Science is Fun Fridays!
Today we'll be looking at the endocannabinoid system, and specifically, Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency. The endocannabinoid system is made up of: -enzymes which create and destroy cannabinoids -receptor sites on cells to receive cannabinoids (CB1 and CB2) -the endocannabinoids themselves, compounds produced by our bodies Together these mechanisms regulate body processes and functions, with the goal of achieving and maintaining homeostasis. Researchers believe that many ailments related to the immune system and inflammation could be due to endocannabinoid deficiency. Dr. Ethan Russo: "Migraine, fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome, and related conditions display common clinical, biochemical, and pathophysiological patterns that suggest an underlying clinical cannabinoid deficiency that may be suitably treated with cannabinoid medicines." CED may also play a role in diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. CB1 rece...