Cannabidiol alleviates perfluorooctane sulfonate-induced macrophage extracellular trap mediate inflammation and fibrosis in mice liver

Posted on August 20, 2023 by David

“As a new type of persistent organic pollutant, perfluorooctane sulphonate (PFOS) has received extensive attention worldwide. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychoactive natural cannabinoid extract that has been proved to have antioxidation, regulation of inflammation and other functions. However, the effects of PFOS on liver injury and whether CBD can alleviate PFOS-induced liver injury are still unclear. Therefore, in this study, we used CBD (10 mg/kg) and/or PFOS (5 mg/kg) to intraperitoneally inject mice for 30 days. We found that PFOS exposure led to inflammatory infiltration in the liver of mice, increased the formation of macrophage extracellular trap (MET), and promoted fibrosis. In vitro, we established a coculture system of RAW264.7, AML12 and LX-2 cells, and treated them with CBD (10 μM) and/or PFOS (200 μM). The results showed that PFOS could also induce the expression of MET, inflammation and fibrosis marker genes in vitro. Coiled-coil domain containing protein 25 (CCD25), as a MET-DNA sensor, was used to investigate its ability to regulate inflammation and fibrosis, we knocked down CCDC25 and its downstream proteins (integrin-linked kinase, ILK) by siRNA technology, and used QNZ to inhibit NF-κB pathway. The results showed that the knockdown of CCDC25 and ILK and the inhibition of NF-κB pathway could inhibit MET-induced inflammation and fibrosis marker gene expression. In summary, we found that PFOS-induced MET can promote inflammation and fibrosis through the CCDC25-ILK-NF-κB signaling axis, while the treatment of CBD showed a protective effect, and it is proved by Macromolecular docking that this protective effect is achieved by combining CBD with peptidylarginine deiminase 4 (PAD4) to alleviate the release of MET. Therefore, regulating the formation of MET and the CCDC25-ILK-NF-κB signaling axis is an innovative treatment option that can effectively reduce hepatotoxicity. Our study reveals the mechanism of PFOS-induced hepatotoxicity and provides promising insights into the protective role of CBD in this process.”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37591127/

“CBD can prevent PFOS induced liver inflammation and fibrosis.”

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0147651323008783?via%3Dihub

Cannabis sativa demonstrates anti-hepatocellular carcinoma potentials in animal model: in silico and in vivo studies of the involvement of Akt

Posted on July 12, 2023 by David

“Background: Targeting protein kinase B (Akt) and its downstream signaling proteins are promising options in designing novel and potent drug candidates against hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The present study explores the anti-HCC potentials of Cannabis sativa (C. sativa) extract via the involvement of Akt using both in silico and in vivo animal models of HCC approaches.

Methods: Phytoconstituents of C. sativa extract obtained from Gas Chromatography Mass-spectrometry (GCSM) were docked into the catalytic domain of Akt-2. The Diethylnitrosamine (DEN) model of HCC was treated with C. sativa extract. The effects of C. sativa extract treatments on DEN model of hepatocellular carcinoma were assessed by One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) of the treated and untreated groups RESULT: The lead phytoconstituents of C. sativa extract, Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ-9-THC) and cannabidiol form stable hydrophobic and hydrogen bond interactions within the catalytic domain of Akt-2. C. sativa extract (15 mg/kg and 30 mg/kg) respectively gives a 3-fold decrease in the activities of liver function enzymes when compared with the positive control (group 2). It also gives a 1.5-fold decrease in hepatic lipid peroxidation and elevates serum antioxidant enzymes’ activities by 1-fold in HCC treated Wistar rats when compared with the positive control (group 2). In an animal model of hepatocellular carcinoma, C. sativa extract significantly downregulated Akt and HIF mRNAs in groups 3, 4, and 5 with 2, 1.5, 2.5-fold decrease relative to group 2. VEGF mRNA was downregulated by 1.5-fold decrease in groups 3-5 when compared to group 2. The expression of XIAP mRNA was downregulated by 1.5, 2, and 1.25-folds in groups 3, 4, and 5 respectively, in comparison with group 2. In comparison to group 2, COX-2 mRNA levels were downregulated by 1.5, 1, and 1-folds in groups 3-5. In groups 3-5, CRP mRNA was downregulated by 2-fold in comparison with group 2. In groups 3-5, p21 mRNA was upregulated by 2, 2.5, and 3-folds, respectively when compared with group 2. It upregulated p53 mRNA by 2.5, 3.5, and 2.5-folds in groups 3-5 in comparison with group 2. It downregulated AFP mRNA by 3.5, 2.5, .2.5-folds in groups 3, 4, and 5 respectively when compared with group 2. Histologic analysis showed that C. sativa extract reduced necrosis and inflammation in HCC.

Conclusion: C. sativa demonstrates anti-hepatocellular carcinoma potentials in an animal model of HCC and with the involvement of Akt. Its anticancer potential is mediated through antiangiogenic, proapoptotic, cycle arrest, and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. In future studies, the mechanisms of anti-HCC effects of Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ-9- THC) and cannabidiol via the PI3K-Akt signaling pathways should be explored.”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37434213/

“We established that C. sativa demonstrates anti-hepatocellular carcinoma potentials in an animal model of HCC and with the involvement of Akt. THC and cannabidiol form stable hydrophobic and hydrogen bond interactions within the catalytic domain of Akt-2. C. sativa extract reduced the activities of liver function enzymes. It ameliorates lipid peroxidation and increases the antioxidant enzymes’ activities. It shows anti-angiogenic, proapoptotic, and anti-inflammatory effects. It also demonstrates cell cycle arrest. C. sativa extract further demonstrates its anti-HCC effects by moderating necrosis and reduce inflammation in HCC. In future studies, the mechanisms of anti-HCC effects of Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ-9- THC) and cannabidiol via the PI3K-Akt signaling pathways should be explored. Although preclinical trials have demonstrated the clinical efficacy of C. sativa, clinical trials with cancer patients are lacking. It is imperative to review the results of prospective and randomized studies on the use of C. sativa in cancer treatment before drawing any conclusions.”

https://jcannabisresearch.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s42238-023-00190-z

The protective effect of cannabinoids against colorectal cancer cachexia through modulation of inflammation and immune responses

Posted on March 6, 2023 by David

“Cancer cachexia is a multifactorial disorder characterized by weight loss and muscle wasting, and there are currently no FDA-approved medications. In the present study, upregulation of six cytokines was observed in serum samples from patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) and in mouse models. A negative correlation between the levels of the six cytokines and body mass index in CRC patients was seen. Gene Ontology analysis revealed that these cytokines were involved in regulating T cell proliferation. The infiltration of CD8⁺ T cells was found to be associated with muscle atrophy in mice with CRC. Adoptive transfer of CD8⁺ T cells isolated from CRC mice resulted in muscle wasting in recipients.

The Genotype-Tissue Expression database showed that negative correlations between the expression of cachexia markers and cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) in human skeletal muscle tissues. Pharmacological treatment with Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ⁹-THC), a selective CB2 agonist or overexpression of CB2 attenuated CRC-associated muscle atrophy. In contrast, knockout of CB2 with a CRISPR/Cas9-based strategy or depletion of CD8⁺ T cells in CRC mice abolished the Δ⁹-THC-mediated effects.

This study demonstrates that cannabinoids ameliorate CD8⁺ T cell infiltration in CRC-associated skeletal muscle atrophy via a CB2-mediated pathway. Serum levels of the six-cytokine signature might serve as a potential biomarker to detect the therapeutic effects of cannabinoids in CRC-associated cachexia.”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36871538/

“In recent years, researchers have gradually found that marijuana, in addition to recreational use, has potential applications as a supportive therapy or palliative medicine.

In conclusion, our findings indicate that the infiltration of CD8⁺ T cells in skeletal muscle plays a vital role in CRC-associated muscle atrophy. Treatment with Δ⁹-THC or CB65 can ameliorate CRC-associated cachexia and muscle atrophy by activating CB2 in CD8⁺ T cells. Targeting the CB2 receptor in CD8⁺ T cells should be evaluated as a therapeutic option for CRC patients who develop cachexia, and the six-cytokine signature in serum might serve as a potential biomarker for the therapeutic effects of cannabinoids in CRC-associated cachexia.”

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S075333222300255X?via%3Dihub

Low-Dose Administration of Cannabigerol Attenuates Inflammation and Fibrosis Associated with Methionine/Choline Deficient Diet-Induced NASH Model via Modulation of Cannabinoid Receptor

Posted on January 9, 2023 by David

“Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH) is the progressive form of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). NASH is distinguished by severe hepatic fibrosis and inflammation. The plant-derived, non-psychotropic compound cannabigerol (CBG) has potential anti-inflammatory effects similar to other cannabinoids. However, the impact of CBG on NASH pathology is still unknown. This study demonstrated the therapeutic potential of CBG in reducing hepatic steatosis, fibrosis, and inflammation.

Methods: 8-week-old C57BL/6 male mice were fed with methionine/choline deficient (MCD) diet or control (CTR) diets for five weeks. At the beginning of week 4, mice were divided into three sub-groups and injected with either a vehicle, a low or high dose of CBG for two weeks. Overall health of the mice, Hepatic steatosis, fibrosis, and inflammation were evaluated.

Results: Increased liver-to-body weight ratio was observed in mice fed with MCD diet, while a low dose of CBG treatment rescued the liver-to-body weight ratio. Hepatic ballooning and leukocyte infiltration were decreased in MCD mice with a low dose of CBG treatment, whereas the CBG treatment did not change the hepatic steatosis. The high dose CBG administration increased inflammation and fibrosis. Similarly, the expression of cannabinoid receptor (CB)1 and CB2 showed decreased expression with the low CBG dose but not with the high CBG dose intervention in the MCD group and were co-localized with mast cells. Additionally, the decreased mast cells were accompanied by decreased expression of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1.

Conclusions: Collectively, the low dose of CBG alleviated hepatic fibrosis and inflammation in MCD-induced NASH, however, the high dose of CBG treatment showed enhanced liver damage when compared to MCD only group. These results will provide pre-clinical data to guide future intervention studies in humans addressing the potential uses of CBG for inflammatory liver pathologies, as well as open the door for further investigation into systemic inflammatory pathologies.”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36615835/

“In conclusion, this study provides initial findings and a foundation for future studies on the efficacy of CBG on NASH.”

https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/15/1/178

Cannabinoids inhibit ethanol-induced activation of liver toxicity in rats through JNK/ERK/MAPK signaling pathways

Posted on December 3, 2022 by David

“Cannabinoids (CBs) are psychoactive compounds, with reported anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and anti-neoplastic properties. The study was aimed at assessing the hepatoprotective effects of CB against ethanol (EtOH)-induced liver toxicity in rats. The animals were divided into seven groups: control (Group I) and Group II were treated with 50% ethanol (EtOH 5 mg/kg). Groups III, IV, and VI were treated with (EtOH + CB 10 mg/kg), (EtOH + CB 20 mg/kg), and (EtOH + CB 30 mg/kg), respectively. Groups V and VII consisted of animals treated with 20 and 30 mg/kg, of CB, respectively. Biochemical analysis revealed that Group IV (EtOH + CB 20 mg/kg) had reduced levels of ALT-alanine transferase, AST-aspartate aminotransferase, ALP-alanine peroxidase, MDA-malondialdehyde and increased levels of GSH-reduced glutathione. Histopathological analysis of liver and kidney tissues showed that EtOH + CB (20 and 30 mg/kg) treated animal groups exhibited normal tissue architecture similar to that of the control group. ELISA revealed that the inflammatory markers were reduced in the animal groups that were treated with EtOH + CB 20 mg/kg, in comparison to the animals treated only with EtOH. The mRNA expression levels of COX-2, CD-14, and MIP-2 showed a remarkable decrease in EtOH + CB treated animal groups to control groups. Western blot analysis revealed that CB downregulated p38/JNK/ERK thereby exhibiting its hepatoprotective property by inhibiting mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways. Thus, our findings suggest that CB is a potential candidate for the treatment of alcohol-induced hepatotoxicity.”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36453646/

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/jbt.23260

Cannabidiol markedly alleviates skin and liver fibrosis

Posted on November 7, 2022 by David

“Cannabidiol (CBD) has been suggested as a potential therapy for inflammatory and fibrotic diseases. Cannabidiol was demonstrated to reduce alcohol-induced liver inflammation and steatosis but its specific activity on the fibrotic process was not investigated. Herein, the antifibrotic effects of cannabidiol in the skin were analysed in vitro using NIH-3T3 fibroblasts and human dermal fibroblasts and in vivo using the bleomycin-induced model of skin fibrosis. In a second model, non-alcoholic liver fibrosis was induced in mice by CCl₄ exposure. Cannabidiol was administered daily, intraperitoneally in mice challenged with bleomycin and orally in CCl₄ mice, and skin and liver fibrosis and inflammation were assessed by immunochemistry. Cannabidiol inhibited collagen gene transcription and synthesis and prevented TGFβ-and IL-4 induced fibroblast migration. In the bleomycin model, cannabidiol prevented skin fibrosis and collagen accumulation around skin blood vessels, and in the CCl₄ model cannabidiol significantly attenuated liver fibrosis measured by picrosirius red and Tenascin C staining and reduced T cell and macrophage infiltration. Altogether, our data further support the rationale of the medicinal use of this cannabinoid, as well as cannabis preparations containing it, in the management of fibrotic diseases including Systemic Sclerosis and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease.”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36339540/

“We have shown that both intraperitoneal and oral administration of CBD exerts potent anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic activities in vivo. Moreover, CBD blunted the effects of fibrogenic stimuli on cultured fibroblast. We have shown for the first time CBD efficacy in reducing BLM-induced dermal fibrosis and CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis. Given the broad spectrum of CBD targets, in vivo effects might be mediated by a plethora of molecular mechanisms, directly or through its metabolites. Further studies are needed for dissecting the exact contribution of each mechanism involved.”

https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2022.981817/full

Hemp-Derived Nanovesicles Protect Leaky Gut and Liver Injury in Dextran Sodium Sulfate-Induced Colitis

Posted on September 10, 2022 by David

“Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) is used for medicinal purposes owing to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities.

We evaluated the protective effect of nanovesicles isolated from hemp plant parts (root, seed, hemp sprout, and leaf) in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis in mice.

The particle sizes of root-derived nanovesicles (RNVs), seed-derived nanovesicles (SNVs), hemp sprout-derived nanovesicles (HSNVs), and leaf-derived nanovesicles (LNVs) were within the range of 100-200 nm as measured by nanoparticle tracking analysis. Acute colitis was induced in C57BL/N mice by 5% DSS in water provided for 7 days.

RNVs were administered orally once a day, leading to the recovery of both the small intestine and colon lengths. RNVs, SNVs, and HSNVs restored the tight (ZO-1, claudin-4, occludin) and adherent junctions (E-cadherin and α-tubulin) in DSS-induced small intestine and colon injury. Additionally, RNVs markedly reduced NF-κB activation and oxidative stress proteins in DSS-induced small intestine and colon injury. Tight junction protein expression and epithelial cell permeability were elevated in RNV-, SNV-, and HSNV-treated T84 colon cells exposed to 2% DSS. Interestedly, RNVs, SNVs, HSNVs, and LNVs reduced ALT activity and liver regeneration marker proteins in DSS-induced liver injury.

These results showed for the first time that hemp-derived nanovesicles (HNVs) exhibited a protective effect on DSS-induced gut leaky and liver injury through the gut-liver axis by inhibiting oxidative stress marker proteins.”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36077356/

“In summary, we successfully identified and characterized edible-plant nanovesicles from different hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) parts (root; RNVS, seed; SNVS, hemp sprout; HSNVs, leaf; LNVs). RNVs markedly alleviated leaky gut and intestinal barrier proteins such as tight junction and adherent junction proteins and reduced NF-κB activation and oxidative stress markers in DSS-induced colitis. Additionally, NVs, SNVs, HSNVs, and LNVs administration reduced liver damage markers and elevated liver regeneration markers. Therefore, this is the first study using hemp-derived nanovesicles in protection against colitis that can be a novel therapeutic strategy to treat IBD.”

https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/23/17/9955/htm

Cannabinoids and Chronic Liver Diseases

Posted on August 26, 2022 by David

“Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), alcohol-induced liver disease (ALD), and viral hepatitis are the main causes of morbidity and mortality related to chronic liver diseases (CLDs) worldwide. New therapeutic approaches to prevent or reverse these liver disorders are thus emerging.

Although their etiologies differ, these CLDs all have in common a significant dysregulation of liver metabolism that is closely linked to the perturbation of the hepatic endocannabinoid system (eCBS) and inflammatory pathways. Therefore, targeting the hepatic eCBS might have promising therapeutic potential to overcome CLDs.

Experimental models of CLDs and observational studies in humans suggest that cannabis and its derivatives may exert hepatoprotective effects against CLDs through diverse pathways. However, these promising therapeutic benefits are not yet fully validated, as the few completed clinical trials on phytocannabinoids, which are thought to hold the most promising therapeutic potential (cannabidiol or tetrahydrocannabivarin), remained inconclusive. Therefore, expanding research on less studied phytocannabinoids and their derivatives, with a focus on their mode of action on liver metabolism, might provide promising advances in the development of new and original therapeutics for the management of CLDs, such as NAFLD, ALD, or even hepatitis C-induced liver disorders.”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36012687/

“Given the significant contribution of the hepatic eCBS and its downstream pathways in the regulation of liver metabolism and the setting of liver abnormalities, pharmacologically targeting peripheral CBRs may have promising potential therapeutic benefits for the treatment of CLDs. Besides this, the use of cannabis by people at risk of developing chronic liver disorders has also suggested hepatoprotective effects by reducing the frequency of NAFLD, ALD, or HCV-induced liver disorders, which would suggest that cannabinoid-based medicine may be effective in treating CLDs.”

https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/23/16/9423/htm

The Endocannabinoid System and Physical Activity-A Robust Duo in the Novel Therapeutic Approach against Metabolic Disorders

Posted on July 26, 2022 by David

“Rapidly increasing worldwide prevalence of obesity and related pathologies encompassing coronary heart disease, hypertension, metabolic syndrome, or type 2 diabetes constitute serious threats to global health and are associated with a significantly elevated risk of premature death. Considering the enormous burden of these pathologies, novel therapeutic and preventive patterns are indispensable.

Dysregulation of one of the most complex biological systems in the human body namely, the endocannabinoid system (ECS) may result in metabolic imbalance and development of insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Furthermore, many studies showed that physical exercises, depending on their type, intensity, and frequency, exert various alterations within the ECS.

Emerging evidence suggests that targeting the ECS via physical activity may produce robust beneficial effects on the course of metabolic pathologies. However, the data showing a direct correlation between the ECS and physical activity in the aspect of metabolic health are very scarce. Therefore, the aim of this review was to provide the most up-to-date state of knowledge about the interplay between the ECS activity and physical exercises in the novel therapeutic and preventive approach toward metabolic pathologies.

We believe that this paper, at least in part, will fulfill the existing gap in knowledge and encourage researchers to further explore this very complex yet interesting link between the ECS, its action in physical activity, and subsequent positive outcomes for metabolic health.”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35328503/

“To the best of our knowledge, this is the first review directly and comprehensively discussing the uncharted link between physical activity and its influence on the endocannabinoid signaling in the aspect of beneficial effects in the management of metabolic disorders. Considering the very alarming worldwide prevalence of these diseases as well as the unexplored potential of the topic, we believe that this paper, at least in part, will encourage researchers toward investigating this interesting, yet very complicated interplay. ECS and physical activity constitute robust and valuable therapeutic and preventive approaches that may significantly contribute to the decreased socioeconomic burden and the reduced annual number of patients suffering from obesity and other metabolic disorders. The future investigation should primarily encompass further discovery of the link between physical activity, alterations within endocannabinoid signaling and subsequently improved metabolic status of overweight, obese, and diabetic individuals.”

https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/23/6/3083/htm

“Exercise activates the endocannabinoid system”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14625449/

Cannabis Extract Effects on Metabolic Parameters and Gut Microbiota Composition in a Mice Model of NAFLD and Obesity

Posted on July 7, 2022 by David

“Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a major cause of chronic liver abnormalities and has been linked with metabolic syndrome hallmarks. Unfortunately, current treatments are limited.

This work aimed to elucidate the effects of three cannabis extracts on metabolic alteration and gut microbiota composition in a mouse model of NAFLD and obesity.

Male mice were fed with a high-fat diet (HFD) for 12 weeks. Following the establishment of obesity, the HFD-fed group was subdivided into HFD or HFD that was supplemented with one of three cannabis extracts (CN1, CN2, and CN6) for additional 8 weeks. Metabolic parameters together with intestinal microbiota composition were evaluated.

Except for several minor changes in gene expression, no profound metabolic effect was found due to cannabis extracts addition. Nevertheless, marked changes were observed in gut microbiota diversity and composition, with CN1 and CN6 exhibiting microbial abundance patterns that are associated with more beneficial outcomes.

Taken together, specific cannabis extracts’ addition to an HFD results in more favorable modifications in gut microbiota. Although no marked metabolic effect was disclosed, longer treatments duration and/or higher extracts concentrations may be needed. More research is required to ascertain this conjecture and to establish the influence of various cannabis extracts on host health in general and NAFLD in particular.”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35795290/

https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2022/7964018/

“Cannabis use is associated with reduced prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A cross-sectional study”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28441459/

www.thctotalhealthcare.com

Category Archives: Liver Disease