Cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 Receptors, and Monoacylglycerol Lipase Gene Expression Alterations in the Basal Ganglia of Patients with Parkinson's Disease.

ABSTRACT: Previous studies suggest that the endocannabinoid system plays an important role in the neuropathological basis of Parkinson's disease (PD). This study was designed to detect potential alterations in the cannabinoid receptors CB1 (CB1r) and CB2 (A isoform, CB2Ar), and in monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) gene expression in the substantia nigra (SN) and putamen (PUT) of patients with PD. Immunohistochemical studies were performed to identify precise CB2r cellular localization in the SN of control and PD patients. To ensure the validity and reliability of gene expression data, the RNA integrity number (RIN) was calculated. CB1r, CB2Ar, and MAGL gene expressions were evaluated by real-time polymerase chain reaction (real-time PCR) using Taqman assays. Immunohistochemical experiments with in situ

SUBMITTER: Navarrete F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5935636 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature