Use of a potential rabbit model for structure--behavioral activity studies of cannabinoids.

Using the genetically unique tetrahydrocannabinol-seizure susceptible (THC-SS) rabbit, the behavioral effect of 14 cannabinoids or related structures were determined and compared to the effects of 11 previously tested cannabinoids. Relative potencies of the cannabinoid-induced convulsions in THC-SS rabbits were generally comparable to reported relative potencies of cannabinoid-produced psychoactivity in humans and other behavioral activity in monkeys or other species. These data suggest that the THC-SS rabbit may represent an experimentally convenient and reliable animal model for studies of structure--psychoactivity relationships of marijuana-like compounds.