Anandamide modulation of endotoxin-induced inflammation
Date
2013-12-20Author
Kerr, Daniel M.
Henry, Rebecca
Roche, Michelle
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Recommended Citation
Kerr DM, Henry R, Roche M (2013) 'Anandamide Modulation of Endotoxin-Induced Inflammation' Anatomy and Physiology, 4:e130. doi: 10.4172/2161-0940.1000e130
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Abstract
The endocannabinoid system is comprised of the CB1
and CB2
receptors, the naturally occurring endogenous ligands, anandamide
(AEA) and 2-arachidonyl glycerol (2-AG); and the enzymes
involved in their synthesis and degradation. The enzyme fatty acid
amide hydrolyase (FAAH) preferentially metabolises AEA, and the
related N-acylethanolamines, N-palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) and
N-oleoylethanolamide (OEA). While PEA and OEA do not have
activity at CB1/2 receptors, they are capable of enhancing AEA signaling
by competing with AEA at the catalytic site on the FAAH enzyme.
All elements of the endocannabinoid system are widely and densely
expressed in the mammalian immune system and brain and as such
represent an important therapeutic target for a number of peripheral
and central inflammatory disorders [1-3].