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Zhao H, Liu Y, Cai N, Liao X, Tang L, Wang Y. Endocannabinoid Hydrolase Inhibitors: Potential Novel Anxiolytic Drugs. Drug Des Devel Ther 2024; 18:2143-2167. [PMID: 38882045 PMCID: PMC11179644 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s462785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Over the past decade, the idea of targeting the endocannabinoid system to treat anxiety disorders has received increasing attention. Previous studies focused more on developing cannabinoid receptor agonists or supplementing exogenous cannabinoids, which are prone to various adverse effects due to their strong pharmacological activity and poor receptor selectivity, limiting their application in clinical research. Endocannabinoid hydrolase inhibitors are considered to be the most promising development strategies for the treatment of anxiety disorders. More recent efforts have emphasized that inhibition of two major endogenous cannabinoid hydrolases, monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) and fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), indirectly activates cannabinoid receptors by increasing endogenous cannabinoid levels in the synaptic gap, circumventing receptor desensitization resulting from direct enhancement of endogenous cannabinoid signaling. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the anxiolytic effects of MAGL and FAAH inhibitors and their potential pharmacological mechanisms, highlight reported novel inhibitors or natural products, and provide an outlook on future directions in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongqing Zhao
- Science & Technology Innovation Center, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prevention & Treatment of Depressive Diseases, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Liu
- Science & Technology Innovation Center, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prevention & Treatment of Depressive Diseases, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Na Cai
- Outpatient Department, the First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaolin Liao
- Science & Technology Innovation Center, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prevention & Treatment of Depressive Diseases, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Lin Tang
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prevention & Treatment of Depressive Diseases, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuhong Wang
- Science & Technology Innovation Center, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prevention & Treatment of Depressive Diseases, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
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2
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Jana A, Nath A, Sen P, Kundu S, Alghamdi BS, Abujamel TS, Saboor M, Woon-Khiong C, Alexiou A, Papadakis M, Alam MZ, Ashraf GM. Unraveling the Endocannabinoid System: Exploring Its Therapeutic Potential in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Neuromolecular Med 2024; 26:20. [PMID: 38744725 PMCID: PMC11093854 DOI: 10.1007/s12017-024-08781-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
The salient features of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) encompass persistent difficulties in social communication, as well as the presence of restricted and repetitive facets of behavior, hobbies, or pursuits, which are often accompanied with cognitive limitations. Over the past few decades, a sizable number of studies have been conducted to enhance our understanding of the pathophysiology of ASD. Preclinical rat models have proven to be extremely valuable in simulating and analyzing the roles of a wide range of established environmental and genetic factors. Recent research has also demonstrated the significant involvement of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the pathogenesis of several neuropsychiatric diseases, including ASD. In fact, the ECS has the potential to regulate a multitude of metabolic and cellular pathways associated with autism, including the immune system. Moreover, the ECS has emerged as a promising target for intervention with high predictive validity. Particularly noteworthy are resent preclinical studies in rodents, which describe the onset of ASD-like symptoms after various genetic or pharmacological interventions targeting the ECS, providing encouraging evidence for further exploration in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankit Jana
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117558, Singapore
| | - Arnab Nath
- Department of Developmental Biology and Genetics, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka, 560012, India
| | - Palash Sen
- School of Biosciences, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, West Bengal, 721302, India
| | - Swikriti Kundu
- Siksha Bhavana, Visva-Bharati University, Bolpur, West Bengal, 731235, India
| | - Badrah S Alghamdi
- Pre-Clinical Research Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Physiology, Neuroscience Unit, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Turki S Abujamel
- Vaccines and Immunotherapy Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Saboor
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Health Sciences, and Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Chan Woon-Khiong
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117558, Singapore
| | - Athanasios Alexiou
- University Centre for Research & Development, Chandigarh University, Chandigarh-Ludhiana Highway, Mohali, Punjab, India
- Department of Research & Development, Funogen, Athens, Greece
- Department of Research & Development, AFNP Med, 1030, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Science and Engineering, Novel Global Community Educational Foundation, Hebersham, NSW, 2770, Australia
| | - Marios Papadakis
- Department of Surgery II, University Hospital Witten-Herdecke, University of Witten-Herdecke, Heusnerstrasse 40, 42283, Wuppertal, Germany.
| | - Mohammad Zubair Alam
- Pre-Clinical Research Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ghulam Md Ashraf
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Health Sciences, and Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.
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3
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Girella A, Di Bartolomeo M, Dainese E, Buzzelli V, Trezza V, D'Addario C. Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase and Cannabinoid Receptor Type 1 Genes Regulation is Modulated by Social Isolation in Rats. Neurochem Res 2024; 49:1278-1290. [PMID: 38368587 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-024-04117-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
Social isolation is a state of lack of social connections, involving the modulation of different molecular signalling cascades and associated with high risk of mental health issues. To investigate if and how gene expression is modulated by social experience at the central level, we analyzed the effects of 5 weeks of social isolation in rats focusing on endocannabinoid system genes transcription in key brain regions involved in emotional control. We observed selective reduction in mRNA levels for fatty acid amide hydrolase (Faah) and cannabinoid receptor type 1 (Cnr1) genes in the amygdala complex and of Cnr1 in the prefrontal cortex of socially isolated rats when compared to controls, and these changes appear to be partially driven by trimethylation of Lysine 27 and acetylation of Lysine 9 at Histone 3. The alterations of Cnr1 transcriptional regulation result also directly correlated with those of oxytocin receptor gene. We here suggest that to counteract the effects of SI, it is of relevance to restore the endocannabinoid system homeostasis via the use of environmental triggers able to revert those epigenetic mechanisms accounting for the alterations observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Girella
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via Renato Balzarini, 1, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Martina Di Bartolomeo
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via Renato Balzarini, 1, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Enrico Dainese
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via Renato Balzarini, 1, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | | | - Viviana Trezza
- Department of Science, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
- Neuroendocrinology, Metabolism and Neuropharmacology Unit, IRCSS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio D'Addario
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via Renato Balzarini, 1, 64100, Teramo, Italy.
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
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4
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Molla HM, Miguelez Fernández AMM, Tseng KY. Late-adolescent onset of prefrontal endocannabinoid control of hippocampal and amygdalar inputs and its impact on trace-fear conditioning behavior. Neuropsychopharmacology 2024:10.1038/s41386-024-01844-z. [PMID: 38467844 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-024-01844-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Prefrontal cortex (PFC) maturation during adolescence is characterized by structural and functional changes, which involve the remodeling of GABA and glutamatergic synapses, as well as changes in the endocannabinoid system. Yet, the way PFC endocannabinoid signaling interacts with local GABA and glutamatergic function to impact its processing of afferent transmission during the adolescent transition to adulthood remains unknown. Here we combined PFC local field potential recordings with local manipulations of 2-AG and anandamide levels to assess how PFC endocannabinoid signaling is recruited to modulate ventral hippocampal and basolateral amygdalar inputs in vivo in adolescent and adult male rats. We found that the PFC endocannabinoid signaling does not fully emerge until late-adolescence/young adulthood. Once present, both 2-AG and anandamide can be recruited in the PFC to limit the impact of hippocampal drive through a CB1R-mediated mechanism whereas basolateral amygdalar inputs are only inhibited by 2-AG. Similarly, the behavioral effects of increasing 2-AG and anandamide in the PFC do not emerge until late-adolescence/young adulthood. Using a trace fear conditioning paradigm, we found that elevating PFC 2-AG levels preferentially reduced freezing behavior during acquisition without affecting its extinction. In contrast, increasing anandamide levels in the PFC selectively disrupted the extinction of trace fear memory without affecting its acquisition. Collectively, these results indicate a protracted recruitment of PFC endocannabinoid signaling, which becomes online in late adolescence/young adulthood as revealed by its impact on hippocampal and amygdalar-evoked local field potential responses and trace fear memory behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna M Molla
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois Chicago - College of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | - Anabel M M Miguelez Fernández
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois Chicago - College of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | - Kuei Y Tseng
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois Chicago - College of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA.
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Zhang J, Zhang J, Yuan R, Han W, Chang Y, Kong L, Wei C, Zheng Q, Zhu X, Liu Z, Ren W, Han J. Inhibition of cannabinoid degradation enhances hippocampal contextual fear memory and exhibits anxiolytic effects. iScience 2024; 27:108919. [PMID: 38318362 PMCID: PMC10839683 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.108919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have demonstrated the pivotal involvement of endocannabinoids in regulating learning and memory, but the conclusions obtained from different paradigms or contexts are somewhat controversial, and the underlying mechanisms remain largely elusive. Here, we show that JZL195, a dual inhibitor of fatty acid amide hydrolase and monoacylglycerol lipase, can enhance the performance of mice in a contextual fear conditioning task and increase the time spent in open arms in the elevated zero maze (EZM). Although the effect of JZL195 on fear memory could not be inhibited by antagonists of cannabinoid receptors, the effect on the EZM seems to be mediated by CB1R. Simultaneously, hippocampal neurons are hyperactive, and theta oscillation power is significantly increased during the critical period of memory consolidation upon treatment with JZL195. These results suggest the feasibility of targeting the endocannabinoid system for the treatment of various mental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinming Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Ministry of Education, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an 710000, China
| | - Junmin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Ministry of Education, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an 710000, China
| | - Ruiqi Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Ministry of Education, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an 710000, China
| | - Wenxin Han
- Key Laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Ministry of Education, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an 710000, China
| | - Yuan Chang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Science, Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an 710000, China
| | - Lingyang Kong
- Key Laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Ministry of Education, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an 710000, China
| | - Chunling Wei
- Key Laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Ministry of Education, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an 710000, China
| | - Qiaohua Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Ministry of Education, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an 710000, China
| | - Xingchao Zhu
- Heze Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Heze 274000, China
| | - Zhiqiang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Ministry of Education, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an 710000, China
| | - Wei Ren
- Key Laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Ministry of Education, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an 710000, China
- Faculty of Education, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an 710000, China
| | - Jing Han
- Key Laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Ministry of Education, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an 710000, China
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Aukema RJ, Baglot SL, Scheufen J, Lightfoot SH, Hill MN. Circadian Influence on Acute Stress-induced Changes in Cortico-limbic Endocannabinoid Levels in Adult Male Rats. Neuroscience 2024; 537:84-92. [PMID: 38006961 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2023.11.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/27/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid (eCB) system plays an important role in regulating the stress response, including glucocorticoid release and the generation of avoidance behaviour. Its two major ligands, 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and N-arachidonoylethanolamine (anandamide; AEA), are dynamically influenced by psychological stress to gate the generation of the stress response and facilitate recovery upon stress termination. Many biological systems exhibit circadian "daily" rhythms, including glucocorticoids and endocannabinoids, and the behavioural and endocrine impact of stress is modulated by the time of day. Nonetheless, most preclinical experiments investigating the interaction between stress and endocannabinoids occur in the light, "inactive" phase. We therefore tested if circadian phase influences stress-induced changes in eCB levels in the hippocampus (HIP), prefrontal cortex (PFC), and amygdala (AMY). Adult male rats were exposed to 15 min swim stress or immediately euthanized, and brains were collected. Testing occurred either early in the light or early in the dark phase of their cycle to compare circadian effects. We found that overall, stress decreased AEA in the AMY and HIP, with an effect in the PFC dependent on the time of day. Conversely, stress increased 2-AG in the AMY, with an effect in the PFC and HIP dependent on the time of day. This suggests that stress has a similar overall impact on eCB levels regardless of circadian phase, but that subtle differences may occur depending on the brain region, especially the PFC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Aukema
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada; Mathison Centre for Mental Health, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Samantha L Baglot
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada; Mathison Centre for Mental Health, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Jessica Scheufen
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada; Mathison Centre for Mental Health, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Savannah Hm Lightfoot
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada; Mathison Centre for Mental Health, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Matthew N Hill
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada; Mathison Centre for Mental Health, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada; Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada.
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7
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Fusse EJ, Scarante FF, Vicente MA, Marrubia MM, Turcato F, Scomparin DS, Ribeiro MA, Figueiredo MJ, Brigante TAV, Guimarães FS, Campos AC. Anxiogenic doses of rapamycin prevent URB597-induced anti-stress effects in socially defeated mice. Neurosci Lett 2024; 818:137519. [PMID: 37852528 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2023.137519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Repeated exposure to psychosocial stress modulates the endocannabinoid system, particularly anandamide (AEA) signaling in brain regions associated with emotional distress. The mTOR protein regulates various neuroplastic processes in the brain disrupted by stress, including adult hippocampal neurogenesis. This kinase has been implicated in multiple effects of cannabinoid drugs and the anti-stress behavioral effects of psychoactive drugs. Therefore, our hypothesis is that enhancing AEA signaling via pharmacological inhibition of the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) enzyme induces an anti-stress behavioral effect through an mTOR-dependent mechanism. To test this hypothesis, male C57Bl6 mice were exposed to social defeat stress (SDS) for 7 days and received daily treatment with either vehicle or different doses of the FAAH inhibitor, URB597 (0.1; 0.3; 1 mg/Kg), alone or combined with rapamycin. The results suggested that URB597 induced an inverted U-shaped dose-response curve in mice subjected to SDS (with the intermediate dose of 0.3 mg/kg being anxiolytic, and the higher tested dose of 1 mg/Kg being anxiogenic). In a second independent experiment, rapamycin treatment induced an anxiogenic-like response in control mice. However, in the presence of rapamycin, the anxiolytic dose of URB597 treatment failed to reduce stress-induced anxiety behaviors in mice. SDS exposure altered the hippocampal expression of the mTOR scaffold protein Raptor. Furthermore, the anxiogenic dose of URB597 decreased the absolute number of migrating doublecortin (DCX)-positive cells in the dentate gyrus, suggesting an anti-anxiety effect independent of newly generated/immature neurons. Therefore, our results indicate that in mice exposed to repeated psychosocial stress, URB597 fails to counteract the anxiogenic-like response induced by the pharmacological dampening of mTOR signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo J Fusse
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, 3900 Bandeirantes Ave, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Franciele F Scarante
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, 3900 Bandeirantes Ave, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Maria A Vicente
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, 3900 Bandeirantes Ave, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Mariana M Marrubia
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, 3900 Bandeirantes Ave, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Flávia Turcato
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, USA
| | - Davi S Scomparin
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, 3900 Bandeirantes Ave, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Melissa A Ribeiro
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, 3900 Bandeirantes Ave, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Maria J Figueiredo
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, 3900 Bandeirantes Ave, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Tamires A V Brigante
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, 3900 Bandeirantes Ave, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Francisco S Guimarães
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, 3900 Bandeirantes Ave, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Alline C Campos
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, 3900 Bandeirantes Ave, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.
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8
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Jones MJ, Uzuneser TC, Clement T, Wang H, Ojima I, Rushlow WJ, Laviolette SR. Inhibition of fatty acid binding protein-5 in the basolateral amygdala induces anxiolytic effects and accelerates fear memory extinction. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2024; 241:119-138. [PMID: 37747506 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-023-06468-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE The endocannabinoid (eCB) system critically controls anxiety and fear-related behaviours. Anandamide (AEA), a prominent eCB ligand, is a hydrophobic lipid that requires chaperone proteins such as Fatty Acid Binding Proteins (FABPs) for intracellular transport. Intracellular AEA transport is necessary for degradation, so blocking FABP activity increases AEA neurotransmission. OBJECTIVE To investigate the effects of a novel FABP5 inhibitor (SBFI-103) in the basolateral amygdala (BLA) on anxiety and fear memory. METHODS We infused SBFI-103 (0.5 μg-5 μg) to the BLA of adult male Sprague Dawley rats and ran various anxiety and fear memory behavioural assays, neurophysiological recordings, and localized molecular signaling analyses. We also co-infused SBFI-103 with the AEA inhibitor, LEI-401 (3 μg and 10 μg) to investigate the potential role of AEA in these phenomena. RESULTS Acute intra-BLA administration of SBFI-103 produced strong anxiolytic effects across multiple behavioural tests. Furthermore, animals exhibited acute and long-term accelerated associative fear memory extinction following intra-BLA FABP5 inhibition. In addition, BLA FABP5 inhibition induced strong modulatory effects on putative PFC pyramidal neurons along with significantly increased gamma oscillation power. Finally, we observed local BLA changes in the phosphorylation activity of various anxiety- and fear memory-related molecular biomarkers in the PI3K/Akt and MAPK/Erk signaling pathways. At all three levels of analyses, we found the functional effects of SBFI-103 depend on availability of the AEA ligand. CONCLUSIONS These findings demonstrate a novel intra-BLA FABP5 signaling mechanism regulating anxiety and fear memory behaviours, neuronal activity states, local anxiety-related molecular pathways, and functional AEA modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Jones
- Department of Neuroscience, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St, London, ON, Canada
| | - Taygun C Uzuneser
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St, London, ON, Canada
| | - Timothy Clement
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Drug Discoveries, Stony Brook University, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook, NY, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Stony Brook University, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Hehe Wang
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Drug Discoveries, Stony Brook University, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook, NY, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Stony Brook University, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Iwao Ojima
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Drug Discoveries, Stony Brook University, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook, NY, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Stony Brook University, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Walter J Rushlow
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St, London, ON, Canada
| | - Steven R Laviolette
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St, London, ON, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St, London, ON, Canada.
- Lawson Health Research Institute, 268 Grosvenor St, London, ON, Canada.
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9
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Haller J. Anxiety Modulation by Cannabinoids-The Role of Stress Responses and Coping. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15777. [PMID: 37958761 PMCID: PMC10650718 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Endocannabinoids were implicated in a variety of pathological conditions including anxiety and are considered promising new targets for anxiolytic drug development. The optimism concerning the potentials of this system for anxiolysis is probably justified. However, the complexity of the mechanisms affected by endocannabinoids, and discrepant findings obtained with various experimental approaches makes the interpretation of research results difficult. Here, we review the anxiety-related effects of the three main interventions used to study the endocannabinoid system: pharmacological agents active at endocannabinoid-binding sites present on both the cell membrane and in the cytoplasm, genetic manipulations targeting cannabinoid receptors, and function-enhancers represented by inhibitors of endocannabinoid degradation and transport. Binding-site ligands provide inconsistent findings probably because they activate a multitude of mechanisms concomitantly. More robust findings were obtained with genetic manipulations and particularly with function enhancers, which heighten ongoing endocannabinoid activation rather than affecting all mechanisms indiscriminately. The enhancement of ongoing activity appears to ameliorate stress-induced anxiety without consistent effects on anxiety in general. Limited evidence suggests that this effect is achieved by promoting active coping styles in critical situations. These findings suggest that the functional enhancement of endocannabinoid signaling is a promising drug development target for stress-related anxiety disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- József Haller
- Drug Research Institute, 1137 Budapest, Hungary;
- Department of Criminal Psychology, University of Public Service, 1082 Budapest, Hungary
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10
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Silva-Cardoso GK, Lazarini-Lopes W, Primini EO, Hallak JE, Crippa JA, Zuardi AW, Garcia-Cairasco N, Leite-Panissi CRA. Cannabidiol modulates chronic neuropathic pain aversion behavior by attenuation of neuroinflammation markers and neuronal activity in the corticolimbic circuit in male Wistar rats. Behav Brain Res 2023; 452:114588. [PMID: 37474023 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2023.114588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Chronic neuropathic pain (CNP) is a vast world health problem often associated with the somatosensory domain. This conceptualization is problematic because, unlike most other sensations that are usually affectively neutral and may present emotional, affective, and cognitive impairments. Neuronal circuits that modulate pain can increase or decrease painful sensitivity based on several factors, including context and expectation. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether subchronic treatment with Cannabidiol (CBD; 0.3, 3, and 10 mg/kg intraperitoneal route - i.p., once a day for 3 days) could promote pain-conditioned reversal, in the conditioned place preference (CPP) test, in male Wistar rats submitted to chronic constriction injury (CCI) of the sciatic nerve. Then, we evaluated the expression of astrocytes and microglia in animals treated with CBD through the immunofluorescence technique. Our results demonstrated that CBD promoted the reversal of CPP at 3 and 10 mg/kg. In CCI animals, CBD was able to attenuate the increase in neuronal hyperactivity, measured by FosB protein expression, in the regions of the corticolimbic circuit: anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), complex basolateral amygdala (BLA), granular layer of the dentate gyrus (GrDG), and dorsal hippocampus (DH) - adjacent to subiculum (CA1). CBD also prevented the increased expression of GFAP and IBA-1 in CCI animals. We concluded that CBD effects on CNP are linked to the modulation of the aversive component of pain. These effects decrease chronic neuronal activation and inflammatory markers in regions of the corticolimbic circuit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gleice K Silva-Cardoso
- Department of Psychology, School of Philosophy, Science and Letters of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil; National Institute for Translational Medicine (INCT-TM; CNPq), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Willian Lazarini-Lopes
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Octaviano Primini
- Department of Psychology, School of Philosophy, Science and Letters of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jaime E Hallak
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Brazil; National Institute for Translational Medicine (INCT-TM; CNPq), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - José A Crippa
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Brazil; National Institute for Translational Medicine (INCT-TM; CNPq), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Antônio W Zuardi
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Brazil; National Institute for Translational Medicine (INCT-TM; CNPq), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Norberto Garcia-Cairasco
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Physiology, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Christie R A Leite-Panissi
- Department of Psychology, School of Philosophy, Science and Letters of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil; National Institute for Translational Medicine (INCT-TM; CNPq), São Paulo, Brazil.
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11
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de Ceglia M, Micioni Di Bonaventura MV, Romano A, Friuli M, Micioni Di Bonaventura E, Gavito AL, Botticelli L, Gaetani S, de Fonseca FR, Cifani C. Anxiety associated with palatable food withdrawal is reversed by the selective FAAH inhibitor PF-3845: A regional analysis of the contribution of endocannabinoid signaling machinery. Int J Eat Disord 2023. [PMID: 36840536 DOI: 10.1002/eat.23917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Consumption of energy-dense palatable "comfort" food can alleviate stress and negative emotions, while abrupt withdrawal from a palatable diet can worsen these symptoms, causing difficulties with adherence to weight-loss diets. Currently, no pharmacological treatment is effective for obesity-related anxiety, so we investigated the endocannabinoid system (ECS), and specifically the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), as an interesting emerging target in this context because of its key role in the regulation of both energy homeostasis and emotional behavior. METHODS Rats were subjected to exposure and subsequent abstinence from a palatable cafeteria diet. During abstinence period, rats were treated with the selective FAAH inhibitor PF-3845 (10 mg/kg; intraperitoneal administration every other day). RESULTS Abstinent rats displayed an anxiogenic-like behavior and changes in the proteins of ECS signaling machinery in brain areas involved both in anxiety and food intake regulation. In particular, withdrawal caused a reduction of the expression of cannabinoid receptors in the nucleus accumbens and of enzymes diacylglycerol lipase alpha and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) in the amygdala. Pharmacological inhibition of FAAH exerted an anxiolytic-like effect in abstinent animals and increased both MAGL expression in amygdala and CB2 expression in prefrontal cortex. DISCUSSION Overall, our results suggest that emotional disturbances associated with dieting are coupled with region-specific alterations in the cerebral expression of the ECS and that the enhancement of the endocannabinoid signaling by FAAH inhibition might represent a novel pharmacological strategy for the treatment of anxiety related to abstinence from palatable food. PUBLIC SIGNIFICANCE The present study focused on evaluating the role of the endocannabinoid system in modulating withdrawal from naturally rewarding activities that have an impact on mood, such as feeding. The variations observed in the emotional behavior of abstinent rats was linked to neuroadaptations of the ECS in specific brain areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marialuisa de Ceglia
- UGC Salud Mental, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA), Universidad de Málaga-Hospital Universitario Regional de Málaga, Málaga, Spain.,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Adele Romano
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marzia Friuli
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Ana L Gavito
- UGC Salud Mental, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA), Universidad de Málaga-Hospital Universitario Regional de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Luca Botticelli
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Silvana Gaetani
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Fernando Rodríguez de Fonseca
- UGC Salud Mental, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA), Universidad de Málaga-Hospital Universitario Regional de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Carlo Cifani
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
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12
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Belgers V, Röttgering JG, Douw L, Klein M, Ket JC, van de Ven PM, Würdinger T, van Linde ME, Niers JM, Weber M, Olde Rikkert MG, Lopez-Sendon J, Arrieta O, Svendsen KB, Chagas MH, de Almeida CM, Kouwenhoven MC, de Witt Hamer PC. Cannabinoids to Improve Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients with Neurological or Oncological Disease: A Meta-Analysis. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2023; 8:41-55. [PMID: 35861789 PMCID: PMC9940814 DOI: 10.1089/can.2021.0187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Cannabinoids have been suggested to alleviate frequently experienced symptoms of reduced mental well-being such as anxiety and depression. Mental well-being is an important subdomain of health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Reducing symptoms and maintaining HRQoL are particularly important in malignant primary brain tumor patients, as treatment options are often noncurative and prognosis remains poor. These patients frequently report unprescribed cannabinoid use, presumably for symptom relieve. As studies on brain tumor patients specifically are lacking, we performed a meta-analysis of the current evidence on cannabinoid efficacy on HRQoL and mental well-being in oncological and neurological patients. Methods: We performed a systematic PubMed, PsychINFO, Embase, and Web of Science search according to PRISMA guidelines on August 2 and 3, 2021. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that assessed the effects of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or cannabidiol (CBD) on general HRQoL and mental well-being. Pooled effect sizes were calculated using Hedges g. Risk of bias of included studies was assessed using Cochrane's Risk of Bias tool. Results: We included 17 studies: 4 in oncology and 13 in central nervous system (CNS) disease. Meta-analysis showed no effect of cannabinoids on general HRQoL (g=-0.02 confidence interval [95% CI -0.11 to 0.06]; p=0.57) or mental well-being (g=-0.02 [95% CI -0.16 to 0.13]; p=0.81). Conclusions: RCTs in patients with cancer or CNS disease showed no effect of cannabinoids on HRQoL or mental well-being. However, studies were clinically heterogeneous and since many glioma patients currently frequently use cannabinoids, future studies are necessary to evaluate its value in this specific population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera Belgers
- Department of Neurology, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Brain Tumor Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Address correspondence to: Vera Belgers, MSc, MD, Department of Neurology, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam 1081HV, The Netherlands,
| | - Jantine G. Röttgering
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Brain Tumor Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Psychology and Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Anatomy and Neurosciences, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Linda Douw
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Brain Tumor Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Anatomy and Neurosciences, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Martin Klein
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Brain Tumor Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Psychology and Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Johannes C.F. Ket
- Department of Medical Library, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Peter M. van de Ven
- Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas Würdinger
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Brain Tumor Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurosurgery, and Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Myra E. van Linde
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Brain Tumor Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Johanna M. Niers
- Department of Neurology, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Brain Tumor Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Markus Weber
- Neuromuscular Diseases Unit/ALS Clinic, Kantonsspital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Marcel G. Olde Rikkert
- Departments of Geriatric Medicine/Radboudumc Alzheimer Center, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jose Lopez-Sendon
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Ramón y Cajal (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Oscar Arrieta
- Thoracic Oncology Unit and Experimental Oncology Laboratory, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología de México (INCan), Tlalpan, México
| | | | - Marcos H.N. Chagas
- Department of Gerontology, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Carlos M.O. de Almeida
- Bairral Institute of Psychiatry, Itapira, Brazil (M.H.N.C.)
- School of Health Sciences, State University of Amazonas, Manaus, Amazon, Brazil
| | - Mathilde C.M. Kouwenhoven
- Department of Neurology, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Brain Tumor Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Philip C. de Witt Hamer
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Brain Tumor Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurosurgery, and Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Neostriatum neuronal TRPV 1-signalling mediates striatal anandamide at high concentration facilitatory influence on neostriato-nigral dishinhibitory GABAergic connections. Brain Res Bull 2023; 192:128-141. [PMID: 36414159 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2022.11.014] [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: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Several lines of evidence have demonstrated that the cannabinoid type 1 receptor (CB1) is found in the caudate nucleus and putamen (CPu) in addition to the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNpr). Here, we investigated the role of endocannabinoid neuromodulation of striato-nigral disinhibitory projections on the activity of nigro-collicular GABAergic pathways that control the expression of unconditioned fear-related behavioural responses elicited by microinjections of the GABAA receptor selective antagonist bicuculline (BIC) in the deep layers of the superior colliculus (dlSC). METHODS Fluorescent neural tract tracers were deposited in either CPu or in SNpr. Wistar rats received injection of vehicle, anandamide (AEA), either at low (50 pmol) or high (100 pmol) concentrations in CPu followed by bicuculline microinjections in dlSC. RESULTS Connections between CPu, the SNpr and dlSC were demonstrated. The GABAA receptor blockade in dlSC elicited panic-like behaviour. AEA at the lowest concentration caused a panicolytic-like effect that was antagonised by the CPu pretreatment with AM251 at 100 pmol. AEA at the highest concentration caused a panicogenic-like effect that was antagonised by the CPu pretreatment with 6-iodonordihydrocapsaicin (6-I-CPS) at different concentrations (0.6, 6, 60 nmol). CONCLUSION These findings suggest that while pre-synaptic CB1-signalling subserves an indirect facilitatory effect of AEA on striato-nigral pathways causing panicolytic-like responses through midbrain tectum enhanced activity, post-synaptic TRPV1-signalling in CPu mediates AEA direct activation of striato-nigral disinhibitory pathways resulting in increasing dlSC neurons activity and a panicogenic-like response. All these actions seem to depend on the interface with the nigro-collicular inhibitory GABAergic pathways.
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14
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Manna SSS. Dual effects of anandamide in the antiepileptic activity of diazepam in pentylenetetrazole-induced seizures in mice. Behav Pharmacol 2022; 33:527-541. [PMID: 36094027 DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0000000000000700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The prototype endocannabinoid, anandamide activates both CB 1 and transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 channels (TRPV1) receptor at different concentrations. At high concentrations, anandamide-mediated TRPV1 effects are opposite to its effects at low concentrations via CB 1 receptor. Thus, synaptic concentrations of anandamide govern the neuronal activity and consequently might affect the response of a drug. This study was undertaken to investigate the influence of high and low doses of anandamide on the anticonvulsant action of diazepam on the subcutaneous dose of pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) in Swiss mice weighing 20-25 g. Results revealed that intracerebroventricular administration of capsazepine (a TRPV1 antagonist: 1, 10, or 100 µg/mouse) and the low doses (10 µg/mouse) of anandamide, AM404 (anandamide transport inhibitor), or URB597 (fatty acid amide hydrolase inhibitor) augmented the anticonvulsant effect of diazepam. Conversely, higher dose of anandamide, AM404, URB597 (100 µg/mouse) as well as capsaicin (a TRPV1 agonist: 1, 10, or 100 µg/mouse) attenuated the protective effect of diazepam against PTZ-induced seizures. Thus, this study demonstrates that the effects of diazepam may be augmented by activating CB 1 receptors or dampened via TRPV1 receptors. The findings of the present study can be extrapolated to understand the use of TRPV1 blockers alone or in combination of benzodiazepines in the treatment of benzodiazepines-refractory status epilepticus, a condition associated with maladaptive trafficking of synaptic gamma-aminobutyric acid and glutamate receptors. However, potential clinical applications are needed to further support such preclinical studies.
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15
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Lookfong NA, Raup-Konsavage WM, Silberman Y. Potential Utility of Cannabidiol in Stress-Related Disorders. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2022; 8:230-240. [PMID: 36409719 PMCID: PMC10061337 DOI: 10.1089/can.2022.0130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The endocannabinoid (eCB) system plays an important role in homeostatic regulation of anxiety and stress responses; however, the eCB system can be disrupted following traumatic stressors. Additionally, traumatic or chronic stressors that occur during adulthood or early life can cause long-lasting disturbances in the eCB system. These alterations interfere with hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis function and may be involved in lifelong increased fear and anxiety behaviors as well as increased risk for development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Methods: This review focuses on the implications of trauma and significant stressors on eCB functionality and neural pathways, both in adolescence and into adulthood, as well as the current state of testing for CBD efficacy in treating pediatric and adult patients suffering from stress-induced eCB dysregulation. Articles were searched via Pubmed and included studies examining eCB modulation of stress-related disorders in both clinical settings and preclinical models. Conclusion: Given the potential for lifelong alterations in eCB signaling that can mediate stress responsiveness, consideration of pharmaceutical or nutraceutical agents that impact eCB targets may improve clinical outcomes in stress-related disorders. However, caution may be warranted in utilization of medicinal cannabinoid products that contain delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol due to pronounced euphorigenic effects and potential to exacerbate stress-related behaviors. Other cannabinoid products, such as cannabidiol (CBD), have shown promise in reducing stress-related behaviors in pre-clinical models. Overall, pre-clinical evidence supports CBD as a potential treatment for stress or anxiety disorders resulting from previously stressful events, particularly by reducing fearful behavior and promoting extinction of contextual fear memories, which are hallmarks of PTSD. However, very limited clinical research has been conducted examining the potential effectiveness of CBD in this regard and should be examined further.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole A. Lookfong
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Yuval Silberman
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
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16
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Meza RC, Ancatén-González C, Chiu CQ, Chávez AE. Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 1 Function at Central Synapses in Health and Disease. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:864828. [PMID: 35518644 PMCID: PMC9062234 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.864828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1), a ligand-gated nonselective cation channel, is well known for mediating heat and pain sensation in the periphery. Increasing evidence suggests that TRPV1 is also expressed at various central synapses, where it plays a role in different types of activity-dependent synaptic changes. Although its precise localizations remain a matter of debate, TRPV1 has been shown to modulate both neurotransmitter release at presynaptic terminals and synaptic efficacy in postsynaptic compartments. In addition to being required in these forms of synaptic plasticity, TRPV1 can also modify the inducibility of other types of plasticity. Here, we highlight current evidence of the potential roles for TRPV1 in regulating synaptic function in various brain regions, with an emphasis on principal mechanisms underlying TRPV1-mediated synaptic plasticity and metaplasticity. Finally, we discuss the putative contributions of TRPV1 in diverse brain disorders in order to expedite the development of next-generation therapeutic treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo C Meza
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso (CINV), Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Carlos Ancatén-González
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso (CINV), Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile.,Programa de Doctorado en Ciencias, Mención Neurociencia, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Chiayu Q Chiu
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso (CINV), Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Andrés E Chávez
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso (CINV), Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
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17
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Patel H. The role of the lateral septum in neuropsychiatric disease. J Neurosci Res 2022; 100:1422-1437. [PMID: 35443088 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.25052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The lateral septum (LS) is a structure in the midline of the brain that is interconnected with areas associated with stress and feeding. This review highlights the role of the LS in anxiety, depression, and eating disorders and their comorbidity. There is a prevailing view that the LS is anxiolytic. This review finds that the LS is both anxiolytic and anxiogenic. Furthermore, the LS can promote and inhibit feeding. Given these shared roles, the LS represents a common site for the comorbidity of neuropsychiatric disorders, and therefore a potential pharmacological target. This is crucial since currently available treatments are not always effective. Corticotrophin-releasing factor 2 antagonists are potential drugs for the treatment of anxiety and anorexia and require further research. Furthermore, other drugs currently in trials for binge eating, such as alpha-adrenergic agonists, may in fact promote food intake. It is hoped that the advancements in chemo- and optogenetic techniques will allow future studies to profile the specific neural connections of the LS and their function. This information could facilitate our understanding of the underlying mechanisms, and therefore pharmacological targets, of these psychiatric conditions.
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Repeated Restraint Stress and Binge Alcohol during Adolescence Induce Long-Term Effects on Anxiety-like Behavior and the Expression of the Endocannabinoid System in Male Rats. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10030593. [PMID: 35327395 PMCID: PMC8945821 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10030593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Negative experiences during adolescence increase the vulnerability to develop mental disorders later in life. A better understanding of the mechanisms underlying these long-term alterations could help to identify better therapeutic interventions. (2) Methods: Adolescent male Wistar rats were used to explore the effects of repeated stress and alcohol exposure on anxiety-like behaviors, plasma corticosterone levels and the gene expression of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and other relevant signaling systems (glutamatergic, corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and neuropeptide Y (NPY)) in the amygdala and the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). (3) Results: Overall, both stress and alcohol induced anxiety-like behaviors, but only the alcohol-exposed rats displayed increased plasma levels of corticosterone. In the amygdala, there was a general deficit in the gene expression of the ECS and increases in the mRNA levels of certain subunits of glutamate receptors. Interestingly, there were significant interaction effects between stress and alcohol on the expression of the NMDA receptor subunits. In addition, increased mRNA levels of the CRH receptor were observed in alcohol-exposed rats. In the mPFC, alcohol exposure was associated with an increase in the gene expression of the ECS. By contrast, the combination of stress and alcohol produced opposite effects. (4) Conclusions: In summary, early stress and alcohol exposure induced long-term anxiety-like behavior in male rats but different mechanisms are involved in these maladaptive changes in the brain.
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Papa A, Pasquini S, Contri C, Gemma S, Campiani G, Butini S, Varani K, Vincenzi F. Polypharmacological Approaches for CNS Diseases: Focus on Endocannabinoid Degradation Inhibition. Cells 2022; 11:cells11030471. [PMID: 35159280 PMCID: PMC8834510 DOI: 10.3390/cells11030471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Polypharmacology breaks up the classical paradigm of “one-drug, one target, one disease” electing multitarget compounds as potential therapeutic tools suitable for the treatment of complex diseases, such as metabolic syndrome, psychiatric or degenerative central nervous system (CNS) disorders, and cancer. These diseases often require a combination therapy which may result in positive but also negative synergistic effects. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is emerging as a particularly attractive therapeutic target in CNS disorders and neurodegenerative diseases including Parkinson’s disease (PD), Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Huntington’s disease (HD), multiple sclerosis (MS), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), stroke, traumatic brain injury (TBI), pain, and epilepsy. ECS is an organized neuromodulatory network, composed by endogenous cannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors type 1 and type 2 (CB1 and CB2), and the main catabolic enzymes involved in the endocannabinoid inactivation such as fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL). The multiple connections of the ECS with other signaling pathways in the CNS allows the consideration of the ECS as an optimal source of inspiration in the development of innovative polypharmacological compounds. In this review, we focused our attention on the reported polypharmacological examples in which FAAH and MAGL inhibitors are involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Papa
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, DoE Department of Excellence 2018-2022, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy; (A.P.); (S.G.); (G.C.)
| | - Silvia Pasquini
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (S.P.); (C.C.); (K.V.); (F.V.)
| | - Chiara Contri
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (S.P.); (C.C.); (K.V.); (F.V.)
| | - Sandra Gemma
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, DoE Department of Excellence 2018-2022, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy; (A.P.); (S.G.); (G.C.)
| | - Giuseppe Campiani
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, DoE Department of Excellence 2018-2022, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy; (A.P.); (S.G.); (G.C.)
| | - Stefania Butini
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, DoE Department of Excellence 2018-2022, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy; (A.P.); (S.G.); (G.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0577-234161
| | - Katia Varani
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (S.P.); (C.C.); (K.V.); (F.V.)
| | - Fabrizio Vincenzi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (S.P.); (C.C.); (K.V.); (F.V.)
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Gallego-Landin I, García-Baos A, Castro-Zavala A, Valverde O. Reviewing the Role of the Endocannabinoid System in the Pathophysiology of Depression. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:762738. [PMID: 34938182 PMCID: PMC8685322 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.762738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Major depressive disorder is a high-impact, debilitating disease and it is currently considered the most prevalent mental illness. It is associated with disability, as well as increased morbidity and mortality. Despite its significant repercussions in our society, its exact pathophysiology remains unclear and therefore, available antidepressant treatment options are limited and, in some cases, ineffective. In the past years, research has focused on the development of a multifactorial theory of depression. Simultaneously, evidence supporting the role of the endocannabinoid system in the neurobiology of neuropsychiatric diseases has emerged. Studies have shown that the endocannabinoid system strongly impacts neurotransmission, and the neuroendocrine and neuroimmune systems, which are known to be dysfunctional in depressive patients. Accordingly, common antidepressants were shown to have a direct impact on the expression of cannabinoid receptors throughout the brain. Therefore, the relationship between the endocannabinoid system and major depressive disorder is worth consideration. Nevertheless, most studies focus on smaller pieces of what is undoubtedly a larger mosaic of interdependent processes. Therefore, the present review summarizes the existing literature regarding the role of the endocannabinoid system in depression aiming to integrate this information into a holistic picture for a better understanding of the relationship between the two.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Gallego-Landin
- Neurobiology of Behaviour Research Group (GReNeC—NeuroBio), Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alba García-Baos
- Neurobiology of Behaviour Research Group (GReNeC—NeuroBio), Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Adriana Castro-Zavala
- Neurobiology of Behaviour Research Group (GReNeC—NeuroBio), Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Olga Valverde
- Neurobiology of Behaviour Research Group (GReNeC—NeuroBio), Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
- Neuroscience Research Programme, IMIM-Hospital del Mar Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
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21
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Alexander C, Vasefi M. Cannabidiol and the corticoraphe circuit in post-traumatic stress disorder. IBRO Neurosci Rep 2021; 11:88-102. [PMID: 34485973 PMCID: PMC8408530 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibneur.2021.08.001] [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] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), characterized by re-experiencing, avoidance, negative affect, and impaired memory processing, may develop after traumatic events. PTSD is complicated by impaired plasticity and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) activity, hyperactivity of the amygdala, and impaired fear extinction. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a promising candidate for treatment due to its multimodal action that enhances plasticity and calms hyperexcitability. CBD’s mechanism in the mPFC of PTSD patients has been explored extensively, but literature on the mechanism in the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) is lacking. Following the PRISMA guidelines, we examined current literature regarding CBD in PTSD and overlapping symptomologies to propose a mechanism by which CBD treats PTSD via corticoraphe circuit. Acute CBD inhibits excess 5-HT release from DRN to amygdala and releases anandamide (AEA) onto amygdala inputs. By first reducing amygdala and DRN hyperactivity, CBD begins to ameliorate activity disparity between mPFC and amygdala. Chronic CBD recruits the mPFC, creating harmonious corticoraphe signaling. DRN releases enough 5-HT to ameliorate mPFC hypoactivity, while the mPFC continuously excites DRN 5-HT neurons via glutamate. Meanwhile, AEA regulates corticoraphe activity to stabilize signaling. AEA prevents DRN GABAergic interneurons from inhibiting 5-HT release so the DRN can assist the mPFC in overcoming its hypoactivity. DRN-mediated restoration of mPFC activity underlies CBD’s mechanism on fear extinction and learning of stress coping. CBD reduces PTSD symptoms via the DRN and corticoraphe circuit. Acute effects of CBD reduce DRN-amygdala excitatory signaling to lessen the activity disparity between amygdala and mPFC. Chronic CBD officially resolves mPFC hypoactivity by facilitating 5-HT release from DRN to mPFC. CBD-facilitated endocannabinoid signaling stabilizes DRN activity and restores mPFC inhibitory control. Chronically administered CBD acts via the corticoraphe circuit to favor fear extinction over fear memory reconsolidation.
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Key Words
- 2-AG, 2-arachidonoylglycerol
- 5-HT, Serotonin
- 5-HT1AR, 5-HT Receptor Type 1A
- 5-HT2AR, 5-HT Receptor Type 2 A
- AEA, Anandamide
- CB1R, Cannabinoid Receptor Type 1
- CB2R, Cannabinoid Receptor Type 2
- CBD, Cannabidiol
- COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2
- Cannabidiol
- DRN, Dorsal Raphe Nucleus
- ERK1/2, Extracellular Signal-Related Kinases Type 1 or Type 2
- FAAH, Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase
- GABA, Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid
- GPCRs, G-Protein Coupled Receptors
- NMDAR, N-Methyl-D-aspartate Receptors
- PET, Positron Emission Tomography
- PFC, DRN and Raphe
- PFC, Prefrontal Cortex
- PTSD
- PTSD, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
- SSNRI, Selective Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor
- SSRI, Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor
- Serotonin
- TRPV1, Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 1 Channels
- Traumatic Stress
- fMRI, Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging
- mPFC, Medial Prefrontal Cortex
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Alexander
- Department of Biology, Lamar University, Beaumont, TX 77710, USA
| | - Maryam Vasefi
- Department of Biology, Lamar University, Beaumont, TX 77710, USA
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22
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Ahmed M, Boileau I, Le Foll B, Carvalho AF, Kloiber S. The endocannabinoid system in social anxiety disorder: from pathophysiology to novel therapeutics. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 44:81-93. [PMID: 34468550 PMCID: PMC8827369 DOI: 10.1590/1516-4446-2021-1926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Social anxiety disorder (SAD) is a highly prevalent psychiatric disorder that presents with an early age of onset, chronic disease course, and increased risk of psychiatric comorbidity. Current treatment options for SAD are associated with low response rates, suboptimal efficacy, and possible risk of adverse effects. Investigation of new neurobiological mechanisms may aid in the identification of more specific therapeutic targets for the treatment of this disorder. Emerging evidence suggests that the endogenous cannabinoid system, also referred to as the endocannabinoid system (ECS), could play a potential role in the pathophysiology of SAD. This review discusses the known pathophysiological mechanisms of SAD, the potential role of the ECS in this disorder, current drugs targeting the ECS, and the potential of these novel compounds to enhance the therapeutic armamentarium for SAD. Further investigational efforts, specifically in human populations, are warranted to improve our knowledge of the ECS in SAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mashal Ahmed
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Brain Health Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Isabelle Boileau
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Brain Health Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, ON, Canada.,Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, CAMH, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Bernard Le Foll
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, CAMH, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Andre F Carvalho
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, CAMH, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Innovation in Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Treatment (IMPACT) Strategic Research Centre, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia, 3216
| | - Stefan Kloiber
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, CAMH, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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23
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Ebrahimi-Ghiri M, Khakpai F, Zarrindast MR. URB597 abrogates anxiogenic and depressive behaviors in the methamphetamine-withdrawal mice: Role of the cannabinoid receptor type 1, cannabinoid receptor type 2, and transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 channels. J Psychopharmacol 2021; 35:875-884. [PMID: 33155516 DOI: 10.1177/0269881120965934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methamphetamine is an addictive stimulant that possesses toxicity in the brain when taken repeatedly or at higher doses. Methamphetamine neurotoxicity is associated with numerous forms of mental impairment, including depression and anxiety. Evidence has also demonstrated that the endocannabinoid system is involved in the regulation of anxiety and depression. AIMS This study was designed to determine the involvement of the endocannabinoid system in anxiety- and depression-related behaviors in methamphetamine-withdrawal male NMRI mice. METHODS The elevated plus maze and forced swim test were used to assess the level of anxiety and depression. RESULTS We found that methamphetamine (30 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) evoked depressive- and anxiogenic-like effects at 3 days post-administration. Injection of URB597 (5-10 ng/mouse, intracerebroventricular), 10 min before the test, prevented the emotional deficits induced by methamphetamine withdrawal. Moreover, the cannabinoid receptor type 1 antagonist AM251 (1 μg/mouse) or cannabinoid receptor type 2 antagonist AM630 (5 and 10 μg/mouse) suppressed the antidepressant activity in the methamphetamine-withdrawal mice treated with URB597. The transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 antagonist capsazepine (25 μg/mouse) prevented while capsazepine (100 μg/mouse) potentiated the antidepressant efficacy in the methamphetamine-withdrawal mice treated with URB597. The higher dose of AM630 and two higher doses of capsazepine had antidepressant efficacy, by themselves. Furthermore, capsazepine (50 μg/mouse) increased locomotion in the methamphetamine-withdrawal mice treated with URB597. CONCLUSIONS The results suggest that URB597 has a potential for preventing methamphetamine withdrawal-evoked anxiety and depression. Cannabinoid type 1 receptors, cannabinoid type 2 receptors and transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 differently affect depression-related behaviors in methamphetamine-withdrawal mice treated with URB597.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fatemeh Khakpai
- Cognitive and Neuroscience Research Center (CNRC), Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Reza Zarrindast
- Department of Pharmacology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Neuroendocrinology, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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24
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Paudel P, Ross S, Li XC. Molecular Targets of Cannabinoids Associated with Depression. Curr Med Chem 2021; 29:1827-1850. [PMID: 34165403 DOI: 10.2174/0929867328666210623144658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Novel therapeutic strategies are needed to address depression, a major neurological disorder affecting hundreds of millions of people worldwide. Cannabinoids and their synthetic derivatives have demonstrated numerous neurological activities and may potentially be developed into new treatments for depression. This review highlights cannabinoid (CB) receptors, monoamine oxidase (MAO), N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor, and cholecystokinin (CCK) receptor as key molecular targets of cannabinoids that are associated with depression. The anti-depressant activity of cannabinoids and their binding modes with cannabinoid receptors are discussed, providing insights into rational design and discovery of new cannabinoids or cannabimimetic agents with improved druggable properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pradeep Paudel
- National Center for Natural Products Research, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Mississippi, University, Mississippi 38677, United States
| | - Samir Ross
- National Center for Natural Products Research, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Mississippi, University, Mississippi 38677, United States
| | - Xing-Cong Li
- National Center for Natural Products Research, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Mississippi, University, Mississippi 38677, United States
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25
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Thornton AM, Humphrey RM, Kerr DM, Finn DP, Roche M. Increasing Endocannabinoid Tone Alters Anxiety-Like and Stress Coping Behaviour in Female Rats Prenatally Exposed to Valproic Acid. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26123720. [PMID: 34207178 PMCID: PMC8233839 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26123720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Given the sex differences evident in the prevalence of autism, there is an increased awareness of the importance of including females in autism research to determine sexual dimorphism and sex-specific treatments. Cannabinoids and endocannabinoid modulators have been proposed as potential novel treatments for autism-related symptoms; however, few studies to date have examined if these pharmacological agents elicit sex-specific effects. The aim of the present study was to use the valproic acid (VPA) model of autism to compare the behavioural responses of male and female rats and examine the effects of increasing endocannabinoid tone on the behavioural responses of VPA-exposed female rats. These data revealed that VPA-exposed male, but not female, rats exhibit reduced social responding in the three-chamber and olfactory habituation/dishabituation (OHD) test during adolescence. In comparison, VPA-exposed female, but not male, adolescent rats exhibited anxiety-like behaviour in the elevated plus maze (EPM) and open field test (OFT). In VPA-exposed female rats, increasing 2-AG levels augmented anxiety-like behaviour in the EPM and OFT, while increasing AEA levels reduced stress coping behaviour in the swim stress test. These data highlight sexual dimorphic behaviours in the VPA model and indicate that enhancing endocannabinoid levels may exacerbate negative affective behaviour in VPA-exposed females. Thus, considerations should be paid to the possible sex-specific effects of cannabinoids for the treatment of symptoms associated with autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aoife M. Thornton
- Physiology, School of Medicine, National University of Ireland Galway, H91 W5P7 Galway, Ireland; (A.M.T.); (R.M.H.)
- Galway Neuroscience Centre, National University of Ireland Galway, H91 W5P7 Galway, Ireland;
| | - Rachel M. Humphrey
- Physiology, School of Medicine, National University of Ireland Galway, H91 W5P7 Galway, Ireland; (A.M.T.); (R.M.H.)
- Galway Neuroscience Centre, National University of Ireland Galway, H91 W5P7 Galway, Ireland;
- Centre for Pain Research, National University of Ireland Galway, H91 W5P7 Galway, Ireland
| | - Daniel M. Kerr
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, National University of Ireland Galway, H91 W5P7 Galway, Ireland;
| | - David P. Finn
- Galway Neuroscience Centre, National University of Ireland Galway, H91 W5P7 Galway, Ireland;
- Centre for Pain Research, National University of Ireland Galway, H91 W5P7 Galway, Ireland
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, National University of Ireland Galway, H91 W5P7 Galway, Ireland;
| | - Michelle Roche
- Physiology, School of Medicine, National University of Ireland Galway, H91 W5P7 Galway, Ireland; (A.M.T.); (R.M.H.)
- Galway Neuroscience Centre, National University of Ireland Galway, H91 W5P7 Galway, Ireland;
- Centre for Pain Research, National University of Ireland Galway, H91 W5P7 Galway, Ireland
- Correspondence:
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26
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Vecchiarelli HA, Morena M, Keenan CM, Chiang V, Tan K, Qiao M, Leitl K, Santori A, Pittman QJ, Sharkey KA, Hill MN. Comorbid anxiety-like behavior in a rat model of colitis is mediated by an upregulation of corticolimbic fatty acid amide hydrolase. Neuropsychopharmacology 2021; 46:992-1003. [PMID: 33452437 PMCID: PMC8115350 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-020-00939-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Peripheral inflammatory conditions, including those localized to the gastrointestinal tract, are highly comorbid with psychiatric disorders such as anxiety and depression. These behavioral symptoms are poorly managed by conventional treatments for inflammatory diseases and contribute to quality of life impairments. Peripheral inflammation is associated with sustained elevations in circulating glucocorticoid hormones, which can modulate central processes, including those involved in the regulation of emotional behavior. The endocannabinoid (eCB) system is exquisitely sensitive to these hormonal changes and is a significant regulator of emotional behavior. The impact of peripheral inflammation on central eCB function, and whether this is related to the development of these behavioral comorbidities remains to be determined. To examine this, we employed the trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid-induced model of colonic inflammation (colitis) in adult, male, Sprague Dawley rats to produce sustained peripheral inflammation. Colitis produced increases in behavioral measures of anxiety and elevations in circulating corticosterone. These alterations were accompanied by elevated hydrolytic activity of the enzyme fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), which hydrolyzes the eCB anandamide (AEA), throughout multiple corticolimbic brain regions. This elevation of FAAH activity was associated with broad reductions in the content of AEA, whose decline was driven by central corticotropin releasing factor type 1 receptor signaling. Colitis-induced anxiety was reversed following acute central inhibition of FAAH, suggesting that the reductions in AEA produced by colitis contributed to the generation of anxiety. These data provide a novel perspective for the pharmacological management of psychiatric comorbidities of chronic inflammatory conditions through modulation of eCB signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haley A. Vecchiarelli
- grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada
| | - Maria Morena
- grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Department of Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada
| | - Catherine M. Keenan
- grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada
| | - Vincent Chiang
- grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Department of Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada
| | - Kaitlyn Tan
- grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Department of Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada
| | - Min Qiao
- grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Department of Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada
| | - Kira Leitl
- grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Department of Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada
| | - Alessia Santori
- grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Department of Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada
| | - Quentin J. Pittman
- grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada
| | - Keith A. Sharkey
- grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada
| | - Matthew N. Hill
- grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Department of Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N4N1 Canada
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Colangeli R, Teskey GC, Di Giovanni G. Endocannabinoid-serotonin systems interaction in health and disease. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2021; 259:83-134. [PMID: 33541682 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2021.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Endocannabinoid (eCB) and serotonin (5-HT) neuromodulatory systems work both independently and together to finely orchestrate neuronal activity throughout the brain to strongly sculpt behavioral functions. Surprising parallelism between the behavioral effects of 5-HT and eCB activity has been widely reported, including the regulation of emotional states, stress homeostasis, cognitive functions, food intake and sleep. The distribution pattern of the 5-HT system and the eCB molecular elements in the brain display a strong overlap and several studies report a functional interplay and even a tight interdependence between eCB/5-HT signaling. In this review, we examine the available evidence of the interaction between the eCB and 5-HT systems. We first introduce the eCB system, then we describe the eCB/5-HT crosstalk at the neuronal and synaptic levels. Finally, we explore the potential eCB/5-HT interaction at the behavioral level with the implication for psychiatric and neurological disorders. The precise elucidation of how this neuromodulatory interaction dynamically regulates biological functions may lead to the development of more targeted therapeutic strategies for the treatment of depressive and anxiety disorders, psychosis and epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Colangeli
- Section of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy; Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
| | - G Campbell Teskey
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Giuseppe Di Giovanni
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology, Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta, Msida, Malta; Neuroscience Division, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
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Ibarra-Lecue I, Diez-Alarcia R, Urigüen L. Serotonin 2A receptors and cannabinoids. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2021; 259:135-175. [PMID: 33541675 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2021.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence has proven that both exogenous cannabinoids as well as imbalances in the endocannabinoid system are involved in the onset and development of mental disorders such as anxiety, depression, or schizophrenia. Extensive recent research in this topic has mainly focused on the molecular mechanisms by which cannabinoid agonists may contribute to the pathophysiology of these disorders. Initially, serotonin neurotransmitter garnered most attention due to its relationship to mood disorders and mental diseases, with little attention to specific receptors. To date, the focus has redirected toward the understanding of different serotonin receptors, through a demonstration of its versatile pharmacology and synergy with different modulators. Serotonin 2A receptors are a good example of this phenomenon, and the complex signaling that they trigger appears of high relevance in the context of mental disorders, especially in schizophrenia. This chapter will analyze most relevant attributes of serotonin 2A receptors and the endocannabinoid system, and will highlight the evidence toward the functional bidirectional interaction between these elements in the brain as well as the impact of the endocannabinoid system dysregulation on serotonin 2A receptors functionality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inés Ibarra-Lecue
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rebeca Diez-Alarcia
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain; Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Leyre Urigüen
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain; Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Bizkaia, Spain.
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29
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Cannabis use and posttraumatic stress disorder comorbidity: Epidemiology, biology and the potential for novel treatment approaches. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2021; 157:143-193. [PMID: 33648669 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2020.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis use is increasing among some demographics in the United States and is tightly linked to anxiety, trauma, and stress reactivity at the epidemiological and biological level. Stress-coping motives are highly cited reasons for cannabis use. However, with increased cannabis use comes the increased susceptibility for cannabis use disorder (CUD). Indeed, CUD is highly comorbid with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Importantly, endogenous cannabinoid signaling systems play a key role in the regulation of stress reactivity and anxiety regulation, and preclinical data suggest deficiencies in this signaling system could contribute to the development of stress-related psychopathology. Furthermore, endocannabinoid deficiency states, either pre-existing or induced by trauma exposure, could provide explanatory insights into the high rates of comorbid cannabis use in patients with PTSD. Here we review clinical and preclinical literature related to the cannabis use-PTSD comorbidity, the role of endocannabinoids in the regulation of stress reactivity, and potential therapeutic implications of recent work in this area.
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Morena M, Nastase AS, Santori A, Cravatt BF, Shansky RM, Hill MN. Sex-dependent effects of endocannabinoid modulation of conditioned fear extinction in rats. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 178:983-996. [PMID: 33314038 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Women are twice as likely as men to develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) making the search for biological mechanisms underlying these gender disparities especially crucial. One of the hallmark symptoms of PTSD is an alteration in the ability to extinguish fear responses to trauma-associated cues. In male rodents, the endocannabinoid system can modulate fear extinction and has been suggested as a therapeutic target for PTSD. However, whether and how the endocannabinoid system may modulate fear expression and extinction in females remains unknown. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH To answer this question, we pharmacologically manipulated endocannabinoid signalling in male and female rats prior to extinction of auditory conditioned fear and measured both passive (freezing) and active (darting) conditioned responses. KEY RESULTS Surprisingly, we found that acute systemic inhibition of the endocannabinoid anandamide (AEA) or 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG) hydrolysis did not significantly alter fear expression or extinction in males. However, the same manipulations in females produced diverging effects. Increased AEA signalling at vanilloid TRPV1 receptors impaired fear memory extinction. In contrast, inhibition of 2-AG hydrolysis promoted active over passive fear responses acutely via activation of cannabinoid1 (CB1 ) receptors. Measurement of AEA and 2-AG levels after extinction training revealed sex- and brain region-specific changes. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS We provide the first evidence that AEA and 2-AG signalling affect fear expression and extinction in females in opposite directions. These findings are relevant to future research on sex differences in mechanisms of fear extinction and may help develop sex-specific therapeutics to treat trauma-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Morena
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy & Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Andrei S Nastase
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Neuroscience Program, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Alessia Santori
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Benjamin F Cravatt
- The Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology and Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Rebecca M Shansky
- Department of Psychology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Matthew N Hill
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy & Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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31
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Ferber SG, Hazani R, Shoval G, Weller A. Targeting the Endocannabinoid System in Borderline Personality Disorder: Corticolimbic and Hypothalamic Perspectives. Curr Neuropharmacol 2021; 19:360-371. [PMID: 32351183 PMCID: PMC8033970 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x18666200429234430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a chronic debilitating psychiatric disorder characterized mainly by emotional instability, chaotic interpersonal relationships, cognitive disturbance (e.g., dissociation and suicidal thoughts) and maladaptive behaviors. BPD has a high rate of comorbidity with other mental disorders and a high burden on society. In this review, we focused on two compromised brain regions in BPD - the hypothalamus and the corticolimbic system, emphasizing the involvement and potential contribution of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) to improvement in symptoms and coping. The hypothalamus-regulated endocrine axes (hypothalamic pituitary - gonadal, thyroid & adrenal) have been found to be dysregulated in BPD. There is also substantial evidence for limbic system structural and functional changes in BPD, especially in the amygdala and hippocampus, including cortical regions within the corticolimbic system. Extensive expression of CB1 and CB2 receptors of the ECS has been found in limbic regions and the hypothalamus. This opens new windows of opportunity for treatment with cannabinoids such as cannabidiol (CBD) as no other pharmacological treatment has shown long-lasting improvement in the BPD population to date. This review aims to show the potential role of the ECS in BPD patients through their most affected brain regions, the hypothalamus and the corticolimbic system. The literature reviewed does not allow for general indications of treatment with CBD in BPD. However, there is enough knowledge to indicate a treatment ratio of a high level of CBD to a low level of THC. A randomized controlled trial investigating the efficacy of cannabinoid based treatments in BPD is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Gal Shoval
- Address correspondence to this author at the Geha Mental Health Center, Petah Tiqva, Israel; Tel: 972-3-925-8440; Fax: 972-3-925-8276;, E-mail:
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Ferber SG, Namdar D, Hen-Shoval D, Eger G, Koltai H, Shoval G, Shbiro L, Weller A. The "Entourage Effect": Terpenes Coupled with Cannabinoids for the Treatment of Mood Disorders and Anxiety Disorders. Curr Neuropharmacol 2020; 18:87-96. [PMID: 31481004 PMCID: PMC7324885 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x17666190903103923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2019] [Revised: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Mood disorders are the most prevalent mental conditions encountered in psychiatric practice. Numerous patients suffering from mood disorders present with treatment-resistant forms of depression, co-morbid anxiety, other psychiatric disorders and bipolar disorders. Standardized essential oils (such as that of Lavender officinalis) have been shown to exert clinical efficacy in treating anxiety disorders. As endocannabinoids are suggested to play an important role in major depression, generalized anxiety and bipolar disorders, Cannabis sativa was suggested for their treatment. The endocannabinoid system is widely distributed throughout the body including the brain, modulating many functions. It is involved in mood and related disorders, and its activity may be modified by exogenous cannabinoids. CB1 and CB2 receptors primarily serve as the binding sites for endocannabinoids as well as for phytocannabinoids, produced by cannabis inflorescences. However, ‘cannabis’ is not a single compound product but is known for its complicated molecular profile, producing a plethora of phytocannabinoids alongside a vast array of terpenes. Thus, the “entourage effect” is the suggested positive contribution derived from the addition of terpenes to cannabinoids. Here, we review the literature on the effects of cannabinoids and discuss the possibility of enhancing cannabinoid activity on psychiatric symptoms by the addition of terpenes and terpenoids. Possible underlying mechanisms for the anti-depressant and anxiolytic effects are reviewed. These natural products may be an important potential source for new medications for the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sari Goldstein Ferber
- Psychology Department, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel.,Gonda Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Dvora Namdar
- ARO, Volcani Center, Rishon LeZion 7505101, Israel
| | - Danielle Hen-Shoval
- Psychology Department, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel.,Gonda Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Gilad Eger
- Geha Mental Health Center, Petah Tiqva, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | | | - Gal Shoval
- Geha Mental Health Center, Petah Tiqva, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Liat Shbiro
- Geha Mental Health Center, Petah Tiqva, Israel
| | - Aron Weller
- Psychology Department, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel.,Gonda Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
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Ahmad H, Rauf K, Zada W, McCarthy M, Abbas G, Anwar F, Shah AJ. Kaempferol Facilitated Extinction Learning in Contextual Fear Conditioned Rats via Inhibition of Fatty-Acid Amide Hydrolase. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25204683. [PMID: 33066366 PMCID: PMC7587337 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25204683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 10/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Fear, stress, and anxiety-like behaviors originate from traumatic events in life. Stress response is managed by endocannabinoids in the body by limiting the uncontrolled retrieval of aversive memories. Pharmacotherapy-modulating endocannabinoids, especially anandamide, presents a promising tool for treating anxiety disorders. Here, we investigated the effect of kaempferol, a flavonoid, in the extinction of fear related memories and associated anxiety-like behavior. Methods: The ability of kaempferol to inhibit fatty-acid amide hydrolase (FAAH, the enzyme that catabolizes anandamide) was assessed in vitro using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. For animal studies (in vivo), the extinction learning was evaluated using contextual fear conditioning (CFC, a behavioral paradigm based on ability to learn and remember aversive stimuli). Furthermore, an elevated plus-maze (EPM) model was used for measuring anxiety-like behavior, while serum corticosterone served as a biochemical indicator of anxiety. Lastly, the interaction of kaempferol with FAAH enzyme was also assessed in silico (computational study). Results: Our data showed that kaempferol inhibited the FAAH enzyme with an IC50 value of 1 µM. In CFC, it reduced freezing behavior in rats. EPM data demonstrated anxiolytic activity as exhibited by enhanced number of entries and time spent in the open arm. No change in blood corticosterone levels was noted. Our computational study showed that Kaempferol interacted with the catalytic amino acids (SER241, PHE192, PHE381, and THR377) of FAAH enzyme Conclusion: Our study demonstrate that kaempferol facilitated the extinction of aversive memories along with a reduction of anxiety. The effect is mediated through the augmentation of endocannabinoids via the inhibition of FAAH enzyme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hammad Ahmad
- Department of Pharmacy, COMSATS University Islamabad, Abbottabad Campus, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa 22060, Pakistan; (H.A.); (K.R.); (W.Z.)
| | - Khalid Rauf
- Department of Pharmacy, COMSATS University Islamabad, Abbottabad Campus, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa 22060, Pakistan; (H.A.); (K.R.); (W.Z.)
| | - Wahid Zada
- Department of Pharmacy, COMSATS University Islamabad, Abbottabad Campus, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa 22060, Pakistan; (H.A.); (K.R.); (W.Z.)
| | - Margaret McCarthy
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA;
| | - Ghulam Abbas
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ziauddin University, Karachi 75000, Pakistan;
| | - Fareeha Anwar
- Riphah Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Riphah International University, Lahore Campus, Lahore 54000, Pakistan;
| | - Abdul Jabbar Shah
- Department of Pharmacy, COMSATS University Islamabad, Abbottabad Campus, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa 22060, Pakistan; (H.A.); (K.R.); (W.Z.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +(92)992-383591-6
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Javid H, Rezayof A, Ghasemzadeh Z, Sardari M. The involvement of ventral hippocampal microglial cells, but not cannabinoid CB1 receptors, in morphine-induced analgesia in rats. Acta Neurol Belg 2020; 120:1077-1084. [PMID: 31006075 DOI: 10.1007/s13760-019-01144-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2018] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
It is well known that glial cells are involved in pain processing. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the possible involvement of the ventral hippocampal (VH) glial cells in morphine-induced analgesia. A tail-flick apparatus was used to measure pain sensitivity in male Wistar rats that were bilaterally cannulated in the VH by stereotaxic surgery. The results showed that intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of morphine (2.5-7.5 mg/kg) induced analgesia in a time-dependent manner. The blockade of the VH glial cell activation by bilateral microinjection of a glial inhibitor, minocycline (5-15 µg/rat) into the VH with an ineffective dose of morphine (2.5 mg/kg, i.p) significantly increased morphine analgesia. Considering that the endocannabinoid system via CB1 receptors play a crucial role in pain modulation, we also assessed the possible role of the VH cannabinoid CB1 receptors in the functional interaction between minocycline and morphine in acute pain. Our results indicated that intra-VH injection of the cannabinoid CB1 receptor agonist, arachidonylcyclopropylamide (ACPA; 4-12 ng/rat) had no effect on minocycline-induced potentiation of morphine analgesia. It should be considered that intra-VH microinjection of minocycline or ACPA by itself had no effect on tail-flick latency. Our findings suggest that the activation of the VH microglial cells may be involved in mediating pain sensation, because the inhibition of these cells by intra-VH injection of minocycline could potentiate morphine-induced analgesia. Although endocannabinoids have a regulatory role in glia function, the activation of CB1 receptors could not affect the potentiative effect of minocycline on morphine analgesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanieh Javid
- Department of Animal Biology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, 4155-6455, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ameneh Rezayof
- Department of Animal Biology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, 4155-6455, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Zahra Ghasemzadeh
- Department of Animal Biology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, 4155-6455, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Sardari
- Department of Animal Biology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, 4155-6455, Tehran, Iran
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Escelsior A, Sterlini B, Murri MB, Serafini G, Aguglia A, da Silva BP, Corradi A, Valente P, Amore M. Red-hot chili receptors: A systematic review of TRPV1 antagonism in animal models of psychiatric disorders and addiction. Behav Brain Res 2020; 393:112734. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2020.112734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Revised: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Anandamide Signaling Augmentation Rescues Amygdala Synaptic Function and Comorbid Emotional Alterations in a Model of Epilepsy. J Neurosci 2020; 40:6068-6081. [PMID: 32601243 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0068-20.2020] [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: 01/09/2020] [Revised: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is often associated with emotional disturbances and the endocannabinoid (eCB) system tunes synaptic transmission in brain regions regulating emotional behavior. Thus, persistent alteration of eCB signaling after repeated seizures may contribute to the development of epilepsy-related emotional disorders. Here we report that repeatedly eliciting seizures (kindling) in the amygdala caused a long-term increase in anxiety and impaired fear memory retention, which was paralleled by an imbalance in GABA/glutamate presynaptic activity and alteration of synaptic plasticity in the basolateral amygdala (BLA), in male rats. Anandamide (AEA) content was downregulated after repeated seizures, and pharmacological enhancement of AEA signaling rescued seizure-induced anxiety by restoring the tonic control of the eCB signaling over glutamatergic transmission. Moreover, AEA signaling augmentation also rescued the seizure-induced alterations of fear memory by restoring the phasic control of eCB signaling over GABAergic activity and plasticity in the BLA. These results indicate that modulation of AEA signaling represents a potential and promising target for the treatment of comorbid emotional dysfunction associated with epilepsy.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Epilepsy is a heterogeneous neurologic disorder commonly associated with comorbid emotional alterations. However, the management of epilepsy is usually restricted to the control of seizures. The endocannabinoid (eCB) system, particularly anandamide (AEA) signaling, controls neuronal excitability and seizure expression and regulates emotional behavior. We found that repeated seizures cause an allostatic maladaptation of AEA signaling in the amygdala that drives emotional alterations. Boosting AEA signaling through inhibition of its degradative enzyme, fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), restored both synaptic and behavioral alterations. FAAH inhibitors dampen seizure activity in animal models and are used in clinical studies to treat the negative consequences associated with stress. Thereby, they are accessible and can be clinically evaluated to treat both seizures and comorbid conditions associated with epilepsy.
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Endocannabinoid neuromodulation in the neostriatum decreases the GABAergic striato-nigral disinhibitory function and increases the nigro-collicular inhibitory pathway activity. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2020; 127:1199-1208. [DOI: 10.1007/s00702-020-02217-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Pardo-García TR, Yusif-Rodriguez N, Yudowski G, Maldonado-Vlaar CS. Blockade of the endovanilloid receptor, TRPV1, and of the endocannabinoid enzyme, FAAH, within the nucleus accumbens shell elicits anxiolytic-like effects in male rats. Neurosci Lett 2020; 732:135023. [PMID: 32422166 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2020.135023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE The functional role of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid type-1 (TRPV1) within the Nucleus Accumbens shell (NAc shell) remains unknown. Preclinical studies in rodents have reported that the ECS modulates emotional responses such as anxiety. The NAc shell has a high density of synaptically co-localized cannabinoid receptor type-1 (CB1R) and TRPV1, suggesting a potential involvement in the modulation of anxiety. OBJECTIVES The present study aims to establish the role of ECS-TRPV1 interactions within the NAc shell and its effects on anxiety. It is hypothesized that the neurochemical regulation elicited by ECS within the NAc shell mediates anxiety-like behaviors in rodents. METHODS In this study, male Sprague Dawley rats were implanted with bilateral brain cannula targeting the NAc shell. Following recovery from surgery, animals received microinfusion pretreatments (0, 0.125, 0.5 nmol/0.4 μl) of N-arachidonoyl-serotonin (AA-5-HT), a dual blocker of the endocannabinoid-inactivating enzyme, fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and a TRPV1 antagonist in the NAc shell. Following treatment, animals were tested in an elevated plus maze (EPM) paradigm for a period of 5 minutes. At the end of the experiment, animals were sacrificed and their brains collected for histological and biochemical analysis. RESULTS Results showed that animals treated with AA-5-HT in a dose dependent manner spent significantly more time in the open arms than vehicle-treated animals. In addition, AA-5-HT administration induced a significant downregulation of CB1R expression in the NAc shell. CONCLUSIONS The present findings suggest that the ECS within the NAc shell modulates anxiety-like behaviors via FAAH and CB1R activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thibaut R Pardo-García
- University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras Campus, Department of Biology, PO Box 23360, San Juan, 00931, Puerto Rico.
| | - Nadira Yusif-Rodriguez
- University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras Campus, Department of Biology, PO Box 23360, San Juan, 00931, Puerto Rico.
| | - Guillermo Yudowski
- University of Puerto Rico-Medical School, Institute of Neurobiology, San Juan, 00936, Puerto Rico
| | - Carmen S Maldonado-Vlaar
- University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras Campus, Department of Biology, PO Box 23360, San Juan, 00931, Puerto Rico.
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Rocha L, Cinar R, Guevara-Guzmán R, Alonso-Vanegas M, San-Juan D, Martínez-Juárez I, Castañeda-Cabral JL, Carmona-Cruz F. Endocannabinoid System and Cannabinoid 1 Receptors in Patients With Pharmacoresistant Temporal Lobe Epilepsy and Comorbid Mood Disorders. Front Behav Neurosci 2020; 14:52. [PMID: 32435186 PMCID: PMC7218130 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2020.00052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Experimental evidence points out that the activation of the endocannabinoid system induces neuroprotective effects and reduces mood disorders. In the hippocampus of patients with mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE), studies indicated augmented cannabinoid 1 receptor (CB1R) binding, in spite of its low mRNA and protein expressions. Although this situation suggests an enhanced CB1R-induced neurotransmission in patients with MTLE, especially those with pharmacoresistant seizures, which present important neuronal damage and high comorbid mood disorders. The present study focused to investigate the status of CB1R and the endocannabinoid system by obtaining CB1R-induced G-protein signaling efficacy and measuring the tissue levels of endocannabinoids in the hippocampus and the temporal neocortex of patients with pharmacoresistant MTLE. Furthermore, the obtained results were correlated with comorbid anxiety and depression. The experiments revealed that patients with MTLE present increased CB1R-induced G-protein signaling efficacy (Emax) as well as an augmented tissue content of anandamide and oleoylethanolamine and low 2-arachidonoylglycerol. Some of these changes were more evident in patients with MTLE without mood disorders. The current findings indicate that pharmacoresistant MTLE is associated with increased CB1R-induced transductional mechanisms as well as augmented tissue content of specific endocannabinoids in the hippocampus and the temporal neocortex. The enhanced endocannabinoid neurotransmission may be involved in the absence of comorbid mood disorders in some patients with MTLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Rocha
- Department of Pharmacobiology, Center of Research and Advanced Studies, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Resat Cinar
- Laboratory of Physiologic Studies, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, United States
| | | | - Mario Alonso-Vanegas
- National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery "Manuel Velasco Suarez", Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Daniel San-Juan
- National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery "Manuel Velasco Suarez", Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Iris Martínez-Juárez
- National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery "Manuel Velasco Suarez", Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Francia Carmona-Cruz
- Department of Pharmacobiology, Center of Research and Advanced Studies, Mexico City, Mexico
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Ross JA, Van Bockstaele EJ. The role of catecholamines in modulating responses to stress: Sex-specific patterns, implications, and therapeutic potential for post-traumatic stress disorder and opiate withdrawal. Eur J Neurosci 2020; 52:2429-2465. [PMID: 32125035 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Emotional arousal is one of several factors that determine the strength of a memory and how efficiently it may be retrieved. The systems at play are multifaceted; on one hand, the dopaminergic mesocorticolimbic system evaluates the rewarding or reinforcing potential of a stimulus, while on the other, the noradrenergic stress response system evaluates the risk of threat, commanding attention, and engaging emotional and physical behavioral responses. Sex-specific patterns in the anatomy and function of the arousal system suggest that sexually divergent therapeutic approaches may be advantageous for neurological disorders involving arousal, learning, and memory. From the lens of the triple network model of psychopathology, we argue that post-traumatic stress disorder and opiate substance use disorder arise from maladaptive learning responses that are perpetuated by hyperarousal of the salience network. We present evidence that catecholamine-modulated learning and stress-responsive circuitry exerts substantial influence over the salience network and its dysfunction in stress-related psychiatric disorders, and between the sexes. We discuss the therapeutic potential of targeting the endogenous cannabinoid system; a ubiquitous neuromodulator that influences learning, memory, and responsivity to stress by influencing catecholamine, excitatory, and inhibitory synaptic transmission. Relevant preclinical data in male and female rodents are integrated with clinical data in men and women in an effort to understand how ideal treatment modalities between the sexes may be different.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A Ross
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, College of Medicine, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Elisabeth J Van Bockstaele
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, College of Medicine, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Sanchez-Marin L, Gavito AL, Decara J, Pastor A, Castilla-Ortega E, Suarez J, de la Torre R, Pavon FJ, Rodriguez de Fonseca F, Serrano A. Impact of intermittent voluntary ethanol consumption during adolescence on the expression of endocannabinoid system and neuroinflammatory mediators. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2020; 33:126-138. [PMID: 32057593 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2020.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Revised: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The adolescent brain displays high vulnerability to the deleterious effects of ethanol, including greater risk of developing alcohol use disorder later in life. Here, we characterized the gene expression of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and relevant signaling systems associated with neuroinflammation and emotional behaviors in the brain of young adult control and ethanol-exposed (EtOH) rats. We measured mRNA levels of candidate genes using quantitative real time PCR in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), amygdala and hippocampus. EtOH rats were generated by maintenance on an intermittent and voluntary ethanol consumption during adolescence using the two-bottle choice paradigm (4 days/week for 4 weeks) followed by 2 week-withdrawal, a time-point of withdrawal with no physical symptoms. Mean differences and effect sizes were calculated using t-test and Cohen's d values. In the mPFC and hippocampus, EtOH rats had significantly higher mRNA expression of endocannabinoid-signaling (mPFC: Ppara, Dagla, Daglb and Napepld; and hippocampus: Cnr2, Dagla and Mgll) and neuroinflammation-associated genes (mPFC: Gfap; and hippocampus: Aif1) than in controls. Moreover, EtOH rats had significantly higher mRNA expression of neuropeptide Y receptor genes (Npy1r, Npy2r and Npy5r) in the hippocampus. Finally, EtOH rats also displayed higher plasma endocannabinoid levels than controls. In conclusion, these results suggest that adolescent ethanol exposure can lead to long-term alterations in the gene expression of the ECS and other signaling systems involved in neuroinflammation and regulation of emotional behaviors in key brain areas for the development of addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Sanchez-Marin
- Unidad Gestión Clínica de Salud Mental, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA), Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, Universidad de Málaga, Avda. Carlos Haya 82, Sótano, Málaga 29010, Spain
| | - A L Gavito
- Unidad Gestión Clínica de Salud Mental, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA), Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, Universidad de Málaga, Avda. Carlos Haya 82, Sótano, Málaga 29010, Spain
| | - J Decara
- Unidad Gestión Clínica de Salud Mental, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA), Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, Universidad de Málaga, Avda. Carlos Haya 82, Sótano, Málaga 29010, Spain
| | - A Pastor
- Programa de Neurociencias, Institut Hospital del Mar d'Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain
| | - E Castilla-Ortega
- Unidad Gestión Clínica de Salud Mental, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA), Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, Universidad de Málaga, Avda. Carlos Haya 82, Sótano, Málaga 29010, Spain
| | - J Suarez
- Unidad Gestión Clínica de Salud Mental, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA), Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, Universidad de Málaga, Avda. Carlos Haya 82, Sótano, Málaga 29010, Spain
| | - R de la Torre
- Programa de Neurociencias, Institut Hospital del Mar d'Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain
| | - F J Pavon
- Unidad Gestión Clínica de Salud Mental, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA), Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, Universidad de Málaga, Avda. Carlos Haya 82, Sótano, Málaga 29010, Spain; Unidad Gestión Clínica del Corazón, IBIMA, Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, Universidad de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - F Rodriguez de Fonseca
- Unidad Gestión Clínica de Salud Mental, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA), Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, Universidad de Málaga, Avda. Carlos Haya 82, Sótano, Málaga 29010, Spain.
| | - A Serrano
- Unidad Gestión Clínica de Salud Mental, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA), Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, Universidad de Málaga, Avda. Carlos Haya 82, Sótano, Málaga 29010, Spain.
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42
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Ahmadalipour A, Mehdizadeh Fanid L, Zeinalzadeh N, Alizadeh M, Vaezi H, Hassanpour Aydinlou Z, Noorazar SG. The first evidence of an association between a polymorphism in the endocannabinoid-degrading enzyme FAAH (FAAH rs2295633) with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Genomics 2020; 112:1330-1334. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2019.07.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2019] [Revised: 07/27/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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43
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Zhang M, Ruwe D, Saffari R, Kravchenko M, Zhang W. Effects of TRPV1 Activation by Capsaicin and Endogenous N-Arachidonoyl Taurine on Synaptic Transmission in the Prefrontal Cortex. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:91. [PMID: 32116530 PMCID: PMC7020858 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
While the transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) ion channel, a non-selective calcium-permeable cation channel with high Ca2+ permeability, mainly integrates physical and chemical stimuli for nociception, recent studies suggest that it has a role beyond a noxious thermal sensor. In fact, TRPV1 is presently being considered as a target for treating pathophysiological processes including pain, fear, and anxiety disorders. Although this ion channel has many potential roles, its underlying mechanism of action remains elusive. Here we show in mice that activation of TRPV1-, by the exogenous agonist capsaicin-, regulates synaptic activity in both glutamatergic and GABAergic synaptic transmission. Moreover, activation by the endogenous activator N-arachidonoyl taurine (NAT), induced similar effects as capsaicin. On the other hand, taurine, the decomposition product of NAT, strongly depressed the evoked glutamatergic synaptic transmission. In addition to these findings, we also show the immunohistochemical distribution of TRPV1 in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) of mice, as such studies are currently less frequent in the PFC. Overall, these observations allow for a better understanding of how TRPV1 helps regulate excitatory and inhibitory synaptic activity in the PFC of mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingyue Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - David Ruwe
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Roja Saffari
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Mykola Kravchenko
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Weiqi Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
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44
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Marcus DJ, Bedse G, Gaulden AD, Ryan JD, Kondev V, Winters ND, Rosas-Vidal LE, Altemus M, Mackie K, Lee FS, Delpire E, Patel S. Endocannabinoid Signaling Collapse Mediates Stress-Induced Amygdalo-Cortical Strengthening. Neuron 2020; 105:1062-1076.e6. [PMID: 31948734 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2019.12.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Functional coupling between the amygdala and the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex (dmPFC) has been implicated in the generation of negative affective states; however, the mechanisms by which stress increases amygdala-dmPFC synaptic strength and generates anxiety-like behaviors are not well understood. Here, we show that the mouse basolateral amygdala (BLA)-prelimbic prefrontal cortex (plPFC) circuit is engaged by stress and activation of this pathway in anxiogenic. Furthermore, we demonstrate that acute stress exposure leads to a lasting increase in synaptic strength within a reciprocal BLA-plPFC-BLA subcircuit. Importantly, we identify 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG)-mediated endocannabinoid signaling as a key mechanism limiting glutamate release at BLA-plPFC synapses and the functional collapse of multimodal 2-AG signaling as a molecular mechanism leading to persistent circuit-specific synaptic strengthening and anxiety-like behaviors after stress exposure. These data suggest that circuit-specific impairment in 2-AG signaling could facilitate functional coupling between the BLA and plPFC and the translation of environmental stress to affective pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Marcus
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; The Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Gaurav Bedse
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Andrew D Gaulden
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - James D Ryan
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA; Sackler Institute for Developmental Psychobiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Veronika Kondev
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; The Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Nathan D Winters
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; The Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Luis E Rosas-Vidal
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Megan Altemus
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Ken Mackie
- Gill Center for Biomolecular Science, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA; Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Francis S Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA; Sackler Institute for Developmental Psychobiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Eric Delpire
- Department of Anesthesiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Sachin Patel
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; The Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; Departments of Pharmacology and Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; Vanderbilt Center for Addiction Research, Nashville, TN 37232, USA.
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45
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Wu HF, Lu TY, Chu MC, Chen PS, Lee CW, Lin HC. Targeting the inhibition of fatty acid amide hydrolase ameliorate the endocannabinoid-mediated synaptic dysfunction in a valproic acid-induced rat model of Autism. Neuropharmacology 2020; 162:107736. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2019.107736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Revised: 08/02/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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46
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Navarrete F, García-Gutiérrez MS, Jurado-Barba R, Rubio G, Gasparyan A, Austrich-Olivares A, Manzanares J. Endocannabinoid System Components as Potential Biomarkers in Psychiatry. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:315. [PMID: 32395111 PMCID: PMC7197485 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The high heterogeneity of psychiatric disorders leads to a lack of diagnostic precision. Therefore, the search of biomarkers is a fundamental aspect in psychiatry to reach a more personalized medicine. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) has gained increasing interest due to its involvement in many different functional processes in the brain, including the regulation of emotions, motivation, and cognition. This article reviews the role of the main components of the ECS as biomarkers in certain psychiatric disorders. Studies carried out in rodents evaluating the effects of pharmacological and genetic manipulation of cannabinoid receptors or endocannabinoids (eCBs) degrading enzymes were included. Likewise, the ECS-related alterations occurring at the molecular level in animal models reproducing some behavioral and/or neuropathological aspects of psychiatric disorders were reviewed. Furthermore, clinical studies evaluating gene or protein alterations in post-mortem brain tissue or in vivo blood, plasma, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples were analyzed. Also, the results from neuroimaging studies using positron emission tomography (PET) or functional magnetic resonance (fMRI) were included. This review shows the close involvement of cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1r) in stress regulation and the development of mood disorders [anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder (BD)], in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as in the etiopathogenesis of schizophrenia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or eating disorders (i.e. anorexia and bulimia nervosa). On the other hand, recent results reveal the potential therapeutic action of the endocannabinoid tone manipulation by inhibition of eCBs degrading enzymes, as well as by the modulation of cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2r) activity on anxiolytic, antidepressive, or antipsychotic associated effects. Further clinical research studies are needed; however, current evidence suggests that the components of the ECS may become promising biomarkers in psychiatry to improve, at least in part, the diagnosis and pharmacological treatment of psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Navarrete
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Alicante, Spain.,Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Salud García-Gutiérrez
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Alicante, Spain.,Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rosa Jurado-Barba
- Instituto de Investigación i+12, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain.,Servicio de Psiquiatría, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain.,Departamento de Psicología, Facultad de Educación y Salud, Universidad Camilo José Cela, Madrid, Spain
| | - Gabriel Rubio
- Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación i+12, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain.,Servicio de Psiquiatría, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Psychiatry, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ani Gasparyan
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Alicante, Spain.,Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Jorge Manzanares
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Alicante, Spain.,Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
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47
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dos Anjos-Garcia T, Coimbra NC. Anandamide in the anterior hypothalamus diminishes defensive responses elicited in mice threatened by Epicrates cenchria constrictor serpents. Acta Neurobiol Exp (Wars) 2020. [DOI: 10.21307/ane-2020-017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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48
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Goldstein Ferber S, Trezza V, Weller A. Early life stress and development of the endocannabinoid system: A bidirectional process in programming future coping. Dev Psychobiol 2019; 63:143-152. [PMID: 31849055 DOI: 10.1002/dev.21944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Revised: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) critically regulates stress responsivity and emotional behavior throughout development. It regulates anxiety-like behaviors in humans and animal models. In addition, it is sensitive to early life stress at the gene expression level in a sex-dependent and region-dependent manner, and these changes are already evident in the adolescent brain. The ECS modulates the neuroendocrine and behavioral effects of stress, and is also capable of being affected by stress exposure itself. Early life stress interferes with the development of corticolimbic circuits, a major location of endocannabinoid receptors, and increases vulnerability to adult psychopathology. Early life stress alters the ontogeny of the ECS, resulting in a sustained deficit in its function, particularly within the hippocampus. Specifically, exposure to early stress results in bidirectional changes in anandamide and 2-AG tissue levels within the amygdala and hippocampus and reduces hippocampal endocannabinoid function at puberty. CB1 receptor densities across all brain regions are downregulated later in life following exposure to early life stress. Manipulations affecting the glucocorticoid and the endocannabinoid systems persistently adjust individual emotional responses and synaptic plasticity. This review aims to show the bidirectional trajectories of endocannabinoid modulation of emotionality in reaction to early life stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sari Goldstein Ferber
- Psychology Department and Gonda Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | | | - Aron Weller
- Psychology Department and Gonda Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
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49
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Gambino G, Rizzo V, Giglia G, Ferraro G, Sardo P. Cannabinoids, TRPV and nitric oxide: the three ring circus of neuronal excitability. Brain Struct Funct 2019; 225:1-15. [PMID: 31792694 DOI: 10.1007/s00429-019-01992-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Endocannabinoid system is considered a relevant player in the regulation of neuronal excitability, since it contributes to maintaining the balance of the synaptic ionic milieu. Perturbations to bioelectric conductances have been implicated in the pathophysiological processes leading to hyperexcitability and epileptic seizures. Cannabinoid influence on neurosignalling is exerted on classic receptor-mediated mechanisms or on further molecular targets. Among these, transient receptor potential vanilloid (TRPV) are ionic channels modulated by cannabinoids that are involved in the transduction of a plethora of stimuli and trigger fundamental downstream pathways in the post-synaptic site. In this review, we aim at providing a brief summary of the most recent data about the cross-talk between cannabinoid system and TRPV channels, drawing attention on their role on neuronal hyperexcitability. Then, we aim to unveil a plausible point of interaction between these neural signalling systems taking into consideration nitric oxide, a gaseous molecule inducing profound modifications to neural performances. From this novel perspective, we struggle to propose innovative cellular mechanisms in the regulation of hyperexcitability phenomena, with the goal of exploring plausible CB-related mechanisms underpinning epileptic seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuditta Gambino
- Department of Experimental Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D.), Sezione di Fisiologia Umana G. Pagano, University of Palermo, Corso Tukory 129, Palermo, Italy.
| | - Valerio Rizzo
- Department of Experimental Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D.), Sezione di Fisiologia Umana G. Pagano, University of Palermo, Corso Tukory 129, Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Giglia
- Department of Experimental Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D.), Sezione di Fisiologia Umana G. Pagano, University of Palermo, Corso Tukory 129, Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Ferraro
- Department of Experimental Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D.), Sezione di Fisiologia Umana G. Pagano, University of Palermo, Corso Tukory 129, Palermo, Italy
| | - Pierangelo Sardo
- Department of Experimental Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D.), Sezione di Fisiologia Umana G. Pagano, University of Palermo, Corso Tukory 129, Palermo, Italy
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50
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Collu R, Scherma M, Piscitelli F, Giunti E, Satta V, Castelli MP, Verde R, Fratta W, Bisogno T, Fadda P. Impaired brain endocannabinoid tone in the activity-based model of anorexia nervosa. Int J Eat Disord 2019; 52:1251-1262. [PMID: 31456239 DOI: 10.1002/eat.23157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2019] [Revised: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Despite the growing knowledge on the functional relationship between an altered endocannabinoid (eCB) system and development of anorexia nervosa (AN), to date no studies have investigated the central eCB tone in the activity-based anorexia (ABA) model that reproduces key aspects of human AN. METHOD We measured levels of two major eCBs, anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), those of two eCB-related lipids, oleoylethanolamide (OEA) and palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), and the cannabinoid type-1 receptor (CB1R) density in the brain of female ABA rats, focusing on areas involved in homeostatic and rewarding-related regulation of feeding behavior (i.e., prefrontal cortex, nucleus accumbens, caudato putamen, amygdala, hippocampus and hypothalamus). Analysis was carried out also at the end of recovery from the ABA condition. RESULTS At the end of the ABA induction phase, 2-AG was significantly decreased in ABA rats in different brain areas but not in the caudato putamen. No changes were detected in AEA levels in any region, whereas the levels of OEA and PEA were decreased exclusively in the hippocampus and hypothalamus. Furthermore, CB1R density was decreased in the dentate gyrus of hippocampus and in the lateral hypothalamus. After recovery, both 2-AG levels and CB1R density were partially normalized in some areas. In contrast, AEA levels became markedly reduced in all the analyzed areas. DISCUSSION These data demonstrate an altered brain eCB tone in ABA rats, further supporting the involvement of an impaired eCB system in AN pathophysiology that may contribute to the maintenance of some symptomatic aspects of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Collu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - Maria Scherma
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - Fabiana Piscitelli
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Elisa Giunti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - Valentina Satta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - M Paola Castelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - Roberta Verde
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Walter Fratta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Italy.,Centre of Excellence "Neurobiology of Addiction", University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Tiziana Bisogno
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Traslational Pharmacology, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Fadda
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Italy.,Centre of Excellence "Neurobiology of Addiction", University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,CNR Institute of Neuroscience - Cagliari, National Research Council, Cagliari.,National Institute of Neuroscience (INN), Turin, Italy
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