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Ling T, Yin A, Cao Y, Li J, Li H, Zhou Y, Guo X, Li J, Zhang R, Wu H, Li P. Purinergic Astrocyte Signaling Driven by TNF-α After Cannabidiol Administration Restores Normal Synaptic Remodeling Following Traumatic Brain Injury. Neuroscience 2024; 545:31-46. [PMID: 38460903 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2024.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a prevalent form of cranial trauma that results in neural conduction disruptions and damage to synaptic structures and functions. Cannabidiol (CBD), a primary derivative from plant-based cannabinoids, exhibits a range of beneficial effects, including analgesic, sedative, anti-inflammatory, anticonvulsant, anti-anxiety, anti-apoptotic, and neuroprotective properties. Nevertheless, the effects of synaptic reconstruction and the mechanisms underlying these effects remain poorly understood. TBI is characterized by increased levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), a cytokine integral for the modulation of glutamate release by astrocytes. In the present study, the potential of CBD in regulating aberrant glutamate signal transmission in astrocytes following brain injury, as well as the underlying mechanisms involved, were investigated using immunofluorescence double staining, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), western blot analysis, hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, Nissl staining, transmission electron microscopy, and RT-qPCR. In this study, we examined the impact of CBD on neuronal synapses, focusing on the TNF-α-driven purinergic signaling pathway. Specifically, our research revealed that CBD pretreatment effectively reduced the secretion of TNF-α induced by astrocyte activation following TBI. This reduction inhibited the interaction between TNF-α and P2Y1 receptors, leading to a decrease in the release of neurotransmitters, including Ca2+ and glutamate, thereby initiating synaptic remodeling. Our study showed that CBD exhibits significant therapeutic potential for TBI-related synaptic dysfunction, offering valuable insights for future research and more effective TBI treatments. Further exploration of the potential applications of CBD in neuroprotection is required to develop innovative clinical strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tenghan Ling
- Department of Anatomy and Histology/Embryology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650500, China.
| | - Aiping Yin
- Department of Anatomy and Histology/Embryology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650500, China.
| | - Yan Cao
- Department of Anatomy and Histology/Embryology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650500, China.
| | - Jiali Li
- Department of Anatomy and Histology/Embryology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650500, China.
| | - Hengxi Li
- Department of Anatomy and Histology/Embryology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650500, China.
| | - Ying Zhou
- Department of Kunming Medical University Electron Microscope Laboratory, Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650500, China.
| | - Xiaobing Guo
- Department of Anatomy and Histology/Embryology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650500, China.
| | - Jinghui Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650032, China.
| | - Ruilin Zhang
- Department of Forensic Medicine of Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650500, China.
| | - Haiying Wu
- Department of Emergency and Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650032, China.
| | - Ping Li
- Department of Anatomy and Histology/Embryology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650500, China.
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Cárdenas-Rodríguez N, Ignacio-Mejía I, Correa-Basurto J, Carrasco-Vargas H, Vargas-Hernández MA, Albores-Méndez EM, Mayen-Quinto RD, De La Paz-Valente R, Bandala C. Possible Role of Cannabis in the Management of Neuroinflammation in Patients with Post-COVID Condition. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3805. [PMID: 38612615 PMCID: PMC11012123 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The post-COVID condition (PCC) is a pathology stemming from COVID-19, and studying its pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment is crucial. Neuroinflammation causes the most common manifestations of this disease including headaches, fatigue, insomnia, depression, anxiety, among others. Currently, there are no specific management proposals; however, given that the inflammatory component involves cytokines and free radicals, these conditions must be treated to reduce the current symptoms and provide neuroprotection to reduce the risk of a long-term neurodegenerative disease. It has been shown that cannabis has compounds with immunomodulatory and antioxidant functions in other pathologies. Therefore, exploring this approach could provide a viable therapeutic option for PCC, which is the purpose of this review. This review involved an exhaustive search in specialized databases including PubMed, PubChem, ProQuest, EBSCO, Scopus, Science Direct, Web of Science, and Clinical Trials. Phytocannabinoids, including cannabidiol (CBD), cannabigerol (CBG), and Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), exhibit significant antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties and have been shown to be an effective treatment for neuroinflammatory conditions. These compounds could be promising adjuvants for PCC alone or in combination with other antioxidants or therapies. PCC presents significant challenges to neurological health, and neuroinflammation and oxidative stress play central roles in its pathogenesis. Antioxidant therapy and cannabinoid-based approaches represent promising areas of research and treatment for mitigating adverse effects, but further studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Iván Ignacio-Mejía
- Laboratorio de Medicina Traslacional, Escuela Militar de Graduados de Sanidad, UDEFA, Mexico City 11200, Mexico;
| | - Jose Correa-Basurto
- Laboratorio de Diseño y Desarrollo de Nuevos Fármacos e Innovación Biotecnológica, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City 11340, Mexico;
| | | | - Marco Antonio Vargas-Hernández
- Subdirección de Investigación, Escuela Militar de Graduados en Sanidad, UDEFA, Mexico City 11200, Mexico; (M.A.V.-H.); (E.M.A.-M.)
| | - Exal Manuel Albores-Méndez
- Subdirección de Investigación, Escuela Militar de Graduados en Sanidad, UDEFA, Mexico City 11200, Mexico; (M.A.V.-H.); (E.M.A.-M.)
| | | | - Reynita De La Paz-Valente
- Laboratorio de Medicina Traslacional Aplicada a Neurociencias, Enfermedades Crónicas y Emergentes, Escuela superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City 11340, Mexico;
| | - Cindy Bandala
- Laboratorio de Medicina Traslacional Aplicada a Neurociencias, Enfermedades Crónicas y Emergentes, Escuela superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City 11340, Mexico;
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Chen S, Kim JK. The Role of Cannabidiol in Liver Disease: A Systemic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2370. [PMID: 38397045 PMCID: PMC10888697 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid abundant in Cannabis sativa, has gained considerable attention for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, and neuroprotective properties. It exhibits the potential to prevent or slow the progression of various diseases, ranging from malignant tumors and viral infections to neurodegenerative disorders and ischemic diseases. Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), alcoholic liver disease, and viral hepatitis stand as prominent causes of morbidity and mortality in chronic liver diseases globally. The literature has substantiated CBD's potential therapeutic effects across diverse liver diseases in in vivo and in vitro models. However, the precise mechanism of action remains elusive, and an absence of evidence hinders its translation into clinical practice. This comprehensive review emphasizes the wealth of data linking CBD to liver diseases. Importantly, we delve into a detailed discussion of the receptors through which CBD might exert its effects, including cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), G protein-coupled receptor 55 (GPR55), transient receptor potential channels (TRPs), and their intricate connections with liver diseases. In conclusion, we address new questions that warrant further investigation in this evolving field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Jeonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju 54896, Republic of Korea;
| | - Jeon-Kyung Kim
- Institute of New Drug Development, School of Pharmacy, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Jeonbuk, Republic of Korea
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Chu FX, Wang X, Li B, Xu LL, Di B. The NLRP3 inflammasome: a vital player in inflammation and mediating the anti-inflammatory effect of CBD. Inflamm Res 2024; 73:227-242. [PMID: 38191853 DOI: 10.1007/s00011-023-01831-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The NLRP3 inflammasome is a vital player in the emergence of inflammation. The priming and activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome is a major trigger for inflammation which is a defense response against adverse stimuli. However, the excessive activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome can lead to the development of various inflammatory diseases. Cannabidiol, as the second-most abundant component in cannabis, has a variety of pharmacological properties, particularly anti-inflammation. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol has a lower affinity for cannabinoid receptors, which may be the reason why it is not psychoactive. Notably, the mechanism by which cannabidiol exerts its anti-inflammatory effect is still unclear. METHODS We have performed a literature review based on published original and review articles encompassing the NLRP3 inflammasome and cannabidiol in inflammation from central databases, including PubMed and Web of Science. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS In this review, we first summarize the composition and activation process of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Then, we list possible molecular mechanisms of action of cannabidiol. Next, we explain the role of the NLRP3 inflammasome and the anti-inflammatory effect of cannabidiol in inflammatory disorders. Finally, we emphasize the capacity of cannabidiol to suppress inflammation by blocking the NLRP3 signaling pathway, which indicates that cannabidiol is a quite promising anti-inflammatory compound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng-Xin Chu
- Office of China National Narcotics Control Commission, China Pharmaceutical University Joint Laboratory on Key Technologies of Narcotics Control, Nanjing, 210009, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Xiao Wang
- Office of China National Narcotics Control Commission, China Pharmaceutical University Joint Laboratory on Key Technologies of Narcotics Control, Nanjing, 210009, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Bo Li
- Office of China National Narcotics Control Commission, China Pharmaceutical University Joint Laboratory on Key Technologies of Narcotics Control, Nanjing, 210009, China.
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
| | - Li-Li Xu
- Office of China National Narcotics Control Commission, China Pharmaceutical University Joint Laboratory on Key Technologies of Narcotics Control, Nanjing, 210009, China.
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
| | - Bin Di
- Office of China National Narcotics Control Commission, China Pharmaceutical University Joint Laboratory on Key Technologies of Narcotics Control, Nanjing, 210009, China.
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
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Abstract
Introduction: The year 2020 began with the world being flounced with a wave of novel coronavirus (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 [SARS-CoV-2]) disease, named COVID-19. Based on promising pre-clinical and clinical data, remdesivir (RDV) was the first drug to receive FDA approval and so far, it is the most common therapy for treatment of SARS-CoV-2/MERS-CoV. However, following intravenous administration, RDV metabolizes majorly by human liver carboxylesterase 1 (CES1) and marginally by the CYP3A4 enzyme in merely less than an hour. Its resultant active metabolite is a hydrophilic nucleoside with very limited accumulation within lung tissues. Therefore, there is a need to investigate strategies to overcome such premature metabolism issues and improve the antiviral efficacy of RDV at the target site. Objective: Considering the major CES1-mediated metabolism of RDV on systemic administration, we intend to explore the remarkable CES1 plus CYP3A4 inhibitory activity of cannabidiol (CBD) against in vitro microsomal metabolism of RDV to indicate its therapeutic potential as an adjuvant to RDV in the treatment and management of COVID-19. Methods: We investigated the in vitro human liver microsomal metabolism of RDV in the presence of two potential CES1 inhibitors-CBD and nelfinavir, and two standard CYP3A4 inhibitors-ritonavir (RITO) and cyclosporin A. The microsomal metabolism assay was further validated by using a well-characterized CYP3A4-selective substrate, midazolam (MDZ), in the presence of CBD and RITO. Results: Our findings depicted that RDV was rapidly and completely metabolized by human liver microsomes within 60 min. Coincubation with CBD substantially reduced microsomal metabolism of RDV and prolonged its in vitro half-life from 8.93 to 31.07 min. CBD showed significantly higher inhibition of RDV compared with known CES1 and CYP3A4 inhibitors. Inhibition of MDZ metabolism by CBD and RITO further validated the assay. Conclusions: The current study strongly suggests that CBD significantly inhibits human liver microsomal metabolism of RDV and extends its in vitro half-life. Thus, concomitant administration of CBD with RDV intravenous injection could be a promising strategy to prevent premature metabolism in COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aishwarya Saraswat
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, New York, USA
| | - Richa Vartak
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, New York, USA
| | - Manali Patki
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, New York, USA
| | - Ketan Patel
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, New York, USA
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Marques GVDL, Marques DPDA, Clarindo FA, Avendaño-Villarreal JA, Guerra FS, Fernandes PD, Dos Santos EN, Gusevskaya EV, Kohlhoff M, Moreira FDA, Andrade LAF, Fonseca FGD, Dos-Reis JGAC, Oliveira RBD. Synthesis of cannabidiol-based compounds as ACE2 inhibitors with potential application in the treatment of COVID-19. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 260:115760. [PMID: 37657273 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis is a general name for plants of the genus Cannabis. Used as fiber, medicine, drug, for religious, therapeutic, and hedonistic purposes along the millenia, it is mostly known for its psychoactive properties. One of its major constituents, cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive substance, among many other biological activities, has shown potential as an anti-SARS-CoV-2 drug. In this work, three derivatives and an analogue of CBD were synthesized, and cell viability and antiviral activities were evaluated. None of the compounds showed cytotoxicity up to a maximum concentration of 100 μM and, in contrast, displayed a significant antiviral activity, superior to remdesivir and nafamostat mesylate, with IC50 values ranging from 9.4 to 1.9 μM. In order to search for a possible molecular target, the inhibitory activity of the compounds against ACE2 was investigated, with expressive results (IC50 ranging from 3.96 μM to 0.01 μM).
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Vitor de Lima Marques
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Departamento de Produtos Farmacêuticos, Faculdade de Farmácia, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | | - Felipe Alves Clarindo
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | | - Fabiana Sélos Guerra
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Programa de Pesquisa em Descoberta de Fármacos, Laboratório de Farmacologia da Dor e da Inflamação, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Dias Fernandes
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Programa de Pesquisa em Descoberta de Fármacos, Laboratório de Farmacologia da Dor e da Inflamação, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Nicolau Dos Santos
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Departamento de Química, Instituto de Ciências Exatas, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Elena Vitalievna Gusevskaya
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Departamento de Química, Instituto de Ciências Exatas, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Markus Kohlhoff
- Instituto René Rachou (IRR) - FIOCRUZ Minas, Química de Produtos Naturais Bioativos (QPNB), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Fabrício de Araújo Moreira
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Departamento de Farmacologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Luis Adan Flores Andrade
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Centro de Tecnologia de Vacinas - CT Vacinas, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Flávio Guimarães da Fonseca
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Centro de Tecnologia de Vacinas - CT Vacinas, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | | - Renata Barbosa de Oliveira
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Departamento de Produtos Farmacêuticos, Faculdade de Farmácia, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
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Nunn AVW, Guy GW, Bell JD. Informing the Cannabis Conjecture: From Life's Beginnings to Mitochondria, Membranes and the Electrome-A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13070. [PMID: 37685877 PMCID: PMC10488084 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Before the late 1980s, ideas around how the lipophilic phytocannabinoids might be working involved membranes and bioenergetics as these disciplines were "in vogue". However, as interest in genetics and pharmacology grew, interest in mitochondria (and membranes) waned. The discovery of the cognate receptor for tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) led to the classification of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and the conjecture that phytocannabinoids might be "working" through this system. However, the how and the "why" they might be beneficial, especially for compounds like CBD, remains unclear. Given the centrality of membranes and mitochondria in complex organisms, and their evolutionary heritage from the beginnings of life, revisiting phytocannabinoid action in this light could be enlightening. For example, life can be described as a self-organising and replicating far from equilibrium dissipating system, which is defined by the movement of charge across a membrane. Hence the building evidence, at least in animals, that THC and CBD modulate mitochondrial function could be highly informative. In this paper, we offer a unique perspective to the question, why and how do compounds like CBD potentially work as medicines in so many different conditions? The answer, we suggest, is that they can modulate membrane fluidity in a number of ways and thus dissipation and engender homeostasis, particularly under stress. To understand this, we need to embrace origins of life theories, the role of mitochondria in plants and explanations of disease and ageing from an adaptive thermodynamic perspective, as well as quantum mechanics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alistair V. W. Nunn
- Research Centre for Optimal Health, Department of Life Sciences, University of Westminster, London W1W 6UW, UK; (G.W.G.); (J.D.B.)
- The Guy Foundation, Beaminster DT8 3HY, UK
| | - Geoffrey W. Guy
- Research Centre for Optimal Health, Department of Life Sciences, University of Westminster, London W1W 6UW, UK; (G.W.G.); (J.D.B.)
- The Guy Foundation, Beaminster DT8 3HY, UK
| | - Jimmy D. Bell
- Research Centre for Optimal Health, Department of Life Sciences, University of Westminster, London W1W 6UW, UK; (G.W.G.); (J.D.B.)
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Changsan N, Sawatdee S, Suedee R, Chunhachaichana C, Srichana T. Aqueous cannabidiol β-cyclodextrin complexed polymeric micelle nasal spray to attenuate in vitro and ex-vivo SARS-CoV-2-induced cytokine storms. Int J Pharm 2023; 640:123035. [PMID: 37182795 PMCID: PMC10181874 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.123035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Revised: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) has a number of biological effects by acting on the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2. CBD may be involved in anti-inflammatory processes via CB1 and CB2 receptors, resulting in a decrease of pro-inflammatory cytokines. However, CBD's poor aqueous solubility is a major issue in pharmaceutical applications. The aim of the present study was to develop and evaluate a CBD nasal spray solution. A water-soluble CBD was prepared by complexation with β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) at a stoichiometric ratio of 1:1 and forming polymeric micelles using poloxamer 407. The mixture was then lyophilized and characterized using FT-IR, DSC, and TGA. CBD-β-CD complex-polymeric micelles were formulated for nasal spray drug delivery. The physicochemical properties of the CBD-β-CD complex-polymeric micelle nasal spray solution (CBD-β-CDPM-NS) were assessed. The results showed that the CBD content in the CBD-β-CD complex polymeric micelle powder was 102.1 ± 0.5%. The CBD-β-CDPM-NS was a clear colorless isotonic solution. The particle size, zeta potential, pH value, and viscosity were 111.9 ± 0.7 nm, 0.8 ± 0.1 mV, 6.02 ± 0.02, and 12.04 ± 2.64 cP, respectively. This formulation was stable over six months at ambient temperature. The CBD from CBD-β-CDPM-NS rapidly released to 100% within 1 min. Ex-vivo permeation studies of CBD-β-CDPM-NS through porcine nasal mucosa revealed a permeation rate of 4.8 μg/cm2/min, which indicated that CBD was effective in penetrating nasal epithelial cells. CBD-β-CDPM-NS was tested for its efficacy and safety in terms of cytokine production from nasal immune cells and toxicity to nasal epithelial cells. The CBD-β-CDPM-NS was not toxic to nasal epithelial at the concentration of CBD equivalent to 3.125-50 μg/mL. When the formulation was subjected to bioactivity testing against monocyte-like macrophage cells, it proved that the CBD-β-CDPM-NS has the potential to inhibit inflammatory cytokines. CBD-β-CDPM-NS demonstrated the formulation's ability to reduce the cytokine produced by S-RBD stimulation in ex vivo porcine nasal mucosa in both preventative and therapeutic modes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narumon Changsan
- College of Pharmacy, Rangsit University, Pathumtani 12000, Thailand
| | - Somchai Sawatdee
- Drug and Cosmetics Excellence Center and School of Pharmacy, Walailak University, Thasala, Nakhon Si Thammarat, 80161, Thailand
| | - Roongnapa Suedee
- Molecular Recognition Materials Research Unit, Nanotec-PSU Center of Excellence on Drug Delivery System Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Prince of Songkla University Hat Yai, Songkhla 90112, Thailand
| | - Charisopon Chunhachaichana
- Drug Delivery System Excellence Center, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Songkhla 90112, Thailand
| | - Teerapol Srichana
- Drug Delivery System Excellence Center, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Songkhla 90112, Thailand.
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Kytikova OY, Denisenko YK, Novgorodtseva TP, Kovalenko IS. Cannabinoids And Cannabinoid-Like Compounds: Biochemical Characterization And Pharmacological Perspectives. Russ Open Med J 2023. [DOI: 10.15275/rusomj.2023.0107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Publication interest in cannabinoids, including phytocannabinoids, endogenous cannabinoids, synthetic cannabinoids and cannabinomimetic compounds, is due to the therapeutic potential of these compounds in inflammatory pathology. Since recent years, scientific interest was focused on compounds with cannabinomimetic activity. The therapeutic use of phytocannabinoids and endocannabinoids is somewhat limited due to unresolved issues of dosing, toxicity and safety in humans, while cannabinoid-like compounds combine similar therapeutic effects with a high confirmed safety. Targets for endocannabinoids and phytocannabinoids are endocannabinoid receptors 1 and 2, G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), and transient receptor potential ion channels (TRPs). Non-endocannabinoid N-acylethanolamines do not interact with cannabinoid receptors and exhibit agonist activity towards non-cannabinoid receptors, such as PPARs, GPCRs and TRPs. This literature review includes contemporary information on the biological activity, metabolism and pharmacological properties of cannabinoids and cannabinoid-like compounds, as well as their receptors. We established that only a few studies were devoted to the relationship of non-endocannabinoid N-acylethanolamines with non-cannabinoid receptors, such as PPARs, GPCRs, and also with TRPs. We have focused on issues that were insufficiently covered in the published sources in order to identify gaps in existing knowledge and determine the prospects for scientific research.
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Demisli S, Galani E, Goulielmaki M, Kyrilis FL, Ilić T, Hamdi F, Crevar M, Kastritis PL, Pletsa V, Nallet F, Savić S, Xenakis A, Papadimitriou V. Encapsulation of cannabidiol in oil-in-water nanoemulsions and nanoemulsion-filled hydrogels: A structure and biological assessment study. J Colloid Interface Sci 2023; 634:300-313. [PMID: 36535166 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2022.12.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
HYPOTHESIS Lipophilic cannabidiol can be solubilized in oil-in water nanoemulsions, which can then be impregnated into chitosan hydrogels forming another colloidal system that will facilitate cannabidiol's release. The delivery from both systems was compared, alongside structural and biological studies, to clarify the effect of the two carriers' structure on the release and toxicity of the systems. EXPERIMENTS Oil-in-water nanoemulsions (NEs) and the respective nanoemulsion-filled chitosan hydrogels (NE/HGs) were formulated as carriers of cannabidiol (CBD). Size, polydispersity and stability of the NEs were evaluated and then membrane dynamics, shape and structure of both systems were investigated with EPR spin probing, SAXS and microscopy. Biocompatibility of the colloidal delivery systems was evaluated through cytotoxicity tests over normal human skin fibroblasts. An ex vivo permeation protocol using porcine ear skin was implemented to assess the release of CBD and its penetration through the skin. FINDINGS Incorporation of the NEs in chitosan hydrogels does not significantly affect their structural properties as evidenced through SAXS, EPR and confocal microscopy. These findings indicate the successful development of a novel nanocarrier that preserves the NE structure with the CBD remaining encapsulated in the oil core while providing new rheological properties advantageous over NEs. Moreover, NE/HGs proved to be more efficient as a carrier for the release of CBD. Cell viability assessment revealed high biocompatibility of the proposed colloids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sotiria Demisli
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece; Department of Biochemistry & Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Eleni Galani
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece; Department of Food Science & Human Nutrition, Agricultural University of Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Goulielmaki
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
| | - Fotios L Kyrilis
- Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Tanja Ilić
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Cosmetology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Farzad Hamdi
- Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Milkica Crevar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Cosmetology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | | | - Vasiliki Pletsa
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
| | - Frédéric Nallet
- Centre de Recherche Paul Pascal (CRPP) UMR 5031 CNRS, University of Bordeaux, France
| | - Snežana Savić
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Cosmetology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Aristotelis Xenakis
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
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11
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Basit SA, Qureshi R, Musleh S, Guler R, Rahman MS, Biswas KH, Alam T. COVID-19Base v3: Update of the knowledgebase for drugs and biomedical entities linked to COVID-19. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1125917. [PMID: 36950105 PMCID: PMC10025554 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1125917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 has taken a huge toll on our lives over the last 3 years. Global initiatives put forward by all stakeholders are still in place to combat this pandemic and help us learn lessons for future ones. While the vaccine rollout was not able to curb the spread of the disease for all strains, the research community is still trying to develop effective therapeutics for COVID-19. Although Paxlovid and remdesivir have been approved by the FDA against COVID-19, they are not free of side effects. Therefore, the search for a therapeutic solution with high efficacy continues in the research community. To support this effort, in this latest version (v3) of COVID-19Base, we have summarized the biomedical entities linked to COVID-19 that have been highlighted in the scientific literature after the vaccine rollout. Eight different topic-specific dictionaries, i.e., gene, miRNA, lncRNA, PDB entries, disease, alternative medicines registered under clinical trials, drugs, and the side effects of drugs, were used to build this knowledgebase. We have introduced a BLSTM-based deep-learning model to predict the drug-disease associations that outperforms the existing model for the same purpose proposed in the earlier version of COVID-19Base. For the very first time, we have incorporated disease-gene, disease-miRNA, disease-lncRNA, and drug-PDB associations covering the largest number of biomedical entities related to COVID-19. We have provided examples of and insights into different biomedical entities covered in COVID-19Base to support the research community by incorporating all of these entities under a single platform to provide evidence-based support from the literature. COVID-19Base v3 can be accessed from: https://covidbase-v3.vercel.app/. The GitHub repository for the source code and data dictionaries is available to the community from: https://github.com/91Abdullah/covidbasev3.0.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed Abdullah Basit
- College of Science and Engineering, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Rizwan Qureshi
- College of Science and Engineering, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Saleh Musleh
- College of Science and Engineering, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Reto Guler
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Cape Town Component, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Pathology, Division of Immunology and South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) Immunology of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine (IDM), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Wellcome Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Africa, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine (IDM), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - M. Sohel Rahman
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Kabir H. Biswas
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Tanvir Alam
- College of Science and Engineering, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
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12
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Leng A, Shah M, Ahmad SA, Premraj L, Wildi K, Li Bassi G, Pardo CA, Choi A, Cho SM. Pathogenesis Underlying Neurological Manifestations of Long COVID Syndrome and Potential Therapeutics. Cells 2023; 12:816. [PMID: 36899952 PMCID: PMC10001044 DOI: 10.3390/cells12050816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of long-term symptoms of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) more than four weeks after primary infection, termed "long COVID" or post-acute sequela of COVID-19 (PASC), can implicate persistent neurological complications in up to one third of patients and present as fatigue, "brain fog", headaches, cognitive impairment, dysautonomia, neuropsychiatric symptoms, anosmia, hypogeusia, and peripheral neuropathy. Pathogenic mechanisms of these symptoms of long COVID remain largely unclear; however, several hypotheses implicate both nervous system and systemic pathogenic mechanisms such as SARS-CoV2 viral persistence and neuroinvasion, abnormal immunological response, autoimmunity, coagulopathies, and endotheliopathy. Outside of the CNS, SARS-CoV-2 can invade the support and stem cells of the olfactory epithelium leading to persistent alterations to olfactory function. SARS-CoV-2 infection may induce abnormalities in innate and adaptive immunity including monocyte expansion, T-cell exhaustion, and prolonged cytokine release, which may cause neuroinflammatory responses and microglia activation, white matter abnormalities, and microvascular changes. Additionally, microvascular clot formation can occlude capillaries and endotheliopathy, due to SARS-CoV-2 protease activity and complement activation, can contribute to hypoxic neuronal injury and blood-brain barrier dysfunction, respectively. Current therapeutics target pathological mechanisms by employing antivirals, decreasing inflammation, and promoting olfactory epithelium regeneration. Thus, from laboratory evidence and clinical trials in the literature, we sought to synthesize the pathophysiological pathways underlying neurological symptoms of long COVID and potential therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Leng
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Manuj Shah
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Syed Ameen Ahmad
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Lavienraj Premraj
- Department of Neurology, Griffith University School of Medicine, Gold Coast, Brisbane, QLD 4215, Australia
- Critical Care Research Group, The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4032, Australia
| | - Karin Wildi
- Critical Care Research Group, The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4032, Australia
| | - Gianluigi Li Bassi
- Critical Care Research Group, The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4032, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia
- Intensive Care Unit, St Andrew’s War Memorial Hospital and the Wesley Hospital, Uniting Care Hospitals, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia
- Wesley Medical Research, Auchenflower, QLD 4066, Australia
| | - Carlos A. Pardo
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Alex Choi
- Division of Neurosciences Critical Care, Department of Neurosurgery, UT Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Sung-Min Cho
- Divisions of Neurosciences Critical Care and Cardiac Surgery, Departments of Neurology, Surgery, Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine and Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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13
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Batra B, Srinivasan S, Gopalakrishnan SG, Patel CN, Kumar V, Sourirajan A, Dev K. Molecular insights into the interaction of eighteen different variants of SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins with sixteen therapeutically important phytocompounds: in silico approach. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023; 41:12880-12907. [PMID: 36690609 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2169761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 has mutated many times among different populations. We analyzed wild-type spike protein and 18 different variants of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein known until the beginning of 2022 (alpha, beta, B.1.429, B.1.616, B.1.620, B.1.617.3, C.1.2, delta, epsilon, eta, gamma, iota, kappa, lambda, mu, omicron, theta, and zeta) for their interaction with 16 phytocompounds and remdesivir, resulting into 425 combinations. The largest number of mutations has been reported in the omicron followed by delta variant. However, the virulence of the delta variant has been reported higher as compared to omicron. Mutations at a few locations (D215G, K417N, E484K, N501Y, D614G, and P681H) were common in most of the variants. 3 D structures of all the 18 spike proteins were created using SWISS-MODEL to test the binding affinities with caffeine theophylline, emodin, vitexin, berberine, curcumin, piperine, quercetin, artemisinin, carvacrol, capsaicin, tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol, α- pinene, β- pinene and gingerol. Phytocompounds and mutant variants were prepared using AutoDock 4.2.6 software. Binding affinities of the selected phytocompounds with the different mutant spike proteins were achieved using AutoDock Vina. Out of all combinations investigated, the best binding affinities were observed with 3 variants of SAR-CoV-2 with 5 phytocompounds along with remdesivir. The range of best binding energies varied from -9.1 to -8.0 kcal/mol. Further, MD simulation was done for selected 9 phytocompound-spike mutant complexes for analyzing the stability of interactions for 100 ns. ADMET studies via ProTox-II and SwissADME displayed that phytocompounds are safe and less toxic in comparison to remdesivir.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhavika Batra
- Faculty of Applied Sciences and Biotechnology, Shoolini University of Biotechnology and Management Sciences, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Suchetha Srinivasan
- Faculty of Applied Sciences and Biotechnology, Shoolini University of Biotechnology and Management Sciences, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | | | - Chirag N Patel
- Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Vikas Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, University Institute of Biotechnology, Chandigarh University, Gharuan, Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Anuradha Sourirajan
- Faculty of Applied Sciences and Biotechnology, Shoolini University of Biotechnology and Management Sciences, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Kamal Dev
- Faculty of Applied Sciences and Biotechnology, Shoolini University of Biotechnology and Management Sciences, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Wright State University, Dayton, Ohio, USA
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14
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Azimi S, Saghafi F, Mohammadi MH, Moghimi MH, Akhavan SA, Khataminia M, Shirvani M, Sohrevardi SM, Jamialahmadi T, Sahebnasagh A, Sahebkar A. The Potential of Cannabidiol for Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome in COVID-19. Curr Pharm Des 2023; 29:2291-2296. [PMID: 37818584 DOI: 10.2174/0113816128275803230920094909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 disease manifests itself in a wide range of signs and symptoms, beginning with mild symptoms, such as fever, cough, and dyspnea, progressing to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and death in some cases. The cytokine storm, or an excess of cytokines released locally, is assumed to be the primary cause of ARDS and mortality in COVID-19 patients. To enhance the survival rate of COVID-19 patients, early management of the cytokine storm with immunomodulators is crucial. Although the effectiveness of some immunosuppressants, such as corticosteroids and tocilizumab, has been studied in clinical trials, the administration of these drugs should be exercised cautiously. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychotropic phytocannabinoid from Cannabis sativa extracts with anti-inflammatory properties. This review is intended to discuss the possible utility of CBD for the management of COVID-19 patients, particularly those with ARDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeid Azimi
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Saghafi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Hossein Moghimi
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Pharmacy, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Seyed Ali Akhavan
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Pharmacy, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Masoud Khataminia
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maria Shirvani
- Clinical Research Development Center, Imam Reza Hospital, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Seyed Mojtaba Sohrevardi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Tannaz Jamialahmadi
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Adeleh Sahebnasagh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical Research Center, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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15
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Hasankhani A, Bahrami A, Tavakoli-Far B, Iranshahi S, Ghaemi F, Akbarizadeh MR, Amin AH, Abedi Kiasari B, Mohammadzadeh Shabestari A. The role of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors in the modulation of hyperinflammation induced by SARS-CoV-2 infection: A perspective for COVID-19 therapy. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1127358. [PMID: 36875108 PMCID: PMC9981974 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1127358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a severe respiratory disease caused by infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that affects the lower and upper respiratory tract in humans. SARS-CoV-2 infection is associated with the induction of a cascade of uncontrolled inflammatory responses in the host, ultimately leading to hyperinflammation or cytokine storm. Indeed, cytokine storm is a hallmark of SARS-CoV-2 immunopathogenesis, directly related to the severity of the disease and mortality in COVID-19 patients. Considering the lack of any definitive treatment for COVID-19, targeting key inflammatory factors to regulate the inflammatory response in COVID-19 patients could be a fundamental step to developing effective therapeutic strategies against SARS-CoV-2 infection. Currently, in addition to well-defined metabolic actions, especially lipid metabolism and glucose utilization, there is growing evidence of a central role of the ligand-dependent nuclear receptors and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) including PPARα, PPARβ/δ, and PPARγ in the control of inflammatory signals in various human inflammatory diseases. This makes them attractive targets for developing therapeutic approaches to control/suppress the hyperinflammatory response in patients with severe COVID-19. In this review, we (1) investigate the anti-inflammatory mechanisms mediated by PPARs and their ligands during SARS-CoV-2 infection, and (2) on the basis of the recent literature, highlight the importance of PPAR subtypes for the development of promising therapeutic approaches against the cytokine storm in severe COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aliakbar Hasankhani
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran
| | - Abolfazl Bahrami
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran.,Biomedical Center for Systems Biology Science Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Bahareh Tavakoli-Far
- Dietary Supplements and Probiotic Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran.,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Setare Iranshahi
- School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshty University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farnaz Ghaemi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Advanced Sciences and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Majid Reza Akbarizadeh
- Department of Pediatric, School of Medicine, Amir al momenin Hospital, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran
| | - Ali H Amin
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Bahman Abedi Kiasari
- Virology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Mohammadzadeh Shabestari
- Department of Dental Surgery, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Khorasan Covid-19 Scientific Committee, Mashhad, Iran
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16
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Zavala-Tecuapetla C, Luna-Munguia H, López-Meraz ML, Cuellar-Herrera M. Advances and Challenges of Cannabidiol as an Anti-Seizure Strategy: Preclinical Evidence. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232416181. [PMID: 36555823 PMCID: PMC9783044 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232416181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of Cannabis for medicinal purposes has been documented since ancient times, where one of its principal cannabinoids extracted from Cannabis sativa, cannabidiol (CBD), has emerged over the last few years as a promising molecule with anti-seizure potential. Here, we present an overview of recent literature pointing out CBD's pharmacological profile (solubility, metabolism, drug-drug interactions, etc.,), CBD's interactions with multiple molecular targets as well as advances in preclinical research concerning its anti-seizure effect on both acute seizure models and chronic models of epilepsy. We also highlight the recent attention that has been given to other natural cannabinoids and to synthetic derivatives of CBD as possible compounds with therapeutic anti-seizure potential. All the scientific research reviewed here encourages to continue to investigate the probable therapeutic efficacy of CBD and its related compounds not only in epilepsy but also and specially in drug-resistant epilepsy, since there is a dire need for new and effective drugs to treat this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Zavala-Tecuapetla
- Laboratory of Physiology of Reticular Formation, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Insurgentes Sur 3877, La Fama, Mexico City 14269, Mexico
- Correspondence:
| | - Hiram Luna-Munguia
- Departamento de Neurobiologia Conductual y Cognitiva, Instituto de Neurobiologia, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Campus UNAM-Juriquilla, Queretaro 76230, Mexico
| | - María-Leonor López-Meraz
- Instituto de Investigaciones Cerebrales, Universidad Veracruzana, Luis Castelazo Ayala s/n, Col. Industrial Ánimas, Xalapa 91190, Mexico
| | - Manola Cuellar-Herrera
- Epilepsy Clinic, Hospital General de México Dr. Eduardo Liceaga, Dr. Balmis 148, Doctores, Mexico City 06720, Mexico
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17
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Pérez R, Glaser T, Villegas C, Burgos V, Ulrich H, Paz C. Therapeutic Effects of Cannabinoids and Their Applications in COVID-19 Treatment. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12122117. [PMID: 36556483 PMCID: PMC9784976 DOI: 10.3390/life12122117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis sativa is one of the first medicinal plants used by humans. Its medical use remains controversial because it is a psychotropic drug whose use has been banned. Recently, however, some countries have approved its use, including for recreational and medical purposes, and have allowed the scientific study of its compounds. Cannabis is characterized by the production of special types of natural products called phytocannabinoids that are synthesized exclusively by this genus. Phytocannabinoids and endocannabinoids are chemically different, but both pharmacologically modulate CB1, CB2, GRP55, GRP119 and TRPV1 receptor activities, involving activities such as memory, sleep, mood, appetite and motor regulation, pain sensation, neuroinflammation, neurogenesis and apoptosis. Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are phytocannabinoids with greater pharmacological potential, including anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective and anticonvulsant activities. Cannabidiol is showing promising results for the treatment of COVID-19, due to its capability of acting on the unleashed cytokine storm, on the proteins necessary for both virus entry and replication and on the neurological consequences of patients who have been infected by the virus. Here, we summarize the latest knowledge regarding the advantages of using cannabinoids in the treatment of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebeca Pérez
- Laboratory of Natural Products & Drug Discovery, Center CEBIM, Department of Basic Sciences, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811230, Chile
| | - Talita Glaser
- Department of Biochemistry, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes 748, São Paulo 05508-000, SP, Brazil
| | - Cecilia Villegas
- Laboratory of Natural Products & Drug Discovery, Center CEBIM, Department of Basic Sciences, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811230, Chile
| | - Viviana Burgos
- Departamento de Ciencias Básicas, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Santo Tomas, Temuco 4780000, Chile
| | - Henning Ulrich
- Department of Biochemistry, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes 748, São Paulo 05508-000, SP, Brazil
- Correspondence: (H.U.); (C.P.); Tel.: +55-11-97277-6344 (H.U.); +56-45-259-2825 (C.P.)
| | - Cristian Paz
- Laboratory of Natural Products & Drug Discovery, Center CEBIM, Department of Basic Sciences, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811230, Chile
- Correspondence: (H.U.); (C.P.); Tel.: +55-11-97277-6344 (H.U.); +56-45-259-2825 (C.P.)
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18
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Chelminiak-Dudkiewicz D, Smolarkiewicz-Wyczachowski A, Mylkie K, Wujak M, Mlynarczyk DT, Nowak P, Bocian S, Goslinski T, Ziegler-Borowska M. Chitosan-based films with cannabis oil as a base material for wound dressing application. Sci Rep 2022; 12:18658. [PMID: 36333591 PMCID: PMC9636169 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-23506-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
This study focuses on obtaining and characterizing novel chitosan-based biomaterials containing cannabis oil to potentially promote wound healing. The primary active substance in cannabis oil is the non-psychoactive cannabidiol, which has many beneficial properties. In this study, three chitosan-based films containing different concentrations of cannabis oil were prepared. As the amount of oil increased, the obtained biomaterials became rougher as tested by atomic force microscopy. Such rough surfaces promote protein adsorption, confirmed by experiments assessing the interaction between human albumin with the obtained materials. Increased oil concentration also improved the films' mechanical parameters, swelling capacity, and hydrophilic properties, which were checked by the wetting angle measurement. On the other hand, higher oil content resulted in decreased water vapour permeability, which is essential in wound dressing. Furthermore, the prepared films were subjected to an acute toxicity test using a Microtox. Significantly, the film's increased cannabis oil content enhanced the antimicrobial effect against A. fischeri for films in direct contact with bacteria. More importantly, cell culture studies revealed that the obtained materials are biocompatible and, therefore, they might be potential candidates for application in wound dressing materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorota Chelminiak-Dudkiewicz
- grid.5374.50000 0001 0943 6490Department of Biomedical Chemistry and Polymer Science, Medicinal Chemistry Research Group, Faculty of Chemistry, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Gagarina 7, 87-100 Torun, Poland
| | - Aleksander Smolarkiewicz-Wyczachowski
- grid.5374.50000 0001 0943 6490Department of Biomedical Chemistry and Polymer Science, Medicinal Chemistry Research Group, Faculty of Chemistry, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Gagarina 7, 87-100 Torun, Poland
| | - Kinga Mylkie
- grid.5374.50000 0001 0943 6490Department of Biomedical Chemistry and Polymer Science, Medicinal Chemistry Research Group, Faculty of Chemistry, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Gagarina 7, 87-100 Torun, Poland
| | - Magdalena Wujak
- grid.5374.50000 0001 0943 6490Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Collegium Medicum, Jurasza 2, 85-089 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Dariusz T. Mlynarczyk
- grid.22254.330000 0001 2205 0971Chair and Department of Chemical Technology of Drugs, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Grunwaldzka 6, 60-780 Poznan, Poland
| | - Pawel Nowak
- grid.5374.50000 0001 0943 6490Department of Biomedical Chemistry and Polymer Science, Medicinal Chemistry Research Group, Faculty of Chemistry, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Gagarina 7, 87-100 Torun, Poland
| | - Szymon Bocian
- grid.5374.50000 0001 0943 6490Department of Environmental Chemistry and Bioanalysis, Faculty of Chemistry, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Gagarina 7, 87-100 Torun, Poland
| | - Tomasz Goslinski
- grid.22254.330000 0001 2205 0971Chair and Department of Chemical Technology of Drugs, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Grunwaldzka 6, 60-780 Poznan, Poland
| | - Marta Ziegler-Borowska
- grid.5374.50000 0001 0943 6490Department of Biomedical Chemistry and Polymer Science, Medicinal Chemistry Research Group, Faculty of Chemistry, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Gagarina 7, 87-100 Torun, Poland
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McGrail J, Martín-Banderas L, Durán-Lobato M. Cannabinoids as Emergent Therapy Against COVID-19. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2022; 7:582-590. [PMID: 35512732 PMCID: PMC9587773 DOI: 10.1089/can.2022.0018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the severe acute respiratory distress syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-Cov-2), was identified for the first time in late 2019 in China, resulting in a global pandemic of massive impact. Despite a fast development and implementation of vaccination strategies, and the scouting of several pharmacological treatments, alternative effective treatments are still needed. In this regard, cannabinoids represent a promising approach because they have been proven to exhibit several immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties in COVID-19 disease models and related pathological conditions. This mini-review aims at providing a practical brief overview of the potential applications of cannabinoids so far identified for the treatment and prevention of COVID-19, finally considering key aspects related to their technological and clinical implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph McGrail
- Department Farmacia y Tecnología Farmacéutica, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Lucía Martín-Banderas
- Department Farmacia y Tecnología Farmacéutica, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Matilde Durán-Lobato
- Department Farmacia y Tecnología Farmacéutica, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
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20
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Crippa JAS, Pacheco JC, Zuardi AW, Guimarães FS, Campos AC, Osório FDL, Loureiro SR, dos Santos RG, Souza JDS, Ushirohira JM, Ferreira RR, Mancini Costa KC, Scomparin DS, Scarante FF, Pires-Dos-Santos I, Mechoulam R, Kapczinski F, Fonseca BA, Esposito DL, Passos ADC, Dal Fabbro AL, Bellissimo-Rodrigues F, Arruda E, Scarpelini S, Andraus MH, Nather Junior JC, Wada DT, Koenigkam-Santos M, Santos AC, Busatto Filho G, Hallak JE. Cannabidiol for COVID-19 Patients with Mild to Moderate Symptoms (CANDIDATE Study): A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2022; 7:658-669. [PMID: 34619044 PMCID: PMC9587798 DOI: 10.1089/can.2021.0093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Importance: Owing to its anti-inflammatory properties and antiviral "in vitro" effect against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), cannabidiol (CBD) has been proposed as a potential treatment for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Objective: To investigate the safety and efficacy of CBD for treating patients with mild to moderate COVID-19. Design: Randomized, parallel-group, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial conducted between July 7 and October 16, 2020, in two sites in Brazil. Setting: Patients were recruited in an emergency room. Participants: Block randomized patients (1:1 allocation ratio-by a researcher not directly involved in data collection) with mild and moderate COVID-19 living in Ribeirão Preto, Brazil, seeking medical consultation, and those who voluntarily agreed to participate in the study. Interventions: Patients received 300 mg of CBD or placebo added to standard symptomatic care during 14 days. Main Outcome and Measure: The primary outcome was reduction or prevention of the deterioration in clinical status from mild/moderate to severe/critical measured with the COVID-19 Scale or the natural course of the resolution of typical clinical symptoms. Primary study outcome was assessed on days 14, 21, and 28 after enrollment. Results: A total of 321 patients were recruited and assessed for eligibility, and 105 were randomly allocated either in CBD (n=49) or in placebo (n=42) group. Ninety-one participants were included in the analysis of efficacy. There were no baseline between-group differences regarding disease severity (χ2=0.025, p=0.988) and median time to symptom resolution (12 days [95% confidence interval, CI, 6.5-17.5] in the CBD group, 9 days [95% CI, 4.8-13.2] in the placebo group [χ2=1.6, p=0.205 by log-rank test]). By day 28, 83.3% in the CBD group and 90.2% in the placebo group had resolved symptoms. There were no between-group differences on secondary measures. CBD was well tolerated, producing mostly mild and transient side effects (e.g., somnolence, fatigue, changes in appetite, lethargy, nausea, diarrhea, and fever), with no significant differences between CBD and placebo treatment groups. Conclusions and Relevance: Daily administration of 300 mg CBD for 14 days failed to alter the clinical evolution of COVID-19. Further trials should explore the therapeutic effect of CBD in patients with severe COVID-19, possibly trying higher doses than the used in our study. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT04467918 (date of registration: July 13, 2020).
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Affiliation(s)
- José Alexandre S. Crippa
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
- National Institute for Science and Technology—Translational Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Julia Cozar Pacheco
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Antonio W. Zuardi
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
- National Institute for Science and Technology—Translational Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Francisco S. Guimarães
- National Institute for Science and Technology—Translational Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Alline Cristina Campos
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Flávia de Lima Osório
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
- National Institute for Science and Technology—Translational Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sonia Regina Loureiro
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Rafael G. dos Santos
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
- National Institute for Science and Technology—Translational Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - José Diogo S. Souza
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Juliana Mayumi Ushirohira
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Rafael Rinaldi Ferreira
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | | | - Davi Silveira Scomparin
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Franciele Franco Scarante
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Isabela Pires-Dos-Santos
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Raphael Mechoulam
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Natural Products, The Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Flávio Kapczinski
- National Institute for Science and Technology—Translational Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University and St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton, Canada
- Graduate Program in Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Benedito A.L. Fonseca
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Danillo L.A. Esposito
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Afonso Dinis Costa Passos
- Department of Social Medicine, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Amaury Lelis Dal Fabbro
- Department of Social Medicine, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | | | - Eurico Arruda
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, and Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Sandro Scarpelini
- Department of Surgery and Anatomy, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | | | - Julio Cesar Nather Junior
- Department of Medical Imaging, Hematology, and Clinical Oncology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Danilo Tadao Wada
- Department of Medical Imaging, Hematology, and Clinical Oncology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Marcel Koenigkam-Santos
- Department of Medical Imaging, Hematology, and Clinical Oncology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Antonio Carlos Santos
- Department of Medical Imaging, Hematology, and Clinical Oncology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Geraldo Busatto Filho
- Laboratory of Psychiatric Neuroimaging (LIM 21), Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jaime E.C. Hallak
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
- National Institute for Science and Technology—Translational Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
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21
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Pitakbut T, Nguyen GN, Kayser O. Activity of THC, CBD, and CBN on Human ACE2 and SARS-CoV1/2 Main Protease to Understand Antiviral Defense Mechanism. Planta Med 2022; 88:1047-1059. [PMID: 34638139 DOI: 10.1055/a-1581-3707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
THC, CBD, and CBN were reported as promising candidates against SARS-CoV2 infection, but the mechanism of action of these three cannabinoids is not understood. This study aims to determine the mechanism of action of THC, CBD, and CBN by selecting two essential targets that directly affect the coronavirus infections as viral main proteases and human angiotensin-converting enzyme2. Tested THC and CBD presented a dual-action action against both selected targets. Only CBD acted as a potent viral main protease inhibitor at the IC50 value of 1.86 ± 0.04 µM and exhibited only moderate activity against human angiotensin-converting enzyme2 at the IC50 value of 14.65 ± 0.47 µM. THC acted as a moderate inhibitor against both viral main protease and human angiotensin-converting enzymes2 at the IC50 value of 16.23 ± 1.71 µM and 11.47 ± 3.60 µM, respectively. Here, we discuss cannabinoid-associated antiviral activity mechanisms based on in silico docking studies and in vitro receptor binding studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanet Pitakbut
- Technical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biochemical and Chemical Engineering, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Gia-Nam Nguyen
- Technical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biochemical and Chemical Engineering, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany
- MINDbioscience GmbH, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Oliver Kayser
- Technical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biochemical and Chemical Engineering, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany
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22
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Abou Baker DH. Can natural products modulate cytokine storm in SARS-CoV2 patients? Biotechnology Reports 2022; 35:e00749. [PMID: 35702395 PMCID: PMC9181898 DOI: 10.1016/j.btre.2022.e00749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Immune reaction CoV2 can cause uncontrolled systemic inflammatory responses called cytokine storm. Medicinal plants and their secondary metabolites are potential modulators of cytokine storm. Secondary metabolites modulate inflammatory signaling associated with CoV2. The potential applicability of natural products against CoV2 need to be evaluated in strictly defined clinical research.
Currently, the number of cases and deaths of SARS-CoV2, especially among the chronic disease groups, due to aggressive SARS-CoV2 infection is increasing day by day. Various infections, particularly viral ones, cause a cytokine storm resulting in shortness of breath, bleeding, hypotension, and ultimately multi-organ failure due to over-expression of certain cytokines and necrosis factors. The most prominent clinical feature of SARS-CoV2 is the presence of elevated proinflammatory cytokines in the serum of patients with SARS-CoV2. Severe cases exhibit higher levels of cytokines, leading to a “cytokine storm” that further increases disease severity and causes acute respiratory distress syndrome, multiple organ failure, and death. Therefore, targeted cytokine production could be a potential therapeutic option for patients severely infected with SARS-CoV2. Given the current scenario, great scientific progress has been made in understanding the disease and its forms of treatment. Because of natural ingredients properties, they have the potential to be used as potential agents with the ability to modulate immune responses. Moreover, they can be used safely because they have no toxic effects, are biodegradable and biocompatible. However, these natural substances can continue to be used in the development of new therapies and vaccines. Finally, the aim and approach of this review article is to highlight current research on the possible use of natural products with promising potential as immune response activators. Moreover, consider the expected use of natural products when developing potential therapies and vaccines.
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23
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Hong H, Sloan L, Saxena D, Scott DA. The Antimicrobial Properties of Cannabis and Cannabis-Derived Compounds and Relevance to CB2-Targeted Neurodegenerative Therapeutics. Biomedicines 2022; 10:1959. [PMID: 36009504 PMCID: PMC9406052 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10081959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) is of interest as a much-needed target for the treatment or prevention of several neurogenerative diseases. However, CB2 agonists, particularly phytocannabinoids, have been ascribed antimicrobial properties and are associated with the induction of microbiome compositional fluxes. When developing novel CB2 therapeutics, CB2 engagement and antimicrobial functions should both be considered. This review summarizes those cannabinoids and cannabis-informed molecules and preparations (CIMPs) that show promise as microbicidal agents, with a particular focus on the most recent developments. CIMP–microbe interactions and anti-microbial mechanisms are discussed, while the major knowledge gaps and barriers to translation are presented. Further research into CIMPs may proffer novel direct or adjunctive strategies to augment the currently available antimicrobial armory. The clinical promise of CIMPs as antimicrobials, however, remains unrealized. Nevertheless, the microbicidal effects ascribed to several CB2 receptor-agonists should be considered when designing therapeutic approaches for neurocognitive and other disorders, particularly in cases where such regimens are to be long-term. To this end, the potential development of CB2 agonists lacking antimicrobial properties is also discussed.
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24
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Jafari A, Esmaeilzadeh Z, Khezri MR, Ghasemnejad-Berenji H, Pashapour S, Sadeghpour S, Ghasemnejad-Berenji M. An overview of possible pivotal mechanisms of Genistein as a potential phytochemical against SARS-CoV-2 infection: A hypothesis. J Food Biochem 2022; 46:e14345. [PMID: 35866873 PMCID: PMC9350103 DOI: 10.1111/jfbc.14345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic has been caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2). It is a global problem that humanity has not yet found a definitive solution for it. In this regard, a global effort has been done to find effective or potential adjuvant therapies in order to fight this infection. Genistein is a small, biologically active phytoestrogen flavonoid that is found in high amounts in soy and plants of the Fabaceae family. This important compound is known due to its anti‐cancer, anti‐inflammatory, and antioxidant effects. Additionally, protective effects of genistein have been reported in different pathological conditions through modulating intracellular pathways such as PI3K, Akt, mTOR, NF‐κB, PPARγ, AMPK, and Nrf2. Scientific evidence suggests that genistein could have a potential role to treat COVID‐19 through its anti‐inflammatory and anti‐oxidant effects. Furthermore, it appears to interfere with intracellular pathways involved in viral entry into the cell. This review provides a basis for further research and development of clinical applications of genistein as a potential alternative therapy to decrease inflammation and oxidative stress in COVID‐19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbas Jafari
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Zeinab Esmaeilzadeh
- Department of Nutrition, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | | | | | - Sarvin Pashapour
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Sonia Sadeghpour
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Morteza Ghasemnejad-Berenji
- Experimental and Applied Pharmaceutical Research Center, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
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25
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Bastani S, Vahedian V, Rashidi M, Mir A, Mirzaei S, Alipourfard I, Pouremamali F, Nejabati H, Kadkhoda J, Maroufi NF, Akbarzadeh M. An evaluation on potential anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of Crocin. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 153:113297. [PMID: 35738178 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Crocin, an active ingredient derived from saffron, is one of the herbal components that has recently been considered by researchers. Crocin has been shown to have many anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and therefore can be used to treat various diseases. It has been shown that Crocin has a positive effect on the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, and kidney disease. In addition, the role of this substance in COVID-19 pandemic has been identified. In this review article, we tried to have a comprehensive review of the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of Crocin in different diseases and different tissues. In conclusion, Crocin may be helpful in pathological conditions that are associated with inflammation and oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sepideh Bastani
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Vahid Vahedian
- Cancer Biology Research Group, Faculty of Medicine Institute of Biotechnology (FMB-IBTEC) Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Brazil
| | - Mohsen Rashidi
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran; The Health of Plant and Livestock Products Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Amirabbas Mir
- Institute of Nano Science and Nano Technology, University of Kashan, P.O. Box 87317-51167, Kashan, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Sepideh Mirzaei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran
| | - Iraj Alipourfard
- Institutitue of Biology, Biotechnology and Environmental Protection - Faculty of Natural Sciences - University of Silesia - Katowice - Poland
| | - Farhad Pouremamali
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Nejabati
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Jamileh Kadkhoda
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Nazila Fathi Maroufi
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Maryam Akbarzadeh
- Department of Biochemistry, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
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26
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Mińczuk K, Baranowska-Kuczko M, Krzyżewska A, Schlicker E, Malinowska B. Cross-Talk between the (Endo)Cannabinoid and Renin-Angiotensin Systems: Basic Evidence and Potential Therapeutic Significance. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23116350. [PMID: 35683028 PMCID: PMC9181166 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
This review is dedicated to the cross-talk between the (endo)cannabinoid and renin angiotensin systems (RAS). Activation of AT1 receptors (AT1Rs) by angiotensin II (Ang II) can release endocannabinoids that, by acting at cannabinoid CB1 receptors (CB1Rs), modify the response to AT1R stimulation. CB1R blockade may enhance AT1R-mediated responses (mainly vasoconstrictor effects) or reduce them (mainly central nervous system-mediated effects). The final effects depend on whether stimulation of CB1Rs and AT1Rs induces opposite or the same effects. Second, CB1R blockade may diminish AT1R levels. Third, phytocannabinoids modulate angiotensin-converting enzyme-2. Additional studies are required to clarify (1) the existence of a cross-talk between the protective axis of the RAS (Ang II—AT2 receptor system or angiotensin 1-7—Mas receptor system) with components of the endocannabinoid system, (2) the influence of Ang II on constituents of the endocannabinoid system and (3) the (patho)physiological significance of AT1R-CB1R heteromerization. As a therapeutic consequence, CB1R antagonists may influence effects elicited by the activation or blockade of the RAS; phytocannabinoids may be useful as adjuvant therapy against COVID-19; single drugs acting on the (endo)cannabinoid system (cannabidiol) and the RAS (telmisartan) may show pharmacokinetic interactions since they are substrates of the same metabolizing enzyme of the transport mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krzysztof Mińczuk
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, ul. Mickiewicza 2A, 15-222 Białystok, Poland; (K.M.); (M.B.-K.); (A.K.)
| | - Marta Baranowska-Kuczko
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, ul. Mickiewicza 2A, 15-222 Białystok, Poland; (K.M.); (M.B.-K.); (A.K.)
| | - Anna Krzyżewska
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, ul. Mickiewicza 2A, 15-222 Białystok, Poland; (K.M.); (M.B.-K.); (A.K.)
| | - Eberhard Schlicker
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
- Correspondence: (E.S.); (B.M.); Tel.: +48-85-7485699 (B.M.)
| | - Barbara Malinowska
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, ul. Mickiewicza 2A, 15-222 Białystok, Poland; (K.M.); (M.B.-K.); (A.K.)
- Correspondence: (E.S.); (B.M.); Tel.: +48-85-7485699 (B.M.)
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27
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Yap SHK, Pan J, Linh DV, Zhang X, Wang X, Teo WZ, Zamburg E, Tham CK, Yew WS, Poh CL, Thean AVY. Engineered Nucleotide Chemicapacitive Microsensor Array Augmented with Physics-Guided Machine Learning for High-Throughput Screening of Cannabidiol. Small 2022; 18:e2107659. [PMID: 35521934 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202107659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The recent legalization of cannabidiol (CBD) to treat neurological conditions such as epilepsy has sparked rising interest across global pharmaceuticals and synthetic biology industries to engineer microbes for sustainable synthetic production of medicinal CBD. Since the process involves screening large amounts of samples, the main challenge is often associated with the conventional screening platform that is time consuming, and laborious with high operating costs. Here, a portable, high-throughput Aptamer-based BioSenSing System (ABS3 ) is introduced for label-free, low-cost, fully automated, and highly accurate CBD concentrations' classification in a complex biological environment. The ABS3 comprises an array of interdigitated microelectrode sensors, each functionalized with different engineered aptamers. To further empower the functionality of the ABS3 , unique electrochemical features from each sensor are synergized using physics-guided multidimensional analysis. The capabilities of this ABS3 are demonstrated by achieving excellent CBD concentrations' classification with a high prediction accuracy of 99.98% and a fast testing time of 22 µs per testing sample using the optimized random forest (RF) model. It is foreseen that this approach will be the key to the realistic transformation from fundamental research to system miniaturization for diagnostics of disease biomarkers and drug development in the field of chemical/bioanalytics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Hui Kit Yap
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National University of Singapore, 4 Engineering Drive 3, Singapore, 117583, Singapore
| | - Jieming Pan
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National University of Singapore, 4 Engineering Drive 3, Singapore, 117583, Singapore
| | - Dao Viet Linh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 4 Engineering Drive 3, Singapore, 117583, Singapore
- NUS Synthetic Biology for Clinical and Technological Innovation (SynCTI), National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Drive, Singapore, 117456, Singapore
| | - Xiangyu Zhang
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National University of Singapore, 4 Engineering Drive 3, Singapore, 117583, Singapore
| | - Xinghua Wang
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National University of Singapore, 4 Engineering Drive 3, Singapore, 117583, Singapore
| | - Wei Zhe Teo
- NUS Synthetic Biology for Clinical and Technological Innovation (SynCTI), National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Drive, Singapore, 117456, Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 8 Medical Drive, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
| | - Evgeny Zamburg
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National University of Singapore, 4 Engineering Drive 3, Singapore, 117583, Singapore
| | - Chen-Khong Tham
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National University of Singapore, 4 Engineering Drive 3, Singapore, 117583, Singapore
| | - Wen Shan Yew
- NUS Synthetic Biology for Clinical and Technological Innovation (SynCTI), National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Drive, Singapore, 117456, Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 8 Medical Drive, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
| | - Chueh Loo Poh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 4 Engineering Drive 3, Singapore, 117583, Singapore
- NUS Synthetic Biology for Clinical and Technological Innovation (SynCTI), National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Drive, Singapore, 117456, Singapore
| | - Aaron Voon-Yew Thean
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National University of Singapore, 4 Engineering Drive 3, Singapore, 117583, Singapore
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28
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Yin L, Dinasarapu AR, Borkar SA, Chang KF, De Paris K, Kim-Chang JJ, Sleasman JW, Goodenow MM. Anti-inflammatory effects of recreational marijuana in virally suppressed youth with HIV-1 are reversed by use of tobacco products in combination with marijuana. Retrovirology 2022; 19:10. [PMID: 35642061 PMCID: PMC9151353 DOI: 10.1186/s12977-022-00594-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Marijuana's putative anti-inflammatory properties may benefit HIV-associated comorbidities. How recreational marijuana use affects gene expression in peripheral blood cells (PBC) among youth with HIV-1 (YWH) is unknown. APPROACH YWH with defined substance use (n = 54) receiving similar antiretroviral therapy (ART) were assigned to one of four analysis groups: YWH with detectable plasma HIV-1 (> 50 RNA copies/ml) who did not use substances (H+V+S-), and YWH with undetectable plasma HIV-1 who did not use substances (H+V-S-), or used marijuana alone (H+V-S+[M]), or marijuana in combination with tobacco (H+V-S+[M/T]). Non-substance using youth without HIV infection (H-S-, n = 25) provided a reference group. PBC mRNA was profiled by Affymetrix GeneChip Human Genome U133 Plus 2.0 Array. Differentially expressed genes (DEG) within outcome groups were identified by Significance Analysis of Microarrays and used for Hierarchical Clustering, Principal Component Analysis, and Ingenuity Pathways Analysis. RESULTS HIV-1 replication resulted in > 3000 DEG involving 27 perturbed pathways. Viral suppression reduced DEG to 313, normalized all 27 pathways, and down-regulated two additional pathways, while marijuana use among virally suppressed YWH resulted in 434 DEG and no perturbed pathways. Relative to H+V-S-, multiple DEG normalized in H+V-S+[M]. In contrast, H+V-S+[M/T] had 1140 DEG and 10 dysregulated pathways, including multiple proinflammatory genes and six pathways shared by H+V+S-. CONCLUSIONS YWH receiving ART display unique transcriptome bioprofiles based on viral replication and substance use. In the context of HIV suppression, marijuana use, alone or combined with tobacco, has opposing effects on inflammatory gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Yin
- Molecular HIV Host Interaction Section, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, 50 South Dr., Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA.
| | | | - Samiksha A Borkar
- Molecular HIV Host Interaction Section, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, 50 South Dr., Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | - Kai-Fen Chang
- Molecular HIV Host Interaction Section, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, 50 South Dr., Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | - Kristina De Paris
- Department of Microbiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Julie J Kim-Chang
- Division of Allergy, Immunology and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - John W Sleasman
- Division of Allergy, Immunology and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Maureen M Goodenow
- Molecular HIV Host Interaction Section, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, 50 South Dr., Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
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Fonnesu R, Thunuguntla VBSC, Veeramachaneni GK, Bondili JS, La Rocca V, Filipponi C, Spezia PG, Sidoti M, Plicanti E, Quaranta P, Freer G, Pistello M, Mathai ML, Lai M. Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) Inhibits SARS-CoV-2 Entry by Interacting with S Protein and ACE-2 Receptor. Viruses 2022; 14:1080. [PMID: 35632821 PMCID: PMC9146540 DOI: 10.3390/v14051080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Lipids play a crucial role in the entry and egress of viruses, regardless of whether they are naked or enveloped. Recent evidence shows that lipid involvement in viral infection goes much further. During replication, many viruses rearrange internal lipid membranes to create niches where they replicate and assemble. Because of the close connection between lipids and inflammation, the derangement of lipid metabolism also results in the production of inflammatory stimuli. Due to its pivotal function in the viral life cycle, lipid metabolism has become an area of intense research to understand how viruses seize lipids and to design antiviral drugs targeting lipid pathways. Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is a lipid-derived peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α (PPAR-α) agonist that also counteracts SARS-CoV-2 entry and its replication. Our work highlights for the first time the antiviral potency of PEA against SARS-CoV-2, exerting its activity by two different mechanisms. First, its binding to the SARS-CoV-2 S protein causes a drop in viral infection of ~70%. We show that this activity is specific for SARS-CoV-2, as it does not prevent infection by VSV or HSV-2, other enveloped viruses that use different glycoproteins and entry receptors to mediate their entry. Second, we show that in infected Huh-7 cells, treatment with PEA dismantles lipid droplets, preventing the usage of these vesicular bodies by SARS-CoV-2 as a source of energy and protection against innate cellular defenses. This is not surprising since PEA activates PPAR-α, a transcription factor that, once activated, generates a cascade of events that leads to the disruption of fatty acid droplets, thereby bringing about lipid droplet degradation through β-oxidation. In conclusion, the present work demonstrates a novel mechanism of action for PEA as a direct and indirect antiviral agent against SARS-CoV-2. This evidence reinforces the notion that treatment with this compound might significantly impact the course of COVID-19. Indeed, considering that the protective effects of PEA in COVID-19 are the current objectives of two clinical trials (NCT04619706 and NCT04568876) and given the relative lack of toxicity of PEA in humans, further preclinical and clinical tests will be needed to fully consider PEA as a promising adjuvant therapy in the current COVID-19 pandemic or against emerging RNA viruses that share the same route of replication as coronaviruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Fonnesu
- Retrovirus Center, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy; (R.F.); (V.L.R.); (C.F.); (P.G.S.); (M.S.); (E.P.); (P.Q.); (G.F.); (M.P.)
| | | | - Ganesh Kumar Veeramachaneni
- Department of Biotechnology, Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation, Vaddeswaram 522502, India; (G.K.V.); (J.S.B.)
| | - Jayakumar Singh Bondili
- Department of Biotechnology, Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation, Vaddeswaram 522502, India; (G.K.V.); (J.S.B.)
| | - Veronica La Rocca
- Retrovirus Center, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy; (R.F.); (V.L.R.); (C.F.); (P.G.S.); (M.S.); (E.P.); (P.Q.); (G.F.); (M.P.)
| | - Carolina Filipponi
- Retrovirus Center, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy; (R.F.); (V.L.R.); (C.F.); (P.G.S.); (M.S.); (E.P.); (P.Q.); (G.F.); (M.P.)
| | - Pietro Giorgio Spezia
- Retrovirus Center, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy; (R.F.); (V.L.R.); (C.F.); (P.G.S.); (M.S.); (E.P.); (P.Q.); (G.F.); (M.P.)
| | - Maria Sidoti
- Retrovirus Center, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy; (R.F.); (V.L.R.); (C.F.); (P.G.S.); (M.S.); (E.P.); (P.Q.); (G.F.); (M.P.)
| | - Erika Plicanti
- Retrovirus Center, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy; (R.F.); (V.L.R.); (C.F.); (P.G.S.); (M.S.); (E.P.); (P.Q.); (G.F.); (M.P.)
| | - Paola Quaranta
- Retrovirus Center, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy; (R.F.); (V.L.R.); (C.F.); (P.G.S.); (M.S.); (E.P.); (P.Q.); (G.F.); (M.P.)
| | - Giulia Freer
- Retrovirus Center, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy; (R.F.); (V.L.R.); (C.F.); (P.G.S.); (M.S.); (E.P.); (P.Q.); (G.F.); (M.P.)
| | - Mauro Pistello
- Retrovirus Center, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy; (R.F.); (V.L.R.); (C.F.); (P.G.S.); (M.S.); (E.P.); (P.Q.); (G.F.); (M.P.)
| | - Michael Lee Mathai
- Institute of Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 8001, Australia; (V.B.S.C.T.); (M.L.M.)
| | - Michele Lai
- Retrovirus Center, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy; (R.F.); (V.L.R.); (C.F.); (P.G.S.); (M.S.); (E.P.); (P.Q.); (G.F.); (M.P.)
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30
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Janecki M, Graczyk M, Lewandowska AA, Pawlak Ł. Anti-Inflammatory and Antiviral Effects of Cannabinoids in Inhibiting and Preventing SARS-CoV-2 Infection. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23084170. [PMID: 35456990 PMCID: PMC9025270 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus made it necessary to search for new options for both causal treatment and mitigation of its symptoms. Scientists and researchers around the world are constantly looking for the best therapeutic options. These difficult circumstances have also spurred the re-examination of the potential of natural substances contained in Cannabis sativa L. Cannabinoids, apart from CB1 and CB2 receptors, may act multifacetedly through a number of other receptors, such as the GPR55, TRPV1, PPARs, 5-HT1A, adenosine and glycine receptors. The complex anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects of cannabinoids have been confirmed by interactions with various signaling pathways. Considering the fact that the SARS-CoV-2 virus causes excessive immune response and triggers an inflammatory cascade, and that cannabinoids have the ability to regulate these processes, it can be assumed that they have potential to be used in the treatment of COVID-19. During the pandemic, there were many publications on the subject of COVID-19, which indicate the potential impact of cannabinoids not only on the course of the disease, but also their role in prevention. It is worth noting that the anti-inflammatory and antiviral potential are shown not only by well-known cannabinoids, such as cannabidiol (CBD), but also secondary cannabinoids, such as cannabigerolic acid (CBGA) and terpenes, emphasizing the role of all of the plant’s compounds and the entourage effect. This article presents a narrative review of the current knowledge in this area available in the PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science medical databases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Janecki
- Department of Palliative Care and Palliative Medicine, Silesian Medical University in Katowice, 40-752 Katowice, Poland;
| | - Michał Graczyk
- Department of Palliative Care, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, 87-100 Toruń, Poland
- Correspondence: (M.G.); (A.A.L.)
| | - Agata Anna Lewandowska
- 10th Military Research Hospital and Polyclinic in Bydgoszcz, 85-681 Bydgoszcz, Poland
- Correspondence: (M.G.); (A.A.L.)
| | - Łukasz Pawlak
- Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, 87-100 Toruń, Poland;
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31
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Cortes-Altamirano JL, Yáñes-Pizaña A, Reyes-Long S, Angélica GM, Bandala C, Bonilla-Jaime H, Alfaro-Rodríguez A. Potential Neuroprotective Effect of Cannabinoids in Covid-19 Patients. Curr Top Med Chem 2022; 22:1326-1345. [PMID: 35382723 DOI: 10.2174/1568026622666220405143003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The global pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus began in early 2020 and is still present. The respiratory symptoms caused by COVID-19 are well established, however, neurological manifestations that may result from direct or indirect neurological damage after SARS-CoV-2 infection have been reported frequently. The main proposed pathophysiological processes leading to neurological damage in COVID-19 are cerebrovascular disease, and indirect mechanisms of inflammatory / autoimmune origin. A growing number of studies confirm that neuroprotective measures should be maintained in COVID-19 patients. On the other hand, cannabinoids have been the subject of various studies that propose them as potential promising drugs in chronic neurodegenerative diseases due to their powerful neuroprotective potential. In this review we address the possible mechanism of action of cannabinoids as a neuroprotective treatment in patients infected by SARS-CoV-2. The endocannabinoid system is found in multiple systems within the body, including the immune system. Its activation can lead to beneficial results, such as a decrease in viral entry, a decrease in viral replication, and a decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-12, TNF-α or IFN-c through CB2R expression induced during inflammation by SARS-CoV-2 infection in the central nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Luis Cortes-Altamirano
- Division de Neurociencias, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación, Secretaría de Salud, Mexico City, 14389, Mexico.,Departamento de Quiropráctica, Universidad Estatal del Valle de Ecatepec, Estado de Mexico, 55210, Mexico
| | - Ariadna Yáñes-Pizaña
- Escuela de Ciencias de la Salud, Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad del Valle de Mexico, Mexico City, 04910, México.,Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia en Pequeñas Especies, Federación Canofila Mexicana, Mexico City, 14430, México
| | - Samuel Reyes-Long
- Division de Neurociencias, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación, Secretaría de Salud, Mexico City, 14389, Mexico.,Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City, 07738, México
| | - González-Maciel Angélica
- Laboratory of Cell and Tissue Morphology, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Secretaría de Salud, Insurgentes Sur No. 3700-C, Mexico City, C. P. 04530, Mexico
| | - Cindy Bandala
- Division de Neurociencias, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación, Secretaría de Salud, Mexico City, 14389, Mexico.,Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia en Pequeñas Especies, Federación Canofila Mexicana, Mexico City, 14430, México
| | - Herlinda Bonilla-Jaime
- Departamento de Biología de la reproducción, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Mexico City, 09340, Mexico
| | - Alfonso Alfaro-Rodríguez
- Division de Neurociencias, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación, Secretaría de Salud, Mexico City, 14389, Mexico
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Kocherlakota C, Nagaraju B, Arjun N, Srinath A, Kothapalli KSD, Brenna JT. Inhalation of nebulized omega-3 fatty acids mitigate LPS-induced acute lung inflammation in rats: Implications for treatment of COPD and COVID-19. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 2022; 179:102426. [PMID: 35381532 PMCID: PMC8964507 DOI: 10.1016/j.plefa.2022.102426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Many current treatment options for lung inflammation and thrombosis come with unwanted side effects. The natural omega-3 fatty acids (O3FA) are generally anti-inflammatory and antithrombotic. O3FA are always administered orally and occasionally by intravenous (IV) infusion. The main goal of this study is to determine if O3FA administered by inhalation of a nebulized formulation mitigates LPS-induced acute lung inflammation in male Wistar rats. Inflammation was triggered by intraperitoneal injection of LPS once a day for 14 days. One hour post-injection, rats received nebulized treatments consisting of egg lecithin emulsified O3, Budesonide and Montelukast, and blends of O3 and Melatonin or Montelukast or Cannabidiol; O3 was in the form of free fatty acids for all groups except one group with ethyl esters. Lung histology and cytokines were determined in n = 3 rats per group at day 8 and day 15. All groups had alveolar histiocytosis severity scores half or less than that of the disease control (Cd) treated with LPS and saline only inhalation. IL-6, TNF-α, TGF-β, and IL-10 were attenuated in all O3FA groups. IL-1β was attenuated in most but not all O3 groups. O3 administered as ethyl ester was overall most effective in mitigating LPS effects. No evidence of lipid pneumonia or other chronic distress was observed. These preclinical data suggest that O3FA formulations should be further investigated as treatments in lung inflammation and thrombosis related lung disorders, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer and acute respiratory distress such as COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Banda Nagaraju
- Leiutis Pharmaceuticals LLP, Plot No. 23, TIE 1st Phase, Balanagar, Hyderabad, Telangana 500037, India
| | - Narala Arjun
- Leiutis Pharmaceuticals LLP, Plot No. 23, TIE 1st Phase, Balanagar, Hyderabad, Telangana 500037, India
| | - Akula Srinath
- Leiutis Pharmaceuticals LLP, Plot No. 23, TIE 1st Phase, Balanagar, Hyderabad, Telangana 500037, India
| | - Kumar S D Kothapalli
- Dell Pediatric Research Institute, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, 1400 Barbara Jordan Blvd, Austin, TX 78723, United States.
| | - J Thomas Brenna
- Dell Pediatric Research Institute, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, 1400 Barbara Jordan Blvd, Austin, TX 78723, United States.
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Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) can prevent the inflammatory response of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein in Caco-2-cells. This action is coupled with the inhibition of IL-1beta, IL-6, IL-18, and TNF-alpha, responsible for the inflammatory process during SARS-CoV-2 infection. CBD can act on the different proteins encoded by SARS-CoV-2 and as an antiviral agent to prevent the viral infection. Furthermore, recent studies have shown the possible action of CBD as an antagonist of cytokine release syndromes. In the SARS-CoV-2 pathophysiology, the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) seems to be the key cell receptor for SARS-CoV-2 infection. The WNT/β-catenin pathway and PPARγ interact in an opposite manner in many diseases, including SARS-CoV-2 infection. CBD exerts its activity through the interaction with PPARγ in SARS-CoV-2 infection. Thus, we can hypothesize that CBD may counteract the inflammatory process of SARS-CoV-2 by its interactions with both ACE2 and the interplay between the WNT/β-catenin pathway and PPARγ. Vaccines are the only way to prevent COVID-19, but it appears important to find therapeutic complements to treat patients already affected by SARS-CoV-2 infection. The possible role of CBD should be investigated by clinical trials to show its effectiveness.
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Pagano C, Navarra G, Coppola L, Avilia G, Bifulco M, Laezza C. Cannabinoids: Therapeutic Use in Clinical Practice. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23063344. [PMID: 35328765 PMCID: PMC8952215 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Medical case reports suggest that cannabinoids extracted from Cannabis sativa have therapeutic effects; however, the therapeutic employment is limited due to the psychotropic effect of its major component, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The new scientific discoveries related to the endocannabinoid system, including new receptors, ligands, and mediators, allowed the development of new therapeutic targets for the treatment of several pathological disorders minimizing the undesirable psychotropic effects of some constituents of this plant. Today, FDA-approved drugs, such as nabiximols (a mixture of THC and non-psychoactive cannabidiol (CBD)), are employed in alleviating pain and spasticity in multiple sclerosis. Dronabinol and nabilone are used for the treatment of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in cancer patients. Dronabinol was approved for the treatment of anorexia in patients with AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome). In this review, we highlighted the potential therapeutic efficacy of natural and synthetic cannabinoids and their clinical relevance in cancer, neurodegenerative and dermatological diseases, and viral infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Pagano
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy or (C.P.); (G.N.); (L.C.); (G.A.)
| | - Giovanna Navarra
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy or (C.P.); (G.N.); (L.C.); (G.A.)
| | - Laura Coppola
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy or (C.P.); (G.N.); (L.C.); (G.A.)
| | - Giorgio Avilia
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy or (C.P.); (G.N.); (L.C.); (G.A.)
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy or (C.P.); (G.N.); (L.C.); (G.A.)
- Correspondence: (M.B.); or (C.L.)
| | - Chiara Laezza
- Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology, IEOS CNR, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
- Correspondence: (M.B.); or (C.L.)
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35
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Odieka AE, Obuzor GU, Oyedeji OO, Gondwe M, Hosu YS, Oyedeji AO. The Medicinal Natural Products of Cannabis sativa Linn.: A Review. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27051689. [PMID: 35268790 PMCID: PMC8911748 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27051689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis sativa is known among many cultures for its medicinal potential. Its complexity contributes to the historical application of various parts of the plant in ethno-medicines and pharmacotherapy. C. sativa has been used for the treatment of rheumatism, epilepsy, asthma, skin burns, pain, the management of sexually transmitted diseases, difficulties during child labor, postpartum hemorrhage, and gastrointestinal activity. However, the use of C. sativa is still limited, and it is illegal in most countries. Thus, this review aims to highlight the biological potential of the plant parts, as well as the techniques for the extraction, isolation, and characterization of C. sativa compounds. The plant produces a unique class of terpenophenolic compounds, called cannabinoids, as well as non-cannabinoid compounds. The exhaustive profiling of bioactive compounds and the chemical characterization and analysis of C. sativa compounds, which modern research has not yet fully achieved, is needed for the consistency, standardization, and the justified application of Cannabis sativa products for therapeutic purposes. Studies on the clinical relevance and applications of cannabinoids and non-cannabinoid phenols in the prevention and treatment of life-threatening diseases is indeed significant. Furthermore, psychoactive cannabinoids, when chemically standardized and administered under medical supervision, can be the legal answer to the use of C. sativa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anwuli Endurance Odieka
- Department of Chemical and Physical Sciences, Walter Sisulu University, Mthatha 5099, South Africa;
| | - Gloria Ukalina Obuzor
- Department of Pure and Industrial Chemistry, University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt 500004, Rivers State, Nigeria;
| | | | - Mavuto Gondwe
- Department of Human Biology, Walter Sisulu University, Mthatha 5099, South Africa;
| | - Yiseyon Sunday Hosu
- Department of Economics and Business Sciences, Walter Sisulu University, Mthatha 5099, South Africa;
| | - Adebola Omowunmi Oyedeji
- Department of Chemical and Physical Sciences, Walter Sisulu University, Mthatha 5099, South Africa;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +27-764-260-279
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Sokolowska M, Rovati GE, Diamant Z, Untersmayr E, Schwarze J, Lukasik Z, Sava F, Angelina A, Palomares O, Akdis C, O'Mahony L, Jesenak M, Pfaar O, Torres MJ, Sanak M, Dahlén S, Woszczek G. Effects of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and other eicosanoid pathway modifiers on antiviral and allergic responses: EAACI task force on eicosanoids consensus report in times of COVID-19. Allergy 2022; 77:2337-2354. [PMID: 35174512 PMCID: PMC9111413 DOI: 10.1111/all.15258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and other eicosanoid pathway modifiers are among the most ubiquitously used medications in the general population. Their broad anti‐inflammatory, antipyretic, and analgesic effects are applied against symptoms of respiratory infections, including SARS‐CoV‐2, as well as in other acute and chronic inflammatory diseases that often coexist with allergy and asthma. However, the current pandemic of COVID‐19 also revealed the gaps in our understanding of their mechanism of action, selectivity, and interactions not only during viral infections and inflammation, but also in asthma exacerbations, uncontrolled allergic inflammation, and NSAIDs‐exacerbated respiratory disease (NERD). In this context, the consensus report summarizes currently available knowledge, novel discoveries, and controversies regarding the use of NSAIDs in COVID‐19, and the role of NSAIDs in asthma and viral asthma exacerbations. We also describe here novel mechanisms of action of leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs), outline how to predict responses to LTRA therapy and discuss a potential role of LTRA therapy in COVID‐19 treatment. Moreover, we discuss interactions of novel T2 biologicals and other eicosanoid pathway modifiers on the horizon, such as prostaglandin D2 antagonists and cannabinoids, with eicosanoid pathways, in context of viral infections and exacerbations of asthma and allergic diseases. Finally, we identify and summarize the major knowledge gaps and unmet needs in current eicosanoid research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milena Sokolowska
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF) University of Zurich Davos Switzerland
- Christine Kühne ‐ Center for Allergy Research and Education (CK‐CARE) Davos Switzerland
| | - G Enrico Rovati
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences Section of Pharmacology and Biosciences University of Milan Milano Italy
| | - Zuzana Diamant
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Allergology Skane University Hospital Lund Sweden
- Department Microbiology Immunology and Transplantation Ku Leuven, Catholic University of Leuven Belgium
- Department of Respiratory Medicine First Faculty of Medicine Charles University and Thomayer Hospital Prague Czech Republic
| | - Eva Untersmayr
- Institute of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
| | - Jürgen Schwarze
- Child Life and Health and Centre for Inflammation Research The University of Edinburgh Edinburgh UK
| | - Zuzanna Lukasik
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF) University of Zurich Davos Switzerland
- VIB Center for Inflammation Research Ghent University Ghent Belgium
| | - Florentina Sava
- London North Genomic Laboratory Hub Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust London UK
| | - Alba Angelina
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology School of Chemistry Complutense University Madrid Spain
| | - Oscar Palomares
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology School of Chemistry Complutense University Madrid Spain
| | - Cezmi Akdis
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF) University of Zurich Davos Switzerland
- Christine Kühne ‐ Center for Allergy Research and Education (CK‐CARE) Davos Switzerland
| | - Liam O'Mahony
- Departments of Medicine and Microbiology APC Microbiome IrelandUniversity College Cork Cork Ireland
| | - Milos Jesenak
- Department of Pulmonology and Phthisiology Department of Allergology and Clinical Immunology Department of Pediatrics Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin Comenius University in BratislavaUniversity Teaching Hospital in Martin Slovakia
| | - Oliver Pfaar
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery Section of Rhinology and Allergy University Hospital MarburgPhilipps‐Universität Marburg Marburg Germany
| | - María José Torres
- Allergy Unit Málaga Regional University Hospital‐IBIMA‐UMA Málaga Spain
| | - Marek Sanak
- Department of Medicine Jagiellonian University Medical College Krakow Poland
| | - Sven‐Erik Dahlén
- Institute of Environmental Medicine and the Centre for Allergy Research, Karolinska Institute, and the Department of Respiratory Medicine Karolinska University Hospital Stockholm Sweden
| | - Grzegorz Woszczek
- Asthma UK Centre in Allergic Mechanisms of Asthma School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences King's College London London UK
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Abstract
AbstractSince the beginning of the coronavirus disease (COVID)-19 pandemic, the need for
effective treatments for COVID-19 led to the idea of
“repurposing” drugs for antiviral treatment. Several
antipsychotics and antidepressants have been tested for in vitro activity
against the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. Chlorpromazine,
other phenothiazine antipsychotics, and the antidepressant fluoxetine were found
to be rather potent in these studies. However, whether effective plasma
concentrations can be obtained with clinically accepted doses of these drugs is
not clear. Data of COVID-19 patients are not yet available but several clinical
studies are currently underway.The specific serotonin reuptake inhibitor fluvoxamine is a potent Sigma-1
receptor agonist and reduces inflammation in animal models of cytokine-stress.
Accordingly, fluvoxamine treatment was superior to placebo in reducing impaired
respiratory function and other symptoms of inflammation in COVID-19 patients in
a placebo-controlled clinical study and another open clinical trial. The
beneficial effects of fluvoxamine on the course of COVID-19 were recently
confirmed in a large placebo-controlled double-blind trial with several hundred
patients.Inflammation represents a major risk factor for many psychiatric disorders which
explains the high susceptibilitiy of COVID-19 patients for psychiatric diseases.
Many antidepressants and antipsychotics possess anti-inflammatory properties
independent of sigma-1 activity which might be important to reduce psychiatric
symptoms of COVID-19 patients and to improve respiratory dysfunction and other
consequences of inflammation. This might explain the rather unspecific benefit
which has been reported for several cohorts of COVID-19 patients treated with
different psychotropic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliane K. Mueller
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine, and Psychotherapy,
University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt/M, Germany
| | - Peter Riederer
- Clinic and Policlinic for Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy,
University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- University of Southern Denmark Odense, J.B. Winslows Vey Odense,
Denmark
| | - Walter E. Müller
- Department of Pharmacology und Clinical Pharmacy, University Frankfurt,
Frankfurt/M, Germany
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Pereira CF, Vargas DD, Toneloto FL, Ito VD, Volpato RJ. Implications of Cannabis and Cannabinoid Use in COVID-19: Scoping Review. Rev Bras Enferm 2022; 75Suppl 1:e20201374. [DOI: 10.1590/0034-7167-2020-1374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Objective: to identify and synthesize studies on the effects of cannabis use and its relation with SARS-CoV-2, as well as the therapeutic possibilities of using cannabinoids in the prevention and treatment of COVID-19. Methods: scoping review, in the BVS, PubMed, SCIELO, CINAHL, SCOPUS, Web of Science, MedNar, CAPES and ProQuest databases, with no language restriction and year limitation. Narrative synthesis was performed. Results: cannabis use causes changes in the respiratory and vascular system, it reduces the production of cytokines, which affects the users’ immune system, increasing the susceptibility to infection and progression of COVID-19. However, studies have suggested the use of cannabinoids in the prophylaxis and treatment of COVID-19, due to their anti-inflammatory effect. Conclusions: the use of inhaled cannabis increases the progression and severity of the infection. On the other hand, the benefits of cannabinoids seem promising to modulate the immune system, but it needs further studies.
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Abstract
Cannabis sativa L. has been one of the oldest medicinal plants cultivated for 10,000 years for several agricultural and industrial applications. However, the plant became controversial owing to some psychoactive components that have adverse effects on human health. In this review, we analyzed the trends in cannabis research for the past two centuries. We discussed the historical transitions of cannabis from the category of herbal medicine to an illicit drug and back to a medicinal product post-legalization. In addition, we address the new-age application of immuno-suppressive and anti-inflammatory extracts for the treatment of COVID-19 inflammation. We further address the influence of the legal aspects of cannabis cultivation for medicinal, pharmaceutical, and biotechnological research. We reviewed the up-to-date cannabis genomic resources and advanced technologies for their potential application in genomic-based cannabis improvement. Overall, this review discusses the diverse aspects of cannabis research developments ranging from traditional use as herbal medicine to the latest potential in COVID-19, legal practices with updated patent status, and current state of art genetic and genomic tools reshaping cannabis biotechnology in modern age agriculture and pharmaceutical industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tajammul Hussain
- Department of Technical Biochemistry, TU Dortmund University, Emil-Figge Strasse. 66, 44227 Dortmund, Germany
| | - Ganga Jeena
- Department of Technical Biochemistry, TU Dortmund University, Emil-Figge Strasse. 66, 44227 Dortmund, Germany
| | - Thanet Pitakbut
- Department of Technical Biochemistry, TU Dortmund University, Emil-Figge Strasse. 66, 44227 Dortmund, Germany
| | - Nikolay Vasilev
- Department of Technical Biochemistry, TU Dortmund University, Emil-Figge Strasse. 66, 44227 Dortmund, Germany
| | - Oliver Kayser
- Department of Technical Biochemistry, TU Dortmund University, Emil-Figge Strasse. 66, 44227 Dortmund, Germany
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40
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Abstract
BACKGROUND With the spread of COVID-19, significant concerns have been raised about the potential increased risk for electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) users for COVID-19 infection and related syndromes. Social media is an increasingly popular source for health information dissemination and discussion, and can affect health outcomes. OBJECTIVE This study aims to identify the topics in the public vaping discussion in COVID-19-related Twitter posts in order to get insight into public vaping-related perceptions, attitudes and concerns, and to discern possible misinformation and misconceptions around vaping in the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS Using the tweets ID database maintained by Georgia State University's Panacea Lab, we downloaded the tweets related to COVID-19 from March 11, 2020, when the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic, to February 12, 2021. We used R to analyze the tweets that contained a list of 79 keywords related to vaping. After removing duplicates and tweets created by faked accounts or bots, the final data set consisted of 11,337 unique tweets from 7,710 different users. We performed the latent Dirichlet allocation (LDA) algorithm for topic modeling and carried out a sentiment analysis. RESULTS Despite fluctuations, the number of daily tweets was relatively stable (average number of daily tweets = 33.4) with a sole conspicuous spike happening on a few days after August 11, 2020 when a research team published findings that teenagers and young adults who vape face a much higher risk of COVID-19 infection than their peers who do not vape. Topic modeling generated 8 topics: linkage between vaping and risk of COVID-19 infection, vaping pneumonia and the origin of COVID-19, vaping and spread of COVID-19, vaping regulation, calling for quitting vaping, protecting youth, similarity between e-cigarette or vaping-associated lung injury (EVALI) and COVID-19, and sales information. Daily sentiment scores showed that the public sentiment was predominantly negative, but became slightly more positive over the course of the study time period. CONCLUSIONS While some content in the public discourse on vaping before the COVID-19 pandemic continued in Twitter posts during the COVID-19 time period, new topics emerged. We found a substantial amount of anti-vaping discussion and dominantly negative sentiment around vaping during COVID-19, a sharp contrast to the predominantly pro-vaping voice on social media in the pre-COVID-19 period. Continued monitoring of social media conversations around vaping is needed, and the public health community may consider using social media platforms to actively convey scientific information around vaping and vaping cessation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne Chen Lyu
- Center for Tobacco Control Research and Education, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Garving K. Luli
- Department of Mathematics, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Pamela M. Ling
- Center for Tobacco Control Research and Education, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
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41
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Chapman RL, Andurkar SV. A review of natural products, their effects on SARS-CoV-2 and their utility as lead compounds in the discovery of drugs for the treatment of COVID-19. Med Chem Res 2021; 31:40-51. [PMID: 34873386 PMCID: PMC8636070 DOI: 10.1007/s00044-021-02826-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic lasting now for well more than a year, nearly 247 million cases have been diagnosed and over 5 million deaths have been recorded worldwide as of November 2021. The devastating effects of the SARS-CoV-2 virus on the immune system lead to the activation of signaling pathways involved in inflammation and the production of inflammatory cytokines. SARS-CoV-2 displays a great deal of homology with other coronaviruses, especially SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV which all display similar components which may serve as targets, namely the Spike (S) protein, the main protease (MPro) which is a chymotrypsin-like protease (CLPro) and RNA-directed RNA polymerase (RdRp). Natural constituents found in traditional herbal medicines, dietary supplements and foods demonstrate activity against SARS-CoV-2 by affecting the production of cytokines, modulating cell signaling pathways related to inflammation and even by direct interaction with targets found in the virus. This has been demonstrated by the application of fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) experiments, assays of cytopathic effect (CPE) and in silico molecular docking studies that estimate binding strength. Glycyrrhizin, flavonoids such as quercetin, kaempferol and baicalein, and other polyphenols are the most common constituents found in Traditional Chinese Medicines that modulate inflammation and cell signaling pathways, and bind viral targets demonstrating valuable effects against SARS-CoV-2. However, the bioavailability of these natural products and their dependence on each other in extracts make it difficult to assess their actual utility in the treatment of COVID-19. Therefore, more can be learned through rational drug design based on natural products and from well-designed clinical trials employing specific doses of standardized combinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert L Chapman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Midwestern University College of Pharmacy, 555 31st Street Downers Grove, Downers Grove, IL 60515 United States
| | - Shridhar V Andurkar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Midwestern University College of Pharmacy, 555 31st Street Downers Grove, Downers Grove, IL 60515 United States
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42
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Morganstein T, Haidar Z, Trivlidis J, Azuelos I, Huang MJ, Eidelman DH, Baglole CJ. Involvement of the ACE2/Ang-(1-7)/MasR Axis in Pulmonary Fibrosis: Implications for COVID-19. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:12955. [PMID: 34884756 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222312955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic, fibrotic lung disease affecting 3 million people worldwide. The ACE2/Ang-(1–7)/MasR axis is of interest in pulmonary fibrosis due to evidence of its anti-fibrotic action. Current scientific evidence supports that inhibition of ACE2 causes enhanced fibrosis. ACE2 is also the primary receptor that facilitates the entry of SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the current COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19 is associated with a myriad of symptoms ranging from asymptomatic to severe pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) leading to respiratory failure, mechanical ventilation, and often death. One of the potential complications in people who recover from COVID-19 is pulmonary fibrosis. Cigarette smoking is a risk factor for fibrotic lung diseases, including the idiopathic form of this disease (idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis), which has a prevalence of 41% to 83%. Cigarette smoke increases the expression of pulmonary ACE2 and is thought to alter susceptibility to COVID-19. Cannabis is another popular combustible product that shares some similarities with cigarette smoke, however, cannabis contains cannabinoids that may reduce inflammation and/or ACE2 levels. The role of cannabis smoke in the pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis remains unknown. This review aimed to characterize the ACE2-Ang-(1–7)-MasR Axis in the context of pulmonary fibrosis with an emphasis on risk factors, including the SARS-CoV-2 virus and exposure to environmental toxicants. In the context of the pandemic, there is a dire need for an understanding of pulmonary fibrotic events. More research is needed to understand the interplay between ACE2, pulmonary fibrosis, and susceptibility to coronavirus infection.
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43
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Mahmud MS, Hossain MS, Ahmed ATMF, Islam MZ, Sarker ME, Islam MR. Antimicrobial and Antiviral (SARS-CoV-2) Potential of Cannabinoids and Cannabis sativa: A Comprehensive Review. Molecules 2021; 26:7216. [PMID: 34885798 PMCID: PMC8658882 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26237216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance has emerged as a global health crisis and, therefore, new drug discovery is a paramount need. Cannabis sativa contains hundreds of chemical constituents produced by secondary metabolism, exerting outstanding antimicrobial, antiviral, and therapeutic properties. This paper comprehensively reviews the antimicrobial and antiviral (particularly against SARS-CoV-2) properties of C. sativa with the potential for new antibiotic drug and/or natural antimicrobial agents for industrial or agricultural use, and their therapeutic potential against the newly emerged coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Cannabis compounds have good potential as drug candidates for new antibiotics, even for some of the WHO's current priority list of resistant pathogens. Recent studies revealed that cannabinoids seem to have stable conformations with the binding pocket of the Mpro enzyme of SARS-CoV-2, which has a pivotal role in viral replication and transcription. They are found to be suppressive of viral entry and viral activation by downregulating the ACE2 receptor and TMPRSS2 enzymes in the host cellular system. The therapeutic potential of cannabinoids as anti-inflammatory compounds is hypothesized for the treatment of COVID-19. However, more systemic investigations are warranted to establish the best efficacy and their toxic effects, followed by preclinical trials on a large number of participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Sultan Mahmud
- Faculty of Textile Engineering, Bangladesh University of Textiles, Dhaka 1208, Bangladesh; (M.S.M.); (A.T.M.F.A.); (M.Z.I.)
| | - Mohammad Sorowar Hossain
- Biomedical Research Foundation, Dhaka 1230, Bangladesh;
- School of Environment and Life Sciences, Independent University, Dhaka 1229, Bangladesh
| | - A. T. M. Faiz Ahmed
- Faculty of Textile Engineering, Bangladesh University of Textiles, Dhaka 1208, Bangladesh; (M.S.M.); (A.T.M.F.A.); (M.Z.I.)
| | - Md Zahidul Islam
- Faculty of Textile Engineering, Bangladesh University of Textiles, Dhaka 1208, Bangladesh; (M.S.M.); (A.T.M.F.A.); (M.Z.I.)
| | - Md Emdad Sarker
- Faculty of Textile Engineering, Bangladesh University of Textiles, Dhaka 1208, Bangladesh; (M.S.M.); (A.T.M.F.A.); (M.Z.I.)
| | - Md Reajul Islam
- Faculty of Textile Engineering, Bangladesh University of Textiles, Dhaka 1208, Bangladesh; (M.S.M.); (A.T.M.F.A.); (M.Z.I.)
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44
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Kicman A, Pędzińska-Betiuk A, Kozłowska H. The potential of cannabinoids and inhibitors of endocannabinoid degradation in respiratory diseases. Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 911:174560. [PMID: 34648805 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.174560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The global incidence of respiratory diseases and complications is increasing. Therefore, new methods of treatment, as well as prevention, need to be investigated. A group of compounds that should be considered for use in respiratory diseases is cannabinoids. There are three groups of cannabinoids - plant-derived phytocannabinoids, synthetic cannabinoids, and endogenous endocannabinoids including the enzymes responsible for their synthesis and degradation. All cannabinoids exert their biological effects through either type 1 cannabinoid receptors (CB1) and/or type 2 cannabinoid receptors (CB2). In numerous studies (in vitro and in vivo), cannabinoids and inhibitors of endocannabinoid degradation have shown beneficial anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-cancer, and anti-fibrotic properties. Although in the respiratory system, most of the studies have focused on the positive properties of cannabinoids and inhibitors of endocannabinoid degradation. There are few research reports discussing the negative impact of these compounds. This review summarizes the properties and mechanisms of action of cannabinoids and inhibitors of endocannabinoid degradation in various models of respiratory diseases. A short description of the effects selected cannabinoids have on the human respiratory system and their possible use in the fight against COVID-19 is also presented. Additionally, a brief summary is provided of cannabinoid receptors properties and their expression in the respiratory system and cells of the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Kicman
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, 15-222, Białystok, Poland.
| | - Anna Pędzińska-Betiuk
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, 15-222, Białystok, Poland.
| | - Hanna Kozłowska
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, 15-222, Białystok, Poland.
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45
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Lucaciu O, Aghiorghiesei O, Petrescu NB, Mirica IC, Benea HRC, Apostu D. In quest of a new therapeutic approach in COVID-19: the endocannabinoid system. Drug Metab Rev 2021; 53:478-490. [PMID: 33683968 PMCID: PMC7989954 DOI: 10.1080/03602532.2021.1895204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The SARS-Cov-2 virus caused a high morbidity and mortality rate disease, that is the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the unprecedented research interest in this field, the lack of specific treatments leads to severe complications in a high number of cases. Current treatment includes antivirals, corticosteroids, immunoglobulins, antimalarials, interleukin-6 inhibitors, anti-GM-CSF, convalescent plasma, immunotherapy, antibiotics, circulation support, oxygen therapy, and circulation support. Due to the limited results, until specific treatments are available, other therapeutic approaches need to be considered. The endocannabinoid system is found in multiple systems within the human body, including the immune system. Its activation can lead to beneficial results such as decreased viral entry, decreased viral replication, and a decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-12, TNF-α, or IFN-γ. Moreover, endocannabinoid system activation can lead to an increase in anti-inflammatory cytokines, mainly represented by IL-10. Overall, the cannabinoid system can potentially reduce pulmonary inflammation, increase the immunomodulatory effect, decrease PMN infiltration, reduce fibrosis, and decrease viral replication, as well as decrease the 'cytokine storm'. Although the cannabinoid system has many mechanisms to provide certain benefits in the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infected patients, research in this field is needed for a better understanding of the cannabinoid impact in this situation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ondine Lucaciu
- Department of Oral Rehabilitation, University of Medicine and Pharmacy ‘Iuliu Hatieganu’, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ovidiu Aghiorghiesei
- Department of Oral Rehabilitation, University of Medicine and Pharmacy ‘Iuliu Hatieganu’, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Nausica Bianca Petrescu
- Department of Oral Rehabilitation, University of Medicine and Pharmacy ‘Iuliu Hatieganu’, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ioana Codruta Mirica
- Department of Oral Rehabilitation, University of Medicine and Pharmacy ‘Iuliu Hatieganu’, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Horea Rareș Ciprian Benea
- Department of Orthopedics-Traumatology and Pediatric Orthopedics, University of Medicine and Pharmacy ‘Iuliu Hatieganu’, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Dragoș Apostu
- Department of Orthopedics-Traumatology and Pediatric Orthopedics, University of Medicine and Pharmacy ‘Iuliu Hatieganu’, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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46
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Corpetti C, Del Re A, Seguella L, Palenca I, Rurgo S, De Conno B, Pesce M, Sarnelli G, Esposito G. Cannabidiol inhibits SARS-Cov-2 spike (S) protein-induced cytotoxicity and inflammation through a PPARγ-dependent TLR4/NLRP3/Caspase-1 signaling suppression in Caco-2 cell line. Phytother Res 2021; 35:6893-6903. [PMID: 34643000 PMCID: PMC8662250 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Given the abundancy of angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE‐2) receptors density, beyond the lung, the intestine is considered as an alternative site of infection and replication for severe acute respiratory syndrome by coronavirus type 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2). Cannabidiol (CBD) has recently been proposed in the management of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) respiratory symptoms because of its anti‐inflammatory and immunomodulatory activity exerted in the lung. In this study, we demonstrated the in vitro PPAR‐γ‐dependent efficacy of CBD (10−9‐10−7 M) in preventing epithelial damage and hyperinflammatory response triggered by SARS‐CoV‐2 spike protein (SP) in a Caco‐2 cells. Immunoblot analysis revealed that CBD was able to reduce all the analyzed proinflammatory markers triggered by SP incubation, such as tool‐like receptor 4 (TLR‐4), ACE‐2, family members of Ras homologues A‐GTPase (RhoA‐GTPase), inflammasome complex (NLRP3), and Caspase‐1. CBD caused a parallel inhibition of interleukin 1 beta (IL‐1β), IL‐6, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α), and IL‐18 by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) assay. By immunofluorescence analysis, we observed increased expression of tight‐junction proteins and restoration of transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) following CBD treatment, as well as the rescue of fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)–dextran permeability induced by SP. Our data indicate, in conclusion, that CBD is a powerful inhibitor of SP protein enterotoxicity in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Corpetti
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Del Re
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Luisa Seguella
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.,Department of Physiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Irene Palenca
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Rurgo
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Barbara De Conno
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Marcella Pesce
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni Sarnelli
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Esposito
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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47
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Bernini R, Velotti F. Natural Polyphenols as Immunomodulators to Rescue Immune Response Homeostasis: Quercetin as a Research Model against Severe COVID-19. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26195803. [PMID: 34641348 PMCID: PMC8510228 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26195803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic is caused by SARS-CoV-2 and is leading to the worst health crisis of this century. It emerged in China during late 2019 and rapidly spread all over the world, producing a broad spectrum of clinical disease severity, ranging from asymptomatic infection to death (4.3 million victims so far). Consequently, the scientific research is devoted to investigating the mechanisms of COVID-19 pathogenesis to both identify specific therapeutic drugs and develop vaccines. Although immunological mechanisms driving COVID-19 pathogenesis are still largely unknown, new understanding has emerged about the innate and adaptive immune responses elicited in SARS-CoV-2 infection, which are mainly focused on the dysregulated inflammatory response in severe COVID-19. Polyphenols are naturally occurring products with immunomodulatory activity, playing a relevant role in reducing inflammation and preventing the onset of serious chronic diseases. Mainly based on data collected before the appearance of SARS-CoV-2, polyphenols have been recently suggested as promising agents to fight COVID-19, and some clinical trials have already been approved with polyphenols to treat COVID-19. The aim of this review is to analyze and discuss the in vitro and in vivo research on the immunomodulatory activity of quercetin as a research model of polyphenols, focusing on research that addresses issues related to the dysregulated immune response in severe COVID-19. From this analysis, it emerges that although encouraging data are present, they are still insufficient to recommend polyphenols as potential immunomodulatory agents against COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Bernini
- Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences (DAFNE), University of Tuscia, Via S. Camillo de Lellis, 01100 Viterbo, Italy
- Correspondence: (R.B.); (F.V.)
| | - Francesca Velotti
- Department of Ecological and Biological Sciences (DEB), University of Tuscia, Largo dell’Università, 01100 Viterbo, Italy
- Correspondence: (R.B.); (F.V.)
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Aghdam R, Habibi M, Taheri G. Using informative features in machine learning based method for COVID-19 drug repurposing. J Cheminform 2021; 13:70. [PMID: 34544500 PMCID: PMC8451172 DOI: 10.1186/s13321-021-00553-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is caused by a novel virus named Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). This virus induced a large number of deaths and millions of confirmed cases worldwide, creating a serious danger to public health. However, there are no specific therapies or drugs available for COVID-19 treatment. While new drug discovery is a long process, repurposing available drugs for COVID-19 can help recognize treatments with known clinical profiles. Computational drug repurposing methods can reduce the cost, time, and risk of drug toxicity. In this work, we build a graph as a COVID-19 related biological network. This network is related to virus targets or their associated biological processes. We select essential proteins in the constructed biological network that lead to a major disruption in the network. Our method from these essential proteins chooses 93 proteins related to COVID-19 pathology. Then, we propose multiple informative features based on drug-target and protein-protein interaction information. Through these informative features, we find five appropriate clusters of drugs that contain some candidates as potential COVID-19 treatments. To evaluate our results, we provide statistical and clinical evidence for our candidate drugs. From our proposed candidate drugs, 80% of them were studied in other studies and clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Aghdam
- School of Biological Sciences, Institute for Research in Fundamental Sciences (IPM), Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mahnaz Habibi
- Department of Mathematics, Qazvin Branch, Islamic Azad University, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Golnaz Taheri
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
- Science for Life Laboratory, Stockholm, Sweden
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ONAY A, ERTAŞ A, SÜZERER V, YENER İ, YILMAZ MA, AYAZ-TİLKAT E, EKİNCİ R, BOZHAN N, İRTEGÜN-KANDEMİR S. Cannabinoids for SARS-CoV-2 and is there evidence of their therapeutic efficacy? Turk J Biol 2021; 45:570-587. [PMID: 34803455 PMCID: PMC8573844 DOI: 10.3906/biy-2105-73] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
To combat the coronaviruses and their novel variants, therapeutic drugs and the development of vaccines that are to be effective throughout human life are urgently needed. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) acts as a modulator in the activation of the microcirculation, immune system, and autonomic nervous system, along with controlling pharmacological functions such as emotional responses, homeostasis, motor functions, cognition, and motivation. The ECS contains endogenous cannabinoids, cannabinoid receptor (CBRs), and enzymes that regulate their biosynthesis, transport, and degradation. Moreover, phytocannabinoids and synthetic cannabinoids that mimic the action of endocannabinoids also play an essential role in the modulation of the ECS. Cannabinoids, the main constituents of cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.), are therapeutic compounds that have received international attention in the health field due to their therapeutic properties. Recently, they have been tested for the treatment of COVID-19 due to their antiviral properties. Indeed, cannabinoid-type compounds, and in particular cannabidiol (CBD), isolated from glandular trichomes found in the calyx of cannabis flowers with reported antiviral properties is hypothesized to be a therapeutic option in the ministration of SARS-CoV-2 consorted with COVID-19 disease. The relevant articles were determined from the database search published mainly in Web of Science, Google scholar, PubMed, Crossref, and ClinicalTrials.gov database during the pandemic period. The articles were evaluated for the therapeutic potentials, mechanisms of action of cannabinoids, the roles of the ECS in the immune system, impact of cannabinoids in SARS-CoV-2 septic, especially if they address the application of cannabinoids as drugs for the curability and management of SARS-CoV-2 and its novel variants. Although the evidence needed to be considered using cannabinoids in the control and treatment of viral diseases is currently in its infancy, they already offer an opportunity for clinicians due to their effects in relieving pain, improving appetite, and improving childhood epilepsy, especially in cancer and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV/AIDS) patients. In addition to these, the most recent scientific evidence emphasizes their use in the treatment of the coronavirus infected patients. In brief, all preclinic and clinic studies that have been reported show that, through the cannabinoid system, cannabinoids, particularly CBD, have many mechanisms that are effective in the treatment of patients infected by SARS-CoV-2. Thus, more extensive studies are necessary in this area to fully identify the effects of cannabinoids on SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmet ONAY
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Dicle University, DiyarbakırTurkey
| | - Abdulselam ERTAŞ
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Dicle University, DiyarbakırTurkey
| | - Veysel SÜZERER
- Department of Pharmacy Services, Vocational School of Health, Bingöl University, BingölTurkey
| | - İsmail YENER
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Dicle University, DiyarbakırTurkey
| | | | - Emine AYAZ-TİLKAT
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Literature, Batman University, BatmanTurkey
| | - Remzi EKİNCİ
- Department of Field Crops, Faculty of Agriculture, Dicle University, DiyarbakırTurkey
| | - Nesrin BOZHAN
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Dicle University, DiyarbakırTurkey
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Jha NK, Sharma C, Meeran MFN, Jha SK, Dwivedi VD, Gupta PK, Dey A, Kesari KK, Ojha S. Cannabinoid Type-2 Receptor Agonist, JWH133 May Be a Possible Candidate for Targeting Infection, Inflammation, and Immunity in COVID-19. Immuno 2021; 1:285-304. [DOI: 10.3390/immuno1030020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, is a deadly disease affecting millions due to the non-availability of drugs and vaccines. The majority of COVID-19 drugs have been repurposed based on antiviral, immunomodulatory, and antibiotic potential. The pathogenesis and advanced complications with infection involve the immune-inflammatory cascade. Therefore, a therapeutic strategy could reduce infectivity, inflammation, and immune modulation. In recent years, modulating the endocannabinoid system, particularly activation of the cannabinoid type 2 (CB2) receptor is a promising therapeutic target for modulation of immune-inflammatory responses. JWH133, a selective, full functional agonist of the CB2 receptor, has been extensively studied for its potent anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and immunomodulatory properties. JWH133 modulates numerous signaling pathways and inhibits inflammatory mediators, including cytokines, chemokines, adhesion molecules, prostanoids, and eicosanoids. In this study, we propose that JWH133 could be a promising candidate for targeting infection, immunity, and inflammation in COVID-19, due to its pharmacological and molecular mechanisms in numerous preclinical efficacy and safety studies, along with its immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, organoprotective, and antiviral properties. Thus, JWH133 should be investigated in preclinical and clinical studies for its potential as an agent or adjuvant with other agents for its effect on viremia, infectivity, immune modulation, resolution of inflammation, reduction in severity, and progression of complications in COVID-19. JWH133 is devoid of psychotropic effects due to CB2 receptor selectivity, has negligible toxicity, good bioavailability and druggable properties, including pharmacokinetic and physicochemical effects. We believe that JWH133 could be a promising drug and may inspire further studies for an evidence-based approach against COVID-19.
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