RESEARCH: CANNABINOID
FOLDING PROJECT #19003 PROFILE

Our project explores how a natural molecule called anandamide interacts with two receptors in our body called CB1 and CB2. Understanding this interaction can help us create new drugs to treat things like pain, obesity, and other brain disorders.

Note: This TLDR is a simplication and may not be 100% accurate.

Cannabinoid Receptors The endocannabinoid signaling system consists of receptors (Cannabinoid Receptors; CB1 and CB2), endogeneous molecules (Endocannabinoids; 2-AG, Anandamide), and enzymes.

Endocannabinoids are produced in postsynaptic neurons and bind to Cannabinoid Receptors to maintain homeostasis in neuron signaling and a plethora of physiological processes.

These receptors are targeted for pain, obesity, and other central nervous system disorders.

Endocannabinoids show more than 10-fold selectivity towards CB1 compared to CB2.

Therefore, a mechanistic understanding of endocannabinoid selectivity will help us design selective therapeutics.

In this project, we are running binding simulation of anandmide to CB1 and CB2 to decipher ligand selectivity.

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Cannabinoid Receptors

Receptors that bind to cannabinoids.

Cannabinoid receptors are proteins found on the surface of cells that bind to cannabinoids. These molecules play a role in various physiological processes, including pain perception, mood regulation, and appetite control. There are two main types of cannabinoid receptors: CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are primarily found in the central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are more prevalent in the immune system.

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CB1

Cannabinoid receptor 1

CB1 is a type of cannabinoid receptor primarily found in the central nervous system. It plays a role in various functions, including pain perception, mood regulation, and appetite control.

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CB2

Cannabinoid receptor 2

CB2 is a type of cannabinoid receptor found mainly in the immune system. It plays a role in inflammation and immune responses.

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Endocannabinoids

Naturally occurring molecules that bind to cannabinoid receptors.

Endocannabinoids are naturally produced molecules in the body that interact with cannabinoid receptors. They play a role in regulating various physiological processes, including pain sensation, mood, appetite, and sleep.

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Anandamide

A type of endocannabinoid.

Anandamide is a well-known endocannabinoid that binds to both CB1 and CB2 receptors. It has various effects, including pain relief, mood elevation, and appetite stimulation.

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2-AG

2-Arachidonoylglycerol

2-AG is another important endocannabinoid that binds to both CB1 and CB2 receptors. It plays a role in various physiological processes, including pain modulation, inflammation, and memory.

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Homeostasis

The tendency of the body to maintain a stable internal environment.

Homeostasis is the ability of living organisms to regulate their internal environment and keep it within a narrow range. This balance is essential for survival and involves various physiological processes, such as temperature regulation, blood sugar control, and fluid balance.