Mechanisms of endocannabinoid transport in the brain

The endocannabinoids 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and anandamide are among the best studied lipid messengers in the brain. By activating cannabinoid receptors in the CNS, endocannabinoids tune synaptic function, thereby influencing a variety of physiological and behavioural processes. Extensive research conducted over the last few decades has considerably enhanced our understanding of the molecular mechanisms and physiological functions of the endocannabinoid system. It is now well-established that endocannabinoids are synthesized by postsynaptic neurons and serve as retrograde messengers that suppress neurotransmitter release at central synapses. While the detailed mechanisms by which endocannabinoids gate synaptic function and behavioural processes are relatively well characterized, the mechanisms governing endocannabinoid transport at central synapses remain ill defined. Recently, several studies have begun to unravel the mechanisms governing intracellular and intercellular endocannabinoid transport. In this review, we will focus on new advances in the mechanisms of intracellular and synaptic endocannabinoid transport in the CNS.

Automated summary

The endocannabinoids 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and anandamide are well-studied lipid messengers in the brain, influencing physiological and behavioural processes by activating cannabinoid receptors. Synthesized by postsynaptic neurons, endocannabinoids serve as retrograde messengers that suppress neurotransmitter release at central synapses. While the mechanisms governing endocannabinoid transport remain poorly defined, recent studies have started to unravel the complexities of intracellular and intercellular endocannabinoid transport mechanisms.