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Knowing the detailed molecular structure of CB1 provides insight into how both natural and synthetic cannabinoids bind to the receptor, enabling researchers to craft drugs that bind “neatly”-that is, in a way that produces therapeutic benefits without negative side effects. The body produces similar compounds, called endocannabinoids, which bind to CB1 throughout the central and peripheral nervous system, maintaining the body’s internal equilibrium. These substances bind to and activate CB1, one of the most abundant receptors in the brain and body, to produce not just a high but also effects such as pain relief. THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, belongs to a group of compounds called cannabinoids-substances found in the cannabis plant. “The work undertaken has required many years of collaboration in interdisciplinary research, and the leadership of professor Makriyannis has been central to this successful outcome.” “The elucidation of the three-dimensional structure of the receptor, called cannabinoid receptor 1, or CB1, marks a major breakthrough in the field, opening the potential for the directed discovery of new and more potent molecular therapies,” says Kenneth Henderson, dean of the College of Science. Kenneth Henderson, dean of the College of Science The work undertaken has required many years of collaboration in interdisciplinary research, and the leadership of professor Makriyannis has been central to this successful outcome.
#Alexandros makriyannis free
The findings, published Thursday in Cell, open the door to the development of new medications, free from side effects, for conditions from pain and obesity to neurological diseases and addiction. New findings by an interdisciplinary team, including Northeastern’s Alexandros Makriyannis, reveal for the first time the structure of the receptor in the brain that leads to the high associated with THC-the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana. There’s been a seismic shift on the research side, too. Legal use of medical marijuana could jump to 27 states.
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states, bringing the total number to eight plus the District of Columbia. 8, recreational marijuana use could become legal in five more U.S.