Therapeutic Potential of Cannabinoid Ligands

Autoradiographic localization of brain cannabinoid receptors using a labeled probe has revealed a unique distribution. Binding is most dense in the outflow nuclei of the basal ganglia, in the substantia nigra pars reticulata, the globus pallidus, the hippocampus, and cerebellum. 

The high levels recorded in the basal ganglia and cerebellum, regions that coordinate motor functions, strongly suggest that the cannabinoid-anandamide system is involved in this activity. This is supported by the wide spectrum of neurological effects of cannabis or THC in laboratory animals (impaired coordination and balance, decreased muscle tone and reflexes, and, at higher doses, tremor, myoclonic jerks, muscle spasms, and convulsions). In humans, uncoordinated movements, muscle weakness, and tremulousness are frequently observed after cannabis use. 

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