Cannabinoids, the active components of Cannabis sativa (marijuana), and their endogenous counterparts exert their effects by binding to specific Gi/o-protein-coupled receptors that modulate adenylyl cyclase, ion channels and extracellular signal-regulated kinases. Recent research has shown that the CB1 cannabinoid receptor is coupled to the generation of the lipid second messenger ceramide via two different pathways: sphingomyelin hydrolysis, and ceramide synthesis de novo. Ceramide in turn mediates cannabinoid-induced apoptosis, as shown by in vitro and in vivo studies. These findings provide a new perspective on how cannabinoids act, and raise exciting physiological and therapeutic questions.
CITATION STYLE
Guzmán, M., Galve-Roperh, I., & Sánchez, C. (2001, January 1). Ceramide: A new second messenger of cannabinoid action. Trends in Pharmacological Sciences. Elsevier Ltd. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0165-6147(00)01586-8
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