Cannabinoid receptor 2 selective agonists and Alzheimer's disease: An insight into the therapeutic potentials

J Neurosci Res. 2021 Nov;99(11):2888-2905. doi: 10.1002/jnr.24933. Epub 2021 Sep 6.

Abstract

Endocannabinoid system has been extensively studied in recent decades, particularly the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2, due to their important role in neuroinflammation. Among these, CB2 has gained prominence due to its selective overexpression in glial cells during neuroinflammation. In contrast to CB1 agonists, CB2 agonists have no side effects such as ataxia, hypothermia, euphoria, psychological, or addiction liabilities. CB2 and its selective agonists' above-mentioned unique properties have become a research focus in neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). The review discusses the neuroprotective role of CB receptors, particularly CB2, in AD, as well as the significance and limitations of this research.

Keywords: CB1; CNS; endocannabinoid system (ECS); neuroprotection.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Alzheimer Disease* / drug therapy
  • Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists / pharmacology
  • Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists / therapeutic use
  • Endocannabinoids
  • Humans
  • Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2
  • Receptors, Cannabinoid

Substances

  • Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists
  • Endocannabinoids
  • Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2
  • Receptors, Cannabinoid