Cannabinoid agonists trigger a series of reactions within cells. Cannabinoid receptors are embedded in the cell membrane, where they are coupled to G proteins (G) and the enzyme adenylyl cyclase (AC). Receptors are activated when they bind to ligands, such as anandamide or THC in this case. This triggers a variety of reactions, including inhibition (—) of AC, which decreases the production of cAMP and cellular activities dependent on cAMP; opening of potassium (K+) channels, which decreases cell firing; and closing of calcium (Ca2+) channels, which decreases the release of neurotransmitters. Each of those changes can influence cellular communication.
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