Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 3, 2026
03:43
Oromucosal as an Alternative Method for Administration of Cannabis Products in Rodents
Published on: August 22, 2025
696
Endocannabinoids and the Immune System in Health and Disease
Guy A Cabral1, Gabriela A Ferreira2, Melissa J Jamerson3
1Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA. gacabral@vcu.edu.
Handbook of Experimental Pharmacology
|September 27, 2015
Summary
Endocannabinoids, like 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), modulate immune cell activity via cannabinoid receptors. Further research is needed to confirm anandamide's (AEA) role in immune signaling and fine-tuning immune balance.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Neuroscience
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Endocannabinoids are bioactive lipids that interact with cannabinoid receptors.
- These interactions modulate immune cell functions, including migration and cytokine production.
- 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) is known to inhibit immune cell migration via the CB2 receptor.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the role of endocannabinoids in immune modulation.
- To investigate the functional linkage of anandamide (AEA) to cannabinoid receptors in immune responses.
- To understand the involvement of endocannabinoids in maintaining immune homeostasis.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing data on endocannabinoid signaling in immune cells.
- Analysis of signal transduction pathways activated by cannabinoid receptors.
- Investigation of the autocrine and paracrine actions of endocannabinoids.
Main Results:
- 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) functionally inhibits immune cell migration through the cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2R).
- Unequivocal data linking anandamide (AEA) to cannabinoid receptor-mediated immune modulation is still lacking.
- Endocannabinoids act locally in the periphery and central nervous system due to their short half-life.
Conclusions:
- Endocannabinoids play a crucial role in fine-tuning immune homeostasis.
- Further research is required to fully elucidate the immune functions of anandamide (AEA).
- Cannabinoid receptors are key mediators of endocannabinoid effects on immune cells.
Related Concept Videos
01:28Inflammatory Response
19.1K
An inflammatory response is a localized, nonspecific immune reaction that occurs when a tissue is injured. It is characterized by redness, swelling, heat, and pain, which are commonly called the cardinal signs and symptoms of inflammation. Inflammation can sometimes result in a loss of function.
Inflammation can be triggered by various stimuli, such as impact, abrasion, chemical irritation, infections, and extreme hot or cold temperatures. These can damage cells and connective tissue fibers,...
Inflammation can be triggered by various stimuli, such as impact, abrasion, chemical irritation, infections, and extreme hot or cold temperatures. These can damage cells and connective tissue fibers,...
19.1K
01:19Psychoneuroimmunology: Diabetes and Cancer
632
Chronic stress has been linked to both the onset and progression of serious health conditions, including Type 2 diabetes and cancer. Type 2 diabetes, a widespread chronic illness, is closely associated with obesity and insulin resistance, both of which often worsen under stress. Studies indicate that men experiencing high levels of chronic stress face a 45% higher risk of developing diabetes compared to those with minimal stress. Stress triggers physiological responses that elevate blood...
632
01:21Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: Cannabinoids
958
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.
Two synthetic agonists of THC,...
Two synthetic agonists of THC,...
958
01:24T Cell Types and Functions
3.3K
When T cells with CD4 markers are activated, they give rise to two types of effector cells: helper T cells and regulatory T cells. Meanwhile, T cells with CD8 markers differentiate into effector cytotoxic T cells. The differentiation of CD4 T cells into helper T cell subsets, such as Th1, Th2, and Th17 cells, is dependent on the antigen type, antigen-presenting cell, and regulatory cytokines.
Th1 cells stimulate dendritic cells to express necessary co-stimulatory molecules on their surfaces for...
Th1 cells stimulate dendritic cells to express necessary co-stimulatory molecules on their surfaces for...
3.3K
01:27The Oral Microbiota
38
The oral microbiome includes a complex ecosystem comprising over 700 microbial species, identified through genomic sequencing and culture-based analyses to date. This community includes a core microbiome, found universally among individuals, and a variable component influenced by environmental factors such as diet, lifestyle, and host genetics. Site-specific conditions, including oxygen gradients, pH levels, and nutrient availability, determine the spatial distribution of these microorganisms...
38
01:22Gut-Brain Axis
59
The gut–brain axis is a bidirectional communication system that connects the gastrointestinal tract and the brain. This interaction is mediated through multiple pathways, including the vagus nerve, hormonal signals, immune responses, and chemical messengers produced by gut microbes.Microbial Contributions to Brain FunctionGut microbiota contributes significantly to brain function by producing neuroactive compounds. These include neuroactive compounds that influence neurotransmitters such...
59