CB2 receptors are located throughout the peripheral nervous system, in immune cells, and in microglial cells within the brain stem. They are closely tied to immune responses, mediating inflammatory responses in the brain and throughout the body. CB2 receptors are G-protein coupled receptors and are especially critical in promoting chemotaxis through the release of chemokines. The main mechanism of action involves inhibiting adenylyl cyclase, which increases the concentration of cAMP in the cell. Through its coupling with G-proteins, CB2 inhibits calcium channels in the cell membrane, disrupting the flow of calcium ions into the cell and can further regulate calcium concentrations when acted upon by anandamide. However, CB2 seems to not have an effect on potassium channels, a marked difference from CB1 receptors. Activation of CB2 receptors also activates MAPK and its associated signalling pathway, which affects translation and transcription especially in relation to mitosis. CB2's most remarkable difference from CB1 is its effect on the release of chemokines. Depending on the ligand binding to it, CB2 can act either to promote or suppress the release of chemokines from the cell, enabling both inflammatory and anti-inflammatory responses. This versatility, combined with CB2's lack of psychotropic effects makes it a promising target for therapeutic treatments of a range of conditions.

CB2 Receptor References