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Passion for scientific research and nutrition.
Endocannabinoid system and well-being.
Latest generation of natural active ingredients.
Passion for scientific research and nutrition.
Endocannabinoid system and well-being.
Latest generation of natural active ingredients.
Contact us
Research in Nutrition
Email: marketing@pharmaofficine.it
Endocannabinoid System
ABOUT US
Overview of a multifaceted and emerging therapeutic target
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a mechanism and a general defense system present in our body. Its primary role is to protect us and our biochemistry, our cells, our tissues, our organs- in short, our entire body.
To better understand how it works, we can compare it to our immune system. While the immune system defends us against virus and bacterial invasions, the endocannabinoid system protects us from everything that could happen to us, from emotional stress to pollution, to anything we might drink, eat, or inhale.
This system activates to protect us from anything that could disturb our balance. That’s why it’s so important.
The ECS is involved in various physiological processes, including neuronal plasticity, learning and memory, nerve development, nociception, inflammation, appetite regulation, digestion, metabolism, energy balance, motility and regulation of stress and emotions (Figure 1).
The endocannabinoid system activates as an SOS button.
How is the ECS done?
The endocannabinoid system is a widespread neuromodulatory network involved in the development of the central nervous system, as well as playing an important role in the regulation of many cognitive and physiological processes. The ECS consists of endogenous cannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) and enzymes responsible for the synthesis and degradation of the endocannabinoids.
The endocannabinoid system, due to its widespread distribution, regulates various physiological functions, such as:
Neurogenesis
Neurodegeneration
Cognitive and emotional regulation
Appetite and metabolism
Muscle contractility
Inflammation and immune function.
Figure 1. Effects of the endocannabinoid system on various systems and organs.
CB1 and CB2 Receptors and the encocannabinoid system
CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors belong to the endocannabinoid system, along with their natural ligands, the endocannabinoids (such as anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG)), and a plethora of enzymes involved in their biosynthesis and inactivation.
However, there are exogenous cannabinoids, the most potent of them is Δ 9 – tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a well-known terpenoid found in the Cannabis sativa. It is responsible for the psychoactive effect of marijuana.
The endocannabinoid system shares mediators and overlaps with metabolic processes of other cellular signaling pathways; leading to the identification of widespread network related to endocannabinoids has been identified as “expanding endocannabinoid system” or “endocannabinoidome”.
Both receptors send signal through Gi protein and Go protein, so they can inhibit the adenylyl cyclase and activate the protein kinase from mitogens (MAPK).
CB1 is the most abundant G-protein-coupled receptor in the mammalian brain, being highly expressed in the presynaptic terminals of neurons in the cortex, amygdala, hippocampus, basal ganglia, and cerebellum, where its activation modulates neurotransmitter release. Notably, CB1 is also present in several peripheral sites, including the spleen, lungs, thymus, and heart.
On the other hand, CB2 receptors are primarily distributed peripherally in immune system cells, and their main role appears to be immunomodulation.
CB2R has gained attention for its pharmacological effects as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulator, and antiapoptotic agent, which can be achieved without causing the psychotropic adverse effects associated with CB1R. CB2R-activated ligands originate from endogenous, synthetic, and plant sources.
Pharma Officine research aims to identify exogenous cannabinoids that do not have the undesirable effects typically associated with Cannabis.
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