Endocannabinoid modulation in the olfactory epithelium

Results Probl Cell Differ. 2010:52:139-45. doi: 10.1007/978-3-642-14426-4_11.

Abstract

Appetite, food intake, and energy balance are closely linked to the endocannabinoid system in the central nervous system. Now, endocannabinoid modulation has been discovered in the peripheral olfactory system of larval Xenopus laevis. The endocannabinoid 2-AG has been shown to influence odorant-detection thresholds according to the hunger state of the animal. Hungry animals have increased 2-AG levels due to enhanced synthesis of 2-AG in sustentacular supporting cells. This renders olfactory receptor neurons, exhibiting CB1 receptors, more sensitive at detecting lower odorant concentrations, which probably helps the animal to locate food. Since taste and vision are also influenced by endocannabinoids, this kind of modulation might boost sensory inputs of food in hungry animals.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cannabinoid Receptor Modulators / pharmacology
  • Cannabinoid Receptor Modulators / physiology*
  • Central Nervous System / metabolism
  • Central Nervous System / physiology
  • Endocannabinoids*
  • Humans
  • Models, Biological
  • Olfactory Mucosa / drug effects
  • Olfactory Mucosa / metabolism
  • Olfactory Mucosa / physiology*
  • Olfactory Receptor Neurons / metabolism
  • Peripheral Nervous System / metabolism
  • Peripheral Nervous System / physiology
  • Sensation / drug effects
  • Sensation / physiology

Substances

  • Cannabinoid Receptor Modulators
  • Endocannabinoids