The Role and Research Progress of the Endocannabinoid System in Neuropathic Pain

Abstract

Neuropathic pain (NP) is a common source of chronic pain. The pathogenesis of NP is complex and there is no effective treatment at present. Its onset can produce continuous burning pain and affect the normal life of patients seriously. NP imposes a heavy burden on individuals and society. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) has been proven to be a part of the endogenous anti-injury system and contains several promising NP therapeutic targets: current studies have demonstrated that activating peripheral CB1 receptor pathway, targeting activating CB2 receptors, inhibiting endocannabinoid degrading enzymes and regulating transient receptor potential channels (TRP) are potentially effective strategies for alleviating NP symptoms. In this paper, in order to provide theoretical support for the treatment of NP and the development of ECS-related drugs, the role and molecular mechanism of ECS in pain management and related NP therapeutic targets were reviewed from the above four aspects.