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Nutor C, Dunlop A, Sadler O, Brennan PA. Prenatal Cannabis Use and Offspring Autism-Related Behaviors: Examining Maternal Stress as a Moderator in a Black American Cohort. J Autism Dev Disord 2024; 54:2355-2367. [PMID: 37097527 PMCID: PMC10127191 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-023-05982-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
Prenatal cannabis use and maternal stress have been proposed as risk factors for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Black mothers and mothers of lower socioeconomic status (SES) may be especially likely to experience high levels of stress. This study examined the impact of prenatal cannabis use and maternal stress (i.e., prenatal distress, racial discrimination, and lower SES) on child ASD-related behaviors in a sample of 172 Black mother-child pairs. We found that prenatal stress was significantly associated with ASD-related behaviors. Prenatal cannabis use did not predict ASD-related behaviors and did not interact with maternal stress to predict ASD-related behaviors. These findings replicate previous work on prenatal stress-ASD associations and add to the limited literature on prenatal cannabis-ASD associations in Black samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Nutor
- Department of Psychology, Emory University, 36 Eagle Row, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
| | - A Dunlop
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University, 1365 E Clifton Rd NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - O Sadler
- Department of Psychology, Emory University, 36 Eagle Row, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - P A Brennan
- Department of Psychology, Emory University, 36 Eagle Row, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
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2
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Luján MÁ, Young-Morrison R, Aroni S, Katona I, Melis M, Cheer J. Dynamic Overrepresentation of Accumbal Cues in Food- and Opioid-Seeking Rats after Prenatal THC Exposure. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.06.592839. [PMID: 38766015 PMCID: PMC11100737 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.06.592839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
The increasing prevalence of cannabis use during pregnancy has raised significant medical concerns, primarily related to the presence of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which readily crosses the placenta and impacts fetal brain development. Previous research has identified midbrain dopaminergic neuronal alterations related to maternal THC consumption. However, the enduring consequences that prenatal cannabis exposure (PCE) has on striatum-based processing during voluntary reward pursuit have not been specifically determined. Here, we characterize PCE rats during food (palatable pellets) or opioid (remifentanyl)-maintained reward seeking. We find that the supra motivational phenotype of PCE rats is independent of value-based processing and is instead related to augmented reinforcing efficiency of opioid rewards. Our findings reveal that in utero THC exposure leads to increased cue-evoked dopamine release responses and an overrepresentation of cue-aligned, effort-driven striatal patterns of encoding. Recapitulating findings in humans, drug-related neurobiological adaptations of PCE were more pronounced in males, who similarly showed increased vulnerability for relapse. Collectively, these findings indicate that prenatal THC exposure in male rats engenders a pronounced neurodevelopmental susceptibility to addiction-like disorders later in life.
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Riyahi J, Taslimi Z, Gelfo F, Petrosini L, Haghparast A. Trans-generational effects of parental exposure to drugs of abuse on offspring memory functions. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 160:105644. [PMID: 38548003 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Revised: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024]
Abstract
Recent evidence reported that parental-derived phenotypes can be passed on to the next generations. Within the inheritance of epigenetic characteristics allowing the transmission of information related to the ancestral environment to the offspring, the specific case of the trans-generational effects of parental drug addiction has been extensively studied. Drug addiction is a chronic disorder resulting from complex interactions among environmental, genetic, and drug-related factors. Repeated exposures to drugs induce epigenetic changes in the reward circuitry that in turn mediate enduring changes in brain function. Addictive drugs can exert their effects trans-generally and influence the offspring of addicted parents. Although there is growing evidence that shows a wide range of behavioral, physiological, and molecular phenotypes in inter-, multi-, and trans-generational studies, transmitted phenotypes often vary widely even within similar protocols. Given the breadth of literature findings, in the present review, we restricted our investigation to learning and memory performances, as examples of the offspring's complex behavioral outcomes following parental exposure to drugs of abuse, including morphine, cocaine, cannabinoids, nicotine, heroin, and alcohol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javad Riyahi
- Department of Cognitive and Behavioral Science and Technology in Sport, Faculty of Sport Sciences and Health, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Taslimi
- Behavioral Disorders and Substance Abuse Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran; Fertility and Infertility Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran.
| | - Francesca Gelfo
- IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy; Department of Human Sciences, Guglielmo Marconi University, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Abbas Haghparast
- Neuroscience Research Center, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; School of Cognitive Sciences, Institute for Research in Fundamental Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Basic Sciences, Iranian Academy of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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4
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Baddenhausen S, Lutz B, Hofmann C. Cannabinoid type-1 receptor signaling in dopaminergic Engrailed-1 expressing neurons modulates motivation and depressive-like behavior. Front Mol Neurosci 2024; 17:1379889. [PMID: 38660383 PMCID: PMC11042029 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2024.1379889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system comprises highly versatile signaling functions within the nervous system. It is reported to modulate the release of several neurotransmitters, consequently affecting the activity of neuronal circuits. Investigations have highlighted its roles in numerous processes, including appetite-stimulating characteristics, particularly for palatable food. Moreover, endocannabinoids are shown to fine-tune dopamine-signaled processes governing motivated behavior. Specifically, it has been demonstrated that excitatory and inhibitory inputs controlled by the cannabinoid type 1 receptor (CB1) regulate dopaminergic neurons in the mesocorticolimbic pathway. In the present study, we show that mesencephalic dopaminergic (mesDA) neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) express CB1, and we investigated the consequences of specific deletion of CB1 in cells expressing the transcription factor Engrailed-1 (En1). To this end, we validated a new genetic mouse line EN1-CB1-KO, which displays a CB1 knockout in mesDA neurons beginning from their differentiation, as a tool to elucidate the functional contribution of CB1 in mesDA neurons. We revealed that EN1-CB1-KO mice display a significantly increased immobility time and shortened latency to the first immobility in the forced swim test of adult mice. Moreover, the maximal effort exerted to obtain access to chocolate-flavored pellets was significantly reduced under a progressive ratio schedule. In contrast, these mice do not differ in motor skills, anhedonia- or anxiety-like behavior compared to wild-type littermates. Taken together, these findings suggest a depressive-like or despair behavior in an inevitable situation and a lack of motivation to seek palatable food in EN1-CB1-KO mice, leading us to propose that CB1 plays an important role in the physiological functions of mesDA neurons. In particular, our data suggest that CB1 directly modifies the mesocorticolimbic pathway implicated in depressive-like/despair behavior and motivation. In contrast, the nigrostriatal pathway controlling voluntary movement seems to be unaffected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Baddenhausen
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Beat Lutz
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
- Leibniz Institute for Resilience Research (LIR), Mainz, Germany
| | - Clementine Hofmann
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
- Focus Program Translational Neuroscience, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
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5
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Moore BF. Prenatal Exposure to Cannabis: Effects on Childhood Obesity and Cardiometabolic Health. Curr Obes Rep 2024; 13:154-166. [PMID: 38172481 PMCID: PMC10933144 DOI: 10.1007/s13679-023-00544-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To consolidate information on the obesogenic and cardiometabolic effects of prenatal exposure to cannabis. RECENT FINDINGS A PubMed search strategy updated from January 1, 2014, through 14 June 2023, produced a total of 47 epidemiologic studies and 12 animal studies. Prenatal exposure to cannabis is consistently associated with small for gestational age and low birth weight. After birth, these offspring gain weight rapidly and have increased adiposity and higher glucose (fat mass percentage) in childhood. More preclinical and prospective studies are needed to deepen our understanding of whether these associations vary by sex, dose, timing, and composition of cannabis (e.g., ratio of delta-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol [Δ9-THC] to cannabidiol [CBD]). Addressing these gaps may help to solidify causality and identify intervention strategies. Based on the available data, clinicians and public health officials should continue to caution against cannabis use during pregnancy to limit its potential obesogenic and adverse cardiometabolic effects on the offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brianna F Moore
- Department of Epidemiology, Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora, CO, USA.
- Lifecourse Epidemiology of Adiposity and Diabetes (LEAD) Center, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 1890 N Revere Ct, Aurora, 80045, CO, USA.
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6
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Black T, Baccetto SL, Barnard IL, Finch E, McElroy DL, Austin-Scott FVL, Greba Q, Michel D, Zagzoog A, Howland JG, Laprairie RB. Characterization of cannabinoid plasma concentration, maternal health, and cytokine levels in a rat model of prenatal Cannabis smoke exposure. Sci Rep 2023; 13:21070. [PMID: 38030657 PMCID: PMC10687022 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-47861-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis sativa has gained popularity as a "natural substance", leading many to falsely assume that it is not harmful. This assumption has been documented amongst pregnant mothers, many of whom consider Cannabis use during pregnancy as benign. The purpose of this study was to validate a Cannabis smoke exposure model in pregnant rats by determining the plasma levels of cannabinoids and associated metabolites in the dams after exposure to either Cannabis smoke or injected cannabinoids. Maternal and fetal cytokine and chemokine profiles were also assessed after exposure. Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were treated daily from gestational day 6-20 with either room air, i.p. vehicle, inhaled high-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) (18% THC, 0.1% cannabidiol [CBD]) smoke, inhaled high-CBD (0.7% THC, 13% CBD) smoke, 3 mg/kg i.p. THC, or 10 mg/kg i.p. CBD. Our data reveal that THC and CBD, but not their metabolites, accumulate in maternal plasma after repeated exposures. Injection of THC or CBD was associated with fewer offspring and increased uterine reabsorption events. For cytokines and chemokines, injection of THC or CBD up-regulated several pro-inflammatory cytokines compared to control or high-THC smoke or high-CBD smoke in placental and fetal brain tissue, whereas smoke exposure was generally associated with reduced cytokine and chemokine concentrations in placental and fetal brain tissue compared to controls. These results support existing, but limited, knowledge on how different routes of administration contribute to inconsistent manifestations of cannabinoid-mediated effects on pregnancy. Smoked Cannabis is still the most common means of human consumption, and more preclinical investigation is needed to determine the effects of smoke inhalation on developmental and behavioural trajectories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tallan Black
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 3B36, Health Sciences Building, 107 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Health Sciences Building, 107 Wiggins Rd, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Sarah L Baccetto
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 3B36, Health Sciences Building, 107 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Health Sciences Building, 107 Wiggins Rd, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Ilne L Barnard
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Health Sciences Building, 107 Wiggins Rd, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Emma Finch
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Health Sciences Building, 107 Wiggins Rd, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Dan L McElroy
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Health Sciences Building, 107 Wiggins Rd, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Faith V L Austin-Scott
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Health Sciences Building, 107 Wiggins Rd, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Quentin Greba
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Health Sciences Building, 107 Wiggins Rd, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Deborah Michel
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 3B36, Health Sciences Building, 107 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Ayat Zagzoog
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 3B36, Health Sciences Building, 107 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - John G Howland
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Health Sciences Building, 107 Wiggins Rd, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada.
| | - Robert B Laprairie
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 3B36, Health Sciences Building, 107 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada.
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.
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7
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Sandini TM, Onofrychuk TJ, Roebuck AJ, Hammond SA, Udenze D, Hayat S, Herdzik MA, McElroy DL, Orvold SN, Greba Q, Laprairie RB, Howland JG. Repeated Exposure to High-THC Cannabis Smoke during Gestation Alters Sex Ratio, Behavior, and Amygdala Gene Expression of Sprague Dawley Rat Offspring. eNeuro 2023; 10:ENEURO.0100-23.2023. [PMID: 37957008 PMCID: PMC10687874 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0100-23.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Because of the legalization of Cannabis in many jurisdictions and the trend of increasing Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content in Cannabis products, an urgent need exists to understand the impact of Cannabis use during pregnancy on fetal neurodevelopment and behavior. To this end, we exposed female Sprague Dawley rats to Cannabis smoke daily from gestational day 6 to 20 or room air. Maternal reproductive parameters, offspring behavior, and gene expression in the offspring amygdala were assessed. Body temperature was decreased in dams following smoke exposure and more fecal boli were observed in the chambers before and after smoke exposure in dams exposed to smoke. Maternal weight gain, food intake, gestational length, litter number, and litter weight were not altered by exposure to Cannabis smoke. A significant increase in the male-to-female ratio was noted in the Cannabis-exposed litters. In adulthood, male and female Cannabis smoke-exposed offspring explored the inner zone of an open field significantly less than control offspring. Gestational Cannabis smoke exposure did not affect behavior on the elevated plus maze test or social interaction test in the offspring. Cannabis offspring were better at visual pairwise discrimination and reversal learning tasks conducted in touchscreen-equipped operant conditioning chambers. Analysis of gene expression in the adult amygdala using RNA sequencing revealed subtle changes in genes related to development, cellular function, and nervous system disease in a subset of the male offspring. These results demonstrate that repeated exposure to high-THC Cannabis smoke during gestation alters maternal physiological parameters, sex ratio, and anxiety-like behaviors in the adulthood offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thaisa M Sandini
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Timothy J Onofrychuk
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Andrew J Roebuck
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 5E5, Canada
- School of Liberal Arts, Yukon University, Whitehorse, Yukon Territory Y1A 5K4, Canada
| | - S Austin Hammond
- Global Institute for Food Security, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 4L8, Canada
| | - Daniel Udenze
- Next Generation Sequencing Facility, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Shahina Hayat
- Deparment of Oncology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Melissa A Herdzik
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Dan L McElroy
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Spencer N Orvold
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Quentin Greba
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Robert B Laprairie
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - John G Howland
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 5E5, Canada
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8
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Pinky PD, Bloemer J, Smith WD, Du Y, Heslin RT, Setti SE, Pfitzer JC, Chowdhury K, Hong H, Bhattacharya S, Dhanasekaran M, Dityatev A, Reed MN, Suppiramaniam V. Prenatal Cannabinoid Exposure Elicits Memory Deficits Associated with Reduced PSA-NCAM Expression, Altered Glutamatergic Signaling, and Adaptations in Hippocampal Synaptic Plasticity. Cells 2023; 12:2525. [PMID: 37947603 PMCID: PMC10648717 DOI: 10.3390/cells12212525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis is now one of the most commonly used illicit substances among pregnant women. This is particularly concerning since developmental exposure to cannabinoids can elicit enduring neurofunctional and cognitive alterations. This study investigates the mechanisms of learning and memory deficits resulting from prenatal cannabinoid exposure (PCE) in adolescent offspring. The synthetic cannabinoid agonist WIN55,212-2 was administered to pregnant rats, and a series of behavioral, electrophysiological, and immunochemical studies were performed to identify potential mechanisms of memory deficits in the adolescent offspring. Hippocampal-dependent memory deficits in adolescent PCE animals were associated with decreased long-term potentiation (LTP) and enhanced long-term depression (LTD) at hippocampal Schaffer collateral-CA1 synapses, as well as an imbalance between GluN2A- and GluN2B-mediated signaling. Moreover, PCE reduced gene and protein expression of neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM) and polysialylated-NCAM (PSA-NCAM), which are critical for GluN2A and GluN2B signaling balance. Administration of exogenous PSA abrogated the LTP deficits observed in PCE animals, suggesting PSA mediated alterations in GluN2A- and GluN2B- signaling pathways may be responsible for the impaired hippocampal synaptic plasticity resulting from PCE. These findings enhance our current understanding of how PCE affects memory and how this process can be manipulated for future therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka D. Pinky
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Jenna Bloemer
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Touro College of Pharmacy, New York, NY 10036, USA
| | - Warren D. Smith
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Yifeng Du
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Ryan T. Heslin
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Sharay E. Setti
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Jeremiah C. Pfitzer
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Kawsar Chowdhury
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Hao Hong
- Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Subhrajit Bhattacharya
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
- Center for Neuroscience Initiative, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
- Keck Graduate Institute, School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Claremont Colleges, Claremont, CA 91711, USA
| | - Muralikrishnan Dhanasekaran
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
- Molecular Neuroplasticity, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), 37075 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Alexander Dityatev
- Center for Neuroscience Initiative, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
- Molecular Neuroplasticity, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), 37075 Magdeburg, Germany
- Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Miranda N. Reed
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
- Center for Neuroscience Initiative, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Vishnu Suppiramaniam
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
- Center for Neuroscience Initiative, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
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9
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Collier AD, Abdulai AR, Leibowitz SF. Utility of the Zebrafish Model for Studying Neuronal and Behavioral Disturbances Induced by Embryonic Exposure to Alcohol, Nicotine, and Cannabis. Cells 2023; 12:2505. [PMID: 37887349 PMCID: PMC10605371 DOI: 10.3390/cells12202505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
It is estimated that 5% of pregnant women consume drugs of abuse during pregnancy. Clinical research suggests that intake of drugs during pregnancy, such as alcohol, nicotine and cannabis, disturbs the development of neuronal systems in the offspring, in association with behavioral disturbances early in life and an increased risk of developing drug use disorders. After briefly summarizing evidence in rodents, this review focuses on the zebrafish model and its inherent advantages for studying the effects of embryonic exposure to drugs of abuse on behavioral and neuronal development, with an emphasis on neuropeptides known to promote drug-related behaviors. In addition to stimulating the expression and density of peptide neurons, as in rodents, zebrafish studies demonstrate that embryonic drug exposure has marked effects on the migration, morphology, projections, anatomical location, and peptide co-expression of these neurons. We also describe studies using advanced methodologies that can be applied in vivo in zebrafish: first, to demonstrate a causal relationship between the drug-induced neuronal and behavioral disturbances and second, to discover underlying molecular mechanisms that mediate these effects. The zebrafish model has great potential for providing important information regarding the development of novel and efficacious therapies for ameliorating the effects of early drug exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sarah F. Leibowitz
- Laboratory of Behavioral Neurobiology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
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10
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Blum K, Ashford JW, Kateb B, Sipple D, Braverman E, Dennen CA, Baron D, Badgaiyan R, Elman I, Cadet JL, Thanos PK, Hanna C, Bowirrat A, Modestino EJ, Yamamoto V, Gupta A, McLaughlin T, Makale M, Gold MS. Dopaminergic dysfunction: Role for genetic & epigenetic testing in the new psychiatry. J Neurol Sci 2023; 453:120809. [PMID: 37774561 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2023.120809] [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: 07/17/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
Reward Deficiency Syndrome (RDS), particularly linked to addictive disorders, costs billions of dollars globally and has resulted in over one million deaths in the United States (US). Illicit substance use has been steadily rising and in 2021 approximately 21.9% (61.2 million) of individuals living in the US aged 12 or older had used illicit drugs in the past year. However, only 1.5% (4.1 million) of these individuals had received any substance use treatment. This increase in use and failure to adequately treat or provide treatment to these individuals resulted in 106,699 overdose deaths in 2021 and increased in 2022. This article presents an alternative non-pharmaceutical treatment approach tied to gene-guided therapy, the subject of many decades of research. The cornerstone of this paradigm shift is the brain reward circuitry, brain stem physiology, and neurotransmitter deficits due to the effects of genetic and epigenetic insults on the interrelated cascade of neurotransmission and the net release of dopamine at the Ventral Tegmental Area -Nucleus Accumbens (VTA-NAc) reward site. The Genetic Addiction Risk Severity (GARS) test and pro-dopamine regulator nutraceutical KB220 were combined to induce "dopamine homeostasis" across the brain reward circuitry. This article aims to encourage four future actionable items: 1) the neurophysiologically accurate designation of, for example, "Hyperdopameism /Hyperdopameism" to replace the blaming nomenclature like alcoholism; 2) encouraging continued research into the nature of dysfunctional brainstem neurotransmitters across the brain reward circuitry; 3) early identification of people at risk for all RDS behaviors as a brain check (cognitive testing); 4) induction of dopamine homeostasis using "precision behavioral management" along with the coupling of GARS and precision Kb220 variants; 5) utilization of promising potential treatments include neuromodulating modalities such as Transmagnetic stimulation (TMS) and Deep Brain Stimulation(DBS), which target different areas of the neural circuitry involved in addiction and even neuroimmune agents like N-acetyl-cysteine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Blum
- Division of Addiction Research & Education, Center for Exercise, Sports and Mental Health, Western University Health Sciences, Pomona, CA, USA; The Kenneth Blum Behavioral & Neurogenetic Institute, LLC., Austin, TX, USA; Department of Molecular Biology and Adelson School of Medicine, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel.
| | - J Wesson Ashford
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA; War Related Illness & Injury Study Center, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Babak Kateb
- Brain Mapping Foundation, Los Angeles, CA, USA; National Center for Nanobioelectronic, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Brain Technology and Innovation Park, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Eric Braverman
- The Kenneth Blum Behavioral & Neurogenetic Institute, LLC., Austin, TX, USA
| | - Catherine A Dennen
- Department of Family Medicine, Jefferson Health Northeast, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - David Baron
- Division of Addiction Research & Education, Center for Exercise, Sports and Mental Health, Western University Health Sciences, Pomona, CA, USA
| | - Rajendra Badgaiyan
- Department of Psychiatry, South Texas Veteran Health Care System, Audie L. Murphy Memorial VA Hospital, San Antonio, TX, USA; Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Medical Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Igor Elman
- Center for Pain and the Brain (PAIN Group), Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care & Pain Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Waltham, MA, USA; Cambridge Health Alliance, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jean Lud Cadet
- Molecular Neuropsychiatry Research Branch, NIH National Institute on Drug Abuse, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Panayotis K Thanos
- Department of Psychology & Behavioral Neuropharmacology and Neuroimaging Laboratory on Addictions (BNNLA), Clinical Research Institute on Addictions, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Colin Hanna
- Department of Psychology & Behavioral Neuropharmacology and Neuroimaging Laboratory on Addictions (BNNLA), Clinical Research Institute on Addictions, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Abdalla Bowirrat
- Department of Molecular Biology and Adelson School of Medicine, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | | | - Vicky Yamamoto
- Brain Mapping Foundation, Los Angeles, CA, USA; National Center for Nanobioelectronic, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Brain Technology and Innovation Park, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Society for Brain Mapping and Therapeutics, Los Angeles, CA, USA; USC-Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Thomas McLaughlin
- Division of Reward Deficiency Research, Reward Deficiency Syndrome Clinics of America, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Mlan Makale
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Mark S Gold
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington College of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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11
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Sarikahya MH, Cousineau SL, De Felice M, Szkudlarek HJ, Wong KKW, DeVuono MV, Lee K, Rodríguez-Ruiz M, Gummerson D, Proud E, Ng THJ, Hudson R, Jung T, Hardy DB, Yeung KKC, Schmid S, Rushlow W, Laviolette SR. Prenatal THC exposure induces long-term, sex-dependent cognitive dysfunction associated with lipidomic and neuronal pathology in the prefrontal cortex-hippocampal network. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:4234-4250. [PMID: 37525013 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02190-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
With increasing maternal cannabis use, there is a need to investigate the lasting impact of prenatal exposure to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychotropic compound in cannabis, on cognitive/memory function. The endocannabinoid system (ECS), which relies on polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) to function, plays a crucial role in regulating prefrontal cortical (PFC) and hippocampal network-dependent behaviors essential for cognition and memory. Using a rodent model of prenatal cannabis exposure (PCE), we report that male and female offspring display long-term deficits in various cognitive domains. However, these phenotypes were associated with highly divergent, sex-dependent mechanisms. Electrophysiological recordings revealed hyperactive PFC pyramidal neuron activity in both males and females, but hypoactivity in the ventral hippocampus (vHIPP) in males, and hyperactivity in females. Further, cortical oscillatory activity states of theta, alpha, delta, beta, and gamma bandwidths were strongly sex divergent. Moreover, protein expression analyses at postnatal day (PD)21 and PD120 revealed primarily PD120 disturbances in dopamine D1R/D2 receptors, NMDA receptor 2B, synaptophysin, gephyrin, GAD67, and PPARα selectively in the PFC and vHIPP, in both regions in males, but only the vHIPP in females. Lastly, using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization imaging mass spectrometry (MALDI IMS), we identified region-, age-, and sex-specific deficiencies in specific neural PUFAs, namely docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (ARA), and related metabolites, in the PFC and hippocampus (ventral/dorsal subiculum, and CA1 regions). This study highlights several novel, long-term and sex-specific consequences of PCE on PFC-hippocampal circuit dysfunction and the potential role of specific PUFA signaling abnormalities underlying these pathological outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed H Sarikahya
- Addiction Research Group, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, N6A 5C1, Canada
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Western University, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Samantha L Cousineau
- Departments of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Western University, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Marta De Felice
- Addiction Research Group, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, N6A 5C1, Canada
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Western University, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Hanna J Szkudlarek
- Addiction Research Group, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, N6A 5C1, Canada
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Western University, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Karen K W Wong
- Addiction Research Group, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, N6A 5C1, Canada
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Western University, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Marieka V DeVuono
- Addiction Research Group, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, N6A 5C1, Canada
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Western University, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Kendrick Lee
- Departments of Physiology and Pharmacology and Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Western University, London, Ontario, N6A 5C1, Canada
- Children's Health Research Institute, St. Josephs Health Care,, London, Ontario, N6C 2R5, Canada
| | - Mar Rodríguez-Ruiz
- Addiction Research Group, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, N6A 5C1, Canada
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Western University, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Dana Gummerson
- Addiction Research Group, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, N6A 5C1, Canada
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Western University, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Emma Proud
- Addiction Research Group, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, N6A 5C1, Canada
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Western University, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Tsun Hay Jason Ng
- Addiction Research Group, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, N6A 5C1, Canada
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Western University, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Roger Hudson
- Addiction Research Group, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, N6A 5C1, Canada
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Western University, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Tony Jung
- Addiction Research Group, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, N6A 5C1, Canada
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Western University, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Daniel B Hardy
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Western University, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada
- Departments of Physiology and Pharmacology and Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Western University, London, Ontario, N6A 5C1, Canada
- Children's Health Research Institute, St. Josephs Health Care,, London, Ontario, N6C 2R5, Canada
| | - Ken K-C Yeung
- Departments of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Western University, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Susanne Schmid
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Western University, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada
- Department of Psychology, Western University, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Walter Rushlow
- Addiction Research Group, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, N6A 5C1, Canada
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Western University, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, St. Josephs Health Care, London, Ontario, N6C 2R5, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Western University, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Steven R Laviolette
- Addiction Research Group, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, N6A 5C1, Canada.
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Western University, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada.
- Lawson Health Research Institute, St. Josephs Health Care, London, Ontario, N6C 2R5, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, Western University, London, Ontario, N6A 3K7, Canada.
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12
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Motamedi S, Amleshi RS, Javar BA, Shams P, Kohlmeier KA, Shabani M. Cannabis during pregnancy: A way to transfer an impairment to later life. Birth Defects Res 2023; 115:1327-1344. [PMID: 37318343 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.2207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Epidemiological studies examining the influence of cannabis across the lifespan show that exposure to cannabis during gestation or during the perinatal period is associated with later-life mental health issues that manifest during childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. The risk of later-life negative outcomes following early exposure is particularly high in persons who have specific genetic variants, implying that cannabis usage interacts with genetics to heighten mental health risks. Prenatal and perinatal exposure to psychoactive components has been shown in animal research to be associated with long-term effects on neural systems relevant to psychiatric and substance use disorders. The long-term molecular, epigenetic, electrophysiological, and behavioral consequences of prenatal and perinatal exposure to cannabis are discussed in this article. Animal and human studies, as well as in vivo neuroimaging methods, are used to provide insights into the changes induced in the brain by cannabis. Here, based on the literature from both animal models and humans, it can be concluded that prenatal cannabis exposure alters the developmental route of several neuronal regions with correlated functional consequences evidenced as changes in social behavior and executive functions throughout life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sina Motamedi
- Neuroscience Research Center, Neuropharmacology Institute, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Reza Saboori Amleshi
- Neuroscience Research Center, Neuropharmacology Institute, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Behnoush Akbari Javar
- Neuroscience Research Center, Neuropharmacology Institute, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Health Foresight and Innovation Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Parisa Shams
- Neuroscience Research Center, Neuropharmacology Institute, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Kristi A Kohlmeier
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mohammad Shabani
- Neuroscience Research Center, Neuropharmacology Institute, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
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13
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Castelli V, Lavanco G, D’Amico C, Feo S, Tringali G, Kuchar M, Cannizzaro C, Brancato A. CBD enhances the cognitive score of adolescent rats prenatally exposed to THC and fine-tunes relevant effectors of hippocampal plasticity. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1237485. [PMID: 37583903 PMCID: PMC10424934 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1237485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: An altered neurodevelopmental trajectory associated with prenatal exposure to ∆-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) leads to aberrant cognitive processing through a perturbation in the effectors of hippocampal plasticity in the juvenile offspring. As adolescence presents a unique window of opportunity for "brain reprogramming", we aimed at assessing the role of the non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid cannabidiol (CBD) as a rescue strategy to temper prenatal THC-induced harm. Methods: To this aim, Wistar rats prenatally exposed to THC (2 mg/kg s.c.) or vehicle (gestational days 5-20) were tested for specific indexes of spatial and configural memory in the reinforcement-motivated Can test and in the aversion-driven Barnes maze test during adolescence. Markers of hippocampal excitatory plasticity and endocannabinoid signaling-NMDAR subunits NR1 and 2A-, mGluR5-, and their respective scaffold proteins PSD95- and Homer 1-; CB1R- and the neuromodulatory protein HINT1 mRNA levels were evaluated. CBD (40 mg/kg i.p.) was administered to the adolescent offspring before the cognitive tasks. Results: The present results show that prenatal THC impairs hippocampal memory functions and the underlying synaptic plasticity; CBD is able to mitigate cognitive impairment in both reinforcement- and aversion-related tasks and the neuroadaptation of hippocampal excitatory synapses and CB1R-related signaling. Discussion: While this research shows CBD potential in dampening prenatal THC-induced consequences, we point out the urgency to curb cannabis use during pregnancy in order to avoid detrimental bio-behavioral outcomes in the offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Castelli
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Gianluca Lavanco
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties of Excellence “G. D’Alessandro”, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Cesare D’Amico
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies and ATEN Center, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Salvatore Feo
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies and ATEN Center, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Tringali
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Healthcare Surveillance and Bioethics, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCSS, Rome, Italy
| | - Martin Kuchar
- Forensic Laboratory of Biologically Active Compounds, Department of Chemistry of Natural Compounds, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Czechia
- Psychedelics Research Centre, National Institute of Mental Health, Prague, Czechia
| | - Carla Cannizzaro
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Anna Brancato
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties of Excellence “G. D’Alessandro”, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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14
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Swenson K. Cannabis for morning sickness: areas for intervention to decrease cannabis consumption during pregnancy. J Cannabis Res 2023; 5:22. [PMID: 37330589 DOI: 10.1186/s42238-023-00184-x] [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: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis use during pregnancy is increasing, with 19-22% of patients testing positive at delivery in Colorado and California. Patients report using cannabis to alleviate their nausea and vomiting, anxiety, and pain. However, preclinical and clinical data highlight harmful effects to offspring physiology and behavior following fetal cannabis exposure. This narrative review identifies potential areas for intervention to decrease cannabis consumption during pregnancy. METHODS A combination of keywords, including "cannabis", "cannabis", "weed", "pregnancy", "morning sickness", "child protective services", and "budtender" were searched in databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar, as well as in social media forums, governmental webpages, and other publicly available sources. RESULTS The literature search identified several areas for intervention to reduce cannabis use during pregnancy, including physician and pharmacist training, engagement with pregnant patients, regulation of dispensary workers, and the role of child protective services. DISCUSSION This comprehensive review identifies multiple areas for improvement to benefit pregnant patients. Recommendations are independent and can be implemented simultaneously by the identified groups. Limitations of this research includes the relatively limited availability of data focused specifically on cannabis consumption during pregnancy and the complexity of the sociopolitical field of substance use during pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS Cannabis consumption during pregnancy is increasing and causes harm to the developing fetus. To educate pregnant patients about these risks, we must address the gaps in education from multiple contact points.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karli Swenson
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Developmental Biology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12800 E 19th Avenue, RC1 North MS 8313, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
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15
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Gao W, Pan T, Fan G, Cui J, Wang T, Huang N, Jiang C, Ma L, Wang F, Liu X, Le Q. Enhanced heroin analgesic effect in male offspring of sires who self-administered heroin. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1211897. [PMID: 37388448 PMCID: PMC10303812 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1211897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: A growing body of evidence suggests that parental substance abuse, even prior to conception, may induce phenotypic changes in offspring. Parental opioid exposure has been shown to affect developmental processes, induce memory deficits, and lead to psycho-emotional disorders in offspring. However, how parental, especially paternal, chronic drug exposure affects offspring remains unexplored. Methods: Adult male rats were subjected to 31 days of heroin self-administration followed by mating with naïve females. Litter size and body weight of F1 offspring were recorded. Object-based attention tests, cocaine self-administration tests, and hot plate tests were used to test for potential effects of chronic paternal heroin seeking on cognition, reward, or analgesic sensitivity in the offspring. Results: Body weight and litter size of the heroin F1 generation were not altered compared to the saline F1 generation. Furthermore, paternal chronic heroin self-administration experience had no significant effect on object-based attention tests or cocaine self-administration behavior in either sex. However, in the hot plate test, although no difference in basal latency was found between the two groups in either sex, a significant increase in the analgesic effect of heroin was observed in the male heroin F1 generation. Conclusions: Taken together, these data provide evidence that paternal chronic heroin self-administration experience could sex-dimorphically increase the analgesic effect of heroin in male offspring, but had no significant effect on response to cocaine reinforcement or attentional behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Lan Ma
- *Correspondence: Qiumin Le, ; Lan Ma,
| | | | | | - Qiumin Le
- *Correspondence: Qiumin Le, ; Lan Ma,
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16
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Haney M, Vallée M, Fabre S, Collins Reed S, Zanese M, Campistron G, Arout CA, Foltin RW, Cooper ZD, Kearney-Ramos T, Metna M, Justinova Z, Schindler C, Hebert-Chatelain E, Bellocchio L, Cathala A, Bari A, Serrat R, Finlay DB, Caraci F, Redon B, Martín-García E, Busquets-Garcia A, Matias I, Levin FR, Felpin FX, Simon N, Cota D, Spampinato U, Maldonado R, Shaham Y, Glass M, Thomsen LL, Mengel H, Marsicano G, Monlezun S, Revest JM, Piazza PV. Signaling-specific inhibition of the CB 1 receptor for cannabis use disorder: phase 1 and phase 2a randomized trials. Nat Med 2023; 29:1487-1499. [PMID: 37291212 PMCID: PMC10287566 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-023-02381-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis use disorder (CUD) is widespread, and there is no pharmacotherapy to facilitate its treatment. AEF0117, the first of a new pharmacological class, is a signaling-specific inhibitor of the cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1-SSi). AEF0117 selectively inhibits a subset of intracellular effects resulting from Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) binding without modifying behavior per se. In mice and non-human primates, AEF0117 decreased cannabinoid self-administration and THC-related behavioral impairment without producing significant adverse effects. In single-ascending-dose (0.2 mg, 0.6 mg, 2 mg and 6 mg; n = 40) and multiple-ascending-dose (0.6 mg, 2 mg and 6 mg; n = 24) phase 1 trials, healthy volunteers were randomized to ascending-dose cohorts (n = 8 per cohort; 6:2 AEF0117 to placebo randomization). In both studies, AEF0117 was safe and well tolerated (primary outcome measurements). In a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover phase 2a trial, volunteers with CUD were randomized to two ascending-dose cohorts (0.06 mg, n = 14; 1 mg, n = 15). AEF0117 significantly reduced cannabis' positive subjective effects (primary outcome measurement, assessed by visual analog scales) by 19% (0.06 mg) and 38% (1 mg) compared to placebo (P < 0.04). AEF0117 (1 mg) also reduced cannabis self-administration (P < 0.05). In volunteers with CUD, AEF0117 was well tolerated and did not precipitate cannabis withdrawal. These data suggest that AEF0117 is a safe and potentially efficacious treatment for CUD.ClinicalTrials.gov identifiers: NCT03325595 , NCT03443895 and NCT03717272 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Haney
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Monique Vallée
- University of Bordeaux, INSERM, Neurocentre Magendie, Bordeaux, France
| | | | - Stephanie Collins Reed
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Caroline A Arout
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Richard W Foltin
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ziva D Cooper
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
- University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Tonisha Kearney-Ramos
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Zuzana Justinova
- Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Charles Schindler
- Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Luigi Bellocchio
- University of Bordeaux, INSERM, Neurocentre Magendie, Bordeaux, France
| | - Adeline Cathala
- University of Bordeaux, INSERM, Neurocentre Magendie, Bordeaux, France
| | | | | | - David B Finlay
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Filippo Caraci
- University of Bordeaux, INSERM, Neurocentre Magendie, Bordeaux, France
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Italy, and Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, Unit of Translational Neuropharmacology, Troina, Italy
| | - Bastien Redon
- University of Bordeaux, INSERM, Neurocentre Magendie, Bordeaux, France
- Basic Neuroscience Department, Université de Genève, Genève, Switzerland
| | - Elena Martín-García
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, University Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Arnau Busquets-Garcia
- University of Bordeaux, INSERM, Neurocentre Magendie, Bordeaux, France
- Cell-Type Mechanisms in Normal and Pathological Behavior Research Group, Neuroscience Programme, IMIM Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Isabelle Matias
- University of Bordeaux, INSERM, Neurocentre Magendie, Bordeaux, France
| | - Frances R Levin
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Nicolas Simon
- Aix Marseille Univ, APHM, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Hop Sainte Marguerite, Service de Pharmacologie Clinique, Marseille, France
| | - Daniela Cota
- University of Bordeaux, INSERM, Neurocentre Magendie, Bordeaux, France
| | | | - Rafael Maldonado
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, University Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Yavin Shaham
- Behavioral Neuroscience Research Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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17
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Corsi S, Scheggi S, Pardu A, Braccagni G, Caruso D, Cioffi L, Diviccaro S, Gentile M, Fanni S, Stancampiano R, Gambarana C, Melcangi RC, Frau R, Carta M. Pregnenolone for the treatment of L-DOPA-induced dyskinesia in Parkinson's disease. Exp Neurol 2023; 363:114370. [PMID: 36878398 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2023.114370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
Growing preclinical and clinical evidence highlights neurosteroid pathway imbalances in Parkinson's Disease (PD) and L-DOPA-induced dyskinesias (LIDs). We recently reported that 5α-reductase (5AR) inhibitors dampen dyskinesias in parkinsonian rats; however, unraveling which specific neurosteroid mediates this effect is critical to optimize a targeted therapy. Among the 5AR-related neurosteroids, striatal pregnenolone has been shown to be increased in response to 5AR blockade and decreased after 6-OHDA lesions in the rat PD model. Moreover, this neurosteroid rescued psychotic-like phenotypes by exerting marked antidopaminergic activity. In light of this evidence, we investigated whether pregnenolone might dampen the appearance of LIDs in parkinsonian drug-naïve rats. We tested 3 escalating doses of pregnenolone (6, 18, 36 mg/kg) in 6-OHDA-lesioned male rats and compared the behavioral, neurochemical, and molecular outcomes with those induced by the 5AR inhibitor dutasteride, as positive control. The results showed that pregnenolone dose-dependently countered LIDs without affecting L-DOPA-induced motor improvements. Post-mortem analyses revealed that pregnenolone significantly prevented the increase of validated striatal markers of dyskinesias, such as phospho-Thr-34 DARPP-32 and phospho-ERK1/2, as well as D1-D3 receptor co-immunoprecipitation in a fashion similar to dutasteride. Moreover, the antidyskinetic effect of pregnenolone was paralleled by reduced striatal levels of BDNF, a well-established factor associated with the development of LIDs. In support of a direct pregnenolone effect, LC/MS-MS analyses revealed that striatal pregnenolone levels strikingly increased after the exogenous administration, with no significant alterations in downstream metabolites. All these data suggest pregnenolone as a key player in the antidyskinetic properties of 5AR inhibitors and highlight this neurosteroid as an interesting novel tool to target LIDs in PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Corsi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, CA, Italy
| | - Simona Scheggi
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, SI, Italy
| | - Alessandra Pardu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, CA, Italy
| | - Giulia Braccagni
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, SI, Italy
| | - Donatella Caruso
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, MI, Italy
| | - Lucia Cioffi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, MI, Italy
| | - Silvia Diviccaro
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, MI, Italy
| | - Mauro Gentile
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, CA, Italy
| | - Silvia Fanni
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, CA, Italy; Basal Ganglia Pathophysiology Unit, Department Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, Sweden
| | | | - Carla Gambarana
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, SI, Italy
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, MI, Italy
| | - Roberto Frau
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, CA, Italy; "Guy Everett Laboratory", Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Manolo Carta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, CA, Italy.
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18
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Serra V, Aroni S, Bortolato M, Frau R, Melis M. Endocannabinoid-dependent decrease of GABAergic transmission on dopaminergic neurons is associated with susceptibility to cocaine stimulant effects in pre-adolescent male MAOA hypomorphic mice exposed to early life stress. Neuropharmacology 2023; 233:109548. [PMID: 37080337 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2023.109548] [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: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
Vulnerability to cocaine use disorder depends upon a combination of genetic and environmental risk factors. While early life adversity is a critical environmental vulnerability factor for drug misuse, allelic variants of the monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) gene have been shown to moderate its influence on the risk of drug-related problems. However, data on the interactions between MAOA variants and early life stress (ES) with respect to predisposition to cocaine abuse are limited. Here, we show that a mouse model capturing the interaction of genetic (low-activity alleles of the Maoa gene; MAOANeo) and environmental (i.e., ES) vulnerability factors displays an increased sensitivity to repeated in vivo cocaine psychomotor stimulant actions associated with a reduction of GABAA receptor-mediated inhibition of dopamine neurons of the ventral tegmental area (VTA). Depolarization-induced suppression of inhibition (DSI), a 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2AG)-dependent form of short-term plasticity, also becomes readily expressed by dopamine neurons from male MAOANeo ES mice repeatedly treated with cocaine. The activation of either dopamine D2 or CB1 receptors contributes to cocaine-induced DSI expression, decreased GABA synaptic efficacy, and hyperlocomotion. Next, in vivo pharmacological enhancement of 2AG signaling during repeated cocaine exposure occludes its actions both in vivo and ex vivo. This data extends our knowledge of the multifaceted sequelae imposed by this gene-environment interaction in VTA dopamine neurons of male pre-adolescent mice and contributes to our understanding of neural mechanisms of vulnerability for early onset cocaine use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Serra
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, 09042, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Sonia Aroni
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, 09042, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Marco Bortolato
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, 84112, USA
| | - Roberto Frau
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, 09042, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Miriam Melis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, 09042, Monserrato, Italy.
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Emerging Roles of Endocannabinoids as Key Lipid Mediators for a Successful Pregnancy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065220. [PMID: 36982295 PMCID: PMC10048990 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, Cannabis use/misuse for treating pregnancy-related symptoms and other chronic conditions has increased among pregnant women, favored by decriminalization and/or legalization of its recreational uses in addition to its easy accessibility. However, there is evidence that prenatal Cannabis exposure might have adverse consequences on pregnancy progression and a deleterious impact on proper neurodevelopmental trajectories in the offspring. Maternal Cannabis use could interfere with the complex and finely controlled role performed by the endocannabinoid system in reproductive physiology, impairing multiple gestational processes from blastocyst implantation to parturition, with long-lasting intergenerational effects. In this review, we discuss current clinical and preclinical evidence regarding the role of endocannabinoids in development, function, and immunity of the maternal–fetal interface, focusing on the impact of Cannabis constituents on each of these gestational processes. We also discuss the intrinsic limitations of the available studies and the future perspectives in this challenging research field.
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Rouzer SK, Gutierrez J, Larin KV, Miranda RC. Alcohol & cannabinoid co-use: Implications for impaired fetal brain development following gestational exposure. Exp Neurol 2023; 361:114318. [PMID: 36627039 PMCID: PMC9892278 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2023.114318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol and marijuana are two of the most consumed psychoactive substances by pregnant people, and independently, both substances have been associated with lifelong impacts on fetal neurodevelopment. Importantly, individuals of child-bearing age are increasingly engaging in simultaneous alcohol and cannabinoid (SAC) use, which amplifies each drug's pharmacodynamic effects and increases craving for both substances. However, to date, investigations of prenatal polysubstance use are notably limited in both human and non-human populations. In this review paper, we will address what is currently known about combined exposure to these substances, both directly and prenatally, and identify shared prenatal targets from single-exposure paradigms that may highlight susceptible neurobiological mechanisms for future investigation and therapeutic intervention. Finally, we conclude this manuscript by discussing factors that we feel are essential in the consideration and experimental design of future preclinical SAC studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siara Kate Rouzer
- Department of Neuroscience & Experimental Therapeutics, Texas A&M School of Medicine, Bryan, TX 77807, United States.
| | - Jessica Gutierrez
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, United States
| | - Kirill V Larin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, United States
| | - Rajesh C Miranda
- Department of Neuroscience & Experimental Therapeutics, Texas A&M School of Medicine, Bryan, TX 77807, United States
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21
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Santoni M, Sagheddu C, Serra V, Mostallino R, Castelli MP, Pisano F, Scherma M, Fadda P, Muntoni AL, Zamberletti E, Rubino T, Melis M, Pistis M. Maternal immune activation impairs endocannabinoid signaling in the mesolimbic system of adolescent male offspring. Brain Behav Immun 2023; 109:271-284. [PMID: 36746342 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2023.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Prenatal infections can increase the risk of developing psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia in the offspring, especially when combined with other postnatal insults. Here, we tested, in a rat model of prenatal immune challenge by the viral mimic polyriboinosinic-polyribocytidilic acid, whether maternal immune activation (MIA) affects the endocannabinoid system and endocannabinoid-mediated modulation of dopamine functions. Experiments were performed during adolescence to assess i) the behavioral endophenotype (locomotor activity, plus maze, prepulse inhibition of startle reflex); ii) the locomotor activity in response to Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and iii) the properties of ventral tegmental area (VTA) dopamine neurons in vivo and their response to THC; iv) endocannabinoid-mediated synaptic plasticity in VTA dopamine neurons; v) the expression of cannabinoid receptors and enzymes involved in endocannabinoid synthesis and catabolism in mesolimbic structures and vi) MIA-induced neuroinflammatory scenario evaluated by measurements of levels of cytokine and neuroinflammation markers. We revealed that MIA offspring displayed an altered locomotor activity in response to THC, a higher bursting activity of VTA dopamine neurons and a lack of response to cumulative doses of THC. Consistently, MIA adolescence offspring showed an enhanced 2-arachidonoylglycerol-mediated synaptic plasticity and decreased monoacylglycerol lipase activity in mesolimbic structures. Moreover, they displayed a higher expression of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) and ionized calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1 (IBA-1), associated with latent inflammation and persistent microglia activity. In conclusion, we unveiled neurobiological mechanisms whereby inflammation caused by MIA influences the proper development of endocannabinoid signaling that negatively impacts the dopamine system, eventually leading to psychotic-like symptoms in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Santoni
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Claudia Sagheddu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Valeria Serra
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Rafaela Mostallino
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Maria Paola Castelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Francesco Pisano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Maria Scherma
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Paola Fadda
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy; Neuroscience Institute, Section of Cagliari, National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Cagliari, Italy
| | - Anna Lisa Muntoni
- Neuroscience Institute, Section of Cagliari, National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Cagliari, Italy
| | - Erica Zamberletti
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Italy
| | - Tiziana Rubino
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Italy
| | - Miriam Melis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Marco Pistis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy; Neuroscience Institute, Section of Cagliari, National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Cagliari, Italy; Unit of Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital, Cagliari, Italy.
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22
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Mulligan MK, Hamre KM. Influence of prenatal cannabinoid exposure on early development and beyond. ADVANCES IN DRUG AND ALCOHOL RESEARCH 2023; 3:10981. [PMID: 38389825 PMCID: PMC10880766 DOI: 10.3389/adar.2023.10981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Public perception surrounding whether cannabis use is harmful during pregnancy often diverges greatly from the recommendations of doctors and healthcare providers. In contrast to the medical guidance of abstinence before, during, and after pregnancy, many women of reproductive age believe cannabis use during pregnancy is associated with little potential harm. Legalization and social cues support public perceptions that cannabis use during pregnancy is safe. Moreover, pregnant women may consider cannabis to be a safe alternative for treating pregnancy related ailments, including morning sickness. Compounding the problem is a lack of medical and federal guidance on safe, low, or high-risk levels of cannabis use. These issues mirror the continuing debate surrounding alcohol use and health, in particular, whether there are safe or lower risk levels of alcohol consumption during pregnancy. Clinical studies to date suffer from several limitations. First, most human studies are correlative in nature, meaning that causal associations cannot be made between in utero cannabis exposure and health and behavioral outcomes later in life. Due to obvious ethical constraints, it is not possible to randomly assign pregnant mothers to cannabis or other drug exposure conditions-a requirement needed to establish causality. In addition, clinical studies often lack quantitative information on maternal exposure (i.e., dose, frequency, and duration), include a small number of individuals, lack replication of outcome measures across cohorts, rely on self-report to establish maternal drug use, and suffer from unmeasured or residual confounding factors. Causal associations between maternal cannabis exposure and offspring outcomes are possible in preclinical cohorts but there is a large amount of heterogeneity across study designs and developmental differences between rodents and humans may limit translatability. In this review, we summarize research from human and preclinical models to provide insight into potential risks associated with prenatal cannabinoid exposure (PCE). Finally, we highlight gaps in knowledge likely to contribute to the growing divide between medical guidance and public attitudes regarding cannabis use during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan K Mulligan
- Department of Genetics, Genomics and Informatics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC), Memphis, TN, United States
| | - Kristin M Hamre
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC), Memphis, TN, United States
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23
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Prenatal Exposure to Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol Affects Hippocampus-Related Cognitive Functions in the Adolescent Rat Offspring: Focus on Specific Markers of Neuroplasticity. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15020692. [PMID: 36840014 PMCID: PMC9963541 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15020692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous evidence suggests that prenatal exposure to THC (pTHC) derails the neurodevelopmental trajectories towards a vulnerable phenotype for impaired emotional regulation and limbic memory. Here we aimed to investigate pTHC effect on hippocampus-related cognitive functions and markers of neuroplasticity in adolescent male offspring. Wistar rats were exposed to THC (2 mg/kg) from gestational day 5 to 20 and tested for spatial memory, object recognition memory and reversal learning in the reinforce-motivated Can test and in the aversion-driven Barnes maze test; locomotor activity and exploration, anxiety-like behaviour, and response to natural reward were assessed in the open field, elevated plus maze, and sucrose preference tests, respectively. The gene expression levels of NMDA NR1-2A subunits, mGluR5, and their respective scaffold proteins PSD95 and Homer1, as well as CB1R and the neuromodulatory protein HINT1, were measured in the hippocampus. pTHC offspring exhibited deficits in spatial and object recognition memory and reversal learning, increased locomotor activity, increased NR1-, decreased NR2A- and PSD95-, increased mGluR5- and Homer1-, and augmented CB1R- and HINT1-hippocampal mRNA levels. Our data shows that pTHC is associated with specific impairment in spatial cognitive processing and effectors of hippocampal neuroplasticity and suggests novel targets for future pharmacological challenges.
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24
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Peng H, Li H, Wei Y, Zhang R, Chang X, Meng L, Wang K, He Q, Duan T. Effects of prenatal exposure to THC on hippocampal neural development in offspring. Toxicol Lett 2023; 374:48-56. [PMID: 36529297 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2022.12.007] [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: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis use is a worldwide issue with the development of legalization. Prenatal exposure to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive component of cannabis, is related to affect fetal nervous system development. In our present study, we administered THC to pregnant mice from gestational day 5.5-12.5. Differences in neuronal cell composition and organization between the two groups were found by staining sections of the offspring hippocampus at PND21. In addition, RNA-seq of hippocampal tissue also suggested differences in gene expression due to THC treatment, especially significant enrichment to neurogenesis and neural differentiation. Subsequently, the effect of THC treatment on the proliferation and differentiation capacity of neural stem cells (NSCs) was confirmed. Based on the RNA-seq results, we selected the differentially expressed transcription factor MEF2C for validation. The effect of THC treatment on NSCs differentiation was found to be regulated by knocking down the expression of MEF2C in NSCs. Considering that THC is an agonist of cannabinoid receptor (CB1R), the differentiation outcome of NSC after THC treatment was significantly rescued, by pretreating with the CB1R inhibitor Rimonabant. Notably, pretreatment with Rimonabant restored the expression of MEF2C. Taken together, the present results suggested that THC regulated the MEF2C pathway through CB1R and had an impact on hippocampal neurodevelopment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Peng
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Han Li
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yingying Wei
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ruonan Zhang
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinwen Chang
- Department of Assisted Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lulu Meng
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Kai Wang
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qizhi He
- Department of Pathology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Tao Duan
- Department of Obstetrics, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China.
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25
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Frau R, Melis M. Sex-specific susceptibility to psychotic-like states provoked by prenatal THC exposure: Reversal by pregnenolone. J Neuroendocrinol 2023; 35:e13240. [PMID: 36810840 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13240] [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: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
Sociocultural attitudes towards cannabis legalization contribute to the common misconception that it is a relatively safe drug and its use during pregnancy poses no risk to the fetus. However, longitudinal studies demonstrate that maternal cannabis exposure results in adverse outcomes in the offspring, with a heightened risk for developing psychopathology. One of the most reported psychiatric outcomes is the proneness to psychotic-like experiences during childhood. How exposure to cannabis during gestation increases psychosis susceptibility in children and adolescents remains elusive. Preclinical research has indicated that in utero exposure to the major psychoactive component of cannabis, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), deranges brain developmental trajectories towards vulnerable psychotic-like endophenotypes later in life. Here, we present how prenatal THC exposure (PCE) deregulates mesolimbic dopamine development predisposing the offspring to schizophrenia-relevant phenotypes, exclusively when exposed to environmental challenges, such as stress or THC. Detrimental effects of PCE are sex-specific because female offspring do not display psychotic-like outcomes upon exposure to these challenges. Moreover, we present how pregnenolone, a neurosteroid that showed beneficial properties on the effects elicited by cannabis intoxication, normalizes mesolimbic dopamine function and rescues psychotic-like phenotypes. We, therefore, suggest this neurosteroid as a safe "disease-modifying" aid to prevent the onset of psychoses in vulnerable individuals. Our findings corroborate clinical evidence and highlight the relevance of early diagnostic screening and preventative strategies for young individuals at risk for mental diseases, such as male PCE offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Frau
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy
- The Guy Everett Laboratory for Neuroscience, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Miriam Melis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy
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26
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Martinez Ramirez CE, Ruiz-Pérez G, Stollenwerk TM, Behlke C, Doherty A, Hillard CJ. Endocannabinoid signaling in the central nervous system. Glia 2023; 71:5-35. [PMID: 36308424 PMCID: PMC10167744 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
It is hard to overestimate the influence of the endocannabinoid signaling (ECS) system on central nervous system (CNS) function. In the 40 years since cannabinoids were found to trigger specific cell signaling cascades, studies of the ECS system continue to cause amazement, surprise, and confusion! CB1 cannabinoid receptors are expressed widely in the CNS and regulate cell-cell communication via effects on the release of both neurotransmitters and gliotransmitters. CB2 cannabinoid receptors are difficult to detect in the CNS but seem to "punch above their weight" as compounds targeting these receptors have significant effects on inflammatory state and behavior. Positive and negative allosteric modulators for both receptors have been identified and examined in preclinical studies. Concentrations of the endocannabinoid ligands, N-arachidonoylethanolamine and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), are regulated by a combination of enzymatic synthesis and degradation and inhibitors of these processes are available and making their way into clinical trials. Importantly, ECS regulates many essential brain functions, including regulation of reward, anxiety, inflammation, motor control, and cellular development. While the field is on the cusp of preclinical discoveries providing impactful clinical and therapeutic insights into many CNS disorders, there is still much to be learned about this remarkable and versatile modulatory system.
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Affiliation(s)
- César E Martinez Ramirez
- Neuroscience Research Center and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Gonzalo Ruiz-Pérez
- Neuroscience Research Center and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Todd M Stollenwerk
- Neuroscience Research Center and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Christina Behlke
- Neuroscience Research Center and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Ashley Doherty
- Neuroscience Research Center and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Cecilia J Hillard
- Neuroscience Research Center and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
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Cáceres D, Ochoa M, González-Ortiz M, Bravo K, Eugenín J. Effects of Prenatal Cannabinoids Exposure upon Placenta and Development of Respiratory Neural Circuits. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1428:199-232. [PMID: 37466775 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-32554-0_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis use has risen dangerously during pregnancy in the face of incipient therapeutic use and a growing perception of safety. The main psychoactive compound of the Cannabis sativa plant is the phytocannabinoid delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (A-9 THC), and its status as a teratogen is controversial. THC and its endogenous analogues, anandamide (AEA) and 2-AG, exert their actions through specific receptors (eCBr) that activate intracellular signaling pathways. CB1r and CB2r, also called classic cannabinoid receptors, together with their endogenous ligands and the enzymes that synthesize and degrade them, constitute the endocannabinoid system. This system is distributed ubiquitously in various central and peripheral tissues. Although the endocannabinoid system's most studied role is controlling the release of neurotransmitters in the central nervous system, the study of long-term exposure to cannabinoids on fetal development is not well known and is vital for understanding environmental or pathological embryo-fetal or postnatal conditions. Prenatal exposure to cannabinoids in animal models has induced changes in placental and embryo-fetal organs. Particularly, cannabinoids could influence both neural and nonneural tissues and induce embryo-fetal pathological conditions in critical processes such as neural respiratory control. This review aims at the acute and chronic effects of prenatal exposure to cannabinoids on placental function and the embryo-fetal neurodevelopment of the respiratory pattern. The information provided here will serve as a theoretical framework to critically evaluate the teratogen effects of the consumption of cannabis during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Cáceres
- Laboratorio de Sistemas Neurales, Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Química y Biología, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Martín Ochoa
- Laboratorio de Sistemas Neurales, Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Química y Biología, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Marcelo González-Ortiz
- Laboratorio de Investigación Materno-Fetal (LIMaF), Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Karina Bravo
- Laboratorio de Sistemas Neurales, Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Química y Biología, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Providencia, Chile
| | - Jaime Eugenín
- Laboratorio de Sistemas Neurales, Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Química y Biología, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
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Regalado D, Connolly ME, Krutsch K, Stark A, Kendall-Tackett K, Garner CD. Psychiatric medication use among pregnant and breastfeeding mothers who used cannabis for mental health concerns: A cross-sectional survey study. WOMEN'S HEALTH (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2023; 19:17455057231199391. [PMID: 37746858 PMCID: PMC10521288 DOI: 10.1177/17455057231199391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Use of cannabis during pregnancy and breastfeeding is increasing. Mental health concerns are reported as common reasons for maternal cannabis use, but little is known about the use of psychiatric medications in this population. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to describe psychiatric medication use among pregnant and breastfeeding mothers who used cannabis for mental health concerns. DESIGN Anonymous, online cross-sectional survey. METHODS Data were collected from May 2018 to August 2019 among pregnant and breastfeeding mothers who used cannabis. This study included mothers who reported cannabis use for mental health concerns (n = 1363). The survey assessed the timing of cannabis use (during pregnancy and/or lactation); use of cannabis to address depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, or anxiety; use of psychiatric medications; psychiatric distress (Patient Health Questionnaire-4); and demographic information. Differences between groups were examined using t-test and chi-square test in SPSS. RESULTS The mean age was 29.7 years; most were married (62%); 74% were White non-Hispanic, 9% Hispanic, and 17% Black, Indigenous or other People of Color. Mental health symptoms prompting cannabis use included anxiety (96%), depression (75%), and posttraumatic stress disorder (36%). Only 24% of respondents (n = 322) reported concomitant use of psychiatric medications, primarily selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (72%, n = 232) and benzodiazepines (21%, n = 68). The composite Patient Health Questionnaire-4 showed most respondents had no (61%) or mild (27%) psychological distress; 14% screened positive for depression; and 17% screened positive for anxiety. Respondents who used psychiatric medications more often screened positive mental health concerns. CONCLUSION Most mothers who used cannabis for mental health concerns were not taking psychiatric medications. This may be due to a mismatch between perceived mental health and screening results, un- or under-treated mental illness, or preference for cannabis over psychiatric medications. Improved management of perinatal mental health and effective patient education about risks of cannabis versus medication use are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Regalado
- School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, USA
| | - Meghan E. Connolly
- School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, USA
| | - Kaytlin Krutsch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, USA
- InfantRisk Center, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, USA
| | - Amy Stark
- Department of Psychiatry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, USA
| | | | - Christine D. Garner
- InfantRisk Center, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, USA
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Kolas V, Bandonil JSA, Wali N, Hsia KC, Shie JJ, Chung BC. A synthetic pregnenolone analog promotes microtubule dynamics and neural development. Cell Biosci 2022; 12:190. [PMID: 36456994 PMCID: PMC9717551 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-022-00923-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pregnenolone (P5) is a neurosteroid that promotes microtubule polymerization. It also reduces stress and negative symptoms of schizophrenia, promotes memory, as well as recovery from spinal cord injury. P5 is the first substance in the steroid-synthetic pathway; it can be further metabolized into other steroids. Therefore, it is difficult to differentiate the roles of P5 versus its metabolites in the brain. To alleviate this problem, we synthesized and screened a series of non-metabolizable P5 derivatives for their ability to polymerize microtubules similar to P5. RESULTS We identified compound #43 (3-beta-pregnenolone acetate), which increased microtubule polymerization. We showed that compound #43 modified microtubule dynamics in live cells, increased neurite outgrowth and changed growth cone morphology in mouse cerebellar granule neuronal culture. Furthermore, compound #43 promoted the formation of stable microtubule tracks in zebrafish developing cerebellar axons. CONCLUSIONS We have developed compound #43, a nonmetabolized P5 analog, that recapitulates P5 functions in vivo and can be a new therapeutic candidate for the treatment of neurodevelopmental diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktoryia Kolas
- grid.28665.3f0000 0001 2287 1366Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan ,grid.38348.340000 0004 0532 0580Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, National Tsing-Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | | | - Niaz Wali
- grid.28665.3f0000 0001 2287 1366Institute of Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan ,grid.19188.390000 0004 0546 0241Institute of Biochemical Sciences, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10617 Taiwan ,grid.28665.3f0000 0001 2287 1366Chemical Biology and Molecular Biophysics, Taiwan International Graduate Program, (TIGP-CBMB) Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11529 Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Chiang Hsia
- grid.28665.3f0000 0001 2287 1366Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jiun-Jie Shie
- grid.28665.3f0000 0001 2287 1366Institute of Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Bon-chu Chung
- grid.28665.3f0000 0001 2287 1366Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan ,grid.38348.340000 0004 0532 0580Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, National Tsing-Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan ,grid.254145.30000 0001 0083 6092Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Neuroscience and Brain Disease Center, China Medical University, Taichung, 404 Taiwan
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Prenatal THC Exposure Induces Sex-Dependent Neuropsychiatric Endophenotypes in Offspring and Long-Term Disruptions in Fatty-Acid Signaling Pathways Directly in the Mesolimbic Circuitry. eNeuro 2022; 9:ENEURO.0253-22.2022. [PMID: 36171057 PMCID: PMC9557330 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0253-22.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite increased prevalence of maternal cannabis use, little is understood regarding potential long-term effects of prenatal cannabis exposure (PCE) on neurodevelopmental outcomes. While neurodevelopmental cannabis exposure increases the risk of developing affective/mood disorders in adulthood, the precise neuropathophysiological mechanisms in male and female offspring are largely unknown. Given the interconnectivity of the endocannabinoid (ECb) system and the brain's fatty acid pathways, we hypothesized that prenatal exposure to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) may dysregulate fetal neurodevelopment through alterations of fatty-acid dependent synaptic and neuronal function in the mesolimbic system. To investigate this, pregnant Wistar rats were exposed to vehicle or THC (3 mg/kg) from gestational day (GD)7 until GD22. Anxiety-like, depressive-like, and reward-seeking behavior, electrophysiology, and molecular assays were performed on adult male/female offspring. Imaging of fatty acids using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization imaging mass spectrometry (MALDI IMS) was performed at prepubescence and adulthood. We report that PCE induces behavioral, neuronal, and molecular alterations in the mesolimbic system in male and female offspring, resembling neuropsychiatric endophenotypes. Additionally, PCE resulted in profound dysregulation of critical fatty acid pathways in the developing brain lipidome. Female progeny exhibited significant alterations to fatty acid levels at prepubescence but recovered from these deficits by early adulthood. In contrast, males exhibited persistent fatty acid deficits into adulthood. Moreover, both sexes maintained enduring abnormalities in glutamatergic/GABAergic function in the nucleus accumbens (NAc). These findings identify several novel long-term risks of maternal cannabis use and demonstrate for the first time, sex-related effects of maternal cannabinoid exposure directly in the developing neural lipidome.
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Margiani G, Castelli MP, Pintori N, Frau R, Ennas MG, Pagano Zottola AC, Orrù V, Serra V, Fiorillo E, Fadda P, Marsicano G, De Luca MA. Adolescent self-administration of the synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist JWH-018 induces neurobiological and behavioral alterations in adult male mice. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2022; 239:3083-3102. [PMID: 35943523 PMCID: PMC9481487 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-022-06191-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE The use of synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) is growing among adolescents, posing major medical and psychiatric risks. JWH-018 represents the reference compound of SCRA-containing products. OBJECTIVES This study was performed to evaluate the enduring consequences of adolescent voluntary consumption of JWH-018. METHODS The reinforcing properties of JWH-018 were characterized in male CD1 adolescent mice by intravenous self-administration (IVSA). Afterwards, behavioral, neurochemical, and molecular evaluations were performed at adulthood. RESULTS Adolescent mice acquired operant behavior (lever pressing, Fixed Ratio 1-3; 7.5 µg/kg/inf); this behavior was specifically directed at obtaining JWH-018 since it increased under Progressive Ratio schedule of reinforcement, and was absent in vehicle mice. JWH-018 IVSA was reduced by pretreatment of the CB1-antagonist/inverse agonist AM251. Adolescent exposure to JWH-018 by IVSA increased, at adulthood, both nestlet shredding and marble burying phenotypes, suggesting long-lasting repetitive/compulsive-like behavioral effects. JWH-018 did not affect risk proclivity in the wire-beam bridge task. In adult brains, there was an increase of ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1 (IBA-1) positive cells in the caudate-putamen (CPu) and nucleus accumbens (NAc), along with a decrease of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) immunoreactivity in the CPu. These glial alterations in adult brains were coupled with an increase of the chemokine RANTES and a decrease of the cytokines IL2 and IL13 in the cortex, and an increase of the chemokine MPC1 in the striatum. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests for the first time that male mice self-administer the prototypical SCRA JWH-018 during adolescence. The adolescent voluntary consumption of JWH-018 leads to long-lasting behavioral and neurochemical aberrations along with glia-mediated inflammatory responses in adult brains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Margiani
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Nicholas Pintori
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Roberto Frau
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,"Guy Everett" Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Ennas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Antonio C Pagano Zottola
- INSERM, U1215 NeuroCentre Magendie, Bordeaux, France.,University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France.,Institut de Biochimie et Génétique Cellulaires, UMR 5095, Bordeaux, France
| | - Valeria Orrù
- Institute for Genetic and Biomedical Research, National Research Council (CNR), Lanusei, Italy
| | - Valentina Serra
- Institute for Genetic and Biomedical Research, National Research Council (CNR), Lanusei, Italy
| | - Edoardo Fiorillo
- Institute for Genetic and Biomedical Research, National Research Council (CNR), Lanusei, Italy
| | - Paola Fadda
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Institute of Neuroscience-Cagliari, National Research Council (CNR), Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giovanni Marsicano
- INSERM, U1215 NeuroCentre Magendie, Bordeaux, France.,University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
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Хамадьянова АУ, Кузнецов КО, Гайфуллина ЭИ, Каландин ДА, Хамидуллина РР, Халитова ИФ, Фаизов РМ, Камалетдинова НО, Асланова БФ, Накиева АГ, Бурангулова ЛЭ, Гайсина ГО. [Androgens and Parkinson's disease: the role in humans and in experiment]. PROBLEMY ENDOKRINOLOGII 2022; 68:146-156. [PMID: 36689720 PMCID: PMC9939975 DOI: 10.14341/probl13148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer's disease. There is evidence that PD has a wider prevalence among men, which indicates the existing role of sex hormones in the pathogenesis of the disease. The article presents an overview of studies devoted to the study of sex differences in the incidence and symptoms of PD. Drug therapy with androgens, androgen precursors, antiandrogens and drugs that modify androgen metabolism is available for the treatment of various endocrine conditions, having translational significance for PD, but none of these drugs has yet shown sufficient effectiveness. Although PD has now been proven to be more common in men than in women, androgens do not always have any effect on the symptoms or progression of the disease. 5α-reductase inhibitors have shown neuroprotective and anti-dyskinetic activity and need further investigation. Despite the fact that the neuroprotective effect of dutasteride was observed only before damage to DA neurons, the absence of a negative effect makes it an attractive drug for use in patients with PD due to its anti-dyskinetic properties.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Д. А. Каландин
- Первый Санкт-Петербургский государственный медицинский университет им. акад. И.П. Павлова
| | | | | | - Р. М. Фаизов
- Башкирский государственный медицинский университет
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TRPV1: A Common Denominator Mediating Antinociceptive and Antiemetic Effects of Cannabinoids. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231710016. [PMID: 36077412 PMCID: PMC9456209 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231710016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The most common medicinal claims for cannabis are relief from chronic pain, stimulation of appetite, and as an antiemetic. However, the mechanisms by which cannabis reduces pain and prevents nausea and vomiting are not fully understood. Among more than 450 constituents in cannabis, the most abundant cannabinoids are Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). Cannabinoids either directly or indirectly modulate ion channel function. Transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) is an ion channel responsible for mediating several modalities of pain, and it is expressed in both the peripheral and the central pain pathways. Activation of TRPV1 in sensory neurons mediates nociception in the ascending pain pathway, while activation of TRPV1 in the central descending pain pathway, which involves the rostral ventral medulla (RVM) and the periaqueductal gray (PAG), mediates antinociception. TRPV1 channels are thought to be implicated in neuropathic/spontaneous pain perception in the setting of impaired descending antinociceptive control. Activation of TRPV1 also can cause the release of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and other neuropeptides/neurotransmitters from the peripheral and central nerve terminals, including the vagal nerve terminal innervating the gut that forms central synapses at the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS). One of the adverse effects of chronic cannabis use is the paradoxical cannabis-induced hyperemesis syndrome (HES), which is becoming more common, perhaps due to the wider availability of cannabis-containing products and the chronic use of products containing higher levels of cannabinoids. Although, the mechanism of HES is unknown, the effective treatment options include hot-water hydrotherapy and the topical application of capsaicin, both activate TRPV1 channels and may involve the vagal-NTS and area postrema (AP) nausea and vomiting pathway. In this review, we will delineate the activation of TRPV1 by cannabinoids and their role in the antinociceptive/nociceptive and antiemetic/emetic effects involving the peripheral, spinal, and supraspinal structures.
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Zhang LY, Kim AY, Cheer JF. Regulation of glutamate homeostasis in the nucleus accumbens by astrocytic CB1 receptors and its role in cocaine-motivated behaviors. ADDICTION NEUROSCIENCE 2022; 3:100022. [PMID: 36419922 PMCID: PMC9681119 DOI: 10.1016/j.addicn.2022.100022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Cannabinoid type 1 receptors (CB1Rs) orchestrate brain reward circuitry and are prevalent neurobiological targets for endocannabinoids and cannabis in the mammalian brain. Decades of histological and electrophysiological studies have established CB1R as presynaptic G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) that inhibit neurotransmitter release through retrograde signaling mechanisms. Recent seminal work demonstrates CB1R expression on astrocytes and the pivotal function of glial cells in endocannabinoid-mediated modulation of neuron-astrocyte signaling. Here, we review key facets of CB1R-mediated astroglia regulation of synaptic glutamate transmission in the nucleus accumbens with a specific emphasis on cocaine-directed behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lan-Yuan Zhang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Andrew Y. Kim
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Joseph F. Cheer
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
- Program in Neuroscience, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
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35
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Ramírez S, Miguez G, Quezada-Scholz VE, Pardo L, Alfaro F, Varas FI, Laborda MA. Behavioral effects on the offspring of rodent mothers exposed to Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): A meta-analysis. Front Psychol 2022; 13:934600. [PMID: 36092118 PMCID: PMC9462465 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.934600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pre and perinatal administration of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in rodents and their offspring has many effects that have been studied using different methods that have not been integrated using quantitative methods. The effect of THC administration on behavior can be better understood by meta-analytic techniques. We examined whether there is an overall effect on the behavior of the offspring when THC is administered to mothers. Eligibility criteria included experiments using an experimental design with a control group without THC, in which THC is administered to mothers during pregnancy and lactation in rodents, and in which at least one type of behavioral (locomotor, emotional or cognitive) measurement in the offspring was implemented. Cohen’s d was obtained for each study, then each individual study was weighted, and moderator analysis was performed. Analysis was performed using fixed and random effect models, and the heterogeneity was assessed by calculating Qb, I2 and the prediction interval. Furthermore, 3 sub-meta-analyses were carried out according to the type of behavior. The general analysis determined a low weighted effect size of THC on the behavior of the offspring, moderated by type of rat strain. The sub-meta-analyses showed a medium effect for cognitive effects of THC in the offspring, and a low effect on locomotor activity and emotional behavior. In addition, publication bias was not detected. More research is needed to contribute to the understanding of the effect of THC exposure on offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simón Ramírez
- Department of Psychology, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Gonzalo Miguez
- Department of Psychology, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | | | - Luis Pardo
- Department of Psychology, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Felipe Alfaro
- Department of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universidad de Aysén, Coyhaique, Chile
| | - Felipe I. Varas
- Department of Psychology, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Mario A. Laborda
- Department of Psychology, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- *Correspondence: Mario A. Laborda,
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Bockmann EC, Brito R, Madeira LF, da Silva Sampaio L, de Melo Reis RA, França GR, Calaza KDC. The Role of Cannabinoids in CNS Development: Focus on Proliferation and Cell Death. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2022; 43:1469-1485. [PMID: 35925507 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-022-01263-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The active principles of Cannabis sativa are potential treatments for several diseases, such as pain, seizures and anorexia. With the increase in the use of cannabis for medicinal purposes, a more careful assessment of the possible impacts on embryonic development becomes necessary. Surveys indicate that approximately 3.9% of pregnant women use cannabis in a recreational and/or medicinal manner. However, although the literature has already described the presence of endocannabinoid system components since the early stages of CNS development, many of their physiological effects during this stage have not yet been established. Moreover, it is still uncertain how the endocannabinoid system can be altered in terms of cell proliferation and cell fate, neural migration, neural differentiation, synaptogenesis and particularly cell death. In relation to cell death in the CNS, knowledge about the effects of cannabinoids is scarce. Thus, the present work aims to review the role of the endocannabinoid system in different aspects of CNS development and discuss possible side effects or even opportunities for treating some conditions in the development of this tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Cosendey Bockmann
- Instituto de Biologia, Departamento de Neurobiologia, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Rafael Brito
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Lucianne Fragel Madeira
- Instituto de Biologia, Departamento de Neurobiologia, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Luzia da Silva Sampaio
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Augusto de Melo Reis
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Rapozeiro França
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Instituto Biomédico, Universidade Federal do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | - Karin da Costa Calaza
- Instituto de Biologia, Departamento de Neurobiologia, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Olyaei AF, Campbell LR, Roberts VHJ, Lo JO. Animal Models Evaluating the Impact of Prenatal Exposure to Tobacco and Marijuana. Clin Obstet Gynecol 2022; 65:334-346. [PMID: 35125391 PMCID: PMC9885625 DOI: 10.1097/grf.0000000000000693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Within this review, the literature and outcomes from animal models of maternal marijuana use and cigarette smoking are summarized. The existing data demonstrate that prenatal marijuana and nicotine exposure both have multifaceted adverse effects on maternal, gestational, placental, and fetal outcomes. These include placental function and development, fetal growth and birth weight, and offspring neurodevelopment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lily R Campbell
- Department of Biology, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Victoria H J Roberts
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, Oregon
| | - Jamie O Lo
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, Oregon
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Overcoming reward deficiency syndrome by the induction of “dopamine homeostasis” instead of opioids for addiction: illusion or reality? J Osteopath Med 2022; 122:333-337. [DOI: 10.1515/jom-2021-0026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Many individuals in the United States are plagued by addiction, and the rate at which it is affecting people in the United States only seems to be increasing. Research shows that addiction is a preventable disorder rather than a flaw in one’s moral fiber. It is driven by the imbalance of dopamine and the brain’s reward system. Although medication-assisted treatment (MAT), the most common treatment for addiction, are effective in reducing harm, they provide minimal aid in addressing the root cause of this preventable disorder. The authors aim to convey that the proper treatment should help restore dopamine balance so the quality of life can be improved in the recovering community. Osteopathic principles emphasize the importance of homeostasis and allostasis in allowing the body to heal itself. Viewing reward deficiency syndrome (RDS) through this osteopathic lens can bring about treatments that aim to restore the dopamine homeostasis. The article discusses various potential therapeutic modalities that can provide dopamine homeostasis via activation of dopaminergic pathways.
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Liu TW, Chen CM, Chang KH. Biomarker of Neuroinflammation in Parkinson's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23084148. [PMID: 35456966 PMCID: PMC9028544 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Revised: 04/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is caused by abnormal accumulation of α-synuclein in dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra, which subsequently causes motor symptoms. Neuroinflammation plays a vital role in the pathogenesis of neurodegeneration in PD. This neuroinflammatory neurodegeneration involves the activation of microglia, upregulation of proinflammatory factors, and gut microbiota. In this review, we summarized the recent findings on detection of PD by using inflammatory biomarkers, such as interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α; regulated upon activation, normal T cell expressed and presumably secreted (RANTES) and high-sensitivity c-reactive protein (hsCRP); and radiotracers such as [11C]PK11195 and [18F]-FEPPA, as well as by monitoring disease progression and the treatment response. Many PD-causing mutations in SNCA, LRRK2, PRKN, PINK1, and DJ-1 are also associated with neuroinflammation. Several anti-inflammatory medications, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID), inhibitors of TNF-α and NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3), agonists of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ), and steroids, have demonstrated neuroprotective effects in in vivo or in vitro PD models. Clinical trials applying objective biomarkers are required to investigate the therapeutic potential of anti-inflammatory medications for PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsai-Wei Liu
- Linkou Medical Center, Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tauoyan 333, Taiwan; (T.-W.L.); (C.-M.C.)
| | - Chiung-Mei Chen
- Linkou Medical Center, Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tauoyan 333, Taiwan; (T.-W.L.); (C.-M.C.)
- School of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Hsuan Chang
- Linkou Medical Center, Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tauoyan 333, Taiwan; (T.-W.L.); (C.-M.C.)
- School of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-3-3281200 (ext. 8729); Fax: +886-3-3288849
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Stankovic IN, Colak D. Prenatal Drugs and Their Effects on the Developing Brain: Insights From Three-Dimensional Human Organoids. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:848648. [PMID: 35401083 PMCID: PMC8990163 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.848648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Decades of research have unequivocally demonstrated that fetal exposure to both recreational and prescription drugs in utero negatively impacts the developing brain. More recently, the application of cutting-edge techniques in neurodevelopmental research has attempted to identify how the fetal brain responds to specific environmental stimuli. Meanwhile, human fetal brain studies still encounter ethical considerations and technical limitations in tissue collection. Human-induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived brain organoid technology has emerged as a powerful alternative to examine fetal neurobiology. In fact, human 3D organoid tissues recapitulate cerebral development during the first trimester of pregnancy. In this review, we aim to provide a comprehensive summary of fetal brain metabolic studies related to drug abuse in animal and human models. Additionally, we will discuss the current challenges and prospects of using brain organoids for large-scale metabolomics. Incorporating cutting-edge techniques in human brain organoids may lead to uncovering novel molecular and cellular mechanisms of neurodevelopment, direct novel therapeutic approaches, and raise new exciting questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isidora N. Stankovic
- Center for Neurogenetics, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, United States
- *Correspondence: Isidora N. Stankovic,
| | - Dilek Colak
- Center for Neurogenetics, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, United States
- Gale & Ira Drukier Institute for Children’s Health, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, United States
- Dilek Colak,
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Santoni M, Frau R, Pistis M. Transgenerational Sex-dependent Disruption of Dopamine Function Induced by Maternal Immune Activation. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:821498. [PMID: 35211019 PMCID: PMC8861303 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.821498] [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: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Several epidemiological studies suggest an association between maternal infections during pregnancy and the emergence of neurodevelopmental disorders in the offspring, such as autism and schizophrenia. Animal models broadened the knowledge about the pathophysiological mechanisms that develop from prenatal infection to the onset of psychopathological phenotype. Mounting evidence supports the hypothesis that detrimental effects of maternal immune activation might be transmitted across generations. Here, we explored the transgenerational effects on the dopamine system of a maternal immune activation model based on the viral mimetic polyriboinosinic-polyribocytidilic acid. We assessed dopamine neurons activity in the ventral tegmental area by in vivo electrophysiology. Furthermore, we studied two behavioral tests strictly modulated by the mesolimbic dopamine system, i.e., the open field in response to amphetamine and the prepulse inhibition of the startle reflex in response to the D2 agonist apomorphine. Second-generation adult male rats did not display any deficit in sensorimotor gating; however, they displayed an altered activity of ventral tegmental area dopamine neurons, indexed by a reduced spontaneous firing rate and a heightened motor activation in response to amphetamine administration in the open field. On the other hand, second-generation female rats were protected from ancestors’ polyriboinosinic-polyribocytidilic acid treatment, as they did not show any alteration in dopamine cell activity or in behavioral tests. These results confirm that maternal immune activation negatively influences, in a sex-dependent manner, neurodevelopmental trajectories of the dopamine system across generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Santoni
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Roberto Frau
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,"Guy Everett" Laboratory, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Marco Pistis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Neuroscience Institute, Section of Cagliari, National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Cagliari, Italy.,Unit of Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital, Cagliari, Italy
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Dos(e)Age: Role of Dose and Age in the Long-Term Effect of Cannabinoids on Cognition. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27041411. [PMID: 35209200 PMCID: PMC8876668 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27041411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabis is still the most widely used illicit drug around the world. While its use has always been prevalent among adolescents, recent evidence suggests that its consumption is also increasing among other population groups, such as pregnant women and aged people. Given the known impact of cannabis on brain development and behavior, it is important to dissect the possible long-term impact of its use across different age groups, especially on measures of cognitive performance. Animal models of cannabinoid exposure have represented a fundamental tool to characterize the long-lasting consequences of cannabinoids on cognitive performance and helped to identify possible factors that could modulate cannabinoids effects in the long term, such as the age of exposure and doses administered. This scoping review was systematically conducted using PubMed and includes papers published from 2015 to December 2021 that examined the effects of cannabinoids, either natural or synthetic, on cognitive performance in animal models where exposure occurred in the prenatal period, during adolescence, or in older animals. Overall, available data clearly point to a crucial role of age in determining the long-term effect of cannabinoid on cognition, highlighting possible detrimental consequences during brain development (prenatal and adolescent exposure) and beneficial outcomes in old age. In contrast, despite the recent advances in the field, it appears difficult to clearly establish a possible role of dosage in the effects of cannabinoids on cognition, especially when the adolescent period is taken into account.
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Raux PL, Drutel G, Revest JM, Vallée M. New perspectives on the role of the neurosteroid pregnenolone as an endogenous regulator of type-1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1R) activity and function. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13034. [PMID: 34486765 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Pregnenolone is a steroid with specific characteristics, being the first steroid to be synthesised from cholesterol at all sites of steroidogenesis, including the brain. For many years, pregnenolone was defined as an inactive precursor of all steroids because no specific target had been discovered. However, over the last decade, it has become a steroid of interest because it has been recognised as being a biomarker for brain-related disorders through the development of metabolomic approaches and advanced analytical methods. In addition, physiological roles for pregnenolone emerged when specific targets were discovered. In this review, we highlight the discovery of the selective interaction of pregnenolone with the type-1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1R). After describing the specific characteristic of CB1Rs, we discuss the newly discovered mechanisms of their regulation by pregnenolone. In particular, we describe the action of pregnenolone as a negative allosteric modulator and a specific signalling inhibitor of the CB1R. These particular characteristics of pregnenolone provide a great strategic opportunity for therapeutic development in CB1-related disorders. Finally, we outline new perspectives using innovative genetic tools for the discovery of original regulatory mechanisms of pregnenolone on CB1-related functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre-Louis Raux
- INSERM U1215, Neurocentre Magendie, Group "Physiopathology and Therapeutic Approaches of Stress-Related Disease", Bordeaux, France
- University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Guillaume Drutel
- INSERM U1215, Neurocentre Magendie, Group "Physiopathology and Therapeutic Approaches of Stress-Related Disease", Bordeaux, France
- University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Jean-Michel Revest
- INSERM U1215, Neurocentre Magendie, Group "Physiopathology and Therapeutic Approaches of Stress-Related Disease", Bordeaux, France
- University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Monique Vallée
- INSERM U1215, Neurocentre Magendie, Group "Physiopathology and Therapeutic Approaches of Stress-Related Disease", Bordeaux, France
- University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
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44
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Lallai V, Manca L, Sherafat Y, Fowler CD. Effects of Prenatal Nicotine, THC, or Co-Exposure on Cognitive Behaviors in Adolescent Male and Female Rats. Nicotine Tob Res 2022; 24:1150-1160. [PMID: 35090174 PMCID: PMC9278841 DOI: 10.1093/ntr/ntac018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although there has been a decrease in the prevalence of tobacco smoking, exposure to nicotine during pregnancy remains a substantial problem worldwide. Further, given the recent escalation in e-cigarette use and legalization of cannabis, it has become essential to understand the effects of nicotine and cannabinoid co-exposure during early developmental stages. AIMS AND METHODS We systematically examined the effects of nicotine and/or THC prenatal exposure on cognitive behaviors in male and female offspring. Dams were exposed to nicotine vape or vehicle, and oral edible THC or vehicle, throughout pregnancy. Adolescent offspring were then tested in the prepulse inhibition test, novel object recognition task, and novelty suppressed feeding task. RESULTS At birth, pups from mothers exposed to nicotine vape or oral THC exhibited reduced body weight, compared to control pups. Prenatal nicotine vape exposure resulted in a decreased baseline startle reactivity in adolescent male and female rats, and in females, enhanced sensorimotor gating in the prepulse inhibition test. Prenatal nicotine and THC co-exposure resulted in significant deficits in the prepulse inhibition test in males. Deficits in short-term memory were also found in males prenatally exposed to THC, either alone or with nicotine co-exposure, and in females exposed to THC alone. Finally, in males, a modest increase in anxiety-associated behaviors was found with THC or nicotine exposure in the latency to approach a novel palatable food. CONCLUSIONS These studies demonstrate differential effects of prenatal exposure to e-cigarette nicotine vape and/or edible THC on cognitive function, with differing effects within male and female groups. IMPLICATIONS These studies demonstrate an impact of nicotine, THC, or co-exposure during early developmental stages in utero on behavioral outcomes in adolescence. These findings have important translational implications given the continued use of nicotine and THC containing products by pregnant women worldwide, which can be applied to support healthcare and policy efforts restricting nicotine and THC use during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Lallai
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Letizia Manca
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Yasmine Sherafat
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Christie D Fowler
- Corresponding Author: Christie D. Fowler, PhD, Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California Irvine, 1232 McGaugh Hall, Irvine, CA 92697-4550, USA. Telephone: 949-824-8363; Fax: 949-824-2447; E-mail:
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Bourque M, Soulet D, Di Paolo T. Androgens and Parkinson's Disease: A Review of Human Studies and Animal Models. ANDROGENS: CLINICAL RESEARCH AND THERAPEUTICS 2022; 2:294-303. [PMID: 35024696 PMCID: PMC8744006 DOI: 10.1089/andro.2021.0011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder after Alzheimer's disease. A greater prevalence and incidence of PD are reported in men than in women, suggesting a potential contribution of sex, genetic difference and/or sex hormones. This review presents an overview of epidemiological and clinical studies investigating sex differences in the incidence and symptoms of PD. This sex difference is replicated in animal models of PD showing an important neuroprotective role of sex steroids. Therefore, although gender and genetic factors likely contribute to the sex difference in PD, focus here will be on sex hormones because of their neuroprotective role. Androgens receive less attention than estrogen. It is well known that endogenous androgens are more abundant in healthy men than in women and decrease with aging; lower levels are reported in PD men than in healthy male subjects. Drug treatments with androgens, androgen precursors, antiandrogens, and drugs modifying androgen metabolism are available to treat various endocrine conditions, thus having translational value for PD but none have yet given sufficient positive effects for PD. Variability in the androgen receptor is reported in humans and is an additional factor in the response to androgens. In animal models of PD used to study neuroprotective activity, the androgens testosterone and dihydrotestosterone have given inconsistent results. 5α-Reductase inhibitors have shown neuroprotective activity in animal models of PD and antidyskinetic activity. Hence, androgens have not consistently shown beneficial or deleterious effects in PD but numerous androgen-related drugs are available that could be repurposed for PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mélanie Bourque
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Axe Neurosciences, Québec, Canada
| | - Denis Soulet
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Axe Neurosciences, Québec, Canada.,Faculté de pharmacie, Pavillon Ferdinand-Vandry, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Thérèse Di Paolo
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Axe Neurosciences, Québec, Canada.,Faculté de pharmacie, Pavillon Ferdinand-Vandry, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
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Ikeda AS, Knopik VS, Bidwell LC, Parade SH, Goodman SH, Emory EK, Palmer RHC. A Review of Associations between Externalizing Behaviors and Prenatal Cannabis Exposure: Limitations & Future Directions. TOXICS 2022; 10:toxics10010017. [PMID: 35051059 PMCID: PMC8779620 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10010017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
In utero cannabis exposure can disrupt fetal development and increase risk for various behavioral disruptions, including hyperactivity, inattention, delinquent behaviors, and later substance abuse, among others. This review summarizes the findings from contemporary investigations linking prenatal cannabis exposure to the development of psychopathology and identifies the limitations within the literature, which constrain our interpretations and generalizability. These limitations include a lack of genetic/familial control for confounding and limited data examining real world products, the full range of cannabinoids, and motives for use specifically in pregnant women. Taken together, our review reveals the need to continue to improve upon study designs in order to allow researchers to accurately draw conclusions about the development of behavioral consequences of prenatal cannabis exposure. Findings from such studies would inform policy and practices regarding cannabis use during pregnancy and move the field toward developing a comprehensive teratogenic profile of cannabis similar to what is characterized in the prenatal alcohol and tobacco literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ami S. Ikeda
- Behavioral Genetics of Addiction Laboratory, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
- Department of Psychology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (S.H.G.); (E.K.E.)
- Correspondence: (A.S.I.); (R.H.C.P.)
| | - Valerie S. Knopik
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA;
| | - L. Cinnamon Bidwell
- Institute of Cognitive Science, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80309, USA;
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
| | - Stephanie H. Parade
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA;
- Bradley/Hasbro Children’s Research Center, E.P. Bradley Hospital, East Providence, RI 02915, USA
| | - Sherryl H. Goodman
- Department of Psychology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (S.H.G.); (E.K.E.)
| | - Eugene K. Emory
- Department of Psychology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (S.H.G.); (E.K.E.)
| | - Rohan H. C. Palmer
- Behavioral Genetics of Addiction Laboratory, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
- Department of Psychology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (S.H.G.); (E.K.E.)
- Correspondence: (A.S.I.); (R.H.C.P.)
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47
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Slotkin TA, Levin ED, Seidler FJ. Paternal Cannabis Exposure Prior to Mating, but Not Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol, Elicits Deficits in Dopaminergic Synaptic Activity in the Offspring. Toxicol Sci 2021; 184:252-264. [PMID: 34590702 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfab117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The legalization and increasing availability of cannabis products raises concerns about the impact on offspring of users, and little has appeared on the potential contribution of paternal use. We administered cannabis extract to male rats prior to mating, with two different 28-day exposures, one where there was a 56-day interval between the end of exposure and mating ("Early Cannabis"), and one just prior to mating ("Late Cannabis"); the extract delivered 4 mg/kg/day of the main psychoactive component, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol. We then assessed the impact on dopamine (DA) systems in the offspring from the onset of adolescence (postnatal day 30) through middle age (postnatal day 150), measuring the levels of DA and its primary metabolite, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) in various brain regions. Paternal cannabis with either regimen elicited a profound and persistent deficit in DA utilization (DOPAC/DA ratio) in the offspring, indicative of subnormal presynaptic activity. However, the two regimens differed in the underlying mechanism, with Early Cannabis reducing DOPAC whereas Late Cannabis increased DA and elicited a smaller reduction in DOPAC. Effects were restricted to male offspring. The effects of cannabis were not reproduced by equivalent exposure to its Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, nor did we see the effects with perinatal exposure to tobacco smoke or some of its fetotoxic contributors (benzo[a]pyrene without or with nicotine). Our studies provide some of the first evidence for adverse effects of paternal cannabis administration on neurodevelopment in the offspring, and reinforce the important consequences of paternal drug use in the preconception period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodore A Slotkin
- Department of Pharmacology & Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
| | - Edward D Levin
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
| | - Frederic J Seidler
- Department of Pharmacology & Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
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Oleson EB, Khokhar JY. Cannabinoids: Emerging developments in neuropsychopharmacology and biological psychiatry. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 110:110305. [PMID: 33737216 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2021.110305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoids from the cannabis plant were one of the earliest psychoactive phytochemicals harnessed by humanity for their medicinal properties and remain one of the most frequently used and misused classes of chemicals in the world. Despite our long-standing history with cannabinoids, much more is said than is known regarding how these molecules influence the brain and behavior. We are in a rapidly evolving discovery phase regarding the neuroscience of cannabinoids. This period of insight began in the mid-1990s when it was discovered that phytocannabinoids (e.g., delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) act on G protein-coupled receptors (i.e., CB1/CB2) in the brain to produce their psychoactive effects. Shortly thereafter, it was discovered that endogenous ligands (i.e., endocannabinoids) exist for these receptor targets and, that they are synthetized on demand under a variety of physiological conditions. Thus, we can now study how phytochemicals, endogenous ligands, and synthetic/metabolic enzymes of the endocannabinoid system influence the brain and behavior by activating known receptor targets. Our increased ability to study cannabinoid interactions with the brain and behavior coincides with an increase in international interest in utilizing cannabinoids as a medicine. At the same time, the potency of, and administration routes by which cannabinoids are used is rapidly changing. And, these trends in cannabinoid misuse are producing lasting neural adaptations that have implications for mental health. In this special edition, we will summarize our recent period of discovery regarding how: 1) phytocannabinoids, synthetic cannabinoids and endocannabinoids act on the brain to produce behavioral effects; 2) cannabinoids can be harnessed to produce pharmacotherapeutic utility in the field of medicine; and 3) use of increasingly more cannabinoid variants through unique routes of administration alter the brain and behavior, especially when used in critical developmental periods like pregnancy and adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik B Oleson
- Psychology Department, University of Colorado Denver, Denver, CO, USA.
| | - Jibran Y Khokhar
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES Cannabis is a known teratogen. Data availability addressing both major congenital anomalies and cannabis use allowed us to explore their geospatial relationships. METHODS Data for the years 1998 to 2009 from Canada Health and Statistics Canada was analyzed in R. Maps have been drawn and odds ratios, principal component analysis, correlation matrices, least squares regression and geospatial regression analyses have been conducted using the R packages base, dplyr, epiR, psych, ggplot2, colorplaner and the spml and spreml functions from package splm. RESULTS Mapping showed cannabis use was more common in the northern Territories of Canada in the Second National Survey of Cannabis Use 2018. Total congenital anomalies, all cardiovascular defects, orofacial clefts, Downs syndrome and gastroschisis were all found to be more common in these same regions and rose as a function of cannabis exposure. When Canada was dichotomized into high and low cannabis use zones by Provinces v Territories the Territories had a higher rate of total congenital anomalies 450.026 v 390.413 (O.R. = 1.16 95%C.I. 1.08-1.25, P = 0.000058; attributable fraction in exposed 13.25%, 95%C.I. 7.04-19.04%). In geospatial analysis in a spreml spatial error model cannabis was significant both alone as a main effect (P < 2.0 × 10) and in all its first and second order interactions with both tobacco and opioids from P < 2.0 × 10. CONCLUSION These results show that the northern Territories of Canada share a higher rate of cannabis use together with elevated rates of total congenital anomalies, all cardiovascular defects, Down's syndrome and gastroschisis. This is the second report of a significant association between cannabis use and both total defects and all cardiovascular anomalies and the fourth published report of a link with Downs syndrome and thereby direct major genotoxicity. The correlative relationships described in this paper are confounded by many features of social disadvantage in Canada's northern territories. However, in the context of a similar broad spectrum of defects described both in animals and in epidemiological reports from Hawaii, Colorado, USA and Australia they are cause for particular concern and indicate further research.
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Oleson EB, Hamilton LR, Gomez DM. Cannabinoid Modulation of Dopamine Release During Motivation, Periodic Reinforcement, Exploratory Behavior, Habit Formation, and Attention. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2021; 13:660218. [PMID: 34177546 PMCID: PMC8222827 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2021.660218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Motivational and attentional processes energize action sequences to facilitate evolutionary competition and promote behavioral fitness. Decades of neuropharmacology, electrophysiology and electrochemistry research indicate that the mesocorticolimbic DA pathway modulates both motivation and attention. More recently, it was realized that mesocorticolimbic DA function is tightly regulated by the brain's endocannabinoid system and greatly influenced by exogenous cannabinoids-which have been harnessed by humanity for medicinal, ritualistic, and recreational uses for 12,000 years. Exogenous cannabinoids, like the primary psychoactive component of cannabis, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, produce their effects by acting at binding sites for naturally occurring endocannabinoids. The brain's endocannabinoid system consists of two G-protein coupled receptors, endogenous lipid ligands for these receptor targets, and several synthetic and metabolic enzymes involved in their production and degradation. Emerging evidence indicates that the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol is necessary to observe concurrent increases in DA release and motivated behavior. And the historical pharmacology literature indicates a role for cannabinoid signaling in both motivational and attentional processes. While both types of behaviors have been scrutinized under manipulation by either DA or cannabinoid agents, there is considerably less insight into prospective interactions between these two important signaling systems. This review attempts to summate the relevance of cannabinoid modulation of DA release during operant tasks designed to investigate either motivational or attentional control of behavior. We first describe how cannabinoids influence DA release and goal-directed action under a variety of reinforcement contingencies. Then we consider the role that endocannabinoids might play in switching an animal's motivation from a goal-directed action to the search for an alternative outcome, in addition to the formation of long-term habits. Finally, dissociable features of attentional behavior using both the 5-choice serial reaction time task and the attentional set-shifting task are discussed along with their distinct influences by DA and cannabinoids. We end with discussing potential targets for further research regarding DA-cannabinoid interactions within key substrates involved in motivation and attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik B. Oleson
- Department of Psychology, University of Colorado Denver, Denver, CO, United States
| | - Lindsey R. Hamilton
- Department of Psychology, University of Colorado Denver, Denver, CO, United States
| | - Devan M. Gomez
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, United States
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