Inhibitors of Endocannabinoid Degradation as Potential Therapeutic Agents: An Update

Author: Maccarrone M.

Source: Medicinal Chemistry Reviews - Online, Volume 1, Number 2, April 2004 , pp. 231-232(2)

Publisher: Bentham Science Publishers

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Abstract:

Endocannabinoids are lipid mediators, isolated from brain and peripheral tissues, which exhibit “cannabimimetic activity” by binding to cannabinoid receptors. The biological actions of anandamide (Narachidonoylethanolamine; AEA), a prominent endocannabinoid, are terminated through an AEA membrane transporter and an AEA-hydrolase (fatty acid amide hydrolase; FAAH). Recently, we have reviewed the potential of inhibitors of endocannabinoid degradation as therapeutic agents. In particular, we discussed the role of oxidative metabolites of AEA generated by lipoxygenases as powerful inhibitors of FAAH. Here, we shall supplement recent information on the oxidative metabolism of endocannabinoids, and on their potential therapeutic applications.

Keywords: endocannabinoid; lipid mediators; narachidonoylethanolamine

Document Type: Review article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2174/1567203043480340

Affiliations: 1: Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Teramo, Piazza A. Moro 45, I-64100 Teramo, Italy.

Publication date: 2004-04-01