Effects of Cannabichromene on Pain and Neuroinflammation in HIV-1 TAT Transgenic Mice

Author

Sydney Wheeler, University of MississippiFollow

Date of Award

Spring 4-20-2023

Document Type

Undergraduate Thesis

Department

Economics

First Advisor

Nicole Ashpole

Second Advisor

Gregg Roman

Third Advisor

James Stewart

Relational Format

Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract

HIV-1 TransActivator of Transcription (Tat) is a vital regulatory protein involved in HIV replication and implicated in development of HIV-associated pain and neurocognitive deficits. Tat is thought to contribute to these pathologies through proinflammatory pathways. Developing mechanisms to curb Tat-mediated inflammation is a key step in improving the quality of life of those living with HIV. Both recreational and medicinal cannabis use is prevalent among many people living with HIV; given this prevalence and the perceived anti-inflammatory benefits of cannabis use, it is important to investigate how chemical constituents of cannabis may impact HIV. In the present study, the effects of Cannabichromene (CBC) were studied in relation to Tat-mediated pain and inflammation in female mice. In the acetic acid writhing test for visceral pain, CBC reduced pain behaviors, and Tat expression increased pain response. However, in the formalin test, CBC showed no significant effect on pain behaviors, and Tat-expression reduced total pain behaviors. In situ analysis of microglial Periaqueductal Gray (PAG) tissue samples revealed that CBC decreased microglial activation, a marker of inflammation, and Tat expression increased microglial activation. Taken together, these results encourage further investigation into the potential interactions of CBC and Tat to elucidate the impact of CBC administration on Tat-mediated pain and inflammation.

Recommended Citation

Wheeler, Sydney, "Effects of Cannabichromene on Pain and Neuroinflammation in HIV-1 TAT Transgenic Mice" (2023). Honors Theses. 2920.
https://egrove.olemiss.edu/hon_thesis/2920

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