Cannabinoid receptor

Discovery of Cannabinoid Receptors:

• Cannabinoid receptors in the brain were discovered in the 1980s.
• CB1 was identified and cloned in 1990, while CB2 was determined in 1993.
• Anandamide, a neurotransmitter for the endocannabinoid system, was characterized in 1992.
• Other fatty acid neurotransmitters acting as endogenous cannabinoids were also found.

Types and Functions of Cannabinoid Receptors:

• CB1 is widely expressed in the brain and functions through endocannabinoid-mediated signaling.
• CB1 activation in the liver increases de novo lipogenesis.
• CB2 is expressed in the immune system and plays a role in pain relief.
• CB2 receptors are expressed by microglial cells in the brain.

Signaling Pathways of Cannabinoid Receptors:

• Cannabinoid receptors are activated by endocannabinoids or external cannabinoids.
• Multiple intracellular signal transduction pathways are activated upon receptor engagement.
• THC, anandamide, and 2-arachidonylglycerol bind to CB1 and CB2 receptors.
• The separation between psychotropic and desirable effects of agonists binding to cannabinoid receptors is not well-documented.

Legality and Medical Applications:

• Cannabis legality in the U.S. varies by state.
• The Farm Bill of 2018 legalized hemp-derived cannabinoids.
• Medical marijuana is legal in many states for specific conditions.
• Synthetic THC is prescribed for various medical conditions, including vomiting, enhancing appetite, and multiple sclerosis symptoms.

Research and Studies on Cannabinoid Receptors:

• Various studies explore the molecular cloning, structure, and expression of cannabinoid receptors in different tissues.
• The evolution and comparative neurobiology of endocannabinoid signaling have been studied.
• Research focuses on the role of cannabinoid receptors in human health and behavior.
• Novel cannabinoid receptors have been identified, and their signaling pathways are being explored.

Cannabinoid receptor Data Sources