Physical activity and the endocannabinoid system: an overview

Abstract

Recognized as a "disease modifier", physical activity (PA) is increasingly viewed as a more holistic, cost-saving method for prevention, treatment and management of human disease conditions. The traditional view that PA engages the monoaminergic and endorphinergic systems has been challenged by the discovery of the endocannabinoid system (ECS), composed of endogenous lipids, their target receptors, and metabolic enzymes. Indeed, direct and indirect evidence suggests that the ECS might mediate some of the PA-triggered effects throughout the body. Moreover, it is now emerging that PA itself is able to modulate ECS in different ways. Against this background, in the present review we shall discuss evidence of the cross-talk between PA and the ECS, ranging from brain to peripheral districts and highlighting how ECS must be tightly regulated during PA, in order to maintain its beneficial effects on cognition, mood, and nociception, while avoiding impaired energy metabolism, oxidative stress, and inflammatory processes.

The effects of regular physical activity on anxiety symptoms in healthy older adults: a systematic review

“…16 The protective effects of PA on neurogenesis have been demonstrated through increases in neurotrophic factors, including BDNF and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) levels. [16][17][18] Alternative hypotheses have also been proposed for the anxiolytic effects of PA on activating the endocannabinoid system 19,20 and modulating adenosine receptors. 21 PA increases circulating levels of endocannabinoids, including anandamide.…”

“…21 PA increases circulating levels of endocannabinoids, including anandamide. 19,20 In turn, these neuromodulators induce antianxiety and antidepressive effects by regulating the signaling of other neurotransmitters (i.e., dopaminergic and glutamatergic signaling) and reducing metabolism in the pre-frontal cortex. 19,20 Cannabinoids may also have anxiolytic effects by regulating the HPA axis and enhancing BDNF expression.…”

A Review on exercise and blood cells

“…Anandamide is an endogenous cannabinoid neurotransmitter that binds to cannabinoid receptors (Tantimonaco et al, 2014). Aerobic exercise causes an increase in the plasma anandamide level and it has been observed that moderate intensity exercise causes the greatest increase in plasma anandamide concentration.…”

“…Aerobic exercise causes an increase in the plasma anandamide level and it has been observed that moderate intensity exercise causes the greatest increase in plasma anandamide concentration. Increased plasma anandamide concentration is associated with psychoactive effects because it can cross the blood-brain barrier to act on the central nervous system (Tantimonaco et al, 2014).…”

Endocannabinoids and Related Lipids in Chronic Pain: Analytical and Clinical Aspects

“…Multiple functions are suggested for AEA, including modulation of pain, memory, inflammation, and energy metabolism. AEA may modulate the reward system via dopamine release [65] and be induced during physical activity [66]. Oleoylethanolamide (OEA) (C18:1) is a PPAR-α agonist [67] but is also a TRPV 1 activator [68] and a GPR 119 activator [69].…”