The complex interplay between stress and the endocannabinoid system in the modulation of memory function

The endocannabinoid system has been recognized as an important regulator of several processes within the central nervous system, including learning and memory. Compelling evidence indicates that cognitive functions can be affected by stressful and emotional arousal experiences, and that endocannabinoids are also recruited by stress and glucocorticoids to mediate stress-induced effects on memory. In this chapter, we review literature data demonstrating the involvement of the endocannabinoid signaling in the modulation of a wide array of learning and memory processes, and whether these effects can be affected by stress.