N-(4-Methoxy-2-nitrophenyl)hexadecanamide, a palmitoylethanolamide analogue, reduces formalin-induced nociception

• Aims: To investigate the local antinociceptive effect as well as the possible mechanisms of action of a novel analogue of palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) N-(4-methoxy-2-nitrophenyl)hexadecanamide (HD) in the rat formalin test.Main methods: The formalin test was used to assess the antinociceptive activity of HD in vivo. The hydrolysis of anandamide catalyzed by fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) was used to determine the action of HD on FAAH activity in vitro.Key findings: Local peripheral ipisilateral, but not contralateral, administration of HD (10-100 mu g/paw) produced a dose-dependent antinociceptive effect in rats. The CB1 and CB2 receptor antagonists AM281 (0.3-30 mu g/paw) and SR144528 (0.3-30 mu g/paw), respectively, reduced the antinociceptive effect of HD (100 mu g/paw). In addition, methiothepin (0.03-0.3 mu g/paw) and naloxone (5-50 mu g/paw) significantly reduced HD-induced antinociception (100 mu g/paw). In vitro, HD reduced only to a minor extent the hydrolysis of anandamide catalyzed by FAAH.Significance: HD local administration produces antinociception that probably results from an indirect activation of peripheral CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors. Data suggest that 5-HT1 and opioid receptors also participate in the antinociceptive effect of this compound. HD may have potential as analgesic drug.(C) 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Subject headings

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Medicinska och farmaceutiska grundvetenskaper -- Farmakologi och toxikologi (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Basic Medicine -- Pharmacology and Toxicology (hsv//eng)

Keyword

N-(4-Methoxy-2-nitrophenyl)hexadecanamide Palmitoylethanolamide

Anandamide

Cannabinoid receptors

Antinociception

Fatty acid amide hydrolase

Publication and Content Type

ref (subject category)

art (subject category)