C&P#85: a triple issue & redesign! + cannabinoids for everything, including tampons for menstrual pain
A lot of news at the state & international level
This week…
CBD tampons for severe period pain!
Women get more high from THC
Cannabis for neuropathic pain + THC for the cognitive decline of cancer treatments
Cannabis leads to sperm burnout?
CBD for postoperative pain
Wim Hof breathing to improve your ECS/life!
Rats mistake CBD for benzos
Vapes vs joints: toxins vs THC
Acupuncture works via the CB1 receptor
A Shakespeare quote to mock scientism & a Pain Society
3 microbiome papers: the gut microbiome & cancer + cannabis use disorder & the microbiome + ECS regulation of the microbiome
Cannabis induced heart attacks in youth
Endocannabinoids in the teeth stem cells
FABPs: the sports cars of the endocannabinoid world
One Dr. Strangelove fluoridation reference
Hemp stems to absorb pollution
Hello everyone,
Welcome to the 85th edition of Cannabinoids & the People, Lex Pelger’s free weekly digest of all the new cannabinoid science + assorted news & psychedelic updates.
(This is a triple issue thanks to the winter break. They won’t always be clocking in at 10k words - but the science never stops…)
Announcements
I gave this newsletter a redesign over the winter break. My goal is to make it as useful as possible so please let me know if you have any thoughts for improvements.
First, the big new feature will be ‘The Canna-Science Writeup’: a breakdown of the top 3 cannabinoid science articles of the week sponsored by CV Sciences.
For skimmability, I will break down the ‘Best of Cannabinoid Science’ section at the top into more categories & also add more sub-categories to the full ‘Cannabinoid Science’ digest at the bottom. I also plan to add more explanatory notes for science concepts as well as more quotes from the articles to highlight the most important findings. So overall, this newsletter will be getting longer – not shorter – but I hope that these changes will make it easier to skim for the information that’s most important to you.
On TikTok, I started two new weekly segments: A Canna-Science Digest that covers the 3 articles above as well as EU-Canna News to highlight what’s happening over here.
Also, if you find my work helpful & appreciate the extensive time it takes to go through a few hundred articles per week, please consider upgrading to a paid subscription or making a donation using the links under ‘My work this week’.
For more…
Subscribe here: upgrade to a paid subscription to support my work sharing cannabinoid science
Book a one-on-one Cannabinoid Education Session with me for a consult about how to use the cannabinoids for your health or that of your loved one
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’: my Queer cannabis history graphic novel or check out the rest of my graphic novel series about cannabis & the endocannabinoid system based on Moby Dick
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 Three-Minute Cannabinoid Science videos on YouTube or TikTok
My ‘Lex Files’ podcast (seeking sponsor for Season 3)
LinkedIn, Facebook, Threads, Twitter & my TikTok on books, hermeticism, science & history
As always, here’s the Glossary of Cannabinoid Terms & at the bottom is the album of the week
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 & a commitment to quality
I’m proud to promote the CBD-rich hemp extracts of PlusCBD because I know from the inside about their commitment to quality.
They start with agricultural non-GMO hemp grown with no pesticides: only water, soil & sunlight.
Then they use the clean, safe method CO2 extraction to get out all of the terpenes, minor cannabinoids & fatty acids that go into a quality hemp extract.
And finally they test their products at least 3 times internally & once externally by third-party labs before it ever goes out the doors.
The result is an excellent CBD-rich hemp extract product that changes people’s lives.
My work this week:
Canna-Education for CV Sciences
(TikTok:@cvsciences or my YouTube playlist 3-minute Cannabinoid Science):
PSA: Sleep & Melatonin
Canna-Advice for Parkinson's
Neurochemistry of Anxiety & the Endocannabinoids
The Guts & the Endocannabinoids
Acupuncture & Your ECS: Pain & Strokes
Smoking & Flu Infections (plus an immunology joke!)
Cannabis in the Bible?
Is Cannabis a Psychedelic? (the video that should have gone viral but got shadowbanned)
New segments:
Cannabinoid Science Digest #1: Secret Buyers, Lower Back Pain & Veterinarian Use
EU Cannabis News #2 : Czech, Barcelona & Malta
International Canna-News Roundup of 2023
EU Canna-news (first edition!)
My TikToks (@lexpelgerandhisbooks or on YouTube):
Money as a Scam in 'The Wizard of Oz'
How I Build Statues in My Memory Palace
Aya Aliens & Books on Entities (my first takedown video)
Jeffrey Kripal's works
Entities & Anecdotes
A Space Brothers Alien Hypothesis
BookTok, illustrations & reading:
Esoteric Books from My Friend Eve
'30,000 Years of Art' - the epitome of the art table book
Tania Branigan's 'Red Memory' & the Cultural Revolution
Bernard Krigstein's 'Messages in a Bottle'
Reginald Marsh's New York
Pocket: a reading app
My New Year's Resolution: Read Less
YA books:
My Most Important YA Books
Middle School Books from my Archives
More Young Adult Books (w/ lots of Dahl)
Ways to support this work:
A paid subscription on Substack
Buy Me a Coffee
Venmo: @Lex-Pelger
PayPal: donate here
The Canna-Science Writeup:
Best 3 papers of the week, sponsored by CV Sciences
In a survey of spinal cord injury patients with neuropathic pain, almost 90% reported that cannabis reduced pain intensity by more than 30% & over 80% reported substituting their pain medications with cannabis
A preliminary study evaluating self-reported effects of cannabis and cannabinoids on neuropathic pain and pain medication use in people with spinal cord injury
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38188193/
Neuropathic pain, or nerve pain, is one of the hardest types of pain to treat. Among spinal cord injury patients, around 60% of them experience neuropathic pain and it's often resistant to the typical pharmacological treatments. This study recruited 227 spinal cord injury patients who participated in an anonymous online survey. They reported an average pain level of “a high moderate to severe level of pain.” Of these patients, 87% reported that cannabis reduced their neuropathic pain intensity by more than 30% and over 90% reported that cannabis helped them to better deal with their neuropathic pain symptoms. 80% also reported that they substituted their pain medications for cannabis, the most common substitutions being for opioids, gabapentinoids, and over-the-counter pain medications. Most of the respondents reported using cannabis products once or twice a day with the average weekly amount being between 2 and 4 grams. The most common consumption methods were edibles, vaping, and smoking. Most patients used THC and more than half also used CBD.
Overall, “participants reported the use of cannabis and cannabinoids decreased their stress (68.4%), anxiety and depression (62.8%), spasticity (62.8%), insomnia (77.6%), and feelings of nausea and vomiting (24.5%) while increasing their relaxation (85.2%), as well as appetite (56.1%) and focus and concentration (33.7%). Negative effects from cannabis and cannabinoids were reported mostly as dry mouth (58.2%), drowsiness (31.6%), and cough (26.0%). In addition, (25.5%) of the participants reported experiencing no negative side effects from cannabis and cannabinoids.”
These rather outstanding findings point to the power of the PlusCBD Reserve products to deliver a targeted dose of THC and CBD. As you can see, these patients weren’t using huge amounts of cannabis and a few Reserve gummies a day would be equivalent to the use levels you see here. If you know anyone dealing with intractable pain where nothing else has worked, consider sharing this study and letting them know that THC and CBD are worth trying. See more of the research on the Pain & Inflammation page of CVResearch.info.
In cancer patients receiving palliative care, 12.5 milligrams of dronabinol (synthetic THC) improved their cognitive function
Impact of Low-Dose Dronabinol Therapy on Cognitive Function in Cancer Patients Receiving Palliative Care: A Case-Series Intervention Study
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38098857/
One of the negatives of many cancer treatments is cognitive decline. The treatment kills the cancer cells, but it also does a number on many other organs in the body, including the brain. This was a small study of cancer patients that showed positive results but also the limits of this kind of research. They enrolled 8 patients with advanced cancer as well as severe untreated pain related to their treatment. For just two weeks, they gave them a daily dose of 12.5 milligrams of dronabinol (synthetic THC). One patient dropped out because of dizziness and another because their cancer progressed too rapidly. But for the remaining six, they scored better on the range of neurocognitive tests than they did two weeks before.
However, two weeks is a very short time for causing neural changes and also, dronabinol is often likened by patients to a kick by a horse. Pharmaceutical THC can either come on far too strong or to not work at all. Without the modulating influence of the other cannabinoids and terpenes, it can be hard to hit the sweet spot where the patient is being helped but is not too bothered by psychoactivity or bothersome side effects. As Dr. Raphael Mechoulam, the father of the endocannabinoid system, often said, he wished that all cannabis, medical and recreational, had at least 1% of CBD in it to modulate the effects of the THC.
The patients in this study had a regimented titration schedule for their dronabinol. While this is helpful in clinical studies to make the evidence cleaner to evaluate, for patients in the real world, we want them to be able to find the dosage that works best for them even if it varies day by day.
Again, if you know anyone being treated for cancer, it's worth considering encouraging them to take a daily microdose of THC along with a mega dose of CBD. In addition to the cognitive effects seen in this study, this combination also helps with pain, sleep, and gut homeostasis. For more on the power of microdoses of THC, here’s my collection of data on the Ultra-low dose THC page as well as more brain research on the Neuroprotection page at CVResearch.info.
(And if you ever need all the cancer studies, I have a big archive of them in a document that I can send you. But I can’t put it on CVResearch because there’s nothing the FDA dislikes more than the C-word)
In a review of all the patients on the UK Medical Cannabis Registry, they had improvements in self-reported anxiety, sleep quality & higher quality of life
An observational study of clinical outcome measures in patients treated with cannabis-based medicinal products on the UK Medical Cannabis Registry
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38057993/
And in the subset of patients with ADHD, they also reported improvements in anxiety, sleep quality & quality of life
UK Medical Cannabis Registry: An analysis of clinical outcomes of medicinal cannabis therapy for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38058251/
I very much appreciate the UK Medical Cannabis Registry. It collects the public health data of medical cannabis patients across the UK and every couple weeks, a new study comes out about some aspect of cannabis and human health. In this study, they followed patients with 12 months of cannabis use and they found “an associated improvement in self-reported anxiety, sleep quality, and HRQoL [health-related quality of life]”. The most common indications for their treatments were chronic pain, neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia, and anxiety. The patients using opioids saw a reduction in their use over the 12 months of the study and only ~20% reported adverse events. Most of these were moderate or mild, including fatigue, sleepiness, dry mouth, and headache. Also, “there was one reported episode of psychosis (0.07%) and two (0.15%) incidences of euphoria [?!].” Growing up Anabaptist, I understand the risks of euphoria, but sometimes your health must come first.
And released on the same day from the UK Medical Cannabis Registry, the related study on attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Of the 68 patients, cannabis treatment for ADHD caused improvements in anxiety, sleep quality, and general quality of life. Of the 13 patients taking other medications, five of them stopped taking their lisdexamfetamine, methylphenidate, or dexamfetamine. Eleven of the patients reported adverse events with the most common being insomnia, concentration impairment, sleepiness, and dry mouth – but “no incidences of life‐threatening or disabling adverse events were reported”.
Best Of Cannabinoid Science...
An alarming secret buyer survey of 40 CBD products finds only three of them contain CBD levels within 10% of their label claim
Cure-All cannabidiol? The cannabidiol content of commercial products
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2667031323001161
If that's not a reason to buy from CV Sciences, I don't know what is. They always pass these tests with flying colors because they not only have third party testing for every batch but also extensive internal controls for testing products throughout the production process. There's a reason they are the very best sellers in the US (according to SPINS market data). They make solid products that work.
An editorial on historical inequities in cannabis research & moving towards equity & inclusion
Effects of historical inequity and institutional power on cannabis research: Moving toward equity and inclusion
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38089600/
“Specifically, recommendations focus on equity-focused legislation and policy, supporting the entry and retention of scientists of color into the field, engaging in more ethical research practices, and practicing intentionally inclusive recruitment of participants will help to move the field of cannabis research forward.”
Clinical
In Dutch veterans, a positive study on using cannabis for chronic PTSD
Medical Cannabis for Chronic Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in Dutch Veterans: A Health Care Evaluation
https://esmed.org/MRA/mra/article/view/4503
And a case report of a young teen self-medicating with cannabis for PTSD
Case Report: Cannabis for Treatment of PTSD
https://unisciencepub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Case-Report-Cannabis-for-Treatment-of-PTSD.pdf
CBD tampons significantly reduced pain in dysmenorrhea (severe & frequent menstrual cramps)
Efficacy and usability of a cannabidiol-infused tampon for the relief of primary dysmenorrhea
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2949838423000452
On the gender differences in the psychoactive effects of oral THC, women experienced a more subjective intoxicating effect from 10 milligrams of THC
Sex Differences in the Acute Effects of Oral THC: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Human Laboratory Study
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38077095/
“Some evidence suggests a faster progression to addiction in women, known as the "telescoping effect."”
In young sedentary males, eight weeks of exercise plus hemp seeds increased their testosterone levels & improved body composition
Effects of eight-week regular high-intensity interval training and hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) seed on total testosterone level among sedentary young males: double-blind, randomized, controlled clinical trial
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38085421/
A small clinical study on using the Wim Hoff method to increase CB1 receptor binding & improve stress resistance, mood, anxiety & interoceptive function (perception of sensations from within your body)
The impact of a focused behavioral intervention on brain cannabinoid signaling and interoceptive function: Implications for mood and anxiety
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S294983412300034X
A potential culprit for the allergies people develop against cannabis: the thaumatin-like protein (TLP)
Exploring the thaumatin-like protein (TLP) as a candidate cannabis allergen in North-Western Europe
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37984436/
Public Health Data
A German survey found that about one in nine people were using CBD products, mostly for pain & stress relief
Usage and health perception of cannabidiol-containing products among the population in Germany: a descriptive study conducted in 2020 and 2021
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37996800/
An analysis of public health data finds that people with chronic health conditions are more likely to use cannabis, especially those with arthritis, cancer, HIV, COPD & depression
Associations between adult cannabis use and chronic health conditions in a nationally representative sample of the United States
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/14659891.2023.2288838
In the nightclub/festival scene, people are taking more synthetic cannabinoids than they realize
Trends and correlates of discordant reporting of drug use among nightclub/festival attendees, 2019-2022
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37988115/
Ingestion Methods
A quite practical study finds that vaping cannabis delivered less toxins than smoking joints, but also somewhat less THC
Toxicological assessment of aerosols emitted by cannabis inhalation methods: Does cannabis vaping using Electronic NonNicotine Delivery Systems (ENNDS) and vaporizers reduce exposure to toxicants compared to cannabis smoking?
https://www.grea.ch/sites/default/files/230910_final_report_review-external_version_upload.pdf
In cannabis with elemental impurities, it seems like vaping it does not transfer them into you
Analysis of elemental impurities in cannabis following vaporization
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666831923001017
Harms
For more harms, see the “Adolescents & Young Adults’ section below. Every week, there are at least a few studies on that topic.
A case report of a person on Prozac developing serotonin syndrome after taking cannabis oil
Serotonin syndrome and cannabis: A case report
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38058145/
Contrary to some other studies, this analysis of public health data found that cannabis legalization contributed to worsening mortality in the US opioid crisis in all races, but especially among Black people
United States marijuana legalization and opioid mortality epidemic during 2010-2020 and pandemic implications
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35469600/
In young adults, a case report & literature review of cannabis-induced heart attacks
Marijuana-induced ST-elevation myocardial infarction in adolescents and young adults: A case report and comprehensive review of literature
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38040213/
A public health data analysis found a relationship between both cannabis addiction & opium addiction for increasing the risk of strokes
The relationship between opium and marijuana addiction and ischemic stroke: a systematic review and meta-analysis
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12144-023-05405-3
In humans, the use of cannabis associated with an increased risk of periodontitis (gum disease)
Is drug use associated with the presence of periodontitis and oral lesions? A meta-analysis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38014773/
For a young person with cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, successfully treating them with dronabinol (a synthetic THC) after a bad reaction to haloperidol
Cannabinoid-Associated Hyperemesis Syndrome Treated With Dronabinol: Killing a Poison With the Poison
https://assets.cureus.com/uploads/case_report/pdf/194977/20231229-4278-1624dhd.pdf
Animals
A survey of Argentinian cannabis veterinarians they found pain, seizures & behavior disorders to be the most common treatments for dogs & for cats, conditions treated included pain, behavior, an autoimmune disease, skin diseases, gingivostomatitis & as a palliative for cancer
Cannabis and pathologies in dogs and cats: first survey of phytocannabinoid use in veterinary medicine in Argentina
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38031164/
A survey of Thai veterinarians on the use of CBD for dogs with osteoarthritis found that while many were in favor, they had concerns about quality, adverse events & dosing
Thai veterinarians' perceptions of cannabidiol products for dogs with osteoarthritis: a qualitative interview study
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38162477/
“Many suggested CBD should be under veterinarians' supervision at first, but this can be relaxing once safety and efficacy are established. CBD products should be chewable tablets, oils, or gelatin capsules with flavors like beef, liver, pork, fish, or seafood.”
In dogs, the long-term use of CBD did not appear to affect their eye health or tear production
Long-term effect of oral cannabidiol administration to healthy adult dogs on tear production, intraocular pressure, and tear concentrations
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38032014/
Reviews
For lower back pain, a review of 12 studies suggests the utility of cannabis
Medical Cannabis and Its Efficacy/Effectiveness for the Treatment of Low-Back Pain: a Systematic Review
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38041708/
A review of the effects of cannabis smoke on the respiratory system
Effects of cannabis smoking on the respiratory system: A state-of-the-art review
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38056532/
For skin diseases, a review on the promises of cannabinoid receptors for the treatment of eczema, psoriasis, acne, pruritus, hair disorders & skin cancer
Cannabinoids and Their Receptors in Skin Diseases
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38003712/
For neurological diseases, a review of using cannabis
Therapeutic use of medical Cannabis in neurological diseases: a clinical update
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38015317/
For osteoporosis, a review of targeting the endocannabinoid system for treatment
Effect of endocannabinoid system on senile osteoporosis
https://pesquisa.bvsalud.org/gim/resource/fr/wpr-993429
For gum diseases, a review of using the cannabinoids
Cannabinoids in Periodontology: Where Are We Now?
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38136721/
In a review of using plants like cannabis against the parasitic worms helminths
The Potential of Plant Secondary Metabolites as Drugs or Leads Against Helminths
https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-981-19-9605-4_24
A review of how activating the CB2 receptor lowers morphine tolerance
The effect of cannabinoid type 2 receptor agonist on morphine tolerance
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38145173/
A review of THC & the first dopamine receptor (often known as the receptor of addiction)
Tetrahydrocannabinol and Dopamine D1 Receptor
https://chemrxiv.org/engage/api-gateway/chemrxiv/assets/orp/resource/item/6576858a29a13c4d472643e5/original/tetrahydrocannabinol-and-dopamine-d1-receptor.pdf
For more, see my dopamine & ECS article on ProjectCBD: In Defense of Dopamine: An Endocannabinoid Story
Preclinical
In mice, cannabis smoked suppressed their antiviral immune response to influenza A (here’s my TikTok explaining this paper)
Cannabis smoke suppresses antiviral immune responses to influenza A in mice
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38020563/
And an editorial with a flashy title
Weed, sex and influenza
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38020565/
While the immune system is always complicated, in general cannabis is an immunosuppressant. This can make it excellent for helping with autoimmune disorders but it probably doesn't help you to be hitting the pipe hard as a viral infection comes on. Not that that ever stops me...
In rats trained to discriminate benzodiazepines (ie: Valium, Xanax), high levels of CBD made them think they were getting benzos
Discriminative-stimulus effects of cannabidiol oil in Sprague-Dawley rats
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38085665/
In a rat model of anxiety, nano-CBD lessened their anxiety & panic-like behaviors
A cannabidiol (CBD) oral lipid-based nanoemulsion induces anxiolytic- and panicolytic-like effects and increases delta-FosB immunoreactivity in serotonergic cells of the dorsal raphe lateral wings
https://assets.researchsquare.com/files/rs-3705796/v1/34161510-e177-48e8-93c9-b7718b339137.pdf?c=1701827660
In postoperative rats, CBD lowered their pain & thermal sensitivity (though it didn’t work well in females in the proestrus phase of their cycle)
Antinociceptive action of cannabidiol on thermal sensitivity and post-operative pain in male and female rats
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38048909/
“The effectiveness of a 10-fold lower dose of CBD during the late diestrus stage in females suggests that ovarian hormones can influence the action of CBD.”
In a mouse model of heart attacks, CBD promoted more cardiac muscle cells & heart regeneration
Cannabidiol represses miR-143 to promote cardiomyocyte proliferation and heart regeneration after myocardial infarction
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38052413/
In mice mast cells (which store histamine), CBD lowered anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction)
Cannabidiol Inhibits IgE-Mediated Mast Cell Degranulation and Anaphylaxis in Mice
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38059783/
In a rat model of sleep, oral CBD extended their sleep but caused worse cumulative memory consolidation
CBD lengthens sleep but shortens ripples and leads to intact simple but worse cumulative memory
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38026151/
In a rat model of Parkinson's disease, CBD & CBG - whether given separately or together - decreased L-DOPA medication’s dyskinesia (involuntary erratic movements caused by high dopamine levels)
CANNABIDIOL AND CANNABIGEROL LIMIT L-DOPA-INDUCED DYSKINESIA WHEN GIVEN SEPARATELY OR IN COMBINATION TO HEMIPARKINSONIAN RATS
https://www.ibroneuroreports.org/article/S2667-2421(23)00737-6/fulltext
In a mouse model of catalepsy (frozenness) from the antipsychotic drug haloperidol, the combination of CBD & CBG helped at their lowest doses, though high doses of CBG seem to block CBD efficacy via a serotonin receptor
COULD THE COMBINATION OF TWO NON-PSYCHOTROPIC CANNABINOIDS COUNTERACT HALOPERIDOL CATALEPSY? EFFECTIVENESS OF CANNABIDIOL ASSOCIATED WITH CANNABIGEROL
https://www.ibroneuroreports.org/article/S2667-2421(23)01515-4/fulltext
In a mouse model of sickle cell anemia, the endocannabinoid PEA improved their gait via the lowering of chronic pain via improvements in the cerebellum (a brain center of movement)
Palmitoylethanolamide Modulates Gait By Targeting Purkinje Cells in the Brain of Sickle Mice
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0006497123090912
In a rat model of hyperinsulinemia (high levels of insulin in the blood, related to type 2 diabetes), chronic THC regulated the appetite hormones & promoted regeneration in the gastric tissues
Chronic administration of delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol protects hyperinsulinemic gastric tissue in rats
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38032085/
In a mouse model of Alzheimer's, two of the pinene terpenes caused neuroprotection via lowering the amyloid plaques
Characterizing cannabis-prevalent terpenes for neuroprotection reveal a role for α and β-pinenes in mitigating amyloid β-evoked neurotoxicity and aggregation in vitro
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38070653/
And cannabis terpenes may be causing their painkilling effects via ion channels in the neurons
Terpenes in Cannabis sativa Inhibit Capsaicin Responses in Rat DRG Neurons via Na+/K+ ATPase Activation
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38003528/
In a rat model of stroke, electroacupuncture seems to help via the CB1 receptor’s inhibition of the NLRP3 inflammasome
Mechanism underlying reduction of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury by electroacupuncture preconditioning in rats: relationship between cannabinoid type 1 receptor and NLRP3 inflammasome
https://pesquisa.bvsalud.org/portal/resource/pt/wpr-994171
And electroacupuncture also helped in a mouse model of inflammatory pain via the CB1 receptor
Electroacupuncture attenuates inflammatory pain via peripheral cannabinoid receptor type 1 signaling pathway in mice
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38060514/
In mice, using a drug that inhibits the fatty acid binding protein-5 (FABP5 – a transporter of endocannabinoids) lowered their anxiety & depression like behaviors & caused a proliferation of markers of adult neurogenesis (growth of new brain cells)
INHIBITION OF FATTY ACID BINDING PROTEIN-5 ALLEVIATES STRESS-INDUCED ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION-LIKE BEHAVIOURS THROUGH KEY SIGNALING PATHWAYS AND PROLIFERATION MARKERS OF ADULT NEUROGENESIS
https://artelobio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Taygun-Uzuneser_SFN-2023.pdf
And another FABP5 study in both humans & rats where its levels were higher in those with osteoarthritis, suggesting inhibitors as a treatment
Fatty acid binding protein 5 inhibition attenuates pronociceptive cytokine/chemokine expression and suppresses osteoarthritis pain: A comparative human and rat study
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38035977/
And a thesis project on FABP1’s role in fat tissue signaling
The Role of Liver Fatty Acid-Binding Protein (LFABP; FABP1) in Adipose Tissues Cellularity and Function: Implications of Interorgan Signaling
https://www.proquest.com/openview/52402fb5809ca5003e7a401874dc37bc/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750&diss=y
In our Neural Ocean metaphor, FABP5 is anandamide’s sports car that the White Whale uses to race around the neurons.
The painkilling effects of the elephant apple (a plant in Brazilian traditional medicine) seems to be mediated by the opioid & endocannabinoid systems
Antinociceptive Effect of Dillenia indica (Linn.) Mediated by Opioid and Cannabinoid Systems: Pharmacological and Chemical Studies
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38092696/
And for Parkinson's disease, the treatment effects of the drugs xanthine or hypoxanthine may be mediated by the endocannabinoid system via GABA
Xanthine or hypoxanthine or both may play therapeutical effect in Parkinson's disease through the endocannabinoid system
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S030698772300227X
Chalk up two more medicines that seem to work via the endocannabinoid system.
An evergreen note on reading restricted papers:
First stop for seeing if there’s a free version of a paper, use the Google Scholar Chrome extension (Mac version), Google Scholar itself or try ResearchGate.
Three other helpful browser extensions are: Unpaywall, Open Access Button & PaperPanda
For the infamous backdoor, use Sci-Hub – the pirated papers repository (Chrome extension here). This works better for older paper than the stuff that just came out.
Finally, email the author. They’re almost always happy to oblige because, thanks to the predatory academic publishing system, they don’t make a dollar off of their papers.
the Headlines & Fav Articles
For your best daily cannabis news source: Marijuana Moment
A roundup of new state cannabis laws that came into effect Jan 1
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/new-marijuana-laws-take-effect-in-multiple-states-affecting-workers-regulators-product-labeling-and-more/
I believe the silliest new law to be Colorado’s “use by” date requirement. Packages must now have a label saying they are best used within 9 months of packaging.
When you have 4500-year-old tombs filled with grass that’s still smokeable, a nine-month limit that might cause people to throw away old cannabis seems like a bureaucratic overreach.
But hats off to California & Washington for their cannabis-related workplace protections.
Military members convicted for cannabis crimes are excluded from Biden’s pardons
https://cannabislaw.report/media-report-service-members-convicted-of-cannabis-crimes-by-military-again-excluded-from-biden-pardons/
And a military editorial on cannabis use during & after war
The hazy role of cannabis in military and Veteran life before and after the fog of war
https://jmvfh.utpjournals.press/doi/full/10.3138/jmvfh.9.5.ed02
California shuts down the majority of its cannabis testing labs in a move to stop widespread labeling scams by implementing stricter requirements
https://www.sfgate.com/cannabis/article/california-shut-testing-majority-pot-labs-18587629.php
A Johns Hopkins study will follow 10,000 medical cannabis patients for a year
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/johns-hopkins-researchers-to-follow-nationally-representative-cohort-of-10000-marijuana-patients-in-federally-funded-study/
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration refused to include cannabis in a proposed rule on impaired driving technology for vehicles because "current knowledge about the effects of cannabis on driving is insufficient to allow specification of a simple measure of driving impairment outside of controlled conditions"
https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/01/05/2023-27665/advanced-impaired-driving-prevention-technology
This study made headlines: for NCAA recruiting, cannabis legalization helped basketball program recruiting but hurt football program recruiting
The Effects of Marijuana Legalization on NCAA Men's Basketball Recruiting
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/15270025231217975
And colleges in legal states see a boost in applications by high-achieving students
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/colleges-in-states-that-legalize-marijuana-see-spike-in-applications-from-higher-achieving-students-study-finds/
The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) removed cannabis from its banned substances
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/ufc-formally-removes-marijuana-from-banned-substances-list-for-professional-fighters/
Myths in early 20th century El Paso about where the cannabis was coming from
As always, Isaac’s book on this subject, ‘Home Grown’, is excellent.
International
A roundup of the biggest international cannabis stories (my summary on TikTok)
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/marijuana-legalization-advancements-in-several-countries-were-among-the-biggest-international-cannabis-news-stories-of-2023/
Germany inches closer to legalization with final votes on the proposal due early this year
Malta finally issued its first licenses for cannabis associations almost 3 years after the legalization law passed
Colombia’s legislature voted to halt their legalization bill, requiring a restart of the two-year process
Ukraine’s medical cannabis bill advanced, but has been delayed by spam amendments & a legislative block
Luxembourg legalized cannabis possession & cultivation
Switzerland launched a pilot program of regulated cannabis sales from pharmacies
And the Netherlands finally sold their first legal cannabis in a trial program in two cities
Thailand to ban recreational cannabis after their 2022 decriminalization bill led to a boom of cannabis shops for tourists
https://www.forbes.com/sites/dariosabaghi/2024/01/08/thailands-new-government-to-ban-cannabis-for-recreational-use
In the Czech Republic, the government unveiled a new cannabis plan that legalizes possession, social clubs & homegrows, but not a full legalized market
https://www.ceskenoviny.cz/zpravy/pirati-norma-upravuje-konopne-kluby-a-samopestovani-ne-regulaci-trhu/2463948
In Canada, despite full federal legalization, Canada’s businesses still have trouble getting bank accounts
https://nationalpost.com/cannabis/cannabis-advocates-say-banks-still-refuse-their-business-fuelling-the-illicit-market-and-hurting-the-industry
In Barcelona, the City Council wants to close all the cannabis social clubs
https://www.eldiario.es/catalunya/ayuntamiento-barcelona-estrecha-cerco-clubes-cannabis-busca-manera-cerrarlos_1_10801834.html
In Uruguay, interviews & policy documents on the effects of international law on their cannabis industry
'We never thought this would be considered drug trafficking': International finance rules, policy space and Uruguay's regulation of recreational cannabis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37970837/
In 2013, Uruguay became the first country to regulate legal production, distribution & sale of cannabis.
In a survey of Swiss psychiatrists, most are in favor of cannabis legalization & its potential for treating some mental disorders
Attitudes of Swiss psychiatrists towards cannabis regulation and medical use in psychiatry: a cross-sectional study
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38057933/
In Chile, the past failures & future prospects of cannabis reform
Where there is smoke, there is fire? Making sense of the past failure and future prospects of cannabis reform in Chile
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/lamp.12318
In Ghana, a study on the implications of cannabis cultivation legalization
Implications of legalisation of cannabis cultivation in Ghana: a critical review
https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/DHS-06-2023-0023/full/html
On small-scale cannabis cultivation in South Africa
Investigating Small-scale Farmers and Barriers to Entry in Cannabis Cultivation in South Africa
https://unisapressjournals.co.za/index.php/Politeia/article/view/15002
The Laws, The War on Drugs & the End of Prohibition
The Supreme Court refused to hear a case of an immigrant from El Salvador who won’t become a naturalized citizen because she worked with a state-legal cannabis business
https://www.law360.com/cannabis/articles/1782487
The DEA is greatly increasing the production quotas for various psychoactives, especially THC
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/dea-calls-for-even-more-thc-psilocybin-and-dmt-to-be-produced-for-research-in-2024/
But why these dinosaurs deserve any say in how much cannabis, psilocybin, or DMT is produced for medical research purposes is beyond me.
A DEA agent on how Mexican cartels control growing operations & state-legal dispensaries
https://www.vladtv.com/article/302747/hector-berrellez-cartels-sell-weed-in-us-dispensaries-kill-owner-if-they
As the Prohibition of alcohol taught us, once huge illicit profits lead to a supercharged illegal entity like the Mob, that criminal enterprise will not disappear when their bread & butter becomes illegal. They will shift into other industries. The Mexican cartels are even now starting to muscle into the avocado & lime business.
Out of Washington state, policy ideas for regulating high-potency cannabis
Identifying policy options to regulate high potency cannabis: A multiple stakeholder concept mapping study in Washington State, USA
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38043404/
“Notably, stakeholders from community and professional groups supported environmental policy changes such as such as taxation, increasing minimum age for high concentration cannabis products, and advertising prohibition. Meanwhile, cannabis advocates (mostly industry actors) opposed taxation per THC content, proposed lowering taxes, and supported policies with low population impact such as educating parents, teachers, and youth.”
In Seoul drug cases, cannabis is the most frequently requested test
Comprehensive evaluation of drug cases in Seoul and its metropolitan areas – 2022
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37989071/
And in the Brazilian city of Belo Horizonte, cannabis made-up half of all drug seizures
Observational study on seizures of marijuana, cocaine and crack in a city in the metropolitan region of Belo Horizonte
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/376367190_Observational_study_on_seizures_of_marijuana_cocaine_and_crack_in_a_city_in_the_metropolitan_region_of_Belo_Horizonte
A review of the challenges of the forensic analysis of drugs for legal evidence (including a great chart of the 100 most mentioned drugs)
Trends and challenges in the use of drugs as forensic evidence
https://discovery.dundee.ac.uk/ws/portalfiles/portal/114009381/WIREs_Forensic_Science_-_2023_-_Norman_-_Trends_and_challenges_in_the_use_of_drugs_as_forensic_evidence_A_scientometric.pdf
On the public health implications of increased cannabis access potentially leading to more or less tobacco usage
Legalization of access to cannabis: a growing agenda for tobacco control research in the USA
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38026445/
On how legalization will lead to more indoor THC exposure
The legalization of cannabis may result in increased indoor exposure to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37976847/
Using drones to detect illegal cannabis plantations (<cough> narcs)
Segmentation of drone-captured images for illegal cannabis plantation detection
https://pubs.aip.org/aip/acp/article-abstract/2941/1/030005/2929242/Segmentation-of-drone-captured-images-for-illegal?redirectedFrom=fulltext
A thesis project on how police officers, without any good tools for measuring cannabis impairment, must translate California's new cannabis driving policies into practical rules on the ground
A Contribution to the Understanding of the Social Construction of Law in Marijuana DUI Cases
https://escholarship.org/uc/item/7d8618z2
On false negatives in cannabinoid urine drug tests
False-Negative Confirmatory Testing in Patients With Cannabinoid-Positive Urine Drug Screens
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38010707/
Psychedelics, Plant Medicines & Other Psychoactives
The American Medical Association now has codes for psychedelic therapy
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/new-american-medical-association-psychedelic-therapy-codes-take-effect-as-fda-weighs-prescription-mdma-application/
The Psychoactive Research
[This isn’t a deep dive into the science of psychedelics & other psychoactives like I do for the cannabinoids. If your organization would be interested in a breakdown of all the new psychedelic science, reach out to me]
A survey of people with Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder
Association of Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder with Trait Neuroticism and Mental Health Symptoms
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/02791072.2023.2287081
“Individuals with Type II HPPD were more likely to report mental health symptoms including anxiety, obsessional thoughts, paranoia, hypochondria and panic attacks. We also found that individuals with Type II HPPD were more likely to report the use of 25I-NBOMe, dextromethorphan, nitrous oxide and benzodiazepines.”
Interviews with spiritual health practitioners
Spiritual health practitioners' contributions to psychedelic assisted therapy: A qualitative analysis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38166057/
In veterans with traumatic brain injuries, a combination of magnesium & ibogaine improve their TBI symptoms as well as PTSD, anxiety & functioning
Magnesium-ibogaine therapy in veterans with traumatic brain injuries
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38182784/
A trial of MDMA for PTSD with positive results
Effects of MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD on self-experience
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38198456/
For psilocybin, the neural mechanisms behind its cognitive & emotional effects
Neural Mechanisms of Resting-State Networks and the Amygdala underlying the Cognitive and Emotional Effects of Psilocybin
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38185235/
IV ketamine more effective for short-term antidepressant effects than intranasal esketamine
The rapid antidepressant effectiveness of repeated dose of intravenous ketamine and intranasal esketamine: A post-hoc analysis of pooled real-world data
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38145840/
On testing the efficacy of an “ayahuasca tablet”
Potential therapeutic effects of an ayahuasca-inspired N,N-DMT and harmine formulation: a controlled trial in healthy subjects
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1302559/full
A safety study of inhaled DMT
Safety and tolerability of inhaled N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (BMND01 candidate): A phase I clinical trial
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38141403/
The Plant & the History
On recent cannabis developments in “-omic” approaches: genomics, transcriptomics, metabolomics, proteomics
RECENT DEVELOPMENTS IN OMIC-BASED APPROACHES IN HEMP (Cannabis sativa L.)
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/376047054_RECENT_DEVELOPMENTS_IN_OMIC-BASED_APPROACHES_IN_HEMP_Cannabis_sativa_L
An analysis of hemp seed evolution through the archaeological evidence of Bronze Age China
Morphometric approaches to Cannabis evolution and differentiation from archaeological sites: interpreting the archaeobotanical evidence from bronze age Haimenkou, Yunnan
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00334-023-00966-6
Growing & Farming
A review of state-level regulations on pesticides & their potential negative effects
Organophosphate and Pyrethroid Pesticides and Cannabis in the United States: Trends in State-level Regulations and Applications of New Approach Methodologies
https://keep.lib.asu.edu/items/190211
Characterizing cannabis varieties & the factors affecting their germination & seedling establishment
Characterization of cannabis varieties and the intrinsic and extrinsic factors affecting cannabis germination and seedling establishment: A descriptive review
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0926669023016266
On the effects of polyploidy (multiple copies of chromosomes) in cannabis
Transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses reveal the differential accumulation of phenylpropanoids and terpenoids in hemp autotetraploid and its diploid progenitor
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38049730/
A review of hemp leaching & accumulating elements out of the soil
The comprehensive review about elements accumulation in industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.)
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38081533/
On using near-infrared to analyze cannabis
Light and Shadow in Near-Infrared Spectroscopy: A Powerful Tool for Cannabis sativa L. Analysis
https://www.mdpi.com/2673-9623/3/4/33
On the greenhouse gas emissions of growing hemp in different climates
Estimation of greenhouse gas emissions during the cultivation of industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) in different temperature regimes
https://www.e3s-conferences.org/articles/e3sconf/pdf/2023/100/e3sconf_eeste2023_02005.pdf
A thesis project on weeds & herbicides for hemp
Challenges and Strategies in Weed and Herbicide Management for Industrial Hemp
https://www.proquest.com/openview/e58c1757da56847010df6c67edadf370/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750&diss=y
An analysis of growing hemp in semi-arid west Texas
Assessing the production potential of industrial hemp in the semi-arid west Texas
https://www.maxapress.com/article/doi/10.48130/TIA-2023-0017
Characterization of Iran’s indigenous cannabis
Characterization of Indigenous Populations of Cannabis in Iran: A Morphological and Phenological Study
https://assets.researchsquare.com/files/rs-3641195/v1_covered_63bfb6c6-043f-47b1-b518-07a0a0a866f0.pdf?c=1701458716
Hemp as food
The health benefits of fermented hemp seeds
Rheological properties, biochemical changes, and potential health benefits of dehulled and defatted industrial hempseeds after fermentation
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38043281/
A review of developing hemp seeds as a snack
Hemp seed’s (Cannabis Sativa L) nutritional potential for the development of snack functional foods
https://www.ocl-journal.org/articles/ocl/pdf/2023/01/ocl230024.pdf
And a study of their properties
A study on pH-mediated variations and differences in the structure and function of hemp seed albumin, globulin, and protein isolate
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2212429223011033
The characteristics of cannabis seed oil
Physico-chemical characteristics of cannabis seed oil (Cannabis sativa L.) from different varieties grown in the conditions of the Syrdarya region
https://www.e3s-conferences.org/articles/e3sconf/pdf/2023/100/e3sconf_eeste2023_01004.pdf
A review of feeding hemp byproducts to livestock
Review: Utilizing industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) by-products in livestock rations
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0377840123002845
And a review of its effect on animal productivity, health & reproductive performance
The use of industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa) on farm animal’s productivity, health and reproductive performance: a review
https://www.publish.csiro.au/AN/AN23268
In pigs, feeding them cannabis byproducts reduced constipation issues & improved sow activities such as time spent standing & first feed after piglet delivery
Impacts of supplementing Cannabis sativa byproducts during the transition period on behaviour, feed consumption, constipation levels, colostrum production and piglet performance in hyperprolific sows
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38103404/
In veal calves, feeding them milk containing hempseed cake caused no negative behaviors
Evaluation of behavior in veal calves fed milk containing different levels of hempseed cake ( Cannabis sativa L.)
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38179327/
In goats, the effects of feeding them hemp seeds increased milk production & the levels of fat & fatty acids
Effects of Hemp Seed on the Production, Fatty Acid Profile, and Antioxidant Capacity of Milk from Goats Fed Hay or a Mixed Shrubs-Grass Rangeland
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38003053/
A study of the protein bodies in hemp seeds that are used for storage
Protein bodies from hemp seeds: Isolation, microstructure and physicochemical characterization
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0268005X23011438
Industrial Use
On using hemp stems to absorb organic pollutants
Enhanced adsorption of organic pollutants using N-doped porous carbon derived from hemp stems: Insights into the mechanism
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1383586623027867
Using hemp pulp to make antibacterial fibers
Preparation of natural antibacterial regenerated cellulose fiber from seed-type hemp
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0926669023016382
On the many uses of hemp nanofiber
From Hemp Waste to Bioactive Nanofiber Composites: Deep Eutectic Solvents and Electrospinning in Upcycling Endeavors
https://www.mdpi.com/2310-2861/10/1/1
On the properties of nanocrystals made from hemp
Mechanical and morphological properties of cellulose nanocrystals synthesized from industrial hemp agro-waste
https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-3712981/v1
On using hemp/cellulose magnetic biocomposite to remove dyes from solution
Cellulose- supported sulfated-magnetic biocomposite produced from hemp biomass: Effective removal of cationic dyes from aqueous solution
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0141813023056465
Two on using hemp to help make supercapacitors
Novel hemp biomass-derived activated carbon as cathode material for aqueous zinc-ion hybrid supercapacitors: Synthesis, characterization, and electrochemical performance
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2352152X23032772
Medicinal cannabis industry waste for energy storage in symmetric solid-state supercapacitors
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2352152X23033960
In Mauritius, using hemp fibers to create biodegradable plastics
Harnessing the Power of Mauritius Hemp Fibres for Polyhydroxybutyrate Biopolymer Synthesis
https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/S2043-052320230000022007/full/html
Environmental life cycle assessment of a hemp-based building material
Environmental Life Cycle Assessment of a Novel Hemp-Based Building Material
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38005138/
Hemp fiber as a curing agent for concrete
Hemp Fibres: A Novel Sustainable Curing Agent for Concrete
https://ciaconference.com.au/concrete2023/pdf/full-paper_219.pdf
CANNABINOID SCIENCE
An analysis of FDA-approved drugs that also target the CB1 receptor
Computational and Experimental Drug Repurposing of FDA-Approved Compounds Targeting the Cannabinoid Receptor CB1
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38139805/
CBGA inhibits the TRPM7 ion channel
Cannabigerolic Acid (CBGA) Inhibits the TRPM7 Ion Channel Through its Kinase Domain
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38162115/
A rat toxicity study of Elixinol Hemp Extract (a blend of CBD isolate, hemp extract & copaiba) found an upper safety limit of 101.4 mg/kg/day
Safety of Elixinol Hemp Extract: In Vitro Genetic Toxicity and Subchronic Toxicity in Rats
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38111631/
Surveys & Ingestion Methods
A survey of US adults on their consumption of CBD, CBG, CBN & delta-8 THC
Past-Year Use Prevalence of Cannabidiol, Cannabigerol, Cannabinol, and Δ8-Tetrahydrocannabinol Among US Adults
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38091045/
A survey of doctors on CBD & cannabis in sports medicine & performance
Physician Perceptions of Cannabidiol (CBD) and Cannabis in Sports Medicine and Performance
https://www.hindawi.com/journals/tsmed/2023/8824466/
In rats, exposure to the e-cigarette solvent propylene glycol downregulated some proteins related to addiction, synaptic plasticity & neurodegeneration, but this was reversed by nicotine & THC
Nicotine, THC, and Dolutegravir Modulate E-Cigarette-Induced Changes in Addiction- and Inflammation-Associated Genes in Rat Brains and Astrocytes
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38002516/
Adolescents & Young Adults
A review of 8 studies on how adolescent social networks influence their cannabis use
The influence of peer's social networks on adolescent's cannabis use: a systematic review of longitudinal studies
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38188050/
“Cannabis use is mainly related to friends' use.”
Youth with disabilities were more likely to be using alcohol, tobacco & cannabis
Patterns of Alcohol, Marijuana, and Tobacco Use Among U.S. Adolescents and Young Adults by Disability Status: 2015-2019
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38043040/
A review of data in young adults finds an association between adverse childhood experiences & later substance use, including cannabis
The Associations of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) With Substance Use in Young Adults: A Systematic Review
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38025908/
In young people using cannabis, they were more likely to be drinking, smoking, fucking, taking pain meds, doing cocaine & texting while driving but also to have higher levels of bullying, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), attention deficit disorder, anxiety & depression
Demographics and Reported Symptoms Associated With Marijuana Use Among Adolescents and Young Adults
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38021571/
And another study found boredom to be a predictor of cannabis use
Associations Between Trait Boredom and Frequency of Cannabis, Alcohol, and Tobacco Use in College Students
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38035167/
In the adolescence of Jamaica, higher cannabis usage was linked with “psychosocial risks, such as loneliness, frequent worry, suicidal ideation, physical attacks, and school absenteeism”
Marijuana use and its correlates among school-going Jamaican adolescents: a finding from a national survey
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1324869/full
In Canadian university students, predictors of frequent cannabis use included “enhancement, coping, expansion, sleep difficulties, and conformity purposes, as well as impulsive personality traits… with the enhancement motive identified as the strongest predictor”
Predictors of Cannabis Use Among Canadian University Students
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38035164/
In undergraduates, psychotic-like experiences & problematic cannabis use were associated with worse executive functioning
Endorsement of psychotic-like experiences and problematic cannabis use associated with worse executive functioning performance in undergraduates
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38091900/
College athletes more likely to binge drink & less likely to use cannabis because of drug testing
Drug And Alcohol Use In College Athletes
https://primerascientific.com/pdf/psmph/PSMPH-03-105.pdf
In Ontario adolescents, the use of cannabis over the last two decades has dropped overall but legalization caused a bump in use & dependence
Effects of cannabis legalisation on patterns of cannabis consumption among adolescents in Ontario, Canada (2001-2019)
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38015010/
In adolescent public health data, those who use cannabis showed lower scores on episodic memory tasks & poor performances on verbal, inhibitory & working memory tests
Cannabis use and neurocognitive performance at 13-14 Years-Old: Optimizing assessment with hair toxicology in the Adolescent brain cognitive development (ABCD) study
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38091780/
A survey found that in young adults with social anxiety disorder, they were slightly more likely to be using cannabis
Cannabis use and social anxiety disorder in emerging adulthood: Results from a nationally representative sample
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38061325/
On the dangers of edibles to children
Thc Edibles in Children - Appealing and Even More Dangerous: A Case Report
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37989210/
The Brain & Neurological Disorders
In multiple sclerosis patients, how the cannabinoids move through their body
Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of cannabis-based medicine in a patient population included in a randomized, placebo-controlled, clinical trial
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38054364/
On treating neuroinflammation with a combination of CBD & angiotensin receptor 1 blockers (drugs for high blood pressure & heart failure) which inhibited the release of nitric oxide from the glial cells (brain support cells)
An Emerging Strategy for Neuroinflammation Treatment: Combined Cannabidiol and Angiotensin Receptor Blockers Treatments Effectively Inhibit Glial Nitric Oxide Release
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38003444/
For Fragile X Syndrome (a genetic disorder causing developmental problems & intellectual disabilities), a review of the ECS as a target
Fragile X Syndrome and the Endocannabinoid System as a Therapeutic Target
https://jmsgr.tamhsc.edu/fragile-x-syndrome-and-the-endocannabinoid-system-as-a-therapeutic-target/
A review of the neuroprotective & anti-neuroinflammation effects of cannabis & the potential entourage effect between its components
Elucidating the Neuroinflammatory and Neuroprotective Activity of Phytochemicals in Cannabis sativa and their potential Entourage Effects
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/376524740_Elucidating_the_Neuroinflammatory_and_Neuroprotective_Activity_of_Phytochemicals_in_Cannabis_sativa_and_their_potential_Entourage_Effects
In mice, the CB1 receptors on the dopamine neurons underlie a number of behaviors
Cannabinoid CB1 Receptors Are Expressed in a Subset of Dopamine Neurons and Underlie Cannabinoid-Induced Aversion, Hypoactivity, and Anxiolytic Effects in Mice
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36517243/
On the role of cannabinoid signaling in neurodevelopment
INVESTIGATING CANNABINOID SIGNALLING ACTIONS IN A NEURODEVELOPMENTAL MODEL OF CORTICAL LAMINARIZATION ALTERATIONS
https://www.ibroneuroreports.org/article/S2667-2421(23)00129-X/fulltext
In mice lacking protein kinase C (PKC – important for memory formation), they had higher levels of CB1 receptors “in key brain areas for learning and memory, including the amygdala, the frontal and motor cortex and the hippocampus CA region”
MODULATION OF CANNABINOID RECEPTORS AND PHOSPHOLIPIDS IN COGNITIVELY IMPAIRED MICE LACKING PKCƔ
https://www.ibroneuroreports.org/article/S2667-2421(23)00594-8/pdf
In mouse brain cultures, the two synthetic cannabinoids 4'-F-CBD & HU-910 lowered neuroinflammation
The two synthetic cannabinoid compounds 4'-F-CBD and HU-910 efficiently restrain inflammatory responses of brain microglia and astrocytes
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38013496/
For Alzheimer's disease, developing FAAH inhibitors
Discovery of novel fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitors as anti-Alzheimer’s agents through pharmacophore-based virtual screening, molecular docking and experimental validation
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00044-023-03170-3
On designing Parkinson's disease drugs based on cannabinoids
Design of Cannabinoid-Based Drugs for the Treatment of Parkinson's Disease
https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-031-46545-1_22
Epilepsy & Seizures
In children & young adults with epilepsy, CBD reduced seizure frequency as well as causing improvements to alertness, speech & new developmental milestones with the most common adverse events being irritability & drowsiness
Real-Life Experience With Purified Cannabidiol Treatment for Refractory Epilepsy: A Multicenter Retrospective Study
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37995414/
And a survey of caregivers found that 93% planned to continue using CBD, primarily because of reduced seizures but also for quality of life improvements
Caregiver-reported outcomes with real-world use of cannabidiol in Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome from the BECOME survey
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38183688/
“A large proportion of respondents reported improvements in ≥1 survey question for all nonseizure-related domains: alertness, cognition, and executive function (85%); emotional functioning (82%); language and communication (79% in nonverbal patients and 74% in verbal); activities of daily living (51%); sleep (51%); and physical functioning (46%).”
A thesis project on CBD's regulation of a microRNA as a target to control the brain excitability of seizures (and see an interview with the researcher here)
A Cannabidiol-Regulated MicroRNA Controls Brain Excitability and is a Target for Seizure Control
https://repository.rcsi.com/articles/thesis/A_Cannabidiol-Regulated_MicroRNA_Controls_Brain_Excitability_and_is_a_Target_for_Seizure_Control/20132135
In human brain tissue & a rat model of epilepsy, CBD modified the release of too much glutamate (the brain’s primary excitatory neurotransmitter)
Cannabidiol Modifies the Glutamate Over-Release in Brain Tissue of Patients and Rats with Epilepsy: A Pilot Study
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38137458/
Mental Health
In 69 patients with panic disorder, CBD decreased their threat expectation but not their fear extinction
Effects of cannabidiol on fear conditioning in anxiety disorders: decreased threat expectation during retention, but no enhanced fear re-extinction
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38044339/
This study tried to make it sound worse, but in people at risk for psychosis, cannabis use did not correlate to the likelihood of a transition to a psychiatric disorder, though it did increase disorganization symptoms
Cannabis use influences disorganized symptoms severity but not transition in a cohort of non-help-seeking individuals at-risk for psychosis from São Paulo, Brazil
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38113810/
In Ontario, the legalization of cannabis did not lead to an increase of psychosis during the following seventeen months
Impact of non-medical cannabis legalization with market restrictions on health service use and incident cases of psychotic disorder in Ontario, Canada
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38071933/
In people with childhood trauma who have opioid use disorder, they had lower aversive effects to THC
Brief report: The influence of childhood trauma on the effects of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol in persons with opioid use disorder
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38059660/
A genetic study on people with bipolar disorder finds an associated variant of the MGLL gene (which produces the MGL enzyme that breaks down 2-AG)
Association of MGLL Intronic C>T Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (rs782440) with Borderline Personality Disorder: A Case-Control Study
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38071410/
In a mouse model of autism, activation of the GPR55 receptor helped protect against dendritic spine loss & mitochondrial dysfunction
Modulation of PI3K/Akt/GSK3β signaling cascade through G protein-coupled receptor 55 (GPR55) activation: Prenatal lysophosphatidylinositol attenuates valproic acid-induced synaptic abnormalities and mitochondrial dysfunction
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37866808/
In mice, the memory impairments of THC seem related to ensembles of astrocytes (brain support cells) in the nucleus accumbens (the neural interface between motivation & action)
ASTROCYTIC ENSEMBLES IN NUCLEUS ACCUMBENS: WHAT ROLE DO THEY PLAY IN THC-RELATED IMPAIRMENTS?
https://www.ibroneuroreports.org/article/S2667-2421(23)00460-8/fulltext
In adolescent mice exposed to alcohol, omega fatty acids that improve the endocannabinoid system helped to reverse the effects on synaptic plasticity, memory & behavior
OMEGA-3 MODIFY LONG-TERM CHANGES IN THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM, CANNABINOIDDEPENDENT SYNAPTIC PLASTICITY, MEMORY AND BEHAVIOR ELICITED IN ADULT MALE MICE AFTER BINGE DRINKING DURING ADOLESCENCE
https://www.ibroneuroreports.org/article/S2667-2421(23)00694-2/pdf
Substance Use Disorders
In Australian public health data on people with opioid use disorder, there was not a strong relationship with their use of cannabis
The Long-Term Relationship Between Cannabis and Heroin Use: An 18- to 20-year Follow-Up of the Australian Treatment Outcome Study (ATOS)
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38018142/
In a mouse model of cocaine use disorder, the inflammation & addictive behaviors (conditioned place preference) seem to be mediated by the CB2 receptor
CB2 agonist mitigates cocaine-induced reinstatement of place preference and modulates the inflammatory response in mice
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38085651/
Cannabis Use Disorder
Among US veterans, those with psychiatric disorders had an increased likelihood of a cannabis use disorder diagnosis
Trends in Prevalence of Cannabis Use Disorder Among U.S. Veterans With and Without Psychiatric Disorders Between 2005 and 2019
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38018141/
On treating cannabis use disorder with an fMRI cue-reactivity paradigm
Exploring the Utility of a Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) Cannabis Cue-Reactivity Paradigm in Treatment Seeking Adults with Cannabis Use Disorder
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38014250/
In cannabis use disorder, the relationship between the gut microbiome & the endocannabinoid system
Gut bacteria, endocannabinoid system, and marijuana addiction: Novel therapeutic implications
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2772632023000703
In people trying to quit tobacco, cannabis use was associated with poor quit outcomes
Cannabis Use Among Adults in Cigarette Smoking Cessation Treatment in Ontario, Canada: Prevalence and Association With Tobacco Cessation Outcome, 2015-2021
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38091559/
In people with addiction to heroin or cannabis, they had a lower ratio between the lengths of their 2nd & 4th fingers (a sign of prenatal hormone concentrations linked with addictive behaviors)
Second and fourth (2D:4D) digit ratio in heroin and cannabis addicted patients
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38043030/
Reproduction & Hormones
In men with lower fertility, cannabis use was associated with sperm hypermotility (the hyperactivation they undergo as this sperm approaches the egg, but premature hyperactivation may lead to sperm burnout)
Study of possible relation between chronic use of tobacco, cannabis, and tramadol on semen quality in a sample of Egyptian subfertile males
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2352007823003554
In pregnant women, cannabis use after the first trimester was associated with placental dysfunction & adverse pregnancy outcomes
Cannabis Exposure and Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes Related to Placental Function
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38085313/
And in a rat model of prenatal cannabis smoke exposure, high THC or CBD smoke was associated with fewer offspring & increased uterine reabsorption events as well as the upregulation of several pro-inflammatory cytokines in the mother but reduced cytokines & chemokines in the placental and fetal brain tissues
Characterization of cannabinoid plasma concentration, maternal health, and cytokine levels in a rat model of prenatal Cannabis smoke exposure
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38030657/
A scrape & analysis of pregnancy posts on “Ganja Mamas”
A Descriptive Analysis of a Popular Pregnancy Forum: Comments on the Developmental Consequences of Cannabis use on Offspring
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38095172/
In rat vas deferens tissue of the testicles, the endocannabinoid system interacts with the COX system to regulate contractility
Interaction of endocannabinoid system and cyclooxygenase metabolites with fatty acid amide hydrolase and cyclooxygenase enzyme activities on contractile responses in rat vas deferens tissue
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38032490/
A thesis project on the effects of THC on chicken embryo growth
EFFECTS OF DELTA-9-TETRAHYDOCANNABINOL ON CHICK EMBRYO GROWTH
https://scholarworks.calstate.edu/downloads/rx913x80q
The Immune System & Microbial
College students with an autoimmune disease are more likely to be using cannabis than those without an autoimmune disease
A Comparative Analysis of the Frequency and Motivations for Cannabis Use in College Students With & Without an Autoimmune Disease
https://esmed.org/MRA/mra/article/view/4674
Hemp proteins cause immunomodulation
Identification, characterization, and molecular docking of immunomodulatory oligopeptides from bioavailable hempseed protein hydrolysates
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0963996923012607
Against staph infections, using the semi-synthetic tetrahydrocannabidiol (THCBD)
Exploring the Antibacterial Potential of Semisynthetic Phytocannabinoid: Tetrahydrocannabidiol (THCBD) as a Potential Antibacterial Agent against Sensitive and Resistant Strains of Staphylococcus aureus
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051636/
Using hemp seed extracts against the biofilms of Staphylococcus epidermidis (a skin bacteria that can be pathogenic for people with compromised immune systems & often found on surgical devices)
Aqueous Extracts from Hemp Seeds as a New Weapon against Staphylococcus epidermidis Biofilms
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38003214/
Biofilms are a consortium of cells sticking together for protection, sometimes described as cities for microbes. In the case of bacteria, it makes them harder to reach & kill with antibiotics in their hidden enclaves on hospital equipment.
Pain & Surgeries
The perceptions of medical cannabis among chronic pain patients & their pharmacists
Experiences and Perceptions of Medical Cannabis among People Living with Chronic Pain and Community Pharmacists: A Qualitative Study in Canada
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38027232/
“Patients' perspectives included
cannabis as an alternative to other pain medications
a new treatment with potential health-related risks
a therapy rather than a recreational drug.
Pharmacists' perspectives included
challenges in monitoring drug interactions with cannabis in the context of scarce research data
informing and treating patients self-medicating with cannabis amid its growing popularity
financial costs and legal constraints for patients.”
Young adults with more intense chronic pain are more likely to be using cannabis
Chronic Pain and Cannabis Use Frequency, Intensity, and Severity in Young Adults
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38017655/
A rather negative review on cannabis for pain by the American Society of Pain & Neuroscience shows how limited the peer reviewed literature can be
Medical Cannabis: A Review from the American Society of Pain and Neuroscience
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38094100/
When I hear the phrase “science hasn't proved that”, it often makes me shake my head, because what that often means is “science hasn't really looked yet”.
If there's anything people report about cannabis or CBD, is that it helps for their pain. It's been at the top of every survey about medical usage for decades. And when people fall victim to the dogmatic religion of scientism, they get blinded to a world that only exists in certain types of studies.
As the Bard said, “There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, than are dreamt of in our philosophy”.
In a rat model of facial nerve pain, CBD showed a gendered relationship to painkilling effects with males having a U curve while females being dose dependent
SEX-RELATED DIFFERENCES IN THE ANTINOCICEPTIVE EFFECT OF CANNABIDIOL IN A RODENT MODEL OF TRIGEMINAL NEURALGIA.
https://www.ibroneuroreports.org/article/S2667-2421(23)01536-1/fulltext
A summary of considerations on cannabis use after an operation
Updated Considerations Regarding Cannabis Use in Perioperative Patients
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38011056/
The Guts, Metabolism, Oral Health & CHS
In patients with type 2 diabetes, their plasma endocannabinoid levels may be a biomarker for the development of cognitive decline
Plasma endocannabinoid alterations as a link in the comorbidity of Alzheimer's disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus
https://riuma.uma.es/xmlui/handle/10630/28197
On how the endocannabinoids modulate the gut microbiome
Emerging mechanisms by which endocannabinoids and their derivatives modulate bacterial populations within the gut microbiome
https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/adar.2023.11359/full
In pancreatitis patients, the racial differences between their tobacco & cannabis use
Racial differences in cigarettes and marijuana use among acute pancreatitis patients
https://aacrjournals.org/cebp/article/32/12_Supplement/A001/731072
A thesis project in mouse pancreatic beta cells on how cannabinoids influence insulin secretion
Cannabinoids influence insulin secretion in a mouse pancreatic β-cell line
https://ourarchive.otago.ac.nz/handle/10523/16455
In teeth, their stem cells have an immune system response to endocannabinoids
Tumor necrosis factor α, and agonist and antagonists of cannabinoid receptor type 1 and type 2 alter the immunophenotype of stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37970951/
CBD nanoemulsions for delivery across the mouth mucosal membranes
Enhancing transmucosal delivery of CBD through nanoemulsion: in vitro and in vivo studies
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38064145/
The Musculoskeletal System & Exercise
For osteoporosis, developing CB2 receptor agonists
Cannabinoid receptors type 2: Function and development in agonist discovery from synthetic and natural sources with applications for the therapy of osteoporosis
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S187853522300998X
In neuromuscular cells, CBD modulated acetylcholine release via muscarinic receptors & the inhibition of nicotinic receptors
Multi targets of cannabidiol (CBD) on skeletal mammalian and avian neuromuscular preparations
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38054804/
The Heart
In people who had a coronary artery bypass grafting surgery, the use of cannabis was associated with a decreased risk of in-hospital mortality but also increased odds of a longer hospital stay as well as complications like stroke
Association Between Marijuana Use and Clinical Outcomes After Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38070258/
On the terpene eugenol, a review of its anti-inflammatory effects & potential for treating heart disease
Targeting cardiovascular risk factors with eugenol: an anti-inflammatory perspective
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38085446/
In the aortas of female mice, CB1 receptors helped to control vascular responses
Role of CB1 Cannabinoid Receptors in Vascular Responses and Vascular Remodeling of the Aorta in Female Mice
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38003619/
In angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels), the synthetic cannabinoid (R)-5-Fluoro-ADB increased their proliferation rate & angiogenic capacity
Assessment of the proliferative and angiogenic effects of the synthetic cannabinoid (R)-5-fluoro ADB on human cerebral microvascular endothelial cells
https://ijbms.mums.ac.ir/article_23370.html
The Lungs
In people with asthma, activating the CB2 receptor with oleoylethanolamide (a naturally occurring analog to anandamide) contributed to the disease progression
Cannabinoid receptor 2 as a regulator of inflammation induced by oleoylethanolamide in eosinophilic asthma
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38061443/
The Liver
In a rat model of metabolic disorder with fatty livers, cannabis oil improved their lipid imbalances, liver damage & oxidative stress via the NrF2 expression & NF-κB pathways
Effects of Full-Spectrum Cannabis Oil with a Cannabidiol:Tetrahydrocannabinol 2:1 Ratio on the Mechanisms Involved in Hepatic Steatosis and Oxidative Stress in Rats Fed a Sucrose-Rich Diet
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38023489/
A thesis project on a female mouse model of fatty liver disease & the therapeutic potential of CBG
INVESTIGATING THE THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF CANNABIGEROL (CBG) IN FEMALE NONALCOHOLIC STEATOHEPATITIS (NASH) MOUSE MODEL
https://digscholarship.unco.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1354&context=theses
The Skin
In people with psoriasis, topical cannabinoids combined well with a polyherbal formulation for lowering psoriasis symptoms
Therapeutic Potential of Topical Cannabis for the Treatment of Psoriasis: A Preliminary Clinical Evaluation of Two Different Formulations
https://ph04.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/JCST/article/view/1225
Healing mouse incision wounds with quantum dots based on cannabis seeds
Graphene quantum dots based on cannabis seeds for efficient wound healing in a mouse incisional wound model: Link with stress and neurobehavioral effect
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38042382/
A CBG spray-dried powder for use as a topical
Spray-Dried Powder Containing Cannabigerol: A New Extemporaneous Emulgel for Topical Administration
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38140088/
Cancer & Chemotherapy
In patients with osteosarcoma, their levels of FAAH is a biomarker for disease progression
Lipid metabolism-derived FAAH is a sensitive marker for the prognosis and immunotherapy of osteosarcoma patients
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38169921/
For glioblastomas (the most aggressive brain cancer), CBD & a fluoridated CBD (4’-F-CBD) synergized with the standard treatment of temozolomide to kill cancer cells
Cannabidiol and fluorinated derivative anti-cancer properties against glioblastoma multiforme cell lines, and synergy with imidazotetrazine agents
https://assets.researchsquare.com/files/rs-3639079/v1/1cec6eb4-9841-4cef-a116-a27ee60a284f.pdf?c=1701195664
Fluoridation, Mandrake. Fluoridation.
In glioblastoma cells, part of the anti-cancer effects of THC are mediated by the GPR55 receptor (which may one day be known as CB3)
Elucidation of GPR55-Associated Signaling behind THC and LPI Reducing Effects on Ki67-Immunoreactive Nuclei in Patient-Derived Glioblastoma Cells
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37998380/
In a mouse model of breast cancer, the anti-tumor properties of PEA
Exploring the Protective Effect against 7,12-Dimethylbenz[a]anthracene-Induced Breast Tumors of Palmitoylethanolamide
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/full/10.1021/acsptsci.3c00188
A review of the gut microbiome, cannabis & fighting cancer
Buds and Bugs: A Fascinating Tale of Gut Microbiota and Cannabis in the Fight against Cancer
https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/25/2/872
For cancer, a review of the cannabinoids targeting the Nrf2 signaling pathway
Targeting Nrf2 Signaling Pathway in Cancer Prevention and Treatment: The Role of Cannabis Compounds
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38136172/
The anti-cancer effects of silver nanoparticles created from cannabis seed extracts
Bio-Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles Using Cannabis Sativa Seed Extracts and Its Anticancer Effects
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11468-023-02142-y
In melanoma cells, the drug AM1172 (which inhibits the reuptake of anandamide, thus raising its levels) worked well with common cancer treatment drugs but also produced toxic effects on healthy human skin cells
AM1172 (a hydrolysis-resistant endocannabinoid analog that inhibits anandamide cellular uptake) reduces the viability of the various melanoma cells, but it exerts significant cytotoxic effects on healthy cells: an in vitro study based on isobolographic analysis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38019413/
In canine mast cell tumors in the skin, those with high levels of CB2 receptors could be targeted with cannabinoids for treatment
Immunoreactivity of p21, MMP-1 and CB2 receptor proteins in cutaneous canine mast cell tumours: an association with the three-tier grading system
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38130452/
A method of spinning off new cannabinoids with anti-cancer properties
Divergent synthesis of fractionated Cannabis sativa extract led to multiple cannabinoids C-&O-glycosides with anti-proliferative/anti-metastatic properties
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38091718/
Synthetic Cannabinoids
In an Egyptian state, an analysis of synthetic cannabinoid-related hospital admissions
SYNTHETIC CANNABINOIDS USE BY CANNABIS ABUSERS ADMITTED TO MENOUFIA POISONING AND DEPENDENCE CONTROL CENTER
https://ejfsat.journals.ekb.eg/article_328877_150ae66d1a593441746958b651fe28b0.pdf
A new class of synthetic cannabinoids found in the wild with a bromide at the five position on the phenyl ring
Detection in seized samples, analytical characterization, and in vitro metabolism of the newly emerged 5-bromo-indazole-3-carboxamide synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38037247/
On how well the synthetic cannabinoids bind to fatty lipids & stay in the body
Log D7.4 and plasma protein binding of synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists and a comparison of experimental and predicted lipophilicity
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38062938/
How synthetic cannabinoids are binding at the CB2 receptor
Evaluating signaling bias for synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists at the cannabinoid CB2 receptor
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38018694/
Cool Chemistry & Tools
In mice, testing LEI-515 (an MGL inhibitor for raising 2-AG levels that’s restricted to the body) showed it to lower liver necrosis, oxidative stress & inflammation as well as causing painkilling effects via the CB2 receptor
A monoacylglycerol lipase inhibitor showing therapeutic efficacy in mice without central side effects or dependence
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38052772/
And on creating the new peripheral CB1 receptor inverse agonist TM38837 (an inverse agonist is one that produces the opposite effect of the usual drug that binds there & peripheral means that it's restricted to the body & doesn't enter the brain)
Optimizing and characterizing 4-methyl substituted pyrazol-3-carboxamides leading to the peripheral cannabinoid 1 receptor inverse agonist TM38837
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38043690/
And developing new inhibitors of the MAGL enzyme (which breaks down 2-AG)
Advances in the development of covalent small molecule inhibitors of monoacylglycerol lipase
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38013174/
On ways to improve the activity of the CBDA synthase enzyme
Improvement of cannabidiolic acid synthetase activity through molecular docking and site-directed mutagenesis
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0926669023016254
On creating a cellular system for testing the effects of drugs targeting the CB1 receptor
Establishment of a screening cell model for cannabinoid type 1 receptor agonists
https://pesquisa.bvsalud.org/portal/resource/pt/wpr-978710
A model of CB1 activation & its dimer coupling to dopamine receptors or itself
A quantitative pharmacology model for cannabinoid CB1 receptor mediated by Gi/Gs protein competition
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38072805/
On the factors in GC-MS testing that caused conversion from CBD to THC
Factors influencing the in situ formation of Δ9-THC from cannabidiol during GC-MS analysis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38049934/
Thanks.
- lex
PS: For this week’s swinging album, ‘Piano Moods’ by Teddy Wilson, often called “the definitive swing pianist”. Moving from Texas to Detroit in the late ‘20s, he was soon playing piano with the likes of Louis Armstrong, Earl Hines & Benny Goodman. The latter invited him to join the Benny Goodman Trio with Gene Krupa (a personal hero of mine both because my grandfather always loved his drumming & because Krupa got busted for cannabis back when that was a career-stopping situation, but he bounced back). When Teddy Wilson joined that trio, he became one of the first black musicians to join a racially integrated group. He continued to play hot swing with the greats & did recordings with singers like Ella, Billie, Lena & Mildred. For his support of leftist causes, he was dubbed the “Marxist Mozart” & he spent his later years teaching at Juilliard. Those lucky kids…
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