Endocannabinoids at the synapse and beyond: implications for neuropsychiatric disease pathophysiology and treatment

Andrew Scheyer, Farhana Yasmin, Saptarnab Naskar, Sachin Patel*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

5 Scopus citations

Abstract

Endocannabinoids (eCBs) are lipid neuromodulators that suppress neurotransmitter release, reduce postsynaptic excitability, activate astrocyte signaling, and control cellular respiration. Here, we describe canonical and emerging eCB signaling modes and aim to link adaptations in these signaling systems to pathological states. Adaptations in eCB signaling systems have been identified in a variety of biobehavioral and physiological process relevant to neuropsychiatric disease states including stress-related disorders, epilepsy, developmental disorders, obesity, and substance use disorders. These insights have enhanced our understanding of the pathophysiology of neurological and psychiatric disorders and are contributing to the ongoing development of eCB-targeting therapeutics. We suggest future studies aimed at illuminating how adaptations in canonical as well as emerging cellular and synaptic modes of eCB signaling contribute to disease pathophysiology or resilience could further advance these novel treatment approaches.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)37-53
Number of pages17
JournalNeuropsychopharmacology
Volume48
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 2023

Funding

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Psychiatry and Mental health
  • Pharmacology

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