Endocannabinoid system in the neurodevelopment of GABAergic interneurons: implications for neurological and psychiatric disorders

Abstract

In mature mammalian brains, the endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays an important role in the regulation of synaptic plasticity and the functioning of neural networks. Besides, the ECS also contributes to the neurodevelopment of the central nervous system. Due to the increase in the medical and recreational use of cannabis, it is inevitable and essential to elaborate the roles of the ECS on neurodevelopment. GABAergic interneurons represent a group of inhibitory neurons that are vital in controlling neural network activity. However, the role of the ECS in the neurodevelopment of GABAergic interneurons remains to be fully elucidated. In this review, we provide a brief introduction of the ECS and interneuron diversity. We focus on the process of interneuron development and the role of ECS in the modulation of interneuron development, from the expansion of the neural stem/progenitor cells to the migration, specification and maturation of interneurons. We further discuss the potential implications of the ECS and interneurons in the pathogenesis of neurological and psychiatric disorders, including epilepsy, schizophrenia, major depressive disorder and autism spectrum disorder.

The Autism–Psychosis Continuum Conundrum: Exploring the Role of the Endocannabinoid System

“…In this regard, the endocannabinoid (eCB) system has been found to play a crucial role in regulating synaptic plasticity and the functioning of multiple neural networks, not only in the mature nervous system [16][17][18] but also in the immature nervous system while developing, with long-lasting consequences [19][20][21][22][23]. Recent reappraisals of the literature suggest potential implications of the eCB system in the pathogenesis of several neuropsychiatric disorders including but not limited to schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorder [24].…”