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Related Concept Videos

Opioid Receptors: Overview01:22

Opioid Receptors: Overview

Opioid receptors, including the mu (μ, MOR), delta (δ, DOR), and kappa (κ, KOR) types, belong to the rhodopsin family of G protein-coupled receptors. These receptors are located throughout the central and peripheral nervous systems and in non-neuronal tissues such as macrophages and astrocytes. Opioid receptor ligands can be categorized into agonists or antagonists. Highly selective agonists include [d-Ala2, MePhe4, Gly(ol)5]-enkephalin or DAMGO for MOR, [D-Pen2, D-Pen5]-enkephalin or DPDPE for...
An Overview of the Endocrine System01:10

An Overview of the Endocrine System

The endocrine system, a complex network of glands, orchestrates physiological balance within the body through the production and secretion of hormones. These hormones are chemical messengers in intercellular communication, acting as conduits between the secretory cells and distant target sites. They traverse the circulatory system by being released into the extracellular fluid, and their impact is specific to cells possessing receptors for a particular hormone.
The endocrine system collaborates...
Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: Cannabinoids01:21

Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: Cannabinoids

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is a phytocannabinoid that primarily interacts with the CB1 receptor, a type of G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) predominantly in and around the chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ) and emetic center. THC also blocks the serotonin receptor activity in the dorsal vagal complex (DVC) by inhibiting serotonin release. THC exerts its anti-emetic effects through these interactions, which are beneficial for patients undergoing chemotherapy.
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What is the Endocrine System?00:46

What is the Endocrine System?

The endocrine system sends hormones—chemical signals—through the bloodstream to target cells—the cells the hormones selectively affect. These signals are produced in endocrine cells, secreted into the extracellular fluid, and then diffuse into the blood. Eventually, they diffuse out of the blood and bind to target cells which have specialized receptors to recognize the hormones.
Chemical Signaling in the Endocrine System01:08

Chemical Signaling in the Endocrine System

A signaling cascade is a series of events that facilitates the transmission of information within or between cells, culminating in a targeted response in the recipient cell. As chemical messengers, hormones are pivotal in initiating and modulating these intricate signaling cascades based on their solubility.
Lipid-soluble hormones, such as steroid hormones, demonstrate an intracellular action. These hormones traverse cell membranes due to their lipid nature. Once inside the target cell, they...
An Overview of Psychoactive Drugs01:28

An Overview of Psychoactive Drugs

Psychoactive drugs impact brain function, influencing perception, mood, consciousness, cognition, and behavior. These substances are grouped based on their effects and the mechanisms by which they act.
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Oromucosal as an Alternative Method for Administration of Cannabis Products in Rodents
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The endocannabinoid system: an overview.

Natalia Battista1, Monia Di Tommaso, Monica Bari

  • 1Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Teramo Teramo, Italy.

Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience
|March 30, 2012
PubMed
Summary

The endocannabinoid system (ECS), including anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), regulates fundamental bodily processes. Research into ECS signaling advances therapeutic strategies and novel drug development for various conditions.

Keywords:
2-arachidonoylglycerolanandamideendocannabinoidsmetabolic pathwayssignal transduction

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Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Biochemistry
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • The endocannabinoid system (ECS) comprises receptors, ligands, and enzymes.
  • Its role in regulating central and peripheral nervous system functions is under investigation.
  • Dysregulation of the ECS may contribute to various physiological disturbances.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To overview the metabolic and signal transduction pathways of key endocannabinoids (eCBs), anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG).
  • To discuss the therapeutic potential of novel ECS-targeted drugs.
  • To highlight recent advances in understanding the ECS's physiological distribution and functional roles.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of metabolic and signal transduction pathways of AEA and 2-AG.
  • Analysis of recent advances in ECS research.
  • Exploration of therapeutic applications of eCB signaling.

Main Results:

  • Anandamide (AEA) was identified in the porcine brain, initiating extensive ECS research.
  • The ECS plays a crucial role in fundamental physiological regulation.
  • Advances in ECS research have led to new therapeutic tools and drug development.

Conclusions:

  • The ECS is a complex system with significant implications for physiological regulation.
  • Understanding eCB signaling pathways is key to developing targeted therapies.
  • Novel ECS-oriented drugs show promise for pharmacological advantages and treating various conditions.