Understanding the possible role of endocannabinoid system in obesity

Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat. 2021 Feb:152:106520. doi: 10.1016/j.prostaglandins.2020.106520. Epub 2020 Nov 26.

Abstract

Background: Maintenance of weight is essential for sustenance, well-being and to endorse prolonged life. The prevalence of obesity is increasing at an alarming rate globally, due to modern lifestyle and dietary habits. Endocannabinoids are fatty acid derivatives and numerous studies are carried out which focuses and targets their relationship with obesity, via multiple signals which have been recently known for exerting crucial role in regulating energy balance.

Purpose: This article aims at examining the prospects of endocannabinoids in obesity via directing the role of ECs in stimulating hunger.

Result: In last few years, irregular stimulation of endocannabinoid system has been suggested as a chief element in the progression of obesity-associated metabolic complications. Certainly, this cascade system comprises of cannabinoid type1 and 2 receptors (CB1R and CB2R) along with their endogenous lipid ligands which are responsible for enhanced feeding behavior as well as lipid metabolism. Significantly, inhibiting CB1R activity might reduce metabolic abnormality linked with obesity.

Conclusion: Conclusion withdrawn on the basis of supporting scientific data and evidences report that the blockade of cannabinoids can serve as a therapeutic potential for treatment of obesity. Future prospective aims at assessing molecular pathways which contributes towards ECS, elicited weight control and to evaluate how these mechanisms are presently relocated into the production of novel cannabinoid drugs exhibiting enriched care.

Keywords: Adipocyte; CB1 receptor; CB2 receptor; Endocannabinoid system; High fat diet; Obesity.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Endocannabinoids* / metabolism
  • Energy Metabolism
  • Humans
  • Obesity* / metabolism
  • Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1 / metabolism
  • Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2 / metabolism

Substances

  • Endocannabinoids
  • Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1
  • Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2