The endocannabinoid pathway and the female reproductive organs

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   Figure 1

   Overview of the most important biochemical pathways for cellular uptake and biological actions of the endogenous cannabinoids. Cannabinoids produce their effects by binding to specific G-protein-coupled plasma membrane receptors that can inhibit adenylate cyclase (AC); activate PKA, PI3K, AKT and MAPK; increase K⁺ currents and stimulate ceramide production. Intracellular degradation is achieved following their transport through the plasma membrane mediated by the endocannabinoid membrane transporters (EMT).
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   Figure 2

   Representative chemotaxis experiment. Migrated endometrial stromal cells have been stained: the image shows cell migration in basal condition (A) and after stimulation with methanandamide (10⁻⁵ M) (B).
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   Figure 3

   Effects of methanandamide (10⁻⁵ M) on actin cytoskeleton pattern of endometrial stromal cells. Untreated cells show a classic static phenotype (A). Treatment with methanandamide induces cytoskeleton rearrangements and a migratory phenotype (B).
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   Figure 4

   Effect of methanandamide (10⁻⁵ M) on endometrial stromal cell proliferation. Data are expressed as fold changes and are reported for 24, 48 and 72 h treatments (n=12) (A). (B) Endometrial stromal cells in basal condition. (C) Apoptotic endometrial stromal cells after 72-h stimulation with methanandamide.
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   Figure 5

   Overview of the most important biological activities of endocannabinoids in the female reproductive organs.

• © 2013 Society for Endocrinology