CB2 receptor

Glossary / Cannabis / CB2 receptor
CANNABIS · GLOSSARY ENTRY

CB2 receptor

A G-protein-coupled cannabinoid receptor expressed primarily in the peripheral immune system and certain CNS microglia — central to the anti-inflammatory side of cannabis pharmacology.

Why it matters

CB2 is concentrated in spleen, tonsils, B and T cells, macrophages, and microglia. Activation generally produces immunomodulation rather than psychoactivity. Caryophyllene and selective synthetic CB2 agonists are the most studied direct CB2 ligands.

In practice

Clinical interest centres on inflammation, neuropathic pain, and neurodegenerative disease. CB2-targeted drugs are an active area of pharmaceutical development.

Common confusion

CB2 agonism is not psychoactive — products marketed as “high in CB2 activity” should not be expected to produce a high.

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