Identification and quantification of a new family of peptide endocannabinoids (Pepcans) showing negative allosteric modulation at CB 1 receptors

Abstract

Background: The α-hemoglobin-derived peptide RVDPVNFKLLSH was found to interact with cannabinoid CB1 receptors. Results: We generated mAbs against RVDPVNFKLLSH and identified a new family of endogenous peptides (Pepcans) that act as negative allosteric modulators at CB1 receptors. Conclusion: Allosteric ligands for CB1 receptors are present in the brain. Significance: Pepcans are a novel class of endogenous modulators of endocannabinoid signaling. © 2012 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.