Immune control by endocannabinoids - new mechanisms of neuroprotection?

J Neuroimmunol. 2007 Mar;184(1-2):127-35. doi: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2006.11.018. Epub 2006 Dec 28.

Abstract

The endocannabinoid system consists of cannabinoid receptors, their endogenous ligands and enzymes for synthesis and degradation of endocannabinoids and represents a local messenger system within and between the nervous and immune system. Apparently, the endocannabinoid system is involved in immune control and neuoprotection. In this review, we discuss possible mechanisms of immune control by endocannabinoids, which include the modulation of innate immunity, effects on cytokin networks, downregulation of adaptive immune response and apoptosis in immune cells.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Apoptosis
  • Cannabinoid Receptor Modulators / physiology*
  • Cytokines / immunology
  • Dendritic Cells / physiology
  • Endocannabinoids*
  • Humans
  • Immune System / cytology
  • Immune System / physiology*
  • Receptors, Cannabinoid / physiology

Substances

  • Cannabinoid Receptor Modulators
  • Cytokines
  • Endocannabinoids
  • Receptors, Cannabinoid