The endocannabinoid system and its receptors – what role do they have in our body?

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) was discovered only a few decades ago, but immediately became the subject of intense research because of its essential role in the regulation of various physiological processes. This sophisticated signalling system is the fundamental mechanism through which cannabinoids interact with our body. It consists of three main components: cannabinoid receptors, endocannabinoids and the enzymes responsible for their synthesis and degradation. In this article, we will take a closer look at cannabinoid receptors and what role they play in our bodies. To learn more about endocannabinoids, read this article ECS and Cannabinoids.

What are cannabinoid receptors?

Receptors can be thought of as a lock into which only a certain key fits. They are located on the cell wall and communicate with the cell about what is happening on the outside of the cell. If a particle that fits the specific shape of the receptor binds to the receptor, two situations can occur. The first is that the cell becomes activated and starts to respond. The second is that the particle is not reactive, but prevents another active particle from binding to that receptor, thus preventing any effect on the cell and our body.

Cannabinoid receptors are scattered throughout our bodies and control our movement, memory, sleep cycles, body temperature regulation, appetite, as well as our ability to perceive pain. Some of the studies of the endocannabinoid system also attribute an important role in the immune system.

What endocannabinoid receptors do we have in the body?

As far as the cannabinoid receptors in our body are concerned, there are two basic CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are complemented by other G-protein coupled receptors (GPR) such as GPR55, GPR18 or GPR35.

CB1 receptors

CB1 receptors are primarily located in the brain and spinal cord and affect emotions, learning, memory, movement, pain, digestion or the immune system. However, they can also be found in other organs, such as the skin. They form the largest subset of G-protein receptors in the brain, alongside dopamine or serotonin receptors.

CB2 receptors

CB2 receptors are primarily located on cells of the immune system and on neurons. Many of these cells promote cytokine production, which affects the immune system. Thus, cannabinoids can reduce inflammation by suppressing the immune system.

GPR receptors

Over-stimulation of the GPR55 receptor has been linked in studies to osteoporosis or cancer. Activation of the GPR18 receptor has been associated with blood pressure regulation, and the GPR35 receptor could be related to metabolic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, asthma, pain, or irritable bowel syndrome.

Why should we care about our endocannabinoid system?

New research shows that endocannabinoids and their receptors may be a key component in a variety of diseases. For example, some animal studies have shown a link between obesity and overproduction of endocannabinoids, which in turn has caused an overreaction of cannabinoid receptors and an irregular sensation of hunger as well as imbalanced insulin activity. Another study suggests a link between fibromyalgia, i.e. increased pain sensitivity, and cannabinoids. However, more rigorous studies are needed to draw conclusions.

A 2011 study says that a change in the amount of endocannabinoids and CB2 receptors present has been seen in almost every disease, including cardiovascular disease, liver disease, kidney disease, bone disease, skin disease, autoimmune disease, cancer, chronic pain, lung disease, nerve disease, and stomach problems. It is therefore essential to continue research on the endocannabinoid system to better understand its potential in medicine.

The endocannabinoid system is a fascinating and still not fully understood mechanism that plays a key role in the regulation of many physiological processes in our body. Understanding and harnessing this system may lead to revolutionary approaches in treating various diseases, improving overall health and supporting our daily functioning. Cannabinoid products that interact with the ECS represent a potential solution for those seeking natural and effective methods to improve their health and well-being.

Sources:

The information from the article is from the book:

Wilson, J. (2020). Curious About Cannabis: A Scientific Introduction to Controversial Plant (Second Edition). Chapter 15. “Meet Your Endocannabinoid System”

The book mentions the specific studies that the article discusses.