Endocannabinoids and the regulation of body fat: the smoke is clearing

J Clin Invest. 2003 Aug;112(3):323-6. doi: 10.1172/JCI19376.

Abstract

Endocannabinoids, endogenous ligands of cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1), have emerged as novel and important regulators of energy homeostasis. A report in this issue demonstrates reduced body weight, fat mass, and appetite in CB1-/- mice. Examination of the underlying mechanisms reveals a dual role for endocannabinoids as they affect both appetite and peripheral lipolysis.

Publication types

  • Comment
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adipose Tissue / anatomy & histology
  • Adipose Tissue / physiology*
  • Animals
  • Appetite
  • Cannabinoid Receptor Modulators
  • Cannabinoids / metabolism*
  • Endocannabinoids
  • Fatty Acids, Unsaturated / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Ligands
  • Lipolysis
  • Mice
  • Mice, Knockout
  • Models, Biological
  • Obesity / drug therapy
  • Receptors, Cannabinoid
  • Receptors, Drug / genetics
  • Receptors, Drug / metabolism

Substances

  • Cannabinoid Receptor Modulators
  • Cannabinoids
  • Endocannabinoids
  • Fatty Acids, Unsaturated
  • Ligands
  • Receptors, Cannabinoid
  • Receptors, Drug