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Cui Sun M, Otálora-Alcaraz A, Prenderville JA, Downer EJ. Toll-like receptor signalling as a cannabinoid target. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 222:116082. [PMID: 38438052 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
Toll-like receptors (TLRs) have become a focus in biomedicine and biomedical research given the roles of this unique family of innate immune proteins in immune activation, infection, and autoimmunity. It is evident that TLR dysregulation, and subsequent alterations in TLR-mediated inflammatory signalling, can contribute to disease pathogenesis, and TLR targeted therapies are in development. This review highlights evidence that cannabinoids are key regulators of TLR signalling. Cannabinoids include component of the plant Cannabis sativa L. (C. sativa), synthetic and endogenous ligands, and overall represent a class of compounds whose therapeutic potential and mechanism of action continues to be elucidated. Cannabinoid-based medicines are in the clinic, and are furthermore under intense investigation for broad clinical development to manage symptoms of a range of disorders. In this review, we present an overview of research evidence that signalling linked to a range of TLRs is targeted by cannabinoids, and such cannabinoid mediated effects represent therapeutic avenues for further investigation. First, we provide an overview of TLRs, adaptors and key signalling events, alongside a summary of evidence that TLRs are linked to disease pathologies. Next, we discuss the cannabinoids system and the development of cannabinoid-based therapeutics. Finally, for the bulk of this review, we systematically outline the evidence that cannabinoids (plant-derived cannabinoids, synthetic cannabinoids, and endogenous cannabinoid ligands) can cross-talk with innate immune signalling governed by TLRs, focusing specifically on each member of the TLR family. Cannabinoids should be considered as key regulators of signalling controlled by TLRs, and such regulation should be a major focus in terms of the anti-inflammatory propensity of the cannabinoid system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melody Cui Sun
- Discipline of Physiology, School of Medicine, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Almudena Otálora-Alcaraz
- Discipline of Physiology, School of Medicine, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Jack A Prenderville
- Discipline of Physiology, School of Medicine, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland; Transpharmation Ireland Limited, Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Eric J Downer
- Discipline of Physiology, School of Medicine, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland.
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2
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Saraiva SM, Martín-Banderas L, Durán-Lobato M. Cannabinoid-Based Ocular Therapies and Formulations. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15041077. [PMID: 37111563 PMCID: PMC10146987 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15041077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The interest in the pharmacological applications of cannabinoids is largely increasing in a wide range of medical areas. Recently, research on its potential role in eye conditions, many of which are chronic and/or disabling and in need of new alternative treatments, has intensified. However, due to cannabinoids’ unfavorable physicochemical properties and adverse systemic effects, along with ocular biological barriers to local drug administration, drug delivery systems are needed. Hence, this review focused on the following: (i) identifying eye disease conditions potentially subject to treatment with cannabinoids and their pharmacological role, with emphasis on glaucoma, uveitis, diabetic retinopathy, keratitis and the prevention of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections; (ii) reviewing the physicochemical properties of formulations that must be controlled and/or optimized for successful ocular administration; (iii) analyzing works evaluating cannabinoid-based formulations for ocular administration, with emphasis on results and limitations; and (iv) identifying alternative cannabinoid-based formulations that could potentially be useful for ocular administration strategies. Finally, an overview of the current advances and limitations in the field, the technological challenges to overcome and the prospective further developments, is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia M. Saraiva
- CPIRN-IPG—Center of Potential and Innovation of Natural Resources, Polytechnic Institute of Guarda, Av. Dr. Francisco de Sá Carneiro, No. 50, 6300-559 Guarda, Portugal
| | - Lucía Martín-Banderas
- Departamento Farmacia y Tecnología Farmacéutica, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Sevilla, C/Prof. García González n °2, 41012 Sevilla, Spain;
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla (IBIS), Campus Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío, 41013 Sevilla, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-954556754
| | - Matilde Durán-Lobato
- Departamento Farmacia y Tecnología Farmacéutica, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Sevilla, C/Prof. García González n °2, 41012 Sevilla, Spain;
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Sayson LV, Ortiz DM, Lee HJ, Kim M, Custodio RJP, Yun J, Lee CH, Lee YS, Cha HJ, Cheong JH, Kim HJ. Deletion of Cryab increases the vulnerability of mice to the addiction-like effects of the cannabinoid JWH-018 via upregulation of striatal NF-κB expression. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1135929. [PMID: 37007015 PMCID: PMC10060981 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1135929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids have exhibited unpredictable abuse liabilities, especially self-administration (SA) responses in normal rodent models, despite seemingly inducing addiction-like effects in humans. Thus, an efficient pre-clinical model must be developed to determine cannabinoid abuse potential in animals and describe the mechanism that may mediate cannabinoid sensitivity. The Cryab knockout (KO) mice were recently discovered to be potentially sensitive to the addictive effects of psychoactive drugs. Herein, we examined the responses of Cryab KO mice to JWH-018 using SA, conditioned place preference, and electroencephalography. Additionally, the effects of repeated JWH-018 exposure on endocannabinoid- and dopamine-related genes in various addiction-associated brain regions were examined, along with protein expressions involving neuroinflammation and synaptic plasticity. Cryab KO mice exhibited greater cannabinoid-induced SA responses and place preference, along with divergent gamma wave alterations, compared to wild-type (WT) mice, implying their higher sensitivity to cannabinoids. Endocannabinoid- or dopamine-related mRNA expressions and accumbal dopamine concentrations after repeated JWH-018 exposure were not significantly different between the WT and Cryab KO mice. Further analyses revealed that repeated JWH-018 administration led to possibly greater neuroinflammation in Cryab KO mice, which may arise from upregulated NF-κB, accompanied by higher expressions of synaptic plasticity markers, which might have contributed to the development of cannabinoid addiction-related behavior in Cryab KO mice. These findings signify that increased neuroinflammation via NF-κB may mediate the enhanced addiction-like responses of Cryab KO mice to cannabinoids. Altogether, Cryab KO mice may be a potential model for cannabinoid abuse susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leandro Val Sayson
- Department of Pharmacy, Uimyung Research Institute for Neuroscience, Sahmyook University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Darlene Mae Ortiz
- Department of Pharmacy, Uimyung Research Institute for Neuroscience, Sahmyook University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Jun Lee
- Department of Pharmacy, Uimyung Research Institute for Neuroscience, Sahmyook University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Mikyung Kim
- Department of Chemistry and Life Science, Sahmyook University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Raly James Perez Custodio
- Department of Ergonomics, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors—IfADo, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Jaesuk Yun
- College of Pharmacy and Medical Research Center, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungcheongbuk-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Chae Hyeon Lee
- Medicinal Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Fundamental Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Sup Lee
- Medicinal Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Fundamental Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Jin Cha
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Gyeongsangnam–do, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Hoon Cheong
- Institute for New Drug Development, School of Pharmacy, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do, Republic of Korea
- *Correspondence: Jae Hoon Cheong, ; Hee Jin Kim,
| | - Hee Jin Kim
- Department of Pharmacy, Uimyung Research Institute for Neuroscience, Sahmyook University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- *Correspondence: Jae Hoon Cheong, ; Hee Jin Kim,
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Luz-Veiga M, Azevedo-Silva J, Fernandes JC. Beyond Pain Relief: A Review on Cannabidiol Potential in Medical Therapies. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:155. [PMID: 37259306 PMCID: PMC9958812 DOI: 10.3390/ph16020155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The phytocannabinoid cannabidiol (CBD) is receiving increasing attention due to its pharmacological properties. Although CBD is extracted from Cannabis sativa, it lacks the psychoactive effects of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and has become an attractive compound for pharmacological uses due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticonvulsant, and anxiolytic potential. The molecular mechanisms involved in CBD's biological effects are not limited to its interaction with classical cannabinoid receptors, exerting anti-inflammatory or pain-relief effects. Several pieces of evidence demonstrate that CBD interacts with other receptors and cellular signaling cascades, which further support CBD's therapeutic potential beyond pain management. In this review, we take a closer look at the molecular mechanisms of CBD and its potential therapeutic application in the context of cancer, neurodegeneration, and autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Luz-Veiga
- CBQF—Centro de Biotecnologia e Química Fina—Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Portuguesa, 4169-005 Porto, Portugal
| | - João Azevedo-Silva
- CBQF—Centro de Biotecnologia e Química Fina—Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Portuguesa, 4169-005 Porto, Portugal
| | - João C. Fernandes
- CBQF—Centro de Biotecnologia e Química Fina—Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Portuguesa, 4169-005 Porto, Portugal
- Amyris Bio Products Portugal, Unipessoal Lda, 4169-005 Porto, Portugal
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Afshar S, Abbasinazari M, Amin G, Farrokhian A, Sistanizad M, Afshar F, Khalili S. Endocannabinoids and related compounds as modulators of angiogenesis: Concepts and clinical significance. Cell Biochem Funct 2022; 40:826-837. [PMID: 36317321 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.3754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Vasculogenesis (the process of differentiation of angioblasts toward endothelial cells and de novo formation of crude vascular networks) and angiogenesis (the process of harmonized sprouting and dispersal of new capillaries from previously existing ones) are two fundamentally complementary processes, obligatory for maintaining physiological functioning of vascular system. In clinical practice, however, the later one is of more importance as it guarantees correct embryonic nourishment, accelerates wound healing processes, prevents uncontrolled cell growth and tumorigenesis, contributes in supplying nutritional demand following occlusion of coronary vessels and is in direct relation with development of diabetic retinopathy. Hence, discovery of novel molecules capable of modulating angiogenic events are of great clinical importance. Recent studies have demonstrated multiple angio-regulatory activities for endocannabinoid system modulators and endocannabinoid-like molecules, as well as their metabolizing enzymes. Hence, in present article, we reviewed the regulatory roles of these molecules on angiogenesis and described molecular mechanisms underlying them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shima Afshar
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Abbasinazari
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Amin
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Farrokhian
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Sistanizad
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fariba Afshar
- Department of internal medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shayesteh Khalili
- Department of Internal Medicine, Imam Hossein Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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The Influence of CB2-Receptor Ligands on the Memory-Related Responses in Connection with Cholinergic Pathways in Mice in the Passive Avoidance Test. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27134252. [PMID: 35807499 PMCID: PMC9268103 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27134252] [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: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Dysfunction of the cholinergic system is associated with the development of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). One of the new possible strategies for the pharmacological modulation of memory-related problems typical of AD, is connected with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and the cannabinoid (CB: CB1 and CB2) receptors. Methods: The aim of the study was to determine the influence of the selective CB2 receptor ligands: agonist (JWH 133) and antagonist (AM 630) on different stages of memory and learning in mice, in the context of their interaction with cholinergic pathways. To assess and understand the memory-related effects in mice we used the passive avoidance (PA) test. Results: We revealed that co-administration of non-effective dose of JWH 133 (0.25 mg) or AM 630 (0.25 mg/kg) with the non-effective dose of cholinergic receptor agonist - nicotine (0.05 mg/kg) enhanced cognition in the PA test in mice; however, an acute injection of JWH 133 (0.25 mg/kg) or AM 630 (0.25 mg/kg) had no influence on memory enhancement induced by the effective dose of nicotine (0.1 mg/kg). Co-administration of JWH 133 (0.25 mg) or AM 630 (0.25 mg/kg) with the effective dose of the cholinergic receptor antagonist scopolamine (1 mg/kg) attenuated the scopolamine-induced memory impairment in the PA test in mice. Conclusion: Our experiments have shown that CB2 receptors participate in the modulation of memory-related responses, especially those in which cholinergic pathways are implicated.
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Jayarajan S, Meissler JJ, Adler MW, Eisenstein TK. A Cannabinoid 2-Selective Agonist Inhibits Allogeneic Skin Graft Rejection In Vivo. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:804950. [PMID: 35185546 PMCID: PMC8850832 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.804950] [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: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous work from our laboratory showed that a CB2 selective agonist, O-1966, blocked the proliferative response of C57BL/6 mouse spleen cells exposed to spleen cells of C3HeB/FeJ mice in vitro in the mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR). The MLR is widely accepted as an in vitro correlate of in vivo grant rejection. Mechanisms of the immunosuppression induced by the cannabinoid were explored, and it was shown that O-1966 in this in vitro assay induced CD25+Foxp3+ Treg cells and IL-10, as well as down-regulated mRNA for CD40 and the nuclear form of the transcription factors NF-κB and NFAT in T-cells. The current studies tested the efficacy of O-1966 in prolonging skin grafts in vivo. Full thickness flank skin patches (1-cm2) from C3HeB/FeJ mice were grafted by suturing onto the back of C57BL/6 mice. O-1966 or vehicle was injected intraperitoneally into treated or control groups of animals beginning 1 h pre-op, and then every other day until 14 days post-op. Graft survival was scored based on necrosis and rejection. Treatment with 5 mg/kg of O-1966 prolonged mean graft survival time from 9 to 11 days. Spleens harvested from O-1966 treated mice were significantly smaller than those of vehicle control animals based on weight. Flow cytometry analysis of CD4+ spleen cells showed that O-1966 treated animals had almost a 3-fold increase in CD25+Foxp3+ Treg cells compared to controls. When dissociated spleen cells were placed in culture ex vivo and stimulated with C3HeB/FeJ cells in an MLR, the cells from the O-1966 treated mice were significantly suppressed in their proliferative response to the allogeneic cells. These results support CB2 selective agonists as a new class of compounds to prolong graft survival in transplant patients.
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Scuteri D, Rombolà L, Hamamura K, Sakurada T, Watanabe C, Sakurada S, Guida F, Boccella S, Maione S, Gallo Afflitto G, Nucci C, Tonin P, Bagetta G, Corasaniti MT. Is there a rational basis for cannabinoids research and development in ocular pain therapy? A systematic review of preclinical evidence. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 146:112505. [PMID: 34891121 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Purpose of the present systematic review is to investigate preclinical evidence in favor of the working hypothesis of efficacy of cannabinoids in ocular pain treatment. METHODS Literature search includes the most relevant repositories for medical scientific literature from inception until November, 24 2021. Data collection and selection of retrieved records adhere to PRISMA criteria. RESULTS In agreement with a priori established protocol the search retrieved 2471 records leaving 479 results after duplicates removal. Eleven records result from title and abstract screening to meet the inclusion criteria; only 4 results are eligible for inclusion in the qualitative synthesis impeding meta-analysis. The qualitative analysis highlights the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory efficacy of Δ8-tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol and its derivative HU-308 and of new racemic CB1 allosteric ligand GAT211 and its enantiomers GAT228 and GAT229. Moreover, CB2R agonists RO6871304 and RO6871085 and CB2R ligand HU910 provide evidence of anti-inflammatory efficacy. CB2 agonist HU308 reduces of 241% uveitis-induced leukocyte adhesion and changes lipidome profile. Methodological and design issues raise concern of risk of bias and the amount of studies is too small for generalization. Furthermore, the ocular pain model used can resemble only inflammatory but not neuropathic pain. CONCLUSIONS The role of the endocannabinoid system in ocular pain is underinvestigated, since only two studies assessing the effects of cannabinoid receptors modulators on pain behavior and other two on pain-related inflammatory processes are found. Preclinical studies investigating the efficacy of cannabinoids in ocular inflammatory and neuropathic pain models are needed to pave the way for clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Scuteri
- Pharmacotechnology Documentation and Transfer Unit, Preclinical and Translational Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; Regional Center for Serious Brain Injuries, S. Anna Institute, 88900 Crotone, Italy.
| | - L Rombolà
- Preclinical and Translational Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy.
| | - K Hamamura
- Department of Pharmacology, Daiichi University of Pharmacy, 815-8511 Fukuoka, Japan.
| | - T Sakurada
- Department of Pharmacology, Daiichi University of Pharmacy, 815-8511 Fukuoka, Japan.
| | - C Watanabe
- Department of Physiology and Anatomy, Tohoku Pharmaceutical University, 981-8558 Sendai, Japan.
| | - S Sakurada
- Department of Physiology and Anatomy, Tohoku Pharmaceutical University, 981-8558 Sendai, Japan.
| | - F Guida
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Pharmacology Division, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy.
| | - S Boccella
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Pharmacology Division, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy.
| | - S Maione
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Pharmacology Division, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy; Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, CNR, Pozzuoli, Italy; IRCSS, Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy.
| | - G Gallo Afflitto
- Ophthalmology Unit, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", 00133 Rome, Italy.
| | - C Nucci
- Ophthalmology Unit, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", 00133 Rome, Italy.
| | - P Tonin
- Regional Center for Serious Brain Injuries, S. Anna Institute, 88900 Crotone, Italy.
| | - G Bagetta
- Pharmacotechnology Documentation and Transfer Unit, Preclinical and Translational Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - M T Corasaniti
- Department of Health Sciences, University "Magna Graecia" of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy.
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Lowe H, Toyang N, Steele B, Bryant J, Ngwa W, Nedamat K. The Current and Potential Application of Medicinal Cannabis Products in Dentistry. Dent J (Basel) 2021; 9:106. [PMID: 34562980 PMCID: PMC8466648 DOI: 10.3390/dj9090106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Oral and dental diseases are a major global burden, the most common non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and may even affect an individual's general quality of life and health. The most prevalent dental and oral health conditions are tooth decay (otherwise referred to as dental caries/cavities), oral cancers, gingivitis, periodontitis, periodontal (gum) disease, Noma, oro-dental trauma, oral manifestations of HIV, sensitive teeth, cracked teeth, broken teeth, and congenital anomalies such as cleft lip and palate. Herbs have been utilized for hundreds of years in traditional Chinese, African and Indian medicine and even in some Western countries, for the treatment of oral and dental conditions including but not limited to dental caries, gingivitis and toothaches, dental pulpitis, halitosis (bad breath), mucositis, sore throat, oral wound infections, and periodontal abscesses. Herbs have also been used as plaque removers (chew sticks), antimicrobials, analgesics, anti-inflammatory agents, and antiseptics. Cannabis sativa L. in particular has been utilized in traditional Asian medicine for tooth-pain management, prevention of dental caries and reduction in gum inflammation. The distribution of cannabinoid (CB) receptors in the mouth suggest that the endocannabinoid system may be a target for the treatment of oral and dental diseases. Most recently, interest has been geared toward the use of Cannabidiol (CBD), one of several secondary metabolites produced by C. sativa L. CBD is a known anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anxiolytic, anti-microbial and anti-cancer agent, and as a result, may have therapeutic potential against conditions such burning mouth syndrome, dental anxiety, gingivitis, and possible oral cancer. Other major secondary metabolites of C. sativa L. such as terpenes and flavonoids also share anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anxiolytic and anti-microbial properties and may also have dental and oral applications. This review will investigate the potential of secondary metabolites of C. sativa L. in the treatment of dental and oral diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry Lowe
- Biotech R & D Institute, University of the West Indies, Mona 99999, Jamaica; (H.L.); (J.B.)
- Vilotos Pharmaceuticals Inc., Baltimore, MD 21202, USA;
- Flavocure Biotech Inc., Baltimore, MD 21202, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland Medical School, Baltimore, MD 21202, USA
| | - Ngeh Toyang
- Vilotos Pharmaceuticals Inc., Baltimore, MD 21202, USA;
- Flavocure Biotech Inc., Baltimore, MD 21202, USA
| | - Blair Steele
- Biotech R & D Institute, University of the West Indies, Mona 99999, Jamaica; (H.L.); (J.B.)
| | - Joseph Bryant
- Biotech R & D Institute, University of the West Indies, Mona 99999, Jamaica; (H.L.); (J.B.)
| | - Wilfred Ngwa
- Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA;
- School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Kaveh Nedamat
- Sloan School of Management, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA;
- Auraleaf Innovations, Toronto, ON M9B 4H6, Canada
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10
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Hashiesh HM, Sharma C, Goyal SN, Jha NK, Ojha S. Pharmacological Properties, Therapeutic Potential and Molecular Mechanisms of JWH133, a CB2 Receptor-Selective Agonist. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:702675. [PMID: 34393784 PMCID: PMC8363263 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.702675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system has attracted attention as a pharmacological target for several pathological conditions. Cannabinoid (CB2)-selective agonists have been the focus of pharmacological studies because modulation of the CB2 receptor (CB2R) can be useful in the treatment of pain, inflammation, arthritis, addiction, and cancer among other possible therapeutic applications while circumventing CNS-related adverse effects. Increasing number of evidences from different independent preclinical studies have suggested new perspectives on the involvement of CB2R signaling in inflammation, infection and immunity, thus play important role in cancer, cardiovascular, renal, hepatic and metabolic diseases. JWH133 is a synthetic agonist with high CB2R selectivity and showed to exert CB2R mediated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, gastroprotective, nephroprotective, and immunomodulatory activities. Cumulative evidences suggest that JWH133 protects against hepatic injury, renal injury, cardiotoxicity, fibrosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and cancer as well as against oxidative damage and inflammation, inhibits fibrosis and apoptosis, and acts as an immunosuppressant. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the polypharmacological properties and therapeutic potential of JWH133. This review also presents molecular mechanism and signaling pathways of JWH133 under various pathological conditions except neurological diseases. Based on the available data, this review proposes the possibilities of developing JWH133 as a promising therapeutic agent; however, further safety and toxicity studies in preclinical studies and clinical trials in humans are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hebaallah Mamdouh Hashiesh
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Charu Sharma
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Sameer N Goyal
- Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal's Institute of Pharmacy, Dhule, India
| | - Niraj Kumar Jha
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Engineering and Technology (SET), Sharda University, Greater Noida, India
| | - Shreesh Ojha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates.,Zayed Bin Sultan Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Gurm H, Hirota JA, Raha S. Cannabinoid Signalling in Immune-Reproductive Crosstalk during Human Pregnancy. Biomedicines 2021; 9:267. [PMID: 33800053 PMCID: PMC8000565 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9030267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the intricate involvement of the endocannabinoid system in various physiological processes, it remains one of the most under-studied biological systems of the human body. The scope of endocannabinoid signalling is widespread, ranging from modulation of immune responses in innate and adaptive immunity to gestational processes in female physiology. Cannabinoid receptors are ubiquitously distributed in reproductive tissues and are thought to play a role in regulating the immune-reproductive interactions required for successful pregnancy, specifically among uterine natural killer cells and placental extravillous trophoblasts. The use of cannabis during pregnancy, however, can perturb endocannabinoid homeostasis through effects mediated by its major constituents, Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol. Decidualization of the endometrium, invasion, and angiogenesis may be impaired as a consequence, leading to clinical complications such as miscarriage and preeclampsia. In this review, the crosstalk between endocannabinoid signalling in uterine natural killer cells and placental extravillous trophoblasts will be examined in healthy and complicated pregnancies. This lays a foundation for discussing the potential of targeting the endocannabinoid system for therapeutic benefit, particularly with regard to the emerging field of synthetic cannabinoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harmeet Gurm
- Department of Pediatrics and the Graduate Program in Medical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8N 3Z5, Canada;
| | - Jeremy A. Hirota
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8N 3Z5, Canada;
| | - Sandeep Raha
- Department of Pediatrics and the Graduate Program in Medical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8N 3Z5, Canada;
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12
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Sharma DS, Paddibhatla I, Raghuwanshi S, Malleswarapu M, Sangeeth A, Kovuru N, Dahariya S, Gautam DK, Pallepati A, Gutti RK. Endocannabinoid system: Role in blood cell development, neuroimmune interactions and associated disorders. J Neuroimmunol 2021; 353:577501. [PMID: 33571815 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2021.577501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex physiological network involved in creating homeostasis and maintaining human health. Studies of the last 40 years have shown that endocannabinoids (ECs), a group of bioactive lipids, together with their set of receptors, function as one of the most important physiologic systems in human body. ECs and cannabinoid receptors (CBRs) are found throughout the body: in the brain tissues, immune cells, and in the peripheral organs and tissues as well. In recent years, ECs have emerged as key modulators of affect, neurotransmitter release, immune function, and several other physiological functions. This modulatory homoeostatic system operates in the regulation of brain activity and states of physical health and disease. In several research studies and patents the ECS has been recognised with neuro-protective properties thus it might be a target in neurodegenerative diseases. Most immune cells express these bioactive lipids and their receptors, recent data also highlight the immunomodulatory effects of endocannabinoids. Interplay of immune and nervous system has been recognized in past, recent studies suggest that ECS function as a bridge between neuronal and immune system. In several ongoing clinical trial studies, the ECS has also been placed in the anti-cancer drugs spotlight. This review summarizes the literature of cannabinoid ligands and their biosynthesis, cannabinoid receptors and their distribution, and the signaling pathways initiated by the binding of cannabinoid ligands to cannabinoid receptors. Further, this review highlights the functional role of cannabinoids and ECS in blood cell development, neuroimmune interactions and associated disorders. Moreover, we highlight the current state of knowledge of cannabinoid ligands as the mediators of neuroimmune interactions, which can be therapeutically effective for neuro-immune disorders and several diseases associated with neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Durga Shankar Sharma
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad 500046, Telangana, India
| | - Indira Paddibhatla
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad 500046, Telangana, India
| | - Sanjeev Raghuwanshi
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad 500046, Telangana, India
| | - Mahesh Malleswarapu
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad 500046, Telangana, India
| | - Anjali Sangeeth
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad 500046, Telangana, India
| | - Narasaiah Kovuru
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad 500046, Telangana, India
| | - Swati Dahariya
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad 500046, Telangana, India
| | - Dushyant Kumar Gautam
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad 500046, Telangana, India
| | - Aditya Pallepati
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad 500046, Telangana, India
| | - Ravi Kumar Gutti
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, Hyderabad 500046, Telangana, India.
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Aydogan Kirmizi D, Baser E, Doganyigit Z. The Activation of Cannabinoid Type-2 Receptor with JWH-133 Protects Uterine Ischemia/Reperfusion-Induced Damage. Pharmacology 2020; 106:106-113. [PMID: 33105141 DOI: 10.1159/000511457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Uterus transplantation is a complex surgical procedure. Uterine ischemia/reperfusion (IR) damage occurring in this process may cause loss of function in the uterus. Cell damage must be prevented for a healthy uterine function and successful transplantation. Cannabinoids, with their increasing clinical use, are substances with strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidative effects and have a role in immune system regulation. However, their efficacy in uterine IR damage is still unknown. This study provides information on the potential applications cannabinoids agonist JWH-133 in uterine IR damage and, hence, in the transplant process. METHODS Rats were divided into 4 groups (n = 8), performed uterine IR, and treated 2 groups with JWH-133. After anesthesia, ischemia was applied for 1 h to the uterus while reperfusion was applied for 3 h. After the experiment, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and phosphorylated nuclear factor-kappa B (p-NF-κB) expression were examined in the tissue samples. Also, cell damage was evaluated by histopathological imaging and TUNEL staining. RESULTS In the uterine IR group, NF-κB expression and MDA levels were detected at high levels. Histopathological examinations and TUNEL staining revealed extensive cell damage. On the other hand, in groups treated with JWH-133, dose-dependent NF-κB expression and MDA levels decreased (p < 0.05). Depending on the dose, the rate of surviving cells increased in TUNEL staining results. CONCLUSION The results showed that JWH-133 was effective in reducing uterine IR damage. Cannabinoids may be a new alternative that may be used in the transplantation process in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Demet Aydogan Kirmizi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Yozgat Bozok University, Yozgat, Turkey,
| | - Emre Baser
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Yozgat Bozok University, Yozgat, Turkey
| | - Zuleyha Doganyigit
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Yozgat Bozok University, Yozgat, Turkey
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Almogi-Hazan O, Or R. Cannabis, the Endocannabinoid System and Immunity-the Journey from the Bedside to the Bench and Back. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21124448. [PMID: 32585801 PMCID: PMC7352399 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21124448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The Cannabis plant contains numerous components, including cannabinoids and other active molecules. The phyto-cannabinoid activity is mediated by the endocannabinoid system. Cannabinoids affect the nervous system and play significant roles in the regulation of the immune system. While Cannabis is not yet registered as a drug, the potential of cannabinoid-based medicines for the treatment of various conditions has led many countries to authorize their clinical use. However, the data from basic and medical research dedicated to medical Cannabis is currently limited. A variety of pathological conditions involve dysregulation of the immune system. For example, in cancer, immune surveillance and cancer immuno-editing result in immune tolerance. On the other hand, in autoimmune diseases increased immune activity causes tissue damage. Immuno-modulating therapies can regulate the immune system and therefore the immune-regulatory properties of cannabinoids, suggest their use in the therapy of immune related disorders. In this contemporary review, we discuss the roles of the endocannabinoid system in immunity and explore the emerging data about the effects of cannabinoids on the immune response in different pathologies. In addition, we discuss the complexities of using cannabinoid-based treatments in each of these conditions.
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15
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The Endocannabinoid System in Pediatric Inflammatory and Immune Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20235875. [PMID: 31771129 PMCID: PMC6928713 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20235875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2019] [Revised: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocannabinoid system consists of cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) and cannabinoid type 2 (CB2) receptors, their endogenous ligands, and the enzymes responsible for their synthesis and degradation. CB2, to a great extent, and CB1, to a lesser extent, are involved in regulating the immune response. They also regulate the inflammatory processes by inhibiting pro-inflammatory mediator release and immune cell proliferation. This review provides an overview on the role of the endocannabinoid system with a major focus on cannabinoid receptors in the pathogenesis and onset of inflammatory and autoimmune pediatric diseases, such as immune thrombocytopenia, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, obesity, neuroinflammatory diseases, and type 1 diabetes mellitus. These disorders have a high social impact and represent a burden for the healthcare system, hence the importance of individuating more innovative and effective treatments. The endocannabinoid system could address this need, representing a possible new diagnostic marker and therapeutic target.
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Berger G, Arora N, Burkovskiy I, Xia Y, Chinnadurai A, Westhofen R, Hagn G, Cox A, Kelly M, Zhou J, Lehmann C. Experimental Cannabinoid 2 Receptor Activation by Phyto-Derived and Synthetic Cannabinoid Ligands in LPS-Induced Interstitial Cystitis in Mice. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24234239. [PMID: 31766439 PMCID: PMC6930590 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24234239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Revised: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a chronic bladder disorder with unclear etiology. The endocannabinoid system has been identified as a key regulator of immune function, with experimental evidence for the involvement of cannabinoid receptors in bladder inflammation. This study used intravital microscopy (IVM) and behavioral testing in lipopolysaccharide-induced IC, to investigate the anti-inflammatory analgesic effects of a natural dietary sesquiterpenoid, beta-caryophyllene (BCP), which is present in cannabis among other plants, and has reported agonist actions at the cannabinoid 2 receptor (CB2R). BCP’s anti-inflammatory actions were compared to the synthetic CB2R-selective cannabinoid, HU308, and to an FDA-approved clinical treatment (dimethyl sulfoxide: DMSO). IVM data revealed that intravesical instillation of BCP and/or HU308 significantly reduces the number of adhering leukocytes in submucosal bladder venules and improves bladder capillary perfusion. The effects of BCP were found to be comparable to that of the selective CB2R synthetic cannabinoid, HU308, and superior to intravesical DMSO treatment. Oral treatment with BCP was also able to reduce bladder inflammation and significantly reduced mechanical allodynia in experimental IC. Based on our findings, we believe that CB2R activation may represent a viable therapeutic target for IC, and that drugs that activate CB2R, such as the generally regarded as safe (GRAS) dietary sesquiterpenoid, BCP, may serve as an adjunct and/or alternative treatment option for alleviating symptoms of inflammation and pain in the management of IC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geraint Berger
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management and Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (G.B.); (N.A.); (I.B.); (Y.X.); (A.C.); (R.W.); (G.H.); (M.K.); (J.Z.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Nipun Arora
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management and Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (G.B.); (N.A.); (I.B.); (Y.X.); (A.C.); (R.W.); (G.H.); (M.K.); (J.Z.)
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Ian Burkovskiy
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management and Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (G.B.); (N.A.); (I.B.); (Y.X.); (A.C.); (R.W.); (G.H.); (M.K.); (J.Z.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Yanfang Xia
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management and Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (G.B.); (N.A.); (I.B.); (Y.X.); (A.C.); (R.W.); (G.H.); (M.K.); (J.Z.)
| | - Anu Chinnadurai
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management and Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (G.B.); (N.A.); (I.B.); (Y.X.); (A.C.); (R.W.); (G.H.); (M.K.); (J.Z.)
| | - Robert Westhofen
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management and Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (G.B.); (N.A.); (I.B.); (Y.X.); (A.C.); (R.W.); (G.H.); (M.K.); (J.Z.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Georg Hagn
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management and Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (G.B.); (N.A.); (I.B.); (Y.X.); (A.C.); (R.W.); (G.H.); (M.K.); (J.Z.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Ashley Cox
- Department of Urology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada;
| | - Melanie Kelly
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management and Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (G.B.); (N.A.); (I.B.); (Y.X.); (A.C.); (R.W.); (G.H.); (M.K.); (J.Z.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Juan Zhou
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management and Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (G.B.); (N.A.); (I.B.); (Y.X.); (A.C.); (R.W.); (G.H.); (M.K.); (J.Z.)
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Christian Lehmann
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management and Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (G.B.); (N.A.); (I.B.); (Y.X.); (A.C.); (R.W.); (G.H.); (M.K.); (J.Z.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(902)-423-9454
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Innocenzi E, De Domenico E, Ciccarone F, Zampieri M, Rossi G, Cicconi R, Bernardini R, Mattei M, Grimaldi P. Paternal activation of CB 2 cannabinoid receptor impairs placental and embryonic growth via an epigenetic mechanism. Sci Rep 2019; 9:17034. [PMID: 31745152 PMCID: PMC6863860 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-53579-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2) is the peripheral receptor for cannabinoids, involved in the homeostatic control of several physiological functions. Male mitotic germ cells express a high level of CB2, whose activation promotes their differentiation in both in vitro and in vivo experiments, controlling the correct progression of spermatogenesis. However, it remains elusive if CB2 activation in spermatogonia could affect reproductive success in terms of fertility and healthy pregnancy outcomes. In this study, we explored the effects of male CB2 activation on sperm number and quality and its influence on next generation health. We show that exposure of male mice to JWH-133, a selective CB2 agonist, decreased sperm count, impaired placental development and reduced offspring growth. These defects were associated with altered DNA methylation/hydroxymethylation levels at imprinted genes in sperm and conserved in placenta. Our findings reveal that paternal selective activation of CB2 alters the sperm epigenome and compromises offspring growth. This study demonstrates, for the first time, a new role of CB2 signaling in male gametes in causing epigenetic alterations that can be transmitted to the next generation by sperm, highlighting potential risks induced by recreational cannabinoid exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Innocenzi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Emanuela De Domenico
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Fabio Ciccarone
- IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Roma Open University, Rome, Italy
| | - Michele Zampieri
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriele Rossi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Rosella Cicconi
- Interdepartmental Service Centre-Station for Animal Technology (STA), University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Bernardini
- Interdepartmental Service Centre-Station for Animal Technology (STA), University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Mattei
- Interdepartmental Service Centre-Station for Animal Technology (STA), University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy.,Department of Biology, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Grimaldi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy.
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18
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Porter RF, Szczesniak AM, Toguri JT, Gebremeskel S, Johnston B, Lehmann C, Fingerle J, Rothenhäusler B, Perret C, Rogers-Evans M, Kimbara A, Nettekoven M, Guba W, Grether U, Ullmer C, Kelly MEM. Selective Cannabinoid 2 Receptor Agonists as Potential Therapeutic Drugs for the Treatment of Endotoxin-Induced Uveitis. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24183338. [PMID: 31540271 PMCID: PMC6767236 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24183338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Revised: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: The cannabinoid 2 receptor (CB2R) is a promising anti-inflammatory drug target and development of selective CB2R ligands may be useful for treating sight-threatening ocular inflammation. (2) Methods: This study examined the pharmacology of three novel chemically-diverse selective CB2R ligands: CB2R agonists, RO6871304, and RO6871085, as well as a CB2R inverse agonist, RO6851228. In silico molecular modelling and in vitro cell-based receptor assays were used to verify CB2R interactions, binding, cell signaling (ß-arrestin and cAMP) and early absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicology (ADMET) profiling of these receptor ligands. All ligands were evaluated for their efficacy to modulate leukocyte-neutrophil activity, in comparison to the reported CB2R ligand, HU910, using an in vivo mouse model of endotoxin-induced uveitis (EIU) in wild-type (WT) and CB2R-/- mice. The actions of RO6871304 on neutrophil migration and adhesion were examined in vitro using isolated neutrophils from WT and CB2R-/- mice, and in vivo in WT mice with EIU using adoptive transfer of WT and CB2R-/- neutrophils, respectively. (3) Results: Molecular docking studies indicated that RO6871304 and RO6871085 bind to the orthosteric site of CB2R. Binding studies and cell signaling assays for RO6871304 and RO6871085 confirmed high-affinity binding to CB2R and selectivity for CB2R > CB1R, with both ligands acting as full agonists in cAMP and ß-arrestin assays (EC50s in low nM range). When tested in EIU, topical application of RO6871304 and RO6871085 decreased leukocyte-endothelial adhesion and this effect was antagonized by the inverse agonist, RO6851228. The CB2R agonist, RO6871304, decreased in vitro neutrophil migration of WT neutrophils but not neutrophils from CB2R-/-, and attenuated adhesion of adoptively-transferred leukocytes in EIU. (4) Conclusions: These unique ligands are potent and selective for CB2R and have good immunomodulating actions in the eye. RO6871304 and RO6871085, as well as HU910, decreased leukocyte adhesion in EIU through inhibition of resident ocular immune cells. The data generated with these three structurally-diverse and highly-selective CB2R agonists support selective targeting of CB2R for treating ocular inflammatory diseases.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Anti-Inflammatory Agents/administration & dosage
- Anti-Inflammatory Agents/chemistry
- Anti-Inflammatory Agents/pharmacology
- Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists/administration & dosage
- Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists/chemistry
- Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists/pharmacology
- Cell Adhesion/drug effects
- Cells, Cultured
- Disease Models, Animal
- Endotoxins/adverse effects
- Leukocytes/drug effects
- Leukocytes/metabolism
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, Knockout
- Models, Molecular
- Molecular Docking Simulation
- Molecular Structure
- Neutrophils/drug effects
- Neutrophils/metabolism
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/chemistry
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/genetics
- Signal Transduction
- Uveitis/chemically induced
- Uveitis/drug therapy
- Uveitis/immunology
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - James Thomas Toguri
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada.
| | - Simon Gebremeskel
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada.
| | - Brent Johnston
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada.
- Department of Pediatrics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada.
| | - Christian Lehmann
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada.
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada.
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management and Perioperative Care, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada.
| | - Jürgen Fingerle
- Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., 4070 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Benno Rothenhäusler
- Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., 4070 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Camille Perret
- Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., 4070 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Mark Rogers-Evans
- Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., 4070 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Atsushi Kimbara
- Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., 4070 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Matthias Nettekoven
- Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., 4070 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Wolfgang Guba
- Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., 4070 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Uwe Grether
- Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., 4070 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Christoph Ullmer
- Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., 4070 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Melanie E M Kelly
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada.
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management and Perioperative Care, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada.
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 2Y9, Canada.
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19
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Magrone T, Jirillo E. Drugs of Abuse Induced-Subversion of the Peripheral Immune Response and Central Glial Activity: Focus on Novel Therapeutic Approaches. Endocr Metab Immune Disord Drug Targets 2019; 19:281-291. [PMID: 30488804 DOI: 10.2174/1871530319666181129104329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2018] [Revised: 04/11/2018] [Accepted: 04/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Drugs of abuse affect both central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral immune function. Besides the involvement of dopamine and glutamate systems, chronic exposure to drugs of abuse alters immune homeostasis, promoting a pro-inflammatory status. At the same time, impaired peripheral immunity leads to an increased susceptibility to infections in drug abusers. DISCUSSION There is evidence that certain drugs, such as opioids, activate microglial cells and astrocytes which, in turn, provoke central neuroinflammation. Particularly, opioids bind the Toll-like receptor (TLR)-4 with increased expression of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells and release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Peripheral mediators released by immune cells also contribute to aggravate central neuroinflammation. CONCLUSION These are based either on the inhibition of TLR-4 activation by drugs of abuse or on the correction of dopamine and glutamate pathways. Finally, a hypothetic nutraceutical intervention with polyphenols in view of their anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties will be outlined as an adjuvant treatment for drugs of abuse-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thea Magrone
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sensory Organs, University of Bari, School of Medicine, Bari, Italy
| | - Emilio Jirillo
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sensory Organs, University of Bari, School of Medicine, Bari, Italy
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Suppression of CpG-ODN-mediated IFNα and TNFα response in human plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDC) by cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2)-specific agonists. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2019; 369:82-89. [PMID: 30807757 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2019.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2018] [Revised: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDC) compose 0.2-0.5% of circulating leukocytes but play a significant role in mounting host immune responses. Elevated and chronic activation of pDC are implicated in autoimmune disease like systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis. Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is a well characterized cannabinoid with potent anti-inflammatory activity, but acceptance of THC as a treatment for autoimmune disorders has been hindered due to psychotropic activity. The psychotropic effects of THC are mediated through cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) expressed in the central nervous system while the immunomodulatory effects of THC result from THC binding to CB1 and CB2 on immune cells. Synthetic CB2-selective agonists have been developed to explore immune modulation by cannabinoids in the absence of psychotropic effects. The goal of these studies was to determine if the CB2-selective agonists, JWH-015 and JWH-133, have comparable efficacy to THC in modulating IFNα and TNFα responses by primary human pDC. Treatment with JWH-133 and JWH-015 inhibited CpG-induced IFNα and TNFα responses by pDC. Further, the phosphorylation of IRF7, TBK1, NFκB, and IKKγ, key events in pDC activation, were suppressed by THC, JWH-133, and JWH-015. Likewise, the phosphorylation of AKT at the S473 and T308 residues were differentially modulated by treatment with THC and both JWH compounds. Collectively, these results demonstrate the potential for CB2 targeted therapeutics for treatment of inflammatory conditions involving aberrant pDC activity.
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21
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Pandey P, Roy KK, Doerksen RJ. Negative allosteric modulators of cannabinoid receptor 2: protein modeling, binding site identification and molecular dynamics simulations in the presence of an orthosteric agonist. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2019; 38:32-47. [PMID: 30652534 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2019.1567384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Selective activation of the cannabinoid receptor subtype 2 (CB2) shows promise for treating pain, inflammation, multiple sclerosis, cancer, ischemic/reperfusion injury and osteoporosis. Target selectivity and off-target side effects are two major limiting factors for orthosteric ligands, and therefore, the search for allosteric modulators (AMs) is a widely used drug discovery approach. To date, only a limited number of negative CB2 AMs have been identified, possessing only micromolar activity at best, and the CB2 receptor's allosteric site(s) are not well characterized. Herein, we used computational approaches including receptor modeling, site mapping, docking, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and binding free energy calculations to predict, characterize and validate allosteric sites within the complex of the CB2 receptor with bound orthosteric agonist CP55,940. After docking of known negative CB2 allosteric modulators (NAMs), dihydro-gambogic acid (DHGA) and trans-β-caryophyllene (TBC) (note that TBC also shows agonist activity), at the predicted allosteric sites, the best total complex with CB2, CP55,940 and NAM was embedded into a hydrated lipid bilayer and subjected to a 200 ns MD simulation. The presence of an AM affected the CB2-CP55,940 complex, altering the relative positioning of the toggle switch residues and promoting a strong π-π interaction between Phe1173.36 and Trp2586.48. Binding of either TBC or DHGA to a putative allosteric pocket directly adjacent to the orthosteric ligand reduced the binding free energy of CP55,940, which is consistent with the expected effect of a negative AM. The identified allosteric sites present immense scope for the discovery of novel classes of CB2 AMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pankaj Pandey
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, Division of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, The University of Mississippi, University, MS, USA
| | - Kuldeep K Roy
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, Division of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, The University of Mississippi, University, MS, USA.,National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Kolkata, India
| | - Robert J Doerksen
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, Division of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, The University of Mississippi, University, MS, USA.,Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Mississippi, University, MS, USA
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Wawryk-Gawda E, Chłapek K, Zarobkiewicz MK, Lis-Sochocka M, Chylińska-Wrzos P, Boguszewska-Czubara A, Sławiński MA, Franczak A, Jodłowska-Jędrych B, Biała G. CB2R agonist prevents nicotine induced lung fibrosis. Exp Lung Res 2019; 44:344-351. [DOI: 10.1080/01902148.2018.1543368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ewelina Wawryk-Gawda
- Chair and Department of Histology and Embryology with Experimental Cytology Unit, Medical University in Lublin, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Chłapek
- Department of Financial Accounting, Cracow University of Economics, Poland
| | - Michał K. Zarobkiewicz
- Chair and Department of Histology and Embryology with Experimental Cytology Unit, Medical University in Lublin, Poland
| | - Marta Lis-Sochocka
- Chair and Department of Histology and Embryology with Experimental Cytology Unit, Medical University in Lublin, Poland
| | - Patrycja Chylińska-Wrzos
- Chair and Department of Histology and Embryology with Experimental Cytology Unit, Medical University in Lublin, Poland
| | | | - Mirosław A. Sławiński
- Chair and Department of Histology and Embryology with Experimental Cytology Unit, Medical University in Lublin, Poland
| | | | - Barbara Jodłowska-Jędrych
- Chair and Department of Histology and Embryology with Experimental Cytology Unit, Medical University in Lublin, Poland
| | - Grażyna Biała
- Chair and Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacodynamics, Medical University in Lublin, Poland
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Costiniuk CT, Saneei Z, Routy JP, Margolese S, Mandarino E, Singer J, Lebouché B, Cox J, Szabo J, Brouillette MJ, Klein MB, Chomont N, Jenabian MA. Oral cannabinoids in people living with HIV on effective antiretroviral therapy: CTN PT028-study protocol for a pilot randomised trial to assess safety, tolerability and effect on immune activation. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e024793. [PMID: 30659041 PMCID: PMC6340429 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-024793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite antiretroviral therapy (ART), people living with HIV have higher rates of non-infectious chronic diseases. These conditions are driven by relatively high levels of inflammation persisting on ART compared with uninfected individuals. Chronic inflammation also contributes to HIV persistence during ART. Cannabis when taken orally may represent a way to reduce inflammation and strengthen immune responses. Before planning large interventional studies, it is important to ensure that cannabis taken orally is safe and well tolerated in people living with HIV. We propose to conduct a pilot randomised trial to examine the safety and tolerability of cannabis oils containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) consumed orally in people living with HIV. We will also measure inflammatory markers, markers of HIV persistence in peripheral blood cells and changes in the gastrointestinal microbiome. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Twenty-six people living with HIV having undetectable viral load for at least 3 years will be randomised to receive TN-TC11LM (THC:CBD in 1:1 ratio) or TN-TC19LM (THC:CBD in 1:9 ratio) capsules daily for 12 weeks. Safety and tolerability of these capsules will be assessed through haematological, hepatic and renal blood tests, face-to-face interviews and questionnaires. Proportions of participants without any signs of significant toxicity (grades 0-2 scores on the WHO toxicity scale) and who complete the study, as well as scores on quality of life and mood will be examined using descriptive statistics. The effects on inflammatory markers, markers of peripheral blood reservoir size and effect on the composition of the gastrointestinal microbiome will be assessed before and after study completion. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study has been approved by the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre. A Data Safety Monitor will review safety information at regular intervals. The final manuscript will be submitted to an open-access journal within 6 months of study completion. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT03550352.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia T Costiniuk
- Chronic Viral Illness Service, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
- Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - Zahra Saneei
- Chronic Viral Illness Service, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - Jean-Pierre Routy
- Chronic Viral Illness Service, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
- Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - Shari Margolese
- Canadian Institutes of Health Research Canadian HIV Trials Network, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Enrico Mandarino
- Canadian Institutes of Health Research Canadian HIV Trials Network, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- WILLL Cannabis Group, Toronto, Canada
| | - Joel Singer
- Canadian Institutes of Health Research Canadian HIV Trials Network, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Bertrand Lebouché
- Chronic Viral Illness Service, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
- Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - Joseph Cox
- Chronic Viral Illness Service, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
- Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - Jason Szabo
- Chronic Viral Illness Service, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
- Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - Marie-Josée Brouillette
- Chronic Viral Illness Service, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
- Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - Marina B Klein
- Chronic Viral Illness Service, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
- Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - Nicolas Chomont
- Centre de Recherche du CHUM and Department of Microbiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
| | - Mohammad-Ali Jenabian
- Department of Biological Sciences and BioMed Research Centre, University of Quebec at Montreal (UQAM), Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Lafreniere J, Kelly M. Potential for endocannabinoid system modulation in ocular pain and inflammation: filling the gaps in current pharmacological options. Neuronal Signal 2018; 2:NS20170144. [PMID: 32714590 PMCID: PMC7373237 DOI: 10.1042/ns20170144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2018] [Revised: 10/18/2018] [Accepted: 10/19/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Challenges in the management of ocular pain are an underappreciated topic. Currently available therapeutics lack both efficacy and clear guidelines for their use, with many also possessing unacceptable side effects. Promising novel agents would offer analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and possibly neuroprotective actions; have favorable ocular safety profiles; and show potential in managing neuropathic pain. Growing evidence supports a link between the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and a range of physiological and disease processes, notably those involving inflammation and pain. Both preclinical and clinical data suggest analgesic and anti-inflammatory actions of cannabinoids and ECS-modifying drugs in chronic pain conditions, including those of neuropathic origin. This review will examine existing evidence for the anatomical and physiological basis of ocular pain, specifically, ocular surface disease and the development of chronic ocular pain. The mechanism of action, efficacy, and limitations of currently available treatments will be discussed, and current knowledge related to ECS-modulation of ocular pain and inflammatory disease will be summarized. A perspective will be provided on the future directions of ECS research in terms of developing cannabinoid therapeutics for ocular pain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Melanie E.M. Kelly
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management and Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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Chen M, Luo C, Zhao J, Devarajan G, Xu H. Immune regulation in the aging retina. Prog Retin Eye Res 2018; 69:159-172. [PMID: 30352305 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2018.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Revised: 10/13/2018] [Accepted: 10/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The retina is an immune privileged tissue, which is protected from external and internal insults by its blood-retina barriers and immune suppressive microenvironment. Apart from the avoidance and tolerance strategies, the retina is also protected by its own defense system, i.e., microglia and the complement system. The immune privilege and defense mechanisms work together to maintain retinal homeostasis. During aging, the retina is at an increased risk of developing various degenerative diseases such as age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucomatous retinopathy. Previously, we have shown that aging induces a para-inflammatory response in the retina. In this review, we explore the impact of aging on retinal immune regulation and the connection between homeostatic control of retinal immune privilege and para-inflammation under aging conditions and present a view that may explain why aging puts the retina at risk of developing degenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Chen
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, UK
| | - Chang Luo
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, UK; Aier Eye Institute, Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, China
| | - Jiawu Zhao
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, UK
| | | | - Heping Xu
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, UK; Aier Eye Institute, Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, China.
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26
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Rossi F, Punzo F, Umano GR, Argenziano M, Miraglia Del Giudice E. Role of Cannabinoids in Obesity. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E2690. [PMID: 30201891 PMCID: PMC6163475 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19092690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2018] [Revised: 08/30/2018] [Accepted: 09/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity is an increasing health problem worldwide. Its related comorbidities imply a high cost for the National Health System and diminish a patient's life quality. Adipose tissue is composed of three types of cells. White adipocytes are involved in fat storage and secretion of hormones. Brown adipocytes are involved in thermogenesis and caloric expenditure. Beige adipocytes are transitional adipocytes that in response to various stimuli can turn from white to brown and could be protective against the obesity, enhancing energy expenditure. The conversion of white in beige adipose tissue is a potential new therapeutic target for obesity. Cannabinoid receptors (CB) regulate thermogenesis, food intake and inflammation. CB1 ablation or inhibition helps reducing body weight and food intake. Stimulation of CB2 limits inflammation and promotes anti-obesity effects by reducing food intake and weight gain. Its genetic ablation results in adiposity development. CB receptors are also responsible for transforming white adipose tissue towards beige or brown adipocytes, therefore their modulation can be considered potential anti-obesity target. CB1 principal localization in central nervous system represents an important limit. Stimulation of CB2, principally localized on peripheral cells instead, should facilitate the anti-obesity effects without exerting remarkable psychotropic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Rossi
- Department of Woman, Child, General and Special Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Napoli, Italy.
| | - Francesca Punzo
- Department of Woman, Child, General and Special Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Napoli, Italy.
| | - Giuseppina Rosaria Umano
- Department of Woman, Child, General and Special Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Napoli, Italy.
| | - Maura Argenziano
- Department of Woman, Child, General and Special Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Napoli, Italy.
| | - Emanuele Miraglia Del Giudice
- Department of Woman, Child, General and Special Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Napoli, Italy.
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Pekala K, Michalak A, Kruk-Slomka M, Budzynska B, Biala G. Impacts of cannabinoid receptor ligands on nicotine- and chronic mild stress-induced cognitive and depression-like effects in mice. Behav Brain Res 2018; 347:167-174. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2018.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2018] [Revised: 03/09/2018] [Accepted: 03/13/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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Structure-kinetic relationship studies of cannabinoid CB 2 receptor agonists reveal substituent-specific lipophilic effects on residence time. Biochem Pharmacol 2018; 152:129-142. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2018.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2018] [Accepted: 03/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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29
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Cooper AG, MacDonald C, Glass M, Hook S, Tyndall JD, Vernall AJ. Alkyl indole-based cannabinoid type 2 receptor tools: Exploration of linker and fluorophore attachment. Eur J Med Chem 2018; 145:770-789. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2017.11.076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2017] [Revised: 11/23/2017] [Accepted: 11/26/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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30
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Rapino C, Tortolani D, Scipioni L, Maccarrone M. Neuroprotection by (endo)Cannabinoids in Glaucoma and Retinal Neurodegenerative Diseases. Curr Neuropharmacol 2018; 16:959-970. [PMID: 28738764 PMCID: PMC6120105 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x15666170724104305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2017] [Revised: 07/14/2017] [Accepted: 07/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emerging neuroprotective strategies are being explored to preserve the retina from degeneration, that occurs in eye pathologies like glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, and retinitis pigmentosa. Incidentally, neuroprotection of retina is a defending mechanism designed to prevent or delay neuronal cell death, and to maintain neural function following an initial insult, thus avoiding loss of vision. METHODS Numerous studies have investigated potential neuroprotective properties of plant-derived phytocannabinoids, as well as of their endogenous counterparts collectively termed endocannabinoids (eCBs), in several degenerative diseases of the retina. eCBs are a group of neuromodulators that, mainly by activating G protein-coupled type-1 and type-2 cannabinoid (CB1 and CB2) receptors, trigger multiple signal transduction cascades that modulate central and peripheral cell functions. A fine balance between biosynthetic and degrading enzymes that control the right concentration of eCBs has been shown to provide neuroprotection in traumatic, ischemic, inflammatory and neurotoxic damage of the brain. RESULTS Since the existence of eCBs and their binding receptors was documented in the retina of numerous species (from fishes to primates), their involvement in the visual processing has been demonstrated, more recently with a focus on retinal neurodegeneration and neuroprotection. CONCLUSION The aim of this review is to present a modern view of the endocannabinoid system, in order to discuss in a better perspective available data from preclinical studies on the use of eCBs as new neuroprotective agents, potentially useful to prevent glaucoma and retinal neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cinzia Rapino
- Address correspondence to these authors at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy; Tel: +39 0861 266842;, E-mail: and the Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, 00128 Rome, Italy; Tel: +39 06 225419169;, E-mail:
| | | | | | - Mauro Maccarrone
- Address correspondence to these authors at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy; Tel: +39 0861 266842;, E-mail: and the Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, 00128 Rome, Italy; Tel: +39 06 225419169;, E-mail:
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Cairns EA, Toguri JT, Porter RF, Szczesniak AM, Kelly MEM. Seeing over the horizon - targeting the endocannabinoid system for the treatment of ocular disease. J Basic Clin Physiol Pharmacol 2017; 27:253-65. [PMID: 26565550 DOI: 10.1515/jbcpp-2015-0065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2015] [Accepted: 09/25/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The observation that marijuana reduces intraocular pressure was made by Hepler and Frank in the 1970s. Since then, there has been a significant body of work investigating cannabinoids for their potential use as therapeutics. To date, no endocannabinoid system (ECS)-modulating drug has been approved for clinical use in the eye; however, recent advances in our understanding of the ECS, as well as new pharmacological tools, has renewed interest in the development of ocular ECS-based therapeutics. This review summarizes the current state-of-affairs for the use of ECS-modulating drugs for the treatment of glaucoma and ocular inflammatory and ischemic disease.
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Kelly MEM, Lehmann C, Zhou J. The Endocannabinoid System in Local and Systemic Inflammation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.4199/c00151ed1v01y201702isp074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Utomo WK, de Vries M, Braat H, Bruno MJ, Parikh K, Comalada M, Peppelenbosch MP, van Goor H, Fuhler GM. Modulation of Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cell Signaling by Medicinal Cannabinoids. Front Mol Neurosci 2017; 10:14. [PMID: 28174520 PMCID: PMC5258717 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2017.00014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2016] [Accepted: 01/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Medical marijuana is increasingly prescribed as an analgesic for a growing number of indications, amongst which terminal cancer and multiple sclerosis. However, the mechanistic aspects and properties of cannabis remain remarkably poorly characterized. In this study we aimed to investigate the immune-cell modulatory properties of medical cannabis. Healthy volunteers were asked to ingest medical cannabis, and kinome profiling was used to generate comprehensive descriptions of the cannabis challenge on inflammatory signal transduction in the peripheral blood of these volunteers. Results were related to both short term and long term effects in patients experimentally treated with a medical marijuana preparation for suffering from abdominal pain as a result of chronic pancreatitis or other causes. The results reveal an immunosuppressive effect of cannabinoid preparations via deactivation of signaling through the pro-inflammatory p38 MAP kinase and mTOR pathways and a concomitant deactivation of the pro-mitogenic ERK pathway. However, long term cannabis exposure in two patients resulted in reversal of this effect. While these data provide a powerful mechanistic rationale for the clinical use of medical marijuana in inflammatory and oncological disease, caution may be advised with sustained use of such preparations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wesley K Utomo
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC, Erasmus University of Rotterdam Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Marjan de Vries
- Department of Surgery, Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Henri Braat
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC, Erasmus University of Rotterdam Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Marco J Bruno
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC, Erasmus University of Rotterdam Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Kaushal Parikh
- Department of Cell Biology, University Medical Center Groningen Groningen, Netherlands
| | | | - Maikel P Peppelenbosch
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC, Erasmus University of Rotterdam Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Harry van Goor
- Department of Surgery, Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Gwenny M Fuhler
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC, Erasmus University of Rotterdam Rotterdam, Netherlands
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Franks LN, Ford BM, Prather PL. Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators: Cannabinoid Receptor Inverse Agonists with Differential CB1 and CB2 Selectivity. Front Pharmacol 2016; 7:503. [PMID: 28066250 PMCID: PMC5177629 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2016.00503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2016] [Accepted: 12/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) are used to treat estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancer and osteoporosis. Interestingly, tamoxifen and newer classes of SERMs also exhibit cytotoxic effects in cancers devoid of ERs, indicating a non-estrogenic mechanism of action. Indicative of a potential ER-independent target, reports demonstrate that tamoxifen binds to cannabinoid receptors (CBRs) with affinity in the low μM range and acts as an inverse agonist. To identify cannabinoids with improved pharmacological properties relative to tamoxifen, and further investigate the use of different SERM scaffolds for future cannabinoid drug development, this study characterized the affinity and activity of SERMs in newer structural classes at CBRs. Fourteen SERMs from five structurally distinct classes were screened for binding to human CBRs. Compounds from four of five SERM classes examined bound to CBRs. Subsequent studies fully characterized CBR affinity and activity of one compound from each class. Ospemifine (a triphenylethylene) selectively bound to CB1Rs, while bazedoxifine (an indole) bound to CB2Rs with highest affinity. Nafoxidine (a tetrahydronaphthalene) and raloxifene (RAL; a benzothiaphene) bound to CB1 and CB2Rs non-selectively. All four compounds acted as inverse agonists at CB1 and CB2Rs, reducing basal G-protein activity with IC50 values in the nM to low μM range. Ospemifine, bazedoxifene and RAL also acted as inverse agonists to elevate basal intracellular cAMP levels in intact CHO-hCB2 cells. The four SERMs examined also acted as CB1 and CB2R antagonists in the cAMP assay, producing rightward shifts in the concentration-effect curve of the CBR agonist CP-55,940. In conclusion, newer classes of SERMs exhibit improved pharmacological characteristics (e.g., in CBR affinity and selectivity) relative to initial studies with tamoxifen, and thus suggest that different SERM scaffolds may be useful for development of safe and selective drugs acting via CBRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lirit N Franks
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock AR, USA
| | - Benjamin M Ford
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock AR, USA
| | - Paul L Prather
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock AR, USA
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35
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Cannabinoids: Possible agents for treatment of psoriasis via suppression of angiogenesis and inflammation. Med Hypotheses 2016; 99:15-18. [PMID: 28110689 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2016.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2016] [Revised: 10/13/2016] [Accepted: 12/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease also affecting other sites such as joints. This disease highly depends on inflammation and angiogenesis as well as other pathways. At each step of the psoriasis molecular pathway, different inflammatory cytokines and angiogenic growth factors are involved such as hypoxia inducible factor-1 α (HIF-1 α), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), matrix metalo proteinases (MMPs), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), Angiopoitin-2, interleukin-8 (IL-8), IL-17, and IL-2. Beside the mentioned growth factors and cytokines, cellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) which play roles in both angiogenesis and inflammation are also involved in the pathogenesis. Cannabinoids are active compounds of Cannabina Sativa inducing their effects through cannabinoid receptors (CBs). JWH-133 is a synthetic cannabinoid with strong anti-angiogenic and anti-inflammatory activities. This agent is able to inhibit HIF-1 α, VEGF, MMPs, bFGF, IL-8, IL-17, and other mentioned cytokines and adhesion molecules both in vivo and in vitro. Altogether, authors suggest using this cannabinoid for treatment of psoriasis due to its potential in suppressing the two main steps of psoriatic pathogenesis. Of course complementary animal studies and human trials are still required.
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Toguri JT, Caldwell M, Kelly MEM. Turning Down the Thermostat: Modulating the Endocannabinoid System in Ocular Inflammation and Pain. Front Pharmacol 2016; 7:304. [PMID: 27695415 PMCID: PMC5024674 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2016.00304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2016] [Accepted: 08/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) has emerged as an important regulator of both physiological and pathological processes. Notably, this endogenous system plays a key role in the modulation of pain and inflammation in a number of tissues. The components of the ECS, including endocannabinoids, their cognate enzymes and cannabinoid receptors, are localized in the eye, and evidence indicates that ECS modulation plays a role in ocular disease states. Of these diseases, ocular inflammation presents a significant medical problem, given that current clinical treatments can be ineffective or are associated with intolerable side-effects. Furthermore, a prominent comorbidity of ocular inflammation is pain, including neuropathic pain, for which therapeutic options remain limited. Recent evidence supports the use of drugs targeting the ECS for the treatment of ocular inflammation and pain in animal models; however, the potential for therapeutic use of cannabinoid drugs in the eye has not been thoroughly investigated at this time. This review will highlight evidence from experimental studies identifying components of the ocular ECS and discuss the functional role of the ECS during different ocular inflammatory disease states, including uveitis and corneal keratitis. Candidate ECS targeted therapies will be discussed, drawing on experimental results obtained from both ocular and non-ocular tissue(s), together with their potential application for the treatment of ocular inflammation and pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- James T. Toguri
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, HalifaxNS, Canada
| | - Meggie Caldwell
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, HalifaxNS, Canada
| | - Melanie E. M. Kelly
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, HalifaxNS, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Dalhousie University, HalifaxNS, Canada
- Anesthesia, Pain Management & Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University, HalifaxNS, Canada
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Cannabinoid 2 receptor is a novel anti-inflammatory target in experimental proliferative vitreoretinopathy. Neuropharmacology 2016; 113:627-638. [PMID: 27569993 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2016.08.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2016] [Revised: 08/18/2016] [Accepted: 08/24/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) can develop after ocular trauma or inflammation and is a common complication of surgery to correct retinal detachment. Currently, there are no pharmacological treatments for PVR. Cannabinoids acting at cannabinoid 2 receptor (CB2R) can decrease inflammation and fibrosis. The objective of this study was to examine the anti-inflammatory actions of CB2R as a candidate novel therapeutic target in experimental PVR. PVR was induced by intravitreal injection of dispase in wild-type (WT) and CB2R genetic knockout (CB2R-/-) mice. Ocular pathology was studied at 24 h or one week after dispase injection. CB2R modulation was examined in WT mice, using the CB2R agonist, HU308, and the CB2R antagonist, AM630. Histopathological scoring and quantification of microglia was used to evaluate tissue pathology. Quantitative PCR and multiplex assays were used to assess changes in proinflammatory cytokines. Intravital microscopy (IVM) was used to visualize and quantify leukocyte-endothelial adhesion to the iridial microcirculation. Activation of CB2R with HU308 in WT mice with PVR decreased mean histopathological scores, the number of microglia, and leukocyte adhesion compared to vehicle-treated animals. Conversely, an increase in histopathological scores and activated microglia was observed in PVR animals after treatment with AM630. CB2R-/- mice with PVR exhibited exacerbated ocular histopathology, increased microglia numbers, and elevated protein levels of cytokines as compared to WT mice. In conclusion, our results indicate that intervention at early stage PVR with CB2R agonists reduces ocular inflammation and disease severity. CB2R may represent a therapeutic target to prevent PVR progression and vision loss. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Lipid Sensing G Protein-Coupled Receptors in the CNS'.
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Interaction between Cannabinoid System and Toll-Like Receptors Controls Inflammation. Mediators Inflamm 2016; 2016:5831315. [PMID: 27597805 PMCID: PMC4997072 DOI: 10.1155/2016/5831315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2016] [Revised: 07/01/2016] [Accepted: 07/14/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the discovery of the endocannabinoid system consisting of cannabinoid receptors, endogenous ligands, and biosynthetic and metabolizing enzymes, interest has been renewed in investigating the promise of cannabinoids as therapeutic agents. Abundant evidence indicates that cannabinoids modulate immune responses. An inflammatory response is triggered when innate immune cells receive a danger signal provided by pathogen- or damage-associated molecular patterns engaging pattern-recognition receptors. Toll-like receptor family members are prominent pattern-recognition receptors expressed on innate immune cells. Cannabinoids suppress Toll-like receptor-mediated inflammatory responses. However, the relationship between the endocannabinoid system and innate immune system may not be one-sided. Innate immune cells express cannabinoid receptors and produce endogenous cannabinoids. Hence, innate immune cells may play a role in regulating endocannabinoid homeostasis, and, in turn, the endocannabinoid system modulates local inflammatory responses. Studies designed to probe the interaction between the innate immune system and the endocannabinoid system may identify new potential molecular targets in developing therapeutic strategies for chronic inflammatory diseases. This review discusses the endocannabinoid system and Toll-like receptor family and evaluates the interaction between them.
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Toguri JT, Moxsom R, Szczesniak AM, Zhou J, Kelly MEM, Lehmann C. Cannabinoid 2 receptor activation reduces leukocyte adhesion and improves capillary perfusion in the iridial microvasculature during systemic inflammation. Clin Hemorheol Microcirc 2016; 61:237-49. [PMID: 26410875 DOI: 10.3233/ch-151996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Leukocyte adhesion to the endothelium and decreased microvascular blood flow causing microcirculatory dysfunction are hallmarks of systemic inflammation. We studied the impact of cannabinoid receptor activation on the iridial microcirculation, which is accessible non-invasively in vivo, in systemic inflammation induced by endotoxin challenge. METHODS 40 Lewis rats were used in the experiments. Endotoxemia was induced by 2 mg/kg i.v. lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Cannabinoid receptors (CBRs) were stimulated by i.v. administration of WIN 55212-2 (WIN; 1 mg/kg). CB1R antagonist (AM281; 2.5 mg/kg i.v.) or CB2R antagonist (AM630; 2.5 mg/kg i.v.) treatment prior to WIN was applied to identify the anti-inflammatory effects underlying each CBR subtype. Leukocyte-endothelial interactions were examined in rat iridial microvas culature by intravital microscopy at baseline and 1 and 2 h post-LPS. Additionally, systemic (mean arterial pressure, heart rate) and local (laser Doppler flow) hemodynamic variables were measured prior to and during cannabinoid treatments. RESULTS Endotoxemia resulted in severe inflammation as shown by significantly increased numbers of adherent leukocytes at 1 and 2 h observation time post-LPS challenge and decreased microcirculatory blood flow at 2 h within the iridial microcirculation. WIN treatment significantly reduced leukocyte adhesion in iridial microvessels with a diameter greater and less than 25 μm during endotoxemia (p < 0.05). Pre-treatment of animals by CB1R antagonist, AM281, did not affect WIN effects on LPS-induced leukocyte adhesion. When pre-treated with the CB2R antagonist, AM630, a reversal of the WIN-induced reduction in leukocyte adhesion was noticed in vessels with a diameter of less than 25 μm (p < 0.05). Cannabinoid treatment significantly increased the local iridial microcirculatory blood flow 2 hours after systemic LPS administration (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Systemic administration of the CBR agonist, WIN, decreased leukocyte-adhesion and improved iridial microvascular blood flow. This effect is most likely mediated by CB2R activation. Our findings indicate that the iris microvasculature can serve as a model to study the microcirculation during systemic inflammation and help to identify potential therapies to treat microcirculatory dysfunction in diseases such as sepsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- J T Toguri
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.,Department of Anesthesia, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - R Moxsom
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - A M Szczesniak
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - J Zhou
- Department of Anesthesia, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - M E M Kelly
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.,Department of Anesthesia, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.,Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - C Lehmann
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.,Department of Anesthesia, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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Purohit V, Rapaka RS, Rutter J. Cannabinoid receptor-2 and HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2016; 9:447-53. [PMID: 25015040 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-014-9554-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2014] [Accepted: 07/02/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Despite the wide spread use of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), mild forms of HIV-associated neuro cognitive disorders (HAND) remain commonplace. HAART treated patients now show low levels of viremia and more subtle yet biologically important signs of brain macrophage and microglial activation. Adjunctive therapeutic strategies are required to eliminate HIV-1 infection and suppress immune activation and its associated neuroinflammation. In this regard, cannabinoid receptor-2(CB2) activation is a promising means to attenuate HAND by inhibiting HIV replication, down regulating inflammation, and suppressing chemokine-like activity of viral neurotoxic proteins (for example, Tat and HIV-1gp120), and thereby prevent neuronal and synaptic loss. Inhibiting even low level HIV replication can attenuate neuronal injury by decreasing the production of neurotoxins. Down regulation of inflammation by CB2 activation is mediated through blunted activation of peri vascular macrophages and microglia; decreased production of tumor necrosis factor-α, chemokines and virotoxins. Down regulated neuroinflammation can decrease blood brain barrier permeability and leukocyte infiltration resulting in reduced neuronal injury. It is suggested that CB2 agonists may further attenuate HAND in HIVinfected patients on HAART. In addition, CB2 activation may also blunt brain injury by attenuating drug addiction.
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Aghazadeh Tabrizi M, Baraldi PG, Borea PA, Varani K. Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmacology, and Potential Therapeutic Benefits of Cannabinoid CB2 Receptor Agonists. Chem Rev 2016; 116:519-60. [PMID: 26741146 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.5b00411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mojgan Aghazadeh Tabrizi
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and ‡Department of Medical Science, Pharmacology Section, University of Ferrara , Ferrara 44121, Italy
| | - Pier Giovanni Baraldi
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and ‡Department of Medical Science, Pharmacology Section, University of Ferrara , Ferrara 44121, Italy
| | - Pier Andrea Borea
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and ‡Department of Medical Science, Pharmacology Section, University of Ferrara , Ferrara 44121, Italy
| | - Katia Varani
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and ‡Department of Medical Science, Pharmacology Section, University of Ferrara , Ferrara 44121, Italy
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Correlations between the Memory-Related Behavior and the Level of Oxidative Stress Biomarkers in the Mice Brain, Provoked by an Acute Administration of CB Receptor Ligands. Neural Plast 2015; 2016:9815092. [PMID: 26839719 PMCID: PMC4709727 DOI: 10.1155/2016/9815092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2015] [Revised: 09/19/2015] [Accepted: 09/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system, through cannabinoid (CB) receptors, is involved in memory-related responses, as well as in processes that may affect cognition, like oxidative stress processes. The purpose of the experiments was to investigate the impact of CB1 and CB2 receptor ligands on the long-term memory stages in male Swiss mice, using the passive avoidance (PA) test, as well as the influence of these compounds on the level of oxidative stress biomarkers in the mice brain. A single injection of a selective CB1 receptor antagonist, AM 251, improved long-term memory acquisition and consolidation in the PA test in mice, while a mixed CB1/CB2 receptor agonist WIN 55,212-2 impaired both stages of cognition. Additionally, JWH 133, a selective CB2 receptor agonist, and AM 630, a competitive CB2 receptor antagonist, significantly improved memory. Additionally, an acute administration of the highest used doses of JWH 133, WIN 55,212-2, and AM 630, but not AM 251, increased total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in the brain. In turn, the processes of lipids peroxidation, expressed as the concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA), were more advanced in case of AM 251. Thus, some changes in the PA performance may be connected with the level of oxidative stress in the brain.
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Primary Macrophage Chemotaxis Induced by Cannabinoid Receptor 2 Agonists Occurs Independently of the CB2 Receptor. Sci Rep 2015; 5:10682. [PMID: 26033291 PMCID: PMC4451551 DOI: 10.1038/srep10682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2015] [Accepted: 04/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Activation of CB2 has been demonstrated to induce directed immune cell migration. However, the ability of CB2 to act as a chemoattractant receptor in macrophages remains largely unexplored. Using a real-time chemotaxis assay and a panel of chemically diverse and widely used CB2 agonists, we set out to examine whether CB2 modulates primary murine macrophage chemotaxis. We report that of 12 agonists tested, only JWH133, HU308, L-759,656 and L-759,633 acted as macrophage chemoattractants. Surprisingly, neither pharmacological inhibition nor genetic ablation of CB2 had any effect on CB2 agonist-induced macrophage chemotaxis. As chemotaxis was pertussis toxin sensitive in both WT and CB2-/- macrophages, we concluded that a non-CB1/CB2, Gi/o-coupled GPCR must be responsible for CB2 agonist-induced macrophage migration. The obvious candidate receptors GPR18 and GPR55 could not mediate JWH133 or HU308-induced cytoskeletal rearrangement or JWH133-induced β-arrestin recruitment in cells transfected with either receptor, demonstrating that neither are the unidentified GPCR. Taken together our results conclusively demonstrate that CB2 is not a chemoattractant receptor for murine macrophages. Furthermore we show for the first time that JWH133, HU308, L-759,656 and L-759,633 have off-target effects of functional consequence in primary cells and we believe that our findings have wide ranging implications for the entire cannabinoid field.
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Cabral GA, Rogers TJ, Lichtman AH. Turning Over a New Leaf: Cannabinoid and Endocannabinoid Modulation of Immune Function. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2015; 10:193-203. [PMID: 26054900 PMCID: PMC4469415 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-015-9615-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2015] [Accepted: 05/04/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis is a complex substance that harbors terpenoid-like compounds referred to as phytocannabinoids. The major psychoactive phytocannabinoid found in cannabis ∆(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) produces the majority of its pharmacological effects through two cannabinoid receptors, termed CB1 and CB2. The discovery of these receptors as linked functionally to distinct biological effects of THC, and the subsequent development of synthetic cannabinoids, precipitated discovery of the endogenous cannabinoid (or endocannabinoid) system. This system consists of the endogenous lipid ligands N- arachidonoylethanolamine (anandamide; AEA) and 2-arachidonylglycerol (2-AG), their biosynthetic and degradative enzymes, and the CB1 and CB2 receptors that they activate. Endocannabinoids have been identified in immune cells such as monocytes, macrophages, basophils, lymphocytes, and dendritic cells and are believed to be enzymatically produced and released "on demand" in a similar fashion as the eicosanoids. It is now recognized that other phytocannabinoids such as cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabinol (CBN) can alter the functional activities of the immune system. This special edition of the Journal of Neuroimmune Pharmacology (JNIP) presents a collection of cutting edge original research and review articles on the medical implications of phytocannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system. The goal of this special edition is to provide an unbiased assessment of the state of research related to this topic from leading researchers in the field. The potential untoward effects as well as beneficial uses of marijuana, its phytocannabinoid composition, and synthesized cannabinoid analogs are discussed. In addition, the role of the endocannabinoid system and approaches to its manipulation to treat select human disease processes are addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guy A Cabral
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA,
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Robinson RH, Meissler JJ, Fan X, Yu D, Adler MW, Eisenstein TK. A CB2-Selective Cannabinoid Suppresses T-Cell Activities and Increases Tregs and IL-10. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2015; 10:318-32. [PMID: 25980325 PMCID: PMC4528965 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-015-9611-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2015] [Accepted: 04/26/2015] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
We have previously shown that agonists selective for the cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2), including O-1966, inhibit the Mixed Lymphocyte Reaction (MLR), an in vitro correlate of organ graft rejection, predominantly through effects on T-cells. Current studies explored the mechanism of this immunosuppression by O-1966 using mouse spleen cells. Treatment with O-1966 dose-relatedly decreased levels of the active nuclear forms of the transcription factors NF-κB and NFAT in wild-type T-cells, but not T-cells from CB2 knockout (CB2R k/o) mice. Additionally, a gene expression profile of purified T-cells from MLR cultures generated using a PCR T-cell activation array showed that O-1966 decreased mRNA expression of CD40 ligand and CyclinD3, and increased mRNA expression of Src-like-adaptor 2 (SLA2), Suppressor of Cytokine Signaling 5 (SOCS5), and IL-10. The increase in IL-10 was confirmed by measuring IL-10 protein levels in MLR culture supernatants. Further, an increase in the percentage of regulatory T-cells (Tregs) was observed in MLR cultures. Pretreatment with anti-IL-10 resulted in a partial reversal of the inhibition of proliferation and blocked the increase of Tregs. Additionally, O-1966 treatment caused a dose-related decrease in the expression of CD4 in MLR cultures from wild-type, but not CB2R k/o, mice. These data support the potential of CB2-selective agonists as useful therapeutic agents to prolong graft survival in transplant patients, and strengthens their potential as a new class of immunosuppressive agents with broader applicability.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Anisoles/pharmacology
- Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists/pharmacology
- Coculture Techniques
- Cyclohexanols
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Female
- Interleukin-10/biosynthesis
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred C3H
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Knockout
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/agonists
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/metabolism
- T-Lymphocytes/drug effects
- T-Lymphocytes/metabolism
- T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory/drug effects
- T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca H. Robinson
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140
| | - Joseph J. Meissler
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140
| | - Xiaoxuan Fan
- Manager, Flow Cytometry Facility, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140
| | - Daohai Yu
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140
| | - Martin W. Adler
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
- Department of Pharmacology, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140
| | - Toby K. Eisenstein
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140
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Esain V, Kwan W, Carroll KJ, Cortes M, Liu SY, Frechette GM, Sheward LMV, Nissim S, Goessling W, North TE. Cannabinoid Receptor-2 Regulates Embryonic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Development via Prostaglandin E2 and P-Selectin Activity. Stem Cells 2015; 33:2596-612. [PMID: 25931248 DOI: 10.1002/stem.2044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2014] [Revised: 03/11/2015] [Accepted: 03/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoids (CB) modulate adult hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell (HSPCs) function, however, impact on the production, expansion, or migration of embryonic HSCs is currently uncharacterized. Here, using chemical and genetic approaches targeting CB-signaling in zebrafish, we show that CB receptor (CNR) 2, but not CNR1, regulates embryonic HSC development. During HSC specification in the aorta-gonad-mesonephros (AGM) region, CNR2 stimulation by AM1241 increased runx1;cmyb(+) HSPCs, through heightened proliferation, whereas CNR2 antagonism decreased HSPC number; FACS analysis and absolute HSC counts confirmed and quantified these effects. Epistatic investigations showed AM1241 significantly upregulated PGE2 synthesis in a Ptgs2-dependent manner to increase AGM HSCs. During the phases of HSC production and colonization of secondary niches, AM1241 accelerated migration to the caudal hematopoietic tissue (CHT), the site of embryonic HSC expansion, and the thymus; however these effects occurred independently of PGE2. Using a candidate approach for HSC migration and retention factors, P-selectin was identified as the functional target of CNR2 regulation. Epistatic analyses confirmed migration of HSCs into the CHT and thymus was dependent on CNR2-regulated P-selectin activity. Together, these data suggest CNR2-signaling optimizes the production, expansion, and migration of embryonic HSCs by modulating multiple downstream signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginie Esain
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Wanda Kwan
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kelli J Carroll
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Mauricio Cortes
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sarah Y Liu
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Gregory M Frechette
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lea M V Sheward
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sahar Nissim
- Division of Genetics, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Division of Gastroenterology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Wolfram Goessling
- Division of Genetics, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Division of Gastroenterology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Trista E North
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
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Bellini G, Olivieri AN, Grandone A, Alessio M, Gicchino MF, Nobili B, Perrone L, Maione S, Miraglia del Giudice E, Rossi F. Association between cannabinoid receptor type 2 Q63R variant and oligo/polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Scand J Rheumatol 2015; 44:284-7. [DOI: 10.3109/03009742.2015.1020863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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Effects of Cannabinoids on T-cell Function and Resistance to Infection. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2015; 10:204-16. [PMID: 25876735 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-015-9603-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2015] [Accepted: 03/13/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
This review examines the effects of cannabinoids on immune function, with a focus on effects on T-cells, as well as on resistance to infection. The paper considers the immune modulating capacity of marijuana, of ∆(9)-THC extracted from the marijuana plant, and synthetic cannabinoids. Of particular interest are synthetic compounds that are CB2 receptor (CB2R) selective agonists. As the CB2R is principally expressed on cells of the immune system, agonists that target this receptor, and not CB1 (which is mainly expressed on neurons), have the possibility of altering immune function without psychoactive effects. The overall conclusion of the studies discussed in this review is that cannabinoids that bind to the CB2 receptor, including ∆(9)-THC and CB2 selective agonists are immunosuppressive. The studies provide objective evidence for potentially beneficial effects of marijuana and ∆(9)-THC on the immune system in conditions where it is desirable to dampen immune responses. Evidence is also reviewed supporting the conclusion that these same compounds can sensitize to some infections through their immunosuppressive activities, but not to others. An emerging area of investigation that is reviewed is evidence to support the conclusion that CB2 selective agonists are a new class of immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory compounds that may have exceptional beneficial effects in a variety of conditions, such as autoimmune diseases and graft rejection, where it is desirable to dampen the immune response without psychoactive effects.
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Turcotte C, Chouinard F, Lefebvre JS, Flamand N. Regulation of inflammation by cannabinoids, the endocannabinoids 2-arachidonoyl-glycerol and arachidonoyl-ethanolamide, and their metabolites. J Leukoc Biol 2015; 97:1049-70. [PMID: 25877930 DOI: 10.1189/jlb.3ru0115-021r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2015] [Accepted: 02/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
2-Arachidonoyl-glycerol (2-AG) and arachidonyl-ethanolamide (AEA) are endocannabinoids that have been implicated in many physiologic disorders, including obesity, metabolic syndromes, hepatic diseases, pain, neurologic disorders, and inflammation. Their immunomodulatory effects are numerous and are not always mediated by cannabinoid receptors, reflecting the presence of an arachidonic acid (AA) molecule in their structure, the latter being the precursor of numerous bioactive lipids that are pro- or anti-inflammatory. 2-AG and AEA can thus serve as a source of AA but can also be metabolized by most eicosanoid biosynthetic enzymes, yielding additional lipids. In this regard, enhancing endocannabinoid levels by using endocannabinoid hydrolysis inhibitors is likely to augment the levels of these lipids that could regulate inflammatory cell functions. This review summarizes the metabolic pathways involved in the biosynthesis and metabolism of AEA and 2-AG, as well as the biologic effects of the 2-AG and AEA lipidomes in the regulation of inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Turcotte
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec (IUCPQ), Département de Médecine, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - François Chouinard
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec (IUCPQ), Département de Médecine, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - Julie S Lefebvre
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec (IUCPQ), Département de Médecine, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - Nicolas Flamand
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec (IUCPQ), Département de Médecine, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
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Gamal M, Moawad J, Rashed L, El-Eraky W, Saleh D, Lehmann C, Sharawy N. Evaluation of the effects of Eserine and JWH-133 on brain dysfunction associated with experimental endotoxemia. J Neuroimmunol 2015; 281:9-16. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2015.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2014] [Revised: 11/02/2014] [Accepted: 02/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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