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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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2
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Barbiero I, Zamberletti E, Tramarin M, Gabaglio M, Peroni D, De Rosa R, Baldin S, Bianchi M, Rubino T, Kilstrup-Nielsen C. Pregnenolone-methyl-ether enhances CLIP170 and microtubule functions improving spine maturation and hippocampal deficits related to CDKL5 deficiency. Hum Mol Genet 2022; 31:2738-2750. [DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddac067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Mutations in the X-linked cyclin-dependent kinase-like 5 (CDKL5) cause CDKL5 deficiency disorder (CDD), a neurodevelopmental disease characterized by severe infantile seizures and intellectual disability. The absence of CDKL5 in mice causes defective spine maturation that can at least partially explain the cognitive impairment in CDKL5 patients and CDD mouse models. The molecular basis for such defect may depend on the capacity of CDKL5 to regulate microtubule (MT) dynamics through its association with the MT-plus end tracking protein CLIP170. Indeed, we here demonstrate that the absence of CDKL5 causes CLIP170 to be mainly in a closed inactive conformation that impedes its binding to MTs. Previously, the synthetic pregnenolone analogue, pregnenolone-methyl-ether (PME), was found to have a positive effect on CDKL5-related cellular and neuronal defects in vitro. Here we show that PME induces the open active conformation of CLIP170 and promotes the entry of MTs into dendritic spines in vitro. Furthermore, the administration of PME to symptomatic Cdkl5-knock-out mice improved hippocampal-dependent behavior and restored spine maturation and the localization of MT-related proteins in the synaptic compartment. The positive effect on cognitive deficits persisted for one week after treatment withdrawal. Altogether, our results suggest that CDKL5 regulates spine maturation and cognitive processes through its control of CLIP170 and MT dynamics, which may represent a novel target for the development of disease modifying therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Barbiero
- Dept. of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, (DBSV), Centre of NeuroScience, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Italy
| | - Erica Zamberletti
- Dept. of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, (DBSV), Centre of NeuroScience, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Italy
| | - Marco Tramarin
- Dept. of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, (DBSV), Centre of NeuroScience, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Italy
| | - Marina Gabaglio
- Dept. of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, (DBSV), Centre of NeuroScience, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Italy
| | - Diana Peroni
- Dept. of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, (DBSV), Centre of NeuroScience, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Italy
| | - Roberta De Rosa
- Dept. of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, (DBSV), Centre of NeuroScience, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Italy
| | - Serena Baldin
- Dept. of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, (DBSV), Centre of NeuroScience, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Bianchi
- Ulysses Neuroscience Ltd., Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Tiziana Rubino
- Dept. of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, (DBSV), Centre of NeuroScience, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, Italy
| | - Charlotte Kilstrup-Nielsen
- Dept. of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, (DBSV), Centre of NeuroScience, University of Insubria, Busto Arsizio, 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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Romanzi A, Gabaglio M, Milanesi M, Putortì A, Rossi F, Scolaro R, Vignati B, Zaccarelli A, Zanardo M, Vannelli A. Pain distraction during awake low anterior resection and Cuddle Delivery initiative for inpatient: frugal procedural options to support surgery in the COVID-19 era. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2021; 25:3116-3121. [PMID: 33877680 DOI: 10.26355/eurrev_202104_25566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Since minimally invasive surgery and general anesthesia are both aerosol-generating procedures, their use became controversial during the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Moreover, social distancing resulted in serious psychological consequences for inpatients. This case report investigates pain distraction during awake laparotomy, as well as new possibilities for emotional postoperative support to inpatients. PATIENTS AND METHODS A 72-year-old man affected by middle rectal adenocarcinoma underwent lower anterior resection plus total mesorectal excision under combined spinal-epidural anesthesia. A 3D mobile theatre (3DMT) was intraoperatively used for pain distraction. A postoperative "Cuddle delivery" service was instituted: video-messages from relatives and close friends were delivered daily to the patient through the 3DMT. Emotional correlations were investigated through a clinical interview by the psychologist of our Hospital. RESULTS Intraoperative, as well as postoperative pain, resulted well-controlled: visual analogue scale (VAS) ≤3. Conversion to general anesthesia and postoperative intensive support/monitoring were unnecessary. The "Cuddle delivery" initiative positively fed our patient's mood and attitude, strengthening his bond to life. CONCLUSIONS During pandemic, awake laparotomy under loco-regional anesthesia may be a crucial option in delivering acute care surgery to selected patients when intensive care beds are unavailable. Our procedure introduces potential ways to optimize this approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Romanzi
- Department of General Surgery, Valduce Hospital, Como, Italy.
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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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Longaretti A, Forastieri C, Gabaglio M, Rubino T, Battaglioli E, Rusconi F. Termination of acute stress response by the endocannabinoid system is regulated through lysine-specific demethylase 1-mediated transcriptional repression of 2-AG hydrolases ABHD6 and MAGL. J Neurochem 2020; 155:98-110. [PMID: 32141088 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [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: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Acute environmental stress rarely implies long-lasting neurophysiological and behavioral alterations. On the contrary, chronic stress exerts a potent toxic effect at the glutamatergic synapse whose altered physiology has been recognized as a core trait of neuropsychiatric disorders. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays an important role in the homeostatic response to acute stress. In particular, stress induces synthesis of endocannabinoid (eCB) 2-arachidonyl glycerol (2-AG). 2-AG stimulates presynaptic cannabinoid 1 (CB1) receptor contributing to stress response termination through inhibition of glutamate release, restraining thereafter anxiety arousal. We employ mouse models of stress response coupled to gene expression analyses, unravelling that in response to acute psychosocial stress in the mouse hippocampus, ECS-mediated synaptic modulation is enhanced via transcriptional repression of two enzymes involved in 2-AG degradation: α/β-hydrolase domain containing 6 (ABHD6) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL). Such a process is orchestrated by the epigenetic corepressor LSD1 who directly interacts with promoter regulatory regions of Abhd6 and Magl. Remarkably, negative transcriptional control of Abhd6 and Magl is lost in the hippocampus upon chronic psychosocial stress, possibly contributing to trauma-induced drift of synapse physiology toward uncontrolled glutamate transmission. We previously showed that in mice lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1) increases its hippocampal expression in response to psychosocial stress preventing excessive consolidation of anxiety-related plasticity. In this work, we unravel a nodal epigenetic modulation of eCB turn over, shedding new light on the molecular substrate of converging stress-terminating effects displayed by ECS and LSD1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Longaretti
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, Università degli Studi di Milano, Segrate, MI, Italy
| | - Chiara Forastieri
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, Università degli Studi di Milano, Segrate, MI, Italy
| | - Marina Gabaglio
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, Università degli Studi dell'Insubria, Busto Arsizio, VA, Italy
| | - Tiziana Rubino
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, Università degli Studi dell'Insubria, Busto Arsizio, VA, Italy
| | - Elena Battaglioli
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, Università degli Studi di Milano, Segrate, MI, Italy
| | - Francesco Rusconi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, Università degli Studi di Milano, Segrate, MI, 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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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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11
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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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12
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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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14
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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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