Awesome! New mechanism controls efficacy of marijuana-like substance in brain

A newly discovered molecular mechanism helps control the amount and effectiveness of a substance that mimics an active ingredient in marijuana.

However, this substance is produced by the body's own nerve cells.

William R. Marrs of the Neurobiology and Behavior program at the University of Washington (UW) and Dr. Nephi Stella, UW professor of pharmacology and psychiatry conducted the study.

The find may improve treatment in people with multiple sclerosis, Huntington's disease and other neurological disorders.

Specifically targeted treatments, for example, might give cancer and AIDS patients the same medicinal benefits as marijuana without its mind-altering properties.

Cannabinoid signalling systems use signals called endocannabinoids - chemicals that mimic the effect of marijuana.

They are common throughout the body and affect a variety of functions.

[link to www.dnaindia.com]