The Cannabinoids Within - How Marijuana Hijacks an Ancient Signaling System in the Brain

Explore a 38-minute neuroscience talk that delves into the complex workings of cannabis and its interaction with the brain's endocannabinoid system. Learn from Stanford neuroscientist Ivan Soltesz, the James Doty Professor of Neurosurgery and Neuroscience, as he explains how cannabinoid compounds like THC and CBD affect our perceptions and potentially offer medical benefits. Discover the unique characteristics of the endocannabinoid system, including its fatty lipid composition and reverse signaling mechanism, which has remained largely mysterious until recent technological advances. Gain insights into the system's natural function and understand how it relates to THC-induced effects and CBD's therapeutic potential. Access additional resources including research papers on cannabinoid circuit control in epilepsy, cannabis's impact on cognition and addiction, and recent findings about marijuana-like brain substances and seizure management.