Endocannabinoid system： A newer molecular target for the treatment of alcohol-related behaviors

摘要

cqvip:The cannabinoid(CB) receptors, endocannabinoids(e CB) and their synthesizing and catabolizing enzymes and the proteins involved in their transport, constitute what is now recognized as the e CB system. The e CBs are a class of lipids that have been identified as retrograde messengers and produce their effects via presynaptic CB receptors. The major function of the e CBs has been suggested to be that of modulating the release of several neurotransmitters implicated in a number of biological functions that include reward and reinforcement. There is now significant evidence to suggest that the e CB system plays an important role in the development of alcohol tolerance, dependence and re-lapse. Recent studies suggest that the pharmacological manipulation of the e CB 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 e CB system targeted drugs in the treatment of alcoholismrelated behavioral disorders. The agents that block CB1 receptor function or inhibit the synthesis of e CBs are attractive candidate drugs that need to be explored. Further understanding of the role of the e CB system in molecular mechanism/s that underlies alcoholism-related behaviors should lead to a better treatment of this devastating disorder.