Cannabinoid receptor 1 antagonist genistein attenuates marijuana-induced vascular inflammation

Epidemiological studies reveal that marijuana increases the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD); however, little is known about the mechanism. Delta(9) -tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta(9) -THC), the psychoactive component of marijuana, binds to cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1/CNR1) in the vasculature and is implicated in CVD. A UK Biobank analysis found that cannabis was an risk factor for CVD. We found that marijuana smoking activated inflammatory cytokines implicated in CVD. In silico virtual screening identified genistein, a soybean isoflavone, as a putative CB1 antagonist. Human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived endothelial cells were used to model Delta(9)-THC-induced inflammation and oxidative stress via NF-kappa B signaling. Knockdown of the CB1 receptor with siRNA, CRISPR interference, and genistein attenuated the effects of Delta(9) -THC. In mice, genistein blocked Delta(9)-THC-induced endothelial dysfunction in wire myograph, reduced atherosclerotic plaque, and had minimal penetration of the central nervous system. Genistein is a CB1 antagonist that attenuates Delta(9)-THC-induced atherosclerosis.

Automated summary

Marijuana use is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Inhibition of the CB1 receptor and modulation of inflammation and oxidative stress can alleviate this risk.