Jerusalem, Israel--Raphael Mechoulam, the groundbreaking Israeli chemist known for his seminal work in cannabis science, passed away on March 9 at his home in Jerusalem at the age of 92.
[Image via The New York Times]
Often referred to as the "father of cannabis research," Mechoulam identified the structure and function of key cannabis compounds, shaping the field for decades to come. Mechoulam's interest in marijuana was purely scientific, focusing on understanding the chemical structures of plants and natural products. His work began in the early 1960s, when the science of cannabis was underdeveloped.
Mechoulam and his team at the Weizmann Institute of Science in Rehovot, Israel, set out to analyze the chemical structures of THC, the psychoactive compound in marijuana, and how it produces its effects.Throughout his career, Mechoulam's research extended to other cannabinoids, such as cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychotropic component of cannabis now widely marketed for its potential health benefits.
His work also led to the discovery of the body's natural endocannabinoid system, including anandamide, one of the primary endocannabinoids.Tese chemicals, akin to those in marijuana, help regulate essential bodily functions such as learning, memory, sleep, immune responses, and appetite. Mechoulam's groundbreaking research paved the way for numerous studies and fostered global scientific collaboration.
However, in the early days, there was little institutional interest in cannabinoids.Despite initial resistance, Mechoulam's work eventually gained recognition and support, ultimately receiving funding from the National Institutes of Health in the United States for over 40 years.Raphael Mechoulam's passing marks the end of an era for cannabis research.He leaves a lasting legacy, having significantly advanced our understanding of the science behind cannabis and its potential medical benefits.
Read more in this report.