At present, scientists have managed to reveal the identity of more than 100 cannabinoids. The only difference is that most of them are either isolated for research or still under detection. While these discoveries are evident, cannabis’s illegal status makes it difficult for scientists to render proper research. It’s also because most cannabis strains are either THC or CBD dominant. As a result, it becomes difficult to study cannabinoids that exist in fewer quantities.
However, the times have changed, and researchers are mixing new technology to study the lesser found compounds. For instance, advanced analytical techniques and spectrometry. These technologies, along with the study that revealed the presence of THCP and CBDB, will be discussed thoroughly below. Read on to find out.
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Research on THCP and CBDB
The study revealed the identification of two new cannabinoids and the scientists named them CBDB and THCP. Along with the revelation of these cannabinoids, it is also vital to understand the therapeutic potential of newly discovered THCP. So, let’s look into THCP first.
The study associated with THCP was published by the American Chemical Society and American Society of Pharmacognosy. It revealed that the molecular structure in the case of new cannabinoids is elongated. Compared to three or five links the critical side of the chain for the THCP molecule has an extended structure.
Also, it has to be kept in mind that an extended length of the side chain plays a pivotal role in deciding how THC interacts with CB1 receptors. Scientifically, three links are required for the cannabinoids to bind with the natural receptors. The binding affinity peaks as the interaction strengthens and reaches eight links before the activity slows down.
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What’s More?
So, does this mean an elongated chain has a stronger effect than a small chain? Yes, and here’s why. As it turns out, the above-mentioned study shows an elongated side chain of the THCP molecule. However, the study also shows that a long chain appears to have a more profound effect because of its ability to bind strongly with the CB1 receptors. In contrast, regular THC does not provide the same effect. This, in turn, suggests that an extended side chain can act more effectively than a short side chain.
While the research also implies that THCP has a stronger affinity, it also went on to say that THCP was 33 times more active on CB1 and ten times extra active on CB2 receptors. Overall, the study implied that the discovery of new cannabinoids can prove more beneficial for the medical cannabis industry, especially for those who get a medical cannabis card to avail of products from state-licensed dispensaries.
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What About CBDP?
Just like THCP, CBDP also has an elongated side chain. The chain extends up to seven links, unlike THCs’ five links. However, another study looked into the nature of the molecular linkage of the cannabinoids. This study reveals that this investigation does not look into the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-bacterial, or anti-elliptical activities of newly found cannabinoids. For now, the priority of the study is to focus only on one aspect. The reason for the same is that we have more studies on the properties of CBD and THC than on the binding affinity of CBD with CB1 and CB2 receptors.
Interestingly, the study also established that CBD has a weaker affinity towards CB1 and CB2 receptors. So, scientifically, a longer chain will enable CBD to interact more effectively with the natural receptors. The research also pointed out that further analysis and in-depth research could reveal significant characteristics of the newly found cannabinoids. Until then, we have to wait and see what scientific research has in store for the medical cannabis industry.
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Final Thoughts
Overall, the findings in the study imply that cannabis plants consist of more cannabinoids that are known to the world. The federal status may bar the scientific community from researching effectively. But existing research may provide beneficial results in the near future. Especially when we know that these cannabinoids will improve the therapeutic potential of the marijuana plant. So, whether or not these findings change the face of the medical marijuana industry. For now, don’t forget to get a medical cannabis card to avail of medical marijuana products from state-licensed dispensaries.