Just want to clarify, the ‘recipients’ were mice.
THC for Organ Transplant Recipients
9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the main active ingredient in cannabis, responsible for the psychoactive effects of weed. Researchers from the University of South Carolina School of Medicine recently found that THC could have major potential for organ transplant recipients. THC “decreased early stage rejection” of organs, meaning it could be used as a anti-rejection therapy for organ transplant patients.
“We are excited to demonstrate for the first time that cannabinoid receptors play an important role in the prolongation of rejection of a foreign graft by suppressing immune response in the recipient. This opens up a new area of research that would lead to better approaches to prevent transplant rejection as well as to treat other inflammatory diseases.” Says Mitzi Nagarkatti.
The studies findings fortified previous research that showed THC can be a potent immunosuppressant. This helped to reduce T-cell proliferation and decreased early stage rejection-indicator cytokines.
Bright Future for Medical Marijuana
Marijuana yields a remarkable number of health benefits, with more being discovered on a constant basis. With prohibition loosening its grip on the United States, we expect more and more research to surface. This will give us a much better understanding of just how useful marijuana can be and how exactly it influences our health and ability to heal.
sources: jleukbio.org & ibtimes.co.uk
