Cannabinoid type 1 receptor: Another arrow in the adipocytes' bow

Abstract

The endocannabinoid system has recently emerged as an important modulator of several functions of adipose tissue, including cell proliferation, differentiation and secretion. Here, we will review the effects of cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) receptor activation/ blockade in adipocytes by summarising the data in the literature since the discovery of the presence of this receptor in adipose tissue. We will also discuss our original data obtained in mouse 3T3-L1 adipocyte cells using WIN55212, a CB1/CB2 receptor agonist and SR141716 (rimonabant), a specific CB1 receptor antagonist, respectively, in different experimental settings. © 2008 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2008 Blackwell Publishing.