Targeting 2-arachidonoylglycerol signalling in the neurobiology and treatment of depression

Author(s)

Silveira, Kennia M. ^{[1, 2]} ; Wegener, Gregers ^[1] ; Joca, Samia R. L. ^{[3, 1, 2]}

Affiliation

^[1] Aarhus Univ, Dept Clin Med, Aarhus - Denmark

^[2] Univ Sao Paulo, Sch Pharmaceut Sci Ribeirao Preto FCFRP, Ribeirao Preto - Brazil

^[3] Aarhus Univ, Dept Biomed, Aarhus - Denmark

• Document type: Review article
• Source: BASIC & CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY & TOXICOLOGY; v. 129, n. 1, p. 3-14, JUL 2021.
• Web of Science Citations: 0

Abstract

The endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) is an atypical neurotransmitter synthesized on demand in response to a wide range of stimuli, including exposure to stress. Through the activation of cannabinoid receptors, 2-AG can interfere with excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission in different brain regions and modulate behavioural, endocrine and emotional components of the stress response. Exposure to chronic or intense unpredictable stress predisposes to maladaptive behaviour and is one of the main risk factors involved in developing mood disorders, such as major depressive disorder (MDD). In this review, we describe the molecular mechanisms involved in 2-AG signalling in the brain of healthy and stressed animals and discuss how such mechanisms could modulate stress adaptation and susceptibility to depression. Furthermore, we review preclinical evidence indicating that the pharmacological modulation of 2-AG signalling stands as a potential new therapeutic target in treating MDD. Particular emphasis is given to the pharmacological augmentation of 2-AG levels by monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) inhibitors and the modulation of CB2 receptors. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 17/24304-0 - New perspectives in the use of drugs that modify atypical neurotransmitters in the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders
• Grantee: Francisco Silveira Guimaraes
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants