Inhibitors of Endocannabinoid Degradation as Potential Therapeutic Agents: An Update

Endocannabinoids are lipid mediators, isolated from brain and peripheral tissues, which exhibit “cannabimimetic activity” by binding to cannabinoid receptors. The biological actions of anandamide (Narachidonoylethanolamine; AEA), a prominent endocannabinoid, are terminated through an AEA membrane transporter and an AEA-hydrolase (fatty acid amide hydrolase; FAAH). Recently, we have reviewed the potential of inhibitors of endocannabinoid degradation as therapeutic agents. In particular, we discussed the role of oxidative metabolites of AEA generated by lipoxygenases as powerful inhibitors of FAAH. Here, we shall supplement recent information on the oxidative metabolism of endocannabinoids, and on their potential therapeutic applications.