The influence of cannabinoid CB₂ receptor on the viability of bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cell

Abstract

Adult mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a multipotent population of stem cells that can differentiate along the osteogenic, chondrogenic or adipogenic lineages under the appropriate bio-chemical stimuli. Musculoskeletal conditions are becoming a significant health concern due to the increased occurrence of sports-related injuries, and the demographic shift that has resulted in an increasingly aged population. Several preclinical studies have demonstrated the potential role of cannabinoids and their receptors in skeletal metabolism. Recently, the role of cannabinoid system in the regulation of arthritis or age-related osteoporosis has been identified. The endocannabinoid system has emerged as a promising new area of research for the treatment of inflammatory arthritis and in the regulation of bone metabolism. While research in these areas contributes to tissue engineering, the effects of cannabinoids on MSC viability remain poorly defined. The overall objective of this study was to investigate the impact of cannabinoids, in particular, the CB2 selective ligands on MSC viability in young adult and aged male Wistar rats given that cell viability is a critical determinant for the success of any cell-based tissue engineering application.