraction on day 60 (young adult) compared to controls (P = 0.008 and P = 0.035, respectively). On light microscopy, exposed mice presented thickening of the IS/OS on day 360 (adult) compared to controls (P = 0.03). Conclusion Gestational exposure to Cannabis smoke may cause structural changes in the retina of the offspring that return to normal on mice adulthood. These experimental evidences suggest that children and young adults whose mothers smoked Cannabis during pregnancy may require earlier and more frequent clinical care than the non-exposed population. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40942-021-00314-8.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mariana Matera Veras
- Laboratory of Experimental Air Pollution, Department of Pathology, University of Sao Paulo Medical School, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Sarah Gomes Menezes Benevenutto
- Laboratory of Experimental Air Pollution, Department of Pathology, University of Sao Paulo Medical School, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Angélica Mendonça Vaz Safatle
- Ophthalmology Service, Department of Surgery, Veterinary Medicine College and Zootechny, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Augusto Pecora
- Ophthalmology Service, Department of Surgery, Veterinary Medicine College and Zootechny, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Victor Yuji Yariwake
- Laboratory of Experimental Air Pollution, Department of Pathology, University of Sao Paulo Medical School, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Janaina Iannicelli Torres
- Laboratory of Experimental Air Pollution, Department of Pathology, University of Sao Paulo Medical School, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Sakuno
- Retina Service, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Sao Paulo Medical School, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Marco Antonio Garcia Martins
- Laboratory of Experimental Air Pollution, Department of Pathology, University of Sao Paulo Medical School, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Aline Adriana Bolzan
- Ophthalmology Service, Department of Surgery, Veterinary Medicine College and Zootechny, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Walter Yukihiko Takahashi
- Retina Service, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Sao Paulo Medical School, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Paulo Hilario Nascimento Saldiva
- Laboratory of Experimental Air Pollution, Department of Pathology, University of Sao Paulo Medical School, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Francisco Max Damico
- Retina Service, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Sao Paulo Medical School, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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Efeoglu Ozseker P, Daglioglu N, Gulmen MK, Tolunay I, Efeoglu F. Determination of AB-FUBINACA and 5F-NPB-22 in rats exposed to "Bonsai" via inhalation and analysis of seized product. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2021; 50:101869. [PMID: 33713938 DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2021.101869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/27/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) are the most rapidly growing class of recreational designer drugs. Illicit drug manufacturers began to produce herbal smoking materials under a variety of brands names, e.g. "Spice, K2, Bonsai, Yucatan Fire". They were appeared on the European market in 2008. In this study, types of SCs in the herbal product sold as "Bonsai" in Turkey were determined and the identification of these substances in biological samples collected from rats depending on the inhalation of different amounts of plant material were aimed. To determine the SC species in the content of the plant product, analysis was performed via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Liquid-liquid extraction methods were utilized for blood and organ samples, while solid-phase extraction with β-glucuronidase enzyme treatment was applied for urine sample preparation. The relationship between the amount of burned plant and the amount of SCs accumulated in the blood, urine and organ samples of rats exposed to the plant product by inhalation was examined by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. AB-FUBINACA and 5F-NPB-22 were detected in the herbal product. A significant correlation was found between the amount of herbal product inhaled and the prevalence of SCs, especially in lung tissues while no SCs were detected in the blood and urine samples of rats. There is currently no study on biological samples of individuals exposed to herbal products containing SCs by inhalation. Regarding the findings obtained in this study, the overall increase in the amounts of herbal product inhaled was demonstrated to pose a potential risk to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pinar Efeoglu Ozseker
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cukurova University, Adana, Turkey.
| | - Nebile Daglioglu
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cukurova University, Adana, Turkey
| | - Mete Korkut Gulmen
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cukurova University, Adana, Turkey
| | - Ilknur Tolunay
- Adana City Education & Research Hospital, Child Intensive Care Department, Adana, Turkey
| | - Fehiman Efeoglu
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cukurova University, Adana, Turkey
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Roebuck AJ, Greba Q, Onofrychuk TJ, McElroy DL, Sandini TM, Zagzoog A, Simone J, Cain SM, Snutch TP, Laprairie RB, Howland JG. Dissociable changes in spike and wave discharges following exposure to injected cannabinoids and smoked cannabis in Genetic Absence Epilepsy Rats from Strasbourg. Eur J Neurosci 2020; 55:1063-1078. [PMID: 33370468 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
There is significant interest in the use of cannabinoids for the treatment of many epilepsies including absence epilepsy (AE). Genetic Absence Epilepsy Rats from Strasbourg (GAERS) model many aspects of AE including the presence of spike-and-wave discharges (SWDs) on electroencephalogram (EEG) and behavioral comorbidities, such as elevated anxiety. However, the effects of cannabis plant-based phytocannabinoids have not been tested in GAERS. Therefore, we investigated how SWDs in GAERS are altered by the two most common phytocannabinoids, Δ9 -tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), and exposure to smoke from two different chemovars of cannabis. Animals were implanted with bipolar electrodes in the somatosensory cortex and EEGs were recorded for 2 hr. Injected THC (1-10 mg/kg, i.p.) dose-dependently increased SWDs to over 200% of baseline. In contrast, CBD (30-100 mg/kg, i.p.) produced a ~50% reduction in SWDs. Exposure to smoke from a commercially available chemovar of high-THC cannabis (Mohawk, Aphria Inc.) increased SWDs whereas a low-THC/high-CBD chemovar of cannabis (Treasure Island, Aphria Inc.) did not significantly affect SWDs in GAERS. Pre-treatment with a CB1R antagonist (SR141716A) did not prevent the high-THC cannabis smoke from increasing SWDs, suggesting that the THC-mediated increase may not be CB1R-dependent. Plasma concentrations of THC and CBD were similar to previously reported values following injection and smoke exposure. Compared to injected CBD, it appears Treasure Island did not increase plasma levels sufficiently to observe an anti-epileptic effect. Together these experiments provide initial evidence that acute phytocannabinoid administration exerts the biphasic modulation of SWDs and may differentially impact patients with AE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Roebuck
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.,School of Liberal Arts, Yukon University, Whitehorse, YT, Canada
| | - Quentin Greba
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Timothy J Onofrychuk
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Dan L McElroy
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Thaísa M Sandini
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Ayat Zagzoog
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Jonathan Simone
- Department of Biological Sciences, Centre for Neuroscience, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada
| | - Stuart M Cain
- Michael Smith Laboratories and Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Colombia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Terrance P Snutch
- Michael Smith Laboratories and Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Colombia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Robert B Laprairie
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - John G Howland
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
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10
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Alkislar I, Miller AR, Hohmann AG, Sadaka AH, Cai X, Kulkarni P, Ferris CF. Inhaled Cannabis Suppresses Chemotherapy-Induced Neuropathic Nociception by Decoupling the Raphe Nucleus: A Functional Imaging Study in Rats. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY: COGNITIVE NEUROSCIENCE AND NEUROIMAGING 2020; 6:479-489. [PMID: 33622657 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsc.2020.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Efficacy of inhaled cannabis for treating pain is controversial. Effective treatment for chemotherapy-induced neuropathy represents an unmet medical need. We hypothesized that cannabis reduces neuropathic pain by reducing functional coupling in the raphe nuclei. METHODS We assessed the impact of inhalation of vaporized cannabis plant (containing 10.3% Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol/0.05% cannabidiol) or placebo cannabis on brain resting-state blood oxygen level-dependent functional connectivity and pain behavior induced by paclitaxel in rats. Rats received paclitaxel to produce chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy or its vehicle. Behavioral and imaging experiments were performed after neuropathy was established and stable. Images were registered to, and analyzed using, a 3D magnetic resonance imaging rat atlas providing site-specific data on more than 168 different brain areas. RESULTS Prior to vaporization, paclitaxel produced cold allodynia. Inhaled vaporized cannabis increased cold withdrawal latencies relative to prevaporization or placebo cannabis, consistent with Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol-induced antinociception. In paclitaxel-treated rats, the midbrain serotonergic system, comprising the dorsal and median raphe, showed hyperconnectivity to cortical, brainstem, and hippocampal areas, consistent with nociceptive processing. Inhalation of vaporized cannabis uncoupled paclitaxel-induced hyperconnectivity patterns. No such changes in connectivity or cold responsiveness were observed following placebo cannabis vaporization. CONCLUSIONS Inhaled vaporized cannabis plant uncoupled brain resting-state connectivity in the raphe nuclei, normalizing paclitaxel-induced hyperconnectivity to levels observed in vehicle-treated rats. Inhaled vaporized cannabis produced antinociception in both paclitaxel- and vehicle-treated rats. Our study elucidates neural circuitry implicated in the therapeutic effects of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and supports a role for functional imaging studies in animals in guiding indications for future clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilayda Alkislar
- Center for Translational Neuroimaging, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Alison R Miller
- Center for Translational Neuroimaging, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Andrea G Hohmann
- Psychological and Brain Sciences, Program in Neuroscience, and Gill Center for Biomolecular Science, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana
| | - Aymen H Sadaka
- Center for Translational Neuroimaging, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Xuezhu Cai
- Center for Translational Neuroimaging, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Praveen Kulkarni
- Center for Translational Neuroimaging, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Craig F Ferris
- Center for Translational Neuroimaging, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Psychology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts.
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11
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Parks C, Jones BC, Moore BM, Mulligan MK. Sex and Strain Variation in Initial Sensitivity and Rapid Tolerance to Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2020; 5:231-245. [PMID: 32923660 PMCID: PMC7480727 DOI: 10.1089/can.2019.0047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives: For cannabis and other drugs of abuse, initial response and/or tolerance to drug effects can predict later dependence and problematic use. Our objective is to identify sex and genetic (strain) differences in initial response and rapid tolerance to Δ9–tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, between highly genetically divergent inbred mouse strains—C57BL/6J (B6) and DBA/2J (D2). Experimental Approach: Sex and strain responses relative to baseline were quantified following daily exposure (i.p.) to 10 mg/kg THC or vehicle (VEH) over the course of 5 days. Dependent measures included hypothermia (decreased body temperature) and ataxia (decreased spontaneous activity in the open field), and antinociception (increase in tail withdrawal latency to a thermal stimulus). Initial sensitivity to THC was defined as the difference in response between baseline and day 1. Rapid tolerance to THC was defined as the difference in response between days 1 and 2. Results: B6 exhibited greater THC-induced motor activity suppression and initial sensitivity to ataxia relative to the D2 strain. Females demonstrated greater levels of THC-induced hypothermia and initial sensitivity relative to males. Higher levels of THC-induced antinociception and initial sensitivity were observed for D2 relative to B6. Rapid tolerance to THC was observed for hypothermia and antinociception. Much less tolerance was observed for THC-induced ataxia. D2 exhibited rapid tolerance to THC-induced hypothermia and antinociception at time points associated with peak THC initial response. Likewise, at the peak initial THC response time point, females demonstrated greater levels of rapid tolerance to hypothermic effects relative to males. Conclusions: Both sex and genetic factors drive variation in initial response and rapid tolerance to the ataxic, antinociceptive, and hypothermic effects of THC. As these traits directly result from THC activation of the cannabinoid receptor 1, gene variants between B6 and D2 in cannabinoid signaling pathways are likely to mediate strain differences in response to THC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cory Parks
- Department of Genetics, Genomics and Informatics, College of Medicine, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - Byron C Jones
- Department of Genetics, Genomics and Informatics, College of Medicine, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - Bob M Moore
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Medicine, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - Megan K Mulligan
- Department of Genetics, Genomics and Informatics, College of Medicine, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee
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12
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Nguyen JD, Creehan KM, Grant Y, Vandewater SA, Kerr TM, Taffe MA. Explication of CB 1 receptor contributions to the hypothermic effects of Δ 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) when delivered by vapor inhalation or parenteral injection in rats. Drug Alcohol Depend 2020; 214:108166. [PMID: 32717503 PMCID: PMC7423642 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2020.108166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The use of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) by inhalation using e-cigarette technology grows increasingly popular for medical and recreational purposes. This has led to development of e-cigarette based techniques to study the delivery of THC by inhalation in laboratory rodents. Inhaled THC reliably produces hypothermic and antinociceptive effects in rats, similar to effects of parenteral injection of THC. This study was conducted to determine the extent to which the hypothermic response depends on interactions with the CB1 receptor, using pharmacological antagonist (SR141716, AM-251) approaches. Groups of rats were implanted with radiotelemetry devices capable of reporting activity and body temperature, which were assessed after THC inhalation or injection. SR141716 (4 mg/kg, i.p.) blocked or attenuated antinociceptive effects of acute THC inhalation in male and female rats. SR141716 was unable to block the initial hypothermia caused by THC inhalation, but temperature was restored to normal more quickly. Alterations in antagonist pre-treatment time, dose and the use of a rat strain with less sensitivity to THC-induced hypothermia did not change this pattern. Pre-treatment with SR141716 (4 mg/kg, i.p.) blocked hypothermia induced by i.v. THC and reversed hypothermia when administered 45 or 90 min after THC (i.p.). SR141716 and AM-251 (4 mg/kg, i.p.) sped recovery from, but did not block, hypothermia caused by vapor THC in female rats made tolerant by prior repeated THC vapor inhalation. The CB2 antagonist AM-630, had no effect. These results suggest that hypothermia consequent to THC inhalation is induced by other mechanisms in addition to CB1 receptor activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacques D. Nguyen
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA USA,Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA USA
| | - K. M. Creehan
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA USA,Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA USA
| | - Yanabel Grant
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA USA,Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA USA
| | | | - Tony M. Kerr
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA USA
| | - Michael A. Taffe
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA USA,Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA USA
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13
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Farra YM, Eden MJ, Coleman JR, Kulkarni P, Ferris CF, Oakes JM, Bellini C. Acute neuroradiological, behavioral, and physiological effects of nose-only exposure to vaporized cannabis in C57BL/6 mice. Inhal Toxicol 2020; 32:200-217. [PMID: 32475185 DOI: 10.1080/08958378.2020.1767237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Objective: The rapid increase of cannabis consumption reinforces the need to elucidate the health hazards of this practice. The presence of fine particulate matter in cannabis smoke and vapor poses a major concern, as it may contribute to cardiopulmonary disease. To facilitate the assessment of risks associated with cannabis inhalation, we developed and characterized a method for exposing mice to cannabis in a way that mimics the delivery of the drug to the airways of smokers. Materials and Methods: Cannabis (10.3% THC, 0.05% CBD) was vaporized to generate aerosols with a reproducible particle profile. Aerosols were acutely delivered to male, adult C57BL/6 mice via a nose-only exposure system. Serum THC levels were measured for increasing cannabis doses. Blood pressure and heart rate were recorded at baseline and following exposure. Behavioral response to cannabis inhalation in the open field was documented. Awake neurological activity upon cannabis exposure was monitored using BOLD fMRI.Results and Discussion: Cannabis aerosols contained particles with count median diameter of 243 ± 39 nm and geometric standard deviation of 1.56 ± 0.06. Blood serum THC levels increased linearly with aerosolized mass and peaked at 136 ± 5 ng/mL. Cannabis inhalation decreased heart rate and blood pressure but promoted anxiety-like behavior. Observed differences in BOLD activation volumes linked cannabis to increased awareness to sensory stimuli and reduced behavioral arousal.Conclusions: Quantified physiological, behavioral, and neurological responses served as validation for our mouse model of cannabis inhalation. Animal models of aerosol exposure will be instrumental for uncovering the health outcomes of chronic cannabis use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmeen M Farra
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Matthew J Eden
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - James R Coleman
- Department of Psychology, Center for Translational NeuroImaging, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Praveen Kulkarni
- Department of Psychology, Center for Translational NeuroImaging, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Craig F Ferris
- Department of Psychology, Center for Translational NeuroImaging, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jessica M Oakes
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Chiara Bellini
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
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14
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Ravula A, Chandasana H, Jagnarine D, Wall SC, Setlow B, Febo M, Bruijnzeel AW, Derendorf H. Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Characterization of Tetrahydrocannabinol-Induced Cannabinoid Dependence After Chronic Passive Cannabis Smoke Exposure in Rats. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2019; 4:240-254. [PMID: 32042924 DOI: 10.1089/can.2019.0049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Cannabis is the most widely used illicit drug in the US, and cannabis use among young adults continues to rise. Previous studies have shown that chronic administration of delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive component of cannabis, induces dependence in animal models. Because smoking is the most frequent route of THC self-administration, it is critical to investigate the effects of cannabis smoke inhalation. The goal of the current study was to develop a rat model to characterize the pharmacokinetics (PKs) of THC after cannabis smoke inhalation, and to determine if chronic cannabis smoke inhalation leads to the development of cannabis dependence. Materials and Methods: For the PK study, male Wistar rats were administered THC intravenously (1 mg/kg) or exposed to smoke from 5 or 10 sequentially smoked cannabis cigarettes (5.3% THC) in an automated smoking machine. Plasma samples were collected from 10 min to 10 hours post smoke exposure (or intravenous administration) and analyzed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry to characterize the PK of THC. A three-compartment PK model was used to characterize the PKs. In a separate study, three groups of male Wistar rats were trained in an intracranial self-stimulation (ICSS) procedure, and exposed to smoke from burning 5 or 10 cannabis cigarettes (or clean air control conditions), 5 days/week for 4 weeks. Discussion and Conclusions: Across exposure days, the change from baseline in ICSS thresholds for cannabis smoke-exposed groups was significantly lower and response latencies were significantly faster in the cannabis smoke-exposed groups compared to controls, suggesting that chronic cannabis smoke exposure has rewarding properties. Acute administration of the CB1 receptor antagonist rimonabant (0.3, 1.0, 3.0 mg/kg) induced a dose-dependent increase in ICSS thresholds in the smoke-exposed rats, suggestive of dependence and withdrawal. Finally, an effect compartment PK-pharmacodynamic model was used to describe the relationship between THC concentrations and changes in ICSS thresholds after cannabis smoke exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhigyan Ravula
- Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Hardik Chandasana
- Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Darin Jagnarine
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Shannon C Wall
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Barry Setlow
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Marcelo Febo
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | | | - Hartmut Derendorf
- Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
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15
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Smoker MP, Hernandez M, Zhang Y, Boehm SL. Assessment of Acute Motor Effects and Tolerance Following Self-Administration of Alcohol and Edible ∆ 9 -Tetrahydrocannabinol in Adolescent Male Mice. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2019; 43:2446-2457. [PMID: 31524960 DOI: 10.1111/acer.14197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabinoids and their principle psychoactive target, the cannabinoid type 1 receptor (CB1R), impact a number of alcohol-related properties, and although alcohol and cannabis are often co-used, particularly in adolescence, few animal models of this phenomenon exist. We modeled the co-use of alcohol and ∆9 -tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in adolescent mice using ingestive methods popular during this developmental period in humans, namely binge-drinking and edible THC. With this model, we assessed levels of use, acute effects, and tolerance to each substance. METHODS Adolescent male C57BL/6J mice had daily, limited access to 1 of 2 edible doughs (THC or control), to 1 of 2 fluids (ethanol (EtOH) or water), and in 1 of 2 orders (dough-fluid or fluid-dough). Home cage locomotor activity was recorded both during access and after access. On the day following the final access session, a subset of mice were assessed for functional and metabolic tolerance to alcohol using accelerating rotarod and blood EtOH concentrations, respectively. The remaining mice were assessed for tolerance to THC-induced hypothermia, and whole-brain CB1R expression was assessed in all mice. RESULTS EtOH intake was on par with levels previously reported in adolescent mice. Edible THC was well-consumed, but consumption decreased at the highest dose provided. Locomotor activity increased following EtOH intake and decreased following edible THC consumption, and edible THC increased fluid intake in general. The use of alcohol produced neither functional nor metabolic tolerance to an alcohol challenge. However, the use of edible THC impaired subsequent drug-free rotarod performance and was associated with a reduction in THC's hypothermic effect. CONCLUSIONS Adolescent mice self-administered both alcohol and edible THC to a degree sufficient to acutely impact locomotor activity. However, only edible THC consumption had lasting effects during short-term abstinence. Thus, this adolescent co-use model could be used to explore sex differences in self-administration and the impact substance co-use might have on other domains such as mood and cognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael P Smoker
- From the, Department of Psychology, Indiana Alcohol Research Center, Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Maribel Hernandez
- From the, Department of Psychology, Indiana Alcohol Research Center, Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Yanping Zhang
- From the, Department of Psychology, Indiana Alcohol Research Center, Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Stephen L Boehm
- From the, Department of Psychology, Indiana Alcohol Research Center, Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana
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16
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Smoker MP, Mackie K, Lapish CC, Boehm SL. Self-administration of edible Δ 9-tetrahydrocannabinol and associated behavioral effects in mice. Drug Alcohol Depend 2019; 199:106-115. [PMID: 31029878 PMCID: PMC7158699 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2019.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2018] [Revised: 02/07/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND With increasing access to legal cannabis across the globe, it is imperative to more closely study its behavioral and physiological effects. Furthermore, with the proliferation of cannabis use, modes of consumption are changing, with edible formulations becoming increasingly popular. Nevertheless, there are relatively few animal models of self-administration of the primary psychoactive component of cannabis, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and almost all incorporate routes of administration other than those used by humans. The aim of the current study was to develop a model of edible THC self-administration and assess its impact on CB1 receptor-mediated behaviors in female and male mice. METHODS Mice were given limited access to a palatable dough which occasionally contained THC in doses ranging from 1 to 10 mg/kg. Following dough consumption, mice were assessed for home cage locomotor activity, body temperature, or analgesia. Locomotor activity was also assessed in conjunction with the CB1 receptor antagonist SR141716A. RESULTS Dough was well-consumed, but consumption decreased at the highest THC concentrations. Edible THC produced dose-dependent decreases in locomotor activity and body temperature in both sexes, and these effects were more pronounced in male mice. Hypolocomotion induced by edible THC was attenuated by SR141716A, indicating mediation by CB1 receptor activation. CONCLUSIONS In contrast to other cannabinoid self-administration models, edible THC is relatively low in stress and uses a route of administration analogous to one used by humans. Potential applications include chronic THC self-administration, determining THC reward/reinforcement, and investigating consequences of oral THC use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael P. Smoker
- Department of Psychology and Indiana Alcohol Research Center, Indiana University – Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46202,Corresponding Author: Michael P. Smoker, Department of Psychology, Indiana University – Purdue University Indianapolis, 402 N Blackford St, LD 124, Indianapolis, IN 46202, Phone: 317-429-7023, Fax: 317-274-6756,
| | - Ken Mackie
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences and the Gill Center, Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, IN 47405
| | - Christopher C. Lapish
- Department of Psychology and Indiana Alcohol Research Center, Indiana University – Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46202
| | - Stephen L. Boehm
- Department of Psychology and Indiana Alcohol Research Center, Indiana University – Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46202
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17
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Javadi-Paydar M, Nguyen JD, Kerr TM, Grant Y, Vandewater SA, Cole M, Taffe MA. Effects of Δ9-THC and cannabidiol vapor inhalation in male and female rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2018; 235:2541-2557. [PMID: 29907926 PMCID: PMC6699758 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-018-4946-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Previous studies report sex differences in some, but not all, responses to cannabinoids in rats. The majority of studies use parenteral injection; however, most human use is via smoke inhalation and, increasingly, vapor inhalation. OBJECTIVES To compare thermoregulatory and locomotor responses to inhaled ∆9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), and their combination using an e-cigarette-based model in male and female rats METHODS: Male and female Wistar rats were implanted with radiotelemetry devices for the assessment of body temperature and locomotor activity. Animals were then exposed to THC or CBD vapor using a propylene glycol (PG) vehicle. THC dose was adjusted via the concentration in the vehicle (12.5-200 mg/mL) and the CBD (100, 400 mg/mL) dose was also adjusted by varying the inhalation duration (10-40 min). Anti-nociception was evaluated using a tail-withdrawal assay following vapor inhalation. Plasma samples obtained following inhalation in different groups of rats were compared for THC content. RESULTS THC inhalation reduced body temperature and increased tail-withdrawal latency in both sexes equivalently and in a concentration-dependent manner. Female temperature, activity, and tail-withdrawal responses to THC did not differ between estrus and diestrus. CBD inhalation alone induced modest hypothermia and suppressed locomotor activity in both males and females. Co-administration of THC with CBD, in a 1:4 ratio, significantly decreased temperature and activity in an approximately additive manner and to similar extent in each sex. Plasma THC varied with the concentration in the PG vehicle but did not differ across rat sex. CONCLUSION In summary, the inhalation of THC or CBD, alone and in combination, produces approximately equivalent effects in male and female rats. This confirms the efficacy of the e-cigarette-based method of THC delivery in female rats.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jacques D. Nguyen
- Department of Neuroscience; The Scripps Research Institute; La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Tony M. Kerr
- Department of Neuroscience; The Scripps Research Institute; La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Yanabel Grant
- Department of Neuroscience; The Scripps Research Institute; La Jolla, CA, USA
| | | | - Maury Cole
- La Jolla Alcohol Research, Inc; La Jolla CA, USA
| | - Michael A. Taffe
- Department of Neuroscience; The Scripps Research Institute; La Jolla, CA, USA
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18
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Ravula A, Chandasana H, Setlow B, Febo M, Bruijnzeel AW, Derendorf H. Simultaneous quantification of cannabinoids tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol and CB1 receptor antagonist in rat plasma: An application to characterize pharmacokinetics after passive cannabis smoke inhalation and co-administration of rimonabant. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2018; 160:119-125. [PMID: 30077950 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2018.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Revised: 06/30/2018] [Accepted: 07/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
A highly sensitive and selective liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method for the determination of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol, and rimonabant in rat plasma was developed. Analytes and the internal standard were extracted from plasma using a combination of protein precipitation followed by liquid-liquid extraction. Chromatographic separation was done using Waters Symmetry C18, 4.6 × 150 mm, 5 um column using 10 mm ammonium formate buffer and methanol. The total run time was 6 min, and separation was achieved using isocratic elution at a flow rate of 1 mL/min using a 10:90 (aqueous: organic) ratio. The ionization of the analytes was optimized using electrospray ionization in positive mode, and multiple reaction mode was used for this analysis. This method showed linearity from 0.1 to 100 ng/ml for all the analytes and was validated according to FDA Bioanalytical Method Validation Guidance in terms of accuracy, precession, linearity, stability, matrix effect, recovery, and stability. This method was successfully applied to characterize the pharmacokinetics of THC in rats after continuous passive smoke exposure for 50 min when rimonabant was co-administered with cannabis smoke. Maximum concentration (Cmax) for THC was observed immediately after rats were removed from the exposure chamber (10 min post completion) which declined with a terminal half-life of 3.7 h and clearance was calculated to be 1.1 (L/h). Rimonabant (i.p) at a dose of 3 mg/kg was rapidly absorbed and maximum concentration (Cmax) was seen at 11 min which declined with a terminal half-life of 5.4 h and clearance was calculated to be 2.0 (L/h). Exposure AUCinf (h* μg/L) for THC and rimonabant were 13.9 and 457.6 respectively. As this method was highly sensitive and required only 50 μL of plasma, it is applicable in rodent models that assess the exposure-response relationships of these drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhigyan Ravula
- Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Florida, Gainesville, United States
| | - Hardik Chandasana
- Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Florida, Gainesville, United States
| | - Barry Setlow
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, United States
| | - Marcelo Febo
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, United States
| | | | - Hartmut Derendorf
- Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Florida, Gainesville, United States.
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19
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Boggs DL, Nguyen JD, Morgenson D, Taffe MA, Ranganathan M. Clinical and Preclinical Evidence for Functional Interactions of Cannabidiol and Δ 9-Tetrahydrocannabinol. Neuropsychopharmacology 2018; 43:142-154. [PMID: 28875990 PMCID: PMC5719112 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2017.209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Revised: 08/30/2017] [Accepted: 08/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The plant Cannabis sativa, commonly called cannabis or marijuana, has been used for its psychotropic and mind-altering side effects for millennia. There has been growing attention in recent years on its potential therapeutic efficacy as municipalities and legislative bodies in the United States, Canada, and other countries grapple with enacting policy to facilitate the use of cannabis or its constituents for medical purposes. There are >550 chemical compounds and >100 phytocannabinoids isolated from cannabis, including Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is thought to produce the main psychoactive effects of cannabis, while CBD does not appear to have similar effects. Studies conflict as to whether CBD attenuates or exacerbates the behavioral and cognitive effects of THC. This includes effects of CBD on THC-induced anxiety, psychosis, and cognitive deficits. In this article, we review the available evidence on the pharmacology and behavioral interactions of THC and CBD from preclinical and human studies, particularly with reference to anxiety and psychosis-like symptoms. Both THC and CBD, as well as other cannabinoid molecules, are currently being evaluated for medicinal purposes, separately and in combination. Future cannabis-related policy decisions should include consideration of scientific findings, including the individual and interactive effects of CBD and THC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas L Boggs
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA,VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jacques D Nguyen
- Department of Neuroscience; The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | | | - Michael A Taffe
- Department of Neuroscience; The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Mohini Ranganathan
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA,VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA,Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, 950 Campbell Avenue, New Haven, CT 06511, USA, Tel: +1 203 932 5711X2546, E-mail:
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20
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Nguyen JD, Aarde SM, Vandewater SA, Grant Y, Stouffer DG, Parsons LH, Cole M, Taffe MA. Inhaled delivery of Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) to rats by e-cigarette vapor technology. Neuropharmacology 2016; 109:112-120. [PMID: 27256501 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2016.05.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2016] [Revised: 05/24/2016] [Accepted: 05/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Most human Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) use is via inhalation, and yet few animal studies of inhalation exposure are available. Popularization of non-combusted methods for the inhalation of psychoactive drugs (Volcano(®), e-cigarettes) further stimulates a need for rodent models of this route of administration. This study was designed to develop and validate a rodent chamber suitable for controlled exposure to vaporized THC in a propylene glycol vehicle, using an e-cigarette delivery system adapted to standard size, sealed rat housing chambers. The in vivo efficacy of inhaled THC was validated using radiotelemetry to assess body temperature and locomotor responses, a tail-flick assay for nociception and plasma analysis to verify exposure levels. Hypothermic responses to inhaled THC in male rats depended on the duration of exposure and the concentration of THC in the vehicle. The temperature nadir was reached after ∼40 min of exposure, was of comparable magnitude (∼3 °Celsius) to that produced by 20 mg/kg THC, i.p. and resolved within 3 h (compared with a 6 h time course following i.p. THC). Female rats were more sensitive to hypothermic effects of 30 min of lower-dose THC inhalation. Male rat tail-flick latency was increased by THC vapor inhalation; this effect was blocked by SR141716 pretreatment. The plasma THC concentration after 30 min of inhalation was similar to that produced by 10 mg/kg THC i.p. This approach is flexible, robust and effective for use in laboratory rats and will be of increasing utility as users continue to adopt "vaping" for the administration of cannabis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacques D Nguyen
- Committee on the Neurobiology of Addictive Disorders, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Shawn M Aarde
- Committee on the Neurobiology of Addictive Disorders, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Sophia A Vandewater
- Committee on the Neurobiology of Addictive Disorders, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Yanabel Grant
- Committee on the Neurobiology of Addictive Disorders, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - David G Stouffer
- Committee on the Neurobiology of Addictive Disorders, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Loren H Parsons
- Committee on the Neurobiology of Addictive Disorders, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Maury Cole
- La Jolla Alcohol Research, Inc, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Michael A Taffe
- Committee on the Neurobiology of Addictive Disorders, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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21
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Benevenuto SG, Domenico MD, Martins MAG, Costa NS, de Souza ARL, Costa JL, Tavares MFM, Dolhnikoff M, Veras MM. Recreational use of marijuana during pregnancy and negative gestational and fetal outcomes: An experimental study in mice. Toxicology 2016; 376:94-101. [PMID: 27234314 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2016.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2015] [Revised: 04/01/2016] [Accepted: 05/24/2016] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of marijuana use among pregnant women is high. However, the effects on gestation and fetal development are not well known. Epidemiological and experimental studies present conflicting results because of the route of administration, dose, time of exposure, species used, and how Cannabis toxicity is tested (prepared extracts, specific components, or by pyrolysis). In this study, we experimentally investigated the effects of maternal inhalation of Cannabis sativa smoke representing as nearly as possible real world conditions of human marijuana use. Pregnant mice (n=20) were exposed (nose-only) daily for 5min to marijuana smoke (0.2g of Cannabis) from gestational day (GD) 5.5 to GD17.5 or filtered air. Food intake and maternal weight gain were recorded. Ultrasound biomicroscopy was performed on 10.5 and 16.5dpc.On GD18.5, half of the dams were euthanized for the evaluation of term fetus, placenta, and resorptions. Gestation length, parturition, and neonatal outcomes were evaluated in the other half. Five minutes of daily (low dose) exposure during pregnancy resulted in reduced birthweight, and litter size was not altered; however, the number of male pups per litter was higher. Besides, placental wet weight was increased and fetal to placental weight ratio was decreased in male fetuses, showing a sex-specific effect. At the end of gestation, females from the Cannabis group presented reduced maternal net body weight gain, despite a slight increase in their daily food intake compared to the control group. In conclusion, our results indicate that smoking marijuana during pregnancy even at low doses can be embryotoxic and fetotoxic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah G Benevenuto
- Department of Surgery, Sector of Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marlise D Domenico
- Department of Pathology, Laboratory of Experimental Air Pollution, School of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marco Antônio G Martins
- Department of Pathology, Laboratory of Experimental Air Pollution, School of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Natália S Costa
- Department of Pathology, Laboratory of Experimental Air Pollution, School of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Jose L Costa
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | | | - Marisa Dolhnikoff
- Department of Pathology, Laboratory of Experimental Air Pollution, School of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mariana Matera Veras
- Department of Pathology, Laboratory of Experimental Air Pollution, School of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
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22
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Grim TW, Samano KL, Ignatowska-Jankowska B, Tao Q, Sim-Selly LJ, Selley DE, Wise LE, Poklis A, Lichtman AH. Pharmacological characterization of repeated administration of the first generation abused synthetic cannabinoid CP47,497. J Basic Clin Physiol Pharmacol 2016; 27:217-28. [PMID: 27149200 PMCID: PMC5644386 DOI: 10.1515/jbcpp-2015-0118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2015] [Accepted: 12/30/2015] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
A series of in vivo and in vitro assays were conducted to characterize the pharmacological effects of the first generation abused synthetic cannabinoid CP47,497, a racemic bicyclic cannabinoid that is similar in structure to the potent, high-efficacy synthetic cannabinoid CP55,940. CP47,497 was less efficacious than CP55,940 in activating G-proteins and dose-dependently produced common CB1 receptor-dependent pharmacological effects (i.e. catalepsy, hypothermia, antinociception, and hypolocomotion). CP47,497 also substituted for Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in the mouse drug discrimination, indicating that both drugs elicited a similar interceptive stimulus. The pharmacological effects of CP47,497 underwent tolerance following repeated administration and showed cross-tolerance following repeated THC administration, further suggesting a common cannabimimetic mechanism of action. Finally, the CB1 receptor antagonist rimonabant precipitated similar magnitudes of somatic withdrawal responses in mice treated repeatedly with THC or CP47,497. Taken together, these data verify the acute cannabimimetic effects of CP47,497, and indicate tolerance and dependence following repeated administration. The assays used here provide a straightforward approach to characterize the emerging next generation of abused synthetic cannabinoids.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Qing Tao
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Laura J. Sim-Selly
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Dana E. Selley
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Laura E. Wise
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Alphonse Poklis
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA; Department of Pathology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA; and Department of Forensic Science, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
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23
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Bruijnzeel AW, Qi X, Guzhva LV, Wall S, Deng JV, Gold MS, Febo M, Setlow B. Behavioral Characterization of the Effects of Cannabis Smoke and Anandamide in Rats. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0153327. [PMID: 27065006 PMCID: PMC4827836 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0153327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2016] [Accepted: 03/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabis is the most widely used illicit drug in the world. Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) is the main psychoactive component of cannabis and its effects have been well-studied. However, cannabis contains many other cannabinoids that affect brain function. Therefore, these studies investigated the effect of cannabis smoke exposure on locomotor activity, rearing, anxiety-like behavior, and the development of dependence in rats. It was also investigated if cannabis smoke exposure leads to tolerance to the locomotor-suppressant effects of the endogenous cannabinoid anandamide. Cannabis smoke was generated by burning 5.7% Δ9-THC cannabis cigarettes in a smoking machine. The effect of cannabis smoke on the behavior of rats in a small and large open field and an elevated plus maze was evaluated. Cannabis smoke exposure induced a brief increase in locomotor activity followed by a prolonged decrease in locomotor activity and rearing in the 30-min small open field test. The cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) receptor antagonist rimonabant increased locomotor activity and prevented the smoke-induced decrease in rearing. Smoke exposure also increased locomotor activity in the 5-min large open field test and the elevated plus maze test. The smoke exposed rats spent more time in the center zone of the large open field, which is indicative of a decrease in anxiety-like behavior. A high dose of anandamide decreased locomotor activity and rearing in the small open field and this was not prevented by rimonabant or pre-exposure to cannabis smoke. Serum Δ9-THC levels were 225 ng/ml after smoke exposure, which is similar to levels in humans after smoking cannabis. Exposure to cannabis smoke led to dependence as indicated by more rimonabant-precipitated somatic withdrawal signs in the cannabis smoke exposed rats than in the air-control rats. In conclusion, chronic cannabis smoke exposure in rats leads to clinically relevant Δ9-THC levels, dependence, and has a biphasic effect on locomotor activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriaan W. Bruijnzeel
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
- Center for Addiction Research and Education, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Xiaoli Qi
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Lidia V. Guzhva
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Shannon Wall
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Jie V. Deng
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
- Center for Addiction Research and Education, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Mark S. Gold
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Marcelo Febo
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
- Center for Addiction Research and Education, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Barry Setlow
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
- Center for Addiction Research and Education, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
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24
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Wiebelhaus JM, Poklis JL, Poklis A, Vann RE, Lichtman AH, Wise LE. Inhalation exposure to smoke from synthetic "marijuana" produces potent cannabimimetic effects in mice. Drug Alcohol Depend 2012; 126:316-23. [PMID: 22776442 PMCID: PMC3501554 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2012.05.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2012] [Revised: 05/25/2012] [Accepted: 05/28/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Use of synthetic "marijuana" has increased in recent years, produced adverse effects and prompted the temporary DEA ban of five specific cannabinoid analogs, including JWH-018. The objectives of the current study include determining the chemical content of the herbal product, Buzz, assessing its behavioral effects upon inhalation exposure to mice, determining whether CB(1) receptors mediate its pharmacological activity, and ascertaining its biodisposition in blood and various organs. METHODS Using a nose-only exposure system, mice were exposed to smoke produced from combustion of an herbal incense product, Buzz, which contained 5.4% JWH-018. Cannabimimetic effects following smoke exposure were evaluated using the tetrad procedure, consisting of the following indices: hypomotility, antinociception, catalepsy, and hypothermia. Additionally, blood and tissues were collected for JWH-018 quantification. RESULTS Inhalation exposure to Buzz produced dose-related tetrad effects similar to marijuana as well as dose-related increased levels of JWH-018 in the blood, brain, heart, kidney, liver, lung, and spleen. The behavioral effects were blocked by rimonabant, a CB(1) receptor antagonist. Effects produced by Buzz were similar in magnitude and time-course to those produced by marijuana, though equipotent doses of Buzz and marijuana yielded considerably lower brain levels of JWH-018 than THC for the respective materials. CONCLUSIONS Inhalation exposure to a product containing JWH-018 penetrates into the brain and other organs and produces CB(1) receptor-mediated behavioral pharmacological effects in mice. The increased potency of JWH-018 compared to THC, the variable amount of drug added to various herbal products, and unknown toxicity, undoubtedly contribute to public health risks of synthetic cannabinoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason M. Wiebelhaus
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Justin L. Poklis
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Alphonse Poklis
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
,Department of Forensic Science, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
,Department of Pathology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Robert E. Vann
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Aron H. Lichtman
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
,Institute of Drug and Alcohol Studies, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Laura E. Wise
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
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25
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Poklis JL, Amira D, Wise LE, Wiebelhaus JM, Haggerty BJ, Lichtman AH, Poklis A. Determination of naphthalen-1-yl-(1-pentylindol-3-yl)methanone (JWH-018) in mouse blood and tissue after inhalation exposure to 'buzz' smoke by HPLC/MS/MS. Biomed Chromatogr 2012; 26:1393-8. [PMID: 22407432 DOI: 10.1002/bmc.2710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2011] [Revised: 12/29/2011] [Accepted: 01/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The disposition of the cannabimimetic naphthalen-1-yl-(1-pentylindol-3-yl)methanone (JWH-018) in mice following inhalation of the smoke of the herbal incense product (HIP) 'Buzz' is presented. A high-pressure liquid chromatography with electrospray ionization triple quadrupole mass spectrometer (HPLC/MS/MS) method was validated for the analysis of JWH-018 in the specimens using deuterated Δ(9) -tetrahydrocannabinol (d(3) -THC) as the internal standard. JWH-018 was isolated by cold acetonitrile liquid-liquid extraction. Chromatographic separation was performed on a Zorbaz eclipse XDB-C(18) column. The assay was linear from 1 to 1000 ng/mL. Six C57BL6 mice were sacrificed 20 min after exposure to the smoke of 200 mg 'Buzz' containing 5.4% JWH-018. Specimen concentrations of JWH-018 were: blood, 54-166 ng/mL (mean 82 ± 42 ng/mL); brain, 316-708 ng/g (mean 510 ± 166 ng/g); and liver, 1370-3220 ng/mL (mean 1990 ± 752 ng/mL). The mean blood to brain ratio for JWH-018 was 6.8 and ranged from 4.2 to 10.9. After exposure, the responses of the mice were consistent with cannabinoid receptor type 1 activity: body temperatures dropped 7.3 ± 1.1 °C, and catalepsy, hyperreflexia, straub tail and ptosis were observed. The brain concentrations and physiological responses are consistent with the hypothesis that the behavioral effects of 'Buzz' are attributable to JWH-018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin L Poklis
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA USA.
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26
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Poklis JL, Amira D, Wise LE, Wiebelhaus JM, Haggerty BJ, Poklis A. Detection and disposition of JWH-018 and JWH-073 in mice after exposure to "Magic Gold" smoke. Forensic Sci Int 2012; 220:91-6. [PMID: 22405481 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2012.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2011] [Revised: 01/19/2012] [Accepted: 02/07/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
The disposition in mice of the cannabimimetics JWH-018 and JWH-073 in blood and brain following inhalation of the smoke from the herbal incense product (HIP) "Magic Gold" containing 3.6% JWH-018, 5.7% JWH-073 and less than 0.1% JWH-398 (w/w) is presented. Specimens were analyzed by HPLC/MS/MS. The validation of the method is also presented. Five C57BL6 mice were sacrificed 20 min after exposure to the smoke of 200 mg of "Magic Gold" and a second set of five exposed mice were sacrificed after 20 h. Twenty minutes after exposure to "Magic Gold" smoke, blood concentrations of JWH-018 ranged from 42 to 160 ng/mL (mean: 88 ng/mL ± 42) and those of JWH-073 ranged from 67 to 244 ng/mL (mean: 134 ng/mL ± 62). Brain concentrations 20 min after exposure to "Magic Gold" smoke for JWH-018 ranged from 225 to 453 ng/g (mean: 317 ng/g ± 81) and those of JWH-073 ranged from 412 to 873 ng/g (mean: 584 ng/g ± 163). Twenty hours after exposure to "Magic Gold" smoke, JWH-018 was detected and quantified in only two of the five blood samples. Blood concentrations of JWH-018 were 3.4 ng/mL and 9.4 ng/mL. JWH-073 was detected in only one blood specimen 20 h after exposure at 4.3 ng/mL. Brain concentrations 20 h post exposure for JWH-018 ranged from 7 to 32 ng/g (mean: 19 ng/g ± 9). JWH-073 was not detected in 20 h post exposure brain specimens. JWH-398 was not detected in any of the blood or brain samples. The disposition data presented with the limited data available from human experience provide reasonable expectations for forensic toxicologists in JWH-018 or JWH-073 cases. As with THC after smoking marijuana, blood and brain concentrations of JWH-018 and JWH-073 after HIP smoking can be expected to rise initially to readily detected values, and then drop dramatically over the next few hours to several ng/mL or ng/g, and finally to be at extremely low or undetectable concentrations by 24h apparently due to extensive biotransformation, and redistribution to body fat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin L Poklis
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298-1065, USA
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27
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Harte-Hargrove LC, Dow-Edwards DL. Withdrawal from THC during adolescence: sex differences in locomotor activity and anxiety. Behav Brain Res 2012; 231:48-59. [PMID: 22421367 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2012.02.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2011] [Revised: 02/21/2012] [Accepted: 02/27/2012] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Research suggests that the use and abuse of marijuana can be especially harmful if it occurs during adolescence, a period of vast developmental changes throughout the brain. Due to the localization of cannabinoid receptors within the limbic system and the established effects of cannabinoids on emotional states and anxiety levels of rats and humans, we studied the sex- and dose-related effects of Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC, the main psychoactive component in marijuana) on behavior and anxiety during spontaneous withdrawal. Male and female Sprague Dawley rats were administered 2, 7.5 or 15 mg/kg THC or vehicle from postnatal day 35-41 (approximating mid-adolescence in humans). Locomotor activity and anxiety-related behaviors were measured during drug administration and abstinence. THC caused significant dose-dependent locomotor depression during drug administration. Locomotor depression initially abated upon drug cessation, but re-emerged by the end of the abstinence period and was greater in female than male rats. We found sensitization to the locomotor-depressing effects of THC in middle- and high-dose rats and the subsequent development of tolerance in high-dose rats. The high dose of THC increased anxiety-like behaviors while the low dose decreased anxiety-like behaviors during drug administration, with females more sensitive to the anxiogenic effects of THC than males. During abstinence, females were again especially sensitive to the anxiogenic effects of THC. This study demonstrates sexually-dimorphic effects of THC on anxiety-related behaviors and locomotor activity during and after THC administration during adolescence. This information may be useful in the development of therapeutic approaches for the treatment of marijuana withdrawal in adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren C Harte-Hargrove
- Department of Physiology/Pharmacology, Program in Neural and Behavioral Sciences, State University of New York, Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
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28
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Poklis JL, Thompson CC, Long KA, Lichtman AH, Poklis A. Disposition of cannabichromene, cannabidiol, and Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol and its metabolites in mouse brain following marijuana inhalation determined by high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. J Anal Toxicol 2011; 34:516-20. [PMID: 21258613 DOI: 10.1093/jat/34.8.516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS-MS)method was developed for the analysis of marijuana cannabinoids in mouse brain tissue using an Applied Biosystems 3200 Q trap with a turbo V source for TurbolonSpray attached to a Shimadzu SCL HPLC system. The method included cannabichromene (CBC),cannabidiol (CBD), Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), 11-hydroxytetrahydrocannabinol (11-OH-THC), and 11-nor-Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol-9-carboxylic acid (THC-COOH). These compounds were isolated by liquid-liquid extraction using cold acetonitrile. The following transition ions were monitored by multiple reaction monitoring (MRM): m/z 315>193, 315>259 for THC/CBD/CBC; m/z 331>193, 331>105 for 11-OH-THC; m/z 345>299, 345>193 for THC-COOH; m/z 318>196 for THC-d₃; m/z 334>196 for 11-OH-THC-d₃, and m/z 348>302 for THC-COOH-d₃. Linearity for THC, 1-OH-THC, and THC-COOH was 1-200 ng/g; for CBC and CBD, it was 0.5-20 ng/g. Within-run and between-run precisions for all the analytes yielded coefficients of variation of < 20%. Four C57BL6 mice were sacrificed 20 min after nose-only exposure to the smoke of 200 mg of marijuana containing 0.44 mg CBC, 0.93 mg CBD, and 8.81 mg THC. The mean brain concentrations were 3.9 ± 1.5 ng/g CBC, 21 ± 3.9 ng/g CBD, 364 ± 74 ng/g THC, and 28 ± 5.9 ng/g 11-OH-THC. THC-COOH was not detected. The relative mean brain cannabinoid concentrations correlated to the amounts of the cannabinoids in the inhaled marijuana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin L Poklis
- Department of Pharmacology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
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29
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Wise LE, Varvel SA, Selley DE, Wiebelhaus JM, Long KA, Middleton LS, Sim-Selley LJ, Lichtman AH. delta(9)-Tetrahydrocannabinol-dependent mice undergoing withdrawal display impaired spatial memory. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2011; 217:485-94. [PMID: 21559804 PMCID: PMC3386852 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-011-2305-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2010] [Accepted: 04/04/2011] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Cannabis users display a constellation of withdrawal symptoms upon drug discontinuation, including sleep disturbances, irritability, and possibly memory deficits. In cannabinoid-dependent rodents, the CB(1) antagonist rimonabant precipitates somatic withdrawal and enhances forskolin-stimulated adenylyl cyclase activity in cerebellum, an effect opposite that of acutely administered ∆(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary constituent in cannabis. OBJECTIVES Here, we tested whether THC-dependent mice undergoing rimonabant-precipitated withdrawal display short-term spatial memory deficits, as assessed in the Morris water maze. We also evaluated whether rimonabant would precipitate adenylyl cyclase superactivation in hippocampal and cerebellar tissue from THC-dependent mice. RESULTS Rimonabant significantly impaired spatial memory of THC-dependent mice at lower doses than those necessary to precipitate somatic withdrawal behavior. In contrast, maze performance was near perfect in the cued task, suggesting sensorimotor function and motivational factors were unperturbed by the withdrawal state. Finally, rimonabant increased adenylyl cyclase activity in cerebellar, but not in hippocampal, membranes. CONCLUSIONS The memory disruptive effects of THC undergo tolerance following repeated dosing, while the withdrawal state leads to a rebound deficit in memory. These results establish spatial memory impairment as a particularly sensitive component of cannabinoid withdrawal, an effect that may be mediated through compensatory changes in the cerebellum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura E. Wise
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, 410 North 12th Street, P.O. Box 98061, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Stephen A. Varvel
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, 410 North 12th Street, P.O. Box 98061, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Dana E. Selley
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, 410 North 12th Street, P.O. Box 98061, Richmond, VA 23298, USA. Institute for Drug and Alcohol Studies, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Jason M. Wiebelhaus
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, 410 North 12th Street, P.O. Box 98061, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Kelly A. Long
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, 410 North 12th Street, P.O. Box 98061, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Lisa S. Middleton
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, 410 North 12th Street, P.O. Box 98061, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Laura J. Sim-Selley
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, 410 North 12th Street, P.O. Box 98061, Richmond, VA 23298, USA. Institute for Drug and Alcohol Studies, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Aron H. Lichtman
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, 410 North 12th Street, P.O. Box 98061, Richmond, VA 23298, USA. Institute for Drug and Alcohol Studies, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
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Abstract
Awareness of cannabis dependence as a clinically relevant issue has grown in recent years. Clinical and laboratory studies demonstrate that chronic marijuana smokers can experience withdrawal symptoms upon cessation of marijuana smoking and have difficulty abstaining from marijuana use. This paper will review data implicating the cannabinoid CB1 receptor in regulating the behavioral effects of Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannobinol (THC), the primary psychoactive component of cannabis, across a range of species. The behavioral effects that will be discussed include those that directly contribute to the maintenance of chronic marijuana smoking, such as reward, subjective effects, and the positive and negative reinforcing effects of marijuana, THC and synthetic cannabinoids. The role of the CB1 receptor in the development of marijuana dependence and expression of withdrawal will also be discussed. Lastly, treatment options that may alleviate withdrawal symptoms and promote marijuana abstinence will be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziva D Cooper
- Division on Substance Abuse, New York State Psychiatric Institute, Department of Psychiatry, College of Physicians and Surgeons of Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
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Hoffman AF, Oz M, Yang R, Lichtman AH, Lupica CR. Opposing actions of chronic Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabinoid antagonists on hippocampal long-term potentiation. Learn Mem 2007; 14:63-74. [PMID: 17202425 PMCID: PMC1828281 DOI: 10.1101/lm.439007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Memory deficits produced by marijuana arise partly via interaction of the psychoactive component, Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta(9)-THC), with cannabinoid receptors in the hippocampus. Although cannabinoids acutely reduce glutamate release and block hippocampal long-term potentiation (LTP), a potential substrate for learning and memory, the consequences of prolonged exposure to Delta(9)-THC for hippocampal function are poorly understood. Rats were injected with Delta(9)-THC (10 mg/kg, i.p., q.d.) for 1, 3, or 7 d, and electrophysiological recordings were performed in hippocampal slices 1d after the final injection. At this time, Delta(9)-THC was undetectable in hippocampus using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Hippocampal LTP generated using high-frequency (HFS) or theta burst stimulation was not observed in brain slices from the 7-d Delta(9)-THC-treated animals. Delta(9)-THC also blocked HFS-LTP after 3 d, but not 1 d of treatment. The complete blockade of LTP persisted for 3 d after the last Delta(9)-THC injection, and full reversal of the LTP deficit was not observed up to 14 d following Delta(9)-THC withdrawal. The cannabinoid antagonist AM251 (2 mg/kg), administered before each Delta(9)-THC injection prevented the blockade of LTP, and 7-d treatment with AM251 alone significantly increased the level of LTP. Chronic Delta(9)-THC also produced tolerance to the inhibition of synaptic GABA, but not glutamate release by the agonist WIN55,212-2. These data define consequences of repeated Delta(9)-THC exposure for synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus that may help explain memory impairments in humans following chronic marijuana use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander F. Hoffman
- United States Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Cellular Neurobiology Branch, Electrophysiology Research Unit, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA
| | - Murat Oz
- United States Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Cellular Neurobiology Branch, Electrophysiology Research Unit, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA
| | - Ruiqin Yang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 23298-0613, USA
| | - Aron H. Lichtman
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 23298-0613, USA
| | - Carl R. Lupica
- United States Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Cellular Neurobiology Branch, Electrophysiology Research Unit, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA
- Corresponding author.E-mail ; fax (410) 550-1621
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Varvel SA, Wiley JL, Yang R, Bridgen DT, Long K, Lichtman AH, Martin BR. Interactions between THC and cannabidiol in mouse models of cannabinoid activity. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2006; 186:226-34. [PMID: 16572263 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-006-0356-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2005] [Accepted: 02/21/2006] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Interest persists in characterizing potential interactions between Delta(9)-tetrahydocannabinol (THC) and other marijuana constituents such as cannabidiol (CBD). Such interactions may have important implications for understanding the long-term health consequences of chronic marijuana use as well as for attempts to develop therapeutic uses for THC and other CB(1) agonists. OBJECTIVES We investigated whether CBD may modulate the pharmacological effects of intravenously administered THC or inhaled marijuana smoke on hypoactivity, antinociception, catalepsy, and hypothermia, the well characterized models of cannabinoid activity. RESULTS Intravenously administered CBD possessed very little activity on its own and, at a dose equal to a maximally effective dose of THC (3 mg/kg), failed to alter THC's effects on any measure. However, higher doses of CBD (ED(50)=7.4 mg/kg) dose-dependently potentiated the antinociceptive effects of a low dose of THC (0.3 mg/kg). Pretreatment with 30 mg/kg CBD, but not 3 mg/kg, significantly elevated THC blood and brain levels. No interactions between THC and CBD were observed in several variations of a marijuana smoke exposure model. Either quantities of CBD were applied directly to marijuana, CBD and THC were both applied to placebo plant material, or mice were pretreated intravenously with 30 mg/kg CBD before being exposed to marijuana smoke. CONCLUSIONS As the amount of CBD found in most marijuana strains in the US is considerably less than that of THC, these results suggest that CBD concentrations relevant to what is normally found in marijuana exert very little, if any, modulatory effects on CB(1)-receptor-mediated pharmacological effects of marijuana smoke.
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Affiliation(s)
- S A Varvel
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA.
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33
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Steffens S, Veillard NR, Arnaud C, Pelli G, Burger F, Staub C, Karsak M, Zimmer A, Frossard JL, Mach F. Low dose oral cannabinoid therapy reduces progression of atherosclerosis in mice. Nature 2005; 434:782-6. [PMID: 15815632 DOI: 10.1038/nature03389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 318] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2004] [Accepted: 01/21/2005] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease, and is the primary cause of heart disease and stroke in Western countries. Derivatives of cannabinoids such as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) modulate immune functions and therefore have potential for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. We investigated the effects of THC in a murine model of established atherosclerosis. Oral administration of THC (1 mg kg(-1) per day) resulted in significant inhibition of disease progression. This effective dose is lower than the dose usually associated with psychotropic effects of THC. Furthermore, we detected the CB2 receptor (the main cannabinoid receptor expressed on immune cells) in both human and mouse atherosclerotic plaques. Lymphoid cells isolated from THC-treated mice showed diminished proliferation capacity and decreased interferon-gamma secretion. Macrophage chemotaxis, which is a crucial step for the development of atherosclerosis, was also inhibited in vitro by THC. All these effects were completely blocked by a specific CB2 receptor antagonist. Our data demonstrate that oral treatment with a low dose of THC inhibits atherosclerosis progression in the apolipoprotein E knockout mouse model, through pleiotropic immunomodulatory effects on lymphoid and myeloid cells. Thus, THC or cannabinoids with activity at the CB2 receptor may be valuable targets for treating atherosclerosis.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Apolipoproteins E/deficiency
- Apolipoproteins E/genetics
- Arteriosclerosis/complications
- Arteriosclerosis/drug therapy
- Arteriosclerosis/immunology
- Arteriosclerosis/pathology
- Cells, Cultured
- Chemotaxis, Leukocyte/drug effects
- Disease Models, Animal
- Disease Progression
- Dronabinol/administration & dosage
- Dronabinol/pharmacology
- Dronabinol/therapeutic use
- Humans
- Inflammation/complications
- Inflammation/drug therapy
- Inflammation/immunology
- Inflammation/pathology
- Interferon-gamma/metabolism
- Interferon-gamma/pharmacology
- Macrophages/cytology
- Macrophages/drug effects
- Macrophages/immunology
- Macrophages/metabolism
- Mice
- Mice, Knockout
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/metabolism
- Receptors, CCR2
- Receptors, Chemokine/genetics
- Survival Rate
- Th1 Cells/cytology
- Th1 Cells/drug effects
- Th1 Cells/immunology
- Th1 Cells/metabolism
- Thioglycolates/pharmacology
- Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha/pharmacology
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Steffens
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Foundation for Medical Research, University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
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34
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Varvel SA, Bridgen DT, Tao Q, Thomas BF, Martin BR, Lichtman AH. Delta9-tetrahydrocannbinol accounts for the antinociceptive, hypothermic, and cataleptic effects of marijuana in mice. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2005; 314:329-37. [PMID: 15831444 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.104.080739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Although it is widely accepted that delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta9-THC) is the primary psychoactive constituent of marijuana, questions persist as to whether other components contribute to marijuana's pharmacological activity. The present experiments assessed the cannabinoid activity of marijuana smoke exposure in mice and tested the hypothesis that delta9-THC mediates these effects through a CB1 receptor mechanism of action. First, the effects of delta9-THC on analgesia, hypothermia, and catalepsy were compared with those of a marijuana extract with equated delta9-THC content after either i.v. administration or inhalation exposure. Second, mice were exposed to smoke of an ethanol-extracted placebo plant material or low-grade marijuana (with minimal delta9-THC but similar levels of other cannabinoids) that were impregnated with varying quantities of delta9-THC. To assess doses, delta9-THC levels in the blood and brains of drug-exposed mice were determined following both i.v. and inhalation routes of administration. Both marijuana and delta9-THC produced comparable levels of antinociception, hypothermia, and catalepsy regardless of the route of administration, and these effects were blocked by pretreatment with the CB1 antagonist SR141716 [N-(piperidin-1-yl)-5-(4-chlorophenyl)-1-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)-4-methyl-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxamide HCl]. Importantly, the blood and brain levels of delta9-THC were similar in mice exhibiting similar pharmacological effects, regardless of the presence of non-delta9-THC marijuana constituents. The present experiments provide evidence that the acute cannabinoid effects of marijuana smoke exposure on analgesia, hypothermia, and catalepsy in mice result from delta9-THC content acting at CB1 receptors and that the non-delta9-THC constituents of marijuana (at concentrations relevant to those typically consumed) influence these effects only minimally, if at all.
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Affiliation(s)
- S A Varvel
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Box 980613, Richmond, VA 23298-0613, USA
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35
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Lallemand F, Soubrié P, De Witte P. EFFECTS OF CB1 CANNABINOID RECEPTOR BLOCKADE ON ETHANOL PREFERENCE AFTER CHRONIC ALCOHOL ADMINISTRATION COMBINED WITH REPEATED RE-EXPOSURES AND WITHDRAWALS. Alcohol Alcohol 2004; 39:486-92. [PMID: 15466898 DOI: 10.1093/alcalc/agh098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS The cannabinoid CB1 receptor antagonist, SR141716A, differentially affects the ethanol preference of chronically alcoholized rats when administered during cycles of ethanol exposure and withdrawal. In this study, ethanol preference was investigated in chronically alcoholized rats that underwent regular withdrawal periods during which the brain cannabinoid CB(1) receptor antagonist, SR141716A, was administered. METHODS The cannabinoid receptor antagonist SR141716A, 3 or 10 mg/kg/day, was administered i.p. to Wistar rats at the conclusion of a 4-week period of chronic alcoholization, as they commenced a cycle of alcohol withdrawal for 10 days followed by a period of 10 days chronic ethanol exposure. In a second set of experiments, an additional cycle of ethanol withdrawal and re-exposure was given. Preference for ethanol versus water started at the end of the first or second chronic ethanol re-exposure for a period of at least 30 days. RESULTS In rats pretreated with the higher dose of SR141716A, ethanol preference during free choice was significantly increased after two ethanol re-exposures. In contrast, pretreatment with the lower SR141716A dose induced no significant change in ethanol intake during the free choice followed by either one or two ethanol re-exposures. CONCLUSIONS SR141716A, 10 mg/kg/day dose, induced a significant increase in ethanol preference which was dependent on both the number of ethanol withdrawals and chronic ethanol re-exposures, while 3 mg/kg/day had no significant effect on ethanol preference.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frédéric Lallemand
- Laboratoire Biologie du Comportement, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1 Croix du Sud, 1348 Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
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36
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Sarafian TA, Kouyoumjian S, Khoshaghideh F, Tashkin DP, Roth MD. Delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol disrupts mitochondrial function and cell energetics. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2003; 284:L298-306. [PMID: 12533310 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00157.2002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
We have observed rapid and extensive depletion of cellular energy stores by Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in the pulmonary transformed cell line A549. ATP levels declined dose dependently with an IC(50) of 7.5 microg/ml of THC after 24-h exposure. Cell death was observed only at concentrations >10 microg/ml. Studies using JC-1, a fluorescent probe for mitochondrial membrane potential, revealed diminished mitochondrial function at THC concentrations as low as 0.5 microg/ml. At concentrations of 2.5 or 10 microg/ml of THC, a decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential was observed as early as 1 h after THC exposure. Mitochondrial function remained diminished for at least 30 h after THC exposure. Flow cytometry studies on cells exposed to particulate smoke extracts indicate that JC-1 red fluorescence was fivefold lower in cells exposed to marijuana smoke extract relative to cells exposed to tobacco smoke extract. Comparison with a variety of mitochondrial inhibitors demonstrates that THC produced effects similar to that of carbonyl cyanide p-trifluoromethoxyphenylhydrazone, suggesting uncoupling of electron transport. Loss of red JC-1 fluorescence by THC was suppressed by cyclosporin A, suggesting mediation by the mitochondrial permeability transition pore. This disruption of mitochondrial function was sustained for at least 24 h after removal of THC by extensive washing. These results suggest that exposure of the bronchopulmonary epithelium to THC may have important health and physiological consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodore A Sarafian
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, Center for Health Sciences, University of California-Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
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37
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Wilson DM, Peart J, Martin BR, Bridgen DT, Byron PR, Lichtman AH. Physiochemical and pharmacological characterization of a Delta(9)-THC aerosol generated by a metered dose inhaler. Drug Alcohol Depend 2002; 67:259-67. [PMID: 12127197 DOI: 10.1016/s0376-8716(02)00078-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The goal of the present study was to formulate a Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta(9)-THC) metered-dose inhaler (MDI) that can be used to provide a systemic dose of Delta(9)-THC via inhalation. Following physiochemical characterization and accelerated stability testing of the aerosol, mice were exposed to the aerosol and evaluated for pharmacological effects indicative of cannabinoid activity, including hypomotilìty, antinociception, catalepsy, and hypothermia. The fine particle dose of Delta(9)-THC was 0.22 +/- 0.03 mg (mean +/- S.D.) or 25% of the emitted dose and was not affected by accelerated stability testing. A 10-min exposure to aerosolized Delta(9)-THC elicited hypomotility, antinociception, catalepsy, and hypothermia. Additionally, Delta(9)-THC concentrations in blood and brain at the antinociceptive ED(50) dose were similar for both inhalation and intravenous routes of administration. Finally, pretreatment with the CB(1) receptor antagonist SR 141716A (10 mg/kg, i.p.) significantly antagonized all of the Delta(9)-THC-induced effects. These results indicate that an MDI is a viable method to deliver a systemic dose of Delta(9)-THC that elicits a full spectrum of cannabinoid pharmacological effects in mice that is mediated via a CB(1) receptor mechanism of action. Further development of a Delta(9)-THC MDI could provide an appropriate delivery device for the therapeutic use of cannabinoids, thereby reducing the need for medicinal marijuana.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Wilson
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Virginia Campus, Virginia Commonwealth University, 410 N. 12th Street, PO Box 980613, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
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38
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Lichtman AH, Peart J, Poklis JL, Bridgen DT, Razdan RK, Wilson DM, Poklis A, Meng Y, Byron PR, Martin BR. Pharmacological evaluation of aerosolized cannabinoids in mice. Eur J Pharmacol 2000; 399:141-9. [PMID: 10884513 DOI: 10.1016/s0014-2999(00)00321-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The reemergence on the debate of the use of marijuana for medicinal purposes has been the impetus for developing an acceptable delivery form of aerosolized cannabinoids. The goals of the present study were to: (1) develop and characterize the physical properties of an aerosolized form of Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta(9)-THC), the major psychoactive constituent present in marijuana; and (2) assess the pharmacological effects of cannabinoid inhalation in mice. A Small Particle Aerosol Generator (SPAG) nebulizer, used to generate the aerosol, had an output of approximately 0.154 mg/l of aerosolized Delta(9)-THC with a 2.0 microm mass median aerodynamic diameter and a 2.2 geometric standard deviation (GSD). Virtually all the particles were less than 5.0 microm in diameter suggesting that they were sufficiently small to penetrate deeply into the lungs. Inhalation exposure to aerosolized Delta(9)-THC in mice elicited antinociceptive effects that were dependent on concentration and exposure time with an estimated Delta(9)-THC dose of 1.8 mg/kg. On the other hand, inhalation exposure to Delta(9)-THC failed to produce two other indices indicative of cannabinoid activity, hypothermia and decreases in spontaneous locomotor activity. The antinociceptive effects occurred within 5 min of exposure and lasted approximately 40 min in duration. The cannabinoid receptor antagonist N-(piperidin-1-yl)-5-(4-chlorophenyl)-1-(2, 4-dichlorophenyl)-4-methyl-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxamide HCl (SR 141716A), but not naloxone, blocked these antinociceptive effects (AD(50)=0.09 mg/kg) indicating a cannabinoid receptor mechanism of action. Similarly, inhalation exposure to a water soluble cannabinoid analog, 3-(5'-cyano-1', 1'dimethylheptyl)-1-(4-N-morpholinobutyrloxy)-Delta(8)-te trahydrocann abinol (O-1057), produced antinociception that was blocked by SR 141716A. These results demonstrate that the development of an aerosolized form of cannabinoids for human medicinal use is feasible.
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Affiliation(s)
- A H Lichtman
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, MCV Campus, PO Box 980613, Richmond, VA 23298-0613, USA.
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