Targeting the endocannabinoid system for gastrointestinal diseases: future therapeutic strategies

Abstract

Cannabinoids extracted from the marijuana plant (Cannabis sativa) and synthetic cannabinoids have numerous effects on gastrointestinal (GI) functions. Recent experimental data support an important role for cannabinoids in GI diseases. Genetic studies in humans have proven that defects in endocannabinoid metabolism underlie functional GI disorders. Mammalian cells have machinery, the so-called endocannabinoid system (ECS), to produce and metabolize their own cannabinoids in order to control homeostasis of the gut in a rapidly adapting manner. Pharmacological manipulation of the ECS by cannabinoids, or by drugs that raise the levels of endogenous cannabinoids, have shown beneficial effects on GI pathophysiology. This review gives an introduction into the functions of the ECS in the GI tract, highlights the role of the ECS in GI diseases and addresses its potential pharmacological exploitation.

Keywords::

• Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol
• cannabinoid receptor
• colon cancer
• dronabinol
• emesis
• endocannabinoid system
• gastrointestinal
• inflammation
• irritable bowel syndrome
• rimonabant

Financial & competing interests disclosure

This study was supported by the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation Canada. The authors have no other relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript apart from those disclosed.

No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.

Notes

CB: Cannabinoid receptor; FAAH: Fatty acid amide hydrolase; IBD: Inflammatory bowel disease; IBS: Irritable bowel syndrome.

Δ⁹-THC: Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol; CB: Cannabinoid receptor.