Paper on intestinal function published in FASEB

This paper shows the important role that the CB1 (first cannabinoid receptor discovered) plays in modulating intestinal function.  We have shown that CB1 plays dual roles in the intestinal.  On one hand, activation of the receptor is anti-inflammatory, but on the other hand, CB1 activation increases the permeability of the gastrointestinal barrier.  Chemicals that we make in our body (called endocannabinoids) activate CB1 in the gut and are increased in inflammation and when oxygen levels are decreased.  We hope that by understanding better the role of the endocannabinoid system in the intestinal in inflammation, we will be able to identify new medicines that can help reduce this problem in disease like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and colitis.

Reference:

The role of CB1 in intestinal permeability and inflammation.