This special issue of the Journal on cannabis and cannabinoids highlights some of the latest scientific evidence in this continually expanding and important field of research.

Cannabis produces unique compounds with novel biological activity. We describe cannabis phytochemistry relative to neuroprotective properties through anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory actions and via inhibiting aggregation of misfolded neurotoxic proteins such as amyloid β in Alzheimer’s disease. Such emergent phytocannabinoid research may afford new leads in the treatment of dementia.

The emergence of synthetic cannabinoids during the last decade has created problems for the forensic chemist tasked with identification. This paper gives a brief history of the synthetic cannabinoids and discusses the analytical and legal challenges faced by the forensic community.

Compounds that bind to and activate cannabinoid receptors are typically very lipophilic. We have developed a series of more polar ligands that are high-affinity, selective cannabinoid type 2 receptor activators. These ligands will be useful tools to probe cannabinoid receptor function and location.

The lack of access to affordable and legally available medicinal cannabis products in New Zealand has driven the development of an active illegal market by a well intentioned network of so called ‘Green Fairies’. While indicated for a range of complaints and diseases, the lack of quality control on these products creates safety concerns that we have investigated and reported.