Presence and functional regulation of cannabinoid receptors in immune cells

In the last 30 years studies on drug-abusing humans and animals injected wi th cannabinoids, as well as in vitro models employing immune cell cultures, have demonstrated that marijuana and cannabinoids are immunomodulators. Bo th types of cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2, have been found in immune c ells, suggesting they are important in mediating the effects of cannabinoid s on the immune system. This article reviews the data on the function and d istribution of cannabinoid receptors in the immune system and their involve ment in the immunomodulatory effect of these substances.