Integrating “fast” and “slow” systems therapeutics for physiological renormalization in neurodegenerative disorders

In our previous paper, we provided evidence that simultaneously activating multiple cannabinergic pathways, CB1 and CB2, a systems therapeutic approach, was harnessed to provide “fast” protection from neurodegenerative diseases by renormalizing the physiology of the retina. We had used an animal model of glaucoma, using glutamate-induced neurodegeneration of the retina. Other forms of chronic or acute neurotoxicity throughout the CNS may likewise benefit from a systems approach to cannabinergic mediated rescue of neural tissue. However, from a systems biology perspective, cannabinergic pathways act in many ways, not fully explained in our previous paper, and must act in synergy with many other pathways, including the molecules (e.g. HSP) released by adjacent stem cells, to optimally yield neuroprotection. In addition to the “fast” pathways previously described, we’ll address “slow” acting, lifestyle and nutritional pathways too. Building on our previous paper, we highlight some of the important “fast and “slow” neuroprotective pathways that should be activated together through a systems therapeutic approach.