Targeting the CB ₂ receptor and other endocannabinoid elements to delay disease progression in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Cannabinoids form a singular group of plant-derived compounds, endogenous lipids and synthetic derivatives with multiple therapeutic effects exerted by targeting different elements the endocannabinoid system. One their applications is preservation neuronal integrity attenuating neurotoxic events that kill neurons in neurodegenerative disorders. In this review, we will address potential cannabinoids as neuroprotective agents amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), devastating disorder characterized muscle denervation, atrophy paralysis, progressive deterioration upper and/or lower motor neurons. The emphasis be paid on cannabinoid type 2 (CB2) receptor, whose activation limits glial reactivity, but additional endocannabinoid-related targets also addressed. evidence accumulated so far at preclinical level supports need to soon move towards patients initiate clinical trials confirm cannabinoid-based medicines disease modifiers ALS. LINKED ARTICLES This article part themed issue Recent advances ALS pathogenesis therapeutics. To view other articles section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v178.6/issuetoc