endocannabinoidrelated

Endocannabinoid-related refers to the biological processes governed by the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a signaling network that includes endogenous lipid mediators, their receptors, and the enzymes that synthesize and degrade them. The ECS helps regulate communication within the nervous system, immune function, metabolism, and physiological homeostasis.

The core components are endocannabinoids such as anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG). These mediators are produced on demand from membrane lipids and act locally. The principal receptors are cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1), abundant in the brain and central nervous system, and cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2), found mainly on immune cells and in peripheral tissues. Endocannabinoid signaling is terminated primarily by the enzymes fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), which degrades AEA, and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL), which degrades 2-AG. The ECS also engages other receptors and signaling pathways, including TRPV1, PPARs, and GPR55, contributing to a broad regulatory network.

Functionally, endocannabinoids often act as retrograde messengers that dampen neurotransmitter release and modulate synaptic plasticity. They influence pain perception, mood, appetite, sleep, inflammation, and metabolic processes. The system interacts with other neurotransmitter systems and responds to physiological states such as stress and illness, exhibiting a wide distribution across brain regions and peripheral organs.

Research and therapeutic interest in endocannabinoid-related biology focus on exploiting ECS modulation for pain relief, anti-inflammatory effects, seizure control, and metabolic regulation. Approaches include agonists or antagonists of cannabinoid receptors and inhibitors of endocannabinoid degradation, although challenges remain in achieving tissue-specific effects and minimizing side effects.