Immune function studies cannabinoid receptors

Much research has focused on marijuana s effects on the immune system. Some research has shown that one type of immune system cell called the macrophage (scavenger cell) is particularly sensitive to THC exposure. Macrophages clear the body of viruses, bacteria, and particles that are inhaled or ingested. These studies found the presence of cannabinoid receptors on macrophages, suggesting that THC can disrupt normal immune system functions and may eventually inhibit the body s natural immune response. 

The acquired immunodeficiency S5mdrome (AIDS) epidemic has served to increase awareness that the adverse consequences of drug abuse extend beyond the acute and chronic effects produced by these drugs on the brain. The immune system has received considerable attention because both opioid and cannabinoid receptors have been identified in spleen cells. Additionally, specific effects of several drug classes on immune function are now well documented. These studies not only provide important insights into the potential harm that drugs of abuse inflict on a compromised immune system they provide opportunities to elucidate the mechanism of action these drugs. 

Experimental Methods to Study the Role of the Peripheral Cannabinoid Receptor in Immune Function... 

The cannabinoids represent another class of abused drags affecting immune cell function. Although fewer studies have explored the effects of cannabinoids on NK cells, the literature to date shows that the activity of splenic NK cells is suppressed following in vivo injection of A -THC into rats and mice (Patel et al., 1985 Klein et al., 1987), and also after in vitro treatment of human peripheral blood NK cells (Specter et al., 1986). A -THC has also been shown to block proliferation of NK cells in response to the cytokine, IL-2, by down-regulating the IL-2 receptor (Zhu et al., 1993). 

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