Acta Clin Belg Suppl. 1999;1:39-43. Unique Identifier : AIDSLINE
Many studies obvious impact of cannabinoids on the immune system. These
studies follow the rapid advanced researches led in the immunology
field. D9 Tetrahydrocannabinol and their metabolites decrease production
of tumoral necrosis factor alpha. This decrease has for consequence a
decrease of the apoptosis. Recent discovery of implication of cytokines
in the phenomena of dependence, make the cannabis and their metabolites
promoting agent induced dependence in association with drug abuse. The
withdrawal of these products necessitates a intact immune system. D9
Tetrahydrocannabinnol and their metabolites inhibit production of IL-1
and gamma interferon. This inhibition has for consequence a decrease of
33% of the lymphocytes activity and an inhibition of 66% of the
lymphocytes adenyl cyclase activity. The consumption of cannabis
decreases immunological competence of macrophages, and alterate their
essential role of trophicity of the nervous central system. Furthermore,
inhibiting actions of cannabinoids on the cyclo-oxygenase, promote
production of arachidonic acid degradation products. This compounds
mimic the action of histamine, and inducing a raise of the vascular
permeability and bronchospasm. These inolecules contributes at delayed
reaction of anaphylaxia. However these actions of cannabinoids on the
immune system promote their pull-back in cure of new pathology likes
AIDS.
JOURNAL ARTICLE REVIEW REVIEW, TUTORIAL systeme immunitaire.
Cannabinoids/ADVERSE EFFECTS/CHEMISTRY/IMMUNOLOGY/METABOLISM English
Abstract Human Immunocompetence/*DRUG EFFECTS Interferon Type II/DRUG
EFFECTS Interleukin-1/IMMUNOLOGY Psychotropic Drugs/ADVERSE
EFFECTS/CHEMISTRY/*IMMUNOLOGY/ METABOLISM Tetrahydrocannabinol/ADVERSE
EFFECTS/CHEMISTRY/*IMMUNOLOGY/ METABOLISM Tumor Necrosis Factor/DRUG
EFFECTS
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