(+-)11(12)-EET Ethanolamide

Arachidonoyl ethanolamide (AEA; anandamide) is an endogenous lipid neurotransmitter with cannibingeric activity, binding to both the central cannabinoid (CB1) and peripheral cannabinoid (CB2) receptors.{2713,14062} Fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) is the enzyme responsible for the hydrolysis and inactivation of AEA.{13132} Metabolism of AEA by cyclooxygenase-2, leading to formation of prostaglandin ethanolamides, and by lipoxygenases has also been documented.{12168} (+-)11(12)-EET ethanolamide is a potential cytochrome P450 (CYP450) metabolite of AEA, although specific stereochemistry rather than a racemic mixture would likely ensue from enzymatic metabolism. CYP450 metabolism of AEA may be particularly relevant under conditions of FAAH inhibition. Evidence for the formation of (+-)11(12)-EET ethanolamide in vivo has not been documented.