Descripción: Universidad Complutense de Madrid. The research in cannabinoids has increased during the last years due to the description of an endogenous cannabinoid system in the brain, that participates in the control of several neurobiological processes. During the last years, the molecular components of this system (ligands and receptors), as well as their brain localization have been described. Nowadays we know that marijuana´s active substances act on the nervous system through the modulation of these components and that tolerance and dependence phenomena due to cannabis use, have their neurochemical basis on alterations of this endogenous system. It also appears evident that cannabinoids and their receptors are present not only in the brain but also in peripherial tissues, in particular in the immune and vascular systems.
