5283387

Oleamide is a fascinating compound with various roles and effects, particularly in relation to sleep and mood disorders. Here's a summary of its key properties and functions:

Chemical Structure: Oleamide has the chemical formula CH3(CH2)7CH=CH(CH2)7CONH2. It is classified as a fatty amide and is derived from oleic acid.

Natural Occurrence: Oleamide was first detected in human plasma. It has been found to accumulate in the cerebrospinal fluid during sleep deprivation.

Sleep-Inducing Effects: Oleamide has been shown to induce sleep in animals. Its role in sleep regulation has led to investigations into its potential use as a treatment for sleep disorders.

Mood and Sleep Disorders: Oleamide has been considered as a potential treatment for mood and sleep disorders. Its effects on sleep regulation and mood have generated interest in its therapeutic potential.

Neurotransmitter Interaction: Oleamide is believed to interact with multiple neurotransmitter systems. It has been suggested that it may act as an agonist for the cannabinoid receptor CB-1, although its affinity for this receptor is relatively low.

Body Temperature Effects: At larger doses, oleamide can lower the body temperature of mice by approximately 2 degrees Celsius, with the effect lasting for about two hours. The mechanism behind this temperature-lowering effect is not yet fully understood.

Metabolism: Oleamide is rapidly metabolized by the enzyme fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), which is the same enzyme that metabolizes anandamide, another endogenous cannabinoid. Some of the effects of oleamide may be related to its inhibition of FAAH, which could increase the concentration of anandamide.

Choline Acetyltransferase Activity: Oleamide has been claimed to increase the activity of choline acetyltransferase, an enzyme critical for the production of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter associated with memory and cognition.

While oleamide shows promise in various areas, including sleep regulation and mood disorders, more research is needed to fully understand its mechanisms of action and its potential as a therapeutic agent. Its complex interactions with neurotransmitter systems make it an intriguing subject of study in the field of neurobiology and pharmacology.

GHS Hazard Statements

• H315 (20.99%): Causes skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

• H317 (14.63%): May cause an allergic skin reaction [Warning Sensitization, Skin]

• H319 (20.99%): Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

• H335 (27.19%): May cause respiratory irritation [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Respiratory tract irritation]

• H413 (70.27%): May cause long lasting harmful effects to aquatic life [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

Chemical and Physical Properties

Source: PubChem