C&P#143: CBD & breast cancer, cannabis & meditation, lots on harm reduction
Turkish town stoned for 5 days after police burn
🌟 This week 🌟
CBD for breast cancer
Another negative from Reece & Hulse: cannabis in the first trimester linked to autism
On cannabis & meditation, the goods & the bads
On CBD's drug interactions + 3 on the combo of cannabis & tobacco
CBD relaxes vaginal smooth muscle tissue
In Switzerland, a trial found that legal cannabis access reduced cannabis-related harms
On increasing cannabinoid yield with water deficit stress
On using hemp fiber to strengthen fake teeth
Ketamine use disorder
Hello everyone,
Welcome to the 143rd edition of Cannabinoids & the People, Lex Pelger’s free weekly digest of all the new cannabinoid science, canna-news, War on Drugs coverage, harm reduction & psychedelic updates. Upgrade to a paid subscription here to support my work sharing canna-science. As always, ask me anything.
(this week’s numbers: ~9,400 words, ~20 minute reading time, 187 papers)
📌 Editor’s note:
This week is a double issue after I took off for ICBC in Berlin & went to the lake with the kids. I also wanted to share where I’ll be for the rest of the year:
CannabisEuropa 2025 in London on June 24th to 25th. A lovely gathering & they’re talking about setting me up for a canna-science AMA.
Science in the City 2025 here in Bordeaux, France on Sept 11th to 12th. With the French looking like they might finally go medical, it’s a great time to be here. Plus, my adopted home city is really quite lovely.
CB Expo 2025 in Dortmund, Germany on Sept 18th to 20th. This one has a great emphasis on education & they’re also next to InterTabac, the world’s largest trade fair for tobacco products & smoking accessories.
Slovenia 2025 (date TBA – so I’ll go if it doesn’t interfere with my wife’s work. She’s swinging for a lead trainer spot in the IFS therapy program, so she gets priority on dates)
🤝 Sponsor 🤝: The Cannabis & Health Research Initiative
Want to help expand the knowledge of medical cannabis use in the real world & get paid 100 bucks to do so?
Johns Hopkins University, with support from Realm of Caring, is spearheading the groundbreaking National Cannabis Study to evaluate the benefits, risks & overall outcomes of using cannabis for conditions like pain, insomnia, anxiety & more. If you are an adult in the U.S. considering starting cannabis for health reasons, this is your chance to help shape the future of cannabis research — and get compensated for your time ($100!). Join now to share your experience & contribute valuable data that could revolutionize healthcare for many patients nationwide. To learn more & sign up, visit:
https://ncs.cannabisandhealth.org/
Or follow along on Instagram to keep on learning:
https://www.instagram.com/cannabisandhealthresearch/
🧰 Free resources
CVResearch.info: the extensive cannabinoid science archive I maintain for CV Sciences
Canna-edu videos: on YouTube @CVScienceInc & on TikTok @pluscbd
My Free How-To Guides on cannabinoids for different conditions. #AMAGlossary of Cannabinoid Terms (& my Neural Ocean metaphor)
And as always, at the bottom is the album of the week. (I like this week’s one especially much & it makes me wonder, does anybody besides my mother get to the bottom of this email & the music?)
💖 Ways to support this work 💖
A paid subscription on Substack
Buy Me a Coffee
Venmo: @Lex-Pelger
PayPal: donate here
🐋 For more from Lex… (my Linktree)
My canna-graphic novel series based on Moby Dick, ‘‘Anandamide; or, the Cannabinoid’ to explain endocannabinoid science, the darkness of the War on Drugs & the long human history with our favorite plant.
See the volumes ‘SUNset’ (Queer canna-history from the AIDS crisis) & ‘The CROWN’ (the story of the hunt for the chemical structure of CBN, the first fully-solved cannabinoid in the 1940s). To see more about this ongoing series, see lexpelger.comThe first 2 seasons of my podcast ‘The Lex Files’ on cannabinoids, psychedelics & spirituality
Work with my company White Whale Creations to produce content for cannabis & psychedelic companies: writing, science archives, social media content, newsletters & podcasts: my portfolio
📣 A request to spread the word 📣
This newsletter only spreads by word of mouth,
so please forward to colleagues & tell your friends & relatives.
🎥 My work this week 🎤
Canna-Edu Vids for CV Sciences:
(on YT @CVSciencesInc & TT @pluscbd)
My Vids:
(on TT @lexpelgerandhisbooks or on YouTube)
I’m backing up the earliest videos from my first days on TikTok to my YouTube account. Here’s some of the recent ones:
'Giordano Bruno & the Hermetic Tradition' by Dame Frances Yates
'Women Who Run With the Wolves' by Clarissa Pinkola-Estes (if you’re into feminism or mythology, a classic)
🍃 Best Of (Phyto)Cannabinoid Science...
The great Dr. Sue Sisley on her fight to research cannabis & psychedelic drugs
My fight to unlock cannabis and psychedelic drugs for use in medical research
https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-025-01298-3
⚕️ Clinical
In 50 children with drug-resistant epilepsy, CBD caused 8 of them to become seizure-free & reduced seizures in the majority
Cannabidiol in Drug‑Resistant Epilepsy in Children: A Retrospective Study
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13312-025-00075-9
And in a multi-center analysis of pediatric drug-resistant epilepsy, CBD significantly reduced seizures & allowed some to become seizure-free & for others to reduce their anti-epileptic drug burden
Adjunctive Use of Cannabidiol in Pediatric Drug‑Resistant Epilepsy: A Retrospective Multicenter Analysis
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1525505025001659
For chronic pain, a cost-effectiveness analysis of cannabis vs opioids found cannabis to have similar costs & quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) without the risk of overdose
Cost‑Effectiveness of Medical Cannabis Versus Opioids for Chronic Non‑Cancer Pain
https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/can.2024.0120
In an open-label, single-arm study of people taking tamoxifen (a common cancer drug), CBD levels below 50 mg didn’t interfere with the treatment
CBD-oil as a potential solution in case of severe tamoxifen-related side effects
https://pure.eur.nl/ws/portalfiles/portal/183075808/proefschriftsannebuijs_-_67ad020428808.pdf#page=80
In meditators, cannabis use was linked to increased meditation quality but lowered intrapersonal communication & concentration
Mental Clarity and Cannabis: A Mixed‑Method Study on Meditation, Intrapersonal Communication, Concentration and Cosmos
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/391233421_Mental_clarity_and_cannabis_A_mixed_method_study_on_meditation_intrapersonal_communication_concentration_and_cosmos
“While some people experience heightened cosmic awareness (r=0.32), very often it obstructs self-exploration. The result indicates cannabis's two aspects as a spiritual tool and possible cognitive disruptor.”
In burn survivors, a survey found cannabis use to be common & more likely among those who had visible burns
Marijuana Use in a Nationwide Survey of Burn Survivors
https://academic.oup.com/jbcr/advance-article-abstract/doi/10.1093/jbcr/iraf064/8121041
In people with systemic sclerosis (a group of rare diseases of the hardening & tightening of the skin), a CBD/THC oil increased sleep duration & decreased sleep disturbance, sleep medication use & daytime dysfunction (though not statistically significant)
Efficacy of Cannabis Oil in Improving Subjective Sleep Quality in Systemic Sclerosis
https://www.mdpi.com/2075-1729/15/5/727
In a comparison of effects between THC & delta-8 THC, the effects were similar for psychoactive effects & pharmacodynamics
A Within‑Subject Cross‑Over Trial Comparing the Acute Effects of Vaporized Δ8‑THC and Δ9‑THC in Healthy Adults
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0376871625001371
In people with cancer or neurodegenerative diseases, a combination of CBD, melatonin, 5-methoxytryptamine & angiotensin caused improvements across a range of conditions
Efficacy of a Neuroimmune Therapy Including Pineal Methoxyindoles, Angiotensin and Cannabidiol in Aging
https://www.dovepress.com/efficacy-of-a-neuroimmune-therapy-including-pineal-methoxyindoles-angi-peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-CIA
📑 Reviews
On CBD drug interactions, an analysis of 136 reports
Evidence of Potential Drug Interactions Between Cannabidiol and Other Drugs: A Scoping Review to Guide Pharmaceutical Care
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40267977/
“A total of 271 interactions were identified, with 203 related to pharmacokinetics, primarily involving metabolism mediated by cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes, and 68 linked to pharmacodynamics, including additive effects such as sedation. Among the most relevant findings, CBD was shown to inhibit CYP enzymes like CYP3A4 and CYP2C19, potentially increasing plasma levels of co-administered drugs. However, only 5.15% of studies evaluated the clinical relevance of these interactions, indicating a substantial gap in knowledge regarding their safety implications.”
In CBD for breast cancer, a systematic review found significant anti-cancer effects including inhibition of cell proliferation, suppression of metastasis, modulation of the tumor microenvironment & induction of apoptosis (programmed cellular suicide)
Cannabidiol as a Novel Therapeutic Agent in Breast Cancer: Evidence From Literature
https://bmccancer.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12885-025-14175-z
And for cancer, a review of beta-caryophyllene & the d-limonene terpenes
Anticancer Properties of β‑Caryophyllene and Its Mechanistic Pathways
https://journals.lww.com/aptb/fulltext/2025/04000/anticancer_properties_of_beta_caryophyllene_and.1.aspx
For neuropathic pain, a review of 11 clinical trials found cannabinoids reduced pain perception, improved patient quality of life & mitigated other related symptoms
Cannabinoids in Neuropathic Pain Treatment: Pharmacological Insights and Clinical Outcomes From Recent Trials
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00210-025-04134-7
For the tuberculosis bacteria, a review found two preclinical studies on the antibacterial activity of CBD
Antibacterial activity of cannabinoids on the bacteria that cause tuberculosis: a systematic review
https://www.rbac.org.br/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RBAC-v57n1-2025_artigo03_en.pdf
In chronic rhinosinusitis (inflamed & swollen sinuses), a review of five preclinical studies found the endocannabinoid system regulates the related inflammatory pathways
Cannabinoids and the Endocannabinoid System in the Treatment of Chronic Rhinosinusitis
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1002/lary.32191
For the endocannabinoid system & paracannabinoid system (an uncommon term for related mediators such as PEA, OEA & SEA), a review of how they shape survival behaviors such as food, mating & social interaction (one super sexy chart)
The Endocannabinoid and Paracannabinoid Systems in Natural Reward Processes: Possible Pharmacological Targets?
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0031938425001301
I myself probably would never have mated without cannabinoids.
For glutamate (the brain's most common excitatory neurotransmitter), a review & meta-analysis of the effects of the cannabinoids
Effect of Cannabinoids on Glutamate Levels in the Human Brain: A Systematic Review and Meta‑Analysis
https://jcannabisresearch.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s42238-025-00277-9
“Meta-analysis showed cannabis intake has no effects on the glutamate levels in human brain. However, there is limited evidence indicating that oral cannabidiol and cannabidivarin increased the glutamate/glutamine ratio in the basal ganglia while intravenous and vaped tetrahydrocannabinol increased glutamate in the basal ganglia. There is also some evidence showing oral cannabidiol increased glutamate in the hippocampus. Most of the observational studies in this review demonstrated a reduction in glutamate in the brain of chronic cannabis users.”
For more, see my ProjectCBD article ‘Glutamate, A Love Story’.
⚠️ Harms
From US public health data, cannabis exposure in the first trimester of pregnancy was linked to higher levels of autism
Linked Rising Trends of Cannabis Use and Autism Incidence Demonstrated by Close Three Level Geospatiotemporal Relationships, USA, 1990-2011
https://drugfree.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/GeospatiotemporalAnalysisofCannabis-AutismandCausalityLinksUSA.pdf
For cannabis hyperemesis syndrome in children, a review of the epidemiology & treatment
Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome in Children: A Pediatric Emergency Care Report
https://journals.lww.com/pec-online/abstract/2025/05000/cannabis_hyperemesis_syndrome_in_children__a.13.aspx
For predicting cannabis use in psychosis, a systematic review of 33 studies on the effects of early life adversity, developmental conditions, social pressure & availability
Socioenvironmental and Developmental Predictors of Cannabis Initiation and Use in Psychosis
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40429-025-00654-7
An Israeli pediatric emergency department on cannabinoid exposure in infants & children
Cannabinoid Exposure in Infants and Children in the Pediatric Emergency Department—the Child Protection Perspective
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00431-025-06129-1
A case report of CBD gummy leading to tachycardia (racing heart) & lactic acidosis
Marked Tachycardia, Complete Right Bundle Branch Block, and Lactic Acidosis Following Ingestion of CBD Gummies
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2214750025001581
And a case report of heavy cannabis use & hypokalemia (low potassium levels)
Unusual Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage Following High‑Potency Cannabis Use – A Case Report
https://assets.cureus.com/uploads/case_report/pdf/357430/20250429-240947-b4gb4v.pdf
And a case report of two sailors accidentally ingesting delta-8 THC & experiencing severe headache, nausea, dizziness & hallucinations
Accidental Acute Intoxication With Gummies Containing Delta‑8‑Tetrahydrocannabinol
https://www.croris.hr/crosbi/publikacija/prilog-skup/878778
And a case report of HHC leading to an acute psychotic episode in an experienced user
The Dark Side of “Legal Highs”: A Case of Psychosis in Polysubstance Use—A Young Psychonaut’s Perspective
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14659891.2025.2494534
With Tobacco
In lung scans comparing smokers of cannabis versus tobacco, emphysema & hyperinflation were common in tobacco smokers but were rare in cannabis smokers
Quantitative and Qualitative Imaging in Marijuana Users and Smokers
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0363018825000738
In public health data on lung cancer, the co-use of cannabis & tobacco was associated with a lower age of lung cancer diagnosis compared to the use of tobacco alone, suggesting an additive effect
Abstract 7394: Investigating the Synergistic Carcinogenic Effect of Tobacco and Marijuana Smoke
https://aacrjournals.org/cancerres/article/85/8_Supplement_1/7394/760052
For the co-vaping of tobacco & cannabis, this pilot study found a greater exposure to both THC & nicotine when mixing them, though the subjective effects & heart rate effects of THC seemed to be attenuated by the nicotine
Using a Loose‑Leaf Vaporizer to Study Tobacco‑Cannabis Co‑Administration: A Proof‑of‑Concept Study
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0376871625001310
🐁 Preclinical
In a mouse model of sickle cell disease, PEA reduced pain, improved red blood cell & hemoglobin levels, reduced liver size & lowered markers of inflammation
Levagen+ Ameliorates Hyperalgesia in a Mouse Model of Sickle Cell Disease
https://www.jpain.org/article/S1526-5900(25)00516-4/abstract
In a rat model of obesity, various mixtures of THC & CBD showed antihypertensive properties & benefits for the liver
Effects of Five Cannabis Oils With Different CBD:THC Ratios and Terpenes on Hypertension, Dyslipidemia, Hepatic Steatosis, Oxidative Stress, and CB1 Receptor
https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-6031156/v1
In a rat model of sleep disorders following general anesthesia, CBD significantly increased sleep time at night via the hypothalamus (a key regulator of bodily functions)
Cannabidiol Regulates Circadian Rhythm to Improve Sleep Disorders Following General Anesthesia in Rats
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40294924/
In the offspring of rat mothers subjected to chronic sleep interruptions during lactation, giving them oleamide (the endocannabinoid of sleep) restored their behavioral performance, reduced neuroinflammation & normalized endocannabinoid levels
Neonatal Supplementation of Oleamide During Suckling Ameliorates Maternal Postpartum Sleep Interruption‑Induced Neural Impairment and Endocannabinoid Dysfunction in Rats
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2025.1566182/abstract
Oleamide is a seriously underrated dietary supplement. You can easily buy it online & for some people, it is a game changer for sleep. Also, if you use it at higher levels, it is a quite lovely psychoactive experience.
In human skin stem cells, cannabis extracts reduced inflammation via the NF-κB pathway, with CBD, THC & CBG being the most active
Beyond Cannabidiol: The Contribution of Cannabis sativa Phytocomplex to Skin Anti-Inflammatory Activity in Human Skin Keratinocytes
https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8247/18/5/647
In fat cells resistant to insulin, nano-CBD enhanced glucose uptake, reduced lipid content, lowered triglycerides & total cholesterol & increased HDL levels
Enhanced Metabolic Syndrome Management Through Cannabidiol‑Loaded PLGA Nanoparticles: Development and In Vitro Evaluation
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40277882/
“Gene analysis indicated reduced gluconeogenesis via downregulation of PPARγ, FOXO-1, PEPCK, and G6Pase and enhanced fatty acid oxidation through CPT-1 upregulation.”
In breast cancer cells, CBN improved the efficacy of treatment with exemestane (hattip to Michelle Morganti)
Cannabinol improves exemestane efficacy in estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer models: a comparative study with cannabidiol
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0014299925004662
🧬 Novel Studies
(my new grab bag section for stuff I haven’t quite seen before)
In a rat model of the perception of time, activating the CB1 receptor caused temporal overestimation & motor slowing but preserved interval production
Differential Cannabinergic Effects on Temporal Perception and Production
https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-6499142/v1
In rat vaginal smooth muscle tissue, CBD demonstrates significant relaxant effects
Relaxant Effects of Cannabidiol on Electrical‑Field‑Induced Contractility of Vaginal Strips From Normal and Oophorectomized Rats
https://academic.oup.com/jsm/article/22/Supplement_1/qdaf068.109/8119523
📰 US Headlines & Fav Articles
Trump’s draft budget cuts DEA funding related to its European counternarcotics efforts & referred to overdose prevention funding as the “Biden crack pipe”
https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Fiscal-Year-2026-Discretionary-Budget-Request.pdf
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/25/us/politics/trump-budget-cuts.html
Terrance Cole, Trump's pick to lead the DEA, said that looking at the cannabis rescheduling review would be one of his first priorities & that he will form a cannabis task force
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/trumps-pick-to-lead-dea-says-marijuana-rescheduling-review-will-be-one-of-my-first-priorities-in-the-job/
And the group Doctors for Drug Policy Reform dropped their lawsuit about the DEA's improper witness selection to avoid more delay in the rescheduling process
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/doctors-drop-marijuana-rescheduling-lawsuit-that-alleged-dea-misconduct-in-rescheduling-process-in-part-to-avoid-more-delay/
And acting DEA head Derek Maltz stepped down
https://x.com/derekmaltz_sr/status/1918497533212401994
According to the rightwing Daily Caller, in an investigation promoted by the drug czar nominee Sara Carter, a network of illegal cannabis grows in Maine are tied to the Chinese Communist Party
https://dailycaller.com/2025/05/01/exclusive-illegal-marijuana-grows-maine-tied-chinese-communist-party-front-group/
https://saraacarter.com/investigation-illegal-marijuana-farms-in-us-tied-to-chinese-communist-party-front-group/
A great summary of the last 7 years of policy insanity around hemp & hemp-derived products by Marc Hauser in Cannabis Musings
https://cannabismusings.substack.com/p/cannabis-musings-april-18th-2025
And why he doesn't give a damn about the STATES 2.0 Act
https://cannabismusings.substack.com/p/cannabis-musings-april-22-2025
You'll notice in this newsletter that I almost never cover proposed legislation, mostly because proposed legislation almost never becomes law.
The US Small Business Administration clarified that cannabis businesses are not eligible for key federal loan programs even if they are locally legal
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/marijuana-businesses-are-ineligible-for-federal-loans-sba-clarifies-in-updated-guidance-undoing-reckless-biden-policies/
A federal judge ruled that insurance companies are not required to cover medical cannabis
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/insurance-companies-are-not-required-to-cover-medical-marijuana-federal-judge-rules/
In Washington DC, the nominated federal prosecutor Ed Martin sent a letter to a locally approved medical cannabis dispensary that it may be subject to criminal prosecution because of its proximity to schools, but now Martin’s nomination is withdrawn for non-cannabis reasons
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/federal-prosecutor-warns-locally-approved-medical-marijuana-dispensary-it-may-subject-to-criminal-prosecution/
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/trump-plans-to-pull-u-s-attorney-nominee-who-threatened-medical-marijuana-dispensary-with-possible-federal-prosecution/
On the terrible failures of the social equity program of Los Angeles & the many Black shop owners with millions in debt
https://www.sfgate.com/cannabis/article/los-angeles-social-equity-cannabis-stores-20313738.php
"Los Angeles politicians were once bragging about their social equity program, saying they were going to give the communities most victimized by the War on Drugs the best deal in legal weed. But seven years after legal recreational weed first went on sale in California, it appears the very same people who were supposedly prioritized for access to the legal market were actually given the short end of the stick by nearly every entity involved.
Despite early public promises, social equity operators were forced to wait in line for years to open their doors, while billion-dollar corporations like MedMen were selling cannabis from the first month of legalization. Even after that, Los Angeles has mismanaged grant money meant for people like Shockley to get their businesses off the ground. All the while, legal pot shops in the city are drowning in a tax rate that exceeds 40%, when state duties are combined with local taxes, while illicit stores sell pot freely in the city without paying any pot taxes at all."
Nevada's first consumption lounge closes citing lack of customers
https://www.sfgate.com/cannabis/article/las-vegas-cannabis-lounge-closes-20288397.php
A short history of cannabis in New York (with a great poster map featuring a reefer man)
https://discovering.nyc/the-short-history-of-cannabis-in-nyc/
A new canna-music video from Snoop Dogg: ‘Last Dance with Mary Jane ft. Tom Petty & Jelly Roll’
(hattip to my girlfriend Diana Adams of the Chosen Family Law Center, an excellent place to donate if you want to support Queer & trans rights in these dark days)
🌐 International News
Ha. In Turkey, police burnt 20,000 kg in the center of town & left the entire population stoned for 5 days (hattip to Peter Su)
https://www.news18.com/viral/police-burn-20kg-of-confiscated-weed-an-entire-town-is-stoned-now-ws-dekl-9328347.html
In Austria, lawsuit over the ban of CBD flowers
https://cannabisindustrie.nl/verkoopverbod-op-cbd-wiet-in-oostenrijk-juridisch-betwist-ministerie-houdt-vast-aan-verbod/
In France, a government health agency for food concluded CBD posed a threat to human reproduction (which is not completely off base) but industry leaders say they will fight any attempts to curtail the CBD industry
https://businessofcannabis.com/french-cbd-industry-under-attack-from-food-regulators/
In the Cayman Islands, voters approve a non-binding cannabis decriminalization referendum
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/cayman-islands-voters-approve-marijuana-decriminalization-referendum/
In Malta, new cannabis regulations include the technical definition of cannabis & rules on minimum distances to schools, sports facilities & youth centers
https://cannabislaw.report/malta-moves-to-tighten-recreational-cannabis-laws-with-new-amendments/
Israeli officials still conflicted about applying tariffs on Canadian cannabis
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/407404
https://stratcann.com/news/internal-conflict-as-israeli-minister-of-economy-continues-to-push-forward-with-tariffs-on-canadian-cannabis/
In Mexico, Taiwan & Hungary, demonstrations for cannabis liberalization
https://internationalcbc.com/advocates-rally-in-mexico-city-to-demand-cannabis-reform/
https://cannabislaw.report/taiwan-cannabis-decriminalization-campaigners-rally-for-end-to-war-on-weed/
https://cannabislaw.report/hungary-demonstration-in-favour-of-cannabis-legalisation-takes-place-in-budapest/
In Brazil, a history of “marijuanaism” (positive depictions & studies of cannabis) & the emergence of a more unified movement demanding change
From Many “Maconhismos” to a Single Antiprohibitionism in Brazil
https://www.scielo.br/j/sausoc/a/STJQPnjjRDJBqS6TBnw7S3L/abstract/?lang=en
In Indonesia, a drug policy essay on shifting towards a human rights-based cannabis policy
From Rejection to Recognition: Human Rights, Morality, and the Future of Marijuana Policy in Indonesia
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0955395925001161
⚖️ Business, Laws & Education
Bengal Capital’s insightful & bearish take on the MSOs
https://bengalcapital.substack.com/p/bengal-capital-q1-2025-letter
‘Is America Missing Out On The Global Cannabis Boom?’
https://www.forbes.com/sites/javierhasse/2025/04/22/is-america-missing-out-on-the-global-cannabis-boom/
In Germany, a survey of consumer preferences when buying cannabis
Consumer Preferences for Cannabis Products With THC Content in Germany — The Case of Flowers
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2772502225002203
“Results revealed three distinct consumer segments: (1) Otto Normal Consumers (63.7 %), representing the average buyer with moderate preferences for calming and stimulating products; (2) Light and Soothing (21.9 %), favoring low-THC, calming products; and (3) Cheap and Hard (14.4 %), characterized by a preference for high-THC, stimulating products at lower prices. The most valued product attributes were the type and strength of effect, followed by packaging and labeling. Consumers emphasized the need for clear product information and safety warnings.”
In an experimental cannabis marketplace, taxes based on potency were more effective at reducing demand compared to price-based taxes
Estimating and Comparing the Effects of Price‑ and Potency‑Based Taxes on Cannabis Purchase Patterns in an Experimental Cannabis Marketplace
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/add.70086
A legal analysis suggesting a unified federal framework for cannabis & hemp derivatives
If You Can’t Beat Hemp, Join Hemp: A Policy Argument for a Federal Regulatory Framework
https://repository.law.miami.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1464&context=umblr
On cannabis advertising, a legal analysis comparing it to the tobacco & alcohol industries
Marijuana Advertising: Comparing Tobacco and Alcohol Industries
https://ir.lawnet.fordham.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1006&context=uljo
An essay on vocational rehabilitation complicated by the conflicting cannabis legal landscape
Sorting Through the Weeds: Legislation, Workplace Policy and Medical Marijuana in Vocational Rehabilitation
https://rcej.scholasticahq.com/article/134085-sorting-through-the-weeds-the-intersection-of-legislation-workplace-policy-and-medical-marijuana-and-its-impact-on-vocational-rehabilitation
🚓 The War on Drugs
On the challenges of the international control of nitazenes (the new class of potent synthetic opioids)
The Future of Deadly Synthetic Opioids: Nitazenes and Their International Control
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/1758-5899.70000
US & the DEA
Trump asked Mexico to allow the US military in to fight cartels but President Scheinbaum rejected the idea
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/05/04/us/politics/trump-mexico-sheinbaum-cartels.html
https://apnews.com/article/mexico-trump-sheinbaum-us-migration-5223b4afa52a7da1011cff86aaa41e86
US transfers 13 Mexican drug offenders back to Mexico
https://cannabislaw.report/u-s-transfers-13-mexican-drug-offenders-back-to-mexico-saving-3-million-in-prison-costs/
In the US, DOGE cancels a contract with UMiss for monitoring the potency of seized cannabis
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/trump-administrations-doge-cancels-universitys-contract-to-monitor-marijuana-potency/
A US Court of Appeals ruled that the smell & sight of cannabis gave police officers reasonable suspicion to extend a traffic stop & therefore find an illegal firearm
https://masslawyersweekly.com/2025/04/29/marijuana-odor-traffic-stop-1st-circuit-firearm-ruling/
And the Iowa Supreme Court upheld the right of police to search vehicles based on the smell of cannabis
https://www.iowacourts.gov/iowa-courts/supreme-court/supreme-court-opinions/case/24-0462
The Round Valley Indian Tribes are suing Mendocino County & its sheriff over illegal raids on cannabis farms
https://www.sfgate.com/cannabis/article/mendocino-county-cannabis-raids-lawsuit-20306919.php
In a Colorado nightclub raid, the DEA detained more than 100 undocumented immigrants
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/27/us/politics/immigrants-colorado-raid-dea.html
A DEA Task Force officer sentenced to 9 years for widespread drug corruption
https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdfl/pr/former-florida-highway-patrol-trooper-and-dea-task-force-officer-sentenced-nine-years
“These acts included the theft of money and illegal drugs that were seized as evidence during criminal investigations; providing illegal drugs (including fentanyl and cocaine) to others to distribute on their behalf; and providing ammunition to an individual that Earrey knew to be a convicted murderer in exchange for opiates. Earrey and his co-conspirator stole more than 1,000 pounds of marijuana from evidence and provided the drugs to others to sell on their behalf. They covered up the theft by submitting falsified paperwork showing that the marijuana had been destroyed. Similarly, they stole a kilogram of cocaine from evidence and then gave it to a drug dealer to sell for them.”
International
In the last 3 months, Iran has executed 100+ for drug offenses
https://cannabislaw.report/irans-mass-executions-of-drug-offenders-are-a-human-rights-emergency/
And in Malaysia, 38% of all death penalty cases are related to drugs
https://www.asianews.it/news-en/Despite-Malaysia%26rsquo%3Bs-reforms%2C-38-per-cent-of-all-death-penalty-cases-are-drug-related-62873.html
And in Vietnam, 9 sentenced to death for smuggling 91 kilograms of drugs from Cambodia
https://e.vnexpress.net/news/news/crime/9-sentenced-to-death-in-vietnam-for-smuggling-91-kg-of-drugs-from-cambodia-4879147.html
And 2 Laotian men were sentenced to death for smuggling 33 kilograms of drugs
https://e.vnexpress.net/news/news/crime/2-laotian-men-get-death-for-smuggling-33-kg-of-drugs-into-vietnam-4873897.html
A summary of Syria’s trade in captagon (the amphetamine prodrug on the rise across the Middle East)
https://tripsitter.substack.com/p/captagon
Tracing the route of 1g of ketamine from production to the London streets & the challenges of enforcement
https://www.thetimes.com/uk/crime/article/ketamine-drug-gram-journey-bczvt3mtr
On the double standard of the EU punishing transit countries like Senegal for drug trafficking while overlooking the role played by drug-consuming nations like France & Spain
Double Standards in the Drug Trade: How European Nations Escape Sanctions While Senegal May Bear the Burden
https://digitalcommons.wcl.american.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2186&context=auilr
In the Bahamas, the Prime Minister said that the local police charged by the US for a massive cocaine smuggling operation were entrapped
https://cannabislaw.report/bahamas-prime-minister-defends-remarks-on-us-cocaine-smuggling-indictment/
In Brazil, a literature review of armed violence & the illicit drug trade
Violência Armada e Comércio de Drogas Ilícitas: Uma Revisão Integrativa de Literatura Sobre o Brasil
https://www.scielosp.org/article/csc/2025.v30n4/e15142023/en/
Interviews with Philippine DEA agents
The Fight Against Drug Menace: Experiences of Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Agents
https://al-kindipublisher.com/index.php/ijlps/article/view/9141
In Mexico, on challenging the cartel’s Santa Muerte propaganda (a saint of death who became a “powerful narco-propaganda symbol”)
https://smallwarsjournal.com/2025/04/21/employing-information-operations-to-challenge-cartel-narcocultura-derived-santa-muerte-propaganda/
Argentina begins constructing a prison “hell” for drug traffickers & murderers
https://insightcrime.org/news/hell-rosario-argentina-first-supermax-prison-narco-surge/
On how the war in Ukraine is altering its illicit drug market
Conflict and illicit drug markets in Ukraine
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/14773708241312809
In Nigeria, on the efficacy of the Marwa Model of drug enforcement
EVALUATING PROACTIVE STRATEGIES AGAINST DRUG TRAFFICKING AND MONEY LAUNDERING IN NIGERIA: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF THE BUBA MARWA MODEL AND ITS IMPLICATIONS FOR NATIONAL SECURITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
https://abjournals.org/jarms/wp-content/uploads/sites/21/journal/published_paper/volume-5/issue-2/JARMS_YHHVUBRI.pdf
And on the courier system services smuggling drugs
Dispatch Riders and Illicit Drug Trade in Nigeria
https://ir.nilds.gov.ng/bitstream/handle/123456789/1683/Dispatch%20Riders%20and%20Illicit%20Drug%20Trade%20in%20Nigeria.pdf?sequence=1
In Turkey, 200+ people arrested for a Europe-coordinated drug bust
https://cannabislaw.report/turkey-detains-234-people-in-europe-coordinated-drug-bust/
And a drug courier carrying £5m of cocaine from Mexico to Edinburgh arrested at the airport
https://cannabislaw.report/man-jailed-over-bid-to-import-5m-of-cocaine-from-mexico-to-scotland/
#CANNABIS
In Morocco, 4 tons of hashish seized at a rural farm
https://cannabislaw.report/morocco-agadir-police-seize-over-4-tonnes-of-hashish-at-farm-near-oulad-teima/
And in Jordan, 650 kg of hashish seized inside a shipment of building stones
https://cannabislaw.report/jordan-customs-foil-attempt-to-smuggle-650-kilograms-of-hashish-at-king-hussein-bridge/
And in Morocco, a Dutch national was arrested with 45 kilos of hash hidden inside their luxury SUV
https://cannabislaw.report/morocco-dutch-national-arrested-at-bab-sebta-with-45-kilos-of-hash-hidden-in-luxury-suv/
And in Spain, police shut down a cannabis club operating as a trafficking point
https://cannabislaw.report/spanish-police-bust-costa-del-sol-cannabis-club-that-they-allege-operated-as-drug-dealing-point/
And in Australia, a downed power line led to the discovery of 90 plants worth a quarter million
https://cannabislaw.report/australia-lectricity-bypass-leads-to-250k-cannabis-bust-in-melbourne-home/
And three Sri Lankans arrested for trying to smuggle hashish inside biscuit & chip bags
https://cannabislaw.report/three-sri-lankan-passengers-were-arrested-while-attempting-to-smuggle-a-stock-of-kush-and-hashish-into-the-country-concealed-in-biscuit-and-chips-bags/
On using AI to detect cannabis plantations in Indonesia
Enhancing War on Drug Effort by Leveraging Remote Sensing Data and Machine Learning
https://dqkx-periodicals.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Dedi-Irawadi3125.pdf
🛡️ Harm Reduction News
The UN Human Rights Commissioner called for drug decriminalization
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/un-human-rights-commissioner-calls-for-drug-decriminalization-saying-prohibition-is-failing-communities-across-the-world/
At the US Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, the staff responsible for the National Survey on Drug Use & Health were fired
https://apnews.com/article/hhs-layoffs-addiction-survey-data-d863235ec762858ee309f4189c8e8c80
Along with the Monitoring the Future survey, this is one of the two most important long-running drug surveys about people’s drug usage.
A profile of the harm reduction pioneer Dr. Edwin Salsitz, a critic of the onerous methadone clinic system
https://filtermag.org/methadone-pioneer-office-based-prescribing/
Students for a Sensible Drug Policy launch an overdose prevention app
https://ssdp.org/blog/young-people-fight-back-against-hemp-recriminalization-in-texas-new-app-based-initiative-equipping-youth-with-lifesaving-opioid-overdose-recognition-response-and-prevention-tools-launches-on-interna/
In Canada, the elections grim for harm reduction
https://filtermag.org/canada-election-harm-reduction/
https://drugdatadecoded.ca/eat-an-apple-about-it-loser-canada-is-broken-star-pierre-poilievre-loses-long-held-seat/
And in Quebec, addiction workers rebuke the stance of the conservative leader on supervised consumption sites
https://www.montrealgazette.com/news/canada/canadian-politics/article889852.html
And in Winnipeg, Canada's first acute-care hospital to have a harm reduction vending machine
https://www.canhealth.com/2025/04/23/hospital-unveils-vending-machine-for-harm-reduction/
And in Ottawa, a leading defender of harm reduction services slams the government's push to convert safe consumption sites to HART hubs
https://capitalcurrent.ca/set-up-for-failure-harm-reduction-advocate-slams-transition-to-hart-hubs/
“The next day, the centre started becoming a Homelessness and Addiction Recovery Treatment (HART) hub. The service offers showers, vital supplies, meals and health-promoting activities to help those in need. However, HART hubs no longer offer harm reduction tools such as supervised consumption, safer supply and needle exchange.”
In Bogota, South America's first supervised drug consumption room
https://apnews.com/article/colombia-supervised-heroin-consumption-room-a0a883619764ecfd475acc25bc8e0ca3
https://latinamericanpost.com/americas/colombia-pioneers-safe-heroin-injection-transforming-latin-american-reality/
In California, Newsom makes generic $24 Narcan available through a state-run storefront
https://www.yahoo.com/news/newsom-makes-generic-24-narcan-205451164.html
In Minnesota, state officials will delay opening safe drug consumption sites because of federal concerns
https://filtermag.org/minnesota-overdose-prevention-centers/
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/minnesota-officials-are-delaying-opening-safe-drug-consumption-sites-citing-federal-concerns/
https://www.startribune.com/minnesota-sites-serving-people-who-use-drugs-could-save-lives-funding-cut-could-block-plan/601335125
In Burlington, the city council approved plans for a safe injection site
https://www.wcax.com/2025/04/29/burlington-city-council-approves-plans-overdose-prevention-center/
In Massachusetts, some municipalities are spending their opioid mitigation money on police
https://talkingjointsmemo.com/the-mass-municipalities-spending-opioid-mitigation-money-on-police/
In North Carolina, a legal analysis of the state doubling down on criminalizing the opioid epidemic
Undeterred: On the North Carolina General Assembly’s Decision to Double Down on Criminalizing the Opioid Epidemic
https://scholarship.law.unc.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=7020&context=nclr
In Nigeria, a policy essay suggesting drug decriminalization, treatment programs & harm reduction services
Addressing the Menace of Substance/Drug Abuse Through Urgent Policy Approach
https://ir.nilds.gov.ng/handle/123456789/1681
Harm Reduction Research
In Switzerland, a randomized controlled trial found that legalized cannabis access may decrease use & cannabis-related harms
Effects of Legal Access Versus Illegal Market Cannabis on Use and Mental Health: A Randomized Controlled Trial
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40289676/
In British Columbia compassion clubs, interviews found they generated conditions conducive to cannabis harm reduction
Conceptualizing ‘Cannabis Harm Reduction’: Lessons From Cannabis Compassion Clubs and Medical Dispensaries
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12954-025-01199-8
A comparison of the French & Brazilian policies for harm reduction
Reducing Harm and Risk: Public Policies for Drug Users in Brazil and France
https://www.scielo.br/j/sant/a/WrV8FkD8DFT96ncHRwMfrWM/?lang=en
A comparison of methadone & prescribed safer opioid supply found they were both associated with improvements in health outcomes, including reduced opioid toxicities & healthcare use
Comparing the effects of prescribed safer opioid supply and methadone in Ontario, Canada: a population-based matched cohort study
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpub/article/PIIS2468-2667(25)00070-2/fulltext
Surveys on Colorado's 2022 fentanyl felony law as punitive and ineffective at reducing overdose deaths
"You Can't Incarcerate Yourself Out of the Drug Problem in America": A Qualitative Examination of Colorado's 2022 Fentanyl Criminalization Law
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40263216/
In Nigeria, a pilot study on the community readiness for harm reduction approaches
Community Readiness for Harm Reduction Approaches to Drug Use: A Qualitative Pilot Study in Nigeria
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40264258/
For harm reduction policies, the evidence for the efficacy of humanizing narratives
Evidence for the Efficacy of Humanizing Narratives to Promote Support for Harm-Reduction Policies in the United States
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40259393/
In drug-related harm, the rising problems from transphobia
Rising Transphobia and Disparities in Drug-Related Harm Experienced by Transgender and Gender-Diverse People
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40251591/
On lessons for implementing a mobile opioid use disorder clinic
Implementing a Mobile Clinic for Opioid Use Disorder Treatment in an Urban and Rural Context
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40243041/
In recovery homes for opiate use disorders, on how supportive social ties facilitate safer use practices & lowered relapse risk
Social Networks Illustrate Harm Reduction Mechanisms in Recovery Homes
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40243131/
On the importance of more widespread drug checking services, particularly for the most vulnerable people who use drugs
"Everyone Says ‘Safe Sex’ but No One Ever Says ‘Safe Drugs’, You Know?": Perspectives on the Intersection of Drug Checking Services, Drug Policy and the Overdose Crisis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40245047/
Interviews on the importance of supervised smoking facilities for harm reduction
Facilitating access to supervised smoking facilities: A qualitative study
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/1758-5899.70000
In permanent supportive housing, surveys on the importance of more knowledge & training for overdose prevention
Staff Views on Overdose Prevention in Permanent Supportive Housing
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40251575/
Interviews on the benefits of long-acting injectable buprenorphine for recovery
Long Acting Injectable Buprenorphine: Perspectives From Service-Users, Staff and Stakeholders
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40247911/
In Australia, a modelling study of a prison needle & syringe program & its potential benefits
The costs and benefits of a prison needle and syringe program in Australia, 2025–30: a modelling study
https://www.mja.com.au/journal/2025/222/8/costs-and-benefits-prison-needle-and-syringe-program-australia-2025-30-modelling
The potential benefits of a needle and syringe program in Australian prisons
https://www.mja.com.au/journal/2025/222/8/potential-benefits-needle-and-syringe-program-australian-prisons
In prison, on distributing aluminum foil as a harm reduction strategy
Distributing Aluminium Foil as Harm Reduction Strategy Among People Who Use Drugs in Prison
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40260931/
🍄 Psychedelics, Plant Medicines & Other Psychoactives
An open letter to Dr. Stan Grof pushing back on his recent underwhelming apology for homophobia & conversion therapy in his writings
https://open-foundation.org/an-open-letter-reply-to-dr-stan-grof/
On the use of psychedelics for strengthening relationships & sex
https://www.salon.com/2025/04/27/psychedelics-and-sex-research-is-starting-to-explore-how-these-substances-impact-relationships/
On cluster headaches & psychedelics, an excellent in-depth article
https://www.theguardian.com/science/ng-interactive/2025/apr/23/cluster-headaches-magic-mushrooms-psilocybin
On how the narrative of the millennia-old use of psychedelics by shamans may be a myth
https://www.theguardian.com/science/2025/may/01/the-ancient-psychedelics-myth-people-tell-tourists-the-stories-they-think-are-interesting-for-them
Excellent summary & interviews of the early LSD chemists
https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-features/lsd-acid-owsley-stanley-research-trials-1235319250/
The Incas of the Middle Ages used a hallucinogenic beer for building political power & relationships
Hallucinogens, alcohol and shifting leadership strategies in the ancient Peruvian Andes
https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/antiquity/article/abs/hallucinogens-alcohol-and-shifting-leadership-strategies-in-the-ancient-peruvian-andes/15030A62A428B74805BADF7DB4137298
https://newatlas.com/science/psychedelic-beer-history-wari-america-drugs/
In the Netherlands during the Roman period, the use of the narcotic black henbane seeds
Evidence of the intentional use of black henbane (Hyoscyamus niger) in the Roman Netherlands
https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/antiquity/article/evidence-of-the-intentional-use-of-black-henbane-hyoscyamus-niger-in-the-roman-netherlands/A06E000B17E1642C878E469157D5131C
The Psychoactive Research
For psychedelics, a systematic review of therapeutic effects
Insights on Psychedelics: A Systematic Review of Therapeutic Effects
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0149763425001174
For racial minorities, they had significantly diminished mental health benefits from psychedelics
Minorities’ Diminished Psychedelic Returns: Depression, Suicide, Distress, and Serious Mental Illness
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/20503245251337357
In a cohort of older adults, psychedelic group sessions enhanced their well-being
Effects of Psychedelics in Older Adults: A Prospective Cohort Study
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1064748124003361
For gender & relationship dynamics, a survey on the perceived impacts of psychedelics
Perceived Impact of Psychedelics on Sexual, Gender, and Intimate Relationship Dynamics: A Mixed-Methods Investigation
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/00224499.2025.2479197
“Approximately 10% of participants reported that psychedelic experiences influenced their gender identity and/or expression, reporting increased authenticity, self-acceptance, openness, and freedom in self-expression, as well as altered experiences of sexuality and gender. One-quarter of women and one-eighth of men reported heightened same-sex attraction following psychedelic use, and one-third of those with other gender identities reported changes in sexual attraction. Higher proportions of participants reported dating multiple people, being polyamorous or in an open relationship, or being committed to only one person after their psychedelic experiences compared to before.”
Six weeks of microdosing LSD improved people's sleep
LSD increases sleep duration the night after microdosing
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38622150/
In people with treatment-resistant depression, vaporized DMT caused rapid & sustained antidepressant effects
Rapid and Sustained Antidepressant Effects of Vaporized N,N-Dimethyltryptamine
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41386-025-02091-6
For the mood dysfunctions of Parkinson's disease, psilocybin improved cognition & depression without worsening physical symptoms
Psilocybin Therapy for Mood Dysfunction in Parkinson’s Disease: An Open-Label Pilot Trial
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41386-025-02097-0
For ketamine use disorder, a survey of people's problems & treatments (hattip to Jules Evans)
The landscape of ketamine use disorder: Patient experiences and perspectives on current treatment options
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/add.70073
In people with severe treatment-resistant depression, six weeks of oral esketamine was effective in improving symptoms
Oral Esketamine for Patients With Severe Treatment-Resistant Depression: Effectiveness, Safety, and Tolerability
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/02698811251332831
In people with lung cancer & depression trying to quit smoking, esketamine improved their smoking quit rate as well as their depression & anxiety
Efficacy and Safety of Esketamine for Smoking Cessation Among Patients With Lung Cancer and Major Depression
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0165032725006494
For people using ketamine for depression or PTSD, adding psychotherapy did not have any additional benefits
Combined Ketamine and Psychotherapy Provide No Additional Benefit Beyond Ketamine Alone in Treating Depression or PTSD
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0165032725006020
For fear, on how psychedelics regulate the neuroimmune interactions
Psychedelic Control of Neuroimmune Interactions Governing Fear
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-08880-9
A new LSD analog with lower hallucinogenic effects: (+)-JRT
Molecular design of a therapeutic LSD analogue with reduced hallucinogenic potential
https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2416106122
The Cannabis Plant & its Products
🌱 Growing & Extracting
For hemp seed germination, 10 days of high humidity caused a rapid decline in germination rates
Rapid Decline in Hemp Germination Under High Humidity
https://www.authorea.com/doi/full/10.22541/au.174587091.15346564
Under water-deficit stress, a review of the effects on metabolite production & the potential of withholding water to increase cannabinoid yield
The Effects of Water‑Deficit Stress on Cannabis sativa Production of Secondary Metabolites: A Review
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/391062420_The_Effects_of_Water-Deficit_Stress_on_Cannabis_sativa_Production_of_Secondary_Metabolites_A_Review
In China, field trials of the optimal sowing density & nitrogen levels for CBD yield
Agronomic Evaluation of Hemp for Cannabidiol Production in Yunnan China
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/agronomy/articles/10.3389/fagro.2025.1539426/abstract
On treating the fungus Fusarium oxysporum with species of the bacteria Bacillus (plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria)
Evaluation of Bacillus spp. for Biological Control of Fusarium oxysporum on Cannabis sativa
https://summit.sfu.ca/_flysystem/fedora/2025-04/etd23714.pdf
In Colombia, the first cannabis report of the tobacco necrosis virus A
Discovery of Tobacco Necrosis Virus A in a Diseased Colombian Cannabis sativa Plant
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1567134825000413
On using gamma rays to induce mutations in cannabis cultivars at different growth stages
Optimal Gamma‑Ray Doses for Inducing Mutation in Cannabis sativa Cultivars
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/09553002.2025.2494609
Analysis of three Texas cultivars & their gas exchange, their morphology as well as the effects of environment on yield
Foliar Gas Exchange, Morphology, and Cannabinoid Contents of Three Hemp Varieties in Southwest Texas
https://acsess.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1002/agg2.70101
On optimizing ethanol extraction for antimicrobial & antioxidant properties
Optimization of the Extraction Process and Comprehensive Evaluation of the Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Properties of Different Polar Parts of the Ethanol Extracts of Cannabis sativa
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/full/10.1021/acsomega.4c10986
⚙️ Formulating & Analyzing
From NIST, 3 new tests for assessing your moisture measurement methods
Cannabis Laboratory Quality Assurance Program: Exercise 3 Moisture Final Report
https://www.nist.gov/publications/cannabis-laboratory-quality-assurance-program-exercise-3-moisture-final-report
On formulations to improve inhalable CBD powders
Solubilising and Aerosolising Cannabidiol Using Methyl β‑Cyclodextrin and Human Serum Albumin
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1208/s12249-025-03121-8
On detecting CBD levels in raw plant extracts using a portable chemometrics-assisted sensor
Chemometrics‑Assisted Electrochemical Device for Cannabidiol Detection in Real Cannabis sativa Samples
https://chemistry-europe.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdfdirect/10.1002/cmtd.202500029
🍞 Food & Nutrition & Hemp Seeds
In female sheep, cannabis seed powder caused them to experience less stress, aggression & anorexia as well as increased calmness, comfort, sleepiness & positive social interaction
Behavioral Responses of Awassi Ewes to Dietary Cannabis Seed Powder Supplementation
https://www.sjii.es/index.php/journal/article/view/446
An analysis of hemp seed cell walls across ten different cultivars
Hempseed Cell Wall Polysaccharides Are Dominated by Linear Xylans and Cellulose
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0144861725004175
🏗️ Industrial Uses & Fiber
For hemp seed oil, an analysis of its applications in a circular bioeconomy
Harnessing Hemp Seed Oil for a Circular Bioeconomy: A Data‑Driven Exploration
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2589014X25001082
On using the byproducts from hemp essential oil production
Waste From Hemp Essential Oil Production: How Distillation Methods Shape the By‑Products Value
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0926669025006405
On using hemp fiber to strengthen fake teeth
Evaluation of the Effects of Hemp Fiber Addition on Fracture Strength, Acrylic Tooth Bonding and Water Absorption of Polymethyl Methacrylate
https://dergipark.org.tr/en/pub/selcukdentj/issue/91364/1483484
On using hemp biowaste to absorb the dyes Congo Red & Remazol Brilliant Blue
Unmodified Hemp Biowaste as a Sustainable Biosorbent for Congo Red and Remazol Brilliant Blue R
https://www.mdpi.com/2079-6412/15/5/519
On improving hemp retting with a combination of four aerobic bacteria
Application of an Optimized Pectinolytic Bacterial Consortium to Boost Hemp Water Retting
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0926669025006053
On creating a geotextile of hemp fiber with bitumen
Effect of Bitumen Content on the Mechanical Properties of Composite Geotextile Produced with Hemp and Bitumen
https://ascelibrary.org/doi/abs/10.1061/JMCEE7.MTENG-19995
On creating hemp shives with environmentally friendly poly(butylene succinate)
Effect of Bitumen Content on the Mechanical Properties of Composite Geotextile Produced With Hemp and Bitumen
https://ascelibrary.org/doi/abs/10.1061/JMCEE7.MTENG-19995
THE CANNA-SCIENCE ARCHIVE
A Ukrainian review on the therapeutic prospects of the cannabinoids
Medical Use of Cannabinoids: Prospects and Challenges
https://dspace.nuph.edu.ua/handle/123456789/34983
On the history & uses of medical cannabis
Recreational Drugs Repurposed for Medicinal Use: Cannabis
https://www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/A68EA346CB91C63E7B9C642BB260A1B5/S109285292500032Xa.pdf
🏥 Public Health & Effects of Legalization
In a Belgian health survey, cannabis use was not associated with altered levels of physical activity
Cannabis Use Is Not Associated With Altered Levels of Physical Activity
https://jcannabisresearch.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s42238-025-00278-8
In public health data from 7 US states, areas with veterans tended to have more medical cannabis patients & other demographic factors
Characteristics of Medical Cannabis Patients and Clinicians in Seven US States
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2833193
In a survey of Canadians over 50, the adverse effects reported from cannabis included dry mouth, feeling high, balance & lowered mental alertness with females having higher chances of reporting adverse effects
Prevalence of Self‑Reported Adverse Effects to Cannabis by Older Canadians
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40266-025-01206-4
And in Canada 5 years after legalization, there was a moderate increase in cannabis use with a modest decrease in cannabis misuse
Cannabis Use and Misuse Following Recreational Cannabis Legalization
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2833180
And in Canada, a 5-year cohort study found that adults became more tolerant of recreational cannabis use but less accepting of medical cannabis use, as well as a greater perception of harms & a lower perception of health-related benefits post‑legalization
Changes in Cannabis Attitudes and Perceptions in the Five Years Following Recreational Legalization in Canada
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0955395925000817
In Finland, a survey of the motives for medical & non-medical cannabis use
Predictors of Medical and Non‑Medical Motives of Cannabis Use in Finland
https://www.cell.com/iscience/pdf/S2589-0042(25)00764-3.pdf
In a Malaysian survey, more medical cannabis acceptance was linked to being male, higher levels of education, self- employment & lower perceived risk of cannabis
Understanding the Acceptance of Medical Marijuana: A Cross‑Sectional Study in Malaysia
https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-5756813/v1
In a Polish province, a survey of primary care physicians’ knowledge of cannabinoids
Assessment of Airborne Pesticide Exposure Around Illicit Cannabis Cultivation Sites
https://www.aaem.pl/pdf-204099-124744
In public health data of adverse childhood experiences, race & cannabis use outcomes, more adverse childhood experiences & an earlier age of cannabis onset predicted cannabis use disorder with differing effects in different racial groups
Relations Between Adverse Childhood Experiences, Racial and Ethnic Identity, and Cannabis Use Outcomes
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0306460325001224
In a national survey of cannabis use, they identified different monthly-use patterns with daily users having the highest prevalence of cannabis use disorder
Patterns of Past‑Month Cannabis Consumption and Cannabis Use Disorder – Insights From a Nationally Representative Survey
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0376871625001334
A survey found that the closer you live to a cannabis dispensary, the more favorable your attitude towards medical cannabis
Relationship Between Cannabis Dispensary Density, Proximity, and Attitudes Toward Medical Cannabis: A Cross‑Sectional Study
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1002/hsr2.70685
In Oklahoma, counties with high levels of cannabis growers saw housing values increase by 20% after legalization
Perceived Versus Measured Impacts of Medical Marijuana on Rural Oklahoma Home Values
https://www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/837DF64B8E2BD03C4E3D07AE21436D02/S1074070825000136a.pdf
🚗 Driving
For driving & medical cannabis, participants had significant reductions in TMT-B (a test of visual scanning & working memory) but no change to information processing speed, inhibitory control performance or divided & sustained attention
Elucidating the Acute Effects of Medically Prescribed Oral and Vaporised Delta‑9‑Tetrahydrocannabinol on Cognitive Functions Important for Driving
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40299776/
A poster on the cannabis dose-response effect on driving
To Drive or Not to Drive: The Dose-Response Effect of Driving Latency on Cannabis Use
https://kuscholarworks.ku.edu/items/07b4cc8d-f14d-4ad6-af93-6678d847e3a9
🧒 Adolescents & Young Adults
In college students, higher levels of stress were associated with more cannabis use & students with low use of cannabis had the highest time studying but less time socializing
Levels of Cannabis Use and Their Association With Stress, Academic Performance, and Daily Activities Among College Students
https://digitalcommons.sacredheart.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2479&context=acadfest
In college freshmen, escalating alcohol & cannabis use is predicted by higher scores on the Transmissible Liability Index (a measure of latent risk for developing substance use disorders)
Behavioral Personality and Temperamental Characteristics Predict Escalating Alcohol and Cannabis Use and Problems During the First Year of College
https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-6157562/v1
Among Black Queer students, the protective factors from cannabis use & suicide included academic performance & hours of sleep while sports team participation & being female were both associated with higher odds of lifetime cannabis use
Protective Factors for Marijuana Use and Suicidal Behavior Among Black LGBQ U.S. High School Students
https://www.mdpi.com/2076-0760/14/5/267
In Queer kids with pets, their level of pet attachment may be linked to their levels of cannabis use
Identity‑Related Stressors and Human‑Animal Bonds: Associations With Nicotine and Cannabis Use Among LGBTQ+ Emerging Adults
https://www.cabidigitallibrary.org/doi/pdf/10.1079/hai.2025.0016
A Spanish survey on the youth use of CBD & other psychoactives found higher levels of substance use disorders among the users of CBD + THC
A Cross‑Sectional Study on Youth and Over‑the‑Counter CBD Products: Understanding the Current Landscape in Spain
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11469-025-01494-2
In Massachusetts, a survey of parent & teen knowledge of cannabis laws
Understanding the Knowledge Gap in Parents’ and Teens’ Perceptions of Cannabis Laws
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/23311886.2025.2487870
On the co-use of cannabis & cigarillos, a focus group with youth on the effects of flavors
Cigarillo Flavor in Context: Qualitative Analysis of the Social‑Ecological Factors Influencing Cigarillo and Cannabis Co‑Use Among Young Adults
https://newprairiepress.org/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1293&context=hbr
In adolescent psychosis, this thesis project suggested poor sleep as a mediator between frequent cannabis use & neurodevelopmental alterations
Sleep as a Mediator Between Cannabis Use and the Neurodevelopmental Processes Related to Psychosis
https://umontreal.scholaris.ca/items/3d059e56-5eab-4954-b354-03a817052c86
A poster on the links between adolescent cannabis use, psychosis onset & poorer functional prognosis
Clearing the Haze: Cannabis, Psychosis, and Adolescent Prognosis
https://digitalcommons.library.uab.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1411&context=uabh-rd-all
🧠 The Brain & Neurological Disorders
In a mouse model of long-term potentiation (learning), the inhibition of long-term potentiation in the hippocampus (a memory center of the brain) was mediated by CB1 receptor activation requiring calcium signaling in the astrocytes (the most predominant brain support cell)
Astrocyte Calcium Signaling Modulates Cannabinoid Type 1 Receptor–Adenosine A1 Receptor Crosstalk in Mice Hippocampal Long-Term Potentiation
https://d197for5662m48.cloudfront.net/documents/publicationstatus/254198/preprint_pdf/dde76da7df168bcbfa41c13487f414c8.pdf
In female adolescent rats, both THC exposure & blocking the CB1 receptor disrupted myelination in the prefrontal cortex
Perturbations of CB1 receptor signalling during adolescence impair cortical myelination in female rats
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1043661825001835
In an adolescent rat model of traumatic brain injury, blocking the CB1 & TRPV1 receptors lowered deficits
CB1/TRPV1 Antagonism Ameliorates Lateral Perforant Pathway STP/LTP Deficits in a rmTBI Young Adolescent Rat Model
https://dspace.library.uvic.ca/server/api/core/bitstreams/a7071582-32b0-4f12-965d-51ba4fe26d56/content
In a mouse model of neuroinflammation, FABP7 (a protein that transports endocannabinoids) helped to modulate the levels of neuroinflammation in the central nervous system
FABP7 Expression Modulates the Response of Astrocytes to Induced Endotoxemia
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1002/glia.70023
In mice exposed to amphetamines, the gendered differences in their reactions via the CB1 receptors of their astrocytes (the most predominant brain support cell)
Astroglial CB1 Reveal Sex‑Specific Synaptic Effects of Amphetamine
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40289768/
For neurodegeneration, identification of sesquiterpene lactones that bind to the CB2 receptor
Computational Approach for the Evaluation of Sesquiterpene Lactone as a Modulator of CB2
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11030-025-11191-w
💭 Mental Health, Addiction & Cannabis Use Disorder
For personality disorders, a genome-wide association study of lifetime cannabis use found suggestive evidence of a causal link
Psychological, Social Factors, and Smoking Behavior Mediated the Effects of Cannabis Use on Personality Disorders
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychiatry/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2025.1411587/abstract
In people with PTSD, the cannabis users had greater pattern recognition in a mnemonic similarity task
Impaired Mnemonic Pattern Separation Associated With PTSD Symptoms Paradoxically Improves With Regular Cannabis Use
https://www.nature.com/articles/s44184-025-00126-w
In people with severe cannabis use disorder, two weeks of an online self-guided intervention reduced their cannabis use, with those reductions largely maintained at the 3-month follow-up
Back on Track: Efficacy of a Two‑Week Online Self‑Guided Intervention for Cannabis Use Reduction
https://sciety.org/articles/activity/10.31234/osf.io/5uwk4_v1
When using motivational interviewing to lower cannabis use, an AI version is as helpful as a human version
Impact of Computer‑Mediated Versus Face‑to‑Face Motivational Interviews on Participants’ Language and Subsequent Cannabis Use
https://www.jmir.org/2025/1/e59085/
For cannabis users, a new questionnaire to analyze motivation for cannabis harm reduction behaviors
A Self‑Determination Theory Perspective of Motivations for Cannabis‑Related Harm‑Reduction Behaviours
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/08870446.2025.2489945
In a rat model of memory, this thesis project found cannabis impaired object recognition & spatial working memory in a dose-dependent fashion
Examining the Impact of Acute Cannabis Exposure on Short‑Term Memory Using Novel and Established Rodent Models
https://harvest.usask.ca/items/e42d10d1-22d8-4e4b-a551-c2912b5f4a68
In a mouse model of alcohol use disorder & stress from predator odors, they had alterations to their CB1 & dopamine receptors
Impacts of Chronic Intermittent Ethanol Vapor and Predator Odor on Ethanol Intake and Striatal D1 and CB1 Receptor‑Expressing Medium Spiny Neurons
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnins.2025.1568952/abstract
🧬 Reproduction & Hormones
In dairy cows, supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids altered the endocannabinoid tone of their uterus & egg-releasing follicles
Omega‑3 Fatty Acid Supplementation From Late Pregnancy to Early Lactation Attenuates the Endocannabinoid System and Immune Proteome in Pre‑ovulatory Follicles and Endometrium of Holstein Dairy Cows
https://weizmann.elsevierpure.com/en/publications/omega-3-fatty-acid-supplementation-from-late-pregnancy-to-early-l
In rodents with early life exposure to cannabinoids, they had long-lasting deficits in spatial navigation via the synaptic plasticity effects of GABA (the brain’s primary inhibitory neurotransmitter)
Cannabinoid Overrides Triggers of GABAergic Plasticity in Vestibular Circuits and Distorts the Development of Navigation
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2589004225008272
🦠 The Immune System & Microbial
In a mouse model of HIV, THC enhanced learning but worsened risk-based decision-making
Beneficial and Adverse Effects of THC on Cognition in the HIV‑1 Transgenic Rat Model
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0889159125001679
🦴 Pain, Musculoskeletal, Inflammation & Surgeries
In veterans with chronic pain, registry data on their ingestion methods
Cannabis Use Patterns Among Veterans With Chronic Pain
https://www.jpain.org/article/S1526-5900(25)00545-0/abstract
In a survey of people in rural Appalachia with chronic pain, the majority perceived cannabis as safer & more affordable than opioids
Exploring Cannabis as a Treatment for Chronic Pain in a Rural Appalachian Population
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/ajad.70033
For chronic pain, a focus group on the questions of patients
Patient‑Centered Approach to Evaluating the Role of Medical Cannabis in the Treatment of Chronic Pain
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1744388125000611
In breast reconstruction surgery, cannabis users had an increased risk of bruising, hospitalizations, mortality & new opioid use but a lower rate of flap failure
The Impact of Cannabis Use on Autologous Reconstruction Outcomes
https://journals.lww.com/prsgo/fulltext/2025/05001/sp56__the_impact_of_cannabis_use_on_autologous.255.aspx
After gender-affirming mastectomies, cannabis users had no difference in rates of post-op complications, need for revision surgery or length of hospital stay
Gender Affirming Mastectomy Outcomes in Patients With Recent Marijuana Use
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/390988601_Gender_Affirming_Mastectomy_Outcomes_in_Patients_with_Recent_Marijuana_Use
In adolescents with pain, the females had lower levels of the endocannabinoid 2-AG while the males with higher anandamide levels had more nighttime awakenings
Sex Differences in Endocannabinoid Levels and Associations With Pain Risk Factors in Adolescents
https://www.jpain.org/article/S1526-5900(25)00494-8/abstract
For anesthesia, a thesis poster on the effects of chronic cannabis use from literature reviews & interviews
Chronic Cannabis Use and the Effects on General Anesthesia
https://openriver.winona.edu/rca/2025/schedule/115/
On pain & depressive symptoms, a thesis project using AI found that while cannabis use was associated with lower pain, the relationship was not moderated by depressive symptoms
Effects of Cannabis Use on Physical Pain and the Moderating Role of Depressive Symptoms
https://etd.ohiolink.edu/acprod/odb_etd/etd/r/1501/10?clear=10&p10_accession_num=kent1745244959928072
In a mouse model of neuropathic pain, this poster found that the combination of CBD & beta-caryophyllene caused synergistic pain-killing effects
Neuropathic Pain: Chronic Administration of Cannabidiol and β‑Caryophyllene
https://scholarworks.utrgv.edu/somrs/2025/posters/186/
In mice, CBD caused significant pain-killing effects in males only, while the terpene beta-caryophyllene reduced body temperature in both sexes, alpha-terpineol caused hypothermia & gamma-terpinene reduced body temperature in males
472 - Sex-Dependent Effects of Cannabidiol, Beta-Caryophyllene, and Other Cannabis-Derived Terpenes on Nociception and Body Temperature in Mice
https://www.jpain.org/article/S1526-5900(25)00496-1/abstract
In neurons of the dorsal root ganglion (a brain center of pain), N-arachidonoylphosphatidylethanolamine (20:4-NAPE, a precursor to the endocannabinoid anandamide) caused both increased & decreased pain levels via the CB1 & TRPV1 receptors
20:4‑NAPE‑Induced Changes of Mechanical Sensitivity and DRG Neurons Excitability Are Concentration Dependent and Mediated via NAPE‑PLD
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-98567-y
In a tissue model of migraines, inhibition of the MAGL enzyme (which breaks down 2-AG), the FAAH enzyme (which breaks down anandamide) & ABHD6 (an endocannabinoid transporter) reduced cortical spreading depression (the wave of depolarization across the neurons & glial cells hypothesized to activate the pain nerves)
Inhibition of Endocannabinoid Hydrolases MAGL, FAAH and ABHD6 by AKU‑005 Reduces Ex Vivo Cortical Spreading Depression
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s10194-025-02030-2
On testing CBD analogs for painkilling in mice
Design Synthesis and Evaluation of Antinociceptive Properties of Novel CBD‑Based Terpene‑Cinnamoyl‑Acyl‑Hydrazone Analogues
https://sciety.org/articles/activity/10.20944/preprints202504.2053.v1
In mice with no CB1 receptors in their hypothalamus, something happens behind a paywall
Hypothalamic CB1 Knockout in Aging Male Mice Displayed Reduced Meniscal Bone Volume and Lesser Articular Cartilage Damage
https://www.oarsijournal.com/article/S1063-4584(25)00031-7/abstract
In a mouse model of arthritis, THC did something hidden behind a paywall
Delta‑9‑Tetrahydrocannabinol Modifies the Transcriptomes of Joint‑Innervating Dorsal Root Ganglia Cells and the Systemic Metabolome in Mouse Models of Osteoarthritis
https://www.oarsijournal.com/article/S1063-4584(25)00091-3/abstract
❤️ The Heart
In rats, a combination of binge alcohol & a synthetic cannabinoid worsened heart function & oxidative stress
Exacerbated Cardiac Dysfunction From Combined Alcohol Binge and Synthetic Cannabinoid Use
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0753332225002471
🍽️ The Guts, Nutrition & the Microbiome
For the effects of high fats on intestinal metabolism, a review of the role of the endocannabinoid system
Pharmacological Potential of Endocannabinoid and Endocannabinoid‑Like Compounds Under High‑Fat Conditions
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2025.1567543/abstract
For type 1 diabetes, reframing it from a systems biology perspective through the endocannabinoidome-microbiome axis
Reframing Type 1 Diabetes Through the Endocannabinoidome-Microbiota Axis: A Systems Biology Perspective
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/endocrinology/articles/10.3389/fendo.2025.1576419/abstract
For the CB1 receptor, on creating a novel antagonist restricted to the body for treating obesity & its benefits in a mouse model for reduced body weight, fat levels & liver health
Synthesis and Pharmacological Characterization of Novel Peripheral CB1 Receptor Blockers Based on a Tricyclic Scaffold
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/full/10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c03132
🩸 The Liver, Drug Interactions & Cannabinoid Metabolism
In a tissue model of THC-induced liver injury, a network analysis found that THC significantly altered the expression of 10 critical liver enzymes
Uncovering Mechanism of Hepatotoxicity Diseases Caused by Tetrahydrocannabinol: Network Toxicology and Experimental Verification
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-97523-0
“THC exposure significantly altered the expression patterns of 10 critical target genes: ERBB2, GPX1, MAPK14, NR1H4, SOD1, CXCR2, PPARG, EGFR, TYMS and KDR.”
💨 The Lungs
For lung transplants, this French study found something hidden behind a paywall
Tabatransplant Study: Smoking and Cannabis Use in Lung Transplantation in France
https://www.jhltonline.org/article/S1053-2498(25)00483-8/abstract
🖐️ The Skin & Topicals
In a person with juvenile dermatomyositis (a disease of skin rashes & muscle inflammation), their thoughts on managing the condition with cannabinoids are locked up behind a paywall
Cannabinoids in the Management of Refractory Juvenile Dermatomyositis – A Patient’s Perspective
https://academic.oup.com/ced/advance-article-abstract/doi/10.1093/ced/llaf176/8122001
In a mouse model of a skin wound & injury from radiation, a hydrogel with CBD improved healing, reduced inflammation & increased collagen production
A Novel Antioxidant and Anti‑Inflammatory Hydrogel Loaded With Cannabidiol Promotes Healing of Radiation‑Combined Wound Skin Injury in 60Co γ‑Irradiated Mice
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0944711325004283
In a rat model of a bacteria-infected wound, a hydrogel from hemp accelerated wound closure & showed antibiotic activity
Preparation of New Natural Hemp Fiber‑Based Antibacterial Hydrogel Dressing and Its Performance in Promoting Wound Healing of Bacterial Infection
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0927775725009112
In human sebocytes (the producers of the sebum that keeps skin oiled), the terpene nerol caused its positive effects via the CB2 receptor
Nerol Enhances Lipid Synthesis in Human Sebocytes via Cannabinoid Receptor‑2‑Mediated MAPK Signaling
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S134786132500043X
👀 The Eyes
In a tissue model of macular degeneration from blue light, the endocannabinoid system becomes dysregulated
Development of a Human RPE In Vitro Model With AMD‑Like Features Reveals Blue Light‑Induced Modulation of the Endocannabinoid System
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0006291X25006102
🎗️ Cancer & Chemotherapy
In a mouse model of head & neck tumors from HPV, CBD inhibited proliferation & enhanced anti-tumor activity via modulation of the tumor immune microenvironment
CBD Promotes Antitumor Activity by Modulating Tumor Immune Microenvironment in HPV‑Associated Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/immunology/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2025.1528520/abstract
In a mouse model of lung cancer cells, CBD delivered via exosomes inhibited proliferation & improved tumor targeting
Abstract 1788: Exosomal Formulation of Cannabidiol Inhibits Lung Cancer Proliferation and Enhances Uptake and Tumor Targeting
https://aacrjournals.org/cancerres/article/85/8_Supplement_1/1788/756423
In pancreatic cancer cells, cannabis extract as well as CBD reduced cell viability & induced apoptosis (programmed cellular suicide)
Abstract 1388: Exploring the Apoptosis‑Inducing Potential of Cannabis sativa and Cannabidiol in Pancreatic Cancer In Vitro
https://aacrjournals.org/cancerres/article/85/8_Supplement_1/1388/756175
In squamous cell carcinoma (the second most common form of skin cancer), hemp extracts showed potent inhibition of proliferation
Abstract 614: REPYR‑SC1—Hemp Extract Exhibits Potent Inhibition of Squamous Cell Carcinoma
https://aacrjournals.org/cancerres/article/85/8_Supplement_1/614/755210
In melanoma cells, the synthetic cannabinoid PFD-35/II reduced their ability to grow & survive
Synthetic Derivatives of Cannabis sativa as Potential Drug Candidates Against Cutaneous Melanoma Cells
https://dea.lib.unideb.hu/items/5f489176-4ce7-4e61-bdcd-d037d66d7f72
💊 Synthetic Cannabinoids & Hemp-Derived Cannabinoids
On detecting the new synthetic cannabinoid MDMB 4en PINACA & 10 of its metabolites in urine with a LC‑ & GC‑MS method
Detection of Metabolites of the New Synthetic Cannabinoid MDMB‑4en‑PINACA in Human Urine
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1134/S1061934824701752
In neurons, the synthetic cannabinoid UR‑144 reduced their viability & increased reactive oxygen species
Is UR‑144 Synthetic Cannabinoid Toxic to Neuronal Cells: An In Vitro Evaluation
https://dergipark.org.tr/en/pub/fabadeczacilik/issue/91069/1530030
🔬 Biochemical Discoveries & Detection Tools
On testing RNA transcription assays on CBC & CBN
An Updated Comparison of Microarray and RNA‑seq for Concentration‑Response Transcriptomic Study: Case Studies With Cannabichromene and Cannabinol
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12864-025-11548-3
On fluorinating CBN
Electrophilic Fluorination of Cannabinol
https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2025/ob/d5ob00378d
A thesis project analyzing the bibenzyl cannabinoids found in the liverwort Radula
Biochemical Investigations of Bibenzyl Cannabinoids From the Liverwort Radula
https://ucalgary.scholaris.ca/items/d79451e0-8c4a-4c1a-9203-73d9b3308101
A computer analysis of anandamide analogs & their affinity for the CB1 receptor
Computational Study of Anandamide Analogues as Ligands for CB1 Cannabinoid Receptors
https://revistas.uptc.edu.co/index.php/ciencia_en_desarrollo/article/view/16794
For the CB2 receptor, an assay screening for new agonists
Characterization of Novel and Known Activators of Cannabinoid Receptor 2 Reveals Mixed Pharmacology That Differentiates Mycophenolate Mofetil and GW‑842,166X From MDA7
https://www.preprints.org/manuscript/202504.1842/v1
On a new ultra-sensitive platform for detecting CB1 ligands
Ultra‑Sensitive Biosensor Based on Cell‑Derived Nanovesicles for CB1 Receptor‑Targeted Drug Development in a Live Cell‑Free Platform
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acs.analchem.4c06959
For the CB1 & CB2 receptor, a thesis project of molecular dynamics simulations on the binding pockets & activation pathways
Computational Study of Cannabinoid Receptors CB1 and CB2
https://kb.osu.edu/items/fd102a9b-4a40-458e-90c3-64a79a7ba759
Thanks.
- lex
PS: For today’s master of the oud (the 11-stringed lute-like instrument of the Middle East), Munir Bashir’s ‘Aoud Around the Arab World’. Born in northern Iraq to an Assyrian Christian family in the late 1920s, Bashir rose to fame as one of the most important figures in 20th-century Middle Eastern music. With an oudist father & brother, Bashir began learning the instrument at the age of five. Within the year, he was sent to the prestigious Baghdad Conservatory where he focused on documenting & preserving the rich array of Iraq’s many musical styles. With the country's political instabilities in the fifties, he traveled to Beirut where his reputation had preceded him. He learned more of American & Latin American music, the beginning of his journey to a deep knowledge of ethnomusicology from traditions around the world, starting to blend it into a unique style with traditional Arabic music. By the 1970s, the Iraqi Ministry of Information appointed him to its Culture Committee & saw him as a figure of unification. He was renowned as an unparalleled virtuoso for his solo improvisations & he was the first artist to perform solo oud concerts, taking this previously background instrument to the front of the stage & pioneering its status as a lead instrument in Middle Eastern music. Similar to jazz, he excelled in the Arabic musical improvisation tradition of taqsim & just like in jazz, he developed a series of recognizable melodic phrases that came to be known as bashirisms that could be quoted just like you would Charlie Parker. He even designed his own signature tuning that now bears his name, though it demands exceptional picking techniques. In his later years, he focused on training his son Omar to be his successor & together they recorded ‘Duo De 'Ûd’, a classic for its blend of traditional songs with Bashir’s renowned improvisations. He passed of heart failure at the age of just 68, leaving an unparalleled legacy.
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