Therapeutic potential of cannabidiol and its underlying mechanisms

Abstract

Marijuana has been used for therapeutic purpose for many centuries. Cannabinoids are the constituents in marijuana (Cannabis sativa). Among the many cannabinoids, Δ−9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is psychoactive. Cannabidiol (CBD), however, devoid of psychoactive effects and is the most abundant cannabinoid. Recently, considerable interest has been directed to the therapeutic effects of CBD. CBD may exert their effects by binding to the variety of receptors. CB1 and CB2 are well characterized cannabinoid receptors which are G protein-coupled receptors. CB1 receptor is primarily expressed in the nerve terminals, and regulates neuro-transmitter release in the central nerve system. CB2 receptor is mainly expressed in non-neuronal cells outside the central nerve system such as lymphocytes and macrophages. In addition to these receptors, CBD has been reported to produce the effects via GPR55, TRP, 5-HT, and PPAR receptors. This review will focus on the therapeutic potential of CBD and its underlying mechanisms.