2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) membrane transport: history and outlook

AAPS J. 2006;8(2):E409-12. doi: 10.1007/BF02854913.

Abstract

Only a few studies have addressed the transport of 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), a naturally occurring agonist for cannabinoid receptors. Based upon saturation kinetics, these early reports have proposed that 2-AG enters the cell by a specific 2-AG transporter, via the putative anandamide transporter, or by simple diffusion. In this review, the uptake of 2-AG is discussed in light of the recent advances that have been made for anandamide transport, where the mechanism appears to be rate-limited diffusion through the membrane. Endocannabinoids may be a distinct class of agonists since they are hydrophobic and neutral, exhibiting similar biophysical properties to some anesthetics that freely diffuse through the membrane.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Arachidonic Acids / pharmacokinetics*
  • Biological Transport
  • Cannabinoid Receptor Modulators / metabolism
  • Cannabinoids / pharmacokinetics
  • Cell Membrane / metabolism
  • Endocannabinoids
  • Glycerides / pharmacokinetics*
  • Humans
  • Models, Biological
  • Neurotransmitter Agents / metabolism

Substances

  • Arachidonic Acids
  • Cannabinoid Receptor Modulators
  • Cannabinoids
  • Endocannabinoids
  • Glycerides
  • Neurotransmitter Agents
  • glyceryl 2-arachidonate