Phytocannabinoid vodo-C1 Discovered in Another Plant
A new phytocannabinoid has been discovered in violet plants (Viola odorata) by a team from the Medical University of Vienna, Austria.
Phytocannabinoid vodo-C1 in violets: therapeutic use
For centuries, violets have been utilized in Asia and Europe for their significant therapeutic potential, including alleviating intestinal issues and pain. This is largely due to their active molecules known as cyclotides.
The Center for Physiology and Pharmacology at MedUni Vienna, led by researcher Christian Gruber, identified a new phytocannabinoid in this widely popular garden flower that binds to CB2 endocannabinoid receptors.
The violet contains the phytocannabinoid vodo-C1
The newly isolated peptide has been named vodo-C1 and acts as a selective full agonist of the CB2 receptor. This means it can activate the CB2 receptor without triggering the CB1 receptor, which is associated with psychoactive effects.
Since the CB2 receptor is not linked to psychoactive effects, scientists are particularly interested in vodo-C1, anticipating a promising future for this phytocannabinoid with potential therapeutic applications.
"Despite intensive research to develop selective CB2 receptor therapies, none have so far passed rigorous preclinical evaluations, so currently, no such drug exists," said lead researcher Christian Gruber.
Gruber and his team are seeking drugs with "fewer side effects" than cannabis. This development is particularly interesting to the pharmaceutical industry because it activates GPCR family receptors, which are targeted by approximately one-third of all drugs worldwide.
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