Role of the endocannabinoid system in energy balance regulation and obesity.

1. Front Horm Res. 2008;36:135-45. doi: 10.1159/0000115362.

Role of the endocannabinoid system in energy balance regulation and obesity.

Cota D(1).

Author information:
(1)Department of Psychiatry, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45237, USA.

The endogenous cannabinoid system (ECS) is a neuromodulatory system recently
recognized to have a role in the regulation of various aspects of eating behavior
and energy balance through central and peripheral mechanisms. In the central
nervous system, cannabinoid type 1 receptors and their endogenous ligands, the
endocannabinoids, are involved in modulating food intake and motivation to
consume palatable food. Moreover, the ECS is present in peripheral organs, such
as liver, white adipose tissue, muscle, and pancreas, where it seems to be
involved in the regulation of lipid and glucose homeostasis. Dysregulation of the
ECS has been associated with the development of obesity and its sequelae, such as
dyslipidemia and diabetes. Conversely, recent clinical trials have shown that
cannabinoid type 1 receptor blockade may ameliorate these metabolic
abnormalities. Although further investigation is needed to better define the
actual mechanisms of action, pharmacologic approaches targeting the ECS may
provide a novel, effective option for the management of obesity, type 2 diabetes
and cardiovascular disease.

DOI: 10.1159/000115362
PMID: 18230900 [Indexed for MEDLINE]

Auteurs Bordeaux Neurocampus