Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid

**Semantic type:** Organic Chemical|Pharmacologic Substance

**Definition:** A naturally occurring cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant and precursor of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC; delta-9 THC), with potential analgesic, anti-inflammatory and anti-emetic activities. Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) binds to and activates cannabinoid 1 (CB1) receptors in the brain, thereby reducing nausea and vomiting. It also acts on the dorsal vagal complex in the brainstem, thereby modulating the vomiting reflex. THCA inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes 1 (COX-1) and 2 (COX-2), which may reduce anti-inflammatory mediators and induce analgesia. THCA may also modulate certain transient receptor potential (TRP) channels, particularly TRPA1 and TRPM8, which play a key role in pain. It is converted in vivo to its decarboxylated form tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC activates CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors, which are key components of the endocannabinoid system that regulate pain. THCA can be detected through the THC metabolite 11-Nor-9-carboxy-delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC-COOH).

**Synonyms:** - THC Acid - THCA