Functional and immunohistochemical characterization of CB1 and CB2 receptors in rat bladder.

“To determined the localization of CB(1) and CB(2) receptors in rat bladder and investigate the effect of a mixed CB(1)/CB(2) receptor agonist, ajulemic acid (AJA), on chemically evoked release of the sensory neuropeptide calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP)…

CONCLUSIONS:

CB(1) and CB(2) receptors are localized in the urothelium of rat bladder, and application of AJA inhibits the evoked release of CGRP by acting on CB(1) and CB(2) receptors.

These findings identify a potential new pathway for study in the evaluation and treatment of painful bladder syndrome/interstitial cystitis.”

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18468662