The role of the endocannabinoid system in obesity pathogenesis

V.A. Dudareva¹, A.A. Shikaleva², M.L. Maximov², I.G. Dyadikova¹, V.O. Vovk³, I.M. Filimonova²

¹Rostov State Medical University, Rostov-on-Don

²Kazan State Medical University, the branch of the Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education

³Rostov Regional Clinical Hospital, Rostov-on-Don

The processes of human eating behavior have complex regulation, one of the links of which is the endocannabinoid system. Currently, the endocannabinoid system, as well as the substances that affect it are actively studied, since it can be involved in many physiological and cognitive processes. The article describes the types of cannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors and their localization, also endocannabinoid system functions and its role in the obesity pathogenesis. A promising method in the treatment of obesity is the use of Dietressa — a drug based on technologically processed affinity-purified antibodies (ultra-high dilutions) to type 1 cannabinoid receptors (anti-CB₁). Possible mechanisms of its action are described. Preclinical studies have shown its ability to lead to weight loss in mice during a high-calorie diet. Toxicological studies have proven the drug safety and its lack of narcogenic potential. In clinical studies, it was shown that the use of this drug led to a statistically significant weight loss in patients with grade I obesity versus placebo (p<0.05).

Keywords: obesity, metabolic syndrome, treatment of obesity, diet, endocannabinoid system, cannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors, Dietressa.

For citation: Dudareva V.A., Shikaleva A.A., Maximov M.L. et al. The role of the endocannabinoid system in obesity pathogenesis. RMJ. 2020;1:23–28.