Cannabinoid Receptors and Chronic Genetic Diseases
Understanding the role of cannabinoid receptors across various organs is essential, especially in the context of chronic genetic diseases. These receptors are not just confined to the brain but are also found in several other organs, playing diverse roles from modulating pain to affecting metabolic and immune functions. In addition, it’s crucial to understand that cannabinoid action isn’t limited to direct receptor binding. Various enzymes and proteins modulate the endocannabinoid system indirectly, offering additional layers of control and potential therapeutic targets.
Comprehensive Comparison Table of Cannabinoid Receptors
| Receptor Type | Organs Present | Relative Density | Direct/Indirect Binding | Inhibit/Induce | Relevant Cannabinoids |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CB1 | Brain, Liver, Lungs | High in Brain | Direct | Both | THC, Anandamide |
| CB2 | Immune Cells, Spleen, GI tract | High in Immune Cells | Direct | Both | CBD, 2-AG, CBG |
| GPR55 | Brain, Spleen, GI tract | Moderate | Direct | Induce | LPI, CBD |
| TRPV1 | Peripheral Nerves, Brain | Moderate | Direct | Induce | Anandamide, Capsaicin |
| TRPV2 | Immune Cells, Peripheral Nerves | Moderate | Direct | Induce | CBD |
| PPARs | Liver, Kidneys, Heart | Moderate | Direct | Both | Fatty acids, THC |
| 5-HT | Brain, GI tract, Blood Vessels | Moderate | Indirect | Induce | CBD |
| α2-Adrenergic | Brain, Blood Vessels | Low | Indirect | Inhibit | Clonidine, CBD |
| Glycine | CNS, Spinal Cord | Low | Direct | Induce | Glycine, CBD |
| Mu Opioid | CNS, GI tract | Moderate | Indirect | Induce | Endorphins, Enkephalins |
| Delta Opioid | CNS, Peripheral nerves | Low | Indirect | Induce | Endorphins, Enkephalins |
Indirect Cannabinoid Modulators
| Modulator Type | Organs Present | Direct/Indirect | Inhibit/Induce | Relevant Cannabinoids |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FAAH | Brain, Liver | Indirect | Inhibit | Anandamide, PEA |
| MAGL | Brain, Liver | Indirect | Inhibit | 2-AG |
| COX-2 | Most tissues | Indirect | Inhibit | CBD, THC |
| NADA | Brain, Nerves | Indirect | Induce | NADA, Anandamide |
| NMDA | CNS | Indirect | Modulate | Glutamate, NMDA |
| Dopamine | CNS | Indirect | Modulate | Dopamine, CBD |
| GABA | CNS | Indirect | Modulate | GABA, Anandamide |
| Nicotinic ACh | CNS | Indirect | Modulate | ACh, CBD |
| AMT | CNS | Indirect | Inhibit | Anandamide |
| LOX | Most tissues | Indirect | Induce | LA, AA |
References:
- Herkenham, M., et al. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A, 1991.
- Russo, E. B. Br J Pharmacol, 2011.
- Pertwee, R. G. Curr Med Chem, 2010.
- Matsuda, L. A., et al. Nature, 1990.
- Di Marzo, V., et al. Nat Rev Drug Discov, 2015.
- Ahn, K., et al. J Pharmacol Exp Ther, 2008.
- De Petrocellis, L., et al. J Pharmacol Exp Ther, 2011.
- Cravatt, B. F., et al. Nature, 1996.
- Mechoulam, R., & Parker, L. A. Annu Rev Psychol, 2013.
Special Notes:
Patients with conditions such as schizophrenia, liver diseases, and cardiovascular disorders should exercise caution. For personalized, expert consultation, reach out to Dr. Caplan at CED Clinic.
📗 Note: If the diagram’s a nibble, the book’s a three-course meal with dessert. Bon appétit, available here 📗.
