Role of polyunsaturated fatty acids, the precursors of endocannabinoids, in human obesity and diabetes development

Abstract

The essential polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) serve as precursors of the endocannabinoids (EC), bioactive lipids molecules. This article reviews the functions of the endocannabinoid system (ECS), and their relationship some physiological and pathological processes, with focus in development of obesity and diabetes. Furthermore, a brief overview on the experimental and clinical effects of drugs modification of the ECS and results of the exogenous manipulation of PUFAs and consequent modulation on ECS are also outlined. <o:p /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 150%;"><span lang="en" style="font-family: Arial;">Finally, we propose that the ECS can be modulated by exogenous manipulation of PUFAs that could help in the prevention and management of very important human diseases like obesity, metabolic sindrome and diabetes.