1
|
Pintori N, Mostallino R, Spano E, Orrù V, Piras MG, Castelli MP, De Luca MA. Immune and glial cell alterations in the rat brain after repeated exposure to the synthetic cannabinoid JWH-018. J Neuroimmunol 2024; 389:578325. [PMID: 38432046 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2024.578325] [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: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
The use of synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) poses major psychiatric risks. We previously showed that repeated exposure to the prototypical SCRA JWH-018 induces alterations in dopamine (DA) transmission, abnormalities in the emotional state, and glial cell activation in the mesocorticolimbic DA circuits of rats. Despite growing evidence suggesting the relationship between substance use disorders (SUD) and neuroinflammation, little is known about the impact of SCRAs on the neuroimmune system. Here, we investigated whether repeated JWH-018 exposure altered neuroimmune signaling, which could be linked with previously reported central effects. Adult male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were exposed to JWH-018 (0.25 mg/kg, i.p.) for fourteen consecutive days, and the expression of cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors was measured seven days after treatment discontinuation in the striatum, cortex, and hippocampus. Moreover, microglial (ionized calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1, IBA-1) and astrocyte (glial fibrillary acidic protein, GFAP) activation markers were evaluated in the caudate-putamen (CPu). Repeated JWH-018 exposure induces a perturbation of neuroimmune signaling specifically in the striatum, as shown by increased levels of cytokines [interleukins (IL) -2, -4, -12p70, -13, interferon (IFN) γ], chemokines [macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP) -1α, -3α], and growth factors [macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)], together with increased IBA-1 and GFAP expression in the CPu. JWH-018 exposure induces persistant brain region-specific immune alterations up to seven days after drug discontinuation, which may contribute to the behavioral and neurochemical dysregulations in striatal areas that play a role in the reward-related processes that are frequently impaired in SUD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Pintori
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Rafaela Mostallino
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Enrica Spano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Valeria Orrù
- Institute for Genetic and Biomedical Research, National Research Council (CNR), Lanusei, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Piras
- Institute for Genetic and Biomedical Research, National Research Council (CNR), Lanusei, Italy
| | - Maria Paola Castelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Maria Antonietta De Luca
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Li H, Watkins LR, Wang X. Microglia in neuroimmunopharmacology and drug addiction. Mol Psychiatry 2024:10.1038/s41380-024-02443-6. [PMID: 38302560 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-024-02443-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Drug addiction is a chronic and debilitating disease that is considered a global health problem. Various cell types in the brain are involved in the progression of drug addiction. Recently, the xenobiotic hypothesis has been proposed, which frames substances of abuse as exogenous molecules that are responded to by the immune system as foreign "invaders", thus triggering protective inflammatory responses. An emerging body of literature reveals that microglia, the primary resident immune cells in the brain, play an important role in the progression of addiction. Repeated cycles of drug administration cause a progressive, persistent induction of neuroinflammation by releasing microglial proinflammatory cytokines and their metabolic products. This contributes to drug addiction via modulation of neuronal function. In this review, we focus on the role of microglia in the etiology of drug addiction. Then, we discuss the dynamic states of microglia and the correlative and causal evidence linking microglia to drug addiction. Finally, possible mechanisms of how microglia sense drug-related stimuli and modulate the addiction state and how microglia-targeted anti-inflammation therapies affect addiction are reviewed. Understanding the role of microglia in drug addiction may help develop new treatment strategies to fight this devastating societal challenge.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongyuan Li
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, China
| | - Linda R Watkins
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, and the Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA
| | - Xiaohui Wang
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, China.
- School of Applied Chemistry and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China.
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Rogers JM, Grant I, Marcondes MCG, Morgan EE, Cherner M, Ellis RJ, Letendre SL, Heaton RK, Iudicello JE. Cannabis use may attenuate neurocognitive performance deficits resulting from methamphetamine use disorder. J Int Neuropsychol Soc 2024; 30:84-93. [PMID: 37553288 PMCID: PMC10841263 DOI: 10.1017/s1355617723000292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Methamphetamine and cannabis are two widely used, and frequently co-used, substances with possibly opposing effects on the central nervous system. Evidence of neurocognitive deficits related to use is robust for methamphetamine and mixed for cannabis. Findings regarding their combined use are inconclusive. We aimed to compare neurocognitive performance in people with lifetime cannabis or methamphetamine use disorder diagnoses, or both, relative to people without substance use disorders. METHOD 423 (71.9% male, aged 44.6 ± 14.2 years) participants, stratified by presence or absence of lifetime methamphetamine (M-/M+) and/or cannabis (C-/C+) DSM-IV abuse/dependence, completed a comprehensive neuropsychological, substance use, and psychiatric assessment. Neurocognitive domain T-scores and impairment rates were examined using multiple linear and binomial regression, respectively, controlling for covariates that may impact cognition. RESULTS Globally, M+C+ performed worse than M-C- but better than M+C-. M+C+ outperformed M+C- on measures of verbal fluency, information processing speed, learning, memory, and working memory. M-C+ did not display lower performance than M-C- globally or on any domain measures, and M-C+ even performed better than M-C- on measures of learning, memory, and working memory. CONCLUSIONS Our findings are consistent with prior work showing that methamphetamine use confers risk for worse neurocognitive outcomes, and that cannabis use does not appear to exacerbate and may even reduce this risk. People with a history of cannabis use disorders performed similarly to our nonsubstance using comparison group and outperformed them in some domains. These findings warrant further investigation as to whether cannabis use may ameliorate methamphetamine neurotoxicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey M. Rogers
- San Diego State University/University of California San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Igor Grant
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | - Erin E. Morgan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Mariana Cherner
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Ronald J. Ellis
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Scott L. Letendre
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Robert K. Heaton
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Margiani G, Castelli MP, Pintori N, Frau R, Ennas MG, Pagano Zottola AC, Orrù V, Serra V, Fiorillo E, Fadda P, Marsicano G, De Luca MA. Adolescent self-administration of the synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist JWH-018 induces neurobiological and behavioral alterations in adult male mice. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2022; 239:3083-3102. [PMID: 35943523 PMCID: PMC9481487 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-022-06191-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE The use of synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) is growing among adolescents, posing major medical and psychiatric risks. JWH-018 represents the reference compound of SCRA-containing products. OBJECTIVES This study was performed to evaluate the enduring consequences of adolescent voluntary consumption of JWH-018. METHODS The reinforcing properties of JWH-018 were characterized in male CD1 adolescent mice by intravenous self-administration (IVSA). Afterwards, behavioral, neurochemical, and molecular evaluations were performed at adulthood. RESULTS Adolescent mice acquired operant behavior (lever pressing, Fixed Ratio 1-3; 7.5 µg/kg/inf); this behavior was specifically directed at obtaining JWH-018 since it increased under Progressive Ratio schedule of reinforcement, and was absent in vehicle mice. JWH-018 IVSA was reduced by pretreatment of the CB1-antagonist/inverse agonist AM251. Adolescent exposure to JWH-018 by IVSA increased, at adulthood, both nestlet shredding and marble burying phenotypes, suggesting long-lasting repetitive/compulsive-like behavioral effects. JWH-018 did not affect risk proclivity in the wire-beam bridge task. In adult brains, there was an increase of ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1 (IBA-1) positive cells in the caudate-putamen (CPu) and nucleus accumbens (NAc), along with a decrease of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) immunoreactivity in the CPu. These glial alterations in adult brains were coupled with an increase of the chemokine RANTES and a decrease of the cytokines IL2 and IL13 in the cortex, and an increase of the chemokine MPC1 in the striatum. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests for the first time that male mice self-administer the prototypical SCRA JWH-018 during adolescence. The adolescent voluntary consumption of JWH-018 leads to long-lasting behavioral and neurochemical aberrations along with glia-mediated inflammatory responses in adult brains.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Margiani
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Nicholas Pintori
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Roberto Frau
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,"Guy Everett" Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Ennas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Antonio C Pagano Zottola
- INSERM, U1215 NeuroCentre Magendie, Bordeaux, France.,University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France.,Institut de Biochimie et Génétique Cellulaires, UMR 5095, Bordeaux, France
| | - Valeria Orrù
- Institute for Genetic and Biomedical Research, National Research Council (CNR), Lanusei, Italy
| | - Valentina Serra
- Institute for Genetic and Biomedical Research, National Research Council (CNR), Lanusei, Italy
| | - Edoardo Fiorillo
- Institute for Genetic and Biomedical Research, National Research Council (CNR), Lanusei, Italy
| | - Paola Fadda
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Institute of Neuroscience-Cagliari, National Research Council (CNR), Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giovanni Marsicano
- INSERM, U1215 NeuroCentre Magendie, Bordeaux, France.,University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Methamphetamine induced neurotoxic diseases, molecular mechanism, and current treatment strategies. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 154:113591. [PMID: 36007276 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113591] [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: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Methamphetamine (MA) is a extremely addictive psychostimulant drug with a significant abuse potential. Long-term MA exposure can induce neurotoxic effects through oxidative stress, mitochondrial functional impairment, endoplasmic reticulum stress, the activation of astrocytes and microglial cells, axonal transport barriers, autophagy, and apoptosis. However, the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying MA-induced neurotoxicity remain unclear. MA abuse increases the chances of developing neurotoxic conditions such as Parkinson's disease (PD), Alzheimer's disease (AD) and other neurotoxic diseases. MA increases the risk of PD by increasing the expression of alpha-synuclein (ASYN). Furthermore, MA abuse is linked to high chances of developing AD and subsequent neurodegeneration due to biological variations in the brain region or genetic and epigenetic variations. To date, there is no Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved therapy for MA-induced neurotoxicity, although many studies are being conducted to develop effective therapeutic strategies. Most current studies are now focused on developing therapies to diminish the neurotoxic effects of MA, based on the underlying mechanism of neurotoxicity. This review article highlights current research on several therapeutic techniques targeting multiple pathways to reduce the neurotoxic effects of MA in the brain, as well as the putative mechanism of MA-induced neurotoxicity.
Collapse
|
6
|
Kermanian F, Seghatoleslam M, Mahakizadeh S. MDMA related neuro-inflammation and adenosine receptors. Neurochem Int 2022; 153:105275. [PMID: 34990730 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2021.105275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 12/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is a world-wide abused psychostimulant, which has the neurotoxic effects on dopaminergic and serotonergic neurons in both rodents and non-human primates. Adenosine acts as a neurotransmitter in the brain through the activation of four specific G-protein-coupled receptors and it acts as a neuromodulator of dopamine neurotransmission. Recent studies suggest that stimulation of adenosine receptors oppose many behavioral effects of methamphetamines. This review summarizes the specific cellular mechanisms involved in MDMA neuroinflammatory effects, along with the protective effects of adenosine receptors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Kermanian
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Seghatoleslam
- Evaluative Clinical Sciences, Sunnybrook Research Institute, University of Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Simin Mahakizadeh
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Wang X, Tong B, Hui R, Hou C, Zhang Z, Zhang L, Xie B, Ni Z, Cong B, Ma C, Wen D. The Role of Hyperthermia in Methamphetamine-Induced Depression-Like Behaviors: Protective Effects of Coral Calcium Hydride. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 14:808807. [PMID: 35058751 PMCID: PMC8764150 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.808807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Methamphetamine (METH) abuse causes irreversible damage to the central nervous system and leads to psychiatric symptoms including depression. Notably, METH-induced hyperthermia is a crucial factor in the development of these symptoms, as it aggravates METH-induced neurotoxicity. However, the role of hyperthermia in METH-induced depression-like behaviors needs to be clarified. In the present study, we treated mice with different doses of METH under normal (NAT) or high ambient temperatures (HAT). We found that HAT promoted hyperthermia after METH treatment and played a key role in METH-induced depression-like behaviors in mice. Intriguingly, chronic METH exposure (10 mg/kg, 7 or 14 days) or administration of an escalating-dose (2 ∼ 15 mg/kg, 3 days) of METH under NAT failed to induce depression-like behaviors. However, HAT aggravated METH-induced damage of hippocampal synaptic plasticity, reaction to oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation. Molecular hydrogen acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent and has been shown to have preventive and therapeutic applicability in a wide range of diseases. Coral calcium hydride (CCH) is a newly identified hydrogen-rich powder which produces hydrogen gas gradually when exposed to water. Herein, we found that CCH pretreatment significantly attenuated METH-induced hyperthermia, and administration of CCH after METH exposure also inhibited METH-induced depression-like behaviors and reduced the hippocampal synaptic plasticity damage. Moreover, CCH effectively reduced the activity of lactate dehydrogenase and decreased malondialdehyde, TNF-α and IL-6 generation in hippocampus. These results suggest that CCH is an efficient hydrogen-rich agent, which has a potential therapeutic applicability in the treatment of METH abusers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xintao Wang
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Shijiazhuang, China
- Research Unit of Digestive Tract Microecosystem Pharmacology and Toxicology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Bonan Tong
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Shijiazhuang, China
- Research Unit of Digestive Tract Microecosystem Pharmacology and Toxicology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Rongji Hui
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Shijiazhuang, China
- Research Unit of Digestive Tract Microecosystem Pharmacology and Toxicology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Congcong Hou
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Shijiazhuang, China
- Research Unit of Digestive Tract Microecosystem Pharmacology and Toxicology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Zilu Zhang
- The First Clinical Medical College of Peking University Health Science Center, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Ludi Zhang
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Shijiazhuang, China
- Research Unit of Digestive Tract Microecosystem Pharmacology and Toxicology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Bing Xie
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Shijiazhuang, China
- Research Unit of Digestive Tract Microecosystem Pharmacology and Toxicology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Zhiyu Ni
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, China
| | - Bin Cong
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Shijiazhuang, China
- Research Unit of Digestive Tract Microecosystem Pharmacology and Toxicology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Chunling Ma
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Shijiazhuang, China
- Research Unit of Digestive Tract Microecosystem Pharmacology and Toxicology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shijiazhuang, China
- *Correspondence: Chunling Ma,
| | - Di Wen
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Shijiazhuang, China
- Research Unit of Digestive Tract Microecosystem Pharmacology and Toxicology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shijiazhuang, China
- Di Wen,
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Daldegan-Bueno D, Maia LO, Glass M, Jutras-Aswad D, Fischer B. Co-exposure of cannabinoids with amphetamines and biological, behavioural and health outcomes: a scoping review of animal and human studies. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2022; 239:1211-1230. [PMID: 34613429 PMCID: PMC9110457 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-021-05960-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE The growing prevalence of psychostimulant (including amphetamine) use and associated health harms, with limited treatment options, present a global challenge. There is an increasing availability and medical applications of cannabinoids, and growing interest in their therapeutic potential for addictive disorders. OBJECTIVES The objective of this study is to review available data regarding cannabis/cannabinoid co-use or exposure on amphetamine-related outcomes. METHODS Towards the present scoping review, we systematically searched four databases (Medline, Web-of-Science, CINAHL Plus and PsycInfo) using cannabis/cannabinoid and amphetamine text-terms identifying peer-reviewed, English-language studies published in 2000-2020 involving multiple methods approaches among both human and animal study samples, assessing the association of co-use/administration of cannabis/cannabinoids products with non-medical amphetamines on biological, behavioural or health outcomes. RESULTS Twenty-five articles were included. Pre-clinical studies (n = 15) found mostly protective effects of single or repeated cannabinoids administration on rodents in amphetamine addiction models, amphetamine-induced models of human mental disorders (e.g. schizophrenia) and amphetamine-induced neurotoxicity. Human studies (n = 10) were more heterogeneously designed (e.g. cross-sectional, case-control, longitudinal) and assessed natural ongoing cannabis and methamphetamine use or dependence, showing mostly enhanced harms in a diversity of outcomes (e.g. mental health, methamphetamine use, cognition). CONCLUSIONS While human studies suggest cannabis use as an adverse risk factor among non-medical amphetamine users, pre-clinical studies suggest therapeutic potential of cannabinoids, especially cannabidiol, to alleviate amphetamine addiction and harms, including treatment outcomes. Given increasing psychostimulant harms but lack of care options, rigorous, high-quality design studies should aim to translate and investigate pre-clinical study results for potential therapeutic benefits of cannabinoids for amphetamine use/abuse in human subjects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dimitri Daldegan-Bueno
- Schools of Population Health and Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, 85 Park Rd, Grafton, Auckland 1023 New Zealand
| | - Lucas O. Maia
- Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health & Addiction, Simon Fraser University, 515 W. Hastings Street,, Vancouver, BC V6B 5K3 Canada
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, PO Box 56, Dunedin, 9054 Otago New Zealand
| | - Didier Jutras-Aswad
- Centre de Recherche, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Universite de Montreal (CHUM), 1051 Rue Sanguinet, Montréal, QC H2X 3E4 Canada ,Department of Psychiatry and Addiction, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Pavillon Roger-Gaudry, 2900 Edouard Montpetit Blvd, Montreal, QC H3T 1J4 Canada
| | - Benedikt Fischer
- Schools of Population Health and Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, 85 Park Rd, Grafton, Auckland, 1023, New Zealand. .,Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health & Addiction, Simon Fraser University, 515 W. Hastings Street,, Vancouver, BC, V6B 5K3, Canada. .,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, 250 College Street, 8Th Floor, Toronto, ON, M5T 1R8, Canada. .,Department of Psychiatry, Federal University of Sao Paulo (UNIFESP), R. Dr. Ovídio Pires de Campos, Sao Paulo, 785 05403-903, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Pintori N, Castelli MP, Miliano C, Simola N, Fadda P, Fattore L, Scherma M, Ennas MG, Mostallino R, Flore G, De Felice M, Sagheddu C, Pistis M, Di Chiara G, De Luca MA. Repeated exposure to JWH-018 induces adaptive changes in the mesolimbic and mesocortical dopaminergic pathways, glial cells alterations, and behavioural correlates. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 178:3476-3497. [PMID: 33837969 PMCID: PMC8457172 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Purpose Spice/K2 herbal mixtures, containing synthetic cannabinoids such as JWH‐018, have been marketed as marijuana surrogates since 2004. JWH‐018 has cannabinoid CB1 receptor‐dependent reinforcing properties and acutely increases dopaminergic transmission selectively in the NAc shell. Here, we tested the hypothesis that repeated administration of JWH‐018 (i) modulates behaviour, (ii) affects dopaminergic transmission and its responsiveness to motivational stimuli, and (iii) is associated with a neuroinflammatory phenotype. Experimental Approach Rats were administered with JWH‐018 once a day for 14 consecutive days. We then performed behavioural, electrophysiological, and neurochemical evaluation at multiple time points after drug discontinuation. Key Results Repeated JWH‐018 exposure (i) induced anxious and aversive behaviours, transitory attentional deficits, and withdrawal signs; (ii) decreased spontaneous activity and number of dopamine neurons in the VTA; and (iii) reduced stimulation of dopaminergic transmission in the NAc shell while potentiating that in the NAc core, in response to acute JWH‐018 challenge. Moreover, (iv) we observed a decreased dopamine sensitivity in the NAc shell and core, but not in the mPFC, to a first chocolate exposure; conversely, after a second exposure, dialysate dopamine fully increased in the NAc shell and core but not in the mPFC. Finally, selected dopamine brain areas showed (v) astrogliosis (mPFC, NAc shell and core, VTA), microgliosis (NAc shell and core), and downregulation of CB1 receptors (mPFC, NAc shell and core). Conclusion and Implications Repeated exposure to JWH‐018 may provide a useful model to clarify the detrimental effects of recurring use of Spice/K2 drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Pintori
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Cristina Miliano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,School of Neuroscience, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Nicola Simola
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Paola Fadda
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Institute of Neuroscience-Cagliari, National Research Council, Rome, Italy
| | - Liana Fattore
- Institute of Neuroscience-Cagliari, National Research Council, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Scherma
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Ennas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Rafaela Mostallino
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giovanna Flore
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Marta De Felice
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Claudia Sagheddu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Marco Pistis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Institute of Neuroscience-Cagliari, National Research Council, Rome, Italy
| | - Gaetano Di Chiara
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Institute of Neuroscience-Cagliari, National Research Council, Rome, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Casanovas M, Reyes-Resina I, Lillo A, Lillo J, López-Arnau R, Camarasa J, Escubedo E, Navarro G, Franco R. Methamphetamine Blocks Adenosine A 2A Receptor Activation via Sigma 1 and Cannabinoid CB 1 Receptors. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:2743. [PMID: 33803075 PMCID: PMC7963146 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Methamphetamine is, worldwide, one of the most consumed drugs of abuse. One important side effect is neurodegeneration leading to a decrease in life expectancy. The aim of this paper was to check whether the drug affects one of the receptors involved in neurodegeneration/neuroprotection events, namely the adenosine A2A receptor (A2AR). First, we noticed that methamphetamine does not affect A2A functionality if the receptor is expressed in a heterologous system. However, A2AR becomes sensitive to the drug upon complexes formation with the cannabinoid CB1 receptor (CB1R) and the sigma 1 receptor (σ1R). Signaling via both adenosine A2AR and cannabinoid CB1R was affected by methamphetamine in cells co-expressing the two receptors. In striatal primary cultures, the A2AR-CB1R heteromer complex was detected and methamphetamine not only altered its expression but completely blocked the A2AR- and the CB1R-mediated activation of the mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. In conclusion, methamphetamine, with the participation of σ1R, alters the expression and function of two interacting receptors, A2AR, which is a therapeutic target for neuroprotection, and CB1R, which is the most abundant G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) in the brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mireia Casanovas
- Biology School, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (M.C.); (I.R.-R.); (J.L.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CiberNed), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28031 Madrid, Spain
| | - Irene Reyes-Resina
- Biology School, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (M.C.); (I.R.-R.); (J.L.)
| | - Alejandro Lillo
- Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Jaume Lillo
- Biology School, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (M.C.); (I.R.-R.); (J.L.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CiberNed), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28031 Madrid, Spain
| | - Raul López-Arnau
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Institute of Biomedicine (IBUB), University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (R.L.-A.); (J.C.); (E.E.)
| | - Jorge Camarasa
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Institute of Biomedicine (IBUB), University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (R.L.-A.); (J.C.); (E.E.)
| | - Elena Escubedo
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Institute of Biomedicine (IBUB), University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (R.L.-A.); (J.C.); (E.E.)
| | - Gemma Navarro
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CiberNed), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28031 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Rafael Franco
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CiberNed), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28031 Madrid, Spain
- Chemistry School, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Majdi F, Taheri F, Salehi P, Motaghinejad M, Safari S. Cannabinoids Δ 9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol may be effective against methamphetamine induced mitochondrial dysfunction and inflammation by modulation of Toll-like type-4(Toll-like 4) receptors and NF-κB signaling. Med Hypotheses 2019; 133:109371. [PMID: 31465975 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2019.109371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2019] [Accepted: 08/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The neurodegeneration, neuro-inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction which occur by methamphetamine (METH) abuse or administration are serious and motivation therapeutic approaches for inhibition of these types of neurodegeneration. As we know, METH through Toll-like receptors (TLRs), specially type 4, and NF-κB signaling pathway causes neuro-inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction. Neuroprotective approach for management of METH-induced neurodegeneration, inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction, through a novel neuroprotective agent is continuously being superior to any kind of other therapeutic strategy. Therefore, the clarification, introduction and development of efficacious novel neuroprotective agent are demanded. During recent years, using new neuroprotective agent with therapeutic probability for treatment of METH-induced neuro-inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction has been astoundingly increased. Previous studies have stated the neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory roles ofcannabinoid derivate such as cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) in multiple neurodegenerative events and diseases. According to literature cannabinoid derivate, by inhibition of TLR4 and activation of NF-κB signaling pathway, exerts their anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects and cause mitochondrial biogenesis. Thus we hypothesized that by using cannabinoids in METH dependent subject it would provide neuroprotection against METH-induced neurodegeneration, neuro-inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction and probably can manage sequels of METH-induced neurochemical abuses via modulation of TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway. In this article, we tried to discuss our hypothesis regarding the possible role of CBD and Δ9-THC, as a potent neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory agents, in inhibition or treatment of METH-induced neurodegeneration, neuro-inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction through its effects on TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Majdi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences Branch, Islamic Azad University (IUAPS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Fereshteh Taheri
- Research Center for Addiction and Risky Behaviors (ReCARB), Iran Psychiatric Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pegah Salehi
- Research Center for Addiction and Risky Behaviors (ReCARB), Iran Psychiatric Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Majid Motaghinejad
- Research Center for Addiction and Risky Behaviors (ReCARB), Iran Psychiatric Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Sepideh Safari
- Razi Drug Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Canseco-Alba A, Schanz N, Sanabria B, Zhao J, Lin Z, Liu QR, Onaivi ES. Behavioral effects of psychostimulants in mutant mice with cell-type specific deletion of CB2 cannabinoid receptors in dopamine neurons. Behav Brain Res 2019; 360:286-297. [PMID: 30508607 PMCID: PMC6327973 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2018.11.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2018] [Revised: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 11/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Activation of the endocannabinoid system modulate dopaminergic pathways that are involved in the effects of psychostimulants including amphetamine, cocaine, nicotine and other drugs of abuse. Genetic deletion or pharmacological activation of CB2 cannabinoid receptor is involved in the modulation of the effects of psychostimulants and their rewarding properties. Here we report on the behavioral effects of psychostimulants in DAT-Cnr2 conditional knockout (cKO) mice with selective deletion of type 2 cannabinoid receptors in dopamine neurons. There was enhanced psychostimulant induced hyperactivity in DAT-Cnr2 cKO mice, but the psychostimulant-induced sensitization was absent in DAT-Cnr2 cKO compared to the WT mice. Intriguingly, lower doses of amphetamine reduced locomotor activity of the DAT-Cnr2 cKO mice. While cocaine, amphetamine and methamphetamine produced robust conditioned place preference (CPP) in both DAT-Cnr2 cKO and WT mice, nicotine at the dose used induced CPP only in the WT but not in the DAT-Cn2 cKO mice. However, pre-treatment with the CB2R selective agonist JWH133, blocked cocaine and nicotine induced CPP in the WT mice. The deletion of CB2Rs in dopamine neurons modified the levels of tyrosine hydroxylase, and reduced the expression of dopamine transporter gene expression in DAT-Cnr2 cKO midbrain region. Taken together, our data suggest that CB2Rs play a role in the modulation of dopamine-related effects of psychostimulants and could be exploited as therapeutic target in psychostimulant addiction and other psychiatric disorders associated with dopamine dysregulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Canseco-Alba
- Department of Biology, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ, 07470, USA
| | - Norman Schanz
- Department of Biology, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ, 07470, USA
| | - Branden Sanabria
- Department of Biology, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ, 07470, USA
| | - Juan Zhao
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Psychiatric Neurogenomics, Division of Alcohol and Drug Abuse, and Mailman Neuroscience Research Center, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - Zhicheng Lin
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Psychiatric Neurogenomics, Division of Alcohol and Drug Abuse, and Mailman Neuroscience Research Center, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - Qing-Rong Liu
- Laboratory of Clinical Investigation, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Emmanuel S Onaivi
- Department of Biology, William Paterson University, Wayne, NJ, 07470, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Bath salts and polyconsumption: in search of drug-drug interactions. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2019; 236:1001-1014. [PMID: 30911791 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-019-05213-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2018] [Accepted: 03/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND RATIONALE Polydrug use is a widespread phenomenon, especially among adolescents and young adults. Synthetic cathinones are frequently consumed in combination with other drugs of abuse. However, there is very little information regarding the consequences of this specific consumption pattern. OBJECTIVES The aim of this review is to introduce this topic and highlight the gaps in the existing literature. In three different sections, we focus on specific interactions of synthetic cathinones with alcohol, cannabinoids, and the stimulants nicotine and cocaine. We then dedicate a section to the existence of sex and gender differences in the effects of synthetic cathinones and the long-term psychophysiological consequences of adolescent and prenatal exposure to these drugs. MAJOR FINDINGS Epidemiological studies, case reports, and results obtained in animal models point to the existence of pharmacological and pharmacokinetic interactions between synthetic cathinones and other drugs of abuse. This pattern of polyconsumption can cause the potentiation of negative effects, and the dissociation between objective and subjective effects can increase the combined use of the drugs and the risk of toxicity leading to serious health problems. Certain animal studies indicate a higher vulnerability and effect of cathinones in females. In humans, most of the users are men and case reports show long-term psychotic symptoms after repeated use. CONCLUSIONS The co-use of synthetic cathinones and the other drugs of abuse analyzed indicates potentiation of diverse effects including dependence and addiction, neurotoxicity, and impaired cognition and emotional responses. The motivations for and effects of synthetic cathinone use appear to be influenced by sex/gender. The long-term consequences of their use by adolescents and pregnant women deserve further investigation.
Collapse
|
14
|
Mitchell CM, El Jordi O, Yamamoto BK. Inflammatory mechanisms of abused drugs. ROLE OF INFLAMMATION IN ENVIRONMENTAL NEUROTOXICITY 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.ant.2018.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
|
15
|
Costa G, Morelli M, Simola N. Repeated Administration of 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) Elevates the Levels of Neuronal Nitric Oxide Synthase in the Nigrostriatal System: Possible Relevance to Neurotoxicity. Neurotox Res 2018; 34:763-768. [PMID: 29629511 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-018-9892-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2017] [Revised: 03/01/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have consistently demonstrated that the amphetamine-related drug 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) induces dopaminergic damage in the mouse brain, and that this effect is most marked in the nigrostriatal system. Moreover, it has been suggested that the overproduction of nitric oxide (NO) may participate in the dopaminergic damage induced by MDMA. To further elucidate this issue, we evaluated the levels of the enzyme nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), which catalyzes the production of NO, in mice treated with regimens of MDMA that induce progressive and persistent neurotoxicity in the dopaminergic nigrostriatal system. Mice received 14, 28, or 36 administrations of MDMA (10 mg/kg i.p.), twice a day/twice a week, and were sacrificed at different time-points after treatment discontinuation. Thereafter, the number of nNOS-positive neurons was quantified by immunohistochemistry in the caudate-putamen (CPu) and substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc). MDMA elevated the numbers of nNOS-positive neurons in the CPu of mice that received 28 or 36 drug administrations. This effect was still detectable at 3 months after treatment discontinuation. Moreover, MDMA elevated the numbers of nNOS-positive neurons in the SNc. However, this effect occurred only in mice that received 28 drug administrations and were sacrificed 3 days after treatment discontinuation. These results are in line with the hypothesis that activation of the NO cascade participates in the toxic effects induced by MDMA in the dopaminergic nigrostriatal system. Moreover, they suggest that activation of the NO cascade induces toxic effects that are more marked in striatal terminals, compared with nigral neurons.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Costa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuropsychopharmacology, University of Cagliari, Building A, Monserrato University Campus, SP 8, Km 0.700, 09042, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Micaela Morelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuropsychopharmacology, University of Cagliari, Building A, Monserrato University Campus, SP 8, Km 0.700, 09042, Monserrato, Italy. .,National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Neuroscience Institute, Cagliari, Italy. .,National Institute of Neuroscience (INN), University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Nicola Simola
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuropsychopharmacology, University of Cagliari, Building A, Monserrato University Campus, SP 8, Km 0.700, 09042, Monserrato, Italy.,National Institute of Neuroscience (INN), University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Frau L, Simola N, Porceddu PF, Morelli M. Effect of crowding, temperature and age on glia activation and dopaminergic neurotoxicity induced by MDMA in the mouse brain. Neurotoxicology 2016; 56:127-138. [PMID: 27451954 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2016.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2016] [Revised: 07/15/2016] [Accepted: 07/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
3,4-methylenedyoxymethamphetamine (MDMA or "ecstasy"), a recreational drug of abuse, can induce glia activation and dopaminergic neurotoxicity. Since MDMA is often consumed in crowded environments featuring high temperatures, we studied how these factors influenced glia activation and dopaminergic neurotoxicity induced by MDMA. C57BL/6J adolescent (4 weeks old) and adult (12 weeks old) mice received MDMA (4×20mg/kg) in different conditions: 1) while kept 1, 5, or 10×cage at room temperature (21°C); 2) while kept 5×cage at either room (21°C) or high (27°C) temperature. After the last MDMA administration, immunohistochemistry was performed in the caudate-putamen for CD11b and GFAP, to mark microglia and astroglia, and in the substantia nigra pars compacta for tyrosine hydroxylase, to mark dopaminergic neurons. MDMA induced glia activation and dopaminergic neurotoxicity, compared with vehicle administration. Crowding (5 or 10 mice×cage) amplified MDMA-induced glia activation (in adult and adolescent mice) and dopaminergic neurotoxicity (in adolescent mice). Conversely, exposure to a high environmental temperature (27°C) potentiated MDMA-induced glia activation in adult and adolescent mice kept 5×cage, but not dopaminergic neurotoxicity. Crowding and exposure to a high environmental temperature amplified MDMA-induced hyperthermia, and a positive correlation between body temperature and activation of either microglia or astroglia was found in adult and adolescent mice. These results provide further evidence that the administration setting influences the noxious effects of MDMA in the mouse brain. However, while crowding amplifies both glia activation and dopaminergic neurotoxicity, a high environmental temperature exacerbates glia activation only.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Frau
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuropsychopharmacology, University of Cagliari, Via Ospedale 72, 09124, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Nicola Simola
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuropsychopharmacology, University of Cagliari, Via Ospedale 72, 09124, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Pier Francesca Porceddu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuropsychopharmacology, University of Cagliari, Via Ospedale 72, 09124, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Micaela Morelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuropsychopharmacology, University of Cagliari, Via Ospedale 72, 09124, Cagliari, Italy; CNR, Institute of Neuroscience, Cagliari, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Frau L, Costa G, Porceddu PF, Khairnar A, Castelli MP, Ennas MG, Madeddu C, Wardas J, Morelli M. Influence of caffeine on 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine-induced dopaminergic neuron degeneration and neuroinflammation is age-dependent. J Neurochem 2015; 136:148-62. [DOI: 10.1111/jnc.13377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2015] [Revised: 09/02/2015] [Accepted: 09/03/2015] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Frau
- Department of Biomedical Sciences; Section of Neuropsychopharmacology; University of Cagliari; Cagliari Italy
| | - Giulia Costa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences; Section of Neuropsychopharmacology; University of Cagliari; Cagliari Italy
| | - Pier Francesca Porceddu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences; Section of Neuropsychopharmacology; University of Cagliari; Cagliari Italy
| | - Amit Khairnar
- Applied Neuroscience Research Group; CEITEC - Central European Institute of Technology; Masaryk University; Brno Czech Republic
| | - Maria Paola Castelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences; Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology; University of Cagliari; Monserrato (CA) Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Ennas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences; Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology; University of Cagliari; Monserrato (CA) Italy
| | - Camilla Madeddu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences; Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology; University of Cagliari; Monserrato (CA) Italy
| | - Jadwiga Wardas
- Department of Neuropsychopharmacology; Institute of Pharmacology; Polish Academy of Sciences; Krakow Poland
| | - Micaela Morelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences; Section of Neuropsychopharmacology; University of Cagliari; Cagliari Italy
- CNR; Institute of Neuroscience; Cagliari Italy
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Borgmann K, Ghorpade A. HIV-1, methamphetamine and astrocytes at neuroinflammatory Crossroads. Front Microbiol 2015; 6:1143. [PMID: 26579077 PMCID: PMC4621459 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2015.01143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2015] [Accepted: 10/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
As a popular psychostimulant, methamphetamine (METH) use leads to long-lasting, strong euphoric effects. While METH abuse is common in the general population, between 10 and 15% of human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) patients report having abused METH. METH exacerbates the severity and onset of HIV-1-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) through direct and indirect mechanisms. Repetitive METH use impedes adherence to antiretroviral drug regimens, increasing the likelihood of HIV-1 disease progression toward AIDS. METH exposure also directly affects both innate and adaptive immunity, altering lymphocyte numbers and activity, cytokine signaling, phagocytic function and infiltration through the blood brain barrier. Further, METH triggers the dopamine reward pathway and leads to impaired neuronal activity and direct toxicity. Concurrently, METH and HIV-1 alter the neuroimmune balance and induce neuroinflammation, which modulates a wide range of brain functions including neuronal signaling and activity, glial activation, viral infection, oxidative stress, and excitotoxicity. Pathologically, reactive gliosis is a hallmark of both HIV-1- and METH-associated neuroinflammation. Significant commonality exists in the neurotoxic mechanisms for both METH and HAND; however, the pathways dysregulated in astroglia during METH exposure are less clear. Thus, this review highlights alterations in astrocyte intracellular signaling pathways, gene expression and function during METH and HIV-1 comorbidity, with special emphasis on HAND-associated neuroinflammation. Importantly, this review carefully evaluates interventions targeting astrocytes in HAND and METH as potential novel therapeutic approaches. This comprehensive overview indicates, without a doubt, that during HIV-1 infection and METH abuse, a complex dialog between all neural cells is orchestrated through astrocyte regulated neuroinflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen Borgmann
- Department of Cell Biology and Immunology, University of North Texas Health Science Center Fort Worth, TX, USA
| | - Anuja Ghorpade
- Department of Cell Biology and Immunology, University of North Texas Health Science Center Fort Worth, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|