Cannabinoid receptor 2 activation reduces intestinal leukocyte recruitment and systemic inflammatory mediator release in acute experimental sepsis

Abstract

Introduction: Cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2R) expression is upregulated during sepsis. However, there are conflicting results regarding the effects of CB2R modulation in the hyperinflammatory phase of the disease.

Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of CB2R manipulation on leukocyte activation within the intestinal microcirculation in two acute experimental sepsis models.

Keywords

• sepsis
• endotoxemia
• microcirculation
• intravital microscopy
• intestine
• leukocyte adherence
• cannabinoid receptor
• cytokines
• adhesion molecules