Review
Neurosciences
Andrea S. Heimann, Camila S. Dale, Francisco S. Guimaraes, Ricardo A. M. Reis, Ami Navon, Michal A. Shmuelov, Vanessa Rioli, Ivone Gomes, Lakshmi L. Devi, Emer S. Ferro
Summary: Hemopressin, derived from hemoglobin alpha-chain, exhibits diverse cannabinoid receptor activities and may have pharmacological effects by interacting with intracellular mitochondrial cannabinoid receptors. The peptide influences physiological processes such as pain, inflammation, appetite, learning, and memory, and shows potential applications in drug delivery systems.
Article
Chemistry, Medicinal
Daniel Gundel, Winnie Deuther-Conrad, Lea Ueberham, Sarandeep Kaur, Elina Otikova, Rodrigo Teodoro, Magali Toussaint, Thu Hang Lai, Oliver Clauss, Matthias Scheunemann, Guy Bormans, Michael Bachmann, Klaus Kopka, Peter Brust, Rares-Petru Moldovan
Summary: The cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2R) is an ideal target for the diagnosis and therapy of neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. This study introduces a novel F-18-labeled radioligand that can efficiently image upregulated CB2R expression.
JOURNAL OF MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY
(2022)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Kangtai Xu, Yifei Wu, Zhuangzhuang Tian, Yuanfan Xu, Chaoran Wu, Zilong Wang
Summary: Pain, especially chronic pain, has a significant impact on patients' quality of life. Cannabinoids have shown potent analgesic effects in preclinical pain models by acting as agonists of CB1 and CB2 receptors. While the activation of CB1 receptors is associated with psychotropic adverse effects, the promising target for pain treatment is the CB2 receptors primarily expressed in immune cells. Microglia, as resident immune cells in the central nervous system, play a critical role in chronic pain, and CB2 receptors regulate their activity and function. This review focuses on the role of microglial CB2 receptors in spinal nociceptive circuitry and their implications for selective CB2 receptor agonist-mediated analgesia.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Review
Neurosciences
Christopher Martinez-Aguirre, Resat Cinar, Luisa Rocha
Summary: Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder worldwide. Recent studies have shown that the use of cannabinoids and activation of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) can be a therapeutic strategy for controlling epilepsy. However, there are controversial findings regarding the effects of ECS activation.
Article
Toxicology
Christian Cabanlong, Lauren N. Russell, William E. Fantegrossi, Paul L. Prather
Summary: Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) are a group of psychoactive compounds that are commonly abused and have more toxic effects than cannabis. Recent studies have found that the metabolites of SCRA 5F-MDMB-PINACA have atypical pharmacodynamic properties at CB1 receptors, which may contribute to severe toxicity when accumulated with the parent drug.
TOXICOLOGICAL SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Md Ruhul Amin, Kazi Tanveer Ahmed, Declan William Ali
Summary: Exposure to CBN during embryonic development has been found to cause alterations in embryonic growth, neuronal and hair cell development, physiology and behavior. The effects are mediated through the cannabinoid receptor Cb2r.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2022)
Review
Chemistry, Medicinal
Eun Yong Chung, Hye Jin Cha, Hyun Kyu Min, Jaesuk Yun
Summary: New psychoactive substances (NPS), including synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) among others, have been a focus of international attention in the past decade. These substances are sold as legal highs and research chemicals, with most commonly abused SCRAs associated with severe toxicities. Systematic studies on the adverse effects of NPS are lacking, highlighting the need for more research and understanding of these substances to address associated health issues.
ARCHIVES OF PHARMACAL RESEARCH
(2021)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Barbara Vuic, Tina Milos, Lucija Tudor, Marcela Konjevod, Matea Nikolac Perkovic, Maja Jazvinscak Jembrek, Gordana Nedic Erjavec, Dubravka Svob Strac
Summary: Neurodegenerative diseases, characterized by protein aggregation in the brain, can be influenced by the activation of CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system. Studies suggest that activating CB2 receptors has potential benefits in reducing protein aggregation-based pathology, attenuating inflammation, and alleviating dementia-related symptoms.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Alessandra Gargano, Eva Beins, Andreas Zimmer, Andras Bilkei-Gorzo
Summary: The activity of CB1r is necessary for the protection of noradrenergic neurons, but its anti-inflammatory effect may only play a minor role.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2021)
Article
Substance Abuse
Rob Ralphs, Paul Gray, Oliver B. Sutcliffe
Summary: The introduction of the Psychoactive Substances Act led to significant changes in the synthetic cannabinoid market, increasing harm to homeless users and sector staff, as well as a higher demand for emergency services.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY
(2021)
Article
Cell Biology
Nuchjira Takheaw, Kanyaruck Jindaphun, Supansa Pata, Witida Laopajon, Watchara Kasinrerk
Summary: Cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) and cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) are important components of the endocannabinoid system, which regulate immune responses. This study investigated the effects of CB1 selective agonist ACEA and CB2 selective agonist GW833972A on T cell responses. The results showed that both agonists inhibited T cell proliferation and down-regulated activation markers and co-stimulatory molecules on T cells, B cells, and monocytes in different ways. GW833972A also suppressed the cytotoxic activities of CD8(+) T cells without affecting CD4(+) T cells and NK cells. Moreover, only the CB2 agonist caused a reduction in Th1 cytokine production. These findings suggest that the CB1 and CB2 agonists may have therapeutic potential in modulating T cell function in inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.
Editorial Material
Neurosciences
Arnau Busquets-Garcia, Miriam Melis, Luigi Bellocchio, Giovanni Marsicano
Summary: This article introduces the wide expression and regulatory functions of the endocannabinoid system in both the brain and the periphery. It discusses the distribution of cannabinoid receptors in different cell types and compartments, and highlights the different cellular or molecular effects mediated by these receptors. The article also mentions the expression of the endocannabinoid system throughout the body and its role in modulating the connection between the brain and the periphery. Lastly, it emphasizes the importance of understanding the cannabinoid receptors structure and pharmacology for the development of novel allosteric modulators.
EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF NEUROSCIENCE
(2022)
Review
Medicine, Research & Experimental
Hebaallah Mamdouh Hashiesh, Charu Sharma, Sameer N. Goyal, Bassem Sadek, Niraj Kumar Jha, Juma Al Kaabi, Shreesh Ojha
Summary: BCP is a natural compound with selective agonist properties that activate CB2R and have various pharmacological effects. BCP shows protective effects in the heart, liver, nervous system, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract, cancer, with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory actions.
BIOMEDICINE & PHARMACOTHERAPY
(2021)
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Saki Sultana, Geraint Berger, Christian Lehmann
Summary: Interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) is a chronic condition with unknown etiology and limited treatment options. Modulating the endogenous cannabinoid system (ECS) has shown benefits in alleviating pain and inflammation associated with IC/BPS.
Review
Clinical Neurology
Andrea Escelsior, Martino Belvederi Murri, Giovanni Pietro Corsini, Gianluca Serafini, Andrea Aguglia, Domenico Zampogna, Simone Cattedra, Jacopo Nebbia, Alice Trabucco, Davide Prestia, Martina Olcese, Elena Barletta, Beatriz Pereira da Silva, Mario Amore
Summary: Cannabinoid use is significantly associated with self-injury behavior, and may act as a causal factor with factors such as chronic use, presence of mental disorders, emotional dysregulation, and impulsive traits increasing the risk. Future research should further explore the mechanisms underlying this association and potential therapeutic applications targeting the endocannabinoid system.
JOURNAL OF AFFECTIVE DISORDERS
(2021)
Review
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Rita Roque-Bravo, Rafaela Sofia Silva, Rui F. Malheiro, Helena Carmo, Felix Carvalho, Diana Dias da Silva, Joao Pedro Silva
Summary: Synthetic cannabinoids, a chemically diverse group of new psychoactive substances that target the endocannabinoid system, have more intense effects than cannabis and are increasingly being used recreationally. However, the rise in intoxications and deaths associated with synthetic cannabinoids poses a major public health concern and challenge for policy makers.
ANNUAL REVIEW OF PHARMACOLOGY AND TOXICOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Toxicology
Adelaide Sousa, Ana T. Rufino, Rui Fernandes, Ana Malheiro, Felix Carvalho, Eduarda Fernandes, Marisa Freitas
Summary: Silver nanoparticles exert harmful effects on both monocytes and macrophages, through the establishment of a strong pro-inflammatory response that leads to cell death. Smaller polyvinylpyrrolidone-coated silver nanoparticles exhibit more pronounced cytotoxic effects. Human monocytes are more sensitive to silver nanoparticle exposure compared to human macrophages.
ARCHIVES OF TOXICOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Rui Filipe Malheiro, Helena Carmo, Felix Carvalho, Joao Pedro Silva
Summary: Mitochondria play a critical role in multiple biological processes, and recent studies have shown that cannabinoids can modulate mitochondrial function and dynamics. Cannabinoids can target different mitochondrial processes through complex signaling pathways, affecting cell homeostasis and disease.
PHARMACOLOGICAL RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Alexandra Martins, Diana Dias da Silva, Renata Silva, Felix Carvalho, Lucia Guilhermino
Summary: This study investigated the long-term toxicity of lithium (Li) and lithium microplastics (Li-MPs mixtures) under high light intensity and warmer water temperature. The results showed that both high light intensity and warmer temperature increased the toxicity of Li and Li-MPs mixtures, with higher concentrations leading to population extinction.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Sandra I. Marques, Helena Carmo, Felix Carvalho, Susana I. Sa, Joao Pedro Silva
Summary: Immunohistochemical staining of brain samples provides valuable information on neurological mechanisms, but post-processing of DAB-stained photomicrographs is challenging. Traditionally, manual quantification of parameters in a large set of images is time-consuming and complex. This study presents an improved semi-automatic method using ImageJ's Skeletonize plugin and data processing software to quantify GFAP-labelled astrocytes in rat brain images, allowing faster and more efficient analysis of astrocyte size, number, branching, and activation indicators.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Ana Sofia Almeida, Barbara Silva, Joao Pedro Silva, Jose Augusto Pereira, Fernando Remiao, Carla Fernandes
Summary: Synthetic cathinones, such as MDPV, are widely abused for their psychostimulant effects. In this study, the stereochemical stability of MDPV was investigated, and the enantiomers were separated and identified. The racemization of MDPV was found to be affected by temperature. The enantioselectivity of MDPV in cytotoxicity and protein expression was also evaluated, but no enantioselectivity was observed.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Sofia Reis Brandao, Ana Reis-Mendes, Margarida Duarte-Araujo, Maria Joao Neuparth, Hugo Rocha, Felix Carvalho, Rita Ferreira, Vera Marisa Costa
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Madeline Moberg
Summary: Unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning is a preventable cause of death that has not received enough attention globally. This study conducted a comprehensive analysis of fatal unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning from 2000 to 2021, revealing regional and temporal variations in mortality rates. Policy-level interventions should be prioritized to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning events.
LANCET PUBLIC HEALTH
(2023)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Vera Marisa Costa, Joao Paulo Capela, Maria Lourdes Bastos, Fernando Remiao, Kurt James Varner, Jose Alberto Duarte, Felix Carvalho
Summary: Prolonged overexposure to catecholamines causes toxicity due to continuous adrenoceptor stimulation, autoxidation, and reactive pro-oxidant species formation. This study investigated the contribution of oxidative stress in adrenaline-induced neurotoxicity using non-differentiated SH-SY5Y cells. Results showed that Adrenaline caused concentration- and time-dependent cytotoxicity in the cells, and N-acetyl-cysteine prevented the toxicity while the antioxidant Tiron was non-protective. Further analysis is needed to understand the involvement of these processes in catecholamine-induced peripheral neuropathy.
BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Medicinal
Sofia Reis Brandao, Ana Reis-Mendes, Maria Joao Neuparth, Felix Carvalho, Rita Ferreira, Vera Marisa Costa
Summary: The cardiotoxicity of doxorubicin (DOX) may manifest at the beginning/during treatment or years after, compromising patients' quality of life. This study reveals that the molecular mechanisms elicited by DOX are modulated at different extents over time, supporting the differences in clinical cardiotoxic manifestations with time.
Review
Toxicology
Ana Dias-Carvalho, Susana Isabel Sa, Felix Carvalho, Eduarda Fernandes, Vera Marisa Costa
Summary: As life expectancy increases, the burden of neurologic disorders in the elderly has become a major challenge. Inflammation plays a crucial role in the development of aging and neurologic disorders, such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and multiple sclerosis. Understanding the role of inflammation is essential for developing effective treatments and interventions to alleviate the social and economic burden of these diseases.
ARCHIVES OF TOXICOLOGY
(2023)