MODULATION OF THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM PREVENT GANGLION CELL DEGENERATION IN POSTNATAL RAT RETINA EXPLANTS

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is formed by cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2), endocannabinoids (EC) and metabolic enzymes; however, it can act outside the ECS as in transient receptor potential vanilloid channels (TRPV). Numerous studies have demonstrated the impact of modulating of the ECS on neuronal and glial cell death in various neurodegenerative diseases. These modulations can reduce neuronal excitability, neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. The modulation of the ECS has also shown hypotensive and neuroprotective effects in glaucoma, the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. However, current treatments are inadequate in halting disease progression. Understanding the alterations in the ECS during glaucoma progression can facilitate the development of effective therapeutic alternatives.