Long-term cannabinoid therapy can ameliorate chronic sleep deprivation-induced behavioral and neuroinflammatory changes in mice

Endocannabinoid system is an important contributor to body’s immune responses which are significantly impaired by chronic sleep deprivation (cSD). Although cannabinoids can modulate the endocannabinoid system, but most are understudied, especially regarding cSD. To investigate the therapeutic potential of CBD, CBG, CBC and their combinations, current study analyzed cSD-induced memory impairment, depression, microglial responses, cytokine profile and therapeutic effects of cannabinoid treatments using behavioral test and ELISA. Furthermore, molecular docking of these cannabinoids was performed to deduce the binding affinity with cannabinoid receptors and possible entrouge effects. The results showed that memory impairment and depression were more evident in cSD groups. Moreover, microglial activation and pro-inflammatory polarization was also more evident and was supported by increased pro-inflammatory cytokine concentrations in cSD groups. These changes were significantly reversed the cannabinoid groups but the combination of CBD + CBC was more effective than other treatments in reversing these cSD-induced behavioral and neuroinflammatory changes. Whereas, the molecular docking results also corroborated with the neuroimmunological changes observed in the current study, pointing towards the possible therapeutic role.

Significance statement

Chronic SD employs microglial activation/polarization, to exert behavioral impairments and neuroinflammation. This study signifies the therapeutic potential of proper sleep and cannabinoid intake.