Generic placeholder image

Current Drug Targets - CNS & Neurological Disorders

Editor-in-Chief

ISSN (Print): 1568-007X
ISSN (Online): 1568-007X

From Cannabis to Endocannabinoids in Multiple Sclerosis: A Paradigm of Central Nervous System Autoimmune Diseases

Author(s): Anna M. Malfitano, Giuseppe Matarese and Maurizio Bifulco

Volume 4, Issue 6, 2005

Page: [667 - 675] Pages: 9

DOI: 10.2174/156800705774933087

Price: $65

Abstract

An Increasing body of evidence suggests that cannabinoids have beneficial effects on the symptoms of multiple sclerosis, including spasticity and pain. Endogenous molecules with cannabinoid-like activity, such as the "endocannabinoids", have been shown to mimic the anti-inflammatory properties of cannabinoids through the cannabinoid receptors. Several studies suggest that cannabinoids and endocannabinoids may have a key role in the pathogenesis and therapy of multiple sclerosis. Indeed, they can down regulate the production of pathogenic T helper 1- associated cytokines enhancing the production of T helper 2-associated protective cytokines. A shift towards T helper 2 has been associated with therapeutic benefit in multiple sclerosis. In addition, cannabinoids exert a neuromodulatory effect on neurotransmitters and hormones involved in the neurodegenerative phase of the disease. In vivo studies using mice with experimental allergic encephalomyelitis, an animal model of multiple sclerosis, suggest that the increase of the circulating levels of endocannabinoids might have a therapeutic effect, and that agonists of endocannabinoids with low psychoactive effects could open new strategies for the treatment of multiple sclerosis.

Keywords: MS, CNS, endocannabinoids, T cells, cytokines


Rights & Permissions Print Cite
© 2024 Bentham Science Publishers | Privacy Policy