Microbiome Cannabinoid Research

Description of Microbiome

The “human superorganism” concept is often used to describe the microbiome. The human superorganism consists of the human body (the host) and the wide variety of microbial organisms (e.g., viruses, bacteria, fungi) that live within the body and on the skin's surface.

Some microbial members of the “superorganism” are disruptive intruders, such as dermatophytes or fungi that cause onychomycosis (foot and nail fungus). In contrast, others are beneficial organisms called probiotics (e.g., Acidophilus, Bifidum, Akkermansia muciniphila). Most fermented foods such as sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir, and yogurt naturally contain an abundance of probiotic cultures.

The gut contains all components of the classical ECS (i.e., CB1, CB2, AEA, 2-AG, FAAH, MAGL) and, as such, is involved in regulating gut motility, permeability, and inflammatory processes, the connection between the microbiome, probiotics, and components of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) is only beginning to be better understood. However, early data suggest a complex interplay between the ECS and the microbiome that may be individually targeted to induce several health-related effects using diet, nutrition, beneficial bacteria, and cannabinoid-based therapeutics, thus revealing novel opportunities for clinical practice.