Cannabidiol (CBD) as a neuroprotectant in Parkinson’s disease (PD) through the Nrf2 pathway

Parkinson’s disease (PD) affects movement, much like an orchestra losing its conductor; signals become uncoordinated, leading to tremors, stiffness, and difficulty moving. This happens when dopamine-producing cells in the brain’s substantia nigra die. A major cause of this cell death is oxidative stress, an imbalance between harmful molecules called free radicals and the body’s protective antioxidants. One of the body’s main defenders against oxidative stress is a protein called Nrf2, which activates antioxidant enzymes to protect brain cells. However, under prolonged stress, Nrf2 itself can become damaged and lose its protective function.
Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound from Cannabis sativa, is a strong antioxidant that can cross into the brain. It may help restore the function of Nrf2 and shield brain cells from damage. In this study, I will examine how Nrf2 behaves in PD patient brain tissue and explore how CBD may restore Nrf2 in both human brain samples and an experimental mouse model of PD. By restoring this antioxidant defense system, CBD could potentially slow or prevent further brain cell loss. This research may lead to new, targeted therapies using CBD to address one of the root causes of PD progression.

Faculty Supervisor:

Martin Duennwald

Student:

Partner:

Parkinson Society Southwestern Ontario

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Other services (except public administration)

University:

The University of Western Ontario

Program: