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De Meij J, Alfanek Z, Morel L, Decoeur F, Leyrolle Q, Picard K, Carrier M, Aubert A, Séré A, Lucas C, Laforest G, Helbling JC, Tremblay ME, Cota D, Moisan MP, Marsicano G, Layé S, Nadjar A. Microglial Cannabinoid Type 1 Receptor Regulates Brain Inflammation in a Sex-Specific Manner. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2021; 6:488-507. [PMID: 34591647 DOI: 10.1089/can.2020.0170] [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] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Neuroinflammation is a key feature shared by most, if not all, neuropathologies. It involves complex biological processes that act as a protective mechanism to fight against the injurious stimuli, but it can lead to tissue damage if self-perpetuating. In this context, microglia, the main cellular actor of neuroinflammation in the brain, are seen as a double-edged sword. By phagocyting neuronal debris, these cells can not only provide tissue repair but can also contribute to neuronal damage by releasing harmful substances, including inflammatory cytokines. The mechanisms guiding these apparent opposing actions are poorly known. The endocannabinoid system modulates the release of inflammatory factors such as cytokines and could represent a functional link between microglia and neuroinflammatory processes. According to transcriptomic databases and in vitro studies, microglia, the main source of cytokines in pathological conditions, express the cannabinoid type 1 receptor (CB1R). Methods: We thus developed a conditional mouse model of CB1R deletion specifically in microglia, which was subjected to an immune challenge (peripheral lipopolysaccharide injection). Results: Our results reveal that microglial CB1R differentially controls sickness behavior in males and females. Conclusion: These findings add to the comprehension of neuroinflammatory processes and might be of great interest for future studies aimed at developing therapeutic strategies for brain disorders with higher prevalence in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia De Meij
- NutriNeuro, INRAE, Bordeaux INP, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Zain Alfanek
- NutriNeuro, INRAE, Bordeaux INP, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Lydie Morel
- NutriNeuro, INRAE, Bordeaux INP, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Fanny Decoeur
- NutriNeuro, INRAE, Bordeaux INP, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Quentin Leyrolle
- NutriNeuro, INRAE, Bordeaux INP, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Katherine Picard
- Axe Neurosciences, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec City, Canada.,Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, Canada.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Université Laval, Québec City, Canada
| | - Micael Carrier
- Axe Neurosciences, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec City, Canada.,Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, Canada
| | - Agnes Aubert
- NutriNeuro, INRAE, Bordeaux INP, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Alexandra Séré
- NutriNeuro, INRAE, Bordeaux INP, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Céline Lucas
- NutriNeuro, INRAE, Bordeaux INP, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Gerald Laforest
- NutriNeuro, INRAE, Bordeaux INP, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | | | - Marie-Eve Tremblay
- Axe Neurosciences, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec City, Canada.,Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, Canada.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Université Laval, Québec City, Canada.,Neurology and Neurosurgery Department, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Daniela Cota
- INSERM, Neurocentre Magendie, Physiopathologie de la Plasticité Neuronale, Bordeaux, France
| | | | - Giovanni Marsicano
- INSERM, Neurocentre Magendie, Physiopathologie de la Plasticité Neuronale, Bordeaux, France
| | - Sophie Layé
- NutriNeuro, INRAE, Bordeaux INP, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Agnès Nadjar
- NutriNeuro, INRAE, Bordeaux INP, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France.,INSERM, Neurocentre Magendie, Physiopathologie de la Plasticité Neuronale, Bordeaux, France
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Heinbockel T, Bhatia-Dey N, Shields VDC. Endocannabinoid-mediated neuromodulation in the main olfactory bulb at the interface of environmental stimuli and central neural processing. Eur J Neurosci 2021; 55:1002-1014. [PMID: 33724578 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Revised: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The olfactory system has become an important functional gateway to understand and analyze neuromodulation since olfactory dysfunction and deficits have emerged as prodromal and, at other times, as first symptoms of many of neurodegenerative, neuropsychiatric and communication disorders. Considering olfactory dysfunction as outcome of altered, damaged and/or inefficient olfactory processing, in the current review, we analyze how olfactory processing interacts with the endocannabinoid signaling system. In the human body, endocannabinoid synthesis is a natural and on-demand response to a wide range of physiological and environmental stimuli. Our current understanding of the response dynamics of the endocannabinoid system is based in large part on research advances in limbic system areas, such as the hippocampus and the amygdala. Functional interactions of this signaling system with olfactory processing and associated pathways are just emerging but appear to grow rapidly with multidimensional approaches. Recent work analyzing the crystal structure of endocannabinoid receptors bound to their agonists in a signaling complex has opened avenues for developing specific therapeutic drugs that could help with neuroinflammation, neurodegeneration, and alleviation/reduction of pain. We discuss the role of endocannabinoids as signaling molecules in the olfactory system and the relevance of the endocannabinoid system for synaptic plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Heinbockel
- Department of Anatomy, Howard University College of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Naina Bhatia-Dey
- Department of Anatomy, Howard University College of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Vonnie D C Shields
- Biological Sciences Department, Fisher College of Science and Mathematics, Towson University, Towson, MD, USA
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Sanjari Moghaddam H, Zare-Shahabadi A, Rahmani F, Rezaei N. Neurotransmission systems in Parkinson’s disease. Rev Neurosci 2017; 28:509-536. [DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2016-0068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2016] [Accepted: 01/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
AbstractParkinson’s disease (PD) is histologically characterized by the accumulation of α-synuclein particles, known as Lewy bodies. The second most common neurodegenerative disorder, PD is widely known because of the typical motor manifestations of active tremor, rigidity, and postural instability, while several prodromal non-motor symptoms including REM sleep behavior disorders, depression, autonomic disturbances, and cognitive decline are being more extensively recognized. Motor symptoms most commonly arise from synucleinopathy of nigrostriatal pathway. Glutamatergic, γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic, cholinergic, serotoninergic, and endocannabinoid neurotransmission systems are not spared from the global cerebral neurodegenerative assault. Wide intrabasal and extrabasal of the basal ganglia provide enough justification to evaluate network circuits disturbance of these neurotransmission systems in PD. In this comprehensive review, English literature in PubMed, Science direct, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases were perused. Characteristics of dopaminergic and non-dopaminergic systems, disturbance of these neurotransmitter systems in the pathophysiology of PD, and their treatment applications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hossein Sanjari Moghaddam
- Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children’s Medical Center Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Dr Qarib St, Keshavarz Blvd, Tehran 14194, Iran
- NeuroImmunology Research Association (NIRA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran 1419783151, Iran
- Student Scientific Research Center (SSRC), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ameneh Zare-Shahabadi
- Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children’s Medical Center Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Dr Qarib St, Keshavarz Blvd, Tehran 14194, Iran
- NeuroImmunology Research Association (NIRA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran 1419783151, Iran
- Psychiatry and Psychology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Rahmani
- Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children’s Medical Center Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Dr Qarib St, Keshavarz Blvd, Tehran 14194, Iran
- NeuroImaging Network (NIN), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Nima Rezaei
- Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children’s Medical Center Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Dr Qarib St, Keshavarz Blvd, Tehran 14194, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1419783151, Iran
- Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Boston, MA, USA
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Javed H, Azimullah S, Haque ME, Ojha SK. Cannabinoid Type 2 (CB2) Receptors Activation Protects against Oxidative Stress and Neuroinflammation Associated Dopaminergic Neurodegeneration in Rotenone Model of Parkinson's Disease. Front Neurosci 2016; 10:321. [PMID: 27531971 PMCID: PMC4969295 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2016.00321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2016] [Accepted: 06/27/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The cannabinoid type two receptors (CB2), an important component of the endocannabinoid system, have recently emerged as neuromodulators and therapeutic targets for neurodegenerative diseases including Parkinson's disease (PD). The downregulation of CB2 receptors has been reported in the brains of PD patients. Therefore, both the activation and the upregulation of the CB2 receptors are believed to protect against the neurodegenerative changes in PD. In the present study, we investigated the CB2 receptor-mediated neuroprotective effect of β-caryophyllene (BCP), a naturally occurring CB2 receptor agonist, in, a clinically relevant, rotenone (ROT)-induced animal model of PD. ROT (2.5 mg/kg BW) was injected intraperitoneally (i.p.) once daily for 4 weeks to induce PD in male Wistar rats. ROT injections induced a significant loss of dopaminergic (DA) neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) and DA striatal fibers, following activation of glial cells (astrocytes and microglia). ROT also caused oxidative injury evidenced by the loss of antioxidant enzymes and increased nitrite levels, and induction of proinflammatory cytokines: IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α, as well as inflammatory mediators: NF-κB, COX-2, and iNOS. However, treatment with BCP attenuated induction of proinflammatory cytokines and inflammatory mediators in ROT-challenged rats. BCP supplementation also prevented depletion of glutathione concomitant to reduced lipid peroxidation and augmentation of antioxidant enzymes: SOD and catalase. The results were further supported by tyrosine hydroxylase immunohistochemistry, which illustrated the rescue of the DA neurons and fibers subsequent to reduced activation of glial cells. Interestingly, BCP supplementation demonstrated the potent therapeutic effects against ROT-induced neurodegeneration, which was evidenced by BCP-mediated CB2 receptor activation and the fact that, prior administration of the CB2 receptor antagonist AM630 diminished the beneficial effects of BCP. The present study suggests that BCP has the potential therapeutic efficacy to elicit significant neuroprotection by its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities mediated by activation of the CB2 receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayate Javed
- Departments of Biochemistry, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University Al Ain, UAE
| | - Sheikh Azimullah
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University Al Ain, UAE
| | - M Emdadul Haque
- Departments of Biochemistry, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University Al Ain, UAE
| | - Shreesh K Ojha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University Al Ain, UAE
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Cannabinoids to treat spinal cord injury. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2016; 64:190-9. [PMID: 25805333 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2015.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2015] [Revised: 03/09/2015] [Accepted: 03/13/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating condition for which there is no standard treatment beyond rehabilitation strategies. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge on the use of cannabinoids to treat this condition. The endocannabinoid system is expressed in the intact spinal cord, and it is dramatically upregulated after lesion. Endogenous activation of this system counteracts secondary damage following SCI, and treatments with endocannabinoids or synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists promote a better functional outcome in experimental models. The use of cannabinoids in SCI is a new research field and many questions remain open. Here, we discuss caveats and suggest some future directions that may help to understand the role of cannabinoids in SCI and how to take advantage of this system to regain functions after spinal cord damage.
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Katz PS, Sulzer JK, Impastato RA, Teng SX, Rogers EK, Molina PE. Endocannabinoid degradation inhibition improves neurobehavioral function, blood-brain barrier integrity, and neuroinflammation following mild traumatic brain injury. J Neurotrauma 2014; 32:297-306. [PMID: 25166905 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2014.3508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an increasingly frequent and poorly understood condition lacking effective therapeutic strategies. Inflammation and oxidative stress (OS) are critical components of injury, and targeted interventions to reduce their contribution to injury should improve neurobehavioral recovery and outcomes. Recent evidence reveals potential protective, yet short-lived, effects of the endocannabinoids (ECs), 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG) and N-arachidonoyl-ethanolamine (AEA), on neuroinflammatory and OS processes after TBI. The aim of this study was to determine whether EC degradation inhibition after TBI would improve neurobehavioral recovery by reducing inflammatory and oxidative damage. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent a 5-mm left lateral craniotomy, and TBI was induced by lateral fluid percussion. TBI produced apnea (17±5 sec) and a delayed righting reflex (479±21 sec). Thirty minutes post-TBI, rats were randomized to receive intraperitoneal injections of vehicle (alcohol, emulphor, and saline; 1:1:18) or a selective inhibitor of 2-AG (JZL184, 16 mg/kg) or AEA (URB597, 0.3 mg/kg) degradation. At 24 h post-TBI, animals showed significant neurological and -behavioral impairment as well as disruption of blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity. Improved neurological and -behavioral function was observed in JZL184-treated animals. BBB integrity was protected in both JZL184- and URB597-treated animals. No significant differences in ipsilateral cortex messenger RNA expression of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2, tumor necrosis factor alpha, cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2), or nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase (NOX2) and protein expression of COX2 or NOX2 were observed across experimental groups. Astrocyte and microglia activation was significantly increased post-TBI, and treatment with JZL184 or URB597 blocked activation of both cell types. These findings suggest that EC degradation inhibition post-TBI exerts neuroprotective effects. Whether repeated dosing would achieve greater protection remains to be examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paige S Katz
- Department of Physiology, Alcohol and Drug Abuse Center of Excellence, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center , New Orleans, Louisiana
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Bernabò N, Barboni B, Maccarrone M. The biological networks in studying cell signal transduction complexity: The examples of sperm capacitation and of endocannabinoid system. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2014; 11:11-21. [PMID: 25379139 PMCID: PMC4212279 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2014.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Cellular signal transduction is a complex phenomenon, which plays a central role in cell surviving and adaptation. The great amount of molecular data to date present in literature, together with the adoption of high throughput technologies, on the one hand, made available to scientists an enormous quantity of information, on the other hand, failed to provide a parallel increase in the understanding of biological events. In this context, a new discipline arose, the systems biology, aimed to manage the information with a computational modeling-based approach. In particular, the use of biological networks has allowed the making of huge progress in this field. Here we discuss two possible application of the use of biological networks to explore cell signaling: the study of the architecture of signaling systems that cooperate in determining the acquisition of a complex cellular function (as it is the case of the process of activation of spermatozoa) and the organization of a single specific signaling systems expressed by different cells in different tissues (i.e. the endocannabinoid system). In both the cases we have found that the networks follow a scale free and small world topology, likely due to the evolutionary advantage of robustness against random damages, fastness and specific of information processing, and easy navigability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Bernabò
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Piazza Aldo Moro 45, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Barbara Barboni
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Piazza Aldo Moro 45, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Mauro Maccarrone
- Center of Integrated Research, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Via Alvaro del Portillo 21, 00128 Rome, Italy ; European Center for Brain Research (CERC), Santa Lucia Foundation, Via Ardeatina 306, 00143 Rome, Italy
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Lorente Fernández L, Monte Boquet E, Pérez-Miralles F, Gil Gómez I, Escutia Roig M, Boscá Blasco I, Poveda Andrés J, Casanova-Estruch B. Clinical experiences with cannabinoids in spasticity management in multiple sclerosis. NEUROLOGÍA (ENGLISH EDITION) 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nrleng.2013.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
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Di Iorio G, Lupi M, Sarchione F, Matarazzo I, Santacroce R, Petruccelli F, Martinotti G, Di Giannantonio M. The endocannabinoid system: a putative role in neurodegenerative diseases. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HIGH RISK BEHAVIORS & ADDICTION 2013; 2:100-6. [PMID: 24971285 PMCID: PMC4070159 DOI: 10.5812/ijhrba.9222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2012] [Revised: 04/19/2013] [Accepted: 05/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Following the characterization of the chemical structure of D9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive constituent of marijuana, researchers have moved on with scientific valuable explorations. OBJECTIVES The aim of this review is to highlight the role of endocannabinoid system in neurodegenerative diseases. MATERIALS AND METHODS The article is a critical analysis of the most recent data currently present in scientific literature on the subject; a qualitative synthesis of only the most significant articles has been performed. RESULTS In central nervous system, endocannabinoids show a neuromodulatory function, often of retrograde type. This way, they play an important role in synaptic plasticity and in cognitive, motor, sensory and affective processes. In addition, in some acute or chronic pathologies of central nervous system, such as neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory diseases, endocannabinoids can perform a pro-homeostatic and neuroprotective function, through the activation of CB1 and CB2 receptors. Scientific evidence shows that an hypofunction or a dysregulation of the endocannabinoid system may be responsible for some of the symptoms of diseases such as multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Huntington's, Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. CONCLUSIONS The important role played by endocannabinoid system promises interesting developments, in particular to evaluate the effectiveness of new drugs in both psychiatry and neurology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Di Iorio
- Department of Neuroscience and Imaging, University G. d’Annunzio, Chieti, Italy
| | - Matteo Lupi
- Department of Neuroscience and Imaging, University G. d’Annunzio, Chieti, Italy
| | - Fabiola Sarchione
- Department of Neuroscience and Imaging, University G. d’Annunzio, Chieti, Italy
| | - Ilaria Matarazzo
- Department of Neuroscience and Imaging, University G. d’Annunzio, Chieti, Italy
| | - Rita Santacroce
- Department of Neuroscience and Imaging, University G. d’Annunzio, Chieti, Italy
| | - Filippo Petruccelli
- Department of Human, Social and Health Sciences, University of Cassino, Cassino, Italy
| | - Giovanni Martinotti
- Department of Neuroscience and Imaging, University G. d’Annunzio, Chieti, Italy
- Corresponding author: Giovanni Martinotti, Department of Neuroscience and Imaging, University G. d’Annunzio, Via dei Vestini 1, Chieti, Italy. Tel: +39-063355627362, Fax: +39-063052553, E-mail:,
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Cannabidiol provides long-lasting protection against the deleterious effects of inflammation in a viral model of multiple sclerosis: A role for A2A receptors. Neurobiol Dis 2013; 59:141-50. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2013.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 168] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2013] [Revised: 06/21/2013] [Accepted: 06/26/2013] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
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Borges RS, Batista Jr. J, Viana RB, Baetas AC, Orestes E, Andrade MA, Honório KM, da Silva ABF. Understanding the molecular aspects of tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol as antioxidants. Molecules 2013; 18:12663-74. [PMID: 24129275 PMCID: PMC6269679 DOI: 10.3390/molecules181012663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2013] [Revised: 10/04/2013] [Accepted: 10/10/2013] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
An antioxidant mechanism of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) were compared with a simplified model of α-tocopherol, butylhydroxytoluene and hydroxytoluene in order to understand the antioxidant nature of THC and CBD molecules using DFT. The following electronic properties were evaluated: frontier orbitals nature, ionization potential, O-H bond dissociation energy (BDEOH), stabilization energy, and spin density distribution. An important factor that shows an influence in the antioxidant property of THC is the electron abstraction at the phenol position. Our data indicate that the decrease of the HOMO values and the highest ionization potential values are related to phenol, ether, and alkyl moieties. On the other hand, BDEOH in molecules with the cyclohexenyl group at ortho position of phenol are formed from lower energies than the molecules with an ether group at the meta position. In the light of our results, the properties calculated here predict that THC has a sightly higher antioxidant potential than CBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosivaldo S. Borges
- Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil; E-Mails: (J.B.J.); (A.C.B.); (M.A.A.)
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: ; Tel.: +55-91-3271-7202; Fax: +55-91-3271-7201
| | - João Batista Jr.
- Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil; E-Mails: (J.B.J.); (A.C.B.); (M.A.A.)
| | - Rommel B. Viana
- Institute of Chemistry of São Carlos, University of São Paulo, São Carlos 13560-970, SP, Brazil; E-Mails: (R.B.V.); (E.O.); (A.B.F.S.)
| | - Ana C. Baetas
- Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil; E-Mails: (J.B.J.); (A.C.B.); (M.A.A.)
| | - Ednilsom Orestes
- Institute of Chemistry of São Carlos, University of São Paulo, São Carlos 13560-970, SP, Brazil; E-Mails: (R.B.V.); (E.O.); (A.B.F.S.)
| | - Marcieni A. Andrade
- Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil; E-Mails: (J.B.J.); (A.C.B.); (M.A.A.)
| | - Káthia M. Honório
- School of Arts, Sciences and Humanities, University of São Paulo, São Carlos 03828-000, SP, Brazil; E-Mail:
| | - Albérico B. F. da Silva
- Institute of Chemistry of São Carlos, University of São Paulo, São Carlos 13560-970, SP, Brazil; E-Mails: (R.B.V.); (E.O.); (A.B.F.S.)
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Lorente Fernández L, Monte Boquet E, Pérez-Miralles F, Gil Gómez I, Escutia Roig M, Boscá Blasco I, Poveda Andrés JL, Casanova-Estruch B. Clinical experiences with cannabinoids in spasticity management in multiple sclerosis. Neurologia 2013; 29:257-60. [PMID: 24035293 DOI: 10.1016/j.nrl.2013.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2013] [Revised: 06/03/2013] [Accepted: 06/17/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Spasticity is a common symptom among patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). This study aims to assess the effectiveness and safety of the combination of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) in clinical practice for the treatment of spasticity in MS. METHODS Retrospective observational study with patients treated with inhaled THC/CBD between April 2008 and March 2012. Descriptive patient and treatment variables were collected. Therapeutic response was evaluated based on the doctor's analysis and overall impression. RESULTS Of the 56 patients who started treatment with THC/CBD, 6 were excluded because of missing data. We evaluated 50 patients (42% male) with a median age 47.8 years (25.6-76.8); 38% were diagnosed with primary progressive MS, 44% with secondary progressive MS, and 18% with relapsing-remitting MS. The reason for prescribing the drug was spasticity (44%), pain (10%), or both (46%). Treatment was discontinued in 16 patients because of ineffectiveness (7 patients), withdrawal (4), and adverse effects (5). The median exposure time in patients whose treatment was discontinued was 30 days vs 174 days in those whose treatment continued at the end of the study. THC/CBD was effective in 80% of patients at a median dose of 5 (2-10) inhalations/day. The adverse event profile consisted of dizziness (11 patients), somnolence (6), muscle weakness (7), oral discomfort (2), diarrhoea (3), dry mouth (2), blurred vision (2), agitation (1), nausea (1), and paranoid ideation (1). CONCLUSIONS THC/CBD appears to be a good alternative to standard treatment as it improves refractory spasticity in MS and has an acceptable toxicity profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Lorente Fernández
- Servicio de Farmacia, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Valencia, España.
| | - E Monte Boquet
- Servicio de Farmacia, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Valencia, España
| | - F Pérez-Miralles
- Servicio de Neurología, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Valencia, España
| | - I Gil Gómez
- Servicio de Farmacia, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Valencia, España
| | - M Escutia Roig
- Servicio de Neurología, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Valencia, España
| | - I Boscá Blasco
- Servicio de Neurología, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Valencia, España
| | - J L Poveda Andrés
- Servicio de Farmacia, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Valencia, España
| | - B Casanova-Estruch
- Servicio de Neurología, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Valencia, España
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Abstract
In recent years, a growing interest has been dedicated to the study of the endocannabinoid system. The isolation of Cannabis sativa main psychotropic compound, Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), has led to the discovery of an atypical neurotransmission system that modulates the release of other neurotransmitters and participates in many biological processes, including the cascade of inflammatory responses. In this context, cannabinoids have been studied for their possible therapeutic properties in neuroinflammatory diseases. In this review, historic and biochemical aspects of cannabinoids are discussed, as well as their function as modulators of inflammatory processes and therapeutic perspectives for neurodegenerative disorders, particularly, multiple sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viviane M Saito
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, Graduate Program in Neurosciences, UFMG, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
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Lou ZY, Chen C, He Q, Zhao CB, Xiao BG. Targeting CB(2) receptor as a neuroinflammatory modulator in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. Mol Immunol 2011; 49:453-61. [PMID: 22024414 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2011.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2011] [Revised: 09/18/2011] [Accepted: 09/20/2011] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
During immune mediated demyelinating lesions, the endocannabinoid system is involved in the pathogenesis of both neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration through different mechanisms. Here, we explored the cellular distribution of cannabinoid 2 receptor (CB(2)R) in the central nervous system (CNS) and detected the level of CB(2)R expression during experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) by RT-PCR, Western blot and immunostaining. Our results show that CB(2)R was expressed in neurons, microglia and astrocytes. During EAE, the expression of CB(2)R in spinal cord rose slowly at days 9 and 17 post immunization (p.i.), and elevated rapidly at day 28 p.i., while the expression of CB(2)R in spleen elevated rapidly and got a plateau at days 17 and 28 p.i. Only the increase of CB(2)R expression in spinal cord demonstrated a significant difference when compared to control mice immunized with complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA). The selective CB(2)R antagonist (SR144528) exacerbated EAE clinical severity accompanied by weight loss. SR144528 inhibited the expression of CB(2)R, but increased the expression of CB(1)R in brain, spinal cord and spleen. The administration of SR144528 declined interferon-γ, IL-17, IL-4, IL-10, IL-1β, IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α, but increased CX3CL1 in brain and/or spinal cord. In contrast, IL-17 and MCP-1 were increased, while CX3CL1 was decreased in splenic mononuclear cells as compared to vehicle controls. These results indicate that manipulation of CB(2)R may have therapeutic value in MS, but its complexity remains to be considered and studied for further clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Yin Lou
- Institute of Neurology, Institutes of Brain Science and State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Endocannabinoid-mediated modulation of stress responses: Physiological and pathophysiological significance. Immunobiology 2010; 215:629-46. [DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2009.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2009] [Revised: 05/30/2009] [Accepted: 05/30/2009] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Froger N, Orellana JA, Cohen-Salmon M, Ezan P, Amigou E, Sáez JC, Giaume C. Cannabinoids prevent the opposite regulation of astroglial connexin43 hemichannels and gap junction channels induced by pro-inflammatory treatments. J Neurochem 2010; 111:1383-97. [PMID: 20050288 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2009.06407.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Brain injuries as well as neurodegenerative diseases, are associated with neuro-inflammation characterized by astroglial and microglial activation and/or proliferation. Recently, we reported that lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activation of microglia inhibits junctional channels and promotes hemichannels, two connexin43 functions in astrocytes. This opposite regulation is mediated by two pro-inflammatory cytokines, interleukin-1 beta and tumor necrosis factor-alpha, released from activated microglia. Because cannabinoids (CBs) have anti-inflammatory properties and their receptors are expressed by glial cells, we investigated on primary cortical cultures the effects of CB agonists, methanandamide and synthetic CBs on (i) cytokines released from LPS-activated microglia and (ii) connexin43 functions in astrocytes subjected to pro-inflammatory treatments. We observed that CBs inhibited the LPS-induced release of interleukin-1 beta and tumor necrosis factor-alpha from microglia. Moreover, the connexin43 dual regulation evoked by the pro-inflammatory treatments, was prevented by CB treatments. Pharmacological characterizations of CB actions on astrocytic connexin43 channels revealed that these effects were mainly mediated through CB1 receptors activation, although non-CB1/CB2 receptors seemed to mediate the action of the methanandamide. Altogether these data demonstrate that in inflammatory situations CBs exert, through the activation of different sub-types of glial CB receptors, a regulation on two functions of connexin43 channels in astrocytes known to be involved in neuron survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Froger
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U840, Paris, France
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Malcher-Lopes R, Buzzi M. Glucocorticoid-regulated crosstalk between arachidonic acid and endocannabinoid biochemical pathways coordinates cognitive-, neuroimmune-, and energy homeostasis-related adaptations to stress. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2009; 81:263-313. [PMID: 19647116 DOI: 10.1016/s0083-6729(09)81011-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Arachidonic acid and its derivatives constitute the major group of signaling molecules involved in the innate immune response and its communication with all cellular and systemic aspects involved on homeostasis maintenance. Glucocorticoids spread throughout the organism their influences over key enzymatic steps of the arachidonic acid biochemical pathways, leading, in the central nervous system, to a shift favoring the synthesis of anti-inflammatory endocannabinoids over proinflammatory metabolites, such as prostaglandins. This shift modifies local immune-inflammatory response and neuronal activity to ultimately coordinate cognitive, behavioral, neuroendocrine, neuroimmune, physiological, and metabolic adjustments to basal and stress conditions. In the hypothalamus, a reciprocal feedback between glucocorticoids and arachidonate-containing molecules provides a mechanism for homeostatic control. This neurochemical switch is susceptible to fine-tuning by neuropeptides, cytokines, and hormones, such as leptin and interleukin-1beta, assuring functional integration between energy homeostasis control and the immune/stress response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renato Malcher-Lopes
- Laboratory of Mass Spectrometry, EMBRAPA-Center for Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília-DF, Brazil
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18
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The endocannabinoid system is modulated in response to spinal cord injury in rats. Neurobiol Dis 2009; 33:57-71. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2008.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2008] [Revised: 09/03/2008] [Accepted: 09/09/2008] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
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Michalski CW, Maier M, Erkan M, Sauliunaite D, Bergmann F, Pacher P, Batkai S, Giese NA, Giese T, Friess H, Kleeff J. Cannabinoids reduce markers of inflammation and fibrosis in pancreatic stellate cells. PLoS One 2008; 3:e1701. [PMID: 18301776 PMCID: PMC2253501 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0001701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2007] [Accepted: 01/20/2008] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background While cannabinoids have been shown to ameliorate liver fibrosis, their effects in chronic pancreatitis and on pancreatic stellate cells (PSC) are unknown. Methodology/Principal Findings The activity of the endocannabinoid system was evaluated in human chronic pancreatitis (CP) tissues. In vitro, effects of blockade and activation of cannabinoid receptors on pancreatic stellate cells were characterized. In CP, cannabinoid receptors were detected predominantly in areas with inflammatory changes, stellate cells and nerves. Levels of endocannabinoids were decreased compared with normal pancreas. Cannabinoid-receptor-1 antagonism effectuated a small PSC phenotype and a trend toward increased invasiveness. Activation of cannabinoid receptors, however, induced de-activation of PSC and dose-dependently inhibited growth and decreased IL-6 and MCP-1 secretion as well as fibronectin, collagen1 and alphaSMA levels. De-activation of PSC was partially reversible using a combination of cannabinoid-receptor-1 and -2 antagonists. Concomitantly, cannabinoid receptor activation specifically decreased invasiveness of PSC, MMP-2 secretion and led to changes in PSC phenotype accompanied by a reduction of intracellular stress fibres. Conclusions/Significance Augmentation of the endocannabinoid system via exogenously administered cannabinoid receptor agonists specifically induces a functionally and metabolically quiescent pancreatic stellate cell phenotype and may thus constitute an option to treat inflammation and fibrosis in chronic pancreatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph W. Michalski
- Department of Surgery, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
- Department of General Surgery, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- *E-mail:
| | - Milena Maier
- Department of General Surgery, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mert Erkan
- Department of Surgery, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Frank Bergmann
- Institute of Pathology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Pal Pacher
- Section of Oxidative Stress Tissue Injury, Laboratory of Physiologic Studies, National Institutes of Health, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Sandor Batkai
- Section of Oxidative Stress Tissue Injury, Laboratory of Physiologic Studies, National Institutes of Health, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Nathalia A. Giese
- Department of General Surgery, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Giese
- Institute of Immunology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Helmut Friess
- Department of Surgery, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Jörg Kleeff
- Department of Surgery, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
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Malcher-Lopes R, Franco A, Tasker JG. Glucocorticoids shift arachidonic acid metabolism toward endocannabinoid synthesis: a non-genomic anti-inflammatory switch. Eur J Pharmacol 2008; 583:322-39. [PMID: 18295199 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2007.12.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2007] [Revised: 12/12/2007] [Accepted: 12/16/2007] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids are capable of exerting both genomic and non-genomic actions in target cells of multiple tissues, including the brain, which trigger an array of electrophysiological, metabolic, secretory and inflammatory regulatory responses. Here, we have attempted to show how glucocorticoids may generate a rapid anti-inflammatory response by promoting arachidonic acid-containing endocannabinoids biosynthesis. According to our hypothesized model, non-genomic action of glucocorticoids results in the global shift of membrane lipid metabolism, subverting metabolic pathways toward the synthesis of the anti-inflammatory endocannabinoids, anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoyl-glycerol (2-AG), and away from arachidonic acid production. Post-transcriptional inhibition of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX(2)) synthesis by glucocorticoids assists this mechanism by suppressing the synthesis of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins as well as endocannabinoid-derived prostanoids. In the central nervous system (CNS) this may represent a major neuroprotective system, which may cross-talk with leptin signaling in the hypothalamus allowing for the coordination between energy homeostasis and the inflammatory response.
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Arévalo-Martín Á, García-Ovejero D, Gómez O, Rubio-Araiz A, Navarro-Galve B, Guaza C, Molina-Holgado E, Molina-Holgado F. CB2 cannabinoid receptors as an emerging target for demyelinating diseases: from neuroimmune interactions to cell replacement strategies. Br J Pharmacol 2008; 153:216-25. [PMID: 17891163 PMCID: PMC2219542 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjp.0707466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2007] [Revised: 08/16/2007] [Accepted: 08/20/2007] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Amongst the various demyelinating diseases that affect the central nervous system, those induced by an inflammatory response stand out because of their epidemiological relevance. The best known inflammatory-induced demyelinating disease is multiple sclerosis, but the immune response is a common pathogenic mechanism in many other less common pathologies (e.g., acute disseminated encephalomyelitis and acute necrotizing haemorrhagic encephalomyelitis). In all such cases, modulation of the immune response seems to be a logical therapeutic approach. Cannabinoids are well known immunomodulatory molecules that act through CB1 and CB2 receptors. While activation of CB1 receptors has a psychotropic effect, activation of CB2 receptors alone does not. Therefore, to bypass the ethical problems that could result from the treatment of inflammation with psychotropic molecules, considerable effort is being made to study the potential therapeutic value of activating CB2 receptors. In this review we examine the current knowledge and understanding of the utility of cannabinoids as therapeutic molecules for inflammatory-mediated demyelinating pathologies. Moreover, we discuss how CB2 receptor activation is related to the modulation of immunopathogenic states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Á Arévalo-Martín
- Laboratory of Neuroinflammation, Unidad de Neurología Experimental, Hospital Nacional de Parapléjicos (SESCAM), 45071 Toledo, Spain-Research Unit associated to the Instituto Cajal (CSIC) Madrid, Spain
| | - D García-Ovejero
- Laboratory of Neuroinflammation, Unidad de Neurología Experimental, Hospital Nacional de Parapléjicos (SESCAM), 45071 Toledo, Spain-Research Unit associated to the Instituto Cajal (CSIC) Madrid, Spain
| | - O Gómez
- Laboratory of Neuroinflammation, Unidad de Neurología Experimental, Hospital Nacional de Parapléjicos (SESCAM), 45071 Toledo, Spain-Research Unit associated to the Instituto Cajal (CSIC) Madrid, Spain
| | - A Rubio-Araiz
- Laboratory of Neuroinflammation, Unidad de Neurología Experimental, Hospital Nacional de Parapléjicos (SESCAM), 45071 Toledo, Spain-Research Unit associated to the Instituto Cajal (CSIC) Madrid, Spain
| | - B Navarro-Galve
- Laboratory of Neuroinflammation, Unidad de Neurología Experimental, Hospital Nacional de Parapléjicos (SESCAM), 45071 Toledo, Spain-Research Unit associated to the Instituto Cajal (CSIC) Madrid, Spain
| | - C Guaza
- Neuroimmunology Group, Instituto Cajal (CSIC) Madrid, Spain
| | - E Molina-Holgado
- Laboratory of Neuroinflammation, Unidad de Neurología Experimental, Hospital Nacional de Parapléjicos (SESCAM), 45071 Toledo, Spain-Research Unit associated to the Instituto Cajal (CSIC) Madrid, Spain
| | - F Molina-Holgado
- King's College London, The Wolfson Centre for Age-Related Diseases London, UK
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Arévalo-Martín A, García-Ovejero D, Rubio-Araiz A, Gómez O, Molina-Holgado F, Molina-Holgado E. Cannabinoids modulate Olig2 and polysialylated neural cell adhesion molecule expression in the subventricular zone of post-natal rats through cannabinoid receptor 1 and cannabinoid receptor 2. Eur J Neurosci 2007; 26:1548-59. [PMID: 17880390 DOI: 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2007.05782.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The subventricular zone (SVZ) is a source of post-natal glial precursors that can migrate to the overlying white matter, where they may differentiate into oligodendrocytes. We showed that, in the post-natal SVZ ependymocytes, radial glia and astrocyte-like cells express cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1), whereas cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) is found in cells expressing the polysialylated neural cell adhesion molecule. To study CB1 and CB2 function, post-natal rats were exposed to selective CB1 or CB2 agonists (arachidonyl-2-chloroethylamide and JWH-056, respectively) for 15 days. Accordingly, we found that CB1 activation increases the number of Olig2-positive cells in the dorsolateral SVZ, whereas CB2 activation increases polysialylated neural cell adhesion molecule expression in this region. As intense myelination occurs during the first weeks of post-natal development, we examined how modulating these factors affected the expression of myelin basic protein. Pharmacological administration of agonists and antagonists of CB1 and CB2 showed that the activation of both receptors is needed to augment the expression of myelin basic protein in the subcortical white matter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angel Arévalo-Martín
- Laboratorio de Neuroinflamación, Unidad de Neurología Experimental (associated to the Instituto Cajal, CSIC, Madrid, Spain), Hospital Nacional de Parapléjicos, SESCAM, 45071 Toledo, Spain
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Llorente R, Arranz L, Marco EM, Moreno E, Puerto M, Guaza C, De la Fuente M, Viveros MP. Early maternal deprivation and neonatal single administration with a cannabinoid agonist induce long-term sex-dependent psychoimmunoendocrine effects in adolescent rats. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2007; 32:636-50. [PMID: 17553622 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2007.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2006] [Revised: 03/12/2007] [Accepted: 04/12/2007] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Maternal deprivation [24h on postnatal day 9] might represent an animal model of schizophrenia and behavioural and neurochemical alterations observed in adulthood may be mediated by hippocampal impairments induced by abnormally increased glucocorticoids due to neonatal stress. We aimed to provide new data for psychoimmunoendocrine characterization of this animal model by evaluating its effects in adolescent rats of both genders. In previous studies we found that cannabinoid compounds counteracted the enhanced impulsivity of maternally deprived animals and that the cannabinoid receptor agonist WIN 55,212-2 showed neuroprotective properties in neonatal rats. So, we hypothesised that this compound could counteract at least some of the detrimental effects that we expected to find in maternally deprived animals. Accordingly, the drug was administered immediately after the maternal deprivation period. Maternally deprived males showed significantly decreased motor activity in the holeboard and the plus-maze. The cannabinoid agonist induced, exclusively in males, a significant anxiogenic-like effect, which was reversed by maternal deprivation. In the forced swimming test, both treatments independently induced depressive-like responses. Maternal deprivation reduced immunological function whereas the drug exerted tissue-dependent effects on the immune parameters analysed. Maternally deprived females showed reduced corticosterone levels whereas the cannabinoid agonist increased hormone concentration in all groups. In general, the results show detrimental effects of both treatments as well as intriguing interactions, notably in relation to emotional behaviour and certain immunological responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Llorente
- Departamento de Fisiología (Fisiología Animal II), Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Complutense, Ciudad Universitaria, C/ Jose Antonio Novais, 2; 28040 Madrid, Spain
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Pacher P, Bátkai S, Kunos G. The endocannabinoid system as an emerging target of pharmacotherapy. Pharmacol Rev 2006; 58:389-462. [PMID: 16968947 PMCID: PMC2241751 DOI: 10.1124/pr.58.3.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1458] [Impact Index Per Article: 81.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The recent identification of cannabinoid receptors and their endogenous lipid ligands has triggered an exponential growth of studies exploring the endocannabinoid system and its regulatory functions in health and disease. Such studies have been greatly facilitated by the introduction of selective cannabinoid receptor antagonists and inhibitors of endocannabinoid metabolism and transport, as well as mice deficient in cannabinoid receptors or the endocannabinoid-degrading enzyme fatty acid amidohydrolase. In the past decade, the endocannabinoid system has been implicated in a growing number of physiological functions, both in the central and peripheral nervous systems and in peripheral organs. More importantly, modulating the activity of the endocannabinoid system turned out to hold therapeutic promise in a wide range of disparate diseases and pathological conditions, ranging from mood and anxiety disorders, movement disorders such as Parkinson's and Huntington's disease, neuropathic pain, multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injury, to cancer, atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, stroke, hypertension, glaucoma, obesity/metabolic syndrome, and osteoporosis, to name just a few. An impediment to the development of cannabinoid medications has been the socially unacceptable psychoactive properties of plant-derived or synthetic agonists, mediated by CB(1) receptors. However, this problem does not arise when the therapeutic aim is achieved by treatment with a CB(1) receptor antagonist, such as in obesity, and may also be absent when the action of endocannabinoids is enhanced indirectly through blocking their metabolism or transport. The use of selective CB(2) receptor agonists, which lack psychoactive properties, could represent another promising avenue for certain conditions. The abuse potential of plant-derived cannabinoids may also be limited through the use of preparations with controlled composition and the careful selection of dose and route of administration. The growing number of preclinical studies and clinical trials with compounds that modulate the endocannabinoid system will probably result in novel therapeutic approaches in a number of diseases for which current treatments do not fully address the patients' need. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview on the current state of knowledge of the endocannabinoid system as a target of pharmacotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pál Pacher
- Laboratory of Physiological Studies, National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, 5625 Fishers Lane, Room 2S-24, Bethesda, MD 20892-9413, USA
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Mestre L, Correa F, Docagne F, Clemente D, Guaza C. The synthetic cannabinoid WIN 55,212-2 increases COX-2 expression and PGE2 release in murine brain-derived endothelial cells following Theiler's virus infection. Biochem Pharmacol 2006; 72:869-80. [PMID: 16914119 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2006.06.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2006] [Revised: 06/22/2006] [Accepted: 06/26/2006] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Brain endothelial cells infection represents one of the first events in the pathogenesis of TMEV-induced demyelination disease (TMEV-IDD), a model of multiple sclerosis (MS). The fact that cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression in brain endothelium mediates a wide variety of actions during CNS inflammatory diseases such as MS, and that cannabinoids ameliorate the progression of TMEV-IDD, lead us to investigate the role of cannabinoids on COX-2 expression on murine brain endothelial cell cultures subjected or not to TMEV infection. Murine brain endothelial cells (b.end5) express both cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2. However, treatment of b.end5 with the cannabinoid agonist WIN 55,212-2 resulted in up-regulation COX-2 protein and PGE2 release by a mechanism independent on activation of these receptors. Other cannabinoids such as 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG) or the abnormal cannabidiol (Abn-CBD) failed to affect COX-2 in our conditions. TMEV infection of murine brain endothelial cell cultures induced a significant increase of COX-2 expression at 8h, which was maintained even increased, at 20 and 32h post-infection. The combination of TMEV infection and Win 55,212-2 treatment increased COX-2 expression to a greater amount than was seen with either treatment alone. 2-AG and Abn-CBD did not modify COX-2 expression after TMEV. COX-2 synthesis involved different signaling pathways when was induced by WIN 55,212-2 and/or by TMEV infection. WIN 55,212-2-induced COX-2 up-regulation involves the PI(3)K pathway, whereas COX-2 induction by TMEV needs p38 MAPK activation too. Overexpression of COX-2 and the subsequent increase of PGE2 could be affecting flow blood and/or immune reactivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leyre Mestre
- Neuroimmunology Group, Neural Plasticity Department, Cajal Institute, CSIC, Avda. Dr. Arce 37, 28002 Madrid, Spain
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Bays H, Dujovne CA. Adiposopathy is a more rational treatment target for metabolic disease than obesity alone. Curr Atheroscler Rep 2006; 8:144-56. [PMID: 16510049 DOI: 10.1007/s11883-006-0052-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Current guidelines recommend that weight-loss therapy should be primarily based upon specific body mass index (BMI) cut-off limits. However, in the adipocentric paradigm, it is acknowledged that co-morbidities, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and dyslipidemia, occur at all levels of BMI. Excessive fat mass (adiposity) in genetically susceptible individuals results in fat dysfunction (adiposopathy), which then contributes to metabolic disorders that increase the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. In this paradigm, the term "anti-obesity" treatment might best be replaced by "anti-adiposopathy" treatment, wherein the focus is not based solely on BMI, but instead directed towards physiologically improving fat cell function and clinically improving the metabolic health of patients. This may occur through appropriate diet, physical exercise, and other lifestyle changes, and/or from drug therapies. Cannabinoid receptor antagonists and peroxisome proliferator activated receptor agonists are examples of agents that physiologically improve fat function and clinically improve metabolic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harold Bays
- L-MARC Research Center, 3288 Illinois Avenue, Louisville, KY 40213, USA.
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Ullrich O, Schneider-Stock R, Zipp F. Cell-cell communication by endocannabinoids during immune surveillance of the central nervous system. Results Probl Cell Differ 2006; 43:281-305. [PMID: 17068977 DOI: 10.1007/400_015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The immune system is designed to defend the organism from hazardous infection. The way by which cells of the immune system perform this function can be dangerous for the survival and function of the neuronal network in the brain. An attack of immune cells inside the brain includes the potential for severe neuronal damage or cell death and therefore impairment of CNS function. To avoid such undesirable action of the immune system, the CNS harbours an impressive arsenal of cellular and molecular mechanisms enabling strict control of immune reactions--the so-called "immune privilege". Under inflammatory and pathological conditions, loss of control of the CNS immune system results in the activation of neuronal damage cascades frequently associated with neurological disease. On the other hand, processes of neuroprotection and neurorepair after neuronal damage depend on a steady and tightly controlled immune surveillance. Accordingly, the immune system serves a highly specialized function in the CNS including negative feedback mechanisms that control immune reactions. Recent studies have revealed that endocannabinoids participate in one of the most important ones of the brain's negative feedback system. The CNS endocannabinoid system consists of cannabinoid receptors, their endogenous ligands and enzymes for the synthesis and degradation of endocannabinoids. It participates crucially in neuronal cell-cell-communication and signal transduction, e.g., by modulating synaptic input and protecting neurons from excitotoxic damage. Over the last decade, it has also become evident that endocannabinoids play an important role in the communication between immune cells, and in the interaction between nerve and immune system during CNS damage. Thus, therapeutic intervention in the CNS endocannabinoid system may help to restore the well-controlled and finely tuned balance of immune reactions in pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Ullrich
- Institute of Immunology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Germany.
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