Endocannabinoids in neuroendopsychology: multiphasic control of mitochondrial function

Nunn, A., Guy, G. and Bell, J. D. (2012) Endocannabinoids in neuroendopsychology: multiphasic control of mitochondrial function. Philsophical Transactions of the Royal Society B, 367 (1607). pp. 3342-3352. ISSN 1471-2970 doi: 10.1098/rstb.2011.0393

Abstract/Summary

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a construct based on the discovery of receptors that are modulated by the plant compound tetrahydrocannabinol and the subsequent identification of a family of nascent ligands, the 'endocannabinoids'. The function of the ECS is thus defined by modulation of these receptors-in particular, by two of the best-described ligands (2-arachidonyl glycerol and anandamide), and by their metabolic pathways. Endocannabinoids are released by cell stress, and promote both cell survival and death according to concentration. The ECS appears to shift the immune system towards a type 2 response, while maintaining a positive energy balance and reducing anxiety. It may therefore be important in resolution of injury and inflammation. Data suggest that the ECS could potentially modulate mitochondrial function by several different pathways; this may help explain its actions in the central nervous system. Dose-related control of mitochondrial function could therefore provide an insight into its role in health and disease, and why it might have its own pathology, and possibly, new therapeutic directions.

Item Type	Article
URI	https://reading-clone.eprints-hosting.org/id/eprint/35366
Identification Number/DOI	10.1098/rstb.2011.0393
Refereed	Yes
Divisions	No Reading authors. Back catalogue items
Publisher	Royal Society
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