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BRET-based G Protein Biosensors for Measuring G Protein-Coupled Receptor Activity in Live Cells
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What we know and do not know about the cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2)
Anna Maria Malfitano1, Sreemanti Basu2, Katarzyna Maresz2
1Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Salerno Facoltà di Medicina, Baronissi Campus, Baronissi 84081, (SA), Italy; Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università di Salerno, Fisciano 84084, (SA), Italy.
Seminars in Immunology
|June 1, 2014
Summary
The endocannabinoid system regulates immune responses through cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2). Research using CB2-deficient mice enhances understanding of CB2
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- The endocannabinoid system modulates immune responses via cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2).
- CB2 is predominantly expressed on hematopoietic cells.
- The system comprises receptors, ligands, and enzymes regulating endocannabinoid levels.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the endocannabinoid system, focusing on CB2.
- To explore the role of CB2 in immune cell development and function.
- To discuss the association of CB2 with human diseases.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on the endocannabinoid system and CB2.
- Analysis of studies involving CB2-deficient mice.
- Examination of genetic studies linking CB2 to human diseases.
Main Results:
- CB2 signaling influences immune cell development and function.
- Both inhibitory and stimulatory signals are mediated by CB2.
- Genetic variations in CB2 are linked to various human diseases.
Conclusions:
- CB2 is a critical regulator of the immune system.
- Further research into CB2 is warranted for understanding immune function and disease.
- Targeting CB2 may offer therapeutic potential for immune-related conditions.
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