In vitro assessment of the cytotoxic, genotoxic and oxidative stress effects of the synthetic cannabinoid JWH-018 in human SH-SY5Y neuronal cells

BACKGROUND

JWH-018 was the first synthetic cannabinoid introduced as a legal high and the first of the new generation of novel psychoactive substances that flooded worldwide drug markets. JWH-018 was marketed as "spice," "herbal incense," or "herbal blend," as a popular and legal (at the time) alternative to cannabis (marijuana). JWH-018 is a potent synthetic cannabinoid with considerable toxicity associated with its use. JWH-018 has qualitatively similar but quantitatively greater pharmacological effects than cannabis, leading to intoxications and even deaths. The mechanisms of action of the drug's toxicity require research, and thus, the aim of the present study was to investigate the toxicological profile of JWH-018 in human SH-SY5Y neuronal cells.

METHODS

SH-SY5Y neuronal cells were exposed to increasing concentrations from 5 to 150 μM JWH-018 over 24 h. Cytotoxicity, DNA damage, the apoptotic/necrotic rate, and oxidative stress were assessed following SH-SY5Y exposure.

RESULTS

JWH-018 did not produce a significant decrease in SH-SY5Y cell viability, did not alter apoptotic/necrotic rate, and did not cause genotoxicity in SH-SY5Y cells with 24-h exposure. Glutathione reductase and catalase activities were significantly reduced; however, there was no significant change in glutathione peroxidase activity. Also, JWH-018 treatment significantly decreased glutathione concentrations, significantly increased protein carbonylation, and significantly increased malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations. For significance, all P < 0.05.

DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION

JWH-018 produced oxidative stress in SH-SY5Y cells that could be an underlying mechanism of JWH-018 neurotoxicity. Additional in vivo animal and human-based studies are needed to confirm our findings.

Woody vegetation of Sile and its environs (Istanbul Turkey) and destruction of the area

The woody vegetation of Sile district (Istanbul/Turkey), and its characteristics in conjunction with its environs are presented in this study. The field studies were performed using classic Braun-Blanquet method during 2003-2010 periods. In the present study three associations, two from forest vegetation and one from maquis vegetation, were characterized in the field. One of these associations is new and its description, typification and syntaxonomy was proposed. Phytosociological and phytoecological features of all three associations were compared with their relatives and related discussion was done accordingly. The associations described in the present study were as follows: Phillyreo-Lauretum nobilis, Smilaco-Castanetum sativae, Fago orientalis-Quercetum ibericae ass. nova. Furthermore, some soil properties such as saturation, organic matter, pH, CaCO, K2O and P2O5 were analyzed. Relationship between vegetations, their ecological characteristics and protection of these vegetations against biotic pressures are outlined in the present work.