Identification of the CB1 Cannabinoid Receptor and Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase (FAAH) in the Human Placenta
by
Park B, Gibbons HM, Mitchell MD, Glassa M.
Liggins Institute, University of Auckland,
Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand
Placenta. 2003 May;24(5):473-8


ABSTRACT

Synthetic cannabinoids, the psychoactive components of the Cannabis sativa (marijuana) and their endogenous counterparts, act through two G protein-coupled receptors, CB1 and CB2. The endocannabinoids are metabolized by fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). Previous research has described the impact of cannabis consumption on pregnancy, potential roles of endocannabinoids and abnormalities of FAAH expression in recurrent miscarriage and pregnancy. However, the cellular localization of the CB1 cannabinoid receptor and FAAH in the human placenta has not been determined. We have examined CB1 receptor and FAAH expression in human term placenta by immunohistochemistry. CB1 receptor was found to be present in all layers of the membrane, with particularly strong expression in the amniotic epithelium and reticular cells and cells of the maternal decidua layer. Moderate expression was observed in the chorionic cytotrophoblasts. The expression of FAAH was the highest in amniotic epithelial cells, chorionic cytotrophoblast and maternal decidua layer. Our results suggest that the human placenta is a likely target for cannabinoid action and metabolism. This is consistent with a placental site of action of endocannabinoids and cannabis being responsible, at least in part, for the poor outcomes associated with cannabis consumption and pathology in the endocannabinoid system during pregnancy.


CB1
Anandamide
Just say know
Tolerant mice
Cannabis: effects
Forgetful rodents
Endocannabinoids
Stoned as a newt?
Stoned chocaholics?
The nectar of delight
Cannabis and schizophrenia
Cannabinoids/Parkinson's disease

01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15



HOME

Refs
HedWeb
Future Opioids
BLTC Research
Paradise-Engineering
Utopian Pharmacology
The Hedonistic Imperative
When Is It Best To Take Crack Cocaine?


swan image
The Good Drug Guide
The Responsible Parent's Guide
To Healthy Mood Boosters For All The Family