DOI
https://doi.org/10.25772/V14X-9Q65
Defense Date
2013
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Pharmacology & Toxicology
First Advisor
Dana Selley
Abstract
CB1 cannabinoid receptors are G-protein-coupled receptors that mediate the central nervous system (CNS) effects of marijuana and endocannabinoids. Recently, cannabinoid receptor interacting protein 1a (CRIP1a) was discovered as a novel protein that binds to the CB1 receptor C-terminus and inhibits CB1 receptor activity without affecting CB1 expression. This thesis investigated the functions of CRIP1a by characterizing the first CRIP1a knockout (KO) mouse line. The absence of CRIP1a was confirmed in KO mice using quantitative PCR and immunoblotting. I hypothesized that CRIP1a KO mice would exhibit enhanced CB1 receptor-mediated G-protein activity in the CNS, as well as cannabimemetic phenotypes and enhanced sensitivity to cannabinoid agonists in vivo. Results showed increased CB1 agonist-stimulated G-protein activity in the amygdala of CRIP1a KO relative to WT mice, but not in cerebellum, hippocampus or spinal cord. CB1 receptor levels did not differ between genotypes in in any region examined. Interestingly, CRIP1a KO mice exhibited an anxiolytic-like phenotype and decreased nociceptive sensitivity in vivo, but did not differ from WT mice in tests of motor activity or coordination. Surprisingly, sensitivity to agonist-induced antinociception, hypothermia, catalepsy or motor incoordination did not differ between genotypes. Our findings suggest that CRIP1a could play a selective role in modulation of anxiety by endocannabinoids, and this action could be mediated through the amygdala. Thus, CRIP1a might serve as a future pharmacological target for studying and treating anxiety disorders.
Rights
© The Author
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
October 2013