Emerging therapeutic uses for cannabinoids: a basic science, pharmaceutical and policy perspective

The aim of this Research Topic is to provide an analysis of emerging and clinically approved cannabinoid therapeutics. Cannabinoids are molecules that interact with cannabinoid receptors and produce a variety of biological effects. The prototypic cannabinoid is Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), the primary active constituent in marijuana. Research has been underway for several decades to understand the effects of cannabinoids and to explore its therapeutic potential. This Topic will examine the use of cannabinoids for treatment of neurological, immunological, oncologic, cardiovascular and other conditions. Works will survey and analyze current knowledge of pharmacological development of phytocannabinoids, endocannabinoids, synthetic cannabinoids, and cannabinoid metabolites. These areas of research will be addressed from a basic science and pharmaceutical perspective. Furthermore, potential regulatory issues and the impact of marijuana legalization on the development of therapeutic cannabinoids will be addressed.
Original articles, literature reviews and commentaries are sought that will evaluate the most recent and relevant findings in the field of cannabinoid therapeutics. This Research Topic is intended to provide the scientific community and the public with a useful and timely view of the progress and challenges associated with development of these agents.