JWH-355

Synthetic cannabinoid

CaptionSynonyms

JWH-355

Drug Information
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Identifiers ATC Code DrugBank KEGG ChEBI ChEMBL		Chemical Data Molecular Weight

JWH-355 is a synthetic cannabinoid from the naphthoylindole family, which acts as a selective CB2 receptor agonist. It was developed by John W. Huffman and his team in the late 1990s as part of research into the structure-activity relationships of cannabinoids.

Chemical Structure and Properties

JWH-355 is chemically classified as a naphthoylindole, which is a subclass of synthetic cannabinoids. Its chemical structure is characterized by a naphthyl group attached to an indole core, with a pentyl chain at the nitrogen atom of the indole. The presence of a methyl group at the 4-position of the naphthyl ring is a distinctive feature of JWH-355.

The molecular formula of JWH-355 is C₂₅H₂₅NO, and it has a molecular weight of 359.48 g/mol. The compound is typically synthesized through a series of chemical reactions starting from indole and naphthoyl chloride precursors.

Pharmacology

JWH-355 is known for its high affinity and selectivity for the CB2 receptor, which is primarily expressed in the peripheral tissues and immune cells. This selectivity makes JWH-355 a valuable tool in research focused on the CB2 receptor, as it allows for the study of CB2-mediated effects without significant activation of the CB1 receptor, which is predominantly found in the central nervous system.

The activation of CB2 receptors by JWH-355 has been shown to modulate immune responses and has potential therapeutic implications in conditions such as inflammation, pain, and autoimmune diseases. However, the full pharmacological profile and potential clinical applications of JWH-355 remain subjects of ongoing research.

Legal Status

The legal status of JWH-355 varies by country. In some jurisdictions, it may be classified as a controlled substance due to its structural similarity to other synthetic cannabinoids that have been associated with recreational use and adverse health effects. Researchers must ensure compliance with local regulations when working with JWH-355.

Research and Applications

JWH-355 is primarily used in scientific research to explore the role of CB2 receptors in various physiological and pathological processes. Its selectivity for CB2 receptors makes it a useful compound for distinguishing between CB1 and CB2 receptor-mediated effects in experimental studies.

Safety and Toxicology

As with many synthetic cannabinoids, the safety profile of JWH-355 is not fully understood. While it is used in controlled research settings, caution is advised due to the potential for unknown toxicological effects. Researchers should follow appropriate safety protocols and ethical guidelines when handling and studying JWH-355.

Also see

• Synthetic cannabinoids
• CB1 receptor
• CB2 receptor
• John W. Huffman
• Naphthoylindole