Endocannabinoid Tone
The baseline level of endocannabinoid system activity in a given tissue or individual, determined by endocannabinoid synthesis, receptor expression, and degradation enzyme activity.
In Depth
Endocannabinoid tone varies between individuals and tissues, and is altered in disease states. High ECS tone (elevated endocannabinoids, high receptor density) is generally associated with reduced pain, anxiety, and inflammation. Low ECS tone is associated with the clinical endocannabinoid deficiency hypothesis. Factors affecting ECS tone include genetics (FAAH polymorphisms, CNR1 variants), stress, diet (omega-3 fatty acids support ECS), exercise, and prior cannabis exposure. Understanding individual ECS tone may eventually guide personalized cannabinoid therapy.
More in Pharmacology
Endocannabinoid System (ECS)
A lipid-based retrograde neurotransmitter system comprising endogenous cannabinoids (endocannabinoids), their receptors (CB1, CB2), and metabolic enzymes.
CB1 Receptor
Cannabinoid receptor type 1. A G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) primarily expressed in the central nervous system. The primary target of THC's psychoactive effects.
CB2 Receptor
Cannabinoid receptor type 2. A GPCR primarily expressed in immune tissues and peripheral organs. Less abundant in the CNS than CB1.
Anandamide (AEA)
N-arachidonoylethanolamine. The first endocannabinoid identified. A partial agonist at CB1 and CB2 receptors, named from the Sanskrit word "ananda" meaning bliss.
2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG)
The most abundant endocannabinoid in the brain. A full agonist at both CB1 and CB2 receptors.