Abstract
The endocannabinoid system exhibits anti‐inflammatory properties by regulating cytokine production. Anandamide (AEA) down‐regulates proinflammatory cytokines in a viral model of multiple sclerosis (MS). However, little is known about the mechanisms by which AEA exerts these effects. Microglial cells are the main source of cytokines within the brain and the first barrier of defense against pathogens by acting as antigen presenting cells. IL‐10 is a key physiological negative regulator of microglial activation. In this study we show that AEA enhances LPS/IFNγ‐induced IL‐10 production in microglia by targeting CB~2~ receptors through the activation of ERK1/2 and JNK MAPKs. AEA also inhibits NF‐κB activation by interfering with the phosphorylation of IκBα, which may result in an increase of IL‐10 production. Moreover, endogenously produced IL‐10 negatively regulates IL‐12 and IL‐23 cytokines, which in its turn modify the pattern of expression of transcription factorsinvolved in Th commitment of splenocytes. This suggeststhat by altering the cytokine network, AEA could indirectly modify the type of immune responses within the central nervous system (CNS). Accordingly, pharmacological modulation of AEA uptake and degradation might be a useful tool for treating neuroinflammatory diseases. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.