How does cannabis chemistry impact anti-inflammatory activity? Investigating the entourage effect hypothesis to inform product development and consumer choice

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

Varying with plant genetics, growing conditions, harvest and post-harvest processing, the chemistry of cannabis is complex and leads to complex pharmacology. In addition to the predominant cannabinoids THC and CBD, cannabis contains a variety of other compounds with potential therapeutic effects. The complexity and diversity of cannabis chemistry present a challenge for industry in terms of quality assurance yet offer great opportunity for process optimization and the development of higher quality products. Canopy Health Innovations (CHI) is biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative cannabis-based products with the goal of developing a range of effective formulations and delivery mechanisms to serve patients in Canada and worldwide. CHI seeks to better understand how processing influences product chemistry and bioactivity in order to improve the understanding of cannabis-based medicines and products. The proposed research includes two complementary projects aiming to characterize the chemistry and pharmacology of different cannabis-derived extracts; the first focuses on operational impacts of extraction and processing while the second focuses on differences between cannabis strains. By tracking the fate of major cannabinoids, terpenes, and other molecules from plant material to commercial products, CHI will gain superior knowledge of cannabis as well as opportunities to optimize operations, develop new value-added products, and strengthen internal quality control. At the population level, Canadian patients and consumers will benefit from safer, more effective, and more consistent cannabis products as well as better evidence on which to base their decisions. At the industry level, our results will inform and elevate R&D activities across Canada, where the established cannabis industry can continue to build competitive advantage and secure its leadership on the global stage.