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Cannabinoids affect the mouse visual acuity via the cannabinoid receptor type 2
Bruno Cécyre1,2, Ismaël Bachand1, François Papineau1
1Laboratoire de Neuropharmacologie, École d'optométrie, Université de Montréal, Succursale Centre-Ville, C.P. 6128, Montréal, Québec, H3C 3J7, Canada.
Scientific Reports
|September 26, 2020
Summary
The endocannabinoid system
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Ophthalmology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- The endocannabinoid system (eCB) plays a role in various physiological processes.
- Cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2R) is expressed in the mouse retina, but its function in vision is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of CB2R in modulating visual acuity and retinal function.
- To determine if CB2R exclusively mediates cannabinoid effects on vision.
Main Methods:
- Utilized genetic tools (Cnr2 knockout mice) and pharmacological agents to modulate CB2R activity.
- Administered an inverse agonist (AM630) to block CB2R.
- Investigated the effects of modulating 2-arachidonylglycerol (2-AG) synthesis and degradation.
- Employed electroretinography (ERG) to assess retinal function.
Main Results:
- Cnr2 knockout mice exhibited enhanced visual acuity.
- CB2R activation decreased visual acuity, while blockade increased it.
- Modulating 2-AG levels significantly impacted visual acuity.
- CB1R manipulation had no effect on visual acuity, indicating CB2R specificity.
- ERG results showed that 2-AG affects cone and amacrine cell function.
Conclusions:
- CB2R is a key regulator of visual acuity.
- Endocannabinoids, specifically 2-AG, influence both visual acuity and retinal sensitivity.
- CB2R is present in visual pathways and modulates vision-related functions.
