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CB2 Receptor in Microglia: The Guardian of Self-Control

Joanna Agnieszka Komorowska-Müller1,2, Anne-Caroline Schmöle1

  • 1Institute for Molecular Psychiatry, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany.

International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|December 30, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Targeting the cannabinoid type 2 receptor (CB2R) on microglia may reduce brain inflammation. This review explores CB2R

Area of Science:

  • Neuroimmunology and Neuroinflammation
  • Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience

Background:

  • Microglia are crucial for brain homeostasis, acting as immune cells that can either protect against or exacerbate neurological conditions.
  • Uncontrolled microglial activity contributes to neuroinflammation, highlighting the need to understand and regulate their function.
  • The endocannabinoid system, particularly the cannabinoid type 2 receptor (CB2R), shows anti-inflammatory potential and is a promising therapeutic target for neuroinflammatory diseases due to its non-psychoactive effects.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current knowledge on the role of microglial cannabinoid type 2 receptor (CB2R) in neuroinflammation.
  • To elucidate the mechanisms by which CB2R regulates microglial activity.
  • To discuss CB2R's function in both physiological and pathological brain conditions, including neurodegenerative diseases.

Main Methods:

  • Comprehensive review of in vitro and in vivo studies.
  • Analysis of CB2R function across four distinct disease models representing acute and chronic inflammation.
  • Examination of recent technological advancements enabling new discoveries.

Main Results:

  • CB2R activation is associated with decreased inflammation in the brain.
  • Studies investigate CB2R's role in modulating microglial responses under various inflammatory conditions.
  • Emerging research explores CB2R's influence on cognition and neuron-microglia communication.

Conclusions:

  • Microglial CB2R is a significant target for managing neuroinflammation and potentially treating neurodegenerative diseases.
  • Further research is needed to fully understand the intricate mechanisms of CB2R in microglial regulation.
  • Novel technologies are advancing our understanding of CB2R's multifaceted roles in brain health and disease.
Keywords:
cannabinoid receptor 2endocannabinoid systemmicroglianeuroinflammationneuron–microglia-communication

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