Cannabinoid Receptors, Mental Pain and Suicidal Behavior: a Systematic Review

Purpose of Review The current serotonin-based biological model of suicidal behavior (SB) may be too simplistic. There is emerging evidence that other biomarkers and biological systems may be involved in SB pathophysiology. The literature on the endocannabinoid (EC) systems and SB is limited. The objective of the present article is to review all available information on the relationship between cannabinoid receptors (CB 1 and CB 2 receptors), and SB and/or psychological pain. Recent Findings Our review is limited by the small number and heterogeneity of studies identified: (1) an autopsy study describing elevated levels of CB 1 receptor activity in the prefrontal cortex and suicide in both depression and alcoholism and (2) studies supporting the involvement of both CB 1 and CB 2 receptors in the regulation of neuropathic pain and stress-induced analgesia. Summary We conclude that cannabinoid receptors, particularly CB 1 receptors, may become promising targets for the development of novel therapeutic tools for the treatment of SB.