The endocannabinoid network: insight into the regulation of the neuroendocrine and metabolic systems

The dramatic increase in the prevalence of obesity worldwide represents one of the most important challenges of modern medicine, owing to its myriad related complications-in particular cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death worldwide. Originating from early studies with Cannabis sativa, the active compound of marijuana, there has been an impressive progress in the knowledge about the endocannabinoid network, leading to the identification of specific pathways that modulate feeding behavior. The effects of endocannabinoids are not limited to the central nervous system, but also include peripheral tissues. Experimental and clinic trials have demonstrated the efficacy of endocannabinoid antagonists in the management of obesity and the cardiometabolic syndrome. Better understanding of the mechanisms underlying obesity will lead to development of more active and specific agents, which surely will enlarge the role of this efficacious alternative for management of obesity.