The Endocannabinoid System

In 1988, Allyn Howlett’s research lab at St Louis University discovered binding sites - receptors -  in rat brain membranes. These receptors reacted when a 

man-made cannabinoid was introduced. The CB1 receptor was discovered. 

In 1993, the CB2 receptor was discovered. The human opiate receptor  was discovered 20 years earlier, in 1973. 

CB1 is one of the most abundant receptors in the central nervous system and throughout the brain. They are found in eyes, blood vessels, spleen and testis.

CB2 receptors occur mainly in immune cells, and are detected in the central nervous system as related to  inflammation and synaptic plasticity. (ability for neurons to connect.) 

Israeli researcher, Raphael Mechoulam, began researching the cannabis plant in the 1960’s. He is credited as the Grandfather of the cannabinoid sciences, and the researcher who discovered THC. His lab went on to discover endocannabinoids - naturally occurring compounds produced in the body - that bind to the CB1 and CB2 receptors. 

Anandamide, Sanskrit for Bliss, was discovered to bind to the same receptor as THC. We now know the runner's high - is the Endocannabinoid System.

Anandamide is an Endocannabinoid molecule that is naturally produced in the human brain and involved in regulating mood, memory, appetite, and pain perception. Anandamide is known as the “bliss” neurotransmitter because it causes a euphoric “high” when released.  Anandamide binds to the same receptor as the THC molecule.

More to come....