MARIJUANALIKE CHEMICALS IN BRAIN SEEM TO SOOTHE

Natural brain chemicals similar to those in marijuana seem to calm
nerve cells, a new study shows.

The active ingredient in marijuana, tetrahydrocannabinol, is a cousin
to brain chemicals called endocannabinoids. In the latest issue of the
journal Nature, scientists from Stanford University School of Medicine
in California say they have discovered that certain brain cells calm
themselves down when they release endocannabinoids. Marijuana may
exert its effects in the same way.

The finding may help in developing medications that simulate
beneficial effects of marijuana, but not its mind-altering properties.
The researchers also say that understanding how cannabinoids work
could lead to better treatments for epilepsy.