Engineering Nanotechnology Formulations of Cannabinoids for Treatment of COVID-19-Induced Lung Inflammation

COVID-19 results in an increased expression of certain cytokines (i.e. chemicals produced by the body in response to an infection) that may result in inflammation, leading to organ and tissue damage. Cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabigerol (CBG) have been shown to have anti-inflammatory activity. For example, CBD has been shown to reduce the expression of cytokines in animal models of lung inflammation. We hypothesize that the anti-inflammatory effect of CBD and CBG may offer some therapeutic benefit to patients with COVID-19. For this project CBD and/or CBG will be formulated as nanoparticles that can be administered intranasally. In addition to improving the delivery of cannabinoid, the formulation approach will aid in protecting the compounds from degradation. Given that the formulations will be designed using ingredients that are generally regarded as safe (GRAS) for human use, it will be straightforward to translate the most promising candidate into the clinic. Bringing together the complementary expertise of the Allen Lab (i.e. drug delivery) and key members of Avicanna (i.e. scale-up, manufacturing and clinical development) will enable this project to move forward in an effective and timely manner.

Faculty Supervisor:

Christine Allen

Student:

Pauric Bannigan

Partner:

Avicanna Inc

Discipline:

Pharmacy / Pharmacology

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Toronto