The university is going to take a deep dive into the world of cannabis
The health impact of cannabis use is becoming a priority issue for many entities, including universities around the country. The University of California Riverside wants to explore this topic in-depth and has created a new center focused on cannabinoid research.
The word cannabinoids refers to all those chemical substances, regardless of their origin or structure, that bind to endocannabinoid receptors in the body and brain, and that have effects similar to those produced by the Cannabis sativa plant. Medications that include these compounds have proven to be quite effective in treating symptoms related to chemotherapy and HIV/AIDS.
The new Cannabinoid Research Center will be directed by Nicholas V. DiPatrizio, associate professor of biomedical sciences at the School of Medicine. When asked why there is a need to launch a center that focuses on the study of cannabinoids, the specialist assures that it is an ideal moment due to the rise in the legalization of the plant in the country.
He is clear that there are still some gaps in the understanding of how marijuana consumption affects health and disease. Therefore, the new center was designed with the intention of advancing the University’s commitment in this area. The study facility will be comprised of physicians, scientists, and trainees with common interests in researching natural cannabinoids in the body.
DiPatrizio says the site will become a central focus for collaborative studies with other related entities. The idea is that people will have a better understanding of the functions of the endocannabinoid system in health and disease, and the impact that cannabis use has on these processes.