Programming of neural cells by (endo)cannabinoids: from physiological rules to emerging therapies

Nat Rev Neurosci. 2014 Dec;15(12):786-801. doi: 10.1038/nrn3846.

Abstract

Among the many signalling lipids, endocannabinoids are increasingly recognized for their important roles in neuronal and glial development. Recent experimental evidence suggests that, during neuronal differentiation, endocannabinoid signalling undergoes a fundamental switch from the prenatal determination of cell fate to the homeostatic regulation of synaptic neurotransmission and bioenergetics in the mature nervous system. These studies also offer novel insights into neuropsychiatric disease mechanisms and contribute to the public debate about the benefits and the risks of cannabis use during pregnancy and in adolescence.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cannabis / adverse effects*
  • Cell Differentiation / drug effects
  • Cell Differentiation / physiology
  • Endocannabinoids / metabolism*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Neurogenesis / drug effects
  • Neurogenesis / physiology*
  • Neurons / cytology
  • Neurons / drug effects
  • Neurons / metabolism*
  • Pregnancy

Substances

  • Endocannabinoids