Identification and Functional Characterization of Brainstem Cannabinoid CB<sub>2</sub>Receptors

20051,457 citationsJournal Article

Authors

Marja D. Van Sickle · University of Calgary

Marnie Duncan · University of Calgary

Philip J. Kingsley · University of Calgary

Abdeslam Mouihate · University of Calgary

Paolo Urbani · University of Calgary

Ken Mackie · University of Calgary

Nephi Stella ·

Abstract

The presence and function of CB2 receptors in central nervous system (CNS) neurons are controversial. We report the expression of CB2 receptor messenger RNA and protein localization on brainstem neurons. These functional CB2 receptors in the brainstem were activated by a CB2 receptor agonist, 2-arachidonoylglycerol, and by elevated endogenous levels of endocannabinoids, which also act at CB1 receptors. CB2 receptors represent an alternative site of action of endocannabinoids that opens the possibility of nonpsychotropic therapeutic interventions using enhanced endocannabinoid levels in localized brain areas.

Topics & Keywords

Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior Neuroscience and Neuropharmacology Research

UN Sustainable Development Goals

Good health and well-being

Publication Details

Published in: Science

Volume 310, Issue 5746, pp. 329-332

DOI: 10.1126/science.1115740

Field-Weighted Citation Impact: 72.16