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Cannabinoid Receptor Modulation in Focal Ischemic Stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Infarct Volume and
Hussain Al Dera1,2,3, Abdulrahman Khojah4,5, Abdulrazak Sakhakhni6,7
1Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Science KSAU-HS, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, derah@ksau-hs.Edu.sa.
Summary
Cannabinoid (CB) receptor modulation significantly reduced infarct volume in animal models of ischemic stroke. CB agonists and antagonists show neuroprotective potential, warranting further research into therapeutic applications.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Stroke Research
Background:
- Focal ischemic stroke is a leading cause of death and disability.
- Current treatments are limited, necessitating novel therapeutic strategies.
- Cannabinoid (CB) receptors are implicated in neuroprotection and inflammation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and meta-analyze the effects of CB receptor modulation on infarct volume and behavioral deficits in animal models of focal ischemic stroke.
- To identify specific CB receptor modulators with potential neuroprotective properties.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was performed adhering to PRISMA guidelines.
- 29 eligible studies involving animal models of ischemic stroke were included.
- Meta-analysis was conducted to assess the impact of CB agonists and antagonists on infarct volume and neurological scores.
Main Results:
- CB agonists, including CB1 and CB2 specific agents (e.g., ACEA, KN38-72717), significantly reduced infarct volume.
- CB antagonists, particularly CB1 antagonists (e.g., SR141716), also demonstrated reductions in infarct volume.
- While neurological improvements were noted, they did not reach statistical significance, suggesting further investigation is needed.
Conclusions:
- CB receptor modulation presents a promising neuroprotective strategy for ischemic stroke.
- Specific CB agonists and antagonists show efficacy in reducing infarct size in preclinical models.
- Further research is crucial to understand mechanisms and optimize therapeutic use of CB modulators.

