Advanced analytical approaches for endocannabinoids and endocannabinoid-like substances: Applications in liver disease research

Endocannabinoids (eCBs) and eCB-like substances are lipid mediators that play vital roles in regulating diverse physiological and pathological processes. These effects are predominantly mediated through interactions with cannabinoid receptors (CBRs), particularly CB1R and CB2R. Due to their typically low abundance in biological samples, the development of precise and efficient analytical methods is essential for accurate quantification of eCBs. The liver serves as a critical site of eCB activity, where dysregulation of eCB levels has been associated with various liver diseases. This review focuses on recent advancements in sample preparation and analytical techniques for eCBs and eCB-like substances from 2017 to 2024, providing a comprehensive evaluation of their strengths and limitations. Additionally, the roles of eCBs in liver lipid metabolism and their involvement in pathological processes are explored in detail. eCBs and eCB-like substances hold promise as diagnostic biomarkers, offering significant potential for applications in both basic research and clinical practice.