Where is the CB1 receptor predominantly expressed?

The CB1 receptor is predominantly expressed in the brain, which is crucial for understanding its role in the central nervous system. This receptor is part of the endocannabinoid system and plays significant roles in modulating various physiological and cognitive processes including appetite, pain sensation, mood, memory, and motor control. The high concentration of CB1 receptors in specific areas of the brain, such as the basal ganglia, cerebellum, and hippocampus, underscores its relevance in neurotransmission and neuroprotection.

While CB1 receptors can be found in peripheral tissues and organs, their primary and most notable functions relate to the central nervous system, where they affect synaptic transmission and plasticity. This particular expression pattern is fundamental for the pharmacological effects seen with cannabinoids, including those from cannabis. Understanding this distribution is essential for both clinical and therapeutic contexts in addiction medicine.