Here, Patrice Cani and colleagues discuss interactions between gut microorganisms, the endocannabinoid system and host metabolism, in the context of both physiology and pathophysiology. The authors highlight the importance of gut barrier function by discussing the role of specific factors involved in intestinal permeability and their role in the gut microbiota–endocannabinoid system axis. The therapeutic potential of targeting the endocannabinoid system to treat cardiometabolic disorders and intestinal inflammation is also discussed.
- Patrice D. Cani
- Hubert Plovier
- Amandine Everard