Researchers Uncover Structure of Marijuana Receptor That Makes Humans 'High'
Researchers have the clearest-ever picture of the receptor that gives humans the 'high' from marijuana, which could lead to a better understanding of how the drug affects humans.
Scientists have long known that molecules from THC, the psychoactive component of marijuana, bind to and activate the receptor known as CB1. But now they know that it has a three-dimensional crystal structure.
The authors of the paper, which was published Thursday in the journal Cell, say this information is crucial to improve our understanding of this receptor as marijuana use becomes widespread and, in many places, legalized.
Now that they know the shape of the receptor, they can get a better idea of how different molecules bind to it, which is what causes reactions in humans.
"What is important is to understand how different molecules bind to the receptor, how they control the receptor function, and how this can affect different people,"...
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