The endocannabinoid system in vertebrate male reproduction: a comparative overview

Mol Cell Endocrinol. 2008 Apr 16;286(1-2 Suppl 1):S24-30. doi: 10.1016/j.mce.2008.01.004. Epub 2008 Jan 18.

Abstract

Prevailing studies emphasize on endocannabinoid activity in brain. However, sporadic evidences hint that endocannabinoid system controls male reproduction ranging from invertebrates to vertebrates. Although N-arachidonoylethanolamine is described in rat testis, its activity is still poorly known. Type-1 cannabinoid receptor and fatty acid amide hydrolase are particularly expressed in elongating spermatids and spermatozoa suggesting that endocannabinoids affect spermiogenesis and sperm physiology. Aim of this paper is to provide an analysis of the information available in vertebrates on male germ cell progression and sperm maturation mediated by the endocannabinoid system.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cannabinoid Receptor Modulators / metabolism*
  • Endocannabinoids*
  • Male
  • Reproduction / physiology*
  • Sperm Motility
  • Spermatogenesis
  • Vertebrates / metabolism*

Substances

  • Cannabinoid Receptor Modulators
  • Endocannabinoids