title: The dynamic nature of type 1 cannabinoid receptor (CB(1) ) gene transcription.
abstract: The type 1 cannabinoid receptor (CB(1) ) is an integral component of the endocannabinoid system that modulates several functions in the CNS and periphery. The majority of our knowledge of the endocannabinoid system involves ligand-receptor binding, mechanisms of signal transduction, and protein-protein interactions. In contrast, comparatively little is known about regulation of CB(1)  gene expression. The levels and anatomical distribution of CB(1)  mRNA and protein are developmental stage-specific and are dysregulated in several pathological conditions. Moreover, exposure to a variety of drugs, including cannabinoids themselves, alters CB(1)  gene expression and mRNA levels. As such, alterations in CB(1)  gene expression are likely to affect the optimal response to cannabinoid-based therapies, which are being developed to treat a growing number of conditions. Here, we will examine the regulation of CB(1)  mRNA levels and the therapeutic potential inherent in manipulating expression of this gene.
  
  
  BACKGROUND
  This article is part of a themed section on Cannabinoids. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2012.167.issue-8.
authors.affiliation: Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.
authors.forename: R B
authors.initials: RB
authors.lastname: Laprairie
authors.forename: M E M
authors.initials: ME
authors.lastname: Kelly
authors.forename: E M
authors.initials: EM
authors.lastname: Denovan-Wright
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D015870:Gene Expression; D006801:Humans; D012333:RNA, Messenger / Q000378:metabolism; D043884:Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1 / Q000235:genetics*
chemical_list: D012333:RNA, Messenger; D043884:Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1