Investigating the Role of Cannabis Derived Phytocannabinoid Formulations for the Development of Novel Mental Health Pharmacotherapies

Cannabinoid phytochemicals derived from the marijuana plant are increasingly being recognized for their potential in treating a wide variety of mental health conditions. For example, specific compounds found in marijuana such as THC and cannabidiol (CBD) are showing promise as pharmacological treatments for disorders including schizophrenia, anxiety, depression and PTSD. However, very little is understood regarding the underlying neurobiological and molecular mechanisms by which these treatments may produce their clinical effects. Our collaborative project is examining how specific phytochemicals in marijuana, with a focus on THC and CBD, may serve to improve symptoms associated with these mental health problems, using a variety of pre-clinical, translational neuroscience research techniques. Together with our industrial partner, Algae Dynamics, the goal of our research is to identify and produce specific cannabinoid oil formulations with ratios of THC and CBD that selectively target specific symptoms associated with these complex diseases. TO BE CONT’D

Faculty Supervisor:

Steven Laviolette

Student:

Roger Hudson

Partner:

Algae Dynamics Corp

Discipline:

Visual arts

Sector:

Medical devices

University:

Program: