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(Reference retrieved automatically from Web of Science through information on FAPESP grant and its corresponding number as mentioned in the publication by the authors.)

Membrane-mediated action of the endocannabinoid anandamide on membrane proteins: implications for understanding the receptor-independent mechanism

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Author(s):
Medeiros, Djalma ; Silva-Goncalves, Laiz da Costa ; Brito da Silva, Annielle Mendes ; dos Santos Cabrera, Marcia Perez ; Arcisio-Miranda, Manoel
Total Authors: 5
Document type: Journal article
Source: SCIENTIFIC REPORTS; v. 7, JAN 27 2017.
Web of Science Citations: 2
Abstract

Endocannabinoids are amphiphilic molecules that play crucial neurophysiological functions acting as lipid messengers. Antagonists and knockdown of the classical CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors do not completely abolish many endocannabinoid activities, supporting the idea of a mechanism independent of receptors whose mode of action remains unclear. Here we combine gramicidin A (gA) single channel recordings and membrane capacitance measurements to investigate the lipid bilayer-modifying activity of endocannabinoids. Single channel recordings show that the incorporation of endocannabinoids into lipid bilayers reduces the free energy necessary for gramicidin channels to transit from the monomeric to the dimeric conformation. Membrane capacitance demonstrates that the endocannabinoid anandamide has limited effects on the overall structure of the lipid bilayers. Our results associated with the theory of membrane elastic deformation reveal that the action of endocannabinoids on membrane proteins can involve local adjustments of the lipid/protein hydrophobic interface. The current findings shed new light on the receptor-independent mode of action of endocannabinoids on membrane proteins, with important implications towards their neurobiological function. (AU)

FAPESP's process: 12/02065-0 - Electrophysiology of antimicrobial peptides in planar lipid bilayers
Grantee:Manoel de Arcisio Miranda Filho
Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
FAPESP's process: 12/24259-0 - Peptide and chitosan conjugates with pharmacological potential: synthesis, prospecting of activity in membrane mimetic systems, and evaluation in cells
Grantee:Marcia Perez dos Santos Cabrera
Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Young Investigators Grants
FAPESP's process: 14/08372-7 - Peptide and chitosan conjugates with pharmacological potential: synthesis, prospecting of activity in membrane mimetic systems, and evaluation in cells
Grantee:Marcia Perez dos Santos Cabrera
Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Young Researchers