6533b7d8fe1ef96bd126ac2c

RESEARCH PRODUCT

CB1 Cannabinoid Receptors and Aggression

subject

description

Abstract The relation between the use of cannabis and violent behavior is controversial, partly owing to the complexity of the concept of aggression and variability among the studies performed. The primary psychoactive compound of cannabis, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, acts on G-protein-coupled receptors such as the cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) receptor, the most important of the endocannabinoid system. Although historically suspected of instigating aggressive behaviors, the findings of research about cannabis use in humans are mixed. While cannabis intoxication seems to reduce the likelihood of violence, mounting evidence associates withdrawal with an increase in aggression. Acute or chronic cannabis administration in animal models correlates with decreases in aggression, a result confirmed by studies in mice lacking the CB1 receptor. In conclusion, human and animal studies have shown that cannabis use does not lead to increases in aggressive behavior, but rather the opposite. However, under certain circumstances, such as discontinuation of chronic use, aggression can be heightened.