Identification and Functional Characterization of Brainstem Cannabinoid CB 2 Receptors
University of Calgary · Vanderbilt University · +3 more institutions
Abstract
The presence and function of CB2 receptors in central nervous system (CNS) neurons are controversial. We report the expression of CB2 receptor messenger RNA and protein localization on brainstem neurons. These functional CB2 receptors in the brainstem were activated by a CB2 receptor agonist, 2-arachidonoylglycerol, and by elevated endogenous levels of endocannabinoids, which also act at CB1 receptors. CB2 receptors represent an alternative site of action of endocannabinoids that opens the possibility of nonpsychotropic therapeutic interventions using enhanced endocannabinoid levels in localized brain areas.
Citation impact
- FWCI
- 72.86
- Percentile
- 100%
- References
- 26
Authors
15- MDMarja D. Van SickleCorresponding
University of Calgary, Vanderbilt University, University of Washington, Behavioral Tech Research, Inc., Institute of Infection and Immunity
- MDMarnie DuncanCorresponding
University of Calgary, Vanderbilt University, University of Washington, Behavioral Tech Research, Inc., Institute of Infection and Immunity
- PJPhilip J. Kingsley
University of Calgary, Vanderbilt University, University of Washington, Behavioral Tech Research, Inc., Institute of Infection and Immunity
- AMAbdeslam Mouihate
University of Calgary, Vanderbilt University, University of Washington, Behavioral Tech Research, Inc., Institute of Infection and Immunity
- PUPaolo Urbani
University of Calgary, Vanderbilt University, University of Washington, Behavioral Tech Research, Inc., Institute of Infection and Immunity
Topics & keywords
- Endocannabinoid system
- Cannabinoid receptor
- Receptor
- Cannabinoid receptor type 2
- 2-Arachidonoylglycerol
- Cannabinoid
- GPR18
- Brainstem
- Good health and well-being