Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 28, 2026

Intravital Microscopy and Thrombus Induction in the Earlobe of a Hairless Mouse
Published on: April 2, 2017
Thrombotic microangiopathy associated with synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists
Michael Karass1, Savneek Chugh2, Gabriela Andries1
1Division of Internal Medicine, New York Medical College, Westchester Medical Center, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA.
Abstract:
Marijuana is one of the most commonly used recreational drugs in the United States. As marijuana is illegal in the majority of countries, the use of readily available and unregulated synthetic cannabinoids (SCBs) has increased. Little is known about the potential adverse effects of SCBs especially in regards to their nephrotoxicity. Case reports of acute kidney injury (AKI) from acute tubular injury secondary to their use have been reported. However, the exact pathology, mechanism, and extent of renal injury remain unknown. We report the first case of biopsy proven thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) associated with SCBs resulting in AKI. The patient suffered significant morbidity with loss of renal function eventually requiring renal replacement therapy.
Related Concept Videos
Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: Cannabinoids
Two synthetic agonists of THC,...
CNS Stimulants: Cocaine, Amphetamines and Cannabinoids
Drug toxicity: Idiosyncratic Reactions
Drugs that Destabilize Microtubules
Therapeutic Drug Monitoring: Affecting Factors
Drugs Acting on Autonomic Ganglia: Stimulants
Ganglionic stimulants activate NM nicotinic receptors in autonomic ganglia, falling into two categories: nicotine mimetics [e.g., lobeline, dimethylpiperazine, tetramethylammonium] and muscarinic receptor agonists [e.g., muscarine, methacholine]. The first category's action is rapid and blocked by nicotinic receptor antagonists, while the second category's action is delayed and blocked by atropine-like agents. Nicotine, an alkaloid, affects the heart rate by stimulating...

