The endogenous cannabinoid and the adrenergic systems in modulation of stress-response

Abstract

In our modern, fast-paced society, excessive stress (or distress) is a major risk factor for developing a plethora of diseases. There are several neuromediatory systems in the brain that regulate the response to stress, including the adrenergic and endocannabinoid systems. In our experiments, we study the effects of the endocannabinoid system on the restrain stress-induced analgesia (r-SIA). The experiments were done on male Wistar rats. The animals were confined in special restrainers for a period of one hour. The animals were treated with Clonidine (at 4 mg/kg) – a prototypical α2-agonist; Yohimbine – an α2-adrenergic receptor antagonist; Desipramine – a NE reuptake blocker; CB1r agonist anandamide (AEA); CB1r antagonist АМ251 in different combinations. r-SIA was investigated by means of the paw pressure test in order to get a better understanding of the role that the neurotransmitter anandamide plays in the process. The degree to which the levels of r-SIA fluctuated served as an indicator of the degree to which the cannabinoid system and the adrenergic system interacted with one another. Cannabinoids that are administered exogenously were found to reduce levels of r-SIA and modulate the effects of the adrenergic system. These conclusions were reached based on the findings of our research.