Grant: CIHR-ICRH Travel Awards - General pool

¿9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is a well-known cannabinoid in Cannabis sativa. While THC may be anti-inflammatory, there is inconclusive literature on the effects of cannabis smoke on lung inflammation. This is relevant as inhaling cannabis smoke is the most common way that cannabis (marijuana) is consumed. Although cannabinoids classically interact with CB1 and CB2 receptors, non-G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) can also interact with cannabinoids. This may include the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), a ligand-activated transcription factor highly expressed in the lungs that controls inflammation. We therefore hypothesize that the AhR is a key regulator of inflammation from cannabis smoke exposure.