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Cannabinoids and the expanded endocannabinoid system in neurological disorders
Luigia Cristino1, Tiziana Bisogno2, Vincenzo Di Marzo3,4,5
1Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Pozzuoli, Italy.
Nature Reviews. Neurology
|December 14, 2019
Summary
Cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system show therapeutic potential for neurological diseases. Research explores targeting this system, including the endocannabinoidome, for conditions like epilepsy and Parkinson disease.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Cannabis-derived compounds, like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), were explored for medical use.
- Targeting the endocannabinoid system via cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) faced challenges due to side effects.
- Discovery of CB2 receptors, endocannabinoids, and the broader endocannabinoidome offered new therapeutic avenues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the endocannabinoid system and endocannabinoidome.
- To discuss their role in various neurological disorders.
- To highlight clinical relevance and therapeutic potential.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of endocannabinoid system research.
- Analysis of cannabinoid and endocannabinoid involvement in neurological diseases.
- Discussion of recent therapeutic approvals and future directions.
Main Results:
- The endocannabinoid system, including the endocannabinoidome, is implicated in numerous neurological conditions.
- Approved cannabinoid therapies (nabiximols, cannabidiol) demonstrate efficacy in specific neurological contexts.
- Targeting the endocannabinoid system presents complex challenges and opportunities.
Conclusions:
- The endocannabinoid system and endocannabinoidome are crucial in neurological health and disease.
- Further research is needed to safely and effectively harness their therapeutic potential.
- Cannabinoids and related compounds offer promising, albeit complex, therapeutic strategies for neurological disorders.
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