Paraventricular hypothalamic CB1 cannabinoid receptors are involved in the feeding stimulatory effects of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol

Intra-PVN administration of THC produced a significant increase in food intake that was attenuated by SR 141716. Administration of SR 141716 alone did not affect feeding. Locomotor activity was not significantly affected by any drug treatments, suggesting that effects on feeding were not due to a non-specific reduction in motivated behaviour. These findings suggest an important role for PVN cannabinoid signalling in mediating THC-induced feeding behaviour. These results also demonstrate that the blockade of PVN CB1 receptors alone is insufficient to reduce baseline feeding behaviour under these conditions.