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Updated: Aug 9, 2026
08:17
Flow Cytometry-based Assay for the Monitoring of NK Cell Functions
Published on: October 30, 2016
Inhibition of natural killer cell function by marijuana components
Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health
|January 1, 1987
Summary
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and its metabolite suppress natural killer (NK) cell activity in mice. These cannabinoids directly impact NK cells, potentially disrupting host resistance mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Natural killer (NK) cells are crucial for host resistance against various threats.
- The immunomodulatory effects of marijuana components, particularly delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of THC and its metabolite on NK cell activity.
- To elucidate the mechanism by which these cannabinoids affect NK cell function.
Main Methods:
- In vivo studies involving THC injection in mice.
- In vitro experiments using cultured murine splenocytes and purified NK cells.
- Dose-response assays, cell viability assessments, target binding analysis, and calcium ionophore studies.
Main Results:
- THC suppressed splenic NK activity in mice.
- Both THC and 11-hydroxy-THC dose-dependently suppressed NK cell activity in vitro without affecting cell viability.
- The hydroxylated metabolite showed a more potent suppressive effect than THC.
- Cannabinoids act directly on NK cells, affecting post-binding events and programming for lysis, not effector/target binding or calcium flux.
Conclusions:
- THC and its metabolite directly suppress NK cell function.
- These cannabinoids may impair host resistance mechanisms by modulating NK cell activity.
- Distinct mechanisms of action may exist between THC and its hydroxylated metabolite.
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