This gene encodes a protein that is responsible for the hydrolysis of a number of primary and secondary fatty acid amides, including the neuromodulatory compounds anandamide and oleamide. (provided by RefSeq)
FAAH (fatty acid amide hydrolase) gene encodes a member of the amidase signature (AS) family. It catalyzes the hydrolysis of endocannabinoid, anandamide related fatty acid amides. The endocannabinoids are involved in the several signaling processes in the nervous system and FAAH controls both the amplitude and duration of behavioral effects of endocannabinoids in mammals. FAAH, therefore, has an effect on human behavior. Polymorphism in this gene may be associated with disorders such as endocannabinoid-induced appetite stimulation and overweight disorders, problem of drug use or abuse. The cannabinoids are bioactive lipids mediators th at may have a protective effect against tumor growth. Overexpression of FAAH has been implicated in invasion of prostate carcinoma cells and in prostate tumorigenesis.
