The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex cell-signaling system identified in the early 1990s by researchers exploring THC, a well-known cannabinoid. Cannabinoids are compounds found in cannabis.



They are lipid-based neurotransmitters that bind to cannabinoid receptors. Cannabinoid receptors are found throughout the central nervous system and peripheral nervous system. Two primary cannabinoid receptors were identified in the early 90’s, termed CB1 and CB2. While CB1 is found predominantly in the central nervous system and brain, CB2 is linked to immune system regulation. Endocannabinoids bind to, as well as activate, cannabinoid receptors. There are two main endocannabinoids: Anandamide (based on the Sanskrit word “ananda” meaning “inner bliss”) and 2-Arachidonoylglycerol, or 2-AG. These two molecules are produced naturally by the cells in the body.



We now know the endocannabinoid system is involved in a wide variety of processes, including pain, memory, mood, appetite, stress, sleep, metabolism, immune function, and reproductive function. Endocannabinoids are arguably one of the most widespread and versatile signaling molecules known to man.

• CB2 mRNA levels are affected in B-cells, NK cells, monocytes, PMNs, T8 cells, T4 cells
• Cannabinoids inhibits the rise of cAMP in leukocytes
• They activate the NF-kB pathway
• THC concentrations that modulate immune response are greater than the dosage for psychoactivity

It is not known whether Cannabinoids target cancer stem cells in poorly differentiated tumors differently from the differentiated tumors

• We used two sets of oral (OSCSCs vs. OSCCs) and pancreatic tumors (MP2 vs. PL-12) to address this question



Little is known about cannabinoid effects on immune function; even less in regards to NK function.

Conflicting results have been published previously:

• Cannabinoids can suppress the immune system of healthy individuals
• Cannabinoids can activate the immune system of patients