CB1 activity in male reproduction: mammalian and nonmammalian animal models

Vitam Horm. 2009:81:367-87. doi: 10.1016/S0083-6729(09)81014-5.

Abstract

The importance of the endocannabinoid system (ECBS) and its involvement in several physiological processes is still increasing. Since the isolation of the main active compound of Cannabis sativa, Delta(9)-THC, several lines of research have evidenced the basic roles of this signaling system mainly considering its high conservation during evolution. In this chapter the attention is focussed on the involvement of the ECBS in the control of male reproductive aspects at both central and local levels which are both considered from a comparative point of view.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Brain / physiology
  • Cannabinoid Receptor Modulators / physiology*
  • Male
  • Models, Animal
  • Pituitary Gland / physiology
  • Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1 / analysis
  • Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1 / physiology*
  • Reproduction / physiology*
  • Seminiferous Tubules / physiology
  • Spermatozoa / chemistry
  • Spermatozoa / physiology
  • Testis / physiology

Substances

  • Cannabinoid Receptor Modulators
  • Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1