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Bilel S, Zamberletti E, Caffino L, Tirri M, Mottarlini F, Arfè R, Barbieri M, Beggiato S, Boccuto F, Bernardi T, Casati S, Brini AT, Parolaro D, Rubino T, Ferraro L, Fumagalli F, Marti M. Cognitive dysfunction and impaired neuroplasticity following repeated exposure to the synthetic cannabinoid JWH-018 in male mice. Br J Pharmacol 2023; 180:2777-2801. [PMID: 37311647 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16164] [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: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Psychotic disorders have been reported in long-term users of synthetic cannabinoids. This study aims at investigating the long-lasting effects of repeated JWH-018 exposure. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Male CD-1 mice were injected with vehicle, JWH-018 (6 mg·kg-1 ), the CB1 -antagonist NESS-0327 (1 mg·kg-1 ) or co-administration of NESS-0327 and JWH-018, every day for 7 days. After 15 or 16 days washout, we investigated the effects of JWH-018 on motor function, memory, social dominance and prepulse inhibition (PPI). We also evaluated glutamate levels in dialysates from dorsal striatum, striatal dopamine content and striatal/hippocampal neuroplasticity focusing on the NMDA receptor complex and the neurotrophin BDNF. These measurements were accompanied by in vitro electrophysiological evaluations in hippocampal preparations. Finally, we investigated the density of CB1 receptors and levels of the endocannabinoid anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and their main synthetic and degrading enzymes in the striatum and hippocampus. KEY RESULTS The repeated treatment with JWH-018 induced psychomotor agitation while reducing social dominance, recognition memory and PPI in mice. JWH-018 disrupted hippocampal LTP and decreased BDNF expression, reduced the synaptic levels of NMDA receptor subunits and decreased the expression of PSD95. Repeated exposure to JWH-018, reduced hippocampal CB1 receptor density and induced a long-term alteration in AEA and 2-AG levels and their degrading enzymes, FAAH and MAGL, in the striatum. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Our findings suggest that repeated administration of a high dose of JWH-018 leads to the manifestation of psychotic-like symptoms accompanied by alterations in neuroplasticity and change in the endocannabinoid system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrine Bilel
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Erica Zamberletti
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV) and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Italy
| | - Lucia Caffino
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, 'Rodolfo Paoletti', Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Micaela Tirri
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Francesca Mottarlini
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, 'Rodolfo Paoletti', Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Raffaella Arfè
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mario Barbieri
- Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Sarah Beggiato
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology (SVeB), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Federica Boccuto
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Tatiana Bernardi
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Prevention, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Sara Casati
- Department of Biomedical Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna T Brini
- Department of Biomedical Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- IRCCS Galeazzi Orthopedic Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniela Parolaro
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV) and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Italy
- Zardi-Gori Foundation, Milan, Italy
| | - Tiziana Rubino
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV) and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Italy
| | - Luca Ferraro
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology (SVeB), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Laboratory for the Technology of Advanced Therapies (LTTA Centre), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fabio Fumagalli
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, 'Rodolfo Paoletti', Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Marti
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and LTTA Center, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Collaborative Center for the Italian National Early Warning System, Department of Anti-Drug Policies, Presidency of the Council of Ministers, Rome, Italy
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Gabaglio M, Prini P, Zamberletti E, Rubino T, Parolaro D. Assay of GTPγS Binding in Autoradiography. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2576:181-188. [PMID: 36152186 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2728-0_14] [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: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Autoradiography of radiolabeled GTPγS ([35S]GTPγS) binding is a relevant technique to study the function of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) ex vivo. Here, we describe the protocol for such a method, suitable for investigating CB1 receptor functionality in tissue slices from rodent brains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Gabaglio
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, (VA), Italy
| | - Pamela Prini
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, (VA), Italy
| | - Erica Zamberletti
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, (VA), Italy
| | - Tiziana Rubino
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, (VA), Italy.
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Gabaglio M, Zamberletti E, Manenti C, Parolaro D, Rubino T. Long-Term Consequences of Adolescent Exposure to THC-Rich/CBD-Poor and CBD-Rich/THC-Poor Combinations: A Comparison with Pure THC Treatment in Female Rats. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168899. [PMID: 34445602 PMCID: PMC8396365 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [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: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis is the most-used recreational drug worldwide, with a high prevalence of use among adolescents. In animal models, long-term adverse effects were reported following chronic adolescent exposure to the main psychotomimetic component of the plant, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). However, these studies investigated the effects of pure THC, without taking into account other cannabinoids present in the cannabis plant. Interestingly, cannabidiol (CBD) content seems to mitigate some of the side effects of THC, at least in adult animals. Thus, in female rats, we evaluated the long-term consequences of a co-administration of THC and CBD at a 3:1 ratio, chosen based on the analysis of recently confiscated illegal cannabis samples in Europe. CBD content is able to mitigate some of the long-term behavioral alterations induced by adolescent THC exposure as well as long-term changes in CB1 receptor and microglia activation in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). We also investigated, for the first time, possible long-term effects of chronic administration of a THC/CBD combination reminiscent of "light cannabis" (CBD:THC in a 33:1 ratio; total THC 0.3%). Repeated administration of this CBD:THC combination has long-term adverse effects on cognition and leads to anhedonia. Concomitantly, it boosts Glutamic Acid Decarboxylase-67 (GAD67) levels in the PFC, suggesting a possible lasting effect on GABAergic neurotransmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Gabaglio
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV) and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, 21052 Busto Arsizio, Italy; (M.G.); (C.M.); (T.R.)
| | - Erica Zamberletti
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV) and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, 21052 Busto Arsizio, Italy; (M.G.); (C.M.); (T.R.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Cristina Manenti
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV) and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, 21052 Busto Arsizio, Italy; (M.G.); (C.M.); (T.R.)
| | | | - Tiziana Rubino
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV) and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, 21052 Busto Arsizio, Italy; (M.G.); (C.M.); (T.R.)
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Zamberletti E, Rubino T, Parolaro D. Therapeutic potential of cannabidivarin for epilepsy and autism spectrum disorder. Pharmacol Ther 2021; 226:107878. [PMID: 33895189 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2021.107878] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Recent years have seen a renewed interest on the possible therapeutic exploitations of specific cannabinoids derived from the Cannabis sativa plant. Thus far, the most studied non-psychotomimetic cannabinoid is cannabidiol (CBD), which has shown promising therapeutic potential for relieving a variety of neurological diseases. However, also its propyl analogue, cannabidivarin (CBDV), has recently gained much attention as a potential therapeutic agent for the management of disabling neurological conditions. This review aims at providing a comprehensive and updated overview of the available animal and human data, which have investigated the possible therapeutic potential of CBDV for the management of epilepsy and autism spectrum disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Zamberletti
- Dept. of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV) and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Italy.
| | - Tiziana Rubino
- Dept. of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV) and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Italy
| | - Daniela Parolaro
- Dept. of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV) and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Italy; Zardi-Gori Foundation, Milan, Italy.
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Abstract
AbstractThe legalization of cannabis products for recreational and/or medical use means that our society is now clearly more open to its diffusion. Thus, it is particularly important for people to understand what is known about both the adverse health effects and the potential therapeutic benefits linked to cannabis. The evaluation of the benefit vs adverse effect of cannabis use is generally referred to its recreational use; however, medicinal cannabis is now authorized in several countries, and therefore, it has become a public safety issue. In this article, the acute and long-lasting consequences of recreational cannabis use as well as the therapeutic vs toxicological effect of medicinal cannabis will be summarized.Graphic abstract
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Prini P, Zamberletti E, Manenti C, Gabaglio M, Parolaro D, Rubino T. Neurobiological mechanisms underlying cannabis-induced memory impairment. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2020; 36:181-190. [PMID: 32139186 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2020.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Revised: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
A growing body of literature suggests that cannabis intake can induce memory loss in humans and animals. Besides the recreational use, daily cannabis users may also belong to the ever-increasing population of patients who are administered cannabis as a medicine. As such, they also can experience impairments in memory as a negative side effect of their therapy. Comprehension of the neurobiological mechanisms responsible for such detrimental effects would be therefore of paramount relevance to public health. The investigation of neurobiological mechanisms in humans, despite the progress in the development of imaging technologies that allow the study of brain structure and function, still suffers substantial limitations. Animal models, instead, enable us to establish a causal relationship and thus to better elucidate the neurobiological mechanisms underlying the process under study. In this review, we will attempt to collect the insight coming from animal models about cannabis effects on memory, trying to depict a picture of the neurobiological mechanisms contributing to the development of cognitive deficits following cannabis use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Prini
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy
| | - Erica Zamberletti
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy
| | - Cristina Manenti
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy
| | - Marina Gabaglio
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy
| | - Daniela Parolaro
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy; Zardi-Gori Foundation, Milan, Italy
| | - Tiziana Rubino
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy.
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Zamberletti E, Gabaglio M, Woolley-Roberts M, Bingham S, Rubino T, Parolaro D. Cannabidivarin Treatment Ameliorates Autism-Like Behaviors and Restores Hippocampal Endocannabinoid System and Glia Alterations Induced by Prenatal Valproic Acid Exposure in Rats. Front Cell Neurosci 2019; 13:367. [PMID: 31447649 PMCID: PMC6696797 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [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: 06/13/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition whose primary features include social communication and interaction impairments with restricted or repetitive motor movements. No approved treatment for the core symptoms is available and considerable research efforts aim at identifying effective therapeutic strategies. Emerging evidence suggests that altered endocannabinoid signaling and immune dysfunction might contribute to ASD pathogenesis. In this scenario, phytocannabinoids could hold great pharmacological potential due to their combined capacities to act either directly or indirectly on components of the endocannabinoid system and to modulate immune functions. Among all plant-cannabinoids, the phytocannabinoid cannabidivarin (CBDV) was recently shown to reduce motor impairments and cognitive deficits in animal models of Rett syndrome, a condition showing some degree of overlap with autism, raising the possibility that CBDV might have therapeutic potential in ASD. Here, we investigated the ability of CBDV treatment to reverse or prevent ASD-like behaviors in male rats prenatally exposed to valproic acid (VPA; 500 mg/kg i.p.; gestation day 12.5). The offspring received CBDV according to two different protocols: symptomatic (0.2/2/20/100 mg/kg i.p.; postnatal days 34–58) and preventative (2/20 mg/kg i.p.; postnatal days 19–32). The major efficacy of CBDV was observed at the dose of 20 mg/kg for both treatment schedules. CBDV in symptomatic rats recovered social impairments, social novelty preference, short-term memory deficits, repetitive behaviors and hyperlocomotion whereas preventative treatment reduced sociability and social novelty deficits, short-term memory impairments and hyperlocomotion, without affecting stereotypies. As dysregulations in the endocannabinoid system and neuroinflammatory markers contribute to the development of some ASD phenotypes in the VPA model, neurochemical studies were performed after symptomatic treatment to investigate possible CBDV’s effects on the endocannabinoid system, inflammatory markers and microglia activation in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. Prenatal VPA exposure increased CB1 receptor, FAAH and MAGL levels, enhanced GFAP, CD11b, and TNFα levels and triggered microglia activation restricted to the hippocampus. All these alterations were restored after CBDV treatment. These data provide preclinical evidence in support of the ability of CBDV to ameliorate behavioral abnormalities resembling core and associated symptoms of ASD. At the neurochemical level, symptomatic CBDV restores hippocampal endocannabinoid signaling and neuroinflammation induced by prenatal VPA exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Zamberletti
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Marina Gabaglio
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | | | | | - Tiziana Rubino
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Daniela Parolaro
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy.,Zardi-Gori Foundation, Milan, Italy
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Zamberletti E, Gabaglio M, Piscitelli F, Brodie JS, Woolley-Roberts M, Barbiero I, Tramarin M, Binelli G, Landsberger N, Kilstrup-Nielsen C, Rubino T, Di Marzo V, Parolaro D. Cannabidivarin completely rescues cognitive deficits and delays neurological and motor defects in male Mecp2 mutant mice. J Psychopharmacol 2019; 33:894-907. [PMID: 31084246 DOI: 10.1177/0269881119844184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent evidence suggests that 2-week treatment with the non-psychotomimetic cannabinoid cannabidivarin (CBDV) could be beneficial towards neurological and social deficits in early symptomatic Mecp2 mutant mice, a model of Rett syndrome (RTT). AIM The aim of this study was to provide further insights into the efficacy of CBDV in Mecp2-null mice using a lifelong treatment schedule (from 4 to 9 weeks of age) to evaluate its effect on recognition memory and neurological defects in both early and advanced stages of the phenotype progression. METHODS CBDV 0.2, 2, 20 and 200 mg/kg/day was administered to Mecp2-null mice from 4 to 9 weeks of age. Cognitive and neurological defects were monitored during the whole treatment schedule. Biochemical analyses were carried out in brain lysates from 9-week-old wild-type and knockout mice to evaluate brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) levels as well as components of the endocannabinoid system. RESULTS CBDV rescues recognition memory deficits in Mecp2 mutant mice and delays the appearance of neurological defects. At the biochemical level, it normalizes BDNF/IGF1 levels and the defective PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway in Mecp2 mutant mice at an advanced stage of the disease. Mecp2 deletion upregulates CB1 and CB2 receptor levels in the brain and these changes are restored after CBDV treatment. CONCLUSIONS CBDV administration exerts an enduring rescue of memory deficits in Mecp2 mutant mice, an effect that is associated with the normalization of BDNF, IGF-1 and rpS6 phosphorylation levels as well as CB1 and CB2 receptor expression. CBDV delays neurological defects but this effect is only transient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Zamberletti
- 1 Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV), University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Marina Gabaglio
- 1 Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV), University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Fabiana Piscitelli
- 2 Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Pozzuoli, Naples, Italy
| | | | | | - Isabella Barbiero
- 1 Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV), University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Marco Tramarin
- 1 Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV), University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Giorgio Binelli
- 1 Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV), University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Landsberger
- 4 Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Tiziana Rubino
- 1 Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV), University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Di Marzo
- 2 Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Pozzuoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Daniela Parolaro
- 1 Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV), University of Insubria, Varese, Italy.,5 Zardi Gori Foundation, Milan, Italy
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9
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Cuccurazzu B, Zamberletti E, Nazzaro C, Prini P, Trusel M, Grilli M, Parolaro D, Tonini R, Rubino T. Adult Cellular Neuroadaptations Induced by Adolescent THC Exposure in Female Rats Are Rescued by Enhancing Anandamide Signaling. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2018; 21:1014-1024. [PMID: 29982505 PMCID: PMC6209859 DOI: 10.1093/ijnp/pyy057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2018] [Accepted: 06/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In rodent models, chronic exposure to cannabis' psychoactive ingredient, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, during adolescence leads to abnormal behavior in adulthood. In female rats, this maladaptive behavior is characterized by endophenotypes for depressive-like and psychotic-like disorders as well as cognitive deficits. We recently reported that most depressive-like behaviors triggered by adolescent Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol exposure can be rescued by manipulating endocannabinoid signaling in adulthood with the anandamide-inactivating enzyme FAAH inhibitor, URB597. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying URB597's antidepressant-like properties remain to be established. METHODS Here we examined the impact of adult URB597 treatment on the cellular and functional neuroadaptations that occurred in the prefrontal cortex and dentate gyrus of the hippocampus upon Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol during adolescence through biochemical, morphofunctional, and electrophysiological studies. RESULTS We found that the positive action of URB597 is associated with the rescue of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol-induced deficits in endocannabinoid-mediated signaling and synaptic plasticity in the prefrontal cortex and the recovery of functional neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus. Moreover, the rescue property of URB597 on depressive-like behavior requires the activity of the CB1 cannabinoid receptor. CONCLUSIONS By providing novel insights into the cellular and molecular mechanisms of URB597 at defined cortical and hippocampal circuits, our results highlight that positive modulation of endocannabinoid-signaling could be a strategy for treating mood alterations secondary to adolescent cannabis use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruna Cuccurazzu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale “A. Avogadro,” Novara, Italy
| | - Erica Zamberletti
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy
| | - Cristiano Nazzaro
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Genova, Italy
| | - Pamela Prini
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy
| | - Massimo Trusel
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Genova, Italy
| | - Mariagrazia Grilli
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale “A. Avogadro,” Novara, Italy
| | - Daniela Parolaro
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy,Zardi Gori Foundation, Milan, Italy
| | - Raffaella Tonini
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Genova, Italy
| | - Tiziana Rubino
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy,Correspondence: Tiziana Rubino, PhD, Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, via Manara 7, 21052 Busto Arsizio VA, Italy ()
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Scheggia D, Zamberletti E, Realini N, Mereu M, Contarini G, Ferretti V, Managò F, Margiani G, Brunoro R, Rubino T, De Luca MA, Piomelli D, Parolaro D, Papaleo F. Remote memories are enhanced by COMT activity through dysregulation of the endocannabinoid system in the prefrontal cortex. Mol Psychiatry 2018. [PMID: 28630452 DOI: 10.1038/mp.2017.126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The prefrontal cortex (PFC) is a crucial hub for the flexible modulation of recent memories (executive functions) as well as for the stable organization of remote memories. Dopamine in the PFC is implicated in both these processes and genetic variants affecting its neurotransmission might control the unique balance between cognitive stability and flexibility present in each individual. Functional genetic variants in the catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) gene result in a different catabolism of dopamine in the PFC. However, despite the established role played by COMT genetic variation in executive functions, its impact on remote memory formation and recall is still poorly explored. Here we report that transgenic mice overexpressing the human COMT-Val gene (COMT-Val-tg) present exaggerated remote memories (>50 days) while having unaltered recent memories (<24 h). COMT selectively and reversibly modulated the recall of remote memories as silencing COMT Val overexpression starting from 30 days after the initial aversive conditioning normalized remote memories. COMT genetic overactivity produced a selective overdrive of the endocannabinoid system within the PFC, but not in the striatum and hippocampus, which was associated with enhanced remote memories. Indeed, acute pharmacological blockade of CB1 receptors was sufficient to rescue the altered remote memory recall in COMT-Val-tg mice and increased PFC dopamine levels. These results demonstrate that COMT genetic variations modulate the retrieval of remote memories through the dysregulation of the endocannabinoid system in the PFC.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Scheggia
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
| | - E Zamberletti
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Italy
| | - N Realini
- Drug Discovery and Development, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
| | - M Mereu
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy.,Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Universita' degli Studi di Padova, Largo Meneghetti, Padova, Italy
| | - G Contarini
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Universita' degli Studi di Padova, Largo Meneghetti, Padova, Italy
| | - V Ferretti
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
| | - F Managò
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
| | - G Margiani
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Università di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - R Brunoro
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
| | - T Rubino
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Italy
| | - M A De Luca
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Università di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - D Piomelli
- Drug Discovery and Development, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Pharmacology and Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - D Parolaro
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Italy
| | - F Papaleo
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
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Prini P, Rusconi F, Zamberletti E, Gabaglio M, Penna F, Fasano M, Battaglioli E, Parolaro D, Rubino T. Adolescent THC exposure in female rats leads to cognitive deficits through a mechanism involving chromatin modifications in the prefrontal cortex. J Psychiatry Neurosci 2018; 43. [PMID: 29481316 PMCID: PMC5837889 DOI: 10.1503/jpn.170082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increasing cannabis consumption among adolescents, studies that link its early use with mental illnesses, and the political debate on cannabis legalization together call for an urgent need to study molecular underpinnings of adolescent brain vulnerability. The emerging role of epigenetic mechanisms in psychiatric diseases led us to hypothesize that epigenetic alterations could play a role in causes and subsequent development of the depressive/psychotic-like phenotype induced by adolescent, but not adult, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) exposure in female rats. METHODS We performed a time-course analysis of histone modifications, chromatin remodelling enzymes and gene expression in the prefrontal cortex of female rats after adolescent and adult THC exposure. We also administered a specific epigenetic drug (chaetocin) with THC to investigate its impact on THC-induced behavioural alterations. RESULTS Adolescent THC exposure induced alterations of selective histone modifications (mainly H3K9me3), impacting the expression of genes closely associated with synaptic plasticity. Changes in both histone modifications and gene expression were more widespread and intense after adolescent treatment, suggesting specific adolescent susceptibility. Adolescent THC exposure significantly increased Suv39H1 levels, which could account for the enhanced H3K9me3. Pharmacological blockade of H3K9me3 during adolescent THC treatment prevented THC-induced cognitive deficits, suggesting the relevant role played by H3K9me3 in THC-induced effects. LIMITATIONS Only female rats were investigated, and the expression studies were limited to a specific subset of genes. CONCLUSION Through a mechanism involving SUV39H1, THC modifies histone modifications and, thereby, expression of plasticity genes. This pathway appears to be relevant for the development of cognitive deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Prini
- From the Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy (Prini, Zamberletti, Gabaglio, Penna, Parolaro, Rubino); the Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy (Prini, Zamberletti, Gabaglio, Fasano, Parolaro, Rubino); the Department of Medical Biotecnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milano, Segrate MI, Italy (Rusconi, Battaglioli); and the Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy (Fasano)
| | - Franceso Rusconi
- From the Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy (Prini, Zamberletti, Gabaglio, Penna, Parolaro, Rubino); the Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy (Prini, Zamberletti, Gabaglio, Fasano, Parolaro, Rubino); the Department of Medical Biotecnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milano, Segrate MI, Italy (Rusconi, Battaglioli); and the Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy (Fasano)
| | - Erica Zamberletti
- From the Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy (Prini, Zamberletti, Gabaglio, Penna, Parolaro, Rubino); the Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy (Prini, Zamberletti, Gabaglio, Fasano, Parolaro, Rubino); the Department of Medical Biotecnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milano, Segrate MI, Italy (Rusconi, Battaglioli); and the Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy (Fasano)
| | - Marina Gabaglio
- From the Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy (Prini, Zamberletti, Gabaglio, Penna, Parolaro, Rubino); the Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy (Prini, Zamberletti, Gabaglio, Fasano, Parolaro, Rubino); the Department of Medical Biotecnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milano, Segrate MI, Italy (Rusconi, Battaglioli); and the Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy (Fasano)
| | - Federica Penna
- From the Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy (Prini, Zamberletti, Gabaglio, Penna, Parolaro, Rubino); the Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy (Prini, Zamberletti, Gabaglio, Fasano, Parolaro, Rubino); the Department of Medical Biotecnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milano, Segrate MI, Italy (Rusconi, Battaglioli); and the Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy (Fasano)
| | - Mauro Fasano
- From the Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy (Prini, Zamberletti, Gabaglio, Penna, Parolaro, Rubino); the Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy (Prini, Zamberletti, Gabaglio, Fasano, Parolaro, Rubino); the Department of Medical Biotecnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milano, Segrate MI, Italy (Rusconi, Battaglioli); and the Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy (Fasano)
| | - Elena Battaglioli
- From the Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy (Prini, Zamberletti, Gabaglio, Penna, Parolaro, Rubino); the Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy (Prini, Zamberletti, Gabaglio, Fasano, Parolaro, Rubino); the Department of Medical Biotecnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milano, Segrate MI, Italy (Rusconi, Battaglioli); and the Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy (Fasano)
| | - Daniela Parolaro
- From the Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy (Prini, Zamberletti, Gabaglio, Penna, Parolaro, Rubino); the Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy (Prini, Zamberletti, Gabaglio, Fasano, Parolaro, Rubino); the Department of Medical Biotecnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milano, Segrate MI, Italy (Rusconi, Battaglioli); and the Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy (Fasano)
| | - Tiziana Rubino
- From the Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy (Prini, Zamberletti, Gabaglio, Penna, Parolaro, Rubino); the Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy (Prini, Zamberletti, Gabaglio, Fasano, Parolaro, Rubino); the Department of Medical Biotecnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milano, Segrate MI, Italy (Rusconi, Battaglioli); and the Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio VA, Italy (Fasano)
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Gabaglio M, Prini P, Zamberletti E, Rubino T, Parolaro D. Assay of GTPγS Binding in Autoradiography. Methods Mol Biol 2017; 1412:95-101. [PMID: 27245895 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-3539-0_10] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Autoradiography of radiolabeled GTPγS ([(35)S]GTPγS) binding is a relevant method to study the function of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), in tissue sections. Here, we describe the protocol for such a binding autoradiography, suitable to investigate the functionality of CB1 receptor in tissue slices from rodent brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Gabaglio
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Via Manara 7, 21052, Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy
| | - Pamela Prini
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Via Manara 7, 21052, Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy
| | - Erica Zamberletti
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Via Manara 7, 21052, Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy
| | - Tiziana Rubino
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Via Manara 7, 21052, Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy
| | - Daniela Parolaro
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Via Manara 7, 21052, Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy. .,Fondazione Zardi-Gori, via Cossa 1, Milano, Italy.
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13
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Melis M, Frau R, Kalivas PW, Spencer S, Chioma V, Zamberletti E, Rubino T, Parolaro D. New vistas on cannabis use disorder. Neuropharmacology 2017; 124:62-72. [PMID: 28373077 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.03.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2017] [Revised: 03/28/2017] [Accepted: 03/29/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis sativa preparations are the most consumed illicit drugs for recreational purposes worldwide, and the number of people seeking treatment for cannabis use disorder has dramatically increased in the last decades. Due to the recent decriminalization or legalization of cannabis use in the Western Countries, we may predict that the number of people suffering from cannabis use disorder will increase. Despite the increasing number of cannabis studies over the past two decades, we have gaps of scientific knowledge pertaining to the neurobiological consequences of long-term cannabis use. Moreover, no specific treatments for cannabis use disorders are currently available. In this review, we explore new research that may help fill these gaps. We discuss and provide a solution to the experimental limitation of a lack of rodent models of THC self-administration, and the importance this model can play in understanding the neurobiology of relapse and in providing a biological rationale for potential therapeutic targets. We also focus our attention on glial cells, commenting on recent preclinical evidence suggesting that alterations in microglia and astrocytes might contribute to the detrimental effects associated with cannabis abuse. Finally, due to the worrisome prevalence rates of cannabis use during pregnancy, we highlight the associations between cannabis use disorders during pregnancy and congenital disorders, describing the possible neuronal basis of vulnerability at molecular and circuit level. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled "A New Dawn in Cannabinoid Neurobiology".
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Melis
- Dept. of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - Roberto Frau
- Dept. of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - Peter W Kalivas
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, SC, USA
| | - Sade Spencer
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, SC, USA
| | - Vivian Chioma
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, SC, USA
| | - Erica Zamberletti
- Dept. of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy
| | - Tiziana Rubino
- Dept. of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy
| | - Daniela Parolaro
- Dept. of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy; Zardi Gori Foundation, Milan, Italy.
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Zamberletti E, Piscitelli F, De Castro V, Murru E, Gabaglio M, Colucci P, Fanali C, Prini P, Bisogno T, Maccarrone M, Campolongo P, Banni S, Rubino T, Parolaro D. Lifelong imbalanced LA/ALA intake impairs emotional and cognitive behavior via changes in brain endocannabinoid system. J Lipid Res 2016; 58:301-316. [PMID: 27903595 DOI: 10.1194/jlr.m068387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2016] [Revised: 11/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Imbalanced dietary n-3 and n-6 PUFA content has been associated with a number of neurological conditions. Endocannabinoids are n-6 PUFA derivatives, whose brain concentrations are sensitive to modifications of fatty acid composition of the diet and play a central role in the regulation of mood and cognition. As such, the endocannabinoid system appears to be an ideal candidate for mediating the effects of dietary fatty acids on mood and cognition. Lifelong administration of isocaloric α-linolenic acid (ALA)-deficient and -enriched diets induced short-term memory deficits, whereas only dietary ALA enrichment altered emotional reactivity in adult male rats compared with animals fed a standard diet that was balanced in ALA/linoleic acid (LA) ratio. In the prefrontal cortex, both diets reduced 2-AG levels and increased MAG lipase expression, whereas only the enriched diet reduced AEA levels, simultaneously increasing FAAH expression. In the hippocampus, an ALA-enriched diet decreased AEA content and NAPE-PLD expression, and reduced 2-AG content while increasing MAG lipase expression. These findings highlight the importance of a diet balanced in fatty acid content for normal brain functions and to support a link between dietary ALA, the brain endocannabinoid system, and behavior, which indicates that dietary ALA intake is a sufficient condition for altering the endocannabinoid system in brain regions modulating mood and cognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Zamberletti
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV), University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy
| | - Fabiana Piscitelli
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Pozzuoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Valentina De Castro
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Murru
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Marina Gabaglio
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV), University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy
| | - Paola Colucci
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Fanali
- Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Pamela Prini
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV), University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy
| | - Tiziana Bisogno
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Pozzuoli, Naples, Italy.,Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Mauro Maccarrone
- Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Rome, Italy.,European Center for Brain Research/IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Patrizia Campolongo
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Banni
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Tiziana Rubino
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV), University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy
| | - Daniela Parolaro
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV), University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy .,Zardi Gori Foundation, Milan, Italy
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Struik D, Fadda P, Zara T, Zamberletti E, Rubino T, Parolaro D, Fratta W, Fattore L. The anabolic steroid nandrolone alters cannabinoid self-administration and brain CB 1 receptor density and function. Pharmacol Res 2016; 115:209-217. [PMID: 27890818 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2016.11.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2016] [Revised: 10/21/2016] [Accepted: 11/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Clinical and pre-clinical observations indicate that anabolic-androgenic steroids can induce neurobiological changes that alter the rewarding effects of drugs of abuse. In this study, we investigated the effect of the anabolic steroid nandrolone on the rewarding properties of the cannabinoid CB1 receptor agonist WIN55,212-2 (WIN) in rats. Lister Hooded male rats were treated intramuscularly with nandrolone (15mg/kg) or vehicle for 14 consecutive days, and then allowed to self-administer WIN (12.5μg/kg/infusion) intravenously. After reaching stable drug intake, self-administration behavior was extinguished to examine drug- and cue-induced reinstatement of cannabinoid-seeking behavior. Other behavioral parameters presumed to influence drug-taking and drug-seeking behaviors were examined to gain more insight into the behavioral specificity of nandrolone treatment. Finally, animals were sacrificed for analysis of CB1 receptor density and function in selected brain areas. We found that nandrolone-treated rats self-administered up to 2 times more cannabinoid than vehicle-treated rats, but behaved similarly to control rats when tested for drug- and cue-induced reinstatement of cannabinoid-seeking behavior. Enhanced cannabinoid intake by nandrolone-treated rats was not accompanied by changes in locomotor activity, sensorimotor gating, or memory function. However, our molecular data show that after chronic WIN self-administration nandrolone-treated rats display altered CB1 receptor density and function in selected brain areas. We hypothesize that increased cannabinoid self-administration in nandrolone-treated rats results from a nandrolone-induced decrease in reward function, which rats seem to compensate by voluntarily increasing their cannabinoid intake. Altogether, our findings corroborate the hypothesis that chronic exposure to anabolic-androgenic steroids induces dysfunction of the reward pathway in rats and might represent a potential risk factor for abuse of cannabis and other drugs in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dicky Struik
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen 9713ZG, the Netherlands
| | - Paola Fadda
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, SS 554Km 4,500, 09042 Monserrato, CA, Italy; Centre of Excellence "Neurobiology of Dependence", University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, SS 554 Km 4,500, 09042 Monserrato, CA, Italy
| | - Tamara Zara
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, SS 554Km 4,500, 09042 Monserrato, CA, Italy
| | - Erica Zamberletti
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, and Neuroscience Center University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, VA, Italy
| | - Tiziana Rubino
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, and Neuroscience Center University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, VA, Italy
| | - Daniela Parolaro
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, and Neuroscience Center University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, VA, Italy; Zardi Gori Foundation, Via Curtatone 25, Milano, Italy
| | - Walter Fratta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, SS 554Km 4,500, 09042 Monserrato, CA, Italy; Centre of Excellence "Neurobiology of Dependence", University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, SS 554 Km 4,500, 09042 Monserrato, CA, Italy
| | - Liana Fattore
- Centre of Excellence "Neurobiology of Dependence", University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, SS 554 Km 4,500, 09042 Monserrato, CA, Italy; CNR Institute of Neuroscience-Cagliari, National Research Council, Italy.
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Zamberletti E, Gabaglio M, Grilli M, Prini P, Catanese A, Pittaluga A, Marchi M, Rubino T, Parolaro D. Long-term hippocampal glutamate synapse and astrocyte dysfunctions underlying the altered phenotype induced by adolescent THC treatment in male rats. Pharmacol Res 2016; 111:459-470. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2016.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2016] [Revised: 06/22/2016] [Accepted: 07/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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Cobolli Gigli C, Scaramuzza L, Gandaglia A, Bellini E, Gabaglio M, Parolaro D, Kilstrup-Nielsen C, Landsberger N, Bedogni F. MeCP2 Related Studies Benefit from the Use of CD1 as Genetic Background. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0153473. [PMID: 27097329 PMCID: PMC4838291 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0153473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2015] [Accepted: 03/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
MECP2 mutations cause a number of neurological disorders of which Rett syndrome (RTT) represents the most thoroughly analysed condition. Many Mecp2 mouse models have been generated through the years; their validity is demonstrated by the presence of a broad spectrum of phenotypes largely mimicking those manifested by RTT patients. These mouse models, between which the C57BL/6 Mecp2tm1.1Bird strain probably represents the most used, enabled to disclose much of the roles of Mecp2. However, small litters with little viability and poor maternal care hamper the maintenance of the colony, thus limiting research on such animals. For this reason, past studies often used Mecp2 mouse models on mixed genetic backgrounds, thus opening questions on whether modifier genes could be responsible for at least part of the described effects. To verify this possibility, and facilitate the maintenance of the Mecp2 colony, we transferred the Mecp2tm1.1Bird allele on the stronger CD1 background. The CD1 strain is easier to maintain and largely recapitulates the phenotypes already described in Mecp2-null mice. We believe that this mouse model will foster the research on RTT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clementina Cobolli Gigli
- San Raffaele Rett Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Linda Scaramuzza
- San Raffaele Rett Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Gandaglia
- San Raffaele Rett Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Bellini
- San Raffaele Rett Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Institute of Surgical Pathology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marina Gabaglio
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Italy
| | - Daniela Parolaro
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Italy
- ZardiGori Foundation, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Nicoletta Landsberger
- San Raffaele Rett Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, L.I.T.A., Segrate, Italy
- * E-mail: (NL); (FB)
| | - Francesco Bedogni
- San Raffaele Rett Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- * E-mail: (NL); (FB)
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Rubino T, Parolaro D. The Impact of Exposure to Cannabinoids in Adolescence: Insights From Animal Models. Biol Psychiatry 2016; 79:578-85. [PMID: 26344755 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2015.07.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2015] [Revised: 07/16/2015] [Accepted: 07/31/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The regular use of cannabis during adolescence is of particular concern because use by this age group seems to be associated with an increased likelihood of deleterious consequences, as reported by several epidemiologic studies. However, despite their unquestionable value, epidemiologic data are inconclusive. Modeling the adolescent phase in animals appears to be a useful approach to investigate the impact of cannabis use on the adolescent brain. In these models, adolescent cannabinoid exposure has been reported to cause long-term impairment in specific components of learning and memory and to have differential effects on anxiety, social behavior, and depressive-like signs. These findings suggest that it may represent, per se or in association with other hits, a risk factor for developing psychotic-like symptoms in adulthood. The neurobiological bases of this association include the induction of alterations in the maturational events of the endocannabinoid system occurring in the adolescent brain. Alterations in the endocannabinoid system may profoundly dysregulate developmental processes in some neurotransmitter systems, such as gamma-aminobutyric acid and glutamate, mainly in the cortex. The resulting picture strongly resembles the one present in schizophrenic patients, highlighting the translational value of this experimental approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Rubino
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, Biomedical Research Division, and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizi, Italy..
| | - Daniela Parolaro
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, Biomedical Research Division, and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizi, Italy
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Cascio MG, Zamberletti E, Marini P, Parolaro D, Pertwee RG. The phytocannabinoid, Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabivarin, can act through 5-HT₁A receptors to produce antipsychotic effects. Br J Pharmacol 2016; 172:1305-18. [PMID: 25363799 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2014] [Revised: 10/22/2014] [Accepted: 10/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE This study aimed to address the questions of whether Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) can (i) enhance activation of 5-HT1 A receptors in vitro and (ii) induce any apparent 5-HT₁A receptor-mediated antipsychotic effects in vivo. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH In vitro studies investigated the effect of THCV on targeting by 8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino)tetralin (8-OH-DPAT) of 5-HT₁A receptors in membranes obtained from rat brainstem or human 5-HT₁A CHO cells, using [(35)S]-GTPγS and 8-[(3)H]-OH-DPAT binding assays. In vivo studies investigated whether THCV induces signs of 5-HT₁A receptor-mediated antipsychotic effects in rats. KEY RESULTS THCV (i) potently, albeit partially, displaced 8-[(3) H]-OH-DPAT from specific binding sites in rat brainstem membranes; (ii) at 100 nM, significantly enhanced 8-OH-DPAT-induced activation of receptors in these membranes; (iii) produced concentration-related increases in 8-[(3)H]-OH-DPAT binding to specific sites in membranes of human 5-HT₁A receptor-transfected CHO cells; and (iv) at 100 nM, significantly enhanced 8-OH-DPAT-induced activation of these human 5-HT₁A receptors. In phencyclidine-treated rats, THCV, like clozapine (i) reduced stereotyped behaviour; (ii) decreased time spent immobile in the forced swim test; and (iii) normalized hyperlocomotor activity, social behaviour and cognitive performance. Some of these effects were counteracted by the 5-HT₁A receptor antagonist, WAY100635, or could be reproduced by the CB₁ antagonist, AM251. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Our findings suggest that THCV can enhance 5-HT₁A receptor activation, and that some of its apparent antipsychotic effects may depend on this enhancement. We conclude that THCV has therapeutic potential for ameliorating some of the negative, cognitive and positive symptoms of schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Grazia Cascio
- School of Medical Sciences, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
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Zamberletti E, Gabaglio M, Prini P, Rubino T, Parolaro D. Cortical neuroinflammation contributes to long-term cognitive dysfunctions following adolescent delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol treatment in female rats. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2015; 25:2404-15. [PMID: 26499171 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2015.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2015] [Revised: 09/16/2015] [Accepted: 09/28/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Over 180 million people consume cannabis globally. Cannabis use peaks during adolescence with a trend for continued consumption by adults. Notably, several studies have shown that long-term and heavy cannabis use during adolescence can impair brain maturation and predispose to neurodevelopmental disorders, although the neurobiological mechanisms underlying this association remain largely unknown. In this study, we evaluated whether, in female rats, chronic administration of increasing doses of the psychotropic plant-derived cannabis constituent, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), during adolescence (PND 35-45) could affect microglia function in the long-term. Furthermore, we explored a possible contribution of microglia to the development of THC-induced alterations in mood and cognition in adult female rats. Present data indicate that adolescent THC administration induces a persistent neuroinflammatory state specifically localized within the adult prefrontal cortex (PFC), characterized by increased expression of the pro-inflammatory markers, TNF-α, iNOS and COX-2, and reduction of the anti-inflammatory cytokine, IL-10. This neuroinflammatory phenotype is associated with down-regulation of CB1 receptor on neuronal cells and up-regulation of CB2 on microglia cells, conversely. Interestingly, blocking microglia activation with ibudilast during THC treatment significantly attenuates short-term memory impairments in adulthood, simultaneously preventing the increases in TNF-α, iNOS, COX-2 levels as well as the up-regulation of CB2 receptors on microglia cells. In contrast, THC-induced depressive-like behaviors were unaffected by ibudilast treatment. Our findings demonstrate that adolescent THC administration is associated with persistent neuroinflammation within the PFC and provide evidence for a causal association between microglial activation and the development long-term cognitive deficits induced by adolescent THC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Zamberletti
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy; Zardi Gori Foundation, Milan, Italy
| | - Marina Gabaglio
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy
| | - Pamela Prini
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy
| | - Tiziana Rubino
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy
| | - Daniela Parolaro
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy; Zardi Gori Foundation, Milan, Italy.
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Abstract
The goal of this review is to summarize current evidence for sex differences in the response to cannabinoid compounds, focusing mainly on a specific age of exposure, i.e., adolescence. Preclinical as well as clinical studies are examined. Among the different possible underlying mechanisms, the consistent dimorphism in the endocannabinoid system and delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol metabolism may play a part. All the collected data point to the need of including females in basic research as well as of analyzing results for sex differences in epidemiological studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Rubino
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria , Busto Arsizio , Italy
| | - Daniela Parolaro
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria , Busto Arsizio , Italy
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Abstract
Preclinical and clinical data fully support the involvement of the endocannabinoid system in the etiopathogenesis of several mental diseases. In this review we will briefly summarize the most common alterations in the endocannabinoid system, in terms of cannabinoid receptors and endocannabinoid levels, present in mood disorders (anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, bipolar disorder, and suicidality) as well as psychosis (schizophrenia) and autism. The arising picture for each pathology is not always straightforward; however, both animal and human studies seem to suggest that pharmacological modulation of this system might represent a novel approach for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Rubino
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences and Neuroscience Centre, University of Insubria, Via Manara 7, 21052, Busto Arsizio, VA, Italy
| | - Erica Zamberletti
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences and Neuroscience Centre, University of Insubria, Via Manara 7, 21052, Busto Arsizio, VA, Italy
- Fondazione Zardi Gori, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniela Parolaro
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences and Neuroscience Centre, University of Insubria, Via Manara 7, 21052, Busto Arsizio, VA, Italy.
- Fondazione Zardi Gori, Milan, Italy.
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Rubino T, Prini P, Piscitelli F, Zamberletti E, Trusel M, Melis M, Sagheddu C, Ligresti A, Tonini R, Di Marzo V, Parolaro D. Adolescent exposure to THC in female rats disrupts developmental changes in the prefrontal cortex. Neurobiol Dis 2014; 73:60-9. [PMID: 25281318 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2014.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [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: 04/24/2014] [Revised: 09/15/2014] [Accepted: 09/24/2014] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Current concepts suggest that exposure to THC during adolescence may act as a risk factor for the development of psychiatric disorders later in life. However, the molecular underpinnings of this vulnerability are still poorly understood. To analyze this, we investigated whether and how THC exposure in female rats interferes with different maturational events occurring in the prefrontal cortex during adolescence through biochemical, pharmacological and electrophysiological means. We found that the endocannabinoid system undergoes maturational processes during adolescence and that THC exposure disrupts them, leading to impairment of both endocannabinoid signaling and endocannabinoid-mediated LTD in the adult prefrontal cortex. THC also altered the maturational fluctuations of NMDA subunits, leading to larger amounts of gluN2B at adulthood. Adult animals exposed to THC during adolescence also showed increased AMPA gluA1 with no changes in gluA2 subunits. Finally, adolescent THC exposure altered cognition at adulthood. All these effects seem to be triggered by the disruption of the physiological role played by the endocannabinoid system during adolescence. Indeed, blockade of CB1 receptors from early to late adolescence seems to prevent the occurrence of pruning at glutamatergic synapses. These results suggest that vulnerability of adolescent female rats to long-lasting THC adverse effects might partly reside in disruption of the pivotal role played by the endocannabinoid system in the prefrontal cortex maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Rubino
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Science, Biomedical Research Division, and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, 21052 Busto Arsizio, VA, Italy.
| | - Pamela Prini
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Science, Biomedical Research Division, and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, 21052 Busto Arsizio, VA, Italy
| | - Fabiana Piscitelli
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, CNR, 80078 Pozzuoli, NA, Italy
| | - Erica Zamberletti
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Science, Biomedical Research Division, and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, 21052 Busto Arsizio, VA, Italy
| | - Massimo Trusel
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), 16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Miriam Melis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato, CA, Italy
| | - Claudia Sagheddu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato, CA, Italy
| | - Alessia Ligresti
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, CNR, 80078 Pozzuoli, NA, Italy
| | - Raffaella Tonini
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), 16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Di Marzo
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, CNR, 80078 Pozzuoli, NA, Italy
| | - Daniela Parolaro
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Science, Biomedical Research Division, and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, 21052 Busto Arsizio, VA, Italy; Zardi Gori Foundation, 21100 Milan, Italy
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Rubino T, Parolaro D. Cannabis abuse in adolescence and the risk of psychosis: a brief review of the preclinical evidence. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2014; 52:41-4. [PMID: 23916409 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2013.07.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2013] [Revised: 07/17/2013] [Accepted: 07/23/2013] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Epidemiological studies suggest that Cannabis use during adolescence confers an increased risk for developing psychotic symptoms later in life. However, despite their interest, the epidemiological data are not conclusive, due to their heterogeneity; thus modeling the adolescent phase in animals is useful for investigating the impact of Cannabis use on deviations of adolescent brain development that might confer a vulnerability to later psychotic disorders. Although scant, preclinical data seem to support the presence of impaired social behaviors, cognitive and sensorimotor gating deficits as well as psychotic-like signs in adult rodents after adolescent cannabinoid exposure, clearly suggesting that this exposure may trigger a complex behavioral phenotype closely resembling a schizophrenia-like disorder. Similar treatments performed at adulthood were not able to produce such phenotype, thus pointing to a vulnerability of the adolescent brain towards cannabinoid exposure. The neurobiological substrate of the adolescent vulnerability is still largely unknown and experimental studies need to elucidate the cellular and molecular mechanism underlying these effects. However, the few data available seem to suggest that heavy adolescent exposure to cannabinoids is able to modify neuronal connectivity in specific brain areas long after the end of the treatment. This is likely due to disruption of maturational events within the endocannabinoid system during adolescence that in turn impact on the correct neuronal refinement peculiar of the adolescent brain, thus leading to altered adult brain functionality and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Rubino
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, Biomedical Research Division, University of Insubria, via Manara 7, 21052 Busto Arsizio VA, Italy
| | - D Parolaro
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, Biomedical Research Division, University of Insubria, via Manara 7, 21052 Busto Arsizio VA, Italy.
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Zamberletti E, Beggiato S, Steardo L, Prini P, Antonelli T, Ferraro L, Rubino T, Parolaro D. Alterations of prefrontal cortex GABAergic transmission in the complex psychotic-like phenotype induced by adolescent delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol exposure in rats. Neurobiol Dis 2013; 63:35-47. [PMID: 24200867 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2013.10.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [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: 05/23/2013] [Revised: 10/14/2013] [Accepted: 10/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Although several findings indicate an association between adolescent cannabis abuse and the risk to develop schizophrenia later in life, the evidence for a causal relationship is still inconclusive. In the present study, we investigated the emergence of psychotic-like behavior in adult female rats chronically exposed to delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) during adolescence. To this aim, female Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with THC during adolescence (PND 35-45) and, in adulthood (PND 75), a series of behavioral tests and biochemical assays were performed in order to investigate the long-term effects of adolescent THC exposure. Adolescent THC pretreatment leads to long-term behavioral alterations, characterized by recognition memory deficits, social withdrawal, altered emotional reactivity and sensitization to the locomotor activating effects of acute PCP. Moreover, since cortical disinhibition seems to be a key feature of many different animal models of schizophrenia and GABAergic hypofunction in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) has been observed in postmortem brains from schizophrenic patients, we then investigated the long-lasting consequences of adolescent THC exposure on GABAergic transmission in the adult rat PFC. Biochemical analyses revealed that adolescent THC exposure results in reduced GAD67 and basal GABA levels within the adult PFC. GAD67 expression is reduced both in parvalbumin (PV)- and cholecystokinin (CCK)-containing interneurons; this alteration may be related to the altered emotional reactivity triggered by adolescent THC, as silencing PFC GAD67 expression through a siRNA-mediated approach is sufficient to impact rats' behavior in the forced swim test. Finally, the cellular underpinnings of the observed sensitized response to acute PCP in adult THC-treated rats could be ascribed to the increased cFos immunoreactivity and glutamate levels in the PFC and dorsal striatum. The present findings support the hypothesis that adolescent THC exposure may represent a risk factor for the development of a complex psychotic-like behavior in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Zamberletti
- Dept. of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, Biomedical Division and Center of Neuroscience, Univ. of Insubria, Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy
| | - Sarah Beggiato
- Dept. of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Luca Steardo
- Dept. of Psychiatry, Univ. of Naples SUN, Naples, Italy
| | - Pamela Prini
- Dept. of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, Biomedical Division and Center of Neuroscience, Univ. of Insubria, Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy
| | - Tiziana Antonelli
- Dept. of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Luca Ferraro
- Dept. of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Tiziana Rubino
- Dept. of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, Biomedical Division and Center of Neuroscience, Univ. of Insubria, Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy
| | - Daniela Parolaro
- Dept. of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, Biomedical Division and Center of Neuroscience, Univ. of Insubria, Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy; Zardi-Gori Foundation, Milan, Italy.
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Solinas M, Massi P, Cinquina V, Valenti M, Bolognini D, Gariboldi M, Monti E, Rubino T, Parolaro D. Cannabidiol, a non-psychoactive cannabinoid compound, inhibits proliferation and invasion in U87-MG and T98G glioma cells through a multitarget effect. PLoS One 2013; 8:e76918. [PMID: 24204703 PMCID: PMC3804588 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0076918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [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: 04/29/2013] [Accepted: 09/05/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In the present study, we found that CBD inhibited U87-MG and T98G cell proliferation and invasiveness in vitro and caused a decrease in the expression of a set of proteins specifically involved in growth, invasion and angiogenesis. In addition, CBD treatment caused a dose-related down-regulation of ERK and Akt prosurvival signaling pathways in U87-MG and T98G cells and decreased hypoxia inducible factor HIF-1α expression in U87-MG cells. Taken together, these results provide new insights into the antitumor action of CBD, showing that this cannabinoid affects multiple tumoral features and molecular pathways. As CBD is a non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid that appears to be devoid of side effects, our results support its exploitation as an effective anti-cancer drug in the management of gliomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Solinas
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, Biomedical Research Division, Centre of Neuroscience, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Varese, Italy
| | - Paola Massi
- Department of Pharmacology, Chemotherapy and Toxicology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Cinquina
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, Biomedical Research Division, Centre of Neuroscience, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Varese, Italy
| | - Marta Valenti
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, Biomedical Research Division, Centre of Neuroscience, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Varese, Italy
| | - Daniele Bolognini
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Marzia Gariboldi
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, Biomedical Research Division, Centre of Neuroscience, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Varese, Italy
| | - Elena Monti
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, Biomedical Research Division, Centre of Neuroscience, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Varese, Italy
| | - Tiziana Rubino
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, Biomedical Research Division, Centre of Neuroscience, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Varese, Italy
| | - Daniela Parolaro
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, Biomedical Research Division, Centre of Neuroscience, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Varese, Italy
- * E-mail:
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Abstract
Over the past years, several lines of evidence support an antitumourigenic effect of cannabinoids including Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ(9)-THC), synthetic agonists, endocannabinoids and endocannabinoid transport or degradation inhibitors. Indeed, cannabinoids possess anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects and they are known to interfere with tumour neovascularization, cancer cell migration, adhesion, invasion and metastasization. However, the clinical use of Δ(9)-THC and additional cannabinoid agonists is often limited by their unwanted psychoactive side effects, and for this reason interest in non-psychoactive cannabinoid compounds with structural affinity for Δ(9)-THC, such as cannabidiol (CBD), has substantially increased in recent years. The present review will focus on the efficacy of CBD in the modulation of different steps of tumourigenesis in several types of cancer and highlights the importance of exploring CBD/CBD analogues as alternative therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Massi
- Department of Pharmacology, Chemotherapy and Toxicology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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Llorente-Berzal A, Assis MA, Rubino T, Zamberletti E, Marco EM, Parolaro D, Ambrosio E, Viveros MP. Sex-dependent changes in brain CB1R expression and functionality and immune CB2R expression as a consequence of maternal deprivation and adolescent cocaine exposure. Pharmacol Res 2013; 74:23-33. [PMID: 23680694 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2013.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2012] [Revised: 05/06/2013] [Accepted: 05/07/2013] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Early life stress has been associated with several psychiatric disorders, including drug addiction. Actually, maternal deprivation (MD) alters the endocannabinoid system, which participates in motivation and reward for drugs, including cocaine. At youth, the rate of cocaine abuse is alarmingly increasing. Herein, we have investigated the consequences of MD and/or adolescent cocaine exposure in brain CB1Rs and CB2Rs in immune tissues. Control and maternally deprived (24h on postnatal day, pnd, 9) male and female Wistar rats were administered cocaine (8mg/kg/day) or saline during adolescence (pnd 28-42). At adulthood, [(3)H]-CP-55,940 autoradiographic binding was employed for the analysis of CB1R density and CP-55,940-stimulated [(35)S]-GTPgammaS binding for CB1R functionality; CB2R expression was analyzed by Western blotting. Sex differences in CB1R expression and functionality were found, and MD induced important and enduring sex-dependent changes. In addition, the plastic changes induced by adolescent cocaine administration in brain CB1Rs were differentially influenced by early life events. MD increased spleen CB2R expression while adolescent cocaine administration attenuated this effect; cocaine exposure also diminished CB2R expression in bone marrow. Present findings provide evidence for changes in brain CB1R expression and functionality and immune CB2R expression as a consequence of early life stress and adolescent cocaine exposure, and indicate functional interactions between both treatments, which in many regions differ between males and females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alvaro Llorente-Berzal
- Departamento de Fisiología (Fisiología Animal II), Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
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Zamberletti E, Piscitelli F, Cadeddu F, Rubino T, Fratta W, Fadda P, Di Marzo V, Parolaro D. Chronic blockade of CB(1) receptors reverses startle gating deficits and associated neurochemical alterations in rats reared in isolation. Br J Pharmacol 2013; 167:1652-64. [PMID: 22762735 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2012.02095.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Pharmacological interventions aimed at restoring the endocannabinoid system functionality have been proposed as potential tools in the treatment of schizophrenia. Based on our previous results suggesting a potential antipsychotic-like profile of the CB(1) receptor inverse agonist/antagonist, AM251, here we further investigated the effect of chronic AM251 administration on the alteration of the sensorimotor gating functions and endocannabinoid levels induced by isolation rearing in rats. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Using the post-weaning social isolation rearing model, we studied its influence on sensorimotor gating functions through the PPI paradigm. The presence of alterations in the endocannabinoid levels as well as in dopamine and glutamate receptor densities was explored in specific brain regions following isolation rearing. The effect of chronic AM251 administration on PPI response and the associated biochemical alterations was assessed. KEY RESULTS The disrupted PPI response in isolation-reared rats was paralleled by significant alterations in 2-AG content and dopamine and glutamate receptor densities in specific brain regions. Chronic AM251 completely restored normal PPI response in isolated rats. This behavioural recovery was paralleled by the normalization of 2-AG levels in all the brain areas analysed. Furthermore, AM251 partially antagonized isolation-induced changes in dopamine and glutamate receptors. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS These results demonstrate the efficacy of chronic AM251 treatment in the recovery of isolation-induced disruption of PPI. Moreover, AM251 counteracted the imbalances in the endocannabinoid content, specifically 2-AG levels, and partially reversed the alterations in dopamine and glutamate systems associated with the disrupted behaviour. Together, these findings support the potential antipsychotic-like activity of CB(1) receptor blockade. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Cannabinoids. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2012.167.issue-8.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Zamberletti
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, Biomedical Division and Center of Neuroscience, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy
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Solinas M, Massi P, Cantelmo AR, Cattaneo MG, Cammarota R, Bartolini D, Cinquina V, Valenti M, Vicentini LM, Noonan DM, Albini A, Parolaro D. Cannabidiol inhibits angiogenesis by multiple mechanisms. Br J Pharmacol 2013; 167:1218-31. [PMID: 22624859 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2012.02050.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Several studies have demonstrated anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic actions of cannabinoids on various tumours, together with their anti-angiogenic properties. The non-psychoactive cannabinoid cannabidiol (CBD) effectively inhibits the growth of different types of tumours in vitro and in vivo and down-regulates some pro-angiogenic signals produced by glioma cells. As its anti-angiogenic properties have not been thoroughly investigated to date, and given its very favourable pharmacological and toxicological profile, here, we evaluated the ability of CBD to modulate tumour angiogenesis. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Firstly, we evaluated the effect of CBD on human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) proliferation and viability - through [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide] assay and FACS analysis - and in vitro motility - both in a classical Boyden chamber test and in a wound-healing assay. We next investigated CBD effects on different angiogenesis-related proteins released by HUVECs, using an angiogenesis array kit and an ELISA directed at MMP2. Then we evaluated its effects on in vitro angiogenesis in treated HUVECs invading a Matrigel layer and in HUVEC spheroids embedded into collagen gels, and further characterized its effects in vivo using a Matrigel sponge model of angiogenesis in C57/BL6 mice. KEY RESULTS CBD induced HUVEC cytostasis without inducing apoptosis, inhibited HUVEC migration, invasion and sprouting in vitro, and angiogenesis in vivo in Matrigel sponges. These effects were associated with the down-modulation of several angiogenesis-related molecules. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS This study reveals that CBD inhibits angiogenesis by multiple mechanisms. Its dual effect on both tumour and endothelial cells supports the hypothesis that CBD has potential as an effective agent in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Solinas
- Department of Biomedical, Computer and Communication Sciences, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy
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Zamberletti E, Rubino T, Parolaro D. The endocannabinoid system and schizophrenia: integration of evidence. Curr Pharm Des 2013; 18:4980-90. [PMID: 22716159 DOI: 10.2174/138161212802884744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2012] [Accepted: 04/10/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis derivatives produce their CNS effect through activation of the endocannabinoid system, a recently discovered signalling system comprising specific receptors, their intrinsic lipid ligands and the associated enzymatic machinery (transporters, biosynthetic and degradative enzymes). This review provides the latest preclinical and clinical breakthroughs on the endocannabinoid system's role in psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia. Data reported so far clearly indicate the presence of a dysregulation in the endocannabinoid system (both in term of cannabinoid receptors and endocannabinoid ligands) in animal models of psychosis as well as in schizophrenic patients. Based on these observations, the pharmacological modulation of the endocannabinoid system has been taken into account as a new therapeutic possibility for psychotic disorders. However, preclinical studies have not provided straightforward results, with both agonists and antagonists exhibiting positive, negative or even no effect. At human level, only cannabidiol, a non psychotropic phytocannabinoid, and the antagonist/inverse agonist rimonabant were tested, however additional controlled trials are required to confirm the therapeutic exploitation of these compounds. Another important aspect in studying the relationship between the endocannabinoid system and schizophrenia is the impact of Cannabis consumption on psychotic disorders, especially when this occurs at vulnerable ages such as adolescence. In fact literature from animal models support adolescence as a highly vulnerable age for the consequences of cannabis exposure on different domains (such as cognition and social behaviour) that are altered in psychotic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Zamberletti
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, Biomedical Division, and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, via A. da Giussano 10, 21052 Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy
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Sala M, Braida D, Donzelli A, Martucci R, Busnelli M, Bulgheroni E, Rubino T, Parolaro D, Nishimori K, Chini B. Mice heterozygous for the oxytocin receptor gene (Oxtr(+/-)) show impaired social behaviour but not increased aggression or cognitive inflexibility: evidence of a selective haploinsufficiency gene effect. J Neuroendocrinol 2013; 25:107-18. [PMID: 22967062 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2826.2012.02385.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2012] [Revised: 09/04/2012] [Accepted: 09/05/2012] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
We characterised the behavioural phenotype of mice heterozygous (Oxtr(+/-)) for the oxytocin receptor gene (Oxtr) and compared it with that of Oxtr null mice (Oxtr(-/-)), which display autistic-like behaviours, including impaired sociability and preference for social novelty, impaired cognitive flexibility, and increased aggression. Similar to Oxtr(-/-) mice, the Oxtr(+/-) showed impaired sociability and preference for social novelty but, unlike the null genotype, their cognitive flexibility and aggression were normal. By autoradiography, Oxtr(+/-) mice were found to have approximately 50% fewer oxytocin receptors (OXTRs) in all of the examined brain regions. Thus, because a partial reduction in Oxtr gene expression is sufficient to compromise social behaviour, the Oxtr acts as a haploinsufficient gene. Furthermore, the inactivation of the Oxtr gene affects specific behaviours in a dose-dependent manner: social behaviour is sensitive to even a partial reduction in Oxtr gene expression, whereas defects in aggression and cognitive flexibility require the complete inactivation of the Oxtr gene to emerge. We then investigated the rescue of the Oxtr(+/-) social deficits by oxytocin (OT) and Thr(4)Gly(7)OT (TGOT) administered i.c.v. at different doses. TGOT was more potent than OT in rescuing sociability and social novelty in both genotypes. Furthermore, the TGOT doses that reverted impaired sociability and preference for social novelty in Oxtr(+/-) were lower than those required in Oxtr(-/-), thus suggesting that the rescue effect is mediated by OXTR in Oxtr(+/-) and by other receptors (presumably vasopressin V1a receptors) in Oxtr(-/-). In line with this, a low dose of the selective oxytocin antagonist desGlyDTyrOVT blocks the rescue effect of TGOT only in the Oxtr(+/-) genotype, whereas the less selective antagonist SR49059 blocks rescue in both genotypes. In conclusion, the Oxtr(+/-) mouse is a unique animal model for investigating how partial loss of the Oxtr gene impair social interactions, and for designing pharmacological rescue strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Sala
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche e Medicina Traslazionale, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE We have investigated how pre-incubating hCB(2) CHO cells with the CB(2) receptor antagonists/inverse agonists, AM630 and SR144528, affects how these and other ligands target hCB(2) receptors in these cells or their membranes. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH We tested the ability of AM630, SR144528 and of the CB(1) /CB(2) receptor agonists, CP55940 and R-(+)-WIN55212, to modulate forskolin-stimulated cAMP production in hCB(2) CHO cells or [(35) S]-GTPγS binding to membranes prepared from these cells, or to displace [(3) H]-CP55940 from whole cells and membranes. Assays were also performed with the CB(2) receptor partial agonist, Δ(9) -tetrahydrocannabivarin. Some cells were pre-incubated with AM630 or SR144528 and then washed extensively. KEY RESULTS AM630 behaved as a low-potency neutral competitive antagonist in AM630-pre-incubated cells, a low-potency agonist in SR144528-pre-incubated cells, and a much higher-potency inverse agonist/antagonist in vehicle-pre-incubated cells. AM630 pre-incubation (i) reduced the inverse efficacy of SR144528 without abolishing it; (ii) increased the efficacy of Δ(9) -tetrahydrocannabivarin; and (iii) did not affect the potency with which AM630 displaced [(3) H]-CP55940 from whole cells or its inverse agonist potency and efficacy in the [(35) S]-GTPγS membrane assay. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS These results suggest that AM630 is a protean ligand that can target a constitutively active form of the hCB(2) receptor (R*) with low affinity to produce agonism or neutral antagonism and a constitutively inactive form of this receptor (R) with much higher affinity to produce inverse agonism, and that the constitutive activity of whole cells is decreased less by pre-incubation with AM630 than with the higher-efficacy inverse agonist, SR144528. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Cannabinoids in Biology and Medicine. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2012.165.issue-8. To view Part I of Cannabinoids in Biology and Medicine visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2011.163.issue-7.
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Nazzaro C, Greco B, Cerovic M, Baxter P, Rubino T, Trusel M, Parolaro D, Tkatch T, Benfenati F, Pedarzani P, Tonini R. SK channel modulation rescues striatal plasticity and control over habit in cannabinoid tolerance. Nat Neurosci 2012; 15:284-93. [PMID: 22231426 DOI: 10.1038/nn.3022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2011] [Accepted: 12/01/2011] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Endocannabinoids (eCBs) regulate neuronal activity in the dorso-lateral striatum (DLS), a brain region that is involved in habitual behaviors. How synaptic eCB signaling contributes to habitual behaviors under physiological and pathological conditions remains unclear. Using a mouse model of cannabinoid tolerance, we found that persistent activation of the eCB pathway impaired eCB-mediated long-term depression (LTD) and synaptic depotentiation in the DLS. The loss of eCB LTD, occurring preferentially at cortical connections to striatopallidal neurons, was associated with a shift in behavioral control from goal-directed action to habitual responding. eCB LTD and behavioral alterations were rescued by in vivo modulation of small-conductance calcium activated potassium channel (SK channel) activity in the DLS, which potentiates eCB signaling. Our results reveal a direct relationship between drug tolerance and changes in control of instrumental performance by establishing a central role for eCB LTD in habit expression. In addition, SK channels emerge as molecular targets to fine tune the eCB pathway under pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiano Nazzaro
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
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Abstract
Adolescence represents a critical period for brain development and the endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in the regulation of neuronal refinement during this period. Cannabis is the most consumed drug among adolescent people and its heavy use may affect maturational refinement by disrupting the regulatory role of the endocannabinoid system. In animals, adolescent cannabinoid exposure has been reported to cause long-term impairment in specific components of learning and memory and to differentially affect emotional reactivity with milder effects on anxiety behaviour and more pronounced effects on depression-like behaviour. Moreover, adolescent exposure to cannabinoids might represent a risk factor for developing psychotic-like symptoms at adulthood. Also epidemiological studies suggest that heavy adolescent cannabis use may increase the risk of cognitive abnormalities, psychotic illness, mood disorders and other illicit substance use later in life. In conclusion, the available data point to the hypothesis that heavy cannabis use in adolescence could increase the risk of developing psychiatric disorders, especially in people who already have a vulnerability to develop a psychiatric syndrome. Only few papers have investigated the neurobiological substrates of this vulnerability, thus further studies are needed to clarify the molecular mechanisms underlying the effect of cannabis on the adolescent brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Rubino
- DBSF and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Italy
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Abstract
This review addresses the issue of sex differences in the response to cannabinoid compounds focusing mainly on behaviors belonging to the cognitive and emotional sphere. Sexual dimorphism exists in the different components of the endocannabinoid system. Males seem to have higher CB1 receptor binding sites than females, but females seem to possess more efficient CB1 receptors. Differences between sexes have been also observed in the metabolic processing of THC, the main psychoactive ingredient of marijuana. The consistent dimorphism in the endocannabinoid system and THC metabolism may justify at least in part the different sensitivity observed between male and female animals in different behavioral paradigms concerning emotion and cognition after treatment with cannabinoid compounds. On the basis of these observations, we would like to emphasize the need of including females in basic research and to analyze results for sex differences in epidemiological studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Rubino
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria Busto Arsizio, Italy
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Fanali G, Cao Y, Ascenzi P, Trezza V, Rubino T, Parolaro D, Fasano M. Binding of δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and diazepam to human serum albumin. IUBMB Life 2011; 63:446-51. [DOI: 10.1002/iub.466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2011] [Accepted: 03/10/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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Bolognini D, Costa B, Maione S, Comelli F, Marini P, Di Marzo V, Parolaro D, Ross RA, Gauson LA, Cascio MG, Pertwee RG. The plant cannabinoid Delta9-tetrahydrocannabivarin can decrease signs of inflammation and inflammatory pain in mice. Br J Pharmacol 2010; 160:677-87. [PMID: 20590571 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2010.00756.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The phytocannabinoid, Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), can block cannabinoid CB(1) receptors. This investigation explored its ability to activate CB(2) receptors, there being evidence that combined CB(2) activation/CB(1) blockade would ameliorate certain disorders. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH We tested the ability of THCV to activate CB(2) receptors by determining whether: (i) it inhibited forskolin-stimulated cyclic AMP production by Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells transfected with human CB(2) (hCB(2)) receptors; (ii) it stimulated [(35)S]GTPgammaS binding to hCB(2) CHO cell and mouse spleen membranes; (iii) it attenuated signs of inflammation/hyperalgesia induced in mouse hind paws by intraplantar injection of carrageenan or formalin; and (iv) any such anti-inflammatory or anti-hyperalgesic effects were blocked by a CB(1) or CB(2) receptor antagonist. KEY RESULTS THCV inhibited cyclic AMP production by hCB(2) CHO cells (EC(50)= 38 nM), but not by hCB(1) or untransfected CHO cells or by hCB(2) CHO cells pre-incubated with pertussis toxin (100 ng.mL(-1)) and stimulated [(35)S]GTPgammaS binding to hCB(2) CHO and mouse spleen membranes. THCV (0.3 or 1 mg.kg(-1) i.p.) decreased carrageenan-induced oedema in a manner that seemed to be CB(2) receptor-mediated and suppressed carrageenan-induced hyperalgesia. THCV (i.p.) also decreased pain behaviour in phase 2 of the formalin test at 1 mg.kg(-1), and in both phases of this test at 5 mg.kg(-1); these effects of THCV appeared to be CB(1) and CB(2) receptor mediated. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS THCV can activate CB(2) receptors in vitro and decrease signs of inflammation and inflammatory pain in mice partly via CB(1) and/or CB(2) receptor activation.
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Realini N, Vigano' D, Guidali C, Zamberletti E, Rubino T, Parolaro D. Chronic URB597 treatment at adulthood reverted most depressive-like symptoms induced by adolescent exposure to THC in female rats. Neuropharmacology 2010; 60:235-43. [PMID: 20850463 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2010.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2010] [Revised: 08/31/2010] [Accepted: 09/06/2010] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
We have recently shown that chronic THC administration in adolescent female rats induces subtle but lasting alterations in the emotional circuit ending in depressive-like behaviour at adulthood. Here we describe other relevant depressive-like symptoms present in these animals. Adult female rats pretreated with THC display passive coping strategy towards acute stressful situations as demonstrated by their behaviours in the first session of the forced swim test, develop a profound anhedonic state as demonstrated by the reduced consumption of palatable food and present a decrease in social functioning. Besides the emotional symptoms, adolescent exposure to THC induced a significant deficit in object recognition memory. Since it has been reported that deficits in adult hippocampal neurogenesis may underlie the cognitive dysfunction seen in depression, we then survey cell proliferation in the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus. Adolescent THC exposure significantly reduced the number of BrdU-positive cells in THC-treated rats as well as hippocampal volume. We suggest that this complex depressive-like phenotype is triggered by a long-lasting decrease in CB1 receptor functionality in specific brain regions. To test whether an increase in the endocannabinoid signalling could ameliorate the depressive phenotype, adult female rats pre-exposed to THC were injected with URB597 (0.3mg/kg ip) and then tested in behavioural assays. URB597 was able to reverse most depressive-like symptoms induced by adolescent THC exposure such as the passive coping strategy observed in THC exposed animals in the forced swim test as well as anhedonia and the reduced social activity. These results support a role for the endocannabinoid system in the neurobiology of depression and suggest the use of URB597 as a new therapeutic tool with antidepressant properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Realini
- DBSF and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, via A. da Giussano 10, 21052 Busto Arsizio, VA, Italy
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Parolaro D, Rubino T, Viganò D, Massi P, Guidali C, Realini N. Cellular mechanisms underlying the interaction between cannabinoid and opioid system. Curr Drug Targets 2010; 11:393-405. [PMID: 20017730 DOI: 10.2174/138945010790980367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2009] [Accepted: 06/01/2009] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Recently, the presence of functional interaction between the opioid and cannabinoid system has been shown in various pharmacological responses. Although there is an increasing interest for the feasible therapeutic application of a co-administration of cannabinoids and opioids in some disorders (i.e. to manage pain, to modulate immune system and emotions) and the combined use of the two drugs by drug abusers is becoming largely diffuse, only few papers focused on cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying this interaction. This review updates the biochemical and molecular underpinnings of opioid and cannabinoid interaction, both within the central nervous system and periphery. The most convincing theory for the explanation of this reciprocal interaction involves (i) the release of opioid peptides by cannabinoids or endocannabinoids by opioids, (ii) the existence of a direct receptor-receptor interaction when the receptors are co-expressed in the same cells, and (iii) the interaction of their intracellular pathways. Finally, the cannabinoid/opioid interaction might be different in the brain rewarding networks and in those accounting for other pharmacological effects (antinociception, modulation of emotionality and cognitive behavior), as well as between the central nervous system and periphery. Further insights about the cannabinoid/opioid interaction could pave the way for new and promising therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Parolaro
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology and Center of Neuroscience, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio (VA), Italy.
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Abstract
The present review summarizes the latest information on the role and the pharmacological modulation of the endocannabinoid system in mood disorders and its potential implication in psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia. Reduced functionality might be considered a predisposing factor for major depression, so boosting endocannabinoid tone might be a useful alternative therapeutic approach for depressive disorders. The picture regarding endocannabinoids and anxiety is more complicated since either too much or too little anandamide can lead to anxiety states. However, a small rise in its level in specific brain areas might be beneficial for the response to a stressful situation and therefore to tone down anxiety. This effect might be achieved with low doses of cannabinoid indirect agonists, such as blockers of the degradative pathway (i.e. FAAH) or re-uptake inhibitors. Moreover several lines of experimental and clinical evidence point to a dysregulation of the endocannabinoid system in schizophrenia. The high anandamide levels found in schizophrenic patients, negatively correlated with psychotic symptoms, point to a protective role, whereas the role of 2-arachidonoyl glycerol is still unclear. There is a potential for pharmacological manipulation of the endocannabinoid system as a novel approach for treating schizophrenia, although experimental findings are still controversial, often with different effects depending on the drug, the dose, the species and the model used for simulating positive or negative symptoms. Besides all these limitations, SR141716A and cannabidiol show the most constant antipsychotic properties in dopamine- and glutamate-based models of schizophrenia, with profiles similar to an atypical antipsychotic drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Parolaro
- DBSF and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Via A. da Giussano 10, 21052 Busto Arsizio (Varese), Italy.
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Parolaro D, Rubino T, Vigano D, Massi P, Guidali C, Realini N. Cellular Mechanisms Underlying the Interaction between Cannabinoid and Opioid System. Curr Drug Targets 2010. [DOI: 10.2174/1389210200177304501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Parolaro D. [Adolescent cannabis consumption and schizophrenia: epidemiological and experimental evidences]. Adicciones 2010; 22:185-189. [PMID: 20802980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Marijuana is consistently the most widely used illicit drug among teenagers and most users first experiment it in adolescence. Adolescence is a critical period between childhood and adulthood, including not only reproductive maturation, but also cognitive, emotional and social maturation. In this period adolescent brain is still in transition differing anatomically and neurochemically from the adult's one. The endocannabinoid system is an important determinant for cerebral maturation, therefore its strong stimulation by the delta-9- tetrahydrocannabinol, that acts through the endocannabinoid system, might lead to subtle but lasting neurobiological changes that can affect adult brain functions and behaviour. We summarize the more recent researches investigating the relationships between adolescent exposure to cannabinoids and increased risk for psychotic disease such as schizophrenia, as highlighted by both human and animal studies. Epidemiological evidence suggests that cannabis use is a risk factor for schizophrenia, and an exacerbation of symptoms and worsening of the schizophrenic prognosis may occur in individuals with a predisposition for schizophrenia. The characteristic of adolescent brain probably makes it more vulnerable to cannabis effect producing psychotic like symptoms and possibly cause schizophrenia.
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Rubino T, Realini N, Braida D, Guidi S, Capurro V, Viganò D, Guidali C, Pinter M, Sala M, Bartesaghi R, Parolaro D. Changes in hippocampal morphology and neuroplasticity induced by adolescent THC treatment are associated with cognitive impairment in adulthood. Hippocampus 2009; 19:763-72. [PMID: 19156848 DOI: 10.1002/hipo.20554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 204] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Marijuana and hashish are the illicit drugs most frequently used by human adolescents. Given the continued neurodevelopment throughout adolescence, adolescents may be more vulnerable than adults to certain neural consequences of heavy marijuana use. This study aimed to assess whether an experimental model of adolescent chronic exposure to Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), may induce lasting effects on learning and memory. Adolescent rats have been treated with THC or its vehicle from 35 to 45 postnatal days (PND) and left undisturbed until their adulthood (75 PND) when aversive and spatial memory was assessed using the passive avoidance and radial maze tasks. No alteration was found in aversive memory, but in the radial maze THC pretreated animals exhibited a worse performance than vehicles, suggesting a deficit in spatial working memory. To correlate memory impairment to altered neuroplasticity, level of marker proteins was investigated in the hippocampus, the most relevant area mediating spatial memory. A significant decrease in the astroglial marker glial fibrillar acid protein was found as well as in pre- and postsynaptic protein expression (VAMP2, PSD95) and NMDA receptor levels in pretreated rats. To parallel these changes to alteration in dendritic morphology, Golgi-Cox staining was performed in the hippocampal dentate gyrus. Pretreated rats had a significantly lower total dendritic length and number than vehicles, as well as reduced spine density. Our data suggest that THC pretreated rats may establish less synaptic contacts and/or less efficient synaptic connections throughout the hippocampus and this could represent the molecular underpinning of the cognitive deficit induced by adolescent THC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Rubino
- DBSF and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, VA, Italy.
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Braida D, Capurro V, Zani A, Rubino T, Viganò D, Parolaro D, Sala M. Potential anxiolytic- and antidepressant-like effects of salvinorin A, the main active ingredient of Salvia divinorum, in rodents. Br J Pharmacol 2009; 157:844-53. [PMID: 19422370 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2009.00230.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Drugs targeting brain kappa-opioid receptors produce profound alterations in mood. In the present study we investigated the possible anxiolytic- and antidepressant-like effects of the kappa-opioid receptor agonist salvinorin A, the main active ingredient of Salvia divinorum, in rats and mice. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Experiments were performed on male Sprague-Dawley rats or male Albino Swiss mice. The anxiolytic-like effects were tested by using the elevated plus maze, in rats. The antidepressant-like effect was estimated through the forced swim (rats) and the tail suspension (mice) test. kappa-Opioid receptor involvement was investigated pretreating animals with the kappa-opioid receptor antagonist, nor-binaltorphimine (1 or 10 mgxkg(-1)), while direct or indirect activity at CB(1) cannabinoid receptors was evaluated with the CB(1) cannabinoid receptor antagonist, N-(piperidin-1-yl) -5-(4-iodophenyl)-1-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)-4-methyl-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxamide (AM251, 0.5 or 3 mgxkg(-1)), binding to striatal membranes of naïve rats and assay of fatty acid amide hydrolase in prefrontal cortex, hippocampus and amygdala. KEY RESULTS Salvinorin A, given s.c. (0.001-1000 microgxkg(-1)), exhibited both anxiolytic- and antidepressant-like effects that were prevented by nor-binaltorphimine or AM251 (0.5 or 3 mgxkg(-1)). Salvinorin A reduced fatty acid amide hydrolase activity in amygdala but had very weak affinity for cannabinoid CB(1) receptors. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS The anxiolytic- and antidepressant-like effects of Salvinorin A are mediated by both kappa-opioid and endocannabinoid systems and may partly explain the subjective symptoms reported by recreational users of S. divinorum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Braida
- Department of Pharmacology, Chemotherapy and Medical Toxicology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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Cocchi D, Tulipano G, Colciago A, Sibilia V, Pagani F, Viganò D, Rubino T, Parolaro D, Bonfanti P, Colombo A, Celotti F. Chronic treatment with polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) during pregnancy and lactation in the rat: Part 1: Effects on somatic growth, growth hormone-axis activity and bone mass in the offspring. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2009; 237:127-36. [PMID: 19327374 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2009.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2008] [Revised: 03/04/2009] [Accepted: 03/09/2009] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are pollutants detected in animal tissues and breast milk. The experiments described in the present paper were aimed at evaluating whether the four PCB congeners most abundant in animal tissues (PCB-138, -153, -180 and -126), administered since fetal life till weaning, can induce long-term alterations of GH-axis activity and bone mass in the adult rat. We measured PCB accumulation in rat brain and liver, somatic growth, pituitary GH expression and plasma hormone concentrations at different ages. Finally, we studied hypothalamic somatostatin expression and bone structure in adulthood, following long-term PCB exposure. Dams were treated during pregnancy from GD15 to GD19 and during breast-feeding. A constant reduction of the growth rate in both male and female offspring from weaning to adulthood was observed in exposed animals. Long-lasting alterations on hypothalamic-pituitary GH axis were indeed observed in PCB-exposed rats in adulthood: increased somatostatin expression in hypothalamic periventricular nucleus (both males and females) and lateral arcuate nucleus (males, only) and decreased GH mRNA levels in the pituitary of male rats. Plasma IGF-1 levels were higher in PCB-exposed male and female animals as compared with controls at weaning and tended to be higher at PN60. Plasma testosterone and thyroid hormone concentrations were not significantly affected by exposure to PCBs. In adulthood, PCBs caused a significant reduction of bone mineral content and cortical bone thickness of tibiae in male rat joint to increased width of the epiphyseal cartilage disk. In conclusion, the developmental exposure to the four selected PCB compounds used in the present study induced far-reaching effects in the adult offspring, the male rats appearing more sensitive than females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Cocchi
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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Realini N, Rubino T, Parolaro D. Neurobiological alterations at adult age triggered by adolescent exposure to cannabinoids. Pharmacol Res 2009; 60:132-8. [PMID: 19559364 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2009.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2009] [Revised: 03/05/2009] [Accepted: 03/05/2009] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Marijuana is consistently the most widely used illicit drug among teenagers and most users first experiment it in adolescence. Adolescence is the period between childhood and adulthood, encompassing not only reproductive maturation, but also cognitive, emotional and social maturation and is characterized by a brain in transition that differs anatomically and neurochemically from that of the adult. The endocannabinoid system plays an important role in this critical phase for cerebral development, therefore a strong stimulation by the psychoactive component of marijuana, delta-9-tetrahydrocanabinol, that acts through the cannabinoid system, might lead to subtle but lasting neurobiological changes that can affect adult brain functions and behaviour. The literature here summarized, exploiting animal models of cannabis consumption, points to the presence of subtle changes in the adult brain circuits after heavy cannabis consumption in adolescence. These alterations lead to impaired emotional and cognitive performance, enhanced vulnerability for the use of more harmful drugs of abuse, and may represent a risk factor for developing schizophrenia in adulthood. The few studies examining the neurobiological basis of the altered behaviours demonstrate the presence of stable alteration in the endocannabinoid system that can trigger subsequent alteration in synaptic protein and synaptic morphology, thus altering the responsiveness of selected brain areas to different internal and external stimuli. These pre-clinical observations are strengthened by literature in humans where longitudinal studies often support the experimental results. There is an urgent need of multidisciplinary approaches combining behaviour with neurochemical and genetic studies to build a scientific based opinion on the long-lasting consequences of cannabis use in adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Realini
- DBSF and Neuroscience Center, University of Insubria, Via A. da Giussano 10, 21052 Busto Arsizio, VA, Italy
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Marco EM, Rubino T, Adriani W, Viveros MP, Parolaro D, Laviola G. Long-term consequences of URB597 administration during adolescence on cannabinoid CB1 receptor binding in brain areas. Brain Res 2009; 1257:25-31. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2008.12.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2008] [Revised: 12/11/2008] [Accepted: 12/14/2008] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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