The Effect of Cannabinoids on Astrocyte Cell Production of Interleukin- 1B

The object of this research was to examine the effects of cannabinoids on astrocyte production of IL-1B. The cannbinoidsare a class of natural compounds found in the body and in marijuana that have been demonstrated to inhibit several macrophage functions, posisbly includingIL-1B production. It is not known whether similar effects are elicited in astrocytes. Thus, the specific aim of this project was to determine whether or not exposure to cannabinoid substances inhibits the ability of astrocytes to produce IL-1B. Levels of the mature protein, as well as of an enzyme that is instrumental in its formation, have been analyzed