C&P#107: PEA for lifting, canna for Parkinson’s & importance of topicals
NCAA lifts cannabis ban + Brazil decrim
This week…
PEA for powerlifters
A review of a puzzle: why do cannabis users tend to have more lung capacity?
3 on Parkinson’s disease
CBD topicals for many conditions (and not just skin diseases)
Allergies to cannabis
For surgical outcomes, mixed results on the effects of cannabis
Cannabis access = less opioid prescriptions
“Mortality by Sex”
Hello everyone,
Welcome to the 107th edition of Cannabinoids & the People, Lex Pelger’s free weekly digest of all the new cannabinoid science + assorted canna-news & psychedelic updates. On the cannabinoids, ask me anything.
And this week, here’s how I came up with my canna-graphic novels.
Free resources (my Linktree)
See the extensive cannabinoid science archive I maintain for CV Sciences at CVResearch.info
Read my free How-To Guides or watch my 3-Minute Cannabinoid Science videos on YouTube or read my canna-science journalism here
As always, here’s the Glossary of Cannabinoid Terms & at the bottom is the album of the week
For more…
Subscribe here: upgrade to a paid subscription to support my work sharing cannabinoid science
Work with my company White Whale Creations to produce content for cannabis & psychedelic companies: writing, science archives, social media content, newsletters & podcasts: My portfolio
Buy ‘SUNset’, our Queer cannabis history graphic novel or ‘The CROWN’, our story of the hunt for the structure of CBN. To see more about this series of cannabis graphic novels based on Moby Dick, see lexpelger.com
A request to spread the word
This newsletter only spreads by word of mouth,
so please forward to colleagues & tell your friends & relatives.
Sponsor: PlusCBD Pro for healthcare practitioners
For any healthcare practitioners out there who want to use CBD products, you can’t beat the ProCBD line from PlusCBD.
Formulated specifically for healthcare practitioners, these extra-strength products allow you to easily administer higher levels of CBD-rich hemp extracts to your patients. With softgels that contain 100 mg of CBD in each capsule, oils with 25 mg per spray & strong topicals for intense pain, the ProCBD line allows your patients to harness the higher levels of cannabinoids for their health.
Reach out here for free samples.
My work this week:
My TikToks:
(@lexpelgerandhisbooks or on YouTube)
How I came up with my canna-graphic novels based on Moby Dick
Wanda Gág, 'Millions of Cats' & the birth of children's picture books
Poetry Corner: Mayakovsky's 'Conversation with a Tax Collector About Poetry'
Ways to support this work:
A paid subscription on Substack
Buy Me a Coffee
Venmo: @Lex-Pelger
PayPal: donate here
The Canna-Science Writeup:
Analysis of the week's best papers, sponsored by CV Sciences
#PEA #Exercise
In exercising adults, eight weeks of PEA helped improve their strength
The Effect of Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) on Skeletal Muscle Hypertrophy, Strength, and Power in Response to Resistance Training in Healthy Active Adults: A Double-Blind Randomized Control Trial
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38844675/
In an intriguingly unique study, 48 young healthy participants were daily given ~300 mg of PEA or a placebo while going through eight weeks of resistance training. The researchers found that the PEA did not impair their lean muscle gains and that the PEA group had a significantly higher jump height by week 10 (maybe that’s how Simone Biles just got 12’ in the air). Though the placebo group did end up bench pressing slightly more (2.74 vs 2.24 kg). Those were the main differences found by the researchers - but their focus was on the strength training itself. If you look at our collection of PEA studies, you can see the long line of evidence for its anti-inflammatory effects as well as one clinical study on the help of PEA for exercise recovery as well as how Greek Navy Seals had higher endogenous levels of PEA, suggesting its adaptive ability in helping with stress and heart-rate. For more research, see the Musculoskeletal System & Exercise page of CVResearch.info.
#Parkinsons
For Parkinson's disease, two doctor’s advice on using cannabis
Advice to People with Parkinson's in My Clinic: Cannabis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38759024/
Along with this new review of targeting the endocannabinoid system for Parkinson’s disease, this practical article combines the advice of two doctors on using cannabinoids as a treatment. Their first table synthesizes the clinical evidence on the benefits for…
Tremor reduction
Dyskinesia (uncontrolled, involuntary movements) – a side effect of the levodopa (dopamine) treatments
Positive patient reports for help with anxiety, pain, and sleep
Reductions of the often scary condition known as rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (RBD) where during REM sleep, a person loses the atonia (loss of muscle control) that usually accompanies deep sleep. This means that they physically act out their (sometimes violent) dreams. This can include thrashing, punching, and kicking. See my interview about RBD with a patient partner/researcher many years ago.
The doctors continue with the various pharmaceutical cannabinoids available, but really, you’re not going to do better than our products with their mix of high levels of CBD and moderate levels of THC. Finally, they end with their advice for physicians that the above research isn’t very helpful for practical applications. Patients and their healthcare providers must experiment with different levels and times of day for their CBD, THC, and other cannabis plant components. They do point out that THC tends to be more helpful, but that its psychoactive effects can be difficult for older patients. However, it must be noted that high levels of CBD and its anti-anxiety power can help “blanket” the psychoactive effects of THC. Overall, with the ability of the cannabinoids to modulate the dopamine system that’s under attack in Parkinson’s disease, the cannabinoids are certainly worth exploring. More studies can be seen on the Parkinson's & Dyskinesia page of CVResearch.info.
A review of using CBD for skin conditions with & without THC
Evidence of Cannabidiol Effectiveness Associated or Not with Tetrahydrocannabinol in Topical Administration: A Scope Review
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38931415/
Out of Brazil, here is a nice scoping review paper of 46 articles on the topical use of CBD, sometimes in combination with THC. The first half of the research papers were in animals and talked about how the cannabinoids absorb well into the skin. Intriguingly, cannabinoids can even be applied to the surface of the eye for treating glaucoma as well as neuropathic pain in the cornea. In a mouse model of multiple sclerosis, CBD cream reduced their sensitivity to mechanical pain and even was able to reduce their loss of axons and myelin sheaths. In dogs, a CBD topical helped with osteoarthritis and it lowered inflammation and caused antioxidant effects in a number of animal models.
In humans, scientists are working on topical treatments for treating Fragile X syndrome (a rare genetic disorder leading to intellectual disability, balance issues, anxiety, and autism-like behaviors). When these patients were given a CBD gel, it was found to be well tolerated and clinically safe as well as helping with anxiety, compulsive behavior, social unresponsiveness, irritability, and hyperactive behavior. In another study in children with brain swelling from epilepsy, a CBD gel reduced their average level of seizures as well as their behavior and mood. In arthritis of the thumb, a CBD topical reduced pain and improved global well-being. In cancer patients, CBD also reduced pain. In people with neuropathic pain from diabetes, CBD lessened their “intense, sharp, itchy sensations, and unpleasant surface pain” with no adverse events. For skin conditions in humans, CBD topicals helped with eczema, relief from burns, leg ulcers, and epidermolysis bullosa (a rare condition of easily blistered skin and mucous membranes). For our comprehensive review of topical cannabinoids, see the Skin page of CVResearch.info.
Best Of Cannabinoid Science...
Clinical
A thesis project on CBD helping with anxiety & depression in older adults in California
Does Cannabidiol Treatment Provide an Effective Treatment for Anxiety and Depression in Older Adults in California?
https://scholarworks.calstate.edu/downloads/5m60r1087
In people taking anti-psychotic medication, CBD restored the alterations to their sphingolipid metabolism (related to obesity & metabolic dysfunction)
Alterations to sphingolipid metabolism from antipsychotic administration in healthy volunteers are restored following the use of cannabidiol
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0165178124002907
On the effects of cannabis use on emotions in romantic relationships
Cannabis Use and Emotions in Romantic Relationships
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40429-024-00566-y
“Over time, cannabis use may negatively affect the outcome of romantic relationships, and vice-versa. Recent methodological advances have suggested that on the one hand, concordance in cannabis use may be associated with decreased conflict and an increased sense of intimacy. On the other hand, cannabis users may perceive their communication as more positive compared to independent raters’ evaluation.”
I'm not even exactly sure what they're trying to say here, but I know that my wife will not infrequently suggest that I “go to the basement” when I am acting like a lousy person. It helps.
No link found between cannabis use disorder & erectile dysfunction or an effect on sex hormone levels
The impact of cannabis use on erectile dysfunction and sex hormones: a Mendelian randomization analysis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38834872/
Harms
On 6 case reports of cannabis allergies
IgE-Mediated Allergy and Asymptomatic Sensitization to Cannabis Allergens-Review of Current Knowledge and Presentation of Six Cases
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38929571/
In Canada, legalization led to an increase in edible cannabis poisonings in older adults
Edible Cannabis Legalization and Cannabis Poisonings in Older Adults
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38767898/
On the factors predicting cannabis-associated psychotic symptoms (CAPS)
Assessing rates and predictors of cannabis-associated psychotic symptoms across observational, experimental and medical research
https://www.nature.com/articles/s44220-024-00261-x
“CAPS was predicted by THC administration (for example, single dose, Cohen’s d = 0.7), mental health liabilities (for example, bipolar disorder, d = 0.8), dopamine activity (d = 0.4), younger age (d = −0.2), and female gender (d = −0.09)”
In adults with HIV, cannabis use disorder was associated with greater levels of apathy
Association between cannabis use disorder and greater apathy in adults with HIV
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38870567/
On the heart, a case series from northern Morocco finds a link between cannabis use & heart attacks
The Association Between Cannabis Use and Myocardial Infarction: A Case Series in Northern Morocco
https://www.amcar.ma/ressources/att/posters/2024/646/646-2024-poster%202.pdf
And this public health data links heavy lifetime cannabis use in females to death by heart conditions
Heavy Lifetime Cannabis Use and Mortality by Sex
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38842807/
Also, “Mortality by Sex” is both a great band name & a great way to go.
A case report of synthetic cannabinoids leading to thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (a platelet disorder leading to blockages of small blood vessels throughout the body)
Acquired Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP) Presenting With Synthetic Cannabinoid Use
https://assets.cureus.com/uploads/case_report/pdf/235170/20240602-1874-14o1nj8.pdf
Surgical Outcomes & Opioids
A meta-analysis of 10 studies on patients having joint arthroplasty surgery, those with cannabis use disorder had higher odds of medical complications, implant complications, cardiac complications, post-operative infections, mechanical loosening, dislocation & longer length of stay & higher cost of care
Cannabis Use Disorder Associated With Increased Risk of Postoperative Complications After Hip or Knee Arthroplasties: A Meta-analysis of Observational Studies
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38759231/
In a meta-analysis of spinal fusion surgery, cannabis use was associated with a greater rate of revision surgery
Association Between Preoperative Cannabis Use and Increased Rate of Revision Surgery Following Spinal Fusion: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
https://assets.cureus.com/uploads/review_article/pdf/257999/20240606-21859-lyfevv.pdf
Conversely, in those undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery, using cannabinoids before the operation was associated with a significant reduction in postoperative opioid usage
Perioperative Cannabinoids Significantly Reduce Postoperative Opioid Requirements in Patients Undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38765405/
Access to adult-use cannabis linked to a prescription opioid per capita decrease of 1 to 4%
Recreational cannabis dispensary access effects on prescription opioid use and mortality
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S016604622400067X
In patients with inflammatory bowel disease, living in a legal or illegal state did not lead to differences in opioid prescription rates
Legalization of Cannabis Does Not Reduce Opioid Prescribing in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Difference-in-Difference Analysis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38767951/
In a mouse model of opioid usage, the endocannabinoid 2AG lessened the reward sensation of the opioid but not the painkilling sensation
Elevating levels of the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol blunts opioid reward but not analgesia
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38766079/
Reviews
A review of a puzzle: why do cannabis users tend to have more lung capacity?
The Puzzle of Marijuana Use and Forced Vital Capacity
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38271695/
“In study after study, marijuana use has been found to be associated with increased forced vital capacity (FVC). This is puzzling, because marijuana is commonly consumed by inhalation of its smoke, and smoke exposure of any kind is not generally considered a cause of increased FVC. Although this observation was first made decades ago, a satisfactory explanation remains elusive.”
A review on treating Parkinson's disease by targeting the endocannabinoid system
Outcomes and Outlooks of Therapeutic Application of Modulators of Endogenous Cannabinoid System in Parkinson's Disease
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/381179055_Outcomes_and_Outlooks_of_Therapeutic_Application_of_Modulators_of_Endogenous_Cannabinoid_System_in_Parkinson's_Disease
And on how physicians need to know more about cannabis contaminants in regards to Parkinson's disease
Cannabis use in Parkinson's disease: Patient access to medical cannabis and physician perspective on product safety
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38834158/
A review of how CBD is absorbed into the body
Quantitative summary on the human pharmacokinetic properties of cannabidiol to accelerate scientific clinical application of cannabis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38850302/
And a review of the mechanisms of CBD
Unraveling the Mechanisms of Cannabidiol's Pharmacological Actions: A Comprehensive Research Overview
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38829467/
And a review of CBD for health
Understanding the Potential of CBD for Health Benefits: an Overview
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38847170/
A review of the potentials of CBC
The Potential of Cannabichromene (CBC) as a Therapeutic Agent
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38777605/
For osteoarthritis, a review of the evidence of cannabis for pain & function
Medical cannabis and its efficacy/effectiveness on the management of osteoarthritis pain and function
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38832841/
Preclinical
In a mouse model of corneal surgery, CBD reduced inflammation via myeloid-derived suppressor cells & the nuclear receptor PPAR-γ
Cannabidiol alleviates suture-induced corneal pathological angiogenesis and inflammation by inducing myeloid-derived suppressor cells
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38851157/
A thesis project on the combination of CBD & cold brew coffee leading to synergistic antioxidant activity
Synergistic Interactions of Antioxidant Potential of Cannabidiol and Cold Brew Coffee
https://digitalcommons.montclair.edu/student-research-symposium/2024/poster01/46/
On the anti-inflammatory properties of cannabis root extract (this one goes so far back into history)
A comparative study on enhanced anti-inflammatory activity of Cannabis root extract prepared by combined processing process
https://jkom.org/upload/jkm-45-2-41.pdf
The MAGL enzyme found in the barrelclover plant (Medicago truncatula - a legume used as a model organism for legume biology)
Ex vivo lipidomics reveal monoacylglycerols as substrates for a fatty acid amide hydrolase in the legume Medicago truncatula
https://febs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1002/1873-3468.14944
the Headlines & Fav Articles
NCAA Votes To Remove Marijuana From Banned Substances List For College Athletes
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/ncaa-votes-to-remove-marijuana-from-banned-substances-list-for-college-athletes/
An anonymous survey of professional athletes tested for doping found that the most common “out of competition” drug category they use are the cannabinoids
Doping Prevalence among U.S. Elite Athletes Subject to Drug Testing under the World Anti-Doping Code
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38763945/
On the ‘Hemp/Canna Civil War’ & the assorted trade associations by Bob Hoban
Cannabis Industry Trade Association Blues: We’re All Confused
https://www.forbes.com/sites/roberthoban/2024/06/20/cannabis-industry-trade-association-blues-were-all-confused/
Dickhead ‘Louisiana Governor Vetoes Bill That Would Have Let Him Pardon Past Marijuana Convictions’
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/louisiana-governor-vetoes-bill-that-would-have-let-him-pardon-past-marijuana-convictions/
“The governor said the bill ‘appears to be an attempt to have Louisiana accept President Biden’s invitation to the states to join his soft-on-crime, no-consequences-for-criminals agenda.’”
An analysis of the difficulties of different states laws on microbiological testing for cannabis products
Understanding the Complexity of Microbiology Method Validation to Meet State Specific Requirements for Cannabis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38831615/
International
Brazil’s Supreme Court decriminalizes the personal possession of cannabis
https://apnews.com/article/brazil-decriminalize-marijuana-personal-use-2ea6a00be557553df8f45676d960f141
A Thai poll shows 80% support for the PM’s plan to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic
https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/southeast-asia/article/3268293/majority-thais-back-pm-sretthas-policy-u-turn-reclassify-cannabis-drug
On label inaccuracies in Canadian cannabis products
Label Accuracy of Legal Oral Cannabis Oil Products in Ontario, Canada
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38837163/
French regulators banned the semi-synthetic cannabinoids H4-CBD & H2-CBD
French medicine regulator bans two cannabinoid derivatives after reported side effects
https://www.bmj.com/content/385/bmj.q1249
Smuggler’s Corner: when your dad was the biggest Florida pot smuggler/saltwater cowboy of the late ‘70s & you go onto to found a big (legal) cannabis company
https://www.forbes.com/sites/willyakowicz/2024/06/16/brady-cobb-interview-sunburn-cannabis-bill-cobb-operation-sunburn/
The Laws, The War on Drugs & the End of Prohibition
In a report from the UN special rapporteur on the right to health Dr Tlaleng Mofokeng, she calls for an end to war on drugs & alternative regulatory approaches that centers people’s health & human rights
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/top-united-nations-health-official-calls-on-countries-to-replace-war-on-drugs-with-alternative-regulatory-approaches/
So she looks like a cool lady. An MD, a law professor & the author of a guidebook to sexual health & pleasure.
I think she’d get along with my father, author of ‘Great Sex, Christian Style’.
What are the requirements for US retail cannabis dispensary workers?
State Requirements for Non-Medical US Cannabis Retail Personnel
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38833682/
In Canada, contemplating the potential impacts of cannabis legalization on organized crime
Cannabis Legalization and its Effects on Organized Crime: Lessons and Research Recommendations from Canada
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1111/soin.12619
In the UK, 28% of officers didn't know there were legal prescription cannabis products
Awareness of medical cannabis regulations among UK police officers - a cross-sectional study
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38757607/
In California, most online cannabis retailers are using age-gating, but it's not too hard to circumvent them
Age-Gating and Marketing Differences Between Storefront and Non-Storefront Cannabis Retailers
https://publications.sciences.ucf.edu/cannabis/index.php/Cannabis/article/view/234#:~:text=Significantly%20more%20storefront%20retailers%20employed,01).
On cops using AI to differentiate Dutch hash from Moroccan hash
Applying machine learning to international drug monitoring: classifying cannabis resin collected in Europe using cannabinoid concentrations
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38771330/
A law review on the illegality defense in contracts involving cannabis or sex workers
Illegal Contracts and Agreements: A New Standard for Prostitution and Marijuana Agreements
https://scholarlycommons.law.wlu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=4867&context=wlulr
This newsletter firmly supports the right of sex workers to be given the same protections as any other worker.
Psychedelics, Plant Medicines & Other Psychoactives
On Lykos rallying PR firms to support their MDMA FDA application
For psychedelic regulation, learning from cannabis regulation
Crafting effective regulatory policies for psychedelics: What can be learned from the case of cannabis?
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38845381/
On the rise of 4-AcO-DMT (a psilocybin analog)
https://doubleblindmag.com/4-aco-dmt/
The Plant & the History
USDA awards $745k to the National Industrial Hemp Council for promoting hemp around the world
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/usda-awards-745000-for-hemp-association-to-promote-the-industry-in-new-markets-across-the-world/?
Growing, Farming & Processing
On dealing with fire ants on your industrial hemp
Fire Ants Management in Industrial Hemp
https://journals.flvc.org/edis/article/view/134733
A thesis project on the effect of lights on cannabis multiplication & rooting
The effect of light spectrum and intensity on Cannabis sativa L. multiplication rate and rooting in vitro
https://helda.helsinki.fi/items/c8e3a044-f4ec-4ca9-89af-0026234efcec
A system for functional genomic studies in cannabis seedlings
A versatile, rapid Agrobacterium-mediated transient expression system for functional genomics studies in cannabis seedling
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38837044/
A review on the ability of cannabis trichomes to act as small biofactories
Building a biofactory: Constructing glandular trichomes in Cannabis sativa
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38761520/
Food & Nutrition
Industrial Use
On the properties of hemp for car panels
Examine the static and dynamic mechanical properties of alkali-treated Cannabis sativa plant fiber-reinforced composites
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13399-024-05766-0
On using hemp for packaging & food packaging
Hemp macromolecules: Crafting sustainable solutions for food and packaging innovation
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38852732/
On using cannabis root extract to break down Fe3O4 nanoparticles
Phytomediated synthesis of Fe3O4 nanoparticles using Cannabis sativa root extract: photocatalytic activity and antibacterial efficacy
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13399-024-05785-x
CANNABINOID SCIENCE
A funny back & forth in the scientific literature on why researchers didn't mention the possibility of using dronabinol (the synthetic pharmaceutical form of THC). That's probably because patients tend to hate dronabinol because it's like a “horse kick” of THC with no modulating influence from the other plant compounds
Why Ask Patients to Cut Into Quarters 10-mg THC Gummies Obtained From a Cannabis Dispensary When 2.5-mg THC (Dronabinol) Is Available by Prescription?
https://www.psychiatrist.com/jcp/why-cut-dispensary-thc-gummies-into-quarters-when-prescription-thc-is-available/
Using THC Edible Gummies for Behavioral Symptoms of Dementia: Reply to Goldman and Markov
https://www.psychiatrist.com/jcp/thc-edible-gummies-behavioral-symptoms-dementia-reply-to-goldman-and-markov/
Public Health
Analysis of cannabis use by patients in a large health system
Cannabis Use Reported by Patients Receiving Primary Care in a Large Health System
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38837159/
Adolescents & Young Adults
A review of the complexities of the impact of cannabis legalization on adolescent cannabis use
Navigating the Grey Zone: The Impact of Legislative Frameworks in North America and Europe on Adolescent Cannabis Use-A Systematic Review
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38920816/
In adolescents, cannabinoid hair concentrations predicted several different mental & physical health outcomes
Cannabinoids in Hair and Their Prospective Association with Mental and Physical Health Outcomes in Adolescents
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/381276888_Cannabinoids_in_Hair_and_Their_Prospective_Association_with_Mental_and_Physical_Health_Outcomes_in_Adolescents
“In the full sample, greater THC concentrations predicted more frequent strength exercise and physical exercise one year later; greater CBD concentrations predicted fewer internalizing symptoms and strength exercise days; and greater THCCOOH concentrations predicted shorter sleep duration. Among males, cannabinoids differentially predicted exercise days; greater THC and THCCOOH concentrations predicted shorter sleep duration; and greater CBD concentrations predicted longer sleep duration and fewer externalizing symptoms. Among females, greater THC and THCCOOH concentrations predicted strength exercise frequency; THCCOOH predicted asthma presence one year later; and THC concentrations predicted shorter sleep duration.”
In young adults, their locus of control (how much they feel they have control over their own lives) being more external is linked to more severe psychotic episodes when using moderate to high levels of cannabis
The Relationship between Locus of Control and Psychotic Experiences: Moderating Effect of past-year cannabis use Frequency among Young Adult Lifetime cannabis Users
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11469-024-01337-6
The Brain
In Italian patients with multiple sclerosis, the characteristics of those who were using cannabis
Unprescribed cannabinoids and multiple sclerosis: a multicenter, cross-sectional, epidemiological study in Lombardy, Italy
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38844694/
In a very small study of people becoming abstinent from cannabis, some of them showed improvements in working memory & attention after a year
Brain Function and Marijuana: Are there Changes after Abstinence of Consumption? Preliminary Results
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38863046/
In neurodegenerative diseases, a review of the interplay of the endocannabinoid system with the Nrf2-p62/SQSTM1 pathway
Interplay Between Oxidative Stress, Autophagy and the Endocannabinoid System in Neurodegenerative Diseases: Role of the Nrf2- p62/SQSTM1 Pathway and Nutraceutical Activation
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/381240739_Interplay_Between_Oxidative_Stress_Autophagy_and_the_Endocannabinoid_System_in_Neurodegenerative_Diseases_Role_of_the_Nrf2-_p62SQSTM1_Pathway_and_Nutraceutical_Activation
For epilepsy, a review of the involvement of arachidonic acid (the precursor to anandamide)
A Narrative Review of the Published Pre-Clinical Evaluations: Multiple Effects of Arachidonic Acid, its Metabolic Enzymes and Metabolites in Epilepsy
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38842673/
In a mouse model of stroke, CBD combined well with the treatment dapsone to protect from the oxygen & glucose deprivation
Isobolographic Analysis of the Cytoprotective Effect of Dapsone and Cannabidiol Alone or Combination upon Oxygen-Glucose Deprivation/Reoxygenation Model in SH-SY5Y Cells
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38929144/
In a mouse model of multiple sclerosis, the expression of oxytocin & vasopressin is a potential biomarker for the therapeutic efficacy of CBD
Oxytocin and Vasopressin Gene Expression in the Brain as Potential Biomarkers for Cannabidiol Therapeutic Efficacy
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38927480/
In mice with liver injuries, the daily variation of their cognitive impairment was altered by the gut microbiome’s effect on the CB1 receptors of the hippocampus (memory center of the brain)
Gut Microbiota-Mediated Alterations of Hippocampal CB1R Regulating the Diurnal Variation of Cognitive Impairment Induced by Hepatic Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Mice
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38824460/
Mental Health & Substance Use Disorders
In people with schizophrenia, blood samples showed alterations to their endocannabinoid machinery & TRPV1 receptor expression
Involvement of the TRPV1 receptor and the endocannabinoid system in schizophrenia
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38852650/
In a mouse with no fatty acid binding proteins (which transport endocannabinoids), they had changes to their anxiety & social behavior via interactions with the NMDA receptors
The role of fatty acid-binding protein 5 and 7 on locomotor, anxiety and social behavior: Interaction with NMDA signaling
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38851448/
Hormones & Reproduction
For pregnancy, an analysis of the molecular targets of CBD warn against its consumption
Molecular Targets of Cannabidiol warn against its consumption during pregnancy
https://esmed.org/MRA/mra/article/view/5450
In a meta-analysis of five studies on fruit fly exposure to cannabis during development, they found no changes
Effects of cocaine, nicotine, and marijuana exposure in Drosophila Melanogaster development: A systematic review and meta-analysis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38844126/
Pain, Inflammation & Surgeries
Unfortunately this article on cannabis & masculinization top surgery is so paywalled that you can't even finish reading the abstract
Impact of marijuana on masculinization top surgery postoperative complications: Single-surgeon single-institutional experience
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38781780/
On the antioxidant properties of three cannabis leaf extracts from Morocco
Phytochemical Study and Antioxidant Potential of Three Leaf Extracts of Cannabis sativa L from the Al-Hoceima Region, Morocco
https://www.e3s-conferences.org/articles/e3sconf/pdf/2024/57/e3sconf_joe4_01025.pdf
In dairy cows experiencing inflammation, they had increased levels of anandamide as well as oxylipins
Evaluation of the plasma oxylipin and endocannabinoid profile and the platelet and plasma proteome in postpartum dairy cows experiencing elevated systemic inflammation
https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-4420521/v1
The Guts & Metabolism
In liver & intestinal cells, CBD activated the Pregnane X receptor (PXR) nuclear receptor & increased cholesterol levels in the plasma & their uptake by intestinal cells
Cannabidiol promotes intestinal cholesterol uptake mediated by Pregnane X receptor
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/endocrinology/articles/10.3389/fendo.2024.1398462/full
The Heart
In a mouse model of atherosclerosis (hardened arteries), deleting the CB1 receptors on their myeloid (bone marrow) cells caused protective effects for the males but not females
Myeloid cannabinoid CB1 receptor deletion confers atheroprotection in male mice by reducing macrophage proliferation in a sex-dependent manner
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38838211/
The Skin
In Langerhans cells (immune cells of the skin), anandamide influenced their differentiation, maturation, cytokine secretion, metabolism & function which may be helpful for psoriasis & dermatitis
Anandamide modulation of monocyte-derived Langerhans cells: implications for immune homeostasis and skin inflammation
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/immunology/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2024.1423776/full
Cancer & Chemotherapy
In dentistry & oncology, cannabinoids may be helpful for damage to the mouth
POTENTIAL APPLICATIONS OF CANNABINOIDS IN DENTISTRY AND ONCOLOGY- SHORT COMMUNICATION
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2212440323014724
“Scientific evidence indicates that cannabinoids can act in the control of symptomatic and postoperative lesions, as they have action on vanilloid receptors. It stimulates the production of saliva, and in lesions of an inflammatory nature such as oral mucositis, traumatic ulcers and periodontitis, it modulates the inflammatory response. In addition, they may be useful in controlling the anxiety of patients undergoing cancer treatment.”
Synthetic Cannabinoids
An Internet snapshot survey of vapes with synthetic cannabinoids
An Internet Snapshot Survey Assessing the sale of Synthetic Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists for use with Electronic Vaping Devices
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38839732/
On the binding properties of cannabinoid ethers
Cannabinoid Ethers: Identication, Binding interactions, and their ADME properties
https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-4523212/v1_covered_0dd806ab-4771-4201-8fc3-5efa21439d70.pdf?c=1717562988
Cool Chemistry & Tools
On how the structure of cannabinoids alter their binding to the CB1 receptor
Structure-Activity Relationship and Functional Evaluation of Cannabinoid Type-1 Receptor
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38844801/
And a thesis project on synthetic cannabinoids
Exploring structure-activity relationships of synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists
https://ses.library.usyd.edu.au/handle/2123/32636
On how positive allosteric modulation of the CB1 receptor increased endocannabinoid signaling as well as changes to the ERK1/2 & beta-arrestin pathways
Positive allosteric modulation of the cannabinoid CB1 receptor potentiates endocannabinoid signalling and changes ERK1/2 phosphorylation kinetics
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38831545/
And the discovery of a new CB1 allosteric modulator
Structure-based identification of a G protein-biased allosteric modulator of cannabinoid receptor CB1
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38830102/
A new fluorescent FAAH probe for live imaging in brain tissue
Monofluorophore-based Two-Photon Ratiometric Fluorescent Probe for the Quantitative Imaging of Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase in Live Neurons and Mouse Brain Tissues
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38850514/
Thanks.
- lex
PS: For this week’s pinnacle of clarinet, ‘Presenting Johnny Dodds’ (1927). One of the greatest players of the Roaring ‘20s, Johnny Dodds came up with Kid Ory’s band in New Orleans & playing on riverboats before joining King Oliver’s Creole Jazz Band in Chicago in 1921. Then over that dynamic decade of music, he played with the likes of Jelly Roll Morton’s Red Hot Peppers & Louis Armstrong’s Hot Five as well as recording with his own Johnny Dodds' Black Bottom Stompers. He became a huge star on the Chicago jazz scene before everything came crashing down with the Depression. Beset by ill health, he only recorded two more sessions before his early death by stroke at the age of 48, just before the New Orleans revival movement that surely would have swept him upward. But his influence lived on & no less than Benny Goodman stated that no one ever surpassed Johnny Dodds on producing a finer tone on the clarinet. Posthumously inducted into the Jazz Hall of Fame, Dodds became known as “a prime architect in the creation of the Jazz Age”.
This newsletter is the backbone of my work & I hope it brings you a measure of value. If so, please consider upgrading to a paid subscription & support my sharing all of the new cannabinoid science each week.