Interactions Between the Ubiquitin–Proteasome System, Nrf2, and the Cannabinoidome as Protective Strategies to Combat Neurodegeneration: Review on Experimental Evidence

Abstract

Neurodegenerative disorders are chronic brain diseases that affect humans worldwide. Although many different factors are thought to be involved in the pathogenesis of these disorders, alterations in several key elements such as the ubiquitin–proteasome system (UPS), the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway, and the endocannabinoid system (ECS or endocannabinoidome) have been implicated in their etiology. Impairment of these elements has been linked to the origin and progression of neurodegenerative disorders, while their potentiation is thought to promote neuronal survival and overall neuroprotection, as proved with several experimental models. These key neuroprotective pathways can interact and indirectly activate each other. In this review, we summarize the neuroprotective potential of the UPS, ECS, and Nrf2 signaling, both separately and combined, pinpointing their role as a potential therapeutic approach against several hallmarks of neurodegeneration. Graphical Abstract