Therapeutical potential of CB₂ receptors in immune-related diseases

Curr Mol Pharmacol. 2013 Nov;6(3):183-203. doi: 10.2174/1874467207666140219122337.

Abstract

The cannabinoid receptor CB2 is highly expressed in immune cells suggesting an important role in numerous diseases such as inflammation, cancer, osteoporosis and liver diseases relating to modulation of the immune system. As a consequence, activation of receptor CB2 is a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of a large range of diseases. Indeed, selective CB2 agonists display beneficial anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and antifibrogenic properties and positive effects on liver disease and osteoporosis. This article reviews the CB2 involvement in the immune system and the promising therapeutical potential of selective CB2 agonists in the treatment of several immune-related diseases.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / pharmacology
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / therapeutic use
  • Antineoplastic Agents / pharmacology
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Drug Discovery*
  • Humans
  • Immune System / drug effects*
  • Immune System / immunology
  • Liver Diseases / drug therapy
  • Liver Diseases / immunology
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Neoplasms / immunology
  • Osteoporosis / drug therapy
  • Osteoporosis / immunology
  • Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2 / agonists*
  • Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2 / immunology*

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2