BK channels are ion channels with a large conductance for potassium ions. BK channels are mostly involved in controlling neuronal excitability and smooth muscle contraction. BK is not a classic cannabinoid receptor but its activity is modulated by cannabinoids. Since cannabinoids have a physiological effect on BK it is effectively a cannabinoid receptor.
http://www.guidetopharmacology.org/GRAC/ObjectDisplayForward?objectId=380
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BK_channel
Anandamide
References:
Pertwee, R.G., Howlett, A.C., Abood, M.E., Alexander, S.P.H., Di Marzo, V., Elphick, M.R., Greasley, P.J., Hansen, H.S., Kunos, G., Mackie, K., et al. (2010). International Union of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology. LXXIX. cannabinoid receptors and their ligands: beyond CB₁ and CB₂. Pharmacol. Rev. 62, 588–631.
BK channels are neuronal and are mostly found in neocortex (layer V/VI), pyriform cortex, septum (bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, lateral septum), thalamus (rhomboid nucleus).
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