Endocannabinoid-Based Prototype Drug Against Osteoporosis

Filed in archive Drugs, Vaccines and Therapeutics on January 6, 2006

In a previous entry, it has been illustrated how endocannabioids, substances produced in the body that works similarly as those found in cannabis, may be a drug target in treating depression. New research findings from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, however, have indicated that endocannabinoids also influence bone density by activating CB-2 receptors, which are present in high levels in the bone. Genetically engineered mice lacking the CB-2 receptor developed severe osteoporosis as they aged.

Based on these findings, the researchers then developed a new synthetic compound, HU-308, which activates CB-2 and slows the development of osteoporosis in mice. This compound forms the basis for a cannabinoid-based, anti-osteoporotic type drug which has also been found to be free of any psychoactive side effects.

Photo: Normal bone tissue with CB2 receptors is seen at left. At right is bone tissue in which CB2 is absent, showing serious bone density loss.

Source and Photo Credit: Hebrew University of Jerusalem