Behavioral effects endocannabinoids

Later 2-AG was also found in the brain (Stella, 1997) and spleen (Di Marzo, 1998). It was shown to be released in a calcium-dependent manner, reaching concentrations 170 times higher than that of anandamide in the brain (Stella, 1997). Like the other endocannabinoids, 2-AG was shown to produce the typical tetrad of cannabimimetic behavioral effects and inhibit electrically evoked contractions of mouse MVD (Mechoulam, 1995a). 

Some studies have suggested that there may be links between the development of dependence to cannabinoids and to opiates (42). Some of the behavioral signs of rimonabant-induced withdrawal in THC-treated rats can be mimicked by the opiate antagonist naloxone (43). Conversely, the withdrawal syndrome precipitated by naloxone in morphine-dependent mice can be partly relieved by THC (44) or endocannabinoids (45). Rats treated chronically with the cannabinoid WIN55212-2 became sensitized to the behavioral effects of heroin (46). Such interactions can also be demonstrated acutely. Synergy between cannabinoids and opiate analgesics has been described above. THC also facilitated the antinociceptive effects of RB 101, an inhibitor of enkephalin inactivation, and acute administration of THC caused... 

Other behavioral effects of cannabinoid agents in animal models have been reviewed by Chaperon and Thiebot (1999), and a review of the behavioral effects of endocannabinoids is... 

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