This Collection aims to showcase advances in the knowledge of molecular, cellular, and clinical science of cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system in physiological and pathological conditions. The Editors are particularly focused on the system's cellular roles in normal physiological processes, including development and pregnancy, as well as abnormal functioning associated with diseases, including mental health disorders.

The endocannabinoid system, widely expressed in the brain and periphery, regulates a broad range of physiological functions, and alterations in this system have been identified in a number of psychological and physical conditions. The increased usage of cannabis for recreational and, more recently, medical purposes has led to research focused on understanding the therapeutic potential of this system and the applications of modulation of the system in restoring normal biological function. This broad focus can encompass basic biological science and exploration of clinical use for physical and psychological conditions.

The Collection welcomes experimental in vitro and in vivo studies, clinical research, narrative reviews, and short commentaries. Eligible submissions include original research articles, reviews, clinical or population‑based studies, qualitative or mixed‑methods research, methodological studies, and brief reports.

Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:

• Biological and cellular mechanisms of action of cannabinoids in brain and periphery
• Role of the endocannabinoid system in pregnancy, including mechanisms of actions
• Mechanism of dysfunction of the endocannabinoid system in pathology
• Molecular mechanisms associated with cannabinoid therapies in brain and periphery

This Collection supports and amplifies research related to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being by advancing understanding of the endocannabinoid system across organ systems and contributing to equitable, effective healthcare solutions.

All submissions in this collection undergo the journal’s standard peer review process. Similarly, all manuscripts authored by a Guest Editor(s) will be handled by the Editor-in-Chief. As an open access publication, this journal levies an article processing fee (details here). We recognize that many key stakeholders may not have access to such resources and are committed to supporting participation in this issue wherever resources are a barrier. For more information about what support may be available, please visit OA funding and support, or email OAfundingpolicy@springernature.com or the Editor-in-Chief.

Medical cannabis is increasingly used in routine clinical care in many countries, often without national regulatory approval. Its use spans a range of settings, from chronic non-cancer pain and palliative care to epilepsy, insomnia, and anxiety. As prescribing expands and regulatory frameworks evolve, there is a clear need for evidence that reflects how medical cannabis is used in practice today and the scientific evidence supporting its use. This Collection focuses on current clinical applications, not new therapeutic development, and welcomes work that documents real‑world practice, patient pathways, and the systems that shape access and decision‑making.

Research into prescribing behavior, the scientific evidence supporting current practice, pharmacy and dispensing models, regulatory oversight, and private‑practice approaches provides essential insight into how clinicians and patients navigate existing medical cannabis programs. Studies examining utilization patterns, patient‑reported outcomes, and long‑term clinical trajectories help clarify effectiveness, safety, and consistency across healthcare settings.

Investing in this area of research aligns with the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-Being, which emphasizes the need to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. By advancing our understanding of medical cannabis, we can contribute to the broader goals of health equity and access to effective healthcare solutions.

We invite contributions on topics including, but not limited to:

• Pharmacy practice and dispensing of medical cannabis
• Prescription patterns and prescriber behavior
• Clinical use in chronic non-cancer pain, palliative care, and any other commonly treated indications.
• Healthcare access pathways, patient navigation, and service models
• Regulatory and private‑practice frameworks governing medical cannabis
• Scientific evidence, patient‑reported outcomes, and utilization patterns
• Policy implementation and its clinical impact
• Evidence‑based clinical practice guidelines

Through this Collection, the Journal of Cannabis Research aims to present the evidence base around present‑day medical cannabis use, support responsible clinical practice, improve patient outcomes, and encourage interdisciplinary contributions that reflect the realities of contemporary healthcare systems.

This Collection supports and amplifies research related to SDG 3, Good Health and Well-Being.

All submissions in this collection undergo the journal’s standard peer review process. Similarly, all manuscripts authored by a Guest Editor(s) will be handled by the Editor-in-Chief. As an open access publication, this journal levies an article processing fee (details here). We recognize that many key stakeholders may not have access to such resources and are committed to supporting participation in this issue wherever resources are a barrier. For more information about what support may be available, please visit OA funding and support, or email OAfundingpolicy@springernature.com or the Editor-in-Chief.