The central cannabinoid receptor type-2 (CB2) and chronic pain

Abstract

Cannabinoid receptor type-2 (CB2, CB2 receptor or CB2-R) mediates analgesia via two mechanisms. CB2 receptors contained in peripheral immune tissue mediate analgesia by altering cytokine profiles, and thus have little adverse effects on central nervous systems (CNSs). CB2 is also expressed in the neurons and glial cells of the CNS. This neuronal expression may also contribute to pain attenuation. The CB2 receptor has been proposed as a potential target in treating chronic pain of several etiologies.