Lecture on Hemp and the Endocannabinoid System

Introduction

• Speaker: Ethan Russo, neurologist, psychopharmacologist, CEO of Credu Science
• Host: Tony Baracco, USDA ARS Hemp Curator
• Topic: Endocannabinoid system, pharmacology of hemp
• Disclaimer: Material discussed not FDA approved, results may vary

Hemp Germplasm Repository

• Managed by USDA ARS
• Goal: Collect diverse hemp genetics and make them available
• Information available on GRIN Global for research and education

Endocannabinoid System Overview

• Components:
  • Endogenous cannabinoids (anandamide, 2-AG)
  • Receptors (CB1, CB2, TRPV1, serotonin 1A)
  • Regulatory enzymes
• Function: Homeostatic regulation
• Receptors:
  • CB1: Abundant in brain, affects pain, balance, emotion
  • CB2: Non-psychoactive, modulates immune response
• Role: Modulates pain, memory, movement, emotion, appetite, seizures, etc.

Cannabis Sativa and Cannabinoids

• Types of Cannabinoids:
  • THC: Psychoactive, pain relief, anti-inflammatory
  • CBD: Non-intoxicating, broad pharmacology, anti-anxiety
  • Cannabigerol (CBG): Non-intoxicating, potential therapeutic uses
  • Cannabichromene (CBC): Rare, antibiotic, antidepressant properties
• Terpenoids in Cannabis:
  • Impact mood, pain, inflammation, and modulate effects of cannabinoids

Cannabinoids and Medical Applications

• Epilepsy: CBD approved for Dravet and Lennox-Gastaut syndromes
• Schizophrenia: CBD trials show promise
• Cancer treatment: Cytotoxic effects on cancer cells, preserves normal cells
• Antibiotics: Potential for MRSA and VRE treatments

Plant Biology and Diversity

• Cannabis Typology:
  • Chemical varieties rather than strains
  • Types 1, 2, 3 based on THC/CBD proportions
• Glandular Trichomes:
  • Main site for cannabinoid and terpenoid production

Challenges and Misconceptions

• Legal and Political Issues:
  • THC thresholds (0.3%) are political, not scientific
  • Misconceptions about CBD legality and effects
• Research Barriers:
  • Difficulty conducting trials in the US due to supply constraints

Future Directions and Potential

• CBG as a Treatment:
  • Effective at lower doses compared to CBD
  • Potential for anxiety, pain, sleep, mood disorders
• Cannabinoid Synergy:
  • Entourage effect enhances therapeutic effects
• Agricultural and Environmental Uses:
  • Potential in pest control and as herbal remedies

Conclusion

• Further Reading: EthanRusso.org for more publications and data
• Acknowledgements: Thanks to organizers and participants

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This lecture provided an in-depth overview of hemp, the endocannabinoid system, and the potential medical and environmental applications of cannabinoids. It highlighted ongoing research and challenges in the field, particularly regarding legal and regulatory hurdles.