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Jana A, Nath A, Sen P, Kundu S, Alghamdi BS, Abujamel TS, Saboor M, Woon-Khiong C, Alexiou A, Papadakis M, Alam MZ, Ashraf GM. Unraveling the Endocannabinoid System: Exploring Its Therapeutic Potential in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Neuromolecular Med 2024; 26:20. [PMID: 38744725 PMCID: PMC11093854 DOI: 10.1007/s12017-024-08781-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
The salient features of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) encompass persistent difficulties in social communication, as well as the presence of restricted and repetitive facets of behavior, hobbies, or pursuits, which are often accompanied with cognitive limitations. Over the past few decades, a sizable number of studies have been conducted to enhance our understanding of the pathophysiology of ASD. Preclinical rat models have proven to be extremely valuable in simulating and analyzing the roles of a wide range of established environmental and genetic factors. Recent research has also demonstrated the significant involvement of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the pathogenesis of several neuropsychiatric diseases, including ASD. In fact, the ECS has the potential to regulate a multitude of metabolic and cellular pathways associated with autism, including the immune system. Moreover, the ECS has emerged as a promising target for intervention with high predictive validity. Particularly noteworthy are resent preclinical studies in rodents, which describe the onset of ASD-like symptoms after various genetic or pharmacological interventions targeting the ECS, providing encouraging evidence for further exploration in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankit Jana
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117558, Singapore
| | - Arnab Nath
- Department of Developmental Biology and Genetics, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka, 560012, India
| | - Palash Sen
- School of Biosciences, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, West Bengal, 721302, India
| | - Swikriti Kundu
- Siksha Bhavana, Visva-Bharati University, Bolpur, West Bengal, 731235, India
| | - Badrah S Alghamdi
- Pre-Clinical Research Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Physiology, Neuroscience Unit, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Turki S Abujamel
- Vaccines and Immunotherapy Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Saboor
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Health Sciences, and Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Chan Woon-Khiong
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117558, Singapore
| | - Athanasios Alexiou
- University Centre for Research & Development, Chandigarh University, Chandigarh-Ludhiana Highway, Mohali, Punjab, India
- Department of Research & Development, Funogen, Athens, Greece
- Department of Research & Development, AFNP Med, 1030, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Science and Engineering, Novel Global Community Educational Foundation, Hebersham, NSW, 2770, Australia
| | - Marios Papadakis
- Department of Surgery II, University Hospital Witten-Herdecke, University of Witten-Herdecke, Heusnerstrasse 40, 42283, Wuppertal, Germany.
| | - Mohammad Zubair Alam
- Pre-Clinical Research Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ghulam Md Ashraf
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Health Sciences, and Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.
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Ornelas LC, Besheer J. Predator odor stress reactivity, alcohol drinking and the endocannabinoid system. Neurobiol Stress 2024; 30:100634. [PMID: 38623398 PMCID: PMC11016807 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2024.100634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD) are highly comorbid and individual differences in response to stress suggest resilient and susceptible populations. Using animal models to target neurobiological mechanisms associated with individual variability in stress coping responses and the relationship with subsequent increases in alcohol consumption has important implications for the field of traumatic stress and alcohol disorders. The current review discusses the unique advantages of utilizing predator odor stressor exposure models, specifically using 2,5-dihydro-2,4,5-trimethylthiazoline (TMT) on better understanding PTSD pathophysiology and neurobiological mechanisms associated with stress reactivity and subsequent increases in alcohol drinking. Furthermore, there has been increasing interest regarding the role of the endocannabinoid system in modulating behavioral responses to stress with an emphasis on stress coping and individual differences in stress-susceptibility. Therefore, the current review focuses on the topic of endocannabinoid modulation of stress reactive behaviors during and after exposure to a predator odor stressor, with implications on modulating distinctly different behavioral coping strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura C. Ornelas
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Joyce Besheer
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
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3
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Soler-Cedeño O, Alton H, Bi GH, Linz E, Ji L, Makriyannis A, Xi ZX. AM6527, a neutral CB1 receptor antagonist, suppresses opioid taking and seeking, as well as cocaine seeking in rodents without aversive effects. Neuropsychopharmacology 2024:10.1038/s41386-024-01861-y. [PMID: 38600154 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-024-01861-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Preclinical research has demonstrated the efficacy of CB1 receptor (CB1R) antagonists in reducing drug-taking behavior. However, clinical trials with rimonabant, a CB1R antagonist with inverse agonist profile, failed due to severe adverse effects, such as depression and suicidality. As a result, efforts have shifted towards developing novel neutral CB1R antagonists without an inverse agonist profile for treating substance use disorders. Here, we assessed AM6527, a CB1R neutral antagonist, in addiction animal models. Our findings revealed that AM6527 did not affect cocaine self-administration under fixed-ratio reinforcement schedules but dose-dependently inhibited it under progressive-ratio reinforcement schedules. Additionally, AM6527 dose-dependently inhibited heroin self-administration under both fixed-ratio and progressive-ratio reinforcement schedules and oral sucrose self-administration under a fixed-ratio reinforcement schedule, as well as cocaine- or heroin-triggered reinstatement of drug-seeking behavior in rats. However, chronic AM6527 administration for five consecutive days significantly inhibited heroin self-administration only during the initial two days, indicating tolerance development. Notably, AM6527 did not produce rewarding or aversive effects by itself in classical electrical intracranial self-stimulation and conditioned place preference tests. However, in optical intracranial self-stimulation (oICSS) maintained by optogenetic stimulation of midbrain dopamine neurons in DAT-cre mice, both AM6527 and rimonabant dose-dependently inhibited dopamine-dependent oICSS behavior. Together, these findings suggest that AM6527 effectively reduces drug-taking and seeking behaviors without rimonabant-like adverse effects. Thus, AM6527 warrants further investigation as a potential pharmacotherapy for opioid and cocaine use disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar Soler-Cedeño
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medication Discovery Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Postdoctoral Research Associate Training (PRAT) Fellow, National Institute of General Medical Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Hannah Alton
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medication Discovery Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Guo-Hua Bi
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medication Discovery Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Emily Linz
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medication Discovery Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Lipin Ji
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Alexandros Makriyannis
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Zheng-Xiong Xi
- Addiction Biology Unit, Molecular Targets and Medication Discovery Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Hosseinzadeh Anvar L, Moosavi SE, Charsouei S, Zeinalzadeh N, Nikanfar M, Ahmadalipour A. Association Between the Endocannabinoid System-Related Gene Variants and Epilepsy. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04132-5. [PMID: 38578355 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04132-5] [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: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is an intricate network consisting of receptors, enzymes, and endogenous ligands that play a pivotal role in various neurological processes. It has been implicated in the pathophysiology of several neurological disorders, including epilepsy. Extensive research has demonstrated the involvement of genetic factors in influencing the susceptibility to and progression of epilepsy. In this study, we focused on investigating the connection between genetic variations in genes related to the ECS and the occurrence of epilepsy. Some ECS-related gene variants were selected and genotyping was performed using the polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) technique. Interestingly, CNR1 rs12720071 genotype (OR 16.33, 95% CI 1.8-149; p = 0.001) showed an association with generalized epilepsy and MGLL rs604300 genotype (OR 2, 95% CI 1.1-3.4; p = 0.013) demonstrated a relationship with females diagnosed with focal epilepsy. So, studying CNR1, MGLL, and their genetic variations provides insights into the role of the endocannabinoid system in health and diseases. Moreover, they hold the potential to pave the way for the development of novel therapeutic approaches specifically targeting them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Hosseinzadeh Anvar
- Research Center of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Seyyed Ebrahim Moosavi
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Saeid Charsouei
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Narges Zeinalzadeh
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Masoud Nikanfar
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ali Ahmadalipour
- Research Center of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
- Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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Amnzade A, Zarrindast MR, Khakpai F. Additive anxiolytic-like effect of citicoline and ACPA in the non-acute restraint stress (NARS) and acute restraint stress (ARS) mice. Physiol Behav 2024; 277:114506. [PMID: 38432442 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2024.114506] [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: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
The cannabinoid system plays a key role in stress-related emotional symptoms such as anxiety. Citicoline is a supplemental substance with neuroprotective properties that alleviates anxiety-related behaviors. There is a relation between the actions of cannabinoids and cholinergic systems. So, we decided to evaluate the effects of intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) infusion of cannabinoid CB1 receptor agents on citicoline-produced response to anxiety-like behaviors in the non-acute restraint stress (NARS) and acute restraint stress (ARS) mice. For i.c.v. microinjection of drugs, a guide cannula was inserted in the left lateral ventricle. ARS was induced by movement restraint for 4 h. Anxiety-related behaviors were assessed using an elevated plus maze (EPM). The results showed that induction of ARS for 4 h decreased the percentage of time spent in the open arms (%OAT) and the percentage of entries to the open arms (%OAE) without affecting locomotor activity, showing anxiogenic-like behaviors. i.c.v. infusion of ACPA (1 µg/mouse) induced an anxiolytic-like effect due to the enhancement of %OAT in the NARS and ARS mice. Nonetheless, i.c.v. microinjection of AM251 (1 µg/mouse) decreased %OAT in the NARS and ARS mice which suggested an anxiogenic-like response. Intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of citicoline (80 mg/kg) induced an anxiolytic-like effect by the augmentation of %OAT in the ARS mice. Furthermore, when ACPA and citicoline were co-administrated, ACPA potentiated the anxiolytic-like effect induced by citicoline in the NARS and ARS mice. On the other hand, when AM251 and the citicoline were co-injected, AM251 reversed the anxiolytic-like response induced by the citicoline in the NARS and ARS mice. The results of this research exhibited an additive effect between citicoline and ACPA on the induction of anxiolytic-like response in the NARS and ARS mice. Our results indicated an interaction between citicoline and cannabinoid CB1 receptor drugs on the control of anxiety-like behaviors in the NARS and ARS mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aysan Amnzade
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Reza Zarrindast
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Institute for Cognitive Science Studies (ICSS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Khakpai
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
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Reich N, Mannino M, Kotler S. Using caffeine as a chemical means to induce flow states. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 159:105577. [PMID: 38331128 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105577] [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: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Flow is an intrinsically rewarding state characterised by positive affect and total task absorption. Because cognitive and physical performance are optimal in flow, chemical means to facilitate this state are appealing. Caffeine, a non-selective adenosine receptor antagonist, has been emphasized as a potential flow-inducer. Thus, we review the psychological and biological effects of caffeine that, conceptually, enhance flow. Caffeine may facilitate flow through various effects, including: i) upregulation of dopamine D1/D2 receptor affinity in reward-associated brain areas, leading to greater energetic arousal and 'wanting'; ii) protection of dopaminergic neurons; iii) increases in norepinephrine release and alertness, which offset sleep-deprivation and hypoarousal; iv) heightening of parasympathetic high frequency heart rate variability, resulting in improved cortical stress appraisal, v) modification of striatal endocannabinoid-CB1 receptor-signalling, leading to enhanced stress tolerance; and vi) changes in brain network activity in favour of executive function and flow. We also discuss the application of caffeine to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and caveats. We hope to inspire studies assessing the use of caffeine to induce flow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niklas Reich
- Faculty of Health and Medicine, Biomedical & Life Sciences Division, Lancaster University, Lancaster LA1 4YQ, UK; The ALBORADA Drug Discovery Institute, University of Cambridge, Island Research Building, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 0AH, UK.
| | - Michael Mannino
- Flow Research Collective, USA; Miami Dade College, Miami, FL, USA
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Dudok B, Fan LZ, Farrell JS, Malhotra S, Homidan J, Kim DK, Wenardy C, Ramakrishnan C, Li Y, Deisseroth K, Soltesz I. Retrograde endocannabinoid signaling at inhibitory synapses in vivo. Science 2024; 383:967-970. [PMID: 38422134 PMCID: PMC10921710 DOI: 10.1126/science.adk3863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Endocannabinoid (eCB)-mediated suppression of inhibitory synapses has been hypothesized, but this has not yet been demonstrated to occur in vivo because of the difficulty in tracking eCB dynamics and synaptic plasticity during behavior. In mice navigating a linear track, we observed location-specific eCB signaling in hippocampal CA1 place cells, and this was detected both in the postsynaptic membrane and the presynaptic inhibitory axons. All-optical in vivo investigation of synaptic responses revealed that postsynaptic depolarization was followed by a suppression of inhibitory synaptic potentials. Furthermore, interneuron-specific cannabinoid receptor deletion altered place cell tuning. Therefore, rapid, postsynaptic, activity-dependent eCB signaling modulates inhibitory synapses on a timescale of seconds during behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barna Dudok
- Departments of Neurology and Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine; Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University; Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Linlin Z. Fan
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University; Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Jordan S. Farrell
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University; Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center and Rosamund Stone Zander Translational Neuroscience Center, Boston Children’s Hospital; Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Shreya Malhotra
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University; Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Jesslyn Homidan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University; Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Doo Kyung Kim
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University; Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Celestine Wenardy
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University; Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Charu Ramakrishnan
- Cracking the Neural Code (CNC) Program, Stanford University; Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Yulong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Life Sciences, Peking University; Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Karl Deisseroth
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University; Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University; Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute; Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Ivan Soltesz
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University; Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
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Schouten M, Dalle S, Mantini D, Koppo K. Cannabidiol and brain function: current knowledge and future perspectives. Front Pharmacol 2024; 14:1328885. [PMID: 38288087 PMCID: PMC10823027 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1328885] [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: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a naturally occurring non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in Cannabis sativa, commonly known as cannabis or hemp. Although currently available CBD products do not meet the safety standards of most food safety authorities to be approved as a dietary supplement or food additive, CBD has been gaining widespread attention in recent years due to its various potential health benefits. While primarily known for its therapeutic effects in managing epileptic seizures, psychosis, anxiety, (neuropathic) pain, and inflammation, CBD's influence on brain function has also piqued the interest of researchers and individuals seeking to enhance cognitive performance. The primary objective of this review is to gather, synthesize, and consolidate scientifically proven evidence on the impact of CBD on brain function and its therapeutic significance in treating neurological and mental disorders. First, basic background information on CBD, including its biomolecular properties and mechanisms of action is presented. Next, evidence for CBD effects in the human brain is provided followed by a discussion on the potential implications of CBD as a neurotherapeutic agent. The potential effectiveness of CBD in reducing chronic pain is considered but also in reducing the symptoms of various brain disorders such as epilepsy, Alzheimer's, Huntington's and Parkinson's disease. Additionally, the implications of using CBD to manage psychiatric conditions such as psychosis, anxiety and fear, depression, and substance use disorders are explored. An overview of the beneficial effects of CBD on aspects of human behavior, such as sleep, motor control, cognition and memory, is then provided. As CBD products remain largely unregulated, it is crucial to address the ethical concerns associated with their use, including product quality, consistency, and safety. Therefore, this review discusses the need for responsible research and regulation of CBD to ensure its safety and efficacy as a therapeutic agent for brain disorders or to stimulate behavioral and cognitive abilities of healthy individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moniek Schouten
- Exercise Physiology Research Group, Department of Movement Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sebastiaan Dalle
- Exercise Physiology Research Group, Department of Movement Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Dante Mantini
- Movement Control and Neuroplasticity Research Group, Department of Movement Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Katrien Koppo
- Exercise Physiology Research Group, Department of Movement Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Jones MJ, Uzuneser TC, Clement T, Wang H, Ojima I, Rushlow WJ, Laviolette SR. Inhibition of fatty acid binding protein-5 in the basolateral amygdala induces anxiolytic effects and accelerates fear memory extinction. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2024; 241:119-138. [PMID: 37747506 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-023-06468-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE The endocannabinoid (eCB) system critically controls anxiety and fear-related behaviours. Anandamide (AEA), a prominent eCB ligand, is a hydrophobic lipid that requires chaperone proteins such as Fatty Acid Binding Proteins (FABPs) for intracellular transport. Intracellular AEA transport is necessary for degradation, so blocking FABP activity increases AEA neurotransmission. OBJECTIVE To investigate the effects of a novel FABP5 inhibitor (SBFI-103) in the basolateral amygdala (BLA) on anxiety and fear memory. METHODS We infused SBFI-103 (0.5 μg-5 μg) to the BLA of adult male Sprague Dawley rats and ran various anxiety and fear memory behavioural assays, neurophysiological recordings, and localized molecular signaling analyses. We also co-infused SBFI-103 with the AEA inhibitor, LEI-401 (3 μg and 10 μg) to investigate the potential role of AEA in these phenomena. RESULTS Acute intra-BLA administration of SBFI-103 produced strong anxiolytic effects across multiple behavioural tests. Furthermore, animals exhibited acute and long-term accelerated associative fear memory extinction following intra-BLA FABP5 inhibition. In addition, BLA FABP5 inhibition induced strong modulatory effects on putative PFC pyramidal neurons along with significantly increased gamma oscillation power. Finally, we observed local BLA changes in the phosphorylation activity of various anxiety- and fear memory-related molecular biomarkers in the PI3K/Akt and MAPK/Erk signaling pathways. At all three levels of analyses, we found the functional effects of SBFI-103 depend on availability of the AEA ligand. CONCLUSIONS These findings demonstrate a novel intra-BLA FABP5 signaling mechanism regulating anxiety and fear memory behaviours, neuronal activity states, local anxiety-related molecular pathways, and functional AEA modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Jones
- Department of Neuroscience, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St, London, ON, Canada
| | - Taygun C Uzuneser
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St, London, ON, Canada
| | - Timothy Clement
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Drug Discoveries, Stony Brook University, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook, NY, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Stony Brook University, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Hehe Wang
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Drug Discoveries, Stony Brook University, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook, NY, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Stony Brook University, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Iwao Ojima
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Drug Discoveries, Stony Brook University, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook, NY, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Stony Brook University, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Walter J Rushlow
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St, London, ON, Canada
| | - Steven R Laviolette
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St, London, ON, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St, London, ON, Canada.
- Lawson Health Research Institute, 268 Grosvenor St, London, ON, Canada.
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Cortes-Justo E, Garfias-Ramírez SH, Vilches-Flores A. The function of the endocannabinoid system in the pancreatic islet and its implications on metabolic syndrome and diabetes. Islets 2023; 15:1-11. [PMID: 36598083 PMCID: PMC9815253 DOI: 10.1080/19382014.2022.2163826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The following review focuses on the scientific studies related to the role of endocannabinoid system (ECS) in pancreatic islet physiology and dysfunction. Different natural or synthetic agonists and antagonists have been suggested as an alternative treatment for diabetes, obesity and metabolic syndrome. Therapeutic use of Cannabis led to the discovery and characterization of the ECS, a signaling complex involved in regulation of various physiological processes, including food intake and metabolism. After the development of different agonists and antagonists, evidence have demonstrated the presence and activity of cannabinoid receptors in several organs and tissues, including pancreatic islets. Insulin and glucagon expression, stimulated secretion, and the development of diabetes and other metabolic disorders have been associated with the activity and modulation of ECS in pancreatic islets. However, according to the animal model and experimental design, either endogenous or pharmacological ligands of cannabinoid receptors have guided to contradictory and paradoxical results that suggest a complex physiological interaction. In consensus, ECS activity modulates insulin and glucagon secretions according to glucose in media; over-stimulation of cannabinoid receptors affects islets negatively, leading to glucose intolerance, meanwhile the treatment with antagonists in diabetic models and humans suggests an improvement in islets function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edgardo Cortes-Justo
- Posgrado e Investigación, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico NacionalMexico CityMexico
| | - Sergio H Garfias-Ramírez
- Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Coyoacán, Mexico
| | - Alonso Vilches-Flores
- Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Coyoacán, Mexico
- CONTACT Alonso Vilches-Flores Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala. Edif.A4 Lab 4, Los Reyes Iztacala, Tlalnepantla54090, Mexico
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11
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Pavlou IA, Spandidos DA, Zoumpourlis V, Adamaki M. Nutrient insufficiencies and deficiencies involved in the pathogenesis of bruxism (Review). Exp Ther Med 2023; 26:563. [PMID: 37954114 PMCID: PMC10632959 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2023.12262] [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: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Stress has been well-documented to have a significant role in the etiopathogenesis of bruxism. Activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA) and subsequent release of corticosteroids lead to increased muscle activity. Neurological studies have demonstrated that chronic stress exposure induces neurodegeneration of important neuronal structures and destabilization of the mesocortical dopaminergic pathway. These disruptions impair the abilities to counteract the overactivity of the HPA axis and disinhibit involuntary muscle activity, while at the same time, there is activation of the amygdala. Recent evidence shows that overactivation of the amygdala under stressful stimuli causes rhythmic jaw muscle activity by over activating the mesencephalic and motor trigeminal nuclei. The present review aimed to discuss the negative effects of certain vitamin and mineral deficiencies, such as vitamin D, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids, on the central nervous system. It provides evidence on how such insufficiencies may increase stress sensitivity and neuromuscular excitability and thereby reduce the ability to effectively respond to the overactivation of the sympathetic nervous system, and also how stress can in turn lead to these insufficiencies. Finally, the positive effects of individualized supplementation are discussed in the context of diminishing anxiety and oxidative stress, neuroprotection and in the reversal of neurodegeneration, and also in alleviating/reducing neuromuscular symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Demetrios A. Spandidos
- Laboratory of Clinical Virology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Vassilis Zoumpourlis
- Biomedical Applications Unit, Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, 11635 Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Adamaki
- Biomedical Applications Unit, Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, 11635 Athens, Greece
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12
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Ittiphakorn P, Erridge S, Holvey C, Coomber R, Rucker JJ, Sodergren MH. UK Medical Cannabis Registry: An analysis of clinical outcomes of medicinal cannabis therapy for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Neuropsychopharmacol Rep 2023; 43:596-606. [PMID: 38058251 PMCID: PMC10739081 DOI: 10.1002/npr2.12400] [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: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM This study aims to analyze the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and safety outcomes in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) patients treated with cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMPs). METHODS Patients were identified from the UK Medical Cannabis Registry. Primary outcomes were changes in the following patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months from baseline: EQ-5D-5L index value, generalized anxiety disorder-7 (GAD-7) questionnaire, and the single-item sleep quality score (SQS). Secondary outcomes assessed the incidence of adverse events. Statistical significance was defined as p < 0.050. RESULTS Sixty-eight patients met the inclusion criteria. Significant improvements were identified in general HRQoL assessed by EQ-5D-5L index value at 1, 3, and 6 months (p < 0.050). Improvements were also identified in GAD-7 and SQS scores at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months (p < 0.010). 61 (89.71%) adverse events were recorded by 11 (16.18%) participants, of which most were moderate (n = 26, 38.24%). CONCLUSION An association between CBMP treatment and improvements in anxiety, sleep quality, and general HRQoL was observed in patients with ADHD. Treatment was well tolerated at 12 months. Results must be interpreted with caution as a causative effect cannot be proven. These results, however, do provide additional support for future evaluation within randomized controlled trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pim Ittiphakorn
- Medical Cannabis Research Group, Department of Surgery and CancerImperial College LondonLondonUK
| | - Simon Erridge
- Medical Cannabis Research Group, Department of Surgery and CancerImperial College LondonLondonUK
- Sapphire Medical ClinicsLondonUK
| | | | - Ross Coomber
- Sapphire Medical ClinicsLondonUK
- St. George's Hospital NHS TrustLondonUK
| | - James J. Rucker
- Department of Psychological MedicineKings College LondonLondonUK
- South London & Maudsley NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
| | - Mikael H. Sodergren
- Medical Cannabis Research Group, Department of Surgery and CancerImperial College LondonLondonUK
- Sapphire Medical ClinicsLondonUK
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13
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Luján MÁ, Covey DP, Young-Morrison R, Zhang L, Kim A, Morgado F, Patel S, Bass CE, Paladini C, Cheer JF. Mobilization of endocannabinoids by midbrain dopamine neurons is required for the encoding of reward prediction. Nat Commun 2023; 14:7545. [PMID: 37985770 PMCID: PMC10662422 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-43131-3] [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: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain levels of the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) shape motivated behavior and nucleus accumbens (NAc) dopamine release. However, it is not clear whether mobilization of 2-AG specifically from midbrain dopamine neurons is necessary for dopaminergic responses to external stimuli predicting forthcoming reward. Here, we use a viral-genetic strategy to prevent the expression of the 2-AG-synthesizing enzyme diacylglycerol lipase α (DGLα) from ventral tegmental area (VTA) dopamine cells in adult mice. We find that DGLα deletion from VTA dopamine neurons prevents depolarization-induced suppression of excitation (DSE), a form of 2-AG-mediated synaptic plasticity, in dopamine neurons. DGLα deletion also decreases effortful, cue-driven reward-seeking but has no effect on non-cued or low-effort operant tasks and other behaviors. Moreover, dopamine recording in the NAc reveals that deletion of DGLα impairs the transfer of accumbal dopamine signaling from a reward to its earliest predictors. These results demonstrate that 2-AG mobilization from VTA dopamine neurons is a necessary step for the generation of dopamine-based predictive associations that are required to direct and energize reward-oriented behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Á Luján
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Dan P Covey
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Lovelace Biomedical Research Institute, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Reana Young-Morrison
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - LanYuan Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Andrew Kim
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Fiorella Morgado
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sachin Patel
- Northwestern Center for Psychiatric Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Caroline E Bass
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Carlos Paladini
- UTSA Neuroscience Institute, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Joseph F Cheer
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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14
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Bányai B, Vass Z, Kiss S, Balogh A, Brandhuber D, Karvaly G, Kovács K, Nádasy GL, Hunyady L, Dörnyei G, Horváth EM, Szekeres M. Role of CB1 Cannabinoid Receptors in Vascular Responses and Vascular Remodeling of the Aorta in Female Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16429. [PMID: 38003619 PMCID: PMC10671338 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216429] [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: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Both the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and estrogens have significant roles in cardiovascular control processes. Cannabinoid type 1 receptors (CB1Rs) mediate acute vasodilator and hypotensive effects, although their role in cardiovascular pathological conditions is still controversial. Estrogens exert cardiovascular protection in females. We aimed to study the impact of ECS on vascular functions. Experiments were performed on CB1R knockout (CB1R KO) and wild-type (WT) female mice. Plasma estrogen metabolite levels were determined. Abdominal aortas were isolated for myography and histology. Vascular effects of phenylephrine (Phe), angiotensin II, acetylcholine (Ach) and estradiol (E2) were obtained and repeated with inhibitors of nitric oxide synthase (NOS, Nω-nitro-L-arginine) and of cyclooxygenase (COX, indomethacin). Histological stainings (hematoxylin-eosin, resorcin-fuchsin) and immunostainings for endothelial NOS (eNOS), COX-2, estrogen receptors (ER-α, ER-β) were performed. Conjugated E2 levels were higher in CB1R KO compared to WT mice. Vasorelaxation responses to Ach and E2 were increased in CB1R KO mice, attenuated by NOS-inhibition. COX-inhibition decreased Phe-contractions, while it increased Ach-relaxation in the WT group but not in the CB1R KO. Effects of indomethacin on E2-relaxation in CB1R KO became opposite to that observed in WT. Histology revealed lower intima/media thickness and COX-2 density, higher eNOS and lower ER-β density in CB1R KO than in WT mice. CB1R KO female mice are characterized by increased vasorelaxation associated with increased utilization of endothelial NO and a decreased impact of constrictor prostanoids. Our results indicate that the absence or inhibition of CB1Rs may have beneficial vascular effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bálint Bányai
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 37-47 Tűzoltó Street, 1094 Budapest, Hungary; (B.B.); (S.K.); (G.L.N.); (L.H.); (E.M.H.)
| | - Zsolt Vass
- Department of Morphology and Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Semmelweis University, 17 Vas Street, 1088 Budapest, Hungary; (Z.V.); (A.B.); (D.B.)
| | - Stella Kiss
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 37-47 Tűzoltó Street, 1094 Budapest, Hungary; (B.B.); (S.K.); (G.L.N.); (L.H.); (E.M.H.)
- Department of Morphology and Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Semmelweis University, 17 Vas Street, 1088 Budapest, Hungary; (Z.V.); (A.B.); (D.B.)
| | - Anikó Balogh
- Department of Morphology and Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Semmelweis University, 17 Vas Street, 1088 Budapest, Hungary; (Z.V.); (A.B.); (D.B.)
| | - Dóra Brandhuber
- Department of Morphology and Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Semmelweis University, 17 Vas Street, 1088 Budapest, Hungary; (Z.V.); (A.B.); (D.B.)
| | - Gellért Karvaly
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 4 Nagyvárad Square, 1089 Budapest, Hungary; (G.K.); (K.K.)
| | - Krisztián Kovács
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 4 Nagyvárad Square, 1089 Budapest, Hungary; (G.K.); (K.K.)
| | - György L. Nádasy
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 37-47 Tűzoltó Street, 1094 Budapest, Hungary; (B.B.); (S.K.); (G.L.N.); (L.H.); (E.M.H.)
| | - László Hunyady
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 37-47 Tűzoltó Street, 1094 Budapest, Hungary; (B.B.); (S.K.); (G.L.N.); (L.H.); (E.M.H.)
- Institute of Enzymology, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, 2 Magyar Tudósok Körútja, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gabriella Dörnyei
- Department of Morphology and Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Semmelweis University, 17 Vas Street, 1088 Budapest, Hungary; (Z.V.); (A.B.); (D.B.)
| | - Eszter Mária Horváth
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 37-47 Tűzoltó Street, 1094 Budapest, Hungary; (B.B.); (S.K.); (G.L.N.); (L.H.); (E.M.H.)
| | - Mária Szekeres
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 37-47 Tűzoltó Street, 1094 Budapest, Hungary; (B.B.); (S.K.); (G.L.N.); (L.H.); (E.M.H.)
- Department of Morphology and Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Semmelweis University, 17 Vas Street, 1088 Budapest, Hungary; (Z.V.); (A.B.); (D.B.)
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15
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Hill MN, Haney M, Hillard CJ, Karhson DS, Vecchiarelli HA. The endocannabinoid system as a putative target for the development of novel drugs for the treatment of psychiatric illnesses. Psychol Med 2023; 53:7006-7024. [PMID: 37671673 PMCID: PMC10719691 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291723002465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis is well established to impact affective states, emotion and perceptual processing, primarily through its interactions with the endocannabinoid system. While cannabis use is quite prevalent in many individuals afflicted with psychiatric illnesses, there is considerable controversy as to whether cannabis may worsen these conditions or provide some form of therapeutic benefit. The development of pharmacological agents which interact with components of the endocannabinoid system in more localized and discrete ways then via phytocannabinoids found in cannabis, has allowed the investigation if direct targeting of the endocannabinoid system itself may represent a novel approach to treat psychiatric illness without the potential untoward side effects associated with cannabis. Herein we review the current body of literature regarding the various pharmacological tools that have been developed to target the endocannabinoid system, their impact in preclinical models of psychiatric illness and the recent data emerging of their utilization in clinical trials for psychiatric illnesses, with a specific focus on substance use disorders, trauma-related disorders, and autism. We highlight several candidate drugs which target endocannabinoid function, particularly inhibitors of endocannabinoid metabolism or modulators of cannabinoid receptor signaling, which have emerged as potential candidates for the treatment of psychiatric conditions, particularly substance use disorder, anxiety and trauma-related disorders and autism spectrum disorders. Although there needs to be ongoing clinical work to establish the potential utility of endocannabinoid-based drugs for the treatment of psychiatric illnesses, the current data available is quite promising and shows indications of several potential candidate diseases which may benefit from this approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew N. Hill
- Departments of Cell Biology and Anatomy & Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, Hotchkiss Brain Institute and The Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Margaret Haney
- Department of Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, USA
| | - Cecilia J. Hillard
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Neuroscience Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, USA
| | - Debra S. Karhson
- Department of Psychology, University of New Orleans, New Orleans, USA
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16
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Thouaye M, Yalcin I. Neuropathic pain: From actual pharmacological treatments to new therapeutic horizons. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 251:108546. [PMID: 37832728 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108546] [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: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Neuropathic pain, caused by a lesion or disease affecting the somatosensory system, affects between 3 and 17% of the general population. The treatment of neuropathic pain is challenging due to its heterogeneous etiologies, lack of objective diagnostic tools and resistance to classical analgesic drugs. First-line treatments recommended by the Special Interest Group on Neuropathic Pain (NeuPSIG) and European Federation of Neurological Societies (EFNS) include gabapentinoids, tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and selective serotonin noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Nevertheless these treatments have modest efficacy or dose limiting side effects. There is therefore a growing number of preclinical and clinical studies aim at developing new treatment strategies to treat neuropathic pain with better efficacy, selectivity, and less side effects. In this review, after a brief description of the mechanisms of action, efficacy, and limitations of current therapeutic drugs, we reviewed new preclinical and clinical targets currently under investigation, as well as promising non-pharmacological alternatives and their potential co-use with pharmacological treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxime Thouaye
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Strasbourg, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, Strasbourg, France
| | - Ipek Yalcin
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Strasbourg, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, Strasbourg, France; Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada.
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17
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Silva HH, Tavares V, Neto BV, Cerqueira F, Medeiros R, Silva MRG. FAAH rs324420 Polymorphism: Biological Pathways, Impact on Elite Athletic Performance and Insights for Sport Medicine. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1946. [PMID: 37895295 PMCID: PMC10606937 DOI: 10.3390/genes14101946] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene variation linked to physiological functions is recognised to affect elite athletic performance by modulating training and competition-enabling behaviour. The fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) has been investigated as a good candidate for drug targeting, and recently, its single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs324420 was reported to be associated with athletic performance. Given the implications, the biological pathways of this genetic polymorphism linked to elite athletic performance, considering sport type, psychological traits and sports injuries, need to be dissected. Thus, a narrative review of the literature concerning the biological mechanisms of this SNP was undertaken. In addition to its role in athletic performance, FAAH rs324420 is also involved in important mechanisms underlying human psychopathologies, including substance abuse and neural dysfunctions. However, cumulative evidence concerning the C385A variant is inconsistent. Therefore, validation studies considering homogeneous sports modalities are required to better define the role of this SNP in elite athletic performance and its impact on stress coping, pain regulation and inflammation control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo-Henrique Silva
- ICBAS-Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Portuguese Ministry of Education, 1399-025 Lisbon, Portugal
- Leixões Sport Clube, Senior Female Volleyball Team, 4450-277 Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - Valéria Tavares
- ICBAS-Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; (B.V.N.); (F.C.)
- FMUP-Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
| | - Beatriz Vieira Neto
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; (B.V.N.); (F.C.)
- LPCC, Research Department-Portuguese League Against Cancer (LPPC-NRN), 4200-172 Porto, Portugal
| | - Fátima Cerqueira
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; (B.V.N.); (F.C.)
- FP-I3ID, FP-BHS, CEBIMED and Faculty of Health Sciences, University Fernando Pessoa, 4200-150 Porto, Portugal;
- CIIMAR/CIMAR, Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, 4450-208 Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - Rui Medeiros
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; (B.V.N.); (F.C.)
- FMUP-Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
- LPCC, Research Department-Portuguese League Against Cancer (LPPC-NRN), 4200-172 Porto, Portugal
- FP-I3ID, FP-BHS, CEBIMED and Faculty of Health Sciences, University Fernando Pessoa, 4200-150 Porto, Portugal;
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Department, Clinical Pathology SVIPO Porto Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria-Raquel G. Silva
- FP-I3ID, FP-BHS, CEBIMED and Faculty of Health Sciences, University Fernando Pessoa, 4200-150 Porto, Portugal;
- CIAS-Research Centre for Anthropology and Health-Human Biology, Health and Society, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
- CHRC-Comprehensive Health Research Centre, Nova Medical School, Nova University of Lisbon, 1150-090 Lisboa, Portugal
- Scientific Committee of the Gymnastics Federation of Portugal, 1600-159 Lisboa, Portugal
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18
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Bloch Priel S, Yitzhaky A, Gurwitz D, Hertzberg L. Cannabinoid receptor gene CNR1 is downregulated in subcortical brain samples and upregulated in blood samples of individuals with schizophrenia: A participant data systematic meta-analysis. Eur J Neurosci 2023; 58:3540-3554. [PMID: 37611908 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.16122] [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: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis use leads to symptom exacerbation in schizophrenia patients, and endocannabinoid ligands have been studied as tentative schizophrenia therapeutics. Here, we aimed to characterise the connection between schizophrenia and the cannabinoid receptor 1 gene (CNR1) and explore possible mechanisms affecting its expression in schizophrenia. We performed a participant data systematic meta-analysis of CNR1 gene expression and additional endocannabinoid system genes in both brain (subcortical areas) and blood samples. We integrated eight brain sample datasets (overall 316 samples; 149 schizophrenia and 167 controls) and two blood sample datasets (overall 90 samples; 53 schizophrenia and 37 controls) while following the PRISMA meta-analysis guidelines. CNR1 was downregulated in subcortical regions and upregulated in blood samples of patients with schizophrenia. CNR2 and genes encoding endocannabinoids synthesis and degradation did not show differential expression in the brain or blood, except fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), which showed a downregulation trend in blood. In addition, the brain expression levels of CNR1 and three GABA receptor genes, GABRA1, GABRA6 and GABRG2, were positively correlated (R = .57, .36, .54; p = 2.7 × 10-14 , 6.9 × 10-6 and 1.1 × 10-12 , respectively). Brain CNR1 downregulation and the positive correlation with three GABA receptor genes suggest an association with GABA neurotransmission and possible effects on negative schizophrenia symptoms. Further studies are required for clarifying the opposite CNR1 dysregulation in the brain and blood of schizophrenia patients and the potential of endocannabinoid ligands as schizophrenia therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Assif Yitzhaky
- Department of Physics of Complex Systems, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - David Gurwitz
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Sagol School for Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Libi Hertzberg
- Department of Physics of Complex Systems, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
- Shalvata Mental Health Center, affiliated with the Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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19
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Bourdy R, Befort K. The Role of the Endocannabinoid System in Binge Eating Disorder. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119574. [PMID: 37298525 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Eating disorders are multifactorial disorders that involve maladaptive feeding behaviors. Binge eating disorder (BED), the most prevalent of these in both men and women, is characterized by recurrent episodes of eating large amounts of food in a short period of time, with a subjective loss of control over eating behavior. BED modulates the brain reward circuit in humans and animal models, which involves the dynamic regulation of the dopamine circuitry. The endocannabinoid system plays a major role in the regulation of food intake, both centrally and in the periphery. Pharmacological approaches together with research using genetically modified animals have strongly highlighted a predominant role of the endocannabinoid system in feeding behaviors, with the specific modulation of addictive-like eating behaviors. The purpose of the present review is to summarize our current knowledge on the neurobiology of BED in humans and animal models and to highlight the specific role of the endocannabinoid system in the development and maintenance of BED. A proposed model for a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms involving the endocannabinoid system is discussed. Future research will be necessary to develop more specific treatment strategies to reduce BED symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romain Bourdy
- Laboratoire de Neurosciences Cognitives et Adaptatives (LNCA), Université de Strasbourg, UMR7364, CNRS, 12 Rue Goethe, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Katia Befort
- Laboratoire de Neurosciences Cognitives et Adaptatives (LNCA), Université de Strasbourg, UMR7364, CNRS, 12 Rue Goethe, 67000 Strasbourg, France
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20
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Lim J, Lee HL, Nguyen J, Shin J, Getze S, Quach C, Squire E, Jung KM, Mahler SV, Mackie K, Piomelli D, Luderer U. Adolescent exposure to low-dose Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol depletes the ovarian reserve in female mice. Toxicol Sci 2023; 193:31-47. [PMID: 36912754 PMCID: PMC10176244 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfad027] [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] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis use by adolescents is widespread, but its effects on the ovaries remain largely unknown. Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) exerts its pharmacological effects by activating, and in some conditions hijacking, cannabinoid receptors (CBRs). We hypothesized that adolescent exposure to THC affects ovarian function in adulthood. Peripubertal female C57BL/6N mice were given THC (5 mg/kg) or its vehicle, once daily by intraperitoneal injection. Some mice received THC from postnatal day (PND) 30-33 and their ovaries were harvested PND34; other mice received THC from PND30-43, and their ovaries were harvested PND70. Adolescent treatment with THC depleted ovarian primordial follicle numbers by 50% at PND70, 4 weeks after the last dose. The treatment produced primordial follicle activation, which persisted until PND70. THC administration also caused DNA damage in primary follicles and increased PUMA protein expression in oocytes of primordial and primary follicles. Both CB1R and CB2R were expressed in oocytes and theca cells of ovarian follicles. Enzymes involved in the formation (N-acylphosphatidylethanolamine phospholipase D) or deactivation (fatty acid amide hydrolase) of the endocannabinoid anandamide were expressed in granulosa cells of ovarian follicles and interstitial cells. Levels of mRNA for CBR1 were significantly increased in ovaries after adolescent THC exposure, and upregulation persisted for at least 4 weeks. Our results support that adolescent exposure to THC may cause aberrant activation of the ovarian endocannabinoid system in female mice, resulting in substantial loss of ovarian reserve in adulthood. Relevance of these findings to women who frequently used cannabis during adolescence warrants investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinhwan Lim
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
- Dept. of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Hye-Lim Lee
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Julie Nguyen
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Joyce Shin
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Samantha Getze
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Caitlin Quach
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Erica Squire
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Kwang-Mook Jung
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Stephen V Mahler
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Ken Mackie
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana 47405, USA
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Ulrike Luderer
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
- Dept. of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
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21
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Del Rio R, Serrano RG, Gomez E, Martinez JC, Edward MA, Santos RA, Diaz KS, Cohen-Cory S. Cell-autonomous and differential endocannabinoid signaling impacts the development of presynaptic retinal ganglion cell axon connectivity in vivo. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2023; 15:1176864. [PMID: 37252636 PMCID: PMC10213524 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2023.1176864] [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: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis exposure during gestation evokes significant molecular modifications to neurodevelopmental programs leading to neurophysiological and behavioral abnormalities in humans. The main neuronal receptor for Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the type-1 cannabinoid receptor CB1R, one of the most abundant G-protein-coupled receptors in the nervous system. While THC is the major psychoactive phytocannabinoid, endocannabinoids (eCBs) are the endogenous ligands of CB1R and are known to act as retrograde messengers to modulate synaptic plasticity at different time scales in the adult brain. Accumulating evidence indicates that eCB signaling through activation of CB1R plays a central role in neural development. During development, most CB1R localized to axons of projection neurons, and in mice eCB signaling impacts axon fasciculation. Understanding of eCB-mediated structural plasticity during development, however, requires the identification of the precise spatial and temporal dynamics of CB1R-mediated modifications at the level of individual neurons in the intact brain. Here, the cell-autonomous role of CB1R and the effects of CB1R-mediated eCB signaling were investigated using targeted single-cell knockdown and pharmacologic treatments in Xenopus. We imaged axonal arbors of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in real time following downregulation of CB1R via morpholino (MO) knockdown. We also analyzed RGC axons with altered eCB signaling following treatment with URB597, a selective inhibitor of the enzyme that degrades Anandamide (AEA), or JZL184, an inhibitor of the enzyme that blocks 2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) hydrolysis, at two distinct stages of retinotectal development. Our results demonstrate that CB1R knockdown impacts RGC axon branching at their target and that differential 2-AG and AEA-mediated eCB signaling contributes to presynaptic structural connectivity at the time that axons terminate and when retinotectal synaptic connections are made. Altering CB1R levels through CB1R MO knockdown similarly impacted dendritic morphology of tectal neurons, thus supporting both pre- and postsynaptic cell-autonomous roles for CB1R-mediated eCB signaling.
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22
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Al-Kaleel A, Aygun H, Al-Gailani L, Kabak Y, Inal S, Ayyildiz M, Him A, Agar E. The electrophysiological and behavioral evaluation of the peptide hemopressin and cannabinoid CB1 receptor agonist and antagonist in pentylenetetrazol model of epilepsy in rats. Pflugers Arch 2023; 475:719-730. [PMID: 37100982 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-023-02814-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
This study endeavoured to assess the effect of hemopressin (Hp), a nano peptide obtained from the alpha chain of hemoglobin, on chronic epileptic activity and its potential correlation with cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1). Male Wistar albino rats (230-260 g) were used. The kindling process was conducted by administering a sub-convulsant dose of pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) (35 mg/kg, i.p) three times a week for a maximum of 10 weeks. Tripolar electrodes and external cannula guides for intracerebroventricular (i.c.v) injections were surgically implanted in the skulls of kindled rats. On the day of the experiment, doses of Hp, AM-251, and ACEA were administered prior to the PTZ injections. Electroencephalography recordings and behavioural observations were conducted simultaneously for 30 min after the PTZ injection. The administration of Hp (0.6 μg, i.c.v) resulted in a decrease in epileptic activity. The CB1 receptor agonist ACEA (7.5 μg, i.c.v) showed an anticonvulsant effect, but the CB1 receptor antagonist AM-251 (0.5 μg, i.c.v) displayed a proconvulsant effect. The co-administration of Hp (0.6 μg, i.c.v) and ACEA (7.5 μg, i.c.v) and of Hp (0.6 μg, i.c.v) and AM-251 (0.5 μg, i.c.v) produced an anticonvulsant effect. However, when AM-251 was administered prior to Hp, it produced a proconvulsant impact that overrode Hp's intended anticonvulsant effect. Interestingly, the co-administration of Hp (0.03 μg) + AM-251 (0.125 μg) unexpectedly exhibited an anticonvulsant effect. Electrophysiological and behavioural evaluations demonstrated the anticonvulsant effect of Hp in the present model, highlighting the possibility that Hp may act as an agonist for the CB1 receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Al-Kaleel
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey.
- Faculty of Medicine, Cyprus International University, Nicosia, Cyprus.
| | - Hatice Aygun
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Tokat Gaziosmanpasa University, Tokat, Turkey
| | - Lubna Al-Gailani
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
- Faculty of Medicine, Cyprus International University, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Yonca Kabak
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Sinem Inal
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Ayyildiz
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Aydin Him
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Bolu Abant İzzet Baysal University, Bolu, Turkey
| | - Erdal Agar
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
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23
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Chen C. Inhibiting degradation of 2-arachidonoylglycerol as a therapeutic strategy for neurodegenerative diseases. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 244:108394. [PMID: 36966972 PMCID: PMC10123871 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Endocannabinoids are endogenous lipid signaling mediators that participate in a variety of physiological and pathological processes. 2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) is the most abundant endocannabinoid and is a full agonist of G-protein-coupled cannabinoid receptors (CB1R and CB2R), which are targets of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis. While 2-AG has been well recognized as a retrograde messenger modulating synaptic transmission and plasticity at both inhibitory GABAergic and excitatory glutamatergic synapses in the brain, growing evidence suggests that 2-AG also functions as an endogenous terminator of neuroinflammation in response to harmful insults, thus maintaining brain homeostasis. Monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) is the key enzyme that degrades 2-AG in the brain. The immediate metabolite of 2-AG is arachidonic acid (AA), a precursor of prostaglandins (PGs) and leukotrienes. Several lines of evidence indicate that pharmacological or genetic inactivation of MAGL, which boosts 2-AG levels and reduces its hydrolytic metabolites, resolves neuroinflammation, mitigates neuropathology, and improves synaptic and cognitive functions in animal models of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson's disease (PD), and traumatic brain injury (TBI)-induced neurodegenerative disease. Thus, it has been proposed that MAGL is a potential therapeutic target for treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. As the main enzyme hydrolyzing 2-AG, several MAGL inhibitors have been identified and developed. However, our understanding of the mechanisms by which inactivation of MAGL produces neuroprotective effects in neurodegenerative diseases remains limited. A recent finding that inhibition of 2-AG metabolism in astrocytes, but not in neurons, protects the brain from TBI-induced neuropathology might shed some light on this unsolved issue. This review provides an overview of MAGL as a potential therapeutic target for neurodegenerative diseases and discusses possible mechanisms underlying the neuroprotective effects of restraining degradation of 2-AG in the brain.
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24
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Franzen AD, Paulsen RT, Kabeiseman EJ, Burrell BD. Heterosynaptic long-term potentiation of non-nociceptive synapses requires endocannabinoids, NMDARs, CamKII, and PKCζ. J Neurophysiol 2023; 129:807-818. [PMID: 36883763 PMCID: PMC10085563 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00494.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Noxious stimuli or injury can trigger long-lasting sensitization to non-nociceptive stimuli (referred to as allodynia in mammals). Long-term potentiation (LTP) of nociceptive synapses has been shown to contribute to nociceptive sensitization (hyperalgesia) and there is even evidence of heterosynaptic spread of LTP contributing to this type of sensitization. This study will focus on how activation of nociceptors elicits heterosynaptic LTP (hetLTP) in non-nociceptive synapses. Previous studies in the medicinal leech (Hirudo verbana) have demonstrated that high-frequency stimulation (HFS) of nociceptors produces both homosynaptic LTP as well as hetLTP in non-nociceptive afferent synapses. This hetLTP involves endocannabinoid-mediated disinhibition of non-nociceptive synapses at the presynaptic level, but it is not clear if there are additional processes contributing to this synaptic potentiation. In this study, we found evidence for the involvement of postsynaptic level change and observed that postsynaptic N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors (NMDARs) were required for this potentiation. Next, Hirudo orthologs for known LTP signaling proteins, CamKII and PKCζ, were identified based on sequences from humans, mice, and the marine mollusk Aplysia. In electrophysiological experiments, inhibitors of CamKII (AIP) and PKCζ (ZIP) were found to interfere with hetLTP. Interestingly, CamKII was found to be necessary for both induction and maintenance of hetLTP, whereas PKCζ was only necessary for maintenance. These findings show that activation of nociceptors can elicit a potentiation of non-nociceptive synapses through a process that involves both endocannabinoid-mediated disinhibition and NMDAR-initiated signaling pathways.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Pain-related sensitization involves increases in signaling by non-nociceptive sensory neurons. This can allow non-nociceptive afferents to have access to nociceptive circuitry. In this study, we examine a form of synaptic potentiation in which nociceptor activity elicits increases in non-nociceptive synapses. This process involves endocannabinoids, "gating" the activation of NMDA receptors, which in turn activate CamKII and PKCζ. This study provides an important link in how nociceptive stimuli can enhance non-nociceptive signaling related to pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avery D Franzen
- Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Center for Brain and Behavior Research, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, South Dakota, United States
| | - Riley T Paulsen
- Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Center for Brain and Behavior Research, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, South Dakota, United States
| | - Emily J Kabeiseman
- Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Center for Brain and Behavior Research, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, South Dakota, United States
| | - Brian D Burrell
- Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Center for Brain and Behavior Research, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, South Dakota, United States
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25
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Steiger LJ, Tsintsadze T, Mattheisen GB, Smith SM. Somatic and terminal CB1 receptors are differentially coupled to voltage-gated sodium channels in neocortical neurons. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112247. [PMID: 36933217 PMCID: PMC10106091 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Endogenous cannabinoid signaling is vital for important brain functions, and the same pathways can be modified pharmacologically to treat pain, epilepsy, and posttraumatic stress disorder. Endocannabinoid-mediated changes to excitability are predominantly attributed to 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) acting presynaptically via the canonical cannabinoid receptor, CB1. Here, we identify a mechanism in the neocortex by which anandamide (AEA), another major endocannabinoid, but not 2-AG, powerfully inhibits somatically recorded voltage-gated sodium channel (VGSC) currents in the majority of neurons. This pathway involves intracellular CB1 that, when activated by anandamide, decreases the likelihood of recurrent action potential generation. WIN 55,212-2 similarly activates CB1 and inhibits VGSC currents, indicating that this pathway is also positioned to mediate the actions of exogenous cannabinoids on neuronal excitability. The coupling between CB1 and VGSCs is absent at nerve terminals, and 2-AG does not block somatic VGSC currents, indicating functional compartmentalization of the actions of two endocannabinoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke J Steiger
- Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, OR, USA; Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Timur Tsintsadze
- Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, OR, USA; Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Glynis B Mattheisen
- Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, OR, USA; Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Stephen M Smith
- Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, OR, USA; Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA; Department of Chemical Physiology and Biochemistry, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA.
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26
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Zhu D, Zhang J, Gao F, Hu M, Hashem J, Chen C. Augmentation of 2-arachidonoylglycerol signaling in astrocytes maintains synaptic functionality by regulation of miRNA-30b. Exp Neurol 2023; 361:114292. [PMID: 36481187 PMCID: PMC9892245 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2022.114292] [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: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), the most abundant endocannabinoid, displays anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. Inhibition of 2-AG degradation by inactivation of monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL), a key enzyme degrading 2-AG in the brain, alleviates neuropathology and improves synaptic and cognitive functions in animal models of neurodegenerative diseases. In particular, global inactivation of MAGL by genetic deletion of mgll enhances hippocampal long-term potentiation (LTP) and hippocampus-dependent learning and memory. However, our understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which chronic inactivation of MAGL enhances synaptic activity is still limited. Here, we provide evidence that pharmacological inactivation of MAGL suppresses hippocampal expression of miR-30b, a small non-coding microRNA, and upregulates expression of its targets, including ephrin type-B receptor 2 (ephB2), sirtuin1 (sirt1), and glutamate ionotropic receptor AMPA type subunit 2 (GluA2). Importantly, suppression of miR-30b and increase of its targets by inactivation of MAGL result primarily from inhibition of 2-AG metabolism in astrocytes, rather than in neurons. Inactivation of MAGL in astrocytes prevents miR-30b overexpression-induced impairments in synaptic transmission and long-term potentiation (LTP) in the hippocampus. Suppression of miR-30b expression by inactivation of MAGL is apparently associated with augmentation of 2-AG signaling, as 2-AG induces a dose-dependent decrease in expression of miR-30b. 2-AG- or MAGL inactivation-suppressed expression of miR-30b is not mediated via CB1R, but by peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ). This is further supported by the results showing that MAGL inactivation-induced downregulation of miR-30b and upregulation of its targets are attenuated by antagonism of PPARγ, but mimicked by PPARγ agonists. In addition, we observed that 2-AG-induced reduction of miR-30b expression is mediated via NF-kB signaling. Our study provides evidence that 2-AG signaling in astrocytes plays an important role in maintaining the functional integrity of synapses in the hippocampus by regulation of miR-30b expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dexiao Zhu
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Fei Gao
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Mei Hu
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Jack Hashem
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Chu Chen
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA; Center for Biomedical Neuroscience, Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA.
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27
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Alswailmi FK. A Cross Talk between the Endocannabinoid System and Different Systems Involved in the Pathogenesis of Hypertensive Retinopathy. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:ph16030345. [PMID: 36986445 PMCID: PMC10058254 DOI: 10.3390/ph16030345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The prognosis of hypertension leads to organ damage by causing nephropathy, stroke, retinopathy, and cardiomegaly. Retinopathy and blood pressure have been extensively discussed in relation to catecholamines of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) and angiotensin II of the renin–angiotensin aldosterone system (RAAS) but very little research has been conducted on the role of the ECS in the regulation of retinopathy and blood pressure. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a unique system in the body that can be considered as a master regulator of body functions. It encompasses the endogenous production of its cannabinoids, its degrading enzymes, and functional receptors which innervate and perform various functions in different organs of the body. Hypertensive retinopathy pathologies arise normally due to oxidative stress, ischemia, endothelium dysfunction, inflammation, and an activated renin–angiotensin system (RAS) and catecholamine which are vasoconstrictors in their biological nature. The question arises of which system or agent counterbalances the vasoconstrictors effect of noradrenaline and angiotensin II (Ang II) in normal individuals? In this review article, we discuss the role of the ECS and its contribution to the pathogenesis of hypertensive retinopathy. This review article will also examine the involvement of the RAS and the ANS in the pathogenesis of hypertensive retinopathy and the crosstalk between these three systems in hypertensive retinopathy. This review will also explain that the ECS, which is a vasodilator in its action, either independently counteracts the effect produced with the vasoconstriction of the ANS and Ang II or blocks some of the common pathways shared by the ECS, ANS, and Ang II in the regulation of eye functions and blood pressure. This article concludes that persistent control of blood pressure and normal functions of the eye are maintained either by decreasing systemic catecholamine, ang II, or by upregulation of the ECS which results in the regression of retinopathy induced by hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farhan Khashim Alswailmi
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, University of Hafr Al Batin, Hafr Al Batin 39524, Saudi Arabia
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28
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Chu L, Shu Z, Gu X, Wu Y, Yang J, Deng H. The Endocannabinoid System as a Potential Therapeutic Target for HIV-1-Associated Neurocognitive Disorder. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2023. [PMID: 36745405 DOI: 10.1089/can.2022.0267] [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: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Despite the successful introduction of combined antiretroviral therapy, the prevalence of mild to moderate forms of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) remains high. It has been demonstrated that neuronal injury caused by HIV is excitotoxic and inflammatory, and it correlates with neurocognitive decline in HAND. Endocannabinoid system (ECS) protects the body from excitotoxicity and neuroinflammation on demand and presents a promising therapeutic target for treating HAND. Here, we firstly discuss the potential pathogenesis of HAND. We secondly discuss the structural and functional changes in the ECS that are currently known among HAND patients. We thirdly discuss current clinical and preclinical findings concerning the neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties of the ECS among HAND patients. Fourth, we will discuss the interactions between the ECS and neuroendocrine systems, including the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) and hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axes under the HAND conditions. Materials and Methods: We have carried out a review of the literature using PubMed to summarize the current state of knowledge on the association between ECS and HAND. Results: The ECS may be ideally suited for modulation of HAND pathophysiology. Direct activation of presynaptic cannabinoid receptor 1 or reduction of cannabinoid metabolism attenuates HAND excitotoxicity. Chronic neuroinflammation associated with HAND can be reduced by activating cannabinoid receptor 2 on immune cells. The sensitivity of the ECS to HIV may be enhanced by increased cannabinoid receptor expression in HAND. In addition, indirect regulation of the ECS through modulation of hormone-related receptors may be a potential strategy to influence the ECS and also alleviate the progression of HAND due to the reciprocal inhibition of the ECS by the HPA and HPG axes. Conclusions: Taken together, targeting the ECS may be a promising strategy to alleviate the inflammation and neurodegeneration caused by HIV-1 infection. Further studies are required to clarify the role of endocannabinoid signaling in HIV neurotoxicity. Strategies promoting endocannabinoid signaling may slow down cognitive decline of HAND are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liuxi Chu
- Department of Brain and Learning Science, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.,Key Laboratory of Child Development and Learning Science (Southeast University), Ministry of Education, Nanjing, China.,Department of Child Development and Education, Research Center for Learning Science, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zheng Shu
- Clinical Nutrition Department, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Xinpei Gu
- Department of Human Anatomy, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Taian, China
| | - Yan Wu
- Department of Brain and Learning Science, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.,Key Laboratory of Child Development and Learning Science (Southeast University), Ministry of Education, Nanjing, China.,Department of Child Development and Education, Research Center for Learning Science, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jin Yang
- Department of Child Development and Education, Research Center for Learning Science, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Child and Adolescent Hygienics, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Huihua Deng
- Department of Brain and Learning Science, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.,Key Laboratory of Child Development and Learning Science (Southeast University), Ministry of Education, Nanjing, China.,Department of Child Development and Education, Research Center for Learning Science, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
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29
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Aretxabala X, García del Caño G, Barrondo S, López de Jesús M, González-Burguera I, Saumell-Esnaola M, Goicolea MA, Sallés J. Endocannabinoid 2-Arachidonoylglycerol Synthesis and Metabolism at Neuronal Nuclear Matrix Fractions Derived from Adult Rat Brain Cortex. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043165. [PMID: 36834575 PMCID: PMC9965625 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043165] [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: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In this report, we describe the kinetics characteristics of the diacylglycerol lipase-α (DGLα) located at the nuclear matrix of nuclei derived from adult cortical neurons. Thus, using high-resolution fluorescence microscopy, classical biochemical subcellular fractionation, and Western blot techniques, we demonstrate that the DGLα enzyme is located in the matrix of neuronal nuclei. Furthermore, by quantifying the 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) level by liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry when 1-stearoyl-2-arachidonoyl-sn-glycerol (SAG) was exogenously added as substrate, we describe the presence of a mechanism for 2-AG production through DGLα dependent biosynthesis with an apparent Km (Kmapp) of 180 µM and a Vmax of 1.3 pmol min-1 µg-1 protein. We also examined the presence of enzymes with hydrolytic and oxygenase activities that are able to use 2-AG as substrate, and described the localization and compartmentalization of the major 2-AG degradation enzymes, namely monoacylglycerol lipase (MGL), fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), α/β-hydrolase domain 12 protein (ABHD12) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2). Of these, only ABHD12 exhibited the same distribution with respect to chromatin, lamin B1, SC-35 and NeuN as that described for DGLα. When 2-AG was exogenously added, we observed the production of arachidonic acid (AA), which was prevented by inhibitors (but not specific MGL or ABHD6 inhibitors) of the ABHD family. Overall, our results expand knowledge about the subcellular distribution of neuronal DGLα, and provide biochemical and morphological evidence to ensure that 2-AG is produced in the neuronal nuclear matrix. Thus, this work paves the way for proposing a working hypothesis about the role of 2-AG produced in neuronal nuclei.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xabier Aretxabala
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Gontzal García del Caño
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
- Bioaraba, Neurofarmacología Celular y Molecular, 01008 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Sergio Barrondo
- Bioaraba, Neurofarmacología Celular y Molecular, 01008 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Maider López de Jesús
- Bioaraba, Neurofarmacología Celular y Molecular, 01008 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Imanol González-Burguera
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
- Bioaraba, Neurofarmacología Celular y Molecular, 01008 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Miquel Saumell-Esnaola
- Bioaraba, Neurofarmacología Celular y Molecular, 01008 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - María Aranzazu Goicolea
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Joan Sallés
- Bioaraba, Neurofarmacología Celular y Molecular, 01008 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-945-013114
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Role of the Endocannabinoid System in Metabolic Control Processes and in the Pathogenesis of Metabolic Syndrome: An Update. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11020306. [PMID: 36830844 PMCID: PMC9952954 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11020306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Metabolic syndrome is a complex disease state, which appears mostly as a consequence of an unhealthy, sedentary lifestyle. Metabolic complications include insulin resistance (IR), diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and atherosclerosis, impairing life standards and reducing life expectancy. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) has an important role in signalization processes, not only in the central nervous system, but also in the peripheral tissues. Several physiological functions are affected, and overexpression or downregulation contributes to several diseases. A better understanding of the functions of cannabinoid (CB) receptors may propose potential therapeutic effects by influencing receptor signaling and enzymes involved in downstream pathways. In this review, we summarize recent information regarding the roles of the ECS and the CB1 receptor signaling in the physiology and pathophysiology of energy and metabolic homeostasis, in the development of obesity by enhancing food intake, upregulating energy balance and fat accumulation, increasing lipogenesis and glucose production, and impairing insulin sensitivity and secretion. By analyzing the roles of the ECS in physiological and pathophysiological mechanisms, we introduce some recently identified signaling pathways in the mechanism of the pathogenesis of metabolic syndrome. Our review emphasizes that the presence of such recently identified ECS signaling steps raises new therapeutic potential in the treatment of complex metabolic diseases such as diabetes, insulin resistance, obesity, and hypertension.
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Martinez Ramirez CE, Ruiz-Pérez G, Stollenwerk TM, Behlke C, Doherty A, Hillard CJ. Endocannabinoid signaling in the central nervous system. Glia 2023; 71:5-35. [PMID: 36308424 PMCID: PMC10167744 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
It is hard to overestimate the influence of the endocannabinoid signaling (ECS) system on central nervous system (CNS) function. In the 40 years since cannabinoids were found to trigger specific cell signaling cascades, studies of the ECS system continue to cause amazement, surprise, and confusion! CB1 cannabinoid receptors are expressed widely in the CNS and regulate cell-cell communication via effects on the release of both neurotransmitters and gliotransmitters. CB2 cannabinoid receptors are difficult to detect in the CNS but seem to "punch above their weight" as compounds targeting these receptors have significant effects on inflammatory state and behavior. Positive and negative allosteric modulators for both receptors have been identified and examined in preclinical studies. Concentrations of the endocannabinoid ligands, N-arachidonoylethanolamine and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), are regulated by a combination of enzymatic synthesis and degradation and inhibitors of these processes are available and making their way into clinical trials. Importantly, ECS regulates many essential brain functions, including regulation of reward, anxiety, inflammation, motor control, and cellular development. While the field is on the cusp of preclinical discoveries providing impactful clinical and therapeutic insights into many CNS disorders, there is still much to be learned about this remarkable and versatile modulatory system.
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Affiliation(s)
- César E Martinez Ramirez
- Neuroscience Research Center and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Gonzalo Ruiz-Pérez
- Neuroscience Research Center and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Todd M Stollenwerk
- Neuroscience Research Center and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Christina Behlke
- Neuroscience Research Center and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Ashley Doherty
- Neuroscience Research Center and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Cecilia J Hillard
- Neuroscience Research Center and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
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Lim J, Squire E, Jung KM. Phytocannabinoids, the Endocannabinoid System and Male Reproduction. World J Mens Health 2023; 41:1-10. [PMID: 36578200 PMCID: PMC9826913 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.220132] [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: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is comprised of a set of lipid-derived messengers (the endocannabinoids, ECBs), proteins that control their production and degradation, and cell-surface cannabinoid (CB) receptors that transduce their actions. ECB molecules such as 2-arachidonoyl-sn-glycerol (2-AG) and anandamide (arachidonoyl ethanolamide) are produced on demand and deactivated through enzymatic actions tightly regulated both temporally and spatially, serving homeostatic roles in order to respond to various challenges to the body. Key components of the ECS are present in the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, which plays critical roles in the development and regulation of the reproductive system in both males and females. ECB signaling controls the action at each stage of the HPG axis through CB receptors expressed in the hypothalamus, pituitary, and reproductive organs such as the testis and ovary. It regulates the secretion of hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), pituitary follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), estrogen, testosterone, and affects spermatogenesis in males. Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and other phytocannabinoids from Cannabis sativa affect a variety of physiological processes by altering, or under certain conditions hijacking, the ECB system. Therefore, phytocannabinoids, in particular THC, may modify the homeostasis of the HPG axis by altering CB receptor signaling and cause deficits in reproductive function. While the ability of phytocannabinoids, THC and/or cannabidiol (CBD), to reduce pain and inflammation provides promising opportunities for therapeutic intervention for genitourinary and degenerative disorders, important questions remain regarding their unwanted long-term effects. It is nevertheless clear that the therapeutic potential of modulating the ECS calls for further scientific and clinical investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinhwan Lim
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Erica Squire
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Kwang-Mook Jung
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
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Xiao J, Zhou Y, Sun L, Wang H. Role of integrating cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system in neonatal hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1152167. [PMID: 37122621 PMCID: PMC10130673 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1152167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Neonatal hypoxic-ischaemic events, which can result in long-term neurological impairments or even cell death, are among the most significant causes of brain injury during neurodevelopment. The complexity of neonatal hypoxic-ischaemic pathophysiology and cellular pathways make it difficult to treat brain damage; hence, the development of new neuroprotective medicines is of great interest. Recently, numerous neuroprotective medicines have been developed to treat brain injuries and improve long-term outcomes based on comprehensive knowledge of the mechanisms that underlie neuronal plasticity following hypoxic-ischaemic brain injury. In this context, understanding of the medicinal potential of cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system has recently increased. The endocannabinoid system plays a vital neuromodulatory role in numerous brain regions, ensuring appropriate control of neuronal activity. Its natural neuroprotection against adult brain injury or acute brain injury also clearly demonstrate the role of endocannabinoid signalling in modulating neuronal activity in the adult brain. The goal of this review is to examine how cannabinoid-derived compounds can be used to treat neonatal hypoxic-ischaemic brain injury and to assess the critical function of the endocannabinoid system and its potential for use as a new neuroprotective treatment for neonatal hypoxic-ischaemic brain injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Xiao
- Department of Pathology, Huangshi Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei Polytechnic University, Huangshi, China
| | - Yue Zhou
- Department of Pharmacy, Xindu District People’s Hospital of Chengdu, Chengdu, China
| | - Luqiang Sun
- Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Haichuan Wang
- Department of Paediatrics, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science and Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Haichuan Wang,
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Manna SSS. Dual effects of anandamide in the antiepileptic activity of diazepam in pentylenetetrazole-induced seizures in mice. Behav Pharmacol 2022; 33:527-541. [PMID: 36094027 DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0000000000000700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The prototype endocannabinoid, anandamide activates both CB 1 and transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 channels (TRPV1) receptor at different concentrations. At high concentrations, anandamide-mediated TRPV1 effects are opposite to its effects at low concentrations via CB 1 receptor. Thus, synaptic concentrations of anandamide govern the neuronal activity and consequently might affect the response of a drug. This study was undertaken to investigate the influence of high and low doses of anandamide on the anticonvulsant action of diazepam on the subcutaneous dose of pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) in Swiss mice weighing 20-25 g. Results revealed that intracerebroventricular administration of capsazepine (a TRPV1 antagonist: 1, 10, or 100 µg/mouse) and the low doses (10 µg/mouse) of anandamide, AM404 (anandamide transport inhibitor), or URB597 (fatty acid amide hydrolase inhibitor) augmented the anticonvulsant effect of diazepam. Conversely, higher dose of anandamide, AM404, URB597 (100 µg/mouse) as well as capsaicin (a TRPV1 agonist: 1, 10, or 100 µg/mouse) attenuated the protective effect of diazepam against PTZ-induced seizures. Thus, this study demonstrates that the effects of diazepam may be augmented by activating CB 1 receptors or dampened via TRPV1 receptors. The findings of the present study can be extrapolated to understand the use of TRPV1 blockers alone or in combination of benzodiazepines in the treatment of benzodiazepines-refractory status epilepticus, a condition associated with maladaptive trafficking of synaptic gamma-aminobutyric acid and glutamate receptors. However, potential clinical applications are needed to further support such preclinical studies.
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de Paula Rodrigues BM, Coimbra NC. CB 1 receptor signalling mediates cannabidiol-induced panicolytic-like effects and defensive antinociception impairment in mice threatened by Bothrops jararaca lancehead pit vipers. J Psychopharmacol 2022; 36:1384-1396. [PMID: 35946605 DOI: 10.1177/02698811221115755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis sativa-derived substances such as cannabidiol (CBD) have attracted increasing clinical interest and consist in a new perspective for treating some neurological and psychiatric diseases. AIMS The aim of this work was to investigate the effect of acute treatment with CBD on panic-like defensive responses displayed by mice threatened by the venomous snake Bothrops jararaca. METHODS Mice were habituated in the enriched polygonal arena for snake panic test. After recording the baseline responses of the tail-flick test, the prey were pretreated with intraperitoneal (i.p.) administrations of the endocannabinoid type 1 receptor (CB1) antagonist AM251 (selective cannabinoid 1 receptor antagonist with an IC50 of 8 nM) at different doses, which were followed after 10 min by i.p. treatment with CBD (3 mg/kg). Thirty minutes after treatment with CBD, mice were subjected to confrontations by B. jararaca for 5 min, and the following defensive responses were recorded: risk assessment, oriented escape behaviour, inhibitory avoidance and prey-versus-snake interactions. Immediately after the escape behaviour was exhibited, the tail-flick latencies were recorded every 5 min for 30 min. OUTCOMES Mice threatened by snakes displayed several anti-predatory defensive and innate fear-induced antinociception responses in comparison to the control. CBD significantly decreased the risk assessment and escape responses, with a consequent decrease in defensive antinociception. The CBD panicolytic effect was reversed by i.p. treatment with AM251. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that the anti-aversive effect of CBD depends at least in part on the recruitment of CB1 receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Mangili de Paula Rodrigues
- Laboratory of Neuroanatomy and Neuropsychobiology, Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
- NAP-USP-Neurobiology of Emotions Research Centre (NuPNE), Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
- Ophidiarium LNN-FMRP-USP/INeC, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine of the University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Norberto Cysne Coimbra
- Laboratory of Neuroanatomy and Neuropsychobiology, Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
- NAP-USP-Neurobiology of Emotions Research Centre (NuPNE), Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
- Ophidiarium LNN-FMRP-USP/INeC, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine of the University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
- Behavioural Neurosciences Institute (INeC), Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
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Peters KZ, Naneix F. The role of dopamine and endocannabinoid systems in prefrontal cortex development: Adolescence as a critical period. Front Neural Circuits 2022; 16:939235. [PMID: 36389180 PMCID: PMC9663658 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2022.939235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The prefrontal cortex plays a central role in the control of complex cognitive processes including action control and decision making. It also shows a specific pattern of delayed maturation related to unique behavioral changes during adolescence and allows the development of adult cognitive processes. The adolescent brain is extremely plastic and critically vulnerable to external insults. Related to this vulnerability, adolescence is also associated with the emergence of numerous neuropsychiatric disorders involving alterations of prefrontal functions. Within prefrontal microcircuits, the dopamine and the endocannabinoid systems have widespread effects on adolescent-specific ontogenetic processes. In this review, we highlight recent advances in our understanding of the maturation of the dopamine system and the endocannabinoid system in the prefrontal cortex during adolescence. We discuss how they interact with GABA and glutamate neurons to modulate prefrontal circuits and how they can be altered by different environmental events leading to long-term neurobiological and behavioral changes at adulthood. Finally, we aim to identify several future research directions to help highlight gaps in our current knowledge on the maturation of these microcircuits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Zara Peters
- Sussex Neuroscience, School of Psychology, University of Sussex, Falmer, United Kingdom
| | - Fabien Naneix
- The Rowett Institute, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom,*Correspondence: Fabien Naneix
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Landucci E, Berlinguer-Palmini R, Baccini G, Boscia F, Gerace E, Mannaioni G, Pellegrini-Giampietro DE. The Neuroprotective Effects of mGlu1 Receptor Antagonists Are Mediated by an Enhancement of GABAergic Synaptic Transmission via a Presynaptic CB1 Receptor Mechanism. Cells 2022; 11:cells11193015. [PMID: 36230976 PMCID: PMC9562021 DOI: 10.3390/cells11193015] [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: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we investigated the cross-talk between mGlu1 and CB1 receptors in modulating GABA hippocampal output in whole-cell voltage clamp recordings in rat hippocampal acute slices, in organotypic hippocampal slices exposed to oxygen and glucose deprivation (OGD) and in gerbils subjected to global ischemia. CB1 receptor expression was studied using immunohistochemistry and the CA1 contents of anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) were measured by LC-MS/MS. Our results show that mGlu1 receptor antagonists enhance sIPSCs in CA1 pyramidal cells and the basal and ischemic hippocampal release of GABA in vivo in a manner that is mediated by CB1 receptor activation. In hippocampal slices exposed to OGD and in ischemic gerbils, mGlu1 receptor antagonists protected CA1 pyramidal cells against post-ischemic injury and this effect was reduced by CB1 receptor activation. OGD induced a transient increase in the hippocampal content of AEA and this effect is prevented by mGlu1 receptor antagonist. Finally, OGD induced a late disruption of CB1 receptors in the CA1 region and the effect was prevented when CA1 pyramidal cells were protected by mGlu1 antagonists. Altogether, these results suggest a cooperative interaction between mGlu1 receptors and the endocannabinoid system in the mechanisms that lead to post-ischemic neuronal death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Landucci
- Department of Health Sciences, Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | | | - Gilda Baccini
- Institute of Physiology, Christian-Albrechts-University Kiel, 24118 Kiel, Germany
| | - Francesca Boscia
- Department of Neuroscience, Division of Pharmacology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Gerace
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NeuroFarBa), Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - Guido Mannaioni
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NeuroFarBa), Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - Domenico E. Pellegrini-Giampietro
- Department of Health Sciences, Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-055-2758210
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Roberts CJ, Hopp FA, Hogan QH, Dean C. Anandamide in the dorsal periaqueductal gray inhibits sensory input without a correlation to sympathoexcitation. NEUROBIOLOGY OF PAIN (CAMBRIDGE, MASS.) 2022; 12:100104. [PMID: 36531614 PMCID: PMC9755024 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynpai.2022.100104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
There is growing literature supporting cannabinoids as a potential therapeutic for pain conditions. The development of chronic pain has been associated with reduced concentrations of the endogenous cannabinoid anandamide (AEA) in the midbrain dorsal periaqueductal gray (dPAG), and microinjections of synthetic cannabinoids into the dPAG are antinociceptive. Therefore, the goal of this study was to examine the role of the dPAG in cannabinoid-mediated sensory inhibition. Given that cannabinoids in the dPAG also elicit sympathoexcitation, a secondary goal was to assess coordination between sympathetic and antinociceptive responses. AEA was microinjected into the dPAG while recording single unit activity of wide dynamic range (WDR) dorsal horn neurons (DHNs) evoked by high intensity mechanical stimulation of the hindpaw, concurrently with renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA), in anesthetized male rats. AEA microinjected into the dPAG decreased evoked DHN activity (n = 24 units), for half of which AEA also elicited sympathoexcitation. AEA actions were mediated by cannabinoid 1 receptors as confirmed by local pretreatment with the cannabinoid receptor antagonist AM281. dPAG microinjection of the synaptic excitant DL-homocysteic acid (DLH) also decreased evoked DHN activity (n = 27 units), but in all cases this was accompanied by sympathoexcitation. Thus, sensory inhibition elicited from the dPAG is not exclusively linked with sympathoexcitation, suggesting discrete neuronal circuits. The rostrocaudal location of sites may affect evoked responses as AEA produced sensory inhibition without sympathetic effects at 86 % of caudal compared to 25 % of rostral sites, supporting anatomically distinct neurocircuits. These data indicate that spatially selective manipulation of cannabinoid signaling could provide analgesia without potentially harmful autonomic activation.
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Key Words
- AEA, N-arachidonylethanolamine, anandamide
- Antinociception
- CB1R, cannabinoid type one receptor
- CV, cardiovascular
- Cannabinoid
- DHN, dorsal horn neuron
- DLH, DL-homocysteic acid
- Dorsal horn
- FAAH, fatty acid amide hydrolase
- GPCR, G protein-coupled receptor
- IML, intermediolateral cell column
- MAP, mean arterial pressure
- NTS, nucleus tractus solitarius
- PAG, periaqueductal gray
- PPAR, peroxisome proliferator activated receptor
- RSNA, renal sympathetic nerve activity
- RVLM, rostral ventrolateral medulla
- RVMM, rostral ventromedial medulla
- Rat
- SIA, stress-induced analgesia
- SNS, sympathetic nervous system
- Sympathetic nervous system
- TRPV1, transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1
- WDR, wide dynamic range
- dPAG, dorsal periaqueductal gray
- vPAG, ventral periaqueductal gray
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J. Roberts
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA,Department of Anesthesiology, Zablocki Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Milwaukee, WI 53295, USA
| | - Francis A. Hopp
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zablocki Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Milwaukee, WI 53295, USA
| | - Quinn H. Hogan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA,Department of Anesthesiology, Zablocki Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Milwaukee, WI 53295, USA
| | - Caron Dean
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA,Department of Anesthesiology, Zablocki Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Milwaukee, WI 53295, USA,Corresponding author at: Department of Anesthesiology, Research Service 151, Zablocki VA Medical Center, Milwaukee, WI 53295, USA.
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Ge WQ, Zhan-Mu OY, Chen C, Zhang H, Wang XY, Liu X, Li L, Lan YY, Li CN, Sun JC, Shi RL, Dou ZY, Pan HL, Li HP, Jing XH, Li M. Electroacupuncture reduces chronic itch via cannabinoid CB1 receptors in the ventrolateral periaqueductal gray. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:931600. [PMID: 36133809 PMCID: PMC9483028 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.931600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic itch severely reduces the quality of life of patients. Electroacupuncture (EA) is widely used to treat chronic itch. However, the underlying mechanism of this therapeutic action of EA is largely unknown. Cannabinoid CB1 receptors in the ventrolateral periaqueductal gray (vlPAG) mediate the analgesic effect of EA. Using a dry skin-induced itch model in mice, we determined whether EA treatment reduces chronic itch via CB1 receptors in the vlPAG. We showed that the optimal inhibitory effect of EA on chronic itch was achieved at the high frequency and high intensity (100 Hz and 3 mA) at “Quchi” (LI11) and “Hegu” (LI14) acupoints, which are located in the same spinal dermatome as the cervical skin lesions. EA reversed the increased expression of CB1 receptors in the vlPAG and decreased the concentration of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) in the medulla oblongata and the expression of gastrin-releasing peptide receptors (GRPR) in the cervical spinal cord. Furthermore, knockout of CB1 receptors on GABAergic neurons in the vlPAG attenuated scratching behavior and the 5-HT concentration in the medulla oblongata. In contrast, knockout of CB1 receptors on glutamatergic neurons in the vlPAG blocked the antipruritic effects of EA and the inhibitory effect of EA on the 5-HT concentration in the medulla oblongata. Our findings suggest that EA treatment reduces chronic itch by activation of CB1 receptors on glutamatergic neurons and inhibition of CB1 receptors on GABAergic neurons in the vlPAG, thereby inhibiting the 5-HT release from the medulla oblongata to GRPR-expressing neurons in the spinal cord. Our findings suggest that EA attenuates chronic itch via activating CB1 receptors expressed on glutamatergic neurons and downregulating CB1 receptors on GABAergic neurons in the vlPAG, leading to the reduction in 5-HT release in the rostroventral medulla and GRPR signaling in the spinal cord. Our study not only advances our understanding of the mechanisms of the therapeutic effect of EA on chronic itch but also guides the selection of optimal parameters and acupoints of EA for treating chronic itch.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Qiang Ge
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ou-Yang Zhan-Mu
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chao Chen
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiao-Yu Wang
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences (CACMS), Beijing, China
| | - Xin Liu
- Department of Dermatology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Li Li
- Department of Dermatology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yu-Ye Lan
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chen-Nan Li
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jia-Can Sun
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Run-Lin Shi
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zi-Yue Dou
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hui-Lin Pan
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Hong-Ping Li
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- *Correspondence: Hong-Ping Li, ; Xiang-Hong Jing, ; Man Li,
| | - Xiang-Hong Jing
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences (CACMS), Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Hong-Ping Li, ; Xiang-Hong Jing, ; Man Li,
| | - Man Li
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- *Correspondence: Hong-Ping Li, ; Xiang-Hong Jing, ; Man Li,
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Kluger BM, Huang AP, Miyasaki JM. Cannabinoids in movement disorders. Parkinsonism Relat Disord 2022; 102:124-130. [PMID: 36038457 DOI: 10.1016/j.parkreldis.2022.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION On the basis of both scientific progress and popular lore, there is growing optimism in the therapeutic potential of cannabis (marijuana) and cannabinoid-based chemicals for movement disorders. There is also notable skepticism regarding the scientific basis for this therapeutic optimism and significant concerns regarding the safety and regulation of cannabinoid products, particularly those available without prescription. METHODS In recognition of the high interest and controversial nature of this subject, the meeting committee of the International Parkinson and Movement Disorders Society arranged for a talk on cannabis at the 2019 annual meeting's Controversies in Movement Disorders plenary session. This paper summarizes the highlights of this session. RESULTS The endocannabinoid system is strongly tied to motor function and dysfunction, with basic research suggesting several promising therapeutic targets related to cannabinoids for movement disorders. Clinical research on cannabinoids for motor and nonmotor symptoms in Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, Tourette's syndrome, dystonia, and other movement disorders to date are promising at best and inconclusive or negative at worst. Research in other populations suggest efficacy for common symptoms like pain. While social campaigns against recreational cannabinoid use focus on cognitive changes in adolescents, the long-term sequelae of regulated medical use in older adults with movement disorders is unknown. The overall risks of cannabinoids may be similar to other commonly used medications and include falls and apathy. CONCLUSION Further research is greatly needed to better understand the actual clinical benefits and long-term side effects of medical cannabis products for movement disorders indications and populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benzi M Kluger
- Departments of Neurology and Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Andrew P Huang
- Departments of Neurology and Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Janis M Miyasaki
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Bockmann EC, Brito R, Madeira LF, da Silva Sampaio L, de Melo Reis RA, França GR, Calaza KDC. The Role of Cannabinoids in CNS Development: Focus on Proliferation and Cell Death. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2022; 43:1469-1485. [PMID: 35925507 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-022-01263-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The active principles of Cannabis sativa are potential treatments for several diseases, such as pain, seizures and anorexia. With the increase in the use of cannabis for medicinal purposes, a more careful assessment of the possible impacts on embryonic development becomes necessary. Surveys indicate that approximately 3.9% of pregnant women use cannabis in a recreational and/or medicinal manner. However, although the literature has already described the presence of endocannabinoid system components since the early stages of CNS development, many of their physiological effects during this stage have not yet been established. Moreover, it is still uncertain how the endocannabinoid system can be altered in terms of cell proliferation and cell fate, neural migration, neural differentiation, synaptogenesis and particularly cell death. In relation to cell death in the CNS, knowledge about the effects of cannabinoids is scarce. Thus, the present work aims to review the role of the endocannabinoid system in different aspects of CNS development and discuss possible side effects or even opportunities for treating some conditions in the development of this tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Cosendey Bockmann
- Instituto de Biologia, Departamento de Neurobiologia, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Rafael Brito
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Lucianne Fragel Madeira
- Instituto de Biologia, Departamento de Neurobiologia, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Luzia da Silva Sampaio
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Augusto de Melo Reis
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Rapozeiro França
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Instituto Biomédico, Universidade Federal do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | - Karin da Costa Calaza
- Instituto de Biologia, Departamento de Neurobiologia, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Turck D, Bohn T, Castenmiller J, De Henauw S, Hirsch‐Ernst KI, Maciuk A, Mangelsdorf I, McArdle HJ, Naska A, Pelaez C, Pentieva K, Siani A, Thies F, Tsabouri S, Vinceti M, Cubadda F, Frenzel T, Heinonen M, Marchelli R, Neuhäuser‐Berthold M, Poulsen M, Prieto Maradona M, Schlatter JR, Trezza V, van Loveren H, Albert O, Dumas C, Germini A, Gelbmann W, Kass G, Kouloura E, Noriega Fernandez E, Rossi A, Knutsen HK. Statement on safety of cannabidiol as a novel food: data gaps and uncertainties. EFSA J 2022; 20:e07322. [PMID: 35686177 PMCID: PMC9172591 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2022.7322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The European Commission has determined that cannabidiol (CBD) can be considered as a novel food (NF), and currently, 19 applications are under assessment at EFSA. While assessing these, it has become clear that there are knowledge gaps that need to be addressed before a conclusion on the safety of CBD can be reached. Consequently, EFSA has issued this statement, summarising the state of knowledge on the safety of CBD consumption and highlighting areas where more data are needed. Literature searches for both animal and human studies have been conducted to identify safety concerns. Many human studies have been carried out with Epidyolex®, a CBD drug authorised to treat refractory epilepsies. In the context of medical conditions, adverse effects are tolerated if the benefit outweighs the adverse effect. This is, however, not acceptable when considering CBD as a NF. Furthermore, most of the human data referred to in the CBD applications investigated the efficacy of Epidyolex (or CBD) at therapeutic doses. No NOAEL could be identified from these studies. Given the complexity and importance of CBD receptors and pathways, interactions need to be taken into account when considering CBD as a NF. The effects on drug metabolism need to be clarified. Toxicokinetics in different matrices, the half‐life and accumulation need to be examined. The effect of CBD on liver, gastrointestinal tract, endocrine system, nervous system and on psychological function needs to be clarified. Studies in animals show significant reproductive toxicity, and the extent to which this occurs in humans generally and in women of child‐bearing age specifically needs to be assessed. Considering the significant uncertainties and data gaps, the Panel concludes that the safety of CBD as a NF cannot currently be established.
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Rudzki S. Is PTSD an Evolutionary Survival Adaptation Initiated by Unrestrained Cytokine Signaling and Maintained by Epigenetic Change? Mil Med 2022; 188:usac095. [PMID: 35446412 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usac095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Treatment outcomes for PTSD with current psychological therapies are poor, with very few patients achieving sustained symptom remission. A number of authors have identified physiological and immune disturbances in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) patients, but there is no unifying hypothesis that explains the myriad features of the disorder. MATERIALS AND METHODS The medical literature was reviewed over a 6-year period primarily using the medical database PUBMED. RESULTS The literature contains numerous papers that have identified a range of physiological and immune dysfunction in association with PTSD. This paper proposes that unrestrained cytokine signaling induces epigenetic changes that promote an evolutionary survival adaptation, which maintains a defensive PTSD phenotype. The brain can associate immune signaling with past threat and initiate a defensive behavioral response. The sympathetic nervous system is pro-inflammatory, while the parasympathetic nervous system is anti-inflammatory. Prolonged cholinergic withdrawal will promote a chronic inflammatory state. The innate immune cytokine IL-1β has pleiotropic properties and can regulate autonomic, glucocorticoid, and glutamate receptor functions, sleep, memory, and epigenetic enzymes. Changes in epigenetic enzyme activity can potentially alter phenotype and induce an adaptation. Levels of IL-1β correlate with severity and duration of PTSD and PTSD can be prevented by bolus administration of hydrocortisone in acute sepsis, consistent with unrestrained inflammation being a risk factor for PTSD. The nervous and immune systems engage in crosstalk, governed by common receptors. The benefits of currently used psychiatric medication may arise from immune, as well as synaptic, modulation. The psychedelic drugs (3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), psilocybin, and ketamine) have potent immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory effects on the adaptive immune system, which may contribute to their reported benefit in PTSD. There may be distinct PTSD phenotypes induced by innate and adaptive cytokine signaling. CONCLUSION In order for an organism to survive, it must adapt to its environment. Cytokines signal danger to the brain and can induce epigenetic changes that result in a persistent defensive phenotype. PTSD may be the price individuals pay for the genomic flexibility that promotes adaptation and survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephan Rudzki
- Canberra Sports Medicine, Deakin, Australian Capital Territory 2600, Australia
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Ho W, Kolla NJ. The endocannabinoid system in borderline personality disorder and antisocial personality disorder: A scoping review. BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES & THE LAW 2022; 40:331-350. [PMID: 35575169 DOI: 10.1002/bsl.2576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD) or antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) are overrepresented in forensic settings. Yet, despite the burden these disorders place on healthcare and criminal justice systems, there remains a lack of evidence-based pharmacological treatments. Epidemiological data have shown that comorbid cannabis use disorders are common in BPD and ASPD. ∆9 -Tetrahydrocannabinol, the primary psychoactive constituent of cannabis, is an exogenous cannabinoid that stimulates the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Hence, an investigation of the ECS in these conditions is warranted. This scoping review screened 105 records and summarized the extant research on the ECS in ASPD (n = 69) and BPD (n = 61) participants. Preliminary results suggest that alterations of the ECS may be present in these disorders. Although research examining the ECS in personality disorders is still in its infancy, more research is warranted given initial positive findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilson Ho
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Brain Health Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nathan J Kolla
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Brain Health Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care, Penetanguishene, ON, Canada
- Waypoint/University of Toronto Research Chair in Forensic Mental Health Science, Penetanguishene, ON, Canada
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Functional brain connectomes reflect acute and chronic cannabis use. Sci Rep 2022; 12:2449. [PMID: 35165360 PMCID: PMC8844352 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-06509-9] [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: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractResting state fMRI has been employed to identify alterations in functional connectivity within or between brain regions following acute and chronic exposure to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component in cannabis. Most studies focused a priori on a limited number of local brain areas or circuits, without considering the impact of cannabis on whole-brain network organization. The present study attempted to identify changes in the whole-brain human functional connectome as assessed with ultra-high field (7T) resting state scans of cannabis users (N = 26) during placebo and following vaporization of cannabis. Two distinct data-driven methodologies, i.e. network-based statistics (NBS) and connICA, were used to identify changes in functional connectomes associated with acute cannabis intoxication and history of cannabis use. Both methodologies revealed a broad state of hyperconnectivity within the entire range of major brain networks in chronic cannabis users compared to occasional cannabis users, which might be reflective of an adaptive network reorganization following prolonged cannabis exposure. The connICA methodology also extracted a distinct spatial connectivity pattern of hypoconnectivity involving the dorsal attention, limbic, subcortical and cerebellum networks and of hyperconnectivity between the default mode and ventral attention network, that was associated with the feeling of subjective high during THC intoxication. Whole-brain network approaches identified spatial patterns in functional brain connectomes that distinguished acute from chronic cannabis use, and offer an important utility for probing the interplay between short and long-term alterations in functional brain dynamics when progressing from occasional to chronic use of cannabis.
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Abstract
The endocannabinoid system is found in most, if not all, mammalian organs and is involved in a variety of physiological functions, ranging from the control of synaptic plasticity in the brain to the modulation of smooth muscle motility in the gastrointestinal tract. This signaling complex consists of G protein-coupled cannabinoid receptors, endogenous ligands for those receptors (endocannabinoids) and enzymes/transporters responsible for the formation and deactivation of these ligands. There are two subtypes of cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2, and two major endocannabinoids, arachidonoylethanolamide (anandamide) and 2-arachidonoyl-sn-glycerol (2-AG), which are produced upon demand through cleavage of distinct phospholipid precursors. All molecular components of the endocannabinoid system are represented in the adipose organ, where endocannabinoid signals are thought to regulate critical homeostatic processes, including adipogenesis, lipogenesis and thermogenesis. Importantly, obesity was found to be associated with excess endocannabinoid activity in visceral fat depots, and the therapeutic potential of normalizing such activity by blocking CB1 receptors has been the focus of substantial preclinical and clinical research. Results have been mixed thus far, mostly owing to the emergence of psychiatric side effects rooted in the protective functions served by brain endocannabinoids in mood and affect regulation. Further studies about the roles played by the endocannabinoid system in the adipose organ will offer new insights into the pathogenesis of obesity and might help identify new ways to leverage this signaling complex for therapeutic benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwang-Mook Jung
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, 3101 Gillespie NRF, Irvine, CA, 92697-1275, USA
| | - Lin Lin
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, 3101 Gillespie NRF, Irvine, CA, 92697-1275, USA
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, 3101 Gillespie NRF, Irvine, CA, 92697-1275, USA.
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
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Raux PL, Drutel G, Revest JM, Vallée M. New perspectives on the role of the neurosteroid pregnenolone as an endogenous regulator of type-1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1R) activity and function. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13034. [PMID: 34486765 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Pregnenolone is a steroid with specific characteristics, being the first steroid to be synthesised from cholesterol at all sites of steroidogenesis, including the brain. For many years, pregnenolone was defined as an inactive precursor of all steroids because no specific target had been discovered. However, over the last decade, it has become a steroid of interest because it has been recognised as being a biomarker for brain-related disorders through the development of metabolomic approaches and advanced analytical methods. In addition, physiological roles for pregnenolone emerged when specific targets were discovered. In this review, we highlight the discovery of the selective interaction of pregnenolone with the type-1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1R). After describing the specific characteristic of CB1Rs, we discuss the newly discovered mechanisms of their regulation by pregnenolone. In particular, we describe the action of pregnenolone as a negative allosteric modulator and a specific signalling inhibitor of the CB1R. These particular characteristics of pregnenolone provide a great strategic opportunity for therapeutic development in CB1-related disorders. Finally, we outline new perspectives using innovative genetic tools for the discovery of original regulatory mechanisms of pregnenolone on CB1-related functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre-Louis Raux
- INSERM U1215, Neurocentre Magendie, Group "Physiopathology and Therapeutic Approaches of Stress-Related Disease", Bordeaux, France
- University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Guillaume Drutel
- INSERM U1215, Neurocentre Magendie, Group "Physiopathology and Therapeutic Approaches of Stress-Related Disease", Bordeaux, France
- University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Jean-Michel Revest
- INSERM U1215, Neurocentre Magendie, Group "Physiopathology and Therapeutic Approaches of Stress-Related Disease", Bordeaux, France
- University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Monique Vallée
- INSERM U1215, Neurocentre Magendie, Group "Physiopathology and Therapeutic Approaches of Stress-Related Disease", Bordeaux, France
- University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
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Dudok B, Soltesz I. Imaging the endocannabinoid signaling system. J Neurosci Methods 2022; 367:109451. [PMID: 34921843 PMCID: PMC8734437 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2021.109451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid (eCB) system is one of the most widespread neuromodulatory systems in the mammalian brain, with a multifaceted role in functions ranging from development to synaptic plasticity. Endocannabinoids are synthesized on demand from membrane lipid precursors, and act primarily on a single G-protein coupled receptor type, CB1, to carry out diverse functions. Despite the importance of the eCB system both in healthy brain function and in disease, critically important details of eCB signaling remained unknown. How eCBs are released from the membrane, how these lipid molecules are transported between cells, and how the distribution of their receptors is controlled, remained elusive. Recent advances in optical microscopy methods and biosensor engineering may open up new avenues for studying eCB signaling. We summarize applications of superresolution microscopy using single molecule localization to reveal distinct patterns of nanoscale CB1 distribution in neuronal axons and axon terminals. We review single particle tracking studies using quantum dots that allowed visualizing CB1 trajectories. We highlight the recent development of fluorescent eCB biosensors, that revealed spatiotemporally specific eCB release in live cells and live animals. Finally, we discuss future directions where method development may help to advance a precise understanding of eCB signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barna Dudok
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | - Ivan Soltesz
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
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deRoon-Cassini TA, Bergner CL, Chesney SA, Schumann NR, Lee TS, Brasel KJ, Hillard CJ. Circulating endocannabinoids and genetic polymorphisms as predictors of posttraumatic stress disorder symptom severity: heterogeneity in a community-based cohort. Transl Psychiatry 2022; 12:48. [PMID: 35105857 PMCID: PMC8807700 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-022-01808-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid signaling system (ECSS) regulates fear and anxiety. While ECSS hypoactivity can contribute to symptoms of established post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), the role of the ECSS in PTSD development following trauma is unknown. A prospective, longitudinal cohort study of 170 individuals (47% non-Hispanic Caucasian and 70% male) treated at a level 1 trauma center for traumatic injury was carried out. PTSD symptom assessments and blood were obtained during hospitalization and at follow-up (6-8 months post injury). Serum concentrations of the endocannabinoids N-arachidonoylethanolamine (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) were determined at both time points and selected genetic polymorphisms in endocannabinoid genes, including rs324420 in fatty acid amide hydrolase, were assessed. For the entire sample, serum concentrations of AEA at hospitalization were significantly higher in those diagnosed with PTSD at follow-up (p = 0.030). Serum concentrations of 2-AG were significantly, positively correlated with PTSD symptom severity at follow-up only in minorities (p = 0.014). Minority participants (mostly Black/African American) also demonstrated significant, negative correlations between serum AEA concentrations and PTSD symptom severity both measured at hospitalization (p = 0.015). The A/A genotype at rs324420 was associated with significantly higher PTSD symptom severity (p = 0.025) and occurred exclusively in the Black participants. Collectively, these results are contrary to our hypothesis and find positive associations between circulating endocannabinoids and risk for PTSD. Minority status is an important modulator of the association between endocannabinoids and risk for PTSD, suggesting that the ECSS contributes to risk most significantly in these individuals and the contextual factors related to these findings should be further explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terri A deRoon-Cassini
- Department of Surgery, Division of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States.
- Comprehensive Injury Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States.
| | - Carisa L Bergner
- Comprehensive Injury Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | | | | | | | - Karen J Brasel
- Department of Surgery, Oregon Health and Science University, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Cecilia J Hillard
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Neuroscience Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
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Abstract
PURPOSE A growing body of evidence has implicated the endocannabinoid (eCB) system in the acute, chronic, and withdrawal effects of alcohol/ethanol on synaptic function. These eCB-mediated synaptic effects may contribute to the development of alcohol use disorder (AUD). Alcohol exposure causes neurobiological alterations similar to those elicited by chronic cannabinoid (CB) exposure. Like alcohol, cannabinoids alter many central processes, such as cognition, locomotion, synaptic transmission, and neurotransmitter release. There is a strong need to elucidate the effects of ethanol on the eCB system in different brain regions to understand the role of eCB signaling in AUD. SEARCH METHODS For the scope of this review, preclinical studies were identified through queries of the PubMed database. SEARCH RESULTS This search yielded 459 articles. Clinical studies and papers irrelevant to the topic of this review were excluded. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS The endocannabinoid system includes, but is not limited to, cannabinoid receptors 1 (CB1), among the most abundantly expressed neuronal receptors in the brain; cannabinoid receptors 2 (CB2); and endogenously formed CB1 ligands, including arachidonoylethanolamide (AEA; anandamide), and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG). The development of specific CB1 agonists, such as WIN 55,212-2 (WIN), and antagonists, such as SR 141716A (rimonabant), provide powerful pharmacological tools for eCB research. Alcohol exposure has brain region-specific effects on the eCB system, including altering the synthesis of endocannabinoids (e.g., AEA, 2-AG), the synthesis of their precursors, and the density and coupling efficacy of CB1. These alcohol-induced alterations of the eCB system have subsequent effects on synaptic function including neuronal excitability and postsynaptic conductance. This review will provide a comprehensive evaluation of the current literature on the synaptic interactions of alcohol exposure and eCB signaling systems, with an emphasis on molecular and physiological synaptic effects of alcohol on the eCB system. A limited volume of studies has focused on the underlying interactions of alcohol and the eCB system at the synaptic level in the brain. Thus, the data on synaptic interactions are sparse, and future research addressing these interactions is much needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Wolfe
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California
| | - Valentina Vozella
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California
| | - Marisa Roberto
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California
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