Cannabinoid Receptor 2 Signaling Does Not Modulate Atherogenesis in Mice

Abstract Background: Strong evidence supports a protective role of the cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) in inflammation and atherosclerosis. However, direct proof of its involvement in lesion formation is lacking. Therefore, the present study aimed to characterize the role of the CB2 receptor in Murine atherogenesis. Methods and Findings: Low density lipoprotein receptor-deficient (LDLR−/−) mice subjected to intraperitoneal injections of the selective CB2 receptor agonist JWH-133 or vehicle three times per week consumed high cholesterol diet (HCD) for 16 weeks. Surprisingly,