The cannabinoid （CB） receptors, endocannabinoids （eCB） and their synthesizing and catabolizing enzymes and the proteins involved in their transport, constitute what is now recognized as the eCB system. The eCBs ar...The cannabinoid （CB） receptors, endocannabinoids （eCB） and their synthesizing and catabolizing enzymes and the proteins involved in their transport, constitute what is now recognized as the eCB system. The eCBs are a class of lipids that have been identifed as retro-grade messengers and produce their effects via presyn-aptic CB receptors. The major function of the eCBs has been suggested to be that of modulating the release of several neurotransmitters implicated in a number of biological functions that include reward and reinforce-ment. There is now significant evidence to suggest that the eCB system plays an important role in the development of alcohol tolerance, dependence and relapse. Recent studies suggest that the pharmacological manipulation of the eCB system has the potential not only to block the direct reinforcing properties of alcohol but also alleviate behavioral abnormalities associated with relapse. There is also accumulating evidence that points to the possible utility of the eCB system targeted drugs in the treatment of alcoholism-related behavioral disorders. The agents that block CB1 receptor function or inhibit the synthesis of eCBs are attractive candidate drugs that need to be explored. Further understanding of the role of the eCB system in molecular mechanism/s that underlies alcoholism-related behaviors should lead to a better treatment of this devastating disorder.展开更多
基金Supported by Funds from the National Institute of Health,Bethesda,United StatesAmerican Foundation for SuicidePrevention
文摘The cannabinoid （CB） receptors, endocannabinoids （eCB） and their synthesizing and catabolizing enzymes and the proteins involved in their transport, constitute what is now recognized as the eCB system. The eCBs are a class of lipids that have been identifed as retro-grade messengers and produce their effects via presyn-aptic CB receptors. The major function of the eCBs has been suggested to be that of modulating the release of several neurotransmitters implicated in a number of biological functions that include reward and reinforce-ment. There is now significant evidence to suggest that the eCB system plays an important role in the development of alcohol tolerance, dependence and relapse. Recent studies suggest that the pharmacological manipulation of the eCB system has the potential not only to block the direct reinforcing properties of alcohol but also alleviate behavioral abnormalities associated with relapse. There is also accumulating evidence that points to the possible utility of the eCB system targeted drugs in the treatment of alcoholism-related behavioral disorders. The agents that block CB1 receptor function or inhibit the synthesis of eCBs are attractive candidate drugs that need to be explored. Further understanding of the role of the eCB system in molecular mechanism/s that underlies alcoholism-related behaviors should lead to a better treatment of this devastating disorder.
