A Survey on Molecular Biological Processes of Cannabinoids by Functional Module-Based Network Analysis

Authors

  • Tanaboon Jaidee
  • Pitak Sootanan Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Burapha University, 169 Long-Hard Bangsaen Road, Saen Sook Sub-district, Mueang District, Chonburi 20131

Abstract

          Cannabinoids are a group of bioactive compounds found in the genus cannabis. There are two important and well-studied bioactive compounds in medicine: CBD (Cannabidiol) and THC (∆9-Tetrahydrocannabinol). Using available data of the molecular mechanisms studies of cannabinoids can reduces time and costs, further in silico analysis of these compounds. The objective of this research was to explore the molecular biological processes of CBD and THC with functional module-based network analysis within the protein interaction network obtained from public databases by relying on bioinformatics tools and processes involved in the analysis of biological networks. The results showed that both CBD and THC networks are biological networks that can be analyzed by functional modules. When interpreting the biological effects of functional modules, 5 modules containing the CBD-targeting proteins which were involved in the mechanism of action via signal pathways, affecting the changes in calcium levels, relating to the structural proteins of the skin and drug metabolism. Functional interpretation for 8 modules containing THC-targeting proteins include the neuron formation involved in the nervous system, brain function, perception, emotion, endocrine, including stimulating appetite, response to psychoactive, drug metabolism, cell death and positive regulation of gene transcription. In summary, functional module-base network analysis of the protein interaction network of CBD and THC, the target proteins and associated protein interaction networks can be conducted, which can lead to further selection and testing for validating by in vitro laboratory. Keywords :  functional module-based network analysis ; cannabinoids ; CBD ; THC ; cannabis

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Published

2022-01-10