Endocannabinoid system
Endocannabinoid System
The Endocannabinoid System (pronunciation: en-doh-ka-na-bi-noid system) is a complex cell-signaling system identified in the early 1990s by researchers exploring THC, a well-known cannabinoid. Cannabinoids are compounds found in cannabis.
Etymology
The term "Endocannabinoid" is derived from "Endogenous," referring to substances produced naturally in the body, and "Cannabinoid," which is a class of compounds and receptors throughout the body that interact with cannabinoids.
Function
The Endocannabinoid System plays a crucial role in maintaining the body's internal environment's stability, or homeostasis. It is active in your body even if you do not use cannabis and is involved in a variety of physiological processes including appetite, pain-sensation, mood, and memory.
Components
The system is composed of endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes.
- Endocannabinoids are molecules made by your body. They're similar to cannabinoids, but they're produced by your body.
- Receptors are found throughout your body. Endocannabinoids bind to them in order to signal that the ECS needs to take action.
- Enzymes are responsible for breaking down endocannabinoids once they've carried out their function.
Related Terms
- Cannabinoids - Compounds that interact with the endocannabinoid system, including both those produced naturally in the body (endocannabinoids) and those made artificially or found in plants (phytocannabinoids).
- Homeostasis - The state of steady internal physical and chemical conditions maintained by living systems.
- THC - Tetrahydrocannabinol, a cannabinoid found in cannabis that has a range of psychological and physiological effects on the human body.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Endocannabinoid system
- Wikipedia's article - Endocannabinoid system
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