Cannabis and Its Secondary Metabolites: Their Use as Therapeutic Drugs, Toxicological Aspects, and Analytical Determination

Design Considerations for Medicinal Cannabis Clinical Trials in People Receiving Palliative Care

CONTEXT

Evaluating medicinal cannabis in clinical trials is important for informing its efficacy and safety in clinical care. Alongside the inherent practical challenges of conducting clinical trials in people receiving palliative care, operationalizing clinical trials with a medicinal cannabis product requires additional consideration of legal, regulatory, ethical, feasibility, pharmacological and product requirements.

OBJECTIVES

This manuscript aims to explore these considerations when operationalizing medicinal cannabis clinical trials in people receiving palliative care.

METHODS

Our Phase I/IIb trial examined pharmacokinetic, toxicity and secondary (efficacy) outcomes of a vaporized medicinal cannabis product for anorexia in people with advanced cancer (ACTRN12616000516482). Using action research methodology, notes from trial investigator meetings served as an audit trail for the planning and execution of the trial. These data were integrated and synthesized to reveal key design considerations for operationalizing medicinal cannabis trials evaluating symptom control in people receiving palliative care.

RESULTS

Six key considerations emerged including: 1) Operating within medicinal cannabis legislation; 2) Biological plausibility of cannabinoid type(s) and impact on target symptoms; 3) Standardising cannabinoid content, mode of administration, dosage and packaging; 4) Ethical and safety considerations; 5) Optimizing trial site operationalization; and 6) Pharmacy dispensing, storage and security of product. Learnings and recommendations for future trials are also discussed.

CONCLUSION

This study explores the learnings and challenges involved in designing and conducting medicinal cannabis trials for symptom management in people receiving palliative care. These insights gained from our experience can inform the optimal design and operationalization of future medicinal cannabis trials in cancer and other chronic conditions.

Pharmacokinetics of cannabidiol, (-)-trans-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, and their oxidative metabolites after intravenous and oral administration of a cannabidiol-dominant full-spectrum hemp product to beagle dogs

Introduction

This study investigated the pharmacokinetics, safety, and tolerability of a full-spectrum CBD-dominant oil formulated in medium-chain triglycerides (MCT oil) after a single intravenous (IV) administration, a single oral (PO) administration, and multiple oral administrations of CBD at a dose of 2.2 mg/kg in adult male and female beagle dogs.

Methods

The CBD-dominant extract was administered to adult, intact beagle dogs (male n = 4, female n = 2) once intravenously, once orally, and every 12 h orally for 21 days at a dose of 2.2 mg CBD/kg body weight (BW). Blood samples were collected at predetermined times to measure concentrations of serum CBD, 7-hydroxy-CBD (7-OH-CBD), 7-nor-7-carboxy-CBD (7-COOH-CBD), Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), 11-hydroxy-THC (11-OH-THC), and 11-carboxy-THC (11-COOH-THC). Serum CBD and Δ9-THC concentrations were analyzed to estimate various pharmacokinetic parameters. Selected physical, behavioral, hematologic, and blood chemical measurements were obtained before and during single and repeated dose administrations.

Results

Pharmacokinetics of CBD after IV administration indicated a median (range) systemic clearance (CL) of 7.06 (6.14-10.5) mL/min/kg, a steady-state volume of distribution (Vss) of 2.13 (1.10-2.85) L/kg, and a half-life of 291 (183-508) min. The median (range) extent of systemic availability of CBD after a single oral dose was 31.2 (17.7-35.7)%. Pharmacokinetics of Δ9-THC after IV administration were characterized by a CL of 8.85 (6.88-14.4) mL/min/kg, Vss of 1.98 (1.30-2.30) L/kg, and a half-life of 169 (139-476) min. The extent of systemic availability of Δ9-THC after PO administration was 40.9 (20.5-46.2)%. The test article was well tolerated in all dogs during the study. Although serum alkaline phosphatase concentrations increased during the repeated PO dose study, they remained within normal limits.

Discussion

Both CBD and Δ9-THC were rapidly cleared after IV administration and exhibited extensive volumes of distribution. Comparison of clearance to serum hepatic blood flow estimated the hepatic extraction ratio and extent of first pass metabolism after PO administration, which was confirmed by analyzing the single PO dose pharmacokinetic data. The AUC0-∞ for 7-OH-CBD after single IV compared to single PO dose was not different, suggesting complete absorption of CBD from the formulation in MCT oil when administered with canned dog food.

Five Years of Long COVID Syndrome: An Updated Review on Cardiometabolic and Psychiatric Aspects

Five years after the outbreak of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, there is still a significant number of people who have survived COVID-19 but never fully recovered from the disease. They go through an odyssey of doctor visits and a multitude of diagnostic tests, which ultimately do not provide concrete correlations and answers to the question of how exactly long COVID (LC) affects both physical and mental health, and performance. Often, not even highly technical and highly specialized methods, such as cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), can provide further explanation. Various research efforts continue to investigate the causes, effects and possible treatments of LC, particularly its impact on cognition and mental health. Patients with LC may experience persistent symptoms, but new symptoms also occur. Based on available studies, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) does not only affect the pulmonary system, but nearly every major system and organ, from the brain and heart to the kidneys and immune system. What mechanisms could explain the persistent symptoms of LC and the inadequate recovery? How valuable is an early internal and neurological examination, particularly in the context of psychotherapy? In this review, we examined which factors could contribute to the persistence of LC symptoms and to what extent mitochondrial impairment by LC can explain the symptoms of LC.

Population genomics of a natural Cannabis sativa L. collection from Iran identifies novel genetic loci for flowering time, morphology, sex and chemotyping

BACKGROUND

Future breeding and selection of Cannabis sativa L. for both drug production and industrial purposes require a source of germplasm with wide genetic variation, such as that found in wild relatives and progenitors of highly cultivated plants. Limited directional selection and breeding have occurred in this crop, especially informed by molecular markers.

RESULTS

This study investigated the population genomics of a natural cannabis collection comprising male and female individuals from various climatic zones in Iran. Using Genotyping-By-Sequencing (GBS), we sequenced 228 individuals from 35 populations. The data obtained enabled an association analysis, linking genotypes with key phenotypes such as inflorescence characteristics, flowering time, plant morphology, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) content, and sex. We detected approximately 23,266 significant high-quality Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs), establishing associations between markers and traits. The population structure analysis revealed that Iranian cannabis plants fall into five distinct groups. Additionally, a comparison with global data suggested that the Iranian populations is distinctive and generally closer to marijuana than to hemp, with some populations showing a closer affinity to hemp. The GWAS identified novel genetic loci associated with sex, yield, and chemotype traits in cannabis, which had not been previously reported.

CONCLUSION

The study's findings highlight the distinct genetic structure of Iranian Cannabis populations. The identification of novel genetic loci associated with important traits suggests potential targets for future breeding programs. This research underscores the value of the Iranian cannabis germplasm as a resource for breeding and selection efforts aimed at improving Cannabis for various uses.

Pharmacokinetics of Oral Cannabinoid Δ8-Tetrahydrocannabivarin and Its Main Metabolites in Healthy Participants

BACKGROUND

Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) is a phytocannabinoid commonly found in cannabis with potential pharmacological properties; however, its post-acute pharmacokinetics (PK) in humans have not been studied yet. THCV has two isomers, Δ9- and Δ8-THCV, which seem to have different pharmacological properties. We investigated the PK of the Δ8-THCV isomer after oral administration as part of a two-phase, dose-ranging, placebo-controlled trial in healthy participants.

METHODS

Participants (n = 21) were enrolled in six study sessions and randomly received the following doses of a medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil oral formulation of Δ8-THCV: placebo, 12.5 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, and 200 mg. Plasma samples from 15 participants were collected up to 8 h after administration and were analyzed by a validated two-dimensional high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry assay. The trial was registered on clinicaltrials.gov (NCT05210634).

RESULTS

After oral administration, 11-nor-9-carboxy-Δ8-THCV (Δ8-THCV-COOH) was the main metabolite detected. The median time-to-maximum concentration (tmax) ranged 3.8-5.0 h across doses for Δ8-THCV and 4.6-5.3 h for Δ8-THCV-COOH. The maximum concentration (Cmax) and area under the concentration-time curve over the observation period (AUClast) appeared to be dose-linear. Median AUClast increased 2.3- to 4.8-fold and 1.7- to 2.9-fold for Δ8-THCV and Δ8-THCV-COOH, respectively, every two-fold increase in the dose. The isomers Δ9-THCV and Δ9-THCV-COOH were detected in plasma, despite being undetected in the formulated drug product analyzed by a third-party laboratory.

CONCLUSIONS

For the first time, we report the pharmacokinetics of Δ8-THCV and its major metabolites after oral administration in humans. Δ8-THCV AUClast showed dose linearity but the observed possible conversion to the Δ9-THCV isomer should be further studied.

Exploring the Presence of Cannabinoids in Hemp-Infused Fermented Milk Drinks: An Analysis of Pre- and Post-Fermentation Levels

Yoghurts are the most popular fermented dairy products. Consumer attention is directed towards products containing inputs that enrich the product with bioactive substances. The growing interest in the Cannabis sativa L. plant has resulted in the development of a market for hemp products. The main aim of this research work was to determine the effect of the lactic fermentation process on the stability of cannabinoids in fermented milk beverages containing hemp inputs (hemp oil, dried hemp, ethanolic hemp extract) at 0.5, 1 and 2% (w/v). The effect of the type of hemp input on the technological process (i.e., pH value, viability of LAB during 28 days of storage) was also checked and the sensory quality of the prepared samples was evaluated. It was shown that the choice of type/form and amount of hemp addition influenced the final cannabinoid content of the product after fermentation and post-fermentation, but no effect on the survival of yoghurt bacteria or pH changes during storage was confirmed. Fermented milk drinks containing hemp oil had the highest cannabinoid content. The QDA results of the sensory evaluation of the yoghurts show that the most acceptable product in terms of overall quality is the yoghurt containing 0.5% hemp extract and 2% hemp oil.

Biosynthetic Strategies of Berberine Bridge Enzyme-like Flavoprotein Oxidases toward Structural Diversification in Natural Product Biosynthesis

Berberine bridge enzyme-like oxidases are often involved in natural product biosynthesis and are seen as essential enzymes for the generation of intricate pharmacophores. These oxidases have the ability to transfer a hydride atom to the FAD cofactor, which enables complex substrate modifications and rearrangements including (intramolecular) cyclizations, carbon-carbon bond formations, and nucleophilic additions. Despite the diverse range of activities, the mechanistic details of these reactions often remain incompletely understood. In this Review, we delve into the complexity that BBE-like oxidases from bacteria, fungal, and plant origins exhibit by providing an overview of the shared catalytic features and emphasizing the different reactivities. We propose four generalized modes of action by which BBE-like oxidases enable the synthesis of natural products, ranging from the classic alcohol oxidation reactions to less common amine and amide oxidation reactions. Exploring the mechanisms utilized by nature to produce its vast array of natural products is a subject of considerable interest and can lead to the discovery of unique biochemical activities.

Characterisation of Cannabis-Based Products Marketed for Medical and Non-Medical Use Purchased in Portugal

Cannabis-based products have gained attention in recent years for their perceived therapeutic benefits (with cannabinoids such as THC and CBD) and widespread availability. However, these products often lack accurate labelling regarding their cannabinoid content. Our study, conducted with products available in Portugal, revealed significant discrepancies between label claims and actual cannabinoid compositions. A fully validated method was developed for the characterisation of different products acquired from pharmacies and street shops (beverages, herbal samples, oils, and cosmetic products) using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with a diode array detector. Linearity ranged from 0.4 to 100 µg/mL (0.04-10 µg/mg) (THC, 8-THC, CBD, CBG, CBDA, CBGA), 0.1-100 µg/mL (0.01-10 µg/mg) (CBN), 0.4-250 µg/mL (0.04-25 µg/mg) (THCA-A), and 0.8-100 µg/mL (0.08-10 µg/mg) (CBCA). Among sampled beverages, none contained detectable cannabinoids, despite suggestive packaging. Similarly, oils often differed from the declared cannabinoid compositions, with some containing significantly higher CBD concentrations than labelled. These inconsistencies raise serious concerns regarding consumer safety and informed decision-making. Moreover, our findings underscore the need for stringent regulation and standardised testing protocols to ensure the accuracy and safety of cannabis-based products.

Public Knowledge, Perceptions, and Behavioral Intention Regarding Medical Cannabis in Belgium

Growing evidence on medical cannabis has moved its legislation forward in various countries, which has increased research on stakeholder reactions. While various studies looked at experts and users, research on public perceptions is scarce. This study aims to (1) examine the relationships between knowledge, perceptions, and behavioral intention toward medical cannabis, and (2) identify and profile key segments within the general public. An online survey was conducted among 656 respondents in Belgium. Findings showed that both subjective and objective knowledge are relatively poor, while risk/benefit perceptions and behavioral intention are much more positive. Subjective and objective knowledge as well as social trust have a positive influence on benefit perceptions and a negative influence on risk perceptions. In turn, risk and benefit perceptions are key determinants of behavioral intention, but in opposite directions. Furthermore, cluster analysis identified a cautious (23% of the sample), positive (50%), and enthusiastic cluster (27%). In terms of socio-demographic profile, older and highly educated people were significantly more represented in the latter two clusters. While our study demonstrated that cannabis is well accepted for medical purposes, research is needed to further validate the relationships between knowledge, perceptions, and (intended) behavior in different settings and policy contexts.

Use of cannabidiol in the treatment of drug-refractory epilepsy in children and young adults: A systematic review

Objectives

Epilepsy poses a significant challenge in pediatric and adolescent populations, impacting not only seizures but also psychological and cognitive comorbidities, leading to higher mortality rates than the general population. Drug-refractory epilepsy, resistant to conventional treatments, affects a range of 7-20% of pediatric patients. The search for alternative therapies has led to exploring the therapeutic potential of Cannabis sativa L. compounds, particularly cannabidiol (CBD). Examine the use of CBD for treating drug-refractory epilepsy in children and young adults, summarizing existing evidence on its efficacy.

Materials and Methods

A systematic review, following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines, assessed studies from 2018 to 2023, focusing on CBD's efficacy and safety for treatment-resistant epilepsy in pediatric and juvenile populations. The search spanned seven databases, and the studies underwent rigorous screening and data extraction.

Results

Out of 6351 identified articles, eight were selected for review. The included studies reported positive outcomes, with CBD leading to a reduction in seizure frequency ranging from 50% to complete seizure freedom. Adverse effects were mostly mild and reversible, including drowsiness, diarrhea, and loss of appetite.

Conclusion

The CBD emerges as a promising tool for refractory epilepsy in pediatric patients, showing efficacy in reducing seizure frequency and improving overall quality of life. Despite mild and reversible adverse effects, CBD's benefits outweigh the risks. However, more research on long-term effects is needed to fully understand its implications.

Evaluation of Parameters Affecting Agrobacterium-Mediated Transient Gene Expression in Industrial Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.)

Industrial hemp Cannabis sativa L. is an economically important crop mostly grown for its fiber, oil, and seeds. Due to its increasing applications in the pharmaceutical industry and a lack of knowledge of gene functions in cannabinoid biosynthesis pathways, developing an efficient transformation platform for the genetic engineering of industrial hemp has become necessary to enable functional genomic and industrial application studies. A critical step in the development of Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation in the hemp genus is the establishment of optimal conditions for T-DNA gene delivery into different explants from which whole plantlets can be regenerated. As a first step in the development of a successful Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation method for hemp gene editing, the factors influencing the successful T-DNA integration and expression (as measured by transient β-glucuronidase (GUS) and Green Florescent Protein (GFP) expression) were investigated. In this study, the parameters for an agroinfiltration system in hemp, which applies to the stable transformation method, were optimized. In the present study, we tested different explants, such as 1- to 3-week-old leaves, cotyledons, hypocotyls, root segments, nodal parts, and 2- to 3-week-old leaf-derived calli. We observed that the 3-week-old leaves were the best explant for transient gene expression. Fully expanded 2- to 3-week-old leaf explants, in combination with 30 min of immersion time, 60 µM silver nitrate, 0.5 µM calcium chloride, 150 µM natural phenolic compound acetosyringone, and a bacterial density of OD600nm = 0.4 resulted in the highest GUS and GFP expression. The improved method of genetic transformation established in the present study will be useful for the introduction of foreign genes of interest, using the latest technologies such as genome editing, and studying gene functions that regulate secondary metabolites in hemp.

Recent advances in the development of portable technologies and commercial products to detect Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol in biofluids: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

The primary components driving the current commercial fascination with cannabis products are phytocannabinoids, a diverse group of over 100 lipophilic secondary metabolites derived from the cannabis plant. Although numerous phytocannabinoids exhibit pharmacological effects, the foremost attention has been directed towards Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol, the two most abundant phytocannabinoids, for their potential human applications. Despite their structural similarity, THC and cannabidiol diverge in terms of their psychotropic effects, with THC inducing notable psychological alterations. There is a clear need for accurate and rapid THC measurement methods that offer dependable, readily accessible, and cost-effective analytical information. This review presents a comprehensive view of the present state of alternative technologies that could potentially facilitate the creation of portable devices suitable for on-site usage or as personal monitors, enabling non-intrusive THC measurements.

METHOD

A literature survey from 2017 to 2023 on the development of portable technologies and commercial products to detect THC in biofluids was performed using electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. A systematic review of available literature was conducted using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic. Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines.

RESULTS

Eighty-nine studies met the selection criteria. Fifty-seven peer-reviewed studies were related to the detection of THC by conventional separation techniques used in analytical laboratories that are still considered the gold standard. Studies using optical (n = 12) and electrochemical (n = 13) portable sensors and biosensors were also identified as well as commercially available devices (n = 7).

DISCUSSION

The landscape of THC detection technology is predominantly shaped by immunoassay tests, owing to their established reliability. However, these methods have distinct drawbacks, particularly for quantitative analysis. Electrochemical sensing technology holds great potential to overcome the challenges of quantification and present a multitude of advantages, encompassing the possibility of miniaturization and diverse modifications to amplify sensitivity and selectivity. Nevertheless, these sensors have considerable limitations, including non-specific interactions and the potential interference of compounds and substances existing in biofluids.

CONCLUSION

The foremost challenge in THC detection involves creating electrochemical sensors that are both stable and long-lasting while exhibiting exceptional selectivity, minimal non-specific interactions, and decreased susceptibility to matrix interferences. These aspects need to be resolved before these sensors can be successfully introduced to the market.

Research progress in the management of vascular disease with cannabidiol: a review

The morbidity and mortality rates associated with vascular disease (VD) have been gradually increasing. Currently, the most common treatment for VD is surgery, with the progress in drug therapy remaining slow. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a natural extract of Cannabis sativa L. with sedative, analgesic, and nonaddictive properties. CBD binds to 56 cardiovascular-related receptors and exerts extensive regulatory effects on the cardiovascular system, making it a potential pharmacological agent for the management of VD. However, most CBD studies have focused on neurological and cardiac diseases, and research on the management of VD with CBD is still rare. In this review, we summarize the currently available data on CBD in the management of VD, addressing four aspects: the major molecular targets of CBD in VD management, pharmacokinetic properties, therapeutic effects of CBD on common VDs, and side effects. The findings indicate that CBD has anti-anxiety, anti-oxidation, and anti-inflammatory properties and can inhibit abnormal proliferation and apoptosis of vascular smooth muscle and endothelial cells; these effects suggest CBD as a therapeutic agent for atherosclerosis, stress-induced hypertension, diabetes-related vasculopathy, ischemia-reperfusion injury, and vascular damage caused by smoking and alcohol abuse. This study provides a theoretical basis for further research on CBD in the management of VD.

Dual cytoplasmic-peroxisomal compartmentalization engineering and multiple metabolic engineering strategies for high yield non-psychoactive cannabinoid in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

CBG (Cannabigerol), a nonpsychoactive cannabinoid, has garnered attention due to its extensive antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. However, the natural content of CBG in Cannabis sativa L. is minimal. In this study, we developed an engineered cell factory for CBG production using Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We introduced the CBGA biosynthetic pathway into S. cerevisiae and employed several strategies to enhance CBGA production. These strategies included dynamically inhibiting the competitive bypass of key metabolic pathways regulated by Erg20p. Additionally, we implemented a dual cytoplasmic-peroxisomal compartmentalization approach to further increase CBGA production. Furthermore, we ensured efficient CBGA production by optimizing NADPH and acetyl-CoA pools. Ultimately, our engineered strain achieved a CBG titer of 138 mg L-1 through fed-batch fermentation in a 5 L bioreactor, facilitated by microwave decarboxylation extraction. These findings underscore the significant potential of yeast cell factories for achieving higher yields in cannabinoid production.

Hemp-Derived CBD Used in Food and Food Supplements

Cannabis sativa L., a plant historically utilized for textile fibers, oil, and animal feed, is progressively being recognized as a potential food source. This review elucidates the nutritional and functional attributes of hemp and cannabidiol (CBD) within the context of food science. Hemp is characterized by the presence of approximately 545 secondary metabolites, among which around 144 are bioactive cannabinoids of primary importance. The study looks in detail at the nutritional components of cannabis and the potential health benefits of CBD, encompassing anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic, and antipsychotic effects. The review deals with the legislation and potential applications of hemp in the food industry and with the future directions of cannabis applications as well. The paper emphasizes the need for more scientific investigation to validate the safety and efficacy of hemp components in food products, as current research suggests that CBD may have great benefits for a wide range of consumers.

The Therapeutic Potential of Amphetamine-like Psychostimulants

This review delves into the therapeutic applications of amphetamine-type stimulants such as lisdexamphetamine dimesylate, mixed amphetamine salts, 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), dextroamphetamine, and phentermine. These compounds have been investigated for their potential in treating a range of psychiatric disorders, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), drug dependence, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and obesity. Lisdexamphetamine dimesylate has shown promise in effectively treating ADHD symptoms in both children and adults. Additionally, it has been explored as a potential treatment for drug dependency and withdrawal, demonstrating encouraging results. Mixed amphetamine salts have also exhibited efficacy in reducing ADHD symptoms in adults. Future research should explore their potential use in treating bipolar disorder and cocaine dependence, considering the associated risks and benefits. MDMA-assisted psychotherapy has emerged as an innovative approach to treating PTSD, leading to sustained reductions in symptoms and even promoting post-traumatic growth. Furthermore, it has shown promise in managing anxiety related to life-threatening illnesses. Dextroamphetamine and phentermine have demonstrated efficacy in treating cocaine and opioid dependence, ADHD, and obesity. However, careful consideration and monitoring by medical professionals are essential due to the potential risks and benefits associated with them. In conclusion, amphetamine-type stimulants present a promising avenue for therapeutic interventions in various psychiatric conditions. Nevertheless, further research is necessary to comprehensively understand their mechanisms of action, dosage requirements, and long-term effects in different patient populations.

Current Challenges and Opportunities for Improved Cannabidiol Solubility

Cannabidiol (CBD), derived from the cannabis plant, has gained significant attention due to its potential therapeutic benefits. However, one of the challenges associated with CBD administration is its low bioavailability, which refers to the fraction of an administered dose that reaches systemic circulation. This limitation necessitates the exploration of various approaches to enhance the bioavailability of CBD, thus helping to maximize its therapeutic potential. A variety of approaches are now emerging, including nanoemulsion-based systems, lipid-based formulations, prodrugs, nanocarriers, and alternative routes of administration, which hold promise for improving the bioavailability of CBD and pave the way for novel formulations that maximize the therapeutic potential of CBD in various medical conditions. This opinion piece presents the current understanding surrounding CBD bioavailability and considers strategies aimed at improving both its absorption and its bioavailability.

An assessment of qualitative and quantitative cannabinoids analysis in selected commercially available cannabis oils in Argentina

In recent years, the therapeutic use of cannabis products, especially cannabis oils, has increased significantly, due to the pharmacological potential of their cannabinoids, for the treatment of conditions, such as pain management, cancer, and epilepsy. In Argentina, patients with medical prescriptions can access to cannabis oil, through self-cultivation, a third-person (grower or importer), or a civil organization authorized for that purpose. However, these products remain largely unregulated in Argentina, and information available regarding labeling accuracy, especially cannabidiol (CBD)/ Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) concentrations are inconsistent or nonexistent, nor long-term product stability, and lot to lot variability. Understanding these properties is fundamental if these products are to be used in patients with a determinate pathology. Therefore, we analyzed commercially available cannabis oils (n: 500) in Argentina for qualitative and quantitative cannabinoids content. In order to provide a detailed overview of their cannabinoids profiles, and determine Δ9-THC, CBD, and cannabinol (CBN) concentrations, samples were diluted and analyzed by gas chromatography- mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Most of the samples tested positive for cannabinoids (n: 469) with Δ9-THC and CBD as the predominant cannabinoids. Among products tested, only 29.8% (n: 149) gave specific CBD label claims, and testing indicated a CBD tested positive of 70.5% (n: 105). For products (n: 17) with a THC-free label claim, testing indicated 76.5% (n: 13) of Δ9-THC positive, and cannabinoids were not detected in four products. Δ9-THC concentrations ranged from 0.1 to 143.0 mg/mL, CBD concentrations from 0.1 to 125.3 mg/mL, and CBN concentrations from 0.04 to 60.10 mg/mL; CBN/ Δ9-THC ratios ranged from 0.0012 to 2.31, and CBD/ Δ9-THC ratios from 0.0008 to 178.87. Furthermore, the (Δ9-THC + CBN)/CBD ratio of most samples was greater than one. In summary, our results indicate that cannabis oil products show wide variability in cannabinoids content, purity, and labeling.

The Skin and Natural Cannabinoids-Topical and Transdermal Applications

The chemical constituents of the Cannabis plant known as cannabinoids have been extensively researched for their potential therapeutic benefits. The use of cannabinoids applied to the skin as a potential method for both skin-related benefits and systemic administration has attracted increasing interest in recent years. This review aims to present an overview of the most recent scientific research on cannabinoids used topically, including their potential advantages for treating a number of skin conditions like psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and acne. Additionally, with a focus on the pharmacokinetics and security of this route of administration, we investigate the potential of the transdermal delivery of cannabinoids as a method of systemic administration. The review also discusses the restrictions and difficulties related to the application of cannabinoids on the skin, emphasizing the potential of topical cannabinoids as a promising route for both localized and systemic administration. More studies are required to fully comprehend the efficacy and safety of cannabinoids in various settings.

The Use of Cannabidiol in Metabolic Syndrome-An Opportunity to Improve the Patient's Health or Much Ado about Nothing?

Cannabis-derived therapies are gaining popularity in the medical world. More and more perfect forms of cannabinoids are sought, which could be used in the treatment of many common diseases, including metabolic syndrome, whose occurrence is also increasing. The purpose of this review was to investigate the usefulness of cannabinoids, mainly cannabidiol (CBD), in individuals with obesity, impaired glucose and lipid metabolism, high blood pressure, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We summarised the most recent research on the broad topic of cannabis-derived influence on metabolic syndrome components. Since there is a lot of work on the effects of Δ9-THC (Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol) on metabolism and far less on cannabidiol, we felt it needed to be sorted out and summarised in this review. The research results on the use of cannabidiol in obesity are contraindicatory. When it comes to glucose homeostasis, it appears that CBD maintains it, sensitises adipose tissue to insulin, and reduces fasting glucose levels, so it seems to be a potential target in this kind of metabolic disorder, but some research results are inconclusive. CBD shows some promising results in the treatment of various lipid disorders. Some studies have proven its positive effect by decreasing LDL and increasing HDL as well. Despite their probable efficacy, CBD and its derivatives will likely remain an adjunctive treatment rather than a mainstay of therapy. Studies have also shown that CBD in patients with hypertension has positive effects, even though the hypotensive properties of cannabidiol are small. However, CBD can be used to prevent blood pressure surges, stabilise them, and have a protective effect on blood vessels. Results from preclinical studies have shown that the effect of cannabidiol on NAFLD may be potentially beneficial in the treatment of the metabolic syndrome and its components. Nevertheless, there is limited data on CBD and NAFLD in human studies. Because of the numerous confounding factors, the conclusions are unclear, and more research in this field is required.

Acute, chronic, and post-mortem toxicity: a review focused on three different classes of new psychoactive substances

PURPOSE

New psychoactive substances (NPS) are not controlled under the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs of 1961 or the 1971 Convention, but they may pose a public health threat. Knowledge of the main properties and toxicological effects of these substances is lacking. According to the current Drugs Law (Law n. 11.343/2006), the Brazilian Surveillance Agency issues directives for forbidden substances in Brazil, and structural classes of synthetic cannabinoids, cathinones, and phenylethylamines are considered illicit drugs. Considering that data on these controlled substances are scattered, the main objective of this work was to collect and organize data to generate relevant information on the toxicological properties of NPS.

METHODS

We carried out a literature review collecting information on the acute, chronic, and post-mortem toxicity of these classes of NSP. We searched info in five scientific databases considering works from 2017 to 2021 and performed a statistical evaluation of the data.

RESULTS

Results have shown a general lack of studies in this field given that many NPS have not had their toxicity evaluated. We observed a significant difference in the volume of data concerning acute and chronic/post-mortem toxicity. Moreover, studies on the adverse effects of polydrug use are scarce.

CONCLUSIONS

More in-depth information about the main threats involving NPS use are needed.

Chemical profiling of Cannabis sativa from eleven Tanzanian regions

The aim of this research was to investigate the chemical profiles of Cannabis sativa from 11 Tanzanian regions using preliminary tests as well as instrumental analyses with GC-MS and LC-MS. Generally, all the seized samples tested positive for the presence of (Δ⁹-THC. The preliminary test with Duquenois method followed by chloroform addition revealed the presence of Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ⁹-THC) in all the samples. GC-MS analyses of the samples revealed the presence of nine cannabinoids including Δ⁹-THC, Δ⁸-THC, cannabidivarol, cannabidiol, Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabivarin (Δ⁹-THCV), cannabichromene, cannabinol, caryophyllene, and cannabicouramaronone, whereas LC-MS chemical profiling revealed the presence 24 chemical substances, including 4 cannabinoids, 15 different types of drugs and 5 amino acids. The Pwani region had the highest percentage composition of Δ⁹-THC (13.45%), the main psychoactive ingredient of Cannabis sativa, followed by Arusha (10.92%) and Singida (10.08%). The sample from Kilimanjaro had the lowest percentage of Δ⁹-THC (6.72%). Apart from cannabinoids, the majority of other chemical substances were found in the Dar es Salaam region sample, which could be attributed to the fact that the city is the epicenter of business rather than the cultivation area, implying that the samples were obtained from different sources and blended as a single package.

Cannabinoids and Multiple Sclerosis: A Critical Analysis of Therapeutic Potentials and Safety Concerns

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complicated condition in which the immune system attacks myelinated axons in the central nervous system (CNS), destroying both myelin and axons to varying degrees. Several environmental, genetic, and epigenetic factors influence the risk of developing the disease and how well it responds to treatment. Cannabinoids have recently sparked renewed interest in their therapeutic applications, with growing evidence for their role in symptom control in MS. Cannabinoids exert their roles through the endogenous cannabinoid (ECB) system, with some reports shedding light on the molecular biology of this system and lending credence to some anecdotal medical claims. The double nature of cannabinoids, which cause both positive and negative effects, comes from their actions on the same receptor. Several mechanisms have been adopted to evade this effect. However, there are still numerous limitations to using cannabinoids to treat MS patients. In this review, we will explore and discuss the molecular effect of cannabinoids on the ECB system, the various factors that affect the response to cannabinoids in the body, including the role of gene polymorphism and its relation to dosage, assessing the positive over the adverse effects of cannabinoids in MS, and finally, exploring the possible functional mechanism of cannabinoids in MS and the current and future progress of cannabinoid therapeutics.

An Individuality of Response to Cannabinoids: Challenges in Safety and Efficacy of Cannabis Products

Since legalization, cannabis/marijuana has been gaining considerable attention as a functional ingredient in food. ∆-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), and other cannabinoids are key bioactive compounds with health benefits. The oral consumption of cannabis transports much less hazardous chemicals than smoking. Nevertheless, the response to cannabis is biphasically dose-dependent (hormesis; a low-dose stimulation and a high-dose inhibition) with wide individuality in responses. Thus, the exact same dose and preparation of cannabis may be beneficial for some but toxic to others. The purpose of this review is to highlight the concept of individual variations in response to cannabinoids, which leads to the challenge of establishing standard safe doses of cannabis products for the general population. The mechanisms of actions, acute and chronic toxicities, and factors affecting responses to cannabis products are updated. Based on the literature review, we found that the response to cannabis products depends on exposure factors (delivery route, duration, frequency, and interactions with food and drugs), individual factors (age, sex), and susceptibility factors (genetic polymorphisms of cannabinoid receptor gene, N-acylethanolamine-hydrolyzing enzymes, THC-metabolizing enzymes, and epigenetic regulations). Owing to the individuality of responses, the safest way to use cannabis-containing food products is to start low, go slow, and stay low.

Evaluation of Antipsychotic Drugs' Stability in Oral Fluid Samples

Antipsychotics have narrow therapeutic windows, and their monitoring in biological fluids is therefore important; consequently, stability in those fluids must be investigated during method development and validation. This work evaluates the stability of chlorpromazine, levomepromazine, cyamemazine, clozapine, haloperidol, and quetiapine in oral fluid (OF) samples, using the dried saliva spots (DSS) sampling approach and gas chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry. Since many parameters can influence the stability of the target analytes, design of experiments was adopted to check the crucial factors that affect that stability in a multivariate fashion. The studied parameters were the presence of preservatives at different concentrations, temperature, light, and time. It was possible to observe that antipsychotic stability improved when OF samples in DSS were stored at 4 °C, with a low ascorbic acid concentration, and in the absence of light. With these conditions, chlorpromazine and quetiapine were stable for 14 days, clozapine and haloperidol were stable for 28 days, levomepromazine remained stable for 44 days, and cyamemazine was stable for the entire monitored period (146 days). This is the first study that evaluates the stability of these antipsychotics in OF samples after application to DSS cards.

Analysis of Cannabinoids in Biological Specimens: An Update

Cannabinoids are still the most consumed drugs of abuse worldwide. Despite being considered less harmful to human health, particularly if compared with opiates or cocaine, cannabis consumption has important medico-legal and public health consequences. For this reason, the development and optimization of sensitive analytical methods that allow the determination of these compounds in different biological specimens is important, involving relevant efforts from laboratories. This paper will discuss cannabis consumption; toxicokinetics, the most detected compounds in biological samples; and characteristics of the latter. In addition, a comprehensive review of extraction methods and analytical tools available for cannabinoid detection in selected biological specimens will be reviewed. Important issues such as pitfalls and cut-off values will be considered.

Synergistic and non-synergistic impact of HAP-based nano fertilizer and PGPR for improved nutrient utilization and metabolite variation in hemp crops

Nanofertilizer prepared with urea-hydroxyapatite amalgamation along with PGPR promotes urea availability over longer period of plant growth and reduces wasteful urea expense in soil, curtailing environmental pollution.

Determination of urinary metabolites of cannabidiol, Δ8-tetrahydrocannabinol, and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol by automated online μSPE-LC-MS/MS method

In this study, an automated online micro-solid-phase extraction (μSPE)-liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method was developed and validated for the detection of metabolites of cannabidiol (CBD), Δ⁸-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ⁸-THC), and Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ⁹-THC), particularly 7-carboxy- cannabidiol (7-COOH-CBD), 11-nor-9-carboxy-Δ⁸-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ⁸-THCCOOH), 11-nor-9-carboxy-Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ⁹-THCCOOH), and 11-nor-9-carboxy-Δ⁹- tetrahydrocannabinol-glucuronide (Δ⁹-THCCOOH-glu) in urine. An instrument top sample preparation (ITSP) cartridge was introduced to increase the sensitivity toward analytes and decrease the matrix effect of the urine. LC-MS/MS analysis was performed in the multiple-reaction monitoring mode, and the analytes were separated using an Acquity UPLC HSS T3 (2.1 × 100 mm, 1.8 µm) column and gradient elution with water containing 0.05 % acetic acid and methanol as the mobile phase. The calibration range was 0.5-200 ng/mL for all the analytes, with a correlation coefficient (r) of ≥0.996 and a weighting factor of 1/x². The limits of detection for 7-COOH-CBD, Δ⁸-THCCOOH, Δ⁹-THCCOOH, and Δ⁹-THCCOOH-glu were 0.06, 0.02, 0.03, and 0.1 ng/mL, respectively. The intra- and inter-day accuracy ranged from -8.0 to 6.2 % and -7.3 to 7.8 % with a precision of ≤7.2 % and ≤6.2 %, respectively. The method was also validated for selectivity, recovery, matrix effect, stability, and dilution integrity. The developed method was successfully applied to the analysis of 78 urine samples, and 7-COOH-CBD, Δ⁸-THCCOOH, Δ⁹-THCCOOH, and Δ⁹-THCCOOH-glu were detected in 54 urine samples at normalized concentrations of 1.1, 0.6-939.1, 0.9-2595.0, and 1.3-527.6 ng/mg creatinine, respectively.

Valorization of Wild-Type Cannabis indica by Supercritical CO2 Extraction and Insights into the Utilization of Raffinate Biomass

Supercritical CO₂ extraction (SCCO₂) extraction of cannabis oil from Indian cannabis (Cannabis indica) leaves was optimized through a central composite design using CO₂ pressure (150-250 bar), temperature (30-50 °C) and time (1-2 h). From the regression model, the optimal CO₂ pressure, extraction temperature and time were 250 bar, 43 °C and 1.7 h, respectively resulting in the experimental yield of 4.9 wt% of cannabis oil via SCCO₂ extraction. The extract contained cannabidiol, tetrahydrocannabivarin, Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol and Δ⁸-tetrahydrocannabinol as well as two terpenoids such as cis-caryophyllene and α-humulene. Besides SCCO₂ extraction of cannabis oil, the raffinate biomass was utilized to extract polyphenols using water as the extraction medium. Cannabis oil and water extractive were investigated for their half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) values, which were found to be 1.3 and 0.6 mg/mL, respectively. This is comparable to the commercially available antioxidant such as butylated hydroxytoluene with an IC₅₀ value of 0.5 mg/mL. This work on SCCO₂ extraction of cannabinoids and other valuable bioactive compounds provides an environmentally sustainable technique to valorize cannabis leaves.

Light Quality Impacts Vertical Growth Rate, Phytochemical Yield and Cannabinoid Production Efficiency in Cannabis sativa

Light is one of the most crucial parameters for enclosed cannabis (Cannabis sativa) production, as it highly influences growth, secondary metabolite production, and operational costs. The objective of this study was to investigate and evaluate the impact of six light spectra on C. sativa ('Babbas Erkle Cookies' accession) growth traits and secondary metabolite (cannabinoid and terpene) profiles. The light spectra evaluated included blue (430 nm), red (630 nm), rose (430 + 630 nm, ratio 1:10), purple (430 + 630 nm, ratio 2:1), and amber (595 nm) LED treatments, in addition to a high-pressure sodium (HPS, amber-rich light) treatment as a control. All the LED light treatments had lower fresh mean inflorescence mass than the control (HPS, 133.59 g plant-1), and monochromatic blue light yielded the least fresh inflorescence mass (76.39 g plant-1). Measurement of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) concentration (%) and total yield (g plant-1) showed how inflorescence mass and THC concentration need to be analyzed conjointly. Blue treatment resulted in the highest THC concentration (10.17% m/m), yet the lowest THC concentration per plant (1.44 g plant-1). The highest THC concentration per plant was achieved with HPS (2.54 g plant-1). As with THC, blue light increased cannabigerol (CBG) and terpene concentration. Conversely, blue light had a lesser impact on cannabidiol (CBD) biosynthesis in this C. sativa chemotype. As the combined effects of the light spectrum on both growth traits and secondary metabolites have important ramifications for the industry, the inappropriate spectral design could cause a reduction in cannabinoid production (20-40%). These findings show promise in helping producers choose spectral designs that meet specific C. sativa production goals.

Antimicrobial and Cytotoxic Effects of Cannabinoids: An Updated Review with Future Perspectives and Current Challenges

The development of new antibiotics is urgently needed to combat the threat of bacterial resistance. New classes of compounds that have novel properties are urgently needed for the development of effective antimicrobial agents. The extract of Cannabis sativa L. has been used to treat multiple ailments since ancient times. Its bioactivity is largely attributed to the cannabinoids found in its plant. Researchers are currently searching for new anti-infective agents that can treat various infections. Although its phytocannabinoid ingredients have a wide range of medical benefits beyond the treatment of infections, they are primarily associated to psychotropic effects. Different cannabinoids have been demonstrated to be helpful against harmful bacteria, including Gram-positive bacteria. Moreover, combination therapy involving the use of different antibiotics has shown synergism and broad-spectrum activity. The purpose of this review is to gather current data on the actions of Cannabis sativa (C. sativa) extracts and its primary constituents such as terpenes and cannabinoids towards pathogens in order to determine their antimicrobial properties and cytotoxic effects together with current challenges and future perspectives in biomedical application.

Bacterial and fungal communities within and among geographic samples of the hemp pest Psylliodes attenuata from China

The hemp flea beetle Psylliodes attenuata (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Psylliodes) is a common pest of Cannabis sativa, including cultivars of both medicinal marijuana and industrial hemp. Both the larval and adult stages of this beetle can cause significant damages to C. sativa, resulting in substantial crop losses. At present, little is known about the bacterial and fungal community diversity among populations of this pest insect. In the present study, we obtained P. attenuata samples from nine field sites representing broad industrial hemp productions in China and analyzed their microbial communities using DNA metabarcoding. Bacterial sequences of all the samples were assigned to 3728 OTUs, which belonged to 45 phyla, 1058 genera and 1960 known species. The most common genera were Rickettsia, Wolbachia, and Candidatus_Brownia. Fungal sequences of all the samples were assigned to 910 OTUs, which belonged to 9 phyla, 308 genera and 464 known species. The most common fungal genera were Cladosporium, Cutaneotrichosporon, and Aspergillus. Principal coordinate analysis revealed a significant difference in the bacterial and fungal community structure among the nine P. attenuata populations. Understanding the microbial symbionts may provide clues to help develop potential biocontrol techniques against this pest.

The Determination of Cannabinoids in Urine Samples Using Microextraction by Packed Sorbent and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry

Cannabis is the most consumed illicit drug worldwide, and its legal status is a source of concern. This study proposes a rapid procedure for the simultaneous quantification of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), 11-hydroxy-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (11-OH-THC), 11-nor-9-carboxy-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC-COOH), cannabidiol (CBD), and cannabinol (CBN) in urine samples. Microextraction by packed sorbent (MEPS) was used to pre-concentrate the analytes, which were detected by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. The procedure was previously optimized, and the final conditions were: conditioning with 50 µL methanol and 50 µL of water, sample load with two draw–eject cycles, and washing with 310 µL of 0.1% formic acid in water with 5% isopropanol; the elution was made with 35 µL of 0.1% ammonium hydroxide in methanol. This fast extraction procedure allowed quantification in the ranges of 1–400 ng/mL for THC and CBD, 5–400 ng/mL for CBN and 11-OH-THC, and 10–400 ng/mL for THC-COOH with coefficients of determination higher than 0.99. The limits of quantification and detection were between 1 and 10 ng/mL using 0.25 mL of sample. The extraction efficiencies varied between 26 and 85%. This analytical method is the first allowing the for determination of cannabinoids in urine samples using MEPS, a fast, simple, and low-cost alternative to conventional techniques.

Chemical and genetic variation in feral Cannabis sativa populations across the Nebraska climate gradient

Cannabis sativa is a versatile crop that can be cultivated for fiber, seed, or phytochemicals. To take advantage of this versatility and the potential of Cannabis as a feedstock for the bioeconomy, genomics-enabled breeding programs must be strengthened and expanded. This work contributes to the foundation for such by investigating the phytochemistry and genomics of feral Cannabis populations collected from seventeen counties across the climate gradient of Nebraska. Flower tissue from male and female plants (28 total) was studied using (i) gas chromatography-mass spectrometry to assess cannabinoid profiles and (ii) RNA sequencing to determine transcript abundances. Both male and female flower tissues produced cannabinoids, and, though the compounds were more abundant in female flower tissue, the primary cannabinoid in both was usually cannabidiol. The expression of genes that mediate early steps on the cannabinoid biosynthetic pathway were upregulated in female relative to male flowers, suggesting that female versus male flower tissue cannabinoid abundance may be controlled at least in part at the transcriptional level. DNA sequencing was used to place feral Cannabis plants from Nebraska into a previously described genomic context, revealing that all the plants studied here are much more similar to previously characterized hemp-type Cannabis plants than to drug-type Cannabis plants, at least at the genetic level. This work provides foundational phytochemical knowledge and a large set of high-quality single nucleotide polymorphism markers for future studies of feral Nebraska Cannabis.

Cannabis sativa and Skin Health: Dissecting the Role of Phytocannabinoids

The use of Cannabis sativa is currently recognized to ease certain types of chronic pain, reduce chemotherapy-induced nausea, and improve anxiety. Nevertheless, few studies highlighted the therapeutic potential of C. sativa extracts and related phytocannabinoids for a variety of widespread skin disorders including acne, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, pruritus, and pain. This review summarized the current evidence on the effects of phytocannabinoids at the cutaneous level through the collection of in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies published on PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science until October 2020. Phytocannabinoids have demonstrated potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-aging, and anti-acne properties by various mechanisms involving either CB₁/₂-dependent and independent pathways. Not only classical immune cells, but also several skin-specific actors, such as keratinocytes, fibroblasts, melanocytes, and sebocytes, may represent a target for phytocannabinoids. Cannabidiol, the most investigated compound, revealed photoprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory mechanisms at the cutaneous level, while the possible impact on cell differentiation, especially in the case of psoriasis, would require further investigation. Animal models and pilot clinical studies supported the application of cannabidiol in inflammatory-based skin diseases. Also, one of the most promising applications of non-psychotropic phytocannabinoids is the treatment of seborrheic disorders, especially acne. In conclusion, the incomplete knowledge of the role of the endocannabinoid system in skin disorders emerged as an important limit for pharmacological investigations. Moreover, the limited studies conducted on C. sativa extracts suggested a higher potency than single phytocannabinoids, thus stimulating new research on phytocannabinoid interaction.

Mass Spectrometry-Based Metabolomics of Phytocannabinoids from Non-Cannabis Plant Origins

Phytocannabinoids are isoprenylated resorcinyl polyketides produced mostly in glandular trichomes of Cannabis sativa L. These discoveries led to the identification of cannabinoid receptors, which modulate psychotropic and pharmacological reactions and are found primarily in the human central nervous system. As a result of the biogenetic process, aliphatic ketide phytocannabinoids are exclusively found in the cannabis species and have a limited natural distribution, whereas phenethyl-type phytocannabinoids are present in higher plants, liverworts, and fungi. The development of cannabinomics has uncovered evidence of new sources containing various phytocannabinoid derivatives. Phytocannabinoids have been isolated as artifacts from their carboxylated forms (pre-cannabinoids or acidic cannabinoids) from plant sources. In this review, the overview of the phytocannabinoid biosynthesis is presented. Different non-cannabis plant sources are described either from those belonging to the angiosperm species and bryophytes, together with their metabolomic structures. Lastly, we discuss the legal framework for the ingestion of these biological materials which currently receive the attention as a legal high.

Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of Homeodomain Leucine Zipper Subfamily IV (HD-ZIP IV) Gene Family in Cannabis sativa L

The plant-specific homeodomain zipper family (HD-ZIP) of transcription factors plays central roles in regulating plant development and environmental resistance. HD-ZIP transcription factors IV (HDZ IV) have been involved primarily in the regulation of epidermal structure development, such as stomata and trichomes. In our study, we identified nine HDZ IV-encoding genes in Cannabis sativa L. by conducting a computational analysis of cannabis genome resources. Our analysis suggests that these genes putatively encode proteins that have all the conserved domains of HDZ IV transcription factors. The phylogenetic analysis of HDZ IV gene family members of cannabis, rice (Oryza sativa), and Arabidopsis further implies that they might have followed distinct evolutionary paths after divergence from a common ancestor. All the identified cannabis HDZ IV gene promoter sequences have multiple regulation motifs, such as light- and hormone-responsive elements. Furthermore, experimental evidence shows that different HDZ IV genes have different expression patterns in root, stem, leaf, and flower tissues. Four genes were primarily expressed in flowers, and the expression of CsHDG5 (XP_030501222.1) was also correlated with flower maturity. Fifty-nine genes were predicted as targets of HDZ IV transcription factors. Some of these genes play central roles in pathogen response, flower development, and brassinosteroid signaling. A subcellular localization assay indicated that one gene of this family is localized in the Arabidopsis protoplast nucleus. Taken together, our work lays fundamental groundwork to illuminate the function of cannabis HDZ IV genes and their possible future uses in increasing cannabis trichome morphogenesis and secondary metabolite production.

Molecular and Biochemical Mechanism of Cannabidiol in the Management of the Inflammatory and Oxidative Processes Associated with Endometriosis

Endometriosis is usually associated with inflammation and chronic pelvic pain. This paper focuses the attention on the anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and analgesic effects of cannabidiol (CBD) and on its potential role in endometriosis. We employed an in vivo model of endometriosis and administered CBD daily by gavage. CBD administration strongly reduced lesions diameter, volume and area. In particular, it was able to modify lesion morphology, reducing epithelial glands and stroma. CBD showed anti-oxidant effects reducing lipid peroxidation, the expression of Nox-1 and Nox-4 enzymes. CBD restored the oxidative equilibrium of the endogenous cellular defense as showed by the SOD activity and the GSH levels in the lesions. CBD also showed important antifibrotic effects as showed by the Masson trichrome staining and by downregulated expression of MMP-9, iNOS and TGF-β. CBD was able to reduce inflammation both in the harvested lesions, as showed by the increased Ikb-α and reduced COX2 cytosolic expressions and reduced NFkB nuclear localization, and in the peritoneal fluids as showed by the decreased TNF-α, PGE2 and IL-1α levels. CBD has important analgesic effects as showed by the reduced mast cells recruitment in the spinal cord and the reduced release of neuro-sensitizing and pro-inflammatory mediators. In conclusion, the collected data showed that CBD has an effective and coordinated effects in endometriosis suppression.

Chemical Profiling and Characterization of Different Cultivars of Cannabis sativa L. Inflorescences by SPME-GC-MS and UPLC-MS

The chemical profile of the Cannabis sativa L. female inflorescences is rather complex being characterized by a large number of molecules belonging to different chemical classes. Considering the numerous applications in various fields, including the medical and pharmaceutical sectors, that have seen a large use of Cannabis genus in recent years, a precise characterization of the matrices is essential. In this regard, the application of adequate and suitable sampling and analysis techniques becomes important in order to provide an identification of the metabolites characterizing the profile of the sample under examination. The goal of this work is to provide additional information on the chemical composition of the inflorescences of five C. sativa different cultivars grown in Emilia Romagna (Italy) through the application of sophisticated analysis techniques such as Solid-Phase Microextraction-Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry and Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (SPME-GC-MS and UPLC-MS). The obtained data highlighted the presence of a high number of volatile and non-volatile compounds, thus allowing a comparative evaluation of the different samples. Furthermore, an in-depth statistical survey by Principal Components Analysis (PCA) and HeatMap, Hierarchical luster Analysis (HCA) and Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA-VIP), was conducted to consider any correlations between the investigated cultivars. The findings of this study may help to provide more information on the C. sativa inflorescences useful for potential applications of their metabolites in scientific research.

A CB2 Receptor Agonist Reduces the Production of Inflammatory Mediators and Improves Locomotor Activity in Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis

Background

Cannabinoids (CBs) have been found to regulate the immune system, affect innate and adaptive immune responses, and reduce inflammatory reactions. This study assessed the therapeutic effects of GW-405833 synthetic CB2 agonist on inflammatory factors as well as locomotor activity in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE).

Methods

In this experimental study, 48 adult male C57BL/6 mice were randomly and equally assigned to eight groups. By injecting 250 mg of MOG35-55 peptide, EAE was induced. Every other day for 17 days after EAE onset, EAE-afflicted mice in groups 1-3 received an intraperitoneal injection of GW-405833 at a dose of 3, 10, and 30 mg/kg, respectively. Clinical status and locomotor activity, measured using the beam walking assay, were assessed every other day during the first 17 days after EAE onset. Mice were euthanized in day 17th of treatment and the serum levels of the IL-1β, IL-12, CRP, and TNF-α proinflammatory cytokines as well as IL-4 and TGF-β anti-inflammatory cytokines were measured by ELISA method.

Results

Clinical manifestations of EAE in groups 2 and 3 were significantly milder than group 4 and locomotor activity in groups 1-3 was significantly better than group 4 in days 5-17 (p< 0.05). GW-405833 also significantly decreased the levels of IL-12, TNF-α, and CRP and significantly increased the levels of IL-4 and TGF-β but had no significant effects on the level of IL-1β. GW-405833 was not associated with significant side effects.

Conclusion

The CB2 receptor agonist GW-405833, improves clinical conditions and reduces inflammation in mice with EAE.

Network-Based Pharmacology Study Reveals Protein Targets for Medical Benefits and Harms of Cannabinoids in Humans

This network-based pharmacology study intends to uncover the underlying mechanisms of cannabis leading to a therapeutic benefit and the pathogenesis for a wide range of diseases claimed to benefit from or be caused by the use of the cannabis plant. Cannabis contains more than 600 chemical components. Among these components, cannabinoids are well-known to have multifarious pharmacological activities. In this work, twelve cannabinoids were selected as active compounds through text mining and drug-like properties screening and used for initial protein-target prediction. The disease-associated biological functions and pathways were enriched through GO and KEGG databases. Various biological networks [i.e., protein-protein interaction, target-pathway, pathway-disease, and target-(pathway)-target interaction] were constructed, and the functional modules and essential protein targets were elucidated through the topological analyses of the networks. Our study revealed that eighteen proteins (CAT, COMT, CYP17A1, GSTA2, GSTM3, GSTP1, HMOX1, AKT1, CASP9, PLCG1, PRKCA, PRKCB, CYCS, TNF, CNR1, CNR2, CREB1, GRIN2B) are essential targets of eight cannabinoids (CBD, CBDA, Δ9-THC, CBN, CBC, CBGA, CBG, Δ8-THC), which involve in a variety of pathways resulting in beneficial and adverse effects on the human body. The molecular docking simulation confirmed that these eight cannabinoids bind to their corresponding protein targets with high binding affinities. This study generates a verifiable hypothesis of medical benefits and harms of key cannabinoids with a model which consists of multiple components, multiple targets, and multiple pathways, which provides an important foundation for further deployment of preclinical and clinical studies of cannabis.

Cannabis-Based Products for the Treatment of Skin Inflammatory Diseases: A Timely Review

The use of natural products in dermatology is increasingly being pursued due to sustainability and ecological issues, and as a possible way to improve the therapeutic outcome of chronic skin diseases, relieving the burden for both patients and healthcare systems. The legalization of cannabis by a growing number of countries has opened the way for researching the use of cannabinoids in therapeutic topical formulations. Cannabinoids are a diverse class of pharmacologically active compounds produced by Cannabis sativa (phytocannabinoids) and similar molecules (endocannabinoids, synthetic cannabinoids). Humans possess an endocannabinoid system involved in the regulation of several physiological processes, which includes naturally-produced endocannabinoids, and proteins involved in their transport, synthesis and degradation. The modulation of the endocannabinoid system is a promising therapeutic target for multiple diseases, including vascular, mental and neurodegenerative disorders. However, due to the complex nature of this system and its crosstalk with other biological systems, the development of novel target drugs is an ongoing challenging task. The discovery of a skin endocannabinoid system and its role in maintaining skin homeostasis, alongside the anti-inflammatory actions of cannabinoids, has raised interest in their use for the treatment of skin inflammatory diseases, which is the focus of this review. Oral treatments are only effective at high doses, having considerable adverse effects; thus, research into plant-based or synthetic cannabinoids that can be incorporated into high-quality, safe topical products for the treatment of inflammatory skin conditions is timely. Previous studies revealed that such products are usually well tolerated and showed promising results for example in the treatment of atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and contact dermatitis. However, further controlled human clinical trials are needed to fully unravel the potential of these compounds, and the possible side effects associated with their topical use.

Cannabis: Chemistry, extraction and therapeutic applications

Cannabis, a genus of perennial indigenous plants is well known for its recreational and medicinal activities. Cannabis and its derivatives have potential therapeutic activities to treat epilepsy, anxiety, depression, tumors, cancer, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, to name a few. This article reviews some recent literature on the bioactive constituents of Cannabis, commonly known as phytocannabinoids, their interactions with the different cannabinoids and non-cannabinoid receptors as well as the significances of these interactions in treating various diseases and syndromes. The biochemistry of some notable cannabinoids such as tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol, cannabinol, cannabigerol, cannabichromene and their carboxylic acid derivatives is explained in the context of therapeutic activities. The medicinal features of Cannabis-derived terpenes are elucidated for treating several neuro and non-neuro disorders. Different extraction techniques to recover cannabinoids are systematically discussed. Besides the medicinal activities, the traditional and recreational utilities of Cannabis and its derivatives are presented. A brief note on the legalization of Cannabis-derived products is provided. This review provides comprehensive knowledge about the medicinal properties, recreational usage, extraction techniques, legalization and some prospects of cannabinoids and terpenes extracted from Cannabis.

Considerations for Cannabinoids in Perioperative Care by Anesthesiologists

Increased usage of recreational and medically indicated cannabinoid compounds has been an undeniable reality for anesthesiologists in recent years. These compounds’ complicated pharmacology, composition, and biological effects result in challenging issues for anesthesiologists during different phases of perioperative care. Here, we review the existing formulation of cannabinoids and their biological activity to put them into the context of the anesthesia plan execution. Perioperative considerations should include a way to gauge the patient’s intake of cannabinoids, the ability to gain consent properly, and vigilance to the increased risk of pulmonary and airway problems. Intraoperative management in individuals with cannabinoid use is complicated by the effects cannabinoids have on general anesthetics and depth of anesthesia monitoring while simultaneously increasing the potential occurrence of intraoperative hemodynamic instability. Postoperative planning should involve higher vigilance to the risk of postoperative strokes and acute coronary syndromes. However, most of the data are not up to date, rending definite conclusions on the importance of perioperative cannabinoid intake on anesthesia management difficult.

THC and CBD Fingerprinting of an Elite Cannabis Collection from Iran: Quantifying Diversity to Underpin Future Cannabis Breeding

Cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.) has a rich history of human use, and the therapeutic importance of compounds produced by this species is recognized by the medical community. The active constituents of cannabis, collectively called cannabinoids, encompass hundreds of distinct molecules, the most well-characterized of which are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), which have been used for centuries as recreational drugs and medicinal agents. As a first step to establish a cannabis breeding program, we initiated this study to describe the HPLC-measured quantity of THC and CBD biochemistry profiles of 161 feral pistillate cannabis plants from 20 geographical regions of Iran. Our data showed that Iran can be considered a new region of high potential for distribution of cannabis landraces with diverse THC and CBD content, predominantly falling into three groups, as Type I = THC-predominant, Type II = approximately equal proportions of THC and CBD (both CBD and THC in a ratio close to the unity), and Type III = CBD-predominant. Correlation analysis among two target cannabinoids and environmental and geographical variables indicated that both THC and CBD contents were strongly influenced by several environmental-geographical factors, such that THC and CBD contents were positively correlated with mean, min and max annual temperature and negatively correlated with latitude, elevation, and humidity. Additionally, a negative correlation was observed between THC and CBD concentrations, suggesting that further studies to unravel these genotype × environment interactions (G × E interactions) are warranted. The results of this study provide important pre-breeding information on a collection of cannabis that will underpin future breeding programs.

Effects of short-term environmental stresses on the onset of cannabinoid production in young immature flowers of industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.)

BACKGROUNDS

Cannabis sativa L. produces at least 120 cannabinoids. Although genetic variation is the main factor in cannabinoid production, the effects of short-term environmental stresses in the early flowering stage remains largely unknown.

METHODS

To investigate the effects of short-term environmental stresses on the onset of cannabinoid production in young immature flowers, a hemp variety, Green-Thunder (5-8% CBD/mg of dry weight), was treated with mechanical damage, insect herbivory, extreme heat, or drought stress for 5-7 days during the first 2 weeks of flowering. Three hemp tissues, including flowers, leaves, and stems, were collected from hemp grown under these stress conditions at multiple time points during the first 2 weeks after transition to the short photoperiod and analyzed using high pressure liquid chromatography to quantify phytocannabinoids including cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), cannabigerol (CBG), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabidiol (CBD), Δ-tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), Δ-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and cannabinol (CBN).

RESULTS

The 5 days of mechanical wounding did not affect the production of any of the cannabinoids during the initial stage of flowering. However, after 5 days of herbivore treatment, there was a significant difference in concentration between day 1 and day 6 of CBGA (control: 308 μg/g; treatment - 24 μg/g), CBG (control: 69 μg/g; treatment: 52 μg/g), and CBD (control: 755 μg/g; treatment: 194 μg/g) between the control and treatment plants. The 7 days of heat treatment at 45-50 oC significantly reduced the production of CBGA during this observed window (control: 206 μg/g; treatment: 182 μg/g) and CBG (control: 21 μg/g; treatment: - 112 μg/g). Notably, the largest change was observed after 7 days of drought stress, when plants showed a 40% greater accumulation of CBG (control: 336 μg/g; treatment: 622 μg/g), and a significant decrease (70-80%) in CBD (control: 1182 μg/g; treatment: 297 μg/g) and THC amounts (control: 3927 μg/g; treatment: 580 μg/g).

CONCLUSIONS

Although this observation is limited in the early flowering stage, the common field stresses are adequate to induce changes in the cannabinoid profiles, particularly drought stress being the most impactful stress for hemp flower initiation with the altering the cannabinoid production by decreasing CBD and THC accumulation while increasing CBG by 40%.