Understanding CB1 Receptor Signaling for Better Brain Therapies
Official title: Dissecting G Protein Versus β-Arrestin–Mediated CB1 Receptor Signaling Pathways Using a Phosphorylation-Deficient CB1 Receptor
Funded at Marshall University · NIH-11404155 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers are studying how the CB1 receptor in the brain sends signals through G proteins vs. β-arrestin to find ways to keep therapeutic benefits of cannabinoids while reducing side effects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Marshall University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Huntington, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 1, 2026 |
| Project end | March 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $147,500 |
| NIH project number | 1R16GM165172-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11404155 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Patients who could benefit from safer cannabinoid-based therapies for pain, epilepsy, or brain injury might be future beneficiaries if this work translates to safer drugs.
✕Less likely to help
This basic science project does not involve direct patient testing; benefits depend on future translation to human therapies.
What this research studies
This project focuses on how CB1 receptor signaling works, comparing two pathways—G protein and β-arrestin—using a specially modified receptor. The work aims to reveal how biasing signaling toward one pathway might reduce adverse effects like dependence while preserving pain relief and other benefits. Methods may include cellular models and biochemical experiments to map signaling outcomes when each pathway is activated. Results could guide the design of safer cannabinoid-based treatments for conditions such as pain, epilepsy, and brain injuries.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to safer cannabinoid therapies with fewer psychotropic side effects while maintaining pain relief and other benefits.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work suggests signaling bias can influence drug effects, but the specific role of β-arrestin in CB1 signaling remains to be clarified.
Where this research is happening
-
Marshall University
Huntington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rorabaugh, Boyd — Marshall University
- Study coordinator: Rorabaugh, Boyd
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.