Contribution of the cannabinoid system and its interaction with the opioid system in the antinociception induced by crotalphine, an analgesic opioid-like.

Author(s)

Franciele Corrêa Machado

• Document type: Master's Dissertation
• Press: São Paulo.
• Institution: Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas (ICB/SDI)
• Defense date: 2013-06-18

Examining board members

Gisele Picolo; Carlos Amilcar Parada; Andréa da Silva Torrão

• Advisor: Gisele Picolo

Abstract

Crotalphine is a peptide synthesized based on the sequence of the analgesic compound purified from the Crotalus durissus terrificus snake venom. Despite the opioid activity, molecular assays indicate that this peptide does not directly bind to opioid receptors, suggesting that the endogenous opioid release could be responsible for analgesic activity. Based on data from literature demonstrating the close relationship between the cannabinoid and the opioid systems, the goal of this project was to evaluate the possible effect of crotalphine on the cannabinoid system. Results demonstrated that CB2 cannabinoid receptors are involved in the antinociception induced by crotalphine during PGE2-induced hyperalgesia. In agreement, this effect is dependent of the release of endogenous opioids, particularly dynorphin A, the endogenous agonist of kappa opioid receptors. This release is dependent of the CB2 receptor activation. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 10/12917-8 - Contribution of cannabinoid system to the antinociceptive effect of crotalphine and its interation with opioid system.
• Grantee: Franciele Corrêa Machado
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master