CB2Expression

CB2Expression refers to the expression levels of the cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2) gene (CNR2) in various cell types and tissues. The CB2 receptor is a G protein-coupled receptor primarily expressed in immune cells such as B cells, T cells, macrophages, microglia, and in certain non‑immune tissues including the spleen, thymus, bone marrow, and gastrointestinal tract. CB2Expression studies measure the abundance of CB2 mRNA or protein using techniques such as quantitative PCR, in situ hybridization, western blotting, flow cytometry, or immunohistochemistry. These studies provide insight into the physiological roles of CB2, which include modulation of inflammation, immune regulation, pain perception, and cellular proliferation.

In the immune system, high CB2Expression is observed in activated lymphocytes and in cells of the innate immune system, where CB2 activation generally exerts anti‑inflammatory effects through inhibition of cytokine release and reduction of immune cell trafficking. In the central nervous system, CB2Expression in microglia increases during neuroinflammatory conditions, suggesting a protective role against neuronal damage. In the gastrointestinal tract, CB2Expression on immune cells and smooth muscle cells helps regulate motility and mucosal immune responses.

Research into CB2Expression has implications for drug development. Selective CB2 agonists are investigated as therapeutic agents for conditions such as autoimmune diseases, chronic pain, and neurodegenerative disorders, with the goal of modulating CB2Expression or activity to achieve anti‑inflammatory outcomes without central nervous system side effects associated with CB1 receptor activation. Understanding the patterns of CB2Expression across tissues and disease states remains a critical area of pharmacological and biomedical research.