Review of studies reveals the importance of the Endocannabinoid System in gastrointestinal diseases

A comprehensive review of studies published in International Journal of Molecular Sciences analyzed the influence of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) on the physiology and pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract and concluded that cannabinoids can influence motility, inflammation and abdominal pain, suggesting new therapeutic possibilities for digestive diseases. Researchers from the National Institute of Gastroenterology in Bari, Italy, highlight the therapeutic potential of endocannabinoid modulation to treat disorders related to the digestive system.

A growing number of studies indicate that the endocannabinoid system plays a key role in the function of the gastrointestinal tract, corroborating the brain-gut connection. CB1 receptors are located in the enteric nervous system and in the sensory terminals of vagal and spinal neurons and regulate the release of neurotransmitters, while CB2 receptors are distributed mainly in the immune system, indicating their effect in situations of inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Normal intestinal physiology is therefore influenced by the regulation of the ECS.

The ECS is composed of endocannabinoids, such as Anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), and CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are also found throughout the digestive tract. These elements act to regulate intestinal motility, enzyme secretion and pain perception, directly influencing the balance of the digestive system.

One of the central points of the study is the impact of ECS on gastrointestinal motility. Activating CB1 receptors reduces the speed of intestinal transit, which may be useful in the treatment of syndromes characterized by intestinal hyperactivity, such as diarrhea in the case of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). On the other hand, blocking these receptors may be beneficial in treating cases of constipation.

In addition to motility, the research points to the role of the ECS in modulating intestinal inflammation. Activation of CB2 receptors can reduce the inflammatory response by modulating the action of immune cells. This mechanism suggests that cannabinoids could be explored as therapeutic options for inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

Another relevant factor addressed by the study is the influence of endocannabinoids on the perception of visceral pain. ECS compounds may act to regulate the sensation of pain, which paves the way for new approaches to relieving chronic gastrointestinal discomfort without the side effects of traditional analgesics.

The researchers also highlight the potential of cannabinoid-based therapies, both of plant and synthetic origin. Clinical studies indicate that these compounds can alleviate symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. However, the authors emphasize the need for further clinical trials to validate the efficacy and safety of these substances in the context of gastroenterology.

Despite the promising potential, scientists warn of challenges in the clinical application of cannabinoids, including possible psychoactive effects and variability in response between patients. The study reinforces the importance of personalized approaches and further investigation into the interaction of the ECS with other physiological systems to ensure the development of effective and safe treatments for gastrointestinal disorders.

Read the comprehensive review here.
ijms-26-01306-v2

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Laura Ramos

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With a degree in Journalism from the University of Coimbra, Laura Ramos has a postgraduate degree in Photography and has been a Journalist since 1998. Winner of the Business of Cannabis Awards in the category "Journalist of the Year 2024", Laura was a correspondent for Jornal de Notícias in Rome, Italy, and Press Officer in the Office of the Minister of Education of the 2018st Portuguese Government. She has an international certification in Permaculture (PDC) and created the street-art photography archive “What does Lisbon say?” @saywhatlisbon. Co-founder and Editor of CannaReporter® and coordinator of PTMC - Portugal Medical Cannabis, Laura made the documentary “Pacientes” in XNUMX and was part of the steering group of the first Postgraduate Course in GxP's for Medicinal Cannabis in Portugal, in partnership with the Military Laboratory and the Faculty of Pharmacy of the University of Lisbon.

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