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Di Meo C, Tortolani D, Standoli S, Ciaramellano F, Angelucci BC, Tisi A, Kadhim S, Hsu E, Rapino C, Maccarrone M. Cannabinol modulates the endocannabinoid system and shows TRPV1-mediated anti-inflammatory properties in human keratinocytes. Biofactors 2024. [PMID: 39275884 DOI: 10.1002/biof.2122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/16/2024]
Abstract
Cannabinol (CBN) is a secondary metabolite of cannabis whose beneficial activity on inflammatory diseases of human skin has attracted increasing attention. Here, we sought to investigate the possible modulation by CBN of the major elements of the endocannabinoid system (ECS), in both normal and lipopolysaccharide-inflamed human keratinocytes (HaCaT cells). CBN was found to increase the expression of cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) at gene level and that of vanilloid receptor 1 (TRPV1) at protein level, as well as their functional activity. In addition, CBN modulated the metabolism of anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglicerol (2-AG), by increasing the activities of N-acyl phosphatidylethanolamines-specific phospholipase D (NAPE-PLD) and fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH)-the biosynthetic and degradative enzyme of AEA-and that of monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL), the hydrolytic enzyme of 2-AG. CBN also affected keratinocyte inflammation by reducing the release of pro-inflammatory interleukin (IL)-8, IL-12, and IL-31 and increasing the release of anti-inflammatory IL-10. Of note, the release of IL-31 was mediated by TRPV1. Finally, the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) signaling pathway was investigated in inflamed keratinocytes, demonstrating a specific modulation of glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β) upon treatment with CBN, in the presence or not of distinct ECS-directed drugs. Overall, these results demonstrate that CBN modulates distinct ECS elements and exerts anti-inflammatory effects-remarkably via TRPV1-in human keratinocytes, thus holding potential for both therapeutic and cosmetic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Di Meo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Daniel Tortolani
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Sara Standoli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | | | | | - Annamaria Tisi
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Salam Kadhim
- InMed Pharmaceuticals Inc., Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Eric Hsu
- InMed Pharmaceuticals Inc., Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Cinzia Rapino
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Mauro Maccarrone
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
- European Center for Brain Research (CERC), Santa Lucia Foundation IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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2
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Galla R, Mulè S, Ferrari S, Grigolon C, Molinari C, Uberti F. Palmitoylethanolamide as a Supplement: The Importance of Dose-Dependent Effects for Improving Nervous Tissue Health in an In Vitro Model. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:9079. [PMID: 39201765 PMCID: PMC11354262 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25169079] [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: 06/27/2024] [Revised: 08/09/2024] [Accepted: 08/17/2024] [Indexed: 09/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is a highly lipophilic molecule with low solubility, making absorption difficult. Recent techniques like micronisation, ultra-micronisation and combining PEA with solvents have improved their bioavailability and stability. Our study analysed particle size differences and absorption kinetics using specific solvents (PEAΩ and PEA DynoΩ) over time (0.5 h-6 h) in a dose-dependent manner (200 mg-1800 mg). The results showed that PEAΩ and PEA DynoΩ achieved 82-63% absorption at 3 h, compared to 30-60% for micronised, ultra-micronised PEA and a commercial product, highlighting the optimal dose range of 300 mg-600 mg. In addition, a 3D model of the peripheral nerve was utilised to explain the efficacy after gut passage and support the most effective dose (300 mg or 600 mg) achieved at the gut level. PEAΩ and PEA DynoΩ, which are associated with better intestinal bioavailability compared to PEA-micronised, PEA ultra-micronised and a commercial product, have allowed not only a reduction in the inflammatory context but also an improvement of peripheral nerve well-being by increasing specific markers like MPZ (26-36% vs. 8-15%), p75 (25-32% vs. 13-16%) and NRG1 (22-29.5% vs. 11-14%). These results highlight the potential of advanced PEA formulations to overcome solubility challenges and maintain in vitro efficacy, modulating peripheral nerve well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Galla
- Laboratory of Physiology, Department for Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition, University of Piemonte Orientale, UPO, 13100 Vercelli, Italy (C.G.)
- Noivita S.r.l.s., Spin Off of University of Piemonte Orientale, Via Solaroli 17, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Simone Mulè
- Laboratory of Physiology, Department for Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition, University of Piemonte Orientale, UPO, 13100 Vercelli, Italy (C.G.)
| | - Sara Ferrari
- Laboratory of Physiology, Department for Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition, University of Piemonte Orientale, UPO, 13100 Vercelli, Italy (C.G.)
| | - Chiara Grigolon
- Laboratory of Physiology, Department for Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition, University of Piemonte Orientale, UPO, 13100 Vercelli, Italy (C.G.)
| | - Claudio Molinari
- Laboratory of Physiology, Department for Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition, University of Piemonte Orientale, UPO, 13100 Vercelli, Italy (C.G.)
| | - Francesca Uberti
- Laboratory of Physiology, Department for Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition, University of Piemonte Orientale, UPO, 13100 Vercelli, Italy (C.G.)
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Davis MP. Novel drug treatments for pain in advanced cancer and serious illness: a focus on neuropathic pain and chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. Palliat Care Soc Pract 2024; 18:26323524241266603. [PMID: 39086469 PMCID: PMC11289827 DOI: 10.1177/26323524241266603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Drugs that are commercially available but have novel mechanisms of action should be explored as analgesics. This review will discuss haloperidol, miragabalin, palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), and clonidine as adjuvant analgesics or analgesics. Haloperidol is a sigma-1 receptor antagonist. Under stress and neuropathic injury, sigma-1 receptors act as a chaperone protein, which downmodulates opioid receptor activities and opens several ion channels. Clinically, there is only low-grade evidence that haloperidol improves pain when combined with morphine, methadone, or tramadol in patients who have cancer, pain from fibrosis, radiation necrosis, or neuropathic pain. Miragabalin is a gabapentinoid approved for the treatment of neuropathic pain in Japan since 2019. In randomized trials, patients with diabetic neuropathy have responded to miragabalin. Its long binding half-life on the calcium channel subunit may provide an advantage over other gabapentinoids. PEA belongs to a group of endogenous bioactive lipids called ALIAmides (autocoid local injury antagonist amides), which have a sense role in modulating numerous biological processes in particular non-neuronal neuroinflammatory responses to neuropathic injury and systemic inflammation. Multiple randomized trials and meta-analyses have demonstrated PEA's effectiveness in reducing pain severity arising from diverse pain phenotypes. Clonidine is an alpha2 adrenoceptor agonist and an imidazoline2 receptor agonist, which is U.S. Federal Drug Administration approved for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children, Tourette's syndrome, adjunctive therapy for cancer-related pain, and hypertension. Clonidine activation at alpha2 adrenoceptors causes downstream activation of inhibitory G-proteins (Gi/Go), which inhibits cyclic Adenosine monophosphate (AMP) production and hyperpolarizes neuron membranes, thus reducing allodynia. Intravenous clonidine has been used in terminally ill patients with poorly controlled symptoms, in particular pain and agitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mellar P. Davis
- Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine, 100 North Academy Avenue, Danville, PA 17822, USA
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4
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Rakotoarivelo V, Mayer TZ, Simard M, Flamand N, Di Marzo V. The Impact of the CB 2 Cannabinoid Receptor in Inflammatory Diseases: An Update. Molecules 2024; 29:3381. [PMID: 39064959 PMCID: PMC11279428 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29143381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The emergence of inflammatory diseases is a heavy burden on modern societies. Cannabis has been used for several millennia to treat inflammatory disorders such as rheumatism or gout. Since the characterization of cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2, the potential of cannabinoid pharmacotherapy in inflammatory conditions has received great interest. Several studies have identified the importance of these receptors in immune cell migration and in the production of inflammatory mediators. As the presence of the CB2 receptor was documented to be more predominant in immune cells, several pharmacological agonists and antagonists have been designed to treat inflammation. To better define the potential of the CB2 receptor, three online databases, PubMed, Google Scholar and clinicaltrial.gov, were searched without language restriction. The full texts of articles presenting data on the endocannabinoid system, the CB2 receptor and its role in modulating inflammation in vitro, in animal models and in the context of clinical trials were reviewed. Finally, we discuss the clinical potential of the latest cannabinoid-based therapies in inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Volatiana Rakotoarivelo
- Centre de Recherche de l’Institut Universitaire De Cardiologie Et De Pneumologie de Québec, Département of Médecine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 4G5, Canada
- Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health (CERC-MEND), Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0V6, Canada
| | - Thomas Z. Mayer
- Centre de Recherche de l’Institut Universitaire De Cardiologie Et De Pneumologie de Québec, Département of Médecine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 4G5, Canada
- Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health (CERC-MEND), Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0V6, Canada
- Institut sur la Nutrition et les Aliments Fonctionnels, and Centre NUTRISS, École de Nutrition, Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0V6, Canada
| | - Mélissa Simard
- Centre de Recherche de l’Institut Universitaire De Cardiologie Et De Pneumologie de Québec, Département of Médecine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 4G5, Canada
- Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health (CERC-MEND), Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0V6, Canada
| | - Nicolas Flamand
- Centre de Recherche de l’Institut Universitaire De Cardiologie Et De Pneumologie de Québec, Département of Médecine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 4G5, Canada
- Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health (CERC-MEND), Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0V6, Canada
| | - Vincenzo Di Marzo
- Centre de Recherche de l’Institut Universitaire De Cardiologie Et De Pneumologie de Québec, Département of Médecine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 4G5, Canada
- Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health (CERC-MEND), Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0V6, Canada
- Institut sur la Nutrition et les Aliments Fonctionnels, and Centre NUTRISS, École de Nutrition, Université Laval, Québec City, QC G1V 0V6, Canada
- Joint International Unit between the CNR of Italy and Université Laval on Chemical and Biomolecular Research on the Microbiome and Its Impact on Metabolic Health and Nutrition (UMI-MicroMeNu), Québec City, QC G1V 0V6, Canada
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Nobili S, Micheli L, Lucarini E, Toti A, Ghelardini C, Di Cesare Mannelli L. Ultramicronized N-palmitoylethanolamine associated with analgesics: Effects against persistent pain. Pharmacol Ther 2024; 258:108649. [PMID: 38615798 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2024.108649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Current epidemiological data estimate that one in five people suffers from chronic pain with considerable impairment of health-related quality of life. The pharmacological treatment is based on first- and second-line analgesic drugs, including COX-2 selective and nonselective nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, paracetamol, antidepressants, anti-seizure drugs and opioids, that are characterized by important side effects. N-palmitoylethanolamine (PEA) is a body's own fatty-acid ethanolamide belonging to the family of autacoid local injury antagonist amides. The anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties of PEA have been recognized for decades and prompted to depict its role in the endogenous mechanisms of pain control. Together with its relative abundance in food sources, this opened the way to the use of PEA as a pain-relieving nutritional intervention. Naïve PEA is a large particle size lipid molecule with low solubility and bioavailability. Reducing particle size is a useful method to increase surface area, thereby improving dissolution rate and bioavailability accordingly. Micron-size formulations of PEA (e.g., ultramicronized and co-(ultra)micronized) have shown higher oral efficacy compared to naïve PEA. In particular, ultramicronized PEA has been shown to efficiently cross the intestinal wall and, more importantly, the blood-brain and blood-spinal cord barrier. Several preclinical and clinical studies have shown the efficacy, safety and tolerability of ultramicronized PEA. This narrative review summarizes the available pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic data on ultramicronized PEA and focuses to its contribution to pain control, in particular as 'add-on' nutritional intervention. Data showing the ability of ultramicronized PEA to limit opioid side effects, including the development of tolerance, have also been reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Nobili
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health - NEUROFARBA - Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
| | - Laura Micheli
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health - NEUROFARBA - Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Elena Lucarini
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health - NEUROFARBA - Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Alessandra Toti
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health - NEUROFARBA - Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Carla Ghelardini
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health - NEUROFARBA - Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Di Cesare Mannelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health - NEUROFARBA - Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
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6
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Micheli L, Lucarini E, Nobili S, Bartolucci G, Pallecchi M, Toti A, Ferrara V, Ciampi C, Ghelardini C, Di Cesare Mannelli L. Ultramicronized N-palmitoylethanolamine Contributes to Morphine Efficacy Against Neuropathic Pain: Implication of Mast Cells and Glia. Curr Neuropharmacol 2024; 22:88-106. [PMID: 36443965 PMCID: PMC10716887 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x21666221128091453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the current management of neuropathic pain, in addition to antidepressants and anticonvulsants, the use of opioids is wide, despite their related and well-known issues. OBJECTIVE N-palmitoylethanolamine (PEA), a natural fatty-acid ethanolamide whose anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, immune-modulating and anti-hyperalgesic activities are known, represents a promising candidate to modulate and/or potentiate the action of opioids. METHODS This study was designed to evaluate if the preemptive and morphine concomitant administration of ultramicronized PEA, according to fixed or increasing doses of both compounds, delays the onset of morphine tolerance and improves its analgesic efficacy in the chronic constriction injury (CCI) model of neuropathic pain in rats. RESULTS Behavioral experiments showed that the preemptive and co-administration of ultramicronized PEA significantly decreased the effective dose of morphine and delayed the onset of morphine tolerance. The activation of spinal microglia and astrocytes, commonly occurring both on opioid treatment and neuropathic pain, was investigated through GFAP and Iba-1 immunofluorescence. Both biomarkers were found to be increased in CCI untreated or morphine treated animals in a PEA-sensitive manner. The increased density of endoneural mast cells within the sciatic nerve of morphine-treated and untreated CCI rats was significantly reduced by ultramicronized PEA. The decrease of mast cell degranulation, evaluated in terms of reduced plasma levels of histamine and N-methyl-histamine metabolite, was mainly observed at intermediate-high doses of ultramicronized PEA, with or without morphine. CONCLUSION Overall, these results show that the administration of ultramicronized PEA in CCI rats according to the study design fully fulfilled the hypotheses of this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Micheli
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health - NEUROFARBA - Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Elena Lucarini
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health - NEUROFARBA - Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Stefania Nobili
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health - NEUROFARBA - Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Gianluca Bartolucci
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health - NEUROFARBA - Pharmaceutical and Nutraceutical Sciences Section, University of Florence, Florence, 50019, Italy
| | - Marco Pallecchi
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health - NEUROFARBA - Pharmaceutical and Nutraceutical Sciences Section, University of Florence, Florence, 50019, Italy
| | - Alessandra Toti
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health - NEUROFARBA - Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Valentina Ferrara
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health - NEUROFARBA - Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Clara Ciampi
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health - NEUROFARBA - Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Carla Ghelardini
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health - NEUROFARBA - Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Di Cesare Mannelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health - NEUROFARBA - Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Facci L, Bolego C, Chemello C, Yasser R, Fusco M, Barbierato M, Giusti P, Moro S, Zusso M. 2-Pentadecyl-2-oxazoline inhibits lipopolysaccharide-induced microglia activation interfering with TLR4 signaling. Life Sci 2023; 335:122242. [PMID: 37952834 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.122242] [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: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
AIM 2-Pentadecyl-2-oxazoline (PEA-OXA), the oxazoline derivative of N-palmitoylethanolamine, exerts anti-inflammatory activity; however, very little is known about the molecular mechanisms underlying this effect. Here, we tested the anti-neuroinflammatory effect of PEA-OXA in primary microglia and we also investigated the possible interaction of the molecule with the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)-myeloid differentiation protein-2 (MD-2) complex. MAIN METHODS The anti-inflammatory effect of PEA-OXA was analyzed by measuring the expression and release of pro-inflammatory mediators in primary microglia by real-time PCR and ELISA, respectively. The effect of PEA-OXA on the activation of TLR4 signaling was assessed using two stably TLR4-transfected cell lines (i.e., HEK-293 and Ba/F3 cells). Finally, the putative binding mode of PEA-OXA to TLR4-MD-2 was investigated by molecular docking simulations. KEY FINDINGS Treatment with PEA-OXA resulted in the following effects: (i) it down-regulated gene expression of several pro-inflammatory molecules and the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines in LPS stimulated microglia cells; (ii) it did not prevent microglia activation after stimulation with TLR2 ligands; (iii) it prevented TLR4/NF-κB activation triggered by LPS in HEK-Blue™ hTLR4 cells; and (iv) it interfered with the binding of LPS to TLR4-MD-2 complex. Furthermore, molecular docking studies suggested that PEA-OXA could bind MD-2 with a 1:3 (MD-2/PEA-OXA) stoichiometry. CONCLUSION We show for the first time that the anti-neuroinflammatory effect of PEA-OXA involves its activity against TLR4 signaling, making this molecule a valuable tool for the development of new compounds directed to control neuroinflammation via inhibiting TLR4 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Facci
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy
| | - Chiara Bolego
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy
| | - Chiara Chemello
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy
| | - Reem Yasser
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy
| | - Mariella Fusco
- Scientific Information and Documentation Center, Epitech Group SpA, Padua, Italy
| | - Massimo Barbierato
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy
| | - Pietro Giusti
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy
| | - Stefano Moro
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy
| | - Morena Zusso
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy.
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Déciga-Campos M, Jaramillo-Morales OA, Espinosa-Juárez JV, Aguilera-Martínez ME, Ventura-Martínez R, López-Muñoz FJ. N-palmitoylethanolamide synergizes the antinociception of morphine and gabapentin in the formalin test in mice. J Pharm Pharmacol 2023; 75:1154-1162. [PMID: 36905375 DOI: 10.1093/jpp/rgad004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The antinociceptive pharmacological interaction between N-palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) and morphine (MOR), as well as gabapentin (GBP), was investigated to obtain synergistic antinociception at doses where side effects were minimal. In addition, the possible antinociceptive mechanism of PEA + MOR or PEA + GBP combinations was explored. METHODS Individual dose-response curves (DRCs) of PEA, MOR and GBP were evaluated in female mice in which intraplantar nociception was induced with 2% formalin. Isobolographic method was used to detect the pharmacological interaction in the combination of PEA + MOR or PEA + GBP. KEY FINDINGS The ED50 was calculated from the DRC; the order of potency was MOR > PEA > GBP. The isobolographic analysis was obtained at a 1:1 ratio to determine the pharmacological interaction. The experimental values of flinching (PEA + MOR, Zexp = 2.72 ± 0.2 μg/paw and PEA + GBP Zexp = 2.77 ± 0.19 μg/paw) were significantly lower than those calculated theoretically (PEA + MOR Zadd = 7.78 ± 1.07 and PEA + GBP Zadd = 24.05 ± 1.91 μg/paw), resulting in synergistic antinociception. Pretreatment with GW6471 and naloxone demonstrated that peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα) and opioid receptors are involved in both interactions. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that MOR and GBP synergistically enhance PEA-induced antinociception through PPARα and opioid receptor mechanisms. Furthermore, the results suggest that combinations containing PEA with MOR or GBP could be of interest in aiding the treatment of inflammatory pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myrna Déciga-Campos
- Sección de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigación, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, México, México
| | - Osmar Antonio Jaramillo-Morales
- Departamento de Enfermería y Obstetricia, División de Ciencias de la Vida, Campus Irapuato-Salamanca, Universidad de Guanajuato, Irapuato, Guanajuato, México
| | | | - María Elena Aguilera-Martínez
- Sección de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigación, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, México, México
| | - Rosa Ventura-Martínez
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Delegación Coyoacán, México, México
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Pirro M, Ferri L, Piccioni L, Bellucci AM, Bartolucci F, Russo A, Piga A, Ciaramaglia PL, Lucangeli M, Russo AM, Cuzzocrea S, Evangelista M. What Is the Role of Palmitoylethanolamide Co-Ultramicronized with Luteolin on the Symptomatology Reported by Patients Suffering from Long COVID? A Retrospective Analysis Performed by a Group of General Practitioners in a Real-Life Setting. Nutrients 2023; 15:3701. [PMID: 37686733 PMCID: PMC10490268 DOI: 10.3390/nu15173701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Long COVID is a recognized post-viral syndrome characterized by neurological, somatic and neuropsychiatric symptoms that might last for long time after SARS-CoV-2 infection. An ever-growing number of patients come to the observation of General Practitioners complaining of mild or moderate symptoms after the resolution of the acute infection. Nine General Practitioners from the Rome area (Italy) performed a retrospective analysis in order to evaluate the role of the supplementation with Palmitoylethanolamide co-ultramicronized with Luteolin (PEALUT) on neurologic and clinical symptoms reported by their patients after COVID-19 resolution. Supplementation with PEALUT helped to improve all patient-reported symptoms, especially pain, anxiety and depression, fatigue, brain fog, anosmia and dysgeusia, leading to an overall improvement in patients' health status. To our knowledge these are the first data presented on Long COVID patients collected in a territorial setting. Despite their preliminary nature, these results highlight the pathogenetic role of "non-resolving" neuroinflammation in Long COVID development and consequently the importance of its control in the resolution of the pathology and put the focus on the General Practitioner as the primary figure for early detection and management of Long COVID syndrome in a real-life setting. Future randomized, controlled, perspective clinical trials are needed to confirm this preliminary observation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Pirro
- Azienda Sanitaria Locale (ASL), Sistema Sanitario Regionale, 00012 Rome, Italy
| | - Luana Ferri
- Azienda Sanitaria Locale (ASL), Sistema Sanitario Regionale, 00012 Rome, Italy
| | - Licia Piccioni
- Azienda Sanitaria Locale (ASL), Sistema Sanitario Regionale, 00012 Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Bellucci
- Azienda Sanitaria Locale (ASL), Sistema Sanitario Regionale, 00012 Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Bartolucci
- Azienda Sanitaria Locale (ASL), Sistema Sanitario Regionale, 00012 Rome, Italy
| | - Arianna Russo
- Azienda Sanitaria Locale (ASL), Sistema Sanitario Regionale, 00012 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Piga
- Azienda Sanitaria Locale (ASL), Sistema Sanitario Regionale, 00012 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Marco Lucangeli
- Azienda Sanitaria Locale (ASL), Sistema Sanitario Regionale, 00012 Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Russo
- Institute of Anaesthesiology and Reanimation, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Salvatore Cuzzocrea
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Maurizio Evangelista
- Institute of Anaesthesiology and Reanimation, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, 98166 Messina, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98166 Messina, Italy
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10
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Bossa M, Argento O, Piacentini C, Manocchio N, Scipioni L, Oddi S, Maccarrone M, Nocentini U. Effects of Long-Term Oral Administration of N-Palmitoylethanolamine in Subjects with Mild Cognitive Impairment: Study Protocol. Brain Sci 2023; 13:1138. [PMID: 37626494 PMCID: PMC10452679 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13081138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
N-palmitoylethanolamine (PEA) plays a key role in preventing Aβ-mediated neuroinflammation and neurotoxicity in murine models. It has been demonstrated that PEA provides anti-neuroinflammatory, pain-relieving and neuroprotective actions even in humans. In this project, we aim to evaluate these anti-neuroinflammatory effects via the cognitive evaluation and biochemical analyses of a 12-month oral administration of PEA in subjects with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Subjects with MCI will be randomized to placebo or PEA groups, and followed for another 6 months. Cognitive abilities and neurological inflammation will be examined at baseline and after treatment. The specific objectives of the project are to ascertain whether: (i) PEA influences the scores of the neuropsychological and behavioral evaluations after one-year treatment, comparing PEA-treated and placebo subjects in both MCI and control groups; (ii) PEA can change the inflammatory and neuronal damage markers of blood and urine in MCI subjects; and (iii) these changes correlate with the clinical scores of participating subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Bossa
- Behavioral Neuropsychology Laboratory, I.R.C.C.S. “Santa Lucia” Foundation, 00179 Rome, Italy; (O.A.); (C.P.); (U.N.)
| | - Ornella Argento
- Behavioral Neuropsychology Laboratory, I.R.C.C.S. “Santa Lucia” Foundation, 00179 Rome, Italy; (O.A.); (C.P.); (U.N.)
| | - Chiara Piacentini
- Behavioral Neuropsychology Laboratory, I.R.C.C.S. “Santa Lucia” Foundation, 00179 Rome, Italy; (O.A.); (C.P.); (U.N.)
| | - Nicola Manocchio
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy;
| | - Lucia Scipioni
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, Via Vetoio Snc, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (L.S.); (M.M.)
- European Center for Brain Research/I.R.C.C.S. “Santa Lucia” Foundation, Via del Fosso di Fiorano 64, 00143 Rome, Italy;
| | - Sergio Oddi
- European Center for Brain Research/I.R.C.C.S. “Santa Lucia” Foundation, Via del Fosso di Fiorano 64, 00143 Rome, Italy;
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Mauro Maccarrone
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, Via Vetoio Snc, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (L.S.); (M.M.)
- European Center for Brain Research/I.R.C.C.S. “Santa Lucia” Foundation, Via del Fosso di Fiorano 64, 00143 Rome, Italy;
| | - Ugo Nocentini
- Behavioral Neuropsychology Laboratory, I.R.C.C.S. “Santa Lucia” Foundation, 00179 Rome, Italy; (O.A.); (C.P.); (U.N.)
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy;
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11
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Bortoletto R, Piscitelli F, Candolo A, Bhattacharyya S, Balestrieri M, Colizzi M. Questioning the role of palmitoylethanolamide in psychosis: a systematic review of clinical and preclinical evidence. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1231710. [PMID: 37533892 PMCID: PMC10390736 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1231710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The endocannabinoid (eCB) system disruption has been suggested to underpin the development of psychosis, fueling the search for novel, better-tolerated antipsychotic agents that target the eCB system. Among these, palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), an N-acylethanolamine (AE) with neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties, has drawn attention for its antipsychotic potential. Methods This Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020-compliant systematic review aimed at reappraising all clinical and preclinical studies investigating the biobehavioral role of PEA in psychosis. Results Overall, 13 studies were eligible for data extraction (11 human, 2 animal). Observational studies investigating PEA tone in psychosis patients converged on the evidence for increased PEA plasma (6 human) and central nervous system (CNS; 1 human) levels, as a potential early compensatory response to illness and its severity, that seems to be lost in the longer-term (CNS; 1 human), opening to the possibility of exogenously supplementing it to sustain control of the disorder. Consistently, PEA oral supplementation reduced negative psychotic and manic symptoms among psychosis patients, with no serious adverse events (3 human). No PEA changes emerged in either preclinical psychosis model (2 animal) studied. Discussion Evidence supports PEA signaling as a potential psychosis biomarker, also indicating a therapeutic role of its supplementation in the disorder. Systematic review registration https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/AFMTK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Bortoletto
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medicine (DAME), University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Fabiana Piscitelli
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Materials Technologies, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council (CNR), Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Anna Candolo
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medicine (DAME), University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Sagnik Bhattacharyya
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Matteo Balestrieri
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medicine (DAME), University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Marco Colizzi
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medicine (DAME), University of Udine, Udine, Italy
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
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12
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Osorio-Perez RM, Rodríguez-Manzo G, Espinosa-Riquer ZP, Cruz SL, González-Espinosa C. Endocannabinoid modulation of allergic responses: Focus on the control of FcεRI-mediated mast cell activation. Eur J Cell Biol 2023; 102:151324. [PMID: 37236045 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2023.151324] [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: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Allergic reactions are highly prevalent pathologies initiated by the production of IgE antibodies against harmless antigens (allergens) and the activation of the high-affinity IgE receptor (FcεRI) expressed in the surface of basophils and mast cells (MCs). Research on the mechanisms of negative control of those exacerbated inflammatory reactions has been intense in recent years. Endocannabinoids (eCBs) show important regulatory effects on MC-mediated immune responses, mainly inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators. However, the description of the molecular mechanisms involved in eCB control of MC activation is far from complete. In this review, we aim to summarize the available information regarding the role of eCBs in the modulation of FcεRI-dependent activation of that cell type, emphasizing the description of the eCB system and the existence of some of its elements in MCs. Unique characteristics of the eCB system and cannabinoid receptors (CBRs) localization and signaling in MCs are mentioned. The described and putative points of cross-talk between CBRs and FcεRI signaling cascades are also presented. Finally, we discuss some important considerations in the study of the effects of eCBs in MCs and the perspectives in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rubi Monserrat Osorio-Perez
- Departamento de Farmacobiología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Unidad Sede Sur, Calzada de los Tenorios No. 235, Col. Granjas Coapa, Tlalpan, CP 14330 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Gabriela Rodríguez-Manzo
- Departamento de Farmacobiología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Unidad Sede Sur, Calzada de los Tenorios No. 235, Col. Granjas Coapa, Tlalpan, CP 14330 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Zyanya P Espinosa-Riquer
- Departamento de Farmacobiología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Unidad Sede Sur, Calzada de los Tenorios No. 235, Col. Granjas Coapa, Tlalpan, CP 14330 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Silvia L Cruz
- Departamento de Farmacobiología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Unidad Sede Sur, Calzada de los Tenorios No. 235, Col. Granjas Coapa, Tlalpan, CP 14330 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Claudia González-Espinosa
- Departamento de Farmacobiología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Unidad Sede Sur, Calzada de los Tenorios No. 235, Col. Granjas Coapa, Tlalpan, CP 14330 Mexico City, Mexico.
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13
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Novel Approach to the Treatment of Neuropathic Pain Using a Combination with Palmitoylethanolamide and Equisetum arvense L. in an In Vitro Study. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065503. [PMID: 36982577 PMCID: PMC10053612 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic pain is a typical patient disorder resulting from damage and dysfunction of the peripheral neuraxis. Injury to peripheral nerves in the upper extremities can result in a lifelong reduction in quality of life and a devastating loss of sensory and motor function. Since some standard pharmaceutical therapies can cause dependence or intolerance, nonpharmacological treatments have gained great interest in recent years. In this context, the beneficial effects of a new combination of palmitoylethanolamide and Equisetum arvense L. are evaluated in the present study. The bioavailability of the combination was initially analyzed in a 3D intestinal barrier simulating oral intake to analyze its absorption/biodistribution and exclude cytotoxicity. In a further step, a 3D nerve tissue model was performed to study the biological effects of the combination during the key mechanisms leading to peripheral neuropathy. Our results demonstrate that the combination successfully crossed the intestinal barrier and reached the target site, modulating the nerve recovery mechanism after Schwann cell injury and offering the initial response of relieving pain. This work supported the efficacy of palmitoylethanolamide and Equisetum arvense L. in reducing neuropathy and modifying the major pain mechanisms, outlining a possible alternative nutraceutical approach.
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14
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Myers MN, Abou-Rjeileh U, Chirivi M, Parales-Girón J, Lock AL, Tam J, Zachut M, Contreras GA. Cannabinoid-1 receptor activation modulates lipid mobilization and adipogenesis in the adipose tissue of dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2023; 106:3650-3661. [PMID: 36907764 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2022-22556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
Abstract
Amplified adipose tissue (AT) lipolysis and suppressed lipogenesis characterize the periparturient period of dairy cows. The intensity of lipolysis recedes with the progression of lactation; however, when lipolysis is excessive and prolonged, disease risk is exacerbated and productivity compromised. Interventions that minimize lipolysis while maintaining adequate supply of energy and enhancing lipogenesis may improve periparturient cows' health and lactation performance. Cannabinoid-1 receptor (CB1R) activation in rodent AT enhances the lipogenic and adipogenic capacity of adipocytes, yet the effects in dairy cow AT remain unknown. Using a synthetic CB1R agonist and an antagonist, we determined the effects of CB1R stimulation on lipolysis, lipogenesis, and adipogenesis in the AT of dairy cows. Adipose tissue explants were collected from healthy, nonlactating and nongestating (NLNG; n = 6) or periparturient (n = 12) cows at 1 wk before parturition and at 2 and 3 wk postpartum (PP1 and PP2, respectively). Explants were treated with the β-adrenergic agonist isoproterenol (1 μM) in the presence of the CB1R agonist arachidonyl-2'-chloroethylamide (ACEA) ± the CB1R antagonist rimonabant (RIM). Lipolysis was quantified based on glycerol release. We found that ACEA reduced lipolysis in NLNG cows; however, it did not exhibit a direct effect on AT lipolysis in periparturient cows. Inhibition of CB1R with RIM in postpartum cow AT did not alter lipolysis. To evaluate adipogenesis and lipogenesis, preadipocytes isolated from NLNG cows' AT were induced to differentiate in the presence or absence of ACEA ± RIM for 4 and 12 d. Live cell imaging, lipid accumulation, and expressions of key adipogenic and lipogenic markers were assessed. Preadipocytes treated with ACEA had higher adipogenesis, whereas ACEA+RIM reduced it. Adipocytes treated with ACEA and RIM for 12 d exhibited enhanced lipogenesis compared with untreated cells (control). Lipid content was reduced in ACEA+RIM but not with RIM alone. Collectively, our results support that lipolysis may be reduced by CB1R stimulation in NLNG cows but not in periparturient cows. In addition, our findings demonstrate that adipogenesis and lipogenesis are enhanced by activation of CB1R in the AT of NLNG dairy cows. In summary, we provide initial evidence which supports that the sensitivity of the AT endocannabinoid system to endocannabinoids, and its ability to modulate AT lipolysis, adipogenesis, and lipogenesis, vary based on dairy cows' lactation stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madison N Myers
- Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824
| | - Ursula Abou-Rjeileh
- Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824
| | - Miguel Chirivi
- Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824
| | - Jair Parales-Girón
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824
| | - Adam L Lock
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824
| | - Joseph Tam
- Obesity and Metabolism Laboratory, Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel 9112001
| | - Maya Zachut
- Department of Ruminant Science, Institute of Animal Sciences, Volcani Institute, Rishon LeZion, Israel 7505101
| | - G Andres Contreras
- Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824.
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15
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Palmitoylethanolamide in the Treatment of Chronic Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trials. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15061350. [PMID: 36986081 PMCID: PMC10053226 DOI: 10.3390/nu15061350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain is a major source of morbidity for which there are limited effective treatments. Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), a naturally occurring fatty acid amide, has demonstrated utility in the treatment of neuropathic and inflammatory pain. Emerging reports have supported a possible role for its use in the treatment of chronic pain, although this remains controversial. We undertook a systematic review and meta-analysis to examine the efficacy of PEA as an analgesic agent for chronic pain. A systematic literature search was performed, using the databases MEDLINE and Web of Science, to identify double-blind randomized controlled trials comparing PEA to placebo or active comparators in the treatment of chronic pain. All articles were independently screened by two reviewers. The primary outcome was pain intensity scores, for which a meta-analysis was undertaken using a random effects statistical model. Secondary outcomes including quality of life, functional status, and side effects are represented in a narrative synthesis. Our literature search identified 253 unique articles, of which 11 were ultimately included in the narrative synthesis and meta-analysis. Collectively, these articles described a combined sample size of 774 patients. PEA was found to reduce pain scores relative to comparators in a pooled estimate, with a standard mean difference of 1.68 (95% CI 1.05 to 2.31, p = 0.00001). Several studies reported additional benefits of PEA for quality of life and functional status, and no major side effects were attributed to PEA in any study. The results of this systematic review and meta-analysis suggest that PEA is an effective and well-tolerated treatment for chronic pain. Further study is warranted to determine the optimal dosing and administration parameters of PEA for analgesic effects in the context of chronic pain.
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16
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Boyacıoğlu Ö, Korkusuz P. Cannabinoids as Prospective Anti-Cancer Drugs: Mechanism of Action in Healthy and Cancer Cells. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1410:145-169. [PMID: 36396926 DOI: 10.1007/5584_2022_748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Endogenous and exogenous cannabinoids modulate many physiological and pathological processes by binding classical cannabinoid receptors 1 (CB1) or 2 (CB2) or non-cannabinoid receptors. Cannabinoids are known to exert antiproliferative, apoptotic, anti-migratory and anti-invasive effect on cancer cells by inducing or inhibiting various signaling cascades. In this chapter, we specifically emphasize the latest research works about the alterations in endocannabinoid system (ECS) components in malignancies and cancer cell proliferation, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, autophagy, and death by cannabinoid administration, emphasizing their mechanism of action, and give a future perspective for clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Özge Boyacıoğlu
- Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Atılım University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Petek Korkusuz
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey.
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17
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Schiano Moriello A, Roviezzo F, Iannotti FA, Rea G, Allarà M, Camerlingo R, Verde R, Di Marzo V, Petrosino S. First Evidence of the Protective Effects of 2-Pentadecyl-2-Oxazoline (PEA-OXA) in In Vitro Models of Acute Lung Injury. Biomolecules 2022; 13:biom13010033. [PMID: 36671418 PMCID: PMC9855419 DOI: 10.3390/biom13010033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a serious inflammatory lung disorder and a complication of SARS-CoV-2 infection. In patients with severe SARS-CoV-2 infection, the transition to ARDS is principally due to the occurrence of a cytokine storm and an exacerbated inflammatory response. The effectiveness of ultra-micronized palmitoylethanolamide (PEA-um) during the earliest stage of COVID-19 has already been suggested. In this study, we evaluated its protective effects as well as the effectiveness of its congener, 2-pentadecyl-2-oxazoline (PEA-OXA), using in vitro models of acute lung injury. In detail, human lung epithelial cells (A549) activated by polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (poly-(I:C)) or Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β) were treated with PEA-OXA or PEA. The release of IL-6 and the appearance of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) were measured by ELISA and immunofluorescence assays, respectively. A possible mechanism of action for PEA-OXA and PEA was also investigated. Our results showed that both PEA-OXA and PEA were able to counteract poly-(I:C)-induced IL-6 release, as well as to revert TGF-β-induced EMT. In addition, PEA was able to produce an "entourage" effect on the levels of the two endocannabinoids AEA and 2-AG, while PEA-OXA only increased PEA endogenous levels, in poly-(I:C)-stimulated A549 cells. These results evidence for the first time the superiority of PEA-OXA over PEA in exerting protective effects and point to PEA-OXA as a new promising candidate in the management of acute lung injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aniello Schiano Moriello
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
- Epitech Group SpA, Saccolongo, 35100 Padova, Italy
| | - Fiorentina Roviezzo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Fabio Arturo Iannotti
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Rea
- Microenvironment Molecular Targets, National Cancer Institute G. Pascale Foundation, IRCCS, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Marco Allarà
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
- Epitech Group SpA, Saccolongo, 35100 Padova, Italy
| | - Rosa Camerlingo
- Cellular Biology and Biotherapy-Research Department, National Cancer Institute G. Pascale Foundation, IRCCS, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Roberta Verde
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Di Marzo
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
- Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, CRIUCPQ and INAF, Faculties of Medicine and Agriculture and Food Sciences, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC G1V 4G5, Canada
- Correspondence: (V.D.); (S.P.)
| | - Stefania Petrosino
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
- Epitech Group SpA, Saccolongo, 35100 Padova, Italy
- Correspondence: (V.D.); (S.P.)
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Palmitoylethanolamide Mitigates Paclitaxel Toxicity in Primary Dorsal Root Ganglion Neurons. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12121873. [PMID: 36551301 PMCID: PMC9775584 DOI: 10.3390/biom12121873] [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: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a common side effect of several chemotherapeutic agents, such as Paclitaxel. The main symptoms of CIPN are pain and numbness in the hands and feet. Paclitaxel is believed to accumulate in the dorsal root ganglia and free nerve endings. Novel therapeutic agents might help to mitigate or prevent Paclitaxel toxicity on dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons. Thus, we used primary DRG neurons as a model to investigate the potential neuroprotective effects of the endocannabinoid-like substance, palmitoylethanolamide (PEA). DRG neurons were isolated from cervical to sacral segments of spinal nerves of Wister rats (6-8 weeks old). After isolation and purification of neuronal cell populations, different concentrations of Paclitaxel (0.01-10 µM) or PEA (0.1-10 µM) or their combination were tested on cell viability by MTT assay at 24 h, 48, and 72 h post-treatment. Furthermore, morphometric analyses of neurite length and soma size for DRG neurons were performed. Adverse Paclitaxel effects on cell viability were apparent at 72 h post-treatment whereas Paclitaxel significantly reduced the neurite length in a concentration-dependent manner nearly at all investigated time points. However, Paclitaxel significantly increased the size of neuronal cell bodies at all time windows. These phenotypic effects were significantly reduced in neurons additionally treated with PEA, indicating the neuroprotective effect of PEA. PEA alone led to a significant increase in neuron viability regardless of PEA concentrations, apparent improvements in neurite outgrowth as well as a significant decrease in soma size of neurons at different investigated time points. Taken together, PEA showed promising protective effects against Paclitaxel-related toxicity on DRG neurons.
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Anand U, Pacchetti B, Anand P, Sodergren MH. The Endocannabinoid Analgesic Entourage Effect: Investigations in Cultured DRG Neurons. J Pain Res 2022; 15:3493-3507. [PMID: 36394060 PMCID: PMC9642605 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s378876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The endocannabinoid 2-Arachidonyl glycerol (2-AG) exerts dose-related anti-nociceptive effects, which are potentiated by the related but inactive 2-palmitoyl glycerol (2-PG) and 2-linoleoyl glycerol (2-LG). This potentiation of analgesia and other in vivo measures was described as the "entourage effect". We investigated this effect on TRPV1 signalling in cultured dorsal root ganglion (DRG) nociceptors. METHODS Adult rat DRG neurons were cultured in medium containing NGF and GDNF at 37°C. 48 h later cultures were loaded with 2 µM Fura2AM for calcium imaging, and treated with 2-AG, 2-PG and 2-LG, individually or combined, for 5 min, followed by 1 µMol capsaicin. The amplitude and latency of capsaicin responses were measured (N=3-7 rats, controls N=16), and analysed. RESULTS In controls, 1 µMol capsaicin elicited immediate calcium influx in a subset of neurons, with average latency of 1.27 ± 0.2 s and amplitude of 0.15 ± 0.01 Units. 2-AG (10-100 µMol) elicited calcium influx in some neurons. In the presence of 2-AG (0.001-100 µMol), capsaicin responses were markedly delayed in 64% neurons by up to 320 s (P<0.001). 2-PG increased capsaicin response latency at 0.1 nMol-100 µMol (P<0.001), in 60% neurons, as did 2-LG at 0.1-100 µMol (P<0.001), in 76% neurons. Increased capsaicin response latency due to 2-AG and 2-PG was sensitive to the CB2 but not to the CB1 receptor antagonist. Combined application of 1 µMol 2-AG, 5 µMol 2-PG and 10 µMol 2-LG, also resulted in significantly increased capsaicin response latency up to 281.5 ± 41.5 s (P<0.001), in 96% neurons, that was partially restored by the CB2, but not the CB1 antagonist. CONCLUSION 2-AG, 2-LG and 2-PG significantly delayed TRPV1 signalling in the majority of capsaicin-sensitive DRG neurons, that was markedly increased following combined application. Further studies of these endocannabinoids are required to identify the underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uma Anand
- Medical Cannabis Research Group, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, W12 0HS, UK
| | | | - Praveen Anand
- Professor of Clinical Neurology, Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, W12 0HS, UK
| | - Mikael Hans Sodergren
- Medical Cannabis Research Group, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, W12 0HS, UK
- Curaleaf International Limited, London, EC2A 2EW, UK
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Bahceci D, Anderson LL, Kevin RC, Doohan PT, Arnold JC. Hyperthermia-Induced Seizures Enhance Brain Concentrations of the Endocannabinoid-Related Linoleoyl Glycerols in a Scn1a+/- Mouse Model of Dravet Syndrome. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2022. [PMID: 36269656 DOI: 10.1089/can.2022.0145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The endocannabinoid system contributes to the homeostatic response to seizure activity in epilepsy, a disease of brain hyperexcitability. Indeed, studies using conventional epilepsy models have shown that seizures increase endocannabinoids in the brain. However, it is unknown whether endocannabinoids and structurally related fatty acid amides and monoacylglycerols are similarly released in response to acute seizures in animal models of drug-resistant epilepsy. Therefore, in this study, we investigated whether a hyperthermia-induced seizure increased concentrations of endocannabinoids and related signaling lipids in the Scn1a+/- mouse model of Dravet syndrome. Materials and Methods: We compared hippocampal concentrations of the major endocannabinoids and related monoglycerols and N-acylethanolamines in wild-type mice, naïve Scn1a+/- mice, and Scn1a+/- mice primed with a single, hyperthermia-induced, generalized tonic-clonic seizure. Samples were collected 5 and 60 min following the seizure and then analyzed with LC-MS/MS. Results: We found that a hyperthermia-induced seizure in Scn1a+/- mice did not affect hippocampal concentrations of the major endocannabinoids, 2-AG and anandamide, or the N-acylethanolamines studied, although the sampling of tissue 5 min postseizure may have been too late to capture any effect on these lipids. Heterozygous deletion of Scn1a alone did not affect these lipid signaling molecules. Notably, however, we found that a hyperthermia-induced seizure significantly increased hippocampal concentrations of the monoacylglycerols, 2-linoleoyl glycerol (2-LG) and 1-linoleoyl glycerol (1-LG), in Scn1a+/- mice. Conclusions: Our results show the unprecedented elevation of the lesser-studied endocannabinoid-related monoacylglycerols, 2-LG and 1-LG, following a hyperthermia-induced seizure in a mouse model of Dravet syndrome. Future research is needed to comprehensively explore the function of these lipid signaling molecules during seizure activity and whether their actions can be exploited to develop new therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dilara Bahceci
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, The University of Sydney, Camperdown , Australia.,Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia.,Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Lyndsey L Anderson
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, The University of Sydney, Camperdown , Australia.,Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia.,Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Richard C Kevin
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, The University of Sydney, Camperdown , Australia.,Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia.,Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Peter T Doohan
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, The University of Sydney, Camperdown , Australia.,Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia.,Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Jonathon C Arnold
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, The University of Sydney, Camperdown , Australia.,Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia.,Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
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21
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Fessler SN, Liu L, Chang Y, Yip T, Johnston CS. Palmitoylethanolamide Reduces Proinflammatory Markers in Unvaccinated Adults Recently Diagnosed with COVID-19: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Nutr 2022; 152:2218-2226. [PMID: 36084236 PMCID: PMC9494383 DOI: 10.1093/jn/nxac154] [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: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inflammation is at the core of many chronic conditions and exacerbates infectious conditions, including the severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infections. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to examine the effects of a novel food supplement, palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), specifically Levagen+, as compared with a placebo on proinflammatory biomarkers in adults recently diagnosed with COVID-19 who were unvaccinated and nonhospitalized. METHODS This study was a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial conducted October 2020-March 2021 (clinicaltrials.gov: NCT04912921). Participants aged 19-53 y were unvaccinated and recently infected with COVID-19 as indicated by a positive test result per RT-PCR or antigen test, and they reported to the test site following diagnosis as allowed by the CDC's return-to-work policy. Participants were stratified by age, sex, and BMI and randomly assigned by coin toss to receive 600 mg Levagen+ twice daily (LEV) or placebo tablets twice daily (CON) for 4 wk. At baseline and week 4, participants completed health histories, 24-h dietary recalls, anthropometrics, and nonfasting blood sampling. The primary outcomes were the 4-wk change between groups for IL-6, C-reactive protein, ferritin, intercellular adhesion molecule 1, soluble P-selectin (sP-selectin), and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio. Multiple linear regression models were utilized to assess treatment effects on outcomes, adjusting for covariates. RESULTS A total of 60 participants completed the study (LEV: n = 30; CON: n = 30). After 4 wk of supplementation, sP-selectin (β = -11.5; 95% CI: -19.8, -3.15; P = 0.0078), IL-1β (β = -22.9; 95% CI: -42.4, -3.40; P = 0.0222), and IL-2 (β = -1.73; 95% CI: -3.45, -0.065; P = 0.0492) concentrations were significantly reduced in the LEV group compared with the CON group. CONCLUSIONS Inflammatory mechanisms are crucial to optimal resolution of infectious conditions, yet unchecked secretion of inflammatory mediators can promote the dysregulated immune response implicated in COVID-19 complications. Overall, PEA supplementation produced anti-inflammatory effects in individuals recently diagnosed with COVID-19 who were nonhospitalized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha N Fessler
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, USA,Address correspondence to SNF (E-mail: )
| | - Li Liu
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, USA,Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Yung Chang
- Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA,School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Theresa Yip
- Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA,School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Carol S Johnston
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, USA
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22
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della Rocca G, Re G. Palmitoylethanolamide and Related ALIAmides for Small Animal Health: State of the Art. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12091186. [PMID: 36139024 PMCID: PMC9496254 DOI: 10.3390/biom12091186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
ALIAmides are a family of fatty acid amides whose name comes from their mechanism of action, i.e., the Autacoid Local Injury Antagonism (ALIA). Actually, the ALIAmide parent molecule, palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), is locally produced on demand from a cell membrane precursor in order to control immune-inflammatory cell responses, avert chronic non-resolving inflammation, and limit the resulting clinical signs. ALIAmide sister compounds, such as Adelmidrol and palmitoylglucosamine, share mechanisms of action with PEA and may also increase endogenous levels of PEA. Provided that their respective bioavailability is properly addressed (e.g., through decreasing the particle size through micronization), exogenously administered ALIAmides thus mimic or sustain the prohomeostatic functions of endogenous PEA. The aim of the present paper is to review the main findings on the use of ALIAmides in small animals as a tribute to the man of vision who first believed in this “according-to-nature” approach, namely Francesco della Valle. After briefly presenting some key issues on the molecular targets, metabolism, and pharmacokinetics of PEA and related ALIAmides, here we will focus on the preclinical and clinical studies performed in dogs and cats. Although more data are still needed, ALIAmides may represent a novel and promising approach to small animal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia della Rocca
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Centro di Ricerca sul Dolore Animale (CeRiDA), University of Perugia, 06123 Perugia, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Giovanni Re
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Division of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Turin, 10095 Grugliasco, Torino, Italy
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23
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Cifelli P, Ruffolo G, Ceccanti M, Cambieri C, Libonati L, Palma E, Inghilleri M. Classical and Unexpected Effects of Ultra-Micronized PEA in Neuromuscular Function. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12060758. [PMID: 35740883 PMCID: PMC9221058 DOI: 10.3390/biom12060758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, the endocannabinoid system has attracted growing attention from the scientific community for its involvement in homeostatic and pathological processes as they pertains to human physiology. Among the constituents of the endocannabinoid system, the molecule palmitoyl ethanolamide has particularly been studied for its ability to reduce several inflammatory processes involving the central nervous system. Here, we reviewed published literature and summarized the main targets of the palmitoyl ethanolamide, along with its unique possible mechanisms for restoring correct functioning of the central nervous system. Moreover, we have highlighted a less-known characteristic of palmitoyl ethanolamide, namely its ability to modulate the function of the neuromuscular junction by binding to acetylcholine receptors in different experimental conditions. Indeed, there are several studies that have highlighted how ultra-micronized palmitoyl ethanolamide is an interesting nutraceutical support for the treatment of pathological neuromuscular conditions, specifically when the normal activity of the acetylcholine receptor is altered. Although further multicentric clinical trials are needed to confirm the efficacy of ultra-micronized palmitoyl ethanolamide in improving symptoms of neuromuscular diseases, all the literature reviewed here strongly supports the ability of this endocannabinoid-like molecule to modulate the acetylcholine receptors thus resulting as a valid support for the treatment of human neuromuscular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierangelo Cifelli
- Department of Applied Clinical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
- Correspondence: (P.C.); (M.I.)
| | - Gabriele Ruffolo
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, University of Rome Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy; (G.R.); (E.P.)
- IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, 00163 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Ceccanti
- Department of Human Neuroscience, University of Rome Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.C.); (C.C.); (L.L.)
| | - Chiara Cambieri
- Department of Human Neuroscience, University of Rome Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.C.); (C.C.); (L.L.)
| | - Laura Libonati
- Department of Human Neuroscience, University of Rome Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.C.); (C.C.); (L.L.)
| | - Eleonora Palma
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, University of Rome Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy; (G.R.); (E.P.)
| | - Maurizio Inghilleri
- Department of Human Neuroscience, University of Rome Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.C.); (C.C.); (L.L.)
- Correspondence: (P.C.); (M.I.)
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24
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Del Re A, Palenca I, Seguella L, Pesce M, Corpetti C, Steardo L, Rurgo S, Sarnelli G, Esposito G. Oral Adelmidrol Administration Up-Regulates Palmitoylethanolamide Production in Mice Colon and Duodenum through a PPAR-γ Independent Action. Metabolites 2022; 12:metabo12050457. [PMID: 35629962 PMCID: PMC9144287 DOI: 10.3390/metabo12050457] [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: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Adelmidrol is a promising palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) analog which displayed up-and-coming anti-inflammatory properties in several inflammatory conditions. Recent studies demonstrated that Adelmidrol is an in vitro enhancer of PEA endogenous production, through the so called “entourage” effect. The present study investigated the ability of Adelmidrol (1 and 10 mg/Kg per os) to increase the endogenous level of PEA in the duodenum and colon of mice after 21-day oral administration in the presence and absence of PPAR-γ inhibitor (1 mg/kg). The level of PEA was analyzed by HPLC-MS. The expression of PEA-related enzymatic machinery was evaluated by western blot and RT-PCR analysis. Our findings demonstrated that Adelmidrol significantly increased PEA levels in the duodenum and colon in a dose/time-dependent manner. We also revealed that Adelmidrol up regulated the enzymatic machinery responsible for PEA metabolism and catabolism. Interestingly, the use of the selective irreversible PPAR-γ antagonist did not affect either PEA intestinal levels or expression/transcription of PEA metabolic enzymes following Adelmidrol administration. The “entourage effect” with Adelmidrol as an enhancer of PEA was thus PPAR-γ-independent. The findings suggest that Adelmidrol can maximize a PEA therapeutic-based approach in several intestinal morbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Del Re
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology V. Erspamer, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale AldoMoro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (A.D.R.); (I.P.); (L.S.); (C.C.)
| | - Irene Palenca
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology V. Erspamer, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale AldoMoro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (A.D.R.); (I.P.); (L.S.); (C.C.)
| | - Luisa Seguella
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology V. Erspamer, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale AldoMoro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (A.D.R.); (I.P.); (L.S.); (C.C.)
| | - Marcella Pesce
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.P.); (S.R.); (G.S.)
| | - Chiara Corpetti
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology V. Erspamer, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale AldoMoro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (A.D.R.); (I.P.); (L.S.); (C.C.)
| | - Luca Steardo
- Department of Psychiatry, Giustino Fortunato University, 82100 Benevento, Italy;
| | - Sara Rurgo
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.P.); (S.R.); (G.S.)
| | - Giovanni Sarnelli
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.P.); (S.R.); (G.S.)
| | - Giuseppe Esposito
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology V. Erspamer, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale AldoMoro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (A.D.R.); (I.P.); (L.S.); (C.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-06-4991-2948
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25
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Effects of Rare Phytocannabinoids on the Endocannabinoid System of Human Keratinocytes. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23105430. [PMID: 35628241 PMCID: PMC9145865 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The decriminalization and legalization of cannabis has paved the way for investigations into the potential of the use of phytocannabinoids (pCBs) as natural therapeutics for the treatment of human diseases. This growing interest has recently focused on rare (less abundant) pCBs that are non-psychotropic compounds, such as cannabigerol (CBG), cannabichromene (CBC), Δ9-tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) and cannabigerolic acid (CBGA). Notably, pCBs can act via the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is involved in the regulation of key pathophysiological processes, and also in the skin. In this study, we used human keratinocytes (HaCaT cells) as an in vitro model that expresses all major ECS elements in order to systematically investigate the effects of CBG, CBC, THCV and CBGA. To this end, we analyzed the gene and protein expression of ECS components (receptors: CB1, CB2, GPR55, TRPV1 and PPARα/γ/δ; enzymes: NAPE-PLD, FAAH, DAGLα/β and MAGL) using qRT-PCR and Western blotting, along with assessments of their functionality using radioligand binding and activity assays. In addition, we quantified the content of endocannabinoid(-like) compounds (AEA, 2-AG, PEA, etc.) using UHPLC-MS/MS. Our results demonstrated that rare pCBs modulate the gene and protein expression of distinct ECS elements differently, as well as the content of endocannabinoid(-like) compounds. Notably, they all increased CB1/2 binding, TRPV1 channel stimulation and FAAH and MAGL catalytic activity. These unprecedented observations should be considered when exploring the therapeutic potential of cannabis extracts for the treatment of human skin diseases.
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26
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Serra MP, Boi M, Carta A, Murru E, Carta G, Banni S, Quartu M. Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Beta-Caryophyllene Mediated by the Involvement of TRPV1, BDNF and trkB in the Rat Cerebral Cortex after Hypoperfusion/Reperfusion. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:3633. [PMID: 35408995 PMCID: PMC8998979 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
We have previously shown that bilateral common carotid artery occlusion followed by reperfusion (BCCAO/R) is a model to study early hypoperfusion/reperfusion-induced changes in biomarkers of the tissue physiological response to oxidative stress and inflammation. Thus in this study, we investigate with immunochemical assays if a single dose of beta-caryophyllene (BCP), administered before the BCCAO/R, can modulate the TRPV1, BDNF, and trkB receptor in the brain cortex; the glial markers GFAP and Iba1 were also examined. Frontal and temporal-occipital cortical regions were analyzed in two groups of male rats, sham-operated and submitted to BCCAO/R. Six hours before surgery, one group was gavage fed a dose of BCP (40 mg/per rat in 300 μL of sunflower oil), the other was pre-treated with the vehicle alone. Western blot analysis showed that, in the frontal cortex of vehicle-treated rats, the BCCAO/R caused a TRPV1 decrease, an increment of trkB and GFAP, no change in BDNF and Iba1. The BCP treatment caused a decrease of BDNF and an increase of trkB levels in both sham and BCCAO/R conditions while inducing opposite changes in the case of TRPV1, whose levels became higher in BCCAO/R and lower in sham conditions. Present results highlight the role of BCP in modulating early events of the cerebral inflammation triggered by the BCCAO/R through the regulation of TRPV1 and the BDNF-trkB system.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Marina Quartu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, 09042 Monserrato, Italy; (M.P.S.); (M.B.); (A.C.); (E.M.); (G.C.); (S.B.)
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27
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Anderson LL, Doohan PT, Hawkins NA, Bahceci D, Thakur GA, Kearney JA, Arnold JC, Arnold JC. The endocannabinoid system impacts seizures in a mouse model of Dravet syndrome. Neuropharmacology 2022; 205:108897. [PMID: 34822817 PMCID: PMC9514665 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Dravet syndrome is a catastrophic childhood epilepsy with multiple seizure types that are refractory to treatment. The endocannabinoid system regulates neuronal excitability so a deficit in endocannabinoid signaling could lead to hyperexcitability and seizures. Thus, we sought to determine whether a deficiency in the endocannabinoid system might contribute to seizure phenotypes in a mouse model of Dravet syndrome and whether enhancing endocannabinoid tone is anticonvulsant. Scn1a+/- mice model the clinical features of Dravet syndrome: hyperthermia-induced seizures, spontaneous seizures and reduced survival. We examined whether Scn1a+/- mice exhibit deficits in the endocannabinoid system by measuring brain cannabinoid receptor expression and endocannabinoid concentrations. Next, we determined whether pharmacologically enhanced endocannabinoid tone was anticonvulsant in Scn1a+/- mice. We used GAT229, a positive allosteric modulator of the cannabinoid (CB1) receptor, and ABX-1431, a compound that inhibits the degradation of the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG). The Scn1a+/- phenotype is strain-dependent with mice on a 129S6/SvEvTac (129) genetic background having no overt phenotype and those on an F1 (129S6/SvEvTac x C57BL/6J) background exhibiting a severe epilepsy phenotype. We observed lower brain cannabinoid CB1 receptor expression in the seizure-susceptible F1 compared to seizure-resistant 129 strain, suggesting an endocannabinoid deficiency might contribute to seizure susceptibility. GAT229 and ABX-1431 were anticonvulsant against hyperthermia-induced seizures. However, subchronic ABX1431 treatment increased spontaneous seizure frequency despite reducing seizure severity. Cnr1 is a putative genetic modifier of epilepsy in the Scn1a+/- mouse model of Dravet syndrome. Compounds that increase endocannabinoid tone could be developed as novel treatments for Dravet syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lyndsey L. Anderson
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, The University of Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia,Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia,Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia
| | - Peter T. Doohan
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, The University of Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia,Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia,Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia
| | - Nicole A. Hawkins
- Department of Pharmacology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, IL 60611, USA
| | - Dilara Bahceci
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, The University of Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia,Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia,Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia
| | - Ganesh A. Thakur
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jennifer A. Kearney
- Department of Pharmacology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, IL 60611, USA
| | - Jonathon C. Arnold
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, The University of Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia,Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia,Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia
| | - Jonathon C Arnold
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, The University of Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia; Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia.
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28
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Greco R, Demartini C, Zanaboni AM, Francavilla M, De Icco R, Ahmad L, Tassorelli C. The endocannabinoid system and related lipids as potential targets for the treatment of migraine-related pain. Headache 2022; 62:227-240. [PMID: 35179780 DOI: 10.1111/head.14267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Migraine is a complex and highly disabling neurological disease whose treatment remains challenging in many patients, even after the recent advent of the first specific-preventive drugs, namely monoclonal antibodies that target calcitonin gene-related peptide. For this reason, headache researchers are actively searching for new therapeutic targets. Cannabis has been proposed for migraine treatment, but controlled clinical studies are lacking. A major advance in cannabinoid research has been the discovery of the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which consists of receptors CB1 and CB2; their endogenous ligands, such as N-arachidonoylethanolamine; and the enzymes that catalyze endocannabinoid biosynthesis or degradation. Preclinical and clinical findings suggest a possible role for endocannabinoids and related lipids, such as palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), in migraine-related pain treatment. In animal models of migraine-related pain, endocannabinoid tone modulation via inhibition of endocannabinoid-catabolizing enzymes has been a particular focus of research. METHODS To conduct a narrative review of available data on the possible effects of cannabis, endocannabinoids, and other lipids in migraine-related pain, relevant key words were used to search the PubMed/MEDLINE database for basic and clinical studies. RESULTS Endocannabinoids and PEA seem to reduce trigeminal nociception by interacting with many pathways associated with migraine, suggesting a potential synergistic or similar effect. CONCLUSIONS Modulation of the metabolic pathways of the ECS may be a basis for new migraine treatments. The multiplicity of options and the wealth of data already obtained in animal models underscore the importance of further advancing research in this area. Multiple molecules related to the ECS or to allosteric modulation of CB1 receptors have emerged as potential therapeutic targets in migraine-related pain. The complexity of the ECS calls for accurate biochemical and pharmacological characterization of any new compounds undergoing testing and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosaria Greco
- Headache Science & Neurorehabilitation Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Chiara Demartini
- Headache Science & Neurorehabilitation Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Zanaboni
- Headache Science & Neurorehabilitation Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Miriam Francavilla
- Headache Science & Neurorehabilitation Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Roberto De Icco
- Headache Science & Neurorehabilitation Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Lara Ahmad
- Headache Science & Neurorehabilitation Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Cristina Tassorelli
- Headache Science & Neurorehabilitation Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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29
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Albanese M, Marrone G, Paolino A, Di Lauro M, Di Daniele F, Chiaramonte C, D'Agostini C, Romani A, Cavaliere A, Guerriero C, Magrini A, Mercuri NB, Di Daniele N, Noce A. Effects of Ultramicronized Palmitoylethanolamide (um-PEA) in COVID-19 Early Stages: A Case–Control Study. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15020253. [PMID: 35215365 PMCID: PMC8878249 DOI: 10.3390/ph15020253] [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: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Ultramicronized palmitoylethanolamide (um-PEA), a compound with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, appears to be a potential adjuvant treatment for early stages of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). In our study, we enrolled 90 patients with confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 that were randomized into two groups, homogeneous for age, gender and BMI. The first group received oral supplementation based on um-PEA at a dose of 1800 mg/day for a total of 28 days; the second group was the control group (R.S. 73.20). At baseline (T0) and after 28 days of um-PEA treatment (T1), we monitored: routine laboratory parameters, inflammatory and oxidative stress (OS) biomarkers, lymphocytes subpopulation and COVID-19 serological response. At T1, the um-PEA-treated group presented a significant reduction in inflammation compared to the control group (CRP p = 0.007; IL-6 p = 0.0001; neutrophils to lymphocytes ratio p = 0.044). At T1, the controls showed a significant increase in OS compared to the treated group (FORT p = 0.05). At T1, the um-PEA group exhibited a significant decrease in D-dimer levels (p = 0.0001) and higher levels of IgG against SARS-CoV-2 (p = 0.0001) compared to the controls. Our data demonstrated, in a randomized clinical trial, the beneficial effects of um-PEA in both asymptomatic and mild-symptomatic patients related to reductions in inflammatory state, OS and coagulative cascade alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Albanese
- Neurology Unit, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Marrone
- UOC of Internal Medicine-Center of Hypertension and Nephrology Unit, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Agostino Paolino
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Manuela Di Lauro
- UOC of Internal Medicine-Center of Hypertension and Nephrology Unit, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Di Daniele
- PhD School of Applied Medical, Surgical Sciences, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
- UOSD of Dermatology, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Chiaramonte
- Department of Statistics, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Cartesio D'Agostini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Clinical Microbiology, Policlinico Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Annalisa Romani
- PHYTOLAB (Pharmaceutical, Cosmetic, Food Supplement, Technology and Analysis), DiSIA, University of Florence, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019 Florence, Italy
| | | | - Cristina Guerriero
- UOC of Internal Medicine-Center of Hypertension and Nephrology Unit, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Magrini
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Biagio Mercuri
- Neurology Unit, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
- IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Di Daniele
- UOC of Internal Medicine-Center of Hypertension and Nephrology Unit, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Annalisa Noce
- UOC of Internal Medicine-Center of Hypertension and Nephrology Unit, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
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Schiano Moriello A, Di Marzo V, Petrosino S. Mutual Links between the Endocannabinoidome and the Gut Microbiome, with Special Reference to Companion Animals: A Nutritional Viewpoint. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12030348. [PMID: 35158670 PMCID: PMC8833664 DOI: 10.3390/ani12030348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
There is growing evidence that perturbation of the gut microbiome, known as “dysbiosis”, is associated with the pathogenesis of human and veterinary diseases that are not restricted to the gastrointestinal tract. In this regard, recent studies have demonstrated that dysbiosis is linked to the pathogenesis of central neuroinflammatory disorders, supporting the existence of the so-called microbiome-gut-brain axis. The endocannabinoid system is a recently recognized lipid signaling system and termed endocannabinoidome monitoring a variety of body responses. Accumulating evidence demonstrates that a profound link exists between the gut microbiome and the endocannabinoidome, with mutual interactions controlling intestinal homeostasis, energy metabolism and neuroinflammatory responses during physiological conditions. In the present review, we summarize the latest data on the microbiome-endocannabinoidome mutual link in health and disease, focalizing the attention on gut dysbiosis and/or altered endocannabinoidome tone that may distort the bidirectional crosstalk between these two complex systems, thus leading to gastrointestinal and metabolic diseases (e.g., idiopathic inflammation, chronic enteropathies and obesity) as well as neuroinflammatory disorders (e.g., neuropathic pain and depression). We also briefly discuss the novel possible dietary interventions based not only on probiotics and/or prebiotics, but also, and most importantly, on endocannabinoid-like modulators (e.g., palmitoylethanolamide) for intestinal health and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aniello Schiano Moriello
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Istituto di Chimica Biomolecolare, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Napoli, Italy; (A.S.M.); (V.D.M.)
- Epitech Group SpA, Via Einaudi 13, 35030 Padova, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Di Marzo
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Istituto di Chimica Biomolecolare, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Napoli, Italy; (A.S.M.); (V.D.M.)
- Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, CRIUCPQ and INAF, Centre NUTRISS, Faculties of Medicine and Agriculture and Food Sciences, Université Laval, Quebéc City, QC G1V 4G5, Canada
| | - Stefania Petrosino
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Istituto di Chimica Biomolecolare, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Napoli, Italy; (A.S.M.); (V.D.M.)
- Epitech Group SpA, Via Einaudi 13, 35030 Padova, Italy
- Correspondence:
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The Endocannabinoid System in Glial Cells and Their Profitable Interactions to Treat Epilepsy: Evidence from Animal Models. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222413231. [PMID: 34948035 PMCID: PMC8709154 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological conditions. Yearly, five million people are diagnosed with epileptic-related disorders. The neuroprotective and therapeutic effect of (endo)cannabinoid compounds has been extensively investigated in several models of epilepsy. Therefore, the study of specific cell-type-dependent mechanisms underlying cannabinoid effects is crucial to understanding epileptic disorders. It is estimated that about 100 billion neurons and a roughly equal number of glial cells co-exist in the human brain. The glial population is in charge of neuronal viability, and therefore, their participation in brain pathophysiology is crucial. Furthermore, glial malfunctioning occurs in a wide range of neurological disorders. However, little is known about the impact of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) regulation over glial cells, even less in pathological conditions such as epilepsy. In this review, we aim to compile the existing knowledge on the role of the ECS in different cell types, with a particular emphasis on glial cells and their impact on epilepsy. Thus, we propose that glial cells could be a novel target for cannabinoid agents for treating the etiology of epilepsy and managing seizure-like disorders.
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Long W, Johnson J, Kalyaanamoorthy S, Light P. TRPV1 channels as a newly identified target for vitamin D. Channels (Austin) 2021; 15:360-374. [PMID: 33825665 PMCID: PMC8032246 DOI: 10.1080/19336950.2021.1905248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitamin D is known to elicit many biological effects in diverse tissue types and is thought to act almost exclusively upon its canonical receptor within the nucleus, leading to gene transcriptional changes and the subsequent cellular response. However, not all the observed effects of vitamin D can be attributed to this sole mechanism, and other cellular targets likely exist but remain to be identified. Our recent discovery that vitamin D is a partial agonist of the Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid family 1 (TRPV1) channel may provide new insights as to how this important vitamin exerts its biological effects either independently or in addition to the nuclear vitamin D receptor. In this review, we discuss the literature surrounding this apparent discrepancy in vitamin D signaling and compare vitamin D with known TRPV1 ligands with respect to their binding to TRPV1. Furthermore, we provide evidence supporting the notion that this novel vitamin D/TRPV1 axis may explain some of the beneficial actions of this vitamin in disease states where TRPV1 expression and vitamin D deficiency are known to overlap. Finally, we discuss whether vitamin D may also act on other members of the TRP family of ion channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wentong Long
- Department of Pharmacology and the Alberta Diabetes Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Janyne Johnson
- Department of Pharmacology and the Alberta Diabetes Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | | | - Peter Light
- Department of Pharmacology and the Alberta Diabetes Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
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Clayton P, Subah S, Venkatesh R, Hill M, Bogoda N. Palmitoylethanolamide: A Potential Alternative to Cannabidiol. J Diet Suppl 2021; 20:505-530. [PMID: 34842030 DOI: 10.1080/19390211.2021.2005733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a widespread cell signaling network that maintains homeostasis in response to endogenous and exogenous stressors. This has made the ECS an attractive therapeutic target for various disease states. The ECS is a well-known target of exogenous phytocannabinoids derived from cannabis plants, the most well characterized being Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). However, the therapeutic efficacy of cannabis products comes with a risk of toxicity and high abuse potential due to the psychoactivity of THC. CBD, on the other hand, is reported to have beneficial medicinal properties including analgesic, neuroprotective, anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, and antipsychotic activities, while apparently lacking the toxicity of THC. Nevertheless, not only is the currently available scientific data concerning CBD's efficacy insufficient, there is also ambiguity surrounding its regulatory status and safety in humans that brings inherent risks to manufacturers. There is a demand for alternative compounds combining similar effects with a robust safety profile and regulatory approval. Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is an endocannabinoid-like lipid mediator, primarily known for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic and neuroprotective properties. It appears to have a multi-modal mechanism of action, by primarily activating the nuclear receptor PPAR-α while also potentially working through the ECS, thus targeting similar pathways as CBD. With proven efficacy in several therapeutic areas, its safety and tolerability profile and the development of formulations that maximize its bioavailability, PEA is a promising alternative to CBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Clayton
- Institute of Food, Brain and Behaviour, Oxford, UK
| | - Silma Subah
- Gencor Pacific Limited, Lantau Island, Hong Kong
| | | | - Mariko Hill
- Gencor Pacific Limited, Lantau Island, Hong Kong
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Hu J, Ying H, Yao J, Yang L, Jin W, Ma H, Li L, Zhao Y. Micronized Palmitoylethanolamide Ameliorates Methionine- and Choline-Deficient Diet-Induced Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis via Inhibiting Inflammation and Restoring Autophagy. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:744483. [PMID: 34712137 PMCID: PMC8546106 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.744483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) has become one of the serious causes of chronic liver diseases, characterized by hepatic steatosis, hepatocellular injury, inflammation and fibrosis, and lack of efficient therapeutic agents. Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is an endogenous bioactive lipid with various pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and neuroprotective effects. However, the effect of PEA on nonalcoholic steatohepatitis is still unknown. Our study aims to explore the potential protective role of PEA on NASH and to reveal the underlying mechanism. In this study, the C57BL/6 mice were used to establish the NASH model through methionine- and choline-deficient (MCD) diet feeding. Here, we found that PEA treatment significantly improved liver function, alleviated hepatic pathological changes, and attenuated the lipid accumulation and hepatic fibrosis in NASH mice induced by MCD diet feeding. Mechanistically, the anti-steatosis effect of PEA may be due to the suppressed expression of ACC1 and CD36, elevated expression of PPAR-α, and the phosphorylation levels of AMPK. In addition, hepatic oxidative stress was greatly inhibited in MCD-fed mice treated with PEA via enhancing the expression and activities of antioxidant enzymes, including GSH-px and SOD. Moreover, PEA exerted a clear anti-inflammatory effect though ameliorating the expression of inflammatory mediators and suppressing the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway activation. Furthermore, the impaired autophagy in MCD-induced mice was reactivated with PEA treatment. Taken together, our research suggested that PEA protects against NASH through the inhibition of inflammation and restoration of autophagy. Thus, PEA may represent an efficient therapeutic agent to treat NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaji Hu
- Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Hanglu Ying
- Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Jie Yao
- Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Longhe Yang
- Technology Innovation Center for Exploitation of Marine Biological Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen, China
| | - Wenhui Jin
- Technology Innovation Center for Exploitation of Marine Biological Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen, China
| | - Huabin Ma
- Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Long Li
- Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Yufen Zhao
- Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
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Voegel CD, Kroll SL, Schmid MW, Kexel AK, Baumgartner MR, Kraemer T, Binz TM, Quednow BB. Alterations of Stress-Related Glucocorticoids and Endocannabinoids in Hair of Chronic Cocaine Users. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2021; 25:226-237. [PMID: 34676867 PMCID: PMC8929753 DOI: 10.1093/ijnp/pyab070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous research in animals and humans has demonstrated a potential role of stress regulatory systems, such as the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the endocannabinoid (eCB) system, in the development of substance use disorders. We thus investigated alterations of HPA and eCB markers in individuals with chronic cocaine use disorder by using an advanced hair analysis technique. METHODS We compared hair concentrations of glucocorticoids (cortisone, cortisol) and the eCBs 2-arachidonylglycerol, anandamide (AEA), oleoylethanolamide (OEA), and palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) between 48 recreational cocaine users (RCU), 25 dependent cocaine users (DCU), and 67 stimulant-naïve controls. Self-reported substance use and hair concentrations of substances were also assessed. RESULTS Significantly higher concentrations of hair cortisone were found in RCU and DCU compared with controls. Hair concentrations of OEA and PEA were significantly lower in DCU compared with RCU and controls. Additionally, within cocaine users, elevated cocaine hair concentration was a significant predictor for increased glucocorticoid and decreased OEA hair levels. Moreover, higher 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine hair concentration was correlated with elevated cortisone and AEA, OEA, and PEA levels in hair within cocaine users, whereas more self-reported cannabis use was associated with lower eCBs levels in hair across the total sample. CONCLUSION Our findings support the hypothesis that the HPA axis and eCB system might be important regulators for substance use disorders. The mechanistic understanding of changes in glucocorticoid and eCB levels in future research might be a promising pharmacological target to reduce stress-induced craving and relapse specifically in cocaine use disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clarissa D Voegel
- Center for Forensic Hair Analytics, Zurich Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sara L Kroll
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacopsychology, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatics, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland,Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | | | - Ann-Kathrin Kexel
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacopsychology, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatics, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Markus R Baumgartner
- Center for Forensic Hair Analytics, Zurich Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Kraemer
- Department of Forensic Pharmacology and Toxicology, Zurich Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Tina M Binz
- Center for Forensic Hair Analytics, Zurich Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Boris B Quednow
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacopsychology, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatics, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland,Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich and Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, Zurich, Switzerland,Correspondence: B. B. Quednow, PhD, Experimental and Clinical Pharmacopsychology, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, University Hospital of Psychiatry, Zurich, Lenggstrasse 31, CH-8032 Zurich, Switzerland ()
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Cannabidiol modulation of oxidative stress and signalling. Neuronal Signal 2021; 5:NS20200080. [PMID: 34497718 PMCID: PMC8385185 DOI: 10.1042/ns20200080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD), one of the primary non-euphoric components in the Cannabis sativa L. plant, has undergone clinical development over the last number of years as a therapeutic for patients with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndromes. This phytocannabinoid demonstrates functional and pharmacological diversity, and research data indicate that CBD is a comparable antioxidant to common antioxidants. This review gathers the latest knowledge regarding the impact of CBD on oxidative signalling, with focus on the proclivity of CBD to regulate antioxidants and control the production of reactive oxygen species. CBD is considered an attractive therapeutic agent for neuroimmune disorders, and a body of literature indicates that CBD can regulate redox function at multiple levels, with a range of downstream effects on cells and tissues. However, pro-oxidant capacity of CBD has also been reported, and hence caution must be applied when considering CBD from a therapeutic standpoint. Such pro- and antioxidant functions of CBD may be cell- and model-dependent and may also be influenced by CBD dose, the duration of CBD treatment and the underlying pathology.
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Successful and Unsuccessful Brain Aging in Pets: Pathophysiological Mechanisms behind Clinical Signs and Potential Benefits from Palmitoylethanolamide Nutritional Intervention. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11092584. [PMID: 34573549 PMCID: PMC8470385 DOI: 10.3390/ani11092584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cognitive dysfunction syndrome is a common yet underreported neurodegenerative disorder of elderly dogs and cats and a natural model of human Alzheimer’s disease. The increasingly expanding life expectancy means a larger proportion of affected animals in the coming decades. Although far from being curative, available treatments are more effective the sooner they are started. Educating veterinary practitioners and owners in the early recognition of age-related cognitive dysfunction is thus mandatory. By shedding light on the mechanism underlying the disease, novel and more effective approaches might be developed. Emerging evidence shows that successful and unsuccessful brain aging share a common underlying mechanism that is neuroinflammation. This process involves astrocytes, microglia, and mast cells and has a restorative homeostatic intent. However, for reasons not fully elucidated yet, neuroinflammation can also exert detrimental consequences substantially contributing to neurodegeneration. Here we summarize the evidence accumulated so far on the pathogenic role of neuroinflammation in the onset and progression of age-related neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease. The potential benefit of palmitoylethanolamide dietary intervention in rebalancing neuroinflammation and exerting neuroprotection is also discussed. Abstract Canine and feline cognitive dysfunction syndrome is a common neurodegenerative disorder of old age and a natural model of human Alzheimer’s disease. With the unavoidable expanding life expectancy, an increasing number of small animals will be affected. Although there is no cure, early detection and intervention are vitally important to delay cognitive decline. Knowledge of cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying disease onset and progression is an equally decisive factor for developing effective approaches. Uncontrolled neuroinflammation, orchestrated in the central nervous system mainly by astrocytes, microglia, and resident mast cells, is currently acknowledged as a hallmark of neurodegeneration. This has prompted scientists to find a way to rebalance the altered crosstalk between these cells. In this context, great emphasis has been given to the role played by the expanded endocannabinoid system, i.e., endocannabinoidome, because of its prominent role in physiological and pathological neuroinflammation. Within the endocannabinoidome, great attention has been paid to palmitoylethanolamide due to its safe and pro-homeostatic effects. The availability of new ultramicronized formulations highly improved the oral bioavailability of palmitoylethanolamide, paving the way to its dietary use. Ultramicronized palmitoylethanolamide has been repeatedly tested in animal models of age-related neurodegeneration with promising results. Data accumulated so far suggest that supplementation with ultramicronized palmitoylethanolamide helps to accomplish successful brain aging.
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The Impact of Early Life Exposure to Cannabis: The Role of the Endocannabinoid System. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168576. [PMID: 34445282 PMCID: PMC8395329 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 08/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis use during pregnancy has continued to rise, particularly in developed countries, as a result of the trend towards legalization and lack of consistent, evidence-based knowledge on the matter. While there is conflicting data regarding whether cannabis use during pregnancy leads to adverse outcomes such as stillbirth, preterm birth, low birthweight, or increased admission to neonatal intensive care units, investigations into long-term effects on the offspring’s health are limited. Historically, studies have focused on the neurobehavioral effects of prenatal cannabis exposure on the offspring. The effects of cannabis on other physiological aspects of the developing fetus have received less attention. Importantly, our knowledge about cannabinoid signaling in the placenta is also limited. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is present at early stages of development and represents a potential target for exogenous cannabinoids in utero. The ECS is expressed in a broad range of tissues and influences a spectrum of cellular functions. The aim of this review is to explore the current evidence surrounding the effects of prenatal exposure to cannabinoids and the role of the ECS in the placenta and the developing fetus.
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Boczek T, Zylinska L. Receptor-Dependent and Independent Regulation of Voltage-Gated Ca 2+ Channels and Ca 2+-Permeable Channels by Endocannabinoids in the Brain. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22158168. [PMID: 34360934 PMCID: PMC8348342 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22158168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The activity of specific populations of neurons in different brain areas makes decisions regarding proper synaptic transmission, the ability to make adaptations in response to different external signals, as well as the triggering of specific regulatory pathways to sustain neural function. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) appears to be a very important, highly expressed, and active system of control in the central nervous system (CNS). Functionally, it allows the cells to respond quickly to processes that occur during synaptic transmission, but can also induce long-term changes. The endocannabinoids (eCBs) belong to a large family of bioactive lipid mediators that includes amides, esters, and ethers of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. They are produced “on demand” from the precursors located in the membranes, exhibit a short half-life, and play a key role as retrograde messengers. eCBs act mainly through two receptors, CB1R and CB2R, which belong to the G-protein coupled receptor superfamily (GPCRs), but can also exert their action via multiple non-receptor pathways. The action of eCBs depends on Ca2+, but eCBs can also regulate downstream Ca2+ signaling. In this short review, we focus on the regulation of neuronal calcium channels by the most effective members of eCBs-2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), anandamide (AEA) and originating from AEA-N-arachidonoylglycine (NAGly), to better understand the contribution of ECS to brain function under physiological conditions.
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Petrie GN, Nastase AS, Aukema RJ, Hill MN. Endocannabinoids, cannabinoids and the regulation of anxiety. Neuropharmacology 2021; 195:108626. [PMID: 34116110 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis has been used for hundreds of years, with its ability to dampen feelings of anxiety often reported as a primary reason for use. Only recently has the specific role cannabinoids play in anxiety been thoroughly investigated. Here we discuss the body of evidence describing how endocannabinoids and exogenous cannabinoids are capable of regulating the generation and termination of anxiety states. Disruption of the endogenous cannabinoid (eCB) system following genetic manipulation, pharmacological intervention or stress exposure reliably leads to the generation of an anxiety state. On the other hand, upregulation of eCB signaling is capable of alleviating anxiety-like behaviors in multiple paradigms. When considering exogenous cannabinoid administration, cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) agonists have a biphasic, dose-dependent effect on anxiety such that low doses are anxiolytic while high doses are anxiogenic, a phenomenon that is evident in both rodent models and humans. Translational studies investigating a loss of function mutation in the gene for fatty acid amide hydrolase, the enzyme responsible for metabolizing AEA, have also shown that AEA signaling regulates anxiety in humans. Taken together, evidence reviewed here has outlined a convincing argument for cannabinoids being powerful regulators of both the manifestation and amelioration of anxiety symptoms, and highlights the therapeutic potential of targeting the eCB system for the development of novel classes of anxiolytics. This article is part of the special issue on 'Cannabinoids'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gavin N Petrie
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute and the Mathison Centre for Mental Health Education and Research, Departments of Cell Biology and Anatomy & Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Andrei S Nastase
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute and the Mathison Centre for Mental Health Education and Research, Departments of Cell Biology and Anatomy & Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Robert J Aukema
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute and the Mathison Centre for Mental Health Education and Research, Departments of Cell Biology and Anatomy & Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Matthew N Hill
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute and the Mathison Centre for Mental Health Education and Research, Departments of Cell Biology and Anatomy & Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada.
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Assogna M, Casula EP, Borghi I, Bonnì S, Samà D, Motta C, Di Lorenzo F, D'Acunto A, Porrazzini F, Minei M, Caltagirone C, Martorana A, Koch G. Effects of Palmitoylethanolamide Combined with Luteoline on Frontal Lobe Functions, High Frequency Oscillations, and GABAergic Transmission in Patients with Frontotemporal Dementia. J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 76:1297-1308. [PMID: 32623398 DOI: 10.3233/jad-200426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a presenile neurodegenerative disease for which there is no effective pharmacological treatment. Recently, a link has been proposed between neuroinflammation and FTD. OBJECTIVE Here, we aim to investigate the effects of palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) combined with luteoline (PEA-LUT), an endocannabinoid with anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, on behavior, cognition, and cortical activity in a sample of FTD patients. METHODS Seventeen patients with a diagnosis of probable FTD were enrolled. Cognitive and neurophysiological evaluations were performed at baseline and after 4 weeks of PEA-LUT 700 mg×2/day. Cognitive effects were assessed by Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI), Mini-Mental State Examination, Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB), Screening for Aphasia in Neurodegeneration, Activities of Daily Living-Instrumental Activities of Daily Living, and Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration-modified Clinical Dementia Rating scale. To investigate in vivo neurophysiological effects of PEA-LUT, we used repetitive and paired-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) protocols assessing LTP-like cortical plasticity, short-interval intracortical inhibition, long-interval intracortical inhibition (LICI), and short-latency afferent inhibition. Moreover, we used TMS combined with EEG to evaluate the effects on frontal lobe cortical oscillatory activity. RESULTS Treatment with PEA-LUT was associated with an improvement in NPI and FAB scores. Neurophysiological evaluation showed a restoration of LICI, in particular at ISI 100 ms, suggesting a modulation of GABA(B) activity. TMS-EEG showed a remarkable increase of TMS-evoked frontal lobe activity and of high-frequency oscillations in the beta/gamma range. CONCLUSION PEA-LUT could reduce behavioral disturbances and improve frontal lobe functions in FTD patients through the modulation of cortical oscillatory activity and GABA(B)ergic transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Assogna
- Santa Lucia Foundation, IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Tor Vergata Policlinic, Rome, Italy
| | - Elias Paolo Casula
- Santa Lucia Foundation, IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, University College London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Giacomo Koch
- Santa Lucia Foundation, IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,eCampus University, Novedrate, Italy
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Clayton P, Hill M, Bogoda N, Subah S, Venkatesh R. Palmitoylethanolamide: A Natural Compound for Health Management. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:5305. [PMID: 34069940 PMCID: PMC8157570 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22105305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
All nations which have undergone a nutrition transition have experienced increased frequency and falling latency of chronic degenerative diseases, which are largely driven by chronic inflammatory stress. Dietary supplementation is a valid strategy to reduce the risk and severity of such disorders. Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is an endocannabinoid-like lipid mediator with extensively documented anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory and neuroprotective effects. It is well tolerated and devoid of side effects in animals and humans. PEA's actions on multiple molecular targets while modulating multiple inflammatory mediators provide therapeutic benefits in many applications, including immunity, brain health, allergy, pain modulation, joint health, sleep and recovery. PEA's poor oral bioavailability, a major obstacle in early research, has been overcome by advanced delivery systems now licensed as food supplements. This review summarizes the functionality of PEA, supporting its use as an important dietary supplement for lifestyle management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Clayton
- Institute of Food, Brain and Behaviour, Beaver House, 23-28 Hythe Bridge Street, Oxford OX1 2EP, UK
| | - Mariko Hill
- Gencor Pacific Limited, Discovery Bay, Lantau Island, New Territories, Hong Kong, China; (M.H.); (N.B.); (S.S.)
| | - Nathasha Bogoda
- Gencor Pacific Limited, Discovery Bay, Lantau Island, New Territories, Hong Kong, China; (M.H.); (N.B.); (S.S.)
| | - Silma Subah
- Gencor Pacific Limited, Discovery Bay, Lantau Island, New Territories, Hong Kong, China; (M.H.); (N.B.); (S.S.)
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Pesce M, Seguella L, Cassarano S, Aurino L, Sanseverino W, Lu J, Corpetti C, Del Re A, Vincenzi M, Sarnelli G, Esposito G. Phytotherapics in COVID19: Why palmitoylethanolamide? Phytother Res 2021; 35:2514-2522. [PMID: 33296131 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.6978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
At present, googling the search terms "COVID-19" and "Functional foods" yields nearly 500,000,000 hits, witnessing the growing interest of the scientific community and the general public in the role of nutrition and nutraceuticals during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many compounds have been proposed as phytotherapics in the prevention and/or treatment of COVID-19. The extensive interest of the general public and the enormous social media coverage on this topic urges the scientific community to address the question of whether which nutraceuticals can actually be employed in preventing and treating this newly described coronavirus-related disease. Recently, the Canadian biotech pharma company "FSD Pharma" received the green light from the Food and Drug Administration to design a proof-of-concept study evaluating the effects of ultramicronized palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) in COVID-19 patients. The story of PEA as a nutraceutical to prevent and treat infectious diseases dates back to the 1970s where the molecule was branded under the name Impulsin and was used for its immunomodulatory properties in influenza virus infection. The present paper aims at analyzing the potential of PEA as a nutraceutical and the previous evidence suggesting its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties in infectious and respiratory diseases and how these could translate to COVID-19 care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcella Pesce
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Luisa Seguella
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Cassarano
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Laura Aurino
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | | | - Jie Lu
- Department of Human Anatomy, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang City, China
| | - Chiara Corpetti
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Del Re
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Martina Vincenzi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Sarnelli
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Esposito
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Ultramicronized Palmitoylethanolamide (um-PEA): A New Possible Adjuvant Treatment in COVID-19 patients. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14040336. [PMID: 33917573 PMCID: PMC8067485 DOI: 10.3390/ph14040336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The Coronavirus Disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused more than 100,000,000 cases of coronavirus infection in the world in just a year, of which there were 2 million deaths. Its clinical picture is characterized by pulmonary involvement that culminates, in the most severe cases, in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). However, COVID-19 affects other organs and systems, including cardiovascular, urinary, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. Currently, unique-drug therapy is not supported by international guidelines. In this context, it is important to resort to adjuvant therapies in combination with traditional pharmacological treatments. Among natural bioactive compounds, palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) seems to have potentially beneficial effects. In fact, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized an ongoing clinical trial with ultramicronized (um)-PEA as an add-on therapy in the treatment of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. In support of this hypothesis, in vitro and in vivo studies have highlighted the immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective and pain-relieving effects of PEA, especially in its um form. The purpose of this review is to highlight the potential use of um-PEA as an adjuvant treatment in SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Effect of Cannabidiol Contributes to the Decreased Lipid Peroxidation of Keratinocytes of Rat Skin Exposed to UV Radiation. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2021. [DOI: 10.1155/2021/6647222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
There is a great need for compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties for protection against UV radiation, which is the most prooxidative physical factor that skin cells are exposed to everyday. Therefore, the aim of the study was to evaluate the mechanism of phytocannabinoid-cannabidiol (CBD) action in vivo on lipid metabolism in keratinocytes of rat skin exposed to UVA/UVB radiation. Our results show that CBD protects keratinocytes against the effects of UVA/UVB radiation by reducing lipid peroxidation products: 4-HNE and 8-isoPGF2α. In addition, CBD significantly increases the level of endocannabinoids, such as anandamide, 2-arachidonylglycerol, and palmitoylethanolamide, and the activation of their receptors CB1/2 or TRPV1. The above changes are due to the protective effect of CBD against the UVA/UVB-induced decrease in the level/activity of superoxide dismutase and the components of the thioredoxin and glutathione systems. CBD also increases the in vivo transcriptional activity of Nrf2 and the expression of its Bach1 inhibitor as well as preventing the UVA/UVB-induced increase in the expression of Nrf2 activators p21, p62, p38, and KAP1 and proinflammatory factors such as NFκB and TNFα. By counteracting oxidative stress and changes in lipid structure in keratinocytes, CBD prevents cellular metabolic disturbances, protecting the epidermis against UV damage.
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Manzo E, Schiano Moriello A, Tinto F, Verde R, Allarà M, De Petrocellis L, Pagano E, Izzo AA, Di Marzo V, Petrosino S. A Glucuronic Acid-Palmitoylethanolamide Conjugate (GLUPEA) Is an Innovative Drug Delivery System and a Potential Bioregulator. Cells 2021; 10:450. [PMID: 33672574 PMCID: PMC7924038 DOI: 10.3390/cells10020450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is an endogenous anti-inflammatory lipid mediator and a widely used nutraceutical. In this study, we designed, realized, and tested a drug-carrier conjugate between PEA (the active drug) and glucuronic acid (the carrier). The conjugate, named GLUPEA, was characterized for its capability of increasing PEA levels and exerting anti-inflammatory activity both in vitro and in vivo. GLUPEA treatment, compared to the same concentration of PEA, resulted in higher cellular amounts of PEA and the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG), and increased 2-AG-induced transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 (TRPV1) channel desensitization to capsaicin. GLUPEA inhibited pro-inflammatory monocyte chemoattractant protein 2 (MCP-2) release from stimulated keratinocytes, and it was almost as efficacious as ultra-micronized PEA at reducing colitis in dinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (DNBS)-injected mice when using the same dose. GLUPEA is a novel pro-drug able to efficiently mimic the anti-inflammatory and endocannabinoid enhancing actions of PEA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emiliano Manzo
- Istituto di Chimica Biomolecolare, CNR, 80078 Pozzuoli, Napoli, Italy; (E.M.); (A.S.M.); (F.T.); (R.V.); (M.A.); (L.D.P.)
| | - Aniello Schiano Moriello
- Istituto di Chimica Biomolecolare, CNR, 80078 Pozzuoli, Napoli, Italy; (E.M.); (A.S.M.); (F.T.); (R.V.); (M.A.); (L.D.P.)
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, 80078 Pozzuoli, Napoli, Italy; (E.P.); (A.A.I.)
- Epitech Group S.p.A., 35030 Saccolongo, Padova, Italy
| | - Francesco Tinto
- Istituto di Chimica Biomolecolare, CNR, 80078 Pozzuoli, Napoli, Italy; (E.M.); (A.S.M.); (F.T.); (R.V.); (M.A.); (L.D.P.)
| | - Roberta Verde
- Istituto di Chimica Biomolecolare, CNR, 80078 Pozzuoli, Napoli, Italy; (E.M.); (A.S.M.); (F.T.); (R.V.); (M.A.); (L.D.P.)
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, 80078 Pozzuoli, Napoli, Italy; (E.P.); (A.A.I.)
| | - Marco Allarà
- Istituto di Chimica Biomolecolare, CNR, 80078 Pozzuoli, Napoli, Italy; (E.M.); (A.S.M.); (F.T.); (R.V.); (M.A.); (L.D.P.)
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, 80078 Pozzuoli, Napoli, Italy; (E.P.); (A.A.I.)
- Epitech Group S.p.A., 35030 Saccolongo, Padova, Italy
| | - Luciano De Petrocellis
- Istituto di Chimica Biomolecolare, CNR, 80078 Pozzuoli, Napoli, Italy; (E.M.); (A.S.M.); (F.T.); (R.V.); (M.A.); (L.D.P.)
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, 80078 Pozzuoli, Napoli, Italy; (E.P.); (A.A.I.)
| | - Ester Pagano
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, 80078 Pozzuoli, Napoli, Italy; (E.P.); (A.A.I.)
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università di Napoli Federico II, 80138 Naples, Napoli, Italy
| | - Angelo A. Izzo
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, 80078 Pozzuoli, Napoli, Italy; (E.P.); (A.A.I.)
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università di Napoli Federico II, 80138 Naples, Napoli, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Di Marzo
- Istituto di Chimica Biomolecolare, CNR, 80078 Pozzuoli, Napoli, Italy; (E.M.); (A.S.M.); (F.T.); (R.V.); (M.A.); (L.D.P.)
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, 80078 Pozzuoli, Napoli, Italy; (E.P.); (A.A.I.)
- Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, CRIUCPQ and INAF-Centre NUTRISS, Faculties of Medicine and Agriculture and Food Sciences, Université Laval, Quebéc, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Stefania Petrosino
- Istituto di Chimica Biomolecolare, CNR, 80078 Pozzuoli, Napoli, Italy; (E.M.); (A.S.M.); (F.T.); (R.V.); (M.A.); (L.D.P.)
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, 80078 Pozzuoli, Napoli, Italy; (E.P.); (A.A.I.)
- Epitech Group S.p.A., 35030 Saccolongo, Padova, Italy
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García-Baos A, Alegre-Zurano L, Cantacorps L, Martín-Sánchez A, Valverde O. Role of cannabinoids in alcohol-induced neuroinflammation. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 104:110054. [PMID: 32758518 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.110054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol is a psychoactive substance highly used worldwide, whose harmful use might cause a broad range of mental and behavioural disorders. Underlying brain impact, the neuroinflammatory response induced by alcohol is recognised as a key contributing factor in the progression of other neuropathological processes, such as neurodegeneration. These sequels are determined by multiple factors, including age of exposure. Strikingly, it seems that the endocannabinoid system modulation could regulate the alcohol-induced neuroinflammation. Although direct CB1 activation can worsen alcohol consequences, targeting other components of the expanded endocannabinoid system may counterbalance the pro-inflammatory response. Indeed, specific modulations of the expanded endocannabinoid system have been proved to exert anti-inflammatory effects, primarily through the CB2 and PPARγ signalling. Among them, some endo- and exogeneous cannabinoids can block certain pro-inflammatory mediators, such as NF-κB, thereby neutralizing the neuroinflammatory intracellular cascades. Furthermore, a number of cannabinoids are able to activate complementary anti-inflammatory pathways, which are necessary for the transition from chronically overactivated microglia to a regenerative microglial phenotype. Thus, cannabinoid modulation provides cooperative anti-inflammatory mechanisms that may be advantageous to resolve a pathological neuroinflammation in an alcohol-dependent context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alba García-Baos
- Neurobiology of Behaviour Research Group (GReNeC-NeuroBio), Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laia Alegre-Zurano
- Neurobiology of Behaviour Research Group (GReNeC-NeuroBio), Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lídia Cantacorps
- Neurobiology of Behaviour Research Group (GReNeC-NeuroBio), Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana Martín-Sánchez
- 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
| | - 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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Nikolaeva-Koleva M, Butron L, González-Rodríguez S, Devesa I, Valente P, Serafini M, Genazzani AA, Pirali T, Ballester GF, Fernández-Carvajal A, Ferrer-Montiel A. A capsaicinoid-based soft drug, AG1529, for attenuating TRPV1-mediated histaminergic and inflammatory sensory neuron excitability. Sci Rep 2021; 11:246. [PMID: 33420359 PMCID: PMC7794549 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-80725-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
TRPV1, a member of the transient receptor potential (TRP) family, is a nonselective calcium permeable ion channel gated by physical and chemical stimuli. In the skin, TRPV1 plays an important role in neurogenic inflammation, pain and pruritus associated to many dermatological diseases. Consequently, TRPV1 modulators could represent pharmacological tools to respond to important patient needs that still represent an unmet medical demand. Previously, we reported the design of capsaicinoid-based molecules that undergo dermal deactivation (soft drugs), thus preventing their long-term dermal accumulation. Here, we investigated the pharmacological properties of the lead antagonist, 2-((4-hydroxy-2-iodo-5-methoxybenzyl) amino)-2-oxoethyl dodecanoate (AG1529), on heterologously expressed human TRPV1 (hTRPV1), on nociceptor excitability and on an in vivo model of acute pruritus. We report that AG1529 competitively blocked capsaicin-evoked activation of hTRPV1 with micromolar potency, moderately affected pH-induced gating, and did not alter voltage- and heat-mediated responses. AG1529 displays modest receptor selectivity as it mildly blocked recombinant hTRPA1 and hTRPM8 channels. In primary cultures of rat dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons, AG1529 potently reduced capsaicin-evoked neuronal firing. AG1529 exhibited lower potency on pH-evoked TRPV1 firing, and TRPA1-elicited nociceptor excitability. Furthermore, AG1529 abolished histaminergic and inflammation mediated TRPV1 sensitization in primary cultures of DRG neurons. Noteworthy, dermal wiping of AG1529, either in an acetone-based formulation or in an anhydrous ointment, dose-dependently attenuated acute histaminergic itch in a rodent model. This cutaneous anti-pruritic effect was devoid of the normal nocifensive action evoked by the burning sensation of capsaicin. Taken together, these preclinical results unveil the mode of action of AG1529 on TRPV1 channels and substantiate the tenet that this capsaicinoid-based soft drug is a promising candidate for drug development as a topical anti-pruritic and anti-inflammatory medication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Nikolaeva-Koleva
- Instituto de Investigación, Desarrollo e Innovación en Biotecnología Sanitaria de Elche (IDiBE), Universitas Miguel Hernández, 03202, Elche, Spain.,AntalGenics SL, Ed. Quorum III, UMH Scientific Park, 03202, Elche, Spain
| | - Laura Butron
- Instituto de Investigación, Desarrollo e Innovación en Biotecnología Sanitaria de Elche (IDiBE), Universitas Miguel Hernández, 03202, Elche, Spain
| | - Sara González-Rodríguez
- Instituto de Investigación, Desarrollo e Innovación en Biotecnología Sanitaria de Elche (IDiBE), Universitas Miguel Hernández, 03202, Elche, Spain.,Laboratorio de Farmacología, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto Universitario de Oncología del Principado de Asturias (IUOPA), Universidad de Oviedo, 33006, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Isabel Devesa
- AntalGenics SL, Ed. Quorum III, UMH Scientific Park, 03202, Elche, Spain
| | - Pierluigi Valente
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Physiology, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV 3, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Marta Serafini
- Dipartimento Di Scienze del Farmaco, Università Degli Studi del Piemonte Orientale, 28100, Novara, Italy
| | - Armando A Genazzani
- Dipartimento Di Scienze del Farmaco, Università Degli Studi del Piemonte Orientale, 28100, Novara, Italy
| | - Tracey Pirali
- Dipartimento Di Scienze del Farmaco, Università Degli Studi del Piemonte Orientale, 28100, Novara, Italy
| | - Gregorio Fernández Ballester
- Instituto de Investigación, Desarrollo e Innovación en Biotecnología Sanitaria de Elche (IDiBE), Universitas Miguel Hernández, 03202, Elche, Spain
| | - Asia Fernández-Carvajal
- Instituto de Investigación, Desarrollo e Innovación en Biotecnología Sanitaria de Elche (IDiBE), Universitas Miguel Hernández, 03202, Elche, Spain
| | - Antonio Ferrer-Montiel
- Instituto de Investigación, Desarrollo e Innovación en Biotecnología Sanitaria de Elche (IDiBE), Universitas Miguel Hernández, 03202, Elche, Spain.
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Dione N, Lacroix S, Taschler U, Deschênes T, Abolghasemi A, Leblanc N, Di Marzo V, Silvestri C. Mgll Knockout Mouse Resistance to Diet-Induced Dysmetabolism Is Associated with Altered Gut Microbiota. Cells 2020; 9:E2705. [PMID: 33348740 PMCID: PMC7765900 DOI: 10.3390/cells9122705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Monoglyceride lipase (MGLL) regulates metabolism by catabolizing monoacylglycerols (MAGs), including the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG) and some of its bioactive congeners, to the corresponding free fatty acids. Mgll knockout mice (Mgll-/-) exhibit elevated tissue levels of MAGs in association with resistance to the metabolic and cardiovascular perturbations induced by a high fat diet (HFD). The gut microbiome and its metabolic function are disrupted in obesity in a manner modulated by 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG's) main receptors, the cannabinoid CB1 receptors. We therefore hypothesized that Mgll-/- mice have an altered microbiome, that responds differently to diet-induced obesity from that of wild-type (WT) mice. We subjected mice to HFD and assessed changes in the microbiomes after 8 and 22 weeks. As expected, Mgll-/- mice showed decreased adiposity, improved insulin sensitivity, and altered circulating incretin/adipokine levels in response to HFD. Mgll-/- mice on a chow diet exhibited significantly higher levels of Hydrogenoanaerobacterium, Roseburia, and Ruminococcus than WT mice. The relative abundance of the Lactobacillaceae and Coriobacteriaceae and of the Lactobacillus, Enterorhabdus, Clostridium_XlVa, and Falsiporphyromonas genera was significantly altered by HFD in WT but not Mgll-/- mice. Differently abundant families were also associated with changes in circulating adipokine and incretin levels in HFD-fed mice. Some gut microbiota family alterations could be reproduced by supplementing 2-AG or MAGs in culturomics experiments carried out with WT mouse fecal samples. We suggest that the altered microbiome of Mgll-/- mice contributes to their obesity resistant phenotype, and results in part from increased levels of 2-AG and MAGs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niokhor Dione
- Département de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; (N.D.); (A.A.); (V.D.M.)
- Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in metabolic Health, Québec, QC G1V 4G5, Canada; (S.L.); (T.D.); (N.L.)
- Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 4G5, Canada
| | - Sébastien Lacroix
- Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in metabolic Health, Québec, QC G1V 4G5, Canada; (S.L.); (T.D.); (N.L.)
- Institut sur la Nutrition et les Aliments Fonctionnels, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
- Faculté des Sciences de L’agriculture et de L’alimentation, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Ulrike Taschler
- Institute of Molecular Biosciences, University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria;
| | - Thomas Deschênes
- Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in metabolic Health, Québec, QC G1V 4G5, Canada; (S.L.); (T.D.); (N.L.)
- Institut sur la Nutrition et les Aliments Fonctionnels, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
- Faculté des Sciences de L’agriculture et de L’alimentation, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Armita Abolghasemi
- Département de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; (N.D.); (A.A.); (V.D.M.)
- Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in metabolic Health, Québec, QC G1V 4G5, Canada; (S.L.); (T.D.); (N.L.)
- Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 4G5, Canada
| | - Nadine Leblanc
- Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in metabolic Health, Québec, QC G1V 4G5, Canada; (S.L.); (T.D.); (N.L.)
- Institut sur la Nutrition et les Aliments Fonctionnels, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
- Faculté des Sciences de L’agriculture et de L’alimentation, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Vincenzo Di Marzo
- Département de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; (N.D.); (A.A.); (V.D.M.)
- Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in metabolic Health, Québec, QC G1V 4G5, Canada; (S.L.); (T.D.); (N.L.)
- Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 4G5, Canada
- Institut sur la Nutrition et les Aliments Fonctionnels, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
- Faculté des Sciences de L’agriculture et de L’alimentation, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council, 80078 Pozzuoli, NA, Italy
| | - Cristoforo Silvestri
- Département de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; (N.D.); (A.A.); (V.D.M.)
- Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in metabolic Health, Québec, QC G1V 4G5, Canada; (S.L.); (T.D.); (N.L.)
- Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 4G5, Canada
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Petrosino S, Schiano Moriello A. Palmitoylethanolamide: A Nutritional Approach to Keep Neuroinflammation within Physiological Boundaries-A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E9526. [PMID: 33333772 PMCID: PMC7765232 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21249526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is a physiological response aimed at maintaining the homodynamic balance and providing the body with the fundamental resource of adaptation to endogenous and exogenous stimuli. Although the response is initiated with protective purposes, the effect may be detrimental when not regulated. The physiological control of neuroinflammation is mainly achieved via regulatory mechanisms performed by particular cells of the immune system intimately associated with or within the nervous system and named "non-neuronal cells." In particular, mast cells (within the central nervous system and in the periphery) and microglia (at spinal and supraspinal level) are involved in this control, through a close functional relationship between them and neurons (either centrally, spinal, or peripherally located). Accordingly, neuroinflammation becomes a worsening factor in many disorders whenever the non-neuronal cell supervision is inadequate. It has been shown that the regulation of non-neuronal cells-and therefore the control of neuroinflammation-depends on the local "on demand" synthesis of the endogenous lipid amide Palmitoylethanolamide and related endocannabinoids. When the balance between synthesis and degradation of this bioactive lipid mediator is disrupted in favor of reduced synthesis and/or increased degradation, the behavior of non-neuronal cells may not be appropriately regulated and neuroinflammation exceeds the physiological boundaries. In these conditions, it has been demonstrated that the increase of endogenous Palmitoylethanolamide-either by decreasing its degradation or exogenous administration-is able to keep neuroinflammation within its physiological limits. In this review the large number of studies on the benefits derived from oral administration of micronized and highly bioavailable forms of Palmitoylethanolamide is discussed, with special reference to neuroinflammatory disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Petrosino
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Istituto di Chimica Biomolecolare, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Napoli, Italy;
- Epitech Group SpA, Via Einaudi 13, 35030 Padova, Italy
| | - Aniello Schiano Moriello
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Istituto di Chimica Biomolecolare, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Napoli, Italy;
- Epitech Group SpA, Via Einaudi 13, 35030 Padova, Italy
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