The endocannabinoid system of the skin in health and disease: novel perspectives and therapeutic opportunities

Trends Pharmacol Sci. 2009 Aug;30(8):411-20. doi: 10.1016/j.tips.2009.05.004. Epub 2009 Jul 14.

Abstract

The newly discovered endocannabinoid system (ECS; comprising the endogenous lipid mediators endocannabinoids present in virtually all tissues, their G-protein-coupled cannabinoid receptors, biosynthetic pathways and metabolizing enzymes) has been implicated in multiple regulatory functions both in health and disease. Recent studies have intriguingly suggested the existence of a functional ECS in the skin and implicated it in various biological processes (e.g. proliferation, growth, differentiation, apoptosis and cytokine, mediator or hormone production of various cell types of the skin and appendages, such as the hair follicle and sebaceous gland). It seems that the main physiological function of the cutaneous ECS is to constitutively control the proper and well-balanced proliferation, differentiation and survival, as well as immune competence and/or tolerance, of skin cells. The disruption of this delicate balance might facilitate the development of multiple pathological conditions and diseases of the skin (e.g. acne, seborrhea, allergic dermatitis, itch and pain, psoriasis, hair growth disorders, systemic sclerosis and cancer).

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Intramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cannabinoid Receptor Modulators / pharmacology
  • Cannabinoid Receptor Modulators / physiology*
  • Cannabinoid Receptor Modulators / therapeutic use*
  • Cannabinoids / pharmacology
  • Cannabinoids / therapeutic use
  • Drug Delivery Systems
  • Endocannabinoids*
  • Humans
  • Models, Biological
  • Receptors, Cannabinoid / drug effects*
  • Receptors, Cannabinoid / physiology*
  • Skin / immunology
  • Skin / metabolism*
  • Skin / physiopathology*
  • Skin Diseases / drug therapy*
  • Skin Diseases / physiopathology
  • Skin Physiological Phenomena

Substances

  • Cannabinoid Receptor Modulators
  • Cannabinoids
  • Endocannabinoids
  • Receptors, Cannabinoid