JWH-120: Difference between revisions

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'''JWH-120''' is a synthetic cannabinoid from the naphthoylindole family, which acts as a full agonist at both the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors, but with moderate selectivity for CB2. It was discovered by and named after [[John W. Huffman]], an organic chemist at Clemson University.
{{DISPLAYTITLE:JWH-120}}


==Chemistry==
== Overview ==
JWH-120 is part of the [[naphthoylindole]] family of synthetic cannabinoids. It is structurally related to other synthetic cannabinoids such as [[JWH-018]] and [[JWH-073]]. The compound is made by substituting an alkyl group at the nitrogen atom of the indole core, and a naphthoyl group at the carbonyl group of the indole.
'''JWH-120''' is a synthetic [[cannabinoid]] that acts as a potent agonist at the [[cannabinoid receptor]]s. It is part of the [[naphthoylindole]] family of compounds, which are known for their ability to mimic the effects of [[tetrahydrocannabinol]] (THC), the primary psychoactive component of [[cannabis]].


==Pharmacology==
== Chemical Structure ==
JWH-120 acts as a full agonist at the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors, with a moderate selectivity for CB2. The CB1 and CB2 receptors are part of the [[endocannabinoid system]], which plays a role in a variety of physiological processes including pain sensation, mood, and memory. The effects of JWH-120 on the human body are similar to those of [[cannabis]], but it is much more potent than traditional cannabis.
[[File:JWH-120.png|thumb|right|Chemical structure of JWH-120]]
JWH-120 is characterized by its naphthoylindole structure, which includes a naphthalene ring linked to an indole moiety. This structure is crucial for its binding affinity to cannabinoid receptors, particularly [[CB1 receptor|CB1]] and [[CB2 receptor|CB2]] receptors.


==Legal Status==
== Pharmacology ==
The legal status of JWH-120 varies by country. In the United States, JWH-120 is a Schedule I controlled substance, which means it has a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. In other countries, such as the United Kingdom and Germany, JWH-120 is also controlled under their respective drug laws.
JWH-120 functions as a full agonist at both CB1 and CB2 receptors, with a higher affinity for the CB2 receptor. This selectivity makes it of interest in research focused on the [[immune system]] and [[inflammation]], as CB2 receptors are primarily located in peripheral tissues and immune cells.


==Health Risks==
=== Mechanism of Action ===
As with other synthetic cannabinoids, the use of JWH-120 can lead to serious health risks. These include acute kidney injury, acute psychosis, and seizures. Long-term use can lead to addiction and withdrawal symptoms.
Upon binding to cannabinoid receptors, JWH-120 activates the [[G-protein coupled receptor]] pathways, leading to the inhibition of [[adenylate cyclase]] and a decrease in [[cyclic AMP]] levels. This results in various downstream effects, including modulation of [[neurotransmitter]] release and [[immune response]].


==See Also==
== Potential Applications ==
* [[Synthetic cannabinoids]]
Research into JWH-120 and similar compounds is ongoing, with potential applications in the treatment of [[pain]], [[inflammation]], and [[neurological disorders]]. However, due to its synthetic nature and potential for abuse, it is also a subject of regulatory scrutiny.
 
== Legal Status ==
The legal status of JWH-120 varies by country. In many jurisdictions, it is classified as a controlled substance due to its psychoactive properties and potential for abuse. Researchers must comply with local regulations when studying this compound.
 
== Safety and Toxicity ==
The safety profile of JWH-120 is not well-established, and its use outside of controlled research settings is not recommended. Potential side effects may include [[tachycardia]], [[anxiety]], and [[hallucinations]], similar to other synthetic cannabinoids.
 
== Related Pages ==
* [[Cannabinoid receptor]]
* [[Cannabinoid receptor]]
* [[John W. Huffman]]
* [[Synthetic cannabinoid]]
* [[JWH series]]
* [[CB1 receptor]]
* [[CB2 receptor]]


[[Category:Synthetic cannabinoids]]
[[Category:Synthetic cannabinoids]]
[[Category:Indoles]]
[[Category:Research chemicals]]
[[Category:Naphthoylindoles]]
{{pharma-stub}}
{{drug-stub}}

Latest revision as of 03:28, 13 February 2025


Overview[edit]

JWH-120 is a synthetic cannabinoid that acts as a potent agonist at the cannabinoid receptors. It is part of the naphthoylindole family of compounds, which are known for their ability to mimic the effects of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive component of cannabis.

Chemical Structure[edit]

Chemical structure of JWH-120

JWH-120 is characterized by its naphthoylindole structure, which includes a naphthalene ring linked to an indole moiety. This structure is crucial for its binding affinity to cannabinoid receptors, particularly CB1 and CB2 receptors.

Pharmacology[edit]

JWH-120 functions as a full agonist at both CB1 and CB2 receptors, with a higher affinity for the CB2 receptor. This selectivity makes it of interest in research focused on the immune system and inflammation, as CB2 receptors are primarily located in peripheral tissues and immune cells.

Mechanism of Action[edit]

Upon binding to cannabinoid receptors, JWH-120 activates the G-protein coupled receptor pathways, leading to the inhibition of adenylate cyclase and a decrease in cyclic AMP levels. This results in various downstream effects, including modulation of neurotransmitter release and immune response.

Potential Applications[edit]

Research into JWH-120 and similar compounds is ongoing, with potential applications in the treatment of pain, inflammation, and neurological disorders. However, due to its synthetic nature and potential for abuse, it is also a subject of regulatory scrutiny.

Legal Status[edit]

The legal status of JWH-120 varies by country. In many jurisdictions, it is classified as a controlled substance due to its psychoactive properties and potential for abuse. Researchers must comply with local regulations when studying this compound.

Safety and Toxicity[edit]

The safety profile of JWH-120 is not well-established, and its use outside of controlled research settings is not recommended. Potential side effects may include tachycardia, anxiety, and hallucinations, similar to other synthetic cannabinoids.

Related Pages[edit]