Phytocannabinoids, the Endocannabinoid System and Male Reproduction
Jinhwan Lim, Erica Squire, Kwang‐Mook Jung
Abstract
affect a variety of physiological processes by altering, or under certain conditions hijacking, the ECB system. Therefore, phytocannabinoids, in particular THC, may modify the homeostasis of the HPG axis by altering CB receptor signaling and cause deficits in reproductive function. While the ability of phytocannabinoids, THC and/or cannabidiol (CBD), to reduce pain and inflammation provides promising opportunities for therapeutic intervention for genitourinary and degenerative disorders, important questions remain regarding their unwanted long-term effects. It is nevertheless clear that the therapeutic potential of modulating the ECS calls for further scientific and clinical investigation.
Topics & Concepts
Endocannabinoid systemHypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axisEndocrinologyInternal medicineCannabinoid receptorHypothalamusHormoneBiologyLipid signalingReceptorLuteinizing hormoneChemistryMedicineAgonistCannabis and Cannabinoid ResearchDiet, Metabolism, and DiseasePancreatic function and diabetes