Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 20, 2026

Administration of Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in Adolescent and Adult Mice
Published on: August 1, 2025
[The endocannabinoid system and the regulation of the metabolism]
1Service de Médecine, C.H.U. Tivoli, La Louvière, U.L.B.
Abstract:
The endocannabinoid system modulates many physiological functions by acting on receptors CB1 and CB2. The endocannabinoids are produced only when and where they are needed. They act locally and are immediately metabolised after their action. Overactivation of the endocannabinoid system is observed in obesity, with stimulation of the appetite in the hypothalamus and fat accumulation in the adipocytes with increase of insulin resistance and decrease of adiponectin. Nicotine use overactivates also the endocannabinoid system. CB1 blockade by a specific inhibitor (rimonabant) decreases food intake and weight in animal studies and increases adiponectin and insulin sensitivity. Moreover, rimonabant decreases tobacco dependence. Clinical studies with rimonabant are encouraging.
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