Update on the controversial identity of cells expressing cnr2 gene in the nervous system. (5th January 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Grabon, Wanda; Bodennec, Jacques; Rheims, Sylvain; Belmeguenai, Amor; Bezin, Laurent
• Is Part Of: CNS neuroscience & therapeutics. Volume 29:Number 3(2023)
• Page Start: 760
• Page End: 770
• Publication Date: 2023-01-05
• Subjects: astrocytes -- CB2R tissue distribution -- immunodetection -- microglia -- neurons; Neuropharmacology -- Periodicals; Central nervous system -- Diseases -- Effect of drugs on -- Periodicals; 612.8
• DOI: 10.1111/cns.13977
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1755-5930

Abstract

Abstract: The function of cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2R), mainly expressed by leukocytes, has long been limited to its peripheral immunomodulatory role. However, the use of CB2R‐specific ligands and the availability of CB2R‐Knock Out mice revealed that it could play a functional role in the CNS not only under physiological but also under pathological conditions. A direct effect on the nervous system emerged when CB2R mRNA was detected in neural tissues. However, accurate mapping of CB2R protein expression in the nervous system is still lacking, partly because of the lack of specificity of antibodies available. This review examines the regions and cells of the nervous system where CB2R protein is most likely present by cross‐referencing mRNA and protein data published to date. Of the many antibodies developed to target CB2R, only a few have partially passed specificity tests and detected CB2R in the CNS. Efforts must be continued to support the development of more specific and better validated antibodies in each of the species in which CB2R protein is sought or needs to be quantified. Abstract : Presence of the CB2R receptor in the nervous system: where do we stand? This review outlines the brain regions and cells where its expression is most likely.