ABSTRACT: The endocannabinoid signaling system (eCBSS) is composed of cannabinoid (CB) receptors, their endogenous ligands (the endocannabinoids, eCB) and the enzymes that produce and inactivate these ligands. Neurons use this signaling system to communicate with each other and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychotropic ingredient of Cannabis sativa, induces ... Continue Reading
Endocannabinoid
STUDY: Cannabinoid Receptors: Nomenclature and Pharmacological Principles
ABSTRACT: The CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors are members of the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) family that are pharmacologically well defined. However, the discovery of additional sites of action for endocannabinoids as well as synthetic cannabinoid compounds suggests the existence of additional cannabinoid receptors. Here we review this evidence, as well as the ... Continue Reading
STUDY: GPR18 in microglia: implications for the CNS and endocannabinoid system signalling
ABSTRACT: A review of what is presently known about the G protein coupled receptor GPR18 in terms of its expression and distribution, pharmacology and potential implications for central nervous system and endocannabinoid system signalling. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Cannabinoids. To view the other articles in this section visit ... Continue Reading
STUDY: The endocannabinoid system and cancer: therapeutic implication
ABSTRACT: The endocannabinoid system is implicated in a variety of physiological and pathological conditions (inflammation, immunomodulation, analgesia, cancer and others). The main active ingredient of cannabis, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), produces its effects through activation of CB1 and CB2 receptors. CB1 receptors are expressed at high levels in the central nervous ... Continue Reading
STUDY: The endocannabinoid system as a target for the treatment of neurodegenerative disease
ABSTRACT: The Cannabis sativa plant has been exploited for medicinal, agricultural and spiritual purposes in diverse cultures over thousands of years. Cannabis has been used recreationally for its psychotropic properties, while effects such as stimulation of appetite, analgesia and anti-emesis have lead to the medicinal application of cannabis. Indeed, reports of medicinal ... Continue Reading