Endocannabinoids and the control of energy homeostasis

J Biol Chem. 2008 Nov 28;283(48):33021-5. doi: 10.1074/jbc.R800012200. Epub 2008 Aug 11.

Abstract

Endocannabinoids (ECBs) are ubiquitous lipid mediators that act through the same G protein-coupled receptors (CB1 and CB2) that recognize plant-derived cannabinoids. As regulators of metabolism, ECBs are anabolic: they increase the intake, promote the storage, and decrease the expenditure of energy. Recent work indicates that activation of peripheral CB1 receptors by ECBs plays a key role in the hormonal/metabolic changes associated with obesity/metabolic syndrome and may be targeted for its pharmacotherapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cannabinoid Receptor Modulators / metabolism*
  • Cannabinoid Receptor Modulators / therapeutic use
  • Endocannabinoids*
  • Energy Metabolism* / drug effects
  • Homeostasis / drug effects
  • Humans
  • Metabolic Syndrome / drug therapy
  • Metabolic Syndrome / metabolism*
  • Obesity / drug therapy
  • Obesity / metabolism*
  • Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1 / agonists
  • Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1 / metabolism*
  • Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2 / agonists
  • Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2 / metabolism*

Substances

  • Cannabinoid Receptor Modulators
  • Endocannabinoids
  • Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1
  • Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2