The current research focuses of Dr. Song’s laboratory are therapetic potentials and mechanisms of actions of cannabinoids, with a focus on the molecular targets of cannabinoids.

Cannabinoids are composed of three categories, including phytocannabinoids (the active chemical components of cannabis), endocannabinoids (the cannabinoid-like substances in our body), and synthetic cannabinoids. We are studying the ligand binding and signal transduction mechanisms of CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors, two proven molecular targets for cannabinoids. In addition, we are investigating GPR3, GPR6 and GPR12, a family of orphan receptors that have been recently shown by us to be novel molecular targets for cannabidiol (CBD).

CBD is the major non-psychoactive of marijuana and has been proposed to have therapeutic potentials for a variety of illnesses, including neurological/psychiatric disorders, substances use disorders, metabolic diseases and ocular conditions. Therefore, our research on molecular targets of CBD and other cannabinoids will not only help to understand the mechanisms of action for CBD, it will also explore the viability of these receptors as novel therapeutic targets.