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Neuroinflammation as a possible link between cannabinoids and addiction
Livia C M Rodrigues1, Pedro H Gobira2, Antonio Carlos de Oliveira2
11Department of Physiological Sciences,Health Science Center,Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo,Vitoria,Brazil.
Acta Neuropsychiatrica
|December 3, 2014
Summary
Cannabinoids may offer therapeutic benefits for addiction by modulating neuroinflammation. Research suggests that disruptions in cannabinoid signaling contribute to inflammation in the brain, a key factor in substance dependence disorder.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Substance dependence disorder involves neurobiological changes and loss of control.
- Endocannabinoids are implicated in addiction etiology, acting as immunomodulators.
- Neuroinflammation may play a role in addiction pathophysiology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the role of neuroinflammation in the therapeutic effects of cannabinoids on drug addiction.
- To assess the link between cannabinoid signaling, neuroinflammation, and addiction.
Main Methods:
- Evidence-based literature review.
- Searched PubMed and BioMedCentral databases up to April 2014.
- Included 165 eligible articles.
Main Results:
- Disruption in cannabinoid signaling is linked to microglial activation and neuroinflammation in addiction.
- Evidence suggests a connection between inflammation, endocannabinoid signaling changes, and drug abuse.
Conclusions:
- The precise causal relationship between neuroinflammation, cannabinoid signaling, and addiction remains unclear.
- Further research is needed to understand the contribution of neuroinflammation to the effects of cannabinoids in addiction treatment.
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