PRIMARY STUDY

The endogenous cannabinoid system in the gut of patients with inflammatory bowel disease

Key Findings:  This study found Anandamide (AEA) levels were much lower in the inflamed gut mucosa, and synthetic AEA analog MAEA exhibited anti-inflammatory properties. These results strongly link the endocannabinoid system and endogenous cannabinoids as a potential target in the treatment of inflammatory gut diseases like Crohn's Disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and ulcerative colitis (UC).

Type of Study:  Clinical Trial

Study Sample Size:  108

Study Result:  Positive

Study Location(s):  Italy

Year of Pub:  2011


Cannabinoids Studied:  Anandamide (AEA), Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase (FAAH), 2-Arachidonoyl Glycerol (2-AG), Monoacylglycerol Lipase (MAGL), Other Related Compounds, Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA)

Phytocannabinoid Source:  Not Applicable

Receptors Studied:  CB1, CB2, GPCR

Ligands Studied:  Pro-inflammatory cytokines