WIN 55,212-2
The Basics
WIN 55,212-2 is a chemical described as an aminoalkylindole derivative, which produces effects similar to those of cannabinoids such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) but has an entirely different chemical structure.
WIN 55,212-2 is a potent cannabinoid receptor agonist that has been found to be a potent analgesic in a rat model of neuropathic pain. It activates p42 and p44 MAP kinase via receptor-mediated signaling.
WIN 55,212-2, along with HU-210 and JWH-133, may prevent the inflammation caused by amyloid beta proteins involved in Alzheimer's disease, in addition to preventing cognitive impairment and loss of neuronal genetic markers. This anti-inflammatory action is induced through agonist action at cannabinoid receptors, which prevents microglial activation that elicits the inflammation. Additionally, cannabinoids completely abolish neurotoxicity related to microglial activation in rat models.
WIN 55,212-2 is a full agonist at the CB1 cannabinoid receptor (Ki = 1.9nM) and has much higher affinity than THC (Ki = 41nM) for this receptor.
Links
- Biomol Win 55,212-2 Data Sheet
- The cannabinoid WIN 55,212-2 inhibits transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) and evokes peripheral antihyperalgesia via calcineurin. 2006 Jul 18; Template:PubMed
- JNeurosci.org Prevention of Alzheimer's Disease Pathology by Cannabinoids: Neuroprotection Mediated by Blockade of Microglial Activation
- New Scientist: Hope for cannabis-based drug for Alzheimer's
- Wikipedia WIN 55,212-2 page
- Erowid Cannabinoids Vault
