Abstract Although there is currently only limited knowledge of how activation of the CB-1 receptor in brain leads to the many actions of THC, some general features of cannabinoid control mechanisms are emerging. This chapter discusses THC in relation to the inhibition of neurotransmitter release, cardiovascular effects, effects on motility and pain, and behavioral models including the “Billy...
Abstract The 19th century was a great era for plant chemistry. Many complex drug molecules, known as alkaloids, were isolated and identified from plants. This chapter discusses the history of the discovery of delta-9-tetrahyrocannabinol (THC) as the psychoactive substance in cannabis products and also the discovery of the cannabinoid receptors CB-1 and CB-2 in the body and brain. The mechanism...