CB2 receptor-mediated migration of immune cells: it can go either way

Br J Pharmacol. 2008 Jan;153(2):299-308. doi: 10.1038/sj.bjp.0707523. Epub 2007 Nov 5.

Abstract

Though many studies have examined the role of CB2 receptors in immune cell migration, it has been difficult to form definitive conclusions about the physiopathological role of these receptors in regulating immune responses and how this might be pharmacologically targeted for therapy. Do cannabinoids promote inflammation through the recruitment of immune cells, or reduce inflammation by interfering with the action of other chemoattractants? Is therapeutic intervention with an agonist or antagonist more appropriate for the reduction of inflammation? In this review, we will summarize the progress that has been made in answering these questions and outline current hypotheses.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Movement / drug effects*
  • Cell Movement / immunology*
  • Humans
  • Immunity, Cellular / drug effects*
  • Immunity, Cellular / physiology*
  • Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1 / drug effects
  • Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1 / immunology
  • Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1 / physiology
  • Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2 / drug effects
  • Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2 / immunology*
  • Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2 / physiology*

Substances

  • Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1
  • Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2