Basic neuroanatomy and neuropharmacology of cannabinoids

• Published in: International review of psychiatry (Abingdon, England) Vol. 21; no. 2; pp. 113 - 121
• Main Authors: Breivogel, Chris S., Sim-Selley, Laura J.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England Informa UK Ltd 01.04.2009; Taylor & Francis; Taylor & Francis Ltd
• Subjects: Anatomy & physiology; Animals; Brain - drug effects; Brain - metabolism; Brain - pathology; Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists; Cannabinoid Receptor Modulators - pharmacology; Cannabinoids - pharmacology; Cannabis sativa; Chemical compounds; Humans; Marijuana; Nervous system; Proteins; Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1 - agonists; Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2 - agonists
• ISSN: 0954-0261; 1369-1627
• DOI: 10.1080/09540260902782760

Humans have used Cannabis sativa (marijuana) for at least 12,000 years, but researchers have only recently described an endogenous cannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system modulates an array of physiological and psychological functions. Endocannabinoids are widely distributed throughout the body, including the central nervous system (CNS). This article gives a basic overview of endocannabinoid neuroanatomy and function. Several endocannabinoids have been discovered to date, and their roles are being elucidated. Two G-protein coupled cannabinoid receptors, CB1R and CB2R, have been identified, although other candidate receptors exist, including ion channel and nuclear receptors that might be components of the endocannabinoid system. It appears that cannabinoids are dysregulated in a number of psychiatric disorders and might be involved in their pathogenesis. There is now evidence that manipulation of the endocannabinoid system could be a therapeutic target for a variety of conditions.