Compound Monograph
2-AG
2-AG (2-arachidonoylglycerol) is one of the body's principal endocannabinoids, an endogenous signalling lipid that activates cannabinoid receptors.
Where Does It Come From? (1)
2-AG is a naturally occurring (and made in the body) endocannabinoid (monoacylglycerol), found in Mammalian tissue. It is well tolerated orally (low toxicity).
Research & Evidence
2-AG (2-arachidonoylglycerol) is one of the two best-characterised endocannabinoids, alongside anandamide. It is an arachidonic-acid-derived monoacylglycerol produced on demand within cells rather than stored, and it acts as a full agonist at the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors. Through this signalling it participates in retrograde neurotransmission, appetite, pain modulation, immune regulation and other physiological processes. It is the same receptor system that plant cannabinoids such as THC engage, which is why the endocannabinoid system is of interest in cannabis pharmacology.
Toxicity & Safety
As a naturally occurring signalling molecule, 2-AG is not associated with toxicity in its physiological role. It is rapidly broken down in the body, chiefly by the enzyme monoacylglycerol lipase, so its activity is normally brief and tightly regulated.