An overview of the cannabinoid type 2 receptor system and its therapeutic potential

Purpose of review This narrative review summarizes recent insights into the role of the cannabinoid type 2 (CB2) receptor as potential therapeutic target in neuropathic pain and neurodegenerative conditions. Recent findings The cannabinoid system continues to receive attention as a therapeutic target. The CB2 receptor is primarily expressed on glial cells only when there is active inflammation and appears to be devoid of undesired psychotropic effects or addiction liability. The CB2 receptor has been shown to have potential as a therapeutic target in models of diseases with limited or no currently approved therapies, such as neuropathic pain and neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's disease. Summary The functional involvement of CB2 receptor in neuropathic pain and other neuroinflammatory diseases highlights the potential therapeutic role of drugs acting at the CB2 receptor. Correspondence to Mohamed Naguib, MB, BCh, MSc, FCARCSI, MD, Department of General Anesthesia, Anesthesiology Institute, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Ave. - NE6–306, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA. Tel: +1 216 444 6328; fax: +1 216 636-2043; e-mail: naguibm@ccf.org Copyright © 2018 YEAR Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

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