Introduction to Recent Advances in Cannabinoid Research

Abstract

On October 17, 2018, Canada became the first G20 nation to legalize the use of Cannabis sativa for both medicinal and recreational purposes. This change in legislation and end of prohibition are indicative of a larger global movement to understand Cannabis—and the bioactive chemicals present within Cannabis known as the cannabinoids—for its potential biomedical uses, harms, and economic values. Currently, interest in Cannabis and cannabinoid research is surging as the many knowledge gaps in basic biology, pharmacology, epidemiology, and clinical efficacy are identified. The purpose of this book is to summarize some leading areas of research in the cannabinoid field where knowledge gaps have been or are being actively addressed. The research described herein spans between basic biological and clinical research. As the editors of this text, we are grateful to the work of the chapter authors and their important contributions to this rapidly growing field.