Discovery of the Endocannabinoid System: A Breakthrough in Neuroscience

Abstract

Context: Involvement of the endocannabinoid system (eCBs) in a wide variety of physiological and pathological processes has attracted a growing interest. In fact, identification of this ubiquitous signaling system has provided new insights into the underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms of various diseases which may lead to development of novel therapeutic strategies. Evidence Acquisitions: The limited efficacy of current pharmacological treatments for neurological disorders has led to considerable research interests in new drug development. Based on the modulatory effects of the eCBs on neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative processes, pharmacological manipulation of the eCBs may prove beneficial in neurological problems. Results: The eCBs is involved in the survival signaling pathways, neural plasticity, and neuroprotection. Furthermore, the eCBs has proved therapeutic effects against the neurological diseases such as multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, mood and movement disorders, spinal cord injury, stroke, and Alzheimer’s disease. Conclusions: In the present manuscript, an overview on the regulatory role of the eCBs in neurological disorders underscores the importance of systematic analysis of the efficacy and mechanisms of action of cannabinoid-based drugs. Based on the anti-neuroinflammatory and anti-neurodegenerative effects of cannabinoids, the development of drugs without psychoactive effects would be a promising therapeutic alternative for neurological diseases.