Therapeutic potential of CB2 targeting in multiple sclerosis.

BACKGROUND

Cannabinoids have been shown to exert beneficial actions in different animal models of multiple sclerosis (MS). However, the use of cannabinoids compounds in human therapy is greatly limited by their psychoactivity. Thus, new hopes in MS therapy have arisen from the evidence for a cannabinoid receptor, termed CB2, which is devoid of psychoactive effects in animal models.

OBJECTIVE

This review discusses the different mechanisms by which CB2 activation could induce therapeutic actions in MS.

METHODS

Particular focus is given to the potential effects on inflammation/autoimmunity, remyelination and neuroprotection.

CONCLUSION

This review discusses the importance of glial cells in sustaining these effects, as well as the putative secondary effects that would limit the use of CB2 agonists in the treatment of MS.