In this overview we have summarized some aspects of our published work related to the effects of the endocannabinoid system
on appetite and suckling. As noted also by several other groups we have found that anandamide, a major endocannabinoid,
enhances appetite in mice. On partial or full food deprivation over 24 h the levels of 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG), a second
major cannabinoid, are initially elevated in mouse brain; however, partial food deprivation over a longer period causes reduction
of 2-AG levels. Blocking the endocannabinoid system with a CB1 antagonist on the 1st day after birth leads to inhibition of
suckling; later administration also affects suckling, but does not fully block it.
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