Modeling Neurodegenerative Disorders for Developing Cannabinoid-Based Neuroprotective Therapies.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Pharmacology
• Gerontology

Background:

• Increased lifespan leads to a higher incidence of age-related chronic neurodegenerative disorders.
• Aging is the primary risk factor for these conditions, posing a significant biomedical challenge.
• Current therapies are insufficient, highlighting the urgent need for novel treatment strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the challenge of neurodegenerative disorders in aging populations.
• To review the failures in developing effective therapies and propose solutions.
• To explore cannabinoids as a potential therapeutic strategy for neuroprotection and repair.

Main Methods:

• Reviewing current research on neurodegenerative disorders and aging.
• Analyzing the limitations of existing therapeutic approaches.
• Investigating the potential of cannabinoids and their targets (endocannabinoid system, PPARs, transcription factors).

Main Results:

• Cannabinoids exhibit a broad-spectrum neuroprotective profile.
• The endocannabinoid system is an endogenous protective mechanism.
• Cannabinoid targets are located in critical neuronal survival pathways and support cell repair.

Conclusions:

• Cannabinoids represent a viable strategy for developing novel therapies for neurodegenerative disorders.
• Targeting the endocannabinoid system can promote neuroprotection, repair, and cell replacement.
• Multitarget strategies, predictive models, and early biomarkers are crucial for future success.