Endogenous and synthetic cannabinoids: Recent advances

Esther Shohami, Joseph Weidenfeld, Haim Ovadia, Zvi Vogel, Lumir Hanuš, Ester Fride, Aviva Breuer, Shimon Ben-Shabat, Tzviel Sheskin, Raphael Mechoulam*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

16 Scopus citations

Abstract

We have reviewed the effects of two endogenous cannabinoid constituents, anandamide and 2-Ara-G1, and of two synthetic cannabinoids, HU-211 and HU- 210. Anandamide partly parallels THC in most CNS activities; the lack of published data prevents comparison of 2-Ara-G1 with THC. Anandamide probably serves as a mediator in motor functions, in memory and, judging from the effects of THC in humans on mood and cognition, in emotions. 2-Ara-G1 probably plays a role in the immune system. HU-210, which is one of the most potent cannabinoids prepared so far as evidenced by observations on sedation, catalepsy and hypothermia, will presumably continue to serve as a potent tool for cannabinoid investigations. HU-211 which is not cannabimimetic, but is an NMDA antagonist, may become a drug used in neuroprotection and possibly in medical conditions associated with high levels of glutamate, tumor necrosis factor, and/or with impaired function of the BBB.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)429-451
Number of pages23
JournalCNS Drug Reviews
Volume2
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 1996

Keywords

  • 2-Arachidonoyl-glycerol
  • Anandamide
  • Cannabinoid receptors
  • Head trauma
  • HU- 210
  • HU-211-δ-Tetrahydrocannabinol

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