ENDOCANNABINOIDS RECEPTORS MEDIATED CENTRAL AND PERIPHERAL EFFECTS (REVIEW)

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Pharmacology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• The endocannabinoid system (ECS) comprises endogenous ligands (anandamide, 2-AG, PE) and receptors (CB1, CB2).
• CB1 receptors are prevalent in the central and peripheral nervous systems, modulating cognition, memory, behavior, and pain.
• CB2 receptors are primarily found in immune cells, suggesting roles in immune function and potentially fertility and development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To elucidate the actions of endocannabinoids through their receptor interactions.
• To explore the signaling pathways, release mechanisms, and therapeutic implications of the ECS.
• To review the ECS's role in pain modulation, cognitive function, and potential involvement in psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on endocannabinoid action and receptor binding.
• Analysis of ECS involvement in various physiological processes, including neurotransmission and pain pathways.
• Discussion of signaling cascades (MAPK, PI/PKB, MEK/ERK) and molecular mechanisms (synthesis, transport, degradation).

Main Results:

• Endocannabinoids modulate neuronal excitability via presynaptic inhibition and influence feeding behavior.
• ECS exhibits analgesic properties, partly through COX-2 inhibition and interaction with PPAR-alpha and TRPV receptors.
• Evidence suggests ECS involvement in cognitive function (with controversial data), neuroprotection (e.g., Alzheimer's via THC), and psychiatric disorders (schizophrenia, depression).

Conclusions:

• The ECS, acting as natural ligands, exerts a broad range of pharmacological effects.
• ECS receptor stimulation activates key intracellular signaling pathways and transcription factors.
• The ECS presents promising therapeutic targets for conditions including neuropathic pain, neurodegeneration, and mood disorders.