Abstract
Endocannabinoids (ECBs) are ubiquitous lipid mediators that act through the same G protein-coupled receptors (CB1 and CB2) that recognize plant-derived cannabinoids. As regulators of metabolism, ECBs are anabolic: they increase the intake, promote the storage, and decrease the expenditure of energy. Recent work indicates that activation of peripheral CB1 receptors by ECBs plays a key role in the hormonal/metabolic changes associated with obesity/metabolic syndrome and may be targeted for its pharmacotherapy.
MeSH terms
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Animals
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Cannabinoid Receptor Modulators / metabolism*
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Cannabinoid Receptor Modulators / therapeutic use
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Endocannabinoids*
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Energy Metabolism* / drug effects
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Homeostasis / drug effects
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Humans
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Metabolic Syndrome / drug therapy
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Metabolic Syndrome / metabolism*
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Obesity / drug therapy
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Obesity / metabolism*
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Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1 / agonists
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Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1 / metabolism*
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Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2 / agonists
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Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2 / metabolism*
Substances
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Cannabinoid Receptor Modulators
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Endocannabinoids
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Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1
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Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2