Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 6, 2026

Using An In Vitro Tissue Perfusion System to Detect the Functional Activities of Isolated Intestinal Tubes in Real Time
Published on: July 26, 2024
Emerging role of cannabinoids in gastrointestinal and liver diseases: basic and clinical aspects
1Department of Experimental Pharmacology, Endocannabinoid Research Group, University of Naples Federico II, via D Montesano 49, 80131, Naples, Italy. aaizzo@unina.it
Abstract:
A multitude of physiological effects and putative pathophysiological roles have been proposed for the endogenous cannabinoid system in the gastrointestinal tract, liver and pancreas. These range from effects on epithelial growth and regeneration, immune function, motor function, appetite control, fibrogenesis and secretion. Cannabinoids have the potential for therapeutic application in gut and liver diseases. Two exciting therapeutic applications in the area of reversing hepatic fibrosis as well as antineoplastic effects may have a significant impact in these diseases. This review critically appraises the experimental and clinical evidence supporting the clinical application of cannabinoid receptor-based drugs in gastrointestinal, liver and pancreatic diseases. Application of modern pharmacological principles will most probably expand the selective modulation of the cannabinoid system peripherally in humans. We anticipate that, in addition to the approval in several countries of the CB(1) antagonist, rimonabant, for the treatment of obesity and associated metabolic dysfunctions, other cannabinoid modulators are likely to have an impact on human disease in the future, including hepatic fibrosis and neoplasia.
Related Concept Videos
Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: Cannabinoids
Two synthetic agonists of THC,...
Chronic Pancreatitis II: Pathophysiology
Inflammatory Bowel Disease IV: Pharmacological Management
Pharmacologic...
Chronic Pancreatitis I: Introduction
Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas, which occurs when the immune system becomes active and causes swelling, pain, and disruptions in organ function. Pancreatitis can manifest as either an acute or chronic condition.
Acute pancreatitis arises suddenly and lasts for a brief duration, while chronic pancreatitis is a long-term affliction...
Chronic Pancreatitis I: Introduction
Cirrhosis II: Pathophysiology
