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1.
Int J Mol Sci ; 25(13)2024 Jul 04.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39000464

ABSTRACT

GPR55 is a receptor for lysophosphatidylinositols (LPIs) in digestive metabolites. Overnutrition leads to obesity, insulin resistance, and increased LPI levels in the plasma. The involvement of LPIs and GPR55 in adiposity, hepatic steatosis, and atherosclerosis has been previously elucidated. However, the therapeutic efficacy of GPR55 antagonists against obesity-induced airway inflammation has not been studied. The present study investigated whether CID16020046, a selective antagonist of GPR55, could modulate obesity-induced airway inflammation caused by a high-fat diet (HFD) in C57BL/6 mice. Administration of CID16020046 (1 mg/kg) inhibits HFD-induced adiposity and glucose intolerance. Analysis of immune cells in BALF showed that CID16020046 inhibited HFD-induced increase in immune cell infiltration. Histological analysis revealed the HFD induced hypersecretion of mucus and extensive fibrosis in the lungs. CID16020046 inhibited these HFD-induced pathological features. qRT-PCR revealed the HFD-induced increase in the expression of Ifn-γ, Tnf-α, Il-6, Il-13, Il-17A, Il-1ß, Nlrp3, and Mpo mRNAs in the lungs. CID16020046 inhibited the HFD-induced increases in these genes. The expression levels of adipokines were regulated by the HFD and CID16020046. AdipoQ in the lungs and gonadal white adipose tissue was decreased by the HFD and reversed by CID16020046. In contrast, Lep was increased by the HFD and suppressed by CID16020046. The findings suggest the potential application of the GPR55 antagonist CID16020046 in obesity-induced airway inflammation.


Subject(s)
Diet, High-Fat , Lung , Mice, Inbred C57BL , Obesity , Receptors, Cannabinoid , Animals , Obesity/drug therapy , Obesity/metabolism , Obesity/complications , Mice , Diet, High-Fat/adverse effects , Male , Lung/pathology , Lung/drug effects , Lung/metabolism , Receptors, Cannabinoid/metabolism , Inflammation/drug therapy , Inflammation/pathology , Inflammation/metabolism , Adiposity/drug effects , Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/metabolism , Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/antagonists & inhibitors
2.
Top Curr Chem (Cham) ; 382(2): 20, 2024 Jun 03.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38829467

ABSTRACT

Cannabis sativa has long been used for neurological and psychological healing. Recently, cannabidiol (CBD) extracted from cannabis sativa has gained prominence in the medical field due to its non-psychotropic therapeutic effects on the central and peripheral nervous systems. CBD, also acting as a potent antioxidant, displays diverse clinical properties such as anticancer, antiinflammatory, antidepressant, antioxidant, antiemetic, anxiolytic, antiepileptic, and antipsychotic effects. In this review, we summarized the structural activity relationship of CBD with different receptors by both experimental and computational techniques and investigated the mechanism of interaction between related receptors and CBD. The discovery of structural activity relationship between CBD and target receptors would provide a direction to optimize the scaffold of CBD and its derivatives, which would give potential medical applications on CBD-based therapies in various illnesses.


Subject(s)
Cannabidiol , Cannabidiol/chemistry , Cannabidiol/pharmacology , Cannabidiol/metabolism , Humans , Animals , Antioxidants/chemistry , Antioxidants/pharmacology , Cannabis/chemistry , Structure-Activity Relationship , Receptors, Cannabinoid/metabolism , Anticonvulsants/chemistry , Anticonvulsants/pharmacology , Anti-Inflammatory Agents/chemistry , Anti-Inflammatory Agents/pharmacology , Antidepressive Agents/chemistry , Antidepressive Agents/pharmacology
3.
Cells ; 13(12)2024 Jun 17.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38920677

ABSTRACT

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a widely recognized lipid messenger system involved in many aspects of our health and diseases [...].


Subject(s)
Endocannabinoids , Endocannabinoids/metabolism , Humans , Animals , Receptors, Cannabinoid/metabolism
4.
Int J Mol Sci ; 25(12)2024 Jun 10.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38928109

ABSTRACT

Cannabinoids (the endocannabinoids, the synthetic cannabinoids, and the phytocannabinoids) are well known for their various pharmacological properties, including neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory features, which are fundamentally important for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. The aging of the global population is causing an increase in these diseases that require the development of effective drugs to be even more urgent. Taking into account the unavailability of effective drugs for neurodegenerative diseases, it seems appropriate to consider the role of cannabinoids in the treatment of these diseases. To our knowledge, few reviews are devoted to cannabinoids' impact on modulating central and peripheral immunity in neurodegenerative diseases. The objective of this review is to provide the best possible information about the cannabinoid receptors and immuno-modulation features, peripheral immune modulation by cannabinoids, cannabinoid-based therapies for the treatment of neurological disorders, and the future development prospects of making cannabinoids versatile tools in the pursuit of effective drugs.


Subject(s)
Cannabinoids , Neurodegenerative Diseases , Humans , Neurodegenerative Diseases/drug therapy , Neurodegenerative Diseases/immunology , Neurodegenerative Diseases/metabolism , Cannabinoids/therapeutic use , Cannabinoids/pharmacology , Animals , Receptors, Cannabinoid/metabolism , Endocannabinoids/metabolism , Endocannabinoids/immunology , Neuroprotective Agents/therapeutic use , Neuroprotective Agents/pharmacology
5.
Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj ; 1868(8): 130651, 2024 Aug.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38825256

ABSTRACT

Cannabidiol (CBD) has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. However, the anti-tumor effect of CBD on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unclear. Here, we investigated whether CBD displays anti-tumorigenic effects in HCC cells and whether it could reduce tumorigenesis and metastases in vivo. First, this study treated HCC cells with different concentrations of CBD, followed by analyzing the changes in the proliferative, apoptotic, migratory and invasive abilities. The effects of CBD on the growth and metastasis of HCC cells in vivo were verified by tumorigenesis and metastasis assays. Subsequently, the target genes of CBD were predicted through the SwissTarget website and the genes differentially expressed in cells after CBD treatment were analyzed by microarray for intersection. The enrichment of the pathways after CBD treatment was analyzed by KEGG enrichment analysis, followed by western blot validation. Finally, rescue assays were used to validate the functions of genes as well as pathways in the growth and metastasis of HCC cells. A significant weakening of the ability of HCC cells to grow and metastasize in vitro and in vivo was observed upon CBD treatment. Mechanistically, CBD reduced GRP55 expression in HCC cells, along with increased TP53 expression and blocked MAPK signaling activation. In CBD-treated cells, the anti-tumor of HCC cells was restored after overexpression of GRP55 or deletion of TP53. CBD inhibits the MAPK signaling activation and increases the TP53 expression by downregulating GRP55 in HCC cells, thereby suppressing the growth and metastasis of HCC cells.


Subject(s)
Cannabidiol , Carcinoma, Hepatocellular , Liver Neoplasms , Receptors, Cannabinoid , Tumor Suppressor Protein p53 , Cannabidiol/pharmacology , Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/drug therapy , Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/pathology , Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/metabolism , Liver Neoplasms/drug therapy , Liver Neoplasms/pathology , Liver Neoplasms/metabolism , Humans , Tumor Suppressor Protein p53/metabolism , Receptors, Cannabinoid/metabolism , Receptors, Cannabinoid/genetics , Animals , Cell Proliferation/drug effects , Cell Line, Tumor , Mice , Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic/drug effects , MAP Kinase Signaling System/drug effects , Apoptosis/drug effects , Cell Movement/drug effects , Phenotype , Mice, Nude
6.
J Med Chem ; 67(12): 9896-9926, 2024 Jun 27.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38885438

ABSTRACT

The human orphan G protein-coupled receptor GPR18, activated by Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), constitutes a promising drug target in immunology and cancer. However, studies on GPR18 are hampered by the lack of suitable tool compounds. In the present study, potent and selective GPR18 agonists were developed showing low nanomolar potency at human and mouse GPR18, determined in ß-arrestin recruitment assays. Structure-activity relationships were analyzed, and selectivity versus cannabinoid (CB) and CB-like receptors was assessed. Compound 51 (PSB-KK1415, EC50 19.1 nM) was the most potent GPR18 agonist showing at least 25-fold selectivity versus CB receptors. The most selective GPR18 agonist 50 (PSB-KK1445, EC50 45.4 nM) displayed >200-fold selectivity versus both CB receptor subtypes, GPR55, and GPR183. The new GPR18 agonists showed minimal species differences, while THC acted as a weak partial agonist at the mouse receptor. The newly discovered compounds represent the most potent and selective GPR18 agonists reported to date.


Subject(s)
Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled , Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/agonists , Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/metabolism , Humans , Animals , Structure-Activity Relationship , Mice , Neoplasms/drug therapy , Neoplasms/metabolism , HEK293 Cells , Receptors, Cannabinoid/metabolism , Dronabinol/pharmacology , Dronabinol/analogs & derivatives , Dronabinol/chemistry
7.
Neuropharmacology ; 256: 110018, 2024 Sep 15.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38810925

ABSTRACT

Diets high in sucrose and fat are becoming more prevalent the world over, accompanied by a raised prevalence of cardiovascular diseases, cancers, diabetes, obesity, and metabolic syndrome. Clinical studies link unhealthy diets with the development of mental health disorders, particularly depression. Here, we investigate the effects of 12 days of sucrose consumption administered as 2 L of 25% sucrose solution daily for 12 days in Göttingen minipigs on the function of brain receptors involved in reward and motivation, regulating feeding, and pre- and post-synaptic mechanisms. Through quantitative autoradiography of cryostat sections containing limbic brain regions, we investigated the effects of sucrose restricted to a 1-h period each morning, on the specific binding of [3H]raclopride on dopamine D2/3 receptors, [3H]UCB-J at synaptic vesicle glycoprotein 2A (SV2A), [3H]MPEPγ at metabotropic glutamate receptor subtype 5 (mGluR5) and [3H]SR141716A at the cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1). Compared to control diet animals, the sucrose group showed significantly lower [3H]UCB-J and [3H]MPEPγ binding in the prefrontal cortex. The sucrose-consuming minipigs showed higher hippocampal CB1 binding, but unaltered dopamine D2/3 binding compared to the control group. We found that the sucrose diet reduced the synaptic density marker while increasing CB1 binding in limbic brain structures, which may subserve maladaptive changes in appetite regulation and feeding. Further studies of the effects of diets and lifestyle habits on brain neuroreceptor and synaptic density markers are warranted.


Subject(s)
Sucrose , Swine, Miniature , Animals , Swine , Sucrose/administration & dosage , Male , Receptor, Metabotropic Glutamate 5/metabolism , Receptors, Cannabinoid/metabolism , Synapses/metabolism , Synapses/drug effects , Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/metabolism , Receptors, Dopamine D2/metabolism , Brain/metabolism , Brain/drug effects , Female , Receptors, Dopamine D3/metabolism
8.
Eur J Pharmacol ; 976: 176679, 2024 Aug 05.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38821167

ABSTRACT

To provide a comprehensive framework of the current information on the potency and efficacy of interaction between phyto- and synthetic cannabinoids and their respective receptors, an electronic search of the PubMed, Scopus, and EMBASE literature was performed. Experimental studies included reports of mechanistic data providing affinity, efficacy, and half-maximal effective concentration (EC50). Among the 108 included studies, 174 structures, and 16 targets were extracted. The most frequent ligands belonged to the miscellaneous category with 40.2% followed by phytocannabinoid-similar, indole-similar, and pyrrole-similar structures with an abundance of 17.8%, 16.6%, and 12% respectively. 64.8% of structures acted as agonists, 17.1 % appeared as inverse agonists, 10.8% as antagonists, and 7.2% of structures were reported with antagonist/inverse agonist properties. Our outcomes identify the affinity, EC50, and efficacy of the interactions between cannabinoids and their corresponding receptors and the subsequent response, evaluated in the available evidence. Considering structures' significance and very important effects of on the activities, the obtained results also provide clues to drug repurposing.


Subject(s)
Cannabinoids , Cannabinoids/pharmacology , Cannabinoids/chemistry , Humans , Animals , Structure-Activity Relationship , Receptors, Cannabinoid/metabolism , Ligands , Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists/pharmacology , Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists/chemistry
9.
J Pregnancy ; 2024: 6620156, 2024.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38745869

ABSTRACT

Background: The cannabinoid receptor (CBR) plays a significant role in oogenesis, pregnancy, and childbirth. It might also play a significant role in preterm birth (PTB). The aim of the study was to investigate the association between the expression of the CBR in the placenta and the incidence of PTB. Methods: This prospective, observational, multicentre preliminary study was conducted on placental samples obtained from 109 women. The study included 95 patients hospitalized due to the high risk of PTB. They were divided into two groups: Group 1, where the expression of the CBR1 and CBR1a was analyzed, and Group 2, in which we examined CBR2 expression. The control group, that is, Group 3, consisted of 14 women who delivered at term, and their placentas were tested for the presence of all three receptor types (CBR1, CBR1a, and CBR2). Results: The study used reverse transcription and real-time PCR methods to assess the expression of CBRs in the placental tissues. The expression of the CBR2, CBR1, and CBR1a receptors was significantly lower in the placentas of women after PTB compared to those after term births, p = 0.038, 0.033, and 0.034, respectively. Conclusions: The presence of CBR mRNA in the human placental tissue was confirmed. The decreased expression of CBRs could serve as an indicator in predicting PTB.


Subject(s)
Placenta , Premature Birth , Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1 , Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2 , Humans , Female , Pregnancy , Placenta/metabolism , Premature Birth/metabolism , Prospective Studies , Adult , Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/metabolism , Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/genetics , Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/metabolism , Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/genetics , Case-Control Studies , RNA, Messenger/metabolism , Receptors, Cannabinoid/metabolism , Receptors, Cannabinoid/genetics
10.
J Cell Mol Med ; 28(10): e18376, 2024 May.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38780511

ABSTRACT

Taking into account homeostatic disorders resulting from arterial hypertension and the key importance of CacyBP/SIP, ß-catenin and endocannabinoids in the functioning of many organs, it was decided to assess the presence and distribution of CacyBP/SIP, ß-catenin, CB1 and CB2 in the adrenal glands of hypertensive rats of various aetiology. The study was conducted on the adrenal glands of rats with spontaneous and renovascular hypertension. The expression of CacyBP/SIP, ß-catenin, CB1 and CB2 was detected by immunohistochemistry and real-time PCR method. The results of the present study revealed both lower gene expression and immunoreactivity of CacyBP/SIP in the adrenal glands of all hypertensive groups compared to the normotensive rats. This study demonstrated a reduction in the immunoreactivity and expression of the ß-catenin, CB1 and CB2 genes in the adrenals of 2K1C rats. While in SHR, the reaction showing ß-catenin and CB1 was very weak or negative, and the expression of CB2 in the adrenal glands of these rats increased. The results of this study show, for the first time, marked differences in the expression of CacyBP/SIP, ß-catenin and CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors in the adrenal glands of rats with primary (SHR) and secondary hypertension (2K1C).


Subject(s)
Adrenal Glands , Hypertension , Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1 , Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2 , beta Catenin , Animals , beta Catenin/metabolism , beta Catenin/genetics , Male , Hypertension/metabolism , Hypertension/genetics , Adrenal Glands/metabolism , Adrenal Glands/pathology , Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/metabolism , Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/genetics , Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/metabolism , Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/genetics , Rats , Rats, Inbred SHR , Rats, Wistar , Immunohistochemistry , Receptors, Cannabinoid/metabolism , Receptors, Cannabinoid/genetics , Hypertension, Renovascular/metabolism , Hypertension, Renovascular/genetics , Hypertension, Renovascular/pathology
11.
Int J Mol Sci ; 25(10)2024 May 15.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38791416

ABSTRACT

Alzheimer's disease (AD) remains a significant health challenge, with an increasing prevalence globally. Recent research has aimed to deepen the understanding of the disease pathophysiology and to find potential therapeutic interventions. In this regard, G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) have emerged as novel potential therapeutic targets to palliate the progression of neurodegenerative diseases such as AD. Orexin and cannabinoid receptors are GPCRs capable of forming heteromeric complexes with a relevant role in the development of this disease. On the one hand, the hyperactivation of the orexins system has been associated with sleep-wake cycle disruption and Aß peptide accumulation. On the other hand, cannabinoid receptor overexpression takes place in a neuroinflammatory environment, favoring neuroprotective effects. Considering the high number of interactions between cannabinoid and orexin systems that have been described, regulation of this interplay emerges as a new focus of research. In fact, in microglial primary cultures of APPSw/Ind mice model of AD there is an important increase in CB2R-OX1R complex expression, while OX1R antagonism potentiates the neuroprotective effects of CB2R. Specifically, pretreatment with the OX1R antagonist has been shown to strongly potentiate CB2R signaling in the cAMP pathway. Furthermore, the blockade of OX1R can also abolish the detrimental effects of OX1R overactivation in AD. In this sense, CB2R-OX1R becomes a new potential therapeutic target to combat AD.


Subject(s)
Alzheimer Disease , Cannabinoids , Orexins , Alzheimer Disease/metabolism , Alzheimer Disease/drug therapy , Alzheimer Disease/pathology , Animals , Humans , Cannabinoids/pharmacology , Cannabinoids/metabolism , Cannabinoids/therapeutic use , Orexins/metabolism , Orexin Receptors/metabolism , Receptors, Cannabinoid/metabolism , Signal Transduction , Amyloid beta-Peptides/metabolism
12.
J Basic Clin Physiol Pharmacol ; 35(3): 129-142, 2024 May 01.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38635412

ABSTRACT

Respiratory illnesses and its repercussions are becoming more prevalent worldwide. It is necessary to research both innovative treatment and preventative techniques. Millions of confirmed cases and fatalities from the COVID-19 epidemic occurred over the previous two years. According to the review research, cannabinoids are a class of medicines that should be considered for the treatment of respiratory conditions. Cannabinoids and inhibitors of endocannabinoid degradation have illustrated advantageous anti-inflammatory, asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, and pulmonary artery hypotension in numerous studies (in vitro and in vivo). It has been also noted that CB2 receptors on macrophages and T-helper cells may be particularly triggered to lower inflammation in COVID-19 patients. Since the majority of lung tissue contains cannabinoid receptors, cannabis can be an effective medical tool for treating COVID-19 as well as pulmonary infections. Notably, CB2 and CB1 receptors play a major role in immune system modulation and anti-inflammatory activities. In this review, we put forth the idea that cannabis might be helpful in treating pulmonary contagion brought on by viral integration, such as that caused by SARS-CoV-2, haemophilus influenza type b, Streptococcus pneumoniae, influenza virus, and respiratory syncytial virus. Also, a detailed overview of CB receptors, intricate mechanisms, is highlighted connecting link with COVID-19 viral structural modifications along with molecular basis of CB receptors in diminishing viral load in pulmonary disorders supported through evident literature studies. Further, futuristic evaluations on cannabis potency through novel formulation development focusing on in vivo/in vitro systems can produce promising results.


Subject(s)
COVID-19 Drug Treatment , COVID-19 , Humans , COVID-19/immunology , Cannabinoids/pharmacology , Animals , Cannabis/chemistry , SARS-CoV-2/drug effects , SARS-CoV-2/immunology , Receptors, Cannabinoid/metabolism , Lung/drug effects , Lung/immunology , Medical Marijuana/pharmacology , Medical Marijuana/therapeutic use , Anti-Inflammatory Agents/pharmacology
13.
Pharmacol Res ; 203: 107176, 2024 May.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38583687

ABSTRACT

Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychotomimetic constituent of Cannabis sativa, has been recently approved for epileptic syndromes often associated with Autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, the putative efficacy and mechanism of action of CBD in patients suffering from ASD and related comorbidities remain debated, especially because of the complex pharmacology of CBD. We used pharmacological, immunohistochemical and biochemical approaches to investigate the effects and mechanisms of action of CBD in the recently validated Fmr1-Δexon 8 rat model of ASD, that is also a model of Fragile X Syndrome (FXS), the leading monogenic cause of autism. CBD rescued the cognitive deficits displayed by juvenile Fmr1-Δexon 8 animals, without inducing tolerance after repeated administration. Blockade of CA1 hippocampal GPR55 receptors prevented the beneficial effect of both CBD and the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitor URB597 in the short-term recognition memory deficits displayed by Fmr1-Δexon 8 rats. Thus, CBD may exert its beneficial effects through CA1 hippocampal GPR55 receptors. Docking analysis further confirmed that the mechanism of action of CBD might involve competition for brain fatty acid binding proteins (FABPs) that deliver anandamide and related bioactive lipids to their catabolic enzyme FAAH. These findings demonstrate that CBD reduced cognitive deficits in a rat model of FXS and provide initial mechanistic insights into its therapeutic potential in neurodevelopmental disorders.


Subject(s)
Cannabidiol , Disease Models, Animal , Fragile X Syndrome , Hippocampus , Receptors, Cannabinoid , Recognition, Psychology , Animals , Fragile X Syndrome/drug therapy , Fragile X Syndrome/metabolism , Cannabidiol/pharmacology , Cannabidiol/therapeutic use , Receptors, Cannabinoid/metabolism , Male , Recognition, Psychology/drug effects , Hippocampus/drug effects , Hippocampus/metabolism , Rats , Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein/metabolism , Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein/genetics , CA1 Region, Hippocampal/drug effects , CA1 Region, Hippocampal/metabolism , Memory/drug effects , Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/metabolism , Molecular Docking Simulation
14.
Eur J Pharmacol ; 971: 176549, 2024 May 15.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38561104

ABSTRACT

Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) remain one the largest classes of new psychoactive substances, and are increasingly associated with severe adverse effects and death compared to the phytocannabinoid Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). In the attempt to circumvent the rapid emergence of novel SCRAs, several nations have implemented 'generic' legislations, or 'class-wide' bans based on common structural scaffolds. However, this has only encouraged the incorporation of new chemical entities, including distinct core and linker structures, for which there is a dearth of pharmacological data. The current study evaluated five emergent OXIZID SCRAs for affinity and functional activity at the cannabinoid CB1 receptor (CB1) in HEK 293 cells, as well as pharmacological equivalence with THC in drug discrimination in mice. All OXIZID compounds behaved as agonists in Gαi protein activation and ß-arrestin 2 translocation assays, possessing low micromolar affinity at CB1. All ligands also substituted for THC in drug discrimination, where potencies broadly correlated with in vitro activity, with the methylcyclohexane analogue BZO-CHMOXIZID being the most potent. Notably, MDA-19 (BZO-HEXOXIZID) exhibited partial efficacy in vitro, generating an activity profile most similar to that of THC, and partial substitution in vivo. Overall, the examined OXIZIDs were comparatively less potent and efficacious than previous generations of SCRAs. Further toxicological data will elucidate whether the moderate cannabimimetic activity for this series of SCRAs will translate to severe adverse health effects as seen with previous generations of SCRAs.


Subject(s)
Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists , Protein Processing, Post-Translational , Humans , Mice , Animals , Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists/pharmacology , HEK293 Cells , Receptors, Cannabinoid/metabolism , Ligands , Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/metabolism , Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/metabolism
15.
Int J Mol Sci ; 25(8)2024 Apr 10.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38673761

ABSTRACT

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune, inflammatory, and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system for which there is no cure, making it necessary to search for new treatments. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a very important neuromodulatory role in the CNS. In recent years, the formation of heteromers containing cannabinoid receptors and their up/downregulation in some neurodegenerative diseases have been demonstrated. Despite the beneficial effects shown by some phytocannabinoids in MS, the role of the ECS in its pathophysiology is unknown. The main objective of this work was to identify heteromers of cell surface proteins receptive to cannabinoids, namely GPR55, CB1 and CB2 receptors, in brain samples from control subjects and MS patients, as well as determining their cellular localization, using In Situ Proximity Ligation Assays and immunohistochemical techniques. For the first time, CB1R-GPR55 and CB2R-GPR55 heteromers are identified in the prefrontal cortex of the human brain, more in the grey than in the white matter. Remarkably, the number of CB1R-GPR55 and CB2R-GPR55 complexes was found to be increased in MS patient samples. The results obtained open a promising avenue of research on the use of these receptor complexes as potential therapeutic targets for the disease.


Subject(s)
Multiple Sclerosis , Prefrontal Cortex , Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1 , Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2 , Receptors, Cannabinoid , Humans , Multiple Sclerosis/metabolism , Multiple Sclerosis/pathology , Prefrontal Cortex/metabolism , Receptors, Cannabinoid/metabolism , Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/metabolism , Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/metabolism , Male , Adult , Female , Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/metabolism , Middle Aged , Up-Regulation , Protein Multimerization
16.
Nutrients ; 16(8)2024 Apr 11.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38674820

ABSTRACT

Sarcopenia, a decline in muscle mass and strength, can be triggered by aging or medications like glucocorticoids. This study investigated cornflower (Centaurea cyanus) water extract (CC) as a potential protective agent against DEX-induced muscle wasting in vitro and in vivo. CC and its isolated compounds mitigated oxidative stress, promoted myofiber growth, and boosted ATP production in C2C12 myotubes. Mechanistically, CC reduced protein degradation markers, increased mitochondrial content, and activated protein synthesis signaling. Docking analysis suggested cannabinoid receptors (CB) 1 and 2 as potential targets of CC compounds. Specifically, graveobioside A from CC inhibited CB1 and upregulated CB2, subsequently stimulating protein synthesis and suppressing degradation. In vivo, CC treatment attenuated DEX-induced muscle wasting, as evidenced by enhanced grip strength, exercise performance, and modulation of muscle gene expression related to differentiation, protein turnover, and exercise performance. Moreover, CC enriched gut microbial diversity, and the abundance of Clostridium sensu stricto 1 positively correlated with muscle mass. These findings suggest a multifaceted mode of action for CC: (1) direct modulation of the muscle cannabinoid receptor system favoring anabolic processes and (2) indirect modulation of muscle health through the gut microbiome. Overall, CC presents a promising therapeutic strategy for preventing and treating muscle atrophy.


Subject(s)
Dexamethasone , Gastrointestinal Microbiome , Muscular Atrophy , Plant Extracts , Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects , Animals , Plant Extracts/pharmacology , Mice , Dexamethasone/pharmacology , Dexamethasone/adverse effects , Muscular Atrophy/drug therapy , Muscular Atrophy/chemically induced , Male , Muscle, Skeletal/drug effects , Muscle, Skeletal/metabolism , Receptors, Cannabinoid/metabolism , Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/metabolism , Cell Line , Mice, Inbred C57BL , Oxidative Stress/drug effects , Muscle Fibers, Skeletal/drug effects , Muscle Fibers, Skeletal/metabolism , Sarcopenia/drug therapy
17.
Neurourol Urodyn ; 43(5): 1207-1216, 2024 Jun.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38533637

ABSTRACT

AIMS: Activation of the endocannabinoid system by monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) blockade may affect the lower urinary tract function. We investigated the effect of an MAGL inhibitor, MJN110, on neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) in the mouse model of spinal cord injury (SCI). METHODS: Female C57BL/6 mice that underwent spinal cord transection at T8-10 level were divided into three groups consisting of (1) vehicle-treated SCI mice, (2) 5 mg/kg, or (3) 10 mg/kg of MJN110-treated SCI mice. MJN110 and vehicle were administered intraperitoneally for 7 days from 4 weeks after spinal cord transection. We then conducted awake cystometrograms and compared urodynamic parameters between three groups. The expression of cannabinoid (CB) receptors, TRP receptors, and inflammatory cytokines in L6-S1 dorsal root ganglia (DRG) or the bladder mucosa were evaluated and compared among three groups. Changes in the level of serum 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and bladder MAGL were also evaluated. RESULTS: In the cystometrogram, detrusor overactivity (DO) parameters, such as the number of nonvoiding contraction (NVC), a ratio of time to the 1st NVC to intercontraction interval (ICI), and NVC integrals were improved by MJN110 treatment, and some effects were dose dependent. Although MJN110 did not improve voiding efficiency, it decreased bladder capacity, ICI, and residual urine volume compared to vehicle injection. MJN110 treatment groups had lower CB2, TRPV1, TRPA1, and inflammatory cytokines mRNA levels in DRG and bladder mucosa. Serum 2-AG was increased, and bladder MAGL was decreased after MAGL inhibitor treatment. CONCLUSIONS: MAGL inhibition improved LUTD including attenuation of DO after SCI. Thus, MAGL can be a therapeutic target for neurogenic LUTD after SCI.


Subject(s)
Mice, Inbred C57BL , Monoacylglycerol Lipases , Spinal Cord Injuries , Urinary Bladder , Urodynamics , Animals , Monoacylglycerol Lipases/antagonists & inhibitors , Monoacylglycerol Lipases/metabolism , Spinal Cord Injuries/physiopathology , Spinal Cord Injuries/drug therapy , Spinal Cord Injuries/complications , Spinal Cord Injuries/metabolism , Female , Urinary Bladder/drug effects , Urinary Bladder/physiopathology , Urodynamics/drug effects , Mice , Disease Models, Animal , Ganglia, Spinal/drug effects , Ganglia, Spinal/metabolism , Ganglia, Spinal/physiopathology , Receptors, Cannabinoid/metabolism , Receptors, Cannabinoid/drug effects , Enzyme Inhibitors/pharmacology , Endocannabinoids/metabolism , Cytokines/metabolism , Urinary Bladder, Neurogenic/drug therapy , Urinary Bladder, Neurogenic/physiopathology , Urinary Bladder, Neurogenic/etiology , Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms/drug therapy , Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms/physiopathology , Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms/etiology , Carbamates , Succinimides
18.
Cells ; 13(5)2024 Mar 06.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38474425

ABSTRACT

Cannabis use stimulates calorie intake, but epidemiological studies show that people who regularly use it are leaner than those who don't. Two explanations have been proposed for this paradoxical finding. One posits that Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in cannabis desensitizes adipose CB1 cannabinoid receptors, stopping their stimulating effects on lipogenesis and adipogenesis. Another explanation is that THC exposure in adolescence, when habitual cannabis use typically starts, produces lasting changes in the developing adipose organ, which impacts adult systemic energy use. Here, we consider these possibilities in the light of a study which showed that daily THC administration in adolescent mice produces an adult metabolic phenotype characterized by reduced fat mass, partial resistance to obesity and dyslipidemia, and impaired thermogenesis and lipolysis. The phenotype, whose development requires activation of CB1 receptors in differentiated adipocytes, is associated with overexpression of myocyte proteins in the adipose organ with unchanged CB1 expression. We propose that adolescent exposure to THC causes lasting adipocyte dysfunction and the consequent emergence of a metabolic state that only superficially resembles healthy leanness. A corollary of this hypothesis, which should be addressed in future studies, is that CB1 receptors and their endocannabinoid ligands may contribute to the maintenance of adipocyte differentiation during adolescence.


Subject(s)
Cannabis , Endocannabinoids , Humans , Mice , Animals , Adolescent , Endocannabinoids/metabolism , Obesity/metabolism , Adipocytes/metabolism , Receptors, Cannabinoid/metabolism , Adiposity
19.
Neurochem Res ; 49(5): 1278-1290, 2024 May.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38368587

ABSTRACT

Social isolation is a state of lack of social connections, involving the modulation of different molecular signalling cascades and associated with high risk of mental health issues. To investigate if and how gene expression is modulated by social experience at the central level, we analyzed the effects of 5 weeks of social isolation in rats focusing on endocannabinoid system genes transcription in key brain regions involved in emotional control. We observed selective reduction in mRNA levels for fatty acid amide hydrolase (Faah) and cannabinoid receptor type 1 (Cnr1) genes in the amygdala complex and of Cnr1 in the prefrontal cortex of socially isolated rats when compared to controls, and these changes appear to be partially driven by trimethylation of Lysine 27 and acetylation of Lysine 9 at Histone 3. The alterations of Cnr1 transcriptional regulation result also directly correlated with those of oxytocin receptor gene. We here suggest that to counteract the effects of SI, it is of relevance to restore the endocannabinoid system homeostasis via the use of environmental triggers able to revert those epigenetic mechanisms accounting for the alterations observed.


Subject(s)
Amidohydrolases , Endocannabinoids , Lysine , Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1 , Social Isolation , Animals , Rats , Amidohydrolases/genetics , Endocannabinoids/metabolism , Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/genetics , Receptors, Cannabinoid/metabolism
20.
Int J Mol Sci ; 25(3)2024 Jan 30.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38338960

ABSTRACT

The lipid endocannabinoid system has recently emerged as a novel therapeutic target for several inflammatory and tissue-damaging diseases, including those affecting the cardiovascular system. The primary targets of cannabinoids are cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) and 2 (CB2) receptors. The CB2 receptor is expressed in the cardiomyocytes. While the pathological changes in the myocardium upregulate the CB2 receptor, genetic deletion of the receptor aggravates the changes. The CB2 receptor plays a crucial role in attenuating the advancement of myocardial infarction (MI)-associated pathological changes in the myocardium. Activation of CB2 receptors exerts cardioprotection in MI via numerous molecular pathways. For instance, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol attenuated the progression of MI via modulation of the CB2 receptor-dependent anti-inflammatory mechanisms, including suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1ß. Through similar mechanisms, natural and synthetic CB2 receptor ligands repair myocardial tissue damage. This review aims to offer an in-depth discussion on the ameliorative potential of CB2 receptors in myocardial injuries induced by a variety of pathogenic mechanisms. Further, the modulation of autophagy, TGF-ß/Smad3 signaling, MPTP opening, and ROS production are discussed. The molecular correlation of CB2 receptors with cardiac injury markers, such as troponin I, LDH1, and CK-MB, is explored. Special attention has been paid to novel insights into the potential therapeutic implications of CB2 receptor activation in MI.


Subject(s)
Cannabinoids , Myocardial Infarction , Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1 , Humans , Cannabinoids/pharmacology , Cannabinoids/therapeutic use , Cannabinoids/metabolism , Endocannabinoids/metabolism , Myocardial Infarction/drug therapy , Myocardial Infarction/genetics , Myocardial Infarction/metabolism , Myocardium/metabolism , Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/genetics , Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/metabolism , Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/genetics , Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/metabolism , Receptors, Cannabinoid/metabolism , Dronabinol/pharmacology
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