2-AG

2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) is a endocannabinoid involved in various physiological processes in the body. It is an ester formed from the omega-6 fatty acid arachidonic acid and glycerol. 2-AG is a full agonist of both the CB1 receptor and the CB2 receptor, but has a higher efficacy at the CB2 receptor.

Biosynthesis and degradation

2-AG is synthesized from arachidonic acid-containing diacylglycerol (DAG), which is derived from the increase of inositol phospholipid metabolism by the action of DAG lipase. It is degraded primarily by the enzyme monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL), producing arachidonic acid and glycerol. Other enzymes like alpha/beta-hydrolase domain containing 6 and 12 (ABHD6 and ABHD12) also have been discovered to play a role in the degradation of 2-AG.

Physiological roles

2-AG plays a role in the regulation of various physiological processes, including pain sensation, appetite, immune system responses, and neuroprotection. It also has been implicated in the endocannabinoid system's regulation of neurogenesis. 2-AG is found in maternal bovine and human milk. The exact role of 2-AG in the neonatal development is still under study.

Research and potential therapeutic uses

Research on 2-AG has been conducted to understand its role in neurological disorders, inflammatory diseases, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Some studies suggest that 2-AG could have therapeutic potential in the treatment of these diseases.

See also

• Anandamide
• Cannabinoid receptor
• Endocannabinoid system

2-AG Resources
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