RESEARCH: CANNABINOID
FOLDING PROJECT #19005 PROFILE

Our project looks at how the body's natural chemicals (called endocannabinoids) fit into special receptors (CB1 and CB2). These receptors control things like pain, hunger, and brain activity. We're using computer simulations to see how well one of these chemicals, anandamide, fits into each receptor. This could help us develop new medicines that target specific receptors for treating diseases.

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.

Cannabinoid Receptors

Receptors that bind to endocannabinoids.

Cannabinoid receptors are proteins found on cells throughout the body. They play a key role in regulating various physiological processes like pain perception, appetite, mood, and memory. There are two main types: CB1, primarily located in the brain and nervous system, and CB2, mainly found in immune cells.

CB1

Cannabinoid Receptor 1

CB1 is the primary type of cannabinoid receptor found in the brain and central nervous system. It plays a crucial role in mediating the effects of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive component of cannabis.

CB2

Cannabinoid Receptor 2

CB2 receptors are primarily found in immune cells and play a role in modulating inflammation and immune responses.

Endocannabinoids

Naturally occurring molecules that bind to cannabinoid receptors.

Endocannabinoids are the body's own chemical messengers that interact with cannabinoid receptors. They regulate various functions like appetite, pain perception, mood, and sleep.

2-AG

2-Arachidonoylglycerol

A primary endocannabinoid that acts on CB1 and CB2 receptors.

Anandamide

An endogenous lipid with psychoactive properties.

Anandamide is another important endocannabinoid that binds to CB1 and CB2 receptors. It contributes to feelings of pleasure, relaxation, and well-being.