Dear Friends,

 

  With great sorrow we must inform you of the passing of Prof. José Antonio Ramos, Ph.D., at the age of 77, at his home in Madrid. 

 

  José Antonio formed, together with Prof. Javier Fernández-Ruiz, the pioneer team that introduced cannabinoid research in Spain in the late 80’s. His vision and passion for the study of the biochemistry of cannabinoids led him to create the first group in Spain (and among the first in Europe) devoted to the study of the endocannabinoid system. Co-author of over 100 papers on this topic, he was PI of many research grants that were the seed for the growth of cannabinoid research in our country. He also was one of the founders and first President of the Spanish Cannabinoid Research Society (SEIC), that gathers almost all cannabinoid researchers in Spain. 

 

  He was also instrumental in establishing fruitful collaborations with groups around the world and he developed a close friendship with the late Raphi Mechoulam. Both enjoyed their relationship very much, together with their families, based on their mutual respect and cultural and scientific bonds.