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Plant-Based Modulators of Endocannabinoid Signaling
1Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Concordia University Wisconsin , Mequon , Wisconsin 53097 , United States.
Journal of Natural Products
|March 1, 2019
Summary
Cannabis extracts reveal the endocannabinoid signaling system (ECSS). Plant compounds, not just THC, offer therapeutic benefits by modulating ECSS, highlighting diverse botanical sources for medicinal discovery.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Natural Products Chemistry
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Cannabis extracts led to the discovery of the endocannabinoid signaling system (ECSS).
- Cannabis sativa's effects are linked to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) via CB1 receptor agonism.
- Medicinal properties of Cannabis result from the synergistic actions of multiple compounds.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the potential of plant-derived secondary metabolites as ECSS modulators.
- To explore compounds from both Cannabis and non-Cannabis species.
- To highlight diverse botanical sources for ECSS-targeted therapeutics.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on Cannabis and ECSS.
- Analysis of phytocannabinoids and related natural products.
- Examination of fatty acid amides and esters as ECSS modulators.
Main Results:
- Δ9-THC is a primary driver of Cannabis reinforcement via CB1 agonism.
- Cannabis's therapeutic effects stem from a complex interplay of various compounds.
- Anandamide and 2-arachidonoyl glycerol analogs from non-Cannabis plants are valuable ECSS research tools.
Conclusions:
- Plant-based secondary metabolites, including those from Cannabis and other species, show significant potential as ECSS modulators.
- The ECSS offers a promising target for developing novel therapeutics.
- Further research into diverse botanical sources can yield new ECSS-acting compounds.
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