Oleamide (ODA)

Oleamide is a naturally occurring fatty acid primary amide, chemically designated as (Z)-octadec-9-enamide, derived from the fatty acid oleic acid. It is an endogenous lipid signaling molecule found in animals, best known for its sleep-inducing properties—it accumulates in the cerebrospinal fluid under sleep deprivation and induces physiologic sleep when administered to animals. Biologically, it interacts with various central nervous system receptors (including GABA₊, serotonin, and cannabinoid CB1) and inhibits gap junction communication, possibly influencing neural and immune functions. Oleamide also exhibits anti-inflammatory and potential analgesic effects and is involved in the biochemical regulation of sleep and neuro-immune processes. It is not a protein or classical pharmacological target but rather a ligand/modulator of multiple targets.

Other names

9-Octadecenoic amideOleic acid amideOleyl amideOleylamideODASLEEPAMIDEOLEYRAMIDE(9Z)-9-Octadecenamide(Z)-9-Octadecenamide9-Octadecenamide, (Z)-(9Z)-octadec-9-enamide

FAAH inhibition: increases endogenous oleamide by blocking its degradation. Oleamide itself acts as a modulator of neurotransmitter receptors: GABA₊ (positive allosteric modulation), 5-HT2A/2C/7, cannabinoid CB1. Inhibition of gap junction channels.