Elevated endocannabinoid plasma levels are associated with coronary circulatory dysfunction in obesity

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Physiology
• Endocrinology
• Metabolic Disorders

Background:

• Obesity is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
• Endocannabinoids (ECs) play a role in regulating physiological processes, including cardiovascular function.
• The relationship between EC levels and coronary circulation in obesity is not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between plasma levels of anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and coronary circulatory function in individuals with varying body mass index (BMI).

Main Methods:

• Seventy-seven participants were categorized into control, overweight, and obese groups based on BMI.
• Coronary blood flow was assessed using (13)N-ammonia PET/CT during rest, cold pressor test (CPT), and dipyridamole vasodilation.
• Plasma levels of AEA and 2-AG were measured and correlated with coronary flow parameters.

Main Results:

• Obese individuals exhibited significantly elevated plasma levels of AEA compared to controls.
• Endothelium-dependent and independent coronary blood flow responses were progressively impaired in overweight and obese groups.
• Increased AEA and 2-AG plasma levels were inversely correlated with coronary blood flow parameters in obese individuals.

Conclusions:

• Elevated plasma levels of AEA and 2-AG are associated with coronary circulatory dysfunction in obesity.
• These findings suggest that increased EC levels may represent a novel endogenous cardiovascular risk factor in obesity.
• Further research is warranted to confirm these observations and elucidate the underlying mechanisms.