Category Archives: Uncategorized

Targeting Vascular and Inflammatory Crosstalk: Cannabigerol as a Dual-Pathway Modulator in Rosacea

Posted on by
Reply
pubmed logo

“Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by persistent erythema and abnormal vascular response. Although current treatments focus on symptomatic relief, they often provide only temporary improvement and may be associated with side effects or recurrence.

Cannabigerol (CBG), a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, has recently garnered attention for its pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, neuroprotective, and skin barrier-supportive effects. However, its role in modulating pathological responses in rosacea remains unclear.

In this study, we investigated the therapeutic potential of topically applied CBG in an LL-37-induced rosacea-like mouse model.

Clinical and histological assessments revealed that CBG markedly reduced erythema, epidermal hyperplasia, and mast cell infiltration. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) showed downregulation of Il1b, Il4, Il6, Il13, Il22, Il31, Tlr2, Vegfa, and Mmp9. Immunohistochemistry and Western blot analyses further demonstrated suppression of CD31, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ), along with reduced activation of the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) pathway, including decreased levels of JAK1, STAT3, and phosphorylated STAT3.

These findings suggest that topical CBG alleviates rosacea-like skin inflammation by targeting inflammatory and vascular pathways, including JAK/STAT and YAP/TAZ signaling.”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40725084/

“In conclusion, our study demonstrated the therapeutic potential of CBG in an LL-37-induced mouse model of rosacea. Topical CBG treatment significantly reduced clinical erythema, epidermal hyperplasia, and mast cell infiltration, and suppressed key inflammatory and vascular mediators at both the mRNA and protein levels. Mechanistically, CBG inhibited the expression of cytokines, Vegfa, and Tlr2, as well as the activation of YAP/TAZ and JAK/STAT signaling pathways, which are known to be involved in rosacea pathogenesis.

These findings highlight CBG as a promising non-psychoactive cannabinoid with therapeutic relevance for the treatment of rosacea.”

https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/26/14/6840

Trans-Cannabitriol as a Dual Inhibition of MPOX Adhesion Receptors L1R and E8L: An In Silico Perspective

Posted on by
Reply
pubmed logo

“The re-emergence of monkeypox virus (MPXV) as a global public health concern highlights the urgent need for novel therapeutic strategies targeting viral proteins essential for infection.

This study investigates the inhibitory potential of Trans-Cannabitriol (trans-CBT), a minor cannabinoid, against MPXV proteins L1R, H3L, and E8L using an integrative in silico framework.

Homology modeling was employed to generate 3D structures of these proteins, followed by molecular docking and 1 µs molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The trans-CBT demonstrated strong binding affinities for L1R (-10.76 kcal/mol) and E8L (-8.531 kcal/mol), with weaker interactions observed for H3L (-5.739 kcal/mol).

Four MD simulations of 1 µs revealed that trans-CBT stabilizes L1R by reducing its flexibility and solvent exposure, potentially inhibiting viral entry into host cells. In contrast, trans-CBT increased the flexibility and conformational changes of E8L, possibly impairing its function in viral attachment and pathogenesis. ADMET and target prediction analyses further supported its drug-likeness and safety, with the absence of strong CB1/CB2 binding suggesting that trans-CBT may exert its antiviral effects independently of classical cannabinoid pathways.

These findings provide insights into the diverse mechanisms of action of trans-CBT on MPXV proteins and underscore its potential as a broad-spectrum antiviral agent. While promising, further experimental validation and optimization are necessary to assess the real-world applicability of trans-CBT in combating MPXV infections.

This work contributes to the expanding field of cannabinoid-derived antivirals and highlights the importance of exploring under-investigated phytochemicals for therapeutic applications.”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40718062/

“The trans-CBT shows promise as an antiviral agent targeting MPXV proteins L1R and E8L. Molecular docking identified trans-CBT as the best-binding ligand for these proteins, with MD simulations revealing distinct effects: it stabilizes L1R by reducing flexibility and solvent exposure, potentially inhibiting viral entry, while it increases E8L’s flexibility and disrupts its conformation, possibly impairing its function.”

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/11779322251355315

Dietary Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) Products Enhance Egg Yolk Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Color Without Compromising Laying-Hen Performance: A Meta-Analysis

Posted on by
Reply
pubmed logo

“Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) products have gained attention in poultry nutrition for their rich content of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), bioactive compounds, and potential functional benefits. However, findings on their impact on laying-hen performance, egg quality, and yolk fatty acid profiles have been inconsistent.

This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary hemp products on laying-hen performance, egg quality traits, and yolk fatty acid composition, while exploring potential sources of heterogeneity across studies.

A comprehensive literature search identified 21 studies that met the inclusion criteria. A random-effects model was used to calculate standardized mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for various outcomes, including production performance, egg quality, and yolk fatty acid profiles. Subgroup and meta-regression analyses assessed the influence of factors such as inclusion level, hen age, and hemp product type.

The results showed that hemp supplementation had no significant effect on hen-day production, egg mass, feed conversion ratio, or feed intake. However, yolk redness (SMD = 4.40; 95% CI: 2.46, 6.33; p < 0.001) and yellowness (SMD = 4.45; 95% CI: 2.75, 6.16; p < 0.001) were significantly enhanced. Hemp feeding also increased n-3 PUFA levels in egg yolk, including C18:3n3, C20:5n3, and C22:6n3, while reducing saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids. Subgroup analysis indicated that inclusion levels > 10% and hen age ≤ 25 weeks were associated with slight reductions in hen-day production, whereas older hens (>25 weeks) showed increased egg weight.

In conclusion, hemp products can enrich yolk pigmentation and n-3 PUFA content in eggs, supporting the production of functional, value-added eggs without compromising the laying-hen performance.”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40723525/

“This meta-analysis underscores the potential of hemp-derived products as functional feed ingredients in laying-hen nutrition. Supplementation with hempseed, hempseed cake, or hempseed oil was found to significantly enhance yolk pigmentation and enrich long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, without adversely affecting key performance metrics such as hen-day egg production, egg mass, or feed conversion ratio when inclusion levels are appropriately managed. Subgroup analyses revealed that inclusion levels above 10% and use in younger hens (≤25 weeks) may negatively impact productivity, whereas older hens exhibited improved egg weight. Among the different hemp product types, hemp oil demonstrated the most pronounced benefits for yolk coloration and fatty acid enrichment.”

https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/15/14/2062

In silico exploration of pyrocannabinoid interactions with key protein targets

Posted on by
Reply
pubmed logo

“Cannabinoids, particularly those derived from cannabis, attract considerable attention in recent years for their therapeutic potential in treating various diseases and ailments.

In this study, we identify cannabinoid byproducts that result from the combustion of cannabidiol-henceforth referred to as pyrocannabinoids-and employ molecular docking simulations to investigate their interactions with key protein targets implicated in different physiological processes. Specifically, we focus on peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma, p21-activated kinase 1, CB1, CB2, and GPR119 proteins, elucidating the binding modes and affinities of pyrocannabinoid byproducts to these receptors. This investigation is done in collaboration with Real Isolates LLC.

Our findings reveal diverse ligand-protein interactions, with some pyrocannabinoids displaying favorable binding energies and stable ligand-protein complexes. However, variations in binding affinities across different proteins underscore the complex pharmacological profiles of the pyrocannabinoids. Furthermore, the prediction of adsorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity properties highlights both promising and concerning aspects of cannabinoid pharmacokinetics, emphasizing the need for thorough preclinical evaluation. Additionally, our investigation into potential metabolic sites using cytochrome P450 enzymes provides insights into cannabinoid metabolites.

Overall, our study contributes to the understanding of pyrocannabinoid pharmacology and informs the rational design of pyrocannabinoid-based therapeutics. Further experimental validation is warranted to translate these findings into clinically relevant applications.”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40718581/

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40203-025-00391-9

Cannabis-derived cellulose acetate electrospun membranes for therapeutic dressings: extraction, characterization, and prototype development

Posted on by
Reply
pubmed logo

“This work reports the development of electrospun cellulose acetate (CA) membranes derived from Cannabis sativa biomass for potential use in therapeutic dressings.

Cellulose was extracted from cannabis stalks using alkaline pulping and bleaching, followed by homogeneous acetylation to obtain CA with controlled substitution. CA solutions (13%-25%) were electrospun under varying parameters, and the 17% formulation yielded the most homogeneous, bead-free nanofibers. The resulting membranes were characterized using FTIR, XRD, Raman spectroscopy, UV-Vis spectrophotometry, and SEM. FTIR and Raman confirmed acetylation through characteristic ester and methyl group vibrations.

XRD revealed reduced crystallinity in CA compared to native cellulose. SEM analysis showed uniform fiber networks with diameters between 500 and 800 nm. A bilayer dressing prototype was fabricated by integrating the electrospun membrane with a medical-grade silicone adhesive. Adhesion performance was evaluated on synthetic skin using a FINAT-standardized 180° peel test.

The membranes demonstrated adequate mechanical cohesion and conformability, supporting their application as sustainable, plant-based biomedical patches.”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40698058/

“Taken together, this work presents the first full validation of cannabis-derived cellulose acetate as a processable, biocompatible, and functionally versatile material for advanced medical dressing systems.

Collectively, these findings support the use of Cannabis sativa as a viable and sustainable raw material for the development of high-performance cellulose acetate membranes. The study demonstrates not only the chemical and morphological comparability of cannabis-derived materials to commercial analogs but also their potential in next-generation biomedical and filtration technologies.”

https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/chemistry/articles/10.3389/fchem.2025.1624736/full

Medical Cannabis Use and Healthcare Utilization Among Patients with Chronic Pain: A Causal Inference Analysis Using TMLE

Posted on by
Reply
pubmed logo

“Introduction: Chronic pain affects approximately 20% of U.S. adults, imposing significant burdens on individuals and healthcare systems. Medical cannabis has emerged as a potential therapy, yet its impact on healthcare utilization remains unclear.

Methods: This retrospective cohort study analyzed administrative data from a telehealth platform providing medical cannabis certifications across 36 U.S. states. Patients were classified as cannabis-exposed if they had used cannabis in the past year, while unexposed patients had no prior cannabis use. Outcomes included self-reported urgent care visits, emergency department (ED) visits, hospitalizations, and quality of life (QoL), measured using the CDC’s Healthy Days measure. Targeted Maximum Likelihood Estimation with SuperLearner estimated causal effects, adjusting for numerous covariates.

Results: Medical cannabis users exhibited significantly lower healthcare utilization. Specifically, exposure was associated with a 2.0 percentage point reduction in urgent care visits (95% CI: -0.036, -0.004), a 3.2 percentage point reduction in ED visits (95% CI: -0.051, -0.012) and fewer unhealthy days per month (-3.52 days, 95% CI: -4.28, -2.76). Hospitalization rates trended lower but were not statistically significant. Covariate balance and propensity score overlap indicated well-fitting models.

Conclusions: Medical cannabis use was associated with reduced healthcare utilization and improved self-reported QoL among chronic pain patients.”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40700267/

“The findings of this study suggest, in line with existing research, that medical cannabis is likely an effective treatment option for patients with chronic pain. Moreover, we found that, in addition to an increase in QoL, medical cannabis exposure is associated with lower risk of urgent care and ED visits, when comparing patients who used medical cannabis for at least one year to cannabis-naïve patients. This underscores the potential for not only QoL gains associated with medical cannabis use, but also positive downstream effects on the healthcare system resulting from treatment.”

https://www.mdpi.com/2226-4787/13/4/96

Hemp seed as an emerging source of nutritious functional ingredients

Posted on by
Reply
pubmed logo

“Industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.), cultivated for its low THC content (<0.3%), is increasingly valued for its nutrient-rich seeds and broad applications in human nutrition.

This review offers a holistic analysis of hemp seed utilization, covering agronomic, nutritional, processing, and economic aspects. Agronomic practices and environmental factors considerably influence the seed’s nutritional profile, which includes high levels of complete proteins, essential fatty acids with an optimal ω-6 to ω-3 ratio, dietary fiber, and micronutrients.

Hemp seeds also contain bioactive compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties providing further health benefits and economic value.

Advancements in processing methods, such as germination, fermentation, and cold pressing have enhanced nutrient bioavailability and reduced antinutritional factors, supporting the development of functional foods. Economically, the hemp seed market shows strong growth potential, driven by consumer demand for plant-based, sustainable food sources. However, challenges persist in scaling production and standardizing quality across supply chains.

Hemp seeds represent a sustainable, nutrient-dense food ingredient with momentous potential to support health and diversify agricultural economies. Continued interdisciplinary research and supportive policy frameworks are essential to unlock their full value in the human diet.”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40699152/

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/10408398.2025.2534839

Integrated multi-omic profiling uncovers endocannabinoid system as a driver of nerve agent-induced cognitive dysfunction in guinea pigs

Posted on by
Reply
pubmed logo

“Soman, a highly lethal organophosphorus compound (OP), is notorious for its rapid induction of irreversible acetylcholinesterase binding through accelerated aging. Although subacute soman exposure has been specifically implicated in cognitive deficits, the molecular pathways driving these impairments remain poorly characterized, highlighting a significant research gap.

This study aims to comprehensively elucidate the effects of soman exposure on cognitive impairment by analyzing proteome and lipidome alterations in the hippocampal tissue of guinea pigs administered a sublethal dose (11 µg/kg) of soman. A molecular network based on lipidomic and proteomics data was constructed to investigate the key molecules.

The study demonstrates that subcutaneous exposure to low-dose soman for 14 consecutive days in guinea pigs impairs learning and memory. We further observed that soman exposure induces damage to both the hippocampal neurons and the mitochondrial ultrastructure in the brains of these animals.

The study revealed that subacute soman exposure significantly altered the endocannabinoid system, characterized by disrupted biosynthesis and metabolism of 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), with a significant down-regulation of 2-AG lipid metabolism pathways, as well as a significant up-regulation of cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1R) pathways. Notably, the disruption of 2-AG biosynthesis and metabolism is primarily attributed to the upregulation of the activities of three key enzymes, DAGLα, MAGL, and ABHD6. The activation of CB1R negatively feedback-regulate the cAMP/PKA pathway which further leads to dysregulation of mitochondrial homeostasis and reduced energy metabolism. Pharmacodynamic evaluations demonstrated that reversible MAGL inhibitor and ABHD6 inhibitor effectively elevate 2-AG levels in cerebral organoid models, subsequently restoring mitochondrial energy metabolism.

This research expands the current understanding of soman’s systemic neurotoxicity, particularly its capacity to modulate endocannabinoid-mediated cognitive processes. Our results provide mechanistic insights into soman-induced cognitive deficits and associated health risks. Importantly, elevating 2-AG levels may serve as an effective strategy for preventing and treating soman-induced memory impairment.”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40691673/

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00204-025-04131-y

First Report of the Anti-Parasitic Effect of a Cannabis sativa full-spectrum Extract on Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto

Posted on by
Reply
pubmed logo

“Purpose: Cystic echinococcosis is a parasitic zoonosis caused by the larval stage of Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato. Albendazole (ABZ) is the drug of choice, although its efficacy is variable. The present research aimed to assess the in vitro and in vivo efficacy of a full-spectrum extract of Cannabis sativa inflorescences against E. granulosus sensu stricto (s.s.).

Methods: Protoscoleces and cysts were incubated in vitro with the C. sativa extract, achieving final CBD concentrations of 1, 5, 10, and 50 µg/ml. Viability was evaluated periodically. Structural and ultrastructural alterations were also recorded. For the clinical efficacy study, female CF-1 mice were infected. Six months later, mice were divided into groups (n = 10): (a) water control; (b) ABZ; (c) C. sativa extract, and (d) ABZ + C. sativa extract. Treatments were administered every 24 h for 30 days. The efficacy of the treatments was evaluated according to the weight of the cysts collected and the ultrastructural alterations observed.

Results: The C. sativa extract caused a significant decrease in the viability of protoscoleces and cysts in vitro. The greatest effect was observed with 50 µg/ml, which generated the reduction in protoscoleces viability to 0% between 6 and 24 h post-incubation (pi) and the collapse of 92 ± 13% of the cysts after 24 h pi. All the in vivo treatments reduced the weight of the cysts and caused ultrastructural alterations, especially the combination of ABZ + C. sativa extract.

Conclusion: We demonstrated the in vitro and in vivo efficacy of a full-spectrum extract of C. sativa inflorescences against E. granulosus s.s.”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40659847/

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11686-025-01090-3

“Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto (s.s.) refers to a specific species within the Echinococcus granulosus complex, a group of tapeworms that cause cystic echinococcosis (CE) in humans and other animals. This species, also known as the “sheep strain,” is the most prevalent cause of human CE globally.”

Echinococcus granulosus | CABI Compendium

“Cystic echinococcosis in cattle and sheep caused by Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto genotypes G1 and G3 in the USA”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38486339/

Patterns and factors among oncology fellows recommending medical cannabis to adults with cancer

Posted on by
Reply
pubmed logo

“Background: Medical cannabis consumption is rising, but limited evidence informs the safety and efficacy of cannabis use in cancer patients. A national survey of oncology trainees found that most fellows felt insufficiently informed to make clinical recommendations about cannabis.

Aim: In this secondary analysis, we aimed to measure how frequently trainees recommend in favor of cannabis and determine factors influencing this clinical practice.

Methods: In this cross-sectional survey study for fellows enrolled in oncology training programs across the United States, an online survey assessing trainee practices regarding medical cannabis was sent to 155 oncology fellowship program directors from January – March 2021; who were asked to distribute it to their fellows. The primary outcome was the frequency with which oncology fellows recommended cannabis in the prior year.

Results: Nationally, 40 programs from 25 states participated, with 189 of 462 trainees across these programs responding (40.9% response rate). 22% (95% CI: 16.3-29.0%) of participants reported recommending medical cannabis to > 5 patients in the past year. 24% (95% CI: 18.4-30.5%) of participants had prior training in medical cannabis. Regarding participant characteristics, only prior training in medical cannabis was significantly associated with recommending cannabis to > 5 patients (RR: 2.4; 95% CI: 1.4-4.2).

Conclusions: With increasing cannabis use among patients with cancer and given that a substantial number of oncology fellows recommend its use, it is crucial that fellowship training incorporate evidence-based curricula regarding medical cannabis use to guide informed decision-making between patients and their fellow providers.”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40660376/

“1 in 5 oncology fellows participating in our study recommended it to > 5 patients in the past year. Prior training in medical cannabis was the sole factor associated with higher rates of discussing and recommending its use to patients. Personalized, patient-centered care for cancer patients—and all patients—is mandatorily founded on understanding and articulating the best available evidence regarding treatment options.

Accordingly, as medical cannabis gains more widespread legal status and is increasingly considered and used by our patients, it will be of critical importance that contemporary fellowship training programs incorporate rigorous, up-to-date curricula on this subject so as to prepare their trainees to engage in well-informed discussions and shared decision-making with those for whom they care.”

https://jcannabisresearch.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s42238-025-00293-9