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Rathod SS, Agrawal YO, Nakhate KT, Meeran MFN, Ojha S, Goyal SN. Neuroinflammation in the Central Nervous System: Exploring the Evolving Influence of Endocannabinoid System. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2642. [PMID: 37893016 PMCID: PMC10604915 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11102642] [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: 08/26/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is a complex biological process that typically originates as a protective response in the brain. This inflammatory process is triggered by the release of pro-inflammatory substances like cytokines, prostaglandins, and reactive oxygen and nitrogen species from stimulated endothelial and glial cells, including those with pro-inflammatory functions, in the outer regions. While neuronal inflammation is common in various central nervous system disorders, the specific inflammatory pathways linked with different immune-mediated cell types and the various factors influencing the blood-brain barrier significantly contribute to disease-specific characteristics. The endocannabinoid system consists of cannabinoid receptors, endogenous cannabinoids, and enzymes responsible for synthesizing and metabolizing endocannabinoids. The primary cannabinoid receptor is CB1, predominantly found in specific brain regions such as the brainstem, cerebellum, hippocampus, and cortex. The presence of CB2 receptors in certain brain components, like cultured cerebellar granular cells, Purkinje fibers, and microglia, as well as in the areas like the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, and cerebellum is also evidenced by immunoblotting assays, radioligand binding, and autoradiography studies. Both CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors exhibit noteworthy physiological responses and possess diverse neuromodulatory capabilities. This review primarily aims to outline the distribution of CB1 and CB2 receptors across different brain regions and explore their potential roles in regulating neuroinflammatory processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumit S. Rathod
- Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal’s Institute of Pharmacy, Dhule 424001, Maharashtra, India; (S.S.R.); (Y.O.A.); (K.T.N.)
- Department of Pharmacy, R. C. Patel Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Shirpur 425405, Maharashtra, India
| | - Yogeeta O. Agrawal
- Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal’s Institute of Pharmacy, Dhule 424001, Maharashtra, India; (S.S.R.); (Y.O.A.); (K.T.N.)
| | - Kartik T. Nakhate
- Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal’s Institute of Pharmacy, Dhule 424001, Maharashtra, India; (S.S.R.); (Y.O.A.); (K.T.N.)
| | - M. F. Nagoor Meeran
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Shreesh Ojha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Sameer N. Goyal
- Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal’s Institute of Pharmacy, Dhule 424001, Maharashtra, India; (S.S.R.); (Y.O.A.); (K.T.N.)
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Graziano G, Delre P, Carofiglio F, Brea J, Ligresti A, Kostrzewa M, Riganti C, Gioè-Gallo C, Majellaro M, Nicolotti O, Colabufo NA, Abate C, Loza MI, Sotelo E, Mangiatordi GF, Contino M, Stefanachi A, Leonetti F. N-adamantyl-anthranil amide derivatives: New selective ligands for the cannabinoid receptor subtype 2 (CB2R). Eur J Med Chem 2023; 248:115109. [PMID: 36657299 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115109] [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: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Cannabinoid type 2 receptor (CB2R) is a G-protein-coupled receptor that, together with Cannabinoid type 1 receptor (CB1R), endogenous cannabinoids and enzymes responsible for their synthesis and degradation, forms the EndoCannabinoid System (ECS). In the last decade, several studies have shown that CB2R is overexpressed in activated central nervous system (CNS) microglia cells, in disorders based on an inflammatory state, such as neurodegenerative diseases, neuropathic pain, and cancer. For this reason, the anti-inflammatory and immune-modulatory potentials of CB2R ligands are emerging as a novel therapeutic approach. The design of selective ligands is however hampered by the high sequence homology of transmembrane domains of CB1R and CB2R. Based on a recent three-arm pharmacophore hypothesis and latest CB2R crystal structures, we designed, synthesized, and evaluated a series of new N-adamantyl-anthranil amide derivatives as CB2R selective ligands. Interestingly, this new class of compounds displayed a high affinity for human CB2R along with an excellent selectivity respect to CB1R. In this respect, compounds exhibiting the best pharmacodynamic profile in terms of CB2R affinity were also evaluated for the functional behavior and molecular docking simulations provided a sound rationale by highlighting the relevance of the arm 1 substitution to prompt CB2R action. Moreover, the modulation of the pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines production was also investigated to exert the ability of the best compounds to modulate the inflammatory cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Graziano
- Department of Pharmacy-Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of the Studies of Bari "Aldo Moro", Via E.Orabona 4, 70125, Bari, Italy
| | - Pietro Delre
- CNR - Institute of Crystallography, Via Giovanni Amendola, 122/O, 70126, Bari, Italy
| | - Francesca Carofiglio
- Department of Pharmacy-Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of the Studies of Bari "Aldo Moro", Via E.Orabona 4, 70125, Bari, Italy
| | - Josè Brea
- Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CIMUS), University of Santiago de Compostela, Av. Barcelona, 15782, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Alessia Ligresti
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council of Italy, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078, Pozzuoli, NA, Italy
| | - Magdalena Kostrzewa
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council of Italy, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078, Pozzuoli, NA, Italy
| | - Chiara Riganti
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Claudia Gioè-Gallo
- Centro Singular de Investigación en Química Biolóxica e Materiais Moleculares (CiQUS), Departamento de Química Orgánica, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Spain
| | - Maria Majellaro
- Centro Singular de Investigación en Química Biolóxica e Materiais Moleculares (CiQUS), Departamento de Química Orgánica, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Spain
| | - Orazio Nicolotti
- Department of Pharmacy-Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of the Studies of Bari "Aldo Moro", Via E.Orabona 4, 70125, Bari, Italy
| | - Nicola Antonio Colabufo
- Department of Pharmacy-Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of the Studies of Bari "Aldo Moro", Via E.Orabona 4, 70125, Bari, Italy
| | - Carmen Abate
- Department of Pharmacy-Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of the Studies of Bari "Aldo Moro", Via E.Orabona 4, 70125, Bari, Italy; CNR - Institute of Crystallography, Via Giovanni Amendola, 122/O, 70126, Bari, Italy
| | - Maria Isabel Loza
- Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CIMUS), University of Santiago de Compostela, Av. Barcelona, 15782, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Eddy Sotelo
- Centro Singular de Investigación en Química Biolóxica e Materiais Moleculares (CiQUS), Departamento de Química Orgánica, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Spain
| | | | - Marialessandra Contino
- Department of Pharmacy-Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of the Studies of Bari "Aldo Moro", Via E.Orabona 4, 70125, Bari, Italy.
| | - Angela Stefanachi
- Department of Pharmacy-Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of the Studies of Bari "Aldo Moro", Via E.Orabona 4, 70125, Bari, Italy.
| | - Francesco Leonetti
- Department of Pharmacy-Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of the Studies of Bari "Aldo Moro", Via E.Orabona 4, 70125, Bari, Italy
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Barrientos-Riosalido A, Real M, Bertran L, Aguilar C, Martínez S, Parada D, Vives M, Sabench F, Riesco D, Castillo DD, Richart C, Auguet T. Increased Hepatic ATG7 mRNA and ATG7 Protein Expression in Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis Associated with Obesity. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021324. [PMID: 36674839 PMCID: PMC9867349 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The autophagy gene ATG7 has been shown to be essential for the induction of autophagy, a process that used to be suppressed in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, the specific role of ATG7 in NAFLD remains unclear. The aim of this study was to analyze hepatic ATG7 mRNA and ATG7 protein expression regarding obesity-associated NAFLD. Patients included women classified into normal weight (NW, n = 6) and morbid obesity (MO, n = 72). The second group was subclassified into normal liver (NL, n = 11), simple steatosis (SS, n= 29), and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH, n = 32). mRNA expression was analyzed by RT-qPCR and protein expression was evaluated by Western blotting. Our results showed that NASH patients presented higher ATG7 mRNA and ATG7 protein levels. ATG7 mRNA expression was increased in NASH compared with SS, while ATG7 protein abundance was enhanced in NASH compared with NL. ATG7 mRNA correlated negatively with the expression of some hepatic lipid metabolism-related genes and positively with endocannabinoid receptors, adiponectin hepatic expression, and omentin levels. These results suggest that ATG7-mediated autophagy may play an important role in the pathogenesis of NAFLD, especially in NASH, perhaps playing a possible protective role. However, this is a preliminary study that needs to be further studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Barrientos-Riosalido
- Grup de Recerca GEMMAIR (AGAUR)-Medicina Aplicada (URV), Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia, Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV), Institut d’Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili (IISPV), 43007 Tarragona, Spain
| | - Monica Real
- Servei Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitari Joan XXIII Tarragona, Mallafré Guasch, 4, 43007 Tarragona, Spain
| | - Laia Bertran
- Grup de Recerca GEMMAIR (AGAUR)-Medicina Aplicada (URV), Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia, Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV), Institut d’Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili (IISPV), 43007 Tarragona, Spain
| | - Carmen Aguilar
- Grup de Recerca GEMMAIR (AGAUR)-Medicina Aplicada (URV), Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia, Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV), Institut d’Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili (IISPV), 43007 Tarragona, Spain
| | - Salomé Martínez
- Servei Anatomia Patològica, Hospital Universitari Joan XXIII Tarragona, Mallafré Guasch, 4, 43007 Tarragona, Spain
| | - David Parada
- Servei Anatomia Patològica, Hospital Universitari Sant Joan de Reus, Avinguda Doctor Josep Laporte, 2, 43204 Reus, Spain
| | - Margarita Vives
- Servei de Cirurgia, Hospital Sant Joan de Reus, Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia, URV, IISPV, Avinguda Doctor Josep Laporte, 2, 43204 Reus, Spain
| | - Fàtima Sabench
- Servei de Cirurgia, Hospital Sant Joan de Reus, Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia, URV, IISPV, Avinguda Doctor Josep Laporte, 2, 43204 Reus, Spain
| | - David Riesco
- Servei Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitari Joan XXIII Tarragona, Mallafré Guasch, 4, 43007 Tarragona, Spain
| | - Daniel Del Castillo
- Servei de Cirurgia, Hospital Sant Joan de Reus, Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia, URV, IISPV, Avinguda Doctor Josep Laporte, 2, 43204 Reus, Spain
| | - Cristóbal Richart
- Grup de Recerca GEMMAIR (AGAUR)-Medicina Aplicada (URV), Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia, Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV), Institut d’Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili (IISPV), 43007 Tarragona, Spain
| | - Teresa Auguet
- Grup de Recerca GEMMAIR (AGAUR)-Medicina Aplicada (URV), Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia, Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV), Institut d’Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili (IISPV), 43007 Tarragona, Spain
- Servei Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitari Joan XXIII Tarragona, Mallafré Guasch, 4, 43007 Tarragona, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-977-29-58-33
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Understanding the Dynamics of the Structural States of Cannabinoid Receptors and the Role of Different Modulators. LIFE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 12:life12122137. [PMID: 36556502 PMCID: PMC9786085 DOI: 10.3390/life12122137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The cannabinoid receptors CB1R and CB2R are members of the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) family. These receptors have recently come to light as possible therapeutic targets for conditions affecting the central nervous system. However, because CB1R is known to have psychoactive side effects, its potential as a drug target is constrained. Therefore, targeting CB2R has become the primary focus of recent research. Using various molecular modeling studies, we analyzed the active, inactive, and intermediate states of both CBRs in this study. We conducted in-depth research on the binding properties of various groups of cannabinoid modulators, including agonists, antagonists, and inverse agonists, with all of the different conformational states of the CBRs. The binding effects of these modulators were studied on various CB structural features, including the movement of the transmembrane helices, the volume of the binding cavity, the internal fluids, and the important GPCR properties. Then, using in vitro experiments and computational modeling, we investigated how vitamin E functions as a lipid modulator to influence THC binding. This comparative examination of modulator binding to CBRs provides significant insight into the mechanisms of structural alterations and ligand affinity, which can directly help in the rational design of selective modulators that target either CB1R or CB2R.
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Potential Pro-Inflammatory Effect of Vitamin E Analogs through Mitigation of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) Binding to the Cannabinoid 2 Receptor. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23084291. [PMID: 35457108 PMCID: PMC9026873 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084291] [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: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitamin E acetate, which is used as a diluent of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), has been reported as the primary causative agent of e-cigarette, or vaping, product use-associated lung injury (EVALI). Here, we employ in vitro assays, docking, and molecular dynamics (MD) computer simulations to investigate the interaction of vitamin E with the membrane-bound cannabinoid 2 receptor (CB2R), and its role in modulating the binding affinity of THC to CB2R. From the MD simulations, we determined that vitamin E interacts with both CB2R and membrane phospholipids. Notably, the synchronized effect of these interactions likely facilitates vitamin E acting as a lipid modulator for the cannabinoid system. Furthermore, MD simulation and trajectory analysis show that when THC binds to CB2R in the presence of vitamin E, the binding cavity widens, facilitating the entry of water molecules into it, leading to a reduced interaction of THC with CB2R. Additionally, the interaction between THC and vitamin E in solution is stabilized by several H bonds, which can directly limit the interaction of free THCs with CB2R. Overall, both the MD simulations and the in vitro dissociation assay results indicate that THC binding to CB2R is reduced in the presence of vitamin E. Our study discusses the role of vitamin E in limiting the effect of THCs and its implications on the reported pathology of EVALI.
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ElTelbany A, Khoudari G, Al-Khadra Y, McCullough A, Alkhouri N. Lower Rates of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Observed Among Cannabis Users: A Population-Based Study. Cureus 2022; 14:e24576. [PMID: 35651376 PMCID: PMC9138632 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.24576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignancies worldwide and the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths in the world. The association between HCC and cannabis has been identified in mice; however, to our knowledge has not been identified in humans. Therefore, we aim to investigate the relation between HCC and cannabis use in humans. METHODS Using data from the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database between 2002 and 2014, we identified the patients with HCC and cannabis use diagnosis using the International Classification of Disease 9th version codes (ICD-9). Then, we identified patients without cannabis use as the control group. We adjusted for multiple potential confounders and performed multivariable logistic regression analysis to determine the association between cannabis abuse and HCC. RESULTS A total of 101,231,036 patients were included in the study. Out of the total, 996,290 patients (1%) had the diagnosis of cannabis abuse versus 100,234,746 patients (99%) in the control group without cannabis abuse. We noticed that patients with cannabis abuse were younger (34 vs 48 years), had more males (61.7% vs 41.4%) and more African Americans (29.9% vs 14.2%) compared with the control group (P<0.001 for all). Besides, patients with cannabis use had more hepatitis B, hepatitis C, liver cirrhosis, and smoking, but had less obesity and gallstones, (P<0.001 for all). Using multivariable logistic regression, and after adjusting for potential confounders, patients with cannabis abuse were 55% less likely to have HCC (adjusted Odds Ratio {aOR}, 0.45, 95% Confidence Interval {CI}, 0.42-0.49, P<0.001) compared with patients without cannabis abuse. CONCLUSION Based on our large database analysis, we found that cannabis use patients were 55% less likely to have HCC compared to patients without cannabis use. Further prospective studies are needed to assess the role of cannabis use on HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - George Khoudari
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington DC, USA
| | - Yasser Al-Khadra
- Cardiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, USA
| | | | - Naim Alkhouri
- Fatty Liver Program, Arizona Liver Health, Pheonix, USA
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7
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Morris G, Walder K, Berk M, Carvalho AF, Marx W, Bortolasci CC, Yung AR, Puri BK, Maes M. Intertwined associations between oxidative and nitrosative stress and endocannabinoid system pathways: Relevance for neuropsychiatric disorders. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2022; 114:110481. [PMID: 34826557 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2021.110481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) appears to regulate metabolic, cardiovascular, immune, gastrointestinal, lung, and reproductive system functions, as well as the central nervous system. There is also evidence that neuropsychiatric disorders are associated with ECS abnormalities as well as oxidative and nitrosative stress pathways. The goal of this mechanistic review is to investigate the mechanisms underlying the ECS's regulation of redox signalling, as well as the mechanisms by which activated oxidative and nitrosative stress pathways may impair ECS-mediated signalling. Cannabinoid receptor (CB)1 activation and upregulation of brain CB2 receptors reduce oxidative stress in the brain, resulting in less tissue damage and less neuroinflammation. Chronically high levels of oxidative stress may impair CB1 and CB2 receptor activity. CB1 activation in peripheral cells increases nitrosative stress and inducible nitric oxide (iNOS) activity, reducing mitochondrial activity. Upregulation of CB2 in the peripheral and central nervous systems may reduce iNOS, nitrosative stress, and neuroinflammation. Nitrosative stress may have an impact on CB1 and CB2-mediated signalling. Peripheral immune activation, which frequently occurs in response to nitro-oxidative stress, may result in increased expression of CB2 receptors on T and B lymphocytes, dendritic cells, and macrophages, reducing the production of inflammatory products and limiting the duration and intensity of the immune and oxidative stress response. In conclusion, high levels of oxidative and nitrosative stress may compromise or even abolish ECS-mediated redox pathway regulation. Future research in neuropsychiatric disorders like mood disorders and deficit schizophrenia should explore abnormalities in these intertwined signalling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerwyn Morris
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - Ken Walder
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia.
| | - Michael Berk
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia; Orygen, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Andre F Carvalho
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - Wolf Marx
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia.
| | - Chiara C Bortolasci
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia.
| | - Alison R Yung
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia; Orygen, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; School of Health Science, University of Manchester, UK.
| | - Basant K Puri
- University of Winchester, UK, and C.A.R., Cambridge, UK.
| | - Michael Maes
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia; Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand; Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
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O’Brien K. Cannabidiol (CBD) in Cancer Management. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14040885. [PMID: 35205633 PMCID: PMC8869992 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14040885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the main constituents of the plant Cannabis sativa. Surveys suggest that medicinal cannabis is popular amongst people diagnosed with cancer. CBD is one of the key constituents of cannabis, and does not have the potentially intoxicating effects that tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the other key phytocannabinoid has. Research indicates the CBD may have potential for the treatment of cancer, including the symptoms and signs associated with cancer and its treatment. Preclinical research suggests CBD may address many of the pathways involved in the pathogenesis of cancers. Preclinical and clinical research also suggests some evidence of efficacy, alone or in some cases in conjunction with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC, the other key phytocannabinoid in cannabis), in treating cancer-associated pain, anxiety and depression, sleep problems, nausea and vomiting, and oral mucositis that are associated with cancer and/or its treatment. Studies also suggest that CBD may enhance orthodox treatments with chemotherapeutic agents and radiation therapy and protect against neural and organ damage. CBD shows promise as part of an integrative approach to the management of cancer. Abstract The plant Cannabis sativa has been in use medicinally for several thousand years. It has over 540 metabolites thought to be responsible for its therapeutic effects. Two of the key phytocannabinoids are cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Unlike THC, CBD does not have potentially intoxicating effects. Preclinical and clinical research indicates that CBD has a wide range of therapeutic effects, and many of them are relevant to the management of cancer. In this article, we explore some of the potential mechanisms of action of CBD in cancer, and evidence of its efficacy in the integrative management of cancer including the side effects associated with its treatment, demonstrating its potential for integration with orthodox cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kylie O’Brien
- Adelaide Campus, Torrens University, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia;
- NICM Health Research Centre, Western Sydney University, Westmead, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
- Releaf Group Ltd., St Kilda, VIC 3182, Australia
- International College of Cannabinoid Medicine, iccm.co, London N1 7GU, UK
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Khan RN, Maner-Smith K, A. Owens J, Barbian ME, Jones RM, R. Naudin C. At the heart of microbial conversations: endocannabinoids and the microbiome in cardiometabolic risk. Gut Microbes 2022; 13:1-21. [PMID: 33896380 PMCID: PMC8078674 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2021.1911572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiometabolic syndrome encompasses intertwined risk factors such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, elevated triglycerides, abdominal obesity, and other maladaptive metabolic and inflammatory aberrations. As the molecular mechanisms linking cardiovascular disease and metabolic disorders are investigated, endocannabinoids have emerged as molecules of interest. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) of biologically active lipids has been implicated in several conditions, including chronic liver disease, osteoporosis, and more recently in cardiovascular diseases. The gut microbiome is a major regulator of inflammatory and metabolic signaling in the host, and if disrupted, has the potential to drive metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. Extensive studies have unraveled the impact of the gut microbiome on host physiology, with recent reports showing that gut microbes exquisitely control the ECS, with significant influences on host metabolic and cardiac health. In this review, we outline how modulation of the gut microbiome affects host metabolism and cardiovascular health via the ECS, and how these findings could be exploited as novel therapeutic targets for various metabolic and cardiac diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramsha Nabihah Khan
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Kristal Maner-Smith
- Emory Integrated Metabolomics and Lipidomics Core, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Joshua A. Owens
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Maria Estefania Barbian
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Rheinallt M. Jones
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Crystal R. Naudin
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA,CONTACT Crystal R. Naudin Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, 615 Michael Street, Atlanta, GA30322, United States of America
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Helmrich N, Roderfeld M, Baier A, Windhorst A, Herebian D, Mayatepek E, Dierkes C, Ocker M, Glebe D, Christ B, Churin Y, Irungbam K, Roeb E. Pharmacologic Antagonization of Cannabinoid Receptor 1 Improves Cholestasis in Abcb4 -/- Mice. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 13:1041-1055. [PMID: 34954190 PMCID: PMC8873597 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2021.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS The endocannabinoid system is involved in the modulation of inflammatory, fibrotic, metabolic, and carcinogenesis-associated signaling pathways via cannabinoid receptor (CB)1 and CB2. We hypothesized that the pharmacologic antagonization of CB1 receptor improves cholestasis in Abcb4-/- mice. METHODS After weaning, male Abcb4-/- mice were treated orally with rimonabant (a specific antagonist of CB1) or ACEA (an agonist of CB1) until up to 16 weeks of age. Liver tissue and serum were isolated and examined by means of serum analysis, quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction, Western blot, immunohistochemistry, and enzyme function. Untreated Abcb4-/- and Bagg Albino Mouse/c wild-type mice served as controls. RESULTS Cholestasis-induced symptoms such as liver damage, bile duct proliferation, and enhanced circulating bile acids were improved by CB1 antagonization. Rimonabant treatment also improved Phosphoenolpyruvat-Carboxykinase expression and reduced inflammation and the acute-phase response. The carcinogenesis-associated cellular-Jun N-terminal kinase/cellular-JUN and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 signaling pathways activated in Abcb4-/- mice were reduced to wild-type level by CB1 antagonization. CONCLUSIONS We showed a protective effect of oral CB1 antagonization in chronic cholestasis using the established Abcb4-/- model. Our results suggest that pharmacologic antagonization of the CB1 receptor could have a therapeutic benefit in cholestasis-associated metabolic changes, liver damage, inflammation, and carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Anne Baier
- Department of Gastroenterology, Giessen, Germany
| | - Anita Windhorst
- Institute for Medical Informatics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Diran Herebian
- Department of General Pediatrics, Neonatology and Pediatric Cardiology, Medical Faculty, University Hospital Duesseldorf, Heinrich Heine University, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Ertan Mayatepek
- Department of General Pediatrics, Neonatology and Pediatric Cardiology, Medical Faculty, University Hospital Duesseldorf, Heinrich Heine University, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Christian Dierkes
- Medizinisches Versorgungszentrum for Pathology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Trier, Germany
| | - Matthias Ocker
- Institute for Surgical Research, Philipps University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Dieter Glebe
- Institute of Medical Virology, National Reference Centre for Hepatitis B Viruses and Hepatitis D Viruses, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Bruno Christ
- Applied Molecular Hepatology Laboratory, Department of Visceral, Transplant, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, University of Leipzig Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Yuri Churin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Giessen, Germany
| | | | - Elke Roeb
- Department of Gastroenterology, Giessen, Germany,Correspondence Address correspondence to: Elke Roeb, MD, MHAC, Department of Gastroenterology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, University Hospital Universitätsklinikum Giessen und Marburg (UKGM), Klinikstrasse 33, 35392 Giessen, Germany. fax: (49) 641-985-42339.
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Wu Y, Ma R, Long C, Shu Y, He P, Zhou Y, Xiang Y, Wang Y. The protective effect of cannabinoid type II receptor agonist AM1241 on ConA-induced liver injury in mice via mitogen-activated protein kinase signalling pathway. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2021; 35:20587384211035251. [PMID: 34384259 PMCID: PMC8366113 DOI: 10.1177/20587384211035251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The endocannabinoid system plays an important role in regulating the immune responses in inflammation. At present, there are no good clinical drugs for many immune liver diseases. Methods We explored the protective effect of the cannabinoid type II (CB2) receptor agonist AM1241 on the liver of mice with acute liver injury caused by concanavalin from the perspective of inflammation and immunity. Pathological evaluation in hepatic tissue was examined by haematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining and the levels of biochemical parameters in the serum were measured by automatic biochemical analysis. The content of inflammatory factors was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (real-time PCR). The liver apoptosis-related proteins were observed by immunohistochemistry. The expression of liver injury-related proteins was analysed by Western blot. Immune cells were isolated from the liver of mice and studied in vitro. Results Reduced levels of alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase were observed in ConA-induced liver injury mice treated with AM1241, together with attenuated liver damage evidenced by H&E staining. Moreover, AM1241 inhibited the protein and gene expression levels of TNF-α, IL-6 and IFN-γ in the livers of mice. The phosphorylation levels of p38, JNK, ERK1/2, P65 and cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) in the mouse were significantly reduced in AM1241 pretreatment, while the level of p-JNK increased. In addition, the P/T-P65 and P/T-CREB of the AM1241 pretreatment group were significantly reduced. The results of immunohistochemistry measurement are consistent with those of Western blotting. The CB2-mediated effect is through macrophage-like Kupffer cells. Conclusion Our study suggests that the ConA-induced liver injury model in mice is protected by CB2 agonist AM1241 by modulation of CB2 receptor-rich immune cells, for example, Kupffer cells. Reduced inflammatory responses regulate apoptosis/cell death in the liver particularly hepatocytes and other parenchymal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yafeng Wu
- Department of Center for Clinical Laboratories, 74628The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China.,Department of School of Clinical Laboratory Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China.,Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Fourth People's Hospital of Ya'an City, Ya'an, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Run Ma
- Department of Center for Clinical Laboratories, 74628The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Cuizhen Long
- Department of Center for Clinical Laboratories, 74628The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Yuanhui Shu
- Department of Center for Clinical Laboratories, 74628The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Ping He
- Department of Center for Clinical Laboratories, 74628The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Yan Zhou
- Department of Center for Clinical Laboratories, 74628The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Yining Xiang
- Department of Pathology, 74628The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Yuping Wang
- Department of Center for Clinical Laboratories, 74628The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
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Morris G, Walder K, Kloiber S, Amminger P, Berk M, Bortolasci CC, Maes M, Puri BK, Carvalho AF. The endocannabinoidome in neuropsychiatry: Opportunities and potential risks. Pharmacol Res 2021; 170:105729. [PMID: 34119623 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) comprises two cognate endocannabinoid receptors referred to as CB1R and CB2R. ECS dysregulation is apparent in neurodegenerative/neuro-psychiatric disorders including but not limited to schizophrenia, major depressive disorder and potentially bipolar disorder. The aim of this paper is to review mechanisms whereby both receptors may interact with neuro-immune and neuro-oxidative pathways, which play a pathophysiological role in these disorders. CB1R is located in the presynaptic terminals of GABAergic, glutamatergic, cholinergic, noradrenergic and serotonergic neurons where it regulates the retrograde suppression of neurotransmission. CB1R plays a key role in long-term depression, and, to a lesser extent, long-term potentiation, thereby modulating synaptic transmission and mediating learning and memory. Optimal CB1R activity plays an essential neuroprotective role by providing a defense against the development of glutamate-mediated excitotoxicity, which is achieved, at least in part, by impeding AMPA-mediated increase in intracellular calcium overload and oxidative stress. Moreover, CB1R activity enables optimal neuron-glial communication and the function of the neurovascular unit. CB2R receptors are detected in peripheral immune cells and also in central nervous system regions including the striatum, basal ganglia, frontal cortex, hippocampus, amygdala as well as the ventral tegmental area. CB2R upregulation inhibits the presynaptic release of glutamate in several brain regions. CB2R activation also decreases neuroinflammation partly by mediating the transition from a predominantly neurotoxic "M1" microglial phenotype to a more neuroprotective "M2" phenotype. CB1R and CB2R are thus novel drug targets for the treatment of neuro-immune and neuro-oxidative disorders including schizophrenia and affective disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerwyn Morris
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - Ken Walder
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia; Deakin University, Centre for Molecular and Medical Research, School of Medicine, Geelong, Australia
| | - Stefan Kloiber
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Ursula Franklin Street, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Paul Amminger
- Orygen, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael Berk
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia; Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Centre for Youth Mental Health, Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health and the Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Chiara C Bortolasci
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - Michael Maes
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia; Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand; Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | | | - Andre F Carvalho
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia.
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Thapa K, Grewal AS, Kanojia N, Rani L, Sharma N, Singh S. Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Liver Diseases: Promising Molecular Drug Targets and their Clinical Development. Curr Drug Discov Technol 2021; 18:333-353. [PMID: 31965945 DOI: 10.2174/1570163817666200121143959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases have become a serious concern worldwide. Both these liver diseases have an identical pathology, starting from simple steatosis to cirrhosis and, ultimately to hepatocellular carcinoma. Treatment options for alcoholic liver disease (ALD) are still the same as they were 50 years ago which include corticosteroids, pentoxifylline, antioxidants, nutritional support and abstinence; and for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), weight loss, insulin sensitizers, lipid-lowering agents and anti-oxidants are the only treatment options. Despite broad research in understanding the disease pathophysiology, limited treatments are available for clinical use. Some therapeutic strategies based on targeting a specific molecule have been developed to lessen the consequences of disease and are under clinical investigation. Therefore, focus on multiple molecular targets will help develop an efficient therapeutic strategy. This review comprises a brief overview of the pathogenesis of ALD and NAFLD; recent molecular drug targets explored for ALD and NAFLD that may prove to be effective for multiple therapeutic regimens and also the clinical status of these promising drug targets for liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Komal Thapa
- Chitkara University School of Basic Sciences, Chitkara University, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Ajmer Singh Grewal
- Chitkara University School of Basic Sciences, Chitkara University, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Neha Kanojia
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
| | - Lata Rani
- Chitkara University School of Basic Sciences, Chitkara University, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Neelam Sharma
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
| | - Sukhbir Singh
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
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Emerging Roles of Cannabinoids and Synthetic Cannabinoids in Clinical Experimental Models. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1264:47-65. [PMID: 33332003 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-57369-0_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, an increasing number of investigations has demonstrated the therapeutic potential of molecules targeting the endocannabinoid system. Cannabinoids of endogenous, phytogenic, and synthetic nature have been assessed in a wide variety of disease models ranging from neurological to metabolic disorders. Even though very few compounds of this type have already reached the market, numerous preclinical and clinical studies suggest that cannabinoids are suitable drugs for the clinical management of diverse pathologies.In this chapter, we will provide an overview of the endocannabinoid system under certain physiopathological conditions, with a focus on neurological, oncologic, and metabolic disorders. Cannabinoids evaluated as potential therapeutic agents in experimental models with an emphasis in the most successful chemical entities and their perspectives towards the clinic will be discussed.
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Hepatocyte cannabinoid 1 receptor nullification alleviates toxin-induced liver damage via NF-κB signaling. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:1044. [PMID: 33298885 PMCID: PMC7726564 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-03261-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoid 1 receptor (CB1R) expression is upregulated in the liver with viral hepatitis, cirrhosis, and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (FLD), whereas its expression is muted under usual physiological conditions. Inhibiting CB1R has been shown to be beneficial in preserving hepatic function in FLD but it is unclear if inhibiting CB1R during an inflammatory response to an acute hepatic injury, such as toxin-induced injury, would also be beneficial. We found that intrinsic CB1R in hepatocytes regulated liver inflammation-related gene transcription. We tested if nullification of hepatocyte-specific CB1R (hCNR1−/−) in mice protects against concanavalin A (Con A)-induced liver injury. We looked for evidence of liver damage and markers of inflammation in response to Con A by measuring liver enzyme levels and proinflammatory cytokines (e.g., TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17) in serum collected from hCNR1−/− and control mice. We observed a shift to the right in the dose-response curve for liver injury and inflammation in hCNR1−/− mice. We also found less inflammatory cell infiltration and focal necrosis in livers of hCNR1−/− mice compared to controls, resulting from downregulated apoptotic markers. This anti-apoptotic mechanism results from increased activation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), especially cAMP-dependent cannabinoid signaling and membrane-bound TNF-α, via downregulated TNF-α receptor 2 (TNFR2) transcription levels. Collectively, these findings provide insight into involvement of CB1R in the pathogenesis of acute liver injury.
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Gottschling S, Ayonrinde O, Bhaskar A, Blockman M, D’Agnone O, Schecter D, Suárez Rodríguez LD, Yafai S, Cyr C. Safety Considerations in Cannabinoid-Based Medicine. Int J Gen Med 2020; 13:1317-1333. [PMID: 33299341 PMCID: PMC7720894 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s275049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids are a diverse class of chemical compounds that are increasingly recognized as potential therapeutic options for a range of conditions. While many studies and reviews of cannabinoids focus on efficacy, safety is much less well reported. Overall assessment of the safety of cannabinoid-based medicines is confounded by confusion with recreational cannabis use as well as different study designs, indications, dosing, and administration methods. However, clinical studies in registered products are increasingly available, and this article aims to discuss and clarify what is known regarding the safety profiles of cannabinoid-based medicines, focusing on the medical and clinical safety evidence and identifying areas for future research. The two most well-studied cannabinoids are Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), or its synthetic variants (dronabinol, nabilone), and cannabidiol (CBD). Across diverse indications, dizziness and fatigue are generally the most common adverse events experienced by patients receiving THC or combined THC and CBD. Patients receiving THC may experience adverse cognitive effects and impairment in psychomotor skills, with implications for driving and some occupations, while CBD may help to lower the psychotropic effects of THC when used in combination. Studies on dependency and addiction in a medical context are limited, but have shown inconsistent findings regarding misuse potential. Generally, the recommended route of administration is oral ingestion, as smoking medicinal cannabinoid products potentially releases mutagenic and carcinogenic by-products. There are several potential drug-drug interactions and contraindications for cannabinoid-based medicines, which physicians should account for when making prescribing decisions. The available evidence shows that, as with any other class of pharmaceuticals, cannabinoid-based medicines are associated with safety risks which should be assessed in the context of potential therapeutic benefits. Each patient should be assessed on an individual basis and physicians must rely on informed, evidence-based decision-making when determining whether a cannabinoid-based medicine could be an appropriate treatment option.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Arun Bhaskar
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Marc Blockman
- University of Cape Town and Groot Schuur Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | | | | | | | - Claude Cyr
- McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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CB2R agonist JWH-133 attenuates chronic inflammation by restraining M1 macrophage polarization via Nrf2/HO-1 pathway in diet-induced obese mice. Life Sci 2020; 260:118424. [PMID: 32949586 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.118424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2R) is an important regulator of immunoinflammatory responses. Interestingly, studies have demonstrated that CB2R was expressed in metabolically active tissue, so we speculated that CB2R might have a crucial impact on energy balance. We thus examined the anti-inflammatory activities of CB2R and a CB2R agonist, JWH-133, in diet-induced obese in mice as well as in cultured macrophages. MATERIALS AND METHODS We evaluated the in vivo effect of JWH-133 on diet-induced adipose tissue inflammation. We also assessed the in vitro effects of JWH-133 on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation in RAW264.7 macrophages, with a focus on the nuclear factor E2-related factor 2/heme oxygenase 1 (Nrf2/HO-1) signaling pathway. KEY FINDINGS We found that JWH-133 reduced body weight gain, relieved glucose tolerance, and enhanced insulin sensitivity in a mouse model. It also down-regulated the expression of M1 macrophage biomarkers (tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-6, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), IL-1β, CC motif chemokine ligand 2, and C-X-C motif chemokine 10) in vivo and in vitro, but up-regulated levels of M2 macrophage biomarkers (IL-10 and arginase-1) in both mice and cultured macrophages. Furthermore, the underlying mechanisms were studied in an LPS-treated RAW264.7 cell line. We found a role for JWH-133 in controlling M1 macrophage polarization by activating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, while the effect of JWH-133 was diminished by a HO-1 inhibitor, Sn(IV) protoporphyrin IX dichloride. SIGNIFICANCE JWH-133 showed anti-obesity effects that ameliorated pro-inflammatory M1 macrophage polarization through the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. Therefore, our results provide a new proof for the potential use of the CB2R agonist, JWH-133, in the treatment of obesity.
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Matyas C, Erdelyi K, Trojnar E, Zhao S, Varga ZV, Paloczi J, Mukhopadhyay P, Nemeth BT, Haskó G, Cinar R, Rodrigues RM, Ahmed YA, Gao B, Pacher P. Interplay of Liver-Heart Inflammatory Axis and Cannabinoid 2 Receptor Signaling in an Experimental Model of Hepatic Cardiomyopathy. Hepatology 2020; 71:1391-1407. [PMID: 31469200 PMCID: PMC7048661 DOI: 10.1002/hep.30916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Hepatic cardiomyopathy, a special type of heart failure, develops in up to 50% of patients with cirrhosis and is a major determinant of survival. However, there is no reliable model of hepatic cardiomyopathy in mice. We aimed to characterize the detailed hemodynamics of mice with bile duct ligation (BDL)-induced liver fibrosis, by monitoring echocardiography and intracardiac pressure-volume relationships and myocardial structural alterations. Treatment of mice with a selective cannabinoid-2 receptor (CB2 -R) agonist, known to attenuate inflammation and fibrosis, was used to explore the impact of liver inflammation and fibrosis on cardiac function. APPROACH AND RESULTS BDL induced massive inflammation (increased leukocyte infiltration, inflammatory cytokines, and chemokines), oxidative stress, microvascular dysfunction, and fibrosis in the liver. These pathological changes were accompanied by impaired diastolic, systolic, and macrovascular functions; cardiac inflammation (increased macrophage inflammatory protein 1, interleukin-1, P-selectin, cluster of differentiation 45-positive cells); and oxidative stress (increased malondialdehyde, 3-nitrotyrosine, and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidases). CB2 -R up-regulation was observed in both livers and hearts of mice exposed to BDL. CB2 -R activation markedly improved hepatic inflammation, impaired microcirculation, and fibrosis. CB2 -R activation also decreased serum tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels and improved cardiac dysfunction, myocardial inflammation, and oxidative stress, underlining the importance of inflammatory mediators in the pathology of hepatic cardiomyopathy. CONCLUSIONS We propose BDL-induced cardiomyopathy in mice as a model for hepatic/cirrhotic cardiomyopathy. This cardiomyopathy, similar to cirrhotic cardiomyopathy in humans, is characterized by systemic hypotension and impaired macrovascular and microvascular function accompanied by both systolic and diastolic dysfunction. Our results indicate that the liver-heart inflammatory axis has a pivotal pathophysiological role in the development of hepatic cardiomyopathy. Thus, controlling liver and/or myocardial inflammation (e.g., with selective CB2 -R agonists) may delay or prevent the development of cardiomyopathy in severe liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Csaba Matyas
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Physiology and Tissue Injury, National Institutes of Health/NIAAA, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Katalin Erdelyi
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Physiology and Tissue Injury, National Institutes of Health/NIAAA, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Eszter Trojnar
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Physiology and Tissue Injury, National Institutes of Health/NIAAA, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Suxian Zhao
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Physiology and Tissue Injury, National Institutes of Health/NIAAA, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Zoltan V. Varga
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Physiology and Tissue Injury, National Institutes of Health/NIAAA, Bethesda, MD, USA,ZVV’s present affiliation: HCEMM-SU Cardiometabolic Immunology Research Group, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Janos Paloczi
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Physiology and Tissue Injury, National Institutes of Health/NIAAA, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Partha Mukhopadhyay
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Physiology and Tissue Injury, National Institutes of Health/NIAAA, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Balazs T. Nemeth
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Physiology and Tissue Injury, National Institutes of Health/NIAAA, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - György Haskó
- Department of Anesthesiology, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Resat Cinar
- Laboratory of Physiologic Studies, National Institutes of Health/NIAAA, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Robim M. Rodrigues
- Laboratory of Liver Diseases, National Institutes of Health/NIAAA, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Yeni Ait Ahmed
- Laboratory of Liver Diseases, National Institutes of Health/NIAAA, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Bin Gao
- Laboratory of Liver Diseases, National Institutes of Health/NIAAA, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Pal Pacher
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Physiology and Tissue Injury, National Institutes of Health/NIAAA, Bethesda, MD, USA
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De Ternay J, Naassila M, Nourredine M, Louvet A, Bailly F, Sescousse G, Maurage P, Cottencin O, Carrieri PM, Rolland B. Therapeutic Prospects of Cannabidiol for Alcohol Use Disorder and Alcohol-Related Damages on the Liver and the Brain. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:627. [PMID: 31214036 PMCID: PMC6554654 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Cannabidiol (CBD) is a natural component of cannabis that possesses a widespread and complex immunomodulatory, antioxidant, anxiolytic, and antiepileptic properties. Much experimental data suggest that CBD could be used for various purposes in alcohol use disorder (AUD) and alcohol-related damage on the brain and the liver. Aim: To provide a rationale for using CBD to treat human subjects with AUD, based on the findings of experimental studies. Methods: Narrative review of studies pertaining to the assessment of CBD efficiency on drinking reduction, or on the improvement of any aspect of alcohol-related toxicity in AUD. Results: Experimental studies find that CBD reduces the overall level of alcohol drinking in animal models of AUD by reducing ethanol intake, motivation for ethanol, relapse, anxiety, and impulsivity. Moreover, CBD reduces alcohol-related steatosis and fibrosis in the liver by reducing lipid accumulation, stimulating autophagy, modulating inflammation, reducing oxidative stress, and by inducing death of activated hepatic stellate cells. Finally, CBD reduces alcohol-related brain damage, preventing neuronal loss by its antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties. Conclusions: CBD could directly reduce alcohol drinking in subjects with AUD. Any other applications warrant human trials in this population. By reducing alcohol-related steatosis processes in the liver, and alcohol-related brain damage, CBD could improve both hepatic and neurocognitive outcomes in subjects with AUD, regardless of the individual's drinking trajectory. This might pave the way for testing new harm reduction approaches in AUD, in order to protect the organs of subjects with an ongoing AUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia De Ternay
- Service Universitaire d’Addictologie de Lyon (SUAL), Bron, France
| | - Mickaël Naassila
- Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Centre Universitaire de Recherche en Santé, INSERM UMR 1247, Groupe de Recherche sur l’Alcool & les Pharmacodépendances, Amiens, France
| | | | - Alexandre Louvet
- Service des maladies de l’appareil digestif, CHU Lille, Universitéde Lille and INSERM U995, Lille, France
| | - François Bailly
- Service d’Addictologie et d’Hépatologie, GHN, HCL, Lyon, France
| | - Guillaume Sescousse
- Université de Lyon, UCBL, Centre de Recherche en Neurosciences de Lyon (CRNL), Inserm U1028, CNRS UMR5292, PSYR2, Bron, France
| | - Pierre Maurage
- Laboratory for Experimental Psychopathology (LEP), Psychological Science Research Institute, Université catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Olivier Cottencin
- CHU de Lille, Université Lille, service d’addictologie, CNRS, UMR 9193, SCALab, équipe psyCHIC, Lille, France
| | - Patrizia Maria Carrieri
- INSERM, UMR_S 912, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé et Traitement de l’Information Médicale (SESSTIM), Marseille, France
| | - Benjamin Rolland
- Service Universitaire d’Addictologie de Lyon (SUAL), Bron, France
- Université de Lyon, UCBL, Centre de Recherche en Neurosciences de Lyon (CRNL), Inserm U1028, CNRS UMR5292, PSYR2, Bron, France
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Gracia-Sancho J, Marrone G, Fernández-Iglesias A. Hepatic microcirculation and mechanisms of portal hypertension. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2019; 16:221-234. [PMID: 30568278 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-018-0097-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The liver microcirculatory milieu, mainly composed of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs), hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and hepatic macrophages, has an essential role in liver homeostasis, including in preserving hepatocyte function, regulating the vascular tone and controlling inflammation. Liver microcirculatory dysfunction is one of the key mechanisms that promotes the progression of chronic liver disease (also termed cirrhosis) and the development of its major clinical complication, portal hypertension. In the present Review, we describe the current knowledge of liver microcirculatory dysfunction in cirrhotic portal hypertension and appraise the preclinical models used to study the liver circulation. We also provide a comprehensive summary of the promising therapeutic options to target the liver microvasculature in cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordi Gracia-Sancho
- Liver Vascular Biology Research Group, Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research Institute, CIBEREHD, Barcelona, Spain. .,Hepatology, Department of Biomedical Research, Inselspital, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Giusi Marrone
- Liver Vascular Biology Research Group, Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research Institute, CIBEREHD, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anabel Fernández-Iglesias
- Liver Vascular Biology Research Group, Barcelona Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research Institute, CIBEREHD, Barcelona, Spain
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Mahmoud HM, Osman M, Elshabrawy O, Abdallah HMI, Khairallah A. AM-1241 CB2 Receptor Agonist Attenuates Inflammation, Apoptosis and Stimulate Progenitor Cells in Bile Duct Ligated Rats. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2019; 7:925-936. [PMID: 30976335 PMCID: PMC6454175 DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2019.194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2018] [Revised: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 02/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) plays a pleiotropic role in the innate immunity and is considered a crucial mediator of liver disease. Cannabinoid CB2 receptor activation has been reported to attenuate liver fibrosis in CCl4 exposed mice and also plays a potential role in liver regeneration in a mouse model of I/R and protection against alcohol-induced liver injury. AIM: In this study, we investigated the impact of CB2 receptors on the antifibrotic and regenerative process associated with cholestatic liver injury. METHODS: Twenty-six rats had bile duct ligation co-treated with silymarin and AM1241 for 3 consecutive weeks. Serum hepatotoxicity markers were determined, and histopathological evaluation was performed. RESULTS: Following bile duct ligation (BDL) for 3 weeks, there was increased aminotransferase levels, marked inflammatory infiltration and hepatocyte apoptosis with induced oxidative stress, as reflected by increased lipid peroxidation. Conversely, following treatment with the CB2 agonist, AM-1241, BDL rats displayed a reduction in liver injury and attenuation of fibrosis as reflected by expression of hydroxyproline and α-smooth muscle actin. AM1241 treatment also significantly attenuated lipid peroxidation end-products, p53-dependent apoptosis and also attenuated inflammatory process by stimulating IL-10 production. Moreover, AM1241 treated rats were associated with significant expression of hepatic progenitor/oval cell markers. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, this study points out that CB2 receptors reduce liver injury and promote liver regeneration via distinct mechanisms including IL-10 dependent inhibition of inflammation, reduction of p53-reliant apoptosis and through stimulation of oval/progenitor cells. These results suggest that CB2 agonists display potent hepatoregenrative properties, in addition to their antifibrogenic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hesham M Mahmoud
- Cairo University Kasr Alainy, Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacology, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mona Osman
- Cairo University Kasr Alainy, Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacology, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | | | - Ahmed Khairallah
- Pharmacology Department, National Research Centre, Dokki, Cairo 11211, Egypt
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An overview of the cannabinoid type 2 receptor system and its therapeutic potential. Curr Opin Anaesthesiol 2018; 31:407-414. [PMID: 29794855 DOI: 10.1097/aco.0000000000000616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This narrative review summarizes recent insights into the role of the cannabinoid type 2 (CB2) receptor as potential therapeutic target in neuropathic pain and neurodegenerative conditions. RECENT FINDINGS The cannabinoid system continues to receive attention as a therapeutic target. The CB2 receptor is primarily expressed on glial cells only when there is active inflammation and appears to be devoid of undesired psychotropic effects or addiction liability. The CB2 receptor has been shown to have potential as a therapeutic target in models of diseases with limited or no currently approved therapies, such as neuropathic pain and neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's disease. SUMMARY The functional involvement of CB2 receptor in neuropathic pain and other neuroinflammatory diseases highlights the potential therapeutic role of drugs acting at the CB2 receptor.
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George N, Harrell SM, Rhodes KD, Duarte-Rojo A. Recreational Drug and Psychosocial Profile in Chronic Hepatitis C Patients Seeking Antiviral Therapy. Ann Hepatol 2018; 17:76-84. [PMID: 29311404 DOI: 10.5604/01.3001.0010.7537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Practitioners treating hepatitis C (HCV) provide healthcare to a special population with high rates of substance abuse and psychiatric disorders. We investigated the psychosocial profile in HCV patients and tested what variables affect commencement of antiviral therapy. MATERIAL AND METHODS Recreational drug use (RDU), marijuana (THC), alcohol use, and psychiatric history were initially investigated with a questionnaire prior to history and physical. Following an educational intervention, we reinterrogated patients for RDU and THC use, and revision of initial statement was documented. Variables affecting commencement of antiviral therapy were analysed with logistic regression. RESULTS Out of 153 patients, 140 (92%) answered the questionnaire. Intervention increased total yield by 6%, however, 39% (11/28) of those initially denying use revised their statement. Drug screening identified 9 more patients with RDU/THC use. Half of patients consuming alcohol were heavy drinkers, and psychiatric disease was identified in 54%. Only 73 (48%) of 139 patients eligible for antivirals received treatment. Multivariable analysis revealed that younger patients (OR = 1.04, 95% CI 1.01-1.08), and those testing positive on drug screen (OR = 0.41, 95% CI 0.19-0.92) were less likely to be treated. Denial by insurance and loss to follow-up were the most common reasons for not starting antiviral treatment. CONCLUSION Substance abuse is highly prevalent among HCV patients, and it is difficult to tell prior from current users. Integral care of HCV patients should include a diligent screen for substance abuse and rehabilitation referral, aiming to increase the pool of patients eligible for antiviral therapy. This can only be achieved through a multidisciplinary approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayana George
- Department of Internal Medicine. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences; Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Sherrie M Harrell
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences; Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Kimberly D Rhodes
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences; Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Andres Duarte-Rojo
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences; Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
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Scolnick B. Treatment of anorexia nervosa with palmitoylethanoamide. Med Hypotheses 2018; 116:54-60. [PMID: 29857912 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2018.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2018] [Revised: 04/09/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Scolnick
- Boston University, Dept of Psychological and Brain Sciences, 64 Cummington Street, Boston, MA 02215, United States.
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Dibba P, Li A, Cholankeril G, Iqbal U, Gadiparthi C, Khan MA, Kim D, Ahmed A. Mechanistic Potential and Therapeutic Implications of Cannabinoids in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. MEDICINES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2018; 5:E47. [PMID: 29843404 PMCID: PMC6023518 DOI: 10.3390/medicines5020047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2018] [Revised: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 05/24/2018] [Indexed: 04/11/2023]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is comprised of nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). It is defined by histologic or radiographic evidence of steatosis in the absence of alternative etiologies, including significant alcohol consumption, steatogenic medication use, or hereditary disorders. NAFLD is now the most common liver disease, and when NASH is present it can progress to fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Different mechanisms have been identified as contributors to the physiology of NAFLD; insulin resistance and related metabolic derangements have been the hallmark of physiology associated with NAFLD. The mainstay of treatment has classically involved lifestyle modifications focused on the reduction of insulin resistance. However, emerging evidence suggests that the endocannabinoid system and its associated cannabinoid receptors and ligands have mechanistic and therapeutic implications in metabolic derangements and specifically in NAFLD. Cannabinoid receptor 1 antagonism has demonstrated promising effects with increased resistance to hepatic steatosis, reversal of hepatic steatosis, and improvements in glycemic control, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia. Literature regarding the role of cannabinoid receptor 2 in NAFLD is controversial. Exocannabinoids and endocannabinoids have demonstrated some therapeutic impact on metabolic derangements associated with NAFLD, although literature regarding direct therapeutic use in NAFLD is limited. Nonetheless, the properties of the endocannabinoid system, its receptors, substrates, and ligands remain a significant arena warranting further research, with potential for a pharmacologic intervention for a disease with an anticipated increase in economic and clinical burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratima Dibba
- Division of Gastroenterology, Women & Infants Hospital/Warren Alpert School of Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI 02905, USA.
| | - Andrew Li
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94304, USA.
| | - George Cholankeril
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94304, USA.
| | - Umair Iqbal
- Department of Medicine, Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital, Cooperstown, NY 13326, USA.
| | - Chiranjeevi Gadiparthi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA.
| | - Muhammad Ali Khan
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA.
| | - Donghee Kim
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94304, USA.
| | - Aijaz Ahmed
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94304, USA.
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de Luis DA, Mulero I, Primo D, Izaola O, Aller R. Effects of polymorphism rs3123554 in the cannabinoid receptor gene type 2 (CB2R) on metabolic and adiposity parameters after weight loss with two hypocaloric diets. Diabetes Res Clin Pract 2018. [PMID: 29518488 DOI: 10.1016/j.diabres.2018.02.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of CB2R gene variants on weight loss after a dietary intervention remained unclear. OBJECTIVE Our aim was to analyze the effects of rs3123554 of CB2R receptor gene on metabolic and adiposity parameters after two different hypocaloric diets in obese subjects. DESIGN A Caucasian population of 280 obese patients was enrolled. Patients were randomly allocated during 3 months to one of two diets (Diet I - moderate in carbohydrate. Vs Diet II - normal in carbohydrate). RESULTS In both genotype groups (GG vs GA + AA), body weight, body mass index (BMI), fat mass, waist circumference and systolic blood pressure decreased after diet I and II. The decrease of these parameters was higher in non A allele carriers than A allele carriers. Pre- and post-dietary intervention, body weight, BMI, fat mass and waist circumference were higher in A allele carriers than non A allele carriers. In non A allele carriers, the decrease of glucose, insulin, HOMA-IR and Interleukin-6 levels was higher than A allele carriers after both diets. CONCLUSION Carriers of the minor allele of rs3123554 variant of CB2R gene loose less body weight during two different hypocaloric diets. The improvement of metabolic parameters was better in no A allele carriers than A allele carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- D A de Luis
- Center of Investigation of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Medicine School and Dpt of Endocrinology and Investigation, Hospital Clinico Universitario, University of Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain.
| | - I Mulero
- Center of Investigation of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Medicine School and Dpt of Endocrinology and Investigation, Hospital Clinico Universitario, University of Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain
| | - D Primo
- Center of Investigation of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Medicine School and Dpt of Endocrinology and Investigation, Hospital Clinico Universitario, University of Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain
| | - O Izaola
- Center of Investigation of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Medicine School and Dpt of Endocrinology and Investigation, Hospital Clinico Universitario, University of Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain
| | - R Aller
- Center of Investigation of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Medicine School and Dpt of Endocrinology and Investigation, Hospital Clinico Universitario, University of Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain
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Pesce M, D'Alessandro A, Borrelli O, Gigli S, Seguella L, Cuomo R, Esposito G, Sarnelli G. Endocannabinoid-related compounds in gastrointestinal diseases. J Cell Mol Med 2017; 22:706-715. [PMID: 28990365 PMCID: PMC5783846 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.13359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2017] [Accepted: 07/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is an endogenous signalling pathway involved in the control of several gastrointestinal (GI) functions at both peripheral and central levels. In recent years, it has become apparent that the ECS is pivotal in the regulation of GI motility, secretion and sensitivity, but endocannabinoids (ECs) are also involved in the regulation of intestinal inflammation and mucosal barrier permeability, suggesting their role in the pathophysiology of both functional and organic GI disorders. Genetic studies in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease have indeed shown significant associations with polymorphisms or mutation in genes encoding for cannabinoid receptor or enzyme responsible for their catabolism, respectively. Furthermore, ongoing clinical trials are testing EC agonists/antagonists in the achievement of symptomatic relief from a number of GI symptoms. Despite this evidence, there is a lack of supportive RCTs and relevant data in human beings, and hence, the possible therapeutic application of these compounds is raising ethical, political and economic concerns. More recently, the identification of several EC-like compounds able to modulate ECS function without the typical central side effects of cannabino-mimetics has paved the way for emerging peripherally acting drugs. This review summarizes the possible mechanisms linking the ECS to GI disorders and describes the most recent advances in the manipulation of the ECS in the treatment of GI diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcella Pesce
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, 'Federico II' University of Naples, Naples, Italy.,Division of Neurogastroenterology & Motility, Great Ormond Street Hospital and University of College (UCL), London, UK
| | - Alessandra D'Alessandro
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, 'Federico II' University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Osvaldo Borrelli
- Division of Neurogastroenterology & Motility, Great Ormond Street Hospital and University of College (UCL), London, UK
| | - Stefano Gigli
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology 'Vittorio Erspamer', La Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Luisa Seguella
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology 'Vittorio Erspamer', La Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Rosario Cuomo
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, 'Federico II' University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Esposito
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology 'Vittorio Erspamer', La Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Sarnelli
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, 'Federico II' University of Naples, Naples, Italy
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Martella A, Sijben H, Rufer AC, Grether U, Fingerle J, Ullmer C, Hartung T, IJzerman AP, van der Stelt M, Heitman LH. A Novel Selective Inverse Agonist of the CB2 Receptor as a Radiolabeled Tool Compound for Kinetic Binding Studies. Mol Pharmacol 2017; 92:389-400. [DOI: 10.1124/mol.117.108605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2017] [Accepted: 07/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
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Yang CY, Chau YP, Chen A, Lee OKS, Tarng DC, Yang AH. Targeting cannabinoid signaling for peritoneal dialysis-induced oxidative stress and fibrosis. World J Nephrol 2017; 6:111-118. [PMID: 28540200 PMCID: PMC5424432 DOI: 10.5527/wjn.v6.i3.111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2016] [Revised: 01/20/2017] [Accepted: 02/20/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Long-term exposure to bioincompatible peritoneal dialysis (PD) solutions frequently results in peritoneal fibrosis and ultrafiltration failure, which limits the life-long use of and leads to the cessation of PD therapy. Therefore, it is important to elucidate the pathogenesis of peritoneal fibrosis in order to design therapeutic strategies to prevent its occurrence. Peritoneal fibrosis is associated with a chronic inflammatory status as well as an elevated oxidative stress (OS) status. Beyond uremia per se, OS also results from chronic exposure to high glucose load, glucose degradation products, advanced glycation end products, and hypertonic stress. Therapy targeting the cannabinoid (CB) signaling pathway has been reported in several chronic inflammatory diseases with elevated OS. We recently reported that the intra-peritoneal administration of CB receptor ligands, including CB1 receptor antagonists and CB2 receptor agonists, ameliorated dialysis-related peritoneal fibrosis. As targeting the CB signaling pathway has been reported to be beneficial in attenuating the processes of several chronic inflammatory diseases, we reviewed the interaction among the cannabinoid system, inflammation, and OS, through which clinicians ultimately aim to prolong the peritoneal survival of PD patients.
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Kamikubo R, Kai K, Tsuji-Naito K, Akagawa M. β-Caryophyllene attenuates palmitate-induced lipid accumulation through AMPK signaling by activating CB2 receptor in human HepG2 hepatocytes. Mol Nutr Food Res 2016; 60:2228-2242. [PMID: 27234712 DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.201600197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2016] [Revised: 05/01/2016] [Accepted: 05/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
SCOPE Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is currently the most common chronic liver disease worldwide, characterized by excessive hepatic lipid accumulation without significant ethanol consumption. We have performed a screening for medicinal foods that inhibit hepatocytic lipid accumulation through activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which is a critical regulator of the hepatic lipid metabolism. METHODS AND RESULTS We found that clove (Syzygium aromaticum), which is commonly used as a spice, markedly inhibits palmitate-inducible lipid accumulation in human HepG2 hepatocytes. Analyses of the clove extracts found that β-caryophyllene, an orally-active cannabinoid, is the principal suppressor of the lipid accumulation, and stimulates the phosphorylation of AMPK and acetyl-CoA carboxylase 1 (ACC1). Our data also showed that β-caryophyllene prevents the translocation of sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1c (SREBP-1c) into the nucleus and forkhead box protein O1 (FoxO1) into the cytoplasm through AMPK signaling, and consequently, induces a significant downregulation of fatty acid synthase (FAS) and upregulation of adipose triglyceride lipase, respectively. Moreover, we demonstrated that the β-caryophyllene-induced activation of AMPK could be mediated by the cannabinoid type 2 receptor-dependent Ca2+ signaling pathway. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that β-caryophyllene has the potential efficacy in preventing and ameliorating nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and its associated metabolic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryosuke Kamikubo
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Division of Applied Life Sciences, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, Sakai, Japan
| | - Kenji Kai
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Division of Applied Life Sciences, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, Sakai, Japan
| | | | - Mitsugu Akagawa
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Division of Applied Life Sciences, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, Sakai, Japan.
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Zhang J, Dai EH, Jiang HQ. Cannabinoid receptor 2 and several digestive system diseases. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2016; 24:400-407. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v24.i3.400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system is made up of endocannabinoid, cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) and cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2). A multitude of physiological effects and putative pathophysiological roles have been proposed for the endogenous cannabinoid system in the gastrointestinal tract, liver, pancreas and tumors. This paper aims to review the endocannabinoid system and the relations of CB2 with irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, pancreatitis, hepatic disease and digestive system tumors.
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Nettekoven M, Adam JM, Bendels S, Bissantz C, Fingerle J, Grether U, Grüner S, Guba W, Kimbara A, Ottaviani G, Püllmann B, Rogers-Evans M, Röver S, Rothenhäusler B, Schmitt S, Schuler F, Schulz-Gasch T, Ullmer C. Novel Triazolopyrimidine-Derived Cannabinoid Receptor 2 Agonists as Potential Treatment for Inflammatory Kidney Diseases. ChemMedChem 2015; 11:179-89. [DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.201500218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2015] [Revised: 06/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Nettekoven
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development; Small-Molecule Research; Roche Innovation Center Basel; Grenzacher Str. 124 4070 Basel Switzerland
| | - Jean-Michel Adam
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development; Small-Molecule Research; Roche Innovation Center Basel; Grenzacher Str. 124 4070 Basel Switzerland
| | - Stefanie Bendels
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development; Small-Molecule Research; Roche Innovation Center Basel; Grenzacher Str. 124 4070 Basel Switzerland
| | - Catarina Bissantz
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development; Small-Molecule Research; Roche Innovation Center Basel; Grenzacher Str. 124 4070 Basel Switzerland
| | - Jürgen Fingerle
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development; Discovery Biology; Roche Innovation Center Basel; Grenzacher Str. 124 4070 Basel Switzerland
| | - Uwe Grether
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development; Small-Molecule Research; Roche Innovation Center Basel; Grenzacher Str. 124 4070 Basel Switzerland
| | - Sabine Grüner
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development; Discovery Biology; Roche Innovation Center Basel; Grenzacher Str. 124 4070 Basel Switzerland
| | - Wolfgang Guba
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development; Small-Molecule Research; Roche Innovation Center Basel; Grenzacher Str. 124 4070 Basel Switzerland
| | - Atsushi Kimbara
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development; Small-Molecule Research; Roche Innovation Center Basel; Grenzacher Str. 124 4070 Basel Switzerland
| | - Giorgio Ottaviani
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, DMPK; Roche Innovation Center Basel; Grenzacher Str. 124 4070 Basel Switzerland
| | - Bernd Püllmann
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development; Small-Molecule Research; Roche Innovation Center Basel; Grenzacher Str. 124 4070 Basel Switzerland
| | - Mark Rogers-Evans
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development; Small-Molecule Research; Roche Innovation Center Basel; Grenzacher Str. 124 4070 Basel Switzerland
| | - Stephan Röver
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development; Small-Molecule Research; Roche Innovation Center Basel; Grenzacher Str. 124 4070 Basel Switzerland
| | - Benno Rothenhäusler
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, DMPK; Roche Innovation Center Basel; Grenzacher Str. 124 4070 Basel Switzerland
| | - Sebastien Schmitt
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development; Small-Molecule Research; Roche Innovation Center Basel; Grenzacher Str. 124 4070 Basel Switzerland
| | - Franz Schuler
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, DMPK; Roche Innovation Center Basel; Grenzacher Str. 124 4070 Basel Switzerland
| | - Tanja Schulz-Gasch
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development; Small-Molecule Research; Roche Innovation Center Basel; Grenzacher Str. 124 4070 Basel Switzerland
| | - Christoph Ullmer
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development; Discovery Biology; Roche Innovation Center Basel; Grenzacher Str. 124 4070 Basel Switzerland
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Moris D, Georgopoulos S, Felekouras E, Patsouris E, Theocharis S. The effect of endocannabinoid system in ischemia-reperfusion injury: a friend or a foe? Expert Opin Ther Targets 2015; 19:1261-75. [PMID: 25936364 DOI: 10.1517/14728222.2015.1043268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In recent years, the endocannabinoid system has emerged as a new therapeutic target in variety of disorders associated with inflammation and tissue injury, including those of the neuronal, liver, renal and cardiovascular system. The aim of the present review is to elucidate the effect of endocannabinoid system on ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI) in different organs and systems. AREAS COVERED The MEDLINE/PubMed database was searched for publications with the medical subject heading Cannabinoids* (CBs), CB receptors*, organ*, ischemia/reperfusion injury*, endocannabinoid* and system*. The initial relevant studies retrieved from the literature were 91 from PubMed. This number was initially limited to 35, after excluding the reviews and studies reporting data for receptors other than cannabinoid. EXPERT OPINION CB2 receptors may play an important compensatory role in controlling tissue inflammation and injury in cells of the neuronal, cardiovascular, liver and renal systems, as well as in infiltrating monocytes/macrophages and leukocytes during various pathological conditions of the systems (atherosclerosis, restenosis, stroke, myocardial infarction, heart, liver and renal failure). These receptors limit inflammation and associated tissue injury. On the basis of preclinical results, pharmacological modulation of CB2 receptors may hold a unique therapeutic potential in stroke, myocardial infarction, atherosclerosis, IRI and liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Demetrios Moris
- National and Kapodistrian University of Athens , Anastasiou Gennadiou 56, 11474, Athens , Greece +30 210 6440590 ;
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Tomar S, Zumbrun EE, Nagarkatti M, Nagarkatti PS. Protective role of cannabinoid receptor 2 activation in galactosamine/lipopolysaccharide-induced acute liver failure through regulation of macrophage polarization and microRNAs. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2015; 353:369-79. [PMID: 25749929 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.114.220368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute liver failure (ALF) is a potentially life-threatening disorder without any effective treatment strategies. d-Galactosamine (GalN)/lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALF is a widely used animal model to identify novel hepato-protective agents. In the present study, we investigated the potential of a cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) agonist, JWH-133 [(6aR,10aR)-3-(1,1-dimethylbutyl)-6a,7,10,10a-tetrahydro-6,6,9-trimethyl-6H-dibenzo[b,d]pyran], in the amelioration of GalN/LPS-induced ALF. JWH-133 treatment protected the mice from ALF-associated mortality, mitigated alanine transaminase and proinflammatory cytokines, suppressed histopathological and apoptotic liver damage, and reduced liver infiltration of mononuclear cells (MNCs). Furthermore, JWH-133 pretreatment of M1/M2-polarized macrophages significantly increased the secretion of anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-10 (IL-10) in M1 macrophages and potentiated the expression of M2 markers in M2-polarized macrophages. In vivo, JWH-133 treatment also suppressed ALF-triggered expression of M1 markers in liver MNCs, while increasing the expression of M2 markers such as Arg1 and IL-10. microRNA (miR) microarray analysis revealed that JWH-133 treatment altered the expression of only a few miRs in the liver MNCs. Gene ontology analysis of the targets of miRs suggested that Toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling was among the most significantly targeted cellular pathways. Among the altered miRs, miR-145 was found to be the most significantly decreased. This finding correlated with concurrent upregulated expression of its predicted target gene, interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 3, a negative regulator of TLR4 signaling. Together, these data are the first to demonstrate that CB2 activation attenuates GalN/LPS-induced ALF by inducing an M1 to M2 shift in macrophages and by regulating the expression of unique miRs that target key molecules involved in the TLR4 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunil Tomar
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, South Carolina (S.T., E.E.Z., M.N., P.S.N.); and Wm. Jennings Bryan Dorn Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Columbia, South Carolina (M.N.)
| | - Elizabeth E Zumbrun
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, South Carolina (S.T., E.E.Z., M.N., P.S.N.); and Wm. Jennings Bryan Dorn Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Columbia, South Carolina (M.N.)
| | - Mitzi Nagarkatti
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, South Carolina (S.T., E.E.Z., M.N., P.S.N.); and Wm. Jennings Bryan Dorn Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Columbia, South Carolina (M.N.)
| | - Prakash S Nagarkatti
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, South Carolina (S.T., E.E.Z., M.N., P.S.N.); and Wm. Jennings Bryan Dorn Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Columbia, South Carolina (M.N.)
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Modulating CD4+ T cell migration in the postischemic liver: hepatic stellate cells as new therapeutic target? Transplantation 2015; 99:41-7. [PMID: 25360872 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000000461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CD4+ T cells play a critical role during hepatic ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury although the mechanisms of their migration in the postischemic liver remain unclear. We answered the questions of whether hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) interact with CD4+ T cells during I/R of the liver and whether modulation of HSC activity affects T cell-dependent I/R injury. METHODS In mice, migration of CD4+ T cells was analyzed in vivo using conventional intravital microscopy and two-photon microscopy. CD4+ T cell-HSC interactions were visualized after infusion of fluorescence-labeled CD4+ T cells into Cx3CR1 mice (mice exhibiting GFP-labeled HSCs) after I/R. Because the activation of HSC is controlled by endocannabinoid receptors, CB-1 and CB-2, the mice received treatment before I/R with the CB-2 agonist JWH-133 to reach HSC depletion or the CB-1 agonist arachidonylcyclopropylamide to activate HSCs. Sinusoidal perfusion and liver transaminases were used as markers of I/R injury. RESULTS Hepatic I/R induced CD4+ T cell recruitment in sinusoids. More than 25% of adherent CD4+ T cells were colocalized with HSCs during reperfusion, suggesting a direct cell-cell interaction. The HSC deactivation with JWH-133 significantly attenuated the CD4+ T cell recruitment in the postischemic liver and reduced I/R injury as compared to the vehicle-treated group. The HSC hyperactivation by CB-1, however, did not affect T-cell migration and even increased perfusion failure. CONCLUSION Our in vivo data suggest that CD4+ T cells interact with HSCs on their migration into the hepatic parenchyma, and a depletion or deactivation of HSCs protects the liver from T cell-dependent I/R injury.
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Harnett JJ, Dolo C, Viossat I, Auger F, Ferrandis E, Bigg D, Auguet M, Auvin S, Chabrier PE. Novel azoles as potent and selective cannabinoid CB2 receptor agonists. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2015; 25:88-91. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2014.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2014] [Revised: 10/28/2014] [Accepted: 11/01/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Dhopeshwarkar A, Mackie K. CB2 Cannabinoid receptors as a therapeutic target-what does the future hold? Mol Pharmacol 2014; 86:430-7. [PMID: 25106425 DOI: 10.1124/mol.114.094649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 186] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The past decades have seen an exponential rise in our understanding of the endocannabinoid system, comprising CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors, endogenous cannabinoids (endocannabinoids), and the enzymes that synthesize and degrade endocannabinoids. The primary focus of this review is the CB2 receptor. CB2 receptors have been the subject of considerable attention, primarily due to their promising therapeutic potential for treating various pathologies while avoiding the adverse psychotropic effects that can accompany CB1 receptor-based therapies. With the appreciation that CB2-selective ligands show marked functional selectivity, there is a renewed opportunity to explore this promising area of research from both a mechanistic as well as a therapeutic perspective. In this review, we summarize our present knowledge of CB2 receptor signaling, localization, and regulation. We discuss the availability of genetic tools (and their limitations) to study CB2 receptors and also provide an update on preclinical data on CB2 agonists in pain models. Finally, we suggest possible reasons for the failure of CB2 ligands in clinical pain trials and offer possible ways to move the field forward in a way that can help reconcile the inconsistencies between preclinical and clinical data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amey Dhopeshwarkar
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences and Gill Center, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana
| | - Ken Mackie
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences and Gill Center, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana
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Endocannabinoid receptors gene expression in morbidly obese women with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:502542. [PMID: 24864249 PMCID: PMC4017805 DOI: 10.1155/2014/502542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2014] [Accepted: 03/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Background. Recent reports suggest a role for the endocannabinoid system in the pathology of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between liver expression of cannabinoid (CB) receptor subtypes, CB1 and CB2, in morbidly obese (MO) women with different histological stages of NAFLD. Methods. We analysed hepatic CB1 and CB2 mRNA expression, and the expression of genes involved in lipid metabolism in 72 MO women, subclassified by liver histology into MO with normal liver (NL, n = 16), simple steatosis (SS, n = 28), and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH, n = 28) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and RT-PCR. Results. We found that CB1 mRNA expression was significantly higher in NASH compared with SS and correlated negatively with PPARα. Regarding CB2, CB2 mRNA expression correlated positively with ACC1, PPARγ, IL6, TNFα, resistin, and adiponectin. Conclusions. The increased expression of CB1 in NASH and the negative correlation with PPARα suggest a deleterious role of CB1 in NAFLD. Regarding CB2, its positive correlation with the anti-inflammatory molecule adiponectin and, paradoxically, with inflammatory genes suggests that this receptor has a dual role. Taken together, our results suggest that endocannabinoid receptors might be involved in the pathogenesis of NAFLD, a finding which justifies further study.
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Wei Y, Kang XL, Wang X. The peripheral cannabinoid receptor 1 antagonist VD60 efficiently inhibits carbon tetrachloride-intoxicated hepatic fibrosis progression. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2014; 239:183-92. [PMID: 24459189 DOI: 10.1177/1535370213514922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
This study investigated a peripheral selective CB₁ antagonist 3,4,22-3-demethoxycarbonyl-3-hydroxylmethyl-4-deacetyl-vindoline 3,4-thionocarbonate (VD60) that efficiently inhibited hepatic fibrosis with lower psychological side effects. A competitive radiolabeled ligand binding experiment and 3'-5'-cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) response element-driven luciferase analysis were performed to evaluate the antagonistic activity of VD60. Cell viability and collagen production were examined in the human hepatic stellate cell (HSC) line LX-2 and primary cultured rat HSCs. The antifibrotic effects of VD60 were investigated in a CCl₄-induced liver fibrosis mouse model. The concentration of VD60 in the blood and the brain was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrum analysis. Furthermore, the potential underlying mechanisms of VD60 were investigated by Western blot. VD60 selectively competed with the radiolabeled CB1 agonist to bind to CB1. VD60 antagonized CB1 agonist-induced Akt phosphorylation and increased the accumulation of intracellular cAMP. VD60 strongly reduced the expression of α₂(I) pro-collagen mRNA and exerted potent antiproliferative effects on primary HSCs and LX-2 cells. The inhibition of reactive oxygen species production and phosphorylation of Akt, extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (ERK), and Smad3 may explain the underlying mechanisms behind the antiproliferative effect of VD60. Moreover, the in vivo antifibrotic activity of VD60 was confirmed in a CCl4-induced liver fibrosis mouse model. Most importantly, the concentration of VD60 in the peripheral blood was much higher than in the brain, suggesting that VD60 could act as a novel peripheral CB1 antagonist to efficiently inhibit hepatic fibrosis and could be used as a lead compound with low brain side effects in peripheral antifibrotic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wei
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200093, People's Republic of China
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Abstract
Over the last decade, the endocannabinoid system has emerged as a pivotal mediator of acute and chronic liver injury, with the description of the role of CB1 and CB2 receptors and their endogenous lipidic ligands in various aspects of liver pathophysiology. A large number of studies have demonstrated that CB1 receptor antagonists represent an important therapeutic target, owing to beneficial effects on lipid metabolism and in light of its antifibrogenic properties. Unfortunately, the brain-penetrant CB1 antagonist rimonabant, initially approved for the management of overweight and related cardiometabolic risks, was withdrawn because of an alarming rate of mood adverse effects. However, the efficacy of peripherally-restricted CB1 antagonists with limited brain penetrance has now been validated in preclinical models of NAFLD, and beneficial effects on fibrosis and its complications are anticipated. CB2 receptor is currently considered as a promising anti-inflammatory and antifibrogenic target, although clinical development of CB2 agonists is still awaited. In this review, we highlight the latest advances on the impact of the endocannabinoid system on the key steps of chronic liver disease progression and discuss the therapeutic potential of molecules targeting cannabinoid receptors.
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Steib CJ, Gmelin L, Pfeiler S, Schewe J, Brand S, Göke B, Gerbes AL. Functional relevance of the cannabinoid receptor 2 - heme oxygenase pathway: a novel target for the attenuation of portal hypertension. Life Sci 2013; 93:543-51. [PMID: 24007798 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2013.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2013] [Revised: 08/13/2013] [Accepted: 08/20/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
AIMS In liver cirrhosis, inflammation triggers portal hypertension. Kupffer cells (KC) produce vasoconstrictors upon activation by bacterial constituents. Here, we hypothesize that the anti-inflammatory action of the cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) agonists JWH-133 and GP 1a attenuate portal hypertension. MAIN METHODS In vivo measurements of portal pressures and non-recirculating liver perfusions were performed in rats 4weeks after bile duct ligation (BDL). Zymosan (150μg/ml, isolated liver perfusion) or LPS (4mg/kgb.w., in vivo) was infused to activate the KC in the absence or presence of JWH-133 (10mg/kgb.w.), GP 1a (2.5mg/kgb.w.) or ZnPP IX (1μM). Isolated KC were treated with Zymosan (0.5mg/ml) in addition to JWH-133 (5μM). The thromboxane (TX) B2 levels in the perfusate and KC media were determined by ELISA. Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and CB2 were analyzed by Western blot or confocal microscopy. KEY FINDINGS JWH-133 or GP 1a pre-treatment attenuated portal pressures following KC activation in all experimental settings. In parallel, HO-1 expression increased with JWH-133 pre-treatment. However, the inhibition of HO-1 enhanced portal hypertension, indicating the functional role of this novel pathway. In isolated KC, the expression of CB2 and HO-1 increased with Zymosan, LPS and JWH-133 treatment while TXB2 production following KC activation was attenuated by JWH-133 pre-treatment. SIGNIFICANCE JWH-133 or GP 1a treatment attenuates portal hypertension. HO-1 induction by JWH-133 plays a functional role. Therefore, the administration of JWH-133 or GP 1a represents a promising new treatment option for portal hypertension triggered by microbiological products.
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Key Words
- (6aR,10aR)-3-(1,1-dimethylbutyl)-6a,7,10,10a-tetrahydro-6,6,9-trimethyl-6H-dibenzo[b,d]pyran
- 2-Chloro-5-nitro-N-phenylbenzamide
- BDL
- Bile duct ligation (BDL)
- CB(2)
- GW 9662
- Gp 1a
- HO
- Heme oxygenase (HO)
- JWH-133
- KC
- Kupffer cell
- LDH
- LPS
- N-(Piperidin-1-yl)-1-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,4-dihydro-6-methylindeno[1,2-c]pyrazole-3-carboxamide
- TLR
- TX
- Thromboxane
- Zy
- Zymosan A
- b. w
- bile duct ligation
- body weight
- cannabinoid receptor 2
- heme oxygenase
- lactate dehydrogenase
- lipopolysaccharide
- thromboxane
- toll like receptor
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian J Steib
- Department of Medicine II (Gastroenterology and Hepatology), Liver Center Munich, University of Munich, Grosshadern, Munich, Germany.
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Pacher P, Kunos G. Modulating the endocannabinoid system in human health and disease--successes and failures. FEBS J 2013; 280:1918-43. [PMID: 23551849 PMCID: PMC3684164 DOI: 10.1111/febs.12260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 270] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2013] [Revised: 03/11/2013] [Accepted: 03/19/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The discovery of the endocannabinoid system, comprising the G-protein coupled cannabinoid 1 and 2 receptors (CB1/2), their endogenous lipid ligands or endocannabinoids, and synthetic and metabolizing enzymes, has triggered an avalanche of experimental studies implicating the endocannabinoid system in a growing number of physiological/pathological functions. These studies have also suggested that modulating the activity of the endocannabinoid system holds therapeutic promise for a broad range of diseases, including neurodegenerative, cardiovascular and inflammatory disorders; obesity/metabolic syndrome; cachexia; chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting; and tissue injury and pain, amongst others. However, clinical trials with globally acting CB1 antagonists in obesity/metabolic syndrome, and other studies with peripherally-restricted CB1/2 agonists and inhibitors of the endocannabinoid metabolizing enzyme in pain, have introduced unexpected complexities, suggesting that a better understanding of the pathophysiological role of the endocannabinoid system is required to devise clinically successful treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pál Pacher
- Laboratory of Physiologic Studies, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-9413, USA.
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Pertwee RG. Targeting the endocannabinoid system with cannabinoid receptor agonists: pharmacological strategies and therapeutic possibilities. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2013; 367:3353-63. [PMID: 23108552 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2011.0381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 259] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Human tissues express cannabinoid CB(1) and CB(2) receptors that can be activated by endogenously released 'endocannabinoids' or exogenously administered compounds in a manner that reduces the symptoms or opposes the underlying causes of several disorders in need of effective therapy. Three medicines that activate cannabinoid CB(1)/CB(2) receptors are now in the clinic: Cesamet (nabilone), Marinol (dronabinol; Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ(9)-THC)) and Sativex (Δ(9)-THC with cannabidiol). These can be prescribed for the amelioration of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (Cesamet and Marinol), stimulation of appetite (Marinol) and symptomatic relief of cancer pain and/or management of neuropathic pain and spasticity in adults with multiple sclerosis (Sativex). This review mentions several possible additional therapeutic targets for cannabinoid receptor agonists. These include other kinds of pain, epilepsy, anxiety, depression, Parkinson's and Huntington's diseases, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, stroke, cancer, drug dependence, glaucoma, autoimmune uveitis, osteoporosis, sepsis, and hepatic, renal, intestinal and cardiovascular disorders. It also describes potential strategies for improving the efficacy and/or benefit-to-risk ratio of these agonists in the clinic. These are strategies that involve (i) targeting cannabinoid receptors located outside the blood-brain barrier, (ii) targeting cannabinoid receptors expressed by a particular tissue, (iii) targeting upregulated cannabinoid receptors, (iv) selectively targeting cannabinoid CB(2) receptors, and/or (v) adjunctive 'multi-targeting'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger G Pertwee
- School of Medical Sciences, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, UK.
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Nettekoven M, Fingerle J, Grether U, Grüner S, Kimbara A, Püllmann B, Rogers-Evans M, Röver S, Schuler F, Schulz-Gasch T, Ullmer C. Highly potent and selective cannabinoid receptor 2 agonists: Initial hit optimization of an adamantyl hit series identified from high-through-put screening. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2013; 23:1177-81. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2013.01.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2012] [Revised: 01/09/2013] [Accepted: 01/12/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Yang CY, Chau YP, Lee HT, Kuo HY, Lee OK, Yang AH. Cannabinoid receptors as therapeutic targets for dialysis-induced peritoneal fibrosis. Am J Nephrol 2013; 37:50-8. [PMID: 23296044 DOI: 10.1159/000345726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2012] [Accepted: 11/07/2012] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Long-term exposure to bioincompatible peritoneal dialysis solutions is frequently complicated with peritoneal fibrosis and ultrafiltration failure. As cannabinoid receptor (CBR) ligands have been reported to be beneficial to ameliorate the process of liver fibrosis, we strove to investigate their therapeutic potential to prevent peritoneal fibrosis. METHODS We used the rat model of peritoneal fibrosis induced by intraperitoneal injection of methylglyoxal and in vitro mesothelial cell culture to test the effects of CBR ligands, including the type 1 CBR (CB(1)R) antagonist and the type 2 CBR (CB(2)R) agonist. RESULTS In the methylglyoxal model, both intraperitoneal CB(1)R antagonist (AM281) and CB(2)R agonist (AM1241) treatment significantly ameliorated peritoneal fibrosis. In addition, CB(1)R antagonist was able to alleviate TGF-β(1)-induced dedifferentiation of mesothelial cells and to maintain epithelial integrity in vitro. CONCLUSIONS Intraperitoneal administration of CBR ligands (CB(1)R antagonist and CB(2)R agonist) offers a potential therapeutic strategy to reduce dialysis-induced peritoneal fibrosis and to prolong the peritoneal survival in peritoneal dialysis patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Yu Yang
- Division of Nephrology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
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Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a major cause of liver morbidity and mortality with no proven effective therapy as of yet. Its prevalence is increasing globally in parallel with obesity and metabolic syndrome pandemic. The endocannabinoid (EC) system has been implicated in the pathogenesis of several diseases, including fatty liver diseases. This system refers to the cannabinoid receptors type 1 (CB1) and type 2 (CB2), with both their endogenous ligands and machinery dedicated to EC synthesis and degradation. There is accumulating evidence on the role CB1 as a key mediator of insulin resistance and liver lipogenesis in both animals and humans. On the other hand, CB2 receptors have been shown to promote inflammation with anti-fibrogenic properties. The pharmacological modulation of the EC system activity for the treatment of metabolic syndrome and NAFLD are promising yet premature. The initial limited success due to deleterious central nervous system side-effects are likely to be bypassed with the use of peripherally restricted drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khalid A. Alswat
- Department of Medicine, Liver Disease Research Center, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia,Address for correspondence: Dr. Khalid A. Alswat, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Liver Disease Research Center, King Saud University, P.O. Box 7805, Riyadh 11472, Saudi Arabia. E-mail:
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Horváth B, Magid L, Mukhopadhyay P, Bátkai S, Rajesh M, Park O, Tanchian G, Gao RY, Goodfellow CE, Glass M, Mechoulam R, Pacher P. A new cannabinoid CB2 receptor agonist HU-910 attenuates oxidative stress, inflammation and cell death associated with hepatic ischaemia/reperfusion injury. Br J Pharmacol 2012; 165:2462-78. [PMID: 21449982 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01381.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Cannabinoid CB(2) receptor activation has been reported to attenuate myocardial, cerebral and hepatic ischaemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH We have investigated the effects of a novel CB(2) receptor agonist ((1S,4R)-2-(2,6-dimethoxy-4-(2-methyloctan-2-yl)phenyl)-7,7-dimethylbicyclo[2.2.1]hept-2-en-1-yl)methanol (HU-910) on liver injury induced by 1 h of ischaemia followed by 2, 6 or 24 h of reperfusion, using a well-established mouse model of segmental hepatic I/R. KEY RESULTS Displacement of [(3) H]CP55940 by HU-910 from specific binding sites in CHO cell membranes transfected with human CB(2) or CB(1) receptors (hCB(1/2) ) yielded K(i) values of 6 nM and 1.4 µM respectively. HU-910 inhibited forskolin-stimulated cyclic AMP production by hCB(2) CHO cells (EC(50) = 162 nM) and yielded EC(50) of 26.4 nM in [(35) S]GTPγS binding assays using hCB(2) expressing CHO membranes. HU-910 given before ischaemia significantly attenuated levels of I/R-induced hepatic pro-inflammatory chemokines (CCL3 and CXCL2), TNF-α, inter-cellular adhesion molecule-1, neutrophil infiltration, oxidative stress and cell death. Some of the beneficial effect of HU-910 also persisted when given at the beginning of the reperfusion or 1 h after the ischaemic episode. Furthermore, HU-910 attenuated the bacterial endotoxin-triggered TNF-α production in isolated Kupffer cells and expression of adhesion molecules in primary human liver sinusoidal endothelial cells stimulated with TNF-α. Pretreatment with a CB(2) receptor antagonist attenuated the protective effects of HU-910, while pretreatment with a CB(1) antagonist tended to enhance them. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS HU-910 is a potent CB(2) receptor agonist which may exert protective effects in various diseases associated with inflammation and tissue injury. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Cannabinoids in Biology and Medicine. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2012.165.issue-8. To view Part I of Cannabinoids in Biology and Medicine visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2011.163.issue-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bėla Horváth
- Laboratory of Physiologic Studies Liver Disease, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-9413, USA
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Aguirre CA, Castillo VA, Llanos MN. Excess of the endocannabinoid anandamide during lactation induces overweight, fat accumulation and insulin resistance in adult mice. Diabetol Metab Syndr 2012; 4:35. [PMID: 22823902 PMCID: PMC3439322 DOI: 10.1186/1758-5996-4-35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2012] [Accepted: 07/23/2012] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Environmental conditions in early life can induce permanent physiological changes, sometimes increasing the risk of chronic diseases during adulthood. Neural and peripheral circuits controlling energy balance may be modulated during such a critical period. Since type 1 cannabinoid receptors (CB1R) have recently emerged as targets for modulating energy balance, their premature chronic activation during early life may result in long-term metabolic consequences associated to overweight/obesity. Endogenous activation of CB1R mainly occurs after binding to the endocannabinoid Anandamide (AEA). OBJECTIVE To evaluate long-term effects of AEA treatment during lactation on body weight, epididymal fat accumulation and related metabolic parameters during adulthood. DESIGN Male mice pups were orally treated with a solution of AEA (20 μg/g body weight in soy oil) or vehicle during the whole lactation period. After weaning, food intake and body weight were recorded every 10 days. Adult animals were subjected to glucose and insulin tolerance tests. Subsequently, animals were sacrificed and epididymal fat pads were extracted. Circulating levels of plasma insulin, leptin, non-sterified fatty acids (NEFA), triglyceride and cholesterol were also evaluated. RESULTS AEA-treated mice during lactation showed a significant increase in accumulated food intake, body weight and epididymal fat during adulthood when compared to control mice. When evaluating CB1R protein expression in epididymal fat, the AEA-treated group showed a 150 % increase in expression compared to the control mice. This group also displayed significantly higher levels of circulating glucose, insulin, leptin, triglycerides, cholesterol and NEFA. Moreover, a marked state of insulin resistance was an important finding in the AEA-treated group. CONCLUSION This study showed that overweight, accumulation of visceral fat and associated metabolic disturbances, such as a higher lipid profile and insulin resistance, can be programmed by a treatment with the endocannabinoid AEA during lactation in adult mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina A Aguirre
- Laboratorio de Nutrición y Regulación Metabólica, Instituto de Nutrición y Tecnología de los Alimentos (INTA), Universidad de Chile, Casilla 138-11, El Líbano, 5524 Santiago, Chile
| | - Valeska A Castillo
- Laboratorio de Nutrición y Regulación Metabólica, Instituto de Nutrición y Tecnología de los Alimentos (INTA), Universidad de Chile, Casilla 138-11, El Líbano, 5524 Santiago, Chile
| | - Miguel N Llanos
- Laboratorio de Nutrición y Regulación Metabólica, Instituto de Nutrición y Tecnología de los Alimentos (INTA), Universidad de Chile, Casilla 138-11, El Líbano, 5524 Santiago, Chile
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Rational design, synthesis and anti-proliferative properties of new CB2 selective cannabinoid receptor ligands: an investigation of the 1,8-naphthyridin-2(1H)-one scaffold. Eur J Med Chem 2012; 52:284-94. [PMID: 22483967 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2012.03.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2011] [Revised: 03/13/2012] [Accepted: 03/15/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
CB2 receptor ligands are becoming increasingly attractive drugs due to the potential role of this receptor in several physiopathological processes. Using our previously described series of 1,8-naphthyridin-2(1H)-on-3-carboxamides as a lead class, several nitrogen heterocyclic derivatives, characterized by different central cores, were synthesized and tested for their affinity toward the human CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors. The obtained results suggest that the new series of quinolin-2(1H)-on-3-carboxamides, 4-hydroxy-2-oxo-1,2-dihydro-1,8-naphthyridine-3-carboxamides and 1,2-dihydro-2-oxopyridine-3-carboxamides represent novel scaffolds very suitable for the development of promising CB2 ligands. Furthermore, the newly synthesized CB2 ligands inhibit proliferation of several cancer cell lines. In particular, it was demonstrated that in DU-145 cell line these ligands exert a CB2-mediated anti-proliferative action and decrease the CB2 receptor expression levels.
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