Neuroprotection

A Major role of the endocannabinoid system is to protect brain cells from neuronal damage.  This is accomplished by releasing endocannabinoids which are subsequently deactivated by special enzymes, the most promising of which is fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH).  Compounds capable of selectively inhibiting this enzyme (FAAH inhibitors) can produce increased levels of endocannabinoids capable of neuroprotective action.  For this reason, FAAH inhibitors can serve as medications for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis as well as Parkinson and Alzheimer disease.  MAKScientific has developed FAAH inhibitors with demonstrated potent neuroprotective properties and excellent safety profiles.  Of these, MAK5206 is being explored as a medication for multiple sclerosis.

The model FAAH inhibitor AM374 protects against neuronal damage

A novel FAAH inhibitor that protects neurons against damage is being considered for multiple sclerosis treatment.