CB1 Cannabinoid Receptor is a Target for Neuroprotection in Light Induced Retinal Degeneration

In the last few years, an increasing interest in neuroprotective effect of cannabinoids has taken place. The aim present work was to study effects modulating cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) context light induced retinal degeneration (LIRD), using animal model that resembles many characteristics human age-related macular (AMD) and other degenerative diseases outer retina. Sprague Dawley rats ( n = 28) were intravitreally injected right eye with either a CB1 agonist (ACEA), or antagonist (AM251). Contralateral eyes respective vehicles as controls. Then, subjected continuous illumination (12,000 lux) for 24 h. Retinas from 28 animals processed by GFAP-immunohistochemistry (IHC), TUNEL technique, Western blotting (WB), qRT-PCR. ACEA-treated retinas showed significantly lower number apoptotic nuclei nuclear layer (ONL), levels activated Caspase-3 WB, glial reactivity both GFAP-IHC WB. qRT-PCR revealed ACEA decreased expression Bcl-2 CYP1A1. Conversely, AM251-treated higher ONL, determined AM251 increased Bcl-2, Bad, Bax, Aryl hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR), GFAP, TNFα. summary, stimulation receptor, previous start pathogenic process, improved survival photoreceptors exposed LIRD. modulation activity may be used strategy deserves further studies.