Podcast
Questions and Answers
Which of the following receptors is primarily located in the central nervous system?
Which of the following receptors is primarily located in the central nervous system?
Endocannabinoids are synthesized and stored in vesicles until needed.
Endocannabinoids are synthesized and stored in vesicles until needed.
False
What is the primary psychoactive compound found in cannabis?
What is the primary psychoactive compound found in cannabis?
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
Cannabis sativa is known for having approximately _____ active compounds.
Cannabis sativa is known for having approximately _____ active compounds.
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Match the following endocannabinoid compounds with their functions:
Match the following endocannabinoid compounds with their functions:
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What year was the first receptor for THC (CB1) identified?
What year was the first receptor for THC (CB1) identified?
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Cannabinoid antagonists can be used to suppress appetite.
Cannabinoid antagonists can be used to suppress appetite.
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Which compound was identified as inactive in urine tests for THC?
Which compound was identified as inactive in urine tests for THC?
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The primary role of endocannabinoids in synaptic transmission is to inhibit the release of __________ from the presynaptic neuron.
The primary role of endocannabinoids in synaptic transmission is to inhibit the release of __________ from the presynaptic neuron.
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Which of the following conditions is THC particularly effective for pain relief?
Which of the following conditions is THC particularly effective for pain relief?
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Study Notes
Endocannabinoid System
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Endocannabinoids: Lipid-soluble signaling molecules, not stored in vesicles, synthesized on demand.
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Functions:
- Analgesia
- Sensory processing
- Motor coordination
- Memory and cognition
- Appetite regulation
- Immune system modulation
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Synthesis: Derived from arachidonic acid.
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Receptors:
- CB1: Primarily in the central nervous system (CNS), involved in motor coordination, memory, and sensory processing. Located in basal ganglia, cerebellum, hippocampus, and cortex. Few in brainstem.
- CB2: Primarily in the periphery, including the immune system.
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Inactivation:
- Anandamide: Broken down by fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) in postsynaptic neurons.
- 2-AG: Broken down by monoacylglycerol lipase (MGL) in presynaptic neurons.
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Synaptic Transmission:
- Postsynaptic neuron depolarization triggers endocannabinoid release.
- Endocannabinoids diffuse to presynaptic neurons, binding receptors and inhibiting neurotransmitter release (retrograde signaling).
Cannabis
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Plant: Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica, cultivated for ~6000 years, originally from Asia, now worldwide.
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Compounds:
- Varying compounds; ~400 active compounds,
- Psychoactive: Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Identifed in 1964.
- Non-psychoactive: Cannabidiol (CBD), Cannabinol (CBN).
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Timeline:
- 1964: THC identified as active component of marijuana.
- 1988: First THC receptor (CB1) identified.
- 1991: Second THC receptor (CB2) identified,
- 1992: Endogenous THC (anandamide & 2-AG) identified.
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Pharmacokinetics of THC:
- Half-life: ~30 hours.
- Depot binding: "reverse tolerance".
- Metablism: Metabolized in liver to active metabolite (11-hydroxy-delta-9 THC); then into inactive metabolite (carboxy-THC; detectable in urine).
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Medical Uses of THC:
- Analgesia: Sativex (THC + CBD); effective for inflammatory pain (CB2 action).
- Appetite stimulation: Marinol. Useful in cancer/AIDS.
- Cannabinoid antagonists can suppress appetite. One example is Rimonabant (2006).
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Description
Explore the fascinating world of the endocannabinoid system, which includes lipid-soluble signaling molecules synthesized on demand. This quiz covers the functions, synthesis, receptors, and mechanisms of action of endocannabinoids like anandamide and 2-AG. Test your knowledge about their roles in pain regulation, memory, motor coordination, and more.
